Simulating Human Touch

March 7, 2016

The human fingertip is a complex sensing machine, and scientists have now found ways of emulating it in order to give robots a sense of touch.

Jeff Kerns

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A new tactile sensor from SynTouch performs three notable functions. First, the impedance is measured by using a flexible bladder against an array of sensing electrodes in a rigid core. This is to obtain a deformity measurement, much like the human finger uses ductile skin and flesh against a rigid bone. This is where the fingernail is needed—it causes budges in the skin that allow shear forces to be detected.

Second, micro-vibrations are registered by a pressure sensor mounted on the inside of the sensor’s core, enabling the measurement of surface roughness and texture. This is where the fingerprints add a lot of value, as they interact with textures.

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Third, in the sensor’s thermistor, the electrical resistance is dependent on temperature. The sensor (like a human finger) generates heat, and the thermistor allows their sensor to detect how it’s exchanged when it touches something.

By placing all electronics inside a rigid core and covering them with a compliant replaceable bladder, this sensor is able to function more robustly while providing sensitive human-like measurements. Electronics such as this could someday be a normal sight on robotic hands, offering a real human touch that allows a robot to identify material and grip it appropriately.

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About the Author

Jeff Kerns | Technology Editor

Studying mechanical engineering at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), he worked in the Polymer Research Lab. Utilizing RIT’s co-op program Jeff worked for two aerospace companies focusing on drafting, quality, and manufacturing for aerospace fasteners and metallurgy. He also studied abroad living in Dubrovnik, Croatia. After college, he became a commissioning engineer, traveling the world working on precision rotary equipment. Then he attended a few masters courses at the local college, and helped an automation company build equipment.

Growing up in Lancaster County, PA he always liked to tinker, build, and invent. He is ecstatic to be at Machine Design Magazine in New York City and looks forward to producing valuable information in the mechanical industry.

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