Key found to making robots human-friendly

Interesting

I think touch is a much-overlooked aspect of the design of HMI systems - I'm talking about tactile feedback, rather than touch control.

Considering just a pushbutton control, for instance, I've found end-users (and I count myself as one) tend to be much happier if there's a palpable 'click' when it's pressed, rather that just making a contact closure.

I don't think this applies so much to action game type controls where quick response to a button-push is essential - the feedback here coming from visual and audible prompts. Tactile feedback is important in gaming, tho', with vibrating handheld units etc. appearing.

Just a few thoughts.

I like that car add where the parts make noises as they are assembled and as the guy gives the bonnet a final polish it goes oooh ooooh. That's the sort of feedback I like...oooh oooh!