Japanese tech company H2L has created a capsule-like device that allows anyone to remotely control a robotic avatar just like in James Cameron’s namesake blockbuster.

Imagine sitting comfortably in one of those state-of-the-art massage chairs and being able to perform most of your daily house chores by remotely controlling a robotic avatar. it sounds like sci-fi, but according to Japanese company H2L Inc., it’s a much more realistic concept than most of us realize. Designed to be used in combination with a chair or bed, H2L’s so-called ‘Capsule Interface’ is equipped with a muscle displacement sensor, speaker, and display that allow the user to transmit bodily sensory information to a robot and use it to perform a variety of tasks. For example, by simply moving your feet slightly, the robot will walk; similarly, by simply moving your hands slightly, the robot will lift or push objects for you.

The advanced capsule interface is equipped with a high-precision muscle displacement sensor that detects the extremely small displacements caused by the user’s muscles expanding and contracting. It conveys tactile nuances, such as pushing force and pulling weight, to the robot that cannot be conveyed by optical trackers alone. Furthermore, audiovisual information is obtained from the robot through the capsule’s display, enhancing the user’s connection to the avatar even more.

According to H2L, the capsule allows users to experience a synchronization between their own movements and the robot’s, making them feel as if their body has been transported to another location.

 

H2L is currently researching “proprioceptive (kinesthetic) feedback” technology, which would allow the robot to return the sense of touch and pressure to the user. If this is implemented, not only will it be possible for the user to transmit movement and force to the robot, but it will also allow the user to feel the impact and resistance applied to the robot, creating the ultimate immersive experience.

The recently unveiled H2L capture interface will hit the market in the near future, with a starting price of 30 million yen ($208,000). It’s not cheap enough to appeal to a broad consumer market, but if the technology proves appealing, prices are all but guaranteed to drop soon.