This chapter bridges theory and clinical reality by examining the system architectures required for AI-driven haptic interfaces. It explores the transition from rule-based controls to autonomous systems, emphasizing the sub-millisecond timing requirements of real-time data processing. The chapter analyses the trade-offs between edge and cloud computing, advocating for hybrid architectures to ensure safety and low latency. Additionally, it defines principles for human–machine interaction, including shared autonomy and safety-by-design, to foster clinician trust and minimize cognitive load in high-stakes surgical environments.