iCanary
Smart Air Quality Device that measures air quality in a room



Introduction
iCanary is a startup specializing in smart air systems. The project aimed to create a smart air device that measures air quality in a room, provides real-time feedback to occupants, and manipulates airflow ventilation based on the readings.
Project Background
The iCanary Smart Air Sensor is designed to measure indoor air quality. The goal was to create an MVP (Minimum Viable Product) capable of collecting and displaying air quality data while integrating with building ventilation systems to improve air circulation automatically.
Project Goals and Objectives
The primary goals of the project were to:
Create an MVP
Secure funding
Further develop the product into a market-ready version with input from field experts
Methodology
MVP Creation
The MVP was designed with the following requirements:
Air sensors to collect environmental data
A display system to present air quality information to end-users
The MVP consisted of an Arduino-based air sensor system that measured temperature and humidity and connected to a computer for real-time monitoring.
Sensor Placement
One sensor was placed on the wall.
Another sensor was positioned at the air conditioning outlet vent.
Both sensors provided readings to a computer, which then calculated the ventilation quality in the room and notified end users if ventilation was needed.
Tools Used
Arduino sensor kits
Arduino IDE
Implementation & Execution
The project gained traction in 2024. iCanary and Tropdev secured a working space at the Ideas Lab at James Cook University.
We also participated in the 2024 Tropical Innovation Festival, where we were invited to pitch the concept.
Challenges & Solutions
Time Constraints and Commitments
The founder of iCanary was pursuing a PhD, and I was working full-time, limiting our available time for the project.
Due to these constraints, we decided to put the project on hold and plan to revisit it in 2025 when circumstances are more favourable.
Future Scope & Enhancements
Resume development in 2025
Enhance sensor accuracy and efficiency
Develop a fully integrated AI-powered ventilation control system
Secure additional funding and industry partnerships
Conclusion
The iCanary project successfully developed an MVP and gained early traction. Despite challenges with time constraints, the project remains promising, with plans to continue development in 2025.
Introduction
iCanary is a startup specializing in smart air systems. The project aimed to create a smart air device that measures air quality in a room, provides real-time feedback to occupants, and manipulates airflow ventilation based on the readings.
Project Background
The iCanary Smart Air Sensor is designed to measure indoor air quality. The goal was to create an MVP (Minimum Viable Product) capable of collecting and displaying air quality data while integrating with building ventilation systems to improve air circulation automatically.
Project Goals and Objectives
The primary goals of the project were to:
Create an MVP
Secure funding
Further develop the product into a market-ready version with input from field experts
Methodology
MVP Creation
The MVP was designed with the following requirements:
Air sensors to collect environmental data
A display system to present air quality information to end-users
The MVP consisted of an Arduino-based air sensor system that measured temperature and humidity and connected to a computer for real-time monitoring.
Sensor Placement
One sensor was placed on the wall.
Another sensor was positioned at the air conditioning outlet vent.
Both sensors provided readings to a computer, which then calculated the ventilation quality in the room and notified end users if ventilation was needed.
Tools Used
Arduino sensor kits
Arduino IDE
Implementation & Execution
The project gained traction in 2024. iCanary and Tropdev secured a working space at the Ideas Lab at James Cook University.
We also participated in the 2024 Tropical Innovation Festival, where we were invited to pitch the concept.
Challenges & Solutions
Time Constraints and Commitments
The founder of iCanary was pursuing a PhD, and I was working full-time, limiting our available time for the project.
Due to these constraints, we decided to put the project on hold and plan to revisit it in 2025 when circumstances are more favourable.
Future Scope & Enhancements
Resume development in 2025
Enhance sensor accuracy and efficiency
Develop a fully integrated AI-powered ventilation control system
Secure additional funding and industry partnerships
Conclusion
The iCanary project successfully developed an MVP and gained early traction. Despite challenges with time constraints, the project remains promising, with plans to continue development in 2025.