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12 pages, 2216 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ecoflex Flexible Array of Triboelectric Nanogenerators for Gait Monitoring Alarm Warning Applications

by Qinglan Zheng, Changjun Jia, Fengxin Sun, Mengqi Zhang, Yuzhang Wen, Zhenning Xie, Junxiao Wang, Bing Liu, Yupeng Mao and Chongle Zhao

Electronics 2023, 12(15), 3226; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics12153226 - 26 Jul 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1743

Abstract

The advent of self-powered arrays of tribological nanogenerators (TENGs) that harvest mechanical energy for data collection has ushered in a promising avenue for human motion monitoring. This emerging trend is poised to shape the future landscape of biomechanical study. However, when we try [...] Read more.

The advent of self-powered arrays of tribological nanogenerators (TENGs) that harvest mechanical energy for data collection has ushered in a promising avenue for human motion monitoring. This emerging trend is poised to shape the future landscape of biomechanical study. However, when we try to monitor various regions of the foot across disparate environments simultaneously, it poses a number of problems, such as the lack of satisfactory waterproofing, suboptimal heat resistance, inaccurate monitoring capacity, and the inability to transmit data wirelessly. To overcome these issues, we have developed an array of sensors affixed to the insole’s surface to adeptly monitor movement gait patterns and alert users to falls using self-powered triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs). Each sensor cell on this sensor works as an individual air gap TENG (FWF-TENG), namely flexible, waterproof, and fast response, composed of an Ecoflex single-electrode array. Each FWF-TENG boasts a fast response time of 28 ms, which is sufficient to quickly monitor pressure changes during various badminton activities. Importantly, these sensors can persistently generate electrical signals at 70%RH humidity. Data obtained from these sensors can be transmitted to an upper computer intelligent terminal wirelessly through multi-grouped FHW-ENG sensing terminals in real time to achieve human–computer interaction applications, including motion technical determinations, feedback, and fall alerts. As a result, the interconnected TENG arrays have broad potential applications, including gait rehabilitation monitoring, motion technique identification, and fall alarm applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanogenerators for Energy Harvesting and Self-Powered Sensing)

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13 pages, 4108 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Artifact Protection in Smart Transportation Monitoring Systems via a Porous Structural Triboelectric Nanogenerator

by Jiabin Zhang, Erming Su, Chengyu Li, Shuxing Xu, Wei Tang, Leo N.Y. Cao, Ding Li and Zhong Lin Wang

Electronics 2023, 12(14), 3031; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics12143031 - 10 Jul 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1707

Abstract

Artifacts are irreplaceable treasures of human culture, and transportation monitoring is critical for safeguarding valuable artifacts against damage during culture exchanges. However, current collision-monitoring technologies have limitations in regard to real-time monitoring, cushioning protection, and power supply requirements. Here, we present a method [...] Read more.

Artifacts are irreplaceable treasures of human culture, and transportation monitoring is critical for safeguarding valuable artifacts against damage during culture exchanges. However, current collision-monitoring technologies have limitations in regard to real-time monitoring, cushioning protection, and power supply requirements. Here, we present a method for constructing a smart artifact-monitoring system (SAMS) based on a porous carbon black (CB)/Ecoflex triboelectric nanogenerator (PCE-TENG) that can monitor collisions in real time and absorb vibrations during artifact transportation. The PCE-TENG is assembled using a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) and a porous Ecoflex layer with CB powder. It exhibits cushioning protection, stretchability, pressure sensitivity, and durability. To enhance its electrical output, modifications were made to optimize the CB content and surface structure. The SAMS comprises six PCE-TENGs attached to the inner wall of the artifact transport package and enables collision monitoring and protection in different directions. Moreover, the SAMS has the capability to instantly transmit warning information to monitoring terminals in the event of improper operations, empowering carriers to promptly and efficiently safeguard artifacts by taking necessary measures. This paper presents a practical strategy for artifact transportation monitoring and package engineering that could have significant implications for the field. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanogenerators for Energy Harvesting and Self-Powered Sensing)

