Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
Hybrid Robotic Skin Integrates EIT and Pneumatic Sensing for Enhanced Force Detection
Scientists have developed a hybrid robotic skin that merges electrical impedance tomography (EIT) with pneumatic pressure sensing to enhance force detection across large areas of humanoid robots, as reported by RoboSkin. This innovative system, detailed in a preprint from May 2026, utilizes EIT to identify contact points while employing four sealed pneumatic pads to estimate the applied force, addressing the sensitivity limitations of traditional EIT-based tactile sensors. The significance of this development lies in its ability to reduce sensitivity variation in large-area sensors. In load-cell indentation experiments, the researchers observed a decrease in the coefficient of variation for sensitivity non-uniformity from 0.31 with EIT alone to 0.14 with the hybrid method, indicating improved performance under test conditions. The prototype features a rigid base, four soft air-tight pads, a continuous piezoresistive layer, and 32 boundary electrodes, all produced through 3D printing and spray coating. Looking ahead, the researchers' hybrid approach, which reconstructs EIT images at 100 Hz and utilizes pneumatic data for force magnitude estimation, showcases the potential for more effective tactile sensing in humanoid robots. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
News Research Robotics Science eit electrical impedance tomography
Recent Advances in Electronic Skin Enhance Touch and Proximity Sensing for Robotics and Prosthetics
Recent developments in miniaturized and portable electronics have led to a surge in demand for self-powered sensing technologies. Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) are at the forefront of this trend, gaining significant attention for their ability to create highly sensitive tactile sensors. These advancements are crucial for enhancing the functionality of robots and prosthetics, enabling them to better interact with their environments. The importance of TENGs lies in their potential to revolutionize how robots and prosthetics sense touch and proximity. As these devices become more sensitive and adaptable, they can significantly improve user experience and operational efficiency. This is particularly relevant in applications where precise tactile feedback is essential, such as in robotic surgery or prosthetic limbs that require fine motor control. Looking ahead, the continued development of TENGs and similar technologies will be critical. The industry should monitor advancements in miniaturization and flexibility of electronic components, as these will play a vital role in the integration of advanced sensing capabilities into everyday devices. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Robotics
Generative Bionics Unveils Gene.01 Robot with Touch-Sensitive 'Skin' for Enhanced Safety
Generative Bionics has introduced Gene.01, a humanoid robot that lights up upon touch, showcasing its innovative 'skin' technology. This robot features a multimodal skin capable of sensing touch, proximity, force, and temperature, enhancing human-robot interaction. The significance of Gene.01 lies in its ability to redefine industrial safety through its intelligent skin, which allows for real-time feedback based on touch pressure. This system enables workers to physically guide the robot in performing tasks, making it crucial for operations that require precise force application. Looking ahead, Generative Bionics is collaborating with Italian shipbuilding giant Fincantieri for the first industrial deployment of Gene.01 as a welding robot. The company plans to customize the robot's skin based on client needs, while also addressing challenges related to data processing and sensor durability in harsh environments.
Industrial Robots Human-Robot Interaction Sensor Technology AI in Robotics
LG Innotek Partners with TDK to Create Robotic 'Skin' for Physical AI Development
LG Innotek has announced a strategic partnership with TDK to develop robotic sensory solutions for Physical AI. This collaboration aims to combine LG Innotek's expertise in optical and ultra-precision module design with TDK's extensive sensor technology, resulting in next-generation visual and tactile sensing modules. The integration of TDK's inertial measurement units, position sensors, and microphones into LG Innotek's visual sensing modules will enhance robots' recognition capabilities by incorporating motion, direction, and sound data. This innovation simplifies the procurement and integration process for robot manufacturers, as they will no longer need to purchase multiple sensors separately. The first next-generation visual sensing module featuring inertial sensors is expected to launch in 2027, alongside a tactile sensing module that will mimic human skin's ability to sense touch and pressure. This partnership signifies a strategic shift for LG Innotek, expanding its product line from visual to tactile sensing, which is considered crucial for humanoid robots to perform human-like operations.
