Prisma_Air
PrismaAir
Every Breath Monitored. Every Risk Prevented.
Transforming Building Air Quality Through Intelligent Monitoring & Chemical-Free Cleaning
Learn More • Our Solution • Technology • Market • Team
The Problem
Meet Joe
Joe works in an office building with poor HVAC maintenance. Every day, he struggles with asthma symptoms triggered by contaminated air circulating through dirty ductwork. But Joe isn’t alone…
Not Only Joe…
Insufficient HVAC maintenance affects millions:
- 40% higher sick days in buildings with poor HVAC maintenance
- $125 billion annually in productivity losses from poor indoor air quality
- Traditional HVAC cleaning solutions fall short by:
- Using harsh chemicals that pose health risks
- Missing contamination spots during manual inspection
- Creating costly system downtime (2-3 hours per cleaning)
- Requiring reactive rather than preventive maintenance
About the Project
Background
Commercial buildings face critical challenges in maintaining optimal HVAC system performance and indoor air quality. Traditional manual inspection and cleaning methods are time-consuming, reactive, and often miss contamination issues that compromise building health and occupant wellness.
PrismaAir transforms HVAC maintenance from reactive to proactive by combining:
- Continuous Monitoring: Real-time tracking of VOCs, humidity, temperature, and particulate matter
- Predictive Analytics: AI-powered contamination detection and maintenance scheduling
- Targeted Cleaning: UV-C sterilization and adaptive brushing for chemical-free pathogen elimination
- Data-Driven Decisions: Comprehensive cloud dashboard for facility managers and HVAC technicians
Our Mission
Deliver healthier buildings through intelligent HVAC monitoring that:
- Improves Indoor Air Quality: Continuous monitoring with 12+ month autonomous sensor operation
- Enables Predictive Maintenance: Alert operators to precise contamination locations for targeted interventions
- Eliminates Chemicals: Achieve 99.99% pathogen elimination in 30 minutes using UV-C technology
- Reduces Costs: Lower maintenance expenses through energy harvesting and efficient cleaning workflows
- Ensures Compliance: Automated reporting and data-driven documentation for air quality regulations
The Solution
Three-Layer Integrated System
PrismaAir is the first integrated platform that combines monitoring, prediction, and cleaning in one comprehensive solution.
Our smart HVAC system integrates permanent sensor nodes throughout ductwork to continuously monitor air quality, VOCs, and humidity. Each node uses force air power generation to recharge its battery, enabling long-term autonomous operation. When contamination is detected, operators are alerted to deploy a mobile cleaning unit that uses UV-C sterilization and adaptive brushing to achieve pathogen elimination. The system predicts issues, pinpoints problem areas, and delivers superior cleaning in less time versus 2–3 hours for competitors—offering continuous monitoring and targeted, efficient cleaning at lower cost.
1. Continuous Monitoring
Self-powered sensor nodes constantly track air quality metrics throughout your HVAC system:
- Sensors: VOC levels, temperature, humidity, particulate matter (PM2.5)
- Power: 18650 batteries + vertical wind turbine energy harvesting
- Battery Life: 68 days battery-only; indefinite with airflow ≥5 m/s
- Communication: Encrypted BLE mesh networking
- Deployment: Permanent in-duct installation at key nodes
Modular design with motor housing for forced airflow, external electronics compartment, and removable rear cover for easy maintenance
2. Intelligent Gateway
Central hub that aggregates sensor data and enables secure connectivity:
- Data Aggregation: Collects readings from entire BLE mesh sensor network
- Cloud Integration: Pushes real-time alerts and analytics to dashboard
- Secure Communication: Encrypted Wi-Fi connection via nRF7002 coprocessor
- User Interface: HVAC map with node indicators, system reports, work order alerts
- Power: Mains-powered for 24/7 operation
3. Mobile Cleaning Robot (just for fun!!)
Mobile cleaning unit for fast, chemical-free duct maintenance:
- UV-C Sterilization: 360° LED array for 99.99% pathogen elimination
- Adaptive Brushing: Mechanical debris removal for comprehensive cleaning
- HD Camera: Visual inspection with LED illumination for contamination detection
- Cleaning Time: 30 minutes vs. 2-3 hours for traditional methods
- Deployment: Guided by sensor network alerts to exact problem locations
Security Requirements Specification
Security Overview
The system will ensure data, communications, and firmware integrity are protected from tampering, eavesdropping, and unauthorized access. Security measures particularly focus on safeguarding the gateway and nodes, which are in continuous operation and not always being observed.
