Smart farming with outdoor monitoring systems is critical to address food shortages and sustainability challenges.These systems facilitate informed decisions that enhance efficiency in broader environmental management...Smart farming with outdoor monitoring systems is critical to address food shortages and sustainability challenges.These systems facilitate informed decisions that enhance efficiency in broader environmental management.Existing outdoor systems equipped with energy harvesters and self-powered sensors often struggle with fluctuating energy sources,low durability under harsh conditions,non-transparent or non-biocompatible materials,and complex structures.Herein,a multifunctional hydrogel is developed,which can fulfill all the above requirements and build selfsustainable outdoor monitoring systems solely by it.It can serve as a stable energy harvester that continuously generates direct current output with an average power density of 1.9 W m^(-3)for nearly 60 days of operation in normal environments(24℃,60%RH),with an energy density of around 1.36×10^(7)J m^(-3).It also shows good self-recoverability in severe environments(45℃,30%RH)in nearly 40 days of continuous operation.Moreover,this hydrogel enables noninvasive and self-powered monitoring of leaf relative water content,providing critical data on evaluating plant health,previously obtainable only through invasive or high-power consumption methods.Its potential extends to acting as other self-powered environmental sensors.This multifunctional hydrogel enables self-sustainable outdoor systems with scalable and low-cost production,paving the way for future agriculture.展开更多
The rise of large-scale artificial intelligence(AI)models,such as ChatGPT,Deep-Seek,and autonomous vehicle systems,has significantly advanced the boundaries of AI,enabling highly complex tasks in natural language proc...The rise of large-scale artificial intelligence(AI)models,such as ChatGPT,Deep-Seek,and autonomous vehicle systems,has significantly advanced the boundaries of AI,enabling highly complex tasks in natural language processing,image recognition,and real-time decisionmaking.However,these models demand immense computational power and are often centralized,relying on cloud-based architectures with inherent limitations in latency,privacy,and energy efficiency.To address these challenges and bring AI closer to real-world applications,such as wearable health monitoring,robotics,and immersive virtual environments,innovative hardware solutions are urgently needed.This work introduces a near-sensor edge computing(NSEC)system,built on a bilayer AlN/Si waveguide platform,to provide real-time,energy-efficient AI capabilities at the edge.Leveraging the electro-optic properties of AlN microring resonators for photonic feature extraction,coupled with Si-based thermo-optic Mach-Zehnder interferometers for neural network computations,the system represents a transformative approach to AI hardware design.Demonstrated through multimodal gesture and gait analysis,the NSEC system achieves high classification accuracies of 96.77%for gestures and 98.31%for gaits,ultra-low latency(<10 ns),and minimal energy consumption(<0.34 pJ).This groundbreaking system bridges the gap between AI models and real-world applications,enabling efficient,privacy-preserving AI solutions for healthcare,robotics,and next-generation human-machine interfaces,marking a pivotal advancement in edge computing and AI deployment.展开更多
Plasmonic nanoantennas provide unique opportunities for precise control of light–matter coupling in surface-enhanced infrared absorption(SEIRA)spectroscopy,but most of the resonant systems realized so far suffer from...Plasmonic nanoantennas provide unique opportunities for precise control of light–matter coupling in surface-enhanced infrared absorption(SEIRA)spectroscopy,but most of the resonant systems realized so far suffer from the obstacles of low sensitivity,narrow bandwidth,and asymmetric Fano resonance perturbations.Here,we demonstrated an overcoupled resonator with a high plasmon-molecule coupling coefficient(μ)(OC-Hμresonator)by precisely controlling the radiation loss channel,the resonator-oscillator coupling channel,and the frequency detuning channel.We observed a strong dependence of the sensing performance on the coupling state,and demonstrated that OC-Hμresonator has excellent sensing properties of ultra-sensitive(7.25%nm^(−1)),ultra-broadband(3–10μm),and immune asymmetric Fano lineshapes.These characteristics represent a breakthrough in SEIRA technology and lay the foundation for specific recognition of biomolecules,trace detection,and protein secondary structure analysis using a single array(array size is 100×100μm^(2)).In addition,with the assistance of machine learning,mixture classification,concentration prediction and spectral reconstruction were achieved with the highest accuracy of 100%.Finally,we demonstrated the potential of OC-Hμresonator for SARS-CoV-2 detection.These findings will promote the wider application of SEIRA technology,while providing new ideas for other enhanced spectroscopy technologies,quantum photonics and studying light–matter interactions.展开更多
Wearable bioelectronic devices are rapidly evolving towards miniaturization and multifunctionality,with remarkable features such as flexibility and comfort.However,achieving a sustainable power supply for wearable bio...Wearable bioelectronic devices are rapidly evolving towards miniaturization and multifunctionality,with remarkable features such as flexibility and comfort.However,achieving a sustainable power supply for wearable bioelectronic devices is still a great challenge.Triboelectric nanogenerators(TENGs)provide an efficient solution by converting irregular,low-frequency bioenergy from the human body into electrical energy.Beyond sustainably powering wearable bioelectronics,the harvested electrical energy also carries rich information for human body sensing.In this conversion process,the choice of material plays a crucial role in affecting the output performance of the TENGs.Among various materials,silicone rubber(SR)stands out due to its exceptional plasticity,flexibility,comfortability and other favorable properties.Moreover,with appropriate treatment,SR can achieve extreme functionalities such as high robustness,good stability,self-healing capabilities,rapid response,and more.In this review,recent advances in wearable SR-based TENGs(SR-TENGs)are systematically reviewed with a focus on their application in different parts of the human body.Given that the manufacturing method of SR-TENGs largely determines its output performance and sensitivity,this paper introduces the design of SR-TENGs,including material selection,process modulation,and structure optimization.Additionally,this article discusses the current challenges in the SR-TENG fabrication technology and potential future directions,aiming to promote the effective development of SR-TENGs in biomechanical energy harvesting and self-powered sensing applications.展开更多
Artificial Intelligence(AI)has shown the power to enhance the functionality of sensors and enable intelligent human‐machine interfaces through machine learning‐based data analysis.However,the good performance of AI ...Artificial Intelligence(AI)has shown the power to enhance the functionality of sensors and enable intelligent human‐machine interfaces through machine learning‐based data analysis.However,the good performance of AI is always accompanied by a large amount of data and high computational complexity.Though cloud computing appears to be the right solution to this issue with the advent of the 5G era,a certain intelligence of the edge terminal is also important to make the entire integrated intelligent system more efficient.The current development of microelectronic,wearable,AI,and neuromorphic technologies pave the way to realize advanced edge computing by integrating silicon‐based high‐computing‐power neuromorphic chips with anthropomorphic wearable sensory devices and show the potential to achieve human‐like self‐sustainable decentralized intelligence to enable the next‐generation of AI.Hence,in this review,we systematically introduce the related progress in terms of wearable electronics that can mimic the biological features of humans'sensory systems and the development of neuromorphic/in‐sensor computing technologies.Discussion on implementing the integrated human‐like perception and sensation system with silicone‐based computing chips and non‐silicone‐based wearable functional units and our perspectives are also provided.展开更多
