In the next 5 years, we cannot tell whether the person sitting next in the tube to you is a Human or a Robot. The advances made by Takao Someya at the University at Tokyo will make this a reality.

Robots will perform their task to perfection. Robots will complete the task on time. Robots will not even strike even if you over work them! So what makes them tick?  Sensors and Actuators make up robots.  The time has come for robots to move up the ladder in our society; Robots have to take up the role of a companion. The role of a companion requires the robot to understand your jokes, understand your emotions; in a nutshell – A robot should be able to feel; which is what Takao Someya is trying to achieve in his endeavour.

Takao Someya ingenious design consists of elastic conductors that can emulate a human skin. The main challenge has been to combine the conductivity of metals with the elasticity of rubber, as elastic materials have near zero conductivity.   Takao’s new skin combines a salty liquid with malleable single walled carbon nanotubes which posses the characteristic of stretching to 134% of their original size and further improve conductivity by 570%.It is equipped with sensors to detect pressure, heat, touch, pain etc so that it can emulate real skin.

Takao’s new skin can be applied in diverse fields. In the automobile industry, it can be attached to steering wheel of a car to detect the drowsiness of the driver by assessing the driver’s grip. This can bring about a great reduction in road accidents. In the consumer electronics industry, the skin can simplify iPod controls, computer screens which can enhance the device’s user friendly interface.

According to Takao, there is a long road ahead. The fundamental problem is to maintain the softness and elasticity in the rubber while still trying to achieve superior conductivity. He is also optimistic that his advanced technology applied on robotic systems within 5 years! Are you ready to talk to your own Humanoid Shrink?