A metallic robot hand with “Terminator”-like power sounds good for the movies. But what about a real-life future where that android is now cradling your baby or just shaking your hand? That’s when attributes like “gentle” and “sensitive” might be more warranted to avoid a human-crushing outcome.
Electronic skin may be the answer, as it could give such robots (and even prosthetic limbs) the ability to sense how forceful their handshakes and cradles are when interacting with humans.
A new electronic skin may also prove more robust than previous versions to prevent accidental damage. It could even heal with the aid of an alcohol-based solution.
By Charles Q. Choi – Full Story at Live Science