Design of Flexible Tactile Array Sensor

Flexible electronics is an imminent revolution in industry, where devices can be developed using sustainable materials and processes. Some of the criteria for sustainability are low cost, low energy consumption, recyclability, and biodegradability. Besides, this technology is bringing into existence electronic gadgets that are light weight, flexible, and conform to the human body. In this paper, we describe a prototype tactile array sensor (TAS) that can enhance the existing prosthetic gadgets. As an example, the sensor can be used to detect an approaching object or surface for a prosthetic foot. Finite element method simulations have been done to show the feasibility of the proposed approach. Flexibility is of importance for prosthetics used by children of growing age for better adaptability, reduced frequency of changes, and creativity in product design [Torres-Jara, Dexterous and Compliant Robotic US 8,662,552 B2,2014]. Once developed, this application for sustainable prosthesis is expected to complement the pioneering work done at the MIT Tata Center toward the development of affordable mobile-enabled diabetic foot analyzer that has enabled regular monitoring of detection of loss of sensation in the feet of diabetic patients avoiding foot ulcers and leg amputation.