The effectiveness of smartphone temperature sensors for ambient temperature monitoring

Gavin, Sonia (author)
Sidhu, Bobby (Advisor)
British Columbia Institute of Technology School of Health Sciences (Degree granting institution)
(editor)
(translator)

Background: Heat-related illness during extreme weather events is a leading cause of death and morbidity among vulnerable populations. Heat health alert systems are crucial in preventing serious impacts due to extreme heat, however its efficacy is limited by available atmospheric temperature data. A study was conducted to determine the accuracy of a silicon band-gap sensor integrated into certain models of smartphones when compared to a well-documented thermistor themperature sensor. Methods: Ambient temperature readings were taken at a location chosen within Burnaby, BC, using both a Met One sensor and a Sensirion sensor integrated into a smartphone. The data was then analyzed using a dependent T-test for paired samples to determine whether there was a significant difference between the grouped readings. Results: According to the results of the dependent T-test with data adjusted to a calibration curve, it was determined that there was no difference between the readings taken by the Met One and the Sensirion sensors, t(30)= -0.68, p=0.5 (95% CI, -0.04 to 0.02). Conclusions: Although further research is needed, the results of this study suggest that temperature sensors found in smartphones may be a smaller, lower-cost, and more accessible alternative to some of the higher-end models currently used to measure ambient temperature for the purposes of public health planning and policy-making.

© Sonia Gavin 2015. All rights reserved. No part of this work covered by the copyright heron may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means – graphics, electronic, or mechanical including photocopying, taping, or information storage and retrieval systems – without written permission of the author.

2015-04

15 pages

Project submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the degree of Bachelor of Technology in Environmental Health, British Columbia Institute of Technology, 2015.
Peer reviewed