Connected Human Exhibition
In parallel to Expo 2025 Osaka, EPFL organised from June 6 to 30th at the Swiss Consulate in Osaka /Swissnex in Japan “Connected Human,” an immersive exhibition spotlighting 16 pioneering projects from EPFL’s world-leading startups and research laboratories.
Few words from the Vice-president for Support to Strategic Initiatives, prof. Stéphanie Lacour
The exhibition brings together several examples of what we do in engineering, in neuroscience and in computation.
How Can Emerging Technologies Redefine The Human Body?
The exhibition invites you to explore the evolving relationship between humans and machines, a world where innovation extends our capabilities, amplify our well-being, and deepens human connection.
Step into the future where engineering and biology meet technology, where the human body is not only healed but enhanced through cutting-edge science.
From next-generation prosthetics to intelligent implants, from robotic exoskeletons to AI-powered diagnostic tools, each project on display is a bold step toward empowering the human body through technology.
This exhibition was designed around the four following body parts:
Head
Project name: Soft Auditory Brainstem Implant (ABI)
Speaker: Alix Trouillet
Lab: Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces
Abstract: A flexible auditory brainstem implant (ABI) designed to restore hearing in individuals with damaged cochlear nerves. Unlike traditional rigid ABIs, this soft, thin-film device closely conforms to the brainstem’s curved surface, improving tissue contact and reducing side effects such as dizziness and facial twitching.
Project name: Neural interface tool
Speaker: Ludovic Serex (one of the standout winners of the Global Healthcare Challenge 2025 at Expo 2025 Osaka)
Start-up: Neurosoft Bioelectronics
Abstract: The solution presented by Neurosoft Bioelectronics is an ultra-soft, minimally invasive brain-computer interface (BCIs) designed to safely monitor, stimulate, and restore neural function in individuals with neurological disorders.
Project name: Project on Chronic Fatigue
Speaker: Fabienne Windel
Lab: HUMMEL Lab
Abstract: This thesis explores a method to define underlying connection and disconnection caused by lesions to the brain (i.e. stroke) with respect to fatigue. A second part of the research revolves around applying non-invasive brain stimulation, namely transcranial temporal interference stimulation (tTIS), to these networks to modulate behaviour.
Project name: Brain injury management
Speaker: Tom Bertrand and Mathieu Falbriard
Start-up: Bearmind
Abstract: The solution integrates advanced motion and pressure sensors into sports helmets, transforming the protective foam into high-fidelity pressure detectors. These sensors, combined with motion-sensing technologies, continuously monitor head impacts, capturing data on force, rotation, and acceleration. This information is transmitted in real-time to a compact device within the helmet, which then communicates with an online platform. Coaches and medical staff receive immediate insights into impact severity, enabling prompt interventions.
Trunk
Project name: Pneumoscope
Speaker: Jonathan donz and Rizhong Lin
Lab and start-up: LIGHT Lab and Onescope
Abstract: The goal is to improve the detection of respiratory diseases through automated analysis of lung sounds. Integrated into the Pneumoscope, a smart stethoscope, DeepBreath employs deep learning algorithms trained on a diverse dataset of pediatric breath sounds collected from nearly 600 patients across Switzerland, Brazil, Senegal, Cameroon, and Morocco. This diversity ensures the model’s robustness across various clinical settings.
Project name: Artificial Aorta
Speaker: Yoan Civet
Lab: Center for Artificial Muscles
Abstract: This technology boosts the heart function by augmenting the aorta rather than interfacing directly with the heart. This device employs a soft, tubular artificial muscle known as a dielectric elastomer actuator (DEA), which wraps around the aorta near the aortic valve. When electrically stimulated, the DEA mimics the natural constriction and dilation of the aorta, aiding the heart in pumping blood more efficiently.
Project name: Stabilizing blood pressure with spinal stimulation
Speaker: Grégoire Courtine and Jocelyne Bloch
Lab: .Neurorestore
Abstract: The implantable system consists of a new class of electrode arrays, carefully shaped and spaced to target the hemodynamic hotspot. These arrays connect to a purpose-built pulse generator—similar to a cardiac pacemaker—that delivers finely tuned electrical stimulation, calibrated to each patient’s needs. The result is a compact, adaptable system capable of restoring blood pressure stability through targeted neuromodulation.
