Conductive block copolymer elastomers and psychophysical thresholding for accurate haptic effects

R Blau and A Abdal and N Root and AX Chen and T Rafeedi and R Ramji and Y Qie and T Kim and A Navarro and J Chin and LL Becerra and SJ Edmunds and SM Russman and SA Dayeh and DP Fenning and R Rouw and DJ Lipomi, SCIENCE ROBOTICS, 9, eadk3925 (2024).

DOI: 10.1126/scirobotics.adk3925

Electrotactile stimulus is a form of sensory substitution in which an electrical signal is perceived as a mechanical sensation. The electrotactile effect could, in principle, recapitulate a range of tactile experience by selective activation of nerve endings. However, the method has been plagued by inconsistency, galvanic reactions, pain and desensitization, and unwanted stimulation of nontactile nerves. Here, we describe how a soft conductive block copolymer, a stretchable layout, and concentric electrodes, along with psychophysical thresholding, can circumvent these shortcomings. These purpose-designed materials, device layouts, and calibration techniques make it possible to generate accurate and reproducible sensations across a cohort of 10 human participants and to do so at ultralow currents (>= 6 microamperes) without pain or desensitization. This material, form factor, and psychophysical approach could be useful for haptic devices and as a tool for activation of the peripheral nervous system.

Return to Publications page