Operating principle for control of haptic device deformation using magnetic field from switchable magnets to reconfigure a magneto-elastic flexible material layer. Also shown is a sample 3D integrated structure of the tactile display and possible applications.
In an attempt to create better user interfaces with more versatile capabilities, this research direction investigates the development of haptic interfaces in the form of tactile displays with potential for ultrafast control of mechanical deformation used to replicate any 3D topography pattern for a realistic tactile experience. Through the integration of electrically-reversible magnets, the local magnetic field in thin magneto-elastic layers can be controlled such that the structure deforms on demand. This research work aims to disrupt the field of tactile technology, including, among other applications, touch screens, to allow instantly-reconfigurable 3D buttons and textures on visual displays.
Selected Relevant Publications:
- Y. Chen, A. Ray, H. Yin, E. Adebi, D. Muller, A. El-Ghazaly, “Finite-Element Simulations and Experimental Study of Single Domain Behavior in Fe65Co35 Nanocubes: Implications for Bioimaging and MEMS Actuators,” ACS Applied Nano Materials, 2025. DOI: 10.1021/acsanm.5c03514
- L. Cestarollo, N. Utomo, Y. Chen, L. A. Archer, and A. El-Ghazaly, “Amplifying Magneto-Mechanical Performance of Magnetorheological Elastomers through Surface Functionalization of Iron Nanoparticles,” ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces, 17, 10, 15849–15858, 2025. DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c21502
- Y. Chen, K. Srinivasan, M. Choates, L. Cestarollo, A. El-Ghazaly, “Enhanced Magnetic Anisotropy for Reprogrammable High-Force-Density Microactuators,” Advanced Functional Materials, 2023. DOI: 10.1002/adfm.202305502
- L. Cestarollo, S. Smolenski, A. El-Ghazaly, “Nanoparticle-Based Magnetorheological Elastomers with Enhanced Mechanical Deflection for Haptic Displays,” ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, vol. 14, no. 16, 19002-19011, 2022. DOI:10.1021/acsami.2c05471