Researchers Use RFID to Fight SIDS

This system would be especially useful in hospital nurseries, Chiao says, since it could send the unique ID number of the baby's crib RFID tag, as well as the sensor results, to the hospital's management system. If a baby's carbon dioxide levels fluctuated, it could not only send an alert but also automatically open the infant's health record on a computer screen used by hospital staff.

After working with Chiao, Cao says, "I have carried out the tests for a proof-of-concept system and got some good results." That proof of concept includes testing a prototype for the effectiveness of the sensor mechanism and wireless transmission of sensor and tag data.

Thus far, only the proof-of-concept version of the system has been tested in the UTA lab. For the test, Cao says, "I used an LED as a indicator [to show a drop in carbon dioxide level]. First, I faced the sensor at a distance of 50 centimeters and kept breathing. After that, I withheld my breath." When the device failed to detect the necessary level of carbon dioxide at its next measurement—after five to 10 seconds—the LED light illuminated.

The next step, Chiao says, is to introduce the system to the hospital setting at the UTA School of Nursing, where computer-controlled mannequins, or "robotic infants," are used to train nurses. There, the team would use these robotic infants to show the nurses how to operate the new anti-SIDS device. The mannequin babies make sounds, have heartbeats, release fluids and can even run a fever. "We envision the next step," Chiao says, "is to integrate our monitor system in a setting where the nurses can be trained to be familiar with RFID technologies." When the system will be tested there has not yet been decided, he says, adding that the engineering group is hoping for funding from a government source, and to generate interest in the device from pharmaceutical companies or other commercial parties.

"SIDS is not an epidemic like cancer," Chiao says, "but as parents who come through it will tell you, the suffering is tremendous. The economic impact is tremendous as well. We are trying to address this issue."