A low-cost and environment-tolerant stretchable matrix tactile switch sensor array

Research output: Contribution to journalResearch articleContributedpeer-review

Contributors

Abstract

Tactile sensing is essential for safe and effective human–robot interaction, particularly in industrial and service robotics. While numerous tactile sensor arrays based on piezoelectric, piezoresistive, and capacitive mechanisms have been developed, most suffer from complex structures, high material costs, and sensitivity to environmental factors. Here, we present an entirely soft and stretchable binary tactile sensor array based on a mechanical switch structure. The design enables stable, robust contact detection using only passive structures and low-cost materials. A 6 × 6 sensor array is demonstrated, achieving accurate touch detection with high robustness, signal stability, and scalability. The total material cost per sensor is below 1 USD, highlighting its potential for widespread deployment in cost-sensitive robotic systems and consumer electronics.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Article number120108
JournalMeasurement
Volume262
Publication statusPublished - 24 Feb 2026
Peer-reviewedYes

External IDs

Scopus 105024664030
ORCID /0000-0002-7062-9598/work/213145482
ORCID /0000-0002-8588-9755/work/213147635

Keywords