A skin-worn sensor that gives the human body the ability to turn into a touch sensitive exterior for controlling mobile gadgets has been created by scientists in Germany. They call it the "iSkin" and it is made from biocompatible silicone rubber with pressure-sensitive sensors that are attached to the skin, allowing the user to use his own body to control a mobile device. It was developed by the scientists at the Max Planck Institute for Informatics and Saarland University. The prototypes of this technology have been produced in different shapes and sizes to suit different locations of the body and with the current prototypes, the wearer can answer calls or play music.
According to co-developer Martin Weigel, "iSkin's thin, soft and flexible design presents new possibilities for mobile interaction that have not been possible with existing hardware"
"Current electronics are mostly using rigid components which are very uncomfortable to wear on the body and are limiting the locations to, for example, the wrist or on the head to be worn. But our sensor is a flexible and stretchable sensor, so it can cover many locations. For example, even the backside of the ear or the forearm. So, we have a much larger input space than current electronics allow for," he added.
The first models are based on "electronic skin" that allows robots to sense the external environment. Also, the iSkin makers have taken inspiration from more human-like prostheses that can sense contact, pressure and temperature. Speaking of this, Weigel said, "The technology is initially coming from robotics where it's used to give robots kind of a feeling similar to the human body, to human skin. However, we are the first to look into how we can use it on the body to control mobile devices; so as a kind of second-skin which nicely conforms to your body"
The iSkin is made from silicone-based organic polymer that sandwiches the flattened carbon black powder that is shaped like a tattoo which makes up the electronic sensor. It is attached to the skin like a sticker using medical grade adhesive that is safe for the skin and peels off easily. For now the prototypes are still wired to a computer but the developers are hoping that someday they can integrate microchips or give the iSkin the ability to be powered by the wearer's energy.
