University of Oulu takes part in developing a smart wearable device for health and lifestyle monitoring
The UltraSense project stems from concerns about the increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity in Europe. Around 50 per cent of the European population is overweight, with 16 per cent classified as obese.
“A low-cost and user-friendly device makes body composition monitoring accessible not only to professionals but also to the general public. The AI solutions incorporated in the device enable personalised care, helping to reduce obesity and related diseases, while also potentially lowering healthcare costs,” says researcher Tuire Salonurmi.
The wearable device being developed combines artificial intelligence with advanced stretchable materials to provide accurate and reliable health data. It utilises three complementary sensor technologies: an ultrasound sensor for precise information on body composition and tissue thickness, a bioimpedance sensor for quick and reliable measurements of body fat, water, and muscle percentages, and a G-FET biosensor for collecting detailed biomarker data through sweat analysis.
The four-year project will test the device in two key areas: monitoring the effects of physical exercise, and the early detection and monitoring of metabolic syndrome.
UltraSense is a broad international collaboration involving ten public and private organisations across Europe. The role of the University of Oulu in the project focuses particularly on metabolic biomarkers, the development of body composition measurement, and the processing of health data using AI algorithms. Polar Oy is responsible for the product's commercialisation, while VTT is involved in sensor development.
The University of Oulu has received approximately one million euros in funding for the project. The principal investigators include Professor Simo Saarakkala, Docent Tuire Salonurmi, Assistant Professor Aleksei Tiulpin, and Professor Janne Hukkanen. The project supports the University of Oulu’s strong expertise in digital health and the university’s strategically funded research themes.