Project name: NOA (Enhancing Blind Mobility)
Speaker: –
Start-up: Biped.ai
Abstract: Worn like a lightweight vest over the shoulders, NOA integrates 3D cameras and artificial intelligence to detect obstacles, provide GPS navigation, and describe surroundings through audio feedback delivered via bone-conduction headphones. This hands-free system allows users to receive real-time information about their environment, including the location of doors, crosswalks, and other essential features, both indoors and outdoors.
Arm
Project name: Neural Robotic Hand Orthosis
Speaker: Luca Randazzo
Start-up: Emovo care
Abstract: Emovo care works on wearable robotics to assist individuals with hand motor impairments, such as those resulting from strokes or orthopedic injuries. Their flagship product, the Emovo Grasp, is a lightweight, portable hand exoskeleton designed for independent use at home.
Project name: Soft Arm Robots
Speaker: Kai Junge and Qinghua Guan
Lab: CREATE Lab
Abstract: This innovation features a novel “trimmed helicoid” structure – a modified spiral design that allows precise control over flexibility and stiffness in different directions. Its soft and compliant nature makes it suitable for delicate tasks in healthcare, elderly care, agriculture, and industrial settings, where traditional rigid robots may pose risks. The development signifies a shift towards more adaptable and human-friendly robotic solutions.
Project name: Velia smart ring
Speaker: Taha Benmrad
Start-up: Senbiosys
Abstract: A smart ring designed for everyday health monitoring with medical-grade precision. VELIA tracks vital signs such as heart rate, blood oxygen level, blood pressure, sleep, and activity, all from the user’s finger. The ring’s design combines sleek aesthetics with cutting-edge sensor technology, offering users a comfortable and stylish way to monitor their health.
Project name: Hand function restoration
Speaker: Solaiman Shokur
Start-up: Apneurotech
Abstract: The project centers on helping individuals recover motor function after neurological injuries such as strokes or traumatic accidents with a lesion in the spinal cord.
Apneurotech develops a technology that reconstructs the connection from the brain to the nerves and the muscles under the lesion. The technology consists of a tiny electrode (only a few millimeters) that is inside the nerve and targets the ramifications that allow single movements in fingers. This technology helps patients recover some specific movement such as grasping.
Project name: Third Arm
Speaker: Daniel Leal
Lab: Translational Neural Engineering Lab
Abstract: A novel approach to augmenting human capabilities by enabling control of a wearable robotic arm using diaphragm movements. Studies on that solution demonstrate that healthy individuals can intuitively operate a third robotic arm without interfering with the use of their natural limbs. The Third Arm project aims to explore the cognitive and neural mechanisms underlying the coordination of supernumerary limbs. The findings suggest that the human brain can adapt to manage additional limbs, paving the way for applications in rehabilitation and human augmentation.
Leg
Project name: Injectable bone strengthener
Speaker: Régis Gauderon and Ulrike Kettenberger
Start-up: Flowbone
Abstract: Flowbone’s technology consists of an innovative injectable hydrogel designed to rapidly strengthen fragile bones, particularly in patients at high risk of osteoporotic fractures. The hydrogel comprises hyaluronic acid and hydroxyapatite nanoparticles, mimicking natural bone minerals. When injected into weakened bone areas, it stimulates the body’s own mineral deposition, transforming into strong, viable bone tissue.
Project name: Sensemodi
Speaker: Jérôme Thévenot
Lab/start-up: Sensemodi and Embedded Systems Laboratory
Abstract: The Smart Brace employs a combination of non-invasive sensors to monitor key indicators of knee health: Acoustic Sensors: Detect joint friction and abnormal sounds, which can indicate tissue damage or degeneration.Thermal Sensors: Measure temperature variations across the knee joint to identify localized inflammation or infection. Kinematic Sensors: Assess joint motion and gait patterns, providing insights into stability and range of motion.
Project name: Exoskeletons
Speaker: Mohamed Bouri
Lab: REHAssist
Abstract: REHAssist has developed wearable devices like TWIICE, designed to assist individuals with spinal cord injuries in walking. These exoskeletons are tailored for user-specific needs, emphasizing simplicity, robustness, and adaptability.
