Researchers in China have built a neuromorphic robotic electronic skin that allows humanoid robots to sense touch, detect injury, and respond to harmful contact with rapid, reflex-like movements inspired by the human nervous system. The development addresses a long-standing limitation in robotics. When humans touch something dangerously hot or sharp, sensory nerves send signals directly to the spinal cord, triggering an almost instantaneous withdrawal before the brain fully processes the pain. This reflexive response helps prevent serious injury. Humanoid robots, however, typically rely on centralized processing. Sensor data must be transmitted to a central processing unit, analyzed, and then converted into motor commands.

Full report : A new neuromorphic robotic skin enables humanoid robots to sense pain, detect injury, and trigger rapid reflex responses.