The Electric Potential Sensors (EPS) is the world’s first electrical heart sensor that works up to one meter (3.3 feet) away from the patient. Created and successfully tested by scientists at the University of Sussex, these wideband sensors can even detect muscle signals, eye movements and brain and nerve-fiber signals. Though still a prototype, researchers are working with smart technology company PassivSystems to determine if an in-home model is feasible. There are still commercial licensing and clinical trials to be done before that can happen, of course.

But the potential for this type of device is awesome. It could be used with the elderly as a self-administered tool to monitor vital signs and help them remain in their homes longer. Larger still, these hands-off sensors could be applied to the aviation, medical science, microchip manufacture and the automotive industries. They could start a exciting new chapter in research and monitoring possibilities.

The sensitivity of these sensors means they can also be used to detect muscle signals and eye movements and, in future, will be developed to detect brain and nerve-fibre signals. The EPS research group team, based in the University of Sussex’s School of Engineering and Design, is lead by Dr Robert Prance, Professor of Sensor Technology.

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