This project was conceived by Professor Barry Marshall, a Nobel Prize winner based at the University of Western Australia. Designed as a diagnostic and screening test, this system listens to gut noises and utilises proprietary algorithms to determine the likelihood of the patient having one of a number of types of gut disorders (including Irritable Bowel Syndrome). Aptly named “The Noisy Guts Project”, this technology aims to make gut disorder diagnosis non-invasive and much more convenient than current methods.

This product is currently undergoing clinical testing, prior to undergoing development into a commercial product.

• Developed a hardware development plan to efficiently achieve project goals within the constraints of available funds
• Worked with the client to determine appropriate gut sensors and consulted on sensor acoustic design
• Consulted on medical device requirements relating to product development (ISO13485 and IEC60601 electrical safety)
• Designed all of the electronics and firmware for the product, including miniaturised sensor electronics, a high-speed data recording and storage system, rechargeable battery & battery management system, and user interface
• Developed proof-of-concept electronics for testing the functionality of the hardware and firmware, and identified a range of complex hardware performance issues that were then risk-managed and resolved as part of the development process
• Developed electronics schematics and printed circuit board designs
• Manufactured, assembled and tested a number of systems, and supplied these to the client for usage on patients
• Provided engineering and technical support during the clinical trial

Further information relating to the technology can be seen here: