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Ullah R, Mehmood Khan RY, Faisal M. Fabrication and characterization of a rapid-response, ultrasensitive dual-head interferometric pressure sensor. APPLIED OPTICS 2023; 62:8924-8930. [PMID: 38038039 DOI: 10.1364/ao.501526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
A novel, to the best of our knowledge, dual-head Michelson interferometer-based pressure sensor with ultrahigh sensitivity and rapid response has been fabricated and optimized. The sensor consists of two diaphragm-based sensing heads, which operate on the principle of path-length variations of the interferometers due to the effect of pressure variation within the pressure channel. Pressure has been measured independently by the heads in terms of the fringe counts across two photodetectors with different sensitivities and working ranges. Head 1 had a linear working range of 0-6 psi and a sensitivity, resolution, and response time of 1295.04 fringe counts/psi, 25.74 µpsi, and 0.86 ms, respectively, which were 2.46, 2.46, and 0.86 times better than those of head 2. However, head 2 had a larger working range of 0-15 psi. Heads 1 and 2 yielded repeatable responses with negligible hysteresis and an average absolute error of 0.55% and 0.58%, respectively, compared to the predicted results. The proposed sensor has great potential for use in laboratory and industrial nonintrusive precise and fast-response pressure sensing applications.
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Li J, Chen S, Zhou J, Tang L, Jiang C, Zhang D, Sheng B. Flexible BaTiO 3-PDMS Capacitive Pressure Sensor of High Sensitivity with Gradient Micro-Structure by Laser Engraving and Molding. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:3292. [PMID: 37571185 PMCID: PMC10422564 DOI: 10.3390/polym15153292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The significant potential of flexible sensors in various fields such as human health, soft robotics, human-machine interaction, and electronic skin has garnered considerable attention. Capacitive pressure sensor is popular given their mechanical flexibility, high sensitivity, and signal stability. Enhancing the performance of capacitive sensors can be achieved through the utilization of gradient structures and high dielectric constant media. This study introduced a novel dielectric layer, employing the BaTiO3-PDMS material with a gradient micro-cones architecture (GMCA). The capacitive sensor was constructed by incorporating a dielectric layer GMCA, which was fabricated using laser engraved acrylic (PMMA) molds and flexible copper-foil/polyimide-tape electrodes. To examine its functionality, the prepared sensor was subjected to a pressure range of 0-50 KPa. Consequently, this sensor exhibited a remarkable sensitivity of up to 1.69 KPa-1 within the pressure range of 0-50 KPa, while maintaining high pressure-resolution across the entire pressure spectrum. Additionally, the pressure sensor demonstrated a rapid response time of 50 ms, low hysteresis of 0.81%, recovery time of 160 ms, and excellent cycling stability over 1000 cycles. The findings indicated that the GMCA pressure sensor, which utilized a gradient structure and BaTiO3-PDMS material, exhibited notable sensitivity and a broad linear pressure range. These results underscore the adaptability and viability of this technology, thereby facilitating enhanced flexibility in pressure sensors and fostering advancements in laser manufacturing and flexible devices for a wider array of potential applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayi Li
- School of Optical Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China; (J.L.); (J.Z.); (L.T.); (C.J.); (D.Z.)
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Modern Optical Systems, Engineering Research Center of Optical Instruments and Systems, Shanghai 200093, China
| | - Shangbi Chen
- Inertial Technology Division, Shanghai Aerospace Control Technology Institute, Shanghai 201109, China;
| | - Jingyu Zhou
- School of Optical Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China; (J.L.); (J.Z.); (L.T.); (C.J.); (D.Z.)
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Modern Optical Systems, Engineering Research Center of Optical Instruments and Systems, Shanghai 200093, China
| | - Lei Tang
- School of Optical Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China; (J.L.); (J.Z.); (L.T.); (C.J.); (D.Z.)
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Modern Optical Systems, Engineering Research Center of Optical Instruments and Systems, Shanghai 200093, China
| | - Chenkai Jiang
- School of Optical Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China; (J.L.); (J.Z.); (L.T.); (C.J.); (D.Z.)
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Modern Optical Systems, Engineering Research Center of Optical Instruments and Systems, Shanghai 200093, China
| | - Dawei Zhang
- School of Optical Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China; (J.L.); (J.Z.); (L.T.); (C.J.); (D.Z.)
