Flexible Multimode Sensors: Structural Design, Signal Decoupling, and Emerging Applications

Abstract

Abstract Flexible multimode sensors have become key components in intelligent sensing due to their flexibility, multifunctionality, and adaptability, with broad applications in wearables, healthcare, and robotics. This review summarizes recent advances in their structural design, sensing mechanisms, and signal processing strategies, and highlights applications in industrial automation, smart agriculture, and wearable systems. Compared to previous reviews, this work uniquely classifies multimode sensors into three structural types—homogeneous, heterogeneous, and array‐based—and comprehensively compares their design principles and use cases. To address multimodal signal coupling, three decoupling strategies—material‐, structure‐, and algorithm‐driven—providing a holistic perspective rarely integrated in earlier literature is highlighted. Representative case studies demonstrate practical value, while current challenges such as signal crosstalk and manufacturing complexity are outlined. Finally, future directions including biomimetic materials, edge computing, and green manufacturing are proposed to guide further development.