Multifunctional wearable fingertip electronics

Ying, Ming

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/34396 Copy

Description

Title

Multifunctional wearable fingertip electronics

Author(s)

Ying, Ming

Issue Date

2012-09-18T21:14:59Z

Director of Research (if dissertation) or Advisor (if thesis)

Rogers, John A.

Department of Study

Mechanical Sci & Engineering

Discipline

Mechanical Engineering

Degree Granting Institution

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Degree Name

M.S.

Degree Level

Thesis

Keyword(s)

• Flexible electronics
• fingertip electronics
• electrotactile stimulation
• silicon strain gauge
• tactile sensing
• elastomeric capacitor
• silicon nanomembranes

Abstract

This thesis describes the device designs, fabrication methods and the results of simulations and tests for a class of electronics capable of integration onto the inner and outer surfaces of thin, elastomeric sheets in closed-tube geometries, specially formed for mounting on fingertips. Multifunctional systems of this type allow electrotactile stimulation with electrode arrays multiplexed using silicon nanomembrane diodes (Si NM), high-­sensitivity strain monitoring with Si NM gauges, and tactile sensing with elastomeric capacitors. Experiments have been conducted for each of the devices to demonstrate the expected functionalities. Analytical calculations and finite element modeling of the mechanics quantitatively capture the key behaviors during fabrication/assembly, mounting and use. The results provide design guidelines that highlight the importance of the NM geometry in achieving the required mechanical properties. This type of technology could be used in applications ranging from human–machine interfaces to ‘instrumented’ surgical gloves and many others.

Graduation Semester

2012-08

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http://hdl.handle.net/2142/34396

Copyright and License Information

Copyright 2012 Ming Ying

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