Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have invented a disposable diaper that automatically detects wetness caused by urine and alerts caregivers that it's time for changing. A press release describes how it works:
The sensor consists of a passive radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, that is placed below a layer of super absorbent polymer, a type of hydrogel that is typically used in diapers to soak up moisture. When the hydrogel is wet, the material expands and becomes slightly conductive — enough to trigger the RFID tag to send a radio signal to an RFID reader up to 1 meter away.
The researchers say the design is the first demonstration of hydrogel as a functional antenna element for moisture sensing in diapers using RFID. They estimate that the sensor costs less than 2 cents to manufacture, making it a low-cost, disposable alternative to other smart diaper technology.
-via Walyou | Image: MIT
So not necessary. At least, not for our kids. Nor the preschool teachers. (What at they going to do - sync their phones they don't carry because the kids will want to play with them all the time to all of the diapers in the room? And how do they know *which* kid is wet?) Plus, do I still get the notice about a discarded wet one which I wrapped up but haven't discarded yet because the baby needed soothing?
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