Smart Diaper Embedded with Fully Printed Sensors for Wireless Healthcare and Monitoring

In this research, a real-time healthcare and monitoring wireless system is developed to monitor vital signs of a wearer i.e., temperature, respiration rate, and wetting volume on a smartphone. The smart diaper consists of two main units, a detachable electronic module and a disposable printed biosensors patch deployed on a commercial diaper. Custom sensors array was designed and fabricated in a single patch through printed electronics technology by using biocompatible materials on a thermal transfer substrate. The sensors patch was designed in such a way to accurately collect the vital signs data by placing each sensor at appropriate site. Individual sensors were characterized for their electrical and mechanical properties. The overall system was tested, and data was wirelessly transmitted to a smartphone via Bluetooth. The main purpose of the proposed smart diaper is to minimize the effort of caregiver and avoid infection, rashes, and discomfort. We believe this work will open a new window for the printed electronics systems for special needs, elderly, and infant healthcare.