Scientists from Switzerland create a nervous system for robots
Modern robotics is already quite mobile, and machines capable of performing a lot of variety of action. But most robots devoid of tactile sensitivity, which is crucial when interacting with various objects. Soon, however, things can change, because a team of engineers from Switzerland have created ultra-thin Flex cables that can transmit the electronic signal when touched.
For developing responsible engineers of the Federal Polytechnic school of Lausanne (EPFL), and, according to the publication Advance Materials, the principle of flexible wires much like the work of the sensitive nerve tissues. It is based on the fiber, inside of which from the periphery to the centre and there are several dozen rows of electrodes. Due to this, the device can respond to pressure, touch, and even damage. Himself, “synthetic nerve” to distinguish the load due to the fact that different tactile electrodes are placed at different depths. As stated by the head of the project, Fabien Sorin,
“The human nervous system is very similar to the fiber optic network, where every nerve is a cable and inside the electrodes. The same principle we use when creating our artificial nerves. Conductive elements are connected by plastic blocks that have a high elasticity and is resistant to heat”.
The creators have already filed a patent for their technology and hope that the creators of robotics interested in their development, but even if that happens, scientists say that their material can easily be integrated in any sphere. For example, in smart clothing and wearable electronics.