Letter handwriting,especially stroke correction,is of great importance for recording languages and expressing and exchanging ideas for individual behavior and the public.In this study,a biodegradable and conductive ca...Letter handwriting,especially stroke correction,is of great importance for recording languages and expressing and exchanging ideas for individual behavior and the public.In this study,a biodegradable and conductive carboxymethyl chitosan-silk fibroin(CSF)film is prepared to design wearable triboelectric nanogenerator(denoted as CSF-TENG),which outputs of V_(oc)≈165 V,I_(sc)≈1.4μA,and Q_(sc)≈72 mW cm^(−2).Further,in vitro biodegradation of CSF film is performed through trypsin and lysozyme.The results show that trypsin and lysozyme have stable and favorable biodegradation properties,removing 63.1%of CSF film after degrading for 11 days.Further,the CSF-TENG-based human-machine interface(HMI)is designed to promptly track writing steps and access the accuracy of letters,resulting in a straightforward communication media of human and machine.The CSF-TENG-based HMI can automatically recognize and correct three representative letters(F,H,and K),which is benefited by HMI system for data processing and analysis.The CSF-TENG-based HMI can make decisions for the next stroke,highlighting the stroke in advance by replacing it with red,which can be a candidate for calligraphy practice and correction.Finally,various demonstrations are done in real-time to achieve virtual and real-world controls including writing,vehicle movements,and healthcare.展开更多
Metal-organic frameworks(MOFs)have been extensively used for gas sorption,storage and separation owing to ultrahigh porosity,exceptional thermal stability,and wide structural diversity.However,when it comes to ultra-l...Metal-organic frameworks(MOFs)have been extensively used for gas sorption,storage and separation owing to ultrahigh porosity,exceptional thermal stability,and wide structural diversity.However,when it comes to ultra-low concentration gas detection,technical bottlenecks of MOFs appear due to the poor adsorption capacity at ppm-/ppblevel concentration and the limited sensitivity for signal transduction.Here,we present hybrid MOF-polymer physi-chemisorption mechanisms integrated with infrared(IR)nanoantennas for highly selective and ultrasensitive CO_(2) detection.To improve the adsorption capacity for trace amounts of gas molecules,MOFs are decorated with amino groups to introduce the chemisorption while maintaining the structural integrity for physisorption.Additionally,leveraging all major optimization methods,a multi-hotspot strategy is proposed to improve the sensitivity of nanoantennas by enhancing the near field and engineering the radiative and absorptive loss.As a benefit,we demonstrate the competitive advantages of our strategy against the state-of-the-art miniaturized IR CO_(2) sensors,including low detection limit,high sensitivity(0.18%/ppm),excellent reversibility(variation within 2%),and high selectivity(against C_(2)H_(5)OH,CH_(3)OH,N_(2)).This work provides valuable insights into the integration of advanced porous materials and nanophotonic devices,which can be further adopted in ultra-low concentration gas monitoring in industry and environmental applications.展开更多
Triboelectric nanogenerators(TENG),renowned for their remarkable capability to harness weak mechanical energy from the environment,have gained considerable attention owing to their cost-effectiveness,high output,and a...Triboelectric nanogenerators(TENG),renowned for their remarkable capability to harness weak mechanical energy from the environment,have gained considerable attention owing to their cost-effectiveness,high output,and adaptability.This review provides a unique perspective by conducting a comprehensive and in-depth analysis of magnetically assisted TENGs that encompass structures,materials,and self-powered sensing systems.We systematically summarize the diverse functions of the magnetic assistance for TENGs,including system stiffness,components of the hybrid electromagnetic-triboelectric generator,transmission,and interaction forces.In the material domain,we review the incorporation of magnetic nano-composites materials,along with ferrofluid-based TENG and microstructure verification,which have also been summarized based on existing research.Furthermore,we delve into the research progress on physical quantity sensing and human-machine interface in magnetic-assisted TENGs.Our analysis highlights that magnetic assistance extends beyond the repulsive and suction forces under a magnetic field,thereby playing multifaceted roles in improving the output performance and environmental adaptability of the TENGs.Finally,we present the prevailing challenges and offer insights into the future trajectory of the magnetic-assisted TENGs development.展开更多
Piezoelectric ultrasonic transducers have shown great potential in biomedical applications due to their high acoustic-to-electric conversion efficiency and large power capacity.The focusing technique enables the trans...Piezoelectric ultrasonic transducers have shown great potential in biomedical applications due to their high acoustic-to-electric conversion efficiency and large power capacity.The focusing technique enables the transducer to produce an extremely narrow beam,greatly improving the resolution and sensitivity.In this work,we summarize the fundamental properties and biological effects of the ultrasound field,aiming to establish a correlation between device design and application.Focusing techniques for piezoelectric transducers are highlighted,including material selection and fabrication methods,which determine the final performance of piezoelectric transducers.Numerous examples,from ultrasound imaging,neuromodulation,tumor ablation to ultrasonic wireless energy transfer,are summarized to highlight the great promise of biomedical applications.Finally,the challenges and opportunities of focused ultrasound transducers are presented.The aim of this review is to bridge the gap between focused ultrasound systems and biomedical applications.展开更多
The past few years have witnessed the significant impacts of wearable electronics/photonics on various aspects of our daily life,for example,healthcare monitoring and treatment,ambient monitoring,soft robotics,prosthe...The past few years have witnessed the significant impacts of wearable electronics/photonics on various aspects of our daily life,for example,healthcare monitoring and treatment,ambient monitoring,soft robotics,prosthetics,flexible display,communication,human-machine interactions,and so on.According to the development in recent years,the next-generation wearable electronics and photonics are advancing rapidly toward the era of artificial intelligence(AI)and internet of things(IoT),to achieve a higher level of comfort,convenience,connection,and intelligence.Herein,this review provides an opportune overview of the recent progress in wearable electronics,photonics,and systems,in terms of emerging materials,transducing mechanisms,structural configurations,applications,and their further integration with other technologies.First,development of general wearable electronics and photonics is summarized for the applications of physical sensing,chemical sensing,humanmachine interaction,display,communication,and so on.Then self-sustainable wearable electronics/photonics and systems are discussed based on system integration with energy harvesting and storage technologies.Next,technology fusion of wearable systems and AI is reviewed,showing the emergence and rapid development of intelligent/smart systems.In the last section of this review,perspectives about the future development trends of the next-generation wearable electronics/photonics are provided,that is,toward multifunctional,self-sustainable,and intelligent wearable systems in the AI/IoT era.展开更多
Silicon photonic integrated circuits for telecommunication and data centers have been well studied in the past decade, and now most related efforts have been progressing toward commercialization. Scaling up the silico...Silicon photonic integrated circuits for telecommunication and data centers have been well studied in the past decade, and now most related efforts have been progressing toward commercialization. Scaling up the silicon-oninsulator(SOI)-based device dimensions in order to extend the operation wavelength to the short mid-infrared(MIR) range(2–4 μm) is attracting research interest, owing to the host of potential applications in lab-on-chip sensors, free space communications, and much more. Other material systems and technology platforms, including silicon-on-silicon nitride, germanium-on-silicon, germanium-on-SOI, germanium-on-silicon nitride, sapphireon-silicon, Si Ge alloy-on-silicon, and aluminum nitride-on-insulator are explored as well in order to realize low-loss waveguide devices for different MIR wavelengths. In this paper, we will comprehensively review silicon photonics for MIR applications, with regard to the state-of-the-art achievements from various device demonstrations in different material platforms by various groups. We will then introduce in detail of our institute's research and development efforts on the MIR photonic platforms as one case study. Meanwhile, we will discuss the integration schemes along with remaining challenges in devices(e.g., light source) and integration. A few application-oriented examples will be examined to illustrate the issues needing a critical solution toward the final production path(e.g., gas sensors). Finally, we will provide our assessment of the outlook of potential futureresearch topics and engineering challenges along with opportunities.展开更多
