Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Heartbeat visualizer lets your ticker power a light show (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/08/heartbeat-visualizer-lets-your-ticker-power-a-light-show-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/08/heartbeat-visualizer-lets-your-ticker-power-a-light-show-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/08/heartbeat-visualizer-lets-your-ticker-power-a-light-show-video/#comments Image

It may look like something that'd be at home in iTunes, but this visualizer developed by NYU student Phan V is linked to something even more unique to you than your music collection. With the aid of a mic'd up stethoscope, it's able to visualize a person's heartbeat in a manner that has quite a bit more punch than the usual means -- the person's pulse rate determines the speed of the animation, while the volume of the heartbeat captured determines the brightness. Practical? Maybe not, but you can check it out in action in the video after the break.

Continue reading Heartbeat visualizer lets your ticker power a light show (video)

Heartbeat visualizer lets your ticker power a light show (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 08 May 2012 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DIYheartheart beatHeartBeatstethoscopevideovisualizerTue, 08 May 2012 12:03:00 EST<![CDATA[DARPA to develop biometric sensor capable of seeing through walls, pulling your heartstrings]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/21/darpa-to-develop-biometric-sensor-capable-of-seeing-through-wall/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/21/darpa-to-develop-biometric-sensor-capable-of-seeing-through-wall/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/21/darpa-to-develop-biometric-sensor-capable-of-seeing-through-wall/#comments The feds may soon know the way to your heart. Literally. Earlier this month, the forward-thinkers over at DARPA announced plans to develop new technologies capable of identifying human life through walls. The program, known as "Biometrics-at-a-distance," would essentially combine two pre-existing Pentagon projects: the Radar Scope, a device that can see through walls, and 2009's LifeReader, a system that uses Doppler radar to detect heartbeats. Though the military already employs a handful of devices to help soldiers see humans from behind walls, DARPA apparently thinks there's room for improvement. Most contemporary technologies, for example, only work from a maximum distance of eight meters, and aren't as accurate within more densely populated areas. DARPA wants its next project to extend this range beyond ten meters, while sharpening its ability to penetrate thicker obstructions. The agency also wants its sensor to identify individual humans using electrocardiography, which traces the heart's electrical activity. According to DARPA, this could allow users to pinpoint up to ten people at the same time, which could pay dividends during disaster rescue efforts, military operations, or your next Eyes Wide Shut party.

DARPA to develop biometric sensor capable of seeing through walls, pulling your heartstrings originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 Nov 2011 17:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armybiometricbiometric IDBiometricIdbiometrics at a distanceBiometricsAtADistanceconceptDARPAelectrocardiographyfederalfedsgovernmentheartheartbeathumanlifereadermilitarypentagonprojectradarradar scopeRadarScopescansensortechnologywallswarwargadgetMon, 21 Nov 2011 17:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Oregon Scientific trots out Gaiam Touch button-free heart rate monitors]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/11/oregon-scientific-trouts-out-gaiam-touch-button-free-heart-rate/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/11/oregon-scientific-trouts-out-gaiam-touch-button-free-heart-rate/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/11/oregon-scientific-trouts-out-gaiam-touch-button-free-heart-rate/#commentsThey're being hailed as the first button-free, touch screen heart rate monitors, with Oregon Scientific and Gaiam teaming up to produce the wearable SE338M and SE336. According to the companies, these things are a scant two millimeters thinner than any competing product on the market, and they've even captured an International CES Innovations 2012 Design and Engineering Award in the Health & Wellness category. Looking more like a watch than a fitness / health tool, the Touch line supports both wrist and chest-worn options, utilizing ECG technology that requires but a single touch of the finger on the monitor's sensor for an accurate heart rate reading. For those eying the strap model, that one operates in digital and analog modes and tracks fat burned, though the strap-free model will also track calories burned and heart rate data. Predictably, you'll also find a stopwatch, zone alarm, clock and calendar, and those itching to find a stocking stuffer this early can plop down $99.99 to $109.99 right now at the Oregon Scientific Online Store, Target, Sports Authority, Academy Sports, MC Sports and Athleta.

Continue reading Oregon Scientific trots out Gaiam Touch button-free heart rate monitors

Oregon Scientific trots out Gaiam Touch button-free heart rate monitors originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 11 Nov 2011 15:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoryexercisefitnessGaiamGaiam TouchGaiamTouchhealthheartheart rateheart rate monitorHeartRateHeartRateMonitormedicalminipostOregon ScientificOregonScientificperipheralse336se338mFri, 11 Nov 2011 15:56:00 EST<![CDATA[New sensor can read your heart from afar, but knows not your feelings]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/03/new-sensor-can-read-your-heart-from-afar-but-knows-not-your-fee/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/03/new-sensor-can-read-your-heart-from-afar-but-knows-not-your-fee/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/03/new-sensor-can-read-your-heart-from-afar-but-knows-not-your-fee/#comments
Are you fed up with your current ECG sensor? Tired of all the mess of electroconductive gels, sticky electrodes and tangled wires? How about this: Britain's Plessey Semiconductors offers an ECG sensor that promises heart-monitoring without the hassle. We've seen similar technology before, but according to the company, the Electric Potential Integrated Circuit -- or EPIC, as it's humbly called -- can read heartbeats even through a sweater; future versions might be embedded in hospital gurneys for constant, unobtrusive monitoring. Like an extremely sensitive voltmeter, it detects tiny changes in electric fields, which means it could also be used for Kinect-style motion interfaces. The company even imagines a future system where firefighters can use the EPIC to find humans in a smoke-filled room. If you're thinking, "My, that sounds just like my Deus Ex dreams" -- hey, we're right there with you.

New sensor can read your heart from afar, but knows not your feelings originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 05:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biometricbiosensorBritainecgElectrocardiogramepicepic sensorEpicSensorhealthhearthospitalmedicalmonitormonitoringPlessey SemiconductorsPlesseySemiconductorssensorsensorsThu, 03 Nov 2011 05:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Scientists find less damaging defibrillation method, heart tissue relieved]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/16/scientists-find-less-damaging-defibrillation-method-heart-tissu/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/16/scientists-find-less-damaging-defibrillation-method-heart-tissu/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/16/scientists-find-less-damaging-defibrillation-method-heart-tissu/#commentsGood news, aging Earthlings: a team of researchers have found a way to shock a coding patient's heart, while leaving other organs and tissues undamaged from the defibrillator. The device send a single high voltage pulse of electrical energy to a patient's chest in order to fix an irregular or nonexistent heart beat; traditionally, what often results is damage to point of contact and surrounding skin cells, muscles and tissues, but a team of whiz kids have seemingly figured out a way to dodge the dreadfulness.

