Melexis Brings 3D Touch Sensing to Humanoid Robots

Melexis has unveiled the MLX90901 Tactile Fingertip Module, its first integrated mechatronic solution for tactile sensing in humanoid robots. Designed to provide true three-dimensional force detection, the module enables robotic hands to measure both normal and shear forces, delivering the tactile feedback necessary for more precise and reliable object manipulation.

As advances in artificial intelligence continue to enhance a robot's ability to understand instructions, plan actions, and make decisions, the challenge increasingly shifts to physical interaction with the environment. Tasks such as grasping unfamiliar objects, adjusting grip strength, or manipulating delicate items require continuous force feedback, a capability that remains limited in many robotic systems.

The MLX90901 addresses this challenge by using Melexis' Tactaxis magnetic sensing technology to capture force magnitude and direction across three axes. Unlike conventional force sensors that primarily detect pressure perpendicular to the surface, the new module also measures shear forces in two directions. This provides detailed information about grip stability, object movement, and fingertip interactions, helping robots perform more human-like manipulation tasks.

The solution combines sensing elements, magnets, elastomer materials, mechanical structures, and supporting electronics within a single module. By integrating these components into a complete system, Melexis reduces the complexity typically associated with developing tactile sensing solutions, allowing engineers to focus on application development rather than sensor integration.

The MLX90901 measures normal forces up to 15N and shear forces up to 4N. It offers 10% full-scale accuracy and a typical resolution of 200 mN, enabling detection of subtle force variations during grasping and object handling. An I²C interface simplifies integration with robotic hand controllers and embedded development platforms.

To support evaluation and system development, Melexis is also introducing the DVK90901 evaluation kit. The platform lets developers benchmark the sensor, characterize its three-axis force response, and generate the high-quality contact data needed for closed-loop control systems and physical AI applications.

The launch marks the culmination of four years of Tactaxis development, moving from individual tactile sensing elements to a standardized fingertip module suitable for prototyping and future volume production. Melexis is exhibiting at electronica 2026 in Munich, Germany, November 10-13, at Hall C6, Booth 139.

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