埋め込み型Brain Machine InterfaceからSensing Fabric “hitoe”による常時生体信号計測へ

抄録

We have developed textile electrodes which offer a sustainable monitoring of bioelectrical signals such as ECG EMG EEG. Combined material of electro-conductive polyelectrolyte, PEDOT-PSS and silk fibers was originally processed for chronically implanted brain machine interface. This material is excellent in biocompatibility and electroconductivity for implanted electrodes to record neural spikes in the rat's brain cortex. To make textile electrodes which have sufficient durability, base fiber was switched from silk to extra fine synthetic fiber (nanofiber φ 700nm). The fabric, named “hitoe” has air permeability, soft texture and sufficient durability as conventional underwear, including repeatedly use and machine washing. Nanofiber combined textile electrode reduced skin-electrode impedance and minimized skin irritation in long term monitoring. The electrodes, placed inside the undershirts and connected to wireless bio-signal amplifiers, enable to use general user and reduced the stress to the subjects. Biosignals, heart rate and its variability recorded from “hitoe”, elucidates the long-term life style information including autonomic nerve function and physical activity.