AssetID: 53174286
Headline: RAW VIDEO: Scientists Create Soft Robot Skin
Caption: Researchers from the University of British Columbia (UBC) and Honda have collaborated to create an innovative soft sensor that promises to revolutionise applications in the fields of robotics and prosthetics. This smart, stretchable, and highly sensitive sensor represents a significant leap in technology, with the potential to enhance the dexterity and touch sensitivity of prosthetic arms and robotic limbs. The sensor skin, when applied to the surface of a prosthetic arm or robotic limb, enables the device to perform tasks that were once challenging for machines, such as delicately picking up soft fruit. Its soft and human-like texture also contributes to making human interactions with machines safer and more lifelike. Dr. Mirza Saquib Sarwar, the study's author, who created the sensor as part of his PhD work in electrical and computer engineering at UBC's faculty of applied science, explained, "Our sensor can sense several types of forces, allowing a prosthetic or robotic arm to respond to tactile stimuli with dexterity and precision. For instance, the arm can hold fragile objects like an egg or a glass of water without crushing or dropping them." The sensor predominantly comprises silicone rubber, a material commonly used in creating special effects for human skin in movies. The unique design of the sensor enables it to buckle and wrinkle, resembling the characteristics of human skin. Unlike conventional touchscreens, this sensor utilises weak electric fields to detect objects, even from a distance, and can sense forces applied to its surface. Dr. John Madden, the senior study author and a professor of electrical and computer engineering at UBC, explained, "But unlike touchscreens, this sensor is supple and can detect forces into and along its surface. This unique combination is key to the adoption of the technology for robots that are in contact with people." This groundbreaking technology was developed in collaboration with Frontier Robotics, Honda's research institute, renowned for its pioneering work in humanoid robotics since the 1980s, including the development of the well-known ASIMO robot. The sensor's practicality and scalability are significant advantages, with a straightforward manufacturing process that enables large-scale production. Dr. Madden noted the growing role of sensors and artificial intelligence in enhancing the capabilities of machines and making them more human-like, paving the way for increased human interaction with robots. However, he emphasised the need for further advancements, stating, "As sensors continue to evolve to be more skin-like and can also detect temperature and even damage, there is a need for robots to be smarter about which sensors to pay attention to and how to respond. Developments in sensors and artificial intelligence will need to go hand in hand." The soft sensor represents a significant step towards the advancement of robotics and prosthetics, offering greater possibilities for enhancing the interaction between humans and machines in the future.
Keywords: robotics,robots,honda,photo,video,feature,canada
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