Visual illusion due to the interaction of flickering and acoustic vibrotactile signals

TL;DR

This study explores how low-frequency acoustic vibrations combined with flickering images can create a visual illusion of the image floating, revealing interactions between auditory, tactile, and visual perception.

Contribution

It demonstrates a novel illusion caused by the interaction of vibrotactile and visual stimuli, supported by a basic theoretical model.

Findings

Flickering images appear to float when combined with low-frequency vibrations.

The illusion occurs with inaudible, low-amplitude vibrations transmitted via contact.

A theoretical model explains the interaction between stimuli and perception.

Abstract

We studied the influence of mechanical vibrotactile signals in the acoustic range to the visual perception of flickering images. These images are shown on a CRT screen intermittent at about 75 Hz, without external perturbations are perceived as constant and stable. However, if presented together with a controlled acoustical vibration an illusion is perceived. The images appears to float out of the screen, while the rest of the room is still perceived normally. The acoustical signal given to the subjects were of very low frequency (below 100Hz) and low amplitude (almost inaudible). The stimuli were transmitted through direct contact to the subject's chin with the use of a plastic stick connected to a speaker. The nature of the illusion is described and a basic theoretical model is given.