(Invited) Triboelectric Nanogenerators for Self-Powered Sensing and Human-Machine-Interfaces

Abstract

Wearable and portable electronics are garnering substantial interest for applications ranging from personalized healthcare monitoring to implantable devices and prosthetics. The demand for long-term operation poses significant challenges to their power supply. To address this, the development of novel self-powered systems holds considerable promise. In this talk, I will discuss our recent advancements in crafting triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) for self-powered sensing and human-machine interfaces (HMIs). I will first introduce our multifunctional tactile sensors inspired by human skin. These sensors combine a triboelectric nanogenerator layer with a piezoresistive sensing layer, emulating the ability of human skin to detect a variety of static and dynamic stimuli. This sensor can successfully recognize voice patterns, monitor physiological signals, and track human motion in real-time. Then, I will unveil our self-powered smart packaging system, which is driven by a novel desiccant-based triboelectric nanogenerator (D-TENG). This system offers a viable method for continuous monitoring of product conditions and quality control throughout the supply chain, thus minimizing food waste and maintaining a comprehensive log of logistics, especially critical in vaccine transport. Lastly, I will present our novel breath-driven triboelectric sensor in respiratory monitoring. This sensor can precisely detect breath variations and convert different breathing patterns into electrical signals, all without impeding normal breathing. It enables severely disabled individuals to control household appliances through a breath-driven HMI and provides an intelligent monitoring system for emergency situations. This innovative work paves the way for future development in self-powered sensors and advanced HMIs, enhancing assistive technology for individuals with disabilities.