A lightweight durable full-body electrical stimulation suit for haptic feedback and therapeutic applications

Abstract

Abstract Electrical stimulation represents a promising approach for the integrated delivery of haptic feedback and therapeutic interventions. Devices engineered for electrical stimulation interactions can simultaneously support a range of biomedical applications, including tissue regeneration, wound healing, pain management, and cosmetic procedures. When implemented at a full-body scale, such systems can provide precise spatiotemporal haptic feedback within extended reality (XR) environments, while simultaneously serving as therapeutic platforms for conditions amenable to electrical treatment. We introduce a full-body electrical stimulation suit which comprises a textile-based compression garment embedded with soft electrical stimulators designed for universal applicability across diverse user populations. An integrated calibration system continuously monitors contact pressure at each stimulation site across the body and dynamically adjusts electrical stimulation parameters based on site-specific impedance, enabling precise and consistent electrotactile feedback. The suit’s lightweight, breathable, and durable design ensures comfort and wearability comparable to that of standard undergarments, thereby addressing the usability and discomfort limitations commonly associated with existing full-body systems. By incorporating soft and flexible materials, the suit supports prolonged usage without compromising the effectiveness of electrical stimulation. This technology holds significant potential for enhancing immersive experiences in XR applications and therapeutic interventions by seamlessly integrating high-fidelity haptic feedback with optimized wearability.