Led by scientists Stefan Luther and Flavio Fenton, the team claims that by using a series of five pulses of less potent shocks (instead of a single concentrated charge), docs can see an 84 percent reduction in damaging power. This new technology -- coined low-energy antifibrillation pacing (LEAP) -- can also be used in implanted defibrillators, not just the well-known flappy paddles. Due to the relatively low emissions, both the patient and such implants have extended lives. And that, friends, is good for us all -- given the impending Robot Apocalypse, we'll be needing those extra years just to hold down the fort.

Scientists find less damaging defibrillation method, heart tissue relieved originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 16 Jul 2011 01:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chargedefibdefibrillatorDefibrillatorsdoctorsElectricalElectrical chargeElectricalChargefibrillationFlavio FentonFlavioFentonhealthheartHeart attackHeartAttackHospitaljoltLEAPlow-energymedicalpatientpulseResearchResearcherResearchersScientistscientistsshockStefan LutherStefanLutherSat, 16 Jul 2011 01:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford car seat prototype keeps its sensors on your heart, so you can keep your eyes on the road]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/24/ford-car-seat-prototype-keeps-its-sensors-on-your-heart-so-you/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/24/ford-car-seat-prototype-keeps-its-sensors-on-your-heart-so-you/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/24/ford-car-seat-prototype-keeps-its-sensors-on-your-heart-so-you/#comments Chevy had the whole "Heartbeat of America" thing cornered in the 80s, but now its Ford's turn to get in on the action. The car maker's European research team unveiled a prototype car seat capable of monitoring a driver's heart courtesy of six embedded electrodes, which can take measurements without coming in direct contact with skin. The technology, the latest in a recent string of health-related in-vehicle concepts from the company, can detect whether the driver is having a heart attack and transmit that information to the vehicle's safety system. According to the researchers, the system is already highly accurate in its prototype state, making correct readings for 98 percent of drive time with 95 percent of the drivers tested. For more information on the system, check the video and press release after the break.

Continue reading Ford car seat prototype keeps its sensors on your heart, so you can keep your eyes on the road

Ford car seat prototype keeps its sensors on your heart, so you can keep your eyes on the road originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 May 2011 23:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carcar seatCarSeatdiodefordford researchFordResearchhealthheartheart monitorheart monitorsHeartMonitorHeartMonitorsprototypevideoTue, 24 May 2011 23:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Heart Spark pendant blinks with your heart, automatically gets you into B.E.D. (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/21/heart-spark-pendant-blinks-with-your-heart-automatically-gets-y/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/21/heart-spark-pendant-blinks-with-your-heart-automatically-gets-y/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/21/heart-spark-pendant-blinks-with-your-heart-automatically-gets-y/#comments Not that we haven't been inundated with circuit-related fashion accessories in the past, but if you've already started thinking about what to get that lovely lad (or lady) in your life come February, look no further. SenseBridge, a research group with loads of passion, has just revealed the Heart Spark ($69, on sale now) -- a wearable pendant with an integrated wireless receiver, a smattering of LEDs and a wow factor that's downright heartwarming. The fortunate wearer must also strap a belt around their chest in order to monitor their heart rate, which is then transmitted wirelessly to the Heart Spark; upon receiving the information, the onboard lights will flash at the same rate as your heart, making it easy for the love of your life to see when your heart is aflutter. Video demonstration is just past the break, and yes, it's about as precious as you'd imagine.

Continue reading Heart Spark pendant blinks with your heart, automatically gets you into B.E.D. (video)

Heart Spark pendant blinks with your heart, automatically gets you into B.E.D. (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Dec 2010 00:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arduinoheartheart rateheart rate monitorHeart SparkHeartRateHeartRateMonitorHeartSparkjewelrylednecklacependantvideowearablewearablesTue, 21 Dec 2010 00:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Medtronic debuts tiny lead-less pacemaker at TEDMED 2010]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/28/medtronic-debuts-tiny-lead-less-pacemaker-at-tedmed-2010/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/28/medtronic-debuts-tiny-lead-less-pacemaker-at-tedmed-2010/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/28/medtronic-debuts-tiny-lead-less-pacemaker-at-tedmed-2010/#comments There are two pacemakers in the picture above. There's the typical clunky, stone shaped device with wires on the right -- and on the left, a device dwarfed even by a one-cent coin. This is the Medtronic wireless pacemaker, just revealed at TEDMED 2010, which can be implanted directly into your heart via catheter and permanently latch itself into flesh with tiny claws. Then, doctors can wirelessly monitor and even control the device from a nearby smartphone. Medtronic's working to make it even smaller still, and we're hoping to get more information soon. Welcome to the future, folks.

Gallery: Medtronic leadless pacemaker at TEDMED 2010

Medtronic debuts tiny lead-less pacemaker at TEDMED 2010 originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 28 Oct 2010 21:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>health careHealthCareheartimplantimplantableimplantslead-lessleadlessmedicalmedicinemedtronicpacemakertedmedtedmed 2010Tedmed2010Thu, 28 Oct 2010 21:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Infrared laser shown to quicken heart rate, gives hope for ultra-small pacemakers]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/16/infrared-laser-shown-to-quicken-heart-rate-gives-hope-for-ultra/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/16/infrared-laser-shown-to-quicken-heart-rate-gives-hope-for-ultra/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/16/infrared-laser-shown-to-quicken-heart-rate-gives-hope-for-ultra/#commentsHere's an interesting one. Just years after a researcher in Japan realized that lasers could stimulate nerves, a professor of biomedical engineering at Vanderbilt University along with cohorts from Case Western Reserve have found that the same is true with the heart. By using an Infrared laser on an early embryonic heart, tests were able to show that the muscle was "in lockstep with the laser pulse rate." The crew also found no signs of laser damage after a few hours of experimenting, though obviously more extensive research would be required before any medical agency allowed such a device to be beamed underneath a human chest. The hope here is that this discovery could one day lead to ultra-small, implantable pacemakers, or better still, to "pace an adult heart during surgery." There's nary a mention of when this stuff will actually be ready for FDA oversight, but there's a downright creepy video of it all in the source link. Consider yourself warned.

