Using the Tactile Modality as a Communication Medium for Dismounted Soldiers

Abstract

This study examined the issues related to the detection and identification of tactile patterns as combat assault maneuvers were being performed. Three obstacles were used in this study: tires, windows, and high crawl. A baseline condition, in which participants received tactile patterns while standing, was also included in the analysis. In the baseline condition, participants detected and identified 100% of the tactile patterns. Analysis of the obstacle data showed that the obstacles had a significant effect on the detection and identification of the tactile signals. Participants detected 62.5% of the tactile patterns during the high crawl, which was significantly lower than for the tires and windows, with 92% and 88% of signals detected, respectively. With regard to the correct identification of tactile patterns, participants correctly identified 51% of the patterns during the high crawl, as compared to 88.5% for the tires and 77% for the windows.