The University of Arizona team published the project in Nature Communications. Philipp Gutruf, associate department head of biomedical engineering and senior author, led the work. Kevin Kasper, the lead study author and a doctoral candidate, also helped design the device.
The device is a soft mesh sleeve worn around the lower thigh. It is roughly two-inch-wide, 3D-printed and lined with tiny sensors. The sleeve monitors leg acceleration, symmetry and step variability and the team describes the design as "invisible."
The sleeve records motion and runs an AI analysis on the device itself. By sending only analysis results rather than raw recordings, data transmission is reduced and the need for high-speed internet is removed. Results transfer by Bluetooth and the sleeve offers long-range wireless charging so users do not swap batteries. Gutruf has spent seven years developing wearable biomarker technology, and in May his lab published a study on an adhesive-free wearable that tracks signs of stress. Frailty raises the risk of falls, disability and hospitalization; a 2015 study found it affects 15% of US residents 65 and older. Gutruf said the device could let clinicians intervene earlier and help prevent costly and dangerous outcomes.
Difficult words
- acceleration — Increase in speed or rate of movement
- symmetry — Equality of shape or movement on both sides
- variability — Changes or differences in a repeated measurementstep variability
- transmission — Sending data from one place to another
- biomarker — A biological measurement that shows health
- frailty — Weak health that increases risk of harm
- intervene — To act to change or stop a problem
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Would you consider wearing a device like this to monitor mobility? Why or why not?
- How could earlier intervention by clinicians help older adults who show signs of frailty?
- What concerns or benefits do you see when a device runs AI analysis on the device itself?
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