Multi-Utility Wearable Sensors for Motion Capture and Tissue Imaging

We report a novel wearable sensor with multi-utility functionality, capable of monitoring joint kinematics and imaging underlying tissue abnormalities via the same interface. The sensor consists of loops wrapped around the limb, one placed above and one placed below the joint. At low frequencies, magnetic coupling dominates and joint motion can be monitored while being insensitive to tissue properties; at high frequencies, loops act as electromagnetic radiators that are affected by tissues, and can, thus, monitor tissue abnormalities. The sensor can be seamlessly embedded into a garment, bringing forward unprecedented opportunities for numerous applications in healthcare, sports, space, and beyond.