Slinky-Like Sensor Patch Adapts to the Body for Joint Monitoring

A new plastic sensor patch developed at the University of Michigan  uses electronic sensors to measure the full functional range of motion of complex joints like the shoulder, and is inspired by Kirigami, the Japanese art of creating 3D structures from cut paper. The cut patterns in the kirigami sensor open so that it follows the contour of the wearer's body naturally. This enables the sensor to be manufactured flat, which is key to making the device affordable. The sensor patch could improve physical therapy for joint injury cover and help with athletic training.