Is there any feedback on how the test subjects feel about wearing the in-ear solution during the night?
Kreuzer: Our ongoing study with the Technical University of Munich (TUM) has only just started, but we have already conducted studies with the same setup - older adults - who felt very comfortable with the fit. We had received a lot of positive feedback. Actually, older people are usually more concerned about whether they are wearing the device correctly since they put it on themselves. We can typically ease their concerns in this regard as well.
In one study, test subjects wore the device for 24 hours a day over 15 consecutive days. They did so voicing no concerns. It should be noted that this was done as part of scientific studies that served a specific purpose. Obviously, we cannot expect personal users to wear the device without good reason – like an illness - over a longer period.
Is your ear-worn device an option for athletes?
Kreuzer: We initially started with a wearable device for athletes, but it measures fewer parameters. Athletes want to primarily track their resting heart rate and subsequently compare it by measuring their heart rate during exercise. Blood oxygen levels are not as important in this setting. One time, we asked a sailing team to wear the sensor technology during the night. The goal was to track their level of relaxation after having a good night's sleep. Firefighters are another group that wears our device on calls. There are a variety of potential applications.
How does wearing the solution affect hearing levels? After all, good hearing is essential for firefighters when they are out on a rescue mission.
Kreuzer: The sound level is reduced by about 3 decibels, which the brain is able to quickly compensate. In reality, you won’t notice the difference when you wear the device. You actually only detect it once you remove it, as noises suddenly appear to be "louder" again.