A wearable electronic based on flexible pressure sensor for running motion monitoring

Abstract

The flexible pressure sensor is expected to be applied in the new generation of sports wearable electronic devices. Developing flexible pressure sensors with a wide linear range and great sensitivity, however, remains a significant barrier. In this work, we propose a hybrid conductive elastomeric film oxide-based material with a concave-shape micro-patterned array (P-HCF) on the surface that sustainably shows the necessary sensing qualities. To enhance sensing range and sensitivity, one-dimensional carbon fibers and two-dimensional MXene are incorporated into the polydimethylsiloxane matrix to form a three-dimensional conductive network. Micro-patterns with a curved shape in P-HCFs can be able to linear sensitivity across the sensing range by controlling the pressure distribution inside the material. Besides, the sensitivity of P-HCF pressure sensor can reach 31.92 kPa−1, and meanwhile, the linear band of P-HCF pressure sensor can arrive at 24 Pa–720 kPa, which makes it a good choice for sports monitoring. The designed pressure sensor can be used to monitor the foot pressure during running. By analyzing the gait information during running, it can provide data support and strategy improvement for running. This new dual working mode pressure P-HCF sensor will provide a new way for the development of intelligent sports.

Recent Advances in Flexible Pressure Sensors Based on MXene Materials

“…proposed a hybrid conductive elastic thin film oxide‐based material with a concave micro pattern array (P‐HCF) on its surface. [ 145 ] In order to enhance the sensing range and sensitivity, 1D carbon fibers and 2D MXene were doped into the polydimethylsiloxane matrix to form a three‐dimensional conductive network. When the device is under pressure, the PDMS layer will deform, causing the pressure device to generate different sensing signals.…”

“…[ 39 ] Simple laser engraving has been proven to be a fast method for composite electrodes, and it can also be extended to other MXene‐based composite structures for manufacturing flexible electrons in the future. [ 40,142,145 ] Some scholars have also used laser‐induced cross‐finger working electrodes of graphene or MXene to prepare flexible sensing array patterns. [ 118 ] The sensor array based on MXene‐based organic hydrogel is composed of laser‐induced graphene interdigital working electrode and organic hydrogel.…”

Hydrophobic TPU/CNTs-ILs Ionogel as a Reliable Multimode and Flexible Wearable Sensor for Motion Monitoring, Information Transfer, and Underwater Sensing

“…Flexible skin-like sensors showing a wide range of promising applications in wearable devices, − soft robots, − health-monitoring devices, − and human–machine interfaces − have become a research hotspot in recent years. Among them, resistive flexible strain sensors have received widespread attention due to their flexibility similar to that of human skin and their advantages of simple structure, low cost, and flexibility.…”

Flexible and Stretchable Pressure Sensors: From Basic Principles to State-of-the-Art Applications

“…Secondly, the stretchability of these sensors enables them to endure deformation and mechanical strain without compromising their functionality. This attribute is highly desirable in applications involving human motion, such as sports monitoring [ 5 ], rehabilitation [ 6 ], and virtual reality interfaces [ 7 ]. The ability of pressure sensors to stretch and bend with the body ensures accurate and reliable measurements, even during dynamic activities.…”