Understanding virtual drilling perception using sound, and kinesthetic cues obtained with a mouse and keyboard

This work examined whether a virtual drilling task can be appropriately simulated using combinations of sound, and kinesthetic stimuli obtained with movement of a basic 2D mouse in the absence of a haptic device. An experiment was conducted where participants were asked to drill a virtual block of wood under different sound conditions using a standard computer mouse, or keyboard. Although preliminary and greater work remains, the results of these experiments indicate that kinesthetic cues can be used to provide a suitable perceptual drilling experience without a haptic device. This preliminary work has provided a greater understanding of virtual drilling perception using traditional computer interfaces in the absence of haptic devices. This is particularly important when considering remote learning where trainees may be able to practice various psychomotor-based skills at home with commonly available computer hardware and devices.