Title :
A large area force sensor for smart skin applications
Author :
Papakostas, Thomas V. ; Lima, Julian ; Lowe, Mark
Author_Institution :
Tekscan Inc, Boston, MA, USA
Abstract :
This paper presents the construction and theory of operation of a large area, flexible, tactile sensor and its applications. The sensing mechanism is based on the novel contact piezoresistive effect. Furthermore, the sensor´s resolution, size and shape can be easily tailored to the applications´ requirements. This versatility facilitates the use of the sensor in smart applications where tactile information is used to create system intelligence. Future improvements in the tactile sensing arena are discussed along with the potential benefits of using polymer electronics.
Keywords :
force sensors; intelligent sensors; piezoresistive devices; tactile sensors; contact piezoresistive effect; flexible tactile sensor; interface electronics; large area force sensor; polymer electronics; sensor resolution; sensor shape; sensor size; smart skin applications; smart skin scanning circuit; Conductivity; Contact resistance; Force sensors; Linearity; Piezoresistance; Rough surfaces; Skin; Surface resistance; Surface roughness; Switches;
Conference_Titel :
Sensors, 2002. Proceedings of IEEE
Print_ISBN :
0-7803-7454-1
DOI :
10.1109/ICSENS.2002.1037366