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Modern Optical Systems, Engineering Research Center of Optical Instruments and Systems, Shanghai 200093, China
| | - Bin Sheng
- School of Optical Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China; (J.L.); (J.Z.); (L.T.); (C.J.); (D.Z.)
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Modern Optical Systems, Engineering Research Center of Optical Instruments and Systems, Shanghai 200093, China
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Li P, Li W, Chen C, Wu S, Pan P, Sun K, Liu M, Wang J, Li X. A Single-Side Micromachined MPa-Scale High-Temperature Pressure Sensor. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:mi14050981. [PMID: 37241606 DOI: 10.3390/mi14050981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
This paper proposes a piezoresistive high-temperature absolute pressure sensor based on (100)/(111) hybrid SOI (silicon-on-insulator) silicon wafers, where the active layer is (100) silicon and the handle layer is (111) silicon. The 1.5 MPa ranged sensor chips are designed with the size as tiny as 0.5 × 0.5 mm, and the chips are fabricated only from the front side of the wafer for simple, high-yield and low-cost batch production. Herein, the (100) active layer is specifically used to form high-performance piezoresistors for high-temperature pressure sensing, while the (111) handle layer is used to single-side construct the pressure-sensing diaphragm and the pressure-reference cavity beneath the diaphragm. Benefitting from front-sided shallow dry etching and self-stop lateral wet etching inside the (111)-silicon substrate, the thickness of the pressure-sensing diaphragm is uniform and controllable, and the pressure-reference cavity is embedded into the handle layer of (111) silicon. Without the conventionally used double-sided etching, wafer bonding and cavity-SOI manufacturing, a very small sensor chip size of 0.5 × 0.5 mm is achieved. The measured performance of the 1.5 MPa ranged pressure sensor exhibits a full-scale output of approximately 59.55 mV/1500 kPa/3.3 VDC in room temperature and a high overall accuracy (combined with hysteresis, non-linearity and repeatability) of 0.17%FS within the temperature range of -55 °C to 350 °C. In addition, the thermal hysteresis is also evaluated as approximately 0.15%FS at 350 °C. The tiny-sized high temperature pressure sensors are promising in various industrial automatic control applications and wind tunnel testing systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Li
- State Key Laboratory of ASIC and System, School of Microelectronics, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200050, China
| | - Wei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200050, China
- School of Microelectronics, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Changnan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200050, China
- School of Microelectronics, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Sheng Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200050, China
- School of Microelectronics, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Pichao Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200050, China
- School of Microelectronics, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Ke Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200050, China
- School of Microelectronics, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Min Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200050, China
- School of Microelectronics, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jiachou Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200050, China
- School of Microelectronics, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xinxin Li
- State Key Laboratory of ASIC and System, School of Microelectronics, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200050, China
- School of Microelectronics, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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Li C, Zhang C, Yang L, Guo F. Silicon-on-Insulator Optical Waveguide Pressure Sensor Based on Mach-Zehnder Interferometer. MICROMACHINES 2022; 13:1321. [PMID: 36014243 PMCID: PMC9414920 DOI: 10.3390/mi13081321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
At present, there are few methods to measure optical pressure using MEMS. However, due to its high precision and fast response, a ridge waveguide pressure sensor based on a Mach-Zehnder interferometer is designed in this paper. Through the design and optimization of each component of the structure, the sensitivity of the pressure sensor was 2.2 × 10-3 W/kPa and the linearity was 5.9 × 10-3. The sensor had a good performance and small volume, which can be used in the field of light pressure measurement and other fields that required the measurement small pressures, such as the biomedicine field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Li
- School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi’an 710021, China
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China
- State Key Laboratory of Mechanical Manufacturing System Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710054, China
| | - Chi Zhang
- School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi’an 710021, China
| | - Lijun Yang
- School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi’an 710021, China
| | - Fangtong Guo
- Peking University Founder Technology College, Beijing 065000, China
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Zhang H, He R, Niu Y, Han F, Li J, Zhang X, Xu F. Graphene-enabled wearable sensors for healthcare monitoring. Biosens Bioelectron 2022; 197:113777. [PMID: 34781177 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2021.113777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Wearable sensors in healthcare monitoring have recently found widespread applications in biomedical fields for their non- or minimal-invasive, user-friendly and easy-accessible features. Sensing materials is one of the major challenges to achieve these superiorities of wearable sensors for healthcare monitoring, while graphene-based materials with many favorable properties have shown great efficiency in sensing various biochemical and biophysical signals. In this paper, we review state-of-the-art advances in the development and modification of graphene-based materials (i.e., graphene, graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide) for fabricating advanced wearable sensors with 1D (fibers), 2D (films) and 3D (foams/aerogels/hydrogels) macroscopic structures. We summarize the structural design guidelines, sensing mechanisms, applications and evolution of the graphene-based materials as wearable sensors for healthcare monitoring of biophysical signals (e.g., mechanical, thermal and electrophysiological signals) and biochemical signals from various body fluids and exhaled gases. Finally, existing challenges and future prospects are presented in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiqing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Thermo-Fluid Science and Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Energy & Power Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, China; The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, China; Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, China
| | - Rongyan He
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, China; Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, China
| | - Yan Niu
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, China; Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, China
| | - Fei Han
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, China; Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Plastic and Burn Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710038, China
| | - Xiongwen Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Thermo-Fluid Science and Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Energy & Power Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, China.
