Characterization and Manufacturing of Textile Pressure Sensors based on Piezoelectric Fibres

Abstract: The main purpose of this thesis was to investigate and characterize the use of piezoelectric yarn for use in textile (fingertip) pressure sensors in glove applications. Such applications could include healthcare, security and safety, game applications or intelligent control. Piezoelectric materials generate a voltage when pressed or squeezed. Poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) is a polymorphic material with piezoelectric properties. PVDF yarns were integrated into block sensors. These blocks consist of thermoplastic material glued to a knitted supporting fabric. The electrical signal given off by the PVDF yarn was measured with the help of an oscilloscope. The block sensor generated a distinguishable signal under a dynamic compression of 0.003 N, indicating that the structure is sensitive enough compared to the average male fingertip sensitivity threshold (0.0054N).