An afferent nerve-like electronic device with somatic mechanical perception and sensation management

Abstract

Tactile and pain perception are essential for biological skin to interact with the external environment. This complex interplay of sensations allows for the detection of potential threats and appropriate responses to stimuli. However, the challenge is to enable flexible electronics to respond to mechanical stimuli such as biological skin, and researchers have not clearly reported the successful integration of somatic mechanical perception and sensation management functions into neuro-like electronics. In this work, an afferent nerve-like device with a pressure sensor and a perception management module is proposed. The pressure sensor comprises two conductive fabric layers and an ionic hydrogel, forming a capacitor structure that emulates the swift transition from tactile to pain perception under mechanical stimulation. Drawing inspiration from the neuronal “gate control” mechanism, the sensation management module adjusts signals in response to rubbing, accelerating the discharge process and reducing the perception duration, thereby replicating the inhibitory effect of biological neurons on pain following tactile interference. This integrated device, encompassing somatic mechanical perception and sensation management, holds promise for applications in soft robotics, prosthetics, and human-machine interaction.