A Prosthetic Hand with Integrated Sensing Elements for Selective Detection of Mechanical and Thermal Stimuli

Flexible electronics have gained popularity because of their capability to combine softness and functionality. Soft resistive sensors are susceptible mechanical stimuli detecting temperature selectively remains a challenge. In this study, soft flexible thermistors developed for changes based on the positive coefficient (PTC) effect, selectively. By thermomechanical analysis differential scanning calorimetry, it is observed that thermoplastic elastomers with higher thermal expansion semicrystalline morphology result in sensitive thermistor response. To achieve high sensitivity low detection stimulus, low-carbon filler content required. The opposite trend seen piezoresistive strain detection. Both sensory material types compatible extrusion-based additive manufacturing. method used fabrication sensing elements an open-source prosthetic hand. sensor detects bending fingers when contact heated surface, successfully. addition, as tactile detect non-heated surface. Combining selective multisensory capabilities will significantly affect future development sensorized devices wearable electronics.