IIT Guwahati develops wearable sensors to track patients’ movements

Guwahati: In a groundbreaking development, researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IIT-G) have engineered a low-cost, gel-based wearable device capable of recording motion signals. This innovative invention, known as the Organohydrogel sensor, offers a cost-effective solution for monitoring subtle movements in patients in comatose states or facing similar conditions.

The Organohydrogel sensor, when placed on the patient’s body, can wirelessly transmit data to a smartphone through a dedicated device. This enables healthcare professionals to monitor the patient’s movements over an extended period, providing valuable insights into their condition. The device can detect major human joint motions, such as elbow, finger, and wrist bending, as well as micro-motions like muscle movement around the throat during swallowing and expressions like smiling and frowning.

One of the key advantages of the Organohydrogel sensor is its exceptional stretchability, allowing it to conform to the body’s natural contours. It can stretch up to 1000% at strain and has been tested to withstand over 100 cycles without losing functionality. The sensor also exhibits self-healing capabilities, anti-freezing properties, and excellent mechanical strength and adhesive properties, even at extreme temperatures.