Breakthrough sensory tech helps robots think like humans when touched

Source: interestingengineering
Author: @IntEngineering
Published: 7/17/2025
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Read original articleKAIST researchers have developed a neuromorphic semiconductor-based artificial sensory nervous system that enables robots to distinguish between safe and dangerous stimuli, mimicking human-like sensory processing. This system uses a novel memristor device with an internal layer that changes conductivity in opposing directions, allowing it to replicate complex biological functions such as habituation (dampening response to repeated non-threatening stimuli) and sensitization (heightened response to important or harmful stimuli). Unlike prior approaches requiring complex software or circuitry, this hardware-based solution operates efficiently without additional processors, supporting miniaturization and low power consumption.
To demonstrate the technology, the team integrated the sensory system into a robotic hand that initially reacted strongly to unfamiliar touches but gradually ignored repeated safe touches, showing habituation. When a touch was paired with an electric shock, the system rapidly increased its responsiveness, exhibiting sensitization akin to pain recognition. This breakthrough suggests potential applications in ultra-small robots, military robots, and robotic prosthetics, enabling smarter, energy-efficient robots that respond
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roboticsartificial-intelligenceneuromorphic-engineeringmemristor-technologysensory-systemsrobotic-prostheticsenergy-efficient-robotics