The essence of this research is the creation of a new type of electronic skin that allows robots to recognize dangerous physical contacts. Scientists aim to solve a long-standing problem in robotics — developing tactile systems that can not only detect pressure but also adaptively respond to changes in the environment.
The foundation of this sensory system is a network of flexible pressure sensors integrated into the electronic skin. Upon touch, compression, or impact, the sensors convert mechanical force into electrical signals. In previous stages of development, these signals were sent directly to the robot's central processor. In the new system, if the impact exceeds a certain threshold, the signals are directed straight to the motors.
The uniqueness of the approach lies in the processing of these signals. Instead of perceiving touch as a simple pressure signal, the system uses neuromorphic coding based on biological nerve mechanisms to convert force into rapid electrical impulses. The frequency and nature of these impulses vary depending on the strength and location of the contact.
When the impact is within normal limits, the signals reflect typical interaction. But as soon as the pressure exceeds the established limit, the signal shape changes, triggering the robot's protective reactions.
Researchers emphasize that this system is intended solely for detecting mechanical impacts unrelated to emotional pain or high levels of sensory perception, and merely signals a potential threat, allowing robots to respond appropriately.
“Our neuromorphic robotic electronic skin has a hierarchical structure inspired by neural networks, which provides a high degree of sensory perception, active detection of pain and injuries, as well as modular repair with quick disconnection,” the researchers note. “This design significantly enhances the sensory characteristics of robots, safety, and intuitive interaction with them, which is extremely important for empathetic service robots.”
To assess the system's effectiveness, the team subjected the electronic skin to various physical impacts, from light touches to intense loads simulating potentially dangerous situations. These tests allowed them to evaluate how accurately the system can determine in real time the transition from safe contact to dangerous.
During the experiments, the sensor network consistently generated clear signal patterns and activated protective reactions depending on the applied force. The system responded in mere milliseconds, which is fast enough to ensure real-time reactions, such as withdrawing from dangerous contact or reducing force during interaction. The system also demonstrated stable performance over repeated test cycles, confirming its durability for long-term use.
These improvements are crucial for the safety of human-robot interaction. As robots become more present in everyday life, the ability to recognize dangerous contacts becomes critically important, as close interactions increase the likelihood of accidental collisions and excessive force application.
Most existing robot safety systems are not designed for such interactions. They often rely on external sensors, predefined movement limits, or emergency shutdown mechanisms. While these methods are effective, they can be slow or insufficiently flexible. Integrating the sensory function directly into the robot's skin allows machines to respond instantly to physical threats.
This technology can also enhance efficiency in performing collaborative tasks requiring physical contact, such as object manipulation, working with assistive devices, and service robotics. Robots will be able to dynamically adjust grip and touch strength during interaction, allowing them to interact more naturally with fragile objects and in unpredictable conditions.
In addition to enhancing safety and productivity, this technology changes people's perception of interactions with machines. Robots that respond to physical impacts may seem more responsive and natural, even without an emotional component.
This feedback can make human-robot interaction more intuitive. Just as people instinctively adjust the strength of their touch when another person withdraws, the visible reaction of machines can help guide behavior and reduce the risk of unintentional harm.
However, this technology raises deeper societal questions about how realistic robots should be. While sensory capabilities enhance safety and productivity by borrowing strategies from biology, they also create ethical and design challenges: should machines imitate the reactions of living beings?
Some researchers argue that robots do not need signals analogous to pain. At the same time, others believe that borrowing biological strategies may be the most effective way to create adaptable and resilient machines. The challenge lies in finding a balance between functional advantages and the risk of encouraging unnecessary anthropomorphism and its social consequences. What will happen if such a sensory system in a humanoid robot is integrated with an emotional response program driven by artificial intelligence?
While this technology raises important philosophical questions about the realism of robots, the implications of this process remain unclear. Currently, the system is in the early stages of research and is not ready for commercial application. At present, the electronic skin covers only limited areas of the surface. Expanding the coverage to the entire body of the humanoid will require significant changes in manufacturing and improvements in energy efficiency and data processing.
In the future, work will focus on increasing sensor coverage and enhancing durability, which is necessary for the technology to move beyond laboratory conditions. Each of these steps will help determine whether the new robotic skin can transition from controlled demonstrations to real-world applications.
Original: New Atlas
