Wearable sensors to monitor worker force exertions and prevent injuries
Official title: Skin-interfaced triboelectric sensors continuously monitor worker forceexertions to prevent workplace injuries
Funded at Purdue University · NIH-10871482 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a special glove that can help workers who lift and move heavy things by tracking how much force they use, so they can stay safe and avoid injuries.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Purdue University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (West Lafayette, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $203,075 |
| NIH project number | 1R21OH012710-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10871482 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are workers involved in manual material handling tasks who are at risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not engaged in manual labor or do not perform tasks that involve significant force exertion may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a wearable triboelectric glove system that continuously monitors the force exertions of workers engaged in manual material handling tasks. By utilizing advanced deep-learning techniques, the system aims to provide real-time data on injury risk factors, particularly for musculoskeletal disorders. The goal is to create a practical and scalable solution that can be implemented across various workplaces to enhance worker safety and reduce injury rates.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of workplace injuries related to manual material handling by providing real-time monitoring and feedback.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using wearable sensors for monitoring force exertions is innovative, similar technologies have shown promise in other contexts, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Purdue University
West Lafayette, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yu, Denny — Purdue University
- Study coordinator: Yu, Denny
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.