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12 pages, 2785 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Implantable and Degradable Wireless Passive Protein-Based Tactile Sensor for Intracranial Dynamic Pressure Detection

by Wanjing Li, Andeng Liu, Yimeng Wang, Kui Qu, Hao Wen, Jizhong Zhao, Yating Shi, Hao Wang, Meidan Ye and Wenxi Guo

Electronics 2023, 12(11), 2466; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics12112466 - 30 May 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1810

Abstract

Implantable sensors normally require devices with excellent biocompatibility and flexibility as well as wireless communication. Silk fibroin (SF) is an ideal material for implantable electronic devices due to its natural biodegradability and biocompatibility. In this work, we prepared SF protein materials with different [...] Read more.

Implantable sensors normally require devices with excellent biocompatibility and flexibility as well as wireless communication. Silk fibroin (SF) is an ideal material for implantable electronic devices due to its natural biodegradability and biocompatibility. In this work, we prepared SF protein materials with different force/chemical properties through mesoscopic regulation, and realized full protein replacement from substrate to dielectric elastomer for implantable sensors, so as to achieve controlled complete degradation. In wireless tests simulating intracranial pressure, the SF-based all-protein sensor achieved a sensitivity up to 4.44 MHz/mmHg in the pressure range of 0–20 mmHg. In addition, the sensor is insensitive to temperature changes and tissue environments, and can work stably in simulated body fluids for a long time. This work provides a wireless passive, all-protein material solution for implantable pressure sensors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanogenerators for Energy Harvesting and Self-Powered Sensing)

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11 pages, 2028 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Wireless Intelligent Motion Correction System for Skating Monitoring Based on a Triboelectric Nanogenerator

by Zhuo Lu, Yuzhang Wen, Xu Yang, Dan Li, Bocong Liu, Yaotian Zhang, Jiabin Zhu, Yongsheng Zhu, Shouwei Zhang and Yupeng Mao

Electronics 2023, 12(2), 320; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics12020320 - 8 Jan 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2005

Abstract

Smart sport and big data have become inextricably linked with new technologies and devices to monitor sport-related information in real time. In this paper, a lightweight, portable and self-powered triboelectric nanogenerator (LPS-TENG) has been developed to monitor the frequency and force of skaters’ [...] Read more.

Smart sport and big data have become inextricably linked with new technologies and devices to monitor sport-related information in real time. In this paper, a lightweight, portable and self-powered triboelectric nanogenerator (LPS-TENG) has been developed to monitor the frequency and force of skaters’ pedaling. Friction layers are formed of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and nylon films. Based on the triboelectric effect, LPS-TENG does not require an external power supply, and it can be used to monitor biomechanical motion independently. Under the conditions of 1 Hz and 17.19 N, the outputting voltage of LPS-TENG is stabilized at 14 V. Wireless data transmission is achieved with the help of the LPS-TENG and AD module. Visual feedback is provided by the upper computer system in the process of processing data. The wireless intelligent motion correction system is composed of an LPS-TENG, an AD module and a back-end computer. It can clearly analyze the changes between different frequencies and forces during skating. Results showed that the signal of tester’s high-frequency and great-force motion, was transmitted to the computer, and its feedback was given after analysis and processing successfully. The system may help coaches develop training methods, means and tactics to increase athletes’ performance and competitive level in athletic sport. The purpose of this study is to provide new ideas for monitoring skaters’ sport techniques, promote the use of force sensors in the monitoring of sport and develop intelligent assistant training systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanogenerators for Energy Harvesting and Self-Powered Sensing)

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11 pages, 2113 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Portable and Low-Cost Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Wheelchair Table Tennis Monitoring

by Xiaorui Zhu, Mengqi Zhang, Xiaodong Wang, Changjun Jia and Yingqiu Zhang

Electronics 2022, 11(24), 4189; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics11244189 - 15 Dec 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2187

Abstract

With progress in fifth-generation techniques, more advanced techniques are available for disabled people. Disability table tennis has also benefited from the new technology. In this paper, a portable and low-cost triboelectric nanogenerator for wheelchair table tennis monitoring systems is proposed. It was applied [...] Read more.

