SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST), Kattankulathur, marked a significant milestone in healthcare technology with the inauguration of the User-Adaptive Sensory Integration Room (UASIR), an innovative, IoT-enabled intervention technology designed to support children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
The technology transfer took place between the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE), Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Kattankulathur, and the SRM College of Occupational Therapy, SRMIST, marking a landmark example of interdisciplinary collaboration.
The User-Adaptive Sensory Integration Room (UASIR) was formally inaugurated by Prof. C. Muthamizhchelvan, Vice-Chancellor, SRMIST, at the Autism Center of Excellence, SRMMCHRC, on October 28, 2025, following the technology transfer ceremony.
The event was graced by Prof. Nitin M. Nagarkar, Pro Vice-Chancellor (MHS), SRMMCHRC; Dr. T. Mythili, Additional Registrar (MSL), SRMIST; Dr. R. Venkatraman, Medical Superintendent, SRMMCHRC; Prof. U. Ganapathy Sankar, Dean, College of Occupational Therapy, SRMIST; Prof. K. Vijayakumar, Chair, School of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, SRMIST; and Prof. M. Sangeetha, HoD, Department of ECE, SRMIST.
The Principal Investigator of the project, Dr. Kanaparthi V. Phani Kumar, Research Assistant Professor, Department of ECE, SRMIST, introduced the essence of UASIR, a user-adaptive sensory environment that leverages IoT and machine learning to customize therapeutic stimuli based on a child’s unique sensory profile. Prof. U. Ganapathy Sankar, Dean, College of Occupational Therapy, SRMIST, discussed the clinical validation and therapeutic impact of UASIR in enhancing sensory integration interventions for children with autism. Subsequently, the Project Associate-I, Mr. Dundi Umamaheswara Reddy, demonstrated the working modes and interactive features of UASIR, showcasing how the system adapts to the sensory needs of individual children.
Prof. C. Muthamizhchelvan lauded the project as a shining example of SRMIST’s interdisciplinary excellence, where technology, therapy, and empathy converge to create meaningful social impact. Dr. Nitin M. Nagarkar reaffirmed the importance of translating technological research into healthcare innovations that serve the community.
The User-Adaptive Sensory Integration Room (UASIR) is supported by the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, under the Core Research Grant 2021 (CRG/2021/004097), with a sanctioned budget of ₹18.95 lakhs. The project commenced on 15th March 2022 and was successfully completed on 14th September 2025.
This indigenous and affordable system integrates IoT-based adaptive controls with a range of therapeutic devices, including a Bubble Tube, Double Bubble Wall Panel, Tactile Panel, Voice-Responsive Infinity Illumination Mirror, Interactive Alphanumeric Panels, and an Optical Fiber Boat. Unlike conventional sensory rooms, UASIR offers personalized and adjustable sensory experiences tailored to each child’s unique needs, thereby enhancing sensory processing, adaptive behavior, socialization, and learning.
The developed prototypes and integrated UASIR setup were validated through pilot trials conducted in collaboration with the College of Occupational Therapy, where therapists and children participated in controlled sessions. The results demonstrated improved sensory engagement and therapist-driven adaptability, confirming the system’s clinical relevance and functional reliability.
This first-of-its-kind initiative in India not only bridges technology and therapy but also aligns with national missions such as Startup India and Innovate India, emphasizing SRMIST’s vision of translating indigenous research into societal impact. The event reaffirmed SRMIST’s commitment to fostering innovation through interdisciplinary collaboration, promoting inclusive and affordable therapeutic technologies for children with developmental disabilities.