A monolithic opto-coupler based sensor for contact force detection in artificial hand

Abstract

This paper presents a monolithic opto-coupler based force sensor design to detect the contact forces of the fingertip of the artificial hand during grasp process. Effective and precise measurement of the contact force is always a challenge for the humid and temperature varying environment. In this paper, we propose a novel design of force sensor with optical technique. The optical technique is preferred over other techniques because of its simpler electronics and less immunity to temperature variation under humid environment. Simulation results conducted using Finite Element Method (FEM) analysis confirmed the deflection is linear for the forces from 0 to +/- 100 N. The maximum stress found at 100 N is 252.39 MPa. Also, modal analysis is performed to ensure the sensor is durable and operative while handling different vibrating objects. Calibration experiment of the sensor is performed using multipoint calibration process and curve fitting technique.