Skin‑Attachable Ultrasonic Sensor Enables Cuffless Blood Pressure Tracking

Researchers at the Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials and the Korea Institute of Science and Technology have developed what they describe as the first skin‑attachable ultrasonic sensor capable of measuring blood pressure without the need for a traditional cuff. The work focuses on creating a more comfortable and continuous method for monitoring blood pressure, which is one of the most widely used indicators of cardiovascular health. Conventional cuff‑based devices can be inconvenient, bulky, and unsuitable for continuous use, especially outside clinical settings. The new sensor aims to address these limitations by offering a lightweight, wearable alternative that can be used throughout daily life.

The device is based on a PMN‑PT ultrasonic transducer that adheres directly to the skin. When placed over a blood vessel, the sensor uses ultrasound to detect changes in vascular diameter in real time. These diameter changes correspond to fluctuations in blood pressure. By capturing this information continuously, the sensor can provide a detailed picture of cardiovascular dynamics without requiring the user to inflate a cuff or remain still during measurement. According to the research team, this approach could support more accurate and frequent monitoring, which is especially important for individuals with hypertension or other cardiovascular conditions that require close observation.

The development team highlights that the sensor’s soft, skin‑compatible design makes it suitable for long‑term wear. The researchers emphasize that the technology is intended to serve as a core component for future wearable healthcare systems. By integrating the sensor into smart medical platforms, users could track their blood pressure continuously and share data with clinicians for more personalized care. The team notes that this type of continuous monitoring could help detect early signs of cardiovascular problems and support preventative health strategies.

The research also reflects a broader trend toward non‑invasive physiological monitoring. As wearable health devices become more common, there is growing interest in technologies that can provide clinical‑grade measurements without discomfort or disruption to daily activities. The ultrasonic sensor represents an effort to bridge the gap between traditional medical equipment and consumer‑friendly wearables. The team believes that the sensor’s ability to measure blood pressure without a cuff could make it easier for users to maintain consistent monitoring habits, which is often a challenge with conventional devices.

The researchers plan to continue refining the technology and exploring ways to integrate it into commercial wearable systems. They see potential applications not only in personal health monitoring but also in telemedicine and remote patient management. By enabling continuous, non‑invasive blood pressure tracking, the sensor could contribute to earlier detection of cardiovascular issues and more effective long‑term management of chronic conditions.