Stretchable Device with Low-Energy Consumption Using Positive Piezoconductive Electric Component

Although various stretchable devices have been developed, embeddable devices that monitor the correct operation of stretchable devices have not been realized. In this study, a standalone strain monitor without external wiring was realized by combining a non-contact power supply using a liquid metal coil and a positive piezoelectric conductive paste. The highly deformable liquid metal coil allows the device to charge the internal lithium-ion battery even at 30% coil elongation. The properties of the positive piezoconductive paste, which rapidly decreases electrical resistance upon elongational strain, enable activation of electronic circuits by strain stimulation without the use of an external control system. This maintains the operation of the device with less power when embedded in a device, and only activates when an alert is needed.