Motivation and application domain
3D printing is revolutioning many technologies. In particular, the development of new materials for 3D printing allow one to design devices that integrate mechanical, sensing and electronics in a novel manner. The general objective of this Master Thesis work is to design and develop force/pressure sensors with 3D printing technologies.

Applications in haptics, robot-assisted rehabilitation and to monitor human-machine physical interaction are foreseen.

General objectives and main activities
The general objective is to design and develop force/pressure sensing technology with 3D printing. In particular, the student will have to design devices (stylus, handle or object) that can monitor force applied to it. The students will work in close collaboration with mechanical designers (Mechanical Design Lab) and electronic designers (Electronic Design Lab). The student will also collaborate with researchers in RBCS for the development of applications, such as the design of a stylus and handle that monitor interaction force in writing, object manipulation, robot-assisted rehabilitation, etc. Activities will include:

1.    Exploration and testing diverse materials and force sensing technologies
2.    Design of the sensing part
3.    Interface with the electronics
4.    Design of devices based on this technology and development of applications

Background Requirements
The candidate must have a background in electrical engineering. He must know or be able to quickly master principles of force sensing technologies (capacitive, resistive or inductive) and a strong interest in 3D printing technology / materials.

Topic:  Force/pressure sensing with 3D printing technologies

Thesis advisor(s): Prof. Maurizio Valle (Unige), Prof. G. Sandini (IIT)

For more info, please contact prof. Maurizio Valle, mobile: 3483053884, email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.