Korean researchers develop stretchy electronic skin for soft robots

Korean researchers have developed a soft, stretchy skin-like electronic material that can be used to wirelessly send signals to soft robots.
Park Se-young has more.
Fingers connected to this electronic skin bend and straighten just like real fingers.
The e-skin, less than a millimeter thick, receives command signals through its wireless communication chips.
The system is based on fully printable, stretchable hybrid electronics that can operate even when the skin is pressed and folded.

"We implemented the system using the smallest communication chips and antennae. Since each chip is connected with elastic electrodes, the system operates properly even when its shape is altered."

The light bulb stays on even when the wire is stretched out.
After hardening a water-like hydrogel, a layer of rubber was spread thinly to maximize the material's elasticity.
Then, silver ink was used to electrify the material for use as a wire.

"Currently, it can stretch to 18-point-eight times its original length. The previous technology could only be stretched five or six times its length, so it's a huge improvement."

These stretchy materials can be used for both wearable devices and soft robots.
Those soft robots, which can be used for exploration and rescue in hard-to-reach areas, are expected to evolve along with the development of this new material.
Park Se-young, Arirang News.