SFU researcher creates a self-powered neckband that tracks blood pressure in real time—aiming to change healthcare forever.
A New Way to Check Blood Pressure
What if checking your blood pressure took only seconds and happened while you listened to music? That idea sparked a breakthrough by Dr. Tae-Ho Kim, a Surrey-based postdoctoral fellow at Simon Fraser University. After managing his own hypertension, he wondered if tracking blood flow could be easier, faster, and more comfortable.
So, he asked a bold question: why use bulky cuffs when tiny sensors could do the job?
From Personal Challenge to Innovation
While visiting his doctor, Kim noticed how long it took to get several readings using the traditional arm cuff. That moment planted the seed for his invention. Soon after, he began researching ways to measure pulse signals through sensors instead of pressure cuffs.
And then, everything changed.
With support from Mitacs, an organization that connects researchers with industry partners, Kim teamed up with Medtronic, a global leader in healthcare technology. Together, they transformed his idea into a practical, wearable solution.
Meet the Smart Blood Pressure Neckband
The device works simply but impressively. It:
- Tracks blood flow between two points
- Calculates blood pressure automatically
- Delivers updates every few seconds
- Works in any posture
Moreover, the prototype was built using recycled plastic, showing that innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand. Even better, it includes ECG and PPG sensors to continuously monitor other heart functions.
And there’s a twist:
a Bluetooth earphone attachment lets users listen to music while their BP is tracked in real time. That feature could even help explore the effects of music therapy on heart health.
Why It Matters for Everyone
According to Kim, high blood pressure is linked to chronic disease and higher mortality. Therefore, continuous monitoring could save lives. Unlike traditional cuffs, this new neckband harvests energy from touch, which keeps the device efficient and always ready. Meanwhile, its portability makes it ideal for everyday use.
In short, it aims to bring hospital-level monitoring straight into people’s homes.
Recognition on the National Stage
Because of his innovative work, Kim received the Mitacs Innovation Award in Outstanding Innovation, presented at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa. Out of a large national pool of researchers, he became one of only 11 award recipients across Canada.
Mitacs CEO Dr. Stephen Lucas praised innovators like Kim, noting that their work helps build a stronger and more resilient future for Canada.
Looking Ahead
Kim’s goal is clear and powerful: create health-tech solutions that are affordable, accessible, and helpful for everyone. Now that real-time, cuffless monitoring is possible, he hopes to see this neckband used in homes around the world.
The future of blood pressure monitoring may soon rest comfortably around your neck no cuffs, no waiting, just instant insight.
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