Scalable Batch Fabrication of Flexible, Transparent and Self-triggered Tactile Sensor Array Based on Triboelectric Effect

In this study, a facile and scalable fabrication process of the flexible and transparent tactile sensor array where its operation is based on the triboelectric effect is proposed. The overall process is assisted by the solution based screen printing method, which is well-known as advantageous in the batch fabrication of the electronic devices. The introduction of the batch fabrication process to the tactile sensor array enables the realization of high functionality such as transparency and flexibility. The performance of the fabricated tactile sensor array is systematically investigated through the parametric studies and the discernibility to multiple external physical stimuli such as vertical contact and horizontal sliding is verified. It is confirmed that although the present self-triggered tactile sensor array could be easily fabricated and scaled-up without cumbersome processes, the functionalities such as sensitivity, resolution, transparency, flexibility and even peak power density, are comparable to previously developed tactile sensors. Consequently, the scalable and design-flexible fabrication methodology with cost-effect and high production speed in this study effectively broadens the applicability of the sensor array. As proof-of-concept demonstration of potential applications, a stand-alone sensory lighting system as well as a wearable transparent code generator are developed and their performances are investigated.

Automated summary

A simple and scalable fabrication process for flexible and transparent tactile sensor array based on the triboelectric effect is proposed in this study. The application of batch fabrication process enables high functionality and discernibility to various external physical stimuli. Through systematic investigation, it is confirmed that the fabricated tactile sensor array performs comparably to previously developed sensors in terms of sensitivity, resolution, transparency, flexibility, and peak power density.