| | - Feng Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, China; Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, China.
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Yusof N, Bais B, Yunas J, Soin N, Majlis BY. Fabrication of Suspended PMMA-Graphene Membrane for High Sensitivity LC-MEMS Pressure Sensor. MEMBRANES 2021; 11:996. [PMID: 34940497 PMCID: PMC8708556 DOI: 10.3390/membranes11120996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The LC-MEMS pressure sensor is an attractive option for an implantable sensor. It senses pressure wirelessly through an LC resonator, eliminating the requirement for electrical wiring or a battery system. However, the sensitivity of LC-MEMS pressure sensors is still comparatively low, especially in biomedical applications, which require a highly-sensitive sensor to measure low-pressure variations. This study presents the microfabrication of an LC wireless MEMS pressure sensor that utilizes a PMMA-Graphene (PMMA/Gr) membrane supported on a silicon trench as the deformable structure. The (PMMA/Gr) membrane was employed to increase the sensor's sensitivity due to its very low elastic modulus making it easy to deform under extremely low pressure. The overall size of the fabricated sensor was limited to 8 mm × 8 mm. The experimental results showed that the capacitance value changed from 1.64 pF to 12.32 pF when the applied pressure varied from 0 to 5 psi. This capacitance variation caused the frequency response to change from 28.74 MHz to 78.76 MHz. The sensor sensitivity was recorded with a value of 193.45 kHz/mmHg and a quality factor of 21. This study concludes that the (PMMA/Gr) membrane-based LC-MEMS pressure sensor has been successfully designed and fabricated and shows good potential in biomedical sensor applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norliana Yusof
- Faculty of Innovative Design and Technology, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Kuala Terengganu 21300, Malaysia
| | - Badariah Bais
- Department of Electrical, Electronic and Systems Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Malaysia
- Institute of Microengineering and Nanoelectronics (IMEN), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Malaysia; (J.Y.); (B.Y.M.)
| | - Jumril Yunas
- Institute of Microengineering and Nanoelectronics (IMEN), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Malaysia; (J.Y.); (B.Y.M.)
| | - Norhayati Soin
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia;
| | - Burhanuddin Yeop Majlis
- Institute of Microengineering and Nanoelectronics (IMEN), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Malaysia; (J.Y.); (B.Y.M.)
