Flexible tactile sensor array utilizing microstructured PDMS bumps with PEDOT:PSS conductive polymer

This work presents a novel flexible tactile sensor array fabricated with PEDOT:PSS conductive polymer modified micro-structured polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) bumps. PDMS bump arrays with micro-structures are coated with PEDOT:PSS conductive polymer for resistive tactile sensing. The micro-structures on PDMS bumps are produced by replicating the formed thermal bubble cavities during laser ablation of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) substrate. The micro-structures on the PDMS bumps greatly enhance the small force response such that the developed sensor exhibits a good response for detecting forces ranging from 0.2~0.7 N. Results also indicate that the developed PDMS-based tactile sensor has good elastic property with the spring constant of 8.3 N/mm with excellent reproducibility. The developed method provides a simple yet high performance way to produce flexible tactile sensor for electronic skin applications.