Final answer:
The distance between the fingers of a servo gripper is determined by the phenomenon of two-point discrimination. Fingertips have a higher density of mechanoreceptor cells, allowing for more precise discrimination of two separate stimuli and a smaller distance between caliper points. The distance between caliper points on the arm or shoulder would be larger due to lower mechanoreceptor cell density.
Step-by-step explanation:
The distance between the fingers of a servo gripper is determined by a biological phenomenon known as two-point discrimination. This refers to the ability of the human skin to perceive two distinct points as separate stimuli versus a single stimulus. When a specialized caliper is used to touch the skin, the distance between the two points that are perceived as distinct stimuli is measured. In the case of fingertips, the distance between the caliper points is closer compared to the palm of the hand. This is because the fingertips have a higher density of mechanoreceptor cells in the skin, which are responsible for sensing touch and pressure.
The higher density of these cells allows for more precise discrimination of two separate stimuli, resulting in a smaller distance between the caliper points. The distance between the caliper points on the arm or shoulder would likely be larger compared to the fingertips. This is because the density of mechanoreceptor cells is lower in these areas, leading to a decreased ability to discriminate between two separate stimuli. Therefore, the distance between the caliper points on the arm or shoulder would be greater.