Microchannel pressure sensor for continuous and real-time wearable gait monitoring

A highly sensitive and multifunctional pressure sensor capable of continuous pressure readings is presented for precise gait pattern analysis. The device employs eutectic gallium indium (EGaIn) liquid metal as the sensing material and EcoFlex 00-30 silicone as the substrate, fabricated via a low-cost process. A microchannel architecture creates two independent sensing channels, enabling high stretchability and flexibility, with sensitivity of 66.07 MPa−1 and a measurement resolution of 0.056 kPa. The sensor accurately detects applied pressure and distinguishes pressure distribution across a wide area. It demonstrates high efficiency in monitoring human walking gait at various speeds from a single sensor on the foot and differentiates walking postures, indicating strong potential for clinical and rehabilitation applications in gait analysis.

Jung-Bin Ahn, Byungseok Yoo, Darryll J. Pines, Chia-Ying Kuo, Mingyi Wang, Naga Sai Gouthami Bejjanki, Soaram Kim