Integrated Pneumatic-Auxiliary Sensing Array for Real-Time Elbow Joint Kinematics Tracking and Anomaly Prevention

Abstract

Flexible sensors integrating motion detection and tactile perception capabilities demonstrate significant potential in aerospace biomechanics and medical rehabilitation. Here, we report a biomimetic inflatable chamber sensor that synergistically integrates pneumatic-auxiliary and electronic sensing for elbow joint health monitoring. The device architecture combines multiwalled carbon nanotube-reinforced silicone composites with embedded electrode arrays integrated within the inner lining of inflatable chambers, achieving high sensitivity while maintaining signal stability under electromagnetic interference. Dual-mode operation enables textile-integrated elbow joint kinematics mapping in passive mode and pneumatically tunable collision detection with pressure-adaptive safety response. Experimental validation demonstrated the diagnostic methodology's optimal efficiency and accuracy, highlighting its potential as elbow joint injury rehabilitation training equipment. This pneumotronic design paradigm bridges soft robotics and wearable electronics, providing positive impacts for joint diagnosis and rehabilitation.