March 14, 2019
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A hug from half way round the world !
A human being has controlled a robot hand from more than 5,000 miles away in a world first that could revolutionise the world of robotics. The robot successfully transmitted the feeling of touch across the Atlantic, from California to London, allowing for instantaneous and lifelike remote control.
A demonstrator - equipped with a special glove - picked up balls, typed words on a keyboard and played chess in real time. Three tech firms joined forces on the project which simulates touch and allows for long-distance control of robots. Future applications, experts say, include bomb disposal, space exploration and breakthroughs in methods of communication.
SynTouch and HaptX in California watched alongside Shadow Robot Company in London and Madrid when a demonstration proved the concept works.
A California-based operator used a haptic glove to control a dexterous robotic hand in London and typed 'Hello, World!' on a keyboard in the British capital, more than 5,000 miles away. The so-called Telerobot was also able to play Jenga, build a pyramid of plastic cups and move chess pieces.
Rich Walker, Managing Director of Shadow Robot Company said: 'This teleoperation system lets humans and robots share their sense of touch across the globe - it's a step ahead in what can be felt and done remotely. We can now deliver remote touch and dexterity for people to build on for applications like safeguarding people from hazardous tasks, or just doing a job without having to fly there! It's not touch-typing yet, but we can feel what we touch when we're typing!'
Its developers say the 'Shadow Telehand' is capable of remote handling of materials from afar and not endangering human life. It would also be able to replace physical interactions with humans and sensitive subjects, such as in the developing of pharmaceuticals and avoiding contamination.
Jake Rubin, Founder and CEO of HaptX said: 'Touch is a cornerstone of the next generation of human-machine interface technologies. We're honored to be part of a joint engineering effort that is literally extending the reach of humankind.'
Extracted from: www.dailymail.co.uk
