A startup founded by Loughborough University graduates has been acquired by a US firm.
ORB Innovations has developed a platform that is effectively the world’s only fitness tracker wearable in the mouth. Their product measures physiological parameters, such as heart rate, as well as biomechanics, such as head impacts.
The company has been bought by California based Glidwell, a global leader in custom dental solutions.
Founded in 2017, ORB Innovations was supported by Loughborough Enterprise Network through pre-accelerator and accelerators in Loughborough University London’s Future Space, before being selected for LUinc., the University’s incubator based on Loughborough University Science and Enterprise Park.
Rob Paterson, CEO and Co-founder of ORB Innovations, said:
“We are thrilled to join the Glidewell family. As one of the largest dental companies in the world – with a 50-year track record of pioneering new technology – we feel we have found a natural home.
“The acquisition will allow us to accelerate the launch of our unique platform in the US and to increase the pace of our research and development in other areas. Together, ORB Innovations and Glidewell will bring to market a whole range of smart oral products that will provide flexible new options for health-conscious consumers.”
Glidewell CEO, Stephenie Goddard said:
“We see the platform the ORB team has developed as an exciting evolution for the sports market. And it’s easy to envision applications in other wellness related areas in line with Glidewell’s mission to bring innovative solutions to dental practitioners and their patients all over the world.”