ReKnit-Care: A Seamless-Knitted Sensing Glove for Sensory Rehabilitation and Adaptive Haptic Feedback

While wearable devices for healthcare and rehabilitation have advanced significantly, challenges such as long-term wearability and real-time interaction persist. Existing technologies are often rigid, uncomfortable for prolonged use, hindering effective rehabilitation outcomes. To address these limitations, we present ReKnit-Care, an interactive sensing glove tailored for sensory-impaired individuals with continuous real-time monitoring and exceptional comfort. This designed glove integrates capacitive sensors on finger joints and the wrist, along with electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) electrodes at the fingertips, enabling comprehensive motion detection and haptic feedback. We achieved computable and computerizable seamless integration of flexible electronics through computer numerical control knitting techniques, combining comfort with functionality. We conducted preliminary demonstrations to highlight ReKnit-Care's capabilities in hand motion detection. This research provides a new perspective and approach to enhancing wearable technology in healthcare and rehabilitation, and improving patient outcomes through innovative, wearable solutions.