Sensors in Wearable Devices

Application

Wearables from Concept to Creation

Explore sensors found in wearable devices for consumer, medical and health, and defense applications.

With the growing expectation of being connected anytime and anywhere, wearable technology has evolved to be one of the largest growing industries. New opportunities in the market, such as the internet of things (IoT) and smart mobile devices, have accelerated the development of wearables since they provide many benefits to users. From consumer wearables that aid in a healthier lifestyle to medical wearables that help determine a patient’s vital signs, sensing components help bring these wearable technologies to life offering users a sense of safety, productivity and health incentives. As the wearable industry continues to advance, the need for more accurate, compact and reliable sensing technologies becomes necessary for proper long-term functionality in wearables.

fall detection device — Fall Detection Device

Medical Wearables

Fall Detection Devices

Piezo film sensors measure sudden impact and patient motion
Pressure sensors measure rapid altitude changes if a patient falls

Prosthetics

Force sensors measure dynamic and static loads on the prosthesis
Piezo film sensors monitor dynamic flexing and stresses on prosthetic components
Position sensors monitor the location and motion of the prosthetic device
Vibration sensors monitor orientation of the patient and device

Sleep Apnea Devices

Photo optic sensors measure SpO₂ level and heart rate
Temperature sensors monitor skin and expiration temperature
Humidity sensors measure ambient relative humidity and expiration humidity level
Pressure sensors monitor inhalation and expiration activity
Piezo film sensors monitor patient limb activity and Rapid Eye Movement (REM)

Vital Sign Devices

Photo optic sensors measure heart rate and SpO₂ levels
Temperature sensors measure skin and expiration temperatures
Pressure sensors monitor inhalation and expiration activity

Military & Defense Wearables

Combat Helmets

Piezo film sensors monitor impact intensity and location
Vibration sensors measure the impact orientation and intensity

Soldier Worn Devices

Photo optic sensors monitor soldier heart rate and SpO₂ levels
Humidity sensors monitor skin moisture
Vibration sensors measure soldier activity levels
Temperature sensors measure ambient and skin temperature

Consumer Wearables

Altimeter Watches

Humidity sensors monitor local relative humidity
Pressure sensors monitor altitude
Temperature sensors measure local air temperature

Dive Computer

Pressure sensors monitor dive depth and altitude
Temperature sensors measure water temperature

Fitness Watches

Temperature sensors measure local air temperature or skin temperature
Humidity sensors monitor local relative humidity or skin moisture
Pressure sensors monitor altitude changes
Piezo film sensors monitor user motion and general activity levels
Photo optic sensors measure heart rate and SpO₂ levels

Ski Goggles

Pressure sensors monitor altitude changes for heads-up display data
Humidity and temperature sensors help control goggle defogging fan