The GelSight Sensor Gives Robots a Sense of Touch
Mesel Isaac — September 28, 2014 — Tech
References: newsoffice.mit.edu & engadget
The GelSight sensor is an incredible technological achievement that allows robots to develop a tactile sense of the world around them.
The sensor is an adaptation, by a team of researchers at MIT and Northeastern University, of an existing technology called GelSight. In their video demonstration, a robotic arm equipped with a GelSight sensor can be seen performing the task of placing a USB cable into an adapter. While this may not seem like much at first, the video later compares the initial demonstration to that of the same robot performing the same task, without a GelSight sensor. The difference is night and day, as the second robot utterly fails in its task.
The team believes that advancements in the GelSight sensor will allow for the creations of robots who will be "more independent" and "better able to manipulate their environment."
The sensor is an adaptation, by a team of researchers at MIT and Northeastern University, of an existing technology called GelSight. In their video demonstration, a robotic arm equipped with a GelSight sensor can be seen performing the task of placing a USB cable into an adapter. While this may not seem like much at first, the video later compares the initial demonstration to that of the same robot performing the same task, without a GelSight sensor. The difference is night and day, as the second robot utterly fails in its task.
The team believes that advancements in the GelSight sensor will allow for the creations of robots who will be "more independent" and "better able to manipulate their environment."
Trend Themes
1. Robot Tactile Sensors - Advancements in GelSight sensors allow robots to sense and manipulate their environment in a more realistic way.
2. Robotic Dexterity Enhancement - By equipping robots with tactile sensors, their ability to perform complex tasks with precision and accuracy is enhanced to a great extent.
3. Tactile Feedback Mechanisms - Tactile sensors can potentially allow robots to provide humans with feedback on surfaces, textures and even temperatures.
Industry Implications
1. Robotics - GelSight sensors could become a key component in the development of robots for manufacturing and industrial applications.
2. Healthcare - Tactile sensors can revolutionize the development of prosthetics and other health industry tools by allowing users to feel and manipulate objects.
3. Retail - Robotic tactile sensors could be developed and implemented in retail and hospitality environments, creating a more seamless and interactive experience for customers.
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