A mini sensor attached to a person’s smartphone could one day be used to examine air quality and get an idea of how well an individual sleeps. If implemented, it might help people with sleeping and breathing problems to get a better understanding of the underlying causes of their issues.
Researchers at the VTT Technical Research Center of Finland claim their miniature sensor can do this by using the measurements made through the smartphone to detect internal air problems. Handsets are a convenient way to identify them since they’re always on hand, seeing as how we’re so attached to them. The Internet of Things revolution is already upon us!
According to Anna Rissanen, team leader of the VTT group which developed the technology, a bunch of daily concerns such as accuracy and efficiency at work are dependent on carbon dioxide levels as well as air quality. Measuring carbon dioxide further lets users analyze their sleeping patterns better by keeping track of their exhalations.
This could lead to more precise readings through health apps that gauge the quantity of carbon dioxide in the air. The tiny sensor is made up of adjustable optical filters called Fabry-Perot interferometers (FPI). The technology was developed by the VTT group’s senior scientist Rami Mannila. It’s based on conducting light through the sample being studied.
When channeling the light, carbon dioxide is recognized through its strong absorption of the light at a wavelength of 4.2 micrometers. A corresponding digital aid can be used to distinguish the gas from others based on their reaction to the light. MEMS (Micro-electro-mechanical systems) technology has the potential to be mass produced, making the commercial manufacture of such sensors a distinct possibility.