UC Riverside researchers have unveiled an air-powered computer that offers a new approach to monitoring life-saving medical devices.
This technology eliminates the need for electronic sensors and provides a more reliable and cost-effective method of preventing blood clots and strokes.
The air-powered computer is about the size of a matchbox, but replaces multiple sensors and a computer, reducing the overall complexity of medical monitoring systems.
Air-powered computer for device monitoring
This technology was developed by researchers from the University of California, Riversideand uses microfluidic valves to create a low-cost, efficient method for identifying faults in pneumatic systems, which are common in several industries including healthcare, manufacturing and robotics
Detailed in the Magazine deviceThe device operates solely on air and provides warnings when devices are malfunctioning. Pneumatic control systems are vital in many mechanical applications, from train brakes to medical devices such as Intermittent Pneumatic Compression (IPC) devices, which are often used to prevent blood clots by periodically inflating leg sleeves that improve blood circulation. These devices are crucial in preventing serious conditions such as strokes and pulmonary embolisms.
Normally, IPC devices rely on electronic components to operate and monitor their performance. However, electronics can make these devices expensive and less reliable in certain conditions. The new air-powered device replaces these electronic elements, making IPC devices safer, more affordable, and easier to maintain.
William Grover, an associate professor of bioengineering at UC Riverside and one of the study’s authors, explained that the computer uses pneumatic logic to operate in a similar way to electronic circuits.
The machine counts binary messages (ones and zeros) using air pressure differences flowing through 21 small valves. This system ensures that the IPC machine is functioning correctly. If the computer detects an error, it activates a whistle signal, indicating that the machine requires immediate attention.
In a demonstration video, Grover and his students deliberately damaged an IPC device to demonstrate the computer’s effectiveness. Within seconds, the whistle sounded, alerting them to the malfunction.
The potential applications of air-powered computing extend beyond monitoring medical devices. Grover envisions the technology being used in other hazardous environments where traditional electronic devices could pose risks.
For example, he is interested in developing air-powered robots that can work in grain silos. Grover said, “There are a surprising number of fatalities because the grain shifts and the person gets stuck. A robot could do this job instead of a person. However, these silos are explosive and a single electrical spark can blow a silo apart, so an electronic robot might not be the best choice… I want to make an air-powered robot that can work in this explosive environment, not generate sparks, and get people out of harm’s way.”