Skip to content
Datico Integration: POLAR - Heart rate monitoring & training control

Datico® System Partner | Datico® Wearable Connect

POLAR

Data protection-compliant wearable integration

The integration of wearables from Polar Electro into the Datico® Wearable Connect solutions creates new possibilities for data protection-compliant use of wearable data with significantly expanded analysis options.


Flexible integration of modern wearable systems

Polar Electro is one of the technological leaders in the wearables sector – with a long history as a pioneer in the field of heart rate measurement. Today, POLAR delivers precise and complex wearable solutions with a variety of integrated sensors.

Integration into the Datico platform takes place via two solutions:


This provides flexible integration paths that cover both real-time scenarios and cloud-based use cases – without the typical limitations of proprietary manufacturer platforms.


Datico® Wearable Connect Cloud:
Addition to the POLAR Flow cloud solution

Datico® Wearable Connect Cloud extends the classic use of the Polar Flow Cloud with a central, cross-system data processing layer, creating new possibilities, particularly for clinical applications, scientific studies and health management solutions. In these contexts, the platform enables structured collection, management and evaluation of wearable data across multiple users and thus opens up significantly expanded analysis and control options.

A significant added value lies in the comprehensive aggregation and evaluation of data:
data from several Polar Flow accounts can be centrally merged, processed in a structured manner and analyzed in a common context. This is particularly useful for clinical and scientific applications:

  • the consolidated management of study participants and wearables
  • the central recording and synchronization of measurement data
  • the implementation of comprehensive analyses across several user groups
  • Structured further processing in external systems


Result:
A significantly enhanced analysis capability compared to the isolated use of manufacturer platforms.

A second key aspect is the improved data protection classification of the data processing: although the initial data collection still takes place via the Polar Flow Cloud, the integration into Datico® creates an additional processing layer that can be used to conclude a data processing agreement (DPA).

The Datico® Wearable Connect Cloud thus represents a pragmatic approach to expanding existing manufacturer solutions with structured analysis and integration options and at the same time improving the level of data protection in a targeted manner.


Datico® Wearable Connect Bluetooth
Full data control and direct integration

Datico® Wearable Connect Bluetooth represents the consistently data protection-compliant integration approach and enables direct, fully controlled collection of wearable data – without using a manufacturer’s cloud.

The technical implementation takes place via the Datico® LIFE APP, which acts as the central interface between the wearable and the platform. The app synchronizes the data directly with the respective device and transfers it to the Datico® system architecture in a structured manner.

A key advantage here is the completely autonomous data transfer:
The data is transferred directly from the wearable to the respective target environment – for example to the IT infrastructure of a clinic, university or company – without external intermediate storage or forwarding via third-party platforms.

This creates fully controllable data paths, which are essential in sensitive application areas in particular, for example:

  • in clinical environments with high data protection requirements
  • in scientific studies with strict regulatory requirements
  • in safety-critical areas such as the military, police or authorities
  • in industrial applications with isolated system architectures


Result:
End-to-end data sovereignty, maximum transparency across all data flows and the ability to create completely isolated and data protection-compliant system landscapes.

Extended data collection through combined sensor and feedback data

A key added value of this approach lies in the combination of automated sensor data acquisition and individual user interaction.

In addition to the wearable data, the Datico® LIFE APP Bluetooth can also be used to play out individual questionnaires and feedback forms. These are flexibly configured and enabled via the Datico® Smart Forms Bluetooth:

  • the assessment of subjective parameters (e.g. perception of stress, sleep quality, well-being)
  • the addition of contextual information to objective sensor data
  • Individual adaptation to study protocols, clinical requirements or training concepts


This results in a significantly expanded database that integrates both objective measurements as well as personal feedback and subjective assessments.


