Revolutionizing Human-Robot Interaction: A New Skin-Like, Flexible Sensor for Accurate Detection of Approaching Objects
A new sensor designed for robots is set to revolutionize the way we interact with machines, making them both safer and more efficient. The sensor, developed by researchers in South Korea, is now being commercialized by AIDIN Robotics and allows robots to detect and measure the distance and angle of approach of a human or object in close proximity.
As collaborative robots are increasingly working alongside humans, it's essential that they have highly accurate sensors to detect when someone (or something) is getting too close. The new sensor measures impedance by inducing electric and magnetic fields with a wide angle, and then measuring changes in resistance within those fields caused by a human approaching the sensor. This allows the robot to determine the person's distance and angle of approach.
The sensor boasts many advantages, including its flexibility, which allows it to be manufactured in various shapes tailored to the geometries of the robot. Additionally, it can classify the materials of approaching objects, such as human, metals, and plastics. The sensor can detect humans from up to 30 centimeters away with an accuracy of 90 percent when on a flat surface, but its accuracy decreases when used on curved surfaces.
The sensor has already been integrated into various collaborative robot models such as the A0912 by Doosan Robotics, UR10 by Universal Robots and Indy7 by Neuromeka Inc. The team at AIDIN Robotics plans to mass-produce the sensor and apply it to other service robots, as well as collaborative and industrial robots, to promote safe and efficient interaction between machines and humans.
More details about the study can be found through the link provided.