Linear Movement Apparatus

The Linear Movement Apparatus can be used for motor learning tasks and assessments of temporal or spatial memory. This device has been used in the studies of motor learning, neuroscience, and motor skill evaluation. The Linear Movement Apparatus consists of an optical encoder that accurately measures the target cube’s displacement. The subject’s task is to project the target cube a specified distance and speed without external cues. To evaluate the subject’s ability to judge these dimensions, the LCD readout displays the distance and time the target cube is moved. This unit employs high accuracy electronic position encoders.

Application

The system allows measurement of estimation of time, speed and distance. These skills are basic for aviation personnel, professional drivers and high performance athletes.

Procedure

The subject uses her hand to position the target cube at the experimenter’s/evaluator’s selected distance and at a chosen speed. Results are evaluated in terms of accuracy in correctly estimating distance and speed (distance/time). The subject must judge distance and speed on visual perception, force and/or previous experience skills.