‘Supposed’ because at this point it’s little more than a concept, though its function is pretty straightforward. It’s a tool for assessing a subject’s health, armed with the kind of software whose readout would render a trip to the doctor pointless. The gadget is from the year-old startup of the same name headed by Walter de Brouwer. Based in California, Scanadu is aiming for a 2012 release for households, where parents can use it to look after their kids.
The Scanadu Tricorder (allegedly inspired by Star Trek), works in conjunction with a smartphone. It offers a diagnosis based on the subject’s vital stats. This is the concept since core specifications are unavailable.
Technology and Functionality
The Scanadu Tricorder is designed to be a comprehensive health monitoring tool. It aims to measure various vital signs such as heart rate, temperature, respiratory rate, and blood pressure. The device is expected to use advanced sensors and algorithms to provide accurate readings. By syncing with a smartphone, the data collected by the Tricorder can be analyzed and displayed in an easy-to-understand format. This could potentially allow users to monitor their health in real-time and make informed decisions without needing to visit a healthcare professional.
It’s also quite telling that the NASA Ames Research Center is HQ for the startup Scanadu, perhaps indicating that somewhere down the road, the Scanadu’s technology will make it to a starship on an interstellar journey. The collaboration with NASA Ames Research Center could provide Scanadu with access to cutting-edge technology and research facilities, which could accelerate the development of the Tricorder.
Potential Impact and Future Prospects
The Scanadu Tricorder is barely a product at the moment and in its quest for funding, Scanadu is now one of the contestants for a coveted $10 million X-Prize for health tricorders. Winning this prize could provide the necessary financial support and validation to bring the Tricorder to market. The X-Prize competition is known for encouraging innovation and pushing the boundaries of technology, and Scanadu’s participation highlights the potential of the Tricorder to revolutionize healthcare.
If successful, the Scanadu Tricorder could have a significant impact on the healthcare industry. It could reduce the burden on healthcare systems by allowing individuals to monitor their health at home. This could be particularly beneficial for managing chronic conditions, where regular monitoring is essential. Additionally, the Tricorder could provide early detection of health issues, leading to timely interventions and better health outcomes.
At least there’s a trailer available to give a better idea of its use:
Source Gizmag
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