AI-Driven Adaptive neuromodulation for tremor.
TUKA is a wrist-worn device that detects tremor in real time and delivers closed-loop vibrotactile stimulation. We have a working prototype and a clear plan to reach a clinical-grade system with new features and validation at Western University.
Why TUKA
Millions live with disabling tremor
Medication doesn’t work for everyone and deep-brain stimulation is invasive and costly. Patients need a safe, portable option that works during daily activities.
Non-invasive, on-demand relief
TUKA delivers patterned vibrotactile cues that can entrain motor circuits and ease tremor amplitude while preserving comfort and mobility.
Closed-loop + AI
We detect tremor onset and characteristics with on-device inference, then adapt stimulation parameters in real time to maximize effect while minimizing energy.
How it works
Detection
- High-fidelity IMU (accelerometer/gyro) for tremor frequency & amplitude.
- Optional EMG patch connector for muscle activity patterns.
- On-device AI for tremor classification & onset detection.
Therapy
- Closed-loop vibrotactile stimulation with adaptive intensity and pattern.
- Safety limits and user-selectable modes (assist, train, rest).
System
- Low-power MCU, rechargeable battery, and compact form factor.
- Secure BLE link to companion app for updates & remote logging.
- Cloud dashboard for anonymized analytics (opt-in).
Who it’s for
Essential Tremor
Focus on intention tremor during actions like eating, writing, or pouring.
Parkinson’s Tremor
Target resting & re-emergent tremor episodes with responsive therapy.
Rehab & Training
Optional modes for physiotherapy exercises and home-based training.
Science @ Western
Roadmap: Hyperspectral NIRS / DCS module
We plan an add-on optical module to study microvascular and metabolic correlates of tremor and stimulation response. This informs personalization and dosage.
- hsNIRS for chromophore dynamics (Hb/HbO2, water).
- DCS for microvascular blood-flow indices.
- Joint modeling → adaptive stimulation policies.
Validation plan
- Bench testing & algorithm tuning on synthetic tremor.
- Pilot with healthy volunteers for comfort & safety.
- Feasibility study with ET/PD cohorts (n≈10–20).
- Iterate for clinical-grade hardware + regulatory pathway.
Prototype
Current prototype shown—moving to a refined clinical build with improved ergonomics, battery life, and manufacturability.
Team & Advisors
Co‑Founders
Mohammad Hossein Namazi — Co‑Founder
Master of Applied Science, Biomedical Engineering — Western University
Focus: wearable sensing, optical imaging, and AI for healthcare.
Sayyedshayan Nikouie — Co‑Founder
MEng in Chemical & Biochemical Engineering — Western University
Focus: product development, materials integration, and system optimization.
Advisors
Masoud Rahmati — Advisor
Master of Business Administration
Focus: strategy, business development, and commercialization.
FAQ
How is TUKA different from existing tremor wearables?
TUKA combines on-device AI detection with truly adaptive, closed-loop stimulation and a research-grade roadmap for physiological monitoring (hsNIRS/DCS) to personalize therapy.
What’s the IP strategy?
We focus on patent-clean implementations (signal processing, stimulation policies, and optical integration) and conduct an FTO review before the clinical build.
What’s the requested support?
Seed funding and institutional support for clinical-grade hardware, pilot studies, and regulatory preparation.
Contact
Interested in partnering, funding, or piloting?
Email: contact@tuka.com