The researchers developed an elastic high polymer thin film with fine wrinkles on the surface on the basis of the structure of the human fingerprint. (image: Korea Bizwire)
POHANG, Feb. 24 (Korea Bizwire) — South Korean researchers have developed an electronic skin that is more sensitive than human touch, and is capable of distinguishing between different materials.
A joint research team from the Pohang University of Science and Technology and the University of Ulsan announced on Tuesday that it had succeeded in developing an artificial electronic skin that copies the tactile sense of human fingers.
The researchers developed an elastic high polymer thin film with fine wrinkles on the surface on the basis of the structure of the human fingerprint.
By adding a network of silver nano wires and zinc oxide nano wires into the thin film, the research team created a multisensory artificial electronic skin with a high level of elasticity.
The newly-developed sensor device can distinguish external stimulus by applying different types of electric operating principles by pressure, tensile strength and vibration.
The e-skin also can distinguish the type and material of the objects that it contacts by analyzing the complex electric signals that are generated when objects are rubbed.
The research team found that when applying the e-skin to robotic hands, the robot could distinguish between materials including natural substances, ceramic, metal and synthetic high polymers.
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
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