Foster-Miller applied its textile expertise to putting practical, rugged, comfortable sensors in wearable garments. We met the Army's needs, and designed, manufactured and tested a prototype "wear and forget" textile-based physiological sensor system, integrating electrodes to monitor heart rate with a breathing rate sensor. This system provides tracking and evaluation of an individual's physiological condition, such as hydration level and alertness, without the use of uncomfortable gel-based sensors.An important benefit stemming from this project was combining the sensors and electronics in a flexible, low profile package utilizing Foster-Miller's liquid crystal polymer (LCP) film. Feasibility of the system was demonstrated, and a prototype system was built for field trials. The sensor array will be integrated into a garment. Future development is aimed at including wound healing, which would be provided through electrically stimulated adhesives applied by the garment system to the wound site. Foster-Miller is using this technology as a General Dynamics' team member in the Objective Force Warrior program. The General Dynamics team has been selected to design and build the soldier ensemble of the future. This wearable system will monitor individual health, transmit and receive mission-critical information, protect against weapons, and will be made from lightweight and comfortable materials.
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