Infrared laser shown to quicken heart rate, gives hope for ultra-small pacemakers originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 16 Aug 2010 10:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Case Western ReserveCase Western Reserve universityCaseWesternReserveCaseWesternReserveUniversityembryonic heartEmbryonicHeartheartheart beatheart rateHeartBeatHeartRateinfraredirLasermedicalmedicinepace makerPaceMakerscienceuniversityvanderbiltMon, 16 Aug 2010 10:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Medical devices could be powered by nanowire generators and the human heart]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/09/medical-devices-could-be-powered-by-nanowires-and-the-human-hear/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/09/medical-devices-could-be-powered-by-nanowires-and-the-human-hear/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/09/medical-devices-could-be-powered-by-nanowires-and-the-human-hear/#comments Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology are getting to the heart of the matter, developing nanowire generators which could power medical devices inside a patient that are powered by the patient's own heart. The team -- led by Zhong Lin Wang --first demonstrated working nanowires back in 2005, and have since demo'd the wired generators being powered by a running hamster, tapping fingers, and piezoelectric solar cells. In the most recent and interesting turn of events Zhong and company have just demonstrated the nanowires functioning inside of a living animal (in this case, a rat). These zinc oxide nanogenerators could be ideally suited to as the power source for things like glucose level monitors and blood pressure in the somewhat near future. The ultimate goal, Zhong says, is to make what are essentially self-powered medical devices. Sounds a little creepy, if you ask us, but it's probably better than a hamster running in a wheel powering your pacemaker, right?

Medical devices could be powered by nanowire generators and the human heart originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 09 Jun 2010 20:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hearthuman heartHumanHeartmedicalnanonanotechnologynanowiresresearchscienceZhong Lin WangZhongLinWangWed, 09 Jun 2010 20:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Nike+ heart rate monitor tipped for June 1 launch]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/19/nike-heart-rate-monitor-tipped-for-june-1-launch/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/19/nike-heart-rate-monitor-tipped-for-june-1-launch/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/19/nike-heart-rate-monitor-tipped-for-june-1-launch/#commentsIt was hinted at back in September 2009, now it appears certain that Nike will deliver a Nike+ heart rate monitor iPod accessory to the US on June 1st. The following Nike forum post by a long-time contributor and a suspected Nike employee has set heart valves aflutter:
"I have a U.S. launch date for the Nike+ compatible heart rate monitor. It will officially launch on June 1, 2010, although it may reach some retail outlets slightly sooner. It will reach Canadian markets in June and will launch internationally in summer 2010, exact date to be determined."
We might buy one just to prove that we're still alive.

Nike+ heart rate monitor tipped for June 1 launch originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 May 2010 02:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleheartheart monitorheart rate monitorHeartMonitorHeartRateMonitoripodnikenike plusnike+NikePlusplusrumorWed, 19 May 2010 02:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Newfangled nanoscale scanning technique could improve heart health]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/27/newfangled-nanoscale-scanning-technique-could-improve-heart-heal/http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/27/newfangled-nanoscale-scanning-technique-could-improve-heart-heal/http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/27/newfangled-nanoscale-scanning-technique-could-improve-heart-heal/#commentsOh, nanotechnology -- your wonders never cease. Boffins at Imperial College London have been able to use live nanoscale microscopy (a technique called scanning ion conductance microscopy) in order to see the surface of the cardiac muscle cell at more detailed levels than those possible using conventional live microscopy. Without getting too gross on you, the new process could lead to improved designs of beta-blockers, the drugs that can retard the development of heart failure. Researchers are hoping that the findings could also lead to "improvements in current therapeutic approaches to treating heart failure and abnormal heart rhythms," and while these exceptionally detailed images are helping the cardiac muscle right now, we're hoping that this stuff could also bleed over to other fields of medicine. Ventricles crossed!

Newfangled nanoscale scanning technique could improve heart health originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 27 Feb 2010 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>healthheartheart cellsHeartCellsimperial college londonImperialCollegeLondonmedicinenanotechnologyresearchscienceuniversitySat, 27 Feb 2010 11:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Arterial tandem: coronary drill gets cleared for use, MEMS sensor distinguishes between kinds of plaque]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/26/arterial-tandem-coronary-drill-gets-cleared-for-use-mems-senso/http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/26/arterial-tandem-coronary-drill-gets-cleared-for-use-mems-senso/http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/26/arterial-tandem-coronary-drill-gets-cleared-for-use-mems-senso/#comments We know discussing things involving "arteries" and "coronary plaque" generally don't do much for one's appetite, but being the holidays and all, we honestly can't think of a more fitting way to remind you not to pig out this evening. Up first is a MEMS-based sensor designed by downright enlightened researchers at the University of Southern California, which is used to "distinguish between stable and unstable atherosclerotic plaques in coronary arteries." The idea here is to more easily determine whether a patient needs immediate surgery or simple lifestyle changes in order to remedy artery issues, though the process is still awaiting clinical approval before it can be used en masse. In related news, Pathway Medical has just received European clearance to sell its Jetstream G2 NXT coronary drill overseas (or "peripheral atherectomy catheter," as it were), which does exactly what you'd expect it to: clear clogged blood vessels in the treatment of PAD. If you're not already grossed out, feel free to tap the links below for more information on head past the break for a couple of video demonstrations. Mmm, honey ham!

Continue reading Arterial tandem: coronary drill gets cleared for use, MEMS sensor distinguishes between kinds of plaque

Arterial tandem: coronary drill gets cleared for use, MEMS sensor distinguishes between kinds of plaque originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 26 Dec 2009 15:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coronarydental healthDentalHealthhealthcareheartJetstream G2 NXTJetstreamG2Nxtmedical marijuanaMedicalMarijuanaMEMSpathwaypathway medicalPathwayMedicalplaquesensorsensorsteeth whiteningTeethWhiteningSat, 26 Dec 2009 15:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Computer scientist mods Xbox 360 to detect heart attacks, girls still mysteriously elusive]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/26/computer-scientist-mods-xbox-360-to-detect-heart-attacks-girls/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/26/computer-scientist-mods-xbox-360-to-detect-heart-attacks-girls/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/26/computer-scientist-mods-xbox-360-to-detect-heart-attacks-girls/#comments
We've seen so many mods around here that sometimes it's truly hard to get excited over the minor stuff. Well, this doesn't fall into that category in any way. A computer scientist at the University in Warwick has developed a method to use Microsoft's Xbox 360 to detect heart defects and help prevent heart attacks. Based on a demo created by Simon Scarle a few years back when he worked at Rare studio, it's based on a modded chip that -- instead of producing graphics for the game -- now produces data tracking how the electrical signals in the heart moves about damaged cells, creating a model of it. The model can then be used to help doctors to identify defects and disturbances in the heart's beating. This significantly decreases the costs and complications of creating a model of the heart, which is currently done by supercomputers and is very expensive. Scarle's project and findings were just published in the August issue of the Journal of Computational Biology and Chemistry. Looks like we'll all have a response the next time someone tells us that gaming is good for nothing, right?

