Background
Dysphagia, or swallowing disorders, can significantly affect safety, independence, and quality of life. Many people with dysphagia rely on correctly prepared food and liquid consistencies to reduce the risk of choking or aspiration during meals. However, measuring and preparing the right consistency is often time-consuming, unclear, and difficult to assess reliably in everyday situations.
To address this challenge, we developed KostKompass, a mobile app designed to support safer eating and drinking through simple digital consistency testing.
Project Overview
KostKompass uses a smartphone camera and a custom-built holder to perform a standardized 10-second flow test. During the test, liquid flows through a syringe while the app records the process. After 10 seconds, the app automatically captures an image and analyzes how much liquid remains in the syringe. Based on the result, the app classifies the consistency level, such as Thin, Mildly Thick, or Thick.
The project combines accessibility, usability, and computer vision technology to create an easy-to-use tool for people with dysphagia, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. The app is designed to provide clear guidance and support safer decision-making during meals.
Goals and Key Focus Areas
- Support safer eating and drinking through digital consistency measurement
- Reduce uncertainty when preparing liquids for people with dysphagia
- Provide a simple and accessible user experience
- Increase confidence and independence in daily life
- Combine smartphone technology with practical healthcare applications
Conclusion
KostKompass demonstrates how accessible digital tools can support people with dysphagia in everyday life. By combining a standardized flow test with smartphone-based image analysis, the project creates a practical and user-friendly approach to consistency measurement. The concept aims to improve safety, support caregivers and therapists, and provide more confidence and orientation with every sip.
A project at the St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences
Master Program Digital Healthcare
Poject Coaches:
Dr. Leung Vanessa Yue Fei, Wanner Sophie MSc.
Project Team:
Matschitsch Sabrina BSc. (Project lead)
Hubeny Nina BSc.
Pfleger Jasmin BSc.
Wedam Stefanie BSc.
