Soft, Wearable Systems with Integrated Microfluidics and Biosensors for Remote Health Monitoring
Abstract: Soft, wearable electronics and microfluidics, enabled by recent advances in materials science and mechanics, have been designed with mechanical properties that approach the flexibility and elasticity of human skin. These systems are referred to as epidermal electronics and epifluidics by virtue of their stretchable form factors and soft mechanics compared to conventional packaged electronics and sensors. In this presentation, I will provide an overview of recent advances in mechanics and designs for emerging classes of fully-integrated wearable microfluidic systems. These devices incorporate arrays of sensors, microfluidic channels and electrochemical sensors, configured in flexible formats for continuous monitoring of hydration, stress, and health biomarkers. Quantitative analyses of device performance in field trials highlight the utility of these wearable systems in clinical and uncontrolled settings. We will conclude with representative and commercialized examples of these wearable systems, in sports and industrial safety sectors.