Robot scientists lend a hand to internet chat - News.com.au

SCIENTISTS have lent web chat a helping hand by creating a remote-control limb that can grip, shake and gesture over the internet.

The robotic hand, made by researchers at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, can act out the movements of someone on the other side of the world.

It costs about $US50 ($54) to build and is controlled by a bracelet that picks up electric signals in the muscles of the wearer.

Lead researcher Professor Liu Yunhui says:

“Due to residential limitations and migration, many families cannot live with their aged parents. Although they can show their care through phone calls, physical touch is still a better way to express love. With the system, elders and their children and grandchildren can touch and hold hands via the internet to show affection directly.”

The hand and the controller bracelet, left, and Professor Yunhui, right / Chinese University of Hong Kong

The university says the invention could also help in the rehabilitation of stroke patients, by letting physiotherapists measure their hand movements without having to be there in person.

The mind boggles at where technology like this will lead!

I guess Senator "Censorship" Conroy will make sure we don't get up to mischief though!

Sylvestor