Pudong team develops record-small optical six-axis sensor
A Pudong-based startup, Namu Zhineng (Shanghai) Co Ltd, has developed a 1.7-millimeter optical six-axis force sensor, reducing the size to one-tenth of the previous smallest commercial sensor, marking a breakthrough in tactile sensing for robotics and minimally invasive medicine.
The sensor has completed laboratory testing and pilot validation, preparing it for scaled production. Namu Zhineng plans to establish an integrated R&D, manufacturing and testing base in Pudong, targeting multi-scenario applications by 2027.
Traditional six-axis sensors generally exceed 10 millimeters in diameter. They are vulnerable to electromagnetic interference, limiting their use in narrow spaces such as catheter channels, endoscopic systems, and robotic fingertips in advanced industrial and medical applications.
The new device adopts a fully optical design with no electronic components in the sensing probe. Force and torque are measured by changes in externally captured light-field patterns, enabling precise sensing in millimeter-scale environments while avoiding electronic interference.
This approach provides high safety and stability in medical and industrial settings. The fully optical probe is electrically insulated and compatible with sterilization processes, making it suitable for sensitive medical procedures and precision manufacturing environments.
Namu Zhineng has published its research in the journal Optica and is collaborating with robotics firms and medical institutions. The technology is being applied to humanoid robots and microsurgical instruments, enhancing grasping accuracy and supporting industrial-scale deployment of next-generation intelligent devices.
Contact Us

Pudong transforms into floral 'animal kingdom'
Pudong lights up city with spectacular shows and cultural marvels
Brilliant light show to illuminate Huangpu River
Maple leaves paint splendid scenery in Pudong