Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Peoples'Friendship University of Russia
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Vladimir Mishatkin, a student at the Institute of World Economy and Business at RUDN University, and his team created a prototype of a wireless insulin pump with Bluetooth functionality. The device automatically calculates dosage, analyzes glucose levels, and provides patients with personalized recommendations for safe diabetes management.
The student's development has already received recognition from the expert community, including winning the "Start Your Business with Moscow" competition. We spoke with Vladimir to learn how the idea for the device came about, what the most challenging aspects of the project were, and the team's plans for its development this year.
How did the idea for the project come about, and why an insulin pump?
The idea for the project arose not from abstract market analysis, but from personal life experience. The main source of inspiration was a devastating diagnosis given to a loved one. Observing the daily difficulties, limitations, and stress faced by people with diabetes, I made a conscious decision to focus my knowledge and efforts on creating a solution that could truly change their quality of life. For me, this startup is more than just a business project. It's a personal matter of honor, a way to express gratitude to my family, and a tribute to everyone living with diabetes. That's why, from the very beginning, the idea was focused on the real needs of patients: convenience, safety, comfort, and freedom in their daily lives.
How long has the project been in development? What knowledge and skills did you gain at RUDN University help you develop the idea?
Work on the pump has been ongoing for two years. During this time, the concept has evolved from an idea to the MVP (minimum viable product) stage. Studies at RUDN University played a significant role in the project's development. The economic knowledge gained allowed for an in-depth analysis of the Russian and international medical device markets, calculation of the project's economic viability, and the development of a comprehensive business and financial model necessary for dialogue with investors and industrial partners.
Who else is on your team, how did you come together and distribute roles?
My teammate and former MAI student Ivan Anisimov is with me. He joined the project early on, sharing the idea of creating a technologically advanced and user-friendly solution for people with diabetes. Ivan is responsible for developing the mobile app prototype, server logic, and APIs that ensure stable interaction between the app, device, and the project's digital infrastructure. I'd also like to mention my classmate Fyodor Averyanov. He supported the idea from an early stage and joined the team as an analyst. Fyodor is responsible for working with big data, market analysis, and assisting with the development of economic calculations and financial models.
Irina Georgievna Rybkina, head of the department and pediatric endocrinologist at the Morozov Children's City Clinical Hospital, ensures the project's medical and scientific validation. Her participation allows the product to be developed in strict accordance with clinical practice and the actual needs of patients.
Industrial partners joined the project at the final stage. The device is currently being refined in collaboration with the design bureau of ELTA Company LLC (brand name "Satellite"), the largest manufacturer of glucometers in Russia. Additionally, the project involves a team of developers responsible for the software, specifically writing code for BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) and developing a mobile app that enables wireless user interaction with the device.
Explain it to a layperson: How does a pump make life easier for someone with diabetes compared to existing solutions?
The main advantage of our system is personalization and automation of diabetes management. Unlike insulin pens, where patients must calculate doses and administer injections themselves, the insulin pump operates using microdosing. It mimics the natural function of the pancreas, delivering insulin in small doses throughout the day. This avoids sudden blood sugar spikes and significantly improves the patient's health.
Compared to traditional pumps, our device features a completely wireless architecture. The absence of wires makes it more comfortable to wear, reduces the risk of compression or damage to the system, and minimizes psychological discomfort. A key element is the intelligent personalized recommendation system. It analyzes patient data and provides accurate analytics for tailored therapy, reducing the risk of errors and improving disease control.
What were the most challenging technical or algorithmic challenges you encountered while developing the device logic?
One of the most challenging tasks was establishing a stable wireless connection between the physical device and the mobile app. Finding a specialist with practical experience writing BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) code proved a significant challenge, as such specialists are extremely rare in the market. A second critical area was developing a motor mechanism for precise insulin dosing. For a medical device, error margins are minimal, so it was necessary to create a system capable of ensuring stable, ultra-precise delivery. Significant effort was also devoted to the algorithmic component—generating the logic for personalized recommendations based on patient data and clinical protocols.
What will the personalized recommendations system look like and in what format will they be sent to patients?
The patient enters their blood glucose levels into the mobile app throughout the day. Based on this data, the system uses algorithms and formulas coordinated with leading Russian endocrinologists to determine acceptable ranges and blood sugar trends. Based on the identified trends, the user receives personalized recommendations for adjusting their daily insulin dose. This allows the patient to monitor their glucose levels throughout the day, reducing the risk of hypo- and hyperglycemia. Recommendations will be provided in a convenient digital format via the mobile app, including analytics, notifications, and decision-making prompts.
What did participating in and winning the "Start Your Business with Moscow" competition bring? Does the project have any other accomplishments?
Winning the "Start Your Business with Moscow" competition was the project's starting point. It allowed the project to attract initial interest from businesses, establish important professional contacts, and reach the level of industrial collaboration. The support of the Moscow Chamber of Commerce and Industry was particularly valuable, as it enabled the introduction and subsequent collaboration with ELTA Company LLC (Satellite brand).
Our project is:
Prize winner of the international competition "Business Generation 2025"; prize winner and scholarship recipient of the Moscow Chamber of Commerce and Industry; finalist of the MGIMO Ventures pre-accelerator; participant of the SechenovTech accelerator; resident of the Academy of Innovators (top 100 projects in Russia); a project included in the top 1000 according to the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia; a project that has attracted interest from medical companies and specialized funds.
What stage is the project at now and what are the development plans for the next year?
The project is currently finalizing its MVP and completing the software code required for certification. Key tasks for the next phase include completing the MVP and obtaining software certification as a computer, as well as patents for the industrial design, invention, and utility model. Within a year, the team plans to complete the technical and legal preparations necessary for the next stage—clinical trials and commercialization of the solution.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.