Harvard Students Win U.S. Dyson Award for Sideline Concussion Tech

Radhika Saran, Cleo Pontone, and Sophia DeVito developed the system to address a persistent gap in sports medicine: the reliance on subjective observations during high-pressure games. By utilizing infrared cameras and hot mirrors, the headset tracks eye movements—such as fixations and tracking patterns—that research indicates are key indicators of neurological disruption. The data is translated into real-time feedback on a mobile display, helping staff determine if an athlete requires immediate removal from play.

The project emphasizes accessibility, moving away from cumbersome clinical equipment to a portable format that functions under sideline conditions. According to the team, the design process involved extensive collaboration with physical therapists and coaches to ensure the device could withstand the chaotic environment of youth sports. While currently in the prototype stage, the $6,500 prize will fund further development and validation. The students intend for the tool to serve as an objective screening aid, ensuring return-to-play decisions remain grounded in professional medical evaluation rather than guesswork.