A biomimetic electronic skin (e-skin) with discriminating forces

Researchers in Professor Zhenan Bao's group at Stanford University have developed a biomimetic soft electronic skin (e-skin) with multiple levels of biologically inspired patterning that can detect the direction of applied forces. Composed of an array of capacitors, this e-skin can measure and discriminate in real time, normal and shear forces. Unlike common pressure sensors which only measure one directional force limiting tactile sensing for robots, this human skin inspired design can measure multi-directional forces. Moreover, the novel dome design with microstructures enable increased sensitivity, minimal hysteresis, excellent cycling stability and response time in the millisecond range. The prototype has been tested to control a robot arm in various tasks, illustrating its potential application in robotics with tactile feedback.

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Figure description - b) Optical image of a fabricated e-skin and close-up view on the hills and electrodes (inset). c) Optical image showing the CNTs-PU (polyurethane) interconnects for signal recording with LCR (inductance-capacitance-resistance) meter and SEM picture of the top e-skin layer with molded pyramids, showing CNTs-PU and PU areas (inset).

Stage of Research