Helen Maynard: Body scanner prototype

Helen Maynard Photography

This is the ultimate sci-fi test, which is closer to reality that we might imagine! This revolutionarily diagnostic device uses novel non-invasive techniques to analyse a range of vital signs to establish if an infection is present. The device only needs to touch the skin to make an analysis.

The scanner contains the software to make an analysis of the data it collects from the skin which results in a recommended course of action for the clinician. The device is reusable and there is no requirement for costly consumables. The scanner is also Wi-Fi enabled and can send the data it collects to another device (computer, tablet, phone) that it is paired with, and/or on its own display. It can be used remotely; it does not need to send the data it collects immediately.

We have already seen a range of non-invasive technologies come to market - apps that uses your phone to check your heart rate, non-invasive methods for analysing blood through low powered radio waves, and devices that can analyse blood glucose from interstitial fluid or even sweat. This new body scanner device brings together some of the leading non-invasive testing methods into one compact and reusable device.

Advantages:

  • it's simple to use - anybody can hold it to their skin to test themselves
  • it's portable - it can be used remotely of the place where the data is analysed
  • it's non-invasive - there is no need to collect any sample type such as blood, urine or saliva
  • it's clear - the software tells the clinician the best course of action after the data has been analysed