Development of Optical Distance, Normal Force, Shear Force Sensor

Proximity and tactile sensors have been widely used to control robots. However, each of these sensors has its own shortcomings. Visual sensors have blind spots, whereas tactile sensors cannot acquire information when non-contact. To overcome these problems, this study develops an optical sensor that can measure the distance and two-axis forces using a beam structure and photo reflectors. The sensor is inexpensive owing to its simple structure. Moreover, the sensor is demonstrated to have sufficient accuracy for both the distance and force measurements at 0.2, 0.5, and 1.0 Hz. Additionally, the usefulness of the sensor is confirmed based on reduced impact control at the time of contact and force control.