Wind energy is a promising renewable energy source for a low-carbon society.This study is to develop a fully packaged vortexinduced vibration triboelectric nanogenerator(VIV-TENG)for scavenging wind energy.The VIV-TEN...Wind energy is a promising renewable energy source for a low-carbon society.This study is to develop a fully packaged vortexinduced vibration triboelectric nanogenerator(VIV-TENG)for scavenging wind energy.The VIV-TENG consists of a wind vane,internal power generation unit,an external frame,four springs,a square cylinder and a circular turntable.The internal power generation unit consists of polytetrafluoroethylene(PTFE)balls,a honeycomb frame and two copper electrodes.Different from most of the previous wind energy harvesting TENGs,the bouncing PTFE balls are fully packaged in the square cylinder.The distinct design separates the process of contact electrification from the external environment,and at the same time avoids the frictional wear of the ordinary wind energy harvesting TENGs.The corresponding VIV parameters are investigated to evaluate their influence on the vibration behaviors and the energy output.Resonant state of the VIV-TENG corresponds to the high output performance from the VIV-TENG.The distinct,robust structure ensures the full-packaged VIV-TENG can harvest wind energy from arbitrary directions and even in undesirable weather conditions.The study proposes a novel TENG configuration for harvesting wind energy and the VIV-TENG proves promising powering micro-electro-mechanical appliances.展开更多
The neural interface is a key component in wireless brain–computer prostheses.In this study,we demonstrate that a unique three-dimensional(3D)microneedle electrode on a flexible mesh substrate,which can be fabricated...The neural interface is a key component in wireless brain–computer prostheses.In this study,we demonstrate that a unique three-dimensional(3D)microneedle electrode on a flexible mesh substrate,which can be fabricated without complicated micromachining techniques,is conformal to the tissues with minimal invasiveness.Furthermore,we demonstrate that it can be applied to different functional layers in the nervous system without length limitation.The microneedle electrode is fabricated using drawing lithography technology from biocompatible materials.In this approach,the profile of a 3D microneedle electrode array is determined by the design of a two-dimensional(2D)pattern on the mask,which can be used to access different functional layers in different locations of the brain.Due to the sufficient stiffness of the electrode and the excellent flexibility of the mesh substrate,the electrode can penetrate into the tissue with its bottom layer fully conformal to the curved brain surface.Then,the exposed contact at the end of the microneedle electrode can successfully acquire neural signals from the brain.展开更多
In the past few years,triboelectric nanogenerator-based(TENG-based)hybrid generators and systems have experienced a widespread and flourishing development,ranging among almost every aspect of our lives,e.g.,from indus...In the past few years,triboelectric nanogenerator-based(TENG-based)hybrid generators and systems have experienced a widespread and flourishing development,ranging among almost every aspect of our lives,e.g.,from industry to consumer,outdoor to indoor,and wearable to implantable applications.Although TENG technology has been extensively investigated for mechanical energy harvesting,most developed TENGs still have limitations of small output current,unstable power generation,and low energy utilization rate of multisource energies.To harvest the ubiquitous/coexisted energy forms including mechanical,thermal,and solar energy simultaneously,a promising direction is to integrate TENG with other transducing mechanisms,e.g.,electromagnetic generator,piezoelectric nanogenerator,pyroelectric nanogenerator,thermoelectric generator,and solar cell,forming the hybrid generator for synergetic single-source and multisource energy harvesting.The resultant TENG-based hybrid generators utilizing integrated transducing mechanisms are able to compensate for the shortcomings of each mechanism and overcome the above limitations,toward achieving a maximum,reliable,and stable output generation.Hence,in this review,we systematically introduce the key technologies of the TENG-based hybrid generators and hybridized systems,in the aspects of operation principles,structure designs,optimization strategies,power management,and system integration.The recent progress of TENG-based hybrid generators and hybridized systems for the outdoor,indoor,wearable,and implantable applications is also provided.Lastly,we discuss our perspectives on the future development trend of hybrid generators and hybridized systems in environmental monitoring,human activity sensation,human-machine interaction,smart home,healthcare,wearables,implants,robotics,Internet of things(IoT),and many other fields.展开更多
We demonstrate micromachined reconfigurable metamaterials working at multiple frequencies simultaneously in the terahertz range.The proposed metamaterial structures can be structurally reconfigured by employing flexib...We demonstrate micromachined reconfigurable metamaterials working at multiple frequencies simultaneously in the terahertz range.The proposed metamaterial structures can be structurally reconfigured by employing flexible microelectromechanical system-based cantilevers in the resonators,which are designed to deform out of plane under an external stimulus.The proposed metamaterial structures provide not only multiband resonance frequency operation but also polarization-dependent tunability.Three kinds of metamaterials are investigated as electric split-ring resonator(eSRR)arrays with different positions of the split.By moving the position of the split away from the resonator’s center,the eSRR exhibits anisotropy,with the dipole resonance splitting into two resonances.The dipole–dipole coupling strength can be continuously adjusted,which enables the electromagnetic response to be tailored by adjusting the direct current(DC)voltage between the released cantilevers and the silicon substrate.The observed tunability of the eSRRs is found to be dependent on the polarization of the incident terahertz wave.This polarization-dependent tunability is demonstrated by both experimental measurements and electromagnetic simulations.展开更多
For human beings of different ages and physical abilities, the inherent balance control system is ubiquitous and active to prevent falling, especially in motion states. A hybridized electromagnetic-triboelectric nanog...For human beings of different ages and physical abilities, the inherent balance control system is ubiquitous and active to prevent falling, especially in motion states. A hybridized electromagnetic-triboelectric nanogenerator (HETNG) is prepared to harvest biomechanical energy during human balance control processes and achieve significant monitoring functions. The HETNG is composed of a symmetrical pendulum structure and a cylinder magnet rolling inside. Four coils are divided into two groups which form into two electromagnetic generators (EMGs). Besides, two spatial electrodes attached to the inner wall constitute a freestanding mode triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG). With a rectification circuit, the HETNG presents a high output power with a peak value of 0.55 W at a load of 160 Ω. Along with human balance control processes during walking, the HETNG can harvest biomechanical energy at different positions on the trunk. Moreover, the HETNG applied in artificial limb has been preliminarily simulated with the positions on thigh and foot, for monitoring the actions of squat and stand up, and lifting the leg up and down. For the elder that walks slowly with a walking aid, the HETNG equipped on the walking aid can help to record the motions of forwarding and unexpected falling, which is useful for calling for help. This work shows the potential of biomechanical energy-driven HETNG for powering portable electronics and monitoring human motions, also shows significant concerns to people lacked action capability or disabled.展开更多
