First results of a Soft, 3D-Printed, Resistive Cantilever Flow Sensor

This paper introduces the fabrication and characterization of a soft, 3D-printed, resistive cantilever flow sensor, inspired by nature. The sensor has a wider end, to increase drag, and a thin bending section with differential resistive strain gauges. Wind tunnel tests show the operation of the sensor. The relation between tip displacement and resistance change is experimentally determined, as well as the dynamic properties. Finally the sensor is demonstrated in a feedback-loop to control the flow of a propeller. The sensor shows potential for future use, e.g. in micro aerial vehicles (MAV’s). However, first non-linearities and underdamping of the sensor have to be addressed.