Abstract
In this paper, we illustrate a new haptic interface for a service robot. In the case of service robots dealing with humans, for safety, it is desirable for the information to be conveyed before touching. In order to achieve such function, we covered the surface of the manipulator with a large number of proximity sensor. Thereby, it becomes possible for the manipulator to detect objects before touching them. In addition, we used a small vibration motor as a means of feeding back to the pilot when the sensors react in this research. We attached vibration motors on the arm of the pilot, and vibrate the vibration motor corresponding to the sensor. Thereby, the pilot is able to know the position of the object near the manipulator, and can make the robot take avoidable maneuver before touching. Thereby, the pilot is able to know the position of the object near the manipulator, and can make the robot take evasive maneuver before touching. We confirmed the effectiveness of the system in an experimental work space.
