Automated tactile sensory perception of contact using the distributive approach

In its most simple form tactile sensing could be described as the process of detecting and interpreting a single force to detect the intensity of contact between surfaces. It is often a useful control parameter used in the control of tool feed force. On more than one axis, contact force is measured to control surface following processes. More complex systems have been demonstrated in research studies. These aim to identify a range of parameters to determine more information on the conditions of contact. Often the objective is to provide additional information over that of vision for machine perception; to identify contacting objects through their surface characteristics and properties and to enable discrimination between types. There are further aims to determine a suitable construction that is robust and not complex to manufacture. With such qualities, solutions would be appropriate to the variable processes found in healthcare applications.