As advances in micro/nanotechnology drive human–machine interface (HMI) systems toward miniaturized, intelligent, and autonomous platforms, most current HMI devices remain passive and dependent on external power sources, restricting their potential for truly self-sustained operation. Now, researchers from the MEMS and Nanotechnology Laboratory at Chonnam National University, led by Professor Dong-Weon Lee, in collaboration with Kyungpook National University, have presented a breakthrough study on an air-breakdown triboelectric nanogenerator (AB-TENG) with a transistor-inspired architecture. This work establishes a new design paradigm that transforms air breakdown from a limitation into a functional mechanism, advancing skin-electricity-enhanced thin-film TENGs toward next-generation self-sustaining HMI systems.
Why Air-Breakdown TENGs Matter
Innovative Design and Features
Applications and Future Outlook
This comprehensive study provides a roadmap for developing self-sustaining next-generation HMI and IoT devices. It highlights the importance of innovative energy harvesting strategies that transform physical limitations into functional advantages. Stay tuned for more groundbreaking work from Professor Dong-Weon Lee at Chonnam National University!
Nano-Micro Letters
News article
Air‑Breakdown Triboelectric Nanogenerator Inspired by Transistor Architecture for Low‑Force Human–Machine Interfaces
11-Feb-2026