How can robots help humans?
One key area where robots are making a difference to the quality of human life is in haptic technology. Haptic technology allows robots or robotic arms and legs to simulate a sense of touch. Advances in “virtual touch” have had a significant impact on the sophistication of artificial limbs, restoring sensory sensation and fine mobility skills to those who have lost hands and arms. Robots and Beyond features walking, hopping, and running computers that give scientists the information they need to develop better and better tools for people with mobility impairment. Haptic technology also produces robots that scour surfaces human beings are not equipped to traverse. Robots can go where atmospheric conditions or terrain make it difficult for human beings to do research – along the ocean floor, for example. To explore advances in underwater robotics, visit Deep Frontiers: Ocean Engineering at MIT at MIT Museum’s Hart Nautical Gallery. Robots and Beyond is a creative collaboration between MI
