24 A Non-contact Wearable Device for Monitoring Epidermal Molecular Flux: Design, Application, and Interdisciplinary Innovation

Abstract

This study introduces a novel non-contact wearable device platform designed for continuous monitoring of epidermal molecular flux. Unlike existing wearable technologies that rely on physical coupling, this device forms a sealed chamber on the skin surface through physical decoupling and utilizes integrated wireless sensors to precisely quantify changes in the chamber's microenvironment caused by vaporized molecular substances (such as water vapor, volatile organic compounds, and carbon dioxide) passing through the skin. A programmable bistable valve dynamically controls the connection between the chamber and the surrounding environment. By analyzing the time-dependent readings of the sensors, the transient response is quantitatively correlated with the inward and outward flux of target substances. This system demonstrates a unique ability to measure water vapor, volatile organic compounds, and carbon dioxide flux at different body sites, which are closely related to clinical care and/or exposure to harmful vapors. Studies on skin wound healing processes in healthy and diabetic mouse models, as well as the response in infected wound models, reveal characteristic flux changes, providing important insights, especially in scenarios where the device's non-contact operation avoids potential damage to fragile tissues. From the perspective of design-driven interdisciplinary innovation, this study delves into the system design, experimental methods, and application potential of this device in health monitoring and disease diagnosis, emphasizing its innovative value in promoting personalized medicine and intelligent health management.