From wearable to integrated analysis platform

The data collected via Datico® Wearable Connect is transferred into a comprehensive overall context in the Datico® LIFE HUB and combined with other data sources, for example:

  • Training and performance data
  • Clinical measured values
  • Environment and context data
  • User feedback and historical data


Based on this, powerful analysis and evaluation functions are available:

  • Datico® Index
    Aggregation of complex key figures into comprehensible performance indicators
  • Datico® Reference Sets
    Classification of measured values in defined evaluation contexts (e.g. traffic light logic)
  • Datico® IDOL
    Comparison with individually defined target and ideal profiles
  • Longitudinal analyses
    Development of parameters over time
  • Benchmarking
    Comparison with reference and peer groups


The platform also enables:

  • Integration in scientific tools (SPSS, MATLAB, R)
  • Connection to BI systems such as Microsoft Power BI or Qlik Sense
  • Transfer to clinical systems such as HIS or electronic patient files


Result:
A fully integrated database with maximum flexibility in analysis and further processing.


Target groups and specific added value

The integration opens up specific advantages for different areas of application:

  • Research institutions & universities
    → GDPR-compliant data collection and flexible scientific analysis without dependence on consumer clouds

  • Clinics & rehabilitation centers
    → Integration of wearable data into existing clinical systems and documentation processes

  • Companies & BGM service providers
    → Development of scalable health and performance solutions for large user groups

  • Insurance
    → Use of valid, structured data for prevention and tariff models

  • Industry & software development
    → Integration of wearables into individual platforms and digital products

  • Military, authorities & police
    → Creation of completely sealed-off, secure system architectures without external cloud dependencies


Polar technology is thus being transferred to new applications.

Datico® Wearable Connect:
CLOUD VS. BLUETOOTH

Criterion

Wearable Connect Cloud

Wearable Connect Bluetooth

Data path

About Polar Flow Cloud

Directly from the device to the target environment

Privacy

Improved protection (AVV possible)

Maximum data sovereignty, no third-party provider involved

Cloud dependency

Yes (Polar Cloud remains a component)

No (completely independent)

Real-time capability

Restricted

Fully given

Analytical capability

Enhanced by Datico

Maximized through direct integration in Datico LIFE APP

Integration of external systems

Possible via Datico LIFE HUB

Possible via Datico LIFE HUB and Datico LIFE APP (integration of additional sensors possible)

Scaling

Very well suited

Very well suited

FAQ | Frequently asked questions

Integration of POLAR in the Datico® LIFE HUB

Which Polar devices are compatible with Datico®?

Compatibility depends on the chosen integration path and differs between Datico® Wearable Connect Cloud and Datico® Wearable Connect Bluetooth.

Datico® Wearable Connect Cloud:
In principle, all devices from Polar Electro Oy that transfer their data to the Polar Flow Cloud are compatible.

These include in particular

  • Polar sports watches
  • Heart rate sensors
  • Other wearables with a connection to the Polar Flow platform


The prerequisite is that the respective devices provide their data via the Polar Flow Cloud.

Datico® Wearable Connect Bluetooth:
With direct integration via the Datico® LIFE APP compatibility is based on the Polar SDK.

Support is provided in particular for

  • Polar H10 and Polar H9
  • Bluetooth-enabled wearables with direct access to sensor data
  • Selected Polar sports watches with open data communication


The decisive factor is whether the respective device can be addressed via the Polar SDK and enables direct access to the relevant measurement data.

The choice of integration method has a direct influence on data protection, data sovereignty and system architecture. There are basically three different approaches:


1. use of the Polar Flow Cloud (standard approach)

With the classic use of Polar – without Datico® Wearable Connect – the data is transferred to the Polar Flow Cloud and processed there.

Characteristic:

  • Data processing via the POLAR consumer platform
  • Limited options for individual data control
  • No direct integration into professional IT and system landscapes


Limitation:
For many clinical, scientific or safety-critical applications, this approach is only suitable to a limited extent due to regulatory and data protection requirements.