Throat cancer treatment involves surgical removal of the tumor,leaving patients with facial disfigurement as well as temporary or permanent loss of voice.Surface electromyography(sEMG)generated from the jaw contains l...Throat cancer treatment involves surgical removal of the tumor,leaving patients with facial disfigurement as well as temporary or permanent loss of voice.Surface electromyography(sEMG)generated from the jaw contains lots of voice information.However,it is difficult to record because of not only the weakness of the signals but also the steep skin curvature.This paper demonstrates the design of an imperceptible,flexible epidermal sEMG tattoo-like patch with the thickness of less than 10μm and peeling strength of larger than 1N cm−1 that exhibits large adhesiveness to complex biological surfaces and is thus capable of sEMG recording for silent speech recognition.When a tester speaks silently,the patch shows excellent performance in recording the sEMG signals from three muscle channels and recognizing those frequently used instructions with high accuracy by using the wavelet decomposition and pattern recognization.The average accuracy of action instructions can reach up to 89.04%,and the average accuracy of emotion instructions is as high as 92.33%.To demonstrate the functionality of tattoo-like patches as a new human–machine interface(HMI)for patients with loss of voice,the intelligent silent speech recognition,voice synthesis,and virtual interaction have been implemented,which are of great importance in helping these patients communicate with people and make life more enjoyable.展开更多
For the large amount of waste heat wasted in daily life and industrial production,we propose a new type of flexible thermoelectric generators(F-TEGs)which can be used as a large area bionic skin to achieve energy harv...For the large amount of waste heat wasted in daily life and industrial production,we propose a new type of flexible thermoelectric generators(F-TEGs)which can be used as a large area bionic skin to achieve energy harvesting of thermal energy.With reference to biological structures such as pinecone,succulent,and feathers,we have designed and fabricated a biomimetic flexible TEG that can be applied in a wide temperature range which has the highest temperature energy harvesting capability currently.The laminated free structure of the bionic F-TEG dramatically increases the efficiency and density of energy harvesting.The F-TEGs(single TEG only 101.2 mg in weight),without an additional heat sink,demonstrates the highest output voltage density of 286.1 mV/cm^(2)and the maximum power density is 66.5 mW/m^(2) at a temperature difference of nearly 1000℃.The flexible characteristics of F-TEGs make it possible to collect the diffused thermal energy by flexible attachment to the outer walls of high-temperature pipes and vessels of different diameters and shapes.This work shows a new design and application concept for flexible thermal energy collectors,which fills the gap of flexible energy harvesting in high-temperature environment.展开更多
The era of artificial intelligence and internet of things is rapidly developed by recent advances in wearable electronics.Gait reveals sensory information in daily life containing personal information,regarding identi...The era of artificial intelligence and internet of things is rapidly developed by recent advances in wearable electronics.Gait reveals sensory information in daily life containing personal information,regarding identification and healthcare.Current wearable electronics of gait analysis are mainly limited by high fabrication cost,operation energy consumption,or inferior analysis methods,which barely involve machine learning or implement nonoptimal models that require massive datasets for training.Herein,we developed low-cost triboelectric intelligent socks for harvesting waste energy from low-frequency body motions to transmit wireless sensory data.The sock equipped with self-powered functionality also can be used as wearable sensors to deliver information,regarding the identity,health status,and activity of the users.To further address the issue of ineffective analysis methods,an optimized deep learning model with an end-to-end structure on the socks signals for the gait analysis is proposed,which produces a 93.54%identification accuracy of 13 participants and detects five different human activities with 96.67%accuracy.Toward practical application,we map the physical signals collected through the socks in the virtual space to establish a digital human system for sports monitoring,healthcare,identification,and future smart home applications.展开更多
Thin-film PMUTs have been important research topics among microultrasound experts,and a concise review on their research progress is reported herein.Through rigorous surveying,scrutinization,and perception,it has been...Thin-film PMUTs have been important research topics among microultrasound experts,and a concise review on their research progress is reported herein.Through rigorous surveying,scrutinization,and perception,it has been determined that the work in this field began nearly 44 years ago with the primitive development of functional piezoelectric thin-film materials.To date,there are three major companies commercializing thin-film PMUTs on a bulk scale.This commercialization illustrates the extensive contributions made by more than 70 different centers,research institutes,and agencies across 4 different continents regarding the vast development of these devices’design,manufacturing,and function.This review covers these important contributions in a short yet comprehensive manner;in particular,this paper educates readers about the global PMUT outlook,their governing design principles,their manufacturing methods,nonconventional yet useful PMUT designs,and category-wise applications.Crucial comparison charts of thin-film piezoelectric material used in PMUTs,and their categorically targeted applications are depicted and discussed to enlighten any MEMS designer who plans to work with PMUTs.Moreover,each relevant section features clear future predictions based on the author’s past knowledge and expertise in this field of research and on the findings of a careful literature survey.In short,this review is a one-stop time-efficient guide for anyone interested in learning about these small devices.展开更多
基金supported by the Research Platform for biomedical and Health Technology, NUS (Suzhou) Research Institute (RP-BHT-Prof. LEE Chengkuo)RIE Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering (AME) Programmatic Grant (Grant A18A4b0055)+1 种基金RIE 2025-Industry Alignment Fund – Industry Collaboration Projects (IAF-ICP) (Grant I2301E0027)Reimagine Research Scheme projects, National University of Singapore, A-0009037-03-00 and A-0009454-01-00 and Reimagine Research Scheme projects, National University of Singapore, A-0004772-00-00 and A-0004772-01-00。
文摘Smart farming with outdoor monitoring systems is critical to address food shortages and sustainability challenges.These systems facilitate informed decisions that enhance efficiency in broader environmental management.Existing outdoor systems equipped with energy harvesters and self-powered sensors often struggle with fluctuating energy sources,low durability under harsh conditions,non-transparent or non-biocompatible materials,and complex structures.Herein,a multifunctional hydrogel is developed,which can fulfill all the above requirements and build selfsustainable outdoor monitoring systems solely by it.It can serve as a stable energy harvester that continuously generates direct current output with an average power density of 1.9 W m^(-3)for nearly 60 days of operation in normal environments(24℃,60%RH),with an energy density of around 1.36×10^(7)J m^(-3).It also shows good self-recoverability in severe environments(45℃,30%RH)in nearly 40 days of continuous operation.Moreover,this hydrogel enables noninvasive and self-powered monitoring of leaf relative water content,providing critical data on evaluating plant health,previously obtainable only through invasive or high-power consumption methods.Its potential extends to acting as other self-powered environmental sensors.This multifunctional hydrogel enables self-sustainable outdoor systems with scalable and low-cost production,paving the way for future agriculture.
