Wearable Elastic Band Based On 3D-Printed Fiber Bragg Grating Sensor for Knee Joint Monitoring

Wearable sensors are gaining popularity for human joint monitoring. In particular, devices for knee joint have been extensively researched in this field, owing to its involvement in performing most daily activities. Different sensing technologies have been explored to develop such systems. Among these, wearables based on fiber Bragg grating sensors (FBGs) have received widespread acceptance thanks to their several advantages (e.g., small dimensions, good metrological characteristics, and multiplexing capability). Recent advancements have highlighted fused deposition modeling as a promising technique for FBG encapsulation into 3D printing substrates. This approach promotes the development of highly tailored devices at lower costs, making it an attractive alternative for wearable applications. However, the literature on wearable solutions based on 3D-printed FBG sensors for knee joint monitoring remains limited. Here, we reported the design and fabrication of a wearable elastic band based on a 3D-printed FBG sensor conceived to be worn above the knee joint. Both static and dynamic tests on two health volunteers allowed us to assess the feasibility of the proposed system in knee joint monitoring. The promising performance obtained show the applicability of the wearable band to be used in clinical and sports fields.