Innovation from UNAIR students continues to achieve recognition at the national level. The Uhuq Uhuq team, consisting of Hanif Hanif Azzikri Hidayatullah from the Faculty of Dental Medicine (FKG) and Mochammad Hilmi Hibatulloh from Faculty of Pharmacy (FF), successfully won first place in the Scientific Essay category at the Polymer 2026 competition held by Universitas Jember on Sunday, August 30, 2026.
This achievement was won through a scientific work titled "Resonant Cough: Development of Resona as a Triage System Based on Acoustic Biomarker and Multimodal Convolutional Neural Network for Early Detection of Tuberculosis.” In this essay, the two proposed Resona, an early tuberculosis (TB) detection system that utilizes cough sounds and artificial intelligence technology.
Resona: TB Detection Technology Through Cough Sounds
Hanif explained that Resona works by analyzing the frequency characteristics and cough sound patterns using Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) technology. This system was developed as a triage tool capable of providing an initial picture of TB risk, so individuals showing indications can be promptly directed for further examination.
According to Hanif, cough sounds have specific characteristics that can be analyzed digitally. With the help of artificial intelligence, these patterns can be learned to identify whether someone has a risk of tuberculosis.
The idea to develop Resona stemmed from the existing gap in TB case detection in Indonesia. Geographic factors and limited access to healthcare facilities are among the challenges in detecting cases early. Therefore, Resona was designed by integrating acoustic biomarker, CNN, and respiratory biosensor into a device called the Resona Chamber.
Hanif stated that the concept was not entirely built from new technology but rather developed various components that previously had scientific research foundations. The use of standardized microphones and deep learning technology enables the system to learn from various sound data, thus expected to enhance its detection capabilities.
Expanding Access to Early Detection
In the future, Resona still has opportunities to be developed through various stages, ranging from prototype creation, clinical testing, to standardization and regulatory processes at the national level. Nevertheless, this technology is not intended to replace laboratory examinations. Rather, Resona is directed as an initial screening tool that helps identify at-risk individuals so they can receive medical examination more quickly.
Hanif hopes that this innovation will eventually help expand access to early TB detection, particularly for communities living in areas with limited healthcare service access. According to him, the success of a technology is not only determined by its sophistication but also by its ability to provide benefits to the community that needs it most.
At the conclusion of his presentation, Hanif encouraged students not to be afraid of addressing various problems found in their surrounding environment as sources of innovation ideas. According to him, an idea does not always have to start from something complex. Students can first identify gaps or existing problems, then develop solutions systematically and deductively.
He also emphasized the importance of consistency in developing ideas. Failures and limitations are not reasons to stop but rather part of the process to refine an innovation so it can provide broader impact.
With this impressive achievement, it reflects that the FF UNAIR academic community, particularly students, also support the realization of SDG 3 "Good Health and Well-being" and SDG 9 "Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure."
