Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 13, 2026

14:14
Quantification of Strain in a Porcine Model of Skin Expansion Using Multi-View Stereo and Isogeometric Kinematics
Published on: April 16, 2017
12.0K
Multidirectional In Vivo Characterization of Skin Using Wiener Nonlinear Stochastic System Identification Techniques.
Matthew D Parker1, Lynette A Jones2, Ian W Hunter2
1Auckland Bioengineering Institute, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
Journal of Biomechanical Engineering
|November 5, 2016
Summary
A novel microrobot measures skin
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Robotics
- Dermatology
Background:
- Skin's mechanical properties are crucial for its function and health.
- Non-invasive methods are needed to accurately characterize skin's complex mechanical behavior in vivo.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a triaxial force-sensitive microrobot for dynamic skin perturbation.
- To analyze the linear and nonlinear mechanical properties of skin using advanced identification techniques.
Main Methods:
- Development of a triaxial force-sensitive microrobot for in vivo skin perturbation.
- Application of Wiener static nonlinear identification to analyze force-displacement data.
- Stochastic input forces applied to volar forearm and thenar eminence in indentation and tangential extension modes.
Main Results:
- Wiener nonlinear models achieved high accuracy (94-97% VAF) in reproducing skin displacements.
- Skin on the thenar eminence exhibited approximately twice the stiffness of the forearm.
- Depth-dependent stiffness and damping were quantified, increasing with depth.
Conclusions:
- The developed microrobot and methods accurately characterize in vivo skin mechanics.
- Significant regional differences in skin mechanical properties were identified.
- Potential applications include skincare evaluation, hydration assessment, and wound healing analysis.

