Researchers at the University of Illinois have come up with a breakthrough in health monitoring: tattooable skin sensors.
The skin sensors can be printed directly onto human skin and are made waterproof and durable by using specialized serpentine wires. Technically, the health sensors are temporary because they're applied directly to the surface of the skin, but the potential exists to embed the skin sensors underneath the skin for a more permanent solution. As of right now, the sensors are designed to measure bodily functions like skin moisture, temperature and electrical signals from the nervous system.
The skin sensors may eventually also become available for consumer purchase, which should prove very popular among the workout crowd that wants to measure biometric signs while they exercise.
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Tattooable Health Monitoring Sensors
- The development of tattooable health monitoring sensors presents opportunities for disruptive innovation in the healthcare industry, particularly in non-invasive patient monitoring and wearable devices.
- Printed Skin Sensors
- The breakthrough in printable skin sensors signifies an opportunity to create a new market for personalized and adaptable wearable devices.
- Subdermal Health Monitoring
- The potential to embed skin sensors underneath the skin presents opportunities for disruptive innovation in long-term health monitoring and implantable medical devices.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Healthcare
- The development of tattooable health monitoring sensors has significant implications for the healthcare industry, providing an opportunity for non-invasive patient monitoring and remote monitoring of chronic conditions.
- Wearable Technology
- The advancement of printable and adaptable wearable devices can revolutionize the market, providing opportunities for the fashion, fitness, and healthcare industries.
- Medical Devices
- The development of tattooable and implantable sensors signals opportunities for innovation in medical devices, particularly in remote monitoring and life-saving implants.
