A new grain-sized device uses a single optical signal to simultaneously detect force and twisting in all directions, which could improve precision in robotics and medical instruments. By allowing machines to measure contact force, pressure, shear and twisting, the technology could enable robots to detect unsafe contact early and adjust their actions in real time, especially in small and sensitive environments like surgical procedures. In experiments, the sensor achieved accurate repeatable measurements with low hysteresis — meaning it produced nearly identical readings during loading and unloading — even under complex loading conditions. Its performance also remained stable under temperature changes and when the probe was bent. Full release in our Newsroom* #Technology #Medicine #Surgery #Photonics