With progress in fifth-generation techniques, more advanced techniques are available for disabled people. Disability table tennis has also benefited from the new technology. In this paper, a portable and low-cost triboelectric nanogenerator for wheelchair table tennis monitoring systems is proposed. It was applied for wheelchair table tennis athletes’ monitoring. The portable and low-cost triboelectric nanogenerator consists of Kapton, polyurethane triboelectric films, and a foam supporting layer. The materials have flexible and low-cost characteristics. Therefore, the device has no influence on exercise performance. Due to triboelectric and electrostatic induction, the portable and low-cost triboelectric nanogenerator can convert biomechanical signals into electric signals. The electric signal is used as a sensing signal and is transformed in a computer by an Analog-to-Digital acquisition module. The coach acquires motion information in real time from a terminal device regarding force, exercise amplitude, and stability of the athlete. Meanwhile, the electric signal provides also sustainable energy for the microelectronic device. It can light 20 LEDs easily and power a calculator and a watch. This portable and low-cost self-powered triboelectric nanogenerator offers a new approach to the field of motion monitoring for disabled people. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanogenerators for Energy Harvesting and Self-Powered Sensing)

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13 pages, 2792 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Stable and Durable Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Speed Skating Land Training Monitoring

by Zhuo Lu, Zhenning Xie, Yongsheng Zhu, Changjun Jia, Yao Zhang, Jie Yang, Junyi Zhou, Fengxin Sun and Yupeng Mao

Electronics 2022, 11(22), 3717; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics11223717 - 13 Nov 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1850

Abstract

In the current IoT era, the key to sports intelligence is the effective collection and analysis of sports data. Sports data can accurately reflect an athlete’s athletic status and help coaches to develop competitive tactics and training programs. Wearable electronic devices used to [...] Read more.

In the current IoT era, the key to sports intelligence is the effective collection and analysis of sports data. Sports data can accurately reflect an athlete’s athletic status and help coaches to develop competitive tactics and training programs. Wearable electronic devices used to collect sports data currently have several drawbacks, including their large size, heavy weight, complex wiring, high cost, and need for frequent power replacement. In this work, transparent polyamide-66 (PA-66) and transparent polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) films were used as friction layers, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) was used as a support layer, and conductive hydrogels were used as electrodes, which were simply combined to create stable and durable triboelectric nanogenerators (SD-TENG) with good mechanical and triboelectric properties. In the test, the output power was 1mW under a load resistance of 10MΩ. In addition, the integrated intelligent speed skating land training assistance system monitors the changes in the joints and joint chains of skaters during land training in real time. The successful demonstration of the use of SD-TENG in speed skating land training will help to promote the development and application of TENG in the fields of intelligent sport monitoring, smart wearable devices, and big data analysis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanogenerators for Energy Harvesting and Self-Powered Sensing)

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11 pages, 1765 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Lightweight Sensitive Triboelectric Nanogenerator Sensor for Monitoring Loop Drive Technology in Table Tennis Training

by Jiayun Zhang, Qiushuang Xu, Yuyang Gan, Fengxin Sun and Zhe Sun

Electronics 2022, 11(19), 3212; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics11193212 - 7 Oct 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2043

Abstract

As the Internet of Things becomes more and more mainstream, sensors are widely used in the field of motion monitoring. In this paper, we propose a lightweight and sensitive triboelectric nanogenerator (LS-TENG) consisting of transparent polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and polyamide (PA) films as triboelectric [...] Read more.

