S. Korean scientists create robotic skin

SEOUL, Jan. 30 (UPI) -- South Korean scientists have announced development of a tactile sensor that functions like human skin, the Korea Times reported Sunday.

Scientists from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology said the sensor is made of polydimethylsiloxane, a synthetic rubber, and has a spatial resolution capability of .039 inches.

"Many tactile sensors have been developed so far, but ours has the highest spatial resolution capability, flexibility, softness and extensibility," said Lee Hyung-kyu, who led the development project, said Saturday.

Lee said his team will announce the results of their research next month at an international conference on micro-electro-mechanical systems in Miami.

Last year, the University of Tokyo unveiled a tactile sensor with a spatial resolution capability of .079 inches.