Security Definitions, Abbreviations
- OTA: Over the air firmware updates
- GUI: Graphic User Interface
Security Functionality
| Requirement ID | Requirement Title | Description | Rationale |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEC 01 | Gateway Firmware Integrity | Gateway shall run only firmware from signed OTA updates, and shall securely store keys | The gateway acts as a bridge between the sensor node mesh network and the cloud (data portal etc.), and compromise here could expose the client’s network and leave them vulnerable to attacks and breaches |
| SEC 02 | Autheticate Nodes | Each sensor node shall authenticate in the mesh network using unique key/certification and ignore messages from tampered systems | This prevents unauthorized devices from disrupting the mesh or tampering with the data at the hardware level. It also protects from counterfit devices being added to our network |
| SEC 03 | Data Encryption | Communication from nodes, gateway and GUI interface shall be encrypted | This protects potentially sensitive IAQ and predictive maintenance data from eavesdropping and tampering at the data level |
Hardware Requirements Specification
Hardware Overview
The system contains a mobile robot for HVAC navigation, duct cleaning operations and sensor node depolyment. Low power sensor nodes will be deployed in the HVAC system for data collection to identify system issues and enable predictive mainenance. There will also be a gateway node.
Hardware Definitions, Abbreviations
- HVAC: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning
- VOCs: Volatile Organic Compounds
- UV-C: Ultraviolet C - short-wavelength UV light used for chemical-free disinfection and sterilization
Hardware Functionality
| Requirement ID | Requirement Title | Description | Rationale |
|---|---|---|---|
| HRS 01 | Bot Size and Weight | The mobile bot shall be maximum 300mm x 100mm x 100mm (can change) and weigh less than 5kg to fit through standard commercial ductwork. | Must navigate existing HVAC systems without modifications or damage. |
| HRS 02 | UV-C Sterilization | The bot shall include UV-C LEDs with 360-degree coverage to achieve 99.99% pathogen elimination. | UV-C sterilization is the core technology differentiator for chemical-free cleaning. |
| HRS 03 | Sensor Durability | Sensor nodes shall operate in -10°C to +70°C, 0-95% humidity with IP65 protection, VOC and 12+ month battery life. | HVAC environments are harsh; sensors must survive without frequent maintenance. |
| HRS 04 | Wireless Communication | System shall maintain mesh networking with 100m range and <2 second response time between sensors and bot. | Real-time monitoring and response is critical for building health management. |
| HRS 05 | Camera System | The bot shall include HD cameras with LED illumination for visual inspection and AI-powered contamination detection in low-light ductwork environments. | Visual documentation and AI analysis are essential for contamination identification and compliance reporting. |
Software Requirements Specification
Software Overview
The node/gateway software shall collect, process, and transmit sensor data HVAC sensor nodes to a centralized gateway. It shall manage sensor feature toggling, battery optimization, and secure communications across BLE mesh and Wi-Fi networks.
The robot software shall collect and process real time controls and data for navitagion and cleaning operations.
