A flexible pressure sensor based on electrospun fiber for gait monitoring in football training

Abstract

After football players receive high-intensity training, they often have muscle injuries. The development of a stretchable wearable sport sensor with high sensing performance will effectively solve this problem. In this work, we develop a flexible and stretchable pressure sensor based on graphene/ESTANE TPU nanofiber electrodes and the [C2OHMIM]Cl/ESTANE TPU nanofiber electrolyte. Owing to the microporous structure of electrospun film, the pressure sensor has the advantages of good air permeability and skin compatibility. The working mechanism of the pressure sensor is based on the supercapacitance sensing mechanism, which brings a wide detection range, high repeatability, high sensitivity, and fast response. Besides, the sensor installed at the knee can perform gait analysis, such as walking and running with the ball, in football. Furthermore, the sensor array developed can monitor the pressure distribution at the knee in football in real time. This research will promote the application of intelligent sports equipment in football training.