The dynamic behavior of skin in response to vibrating touch stimuli affects tactile perception

BACKGROUND: The tactile perceptions arising on the skin mediate representations of the body and perceptions of the external physical world. Thus, these tactile sensations greatly impact our lives. Although tactile perception is caused by skin deformation, few studies have investigated the contribution of skin physical properties to tactile perception because the skin deformation in response to mechanical stimuli is difficult to measure in real time. In this study, we investigated how the skin deforms in response to externally applied mechanical stimuli and the effect of skin deformation on tactile perception. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Tactile perception was assessed using psychophysical methods. A suction device was used to measure skin deformation in response to mechanical stimuli while assessing tactile perception. The relationship between skin deformation and tactile perception was investigated. RESULTS: Individuals show different skin deformation behavior in response to stimuli of the same intensity, and the amount of skin deformation affects the perceived pressure induced by suction stimulation. Furthermore, when the amount of skin deformation is small, tactile perception becomes more difficult, and the ease of tactile perception varies. CONCLUSION: We argue that dynamic skin behavior is an important factor in tactile perception. Focusing on skin physical characteristics from a constructivist perspective of complex tactile perception may lead to improved tactile communication perception through the control of skin physical properties and realistic tactile presentation in remote environments.