Wearable conductive fiber sensor arrays for measuring multi-axis joint motion

This paper describes a technique that uses conductive fibers as part of a wearable sensor for continuous monitoring of joint movements. Conductive fibers are incorporated into flexible fabrics that are comfortable and acceptable for long-term wear in everyday settings. Continuous monitoring of single or multi-axis joint movement is therefore possible, even when not in the presence of a therapist. A brief overview of the sensor design is presented, including functional requirements and important design parameters. Misalignment errors that may be created every time the subject takes off and puts on the wearable sensor are accounted for by incorporating an array of fiber sensors around the joint and analyzing each sensor´s sensitivity to joint movement during use. This eliminates any need for re-calibration after an initial calibration.