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Computer scientist mods Xbox 360 to detect heart attacks, girls still mysteriously elusive originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 26 Sep 2009 15:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gaminghackhacksheartheart attackHeartAttackheartsmedicinemodmodsuniversity of warwickUniversityOfWarwickxboxxbox360Sat, 26 Sep 2009 15:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung Mini S2 portable HDD graced with colors that perfectly match your tacky beach gear]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/21/samsung-mini-s2-portable-hdd-graced-with-colors-that-perfectly-m/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/21/samsung-mini-s2-portable-hdd-graced-with-colors-that-perfectly-m/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/21/samsung-mini-s2-portable-hdd-graced-with-colors-that-perfectly-m/#comments
Sammy's done it again. The company, known to have a penchant for pink products, has unveiled two new eye-catching colors for its Mini S2 portable HDD series. Joining the already available Snow White are Ocean Blue and Sweet Pink, pictured -- and yep, if you look closely enough, that's a sea of hearts lining the case on the right. All other options appear to be the same as when Samsung first unveiled the 2.5-inch drive, with capacity options ranging from 160GB all the way up to 500GB, and it's current status is "coming soon" in Korea, with options to import likely to follow shortly after. Catering / pandering to the female audience? You betcha, and if this pic's not proof enough, hit up the break for an image that's decidedly more in line with the device's initial inspiration / concept art.

[Via Engadget Spanish]

Continue reading Samsung Mini S2 portable HDD graced with colors that perfectly match your tacky beach gear

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Samsung Mini S2 portable HDD graced with colors that perfectly match your tacky beach gear originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 21 Jun 2009 14:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>external hard disk driveexternal hard driveexternal hdexternal hddExternalHardDiskDriveExternalHardDriveExternalHdExternalHddhard disk drivehard driveHardDiskDriveHardDrivehdhddheartheartspinkportable hard driveportable hdportable hddPortableHardDrivePortableHdPortableHddsamsungSun, 21 Jun 2009 14:41:00 EST<![CDATA[NC State gurus keep hearts beating outside of the body]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/03/nc-state-gurus-keep-hearts-beating-outside-of-the-body/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/03/nc-state-gurus-keep-hearts-beating-outside-of-the-body/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/03/nc-state-gurus-keep-hearts-beating-outside-of-the-body/#comments
If NC State's athletic branches had even half the aptitude as its medical researchers, maybe then those blue boys down the road wouldn't have so much right to bang us up. Personal beefs aside, we're simultaneously stoked and amazed by a new machine crafted down in Raleigh, one that enables scientists to keep a heart pumping even after it has been removed from the body, but for research purposes only. Andrew Richards, a bright young mechanical engineering student, designed the so-called dynamic heart system, which "pumps fluid through a pig heart so that it functions in a very realistic way." Obviously, such a device has a multitude of benefits, including time / money savings compared to alternative approaches, the ability to record the inner workings of a pumping heart and scoring the creator some serious street cred in the industry. Mind-blowing video is just after the break.

[Via Neatorama]

Continue reading NC State gurus keep hearts beating outside of the body

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NC State gurus keep hearts beating outside of the body originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 03 Jun 2009 11:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Beating Heart MachineBeatingHeartMachinehealthheartmedicalnc stateNcStateNCSUresearchuniversityvideoWed, 03 Jun 2009 11:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Sensor-laden kokoro adjusts playlist to match the rhythm of your heart]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/21/sensor-laden-kokoro-adjusts-playlist-to-match-the-rhythm-of-your/http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/21/sensor-laden-kokoro-adjusts-playlist-to-match-the-rhythm-of-your/http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/21/sensor-laden-kokoro-adjusts-playlist-to-match-the-rhythm-of-your/#comments
We've got to say, we're guessing both Survivor and Prince would approve here, as this is easily one of the most impressive uses of a heart rate sensor yet. Anaid Gomez Ortigoza, a bright young lass at NYU, has whipped up what she's calling kokoro, which translates into "the heart of things" in Japanese. Put as simply as possible, this prototype project allows for iPod playlists to be shuffled depending on one's current heart rate; if your heart is pumping some kind of fierce, the device will likely cue up a little M83, and if you're at rest, you just might get to hear a smooth jam from the likes of Copeland. Don't believe us, though -- hop on past the break for a demonstrative video.

[Via talk2myshirt]

Continue reading Sensor-laden kokoro adjusts playlist to match the rhythm of your heart

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Sensor-laden kokoro adjusts playlist to match the rhythm of your heart originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 21 May 2009 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleaudiohealthheartheart rateheartbeatHeartRateipodipod accessoryIpodAccessorykokoromoodmusicplaylistportable audioportableaudiosensorsensorsvideoThu, 21 May 2009 13:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Mechanical heart built from Sony gear still pines for AIBO]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/31/mechanical-heart-built-from-sony-gear-still-pines-for-aibo/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/31/mechanical-heart-built-from-sony-gear-still-pines-for-aibo/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/31/mechanical-heart-built-from-sony-gear-still-pines-for-aibo/#comments
As much as we'd like this to be a still from a new, secretly-in-development Cronenberg movie, it's actually an image of the nightmare-inducing mechanical heart that stars in a new series of Sony ads set to air during England's World Cup qualifying campaign on ITV. The hook, of course, is that the heart is apparently built (by special effects house Artem) almost entirely from Sony gear, including parts from BRAVIA TVs, Blu-ray players, VAIO laptops, Cybershot cameras, PS3s, and even the odd Walkman. No word of any public showings of the heart just yet, but you can check out one of the commercials after the break, and another by hitting up the read link below.

