Flexible intelligent sensing patches for augmented tactile and thermal perception

Inspired by the multimodal perception of human skin, flexible sensors are advancing intelligent sensing systems in healthcare and robotics. Pressure-temperature bimodal sensing is crucial for enhanced environmental perception and cross-domain applications. However, critical challenges remain in interference suppression and effective integration for augmented tactile and thermal perception. Here, we propose an interference-free flexible intelligent sensing patch that is composed of a laser-patterned pressure sensor and a thermistor. The patch demonstrates a large pressure detection range of 8 Pa to 220 kPa with a rapid response time of 50 ms, and a high temperature-sensing resolution of 0.01 °C at the range of 10–50 °C. Additionally, it can maintain highly stable performance under 150° bending deformation and 10% tensile strain. Furthermore, we built an integrated real-time processing platform to demonstrate its versatility through continuous, non-invasive monitoring for wrist pulse and epidermis temperature. Impressively, the patch can enhance real-time tactile feedback for soft robotic grippers during object manipulation, achieving tactile recognition with an accuracy of 94.09% for ten distinct objects. Intelligent sensing patches for augmented tactile and thermal perception hold promises for delivering precise and natural experiences while driving innovation and advancement in artificial prosthetics, intelligent robotics, wearable devices, and health monitoring. (Figure presented.)