Inspiration
The inspiration for the Low-Cost, High-Sensitivity Acoustic Camera stemmed from the critical challenges observed during the transfer of Liquid Medical Oxygen (LMO) to hospital tanks. The frequent leaks, often unnoticed, during hose pipe connections led to significant oxygen wastage. Drawing parallels with household gas cylinder leaks, the idea emerged to design a sophisticated acoustic camera capable of detecting ultrasonic noise generated by oxygen leakage during transfers.
Hundreds of Indian COVID-19 patients lost their lives during India's Oxygen Crisis in the Second COVID Wave, often due to events like oxygen tanker leakage.
What it does
The proposed solution, a revolutionary Acoustic Camera, stands as a sentinel against oxygen leakage hotspots. Its applicability is profound, especially when patients are asleep with oxygen masks, addressing issues of improper mask fixation and consequential wastage. The setup incorporates a camera, a cluster of digital microphones, and a Raspberry Pi Model 3 for simultaneous data reading. Implementing delay and sum beamforming for sound source localization, the device utilizes a low-cost structure with a camera stand and a dish antenna, serving as a surveillance system within hospital wards.
At a more granular level, the device tackles the challenge of improper oxygen mask fixation, a common issue leading to oxygen inefficiency. The continuous rotation and scanning of patient masks or the area where liquid oxygen is transferred enhance its detection capabilities.
Challenges we ran into
Amplifying the subtle "HISS" sound of oxygen leakage, barely audible to the human ear, proved to be a significant challenge. Overcoming this, we integrated numerous microphones to heighten sensitivity, effectively transforming the device into an acoustic camera. Sound source localization was achieved by measuring timing and phase differences, and a sturdy frame was crucial for continuous surveillance.
Accomplishments that we're proud of
The project earned recognition, being listed among the Top 18 Innovations by the Centre for Advanced Studies and APJ Abdul Kalam University. It garnered acclaim from the University of Petroleum & Energy Studies and drew attention from various print media outlets.
What's next for Oxygen Leak Detector
Our trajectory involves evolving the project into a cost-effective working model tailored for developing countries. The device, poised to conserve oxygen, will provide vigilant surveillance in hospitals and during oxygen transfers. Estimated at around 100 Euros, the cost per device could decrease significantly with mass production. Furthermore, the device holds promise as nighttime surveillance for patients on oxygen support in remote locations, marking a transformative step in oxygen conservation and healthcare efficiency.
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