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Researchers from the University of Science and Technology of China have made significant strides in the development of a soft robotic “finger” equipped with an advanced tactile sensing capability. This innovation is designed to conduct routine medical examinations, including pulse checks and the identification of abnormal lumps in patients. The findings of this research were published on October 9 in the journal Cell Reports Physical Science.
This novel technology holds promise for enhancing early disease detection, particularly for conditions such as breast cancer, which are most treatable in their early stages. Additionally, it could improve the overall patient experience during medical examinations, which can often feel uncomfortable and invasive.
“With further advancements to enhance its performance, we envision these dexterous fingers contributing to a ‘Robodoctor’ in future healthcare settings, similar to a human physician,” explained Hongbo Wang, a researcher specializing in sensing technologies and one of the study’s authors. “When paired with machine learning, automated robotic examinations and diagnoses could become a reality, especially in underserved areas facing a significant shortage of healthcare professionals.”
Although rigid robotic fingers have been developed, concerns remain about their ability to perform delicate tasks typical in medical environments. Some experts worry that overly firm robotic fingers might unintentionally damage soft tissues during examinations. Recent progress has been made in creating lightweight and safe soft robotics that can mimic human hand movements, yet these devices still struggle to replicate the nuanced tactile sensation of human fingers.
The authors of the study noted, “Despite significant advancements in the last decade, many soft robotic fingers still lag behind human hands in capability,” emphasizing that these devices have not yet proven their effectiveness in practical situations.
To address these limitations, the research team created a simple device featuring conductive fiber coils, consisting of a coil wrapped around each air chamber for bending and a twisted liquid metal fiber positioned at the fingertip. By monitoring changes in electrical current as the finger makes contact with various objects, the researchers were able to measure the finger’s bending and the force applied at the tip in real time. This mechanism allows the device to assess an object’s physical properties almost as accurately as human touch.
The testing phase began with the robotic finger brushing against a feather. The researchers noted, “The enlarged view distinctly reveals changes in resistance, demonstrating its sensitivity to force.”
The researchers continued testing by applying taps and pressure using a glass rod, observing that the sensors accurately registered the type and intensity of force exerted. To simulate a medical examination, the robotic finger was attached to a robotic arm, where it successfully identified three different lumps in a large silicone sheet by applying pressure, mimicking a doctor’s examination technique. Additionally, while affixed to the robotic arm, it capable of locating an artery and accurately taking a participant’s pulse.
The authors stated, “Humans can easily discern the stiffness of various objects simply by pressing them with their fingers. Analogously, the robotic finger’s capability to sense both its bending and the force at its tip allows it to detect object stiffness in a manner similar to human touch.”
Beyond taking pulses and detecting simulated lumps, the robotic finger also demonstrated the ability to type “hello,” showcasing its dexterity.
The researchers concluded that by integrating more sensors to enhance the flexibility of the finger’s joints—allowing for multidirectional movement akin to that of human fingers—the device could soon be ready for practical applications in medical examinations. “Our goal is to create an intelligent, dexterous hand coupled with a sensorized, muscle-driven robotic arm that can replicate the extraordinary functions and fine motor skills of human hands,” Wang commented.
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