Multimode human–machine interface using a single-channel and patterned triboelectric sensor

Triboelectric interfaces have already been extensively researched in the area of human–machine interaction owing to their self-sustainability, low cost, easy manufacturing, and diverse configurations. However, some limitations (e.g., a large number of electrodes, multiple lines, and chunks) observed in previous works hinder the further development of human–machine interaction applications. Herein, a triboelectric encoding interface is proposed by designing the reverse polarity of the tribo-layers to encode the triboelectric output signals. Owing to the inversion of the tribo-layers and the number of strip electrodes, this encoding method can realize multipurpose interactive commands by using fewer electrodes and a simple structure only in one macroscopic triboelectric device, which greatly reduces the size of the device as well as the influence of external factors on the coded signal output. As a demonstration, a ring with the patterned triboelectric interface (15 mm × 20 mm) achieves slide presentation and remote electric device control. In addition, the triboelectric sensor has good sensitivity (1.55 V/N) and durability (> 30,000 cycles). This new encoding mode shows the high applicability of the operation mode in diversified interactive applications, which provides more design strategies for intelligent control.