Biocompatible and soft conductive composite for electro tactile-based AR/VR Haptic interface

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) systems have expanded virtual or augmented reality experiences beyond sensation of ear and eye. These kinds of systems detect user inputs and provide haptic, audio, and visual feedback to blend interactive virtual environments with the real word for the vivid reality experience. One promising technology is electro-tactile stimulation, which uses electrical stimulus for activating afferent nerves or mechanoreceptor. The main purpose of haptic technology involves the development of wearable system that could provide myriads of sensation to the skin through not only fingertips, but also to all regions of the body with high conformal contact. To provide the wearing comfort with haptic devices, skin-like technologies that impose negligible physical burden on the user should be used. In this review, we highlight the biological background of sensation of human and suggest the future direction in electro-tactile technology for haptic system by using biocompatible and soft composite conductors. Firstly, we will examine the conductive polymer called “Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS)” that shows exceptional electrical and mechanical property in terms of deformability and conductivity for developing the low-impedance, skin-like haptic interfaces. Besides, we address the strategy to impart skin-like property as well as low impedance using hydrogel polymer which is desirable for future opportunities toward seamless integration of the virtual and real world