Moisture sensor sends alerts when nappies are wet
Researchers have developed a low-cost nappy embedded with a moisture sensor that sends alerts to a smartphone or computer when the nappy is wet.
The moisture sensor consists of a passive radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, that is placed below a layer of super absorbent polymer, a hydrogel typically used in nappies to soak up moisture. When the hydrogel is wet, the material expands and becomes conductive enough to trigger the RFID tag to send a radio signal to an RFID reader up to 1m away.
RFID tracking system could replace machine vision on robots
The researchers from MIT claim the design is the first demonstration of hydrogel as a functional antenna element for moisture sensing in nappies using RFID. They estimate that the sensor costs under 2 cents to manufacture, making it a low-cost, disposable alternative to other smart nappy technology.
Over time, smart nappies could help record and identify health problems, such as signs of constipation or incontinence. The new sensor may be especially useful for nurses working in neonatal units and caring for multiple babies.
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