The device, measuring around 7 centimeters by 5 centimeters, monitors pressure, temperature, and wetness to check when the diaper has been soiled.

Researchers developed flexible circuits, thinner than a piece of plastic wrap, that could be implanted in the body to monitor body temperature or blood pressure or implanted on the roof of the mouth to be used as a touch pad for quadriplegics. This technology was announced in the journal Nature last year.

The new use for the sensor is designed diapers more intelligent, which could help parents know when their baby needs a new diaper, or care providers avoid undressing adults who use diapers just to see if they need changing.

By Lee Shin-young, Intern reporter (sylee@heraldcorp.com)