Sensor systems, methods of making sensor modules and circuit modules, and
methods of making expanded sensor systems including the sensor modules
and circuit modules. A sensor module can include a flexible substrate,
internal conductor lines, edge conductor lines for module
interconnection, and sensors integrated thereon. One sensor module
includes an array of interconnected capacitive pressure tactile sensors
(taxels), being row addressable from address lines and readable through
data lines. The sensor modules can be bonded to each other to form a
larger array of sensors. One bonding method utilizes anisotropic
conductive paste (ACP). The sensor system provided can be flexible and
easy to expand to cover large areas. By using various sensor modules, the
sensor system can be used for various applications. Readout modules can
be coupled to the exterior edges to read all the individual sensors.
Applications include robotic skin and wearable sensor fabrics.