Triboelectric Nanogenerators (TENGs) as Human Muscles Motion Sensors and Non-Contact Transducers to Assist People with Disability

This thesis proposes assistive devices for people with disabilities to facilitate their independence and access to technology. Flexible and stretchable Triboelectric Nanogenerators (TENGs) are used to monitor eye motions and are integrated into Human-Machine-Interfaces (HMI) for hands-free computer control. Moreover, a wearable triboelectric sensor is designed and implemented to monitor forearm muscles and tendons movements to assess Parkinson’s Disease symptoms, e.g., bradykinesia and tremor. Additionally, a TENG-based HMI intended to assist upper limb amputees is presented. Finally, a Non-Contact Triboelectric Sensor (NCTS) is developed for accident prevention, falling detection, and indoor tracking to help visually impaired patients and the elderly.