Scientist’s Prototype Design Detects Date Rape Drugs

The TriMech Design Solutions (formerly MAKO) team loves learning about emerging technology that harbors the potential to impact lives globally. For product developers, there is often the goal of creating a product that can bring about significant changes in a community. Some of these products are specifically designed to solve a recurring problem and achieve great success.

Recently, Toronto-based scientist David Wilson created a prototype for a device that determines if a drink has been spiked with the date rape drug. Personal Drink ID (pd.id) is a portable gadget that is the size of a USB drive and is equipped with a drug detection mechanism that gives the user information about whether or not their drink has been infused with any unknown substances. The device is simply dipped into a drink and provides a warning through its LED display.

Wilson spent years researching cancer imaging technology, as well as the influence of date rape drugs in order to better understand its effects. His prototype was said to detect the chemicals in drinks through three simultaneous tests. By studying the ultraviolet light, temperature, and electrical currents of a drink, the device can accurately determine whether or not there are substances in a drink.

Benefits of the pd.id’s Prototype Design

The device is planned to be used in tandem with a smartphone, where all the information can be stored and accessed easily. The company is also creating a user-generated database where places that experience frequent drugging instances are recorded and can be seen within the app. Users who access the app will be able to see where high-risk areas are and are given the chance to protect themselves.

Data regarding annual sexual assaults are rarely publicized as there are many privacy concerns that arise with the release of such information. Victims, typically women, who have been assaulted are often too afraid to report the incident to the police. With the pd.id, community members will be able to warn each other about areas that may be dangerous and feel safer overall when venturing out at night.

MAKO loves to see that our city of Toronto is becoming the center of such ground-breaking advancements. We love being a part of a community that develops cutting-edge technology, especially when it fosters a safer and stronger community!