Italian researchers have developed a a tattoo made of ultra-thin electronic materials that can generate a sense of touch.
The device, measuring just a few micrometres in thinkness, provides sensorial stimuli to amputees and a tactile sensation when controlling robotic arms or moving in virtual environments.
It is the brainchild of Arianna Mazzotta and Virgilio Mattoli of the Center for Materials Interfaces at the Italian Institute of Technology and is described in the journal Advanced Electronic Materials.
The tattoo comprises a very thin film, comparable to traditional tattoos for children, containing a tiny air pocket that inflates quickly and precisely, exerting pressure on the skin. In this way, it can activate different tactile points called taxels or tactile pixels. These taxels can be activated independently, transmitting different types of information.
The device is powered by a small, low-voltage battery and offers a range of technological solutions that could set a new standard for the future.
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