Medical devices improve supplier's vital signs

Delphi Corp. with all its ills as an automotive supplier is now working on a slew of new gadgets, from a tiny pump that would help administer IV drugs at home to a mobile device that will allow patients to report their vital signs to caretakers through the Internet.

Delphi Medical Systems, has the advantage of being small and flexible, analysts say. At the same time, the business has the backing of all of Delphi, with its nearly 17,000 patents and 16,000 engineers. Some of the same technology Delphi created for cars and trucks can be used in health equipment. For example, the IVantage infusion pump, used to administer fluids to patients in hospitals, shares the same system of electrical wiring Delphi has created for cars.