case study: Zedsen
Using sensor technology for the early detection and prevention of cancer
Zedsen’s non-invasive sensor technology promises to disrupt the current healthcare model by enabling predictive care and preventive treatments through globally connected sensor networks. Their versatile, patented technology can identify and analyse any substance, material, or composition of human tissue. They are a VC-backed innovation company based in London.
the goal
Zedsen’s mission is to shift away from curative to preventative care in a range of different fields, from changes of glucose in the blood to tumours in the breast. Their innovative sensing capability is made possible by a patented lattice of transmitting and receiving electrodes, creating a three-dimensional dynamic electrical field. Using a series of complex algorithms, Zedsen can instantly recognise the unique electrical signatures of any material within this field, to look into materials like human tissue and understand underlying chemistry. Thrive was approached to help implement the technology into a new and highly innovative application with groundbreaking potential for medical scanning.
the challenge
To develop a prototype for a wearable that can scan breasts in a few seconds and identify changes in breast density or small tumours without creating any radiation. We contributed to the project from a very early stage, with many unknown elements. Working closely with the Zedsen team, we used an iterative approach to deliver resolved functionality that would be fundamental to the product vision. Thrive Wearables was able to leverage 25 years experience in the field to solve complex design challenges and expand the core competencies of the Zedsen team.
the solution
We worked with the Zedsen team to develop a roadmap that resolved unknown elements of the project, delivered measurable results and, in turn, achieved a working demonstrator. We used a series of prototypes and visualisation materials to validate elements of the system before carrying out user research to guide further design work towards a resolved product vision.
Rapid iteration, and teamwork that took place both remotely and locally, have reduced technical risk, led to improvements in technology and assembly techniques, and enabled us to formally plan the demonstration system. Ultimately, we presented a fully functional prototype in a form factor that is both appealing to users and scientifically resilient to the Zedsen team.
services
Feasibility Prototype
technologies
Smart Fabrics | Smart Textiles | Electronics- flexible | Ergonomics | Rapid Prototyping | 3D Printing | Plastics | CAD- Mechanical | Biosensors | User Trial| Service Design | Biosignal Processing
form factor
Sensor Patch
The Thrive team have been the perfect complement to our internal team. They have brought the missing skills to the table and been extremely responsive to our needs.
Dan Honeywell, Zedsen Ltd
project lead
Dave is our Director of Innovation and the Project Lead for Zedsen. He is an expert innovator, with over 20 years of wide-ranging experience creating value through design and delivering new technologies to market. He has created and built intellectual property portfolios totalling over 70 granted patents to date. His specialism lies in hands-on, fast, iterative development, working with talented creative and technical teams to take great new ideas to market.
Dave Sandbach, Director of Innovation
