Year
2025
Season
Spring
Paper Type
Master's Thesis
College
College of Computing, Engineering & Construction
Degree Name
Master of Science in Computer and Information Sciences (MS)
Department
Computing
NACO controlled Corporate Body
University of North Florida. School of Computing
Committee Chairperson
Dr. Corey Pittman
Second Advisor
Dr. Kevin Pfeil
Third Advisor
Dr. Jeffery Wight
Department Chair
Dr. Zornitza Prodanoff
College Dean
Dr. William F. Klostermeyer
Abstract
Hand rehabilitation represents a critical challenge in modern physical therapy, with significant implications for patients' quality of life and functional independence. Despite technological advancements across healthcare, traditional hand assessment methods often rely on subjective measures or lack task-specific biomechanical assessment capabilities. This thesis investigates the effects of haptic force feedback, handedness, and rotation direction on circle-tracing task completion using a within-subjects factorial design with 20 university participants examining varying resistance levels (0.0N, 0.5N, 1.2N) across different movement configurations using a 3D Systems Touch X haptic device with 0.023mm precision. Results demonstrate that moderate haptic force (0.5N) significantly enhanced spatial accuracy by 18.4% compared to no-force conditions (p < 0.001, η² = 0.47), while higher force levels (1.2N) yielded diminishing returns. The interaction between handedness and rotation direction (F(1, 19) = 14.92, p < 0.001, η² = 0.44) revealed substantial biomechanical advantages for movements aligned with natural tendencies. Quadrant-specific performance indicated significant differences, with superior- medial movements demonstrating the highest accuracy. These findings extend theoretical models of hemispheric specialization and sensorimotor adaptation while providing empirical support for developing personalized, adaptive haptic feedback systems that dynamically adjust parameters based on individual characteristics and movement requirements, potentially maximizing functional recovery in hand rehabilitation.
Suggested Citation
Nolan, Conor J., "Precision haptics for rehabilitation: Quantifying directional bias and force threshold effects on motor learning" (2025). UNF Graduate Theses and Dissertations. 1349.
https://digitalcommons.unf.edu/etd/1349