A recent Medgadget article discussed a new wearable that aids in the recovery from a stroke. The device, created by MIT researchers (of course), is a fabric glove that can detect subtle pressure changes along its surface when the user grabs something. This is made possible by tiny sensors threaded throughout the glove that contain micro pillars that alter the electrical signal when they are morphed. This enables the glove to measure tactile pressure, the wearer’s pulse, and even vital signs more accurately than smart watches.
The main function of the glove is to help expedite motor function retraining in stroke patients during rehabilitation. It allows the wearer to fine tune their hand strength and grip, and even measure their progress as they go. The team behind the device intends to apply the technology to other wearables such as flexible patches that measure pulse and blood pressure more accurately than current devices.
