How to really get in touch with robots: Haptic interaction technology for VR and teleoperation

Abstract

The present chapter offers an overview of haptic interaction technologies, both for virtual robots and for the teleoperated control of robots in real life. It details virtual reality scenarios that are particularly suitable for evaluating haptic interaction technologies and the training of human operators, as well as various real-world applications for this technology in telerobotics. Examples are found in the field of telesurgery, everyday assistance scenarios, and telerobotic scenarios in space travel - illustrating the range of possible applications and the potential for this technology. The authors provide an overview of various haptic feedback systems that can transmit forces or tactile information to the user, describing when such devices are useful and how to evaluate their benefits. The integration of haptic feedback when teleoperating a robot allows the human operator to feel present in the robot's environment and to solve tasks adequately and accurately. This technology thus represents an important complement to autonomous systems. It also enables the unique combination of human capabilities (such as problem solving or social skills) with robotic robustness, precision, and reliability.