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Leinauer EC, Kim HM, Kwon JW. Micromachined Tactile Sensor Array for RTSA. MICROMACHINES 2021; 12:1430. [PMID: 34832841 PMCID: PMC8620456 DOI: 10.3390/mi12111430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This work presents a polymer-based tactile capacitive sensor capable of measuring joint reaction forces of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA). The capacitive sensor contains a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) dielectric layer with an array of electrodes. The sensor was designed in such a way that four components of glenohumeral contact forces can be quantified to help ensure proper soft tissue tensioning during the procedure. Fabricated using soft lithography, the sensor has a loading time of approximately 400 ms when a 14.13 kPa load is applied and has a sensitivity of 1.24 × 10-3 pF/kPa at a load of 1649 kPa. A replica RTSA prothesis was 3D printed, and the sensor was mounted inside the humeral cap. Four static right shoulder positions were tested, and the results provided an intuitive graphical description of the pressure distribution across four quadrants of the glenohumeral joint contact surface. It may help clinicians choose a right implant size and offset that best fit a patient's anatomy and reduce postoperative biomechanical complications such as dislocation and stress fracture of the scapula.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elliott C. Leinauer
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65201, USA;
| | - H. Mike Kim
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65201, USA;
| | - Jae W. Kwon
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65201, USA;
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Recent Progress in Pressure Sensors for Wearable Electronics: From Design to Applications. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/app10186403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, innovative research has been widely conducted on flexible devices for wearable electronics applications. Many examples of wearable electronics, such as smartwatches and glasses, are already available to consumers. However, strictly speaking, the sensors used in these devices are not flexible. Many studies are underway to address a wider range of wearable electronics and the development of related fields is progressing very rapidly. In particular, there is intense interest in the research field of flexible pressure sensors because they can collect and use information regarding a wide variety of sources. Through the combination of novel materials and fabrication methods, human-machine interfaces, biomedical sensors, and motion detection techniques, it is now possible to produce sensors with a superior level of performance to meet the demands of wearable electronics. In addition, more compact and human-friendly sensors have been invented in recent years, as biodegradable and self-powered sensor systems have been studied. In this review, a comprehensive description of flexible pressure sensors will be covered, and design strategies that meet the needs for applications in wearable electronics will be presented. Moreover, we will cover several fabrication methods to implement these technologies and the corresponding real-world applications.
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Parameswaran C, Gupta D. Large area flexible pressure/strain sensors and arrays using nanomaterials and printing techniques. NANO CONVERGENCE 2019; 6:28. [PMID: 31495907 PMCID: PMC6732266 DOI: 10.1186/s40580-019-0198-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Sensors are becoming more demanding in all spheres of human activities for their advancement in terms of fabrication and cost. Several methods of fabrication and configurations exist which provide them myriad of applications. However, the advantage of fabrication for sensors lies with bulk fabrication and processing techniques. Exhaustive study for process advancement towards miniaturization from the advent of MEMS technology has been going on and progressing at high pace and has reached a highly advanced level wherein batch production and low cost alternatives provide a competitive performance. A look back to this advancement and thus understanding the route further is essential which is the core of this review in light of nanomaterials and printed technology based sensors. A subjective appraisal of these developments in sensor architecture from the advent of MEMS technology converging present date novel materials and process technologies through this article help us understand the path further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chithra Parameswaran
- Plastic Electronics and Energy Laboratory, Department of Metallurgical Engineering and Materials Science, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, 400076 India
| | - Dipti Gupta
- Plastic Electronics and Energy Laboratory, Department of Metallurgical Engineering and Materials Science, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, 400076 India
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Bilent S, Dinh THN, Martincic E, Joubert PY. Influence of the Porosity of Polymer Foams on the Performances of Capacitive Flexible Pressure Sensors. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2019; 19:E1968. [PMID: 31035496 PMCID: PMC6539983 DOI: 10.3390/s19091968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2019] [Revised: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This paper reports on the study of microporous polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) foams as a highly deformable dielectric material used in the composition of flexible capacitive pressure sensors dedicated to wearable use. A fabrication process allowing the porosity of the foams to be adjusted was proposed and the fabricated foams were characterized. Then, elementary capacitive pressure sensors (15 × 15 mm2 square shaped electrodes) were elaborated with fabricated foams (5 mm or 10 mm thick) and were electromechanically characterized. Since the sensor responses under load are strongly non-linear, a behavioral non-linear model (first order exponential) was proposed, adjusted to the experimental data, and used to objectively estimate the sensor performances in terms of sensitivity and measurement range. The main conclusions of this study are that the porosity of the PDMS foams can be adjusted through the sugar:PDMS volume ratio and the size of sugar crystals used to fabricate the foams. Additionally, the porosity of the foams significantly modified the sensor performances. Indeed, compared to bulk PDMS sensors of the same size, the sensitivity of porous PDMS sensors could be multiplied by a factor up to 100 (the sensitivity is 0.14 %.kPa-1 for a bulk PDMS sensor and up to 13.7 %.kPa-1 for a porous PDMS sensor of the same dimensions), while the measurement range was reduced from a factor of 2 to 3 (from 594 kPa for a bulk PDMS sensor down to between 255 and 177 kPa for a PDMS foam sensor of the same dimensions, according to the porosity). This study opens the way to the design and fabrication of wearable flexible pressure sensors with adjustable performances through the control of the porosity of the fabricated PDMS foams.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvie Bilent
- Centre de Nanosciences et de Nanotechnologies, CNRS, Univ. Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, 91120 Palaiseau, France.