Continue reading Mechanical heart built from Sony gear still pines for AIBO

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Mechanical heart built from Sony gear still pines for AIBO originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Mar 2009 18:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artemheartmechanicalmechanical heartMechanicalHeartsonyspecial effectsSpecialEffectsTue, 31 Mar 2009 18:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Waseda University's heartbeat compensation robot be stills our hearts]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/27/waseda-universitys-heartbeat-compensation-robot-be-stills-our-h/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/27/waseda-universitys-heartbeat-compensation-robot-be-stills-our-h/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/27/waseda-universitys-heartbeat-compensation-robot-be-stills-our-h/#comments
Look closely. No, closer. See that slab of pink meat in the middle of Waseda University's surgical robot? That's a heart... now imagine it's your heart. Don't worry, if you ever do pit flesh-to-servo against this device, it'll likely be saving your life during a coronary bypass. After making a small incision, the robot compensates for the natural shake and movement of the organ caused by heartbeats so that surgery can proceed as if the organ is still. That little trick could enable minimally invasive, endoscopic heart surgeries in the future -- no need to crack open the chest cavity. Amazing stuff. See a close-up after the break. You: it's what's for dinner.

Continue reading Waseda University's heartbeat compensation robot be stills our hearts

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Waseda University's heartbeat compensation robot be stills our hearts originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 27 Mar 2009 04:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heartmedicalprototyperobotsurgerywaseda universityWasedaUniversityFri, 27 Mar 2009 04:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Kinesis K2 solar / wind charger hands-on: Captain Planet approved]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/10/kinesis-k2-solar-wind-charger-hands-on-captain-planet-approve/http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/10/kinesis-k2-solar-wind-charger-hands-on-captain-planet-approve/http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/10/kinesis-k2-solar-wind-charger-hands-on-captain-planet-approve/#comments Kinesis' K2 solar / wind charger will power any USB device and is guaranteed to disappoint people mistaking it for a handheld fan. Of course, if you're feeling less environmental, feel free plug it into an AC outlet to reenergize the thing. Anticipating popular demand, we've put video after the break.

Gallery: Kinesis K2 solar / wind charger hands-on: Captain Planet approved, in theory


[Via OhGizmo!]

Continue reading Kinesis K2 solar / wind charger hands-on: Captain Planet approved

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Kinesis K2 solar / wind charger hands-on: Captain Planet approved originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 10 Jan 2009 06:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Believe it or not, this latest study on how cell phones are killing you doesn't invoke the dreaded c-word. Instead, scientists at the European Research Institute for Electronic Components in Bucharest found that exposing red blood cells to low-level radiation -- lower than what emanates from your mobile buddy, apparently -- caused them to leak hemoglobin, which they say can lead to kidney damage and heart disease. The Federation of the Electronics Industry have already come out swinging, saying there is still no consistent evidence the mobile devices are physically hurting us. If history tells us anything, expect to see a report in the near future on how inconclusive these findings are, followed by separate findings on how beneficial a healthy kick of radiation to the kidneys can be.

[Via textually]

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Cellphones are dangerous/not dangerous, watch your kidneys edition originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 29 Dec 2008 11:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>culturedangeroushazardhealthheartheart diseaseHeartDiseasekidneykidney failureKidneyFailuremobilenot dangerousNotDangerousMon, 29 Dec 2008 11:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Headphones can interfere with defibrillators and pacemakers]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/11/09/headphones-can-interfere-with-defibrillators-and-pacemakers/http://www.engadget.com/2008/11/09/headphones-can-interfere-with-defibrillators-and-pacemakers/http://www.engadget.com/2008/11/09/headphones-can-interfere-with-defibrillators-and-pacemakers/#commentsHeadphone makers love to brag about the fancy magnets they use to drive their buds, but it turns out that hanging tiny focused magnetic fields around you neck can have unintended consequences -- a new study says that headphones can interfere with heart devices like pacemakers and defibrillators when held within an inch of the device. The interference can be be so disruptive that a defibrillator can fail to fire live-saving electric charges, so we'd say that anyone counting on technology to keep their ticker ticking should be extra-careful with where they stow their 'phones -- and although researchers didn't find any interference from cell phones, it probably can't hurt to keep those out of your shirt pockets as well.

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Headphones can interfere with defibrillators and pacemakers originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 09 Nov 2008 20:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Far from being the first artificial heart we've seen, the latest iteration unveiled by a team of French scientists is easily the most sophisticated. Built from technology used in satellites and airplanes, the prototype heart is said to "beat almost exactly like the real thing using electronic sensors to regulate heart rate and blood flow." Reportedly, the device boasts "the same tiny sensors that measure air pressure and altitude in an airplane or satellite," enabling it to theoretically react in an instant if the patient suddenly needs more or less blood. Thus far, the heart has only been tested in animals, and now gurus behind it are hoping to net approval from authorities in order to forge ahead with clinical trials. Of course, a "lifelike" heart made from polymer and pig tissue won't come cheap, with initial pricing estimates putting it just south of 200 grand. Or, just enough to give you a heart attack.

[Via DailyTech, image courtesy of AP; thanks, Allislost]

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Prototype artificial heart unveiled, expected to cost $192k originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 02 Nov 2008 12:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artificial heartArtificialHeartDevelopers CarmatDevelopersCarmatexpensivefrancefrenchhealthheartmedicalprototypescienceSun, 02 Nov 2008 12:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Heart Robot loves to be hugged, express emotions]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/30/heart-robot-loves-to-be-hugged-express-emotions/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/30/heart-robot-loves-to-be-hugged-express-emotions/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/30/heart-robot-loves-to-be-hugged-express-emotions/#commentsHere's your afternoon dose of cuteness, ready or not. David McGoran's Heart Robot has made its way into London's Science Museum, and for good reason. This intelligent robot not only possesses a face with moving eyes and an external heart that blinks depending on what's happening, but it actually encourages people to hug and cuddle it like a real human. Seen as being "among the first robots to signify a new era of emotional machines used for medical treatment and enjoyment," this creature could one day become a mainstay in nursing homes where the elderly could interact with it and hopefully benefit in some metaphysical manner. Check out the read link for a video oozing with adorableness.

[Via TimesOnline]

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Heart Robot loves to be hugged, express emotions originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>David McGoranDavidMcgoranemotionemotionalemotional robotEmotionalRobotemotionsenglandheartheart robotHeartRobothughuggedlondonrobotscienceukuniversityvideoWed, 30 Jul 2008 14:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Osaka University scientists create world's first optical pacemaker]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/06/01/osaka-university-scientists-create-worlds-first-optical-pacemak/http://www.engadget.com/2008/06/01/osaka-university-scientists-create-worlds-first-optical-pacemak/http://www.engadget.com/2008/06/01/osaka-university-scientists-create-worlds-first-optical-pacemak/#comments
Around 1.5 years ago, we got wind of researchers in the UK working up a battery-free pacemaker. Fast forward to now, and we've got yet another breakthrough in the field. Purportedly, a crew of Osaka University scientists have created the "world's first optical pacemaker," and in an article published in Optics Express, the team details how "powerful, but very short, laser pulses can help control the beating of heart muscle cells." In theory, this discovery provides the means for dictating said cells within a controlled setting, which could help researchers "better understand the mechanism of heart muscle contraction." As amazing as we're sure this is to the science world, throwing "lasers" and "heart" into the same sentence just doesn't elicit warm / fuzzy feelings.

