Versatile Wearable Interface: Multi-modal Tactile Sensing and Haptic Feedback for Human-Computer Interaction

This chapter delves into the innovative design of a versatile wearable interface that seamlessly integrates multi-modal tactile sensing and haptic feedback, revolutionizing human-computer interaction. The interface leverages the synergistic properties of triboelectric, piezoelectric, and pneumatic technologies to create a compact, dual-way tactile communication device. This integration allows for the simultaneous sensing and feedback of tactile information, providing a more intuitive and responsive interaction experience. The chapter explores the working principles of each component, detailing how the triboelectric units generate electrical signals through contact-separation motion, and how piezoelectric units produce vibration feedback. The pneumatic units not only provide tactile feedback but also serve as protective and monitoring elements, enhancing the overall functionality and durability of the device. The characterization of the multi-modal sensing and feedback units is thoroughly examined, showcasing the device's high sensitivity, stability, and multi-modal capabilities. Practical applications of the interface are demonstrated through its use in teleoperation and robot control, highlighting its potential to improve control experiences and enable bidirectional tactile information exchange. The chapter concludes by emphasizing the advantages of this integrated approach over conventional visual-based tactile sensing data presentation, underscoring its potential to reduce response times and enhance user interaction in various applications.