基金the National Research Foundation(NRF)Singapore mid-sized center grant(NRF-MSG-2023-0002)FrontierCRP grant(NRF-F-CRP-2024-0006)+2 种基金A*STAR Singapore MTC RIE2025 project(M24W1NS005)IAF-PP project(M23M5a0069)Ministry of Education(MOE)Singapore Tier 2 project(MOE-T2EP50220-0014).
文摘The rise of large-scale artificial intelligence(AI)models,such as ChatGPT,Deep-Seek,and autonomous vehicle systems,has significantly advanced the boundaries of AI,enabling highly complex tasks in natural language processing,image recognition,and real-time decisionmaking.However,these models demand immense computational power and are often centralized,relying on cloud-based architectures with inherent limitations in latency,privacy,and energy efficiency.To address these challenges and bring AI closer to real-world applications,such as wearable health monitoring,robotics,and immersive virtual environments,innovative hardware solutions are urgently needed.This work introduces a near-sensor edge computing(NSEC)system,built on a bilayer AlN/Si waveguide platform,to provide real-time,energy-efficient AI capabilities at the edge.Leveraging the electro-optic properties of AlN microring resonators for photonic feature extraction,coupled with Si-based thermo-optic Mach-Zehnder interferometers for neural network computations,the system represents a transformative approach to AI hardware design.Demonstrated through multimodal gesture and gait analysis,the NSEC system achieves high classification accuracies of 96.77%for gestures and 98.31%for gaits,ultra-low latency(<10 ns),and minimal energy consumption(<0.34 pJ).This groundbreaking system bridges the gap between AI models and real-world applications,enabling efficient,privacy-preserving AI solutions for healthcare,robotics,and next-generation human-machine interfaces,marking a pivotal advancement in edge computing and AI deployment.
基金supported by A*STAR under the“Nanosystems at the Edge”program(Grant No.A18A4b0055)Ministry of Education(MOE)under the research grant of R-263-000-F18-112/A-0009520-01-00+1 种基金National Research Foundation Singapore grant CRP28-2022-0038the Reimagine Re-search Scheme(RRSC)Project(Grant A-0009037-02-00&A0009037-03-00)at National University of Singapore.
文摘Plasmonic nanoantennas provide unique opportunities for precise control of light–matter coupling in surface-enhanced infrared absorption(SEIRA)spectroscopy,but most of the resonant systems realized so far suffer from the obstacles of low sensitivity,narrow bandwidth,and asymmetric Fano resonance perturbations.Here,we demonstrated an overcoupled resonator with a high plasmon-molecule coupling coefficient(μ)(OC-Hμresonator)by precisely controlling the radiation loss channel,the resonator-oscillator coupling channel,and the frequency detuning channel.We observed a strong dependence of the sensing performance on the coupling state,and demonstrated that OC-Hμresonator has excellent sensing properties of ultra-sensitive(7.25%nm^(−1)),ultra-broadband(3–10μm),and immune asymmetric Fano lineshapes.These characteristics represent a breakthrough in SEIRA technology and lay the foundation for specific recognition of biomolecules,trace detection,and protein secondary structure analysis using a single array(array size is 100×100μm^(2)).In addition,with the assistance of machine learning,mixture classification,concentration prediction and spectral reconstruction were achieved with the highest accuracy of 100%.Finally,we demonstrated the potential of OC-Hμresonator for SARS-CoV-2 detection.These findings will promote the wider application of SEIRA technology,while providing new ideas for other enhanced spectroscopy technologies,quantum photonics and studying light–matter interactions.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.52442104)the Application Research Program of Liaoning Province(Grant No.2022JH2/01300219)+1 种基金the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(Grant No.3132024210)the Scientific Research Fund of the Educational Department of Liaoning Province(Nos.LJ212410151013,LJKMZ20220359)。
文摘Wearable bioelectronic devices are rapidly evolving towards miniaturization and multifunctionality,with remarkable features such as flexibility and comfort.However,achieving a sustainable power supply for wearable bioelectronic devices is still a great challenge.Triboelectric nanogenerators(TENGs)provide an efficient solution by converting irregular,low-frequency bioenergy from the human body into electrical energy.Beyond sustainably powering wearable bioelectronics,the harvested electrical energy also carries rich information for human body sensing.In this conversion process,the choice of material plays a crucial role in affecting the output performance of the TENGs.Among various materials,silicone rubber(SR)stands out due to its exceptional plasticity,flexibility,comfortability and other favorable properties.Moreover,with appropriate treatment,SR can achieve extreme functionalities such as high robustness,good stability,self-healing capabilities,rapid response,and more.In this review,recent advances in wearable SR-based TENGs(SR-TENGs)are systematically reviewed with a focus on their application in different parts of the human body.Given that the manufacturing method of SR-TENGs largely determines its output performance and sensitivity,this paper introduces the design of SR-TENGs,including material selection,process modulation,and structure optimization.Additionally,this article discusses the current challenges in the SR-TENG fabrication technology and potential future directions,aiming to promote the effective development of SR-TENGs in biomechanical energy harvesting and self-powered sensing applications.
基金supported by NRF‐CRP28‐2022‐0038“Integrating Wideband Tuneable Acoustic Filters on Silicon for High‐Speed Wireless Communication”(WBS:grant no.A‐8001503‐00‐00)National University of Singapore(NUS),Singapore,and RIE2025 IAF‐ICP under I2301E0027“Piezo Specialty Lab‐in‐Fab 2.0(LiF 2.0)-Enabling Unrivalled Power Efficient Transducers Beyond Material Limits”at National University of Singapore(NUS),Singapore.
文摘Artificial Intelligence(AI)has shown the power to enhance the functionality of sensors and enable intelligent human‐machine interfaces through machine learning‐based data analysis.However,the good performance of AI is always accompanied by a large amount of data and high computational complexity.Though cloud computing appears to be the right solution to this issue with the advent of the 5G era,a certain intelligence of the edge terminal is also important to make the entire integrated intelligent system more efficient.The current development of microelectronic,wearable,AI,and neuromorphic technologies pave the way to realize advanced edge computing by integrating silicon‐based high‐computing‐power neuromorphic chips with anthropomorphic wearable sensory devices and show the potential to achieve human‐like self‐sustainable decentralized intelligence to enable the next‐generation of AI.Hence,in this review,we systematically introduce the related progress in terms of wearable electronics that can mimic the biological features of humans'sensory systems and the development of neuromorphic/in‐sensor computing technologies.Discussion on implementing the integrated human‐like perception and sensation system with silicone‐based computing chips and non‐silicone‐based wearable functional units and our perspectives are also provided.
