An evaluation study of nanoparticle films as biomimetic tactile sensors

Tactile feedback in robotic and prosthetic applications requires high resolution sensing with rapid response times, high sensitivity and conformability. Nanoparticle films offer the opportunity to realise high spatial resolution sensors on various substrates through ink-jet printing and the ability to tailor device characteristics to achieve sensitive and rapid transduction. This paper presents modelled and experimental characteristics of a novel nanoparticle resistive-based sensor over the range of 0-250 mN for use as a tactile sensor. The frequency response on a flexible substrate showed a cut-off frequency of 80 Hz to 100 μm amplitude displacements. The sensor had a detection limit of ∼10 mN with a sensitivity factor of 0.3% mN−1 and 0.001% mN−1 on a flexible and rigid substrate respectively.