The first delivery of SmartSocks®DISCOVERY – sensor-embedded wearable socks developed by Bristol health-tech company Milbotix – has arrived at UWE Bristol. These smart wearables will play a key role in the university’s ageing and assistive tech research, as part of the SAW-Health project led by the Bristol Robotics Laboratory (BRL).
Funded by the Medical Research Council, the two-year SAW-Health project is exploring how socially assistive robotic systems can support older adults’ physical, emotional and social wellbeing. UWE is collaborating with AgeUK and the ExtraCare Charitable Trust on the project, which centres around developing a next-generation robotic walking aid that promotes independence and meaningful social interaction in later life.
The SmartSocks® – which look and feel like ordinary socks – are anything but. Embedded with discreet sensors, they monitor skin temperature, heart rate, movement and more, providing real-time insights that will help researchers better understand daily routines, emotional states, and mobility patterns. Because they’re non-invasive and machine-washable, they’re especially valuable for people who may struggle with or reject bulkier devices like wristbands or chest straps.
“Receiving the first SmartSocks® from Milbotix marks an exciting milestone for our research at Bristol Robotics Laboratory. These innovative sensors will allow us to monitor gait patterns in real time, which is vital for progressing our work on walking assistive technologies. By integrating SmartSocks® with our smart walkers and exoskeleton systems, we can start to develop responsive solutions that actively support mobility and independence in older adults and users with neurological impairments.”
Dr Carlos Cifuentes, Associate Professor in Human-Robot Interaction at UWE Bristol.
The SAW-Health team are taking a co-design approach throughout – involving older adults, carers and healthcare professionals in shaping the design of the robotic walker and testing it in real-world settings. The physiological and movement data collected by the SmartSocks® will feed directly into this work, helping the team evaluate user interaction and real-world use.
The socks arrived as a full research-ready kit – including multiple pairs, swappable sensors, a charger and access to a cloud-based data dashboard – and are now ready to be put to work.
“It’s an honour to see SmartSocks®DISCOVERY supporting such vital research. This handover represents an exciting milestone for Milbotix and aligns closely with our mission to improve the lives of older adults through intelligent, wearable technology. We’re proud to support UWE’s innovative and impactful work.”
Dr Zeke Steer, CEO and Founder of Milbotix.
SmartSocks®DISCOVERY is now available to other researchers and students through milbotix.com/shop, including a low-cost starter kit suitable for student and postgraduate projects.