Frequency-Specific Masking Effect by Vibrotactile Stimulation to the Forearm

This paper demonstrates frequency-specific masking of tactile sensations on the index finger by remote vibrotactile stimulation. A vibration of 50 Hz was presented to the index finger. In three experimental conditions, the detection threshold for this vibration was determined with a masking vibration presented to the forearm of 50 Hz (the same frequency), of 200 Hz (a different frequency), or no masking vibration. The detection threshold for the 50 Hz stimulus on the fingertip increased significantly when a masking vibration of the same frequency was used, but not with a different frequency. This frequency-specific effect has applications in the modulation of tactile textures, for example in augmented reality.