As the Internet of Things becomes more and more mainstream, sensors are widely used in the field of motion monitoring. In this paper, we propose a lightweight and sensitive triboelectric nanogenerator (LS-TENG) consisting of transparent polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and polyamide (PA) films as triboelectric layers, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) as support layer, and copper foil as electrode. LS-TENG can be attached to the joints of the human body, and the mechanical energy generated by human motion is converted into electric energy based on the triboelectric effect, thus realizing self-power supply. LS-TENG can monitor the angle changes in elbow and wrist joints when athletes pull the loop and actively generate the output voltage as a sensing signal, which is convenient for coaches to monitor the quality of athletes’ hitting in real time. In addition, LS-TENG can also be used as a power supply for other wireless electronic devices, which facilitates the construction and transmission of large motion data and opens up a new development direction for the field of motion monitoring. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanogenerators for Energy Harvesting and Self-Powered Sensing)

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13 pages, 4175 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Double-Network Hydrogel for Stretchable Triboelectric Nanogenerator and Integrated Electroluminescent Skin with Self-Powered Rapid Visual Sensing

by Yanshuo Sun, Jianjun Zhang, Chengyu Li, Jin Yang, Hao Li, Tao Jiang and Baodong Chen

Electronics 2022, 11(13), 1928; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics11131928 - 21 Jun 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2509

Abstract

Bio-inspired design plays a very significant role in adapting biological models to technical applications of flexible electronics. The flexible, stretchable, and portable electrode is one of the key technical challenges in the field. Inspired by the responses to mechanical stimuli of natural plants, [...] Read more.

Bio-inspired design plays a very significant role in adapting biological models to technical applications of flexible electronics. The flexible, stretchable, and portable electrode is one of the key technical challenges in the field. Inspired by the responses to mechanical stimuli of natural plants, we designed a highly transparent (over 95%), stretchable (over 1500%), and biocompatible electrode material by using polymerized double-network hydrogel for fabricating a triboelectric nanogenerator (SH-TENG). The SH-TENG can convert tiny mechanical stretching from human movements directly into electrical energy, and is capable of lighting up to 50 LEDs. Benefiting from bio-inspired design, the coplanar, non-overlapping electrode structure breaks through the limitations of conventional electrodes in wearable devices and overcomes the bottleneck of transparent materials. Furthermore, a self-powered raindrop visual sensing system was realized, which can perform quasi-real-time rainfall information monitoring and increase rainfall recognition ability of vehicle automatic driving systems. This study provides a novel strategy for making next-generation stretchable electronic devices and flexible visual sensing systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanogenerators for Energy Harvesting and Self-Powered Sensing)

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14 pages, 3253 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Flexible Lightweight Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Protector and Scoring System in Taekwondo Competition Monitoring

by Fengxin Sun, Yongsheng Zhu, Changjun Jia, Bowen Ouyang, Tianming Zhao, Caixia Li, Ning Ba, Xinxing Li, Song Chen, Tongtong Che and Yupeng Mao

Electronics 2022, 11(9), 1306; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics11091306 - 20 Apr 2022

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 3207

Abstract

Nowadays, the applications of the triboelectric nanogenerator in sensing and monitoring sports experience a blooming prosperity. Here, we report a flexible and lightweight triboelectric nanogenerator (FL-TENG) made of hydrogel electrodes, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), PDMS, and polyurethane (PU). Based on the triboelectric effect, the FL-TENG [...] Read more.

Nowadays, the applications of the triboelectric nanogenerator in sensing and monitoring sports experience a blooming prosperity. Here, we report a flexible and lightweight triboelectric nanogenerator (FL-TENG) made of hydrogel electrodes, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), PDMS, and polyurethane (PU). Based on the triboelectric effect, the FL-TENG can work as a self-powered sensor attaching to taekwondo protective gear, which can be used to monitor athletes’ competition performance and improve the fairness of the competition. In addition, the FL-TENG can drive micro-wireless devices for wireless transmitting sports data during the competition in real time. This kind of sustainable green self-powered sensor provides a new path for the field of sports competition monitoring. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanogenerators for Energy Harvesting and Self-Powered Sensing)

