Two inventive sisters have created X-ray glasses that will change the medical world as we know it…
In the age of non-stop technological innovation, the story of twins Matlhogonolo and Masego Mphahlele is nothing short of remarkable. These brilliant sisters, attending the University of Johannesburg, spent four years developing their Digital X-ray Glasses, set to revolutionise the fi eld of medical imaging.
Eureka moment
It was in 2019, their matric year, that the lightbulb first went off after a teammate was injured during a soccer game and had to wait hours in hospital for an X-ray. “While we were there, we had an idea. We wanted to create a device on the spot,” they later told News24.
The following year, at university and enrolled in the science faculty, Matlhogonolo and Masego were exposed to various technological concepts. In a lecture on medical imaging, they gained further insight into how they could improve the way in which X-rays are performed, which usually involves bulky equipment and potentially harmful radiation.
“Why not make X-ray imaging more accessible, safer and more efficient?” Matlhogonolo explains. “We knew there must be a quicker and more portable solution than traditional X-ray machines. Just think, after a tough tackle in a rugby match, the medic could take a digital X-ray there and then and secure the player’s safety.”
“We hope that our invention will inspire more young girls to pursue careers in science and technology fields”
A new way of seeing
After countless hours of research and experimentation, the twins developed a prototype for their digital X-ray glasses with the help of two university peers. The goal was to make diagnostics more convenient and affordable in remote areas where access to healthcare facilities is limited.
These sleek, wearable glasses are equipped with advanced technology to capture and transmit X-ray images in real time. “At the moment, the camera can only take infrared images to a mobile device. We want to do more research to improve our idea. “In the future, we want the product to be able to work without using radiation – and to distribute it to different local hospitals and clinics around the world.”
“Our parents always told us that knowledge is power – that ignited our passion for creating something meaningful”
Budding scientists
The dynamic duo was born and raised in the small town of Hammanskraal, just north of Pretoria. Their parents, both teachers, encouraged their curiosity and thirst for knowledge, curating the sisters’ fascination with science and technology at a young age.
“Growing up, we used to watch Phineas and Ferb a lot on TV and we were inspired by how they would always come up with innovations. We believed that one day we would also develop a product that would change the world,” Masego says. “Our parents always told us that knowledge is power, and that ignited our passion for learning and creating something meaningful.” The bright sisters excelled in school and chose to pursue degrees in electrical engineering.
Changing the narrative
The development of their digital X-ray glasses wasn’t all smooth sailing. Funding, regulatory approvals and scepticism from some quarters were just a few of the obstacles they encountered. However, their determination and unwavering belief in their invention have shielded and carried them through.
“We know there’s still much work to be done, but we’re committed to refining our technology and ensuring it reaches those who need it most,” they say. The Mphahlele twins have gained international recognition for their groundbreaking invention. As exciting as it is, the tech duo (both pursuing careers in aviation as well) remain down to earth.
“It’s incredibly humbling to see our work making a difference. We hope that our invention will inspire more young girls to pursue careers in STEM [Science Technology Engineering Mathematics] fi elds,” says Matlhogonolo.
The future of healthcare
The implications of Matlhogonolo and Masego’s invention are profound. Digital X-Ray Glasses have the potential to transform healthcare in multiple ways:
- Remote diagnostics: Doctors can perform X-rays in remote areas, thus improving the early detection of diseases and reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for diagnostic tests.
- Reduced radiation exposure: The glasses emit significantly less radiation than traditional X-ray machines, minimising health risks for patients and medical professionals alike.
- Cost-efficiency: The technology is cheaper than traditional X-ray machines, making it accessible to underprivileged communities.
Their journey from small-town girls to pioneers in the medical field is indeed inspiring, and a testament to the power of innovative thinking and determination. “Always believe in your dreams and remember that your surroundings do not determine your future,” they say.
Accolades
- Red Bull Basement SA winners, 2021
- Red Bull Basement global finalist runners-up, 2022
- Spotlight speakers at Forbes Africa Women Summit, 2023
- Mail & Guardian Top 200 Young South Africans, 2022-2023
Fast Facts
Hometown: Hammanskraal, Gauteng
Age: 22
Profession: Tech entrepreneurs
Company: Twin X Innovation
FOLLOW THEIR JOURNEY
Instagram: @masego.o
Instagram: @tlhogiie_m
