(Invited) Flexible Human-Machine Interfaces and Damage Robust Stretchable Optoelectronics

Abstract

Electronic devices and machines are undergoing exciting form factor evolutions by adopting formats closer to human skins[1–5]. At the same time, almost all forms of human-machine interfaces require electrically activated light sources to facilitate the interactions. These emerging trends present challenges as well as opportunities for innovations in light emitting devices that are robust to mechanical strains and even severe electro-mechanical damage. Self-healing materials have been shown to be useful in electronic devices and impart repeatable healing of electro-mechanical performance[6,7]. At the same time, stretchable light sources have been demonstrated for applications in soft robotics and touch interfaces[8]. In my talk, I will discuss recent progress in pressure sensor designs, as well as our efforts to develop a stretchable and damage robust opto-electronic materials.