Khaberni - While human skin can differentiate between subtle patterns of pressure and movement, most electronic devices today rely only on simple taps and swipes.
This disparity has driven researchers to develop a new generation of wearable touch interfaces, but many previous experiments have been limited due to their rigidity or poor ability to interpret precise signals or provide tangible feedback.
Despite attempts using gloves equipped with sensors, bracelets that monitor subtle changes in pressure, and surfaces that emit targeted vibrations, the major challenge remains translating digital texts, especially the 128 characters of ASCII, into sensations that can be easily touched and recognized, according to a report published by "interestingengineering".
A flexible skin-like patch that translates touch into text
A study published in Advanced Functional Materials introduces a new innovation: a flexible, skin-like patch that acts as a two-way communication channel, converting touches into digital texts, and re-sending the text to the user via vibrations that can be felt.
The patch relies on a combination of ionic sensors, ultra-flexible circuits, and small vibration motors, coupled with an artificial intelligence model capable of interpreting pressure patterns.
According to Nanowerk, the device can represent all ASCII codes through touch alone, making interaction possible without the need to look at a screen or listen to any signals.
The design of the patch uses a stretchable copper circuit over a layer of "polyimide", covered with a silicone coat that maintains its flexibility and adhesive strength resembling the texture of natural skin.
The heart of the system is in the form of an ionic sensor array that relies on rice paper coated with halam conductivity that changes when pressed.
The patch divides each ASCII character into four binary (2-bit) units, with each sensor representing one unit.
The number of presses on each sensor during a short period determines the value of the part it represents.
When sending a response, the small motors emit vibrations with a number of pulses matching the value of each part, creating a "vibrational phrase" that corresponds to the original character.
To overcome the difficulty of collecting massive data, researchers adopted a mathematical model that simulates the natural behavior of pressing on the skin through four stages: rise, peak, decline, and return, with changes in force, duration, and number of repetitions.
Writing without a screen and playing video games with touch alone
The technology was showcased in two notable experiments:
- Writing the word “Go!” using a series of presses, where the text appears on the computer and the user receives immediate tactile confirmation through the patch.
- Controlling a racing game, where touches are used to steer the vehicle, while the intensity of vibrations indicates the proximity of other vehicles, a stronger vibration means a greater danger of approaching.
