Vinci Hung is a PhD candidate at the University of Toronto who has developed a metabolism sensor cleverly disguised as a temporary tattoo. The tattoo, designed to look like a man with a smiley face and a top hat, is actually an ion-selective electrode. The device can be used to monitor the skin’s pH levels in relation to metabolic changes.
The sensor is applied to the skin like a normal temporary tattoo. Its eyes function as references electrodes and the ears work as the contacts needed to make a measuring device work. This type of sensor could make it possible for weekend warriors to monitor their workouts without the need for expensive equipment. Currently, Vinci Hung has no plans to make his invention commercially available, but he has published a paper that details the device’s creation.
Athlete-Monitoring Tattoos
Vinci Hung’s Temporary Tattoos Track Changes in Metabolism
Trend Themes
1. Metabolism-tracking Tattoos - Temporary tattoos with metabolism sensors can revolutionize the way people monitor their workouts without the need for expensive equipment.
2. Ion-selective Electrodes - Developing ion-selective electrodes for different applications, like metabolism tracking, can lead to more accurate and cost-effective sensing technology.
3. Low-cost Fitness Monitoring - Creating low-cost fitness monitoring solutions can open up new markets and enable more people to track their fitness progress without breaking the bank.
Industry Implications
1. Fitness Tracker - Fitness tracking companies can leverage metabolism-tracking tattoos to offer a new, affordable, and convenient way to monitor workout progress.
2. Medical Devices - Medical device manufacturers can explore new ways of incorporating ion-selective electrodes in medical devices for health monitoring and diagnostics.
3. Temporary Tattoo Industry - Temporary tattoo companies can develop new products that offer more than just a temporary design, but also functional sensors that can be used for various applications.