| | - Thi Hong Nhung Dinh
- Centre de Nanosciences et de Nanotechnologies, CNRS, Univ. Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, 91120 Palaiseau, France.
| | - Emile Martincic
- Centre de Nanosciences et de Nanotechnologies, CNRS, Univ. Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, 91120 Palaiseau, France.
| | - Pierre-Yves Joubert
- Centre de Nanosciences et de Nanotechnologies, CNRS, Univ. Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, 91120 Palaiseau, France.
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Luo Z, Hu X, Tian X, Luo C, Xu H, Li Q, Li Q, Zhang J, Qiao F, Wu X, Borisenko VE, Chu J. Structure-Property Relationships in Graphene-Based Strain and Pressure Sensors for Potential Artificial Intelligence Applications. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2019; 19:E1250. [PMID: 30871069 PMCID: PMC6427630 DOI: 10.3390/s19051250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2019] [Revised: 03/02/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Wearable electronic sensing devices are deemed to be a crucial technology of smart personal electronics. Strain and pressure sensors, one of the most popular research directions in recent years, are the key components of smart and flexible electronics. Graphene, as an advanced nanomaterial, exerts pre-eminent characteristics including high electrical conductivity, excellent mechanical properties, and flexibility. The above advantages of graphene provide great potential for applications in mechatronics, robotics, automation, human-machine interaction, etc.: graphene with diverse structures and leverages, strain and pressure sensors with new functionalities. Herein, the recent progress in graphene-based strain and pressure sensors is presented. The sensing materials are classified into four structures including 0D fullerene, 1D fiber, 2D film, and 3D porous structures. Different structures of graphene-based strain and pressure sensors provide various properties and multifunctions in crucial parameters such as sensitivity, linearity, and hysteresis. The recent and potential applications for graphene-based sensors are also discussed, especially in the field of human motion detection. Finally, the perspectives of graphene-based strain and pressure sensors used in human motion detection combined with artificial intelligence are surveyed. Challenges such as the biocompatibility, integration, and additivity of the sensors are discussed as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zewei Luo
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Multidimensional Information Processing, Department of Electronic Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China.
| | - Xiaotong Hu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Multidimensional Information Processing, Department of Electronic Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China.
| | - Xiyue Tian
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Multidimensional Information Processing, Department of Electronic Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China.
| | - Chen Luo
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Multidimensional Information Processing, Department of Electronic Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China.
| | - Hejun Xu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Multidimensional Information Processing, Department of Electronic Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China.
| | - Quanling Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Multidimensional Information Processing, Department of Electronic Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China.
| | - Qianhao Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Multidimensional Information Processing, Department of Electronic Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China.
| | - Jian Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Multidimensional Information Processing, Department of Electronic Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China.
- Shanghai Institute of Intelligent Electronics & Systems, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China.
| | - Fei Qiao
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Tsinghua University, 30 Shuangqing Road, Beijing 100084, China.
| | - Xing Wu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Multidimensional Information Processing, Department of Electronic Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China.
- Shanghai Institute of Intelligent Electronics & Systems, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China.
| | - V E Borisenko
- Belarusian State University of Informatics and Radioelectronics, P. Browka 6, 220013 Minsk, Belarus.
- National Research Nuclear University MEPhI (Moscow Engineering Physics Institute), Kashirskoe Shosse 31, 115409 Moscow, Russia.
| | - Junhao Chu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Multidimensional Information Processing, Department of Electronic Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China.
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Tsinghua University, 30 Shuangqing Road, Beijing 100084, China.
