A pioneering project is developing advanced pressure sensors from graphene typically used in robotic systems to revolutionize prosthetics and robotic limbs.
The research project aims to develop novel sensors that enhance robots' capabilities, such as improving motor skills and dexterity via highly accurate pressure sensors that provide feedback and distributed touch—led by the University of West Scotland experts in collaboration with Integrated Graphene Ltd. The study is supported by the Scottish Research Partnership in Engineering, the National Manufacturing Institute for Scotland, and the Industry Doctorate Programme in Advanced Manufacturing.
Developing Novel Graphene Pressure Sensors
The principal project investigator and Director of the Institute of Thin Films, Sensors, and Imaging, Professor Des Gibson, says that in recent years the advancements in robotics have been remarkable, but due to the lack of sensory capabilities, these robotic systems fail to execute specific tasks easily. For robots to maximize their full potential, they need accurate pressure sensors to provide greater tactile ability.
He adds that the recent collaboration with Integrated Graphene Ltd has led to considerable development and the creation of advanced pressure sensing technology that could help transform robotic systems.
In the study published in Scientific Net, titled "Ultra-Thin Graphene Foam Based Flexible Piezoresistive Pressure Sensors for Robotics." experts used 3D graphene foam that offers unique properties under mechanical stress. The sensors utilize a piezoresistive approach. This means that when the 3D foam is put under pressure, it changes its electric resistance dynamically, easily detecting and adapting to the pressure required, from light to heavy.
Co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer Marco Caffio say that their novel 3D graphene foam, Gii, can mimic the sensitivity and feedback of human touch, which may have a revolutionary impact on robotic applications in various real-world applications from precision manufacturing to surgery.
Caffio adds that they know Gii's unique properties make it suitable for various applications like energy storage and disease diagnostics. They were exhilarated to demonstrate the material's flexibility for the collaborative project.
Groundbreaking 3D Graphene Foam
Dr. Carlos Garcia Nuñez, a co-author of the study, adds that within robotics and wearable electronics, the use of pressure sensors is a necessary element that provides either information input or gives the systems human-like motor skills. Advances in materials like the 3D graphene foam offer potential for use in such applications due to its unique electrical, chemical, and mechanical properties, reports SciTechDaily.
He adds that the project shines a light on the significant potential of the technology to revolutionize the robotics industry using advanced dynamic pressure sensors.
The Interim Director of SRP, Clair Ordonyo, says that the program stitches groundbreaking academic research with industry partners to ensure the success of innovation engineering. The collaborative project enhances the Scottish engineering research landscape while producing innovations focused on the talent pipeline.
The next step of the revolutionary project, funded by Integrated Graphene Ltd, UWS, SRPe, and NMIS, will look at increasing the sensors' sensitivity before developing the material for wider use in different robotic systems.
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