All in One, Self-Powered Bionic Artificial Nerve Based on a Triboelectric Nanogenerator

Area of Science:

• Neuromorphic Engineering
• Biomimetic Systems
• Materials Science

Background:

• Biological sensory and nerve systems are crucial for environmental interaction.
• Neuromorphic computing drives innovation in artificial sensory and nervous systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an all-in-one, tailorable artificial perception and transmission nerve (APTN).
• To mimic biological systems for detecting and transmitting mechanical stimulation location.
• To create a single-electrode system for multi-pixel detection and 2D spatial sensing.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a gradient thickness dielectric layer and grid surface structure for reliable multi-pixel detection with a single triboelectric electrode.
• Implemented a sliding mode to mitigate output signal amplitude variations (e.g., force, distance).
• Engineered an L-shaped APTN for 2D detection and fabricated an APTN-based prosthetic arm for stimulus localization feedback.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated excellent reliability in detecting multiple stimulus locations using a single electrode.
• Achieved amplitude-independent signal detection through sliding mode operation.
• Successfully applied the L-shaped APTN for 2D spatial sensing and integrated it into a prosthetic arm for biomimetic feedback.

Conclusions:

• The developed APTN effectively mimics biological sensory and nervous functions for mechanical stimulation.
• The APTN system exhibits low cost, ease of installation, and flexibility.
• This technology shows significant potential for advancing artificial intelligence, human-machine interfaces, and robotics.