Tribo-electrostatic-based high precision and interchangeable dynamic torque sensing by linear elastomer formed phase displacement

Conventional dynamic torque sensors are limited by the measurement principle, failing to balance cost and accuracy. Herein, a phase-difference dynamic torque sensing approach based on tribo-electrostatic induction and linear elastomer is proposed and discussed. Specifically, linear elastomers with low shear modulus are synthesized and analyzed as torque-sensitive materials. Then, equipped with triboelectric sensors on both sides, a platform is constructed to validate linearity between phase difference in output signal and applied torque, increasing its precision and cost-effectiveness. Additionally, a detachable design incorporating a replaceable flexible linear elastomer enables the applicability of multiple measurement tasks. With comparable accuracy (0.001 N*m) and only 5% of the price share when coaxially tested with a commercially available transducer, the Tribo-electrostatic-based Dynamic Torque Sensor (TDTS) offers a viable solution for structure loss and sensing analysis in micro-torque intervals, catering to the evolving demands of the IoT era with a greater focus on environmental sustainability.