Innovative technologies have the potential to elevate the quality of human life, streamlining processes and enhancing efficiency in ways previously unimagined. Amid the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, Omani innovator Mazen Al-Badi recognised a pressing need for advancements in healthcare that would minimize direct contact between medical staff and patients—a realisation that sparked the development of two groundbreaking projects: the "Doctor Robot" and "The Drone Project."
Reflecting on the pandemic, Al-Badi stated, “I witnessed the struggles of healthcare workers trying to keep themselves safe while treating infected patients. This highlighted the necessity for technology that reduces direct interaction to prevent the spread of infections.” Thus, the concept of the "Doctor Robot" was born, aimed at revolutionising healthcare delivery in a safer, more efficient manner.
Designed as a humanoid robot, the "Doctor Robot" is equipped with advanced sensors and artificial intelligence capabilities, allowing it to measure vital signs such as temperature, oxygen levels, and blood pressure. By employing data analysis, this innovative system assesses a patient’s condition and transmits the results directly to medical professionals. Additionally, the robot is capable of engaging with patients, offering health advice and guidance tailored to their needs.
The project's effectiveness has garnered recognition from relevant authorities, with intellectual property protection granted by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion in 2021. Al-Badi is collaborating with both local and international organisations to secure the necessary support for further development, with aspirations for production and deployment in the near future.
The innovations behind the “Doctor Robot” have not gone unnoticed, having secured multiple international accolades. These include a Bronze Medal at the Silicon Valley International Invention Festival (SVIIF) in the United States in 2024, a Silver Medal at the International Invention and Innovation Exhibition in Malaysia in 2024, and a Bronze Medal at the GCC International Invention and Innovation Exhibition 2023, organised by the General Secretariat of the Gulf Cooperation Council.
In addition, Al-Badi has initiated "The Drone Project for Accident Coverage," a venture driven by alarming statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO), which reported that road accidents claim approximately 1.3 million lives globally each year. In Oman, data from the National Center for Statistics and Information (NCSI) revealed nearly 300 fatalities and 1,800 injuries each year, alongside financial losses exceeding 100 million OMR.
The urgent need for innovative strategies to enhance public safety and emergency response is evident. Al-Badi described the “Drone Project” as an intelligent system designed for swift accident scanning and coverage. The drone, equipped with high-definition cameras and GPS technology, captures precise imagery of accident scenes and transmits this information to relevant authorities for analysis. Leveraging artificial intelligence, the system aids emergency response teams in prioritising their efforts based on real-time data.
Al-Badi elaborated, “The drone can be deployed from mobile units or emergency response centres. Upon activation, it performs a detailed aerial scan of the area, providing live visual reports to aid emergency teams in making informed decisions and optimising resource allocation.”
Initial testing has yielded positive feedback, particularly from the Royal Oman Police's Traffic Management Department, where the system was evaluated for its capability to provide real-time visuals during accidents. The Public Authority for Civil Defense and Ambulance also assessed its effectiveness in managing accident-related hazards, such as fire.
During a four-month trial period in 2023, 15 real-world scenarios were tested, demonstrating significant improvements. The innovative system reduced average emergency response times from 10 to 15 minutes down to just 5 to 7 minutes. Additionally, the accuracy of scene and location analysis improved by 80%, optimising resource deployment in urgent situations.
As Al-Badi continues to secure formal approval from government entities, he anticipates launching a market-ready version of the drone within the next year.
In his commitment to fostering a culture of innovation among Omani youth, Al-Badi is actively organising workshops and training sessions to empower young minds in developing technological solutions for societal challenges. He reaches out to aspiring innovators through his Instagram account (@mzin_albadi), announcing opportunities for engagement and education.
Al-Badi envisions establishing a dedicated centre for innovation and smart technologies, where Omani youth can transform their ideas into impactful products, both locally and globally. Through initiatives like the "Doctor Robot" and "The Drone Project," Al-Badi not only aims to advance healthcare and emergency response but also to inspire the next generation of innovators in Oman.
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