[Via Primidi]

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Osaka University scientists create world's first optical pacemaker originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 01 Jun 2008 15:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fibrillationhealthheartjapanlasermedicalmuscleoptical pacemakerOpticalPacemakerOsaka UniversityOsakaUniversitypacemakerscienceuniversitySun, 01 Jun 2008 15:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Intelligent cardiac assist fabric beats your heart for you]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/15/intelligent-cardiac-assist-fabric-beats-your-heart-for-you/http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/15/intelligent-cardiac-assist-fabric-beats-your-heart-for-you/http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/15/intelligent-cardiac-assist-fabric-beats-your-heart-for-you/#commentsCrazy artificial hearts and even heart-tissue based robots are nothing new -- to say nothing of the Pimp My Heart bass-booster -- but actually squeezing your existing heart to extend its life is definitely a novel idea. The concept, from a team at Leeds University, is based around an intelligent, motorized webbing that wraps around your heart. When sensors indicate that your pump needs a jump, the webbing contracts, squeezing blood through your body. It's an elegant take on a pretty low-tech solution, and the team has high hopes the uncomplicated nature of the device will lead to applications from transplant assistance to heart therapy when simulator trials are finished and the webbing leaves the prototype stage -- but sadly, there's no word on when that might be.

[Via MedGadget]

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Intelligent cardiac assist fabric beats your heart for you originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 15 Feb 2008 04:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aritificial heartAritificialHeartheartheart webbingHeartWebbingleeds universityLeedsUniversitymedicalmedicinewebbingFri, 15 Feb 2008 04:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Newman's Valentine's Day DAP is so very appropriate]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/08/newmans-valentines-day-dap-is-so-very-appropriate/http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/08/newmans-valentines-day-dap-is-so-very-appropriate/http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/08/newmans-valentines-day-dap-is-so-very-appropriate/#comments
Isn't that cute? It's like two music players, but they make a heart! Oh, and look, there's a crack down the middle, it kind of looks just like two people kissing. Maybe you can stick the Juno soundtrack on there and give half this Newman DAP to that special someone. It's like giving a piece of your heart, only with plastic and silicon. What's that? She doesn't appreciate your finely honed taste in indie music? Well that's no problem, just glue the two players back together and look at what you've got: a broken heart. Yeah, we can tell that this February 14th will be one to remember.

[Via Newlaunches]

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Newman's Valentine's Day DAP is so very appropriate originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 08 Feb 2008 10:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dapheartnewmanportable audioportableaudiovalentines dayValentinesDayFri, 08 Feb 2008 10:54:00 EST<![CDATA[RF-ECG biosensor kit enables wireless medical monitoring]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/11/rf-ecg-biosensor-kit-enables-wireless-medical-monitoring/http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/11/rf-ecg-biosensor-kit-enables-wireless-medical-monitoring/http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/11/rf-ecg-biosensor-kit-enables-wireless-medical-monitoring/#commentsThe kit recently unveiled by the Medical Electronic Science Institute most certainly has some homegrown competition, as it too seeks to record and wirelessly transmit "ECG signals and motion, as well as heart rate and epidermal skin temperature" to mobile phones or PCs. The body-worn sensor utilizes "low power consumption RF transmission," which purportedly enables it to broadcast a constant signal for "up to 48 hours" on a single charge. Notably, the kit includes a "USB receiver, sensor transmitter, lithium battery, electrode sheet and software," but no price seems to be given. Oh, and hit the read link for a quick video of the package in action.

[Thanks, Fran]

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RF-ECG biosensor kit enables wireless medical monitoring originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 11 Sep 2007 03:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biometricbiosensorecghealthheartmedicalmonitormonitoringRF-ECGsensorsensorsvideoTue, 11 Sep 2007 03:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Heart muscle tissue powers new body roaming robots]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/04/heart-muscle-tissue-powers-new-body-roaming-robots/http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/04/heart-muscle-tissue-powers-new-body-roaming-robots/http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/04/heart-muscle-tissue-powers-new-body-roaming-robots/#commentsWhile we've seen a microbot that crawls across hearts, a new creature has been developed by gurus at Chonnam National University in South Korea that actually gets its energy from the heart. Reportedly, the team created the robot by "growing heart muscle tissue from a rat onto tiny robotic skeletons made from polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)," and the result is an E-shaped creature that can move its own legs through the "relaxing and contracting of heart muscle cells." Currently, the bot has been clocked scurrying along at a stagering 100 micrometers-per-second, and while it isn't apt to win any races, it could be loosed within the body to "clear blocked tubes or arteries" in the future. Check the video of this wild guy in action right here.

[Via Primidi]

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Heart muscle tissue powers new body roaming robots originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 04 Sep 2007 03:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>healthheartmedicalmedical robotMedicalRobotmicrobotmicrobotsUniversityTue, 04 Sep 2007 03:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Solid Alliance cranks out talking heart mouse]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/17/solid-alliance-cranks-out-talking-heart-mouse/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/17/solid-alliance-cranks-out-talking-heart-mouse/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/17/solid-alliance-cranks-out-talking-heart-mouse/#comments
If the talking heart mouse was the brain child of anyone other than Solid Alliance, we'd probably question its legitimacy, but considering that zany is this company's mantra, we're not surprised in the least. On the surface, this shiny red USB mouse boasts a left and right click, a scroll-wheel, and a heartfelt (ahem) design, but apparently, this thing also emits optimistic phrases (read: I love you) to keep you mousing even when fighting through carpal tunnel syndrome. It's a little late (or way early, depending on perspective) for Valentine's Day, but for ¥1,980 ($17), why not treat someone special anyway?

