The nervous system does an astonishing job of tracking sensory information, and does so using signals that would drive many computer scientists insane: a noisy stream of activity spikes that may be transmitted to hundreds of additional neurons, where they are integrated with similar spike trains coming from still other neurons.
Now, researchers have used spiking circuitry to build an artificial robotic skin, adopting some of the principles of how signals from our sensory neurons are transmitted and integrated. While the system relies on a few decidedly not-neural features, it has the advantage that we have chips that can run neural networks using spiking signals, which would allow this system to integrate smoothly with some energy-efficient hardware to run AI-based control software.
Location via spikes
The nervous system in our skin is remarkably complex. It has specialized sensors for different sensations: heat, cold, pressure, pain, and more. In most areas of the body, these feed into the spinal column, where some preliminary processing takes place, allowing reflex reactions to be triggered without even involving the brain. But signals do make their way along specialized neurons into the brain, allowing further processing and (potentially) conscious awareness.
This is a fascinating development in robotics! The concept of neuromorphic artificial skin could really enhance how robots interact with their environments. It’s exciting to see how advances in technology can mimic the complexities of the human nervous system. Great work by the researchers!
I completely agree, it’s an exciting step forward! The ability of this artificial skin to mimic the sensory feedback of human skin could significantly enhance how robots interact with their environment, making them more responsive and adaptable. It’ll be interesting to see how this technology evolves and its potential applications in healthcare and beyond!
nervous system is indeed fascinating! It’s interesting to consider how this technology could enhance robot interactions with their environment, making them more responsive and adaptable. Imagine the possibilities for applications in healthcare or prosthetics!