The idea of a robot with hairy arms may sound like a concept from the latest science fiction blockbuster. But the bizarre invention could soon become a reality, as scientists have taken a major step forward in the development of electronic skin with integrated artificial hairs. Hairs allow for'natural touch' and let us detect different sensations such as rough and smooth, as well as the direction the touch is coming from. Researchers from Chemnitz University of Technology say the'e-skin' could have a range of uses in the future, including skin replacement for humans and artificial skin for humanoid robots. Researchers from Chemnitz University of Technology say the'e-skin' could have a range of uses in the future, including skin replacement for humans and artificial skin for humanoid robots Touch is the least understood of our senses, but a 2011 study revealed that specialised neurons in hair follicles each work as individual sensory organs, tuned to register different types of touch.

Could a robot one day feel a gentle breeze on its skin? We might be getting closer to yes. On top of protecting us from the elements and germs, our skin is a remarkable sensor. Through it we feel everything from the slightest breeze to a sharp slap, not to mention heat, moisture, texture and more. As researchers build sophisticated robots or prosthetics to replace missing limbs, they're trying to figure out how to replicate skin's abilities.

Could a robot one day feel a gentle breeze on its skin? We might be getting closer to yes. On top of protecting us from the elements and germs, our skin is a remarkable sensor. Through it we feel everything from the slightest breeze to a sharp slap, not to mention heat, moisture, texture and more. As researchers build sophisticated robots or prosthetics to replace missing limbs, they're trying to figure out how to replicate skin's abilities.