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Mitrakos V, Hands PJW, Cummins G, Macintyre L, Denison FC, Flynn D, Desmulliez MPY. Nanocomposite-Based Microstructured Piezoresistive Pressure Sensors for Low-Pressure Measurement Range. MICROMACHINES 2018; 9:E43. [PMID: 30393319 PMCID: PMC6187228 DOI: 10.3390/mi9020043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2017] [Revised: 01/23/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Piezoresistive pressure sensors capable of detecting ranges of low compressive stresses have been successfully fabricated and characterised. The 5.5 × 5 × 1.6 mm³ sensors consist of a planar aluminium top electrode and a microstructured bottom electrode containing a two-by-two array of truncated pyramids with a piezoresistive composite layer sandwiched in-between. The responses of two different piezocomposite materials, a Multiwalled Carbon Nanotube (MWCNT)-elastomer composite and a Quantum Tunneling Composite (QTC), have been characterised as a function of applied pressure and effective contact area. The MWCNT piezoresistive composite-based sensor was able to detect pressures as low as 200 kPa. The QTC-based sensor was capable of detecting pressures as low as 50 kPa depending on the contact area of the bottom electrode. Such sensors could find useful applications requiring the detection of small compressive loads such as those encountered in haptic sensing or robotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasileios Mitrakos
- Multimodal Sensing and Micro-Manipulation Centre, School of Engineering & Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, UK.
- Institute for Integrated Micro & Nano Systems (IMNS), School of Engineering, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FF, UK.
| | - Philip J W Hands
- Institute for Integrated Micro & Nano Systems (IMNS), School of Engineering, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FF, UK.
| | - Gerard Cummins
- Multimodal Sensing and Micro-Manipulation Centre, School of Engineering & Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, UK.
| | - Lisa Macintyre
- School of Textiles & Design, Heriot-Watt University, Galashiels TD7 4LF, UK.
| | - Fiona C Denison
- Queen's Medical Research Institute, MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK.
| | - David Flynn
- Smart Systems Group, School of Engineering & Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, UK.
| | - Marc P Y Desmulliez
- Multimodal Sensing and Micro-Manipulation Centre, School of Engineering & Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, UK.
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13
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Zhang GD, Zhao YL, Zhao Y, Wang XC, Wei XY. Research of a Novel Ultra-High Pressure Sensor with High-Temperature Resistance. MICROMACHINES 2017; 9:E5. [PMID: 30393281 PMCID: PMC6187505 DOI: 10.3390/mi9010005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2017] [Revised: 12/16/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Ultra-high pressure measurement has significant applications in various fields such as high pressure synthesis of new materials and ultra-high pressure vessel monitoring. This paper proposes a novel ultra-high pressure sensor combining a truncated-cone structure and a silicon-on-insulator (SOI) piezoresistive element for measuring the pressure up to 1.6 GPa. The truncated-cone structure attenuates the measured pressure to a level that can be detected by the SOI piezoresistive element. Four piezoresistors of the SOI piezoresistive element are placed along specific crystal orientation and configured as a Wheatstone bridge to obtain voltage signals. The sensor has an advantage of high-temperature resistance, in that the structure of the piezoresistive element can avoid the leakage current at high temperature and the truncated-cone structure separates the piezoresistive element from the heat environment. Furthermore, the upper surface diameter of the truncated-cone structure is designed to be 2 mm for the application of small scale. The results of static calibration show that the sensor exhibits a good performance in hysteresis and repeatability. The temperature experiment indicates that the sensor can work steadily at high temperature. This study would provide a better insight to the research of ultra-high pressure sensors with larger range and smaller size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo-Dong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China.
| | - Yu-Long Zhao
- State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China.
| | - Yun Zhao
- State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China.
| | - Xin-Chen Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China.
| | - Xue-Yong Wei
- State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China.
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14
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Pessia P, Cordella F, Schena E, Davalli A, Sacchetti R, Zollo L. Evaluation of Pressure Capacitive Sensors for Application in Grasping and Manipulation Analysis. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2017; 17:E2846. [PMID: 29292717 PMCID: PMC5750746 DOI: 10.3390/s17122846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2017] [Revised: 11/16/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The analysis of the human grasping and manipulation capabilities is paramount for investigating human sensory-motor control and developing prosthetic and robotic hands resembling the human ones. A viable solution to perform this analysis is to develop instrumented objects measuring the interaction forces with the hand. In this context, the performance of the sensors embedded in the objects is crucial. This paper focuses on the experimental characterization of a class of capacitive pressure sensors suitable for biomechanical analysis. The analysis was performed in three loading conditions (Distributed load, 9 Tips load, and Wave-shaped load, thanks to three different inter-elements) via a traction/compression testing machine. Sensor assessment was also carried out under human- like grasping condition by placing a silicon material with the same properties of prosthetic cosmetic gloves in between the sensor and the inter-element in order to simulate the human skin. Data show that the input-output relationship of the analyzed, sensor is strongly influenced by both the loading condition (i.e., type of inter-element) and the grasping condition (with or without the silicon material). This needs to be taken into account to avoid significant measurement error. To go over this hurdle, the sensors have to be calibrated under each specific condition in order to apply suitable corrections to the sensor output and significantly improve the measurement accuracy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Pessia
- Unit of Biomedical Robotics and Biomicrosystems, University Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, via Alvaro del Portillo 21, 00128 Rome, Italy.
