Development and Assessment of an Inexpensive Smartphone-Based Respiratory Droplet Simulation Model

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Fluid Dynamics
• Public Health

Background:

• Droplet simulation research is often hindered by the high cost and limited accessibility of specialized equipment.
• Developing cost-effective and reproducible simulation models is crucial for broader scientific inquiry and education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a low-cost droplet simulation model.
• To assess the efficacy of a smartphone-based light source as an alternative to conventional ultraviolet lamps for droplet visualization.

Main Methods:

• A simulation model was constructed using readily available commercial materials and fluorescein dye.
• Droplet dispersion from a simulated cough onto a face shield was analyzed.
• Fluorescence illumination was compared between a standard ultraviolet Woods lamp and a smartphone-based cobalt blue light.

Main Results:

• The complete simulation setup, including the smartphone light, was assembled for $20.18.
• Statistical analysis (Wilcoxon signed rank test) showed no significant difference in the median droplet area of fluorescence between the UV Woods lamp and the smartphone light (P = .386).

Conclusions:

• The developed droplet simulation model is both inexpensive and easily reproducible.
• A smartphone application offers a practical and accessible alternative to traditional ultraviolet lights for droplet detection.
• This model holds significant potential for research and training in resource-limited academic settings, particularly relevant in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.