We investigate effects of bending stress on piezoelectric properties of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) as a polymer
sensor. The sensor was designed and fabricated into a special size and shape so that it can be attached to small
insects, such as the American cockroach (Periplaneta Americana) to measure the insects' locomotion. The
performance of the sensor is studied using a controlled linear stage to buckle the sensor mimicking the bending of
the sensor due to the leg movements of cockroaches. For comparison, a roach robot was used for multi-leg study.
Results indicate that buckling motion of the sensor produce an output that is different from regular stretching effect.
The sensor-generated charge depends on the localized stress distribution and dipole alignment. This paper discusses
the methods of characterization of piezoelectricity useful for insect applications.
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