OptoSkin: Novel LIDAR Touch Sensors for Detection of Touch and Pressure Within Wave Guides

Emmanuel Bacher1 Sergio Cartiel2 Jorge Garcia-Pueyo2 Julija Stopar3 Aleš Zore3 Roman Kamnik3 Ilze Aulika4 Andrejs Ougorcovs4 Jurǵis Grūbe4 Arturs Bundulis4 Jelena Butikova4 Meldra Kemere4 Adolfo Muñoz2 Martin Laurenzis1

1French-German Research Institute of Saint-Louis 2Universidad de Zaragoza 3Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia 4University of Ljubljana

Published in IEEE Sensors Journal, Vol. 24, No. 20
2024

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https://jgarciapueyo.github.io/images/teaser-bacher2024optoskin.png

Abstract

Light detection and ranging (LIDAR) sensors, employing direct time-of-flight (dToF) measurements, are crucial for precise surface localization and are increasingly integrated into compact chip designs. These sensors have extensive use in proximity sensing in various applications. This article presents the innovative use of LIDAR sensors for ranging within waveguides to accurately detect touch and pressure. In our OptoSkin sensors, light propagates via total internal reflection (TIR) within the waveguide. Then, it is reflected back to the sensor as a result of waveguide deformation and/or scattering in the contact area, a phenomenon attributed to frustrated total internal reflection (FTIR). We have designed, simulated, and implemented different OptoSkin sensors using waveguides constructed from a flexible rod, rigid-curved 3-D-printed resin, and planar soft silicone rubber, respectively. Each configuration is equipped with multiple LIDAR sensors, demonstrating effective localization of touch points. In addition, pressure sensing was performed on the elastic wave guides. These novel touch sensors show great potential for applications such as robotic sensor skins, which enhance tactile responsiveness and interaction.

BibTeX

bacher2024optoskin.bib