InkFusion3D: 3D Printing Flexible Sensors with Silicone Rubber and Conductive Ink Materials

With the continuous advancement in current sensor design research, most design schemes still rely on rigid or semi-flexible materials for sensor usage. These interactive devices are increasingly unable to meet the demands of users for adaptability, durability, and biocompatibility, limiting their use in dynamic environments. This paper introduces a novel flexible sensor, InkFusion3D, which is fabricated using a combination of low-cost conductive ink and silicone rubber through 3D printing technology. Due to the significant advantages of InkFusion3D material, such as low cost, durability, good biocompatibility, and wide applicability, it can be customized for various applications to address challenges. The paper elaborates on the manufacturing method of InkFusion3D and its sensing principle upon force application. It also proposes applications in medical and gaming scenarios, such as joysticks, buttons, tangible interaction models, and smart filler materials.