Electronic skin, a bionic flexible tactile sensing system that mimics the functions of natural human skin, has emerged as a critical technology in smart healthcare, intelligent control systems, and robotics. Capable of detecting pressure, temperature, and other external stimuli, it offers broad application potential, particularly in humanoid robotics, where its high flexibility and sensitivity rival or surpass human skin.
The tactile sensing system for robots consists of three layers: the sensing layer (detecting physical signals), the transmission layer (converting signals to digital data), and the control layer (processing data to execute actions). To meet diverse application needs, electronic skin must exhibit flexibility, durability, high sensitivity, and resolution. It is categorized into five types: piezoresistive, capacitive, piezoelectric, photoelectric, and inductive, with the first three being the most widely adopted.
Key players in China’s electronic skin industry include: 1. **Fulai New Materials**: A high-tech firm specializing in coated multifunctional composites, Fulai has developed second-generation flexible tactile sensors with industry-leading performance in "true flexibility, full curvature, and 3D force sensing." Since 2017, the company has built a robust IP portfolio and commenced small-batch production for industrial and robotics applications.
2. **Hanwei Technology**: A leader in gas sensors, Hanwei has over a decade of experience in flexible tactile sensors, holding 100+ patents. Its products feature ultra-thin designs, millisecond response times, and the ability to detect minute pressures (e.g., a feather’s touch).
3. **Keli Sensing**: Focused on strain sensors and industrial IoT, Keli expanded into electronic skin through strategic investments, notably in Yuansheng Tech, which has launched two mass-produced tactile sensor products.
4. **Shenhao Technology**: Specializing in smart operation robots, Shenhao applies electronic skin for non-contact obstacle avoidance, with pilot use in robotics to prevent collisions.
5. **Jinghua New Materials**: Its subsidiary, Jingzhigan, has developed fingertip, full-palm, and 3D-force electronic skins, partnering with U.S.-based TetherIA for advanced robotic hand integration.
6. **Audiowell**: A sensor and actuator manufacturer, Audiowell serves smart automotive, IoT, and industrial sectors with products like distance and pressure sensors.
The report covers global and Chinese market dynamics, supply-demand data, competitive landscapes, upstream materials, downstream applications, and regional analyses. It also provides insights into industry drivers, investment strategies, and risk assessments, alongside specialized services like market research and IPO consulting.
Key trends include: - Rising demand in robotics and smart healthcare. - Advancements in multi-modal sensing and large-area array designs. - Growing investments in R&D for durability and self-healing capabilities.
Challenges include high technical barriers, supply chain risks, and macroeconomic volatility. Opportunities lie in emerging applications and regional market expansion.
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