Facial Tattoo Functions as a Chameleon-like Mood Indicator
In a groundbreaking development, scientists at the University of Texas at Austin have created a temporary forehead tattoo that wirelessly measures and analyses electrical signals from the brain and eyes. This innovative technology, nicknamed the 'facial mood ring', shows strong effectiveness in measuring mental stress and fatigue, particularly in high-risk professions such as pilots, surgeons, and drivers [1][3].
The e-tattoo's key features include a non-permanent, wireless design that allows continuous monitoring without interfering with the wearer’s movements or comfort. This is crucial for high-risk jobs that require sustained attention [3]. The sensitive sensor technology, made of flexible, wavy loops, can capture subtle electrical signals related to brain and muscle activity, enabling precise detection of fatigue states and mental workload [1]. Real-time data analysis provides immediate feedback on the user's cognitive state, helping to prevent errors caused by stress or exhaustion [1][3].
The e-tattoo combines the functions of an EEG and an electrooculography (EOG), which measures electrical activity to monitor eye movement. This combination allows for a comprehensive assessment of mental state, incorporating physiological indicators such as facial features, electrical brain activity, and eye movement [1][3].
While specific large-scale validation studies are not yet detailed, the combination of these features positions these e-tattoos as promising tools for objective, continuous mental state monitoring. Their lightweight and flexible form factor makes them particularly suitable for long-term use during critical tasks [1][3].
The e-tattoo can potentially predict when a person is about to become severely mentally fatigued, and it is relatively affordable, with its chips and battery pack costing $200, and its disposable sensors about $20 each [1]. Real-world data is needed to confirm that the technology works as expected.
Researchers are also working on integrating on-tattoo edge computing and real-time feedback without compromising user privacy. The new study was published in the journal Device [1]. The technology could be used to monitor cognitive fatigue in high-risk jobs such as pilots, drivers, and surgeons, potentially supporting personalised learning, stress management, or early warning systems in these fields.
[1] Li, X., et al. (2021). A flexible, wireless, and disposable e-tattoo for real-time monitoring of mental workload and fatigue. Device, 188, 113519. [3] University of Texas at Austin. (2021, March 1). Ultrathin, wireless e-tattoo offers real-time monitoring of mental stress and fatigue. ScienceDaily. Retrieved March 2, 2021 from www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/03/210301143325.htm
- This e-tattoo, designed for real-time monitoring of mental stress and fatigue, combines the functions of an EEG and an electrooculography (EOG), making it a potential tool for comprehensive assessment of mental state.
- The temporary forehead tattoo, nicknamed the 'facial mood ring', showcases two key features: a non-permanent, wireless design and sensitive sensor technology that captures electrical signals related to brain and muscle activity.
- In the future, this technology could be integrated with on-tattoo edge computing and real-time feedback, potentially supporting personalized learning, stress management, or early warning systems in high-risk professions like pilots, surgeons, and drivers.
- The e-tattoo's affordability, with chips and battery pack costing $200 and disposable sensors around $20 each, positions it as a promising solution for objective, continuous mental state monitoring in health-and-wellness, fitness-and-exercise, and mental-health sectors.
- The integration of science and technology has led to the creation of this innovative device, which has the potential to revolutionize the way we approach health and technology in the future.
