3D-Printed Fingertip Sensor

May-13-17 A 3D-printed pressure sensor that can be printed directly on the hand could pave the way to bionic humans.

The sensor, from a team at the University of Minnesota, is made up of flexible silicon-based ink that will conform to the fingertip’s curve. After the hand’s contours have been scanned and mapped, the various silicon inks are extruded in sequence to form a coil sandwiched between two flat layers.

Although the sensor itself shows promise as a way to enhance a person’s (or robot’s) sense of touch, the team also believes the ability to 3D print on curved surfaces is an important step forward.

More Info about this Invention:

[ADVANCEDSCIENCENEWS.COM]
[INSIDESCIENCE.ORG]

---