February 13, 2023
Twin sisters Matlhogonolo and Masego Mphahlele have come up with an ingenious idea that will change the landscape of the medical field.
The twins have successfully created 'Digital X-ray Glasses', a smaller and more portable version of the traditional X-ray machine. They came up with the idea after playing in a soccer game in which one of their friends sustained an injury. At the hospital it took several hours to get an X-ray which left a lasting impact as they had to watch their friend wait while in pain.
The glasses could be used anywhere as needed, significantly cutting down wait times and facilitating more responsive medial care on site.
The glasses are equipped with an infrared camera and lens that can capture thermal images. The results are then shown on the screen and can be downloaded to a computer.
News24
Students of the University of Johannesburg, Matlhogonolo and Masego presented their invention at the Red Bull Basement Global Final in March 2022 in Istanbul, Turkey. They placed 3rd in the workshop and were met with praise for their creation.
The Red Bull Basement is an event allowing innovators and entrepreneurs to launch their ideas to a panel of judges.
The sisters are working on improving the design, so that it can work without the use of radiation, and hope that it will be available in all first aid kits and local hospitals for easier accessibility.
Cover Image: News24