As the world becomes more integrated with the Internet of Things (IoT), the demand for security and privacy protection increases evermore. PrintID is an RFID-powered, capacitive sensor tag that enhances the security of personal items including ID cards, banknotes, and legal documents by identifying users with unique fingerprint measurements. This technology eliminates the need for a signature or face ID-based authentication. Furthermore, the tag can be applied to any surface due to the simplicity of inkjet printing. Finally, its compact dimensions, ease of processing, and battery-free operation prove its value for many different sectors to enhance products with added security.

Consultant: Kevin Musselman

With virtual environments such as Metaverse at the forefront of emerging technologies, the virtual reality (VR) market is expected to reach USD 35 billion by 2025. VR technology needs to be cost-effective and functional, yet many VR gloves designed to sense hand motion are still bulky, expensive, and uncomfortable. Our group has designed a motion-sensing glove containing nano-enabled strain sensors which detect finger movement and relay this information to accompanying software for display. The glove is lightweight, comfortable, and affordable, providing an immersive user experience. This product can be implemented in gaming, training simulations, and other emerging VR applications.

Consultant: Vivek Maheshwari

Flexible solar cells are typically fabricated using perovskite and organic materials, which are sensitive to moisture and other environmental pressures. Therefore, we propose a multi-layered encapsulant that will prevent moisture permeation and cell degradation while allowing light to pass through. The design comprises of a PET substrate coated with a nanocomposite consisting of PVB and silica nanoparticles, with the addition of a graphene oxide monolayer. This combination allows for a low moisture permeability while maintaining flexibility and transparency, which are critical parameters for the design. This allows organic solar cells to be used in commercial applications where moisture is present.

Consultant: Neil McManus

In 2019, cancer accounted for 28.2% of all mortalities in Canada. Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer diagnosis in females, accounting for 13% of all cancer-related deaths, although males are also susceptible. Fortunately, if breast cancer is detected early, at or before “stage 1”, the 5-year survival rate is over 95%. Our device allows users to monitor their breast health to detect the early onset of breast cancer. Further, to alleviate the burden on the Canadian healthcare system, users can operate the device without the help of a physician from the comfort of their homes.

Consultant: Dr. Vivek Maheshwari