Collaboration results in pioneering medical technology

According to the electronics and communications design consultancy, the PneumaScan platform utilises light based scanning to enable doctors and medical staff to achieve non-invasive assessment. PneumaScan is structured light plethysmography (SLP) device that illuminates the patient's body with visible light and captures video data. This data is then processed to give an indication of lung function. Plextek says that the device is a radical improvement on traditional methods of monitoring lung function, which are uncomfortable for patients and can be associated with a risk of infection. The company has collaborated with PneumaCare since its formation, supporting the design of a working prototype to help prove the concept. It has since been contracted for further technology development as PneumaCare begins to commercialise the concept and look will provide volume manufacturing. PneumaCare has been awarded a research contract from the Ministry of Defence to carry out a trial of a prototype mobile PneumaScan which could be fitted into ambulances or aircraft. Dr Gareth Roberts, PneumaCare founder and ceo, said: "Plextek has played a key role in catalysing the move from concept to working prototype cost effectively and in a very rapid timeframe. Working with Plextek has given instant access to a large pool of specialist knowledge and medical electronics design experience, which has accelerated our progress and given us a real commercial basis. As we move into the next phase for product development and launch we'll continue to benefit from Plextek's first class design skills."