Multifunctional wearable fingertip electronics

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.

Name thesis:degree_name

M.S.

Level thesis:degree_level

Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Mechanical Engineering

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2012

Author dc:creator

• Ying, Ming

Contributors dc:contributor

• Rogers, John A.

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

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright 2012 Ming Ying

Language dc:language

en

Handle dc:identifier

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

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:www.ideals.illinois.edu:2142/34396