By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. View our Privacy Policy for more information.

GlobalNeoNat: Innovating to Save Newborn Lives in Low-Resource Settings - A significant progress

Our GlobalNeoNat project is dedicated to reducing neonatal mortality in vulnerable regions by developing a low-cost, mobile, energy-efficient incubator designed for settings with unreliable electricity and limited resources.

This summer, our research team made significant progress by developing a safe and affordable thermal battery (a revolution compared to potentially flammable lithium battery!) and integrating a control system to predict its performance. Additionally, the team designed an innovative heat storage and airflow system to maintain a stable environment inside the incubator. We also developed predictive software, powered by machine learning, that accurately forecasts battery life.

What does this mean in practical terms? It means that thanks to these innovations:

  • Newborns will stay warm and safe, even during power outages.
  • Healthcare workers will have peace of mind, knowing the incubator will protect babies when electricity fails. This will allow nurses and doctors to focus on caring for newborns without worrying about life-threatening temperature fluctuations.
  • Medical teams will be able to plan ahead with confidence, reducing stress and ensuring they can respond quickly and effectively in critical moments.

Stay tuned for more development news as we move now into the final phase of research.  We are also seeking funding support—please spread the word or contact us to learn more!

More publications or events

News

AGILIS prosthetic foot field trial

AGILIS - our prosthetic foot developped with ICRC - is now tested in the field
News

Global View Aid: completion of the 2nd phase

The GlobalViewAid project enhances safety and independence for blind individuals by developing a navigation aid to complement the white cane, addressing its limitations. Prioritizing accessibility in low-income countries, it incorporates feedback from users in Switzerland and Colombia. With the second phase successfully tested, the team seeks funding to advance this impactful initiative.
News

Geneva Technical Hub now completed

The Geneva Technical Hub Programme - established to improve the lives of refugees and internally displaced people and their host communities, has successfully ended after a little over two years of intense collaboration with EPFL Labs and UNHCR.