(Invited) self-Powered Multifunctional Sensing and Control for Smart Wearables and Human-Machine Interfaces

Robust, high-performance tactile sensors are critical for developing soft intelligent robotics, human-machine interfaces (HMI), and wearable electronics. However, it is challenging to fabricate soft tactile sensors capable of multifunctional sensing under both fast and slow response conditions in a simple and low-cost manner. In this talk, I will present our recent efforts in developing novel self-powered sensors and HMIs for wearables and intelligent controls. I will first introduce a textile-based tactile sensor capable of multifunctional sensing (covering both dynamic and static measurements) for personalized healthcare monitoring and soft robotic control. Inspired by human skin, the tactile sensor consists of a triboelectric nanogenerator sensing layer to mimic the function of fast-adapting (FA) mechanoreceptors and a piezoresistive sensing layer to achieve the functionality of slow-adapting (SA) mechanoreceptors. Then, I will demonstrate a self-powered breath sensor to monitor the health conditions of patients and provide daily assistance for severely disabled people to control electrical household appliances and other smart systems. The new system provides the advantages of high sensitivity, good stability, low cost, and ease of use.