Monitoring microbes
Each individual’s microbiota is unique to them, like a signature. The apothecary builds up a database of that microbiotic signature and then monitors it for changes that could indicate health problems, including:
• Sensors behind the bathroom mirror that observe the condition of your skin, eyes and retina
• Breath falling on the mirror is analyzed for chemicals than indicate gum disease, tooth decay, dietary problems, alcohol and drug misuse
• Brushing your teeth can reveal evidence contained in oral microbiota, saliva and tooth plaque
• The urine and faeces that you deposit into the lavatory are analyzed
• Showering can reveal the condition of your skin (including its microbiota population), hair and sweat.
Evidence collected from these multiple sources will be integrated and analyzed. An intelligent wall-mirror-screen can project back at you a bodily health map, highlighting areas where changes are occurring or attention is needed, and suggesting solutions. So, instead of occasional visits to the doctor, each person’s health profile is continually assessed and fed back to them. Advice can then be given such as to modify the diet, take some herbs from the home-grown pharmacy garden, change the exercise regime, manage stress better or see a doctor.
This concept suggests that health management is no longer a fractured experience, where you are either healthy and on your own, or unhealthy and lose control to an industry of super-specialists. It is part of the daily ritual, a self-awareness tool, part of the grooming and cleansing process.
Far-future design concepts
The apothecary is part of the Microbial Home Probe, a far-future design concept. It is not intended as a production prototype nor will it be sold as a Philips product. Like past Probe Design Concepts that have stimulated discussion around a range of issues, this concept is testing a possible future – not prescribing one.
19 October 2011
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