First, it includes piezoelectric, piezoresistive, capacitive, and elastic types.
Industrial robot tactile sensors help industrial robots measure any physical interactions with their environment. This article will primarily introduce the functions and types of industrial robot tactile sensors.
1. Optical tactile sensor
Optical tactile sensors come in two types: internal and external. In this type, the intensity of light is adjusted by moving an obstacle into the optical path. It has the advantages of being resistant to electromagnetic interference and offering high resolution. It requires minimal wiring, allowing electronic devices to be located away from the sensor.
2. Piezoelectric tactile sensor
When pressure is applied to the sensor element, the voltage effect across it is piezoelectric. The voltage generated is proportional to the applied pressure. In this case, no external sensor is required. The advantages of this type of sensor are durability and a wide dynamic range. It can measure pressure.
3. Resistive tactile sensor
The sensor operates based on the change in resistance between a conductive polymer and electrodes. This type of tactile sensor is widely used. When pressure is applied, the resistance of the conductive material changes. The resistance is then measured. This sensor offers advantages such as high durability and good overload tolerance.
4. Capacitive tactile sensor
The capacitance change between two electrodes is used in capacitive sensors. This type of capacitive sensor measures capacitance, which changes under applied pressure. The capacitance of a parallel-plate capacitor is related to the spacing and area of the plates. The capacitance changes according to the load. This sensor has the advantages of linear response and wide dynamic range.
5. Magnetic tactile sensor
The magnetic tactile sensor employs two methods: one is to measure changes in magnetic flux density, and the other is to measure changes in the magnetic coupling deformation between windings. This sensor has advantages such as high sensitivity and no mechanical hysteresis.
