Motor skill training assistance using haptic attributes

In this paper we describe our efforts to develop a new strategy for providing assistance using haptics in a virtual environment when training for a motor skill. Using a record and play strategy, the proposed assistance method provides closest possible replication of expert's skill. We have defined a new paradigm called "haptic attributes" where we relate a unique haptic force profile to every task performed using motor skills. This has been combined with an earlier concept called sympathetic haptic to develop a new paradigm in training complex skill based tasks such as writing, surgery or playing musical instruments. As a demonstration, a virtual environment that can be used for training handwriting was designed and implemented. Position based feedback assistance and training with no assistance were tested against our method in a series of human subject tests. Results prove our method to be superior to training methods tested which use position based or no assistance.