| About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
Materials Science & Technology 2012
|
| Symposium
|
Advances in Dielectric Materials and Electronic Devices
|
| Presentation Title |
Composite Capacitive Tactile/Force Sensor Arrays for Robotic Space Applications |
| Author(s) |
Timothy L Weadon, Edward M Sabolsky, Thomas Evans |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Timothy L Weadon |
| Abstract Scope |
The application of polymer-based tactile sensor arrays is limited by an inability to resist the effects of harsh environments. This work describes the fabrication and performance of capacitive sensors based on thin film 0:3 composite structures composed of BaTiO<SUB>3</SUB> and Pb(Zr,Ti)O<SUB>3</SUB> particulates dispersed within a space-qualified polymer matrix. The composite sensor was designed to operate within robotic end-effectors in earth orbit while withstanding environmental conditions in the range of 10<SUP>-7</SUP> Torr and -70 to 100°C. Using Taguchi methods for the experimental design and analytical models for 0:3 dielectric composites, a series of sensor compositions and processing variables were evaluated. Dynamic loading techniques were implemented to test the composite sensor films, and parameters were selected to maximize the slope (and magnitude) of the sensor response, in addition to minimizing the mechanical hysteresis. Sensors were also characterized for their response to cyclic loading and long-term static loading under various temperatures and durations. |
| Proceedings Inclusion? |
Undecided |