Design of a Cuff Electrode - Inspired Wearable Bioimpedance Plant Sensor

In this study, we introduce a novel tomato plant “wearable” bioimpedance sensor design inspired by neuroprostheses. The design involves a robustly closing asymmetric tetrapolar cuff electrode to monitor hydration related bioimpedance. The aim of the design is to achieve optimal performance, ease of installation, durability, and cost-effectiveness. In the initial stages of this research, we elucidate our design methodology, utilizing COMSOL FEM simulations to define the optimal cuff geometry with an emphasis on the significance of tight closure. Additionally, we present the fabrication of initial dummy electrodes using a standard flexible PCB process, introducing a novel “serrated cable-tie” design to achieve tight closure around the plant stem.