Mandi : SynCubator, a neonatal incubator developed by Dr. Gajendra Singh, Assistant Professor, Dr. Satvasheel Ramesh Powar, Associate Professor, at the School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, IIT Mandi, and Mr. Keshav Verma, BTech 3rd Year, Mechanical Engineering has been selected for the prestigious ‘Stanford Biodesign Innovators Garage’ program.
Designed as a multifunctional neonatal incubator, SynCubator offers a unique solution to the challenges faced in transporting and providing critical care to newborns. Unlike traditional incubators, the developed device doubles as both a standalone warmer and an incubator, adaptable to the specific needs of each infant.
SynCubator’s key features include:
Ø The rugged aluminium frame ensures high portability, allowing transportation using typical 4-wheelers.
Ø Maintains temperature in the range of 35°C to 38°C.
Ø Maintains relative humidity between 50% and 70%.
Ø The Smart Control feature enables parameter adjustments via the Android application, with remote access from anywhere in the world with an internet connection.
Ø Grants access to all probes available in an adult ambulance, facilitating the use of any adult ambulance for transporting the baby.
Ø Enables continuous video monitoring of the baby through the Android/iOS app.
Ø Features a wireless vital monitoring system for remote diagnosis.
Ø Includes a plug-and-play phototherapy kit for addressing jaundice.
Ø Integrates weight measurement capabilities for comprehensive monitoring.
Speaking about the significance of SynCubator, Assistant Professor at the School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, IIT Mandi, said, “Our innovation extends beyond convenience; it addresses critical healthcare needs in regions where access to advanced medical facilities is limited. Regions such as Himachal Pradesh, where extreme weather conditions and rugged terrain pose significant challenges to healthcare delivery, our device offers a lifeline for newborns in need of immediate care.”
SynCubator distinguishes itself through its seamless integration with cutting-edge digital health technologies. Utilizing a user-friendly mobile application, healthcare providers gain the ability to remotely monitor and adjust critical parameters such as temperature, humidity, and oxygen concentration in real-time. Moreover, continuous video monitoring enables both medical professionals and parents to closely observe the newborns’ condition, irrespective of their physical location.
Speaking about SynCubator being selected for the prestigious “Stanford Biodesign Garage,” Dr. Satvasheel Ramesh Powar, Associate Professor at the School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, IIT Mandi, said, “So far, we have created and tested a proof of concept. Thanks to this program and the support of IIT Mandi iHUb, IIT Mandi Catalyst, and the Government Institute of Medical Sciences Noida, we are developing a proof of value that will be manufacturable and scalable. We hope to obtain the necessary certifications and launch the product within 1.5 to 2 years.”
During the innovators’ discussions with the Centre of Innovation at the Government Institute of Medical Sciences in Noida regarding the medical dimensions of the SynCubator, an opportunity emerged to participate in a prestigious program. Upon presenting the proposal to the Stanford Biodesign Team, the team’s innovative approach to improving access to healthcare in remote regions resonated with them.
With India grappling with high neonatal mortality rates and a significant number of preterm births, SynCubator will play a pivotal role in improving healthcare outcomes. By leveraging Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning technologies in the future, The core design team aims to further enhance SynCubator’s capabilities, enabling predictive healthcare interventions and timely treatments.
The selection of SynCubator for the Stanford Biodesign Garage underscores its potential to revolutionize neonatal care and contribute to the broader vision of “Viksit Bharat” – a developed India with equitable access to high-quality healthcare for all.
