| Nano-Technology Creates A New Skin For Robots |
| Wednesday, August 13, 2008 at 14:29 by Peter Smith |
News that researchers in Japan have created the ultimate robot ‘skin' has created something of a stir in the market of robotics. Work at the University of Tokyo has been ongoing for some time and it seems as though they have finally made a break through.
The problem with robots of today is the fact that they are very limited in their ‘touch and feel' feedback resulting in very limited use in many environments. However, researchers have created a so called e-skin which can be stretched around the robot and still conduct power to fuel pressure and temperature sensors. This will allow robots of the future to become more aware of their surroundings and be aware when they have brushed by an object or bumped into a human – and take the necessary action.
Traditional wire circuitry will snap if stretched by between 1% and 2% but this new nano-skin still conducts power when stretched by 134% (although it is at a reduced rate from its normal state). There is much more to come from this technology but it seems as though we are slowly edging towards the ultimate in cosmetic skin for robots. Will there come a time when we are unable to distinguish a human from a robot? |
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