Automated Kinesthetic Trainer enhances Kinesthetic Memory development

Abstract

<p>This research studied the usefulness and effectiveness of providing movement guidance and haptic feedback in enhancing kinesthetic memory development. Participants were trained to perform horizontal welding in two different settings: free-hand (traditional group) or under such guidance (machine group). Their welding performance, as well as kinesthetic memory were evaluated. As for kinesthetic memory, since it is related to movement and posture, three parameters were measured: moving speed, muscle activity, and elbow angle. Machine group significantly outperformed traditional group in performance, and also showed significant better control of moving speed than the traditional group. However, muscle activity pattern and elbow angle didn't differ significantly between two groups.</p>