Geometry-mediated decoupling of multidimensional forces in flexible anisotropic tactile sensors

Flexible force sensors capable of resolving multidirectional mechanical inputs are critical for wearable electronics, soft robotics, and human–machine interfaces. However, existing systems are fundamentally constrained by signal crosstalk among orthogonal axes, poor directional selectivity arising from isotropic sensing elements, and fabrication complexity that hinders scalable production. Here, we present a geometry-mediated approach that intrinsically decouples multidimensional forces through a vertically integrated anisotropic architecture, directly circumventing these long-standing bottlenecks. The system combines orthogonally oriented in-plane strain sensing with out-of-plane pressure sensing to physically partition force-transduction pathways and suppress cross-axis interference. A bilaterally symmetric dielectric microstructure enables bending-insensitive normal-force detection, while serpentine conductive networks provide direction-selective in-plane sensing. Coupled with a vector-resolved decoupling framework, the sensor reconstructs both the magnitude and direction of three-dimensional forces from independent electrical outputs. The device exhibits an axial gauge factor of 8.02 and a normal pressure sensitivity of 0.51 kPa⁻¹, with stable performance under repeated and dynamic loading. This work establishes a scalable design strategy for high-fidelity multidimensional force sensing and provides a generalizable route toward advanced tactile systems for robotics, wearable technologies, and intelligent interfaces.