manipulators

Manipulators are devices or agents that influence or control something. The term is used across engineering, psychology, and media to describe systems that extend reach, adjust states, or steer behavior. The common thread is an asymmetry of action: a mechanism or actor acts to produce a change that may not be readily achieved by direct means.

Robotic manipulators are mechanical arms that extend a robot's reach and dexterity. They consist of links connected by joints and actuated by electric motors, hydraulics, or pneumatics. End effectors perform tasks such as gripping, welding, or cutting. Control systems handle kinematics, motion planning, sensing, and sometimes force feedback. Applications include manufacturing, logistics, and medical robotics. Limitations include payload, speed, precision, and environmental sensitivity.

Remote or telemanipulators are manipulators operated from a distance, often through master-slave interfaces. They enable handling hazardous or inaccessible materials in nuclear facilities, underwater work, or space missions. Key challenges include latency, stability, and operator workload.

Social manipulators are individuals who influence others to achieve personal ends, frequently using persuasion, deception, or emotional tactics. In psychology and sociology, manipulation is examined as a form of social influence with ethical and legal implications. Guarding against manipulation involves transparency, boundaries, and critical thinking.

In software and computer graphics, manipulators are graphical tools or handles that let users transform objects. Typical operations include translation, rotation, and scaling, activated by a mouse, stylus, or touch input. These GUI manipulators are foundational to 3D modeling, CAD, and animation workflows.