The role of bio-inspired micro-/nano-structures in flexible tactile sensors

Abstract

In recent years, flexible devices have been highly prized for their lightweight, stretchable, foldable and other excellent properties, and have seen rapid development in daily life applications. “Learning from nature” drives innovation in next-generation flexible tactile sensors. From the perspective of bionics, the overall performance of a sensor can be optimized by taking inspiration from the microstructures, interfaces, and forms of organisms. A bionic structure can effectively enhance key characteristics of tactile sensors such as sensitivity and flexibility, and improve the contact between the active layer and the electrode layer. This review focuses on the development of tactile sensors for various parameters such as pressure, strain signals and integration of multiple functions. Furthermore, the sensing performance of flexible tactile sensors is critically analyzed. Based on this, the application prospect of bionic tactile sensors in e-skin, human–computer interaction devices, and bionic robots is envisioned.