Haptic technology, or kinesthetic communication, as it is also referred to as, recreates the sense of touch through the application of vibrations or force to the user. More and more frequently, it is utilized across various domains: we see the technology being used in the gaming industry, on our mobile devices, and now, even from space. Soon, Andreas Mogensen, a Danish astronaut on the International Space Station (ISS), will attempt to control robotic arms from his post on the ISS using a haptic remote control, according to Tech Times.
HAPTIC TECHNOLOGY IS BROUGHT TO SPACE
Andreas Mogensen is a member of the European Space Agency Telerobotics and Haptics Laboratory. To attempt this “world’s first,” he will rely on force feedback technology that will allow him to control the 4×4 rover, called Interact Centaur, with a “submillimeter level of precision,” according to Business Insider.
The technology relies heavily on a visual-driven system, which utilizes a panning camera. Historically speaking, however, this hasn’t always been the most ideal way of conducting research: video feedback is, as Business Insider pointed out, “inefficient” and “slow.” According to ESA telerobotics and Haptics Laboratory research head, André Schiele, the haptic technology should give the operator an easier time maneuvering the vehicle, which is connected via geostationary satellites that can transmit signals to the space station with just a one second lag.
“The task is very difficult with visual information alone but should be easy if force-feedback information tells you intuitively when the pin hits the board, or how it is misaligned.” said Schiele.
The first test drive for Mogensen will initiate on September 7th, shortly following his arrival to the ISS on September 2nd. As part of the trial, he will control the rover around the ESTEC technical center in Noordwijk, Netherlands, where he must use the robotic arms to remove and precision fit a metal pin into an operations task board.
If the mission proves successful, the haptic technology can be potentially utilized for a host of other tasks that will extend “human reach down to Earth from space.” It may also prove useful in Arctic conditions, vast oceans and other inaccessible environments, such as the Red planet itself.
