In the rapidly evolving world of robotics and automation, the demand for durable, high-performance sensors has never been greater. A recent breakthrough by researchers at the University of Tokyo promises to revolutionize the industry with a bending sensor that combines ultrahigh robustness with exceptional reliability. This innovation could have profound implications for various sectors, including energy, healthcare, and smart manufacturing.
The research, led by Hao Liu from the Department of Precision Engineering at the University of Tokyo, introduces the 100,000+ cycle-reliable bending sensor (100k+ CRBS). This sensor leverages the flexibility and elastic response of an ultrathin piezoresistive silicon gauge, integrated with highly resilient polyimide film using a water vapor plasma-assisted bonding method. The result is a sensor that can endure over 100,000 bending cycles at a radius of just 5 millimeters, with a remarkable minimum bending radius of 0.4 millimeters.
“Our goal was to create a sensor that could withstand the rigors of real-world applications without compromising on performance,” said Liu. “The 100k+ CRBS not only meets but exceeds these expectations, offering unparalleled durability and reliability.”
The sensor’s mechanical limit of 300 MPa, with stable operation below 94 MPa (<3% strain), makes it ideal for precision motion capture in demanding environments. This includes human-machine interaction, healthcare and rehabilitation, and smart industry and automation. The potential applications are vast, from enhancing the capabilities of robotic systems in energy production and maintenance to improving the accuracy of medical devices and rehabilitation tools. The energy sector, in particular, stands to benefit significantly from this innovation. Robotic systems equipped with these sensors could perform intricate tasks in harsh environments, such as offshore wind farms or nuclear power plants, with greater precision and reliability. This could lead to improved safety, reduced downtime, and increased efficiency in energy production and maintenance. "The robustness and reliability of the 100k+ CRBS open up new possibilities for robotic applications in the energy sector," Liu explained. "Its ability to withstand extreme conditions and maintain stable performance makes it a game-changer for industries that rely on precision and durability." Published in the journal *npj Flexible Electronics* (translated to English as "npj Flexible Electronics"), this research represents a significant step forward in the development of advanced sensing technologies. As the demand for smart, autonomous systems continues to grow, innovations like the 100k+ CRBS will play a crucial role in shaping the future of robotics and automation. The implications of this research extend beyond immediate commercial applications. It sets a new benchmark for sensor technology, inspiring further advancements in materials science and engineering. As industries continue to push the boundaries of what is possible, the 100k+ CRBS serves as a testament to the power of innovation and the potential for transformative change. In a world where technology is increasingly intertwined with our daily lives, the development of robust, reliable sensors is more important than ever. The work of Hao Liu and his team at the University of Tokyo not only addresses current challenges but also paves the way for future breakthroughs, ensuring that the robots of tomorrow are equipped to handle the demands of an ever-evolving world.