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Miura-ori structured flexible microneedle array electrode for biosignal recording
Yue Hou1, Zhaoyu Li1, Ziyu Wang2
1Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Kowloon, Hong Kong, SAR 999077 China.
Microsystems & Nanoengineering
|September 27, 2021
Summary
This study introduces a flexible microneedle array electrode (MAE) with enhanced reliability and breathability for long-term health monitoring. The novel design prevents sweat buildup and skin irritation, improving biosignal recording accuracy.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Materials Science
Background:
- Microneedle array electrodes (MAEs) offer reliable biosignal sensing with low impedance.
- Existing flexible MAEs face challenges with sweat accumulation and skin irritation during long-term use, impacting signal quality and user comfort.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a flexible MAE with improved reliability and air ventilation for enhanced long-term health monitoring.
- To address sweat accumulation and potential skin reactions associated with conventional flexible microneedle devices.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a flexible MAE utilizing a Miura-ori structured substrate for two-directional in-plane bendability.
- Integration of air-circulating channels within the substrate to facilitate sweat removal.
- Comparative testing to evaluate device reliability and ventilation performance.
Main Results:
- The novel MAE demonstrated enhanced reliability, preventing metal layer delamination from the substrate during operation.
- Significant improvement in air ventilation was achieved, effectively removing sweat from the electrode-skin interface.
- Accurate and stable electrocardiography (ECG) and electromyography (EMG) recordings were successfully obtained in both static and dynamic conditions.
Conclusions:
- The proposed flexible MAE with a Miura-ori substrate offers a promising solution for reliable and comfortable long-term biosignal monitoring.
- The design effectively mitigates sweat accumulation and enhances device durability.
- This technology holds significant potential for advancing wearable health monitoring applications.