| | - Francesca Cordella
- Unit of Biomedical Robotics and Biomicrosystems, University Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, via Alvaro del Portillo 21, 00128 Rome, Italy.
| | - Emiliano Schena
- Unit of Measurements and Biomedical Instrumentation, University Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, via Alvaro del Portillo 21, 00128 Rome, Italy.
| | - Angelo Davalli
- Centro Protesi INAIL, Via Rabuina 14, 40054 Budrio (BO), Italy.
| | | | - Loredana Zollo
- Unit of Biomedical Robotics and Biomicrosystems, University Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, via Alvaro del Portillo 21, 00128 Rome, Italy.
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15
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Lou Z, Li L, Wang L, Shen G. Recent Progress of Self-Powered Sensing Systems for Wearable Electronics. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2017; 13. [PMID: 29076297 DOI: 10.1002/smll.201701791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2017] [Revised: 07/01/2017] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Wearable/flexible electronic sensing systems are considered to be one of the key technologies in the next generation of smart personal electronics. To realize personal portable devices with mobile electronics application, i.e., wearable electronic sensors that can work sustainably and continuously without an external power supply are highly desired. The recent progress and advantages of wearable self-powered electronic sensing systems for mobile or personal attachable health monitoring applications are presented. An overview of various types of wearable electronic sensors, including flexible tactile sensors, wearable image sensor array, biological and chemical sensor, temperature sensors, and multifunctional integrated sensing systems is provided. Self-powered sensing systems with integrated energy units are then discussed, separated as energy harvesting self-powered sensing systems, energy storage integrated sensing systems, and all-in-on integrated sensing systems. Finally, the future perspectives of self-powered sensing systems for wearable electronics are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Lou
- State Key Laboratory for Superlattices and Microstructures, Institute of Semiconductors, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - La Li
- State Key Laboratory for Superlattices and Microstructures, Institute of Semiconductors, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Lili Wang
- State Key Laboratory on Integrated Optoelectronics, College of Electronic Science and Engineering, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, P. R. China
| | - Guozhen Shen
- State Key Laboratory for Superlattices and Microstructures, Institute of Semiconductors, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100083, China
- College of Materials Science and Opto-electronic Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100029, China
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16
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Parmar S, Khodasevych I, Troynikov O. Evaluation of Flexible Force Sensors for Pressure Monitoring in Treatment of Chronic Venous Disorders. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2017; 17:E1923. [PMID: 28825672 PMCID: PMC5580323 DOI: 10.3390/s17081923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Revised: 08/15/2017] [Accepted: 08/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The recent use of graduated compression therapy for treatment of chronic venous disorders such as leg ulcers and oedema has led to considerable research interest in flexible and low-cost force sensors. Properly applied low pressure during compression therapy can substantially improve the treatment of chronic venous disorders. However, achievement of the recommended low pressure levels and its accurate determination in real-life conditions is still a challenge. Several thin and flexible force sensors, which can also function as pressure sensors, are commercially available, but their real-life sensing performance has not been evaluated. Moreover, no researchers have reported information on sensor performance during static and dynamic loading within the realistic test conditions required for compression therapy. This research investigated the sensing performance of five low-cost commercial pressure sensors on a human-leg-like test apparatus and presents quantitative results on the accuracy and drift behaviour of these sensors in both static and dynamic conditions required for compression therapy. Extensive experimental work on this new human-leg-like test setup demonstrated its utility for evaluating the sensors. Results showed variation in static and dynamic sensing performance, including accuracy and drift characteristics. Only one commercially available pressure sensor was found to reliably deliver accuracy of 95% and above for all three test pressure points of 30, 50 and 70 mmHg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suresh Parmar
- School of Fashion and Textiles, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, Melbourne 3056, Australia.
| | - Iryna Khodasevych
- School of Fashion and Textiles, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, Melbourne 3056, Australia.
| | - Olga Troynikov
- School of Fashion and Textiles, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, Melbourne 3056, Australia.
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