A fully 3D printed electronic skin with bionic high resolution and air permeable porous structure

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Robotics
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Electronic skin (e-skin) development faces challenges in achieving human-like resolution and long-term biocompatibility.
• Current e-skin technologies often lack the necessary porosity for air permeability, hindering comfort and integration with biological systems.
• Simultaneously achieving high sensor density and a porous structure is crucial for advanced bionic applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a fully 3D printed e-skin that integrates high resolution with an air-permeable porous structure.
• To enhance sensing performance and user comfort through innovative material and printing techniques.
• To demonstrate the potential of this novel e-skin in real-world applications.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing direct ink writing extrusion 3D printing for flexible substrates and electrodes.
• Employing a self-made low-viscosity liquid extrusion 3D print module for the sensitive material.
• Fabricating e-skin with a high sensor density of 100/cm².

Main Results:

• The 3D printed e-skin achieved a sensor density comparable to human fingertip skin resolution.
• Piezoresistive sensor units demonstrated a highly linear resistance response and consistent performance.
• The porous and breathable structure enhanced human comfort and mechanical heat dissipation.

Conclusions:

• The developed 3D printed e-skin successfully meets the requirements for high resolution and porosity.
• This technology offers improved sensing performance, comfort, and heat dissipation for bionic applications.
• The e-skin's capability was validated through successful identification of small objects with complex contours.