Wireless wearable allows surgeons to control devices remotely

Tip-Tap is a battery-free wearable that enables surgeons to access digital devices without contaminating the operating room

Spotted: Canada-based University of Waterloo students have created a wireless wearable for surgeons. The device, known as Tip-Tap, allows surgeons to control digital devices such as computers in the operating room, without risking contamination. 

Tip-Tap makes it easier for surgeons to effectively receive information from computers and other devices, without touching the screens. It is important for surgeons to keep their gloves sterile, but the current practise involves someone else looking up information and relaying it to the doctor, a time-consuming and ineffective strategy.

Tip-Tap works like an electronic tattoo. It uses a custom-made radio frequency identifier to establish communication between the wearable and the device. The antenna is split into two strips that are worn on the index finger and the thumb, and each strip has a row of three chips. 

The device is activated when the chips on the two fingers come into contact. Wearers can change the signal by touching the different chips together. The wearable does not require a separate power source, as the antenna receives power from the computer being controlled. 

The research team recently presented their findings at the ACM Symposium on User Interface Software and Technology (UIST). Other wearables spotted by Springwise that aim to tackle health issues include an asthma monitor and a wearable robotic arm.