Stretchable and compressible strain sensors for gait monitoring constructed using carbon nanotube/graphene composite

Abstract

Stretchable and compressible strain sensors play an essential role in various fields with uses ranging from automotive components to medical devices. This study reports on the fabrication and characteristics of stretchable strain and pressure sensors constructed using a carbon nanotube and graphene composite. The sensors were used for gait analysis, an important step in the diagnosis and management of movement disorders. The stretchable and compressible strain sensors were used to measure peak knee sagittal angles and forces under the feet when walking. Gait analysis is usually performed within a laboratory. However, in this research we propose a shift to gait assessments conducted via long-term daily monitoring using wearable devices.

Keywords

• wearable electronics
• stretchable strain sensor
• pressure sensor
• carbon nanotubes
• graphene
• gait analysis