Probing human skin as an information-rich biological interface using MEMS-based informatics

Shekhar Bhansali; H. Thurman Henderson; Steven B. Hoath

doi:10.1117/12.420850

21 March 2001 Probing human skin as an information-rich biological interface using MEMS-based informatics

Shekhar Bhansali, H. Thurman Henderson, Steven B. Hoath

Proceedings Volume 4235, Smart Structures and Devices; (2001) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.420850
Event: Smart Materials and MEMS, 2000, Melbourne, Australia

Abstract

This paper describes our investigation of the dynamic, information rich, mOlecular structure of the ultimate smart interface — human skin - by coupling advances in biological, Microsystems, and information technology. The outer layer of human skin, the stratum comeum, is a biologically complex thin film that has unique molecular mechanisms that allow it to function simultaneously as a structural and as a perceptual interface. It is continuously "sampled" by the brain in terms of visual, tactile, and olfactory cues. It interfaces the organism with its environment and has unique micro/nano architecture from an engineering standpoint; e.g., it simultaneously retains and uses water to plasticize the membrane for flexibility. This paper focuses on the development of a sampling interface and MEMS components for a freestanding, multifunctional, multimode, microfluidics-based sensor system for real time physiological monitoring. This research will enable us to gain an insight into the functioning of the human at a fundamental level (from cellular to population) that has not been possible before.

Citation Download Citation

Shekhar Bhansali, H. Thurman Henderson, and Steven B. Hoath "Probing human skin as an information-rich biological interface using MEMS-based informatics", Proc. SPIE 4235, Smart Structures and Devices, (21 March 2001); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.420850

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