We propose a sensory substitution device that communicates one-degree-of-freedom proprioceptive feedback via deep pressure stimulation on the arm. The design is motivated by the need for a feedback modality detectable by individuals with a genetic condition known as PIEZO2 loss of function, which is characterized by absence of both proprioception and sense of light touch. We created a wearable and programmable prototype that applies up to 15 N of deep pressure stimulation to the forearm and includes an embedded force sensor. We conducted a study to evaluate the ability of participants without sensory impairment to control the position of a virtual arm to match a target angle communicated by deep pressure stimulation. A participant-specific calibration resulted in an average minimum detectable force of 0.41 N and maximum comfortable force of 6.42 N. We found that, after training, participants were able to significantly reduce angle error using the deep pressure haptic feedback compared to without it. Angle error increased only slightly with force, indicating that this sensory substitution method is a promising approach for individuals with PIEZO2 loss of function and other forms of sensory loss.

翻译：我们提出一种通过前臂深度压力刺激传递单自由度本体感觉反馈的感官替代装置。该设计源于对一种反馈模态的需求——该模态能被患有PIEZO2功能缺失遗传病的个体感知，该疾病特征为同时丧失本体感觉和轻触觉。我们研制了可穿戴、可编程的原型机，可向前臂施加高达15N的深度压力刺激，并内置力传感器。通过研究评估无感觉障碍的受试者利用深度压力通信的目标角度匹配能力：受试者需控制虚拟手臂位置以瞄准目标角度。经个体特异性校准，最小可检测力平均值为0.41N，最大舒适力为6.42N。研究发现，经过训练后，受试者在深度压力触觉反馈辅助下的角度误差显著低于无反馈条件。角度误差仅随作用力轻微增大，表明这种感官替代方法对PIEZO2功能缺失及其他感觉障碍患者具有应用前景。