Development of pressure and contact sensing systems based on multi-layer piezoelectrets for monitoring activities of daily living

• Grant number: 24/23815-4
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• Start date: April 01, 2025
• End date: March 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Mechanical Engineering
• Principal Investigator: Adriano Almeida Gonçalves Siqueira
• Grantee: Melkzedekue de Moraes Alcântara Calabrese Moreira
• Host Institution: Escola de Engenharia de São Carlos (EESC). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Carlos , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 24/01120-4 - Assistive Technology Center for Daily Life Activities, AP.CCD

Abstract

This research project proposes to develop and evaluate pressure and contact sensing systems based on multi-layer piezoelectrets for monitoring different activities of daily living. The proposed sensors could be used to monitor plantar pressure in patients with diabetes; pressure at the patient's points of contact with the exoskeletons; and pressure on the seat, back and armrests of wheelchairs, in real time, enabling instant adjustments to optimize ergonomics and prevent discomfort. Furthermore, the sensors can also be used to identify the phases of walking during tests with exoskeletons to be carried out in the TecVIDA project. (AU)