Ink-jet printed strain sensor on polyimide substrate

Abstract

This paper describes a method for measuring strain on a specimen with flexible strain sensor. The sensor is made by ink-jet printing of silver ink on polyimide substrate, in that manner providing a combination of electrical conductivity and mechanical flexibility. When a force is applied on the free end of cantilever beam, three different strain gauges are used to measure flex of the beam. The gauge is taped at the fixed end of the beam, on the top side. To determine the strain, it requires accurate measurement of small resistance change, therefore strain gauge is connected to the Source Meter Keithley 2410. This work will consolidate the research on theoretical, technological and experimental aspect of design, development and validation of resistive sensors that are flexible, bendable and stretchable. © 2013 IEEE.