The nano-biomedical motion sensor, which can be paired with AI systems to recognise movements of distinct body parts, builds on work carried out by Surrey's Advanced Technology Institute around triboelectric nanogenerators (TENG), where researchers used the technology to harness human movements and generate small amounts of electrical energy.
Combining the two means self-powered sensors are possible without the need for chemical or wired power sources, and could help future sports professionals better monitor their movements to aid rapid improvements, or help caregivers remotely monitor people living with dementia.
ATI researchers have developed a flexible, biodegradable and long-lasting TENG from silk cocoon waste. They used a new alcohol treatment technique, which leads to greater durability for the device, even under harsh or humid environments.
Dr. Bhaskar Dudem, project lead and Research Fellow at the ATI, said: "We are excited to show the world the immense potential of our durable, silk film based nanogenerator. It's ability to work in severe environments while being able to generate electricity and monitor human movements positions our TENG in a class of its own when it comes to the technology."
