Stanford unveils underwater humanoid robot with haptic feedback

Engineers from Stanford University have developed a humanoid underwater robot OceanOneK, capable of transmitting tactile sensations to the operator while working at depths of up to a kilometer. The technology allows the robot to be remotely controlled from anywhere in the world by connecting it to a network via a vessel on the surface.

OceanOneK is equipped with soft and sensitive manipulators that allow you to gently lift even fragile artifacts. During one of the dives, the device retrieved ancient oil lamps and goblets from the bottom of the Mediterranean Sea. All the objects were preserved in perfect condition, surprising the team of archaeologists.

The developers emphasize that the robot creates a unique effect of physical presence – the operator feels what OceanOneK feels. According to the project leader, Professor Osama Katiba, the device not only observes, but also interacts with objects underwater.

Since 2022, the humanoid has already completed a series of missions, including exploring a sunken Roman galley and a German submarine from World War II. At a depth of 850 meters, the robot installed a commemorative plaque and then successfully brought it back to the surface.

Katib believes that such robots could become to oceanology what telescopes and satellites have become to space exploration. The researcher proposes a network of “ocean observatories” with global access for the scientific community.

Previously, Amazon unveiled the Vulcan robot with tactile sensitivity, and Unitree’s first G1 humanoid fight took place in China.