Psychological tactile sensor structure based on piezoelectric sensor arrays

Abstract

Recently, artificial tactile sensors have been studied in attempts to mimic the human sense of touch for various applications, from the simple input function of mobile devices to the complicated finger systems of android robots. To produce artificial psychological feeling, especially ‘pain’, electrical mimic structure of human skin has been studied. Array type tactile sensor can verify the input object which may be sharp, blunt, and hot or cool by simple signal processing. This capability means that tactile sensor can convey psychological feeling from physical parameters. Imitating this phenomenon, the skin mimic device employing the piezoelectric nanowire sensor arrays can generate the electrical ‘pain’ signal with signal processing when a sharp or a hot object touch to the device. The electrical ‘pain’ signal is expected to enhance the protection mechanism of android robot or mobile phone from harsh environment.