The KOBE Robot

Empowering Paediatric Patients with a Novel Tethered Ventilator-Carrying Robot

Team Size:
2
Location:
Australia
Founders:
John Tran, Ali Goktogan
Program(s):

The Problem

Individuals relying on portable ventilators for breathing face a profound challenge impacting their autonomy and quality of life. This group, including those with respiratory conditions, grapples with limited freedom of movement due to the dependency on a mechanical respiratory aid, hindering engagement in spontaneous activities and restricting independence. The challenges intensify with the bulkiness and weight of portable ventilators, making prolonged carrying arduous and contributing to discomfort. Additionally, the delicate nature of these critical medical devices requires careful handling, posing a risk of potential damage or malfunction when carried by hand. Innovative solutions are needed to address these challenges and enhance the user experience for improved overall quality of life.

The Solution

Introducing KOBE (Keep One Breathing Everywhere), our innovative tethered ventilator-carrying robot designed to enhance mobility for individuals relying on mechanical ventilators. KOBE features a custom-designed tether sensor providing continuous angle and distance feedback, ensuring safe user interaction. KOBE ensures safe transportation of the ventilator by using ultrasonic sensors for positive obstacle detection and ToF LIDAR sensors for negative obstacles like steps. Tailored for the widely used Phillips Trilogy 100 ventilator, potential revenue streams include direct sales to individuals or healthcare institutions, customization services, and subscription-based models for continuous support. Our extensive research, including literature reviews, expert consultations, and patient engagement, culminated in a functional prototype tested in diverse environments.