POLLEN24: Automated Pollen Detection Device
- Program: Mechanical Engineering
- Course: EN.530.404 MechE Senior Design
Project Description:
Finally – accurate and timely pollen count data for allergy sufferers! Our team developed a compact, fully automated pollen detection device that can provide timely count updates and can be placed anywhere outdoors and left to run without the need for frequent maintenance. The system uses digital holography to create 3D images of pollen samples pulled into the device. A laser diode projects through the air sample onto a CMOS sensor to generate the hologram. A solar panel provides stand-alone power. An onboard processor and antenna can transmit the images via wifi. The team developed processing software to filter the holograms and process them through a trained AI algorithm that can then report pollen counts and sizes. This system outperforms current pollen detection devices that either require lengthy processing times (counts are often outdated by the time they are published) or are very expensive ($100k +). Our system provides data for allergy sufferers so that they can take accurate doses of medication or limit time spent outside.
Project Photo:
The POLLEN24 team captures pollen on campus. The case is open to show the components inside, including the collection manifold, laser and CMOS sensor, battery, and wifi transmitter.