Simultaneous decoding of static, dynamic, and thermal tactile stimuli by using pulsed spike signals in ion-electronic skin

Concurrent perception of static and dynamic tactile stimuli is essential for natural haptic feedback and precise manipulation. However, most artificial tactile sensors remain limited to either static, dynamic, or temperature sensing due to reliance on specific mechanisms for each modality. Integrating these capabilities in a single artificial receptor is still challenging, particularly when spike-based signals are used as the primary encoding strategies. Here, we present an artificial sensory receptor that decodes spike patterns to perceive static, dynamic, and thermal stimuli simultaneously. By applying a pulsed DC bias across a mixed ion–electron conductor, the device continuously produces encoded spike patterns without additional signal conversion circuitry. Furthermore, the engineered combination of stretchable electrodes and the mixed conductor allows decoupling of mechanical and thermal responses, eliminating signal interference. This simple structure enables reliable, real-time recognition of multiple tactile inputs, including pressure, strain, temperature, and vibration, through a single channel.