Adaptive 3D-Printed Pressure Sensor

Pressure sensors have garnered considerable attention across a range of domains, including robotics, healthcare, and sports applications. Various pressure sensor designs have been proposed to enhance sensitivity and broaden the pressure detection spectrum. Nonetheless, creating a highly sensitive sensor capable of accommodating a wide range of pressure loads often demands the use of specialized clean rooms and costly equipment. In this study, we introduce a fully 3D-printed architectural pressure sensor equipped with a shape programmability feature. Leveraging the customizable 3D design capabilities of 3D printing, we fabricate pressure sensors tailored to individual patients. The pressure transduction mechanism relies on capacitance. Both experimental and simulation results affirm the precise adjustability of the sensor's detection range, spanning from 70 to 2,500 kPa. Sensitivity levels range from 0.01 1/kPa to 0.0002 1/kPa, with a remarkable response time of 800 milliseconds. Importantly, the cost of fabricating the entire sensor is under 5 cents per unit. The 3D architecture pressure sensor can be deployed in an array configuration for pressure mapping purposes, making it valuable in biomedical and robotic applications.