Robotic Sensors Physical AI Tactile Technology Visual Sensors
Generative Bionics Unveils Gene.01, a Smart-Skin Humanoid Robot for Safe Human Interaction
Generative Bionics has launched Gene.01, a fully functional humanoid robot platform designed for safe human collaboration. Built in just six months, Gene.01 is equipped with advanced sensors that detect touch, proximity, force, and temperature, enhancing its interaction capabilities with humans. The introduction of Gene.01 is significant as it provides a foundation for Physical AI developers to create industrial applications. Its open-sourced robot model allows for collaborative development, potentially accelerating innovation in the field of humanoid robotics. Looking ahead, the focus will be on how Gene.01 can be integrated into various industrial environments and the applications it can support. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Seoul University Introduces Single-Layer Artificial Skin for Enhanced Robotic Sensory Perception
On July 10, a research team led by Professor Seung Hwan Ko at Seoul University published a significant study in Nature Materials, unveiling a novel single-layer artificial skin. This innovative material allows robots to simultaneously sense temperature and pressure, mimicking human sensory capabilities. The design utilizes a silver-core-copper oxide shell nanowire network, enabling rapid switching between temperature and mechanical sensing modes at a frequency of 16 Hz. The development is crucial as it addresses the limitations of existing artificial skin technologies, which typically rely on multiple stacked sensors, resulting in complex structures and slower response times. The new sensor demonstrates remarkable response speeds, with mechanical stimuli detected in microseconds and thermal stimuli in milliseconds. When combined with AI models, the sensor's accuracy in object recognition improved from 65% to 95% by integrating signals from both sensing modes, showcasing its potential for real-world applications. Looking ahead, the research team has created a multi-array platform that can measure temperature and pressure distribution with spatial resolution comparable to human skin. This technology not only serves as a fingertip sensor but also has the potential to evolve into a comprehensive artificial skin system for robots. The team emphasizes that this advancement is a key enabling technology for physical AI systems, allowing machines to perceive and interact with their environment more effectively. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Artificial Skin Robotics Sensor Technology AI Human-Robot Interaction
Hanyang University Develops Dual-Gate Transistor for Enhanced Touch Sensing in Robotics
Researchers at Hanyang University ERICA have created a vertically integrated dual-gate transistor design aimed at improving touch sensing in robots and prosthetics. This innovative architecture addresses the limitations of conventional tribotronic devices by offering tuneable sensitivity and reliable detection, which are crucial for applications requiring human-like touch perception. The significance of this advancement lies in its potential to enhance the functionality of electronic skin systems, enabling robots and prosthetics to perceive touch more reliably. The dual-gated tribotronic transistor features a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) sensing layer, which allows for high-density integration and improved performance compared to traditional devices that struggle with fixed sensitivity and integration challenges. Looking ahead, the research team, led by Associate Professor Jaekyun Kim, aims to further explore the applications of this technology in self-powered sensing systems. Their study was published online on April 9, 2026, and in Nano Energy on June 15, 2026. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
News Science electronic skin flexible electronics hanyang university human-robot interaction
Generative Bionics Launches Gene.01 Humanoid with Advanced Smart Skin for Industrial Use
Generative Bionics has introduced significant enhancements to its Gene.01 humanoid robot, aimed at industrial applications. Developed in six months, this robot features full-body tactile sensing and a physics-native AI system, allowing it to better perceive and respond to its environment. Unlike traditional humanoids, Gene.01 is a customizable platform designed for specific industrial needs, emphasizing safer human-robot collaboration. The importance of Gene.01 lies in its innovative design that integrates tactile sensing with AI, enhancing interaction safety in shared workspaces. Its smart skin detects touch, proximity, force, and temperature, enabling the robot to sense human presence before contact. This capability allows workers to physically guide the robot, addressing the limitations of vision-only systems in complex manipulation tasks. Looking ahead, Generative Bionics plans to release Gene.01's digital twin as open source, facilitating easier integration into existing robotics and AI environments. This initiative aims to provide a common foundation for developers, enhancing simulation and application development for Physical AI. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
AI and Robotics
LG Innotek Partners with TDK to Develop Advanced Vision and Tactile Sensing Modules
LG Innotek is enhancing its robotics capabilities by collaborating with Japan's TDK to create next-generation vision and tactile sensing modules for physical AI applications. This strategic partnership combines LG Innotek's optical engineering expertise with TDK's extensive sensor technology portfolio, aiming to launch their first module featuring an inertial sensor by 2027. The significance of this collaboration lies in its potential to revolutionize how robots perceive their environment. By integrating TDK's inertial measurement units and other sensors into LG Innotek's vision modules, robots can achieve a more nuanced understanding of movement, direction, and sound, thereby improving their operational accuracy. Additionally, the tactile sensing module, designed to mimic human skin, will enable robots to detect physical contact and pressure, further enhancing their interaction capabilities. Looking ahead, LG Innotek and TDK plan to expand their partnership into real-time sensor data processing and other physical AI technologies. With the global physical AI market projected to grow significantly, this collaboration positions LG Innotek to strengthen its market presence and meet the increasing demand for sophisticated robotic components.
