The Need

Currently, anthropometric and biological measurements in the healthcare setting are made with individual devices that require both specialized equipment and time on the part of the patient and healthcare provider. Additionally, patient data is often static in nature as the opportunity for measurements throughout the calendar year is not always possible. A comprehensive, application-based system designed to limit the impact on daily life with the potential to provide instant feedback on anthropometric and biofeedback data would be extremely valuable, especially in pediatric settings.

The Technology

Researchers at The Ohio State University, led by Dr. Lisa Militello, have developed a novel category of wireless antenna-impregnated fabrics with the potential for unencumbered, far-reaching biological monitoring uses. The fabrics consist of dipole antennas responsive to the mechanical forces of a subject laying on the fabrics that results in the loss of the associated wireless transmission path; this system currently allows for constant monitoring of anatomical measurements. The researchers have provided proof-of-concept measurements for recumbent height and propose to add weight-sensing capabilities, as well as, functional biofeedback measurements of heart and respiratory rate, sleep quality, and mood assessment.

Commercial Applications

• Infants: crib monitoring (i.e. growth disorders, SIDS, cardiovascular monitoring)
• Early childhood: childhood obesity, genetic/endocrine/orthopedic/cardiovascular disease monitoring
• Educational settings
• Health and wellness centers
• Veterinary settings (i.e. pet wellness checkups and home monitoring)

Benefits/Advantages

• Platform strategy-total solution approach
• Portable, mobile, lightweight
• User-center design for convenient health monitoring
• Sensors and fabric mat are cost-effective