Story perspectives

WSU’s e-skin delivers 10x finer pressure sensing for prosthetics

8/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

Washington State University researchers created an electronic skin that senses pressure and temperature.
The e-skin achieves roughly ten-times finer resolution than commercial glove sensors.
A scan-model-print process uses 3D printing and laser cutting to shape modules for prosthetic fit.
Thin sensor modules snap together like Lego bricks, removing the need for adhesives.
They filed a provisional patent and are developing a nerve-stimulating actuator.

History

Historical Context

Early DARPA flexible-electronics research spurred stretchable sensor work that later led to Washington State University’s 2024 high-resolution e-skin. The effort reflects a broader federal push for high-risk tech, exemplified by ARPA-E’s October 2009 award of $151 million for 37 energy projects, which helped accelerate wearable-electronics national commercialization and market adoption in the United States.

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Story summary

Washington State University researchers created an electronic skin that senses pressure and temperature.
The e-skin achieves roughly ten-times finer resolution than commercial glove sensors.
A scan-model-print process uses 3D printing and laser cutting to shape modules for prosthetic fit.
Thin sensor modules snap together like Lego bricks, removing the need for adhesives.
They filed a provisional patent and are developing a nerve-stimulating actuator.

1 / 2