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Sensitivity Enhancement of Soft Capacitive Pressure Sensors Using a Solvent Evaporation-Based Porosity Control Technique
Published on: March 24, 2023
A flexible sensor technology for the distributed measurement of interaction pressure
Marco Donati1, Nicola Vitiello, Stefano Marco Maria De Rossi
1The BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, viale Rinaldo Piaggio 34, 56025 Pontedera (PI), Italy. m.donati@sssup.it
Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)
|January 17, 2013
Summary
We developed a flexible, modular opto-electronic sensor technology to measure physical human-robot interaction pressure. This system enhances safety and performance in applications like rehabilitation exoskeletons and smart insoles.
Area of Science:
- Robotics
- Biomedical Engineering
- Sensor Technology
Background:
- Physical human-robot interaction (pHRI) requires accurate pressure measurement for safety and efficacy.
- Existing sensor technologies may lack flexibility, scalability, or adequate resolution for complex pHRI monitoring.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce a novel, flexible, modular opto-electronic sensor system for measuring physical human-robot interaction pressure.
- To detail the development and application of two generations of this sensor technology.
- To present the experimental characterization and validation of a second-generation system for improved pHRI measurement.
Main Methods:
- Development of flexible matrices of opto-electronic sensors encased in a soft silicone cover.
- Modular and scalable design allowing customization for various sizes, shapes, and pressure ranges.
- Integration into upper- and lower-limb exoskeletons for rehabilitation (NEUROExos, LOPES).
- Development of a pressure-sensitive foot insole and advanced pHRI measurement systems with wireless capabilities.
Main Results:
- Successful application of the first-generation system in monitoring human-robot interaction within rehabilitation exoskeletons.
- Development of a second-generation system featuring enhanced resolution and wireless connectivity.
- Experimental characterization and validation of the improved pHRI measurement system on healthy subjects.
Conclusions:
- The presented sensor technology offers a versatile and scalable solution for measuring physical human-robot interaction pressure.
- The validated second-generation system demonstrates potential for advanced applications in human-robot collaboration and wearable technology.
- Future developments aim to further expand the capabilities and applications of this innovative sensor system.
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