This presentation explores the feasibility of using 3D-printed piezoresistive sensors for normal force sensing, with a focus on applications in soft robotics and prosthetics.
Sensors were fabricated using fused filament fabrication with carbon black–doped thermoplastic polyurethane and experimentally characterised under controlled normal loading. The influence of sensing area thickness and print (traxel) orientation on the electrical response was investigated using a custom measurement setup with four-point resistance measurements.
The thesis highlights the effects of geometry and print orientation on sensor performance.