Hydration Monitor Ready for Commercialisation

A wearable device is being developed by the University of Strathclyde will provide real-time data analysis of fluid loss during exercise to enhance the performance of fitness enthusiasts and elite athletes.

Dr Stephen Milne, of Strathclyde’s Department of Biomedical Engineering, has been working on the technology and following successful trials in Qatar and UK, is keen to explore the commercialisation of the product. “Whether you’re a serious athlete or someone who likes to keep fit, it’s important to make sure you get the right amount of fluid before, during and after exercising. The sensor we have developed analyses the sweat produced during activity and provides feedback immediately to a smartphone or computer.

“On an individual level this would allow people to rehydrate during and after exercise. When it comes to team sports, fitness coaches would be able to monitor the data during matches and ensure athletes get what they need to maintain their performance. The sensor is small and wearing it on the skin does not cause any discomfort. During exercise the user would barely be aware of it, allowing them to focus on the activity without distraction.”

The sensors have been developed in the Medical Diagnostics Research Group at the University led by Professor Patricia Connolly. She added: “Stephen has been able to take our work in medical sensors and transdermal sensing from the healthcare applications into the field of sport.

“The stringent application of medical device standards to our laboratory research means that these sensors will be qualified at the highest level for human use and translatable between sports science and medicine.

“This is growing our portfolio of devices for use in home patient monitoring which can be coupled with telehealth systems and smartphones to deliver improved monitoring of patients. This system and our other diagnostics sensors are being supported for commercialisation through a University spin out company, Ohmedics Ltd.”

For further information contact: Dr Alan Lindsay, Industrial Interface Manager, Strathclyde Institute of Medical Devices.

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