PDMS-based two-axis inclinometer with a 360-degree measuring range

In this study, we fabricated an electrolytic tilt sensor based on a unique poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) structure, which enables the successful implementation of a 360° dual-axis inclination angle measurement. The fabricated electrolytic tilt sensor consists of two parts: symmetric hemispherical PDMS cavities with detecting electrodes, and a wire-shaped carbon nanotube (CNT)-PDMS composite common electrode. The proposed electrolytic tilt sensor overcomes the limitations that have been previously reported. Specifically, it not only expands the operating range to 360°, but it also significantly increases the device response and sensitivity to 0.17 s and 22 mVrms/degree, respectively. We verified the stability of the proposed sensor and obtained a standard deviation (σ) of approximately 0.014. Experimental results confirm that the device is sufficient for a variety of tilt angle measurement applications by providing a measurement option that is efficient, cost effective, and does not require complex fabrication processes.