This is an article that speaks to the kid somewhere inside us all. Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new use for a novel technology I was always excited about as a kid. They have taken polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) sheets, commonly used as temporary tattoos for children, and embedded electronics in them to create what they are calling “Epidermal Electronic Systems” (EES). These systems have been used for a variety of things including electrocardiography (ECG), electroencephalography (EEG), and electromyography (EMG) readings. The technology offers results comparable to more traditional systems, but has the distinct advantage that they can be worn for up to 24 hours, 6 of which are recorded, and be almost unnoticeable in the way their mechanical properties mimic the human skin. Check out the article for more information.

I know I for one am excited about the possibility that all of my future temporary tattoos may do more than just look cool.

http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=skin-electronic-patch