A self-powered, high-precision and minimum-channel touch panel coupling triboelectrification and uniform resistance film

Touch panels utilizing surface-capacitive mechanism are ubiquitous in our daily life. However, the need for an additional probe signal generator and receiver module to detect the resistance distribution and variation caused by finger touching adds complexity and energy consumption to the system. Herein, we propose a self-powered and high-precision tribo-touch-position sensor (TPS) that can operate without an external probe signal generator and receiver module. By detecting the contact electrification signal and extracting the signal ratio between the edges of a uniform resistance film, TPS exhibits precise touch position detection with minimal channels. The mechanism and feasibility of this sensor is systematically analyzed from theory and experiment. Moreover, the resistance range and parameters that affect the sensing performance are discussed in depth. Compared to traditional capacitive touch panels, TPS can function in high moisture conditions and is not limited to grounded objects. Finally, the designed TPS achieves spatial resolutions of 0.001 and 1 mm in touching space and size, and a prototype 2D touch panel is fabricated experimentally. The signals ratio of 2D touch panel changes more obviously in the middle than on the sides while the fingers touch various positions. This work provides an alternative platform for simple and diverse contact localization using triboelectric effect. [Display omitted] •Coupling triboelectrification and uniform resistance film, a touch panel is proposed with self-powered, high-precision and minimum-channel capabilities.•The working mechanism of TPS is established and the resistance range of electrodes (R>10KΩ) for proper TPS function is determined for the first time.•The relationship curve between the signal ratio and relative positions of 2D TTP is investigated and verified for the first time.