A multimodal magnetoelastic artificial skin for underwater haptic sensing

Abstract

Future exploitation of marine resources in a sustainable and eco-friendly way requires autonomous underwater robotics with human-like perception. However, the development of such intelligent robots is now impeded by the lack of adequate underwater haptic sensing technology. Inspired by the populational coding strategy of the human tactile system, we harness the giant magnetoelasticity in soft polymer systems as an innovative platform technology to construct a multimodal underwater robotic skin for marine object recognition with intrinsic waterproofness and a simple configuration. The bioinspired magnetoelastic artificial skin enables multiplexed tactile modality in each single taxel and obtains an impressive classification rate of 95% in identifying seven types of marine creatures and marine litter. By introducing another degree of freedom in underwater haptic sensing, this work represents a milestone toward sustainable marine resource exploitation.

Flexible Metasurfaces for Multifunctional Interfaces

“…They can be mounted on the skin, attached to clothes, or even implanted into the body. Examples include epidermal, − wearable, − and implantable bioelectronics. − These devices enable continuous, noninvasive monitoring of vital physiological signals in real time, comfortably providing clinically relevant information for disease diagnosis, preventive healthcare, and rehabilitation. − These devices are particularly promising for managing chronic diseases like cardiovascular issues, metabolic disorders, and diabetes, which are of significant in an aging population. − During health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, they can reduce the need for hospital visits and readmissions . Beyond bioelectronics, the versatility of flexible electronics extends to wearable energy harvesters, − robotic skins for haptic interfaces, − and smart skins for aircraft to measure aerodynamic parameters in situ . − The trend towards flexible electronics is also evident in fields like photonics, acoustics, , metamaterials, and etc.…”

Recent Advances in Self-powered Sensors Based on Nanogenerators: From Material and Structural Design to Cutting-Edge Sensing Applications

“…The growing demand for wearable electronic devices offering both comfort and functionality has made research on flexible nanotechnology-based wearable systems a top priority. − Wearable intelligent products serve as the nexus of the Internet of Things (IoT), enabling the connection between user-perceived peripheral information and machines through the Internet technology to achieve effective human health monitoring. − The emergence of smart sensors is inevitable with the continuous advancement of the IoT. − For instance, smart sensors are utilized in various devices such as automobiles, cameras, and mobile phones. − However, these sensors have numerous constraints, particularly with regard to their power supply. In practical applications, a device requires an external power supply, thereby posing significant challenges to its portability, comfort, and service life. , Consequently, it is anticipated that wearable electronics developed in the future will be capable of obtaining energy without any cumbersome cables or bulky batteries.…”