News and Events

Dr. GAO Yuyu, the postdoctoral fellow of Prof. YU Xinge, and the research team have made a significant breakthrough in robotic technology with the development of a neuromorphic robotic electronic skin (NRE-skin). Published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), this innovative e-skin is set to revolutionize humanoid robotics by providing real-time tactile perception far beyond basic pressure sensing (“A neuromorphic robotic electronic skin with active pain and injury perception”).

Key features include active pain detection, which triggers reflex-like protective responses to intense or persistent pressure, preventing damage without central processing. The NRE-skin also boasts injury sensing and a modular, replaceable design, allowing for quick localization and replacement of damaged areas.

This innovation paves the way for safer, more natural human-robot interactions, with significant implications for healthcare and service industries. By emulating human sensory systems, the NRE-skin sets a new standard for empathetic and responsive robotics.

Press coverage:
(27 FEB 2026) Can Robots Feel Pain? This New Artificial Skin Makes It Possible [BGR]
(27 FEB 2026) Can Robots Feel Pain? This New Artificial Skin Makes It Possible [Head Topics]
(8 JAN 2026) 香港城大研發機械人電子皮膚 具備痛覺感知與即時反射能力 [unwire]