[Via FarEastGizmos]

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Solid Alliance cranks out talking heart mouse originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 17 Aug 2007 02:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Have you ever been halfway through a heart attack and thought "If only my shirt had been laced with wireless sensors that monitored respiration and body temperature, this cheese-stick-related incident might have been prevented"? Well now, next time you have one-too-many wings while tailgating, a fabric developed by researchers at the University of Arkansas might be able to alert medical professionals to your condition before you go code red. The technology, based around an "organic semiconductor" called pentacene (a hydrocarbon molecule) and a comparative instrument known as a Wheatstone bridge, can be embedded in fabrics such as undershirts and coupled with wireless transmitters. In the garments, body temperature is monitored through a thin-film transistor, while respiration is gauged using electrical resistance, but both technologies employ the pentacene as a sensing layer. Researchers hope to further develop the technology so that doctors can get to you long before you eat a fatal piece of cheesecake.

[Via Medlaunches, thanks, Geetu]

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"Organic semiconductors" help researchers monitor your heart originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 30 Jul 2007 11:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heartmedicalmonitoringpentaceneresearchrespirationMon, 30 Jul 2007 11:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Sensei robotic arm pulling off heart operations in the UK]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/07/22/sensei-robotic-arm-pulling-off-heart-operations-in-the-uk/http://www.engadget.com/2007/07/22/sensei-robotic-arm-pulling-off-heart-operations-in-the-uk/http://www.engadget.com/2007/07/22/sensei-robotic-arm-pulling-off-heart-operations-in-the-uk/#commentsAlthough the Sensei robot at St. Mary's Hospital in London may just be "one of four in the world," it certainly joins a packed crowd of mechanical colleagues that have been doing this whole "operation" bit for quite some time. As with most similar alternatives, this one operates (quite literally, actually) by responding to a human surgeon's input given via joystick, and the arm is then able to maneuver into more delicate and hard-to-reach locales in order to execute catheter ablation procedures. In the future, however, the Atari-lovin' doctor could be left out of the process entirely, as an automated edition could eventually be programmed to find its own way to the target without any human intervention. Med school graduates losing residency positions to metallic counterparts -- what is the world coming to?

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Sensei robotic arm pulling off heart operations in the UK originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 22 Jul 2007 21:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>doctorhealthheartmedicaloperationrobot doctorRobotDoctorrobotic armrobotic doctorRoboticArmRoboticDoctorSenseisurgeryukSun, 22 Jul 2007 21:45:00 EST<![CDATA[E911 actually works, finds transplant patient at jazz festival]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/05/27/e911-actually-works-finds-transplant-patient-at-jazz-festival/http://www.engadget.com/2007/05/27/e911-actually-works-finds-transplant-patient-at-jazz-festival/http://www.engadget.com/2007/05/27/e911-actually-works-finds-transplant-patient-at-jazz-festival/#commentsFrom listening to your phone calls to reading your text messages, Big Brother will always find a way to keep up to date with our lives. For a 10 year old boy from Pennsylvania who was waiting for a heart transplant, it was an indispensable technology that saved his life. While waiting for a phone call notifying him a donor had been found, they boy was out with his family and unreachable. Luckily for him, his mother had a Sprint celly and the authorities where able to locate them while at a local jazz festival using the phones integrated GPS. Soon after being located, the boy was rushed to Children's Hospital in Pittsburgh where the surgery was a success.

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E911 actually works, finds transplant patient at jazz festival originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 27 May 2007 23:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e911GPSheartheart transplantHeartTransplantLBSlocationmobilemonitortransplantSun, 27 May 2007 23:01:00 EST<![CDATA[GlowBots develop relationships, express emotions via LEDs]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/05/13/glowbots-develop-relationships-express-emotions-via-leds/http://www.engadget.com/2007/05/13/glowbots-develop-relationships-express-emotions-via-leds/http://www.engadget.com/2007/05/13/glowbots-develop-relationships-express-emotions-via-leds/#commentsAlthough we can't deny that having a household humanoid that chases away intruders would be a welcome member to most families, a team of individuals more focused on actual "complex relationships" have developed a series of bots that can learn and express emotions via lights. GlowBots are wee wheeled creatures that "develop attractive patterns that are affected both by user interaction and communication between the robots," meaning that the days of expensive animal training in order to have a pet around are nearly through. The technology within is based on an open experimental robot platform, dubbed e-Puck, and the actual robots utilize "eight IR proximity sensors, a camera, a trio of microphones, three-axis accelerometer, a speaker, two stepper motors, Bluetooth interface, a number of LEDs, a PIC micro controller, and a 12-step-mode selector" to confess their love. The creators will apparently be showing off their heartwarming invention at this year's SIGGRAPH conference, but until these suckas come sheathed in some sort of faux fur and fully equipped with bad breath, we're afraid Fido will retain control of the dog house for now.

[Via PastaAndVinegar]

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GlowBots develop relationships, express emotions via LEDs originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 13 May 2007 06:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bluetoothcommunicationdiyemotionsemotivefeelingsfriendsfriendshipGlowBotsheartinteractionledmicro controllerMicroControllerrelationshiprelationship robotsRelationshipRobotssensorsensorssiggraphSun, 13 May 2007 06:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Monica's AN24 monitors unborn child's heart remotely]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/04/28/monicas-an24-monitors-unborn-childs-heart-remotely/http://www.engadget.com/2007/04/28/monicas-an24-monitors-unborn-childs-heart-remotely/http://www.engadget.com/2007/04/28/monicas-an24-monitors-unborn-childs-heart-remotely/#commentsWhile Monica Healthcare's AN24 fetal / maternal electrophysiological monitor won't go down as the first device to take a pulse on one's heartbeat outside of the hospital, it is being dubbed the "world's first" device to allow "mother's-to-be to keep a regular check on their baby's heartbeat without having to go into the hospital and be attached to a machine." The pocket-sized device operates on battery power, weighs under 100-grams, and specializes in "non-intrusive passive monitoring." Moreover, it can detect and differentiate between the mother and the baby's signals, and can transmit real-time FHR / MHR analysis data to via Bluetooth or USB to any applicable handheld / PC. Notably, the AN24 has gone from "a research device into a medically approved product in only two years," and if the EU testing continues to go well, the company expects the device to hit the market in the October timeframe.

