Self-powered electro-tactile system for virtual tactile experiences.
basic_science · Level V
Where this comes from
- Record sourced from PubMed, PMID 33536215.
- Also identified by DOI 10.1126/sciadv.abe2943 and PMC identifier 7857682.
- Licence recorded as CC BY-NC.
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Abstract
Tactile sensation plays important roles in virtual reality and augmented reality systems. Here, a self-powered, painless, and highly sensitive electro-tactile (ET) system for achieving virtual tactile experiences is proposed on the basis of triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) and ET interface formed of ball-shaped electrode array. Electrostatic discharge triggered by TENG can induce notable ET stimulation, while controlled distance between the ET electrodes and human skin can regulate the induced discharge current. The ion bombardment technique has been used to enhance the electrification capability of triboelectric polymer. Accordingly, TENG with a contact area of 4 cm<sup>2</sup> is capable of triggering discharge, leading to a compact system. In this skin-integrated ET interface, touching position and motion trace on the TENG surface can be precisely reproduced on skin. This TENG-based ET system can work for many fields, including virtual tactile displays, Braille instruction, intelligent protective suits, or even nerve stimulation.