# Nest#2-Sensor Withdrawn from A Remote Module (SWARM)

> **NIH NIH U41** · CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY · 2022 · $507,160

## Abstract

The goal of this Nest is to facilitate research teams’ development and implementation of implantable
sensors. Many research teams developing specialized sensors do not have the expertise in-house to develop
human grade implants and to transition to testing in human subjects. As part of the Cleveland Open Source
Modular Interoperable Implantable Community (COSMIIC), we will simplify and streamline this process for
research groups by developing the Sensor Withdrawn from A Remote Module (SWARM). The SWARM
System consists of a sensor agnostic module, the SWARM Host, that will communicate with an arbitrary
outlying sensor, the SWARM Sensor, based on the clinical need and targeted function. As part of the COSMIIC
ecosystem, teams can take advantage of the SWARM Host, power module (PM), and all of the other NNP
platform hardware and software protocols, and focus development on a new SWARM sensor for internal health
monitoring or other applications. Incorporating stimulation modules will enable closed loop control when
clinically appropriate. This project will thereby enhance the development process for other teams and enable
more rapid implementation in people with clinical needs.
 In addition to facilitating development, the proposed modularity enables sensor placement in locations
of the body that would be impractical for a full remote module. For example, sensors could be placed in the
distal extremities to measure foot and hand movement to support feedback control. Alternatively, sensors
could be placed deeper into the body, on the heart, lungs, stomach, or other organs as part of an implanted
system regulating autonomic function.
 This project will develop the SWARM Host and a single SWARM Sensor as a proof of concept. The
SWARM Host will utilize the same packaging as existing remote modules, minimizing additional development.
In this instance, an inertial measurement unit (IMU) will be implemented as the SWARM Sensor; however, the
communication and powering protocols will enable the SWARM Host to receive digital or analog signals from a
wide variety of sensors in the future so that the module can be used for many applications. The following Aims
will facilitate translation to human users: Aim 1: Develop SWARM Host circuitry for communication with
outlying sensors and integrate into a full module. Aim 2: Design and fabricate a SWARM IMU Sensor as a
proof-of-concept. Aim 3: Complete bench-top testing for a full SWARM System to generate data for an early
feasibility study IDE submission.
 This project will generate the SWARM System consisting of the Host and sensor. The documentation
will create a pathway for other teams to develop sensors to integrate with the SWARM System. The open-
source material will enable the COSMIIC community to implement new sensors that amplify potential clinical
needs that could be met with the NNP system and then become products to improve quality of life for people.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10549469
- **Project number:** 1U41NS129436-01
- **Recipient organization:** CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY
- **Principal Investigator:** Nathaniel Steven Makowski
- **Activity code:** U41 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2022
- **Award amount:** $507,160
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2022-09-10 → 2025-08-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10549469

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10549469, Nest#2-Sensor Withdrawn from A Remote Module (SWARM) (1U41NS129436-01). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-26 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10549469. Licensed CC0.

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