Wang, H, Kow, J orcid.org/0000-0002-0496-2966, Raske, N et al. (5 more authors) (2018) Robust and High-Performance Soft Inductive Tactile Sensors based on the Eddy-Current Effect. Sensors and Actuators, A: Physical, 271. pp. 44-52. ISSN 0924-4247
Abstract
Tactile sensors are essential for robotic systems to interact safely and effectively with the external world, they also play a vital role in some smart healthcare systems. Despite advances in areas including materials/composites, electronics and fabrication techniques, it remains challenging to develop low cost, high performance, durable, robust, soft tactile sensors for real-world applications. This paper presents the first Soft Inductive Tactile Sensor (SITS) which exploits an inductance-transducer mechanism based on the eddy-current effect. SITSs measure the inductance variation caused by changes in AC magnetic field coupling between coils and conductive films. Design methodologies for SITSs are discussed by drawing on the underlying physics and computational models, which are used to develop a range of SITS prototypes. An exemplar prototype achieves a state-of-the-art resolution of 0.82 mN with a measurement range over 15 N. Further tests demonstrate that SITSs have low hysteresis, good repeatability, wide bandwidth, and an ability to operate in harsh environments. Moreover, they can be readily fabricated in a durable form and their design is inherently extensible as highlighted by a 4x4 SITS array prototype. These outcomes show the potential of SITS systems to further advance tactile sensing solutions for integration into demanding real-world applications.
Metadata
Item Type: | Article |
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Authors/Creators: |
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Copyright, Publisher and Additional Information: | © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved. This is an author produced version of a paper published in Sensors and Actuators A: Physical. Uploaded in accordance with the publisher's self-archiving policy. |
Keywords: | Tactile sensor; eddy-current effect; inductive sensor; planar coil; elastomer; conductive film |
Dates: |
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Institution: | The University of Leeds |
Academic Units: | The University of Leeds > Faculty of Engineering & Physical Sciences (Leeds) > School of Mechanical Engineering (Leeds) > Institute of Functional Surfaces (Leeds) |
Funding Information: | Funder Grant number Leverhulme Trust RPG-2014-381 |
Depositing User: | Symplectic Publications |
Date Deposited: | 10 Jan 2018 15:34 |
Last Modified: | 28 Dec 2018 01:38 |
Status: | Published |
Publisher: | Elsevier |
Identification Number: | 10.1016/j.sna.2017.12.060 |
Open Archives Initiative ID (OAI ID): | oai:eprints.whiterose.ac.uk:126028 |