2. Datico® Wearable Connect Cloud
(extended cloud integration)

Datico® Wearable Connect Cloud builds on the existing Polar Flow Cloud, but adds a controlled processing layer within the Datico® LIFE HUB.

Advantages:

  • Conclusion of an order processing agreement (AVV) with Datico possible
  • Structured further processing and integration into existing systems
  • Improved transparency of data flows


Classification:
This variant represents a pragmatic, data protection-optimized approach and is particularly suitable for applications with medium data control requirements.


3. Datico® Wearable Connect Bluetooth
(fully autonomous data processing)

The Datico® Wearable Connect Bluetooth enables direct data transmission via the Datico Live App – without using the Polar Flow Cloud.

Advantages:

  • Complete control over the entire data path
  • No forwarding via external platforms
  • Direct integration into the infrastructure of the respective organization


Particularly suitable for:

  • Clinical studies with high regulatory requirements
  • Universities and research institutions
  • Military, authorities and safety-critical environments
  • Isolated system architectures


Result:
Maximum data sovereignty, maximum transparency and the ability to implement fully data protection-compliant and autonomous system landscapes.


Conclusion

  • Polar Flow Cloud → Standard solution for end users, limited control
  • Datico® Wearable Connect Cloud → advanced analysis + improved data protection structure
  • Datico® Wearable Connect Bluetooth → maximum data sovereignty and complete system control


For the first time, Datico enables a flexible choice of integration path – tailored to the respective data protection and system requirements.

Yes, Datico® Wearable Connect Bluetooth in conjunction with the Datico® LIFE APP Connect provides comprehensive options for live transmission and recording of wearable data.

Two basic operating modes are supported:

1. asynchronous data acquisition

  • Retrieval of data after completed training sessions or measurements
  • Periodic synchronization at defined time intervals
  • Suitable for standardized applications and scalable scenarios


2. live data acquisition in real time

  • Continuous display of sensor data during the measurement
  • Direct visualization in the Datico® LIFE APP
  • Immediate availability for monitoring and control


A particular added value lies in the time-synchronized merging of multiple data sources: Wearable data can be combined with other measurement systems in real time – for example with:

  • additional wearables
  • Training and environmental data


This creates a consistent live data context across different systems.

Yes, via Datico® Wearable Connect Bluetooth in conjunction with the Datico® LIFE APP, time-synchronized live recording and combination of data from multiple wearables and systems is possible.

Not only devices from Polar devices can be integrated, but also wearables and sensor systems from other manufacturers. The data is recorded in real time, synchronized and displayed in a common context.

A particular advantage is the ability to record several data sources live in parallel:

  • Simultaneous recording of several wearables per test subject or across several test subjects
  • Combination of devices from different manufacturers in a standardized data structure
  • Time-synchronized combination of all measured values in the live view


This creates a consistent live data stream that enables a holistic analysis of complex scenarios.


Unique solution

This form of manufacturer-independent, synchronized multi-device recording in real time is rarely available in this form in the wearable environment and opens up new opportunities, especially for:

  • scientific studies
  • Clinical applications
  • Performance diagnostic scenarios


completely new possibilities in data collection and analysis.


Result:
A highly integrated, flexible and scalable live data platform that goes far beyond traditional wearable solutions.

The Datico® LIFE APP plays a central role in the integration and control of wearables and adds significant functional and data protection-related benefits to traditional device management.

A key added value lies in direct data acquisition without dependence on manufacturer clouds: the app synchronizes the wearable data directly with the respective end device and enables both:

  • Live recordings in real time, for example as part of training, studies or measurement series
  • Asynchronous data acquisition, for example after completion of units or at defined intervals (e.g. daily at 8:00 a.m.)


This creates a flexible data acquisition model that can be optimally adapted to different application and study scenarios – with complete control over data transmission at the same time.

Another decisive advantage is the integration of individual questionnaires and feedback mechanisms: The Datico® LIFE APP can be used to play out project-, study- or application-specific smart forms that enable targeted collection of subjective data.

