IIT-Mandi innovation SynCubator chosen by Stanford programme

Dipender Manta

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Mandi, February 14

SynCubator, a neonatal incubator developed by Dr Gajendra Singh, Assistant Professor; Satvasheel Ramesh Powar, Associate Professor, at the School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, IIT Mandi, and Keshav Verma, BTech 3rd Year, Mechanical Engineering, has been selected for the prestigious ‘Stanford Biodesign Innovators Garage’ programme.

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.

Parameter adjustment via Android app

• Rugged aluminium frame ensures high portability, allowing transportation using typical four-wheelers.
• Maintains temperature in the range of 35°C to 38°C and relative humidity between 50% and 70%.
• Smart Control feature enables parameter adjustments via the Android application, with remote access.
• Grants access to all probes available in an adult ambulance.
• Enables continuous video monitoring of the baby through the Android/iOS app.
• Includes a plug-and-play phototherapy kit for addressing jaundice.
• Integrates weight measurement capabilities for comprehensive monitoring.

Speaking about the significance of SynCubator, Assistant Professor Gajendra Singh, 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. Utilising 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” he added.

Speaking about SynCubator being selected for the prestigious ‘Stanford Biodesign Garage’, Associate Professor Satvasheel Ramesh Powar said, “So far, we have created and tested a proof of concept. Thanks to this programme 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.”

“As India is 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,” he remarked.

About Stanford Biodesign Garage

The Innovation fellowship provided by the Stanford Biodesign Garage offers a 10-month experience, empowering aspiring innovators with a robust, iterative methodology. Participants delve into identifying critical health-related needs and innovating novel solutions across various domains, including medical devices, diagnostics, digital health and biotechnology solutions. The programme equips fellows with the skills to seamlessly integrate these innovations into patient care pathways, whether through startup ventures or other channels. Fellows gain invaluable membership to the esteemed Stanford Biodesign community.