Bio-inspired CNP-PDMS Tactile Sensor with Interlocking Architecture for Softness Detection
The Korean Physical Society, Kimdaejung Convention Center Gwang-ju, Korea (2025)
Sangmin Lee, Sihyun Sung, Yiseo Lee, Dongpyo Hong, Sang Yoon Park, Young Pyo Jeon, Young Joon Yoo
[Abstract]
This study presents a novel tactile sensor with an interlocking polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) structure em<x>bedded with carbon nanoparticles (CNP) for enhanced material softness detection. The sensor mimics human tactile perception by measuring both applied pressure and transient deformation states during indentation, providing comprehensive softness profiles beyond traditional force-ba<x>sed measurements. The interlocking architecture improves sensitivity and stability, while the CNP-PDMS composite enables reliable piezoresistive sensing. Experimental validation across diverse materials demonstrates the sensor's effectiveness in distinguishing varying degrees of softness under different operational conditions. A one-dimensional convolutional neural network (1D-CNN) was employed for signal processing and classification, achieving robust softness recognition despite environmental variations and operational tolerances. This sensor technology offers significant potential for applications requiring sophisticated tactile feedback, including robotics, prosthetics, and quality control systems where accurate material property assessment is critical. The approach advances current tactile sensing capabilities by integrating transient
response analysis with conventional pressure measurement for more nuanced material characterization.
Keywords : Tactile sensor, Carbon nanoparticle-PDMS composite, Softness recognition, Interlocking Microstructure, Softness detection sensor