Advancing artificial tactile perception with triboelectric nanogenerators

Artificial tactile perception is especially significant for the development of prosthetics, robotics and bioelectronics. Among various flexible tactile sensors that mimic human skin mechanoreceptors, those based on triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) convert external stimuli into electrical signal outputs without consuming power. But their output signals instantaneously revert to their initial state upon stimuli removal, which neither reflects human perception nor lends to neuromorphic short-term memory retention for near-sensor computing.

Lei et al. summarized existing physical models and work mechanisms of triboelectric effects in pressure and “slip perception,” the ability to detect relative movement, within tactile domains. They also proposed four theoretical models derived from tribotronic transistor architectures.

“These systems demonstrate remarkable capability in detecting both pressure variations and slip dynamics through characteristic electrical signal outputs,” said author Hao Lei. “Additionally, integration with transistor technology enables concurrent signal storage and computational processing, thereby achieving real-time sensory data stream manipulation.”

The team found triboelectric sensors can function as standalone detection units that convert stimuli into quantifiable electrical signals. With high sensitivity that enables detection of minute external stimuli such as those induced by feather contact, they are particularly suitable for applications in human-robot interaction, tactile restoration in prosthetic devices, or precision grasping in industrial robotic systems.

Alternatively, when integrated with transistor architectures, the sensors exhibit memory effects in signal output characteristics, which can enable edge computing for on-device data storage and near-sensor computational processing. The researchers believe these paired sensors have unrealized potential in areas such as smart home ecosystems and autonomous driving technology.

“Our study establishes a theoretical foundation for advancing triboelectric tactile perception applications and provides enhanced mechanistic insights to guide further exploration,” said Lei.

Source: “Artificial tactile perception enabled by triboelectric effect,” by Hao Lei, Yihan Wei, Jiayi Wang, Chun Zhao, Zhen Wen, and Xuhui Sun, Applied Physics Letters (2025). The article can be accessed at https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0257438 .