10130030Advanced IoT-Enabled Thermographic Device for Early Detection and Prevention of Diabetic Foot ComplicationsClosedCollaborative R&DInnovate UKPublic description of the Project Our project aims to develop a portable, easy-to-use medical device that helps people with diabetes monitor the health of their feet. Diabetes can cause serious foot problems, including ulcers, which, if not detected early, can lead to severe complications like amputations. There are 200 such amputations per year in Northern Ireland, 7,000 in England and 150,000 in USA. £1 of every £140 of the entire NHS budget is spent on diabetic foot care. Our device will allow users to check their feet at home every day, catching signs of trouble early before they become serious. The device uses advanced sensors to measure foot temperature and send the information to a smartphone app via Bluetooth. This continuous monitoring is much better than the occasional checks done in clinics, providing early warnings and helping users take action sooner. To make this project a reality New Innovator funding will enable a skilled electronics design engineer will focus on creating the detailed electronics design and prototypes of the device to the standards required for medical devices. We will also purchase development kits and components necessary for building and testing the prototypes. We will manage the project using agile methodologies, which allow us to stay flexible and address any issues quickly. Regular reviews will ensure we stay on track and meet our milestones. There are some risks involved, such as technical challenges with integrating sensors and ensuring the device meets performance and all regulatory standards. We will address these risks through thorough testing and by working closely with regulatory experts. Our ultimate goal is to produce a device that meets all safety and quality standards and is ready for real-world use. After developing the prototypes, we will seek regulatory approval to bring the device to market. This project will not only improve the quality of life for people with diabetes in Northern Ireland, UK and beyond, but will also create high-skilled jobs and contribute to the UK's healthcare innovation sector. By providing a reliable and affordable solution, we aim to make a significant impact on diabetic foot care and prevention. A 10% reduction in diabetic footcare-related costs could translate to approximately £390 million NHS annual saving.