3D Printed Capacitive Displacement/Force Sensor with Different Patterns of Dielectric Layer

In this paper a simple capacitive sensor for displacement/force measuring is presented. Additive 3D printing technology was used to make the sensor housing and electrodes, while silicone rubber was used for the dielectric layer to ensure good sensitivity to the applied force. Three different patterns of dielectric layers were investigated. During experimental measurements, a change in capacitance was observed depending on the performed displacement in the range of 0.5 mm with 0.1 mm increments. The measured capacitance values and characteristics for all three types of sensors were compared.