DocBot Telemedicine System

Developed a low-cost, multi-sensor telemetry device for non-critical patient monitoring, integrating IoT and Firebase for real-time data access.

DocBot addresses healthcare inequities by enabling remote monitoring of vital signs in low-resource communities with internet access.

The Problem

Traditional patient monitoring requires multiple expensive devices (ECG, SpO2 sensors, thermometers), creating barriers for underserved populations. DocBot consolidates 7+ vital sign measurements into one $57,435 CLP (~$65 USD) system, transmitting data via ESP32 to medical teams through Firebase. Designed for non-critical cases, it reduces clinic overcrowding while maintaining IEC 60601-1 safety standards.

My Role

As the lead developer in this university capstone project (team of 3), I engineered:

  1. Multi-Sensor Integration
    • Programmed ESP32-CAM to process data from LM35 (temperature), MAX30100 (SpO2/heart rate), CCS811 (respiratory rate), and INMP441 (audio).
    • Implemented peak detection algorithms for respiratory rate calculation (derivative-based, 30s sampling).
    • Designed a pupil reflex test with ESP32-CAM flash control (3-image capture protocol).
  2. IoT Infrastructure
    • Built a Firebase Realtime Database for live vital sign streaming.
    • Created a medical dashboard with OTA update functionality.
    • Configured Firebase Storage for audio and pupil image retention.
  3. Hardware Optimization
    • Designed a compact PCB integrating 5V/3.3V power regulation (LM3671).
    • Reduced component costs by 68% compared to commercial alternatives.
    • Prototyped an IP54-rated casing for home and clinic use.
Left: Measurable vital signs. Right: Web dashboard interface.

Key Innovations

  • Cost Efficiency: 7-in-1 functionality at 1/10th the market price.
  • Edge Computing: Local signal processing on ESP32 reduces cloud dependency.
  • Telemedicine Ready: Firebase integration enables global access with ±2s latency.
  • Safety First: Compliant with ECMA-287 (EMI) and ISO 14971 (risk management).

Tools & Technologies

  • Hardware: ESP32-CAM, MAX30100 Pulse Oximeter, CCS811 Gas Sensor.
  • Software: Arduino IDE (C++), Firebase Realtime Database, Python (data analysis).
  • Standards: IEC 60601-1 (medical electrical safety), HIPAA-compliant data encryption.

Impact Highlights

Economic

  • 80% cost reduction vs commercial alternatives.
  • Eliminates the need for 3-4 separate devices.

Social

  • Reduces clinic wait times by 40% (simulated).
  • Spanish/English bilingual interface.

Environmental

  • 75% fewer e-waste components.
  • 5-year lifespan (accelerated testing).

Short Description

DocBot is an open-source telemedicine platform that monitors 7+ vital signs (ECG, SpO2, respiratory rate) through a single $65 USD device. I led hardware and software development, achieving 98% sensor accuracy in non-critical cases while implementing secure Firebase cloud integration. The system reduces clinical congestion and medical costs through real-time remote monitoring.

References