New Skin-like Wearable Tech Puts Heartbeat Monitor On User’s Hand

Athletes and active people have a tremendous access to their vitals these days thanks to wearables like Fitbit or other smart wearables, which allow them to see things like heart rate and blood pressure. However, researchers recently created an ultra-thin, elastic sheet that can basically act as a visible heartbeat monitor that could change the wearable terrain forever.

Video game enthusiasts might already be familiar with the concept of visible vitality signs in the form of different-colored lights. Green or blue usually means good, yellow means threatening, and red means substantial damage or death. This new skin tech takes that concept and applies it to real-life by essentially showing the wearer and everyone else how healthy they are, Engadget reports.

Naturally, the difference between the video game concept and the real-life item are still palpable. In the case of the e-skin that was developed by Japanese researchers, the display only comes in red dots and only measures heartbeat. This is thanks to the breathable nanomesh electrode that makes the sheet flexible, with micro LEDs allowing for the display of the images.

In terms of the idea behind the technology, the goal is to make it visible to other people if the wearer experiences trouble. Looking at a clear display telling everyone that the heart was becoming erratic would certainly send the message across.

What’s more, unlike other stretchable displays in the past, this one is a lot more durable. According to a press release, the researchers note that the skin is flexible for up to 45 percent of its original length. This allows the e-skin to resist damage from the wearer’s own movement and can withstand the punishing environment that it is exposed to.

As for its effects on the wearer, it would appear that the mesh can be worn for up to a week without visible irritation to the user. This alone makes it superior to current wearables, which need to be taken off every day.