A respiratory test to detect COVID-19, an alert system against dehydration… These innovations are among the latest medical technologies unveiled at one of the largest technology fairs in the world.
More than 3,200 exhibitors, from 170 countries, came to present cutting-edge innovations at CES* (formerly known as the Consumer Electronics Show), held in Las Vegas from January 5-8.
Here are some new American technologies in the medical sector.
Breath analyzers to detect COVID-19
Baltimore-based company Opteev Technologies says its “ViraWarn” breath analyzer* can detect COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in less than 60 seconds.
No more nasal swabs! All the user has to do is turn on the device and blow twice into the mouthpiece. A light signal will then indicate whether the result is positive or negative.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is currently studying the technology, which is not yet available to the general public.
Dehydration alerts
« Connected Hydration*” is a connected accessory that measures the loss of body fluids and electrolytes present in sweat, while monitoring the temperature and movement of the skin.
The system, consisting of a flexible wearable patch, mobile app and cloud engine, prevents dehydration by triggering an alarm and vibrating when the user’s fluid loss exceeds 2% of their weight .
Cambridge, Massachusetts-based manufacturer Epicore says its invention can be useful for people working in harsh or extreme heat conditions, including construction, mining, agriculture, road transport and warehouse packaging, as well as to athletes. Severe dehydration can cause serious kidney, heart and brain damage.
Innovative sensors
The society Somalytics*, based in Redmond, Washington, says its sensors, developed by researchers at the University of Washington, can detect the presence of human tissue placed up to 20 centimeters away.
This technology has been incorporated into the “SomaSleep” mask, whose sensors track eye movements and detect when the user enters the REM sleep cycle. REM sleep is important for learning and memory.
For its part, the Hyundai company presented an innovation that applies this type of sensor to the new generation of contactless technology: door handles that open with a simple gesture.
A blood pressure monitor without an inflatable cuff
The society Valencell*, of Raleigh, North Carolina, has launched a new blood pressure measurement system without an inflatable cuff. With this lightweight, portable device that sits at your fingertip, the company hopes to make it easier to measure blood pressure and treat chronic conditions like hypertension.
This technology, which captures and monitors the evolution of blood pressure by mobile application, is awaiting approval by the FDA and has not yet been marketed.
Olfactory innovations
Adding scent to virtual experiences opens up new possibilities in healthcare, according to Vermont-based start-up OVR Technology. The company explains that some hospitals, clinics and rehabilitation centers are already using scent to help their patients, especially burn patients, manage the effects of pain, stress and anxiety.
At CES, the company showcased a new connected object*designed for virtual reality technology and features a cartridge that produces odors.
*in English
