journal article·2026-07

Flexible Multidimensional Force Sensors: A Review of Structural Design, Performance, and Applications

Guirong Wu, Junwei Shi, Huangweiming Qiu, Jing Xu, Yihui Lan, Peiyu Lian, Mengju Zhu, Zekai Huang, Chenyang Xue, Jin Chai, Xiang Guo, Libo Gao

Advanced Materials Technologies· Volume 11· Issue 13
Publisher page

Abstract

Abstract Flexible multidimensional force sensors (FWFS) have become key components in the new generation of wearable electronics, human–machine interfaces, soft robotics, and intelligent health monitoring systems. Compared with traditional uniaxial force sensors, flexible multidimensional sensors offer enhanced directional recognition capabilities, enabling real‐time detection of complex force signals—including normal, shear, and torsional forces—on nonplanar surfaces. This review summarizes recent research progress in FWFS, covering structural design strategies, performance comparisons across sensing mechanisms, and representative applications. Furthermore, it explores the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing sensor performance. First, we review development trends and typical applications of multidimensional force sensing, with particular focus on structural strategies for direction recognition and signal decoupling, such as bio‐inspired configurations and decoupled designs. Next, key performance parameters—including sensitivity, linearity, response speed, and long‐term stability—are discussed. Finally, the review highlights recent advances in applying flexible multidimensional sensors in health monitoring, human–machine interaction, and robotic tactile perception, with emphasis on AI‐enhanced systems and their advantages. Looking ahead, flexible multidimensional force sensing technologies are expected to evolve toward intelligent perception, self‐powered operation, and deep integration with machine learning, offering new pathways for the development of smart, integrated sensing platforms.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline

Research context

OpenAlex topics: Advanced Sensor and Energy Harvesting Materials · Soft Robotics and Applications · Prosthetics and Rehabilitation Robotics

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

Pen‐Tung Sah Institute of Micro‐Nano Science and Technology Xiamen University Xiamen 361102 China

Shenzhen Research Institute of Xiamen University Xiamen University Shenzhen 518000 China

School of Aerospace Engineering Xiamen University Xiamen 361102 China

College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Xiamen University Xiamen 361105 China

National Key Laboratory of Aerospace Chemical Power Xiangyang 441022 China

Funding

Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities · Youth and Middle-aged Scientific and Technological Innovation Leading Talents Program of the Corps · Innovative Research Group Project of the National Natural Science Foundation of China

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