Scientists from the University of British Colombia (UBC) in collaboration with the Honda research institute have developed a new soft sensor, which is smart, stretched and highly sensitive. This opens the door to a wide range of applications in robotics and prosthetics.
When applying to the surface of a prostheted or robotic hand, the sensor provides sensitivity of touch and dexterity, which allows you to perform tasks such as raising a soft fruit. The sensor is also soft to the touch, like human skin, which makes interaction with people safer and more realistic.
“Our sensor can feel several types of forces, allowing a prostheted or robotic hand to respond to tactile stimuli with dexterity and accuracy. For example, a hand can hold fragile objects, such as an egg or a glass of water, without crushing or without dropping them,” – said Dr. Mirza Sakib Sarvar, the author of the study.
The sensor mainly consists of silicone rubber, the same material that is used to create many special effects in the cinema. The unique design of the team allows it to bend and frown like human skin.
“Our sensor uses weak electrical fields to detect objects, even at a distance, just as sensory screens do it. But unlike sensory screens, this sensor is UPRO and can detect forces inside and along its surface,” explained Dr. John Madden, senior author of the study.
The UBC team has developed a technology in cooperation with Frontier Robotics, the Honda Research Institute. Honda has been engaged in innovation in the field of humanoid robotics since the 1980s.
Researchers argue that the new sensor is easy to manufacture, which makes it easily scalable to cover large surfaces and production in large quantities.