About this Abstract |
Meeting |
2023 TMS Annual Meeting & Exhibition
|
Symposium
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Printed Electronics and Additive Manufacturing: Functional Materials, Processing Techniques, and Emerging Applications
|
Presentation Title |
3D Printing of Customized Embedded Sensors for Soft Robotic Applications |
Author(s) |
Akshay Kakar, Derrick Banerjee, Evan Helgeson, Konstantinos Sierros, Edward M. Sablosky, Emrah Demirkal |
On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Emrah Demirkal |
Abstract Scope |
Embedded sensors and sensor arrays are crucial for soft robotic applications, as they enable the robot to gauge its own movements and interact with the environment intelligently. To boost the information resolution sensed by the robot, multiple sensors are embedded at various depths within its body. Manufacturing flexibility of 3D printing enabled printing these customized sensors. In this study, direct ink writing was used to embed sensors and sensor arrays within the soft robot to provide real-time tactile and temperature feedback. These 3-3 composite structures sensors comprised of precious and base metal particles of various morphologies, dispersed within a siloxane matrix. Initially, stand-alone embedded sensors were evaluated during uniaxial and bending testing at variable temperatures, where effects of print quality, defects and printing variables were aligned with their electromechanical properties. Full embedded sensor arrays were later tested during actuation of the soft robotic members to replicate performance for end-use application. |
Proceedings Inclusion? |
Planned: |
Keywords |
Additive Manufacturing, Composites, Mechanical Properties |