Start-up presents mobile respiratory gas analyzer for athletes
Spirocco has developed the VOII mask, a metabolic laboratory for use in the field. Its design enables precise metabolic measurements without a laboratory.
The Spirocco mask is designed to enable athletes to take precise metabolic measurements without a laboratory.
(Image: heise online / mack)
The Hungarian start-up Spirocco has developed the compact VOII mask for measuring metabolic activity during exercise. The new metabolic gas analysis system is designed to precisely record oxygen uptake and COâ‚‚ release during physical activity. In contrast to conventional devices, which are often connected to large analysis devices via hoses, VOII is designed as a mobile solution for use in the field.
According to the manufacturer, the system uses high-precision sensors with a fast response time to measure respiratory gases and a robust flow meter. It is designed to provide athletes and trainers with insights into important parameters such as maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max), ventilation thresholds and energy consumption.
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In addition to performance diagnostics, VOII should also enable the determination of the resting metabolic rate (RMR). This data can be used to optimize training and nutrition plans.
Up to 1000 euros
VOII is reminiscent of the patented VO2 Master Analyzer mask from the US company VO Master, which has been available for several years. VO2 Master Analyzer is also mobile, wireless and tubeless. VO2 Master costs around 6,000 US dollars and is primarily aimed at sports scientists, professional athletes, trainers, nutritionists and medical staff. Spirocco CEO Attila Kerekes promises that the price of the VOII mask will be between 800 and 1,000 euros and will probably be available in the first quarter of 2025. A study and further tests are also due to start then.
Kerekes also wants to patent his product. Compared to the VO2 Master, Spirocco promises a broader measurement spectrum (+/- 400 slm, standard liters per minute) and lower flow resistance. In addition to the oxygen sensor, the VOII also has a CO2 sensor.
A scientific study confirmed the mask's acceptable measurement accuracy and reliability in recording oxygen uptake and minute ventilation compared to stationary analysis devices. The data quality and reproducibility are comparable with other established portable systems.
(mack)
