Muscat: Scientists from Russia’s Southern Federal University have developed a robotic system based on neuromorphic technologies capable of simulating human sensory organs for potential use in rescue operations. The innovative technology features a shadow-mode robotic arm controlled through a sensor-equipped glove, where the robot learns and replicates the user’s finger movements in real time.

According to Oman News Agency, Vladimir Smirnov, head of the university’s Radioelectronics and Nanoelectronics Engineering Department, confirmed these robots could be deployed in rescue missions, with other university innovations applicable to prosthetic limbs. He explained that neuromorphic structures essentially function as precise electronic circuits performing neural network operations that could potentially replace human involvement.

The system incorporates tactile memory and pain receptors that enable surface characterization – detecting hardness, temperature, and texture upon contact. While humans might not consciously process such data daily, these represent machine learning functions performed by neural networks through neurotransmitter pathways in subsurface skin layers.

The university’s Neuroman Laboratory is developing localized solutions for fully automated robotic assistants capable of autonomous post-training operation without human intervention. These advancements position Russia to compete in global markets for intelligent robotics, marking significant progress in biologically-inspired artificial intelligence (AI) applications for emergency response systems.

Smirnov noted the technology’s potential extends beyond rescue operations into industrial and medical fields where human-like sensory perception proves valuable. The university plans further testing to enhance the system’s environmental adaptability and response accuracy under various operational conditions.