News

Aug 16, 2023

Developing Skin

Robotic systems have long been challenged by the lack of sensing capabilities comparable to human fingers. While robots have superior control over their position and strength, they struggle when

Robotic systems have long been challenged by the lack of sensing capabilities comparable to human fingers. While robots have superior control over their position and strength, they struggle when transitioning from maneuvering heavy objects to delicate ones. Humans, on the other hand, possess the ability to adapt seamlessly to different objects, thanks to the extreme sensitivity of their touch receptors and the high density of nerve endings in their skin.

In a breakthrough development, researchers have created a process to provide robotic systems with a skin-like surface capable of arbitrary shapes and pressure detection. The highly flexible sensor skin can adhere to various surfaces, including fingers. This leap in sensor technology addresses a significant hurdle faced by robots in achieving the dexterity of human touch.

The researchers, Sonja Groß and Diego Hidalgo, presented their innovative work at the ICRA Robotics Conference in London. They developed a process where a conductive black paste is injected into liquid silicone, and as the silicone hardens, the paste remains liquid, encased within the silicone structure. This allows the sensor to detect changes in pressure as the silicone structure is deformed.

The process involves software designing the sensor structure, which is then manufactured using a 3D printer. The sensors are versatile, capable of being attached to almost any object, making them useful in robotics and prosthetics. When the sensors are pressed or stretched, their electrical resistance changes, providing information about pressure or stretch levels. This principle enables the understanding of object interactions and the control of artificial hands.

Utilizing printed electronics and flexible materials, the researchers achieved soft-touch sensors with production-friendly designs. By injecting a conductive black paste into liquid silicone, they created a sensor in which the resistance changes with compressive forces exerted on the internal liquid due to deformations in the silicone structure. The researchers demonstrated the direct printing of sensors onto flexible surfaces.

The future importance of such technologies lies in enabling robots to interact with humans in a safer and more aware manner. While existing visual and audio systems allow robots to navigate and perceive their surroundings, touch is a crucial sensory input. Without touch sensors, robots would lack the ability to accurately gauge the force they exert on objects and people, potentially leading to accidents or damaged items. Incorporating touch sensors into robots not only grants them control over their strength but also enhances their non-verbal communication and object recognition abilities.

The development of skin-like sensors with arbitrary shapes and pressure detection brings robots a step closer to mimicking the dexterity and sensitivity of human touch, opening up new possibilities for human-robot interaction and collaboration.