Bioforge PTL: An IoT Enabled Rapidly Deployable Phototherapy Device for Neonatal Jaundice

Abstract

Phototherapy is one of the conventional methods used to treat neonatal jaundice. However, the devices are not only expensive, they are also arduous and time-consuming to procure. Bioforge PTL device provides a rapidly deployable solution for providing affordable phototherapy in low-to-middle income countries (LMICs). The acrylic-based modular design can be developed easily with commonly available laser cutting technology. Besides that, its user interface (UI), with just a switch and knob, enables smooth transitioning between the three levels of intensity. With a large swappable 25.6Ah battery pack, the system is capable of operating at 6 to 34 hours depending on intensity. The battery backup and charging capability through renewable resources make the proposed system suitable to be deployed at regions with non-consistent electricity and even at disaster-stricken areas. Nevertheless, the internet-of-things (IoT) capabilities of the system enables remote monitoring through Thingsboard. Finally, healthcare professionals can access this information using web servers to make informed decisions based on the device conditions.