Textile Sensors for Neonatal Growth and Safety

The Need

Neonatal units need unobtrusive, continuous monitoring of presence, posture, motion, and growth metrics (recumbent length, optional weight) without cameras, wires, or labor‑intensive workflows. Frequent, accurate measurements are critical for early detection of growth deviations and unsafe sleep orientations, yet current methods (e.g., two‑person infantometer procedures) are episodic and time‑consuming. Embedding sensing into crib sheets, swaddles, and mattress covers enables continuous data capture and timely alerts while preserving privacy and minimizing staff burden in the NICU and at home.

The Technology

OSU scientists have developed a novel two‑dimensional grid of orthogonal traces embedded in neonatal textiles, creating localized fringing‑field regions. The sensor reads internally coupled energy between selected transmission and coupling traces and maps changes to presence, size, location, and orientation, no cameras required. Because it runs on low‑frequency signals, the electronics are simpler and lower‑cost. The system can automatically capture recumbent length and, with a thin pressure layer, add weight, sending results to bedside monitors or a caregiver’s phone.

Commercial Applications

Smart NICU crib sheets/mattress covers for continuous posture/orientation and growth monitoring.
Bassinets and transport incubators with integrated presence/rollover detection and alerts.
Post‑discharge home monitoring kits for longitudinal neonatal growth tracking and caregiver notifications.

Benefits/Advantages

Camera‑free, privacy‑preserving sensing embedded in soft, washable textiles.
Internally coupled energy between orthogonal traces at lower operating frequencies → simpler design, reduced electronics/EMI complexity, and lower BOM cost.
High sensitivity to small proximity/contact changes; resolution is tunable via array density and works through clothing/blankets.
Clinical workflow friendly: low‑power operation, real‑time alerts, easy integration with bedside monitors/apps; optional weight via pressure layer.