A contact thermal stimulator for neurobehavioral research on temperature sensation.

A thermal stimulation system is described which is suitable for use in psychophysical, behavioral and neurophysiological studies of temperature sensation. Skin temperature over a restricted area can be maintained at temperatures of 30 to 60 degrees C. Heating from this initial temperature can be achieved at rates from 1.0 degrees C to 30 degrees C/second, up to a maximum temperature of 70 degrees C. Stimulus duration can be varied from 1-15 sec. Safety features are employed to avoid accidental burning of subjects. The system can be used during electrophysiological recording with no electronic interference.