Exploring the Future of Wearable Technology: Bhavya Jain’s Summer at NC State

Bhavya Jain, graduate researcher at NC State ECE, is developing cutting-edge wearable sensing technology and eco-friendly power sources. This summer, Jain led research on flexible-wearable sensors and a biocompatible battery.

Bhavya Jain ‘24, a graduate researcher at NC State University, is making strides in the realm of wearable sensing technology and unusual power sources. This summer, Jain has been working at the ASSIST Center under the mentorship of Prof. Amay J. Bandodkar, where he has led groundbreaking research projects that blend engineering, data and design.

Jain’s thrilling start at NC State

Jain’s thrilling start at NC State has been both busy and fruitful, as he has spearheaded two significant projects. The first focuses on developing flexible-wearable sensors for pressure-sensing applications. The second involves creating an innovative energy harvesting system using a biocompatible battery. Jain elaborates, “Developing any physical device requires expertise in electronics, materials and design, and this summer, I got an opportunity to exploit all of them.”

His research on the biocompatible battery addresses a critical environmental issue. “From the beginning, mainstream power sources such as commercial batteries and supercapacitors are super toxic and hazardous to the environment. We came up with an energy harvesting system aided with a biocompatible battery that harmlessly resorbs in the environment. This lightweight battery can significantly reduce carbon footprints and be easily mass-produced at a low cost.”

Jain is equally enthusiastic about his work on wearable pressure sensors. “Another thrilling project I am working on is wearable pressure sensors. Using an interdigitated electrode (IDE), our team is focusing on optimizing the design and electrical properties to achieve precise pressure sensing. A unique feature of this sensor is its ability to provide a visual interpretation of the amount of pressure, which has potential applications in real-world wearable devices.”

A2i Immersion Week

His summer was further enriched by attending the 9th A2i Immersion week, where he engaged in elevator pitches, industry insights, research methodologies and learning from inspiring speakers. Jain shares, “It was a lifetime experience.”

Being part of such impactful research early in his graduate studies has been incredibly motivating for Jain. “I am extremely fortunate to have Dr. Bandodkar as my advisor, whose guidance has been invaluable. It was undoubtedly a very productive summer for me, it broadened my perspective on how interdisciplinary collaboration can lead to significant breakthroughs. I am excited to contribute to a future where advanced medical technologies improve human health while safeguarding our planet.”

Bhavya Jain’s story is a testament to the incredible opportunities and experiences available to students at NC State. His dedication and passion exemplify the spirit of innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration that define the #SummerExperiences at NC State Electrical and Computer Engineering. #ThinkECE

The ASSIST Center at NC State, formally known as the Center for Advanced Self-Powered Systems of Integrated Sensors and Technologies, focuses on creating innovative, self-powered sensing, computing, and communication systems to enable data-driven insights for a smarter, healthier world. By integrating advances in energy harvesting, low-power electronics, and sensors, ASSIST aims to develop cutting-edge systems for high-value applications such as healthcare and the Internet of Things (IoT)​ (ASSIST)​​​.