The Japanese company H2L introduced the innovative Capsule Interface technology, which allows you to control humanoid robots using body movements and muscle effort. The system was created to increase the accuracy and realism of remote control of robotic systems, informs Interesting Engineering.
The technology combines sensors and special software that allows tracking even the smallest changes in the user’s muscle tension. This means that the robot not only repeats the movements of the operator, but also “feels” the force that he applies. For example, if a person lifts a heavy object, the robot receives a signal about the degree of effort and reproduces it adequately.
Unlike traditional remote robotics, which are based only on motion sensors or video control and do not transmit physical sensations, the Capsule Interface captures muscle activity, which provides a higher level of realism and immersion.
In the demo video, the system was tested on a Unitree Robotics H1. Using the Capsule Interface, the operator remotely controls the robot, which performs the tasks of moving objects and even interacts with another person, accurately repeating both movements and applied efforts.
The system itself is compact and can be used even while sitting or lying down. Unlike massive control systems, Capsule Interface is convenient, intuitive and does not require long training. The device has muscle sensors, a display and speakers for feedback, so the user can sit in a chair or bed and start working.
The technology has a wide range of applications, from industry and logistics, where it will enable workers to safely control equipment or loads remotely, to the home, where it will benefit the elderly or disabled by allowing them to cook, clean or care for the home remotely.
In the future, the company plans to add proprioceptive feedback to the system, which will allow users to more deeply feel the position and movement of their body in space. Thus, the Capsule Interface paves the way for an even deeper interaction between people and machines, giving the feeling of remote control emotional and physical realism.