基金This study was financially supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(NO.31470509)China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(No.2019T120390)+1 种基金China Scholarship Council(NO.202006790091)the Opening Project of China National Textile and Apparel Council Key Laboratory of Natural Dyes,Soochow University(No.SDHY2122)。
文摘Letter handwriting,especially stroke correction,is of great importance for recording languages and expressing and exchanging ideas for individual behavior and the public.In this study,a biodegradable and conductive carboxymethyl chitosan-silk fibroin(CSF)film is prepared to design wearable triboelectric nanogenerator(denoted as CSF-TENG),which outputs of V_(oc)≈165 V,I_(sc)≈1.4μA,and Q_(sc)≈72 mW cm^(−2).Further,in vitro biodegradation of CSF film is performed through trypsin and lysozyme.The results show that trypsin and lysozyme have stable and favorable biodegradation properties,removing 63.1%of CSF film after degrading for 11 days.Further,the CSF-TENG-based human-machine interface(HMI)is designed to promptly track writing steps and access the accuracy of letters,resulting in a straightforward communication media of human and machine.The CSF-TENG-based HMI can automatically recognize and correct three representative letters(F,H,and K),which is benefited by HMI system for data processing and analysis.The CSF-TENG-based HMI can make decisions for the next stroke,highlighting the stroke in advance by replacing it with red,which can be a candidate for calligraphy practice and correction.Finally,various demonstrations are done in real-time to achieve virtual and real-world controls including writing,vehicle movements,and healthcare.
基金This work is supported by the RIE Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering(AME)Programmatic Grant Project(Grant A18A5b0056,WBS:A-0005117-02-00)the Advanced Research and Technology Innovation Centre(ARTIC)Project(WBS:A-0005947-20-00)the Ministry of Education(MOE)of Singapore Tier 1 Project(WBS:A-0005138-01-00).
文摘Metal-organic frameworks(MOFs)have been extensively used for gas sorption,storage and separation owing to ultrahigh porosity,exceptional thermal stability,and wide structural diversity.However,when it comes to ultra-low concentration gas detection,technical bottlenecks of MOFs appear due to the poor adsorption capacity at ppm-/ppblevel concentration and the limited sensitivity for signal transduction.Here,we present hybrid MOF-polymer physi-chemisorption mechanisms integrated with infrared(IR)nanoantennas for highly selective and ultrasensitive CO_(2) detection.To improve the adsorption capacity for trace amounts of gas molecules,MOFs are decorated with amino groups to introduce the chemisorption while maintaining the structural integrity for physisorption.Additionally,leveraging all major optimization methods,a multi-hotspot strategy is proposed to improve the sensitivity of nanoantennas by enhancing the near field and engineering the radiative and absorptive loss.As a benefit,we demonstrate the competitive advantages of our strategy against the state-of-the-art miniaturized IR CO_(2) sensors,including low detection limit,high sensitivity(0.18%/ppm),excellent reversibility(variation within 2%),and high selectivity(against C_(2)H_(5)OH,CH_(3)OH,N_(2)).This work provides valuable insights into the integration of advanced porous materials and nanophotonic devices,which can be further adopted in ultra-low concentration gas monitoring in industry and environmental applications.
基金supported by the General Program of the National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC,No.52075061)the Key Program of the National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC,No.U22B2089)the Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars of Chongqing(No.CSTB2022 NSCQ-JQX0006).
文摘Triboelectric nanogenerators(TENG),renowned for their remarkable capability to harness weak mechanical energy from the environment,have gained considerable attention owing to their cost-effectiveness,high output,and adaptability.This review provides a unique perspective by conducting a comprehensive and in-depth analysis of magnetically assisted TENGs that encompass structures,materials,and self-powered sensing systems.We systematically summarize the diverse functions of the magnetic assistance for TENGs,including system stiffness,components of the hybrid electromagnetic-triboelectric generator,transmission,and interaction forces.In the material domain,we review the incorporation of magnetic nano-composites materials,along with ferrofluid-based TENG and microstructure verification,which have also been summarized based on existing research.Furthermore,we delve into the research progress on physical quantity sensing and human-machine interface in magnetic-assisted TENGs.Our analysis highlights that magnetic assistance extends beyond the repulsive and suction forces under a magnetic field,thereby playing multifaceted roles in improving the output performance and environmental adaptability of the TENGs.Finally,we present the prevailing challenges and offer insights into the future trajectory of the magnetic-assisted TENGs development.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(12072189,82171011)Shanghai Jiao Tong University‘Deep Blue Program’Fund(Grant No.SL2103)+1 种基金Project of Biobank(No.YBKB202117)from Shanghai Ninth People’s HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine and Science Foundation of National Key Laboratory of Science and Technology on Advanced Composites in Special Environments(No.6142905223704)。
文摘Piezoelectric ultrasonic transducers have shown great potential in biomedical applications due to their high acoustic-to-electric conversion efficiency and large power capacity.The focusing technique enables the transducer to produce an extremely narrow beam,greatly improving the resolution and sensitivity.In this work,we summarize the fundamental properties and biological effects of the ultrasound field,aiming to establish a correlation between device design and application.Focusing techniques for piezoelectric transducers are highlighted,including material selection and fabrication methods,which determine the final performance of piezoelectric transducers.Numerous examples,from ultrasound imaging,neuromodulation,tumor ablation to ultrasonic wireless energy transfer,are summarized to highlight the great promise of biomedical applications.Finally,the challenges and opportunities of focused ultrasound transducers are presented.The aim of this review is to bridge the gap between focused ultrasound systems and biomedical applications.
基金Agency for Science,Technology and Research,Grant/Award Number:A18A4b0055R-263-000-C91-305+2 种基金National Research Foundation Singapore,Grant/Award Number:AISG-GC-2019-002NRF-CRP15-2015-02National University of Singapore,Grant/Award Number:HIFES Seed Funding-2017-01。
文摘The past few years have witnessed the significant impacts of wearable electronics/photonics on various aspects of our daily life,for example,healthcare monitoring and treatment,ambient monitoring,soft robotics,prosthetics,flexible display,communication,human-machine interactions,and so on.According to the development in recent years,the next-generation wearable electronics and photonics are advancing rapidly toward the era of artificial intelligence(AI)and internet of things(IoT),to achieve a higher level of comfort,convenience,connection,and intelligence.Herein,this review provides an opportune overview of the recent progress in wearable electronics,photonics,and systems,in terms of emerging materials,transducing mechanisms,structural configurations,applications,and their further integration with other technologies.First,development of general wearable electronics and photonics is summarized for the applications of physical sensing,chemical sensing,humanmachine interaction,display,communication,and so on.Then self-sustainable wearable electronics/photonics and systems are discussed based on system integration with energy harvesting and storage technologies.Next,technology fusion of wearable systems and AI is reviewed,showing the emergence and rapid development of intelligent/smart systems.In the last section of this review,perspectives about the future development trends of the next-generation wearable electronics/photonics are provided,that is,toward multifunctional,self-sustainable,and intelligent wearable systems in the AI/IoT era.
