Wearable Technology: Wearable Sensors & Therapeutics, Brain-Computer Interfaces, Continuous Vital Signs Monitoring, E-Textiles, Human-Environment Interaction

Technical embroidery systems, due to their high precision, are applicable for the integration of functionality into textiles through textile sensors, actuators, electrodes and functional LED or RFID sequins. Even entire circuit boards (PCBs) can be automatically and reliably fixed and connected with conductive threads. Technical Embroidery systems provide solutions to two of the greatest challenges of the e-textiles industry by creating a reliable interface between the electronic components and the textile and enabling the automated mass production of smart and e-textiles.

Chronic low back pain is one of today’s major global health problems, and current standard of care may often provide only limited relief. Auricular vagus nerve stimulation can be a promising adjunct treatment. With a wearable electrical neuromodulation device, the vagus nerve can be stimulated in a minimally-invasive way in the auricle. The method was tested to be effective and safe. By personalization of stimulation the therapeutic effect can be improved. Integrated biosensors can be used to measure physiological data and the stimulation can be adjusted accordingly.

Wearables and sensors are playing an increasingly important role in elderly care. Against the background of sociodemographic change and the lack of personnel, elderly care must be made more effective and efficient. IoT approaches can provide significant support in this regard. This presentation deals with the technology readiness level of existing solutions and outlines different use cases from the field.

As a concrete example, we will also present the digital care assistant we have developed using wearable sensors and low-cost printed electronics that can be integrated into any diaper, providing smart incontinence management, bed sore prevention, fall detection and resident localisation. We will discuss the impact this has had on residents wellbeing and carehome activities, and the challenges and lessons encountered on the way.