A wearable tactile sensor based on electrical-contact-resistance (ECR) variation with high sensitivity for health monitoring

A wearable tactile device on fabrics based on Electrical Contact Resistance (ECR) variation mechanism is developed for the first time. The device consists of one top and one bottom fabric substrates, which are screen-printed with conductive materials then faced-to-face assembled. Due to its exclusive features of surface roughness and material compressibility, the fabric substrate is favorable in ECR variation mechanism. The device is optimized with different conductive materials to create microscale pillars and further enhance the device sensitivities. Device characteristics and practical applications are investigated in monitoring human wrist pulses with wireless module and smartphone, showing its capability in fast response and high sensitivity for internet-of-thing and medical applications.