Tactile sensing and control of robotic manipulation

Abstract

Abstract —This paper reviews the current state of the art and predicts the outlook in robotic tactile sensing for real-time control of dextrous manipulation. We begin with an overview of human touch sensing capabilities and draw lessons for robotic manipulation. Next, tactile sensor devices are described, including tactile array sensors, force-torque sensors, and dynamic tactile sensors. The information provided by these devices can be used in manipulation in many ways, such as finding contact locations and object shape, measuring contact forces, and determining contact conditions. Finally, recent progress in experimental use of tactile sensing in manipulation is discussed, and future directions for research in sensing and control are considered.