A Flexible Vibrotactile Interface for Immersive Metaverse Interaction

Flexible piezoelectric polymers, particularly poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF), are highly promising for soft haptic actuators; however, their practical integration into wearable interfaces is severely limited by low output displacement and weak vibrational force due to significant mechanical damping from the encapsulation matrices. Herein, we report an innovative soft piezoelectric vibrotactile interface designed specifically for immersive experiences within metaverse. This interface features a unique internal chamber structure that significantly enhances vibrational displacement and vibrational force. To enable precise control over interfaces, a wearable, wireless, multichannel, high-voltage, and high-frequency driving circuit is developed. This circuit allows for independent adjustment of both the amplitude and frequency of each channel. Moreover, the effectiveness of the proposed interface is validated through two user application studies, navigation tasks, and realistic rendering dynamic sensations of flowing water in a VR experience, which profoundly improve user immersion and presence. This work delivers a comprehensive solution for wearable haptic feedback systems, paving the way for a truly tangible metaverse where users can physically touch digital assets and engage in rich, nonverbal social interactions.