Wireless, battery-free multi-axial sensor for augmented reality-assisted monitoring at skin interfaces

Demand for augmented reality (AR) technology in the healthcare industry has gradually increased due to its immersive and interactive environment, which enhances the medical staff’s intuitive interpretation of sensing data during surgery, rehabilitation, diagnosis, education, and therapy. However, current skin-mountable, wearable sensors integrated with AR platforms mainly focus on Human-Machine Interface (HMI) for interactive experiences. Furthermore, most wearable sensors currently used in conjunction with AR systems are rigid and cumbersome, which hampers their application to the skin interfaces of patients for personalized healthcare. Herein, we developed a wireless, battery-free multi-axial sensor with a thin and small form factor and integrated it with the AR system to visualize sensing data (e.g., pressure, shear stress, and temperature) from the subjects. The overall system demonstrated efficacy in preventing pressure injuries, monitoring posture to prevent disc herniation, and intuitive AR monitoring of physical parameters for subjects sitting in wheelchairs and lying in bed.