Cortical representation of novel tool use: Understanding the neural basis of mechanical problem solving

During mechanical problem solving brain activation is more pronounced in the ventro-dorsal stream, where mechanical understanding and motor control need to be integrated. Similar networks recruited during tool selection compared to tool use trials reflect mental simulation strategies used to determine the appropriate tool-recipient fit. The ventral stream, linked to the recall of semantic knowledge, plays a subordinate role during this task and a stronger involvement of anterior regions reflect the relevance of the frontal lobe contributing to mechanical problem solving.