Speech-assistive interfacing via a secondary-flow-induced ionogel

Abstract

Impaired language function significantly restricts the communication ability and quality of life for aphasia patients. Even though current Human-Machine Interaction (HMI) system mainly relies on explicit signal, it is difficult to meet the demand for natural and real-time expression. To achieve the accurate recognition of non-speech intention, a highly sensitive capacitive sensor based on ionogel is proposed. An innovative dynamic polymerization strategy induced by secondary flow is designed to address the phase separation issue caused by incompatibility between ionic liquid (IL) and monomer. The method overcomes interfacial tension limitations, enabling uniform dispersion of monomer within IL and facilitating three-dimensional network construction. The resulting ionogel exhibits excellent mechanical properties (tensile strength of 50 kPa, elongation at break of 219 %), as well as high pressure sensitivity (0.042 kPa^-1) and antibacterial properties, capable of detecting subtle tactile stimuli. This study offers critical material support for the development of non-speech interaction system of aphasia patients and provides a universal strategy for the construction of functional ionogels.