Design and implementation of an active diaper-integrated wetness monitoring system
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School of Electrical Engineering |
Master's thesis
Authors
Date
2025-02-24
Department
Major/Subject
Electronic and Digital Systems
Mcode
Degree programme
Master's Programme in Automation and Electrical Engineering
Language
en
Pages
67
Series
Abstract
Urinary incontinence, caused by physical or neurological impairments, is a preva-lent health issue among elderly people which is characterized by involuntary leakage of urine. The issue is mainly managed using absorbent products such as diapers and pads. Delayed change of these absorbent products increases the risk of urinary tract infection and other skin-related health complications. In this thesis, a diaper wet-ness detection system with the capability of providing timely alerts is proposed and developed. To develop the envisioned solution, a system requirement analysis was done. Pro-posed sensor designs were simulated, prototyped, and tested with a human torso model. Sensor models with better sensitivity were selected and fabricated through printed electronics technology. Additionally, a portable, miniaturized, battery-powered readout device with BLE communication was designed to collect and transmit the sensor data to a cloud system. Various experimental and validation tests were done on the wetness detection sensor, readout device and the integrated system. The experimental results for the developed wetness detection sensor demonstrated the sensor’s ability to qualitatively assess diaper wetness level. Designed for external attachment to incontinence diapers, the sensor features high flexibility and reusa-bility enhancing wearability and sustainability. The validation tests on the readout device confirmed reliable power operation, sensor data collection and successful data transmission to a cloud system via a gateway. The designed solution establishes a stepping stone for ongoing research on urinary incontinence management. The sensor development process has shown both the potential and limitations of an external wetness detection sensor that is designed based on the principle of coplanar capacitive sensor. With future developments and optimization, the system can be advanced toward real-world trials.Description
Supervisor
Vujaklija, IvanThesis advisor
Tanzer, OguzKeywords
Smart Diapers, Capacitive Sensors, Printed Electronics, Wearable Technology, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Internet of Things (IoT)