telemanipulation

robotics

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 21, 2026

Quick Summary

Telemanipulation involves a human controlling a mechanical manipulator from a remote location. This technology is foundational to robotics, combining numerical control for programmable machines with teleoperator capabilities for performing tasks.

A key application is the master-slave manipulator, used for precise remote control, particularly in hazardous environments like nuclear laboratories. In rehabilitation, telemanipulation allows assistive robots, such as wheelchair-mounted robotic arms, to substitute for lost limb movements. While effective, teleoperating robots can be time-consuming and costly, driving research into more intelligent and autonomous robotic systems.123

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

3 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

rehabilitation robot
That process is called telemanipulation and is similar to an astronaut’s controlling a spacecraft’s robot arm from inside the spacecraft’s cockpit. Powered wheelchairs are another example of teleoperated, assistive robots.
Read More
That process is called telemanipulation and is similar to an astronaut’s controlling a spacecraft’s robot arm from inside the spacecraft’s cockpit. Powered wheelchairs are another example of teleoperated, assistive robots.
Read More