Experimental and Theoretical Analysis of a Novel Flexible Membrane Tactile Sensor

In this study, we report the development of a new multi tactile sensor, capable of detecting 2D surface texture image, measuring contact-force, and identifying the difference between stiffness of sensed objects. The designed tactile sensor consists of a chamber and a membrane with a mesa structure. The detecting principle is a combination of membrane deflection and piezoresistance effects. A major advantage of the designed system is that it can be easily miniaturized and micromachined. As a result, it is suitable for using in medical applications, especially in minimally invasive surgery (MIS).