Scientists in South Korea have developed a type of artificial skin that will allow robots to feel slight vibrations. This skin, developed by weaving together extremely small nano hairs made of polymer or plastic is more sensitive than human skin. When vibration is applied to this artificial skin, the nano hairs bend against each other to generate an electrical current. Sensors within the skin evaluate the current and using that information determine the source of the vibration.

Researchers are excited about the potential for this new development. The artificial skin could be used to cover prosthetic limbs to help those who have lost a limb experience more realistic sensations and function more naturally.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neuroplasticity

What is a sensor?