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13 pages, 2871 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Flexible and Stretchable Self-Powered Nanogenerator in Basketball Passing Technology Monitoring

by Changjun Jia, Yongsheng Zhu, Fengxin Sun, Tianming Zhao, Rongda Xing, Yupeng Mao and Chongle Zhao

Electronics 2021, 10(21), 2584; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics10212584 - 22 Oct 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2309

Abstract

The rapid development of the fifth generation technology poses more challenges in the human motion inspection field. In this study, a nanogenerator, made by PVDF, ionic hydrogel, and PDMS, is used. Furthermore, a transparent, stretchable, and biocompatible PENG (TSB-PENG) is presented, which can [...] Read more.

The rapid development of the fifth generation technology poses more challenges in the human motion inspection field. In this study, a nanogenerator, made by PVDF, ionic hydrogel, and PDMS, is used. Furthermore, a transparent, stretchable, and biocompatible PENG (TSB-PENG) is presented, which can be used as a self-powered sensor attached to the athlete’s joints, which helps to monitor the training and improve the subject’s performance. This device shows the ability to maintain a relatively stable output, under various external environments (e.g., inorganic salt, organic matter and temperature). Additionally, TSB-PENG can supply power to small-scale electronic equipment, such as Bluetooth transmitting motion data in real time. This study can provide a new approach to designing lossless, real-time, portable, and durable self-powered sensors in the sports motoring field. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanogenerators for Energy Harvesting and Self-Powered Sensing)

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12 pages, 2238 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Light-Weight, Self-Powered Sensor Based on Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Big Data Analytics in Sports

by Xiaofei Ma, Xuan Liu, Xinxing Li and Yunfei Ma

Electronics 2021, 10(19), 2322; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics10192322 - 22 Sep 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2802

Abstract

With the rapid development of the Internet of Things (IoTs), big data analytics has been widely used in the sport field. In this paper, a light-weight, self-powered sensor based on a triboelectric nanogenerator for big data analytics in sports has been demonstrated. The [...] Read more.

With the rapid development of the Internet of Things (IoTs), big data analytics has been widely used in the sport field. In this paper, a light-weight, self-powered sensor based on a triboelectric nanogenerator for big data analytics in sports has been demonstrated. The weight of each sensing unit is ~0.4 g. The friction material consists of polyaniline (PANI) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Based on the triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG), the device can convert small amounts of mechanical energy into the electrical signal, which contains information about the hitting position and hitting velocity of table tennis balls. By collecting data from daily table tennis training in real time, the personalized training program can be adjusted. A practical application has been exhibited for collecting table tennis information in real time and, according to these data, coaches can develop personalized training for an amateur to enhance the ability of hand control, which can improve their table tennis skills. This work opens up a new direction in intelligent athletic facilities and big data analytics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanogenerators for Energy Harvesting and Self-Powered Sensing)

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Review

Jump to: Research

16 pages, 2248 KiB

Open AccessReview

Triboelectric Nanogenerators for Ocean Wave Energy Harvesting: Unit Integration and Network Construction

by Xi Liang, Shijie Liu, Hongbo Yang and Tao Jiang

Electronics 2023, 12(1), 225; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics12010225 - 2 Jan 2023

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 4468

Abstract

As a clean and renewable energy source with huge reserves, the development of ocean wave energy has important strategic significance. Harvesting ocean wave energy through novel triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) has shown promising application prospects. For this technology, the integration of TENG units is [...] Read more.

As a clean and renewable energy source with huge reserves, the development of ocean wave energy has important strategic significance. Harvesting ocean wave energy through novel triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) has shown promising application prospects. For this technology, the integration of TENG units is the crucial step to realize large-scale network commercialization. All aspects of the TENG networking process are systematically summarized in this review, including the topology design and the circuit-connection scheme. Advancing the research on the large-scale TENG network is expected to make great contributions to achieve carbon neutrality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanogenerators for Energy Harvesting and Self-Powered Sensing)

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