Key Takeaways
- UltraSense Systems introduces an ultrasonic tactile intelligence platform for Physical AI
- The platform uses a protected, sub-surface sensing architecture for robust touch perception
- Customer evaluation kits will be available starting June 1, 2026
- The technology targets applications such as humanoid hands, robotic grippers, and industrial automation end effectors
- UltraSense has shipped over 4 million units and has experience delivering AEC-Q100-qualified solutions
Introduction to Ultrasonic Tactile Intelligence
The field of robotics is rapidly advancing, with a growing need for Physical AI systems that can interact with their environment in a more human-like way. One crucial aspect of this interaction is touch sensing, which enables robots to detect contact, localize where it occurs, interpret force, and respond reliably. Traditional tactile approaches often fall short, as the sensing element is exposed to wear, friction, and environmental degradation.
UltraSense's Architectural Approach
UltraSense Systems is addressing this challenge with a novel architectural approach. Instead of placing the sensing element at or near the contact surface, the company uses ultrasound to sense through the material stack, keeping the core sensing layer protected beneath the interaction surface. This design allows the platform to detect contact events, localize interaction, and infer force-related behavior while reducing direct wear on the active sensing element.
Comparison of Tactile Sensing Technologies
| Technology | Sensing Method | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Tactile | Surface-near sensing | Simple implementation | Exposed to wear, friction, and environmental degradation |
| Ultrasonic Tactile | Sub-surface sensing | Robust, protected sensing layer | Higher complexity, potential for acoustic interference |
| Optical Tactile | Vision-based sensing | Non-contact, high-resolution | Limited range, sensitive to lighting conditions |
Target Applications and Benefits
The UltraSense platform is designed for applications that require both robustness and actionable touch data, such as:
- Humanoid hands
- Robotic grippers
- Industrial automation end effectors
- Contact-rich machine interfaces
By providing a reliable and high-fidelity touch perception, the platform can enhance the performance and safety of these systems.
Conclusion and Availability
UltraSense Systems has announced the availability of customer evaluation kits starting June 1, 2026. With over 4 million units shipped and experience delivering AEC-Q100-qualified solutions, the company is poised to make a significant impact in the field of Physical AI.
Bottom Line
The introduction of UltraSense Systems' ultrasonic tactile intelligence platform marks a significant advancement in the field of Physical AI. By providing a robust and protected sensing architecture, the platform enables robots and intelligent machines to interact with their environment in a more human-like way, with potential applications in a wide range of industries. As the technology becomes available for customer evaluation, it is likely to have a profound impact on the development of more sophisticated and capable Physical AI systems.