Researchers at Telecom Paris in
France have devised an artificial skin for interactive devices that responds to
touch. The skin is able to detect a variety of gestures, including sliding,
stretching and rotation. The artificial skin is programmed to associate
different gestures with certain emotions. Sudden hard pressure on the skin is
associated with anger and tapping is a means of seeking attention, while
sustained contact and stroking are associated with providing comfort.
The team developed two
prototypes: one with a creepily realistic textured layer that resembles human
skin and another with a more uniform surface. The artificial skin is made of
three layers, consisting of a layer of stretchable copper wire sandwiched
between two layers of silicone. Pressure on the skin changes the electric
charge of the system. The team created a phone case, computer touch pad and
smart watch to demonstrate how the artificial skin works.
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