Advancing Robotic Gripper Control with the Integration of Flexible Printed Pressure Sensors

Abstract

A pressure sensor array fabricated on a flexible substrate using the printing method can be easily mounted in various locations by combining it with a wireless communication circuit. This is particularly advantageous for applications where wiring is difficult, such as the tip of a robot gripper. Additionally, printed devices are highly efficient in material utilization, facilitating large areas and low‐cost production. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the harmonious interaction between robots and humans, and the intelligentization of robots is a worthwhile research area. Herein, a method for realizing intelligent gripping force control and object recognition robots using a printed flexible pressure sensor array in combination with a wireless communication circuit is proposed. By mounting the sensor array on a robot gripper and performing arithmetic processing on software, these capabilities are achieved.