Cylindric 3D force sensor using a flexible MCNTs/PDMS composite material

Abstract

Flexible force sensor for rapid prototyping is designed and suggested with a suitable process for molding. A physical mixing of both CNT and PDMS shows lower percolation limit which shows proper electrical and mechanical properties. For 1% of CNT/PDMS composite, the mechanical and electrical properties were investigated up to 120kg and kilo-Ohm range of sensor resistance. By comparing with commercial thin film type pressure sensor, the bulk type cylindrical sensor shows unstable resistance change in a logarithmic relationship, i.e., displacement, force, resistance change.