A project involving researchers from Heriot-Watt, Dundee and Glasgow Universities has been awarded £5M funding from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council. The researchers will investigate the development of a pill that can carry ultrasound technology
The 'sonopill' would relay ultrasound images from inside the body after being swallowed by patients.
It is hoped it could allow gastrointestinal problems to be diagnosed without the need for uncomfortable endoscopic exams.
Researchers have already developed pills that contain tiny cameras. The 'sonopill' aims to push that technology further.
Collaborative project
Professor Sandy Cochrn from the University of Dundee is leading the project with Professor Marc Desmulliez, Director of Heriot-Watt's Research Institute of Signals, Sensors and Systems and Professor David Cummins, from the University of Glasgow as co-investigators.
The project brings challenges and opportunities in areas including ultrasound device and systems design, microengineering and microelectronic packaging, autonomous capsule positioning, sensor suites for diagnosis and intervention, and routes to translation into clinical practice.
The project is to start early July and is a direct consequence of the IsPUD project financed by the Innovative Manufacturing Research Centre at Heriot-Watt University.