All News
Soochow University Professor's Robotics E-Skin Startup Secures Angel Funding
Perception Era Technology, a startup established by a professor from Soochow University, has successfully secured tens of millions of yuan in an angel funding round. The funding was led by Songhe Capital, marking a significant milestone for the company as it aims to advance its innovative technology solutions. This financial backing will enable Perception Era Technology to further develop its products and expand its market presence. The funding round reflects growing investor interest in cutting-edge technology startups, particularly those emerging from academic institutions.
Startups Industry
Moxy Unveils AI Companion Robot with Innovative Touch-Sensitive Skin
Moxy, an emotional companionship brand, has introduced its latest innovation: an AI companion robot equipped with a unique touch-sensitive skin that facilitates tactile interaction without the need for dialogue or cameras. Launched recently, this product is designed to meet the increasing demand for low-pressure companionship among young adults, providing a personalized emotional experience that emphasizes touch. The robot's design incorporates various emotional expressions, ensuring users can engage in a safe and private manner. Moxy aims to redefine companionship in a digital age, offering a solution that prioritizes emotional connection through physical interaction.
AI Companions Tactile Technology Emotional Support Robotics
Artificial skin enables robots to simultaneously sense temperature and pressure like humans
A research team from Seoul National University, headed by Professor Seung Hwan Ko, has made significant advancements in artificial skin technology that allows robots to detect both temperature and pressure simultaneously, mimicking the sensory capabilities of human skin. This breakthrough, announced recently, aims to enhance the interaction between robots and their environments, potentially leading to more sophisticated applications in fields such as healthcare, manufacturing, and service industries. By integrating advanced sensors and materials, the team has developed a system that not only improves robotic sensitivity but also paves the way for more intuitive human-robot interactions. The research highlights the ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between human and robotic capabilities, with the ultimate goal of creating machines that can operate safely and effectively alongside people.
Robotics
Cobot’s Proxie Gen 2 robot adds autotasking, mobile manipulation
Cobot, led by founder and CEO Brad Porter, has unveiled its latest innovation, the Proxie Gen 2 robot, which enhances automation capabilities in material handling. This advanced robot is designed to autonomously assess when materials are ready for transport, pinpoint their destinations, and generate tasks without the need for human oversight. The introduction of Proxie Gen 2 marks a significant step forward in mobile manipulation technology, aiming to streamline operations in various industries. This development reflects Cobot's commitment to advancing robotic solutions that improve efficiency and reduce reliance on manual labor.
Artificial Intelligence Artificial Intelligence / Cognition Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) Design / Development Healthcare Robotics Logistics
Elephant trunk skin’s dual-zone design offers blueprint for advanced robotic grippers
An elephant's trunk, a remarkable adaptation of the species, showcases its strength and versatility as it can effortlessly transport heavy logs across open spaces. This impressive ability not only highlights the physical prowess of elephants but also serves a crucial role in their daily activities, such as foraging and building shelters. Observations of these behaviors contribute to a deeper understanding of elephant intelligence and their interactions with the environment. The trunk's dexterity allows elephants to manipulate objects with precision, demonstrating their complex problem-solving skills and social behaviors. As researchers continue to study these magnificent creatures, they uncover insights into their ecological impact and the importance of preserving their habitats.
AI and Robotics
Elephant trunk skin reveals design that could reshape soft robotics
Researchers from Zurich University have conducted a study on the unique properties of an elephant's trunk, which is known for its strength and dexterity. The team, led by Lucia Beccai, examined the skin of the trunk to gain insights that could inform the development of advanced soft robotics. This investigation was made possible by the acquisition of a trunk from an adult Asian elephant, which had died of natural causes at the Zurich Zoo in 2020. The study aims to explore how the trunk's muscular and boneless structure allows for both heavy lifting and delicate movements, potentially leading to innovations in robotic design that mimic these capabilities.
Robotics
Robot Talk Episode 159 – Robot sensing and manipulation, with Maria Koskinopoulou
Claire recently engaged in a conversation with Maria Koskinopoulou, an Assistant Professor in Robotics and Computer Vision at Heriot-Watt University, regarding the advancements in autonomous robotic manipulators. The discussion highlighted the applications of these technologies in various fields, including surgery and industry. Koskinopoulou, who co-leads the ARM²Lab—focused on Autonomous Robotic Manipulation and Multi-Agent Systems—alongside Ignacio Carlucho, shared insights into her research interests and the potential impact of robotics on future innovations. The dialogue underscores the growing significance of robotics in enhancing efficiency and precision across multiple sectors.
Knitting Designers Create Skin for Humanoid Robots
Humanoid robots are undergoing a transformation in their design, as a Shanghai-based knitting design company leads an innovative collaboration to enhance their social acceptance. By dressing these robots in soft, intricately knitted exteriors, the initiative addresses both aesthetic concerns and user comfort, significantly altering public perception of robots in everyday settings. This pioneering effort employs specialized techniques to create flexible and breathable materials that serve as a 'skin' for the robots, promoting more engaging interactions with users. As this trend gains momentum, it marks a notable shift in the integration of robotics into daily life, emphasizing the importance of both functionality and visual appeal.
Humanoid Robots Robotics Design Textile Technology User Interaction AI
Revolutionizing Underwater Detection! This AI Bionic Skin Allows Robots to 'Touch' the World in Turbulent Waters
Researchers from Zhejiang University and the National University of Singapore have unveiled a groundbreaking AI-enhanced bionic electronic skin, drawing inspiration from the unique sensory capabilities of sharks. This cutting-edge technology allows underwater robots to detect subtle tactile differences even in murky waters, greatly enhancing their ability to interact with and perceive their surroundings. The development represents a significant advancement in underwater robotics, potentially transforming various applications in marine exploration and environmental monitoring. The research highlights the importance of biomimicry in engineering, showcasing how nature can inspire innovative solutions to complex challenges.
Underwater Robotics Bionic Technology AI Sensor Technology
XELA Robotics adds enhancements to uSkin sensor family ahead of Robotics Summit
XELA Robotics is set to unveil its latest advancements in sensor technology at the upcoming Robotics Summit & Expo, scheduled for May 2026 in Boston. The company has enhanced its uSkin sensor family, showcasing innovations aimed at improving robotic sensory capabilities. This development reflects XELA Robotics' commitment to advancing the field of robotics and enhancing the functionality of robotic systems. The expo will provide a platform for industry leaders to explore cutting-edge technologies and their applications in various sectors.
Controllers Events Human Robot Interaction / Haptics Networking / Connectivity News Sensors / Sensing Systems
SquareMind Raises $18M in Funding to Launch AI-Driven Robotic Skin Imaging Platform in US and Europe
SquareMind, a medical robotics company based in France, has successfully secured $18 million in funding, which includes previously undisclosed pre-Series A financing. This investment, primarily led by Sonder Capital, a California-based venture fund co-founded by Fred Moll, comes as SquareMind gears up to launch its innovative robotic skin imaging platform aimed at dermatology practices. The company plans to introduce this technology in both the United States and Europe, enhancing diagnostic capabilities in the field. The funding will support the final stages of development and facilitate the market entry of this cutting-edge solution, addressing the growing demand for advanced dermatological tools.
AI AI Funding & Investment Robotics France funding medical robotics
Stretchable electronic skin lets robotic hand feel touch and pressure signals
Researchers are making significant strides in the development of stretchable, transparent electronics capable of bending, rolling, and mimicking human skin. This advancement, which has been gaining momentum in recent months, aims to revolutionize various applications, including wearable technology and medical devices. The ongoing research is taking place in laboratories across the globe, with scientists collaborating to enhance the functionality and durability of these innovative materials. The motivation behind this work stems from the increasing demand for flexible electronics that can seamlessly integrate with the human body and adapt to various environments. Through a combination of advanced materials science and engineering techniques, researchers are exploring new methods to create these electronics, which could lead to breakthroughs in health monitoring and interactive devices. As this technology continues to evolve, it holds the potential to transform industries and improve the quality of life for many individuals.
Video Friday: Multitasking Robots Smoothly Do the Things Together
IEEE Spectrum robotics has released its weekly roundup of notable robotics videos and upcoming events, including the ICRA 2026 conference scheduled for June 1-5, 2026, in Vienna. Among the highlights, Westwood Robotics unveiled THEMIS Gen2.5, the first commercial full-size humanoid robot capable of walking and manipulating objects simultaneously. This advancement builds on Helix's previous work, which demonstrated a single neural network controlling a humanoid's upper body, now expanded to encompass the entire robot's functions. In a demonstration of practical applications, Kimberly Elenberg from Carnegie Mellon University showcased how data from robotic responders can enhance life-saving efforts during mass casualty incidents. Meanwhile, Sphero continues to thrive in the competitive educational robotics market since its inception in 2011. Innovative flight testing methods were discussed by Zipline, emphasizing the importance of testing drones in extreme conditions. Additionally, researchers from the University of Tokyo introduced a concept of 3D-printing both skin and skeleton, while LimX presented small bipedal robots capable of skiing and resembling dinosaurs. The EPFL Reconfigurable Robotics Lab introduced a novel user-guided control system for modular robots, demonstrating its effectiveness through various tasks. Texas A&M University showcased its Quadrotor Biplane Tailsitter (QBiT) UAVs, which combine the agility of quadrotor drones with the efficiency of fixed-wing aircraft. Lastly, DARPA announced a new challenge aimed at developing drones capable of carrying payloads exceeding four times their weight, promising to transform drone usage across multiple sectors.
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