Smart technologies driven approaches to tackle COVID-19 pandemic: a review

Abstract

The novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) is not diminishing without vaccine, but it impinges on human safety and economy can be minimized by adopting smart technology to combat pandemic situation. The implementation of new innovations and novel tactics has proven to be effective in curbing the risk of COVID-19. The present study covers the role of smart technology in mitigating the spread of COVID-19 with specific focus on advancement in the field of drone, robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), mask, and sensor technology. The findings shed light on the robotics and drone technology-driven approaches that have been applied for assisting health system, surveillance, and disinfection process, etc. The AI technology strategies and framework is highlighted in terms of bulk data computing, predicting infection threats, providing medical assistance, and analyzing diagnosis results. Besides this, the technological shift in mask and sensor technology during the pandemic have been illustrated, which includes fabrication method like 3D printing and optical sensing, respectively. Furthermore, the strength, weakness, opportunities, and possible threats that have been shaped by the rigorous implementation of these technologies are also covered in detail.