Kits for wearable sensor systems: exploring software and hardware system design, building guides, and opportunities for clinical rehabilitation

Abstract

Creating wearable sensor systems is a daunting prospect to healthcare professionals and novice developers: where to start and what to use? This chapter provides a pragmatic guide to low-cost software, hardware, and developer kits for those interested in exploring wearables in clinical populations. Firstly, the build, repurpose or outsource decision process is described. Secondly, key hardware and software design decisions are described to simplify the choice. This encompasses wireless/wired communication methods, data recording and graphical user interface design, choosing and efficiently using a 3D printer, and selecting the right sensors. Two detailed system design examples are then provided: (1) a wireless surface electromyography device; and (2) a global positioning system and accelerometer activity monitoring system. Finally, a brief summary of hardware and software systems available for people new to the field, including graphical and human readable programming languages, 3D modeling software and learn-to-program support, is given.