Konikore

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  • 2021

  • Product
    Medical and Scientific

Commissioned By:

Koniku

Designed In:

United States of America

Koniku Jellyfish is a high-tech sensor that uses live brain neurons fused to a silicon chip to “smell” compounds in the air like pathogens, cancer cells, explosives, and more. This device converts a life form signal from a programmed neuron into a digital message.


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  • CHALLENGE
  • SOLUTION
  • IMPACT
  • MORE
  • For over a century, scientists have imagined a sensor that could "smell" just like a living being. Conventional sensors detect light, motion, and humidity, but not organic molecules such as airborne pathogens or explosives. Hospitals and security applications need organic molecular detection, but this has been technologically impossible...until now. Advances in how electronics and computers can be triggered and informed (by very slight electrical signals from living neurons) have made it possible to make an "electronic nose." Our challenge was to elevate sensing technology to a new level by teaming organic biology (brain neurons) with digital electronics (computing).

  • Konikore's design was inspired by the organic technology inside. Being the first of its kind, the exterior had to be revolutionary, functional, and manufacturable. The overall industrial design also needed to be mysterious and supernatural. Completely smooth, iridescent coloration, and designed-in functionality give Konikore an alien look and make these devices one-of-a-kind. The 360-degree symmetrical design expresses how it inhales air from all directions. Utilizing a vacuum deposition process, the color is applied through gas immersion-a nod to Konikore's breathing functionality. Air channels around the perimeter, similar to nostrils, are also built-in, as opposed to a simple perforated pattern.

  • Konikore contributes towards greater societal and individual safety by protecting us from airborne diseases, viruses, and explosives. This remarkable invention represents a sea change in science. The use of live neurons to sense a condition like our brains do, but in a machine format, is nothing less than astounding. This is the kind of innovation that advances civilization. All robots will eventually have this technology. Konikore's embedded technology will let travelers directly board airplanes without the headache of security checkpoints. Like dogs with the uncanny ability to sense our state of health, Konikore can detect disease, bacteria, and hormonal changes.

  • Koniku was inspired by the Hydra, the first organism with a nervous system known for immortality. The name "Konikore" therefore originates from the Nigerian word for "immortal." The evolution from Hydra to the human brain took 600 million years. Our revolutionary and first-of-its kind design symbolizes that leap. Koniku's goal was to create a synthetic brain, and these devices are the first iteration of that dream. They have raised $25 million to research and develop their technology. The Introduction of two visually stunning devices to the market draws attention. The more devices out there that make the world a safer place, the more public awareness increases-not only awareness of detection, but awareness of Koniku's brand as well. These devices feature live neurons that send electrical signals to silicone chips. That is a radical way of imagining computers and technology. Koniku strives to showcase their new technology while proving it's indeed possible, and not a one-off science experiment. In fact, the Jellyfish device is currently working in the field. KoniKore's technology is extremely compact, giving Koniku the ability to integrate anywhere in the world, from public stadiums, airports, planes, public transportation, and HVAC systems, to hotels and hospital ICUs.