Design of Automated Walk-Through Sanitizing Booth: A Preventive Measure Against Re-Emergence and Spread of COVID-19 Related Diseases

Abstract

Considering the alarming rate with which the Corona-virus spread around the globe and its devastating effect on the economic, social and psychological well-being of the people worldwide, it is necessary to take measures that may prevent such re-occurrence in the nearest future. The impact of the virus was quite severe, indicating the importance of taking precautions. Realizing the gravity of the situation, governments all over the world, imposed a nationwide lockdown early on, which helped to decrease the possibility of community transmission. However, even after the lockdown, the risk of cross-contamination continues to be a significant concern. This risk was particularly high with asymptomatic individuals who can unknowingly spread the virus without exhibiting serious symptoms. Even now, that clinical trials have demonstrated the effectiveness of some vaccines in reducing mild, moderate, and severe cases of COVID-19. It is necessary to set up preventive measures in combating the occurrence or re-emergence of such pandemic Corona-virus related diseases in the nearest future. A full body sanitizing machine which can be easily constructed was designed in this work. This machine takes the form of a door and tunnel structure, with two sides enclosed by Chaka Plates and two sides open for entry and exit purposes. When a person enters the tunnel, a sensor located at the top center detects its presence and activates the motor, which initiates the entire system. A total of 8-10 sprayers are activated and spray the person's body, automatically stopping after 4 seconds. This machine is capable of sanitizing fifteen people per minute. The discharged fluid and the temperatures of ten individual samples were tested and analyzed in order to ensure that the booth is working effectively. The tested samples confirmed that the tested samples have not been previously infected with the COVID-19 virus.