SPOT Universal Module

Solving Unmet Needs Through
Collaboration, Agility, and Flexibility

INDUSTRY: Electronics

SERVICES: Brand, Design, UX/UI, Engineering, Prototyping, Soft Goods

Over the years of developing wearable technology, we’ve often observed clients who are burdened by the need for significant electronics development just to test the feasibility of their ideas. This challenge frequently leads many to abandon projects due to time and budget constraints.

Recognizing this critical gap, we challenged ourselves to create a platform that would simplify the prototyping process, reduce overall development costs, and enable our clients to explore new possibilities with confidence.

Challenge

We recognized our client’s ongoing need to develop small, unobtrusive wearable technology to gather real time test data. Developing bespoke solutions for each application involves significant time and cost, creating an unnecessary barrier to front end innovation. We challenged our internal experts to develop a platform that removes this barrier and provides our clients with a simple, yet highly configurable wearable platform.

Solution

We leveraged our in-house expertise to create SPOT, a platform for quick prototyping wearable technologies. SPOT features a 240MHz dual-core MCU (microcontroller unit) with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth LE 5, battery, on-board sensors, and a multi-purpose expansion interface integrated into a custom housing, enabling easy integration of various sensors and actuators.

Outcome

SPOT provides a solid platform for rapid prototyping wearable technologies without the time and cost typically associated with developing custom prototypes.

One Wearable Module, Endless Possibilities

SPOT has been successfully tested in various applications, including motion tracking, audio sensing and generation, respiration tracking, step counting, and muscle sensing (EMG). The module also streams data to PCs and mobile apps via Bluetooth.

Real-Time Biopotential Signal Processing

SPOT can connect to electromyography (EMG) amplifiers and electrodes to enable real-time recording and decoding of muscle activity. In this configuration, back and shoulder muscles were used to control a cursor on a screen. The system showcases the acquisition of biopotential signals, real-time processing, and wireless data transmission for functional PC control. This technology has potential applications in assisting individuals with amputations or paralysis.

Respiratory Monitoring in Companion Animals

Monitoring the activity and respiratory health of companion animals was another area we explored. A custom harness was designed, developed, and fabricated using our in-house STOLL digital knit machine. This unique harness integrated multiple functional yarns, including covered Lycra, nylon, magnet wire yarn, and conductive silicone yarn. As the harness stretches, the resistance of the silicone yarn changes, corresponding to variations in chest circumference as the animal breathes in and out. Magnet wire connects the silicone yarn to a connector, which interfaces with the SPOT module to detect the breathing signal.

In addition to the wearable technology, the team developed an app that enables users to view real-time data, monitor battery levels, and export data for further analysis.

What's Next?

With SPOT, we have redefined the upfront prototyping process for wearables, enabling our clients to quickly iterate new technologies and reduce their overall product development timelines. SPOT provides a flexible, cost-effective, and highly collaborative prototyping solution, across industries such as fitness, healthcare, and animal wellness.

How can we use SPOT to jumpstart your next project?

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