Sensors for Robotics

10:45 am - 11:10 am

Beyond Human Senses: Advanced Sensor Integration for the Next Generation of Humanoid Robots

The convergence of an aging population and a shrinking workforce is accelerating the adoption of automation. Humanoid robots are emerging as a leading platform for general-purpose deployment, moving beyond structured manufacturing environments into homes and other unpredictable settings. This transition significantly increases environmental complexity and places new demands on robotic perception.

This presentation addresses one of the key hardware challenges for humanoids: advanced sensor integration. Rather than a miniaturization problem, sensorizing humanoids requires deploying large-scale, distributed sensing systems that can match, and ultimately exceed, human perception.

We’ll explore tactile sensing technologies based on acoustic and capacitive principles, enabling high-resolution robotic skin capable of detecting pressure, texture, and interaction forces. These sensors can be implemented on both silicon and flexible substrates, enabling seamless integration across robotic bodies.

We’ll also examine superhuman sensing capabilities enabled by advanced semiconductor technologies like high-speed image sensors spanning ultraviolet to short-wave infrared wavelengths extend robotic vision beyond human limits as well as enable chemical, environmental, and gas sensing for enhanced situational awareness.

Expanding the robotic sensory stack, from touch sensing to multimodal superhuman perception, will be critical to enabling autonomous, intelligent, and safe humanoid assistants capable of operating in complex real-world environments.

Key Technologies Covered

Tactile sensing technologies based on acoustic and capacitive principles,
High-resolution robotic skin capable of detecting pressure, texture, and interaction forces.
visible-infrared image sensors
Gas sensing for enhanced situational awareness in robots

Featured Speakers

Mr. Stefano Guerrieri

Portfolio Director, imec

Stefano Guerrieri received his M.Sc. degree in Solid State Physics from the University of L’Aquila, Italy, in 1999, with a thesis focused on DRAM technology development at Micron Technology Italy. He started his career at Applied Materials as a System Expert before joining STMicroelectronics’ Central R&D organization in Agrate Brianza, Italy, where he contributed to the development of advanced NAND technology nodes. In 2008 he joined Micron Technology Italy as a Principal Engineer, leading the development of innovative image sensor technologies, including Backside Illumination (BSI) and light-pipe architectures. In 2014, Stefano joined imec, where he contributed in advancing next-generation pixel technologies and imaging solutions, working on both silicon-based and emerging material platforms. In September 2019, Stefano joined ams AG as Engineering Fellow, focusing on innovation in sensing and image sensor technologies. In July 2025, he returned to imec and joined the Technology Portfolio Office, where he is responsible for shaping the strategy of technology developments of advanced technologies for consumer and industrial applications. Throughout his career, Stefano has authored or co-authored numerous patents and scientific publications.