IMM has developed tactile sensors for the detection of objects and surface and for the handling of objects with humanoid robots (e-skin). These devices can be integrated on ultra-flexible and high conformable substrates and they can be used for multiple applications: 1) for a correct interaction with objects distributed in complex environment; 2) for a safe short-range interaction between humanoid robot and humans; 3) for fabricating smart wearables for the detection of biometric parameters (e.g. heartbeat); 4) for remotely control rovers with wearable gadgets.
The main advantages of this technology are related to: 1) Ultra-flexibility of the sensors; 2) Large range of operation (for forces of few N to few KN); 3) the devices can be embedded in smart garments or in armband; 4) Device thickness (extremely low, down to 4 um).