Software Users
- Facility managers at commercial buildings (offices, hospitals, schools, retail) using IoT dashboard
- HVAC technicians operating cleaning robot
- Building maintenance staff monitoring the IoT dashboard
- Property manager
Software Abbreviations
- MCU: Microcontroller Unit
Software Functionality
| Requirement ID | Requirement Title | Description | Rationale |
|---|---|---|---|
| SRS 01 | Battery Optimization | Software shall use MCU low power modes, intermmittent sensing and transmission to extend battery life to at least one year | It is important to maximize sensor lifetime to minimize disruptions and maintenance on the network |
| SRS 02 | Robot Deployment/Guidance | IoT dashboard shall alert operators to provide precise contamination or fault locations for targeted cleaning/work orders | Reduces manual inspection time and system downtime |
Technology
System Architecture
Sensor Nodes:
- MCU: nRF54L15 (Seeed Studio XIAO) for low-power BLE mesh operation
- Air Quality Sensors: SPS30 (PM2.5) + BME680 (temp/humidity/VOC)
- Energy System: 3.7V 4500mAh Li-ion + airflow dynamo (50-100mm turbine)
- Sampling Interval: Every 10 minutes (adjustable based on power availability)
Gateway Hub:
- Platform: nRF7002 Development Kit (nRF5340 + Wi-Fi coprocessor)
- Connectivity: BLE mesh coordinator + Wi-Fi to cloud
- Fleet Management: nRF Cloud integration for OTA updates and diagnostics
Cleaning Robot:
- Base: Commercial chassis (prototype leverages existing platform)
- Added Peripherals: HD camera, brush actuator, UV-C LED array (275nm, 360°)
- Navigation: AI-guided deployment based on sensor alerts
Security & Compliance
| Security Feature | Implementation | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Firmware Integrity | Signed OTA updates with cryptographic verification | Prevents unauthorized firmware tampering |
| Device Authentication | Unique certificates for each sensor node | Blocks counterfeit devices from mesh network |
| Data Encryption | AES-128 for BLE mesh, TLS 1.3 for Wi-Fi | Protects sensitive air quality data |
Power Budget Analysis
Sensor Node Energy Consumption:
| Component | Active Current | Duty Cycle | Avg. Current |
|---|---|---|---|
| nRF54L15 (MCU + BLE) | 5 mA | 0.083% | 0.004 mA |
| SPS30 PM2.5 Sensor | 60 mA | 5% | 3.0 mA |
| BME680 Gas Sensor | 1 mA | 0.167% | 0.002 mA |
| Regulator & Misc | - | - | 0.10 mA |
| Total Average | - | - | 3.1 mA @ 3.3V |
Battery Life:
- Battery Only: ~68 days (3.7V, 4500mAh)
- With Energy Harvesting (5 m/s airflow, 50mm turbine): Indefinite operation
Market Opportunity
Market Size
| Market Segment | Size | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Total Addressable Market | $200 Billion | Global HVAC service market |
| Serviceable Market | $15-25 Billion | Commercial buildings with centralized HVAC |
| Target Segment | $8-12 Billion | Commercial buildings 50,000+ sq ft |
Geographic Focus
- North America (US, Canada): Strict air quality regulations post-COVID
- Europe (UK, Germany, Nordic countries): High environmental standards
- Australia & Japan: Advanced building management adoption
- Future Expansion: Dubai, Hong Kong, major Chinese cities
Target Customers
Primary B2B Customers / Early Adopters:
| Customer Segment | Key Decision Makers | Why They Need PrismaAir |
|---|---|---|
| Universities, Data Centers, Large Offices | Facility managers, IT directors | Uptime-critical operations require continuous air quality |
| Hospitals & Healthcare | Facility administrators, compliance officers | Stringent air quality requirements and infection control |
| Commercial Building Owners | Property management companies | Asset value protection and tenant satisfaction |
| Educational Institutions | University facilities, school districts | Student/staff health and regulatory compliance |
Pricing & Business Model
Hardware Revenue (One-Time Sales)
| Product | Manufacturing Cost | Selling Price | Margin |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sensor Node (1-10 units) | $120 | $185 | ~35% |
| Sensor Node (11-50 units) | $120 | $180 | ~33% |
| Sensor Node (51-100 units) | $120 | $175 | ~31% |
| Gateway (1 per 15 nodes) | $75 | $110 | ~32% |
Mobile Cleaning Unit
- Premium Pricing: $10,000 - $15,000 (full purchase)
- Rental Model: $150 - $200/day
- Service Contracts: Available for enterprise customers
Subscription Revenue (Recurring)
| Tier | Monthly Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | $100 base + $3/node | ✓ Real-time monitoring ✓ Cloud analytics & dashboard ✓ OTA updates ✓ Baseline security |
