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TESTING February 20, 2026

Ori-Sense: origami capacitive sensing for soft robotic applications

Authors

Hugo de Souza Oliveira, Xin Li, Mohsen Jafarpour, Edoardo Milana

Abstract

This work introduces Ori-Sense, a compliant capacitive sensor inspired by the inverted Kresling origami pattern. The device translates torsional deformation into measurable capacitance changes, enabling proprioceptive feedback for soft robotic systems. Using dissolvable-core molding, we fabricated a monolithic silicone structure with embedded conductive TPU electrodes, forming an integrated soft capacitor. Mechanical characterization revealed low stiffness and minimal impedance, with torque values below 0.01 N mm for axial displacements between -15 mm and 15 mm, and up to 0.03 N mm at 30 degrees twist under compression. Finite-element simulations confirmed localized stresses along fold lines and validated the measured torque-rotation response. Electrical tests showed consistent capacitance modulation up to 30%, directly correlated with the twist angle, and maximal sensitivity of S_theta ~ 0.0067 pF/deg at 5 mm of axial deformation.

Metadata

arXiv ID: 2602.18379
Provider: ARXIV
Primary Category: cs.RO
Published: 2026-02-20
Fetched: 2026-02-23 05:33

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