A groundbreaking solution to combat urban air pollution has emerged from the halls of Medicaps University. Third-year student Kshitiz Chingawat has successfully developed and patented a traffic light system that doubles as an air purifier, addressing pollution right where it accumulates the most.
The innovative device created by the Computer Science Engineering student tackles the persistent problem of air pollution at traffic intersections, which are notorious for concentrated vehicle emissions and extended exposure for both pedestrians and commuters waiting at signals. What makes this invention particularly remarkable is its elegant integration with existing infrastructure. The purification system draws power from the traffic light itself requiring no additional energy source or significant modifications to current traffic management systems, making it an immediately viable solution for urban areas.
The system also incorporates multiple filtration technologies, which work in harmony. A suction fan draws in polluted air which then passes through a HEPA filter to remove particulate matter, an activated carbon filter for harmful gases, a Photocatalytic Oxidation filter for volatile organic compounds and a UV-C rod to neutralize airborne pathogens before releasing clean air back into the immediate environment.
Dr. Vipin Sharma, Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering and mentor for the project, expressed his enthusiasm for the innovation. “This project exemplifies how engineering solutions can address pressing environmental challenges in an elegant and practical manner. By integrating air purification technology into existing urban infrastructure, Kshitiz has created a sustainable approach to combat pollution that requires no additional real estate or power sources. The potential impact on urban air quality and public health could be transformative especially for rapidly developing cities across India facing severe air quality issues.”
Chingawat who recently received Design Patent No. 435104-001 for his innovation on January 8, 2025, shared his thoughts on the project. “My daily commute through congested intersections made me realize how much time people spend breathing polluted air while waiting at traffic signals. With the mentorship and facilities provided by Medicaps University, I was able to transform this observation into a working solution that could benefit millions of urban dwellers.”
The project was completed over a five-month period involving three phases- design and simulation, prototype development using 3D printing technology, and real-world testing. The prototype has demonstrated promising results in reducing local air pollution while maintaining energy efficiency within the existing electrical infrastructure of traffic signals.
Medicaps University is exploring partnerships with municipal corporations and smart city initiatives to implement this technology on a pilot basis at high-traffic intersections in urban centers, beginning with Indore. The university continues to support student innovations that address real-world problems through its robust research and development ecosystem.