文摘Silicon photonic integrated circuits for telecommunication and data centers have been well studied in the past decade, and now most related efforts have been progressing toward commercialization. Scaling up the silicon-oninsulator(SOI)-based device dimensions in order to extend the operation wavelength to the short mid-infrared(MIR) range(2–4 μm) is attracting research interest, owing to the host of potential applications in lab-on-chip sensors, free space communications, and much more. Other material systems and technology platforms, including silicon-on-silicon nitride, germanium-on-silicon, germanium-on-SOI, germanium-on-silicon nitride, sapphireon-silicon, Si Ge alloy-on-silicon, and aluminum nitride-on-insulator are explored as well in order to realize low-loss waveguide devices for different MIR wavelengths. In this paper, we will comprehensively review silicon photonics for MIR applications, with regard to the state-of-the-art achievements from various device demonstrations in different material platforms by various groups. We will then introduce in detail of our institute's research and development efforts on the MIR photonic platforms as one case study. Meanwhile, we will discuss the integration schemes along with remaining challenges in devices(e.g., light source) and integration. A few application-oriented examples will be examined to illustrate the issues needing a critical solution toward the final production path(e.g., gas sensors). Finally, we will provide our assessment of the outlook of potential futureresearch topics and engineering challenges along with opportunities.
基金The work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.51879022,51979045,52101400,52101382,and 52101345)China Scholarship Council(CSC No.202006570022)+2 种基金the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities,China(Nos.3132019330,3132021340)Science and Technology Innovation Foundation of Dalian(No.2021JJ12GX028)Innovation Group Project of Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory(Zhuhai)(No.311021013).
文摘Wind energy is a promising renewable energy source for a low-carbon society.This study is to develop a fully packaged vortexinduced vibration triboelectric nanogenerator(VIV-TENG)for scavenging wind energy.The VIV-TENG consists of a wind vane,internal power generation unit,an external frame,four springs,a square cylinder and a circular turntable.The internal power generation unit consists of polytetrafluoroethylene(PTFE)balls,a honeycomb frame and two copper electrodes.Different from most of the previous wind energy harvesting TENGs,the bouncing PTFE balls are fully packaged in the square cylinder.The distinct design separates the process of contact electrification from the external environment,and at the same time avoids the frictional wear of the ordinary wind energy harvesting TENGs.The corresponding VIV parameters are investigated to evaluate their influence on the vibration behaviors and the energy output.Resonant state of the VIV-TENG corresponds to the high output performance from the VIV-TENG.The distinct,robust structure ensures the full-packaged VIV-TENG can harvest wind energy from arbitrary directions and even in undesirable weather conditions.The study proposes a novel TENG configuration for harvesting wind energy and the VIV-TENG proves promising powering micro-electro-mechanical appliances.
基金This work was supported by grants from the National Research Foundation(NRF)CRP project‘Peripheral Nerve Prostheses:A Paradigm Shift in Restoring Dexterous Limb Function’(NRF-CRP10-2012-01,R-719-000-001-281)the NRF CRP project‘Self-Powered Body Sensor Network for Disease Management and Prevention Oriented Healthcare’(NRF-CRP8-2011-01,R-263-000-A27-281).
文摘The neural interface is a key component in wireless brain–computer prostheses.In this study,we demonstrate that a unique three-dimensional(3D)microneedle electrode on a flexible mesh substrate,which can be fabricated without complicated micromachining techniques,is conformal to the tissues with minimal invasiveness.Furthermore,we demonstrate that it can be applied to different functional layers in the nervous system without length limitation.The microneedle electrode is fabricated using drawing lithography technology from biocompatible materials.In this approach,the profile of a 3D microneedle electrode array is determined by the design of a two-dimensional(2D)pattern on the mask,which can be used to access different functional layers in different locations of the brain.Due to the sufficient stiffness of the electrode and the excellent flexibility of the mesh substrate,the electrode can penetrate into the tissue with its bottom layer fully conformal to the curved brain surface.Then,the exposed contact at the end of the microneedle electrode can successfully acquire neural signals from the brain.
基金supported by the National Research Foundation(NRF)Singapore,under its AI Singapore Programme(AISG Award No.AISG-GC-2019-002)+1 种基金RIE advanced manufacturing and engineering(AME)programmatic grant(“Nanosystems at the Edge,”A18A4b0055)NUS iHealthtech Grant:Smart Sensors and Artificial Intelligence(AI)for Health(“Intelligent Monitoring System Based on Smart Wearable Sensors and Artificial Technology for the Treatment of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis,”R-263-501-017-133).
文摘In the past few years,triboelectric nanogenerator-based(TENG-based)hybrid generators and systems have experienced a widespread and flourishing development,ranging among almost every aspect of our lives,e.g.,from industry to consumer,outdoor to indoor,and wearable to implantable applications.Although TENG technology has been extensively investigated for mechanical energy harvesting,most developed TENGs still have limitations of small output current,unstable power generation,and low energy utilization rate of multisource energies.To harvest the ubiquitous/coexisted energy forms including mechanical,thermal,and solar energy simultaneously,a promising direction is to integrate TENG with other transducing mechanisms,e.g.,electromagnetic generator,piezoelectric nanogenerator,pyroelectric nanogenerator,thermoelectric generator,and solar cell,forming the hybrid generator for synergetic single-source and multisource energy harvesting.The resultant TENG-based hybrid generators utilizing integrated transducing mechanisms are able to compensate for the shortcomings of each mechanism and overcome the above limitations,toward achieving a maximum,reliable,and stable output generation.Hence,in this review,we systematically introduce the key technologies of the TENG-based hybrid generators and hybridized systems,in the aspects of operation principles,structure designs,optimization strategies,power management,and system integration.The recent progress of TENG-based hybrid generators and hybridized systems for the outdoor,indoor,wearable,and implantable applications is also provided.Lastly,we discuss our perspectives on the future development trend of hybrid generators and hybridized systems in environmental monitoring,human activity sensation,human-machine interaction,smart home,healthcare,wearables,implants,robotics,Internet of things(IoT),and many other fields.
基金This work was supported by MOE2012-T2-2-154(Monolithic Integrated Si/AIN Nanophotonics Platform for Optical NEMS and OEICs)under WBS No.R-263-000-A59-112.
文摘We demonstrate micromachined reconfigurable metamaterials working at multiple frequencies simultaneously in the terahertz range.The proposed metamaterial structures can be structurally reconfigured by employing flexible microelectromechanical system-based cantilevers in the resonators,which are designed to deform out of plane under an external stimulus.The proposed metamaterial structures provide not only multiband resonance frequency operation but also polarization-dependent tunability.Three kinds of metamaterials are investigated as electric split-ring resonator(eSRR)arrays with different positions of the split.By moving the position of the split away from the resonator’s center,the eSRR exhibits anisotropy,with the dipole resonance splitting into two resonances.The dipole–dipole coupling strength can be continuously adjusted,which enables the electromagnetic response to be tailored by adjusting the direct current(DC)voltage between the released cantilevers and the silicon substrate.The observed tunability of the eSRRs is found to be dependent on the polarization of the incident terahertz wave.This polarization-dependent tunability is demonstrated by both experimental measurements and electromagnetic simulations.
