A doctoral candidate and researcher at the University of Toronto, Arman Arezoomand, received the Data Sciences Institute Doctoral Student Fellowship for his work developing sensors that can detect the shape and texture of objects, just as human skin does.
“Receiving this fellowship allows me to address the current limitations in artificial tactile perception and develop prosthetic digits equipped with soft sensors that truly replicate the sensitivity of the human fingertip skin,” said Arezoomand.
“Our overarching objective is to develop a sensor that can make a real impact and improve the quality of life for partial-hand amputees. The goal of restoring tactile sensing in prosthetics has been a powerful motivation to develop a truly useful product to improve balance, motor control, and gripping.”
Beyond prosthetic devices, the technology could also hold promise for embodied artificial intelligence in robotics.
Arezoomand joined the university’s Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering after completing his Master of Science in Mechatronics Engineering at Sharif University of Technology in, Iran. “The scope and potential application of the research are so widespread, it’s fulfilling for myself and the team to work toward developing a sensor with substantial impact.”
Editor’s note: This story was adapted from materials provided by the University of Toronto.
