C-May: converting tuk-tuk engines into electric motors
In Ethiopia, a persistent energy crisis has led to soaring fuel prices and frequent shortages, severely affecting motorists. Emerging from the UCreate program at UNIL, C-May offers tuk-tuk drivers, who fulfil a role similar to public transport the opportunity to convert their combustion engines into electric ones by integrating a swappable battery system. This approach helps minimize the investment required for the transition while reducing environmental impact.
To address the challenges of limited electricity access, frequent power outages, and long charging times, C-May also aims to develop a network of battery swap stations. These would be implemented in collaboration with existing fuel stations, which are expected to disappear following the 2024 enforcement of a new regulation banning the import of combustion engine vehicles as part of efforts to combat the energy crisis.
With support from the FIT Impact Grant, the C-May team plans to test the feasibility of its solution directly in the field.
Healium and its intelligent pillbox improve patient adherence to treatment
Medicase is a connected device that delivers medicines in the correct dosage, ensuring that they are taken correctly and safely. When it's time to take a medicine, the device alerts the patient and dispenses the prescribed dose. Thanks to its real-time connectivity, this pillbox enables carers to monitor therapeutic activity remotely via a digital platform, enabling them to detect anomalies (omissions, overdoses) and intervene quickly.
Supported by the H4, the Healium project is preparing to conduct a feasibility study with the CHUV and Unisanté. The aim of this pilot study is to validate how well the device works in real-life conditions, with patients being monitored for 2 weeks. The FIT Impact grant will enable the Healium team to carry out user interface tests to validate the ergonomics of the box and software interfaces.
https://healiumsolutions.com
Hikane: a compact device for the visually impaired
Hikane is a simple, compact and intuitive device that attaches seamlessly to any white cane and provides haptic feedback (a vibration under the thumb) to signal the presence of obstacles. The basic idea is to create a simple, effective and easy-to-use solution tailored to the needs of visually impaired people.
Hikane aims to foster a more inclusive environment by significantly reducing the risk of injury, giving visually impaired people greater confidence when navigating outdoor spaces. As well as preventing collisions with obstacles, the device improves the perception of the environment, thereby enhancing the mobility and safety of users.
With the FIT Impact grant, the Hikane team now plans to finalise the last design iterations, complete medical regulatory validation and manufacture an initial batch of 50 devices.
https://www.hikane.com
LittleCubes: a therapeutic light cube to help autistic children develop their independence
Today, 1 in 15 children are diagnosed with a developmental disorder, often requiring intensive therapy. Using light and play, LittleCubes helps children become more autonomous, improve communication, and develop social skills. The therapeutic tool turns therapy into a game using fun, engaging exercises.
With LittleCubes, therapists can create exercises in seconds, track patient progress, and improve engagement in their therapy sessions.
Originating from ECAL, LittleCubes is currently being tested by 12 therapists and parents. With support from FIT, testing will expand to 100 users, focusing primarily on therapists and families of autistic children.