基金This work was partly supported the National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2019YFB2004800,Project No.R-2020-S-002)at NUSRI,Suzhou,ChinaSingapore-Poland Joint Grant(R-263-000-C91-305)“Chip-Scale MEMS MicroSpectrometer for Monitoring Harsh Industrial Gases”by Agency for Science,Technology and Research(A*STAR),Singapore and NAWA“Academic International Partnerships of Wroclaw University of Science and Technology”programmed by Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange Programme.
文摘For human beings of different ages and physical abilities, the inherent balance control system is ubiquitous and active to prevent falling, especially in motion states. A hybridized electromagnetic-triboelectric nanogenerator (HETNG) is prepared to harvest biomechanical energy during human balance control processes and achieve significant monitoring functions. The HETNG is composed of a symmetrical pendulum structure and a cylinder magnet rolling inside. Four coils are divided into two groups which form into two electromagnetic generators (EMGs). Besides, two spatial electrodes attached to the inner wall constitute a freestanding mode triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG). With a rectification circuit, the HETNG presents a high output power with a peak value of 0.55 W at a load of 160 Ω. Along with human balance control processes during walking, the HETNG can harvest biomechanical energy at different positions on the trunk. Moreover, the HETNG applied in artificial limb has been preliminarily simulated with the positions on thigh and foot, for monitoring the actions of squat and stand up, and lifting the leg up and down. For the elder that walks slowly with a walking aid, the HETNG equipped on the walking aid can help to record the motions of forwarding and unexpected falling, which is useful for calling for help. This work shows the potential of biomechanical energy-driven HETNG for powering portable electronics and monitoring human motions, also shows significant concerns to people lacked action capability or disabled.
基金This work was partially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.U1713218)the National Key R&D Program of China(No.2018YFB1307700).
文摘Throat cancer treatment involves surgical removal of the tumor,leaving patients with facial disfigurement as well as temporary or permanent loss of voice.Surface electromyography(sEMG)generated from the jaw contains lots of voice information.However,it is difficult to record because of not only the weakness of the signals but also the steep skin curvature.This paper demonstrates the design of an imperceptible,flexible epidermal sEMG tattoo-like patch with the thickness of less than 10μm and peeling strength of larger than 1N cm−1 that exhibits large adhesiveness to complex biological surfaces and is thus capable of sEMG recording for silent speech recognition.When a tester speaks silently,the patch shows excellent performance in recording the sEMG signals from three muscle channels and recognizing those frequently used instructions with high accuracy by using the wavelet decomposition and pattern recognization.The average accuracy of action instructions can reach up to 89.04%,and the average accuracy of emotion instructions is as high as 92.33%.To demonstrate the functionality of tattoo-like patches as a new human–machine interface(HMI)for patients with loss of voice,the intelligent silent speech recognition,voice synthesis,and virtual interaction have been implemented,which are of great importance in helping these patients communicate with people and make life more enjoyable.
基金This work was supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2020YFB2009100)the Natural Science Basic Research Program of Shaanxi(No.2022JQ-508)+2 种基金the National Science and Technology Major Project(No.J2019-V-0006-0100)the Open research fund of SKLMS(No.sklms2021009)Zhaojun Liu received the China Scholarship Council Fund(No.202206280155)for his research stay at National University of Singapore.
文摘For the large amount of waste heat wasted in daily life and industrial production,we propose a new type of flexible thermoelectric generators(F-TEGs)which can be used as a large area bionic skin to achieve energy harvesting of thermal energy.With reference to biological structures such as pinecone,succulent,and feathers,we have designed and fabricated a biomimetic flexible TEG that can be applied in a wide temperature range which has the highest temperature energy harvesting capability currently.The laminated free structure of the bionic F-TEG dramatically increases the efficiency and density of energy harvesting.The F-TEGs(single TEG only 101.2 mg in weight),without an additional heat sink,demonstrates the highest output voltage density of 286.1 mV/cm^(2)and the maximum power density is 66.5 mW/m^(2) at a temperature difference of nearly 1000℃.The flexible characteristics of F-TEGs make it possible to collect the diffused thermal energy by flexible attachment to the outer walls of high-temperature pipes and vessels of different diameters and shapes.This work shows a new design and application concept for flexible thermal energy collectors,which fills the gap of flexible energy harvesting in high-temperature environment.
基金This research is supported by the National Research Foundation Singapore under its AI Singapore Programme(Award Number:AISG-GC-2019-002)National Key Research and Development Program of China(Grant No.2019YFB2004800 and Project No.R-2020-S-002).
文摘The era of artificial intelligence and internet of things is rapidly developed by recent advances in wearable electronics.Gait reveals sensory information in daily life containing personal information,regarding identification and healthcare.Current wearable electronics of gait analysis are mainly limited by high fabrication cost,operation energy consumption,or inferior analysis methods,which barely involve machine learning or implement nonoptimal models that require massive datasets for training.Herein,we developed low-cost triboelectric intelligent socks for harvesting waste energy from low-frequency body motions to transmit wireless sensory data.The sock equipped with self-powered functionality also can be used as wearable sensors to deliver information,regarding the identity,health status,and activity of the users.To further address the issue of ineffective analysis methods,an optimized deep learning model with an end-to-end structure on the socks signals for the gait analysis is proposed,which produces a 93.54%identification accuracy of 13 participants and detects five different human activities with 96.67%accuracy.Toward practical application,we map the physical signals collected through the socks in the virtual space to establish a digital human system for sports monitoring,healthcare,identification,and future smart home applications.
基金This research is supported by A*STAR under the“Nanosystems at the Edge”program(Grant No.A18A4b0055)by Reimagine Research Scheme(RRSC)under the“Under-utilized Potential of Microbiomes(soil)in Sustainable Urban Agriculture”program(Grant No.A-0009454-01-00)“Scalable AI Phenome Platform towards Fast-Forward Plant Breeding(Sensor)”program(Grant No.A-0009037-03-00(25%)A-0009037-02-00(75%)).
文摘Thin-film PMUTs have been important research topics among microultrasound experts,and a concise review on their research progress is reported herein.Through rigorous surveying,scrutinization,and perception,it has been determined that the work in this field began nearly 44 years ago with the primitive development of functional piezoelectric thin-film materials.To date,there are three major companies commercializing thin-film PMUTs on a bulk scale.This commercialization illustrates the extensive contributions made by more than 70 different centers,research institutes,and agencies across 4 different continents regarding the vast development of these devices’design,manufacturing,and function.This review covers these important contributions in a short yet comprehensive manner;in particular,this paper educates readers about the global PMUT outlook,their governing design principles,their manufacturing methods,nonconventional yet useful PMUT designs,and category-wise applications.Crucial comparison charts of thin-film piezoelectric material used in PMUTs,and their categorically targeted applications are depicted and discussed to enlighten any MEMS designer who plans to work with PMUTs.Moreover,each relevant section features clear future predictions based on the author’s past knowledge and expertise in this field of research and on the findings of a careful literature survey.In short,this review is a one-stop time-efficient guide for anyone interested in learning about these small devices.
