Flexible Dual-Modal Piezoelectric Polymer Sensors: From Contact to Proximity Perception

Area of Science:

• Robotics and Artificial Intelligence
• Materials Science and Engineering
• Sensor Technology

Background:

• Intelligent robots require advanced multimodal perception capabilities, driven by rapid AI development.
• Existing piezoelectric contact sensors have limitations in sensing range, hindering applications in complex human-machine interaction.
• Integrating noncontact or proximity sensing into piezoelectric sensors is crucial for expanding their utility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a dual-modal piezoelectric sensor capable of both proximity and contact sensing.
• To enable intelligent robots with enhanced perception for complex tasks.
• To provide a pathway for designing next-generation electronic skin.

Main Methods:

• Synergistic coupling of the piezoelectric effect and electrostatic induction in piezoelectric films and electrodes.
• Development of dual-modal sensors with distinct charge responses for noncontact and contact events.
• Circuit design for multiparameter quantization and feedback control.

Main Results:

• Successfully developed dual-modal piezoelectric sensors with integrated proximity and contact sensing.
• Demonstrated recognition of both sensing modes, even in blind conditions, via charge response differences.
• Validated sensor performance in impact tests, target positioning, and robotic claw grasping control.

Conclusions:

• The developed dual-modal piezoelectric sensor offers a highly integrated solution for intelligent robotic perception.
• This technology provides a feasible pathway for the design of advanced electronic skin.
• The sensor enhances robotic capabilities in human-machine interaction and complex manipulation tasks.