| Advanced | $150 base + $5/node | ✓ All Standard features ✓ Predictive maintenance alerts ✓ Compliance reporting ✓ Advanced analytics |
Revenue Model Example: 50-Node Deployment
- Hardware (One-Time): 50 nodes × $180 + 3 gateways × $110 = $9,330
- Subscription (Annual): $150 × 12 + (50 × $5 × 12) = $4,800/year
- 3-Year Total Value: $9,330 + ($4,800 × 3) = $23,730
Why PrismaAir Stands Out
Competitive Analysis
| Capability | Traditional HVAC Services | Smart Building Systems | Duct Robots | PRISMA AIR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Continuous Monitoring | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Real-Time Alerts | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Mobile Robot Cleaning | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Targeted Intervention | ❌ No | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Chemical-Free Cleaning | ❌ No | N/A | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Predictive Analytics | ❌ No | ⚠️ Basic | ❌ No | ✅ Advanced |
| Complete Integration | ❌ No | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Typical Cost | $5-10K per cleaning | $10-20K per year | $50-100K+ equipment | $30-50K initial + $6-12K/year |
🏆 Only PrismaAir Combines ALL THREE: Monitor → Predict → Clean
First Integrated Platform for Comprehensive Building Health Management
Stakeholder Validation
What We’ve Validated
Through extensive stakeholder interviews, we’ve confirmed market demand across four key areas:
| Validation Area | Confidence Level | Key Insights |
|---|---|---|
| Price Sensitivity | ████████████░░░░ 85% | Customers willing to pay premium for integrated solution |
| Compliance Value | ████████████████ 95% | Regulatory reporting is critical pain point |
| Distribution Strategy | ███████████░░░░░ 75% | Direct sales + partnerships with HVAC companies |
| Feature Priority | ████████████████ 90% | Predictive alerts ranked #1 must-have feature |
Stakeholder Interviews
We’ve engaged with multiple stakeholders to validate our product-market fit:
- UPenn Facilities (EOS): Validated need for predictive maintenance in large institutional buildings
- Chestnut Building Facilities: Confirmed pain points around manual HVAC inspection
- Local HVAC Companies: Verified pricing model and distribution strategy
Meeting with building facilities management to validate system requirements and deployment strategy
Value Proposition
From Reactive Maintenance to Predictive Intelligence
| ❤️ Healthier Buildings | 🍃 Chemical-Free Cleaning |
|---|---|
| Continuous air quality monitoring reduces sick days by 40% | UV-C sterilization eliminates pathogens without harsh chemicals |
| ⚡ Energy Efficiency | 🛡️ Data-Driven Compliance |
|---|---|
| Clean HVAC systems reduce energy consumption by 15-20% | Automated reporting simplifies regulatory documentation |
Media
Video !!
Link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKmg4EdCK9g
Team
Chirag Satapathy
James Steeman
Joaquin Revello
Combined Expertise:
- IoT Systems Design: Wireless sensor networks, BLE mesh, energy harvesting
- Embedded Firmware: Nordic nRF SDK, real-time operating systems, power optimization
- Product Development: CAD/3D printing, rapid prototyping, hardware integration
- Entrepreneurship: Prior successful ventures (GetProductive $12K Kickstarter, IoT4Ag research)
Gallery
Project Status & Milestones
🚀 Current Phase: Prototype Development & Field Testing
📅 Last Updated: December 2025
✅ Recent Achievement: Sensor network validated, robot integration in progress
Acknowledgments
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to:
- UPenn ESE5180 Course Staff for guidance and mentorship throughout the project
- Nordic Semiconductor for development boards and technical support
- Local HVAC Companies and UPenn EOS for industry insights and stakeholder feedback
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Nicholas McGill-Gardner for his invaluable expertise, mentorship, and encouragement throughout the course. His guidance has been instrumental in our learning journey. Our thanks to all the TAs for their assistance and unwavering support in managing our course-related needs, ensuring everything ran smoothly.
Transforming Building Health Through Smart HVAC Monitoring
PrismaAir - Continuous Monitoring • Predictive Maintenance • Chemical-Free Cleaning
Every Breath Monitored. Every Risk Prevented.
| University of Pennsylvania | School of Engineering and Applied Science |
| Course: ESE5180 - IoT Wireless, Security, & Scaling | Fall 2025 |
GitHub Repository: https://github.com/ese5180/iot-venture-f25-gatorade