IIT has developed and patented technology for the precise metering of flow for the natural gas industry. This technology may have important application in the healthcare and sports medicine field.... Show moreIIT has developed and patented technology for the precise metering of flow for the natural gas industry. This technology may have important application in the healthcare and sports medicine field. More specifically, this precision flow meter may offer a better way to monitor the respiration of people with asthma and other respiratory conditions that require careful monitoring and periodic evaluation. It may also be a useful tool to calibrate various inhalation and breathing control devices used by individuals or used under controlled research circumstances. This could include the study of athletes, workers in specialized environments, etc. The purpose of this entrepreneurial IPRO project is twofold. First, it is important to explore the full market potential of a device based on this precision flow meter. This includes a profile of user application segments; driving forces for demand by individuals, researchers and the health care delivery community; and the regulatory environment and process that must be followed (including issues of efficacy for various users, safety, and pathways to trial, approval and market diffusion). In addition, the appropriate pathways to obtaining research and commercialization funding will be identified and evaluated, including SBIR applications. Part of this process involves developing an understanding of the application niche(s) that represent the greatest market opportunity to attract commercial investment, those that represent the earliest market opportunity to stimulate interest and purchase commitment, and those that represent the most viable opportunity to attract research support. A second important purpose is to design, build and test a prototype flow meter and associated electronics. The prototype design will respond to the identified market opportunities. It will include data acquisition and processing systems and user interfaces to provide useful information to the user, physician, researcher or regulatory body. Addressing both purposes can shape the business opportunity based on the precision flow metering technology. Show less
