We chose the Bosch BME690 instead of using multiple separate components because it is a 4-in-1 sensor capable of measuring temperature, humidity, pressure, and harmful gases (such as VOCs and carbon monoxide). We preferred this model over other common gas sensors due to its strong cost-effectiveness and low power consumption.
From a health perspective, the sensor can detect VOC concentrations in the air above 25 mg/m³—levels at which symptoms such as headaches and fatigue may begin to appear. It translates these values into an Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) index. Once this index exceeds 100, our system immediately recognizes that the air quality is unsafe and that the space needs ventilation.
In addition to being highly accurate—with a temperature error margin of only ±0.5 ºC—and robust against humidity and condensation, it also supports artificial intelligence. Using Bosch’s software, we can train the sensor to recognize specific smells or gas mixtures relevant to our project, all at a very accessible cost.