New Swinburne-led startup develops smart shoe that can detect health issues affecting older people

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A smart shoe with inbuilt sensors developed by Swinburne University-led startup, SensFit Technologies, could improve the quality of life of older people through the early detection of dementia, diabetic ulcers and other physical activity issues.

Developed by startup co-founders Professor Franz Konstantin Fuss and Dr Nishar Hameed, the unique technology involves 87 smart sensors bonded with an innovative graphene ink that is embedded in the soles of a shoe.

According to the statement, the unique sensor technology takes readings from the shoes to detect the onset of health issues such as dementia.

“The innovative sensor technology picks up the pattern of movement imprinted in the shoe. Proprietary AI algorithms (which solve specific problems that translate into actions) analyse the data,” reads the statement.

“In doing so, the shoe conducts a neurological assessment, helping users to understand and respond to the onset of health problems such as dementia, diabetic ulcers or the likelihood of a fall.

“This can lead to early treatment – either therapy or medication – for conditions that may not have been detected otherwise.”

SensFit Technologies is now looking for $125,000 in funding to support technology development and clinical trials.

While the researchers developed the technology, they recruited students Minh My Hanh Le, Syed Anwar, Ali Omran, Zoe Halligan and Ashley Walsh to find the right market fit for SensFit Technologies.

After the students conducted data analysis, developed a market strategy, they recommended expanding SensFit Technologies to assist with a range of health issues affecting older people.

Student Ashley claims the technology has the potential to provide the elderly with ‘a better quality of life as they age’.

“I would like to see the technology on the feet of all 750 million people over the age of 65,” he says.

Image credit: https://www.swinburne.edu.au/news/2021/08/Swinburne-startup-uses-smart-shoe-sensors-to-detect-health-issues/