Community Collaboration is Critical to Our Success
By fostering collaboration between the public sector, private industry, and research universities, the state has become a hub for cutting-edge technology and groundbreaking medical advancements.
With a rapidly growing population and increasingly global competition, Arizona must continue to prioritize innovation in order to stay ahead of the curve. That's why state leaders are doubling down on efforts to diversify the economy and invest in emerging growth sectors, particularly in high tech and medtech industries.
Through strategic partnerships and targeted investment, Arizona is poised to lead the way in the development of new technologies and breakthrough medical treatments. By harnessing the power of innovation, we can create a more prosperous, equitable future for all Arizonans and solidify our position as a top destination for talent, entrepreneurship, and economic growth.
Accelerating Growth With Applied Research
At the Partnership for Economic Innovation, we're committed to building a world-class, diversified economy in Arizona. To achieve this goal, we've created industry-led Applied Research Centers that are focused on developing emerging technologies with the potential to improve lives both locally and globally.
Our WearTech Center is one of these centers, and it's at the forefront of innovation in wearable technology. Through applied research, we're testing and validating new wearables that have the potential to transform industries and improve the lives of people everywhere.
Led by a team of experts in wearables and related technologies, the WearTech Center is working to bring new products and technologies to market faster and more efficiently than ever before. By leveraging the latest research and development techniques, we're accelerating the path to commercialization for high-potential wearables that could revolutionize industries
Technology Designed to Improve Quality of Life
Safer Play: Identifying Concussions in Arizona’s Young Athletes
Head injuries in sports are a serious and growing problem for Arizona's youth. With millions of sports-related concussions occurring each year in the United States, and rising numbers among middle school athletes, the risks of repeated head traumas are a top concern for parents and coaches alike. That's why the Hiji® Band is such an important innovation for Arizona's youth. By providing real-time monitoring and alerts, the Hiji® Band is helping to prevent head injuries and protect the health and safety of young athletes in our state. With its comfortable, stylish design and advanced sensors, the Hiji® Band is the ultimate solution for parents and coaches who want to give their children the tools they need to stay safe and healthy on the field.
Mobility for All: Biomotum's Exoskeleton Solutions
More than 1.1 billion people worldwide have difficulty walking, which not only diminishes their health but also costs the healthcare system billions of dollars. Biomotum is a leading innovator in exoskeleton technology, dedicated to redefining personal mobility for individuals experiencing walking impairment or disability. Their advanced wearable solutions combine high-tech materials with a functional approach to solve everyday mobility problems. These intuitive mobility systems are highly effective and accessible to end users, including physical therapists, orthotic and prosthetic professionals, and individuals with disabilities. With real-time monitoring and advanced sensors that offer instant feedback and support, Biomotum's exoskeleton technology is the ultimate wearable for anyone experiencing walking impairment or disability. Individuals can regain their independence and improve their quality of life with Biomotum's innovative wearable solutions.
Conquering Stress With Wearables
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Developed over several decades by a team of neuropsychologists, TouchPoints are designed to help people rapidly shift from a "fight or flight" response to a more serene, balanced state. These innovative wearable devices use gentle, alternating vibrations to modify the body's response to stress, providing relief from both physiological and psychological stress in just 30 seconds. People can simply place TouchPoints on either side of their body – in pockets, socks, on straps, their belt, wristbands, or even held in their hands – and begin to feel calmer and more in control. In fact, data shows that within just 30 seconds of using TouchPoints, people experienced a 74% reduction in their stress levels and a 68% reduction in body sensations related to stress. With TouchPoints, individuals can enjoy the benefits of rapid stress relief anytime, anywhere.
Breath Sensors That Combat Obesity
In collaboration with Arizona State University, TF Health Corporation is developing an innovative wearable device - Breezing - to monitor breath composition. Breezing has a breath-fat oxidation sensor that detects acetone levels in the breath – a key marker of fat burning. This device will help individuals in weight loss and dietary programs measure the efficiency of their practices. With TF Health's wearable technology, people can make informed decisions about their well-being.
What if We Could Predict a Fall Before it Happened?
Falls can be incredibly dangerous for the elderly and those who suffer from instability. Every year, over 3 million people over the age of 65 are treated for fall-related injuries, leading to increased fear of falling, reduced activity levels, and even mortality. These injuries can be devastating, resulting in reduced quality of life, loss of independence, and increased healthcare costs. For this reason, fall prevention is crucial. The Lockhart Monitor is a revolutionary wearable device that can detect instability and predict the likelihood of a future fall, allowing individuals to take proactive steps to reduce their risk. By monitoring balance and stability, the MyACTome app can optimize medical management programs, reduce fall risk, and improve the quality of life for vulnerable patients suffering from Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, Multiple Sclerosis, and Stroke.
Arizona's Exoskeleton Technology is Advancing Workplace Safety
Workplace injuries are a major concern, with 2.1 million people experiencing injuries in 2020 alone. Robotic exoskeleton suits have the potential to prevent injury by assisting body movements and lifting ergonomics, but not all suits are created equal. That's why GoX Labs, AKE, and the Phoenix Robotics Group are developing the "PhenEx" Exoskeleton, a made-in-Arizona solution based on 15 years of advancing critical technology with Arizona State University. The PhenEx utilizes body sensors to activate spring elements when workers perform tasks like squatting or lifting, decreasing the risk of injury. By leveraging technology to promote safety and wellness, PhenEx is helping to create a more secure and healthy workforce. With the PhenEx exoskeleton, companies can ensure the safety of their employees and prevent costly workplace injuries.
Applied Research is a Path to a Healthier Economy, and a Healthier Region
Investing in innovation isn't just about building a strong economy - it's also about improving the health and well-being of all Arizonans. From wearable technology that helps reduce the risk of injuries and falls to innovative exoskeletons that protect workers on the job, these cutting-edge solutions are making Arizona a healthier and safer place to live and work.
By continuing to support initiatives that promote innovation and research, we can build on this momentum and create a brighter future for our state. Whether it's by developing new medical technologies or creating sustainable, eco-friendly solutions, Arizona has the potential to lead the way in shaping a better world for generations to come.