Dynamic contact stress analysis using a compliant sensor array

Abstract A flexible sensor array has been developed for the measurement of contact stress distribution between flexible bodies. The array incorporates 960 contact geometry modulation resistive (CGMR) transducers to provide a spatial resolution of 10 mm × 10 mm. The high flexibility of the array and its special structure enable it to comply with the very large displacements of the interface between the human body and a flexible cushion. In addition, a method and instrument have been developed to measure, digitize and record dynamic contact stress distributions with a sampling rate of up to 300 frames per second (960 sensors/frame). Measurements performed using this system under static and dynamic conditions are consistent with those performed through the contact pressure display (CPD) method. The new method has been used by the authers and their associates to obtain basic data required for the new field of cushioning mechanics.

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