EngineeringMaterials ScienceMedicine

Yufan Wu, Jiangtao Xue, Lihua Chen, Yu Deng, Zhou Li

2026.1.28Small Methods

DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202502283

tlooto Summary

This review summarizes recent progress in the structural design of e‐skin, which is a pivotal factor enabling breakthroughs in its functionality and performance.

Abstract

Inspired by human skin, electronic skin (e‐skin) integrates multidisciplinary technologies from materials engineering to microelectronics. It aims to replicate the skin's ability to perceive pressure, temperature, and humidity while also exhibiting excellent biocompatibility. As an emerging technology, e‐skin holds significant promise across diverse fields, including industry, medicine, the military, and robotics. This review summarizes recent progress in the structural design of e‐skin, which is a pivotal factor enabling breakthroughs in its functionality and performance. The e‐skin structural design strategies are classified into three categories: skin‐like perception regulation and performance enhancement, conformal interface stabilization design, and beyond‐skin functionality design. These strategies facilitate skin‐like multimodal sensing, stable human–machine interfaces, and capabilities exceeding those of biological skin, respectively. Current challenges and future prospects for e‐skin development are also discussed.

Citation format

WU, Yufan, et al. Electronic skin empowered by structural design. Small Methods, 2026, 10(4): e02283.