This includes, for example

  • Perception of stress and subjective assessments
  • Health and well-being data
  • Individual feedback in the context of training or therapy


The combination of objective sensor data and subjective user input enables a significantly expanded and contextualized database.


Conclusion

The Datico® LIFE APP combines direct, flexible wearable data acquisition with interactive data collection and thus creates a central basis for structured, data protection-compliant and application-specific solutions in clinical, research and performance environments.

The Datico® LIFE HUB extends the use of wearable data from isolated data collection to a holistic, context-based analysis platform.

In contrast to traditional manufacturer solutions, the data is not only displayed, but embedded in an overarching context and combined with other data sources, for example:

  • Clinical measured values
  • Training and performance data
  • Environmental parameters
  • Subjective user information (e.g. via Smartforms)


Powerful analysis functions are available on this integrated database:

  • Datico® Index → Condensing complex measured values into comprehensible key figures
  • Datico® Reference Sets → Classification of data in defined comparison contexts (e.g. traffic light logic)
  • Datico® IDOL → Comparison with individual target and reference profiles
  • Longitudinal analyses → Development of parameters over time
  • Benchmarking → Comparison with reference or peer groups


In addition, the platform enables flexible further processing of the data:

  • Integration in scientific tools (SPSS, MATLAB, R)
  • Connection to BI systems such as Microsoft Power BI or Qlik Sense
  • Transfer to clinical systems (HIS, electronic patient files)


Result:
A significantly broader analysis horizon that enables well-founded decisions in clinical practice, research and performance optimization.

The choice between Datico® Wearable Connect Cloud and Datico® Wearable Connect Bluetooth depends on the respective requirements for data protection, scalability and system integration.


Datico® Wearable Connect Cloud – suitable for:

  • BGM and business solutions
    → Scalable collection and analysis of data from many users

  • Clinical applications with moderate data protection requirements
    → Integration into existing processes with extended analysis capability at the same time

  • Scientific studies with existing infrastructure
    → Use of existing Polar systems with simultaneous centralized data evaluation


Characteristics:
Pragmatic approach with a focus on scaling, central analysis and rapid implementation.


Datico® Wearable Connect Bluetooth – suitable for:

  • Clinical studies with high regulatory requirements
    → Fully controlled data processing without third-party platforms

  • Universities and research institutions
    → Maximum flexibility in data collection and analysis

  • Military, authorities and security-critical environments
    → Creation of isolated, sealed-off system architectures

  • Individual software solutions and complex integrations
    → Direct integration into customer-specific platforms


Characteristics:
Maximum data sovereignty, real-time integration and complete control over all data flows.


Conclusion

  • Cloud → efficient, scalable, ideal for a wide range of applications
  • Bluetooth → highly secure, flexible, ideal for demanding scenarios


By combining both approaches, Datico enables customized implementation for a wide range of requirements and target groups.

The choice between Datico® Wearable Connect Cloud and Datico® Wearable Connect Bluetooth should be consistently based on the requirements for data protection, system architecture and analysis processes.

Datico® Wearable Connect Cloud is the right solution when:

  • the focus is on fast and scalable implementation
  • existing Polar infrastructures should continue to be used
  • a central evaluation across many users is required
  • the data protection requirements are high, but not maximally restrictive


Typical use: BGM solutions, larger studies, standardized clinical applications


Datico® Wearable Connect Bluetooth should be selected when:

  • maximum data sovereignty and complete control over all data flows are required
  • there must be no dependence on external cloud systems
  • regulatory or safety-critical requirements must be met
  • Real-time integration and flexible system architectures are necessary


Typical use: clinical studies with high requirements, research, authorities, individual software solutions


Practical approach:
Many projects start with the cloud version for rapid scaling. As data protection and integration requirements increase, the Bluetooth version is then often expanded or switched to.

Result:
A flexible, future-proof integration strategy that is geared towards the requirements of the project.

Share post: