Flexible modular strategy for tailored, human–machine fusion wearable electronics

Over the past three decades, the field of wearable electronics has experienced significant growth, with future developments expected to lead to more seamless integration and a profound symbiosis between humans and electronic systems. However, current developments in wearable technology are constrained by traditional integrated circuit (IC) design paradigms and a limited range of form factors, predominantly manifesting as watches, glasses, and rings with fixed functionalities and performance capabilities. This study proposes a modular design method that leverages flexible electronics for tailoring wearable devices according to specific needs. This approach disperses and reinterprets the integrated device forms through the guidance of human body morphology and conformal design principles. The functional units within these wearable devices are constructed as physically isolated, flexible modules within a robust bus structure. These modules can be easily integrated using magnetic attachments and connectors, which allows for the creation of unconventional wearable devices with customised functionalities and forms. To validate this approach, a series of flexible functional modules were designed and prototyped. Demonstrations of some of these integrated wearable forms, including watches, headbands, and gloves, highlight the versatility of this approach. These devices can be rapidly assembled with selected flexible modules capable of monitoring vital signs, such as heart rate, peripheral capillary oxygen saturation (SpO2), barometric pressure, humidity, and temperature. The results suggest that the proposed modular method holds significant potential for advancing the development of future human–machine fusion wearable electronics. • The ergonomic design of the wearable device expansion function area is applied to satisfy the wearing comfort and the user's demand for device function expansion. • The modular design concept enables users choose functions and upgrade the device seamlessly through uninterrupted module updates. • Flexible circuit design allows standardized modules for both functional deployment and the attachment of the functional areas of the device to the human body. • The application of modularity and flexibilization strategies allows for customization of the form according to the characteristics of the different wearing positions.