FAQ's

Q: Is there any preexisting alarm systems for the hearing impaired?
A: There are alarm clocks for the hearing impaired where the device will vibrate once the alarm goes off. There also are fire alarms that require installation of an entire new system into a house. Our device is different because it is it's own entity and could alarm someone in the case of an alarm clock or fire alarm. Also, our device operates off of existing alarm clocks and systems which makes it convenient.

Q: Will this work with all fire alarms?
A: Yes, although all fire alarms have varying sounds, our device can detect all alarming noises. Our device detects the duration and strength of sound. Although the alarm noises vary, every fire alarm produces a loud, long noise. So yes, our device is able to work with all fire alarms.

Q: What will happen if the building loses power?
A: The clock will have a independent power supply so that in the event of a loss of building power the alarm will still operate at full capacity.

Q:What platform is this based on?
A: Our device is programmed using Arduino Uno. It is easy to use, somewhat cheap, and has a large quantity of prior documentation.

Q: How much will this cost?
A: For a user buying this device it should cost no more than $50. This cheap price makes it accessible to a large demographic of people with a hearing impairing disability.

Q: What was your budget and did you go over it?
A: Our budget was originally $135 in order to cover an Arduino Uno, microphone, and LED display. Luckily for us, we found all the materials we need for free in a lab here at Drexel. Our project ended up not costing us anything. If we could not have gotten the materials and had to buy them, we would have stayed true to our budget.

Q: What was your motivation for the project?
A: Although we personally do not know anyone directly affected by hearing loss, we know that the amount of people who are suffering from it is large. As engineers, the safety of everyone is our concern. We wanted to make sure that this group of people could be safe in an emergency situation.