Researchers developed a sensor that measures just 1.7 millimeters and can measure forces and torque in all directions using light. Credit: Jianlong Yang, Shanghai Jiao Tong University in China Researchers have developed a sensor about the size of a grain of rice that can measure forces and twisting motions in all directions using light instead of traditional electronics. The new sensor could help robotic tools and medical devices "feel" what they are touching, especially at very small scales. "Although modern imaging systems can show structures clearly, they do not provide information about physical interaction, such as force or torque, and existing force sensors are often too bulky or complex to fit into miniature tools," said research team leader Jianlong Yang from Shanghai Jiao Tong University in China.…