[Via MedGadget]

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Monica's AN24 monitors unborn child's heart remotely originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 28 Apr 2007 11:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alertAntenatalbabiesbluetoothcardiacchildchildrenfetal heart monitorFetalHeartMonitorhealthheartHolterinfantskidkidsMaternal MonitorMaternalMonitormedicalMonica AN24MonicaAn24monitoringNottinghampregnanciespregnancyremote monitoringRemoteMonitoringscienceSurveillanceunbornuniversitywarningSat, 28 Apr 2007 11:22:00 EST<![CDATA[HeartLander caterpillar robot crawls on heart, administers treatment]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/04/19/heartlander-caterpillar-robot-crawls-on-heart-administers-treat/http://www.engadget.com/2007/04/19/heartlander-caterpillar-robot-crawls-on-heart-administers-treat/http://www.engadget.com/2007/04/19/heartlander-caterpillar-robot-crawls-on-heart-administers-treat/#commentsWe get a little more creeped out each week or so, as a new form of minimally overtly invasive robotic creature somehow comes to life and sets its sights on perusing our innards. The newest species hails from Carnegie Mellon University's Robotics Institute in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and was designed to "crawl across the surface of the heart to deliver treatment." The eerily-dubbed "robotic caterpillar" measures just a few centimeters in length and can scoot about at a blistering 18-centimeters per minute via "push and pull" control wires that reside outside of the body. The lead doctor on the project suggests that the critter could "allow procedures to be carried out without having to stop the heart, reducing the risk of illness linked to heart bypass surgeries," and moreover, insinuated that patients would spend less time recovering in the hospital after he / she was all sewn up. Apparently, the HeartLander could be available for human practice "within three to four years," but according to a director at the British Heart Foundation, "a lot more research is needed to determine whether something delivered to the outside surface of the heart can modify activity on the inside."

[Via BBC]

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HeartLander caterpillar robot crawls on heart, administers treatment originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 19 Apr 2007 15:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>britishcardiacCarnegie MellonCarnegieMellonCaterpillarenglandhealthheartheartlanderinnardsmedicalsurgeryukThu, 19 Apr 2007 15:03:00 EST<![CDATA[SHL's CardioSen'C transmits ECG results to your physician]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/03/27/shls-cardiosenc-transmits-ecg-results-to-your-physician/http://www.engadget.com/2007/03/27/shls-cardiosenc-transmits-ecg-results-to-your-physician/http://www.engadget.com/2007/03/27/shls-cardiosenc-transmits-ecg-results-to-your-physician/#comments
There's a growing number of devices that not only monitor one's health, but can also transmit pertinent information back to remote caregivers, but SHL Telemedicine's latest gizmo takes things a step further by beaming your ECG results directly to your physician's mobile phone. The oddly-named CardioSen'C is a portable heart-monitoring system that gathers information from twelve electrodes strapped to one's chest and upper body, and once activated, transmits the results of the electrocardiograph instantly to a user-selected handset. Unlike similar systems already available in the US, SHL's iteration will be aimed at the Israel / European markets initially, and while we aren't exactly sure how much coinage such an advanced machine will cost to wear, you should probably make sure your insurance covers spontaneous service calls before you start lighting your doc's handset up with ECG results.

[Via Israel21c]

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SHL's CardioSen'C transmits ECG results to your physician originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 27 Mar 2007 21:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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There's a growing number of devices that not only monitor one's health, but can also transmit pertinent information back to remote caregivers, but SHL Telemedicine's latest gizmo takes things a step further by beaming your ECG results directly to your physician's mobile phone. The oddly-named CardioSen'C is a portable heart-monitoring system that gathers information from twelve electrodes strapped to one's chest and upper body, and once activated, transmits the results of the electrocardiograph instantly to a user-selected handset. Unlike similar systems already available in the US, SHL's iteration will be aimed at the Israel / European markets initially, and while we aren't exactly sure how much coinage such an advanced machine will cost to wear, you should probably make sure your insurance covers spontaneous service calls before you start lighting your doc's handset up with ECG results.

[Via Israel21c]

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SHL's CardioSen'C transmits ECG results to your physician originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 27 Mar 2007 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrhythmiaCardioBeepercardiologistCardioSen'CecgekgelectrocardiographhealthheartisraelIsraelimedicalshltelemedicineTue, 27 Mar 2007 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Daring DIY'er devises homegrown heart monitoring device]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/02/20/daring-diyer-devises-homegrown-heart-monitoring-device/http://www.engadget.com/2007/02/20/daring-diyer-devises-homegrown-heart-monitoring-device/http://www.engadget.com/2007/02/20/daring-diyer-devises-homegrown-heart-monitoring-device/#comments
While there's already a plethora of safe, proven methods to monitor your heart rate, there's just no satisfaction in buying an off the shelf BioShirt when you know you possess the skills (and spare time) to craft a system of your own. Interested in making his own mark in biomedical engineering, a crafty individual set out to build his own electrocardiograph for nothing more than fun, but rather than keeping his homegrown work all to himself, he busted out a set of instructions in order for us less inventive souls to replicate the process. Aside from creating an ECG board, reading results with LABView, and having the nerve to actually strap leads to your body and hope that you don't electrocute yourself, there's still a good bit of coding and behind the scenes work necessary to pull this off. So if you never got around to going to medical school, but you know you've got the DIY skills to operate a heart monitoring system in your home office, be sure to hit the read link and read that blurb about "destroying your nervous system" real carefully.

[Via MAKE]

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Daring DIY'er devises homegrown heart monitoring device originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 20 Feb 2007 04:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>circuitcircuitscodecodingdiyeckekgElectrocardiogramElectrocardiographelectronicshealthheartheart rateHeartRatehow-tomedicalrateTue, 20 Feb 2007 04:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Battery-free pacemaker on the horizon]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/12/28/battery-free-pacemaker-on-the-horizon/http://www.engadget.com/2006/12/28/battery-free-pacemaker-on-the-horizon/http://www.engadget.com/2006/12/28/battery-free-pacemaker-on-the-horizon/#commentsHaving one surgery is plenty, and having some foreign object implanted in your being is really pushing things, but knowing you're going to be under the knife every ten years or so to get a new battery is just absurd. Thankfully, a group of researchers in the UK feel the same way, and are well on their way to developing a battery-free pacemaker. Reportedly, the device would use a microgenerator producing electricity every time the patient moves, effectively eliminating the need for an internal battery. The cost of the £1 million ($1.96 million) project is being shared by the Department of Trade and Industry and private companies, one being Zarlink Semiconductor who has a large role in the device's development. Other teams around the globe are also seeking to create such a unit, with ideas spanning from tiny generators that receive power from heat right onto "biological pacemakers" that would correct heart problems without the need for a mechanical device. While there's no estimate as to when these gizmos will even hit the testing and approval phase, it seems that things are moving along quite well, but we have to stop and wonder how well a pacemaker powered by motion will function when you, well, cease moving.

[Via MedGadget]

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Battery-free pacemaker on the horizon originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 28 Dec 2006 10:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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