Glossary

H

Haptic: Tactile feedback technology using the operator's sense of touch. Also sometimes applied to robot manipulators with their own touch sensitivity.
H-Bridge: An electronic circuit that enables a voltage to be applied across a load in either direction. H-bridges are commonly used in robotics to allow DC motors to run forwards or backwards.
Header pins: Small metal pins used to connect electronic components. Headers can be plug pins or sockets to receive the plugs.
Heat sink: A passive heat exchanger that transfers the heat generated by an electronic or mechanical device to a fluid medium, often air or a liquid coolant, where it is dissipated away from the device, thereby allowing regulation of the device's temperature at optimal levels.
Heat shrink tubing: Polymer tubing which contracts when heated. Heat shrink tubing is typically used to insulate wire splices.
Hexapod (platform): A movable platform using six linear actuators. Often used in flight simulators and fairground rides, they also have applications as a robotic manipulator.
Hexapod (walker): A six-legged walking robot, using a simple insect-like locomotion.
Humanoid: A robotic entity designed to resemble a human being in form, function, or both.
Hydraulics: The control of mechanical force and movement, generated by the application of liquid under pressure.