Scientists at GelSight have added the Massachusetts Institute of Technology sensors to robots to boost their dexterity and object-handling abilities. The sensors are made of transparent rubber, with a reflective metallic coating painted on one side. When pressed against an object, the sensor is able to take the shape of it, using data and information to allow a computer vision algorithm to create an impression of the object's shape. If robots are to operate in households, and handle the variety of objects presented there, they must be able to manipulate tools and gauge the hardness of objects, according to the researchers.
Scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have added GelSight sensors to robots to boost their dexterity and object-handling abilities. The sensors are made of transparent rubber, with a reflective metallic coating painted on one side. When pressed against an object, the sensor is able to take the shape of it, using data and information to allow a computer vision algorithm to create an impression of the object's shape. If robots are to operate in households, and handle the variety of objects presented there, they must be able to manipulate tools and gauge the hardness of objects, according to the researchers.