Scalable and adaptable tactile sensor array with island-bridge-form sensing units for multi-directional stimuli recognition

Abstract

Multiple mechanical stimuli recognition ability with direction discrimination function is of importance for a tactile sensor. However, typical multi-directional tactile sensor needs complex analysis to classify ambiguous output signals because of the nonspecific response. Besides, conventional sensor array layout with separate output ports for each sensor unit limits the integration and adaptability of the sensor system. This work proposes a novel sensor array configuration with island-bridge-form sensing units to isolate pressure and shear loading. Meanwhile, the reasonable integration scheme with specially-designed circuit effectively reduces the total output ports and data acquisition cost, capable of scaling up the sensor array according to application scenarios easily. A series of experiments and analysis from the characterization of sensing units to real-time recording of multiple mechanical stimuli are conducted, showing the independent, timely and high-sensitivity response of the tactile sensor array, exhibiting the application potential in human–machine interaction, wearable electronics and soft robotics.