Researchers have created the first soft touchpad in the world that can detect the force, area, and location of touch without needing electricity. This innovative device employs pneumatic channels, making it suitable for use in environments like MRI machines and other situations where electronic devices cannot operate. This technology could also enhance various soft devices, including soft robots and rehabilitation tools.
A team from Tampere University has unveiled the world’s inaugural soft touchpad that recognizes the force, area, and location of contact without requiring electricity. This gadget leverages pneumatic channels, allowing it to function in scenarios like MRI machines and other settings where electronic devices are ineffective. Additionally, soft devices such as soft robots and rehabilitation aids stand to gain from this groundbreaking technology.
Researchers at Tampere University have crafted the first-ever soft touchpad capable of sensing the force, area, and location of touch without using electricity. Traditionally, this task required electronic sensors; however, the newly designed touchpad operates without electricity by utilizing pneumatic channels embedded within the device.
Constructed entirely from soft silicone, the touchpad includes 32 channels that respond to touch, each only a few hundred micrometers wide. Beyond measuring the force, area, and contact location, the device can accurately identify handwritten letters on its surface and even differentiate between multiple touches occurring at once.
According to Doctoral Researcher Vilma Lampinen, “Electronic sensors can fail in extreme environments, like intense magnetic fields. The touchpad, being non-electric, remains unaffected by strong magnetic fields, which makes it perfect for use in MRI machines.”
The sensor technology in this touchpad allows for advanced applications, such as enabling a pneumatic robot to perform a biopsy if cancer tumors are detected during an MRI scan. The sensor technology guides this robot alongside the data generated from the MRI images.
This pneumatic device is also functional in high-radiation areas or environments where even a tiny electrical spark could result in significant danger.
The pliability of silicone as a material permits the incorporation of sensors into applications where conventional rigid electronics are unsuitable. These include soft robots, which are composed of flexible rubber-like substances and typically operate using pneumatic power.
By integrating data gathered by sensors into these soft, non-electric devices, it will become possible to map the location, force, and area of touch over the entire surface in the future. Besides soft robots, sophisticated prosthetic hands could significantly benefit from incorporating tactile feedback.
As Dr. Lampinen points out, “Soft robotic hands could serve as replacements for current prosthetic hands, such as those used in manufacturing settings. Their softness makes them safer, lighter, and potentially cheaper to produce. Touch sensors installed around the hand could allow for a more delicate grip.”
Wearable devices crafted from soft materials may also find applications in rehabilitation, serving as movement aids. The softness of these devices enhances comfort compared to traditional hard alternatives.
