The U.S. military has commissioned research and development for various gadgets, gizmos, and thingamajigs over the years that have resulted in some pretty unique inventions with practical uses even outside of the military. For instance, EpiPens, duct tape, and Silly Putty were all “happy accidents” that came about after the military had an idea of something they needed and commissioned someone to create it. And now, thanks to the military’s partnership with the Beckman Laser Institute at the University of California, we may soon be able to add point-of-care imaging devices and wearable sensors to the list of breakthroughs the military has had a hand in.
The Beckman Laser Institute received $6.8 million in continued funding to further develop these new optical technologies which would help to diagnose and treat soldiers’ wounds. The wearable sensors would be able to monitor physiological information such as the oxygen levels in one’s blood, or how quickly blood is coagulating to repair a wound. Additionally, the sensors can be used to check airways for damage and check for traumatic brain or spinal cord injuries.
While these advancements in optical technology will surely help our soldiers, companies are already eager to commercialize the innovations as well. Modulim, for example, intends to use the technology to diagnose diabetic ulcers. We may soon find ourselves adding these new optical technologies to the list of military inspired innovations that have benefited us all.
