Mechanically modulable and human–machine interactive luminescent fiber display platforms

Abstract

The rapid advancement of human–machine interfaces and wearable devices necessitates display platforms that are mechanically modulable and capable of interacting with their environments while effectively communicating with users. However, current display technologies have yet to fully address these demands. This study presents a scalable luminescent fiber (LF) display platform designed to be mechanically modulable and interactive with users. Inspired by the silkworm spinning process, our fabrication technique continuously coats a luminous layer onto parallel dual-strand electrode fibers, resulting in LFs with a skin–core structure composed of core electrodes and a luminescent skin. By selecting conductive fibers with varying mechanical properties as inner electrodes, we can modulate the LF's mechanical characteristics over a range suitable for flexible displays, including stretching, bending, folding, and knotting. Additionally, the hydrophobicity and mechanical flexibility of the luminescent coating, along with the robust binding between the skin–core interfaces, ensure the LF's stable luminescence under complex mechanical stimuli and following multiple washes and extended use. Integration of machine learning and Internet of Things technologies enhances interactions between the LF display platform and users. This comprehensive system achieves voice recognition, numerical computing, semantic analysis, and intelligent interaction, all of which are incorporated into a human–machine interface that facilitates real-time human–display interaction. By emphasizing our fabrication strategy and adaptable design, this mechanically modulable and human–machine interactive LF display platform shows promise for diverse applications in human–machine interfaces, medical devices, soft robotics, and wearable sound–vision systems.

Impact statement

Our study introduces a new concept of a light-emitting fiber display platform with a skin–core structure. This concept differentiates itself from existing research by addressing the key challenges of mechanical strength and user interactivity faced by ultraflexible displays. By utilizing core-electrode fibers with different mechanical properties, we can effectively regulate the mechanical performance of the luminescent fiber, ensuring compliance under diverse mechanical stimuli. Additionally, the resilient, hydrophobic, and luminous skin of the fiber guarantees stable luminance even in harsh conditions. The incorporation of artificial intelligence and Internet of Things technologies further enhances user interaction capabilities, enabling functions such as gender and age recognition, numerical calculations assistance, and semantic dialogue. Our work and the underlying concept bring insights to materials science by pushing the boundaries of fiber and fabric displays. With improved mechanical properties, enhanced user interactivity, and stability in challenging environments, our light-emitting fiber display platform opens new possibilities and drives innovation for applications such as artificial skin, soft machines, and human–computer interaction techniques.

Graphical abstract