Embrace is a wearable communication device designed to enhance safety during earthquakes, particularly in vulnerable communities. Utilizing LoRa technology for long-range, low-energy data transmission, it allows individuals to share vital information about their well-being and location when traditional communication systems fail. This smart bracelet, part of a network with strategically placed base devices, is affordable and user-friendly. It significantly reduces stress and facilitates faster emergency responses, ultimately contributing to more resilient communities by improving connectivity and support during seismic events.
Embrace offers a sophisticated feedback system for critical situations. Activated by seismic activity, it allows wearers to communicate their status with a multifunctional button, indicating safety (green light), need for assistance (orange light), or urgent help (red light). It also collects and sends vital data, including location, heartbeat, and temperature, to designated contacts. An LED screen displays incoming messages, ensuring wearers stay informed and can respond effectively, enhancing safety and facilitating timely help.
The communication scheme of the Embrace bracelet utilizes LoRa technology for long-range, low-power data exchange, ideal for IoT wearables. With the ability to penetrate obstacles and operate in unlicensed bands, it ensures connectivity up to 10 kilometers. Strategically placed base devices, acting as communication hubs, relay information via satellite, eliminating the need for heavy satellite tech in each bracelet. This efficient system enhances communication reliability and coverage in emergency scenarios, keeping device size and energy consumption minimal.
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The Embrace bracelet features a minimalist design with a strategic narrow opening for sizing flexibility, catering to a wide range of wrist sizes. Its layout optimizes user interaction and feedback through a tactile button, while essential components like the LED screen and battery are efficiently arranged on the opposite side for effective communication and power management. Key design considerations included adjustability, durability, and comfort, ensuring the bracelet’s functionality and wearability.
The Embrace bracelet utilizes silicone, blending soft and hard elements for adjustability and comfort across various wrist sizes. Silicone’s biocompatibility ensures it’s safe for prolonged wear without irritation, while its durability protects against environmental stressors. The design includes an adjustable gap for easy resizing, offering a snug fit. Available in discreet skin tones and featuring optional stainless steel rims or hidden, bendable wire edges, the bracelet combines practicality with wearer comfort, eliminating sharp edges for a seamless experience.
The development of the Embrace prototype began with designing a mould in Fusion 360, followed by 3D printing. Initial challenges included mould imperfections, which were refined by sanding for a smoother finish. The chosen silicone, PT Flex 85, required precise mixing before injection into the mould, complicated by its quick hardening and the difficulty in filling narrow areas. Despite these hurdles, a one-piece bracelet was successfully created. However, imperfections like air bubbles led to further iterations, exploring models with 3D-printed elements and varying flexibility, to perfect the Embrace design.
“Communication is the bridge that connects hearts, minds, and souls, transcending boundaries and fostering understanding.”
