Emego
Developing a Medical Device, from Concept to Completion
Introduction to Emego
GSPK Design developed Emego, an assistive technology that helps individuals with severe disabilities communicate more effectively. Using electromyography (EMG) technology, Emego can detect even the smallest of muscle movements, allowing users to control communication software, computers, and other devices with a simple muscle twitch.
Who Emego Supports
Emego is designed to support individuals with severe neurological conditions such as motor neurone disease (MND) or acute brain injuries. These conditions often cause significant muscle weakness, affecting both movement and speech. As a result, communicating through traditional assistive technology can be challenging, as they still rely heavily on physical movement.
GSPK Design developed Emego as an alternative switch option to fill this gap. By detecting even the smallest of muscle movements with high accuracy, Emego provides users with a solution that can help them regain independence.
How Emego Works
The system works by detecting electrical signals produced by muscle movements. These signals are wirelessly transmitted to a base unit, which then converts them into a switch action. This switch can then be used to control communication software, computers, and other devices that users may previously not have been able to access..
The Emego Patient unit is small, lightweight, body-worn, and it can be adjusted to work with any muscle group. The following YouTube video shows GSPK Design’s Account Manager, Jack Ackroyd, putting the medical device into action.
Development
GSPK Design worked alongside Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, The Centre for Assistive Technology & Connected Healthcare (CATCH) at the University of Sheffield, and the NIHR Devices for Dignity Medtech Co-operative (D4D MIC) for over three years to bring Emego to market. This project was supported by the SBRI Healthcare Programme, funded by NHS England.
After receiving a £76,000 phase one grant and showing the potential of the technology, GSPK Design received £500,000 in phase two funding to further develop the device, bringing it closer to market readiness.
Future Projects
Since its release in 2018, Emego has made a positive impact on the lives of individuals with severe disabilities all around the world. Assistive technology centres are utilising the device, and ease of use has made it a great solution for those who previously had limited options for interacting with technology.
While developing Emego, GSPK Design received the ISO 13485:2016 certification, ensuring the device meets the highest standards for medical device manufacturing. This certification has enabled GSPK Design to expand its work within the MedTech sector, helping to support even more projects that make a real difference.
As GSPK Design continues to grow, we’re committed to expanding the reach of Emego, while also pursuing new medical projects that will improve the lives of many individuals. To find out how we can support your next MedTech project, contact us.
