Tactile sensor: stretching the limits

A new, conformable, tactile array sensor is presented along with its applications in intelligent environments. The sensor consists of an array of thin force sensing elements that are supported by freestanding, spiral shaped electrodes. These spirals create planar springs that allow each sensor element to move outside the sensor's plane. The resulting sensor array can conform to irregular surfaces. The application of this sensor in creating intelligent furniture, beds and body suits is discussed.