press release
Published: 01 May 2025

Self-powered wearable health sensors could transform dementia and pregnancy care 

University of Surrey spin-out Z-PULSE Ltd has secured funding to fast-track the commercialisation of its self-powered wearable health sensors, which aims to transform dementia care and could potentially prevent thousands of stillbirths each year.  

The Self-Powered Tribo-Electric Pressure Sensor (STEPS1.0) allows for the advanced remote monitoring of essential indicators such as breathing patterns, bed occupancy, foetal movements during pregnancy and pressure distribution to avoid bedsores. Making use of mechanical energy from natural movement, STEPS1.0 operates without the need for batteries or external charging, offering a scalable, cost-effective alternative to existing monitoring systems. 

With £265,000 funding from Innovate UK, Z-PULSE is now working with the Surrey Sleep Research Centre, Kymira, and Milbotix to use STEPS1.0 in real-world healthcare settings. Applications under development include continuous, real-time monitoring of sleep patterns, breathing and movement in dementia patients. Partners are also incorporating STEPS1.0 into a wearable belt that can detect foetal movements – with hopes of preventing up to 3,400 stillbirths annually in the UK. 

Dr Jim Shaikh is the Managing Director of Innovate Surrey Ltd, which was established to bridge the gap between the research happening at the University and real-world applications.

Z-PULSE’s wearable healthcare technology is a fantastic example of how we support innovation to move from the lab to everyday life, improving healthcare outcomes and supporting economic growth. We’re proud to support exciting ventures like Z-PULSE that have the potential to make a real difference in society and even save lives. Dr Jim Shaikh, Managing Director of Innovate Surrey Ltd

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Notes to editors  

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