teleoperated

Teleoperated refers to the operation of a device, robot, or system from a remote location, guided by a human operator rather than by autonomous software alone. In a teleoperation setup, the operator controls the remote system through an input interface and receives live feedback, creating a master-slave arrangement where the local interface (master) commands the distant device (slave).

Typical operator interfaces include joysticks, haptic controllers, exoskeletons, or more advanced brain-computer interfaces. The remote system is equipped with actuators and sensors to execute commands and provide feedback, often via cameras, microphones, and force or tactile feedback to the operator.

The control loop can be continuous or synchronized with varying latency. Communications link may be wired or wireless. Latency, bandwidth, and reliability influence performance and may necessitate predictive control, data compression, or local autonomy to stabilize operations.

Applications span hazardous environments and distances: underwater exploration, space missions, nuclear decommissioning, disaster response, industrial inspection, and medical procedures such as remote surgery. Teleoperation enables work beyond human reach while reducing risk to operators.

Challenges include latency, image quality, control stability, safety, and cybersecurity. Legal and ethical considerations address responsibility for outcomes, consent, and regulatory compliance as teleoperation systems become more widespread in critical tasks.

See also: telerobotics, telepresence, robotic surgery, master-slave control.