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Highly Sensitive Fiber Strain Sensors through the use of Advanced Applied Material Technologies
We are developing the next-generation of wearable devices and have a technology that has multi avenues for new research! Our aim is to first, rationally design our sensors through theoretical understanding and then thoughtfully fabricate the sensors with our expertise in polymer and material science
The expansion of the field of wearables is progressing at a rapid rate with large companies such as Nike and Adidas experimenting with incorporating technology into clothing that can provide the user with valuable metrics. We see wearable devices as seamlessly integrated technology into the clothes we wear. The technology is currently limited by the accuracy, connectivity, and integration—sensors need to be more precise, connections need to be wireless and unobtrusive, and the integration into clothing needs to be seamless. This project focuses on the sensor and method to fabricate a sensor that is highly sensitive yet can be integrated into textiles just as normal unfunctionalized fibers can be. The objective of the project is to create a sensor using an electrospinning method that provides better sensitivity in comparison to more traditional techniques such as dip-coating or extrusion. Mechanical and electrical analysis of materials, and fabricated sensors will be completed continually as we improve the materials and fabrication techniques. Ideally, sensors are tested in a proof-of-concept wearable device (in collaboration with other researchers focusing on the other aspects noted above) to prove the sensors improved performance. The work will be performed under the supervision of Dr. Tyler Cuthbert and Prof. Dr. Carlo Menon of the Department of Health Sciences and Technology.
The expansion of the field of wearables is progressing at a rapid rate with large companies such as Nike and Adidas experimenting with incorporating technology into clothing that can provide the user with valuable metrics. We see wearable devices as seamlessly integrated technology into the clothes we wear. The technology is currently limited by the accuracy, connectivity, and integration—sensors need to be more precise, connections need to be wireless and unobtrusive, and the integration into clothing needs to be seamless. This project focuses on the sensor and method to fabricate a sensor that is highly sensitive yet can be integrated into textiles just as normal unfunctionalized fibers can be. The objective of the project is to create a sensor using an electrospinning method that provides better sensitivity in comparison to more traditional techniques such as dip-coating or extrusion. Mechanical and electrical analysis of materials, and fabricated sensors will be completed continually as we improve the materials and fabrication techniques. Ideally, sensors are tested in a proof-of-concept wearable device (in collaboration with other researchers focusing on the other aspects noted above) to prove the sensors improved performance. The work will be performed under the supervision of Dr. Tyler Cuthbert and Prof. Dr. Carlo Menon of the Department of Health Sciences and Technology.
• Complete the production of multiple variations of the sensors;
• Complete in depth mechanical and electrical characterization of the sensor;
• Produce a theoretical model to understand the performance improvements of the sensor design and composition;
• Evaluate the limitations and points of failure of the materials;
Tasks
• Literature research (10%)
• Material Production/Optimization, Characterization and Analysis (60%)
• Failure/Limitation Testing (10%)
• Proof-of-concept production and testing (10%)
• Report and presentation (10%)
Your Profile
• Background in Material Science, Engineering (such as Chemical or Mechanical), Applied Sciences, etc.
• Prior experience in a laboratory environment
• Experience using an electrospinner or extruder
• Independent worker with critical thinking and problem solving skills
• Interest in advanced materials, textiles, functional materials, sensors, etc
• Complete the production of multiple variations of the sensors; • Complete in depth mechanical and electrical characterization of the sensor; • Produce a theoretical model to understand the performance improvements of the sensor design and composition; • Evaluate the limitations and points of failure of the materials;
Tasks • Literature research (10%) • Material Production/Optimization, Characterization and Analysis (60%) • Failure/Limitation Testing (10%) • Proof-of-concept production and testing (10%) • Report and presentation (10%)
Your Profile • Background in Material Science, Engineering (such as Chemical or Mechanical), Applied Sciences, etc. • Prior experience in a laboratory environment • Experience using an electrospinner or extruder • Independent worker with critical thinking and problem solving skills • Interest in advanced materials, textiles, functional materials, sensors, etc
Prof Dr Carlo Menon and Dr. Tyler Cuthbert will supervise the student and the research will be performed at the Biomedical and Mobile Health Technology lab (www.bmht.ethz.ch) at ETH Zurich, Switzerland.
To apply, use the button below to tell us why you want to do this project ("motivation"); attach a mini CV with your current program of study, your grades and any other info you deem relevant--maybe the name and phone number of a postdoc or a professor willing to be your reference); and make any further comments ("additional remarks"). Please include length of time that your project or thesis will occupy (i.e. 2 months, 6 months, etc)
Prof Dr Carlo Menon and Dr. Tyler Cuthbert will supervise the student and the research will be performed at the Biomedical and Mobile Health Technology lab (www.bmht.ethz.ch) at ETH Zurich, Switzerland.
To apply, use the button below to tell us why you want to do this project ("motivation"); attach a mini CV with your current program of study, your grades and any other info you deem relevant--maybe the name and phone number of a postdoc or a professor willing to be your reference); and make any further comments ("additional remarks"). Please include length of time that your project or thesis will occupy (i.e. 2 months, 6 months, etc)