Lego‐Like Model Reconfigurable and Transparent Stretchable Strain Sensor for Wearable and Biomedical Applications

Abstract

Stretchable sensors that utilize machine‐assisted printing techniques afford significant benefits in terms of both bulk and output uniformities. These sensors have found extensive utility across diverse fields, such as wearables, robotics, and biomedical applications. However, existing printed sensor systems, once printed, are limited in their model variations and are heavily dependent on passive materials owing to their substrate‐bound nature. In this study, a printed sensor that utilizes a substrate–sensor isolation strategy is reported, thereby allowing size and design reconfigurability and a Lego‐like assembly. This approach enables device customization through post‐design modifications of specific sensing targets. The electrohydrodynamic printing process is utilized for sensor production, offering a high electrical bias between the substrate and nozzle during printing; this enables in situ dipole alignment, eliminating the need for a separate poling process. The mechanical and electrical stabilities of the sensors are assessed by cyclic testing at 50% strain for 1200 cycles. To illustrate the practical applications of these sensor models, sensors are implemented in wearable and in vivo biomedical applications.