Accuracy of positioning responses as a function of spring loading in a control.

Abstract

This study investigated accuracy of positioning a horizontal arm control as a function of changes in the torque-displacement relation of the control. It was found that positioning errors were smallest when the ratio of relative torque change to displacement is largest, particularly if the absolute change of torque with displacement is also large. It is concluded that control forces opposing a movement can provide useful cues in learning to execute different amplitudes of movement, and that their usefulness depends upon the relative and absolute torque change per unit of control motion.