Telerobotics and Applications

Abstract. This paper analyzes how performance of a basic teleoperation task are influenced by the viewpoint of the video feedback, using a remote mobile robot. Specifically, the viewpoint is varied in terms of height and tilt and the influence on a basic task, such as following some pre-defined paths, is analyzed. The operators are able to control one motor degree of freedom and up to two perceptive degrees of freedom.

This paper proposes a method to objectively assess the degree of sensory transfer in a visuo-tactile Sensory Substitution task. Using a special purpose single taxel-based device, users discover with tact some virtual objects of increasing geometrical complexity, while EEG signals are recorded.

ABSTRACT This work describes an activity that led to the realization of a modified NIST Microphone Array MarkIII. This system is able to acquire 64 synchronous audio signals at 44.1 kHz and is primarily conceived for far-field automatic speech recognition, speaker localization and in general for hands-free voice message acquisition and enhancement.

Abstract The neural correlates of exploration and cognitive mapping in blindness remain elusive. The role of visuo-spatial pathways in blind vs. sighted subjects is still under debate. In this preliminary study, we investigate, as a possible estimation of the activity in the visuo-spatial pathways, the EEG patterns of blind and blindfolded-sighted subjects during the active tactile construction of cognitive maps from virtual objects compared with rest and passive tactile stimulation.

This paper proposes a method to objectively assess the degree of sensory transfer in a visuo-tactile Sensory Substitution task. Using a special purpose single taxel-based device, users discover with tact some virtual objects of increasing geometrical complexity, while EEG signals are recorded. Successful reconstruction, as well as cognitive load and brain programming, are found to be associated with relative activation/deactivation of specific EEG bands, and to the users’ exploration strategies, which allows us to objectively assess the perceived degree of complexity of the reconstruction task. Our metrics also provide an evaluation tool for the design of devices useful for the navigation of visually impaired people.