This sensor sticker named "BodyNet" consists of a small sensor with a diameter of several millimeters and an RFID antenna attached to a flexible substrate, which can stretch with the skin. The receiver with battery fixed on the clothes can provide wireless power for the sticker. After receiving the skin signal read by the sticker, the receiver will upload the signal to terminals such as smart phones through Bluetooth.
Bao Zhenan, the author of the paper and a professor of chemical engineering at Stanford University, said in an e-mail interview with Xinhua News Agency that the biggest challenge is that the sensor antenna may be deformed with human movement, thus affecting the transmission and reception of signals. To this end, the researchers used screen printing technology to print metal ink on the rubber sticker substrate to form a flexible antenna, and developed a new radio frequency identification system to enable the antenna to emit stronger and more accurate signals when it fluctuates with the skin.
"We want the sensor to be like a thin sticker, and we can stick it anywhere we want. For example, measuring the heart index is attached to the wrist or chest; Measure your hands and feet and stick them on your shoulders or legs. " Bao Zhenan said. She hopes that users can freely choose the way of health monitoring, which is as non-invasive as sticking a band-aid. Because the cost of sensor stickers is very low, users can use multiple stickers to monitor different parts and throw them away after use.
Bao Zhenan said that the existing sensors are relatively simple and mainly detect tension, temperature and pressure. The laboratory is working to develop sensor stickers that can detect sweat, other secretions and other chemical information to provide more health information. In the future, this sensor "band-aid" is expected to be first used to provide medical monitoring for patients with sleep disorders or heart disease.