Communication Device

« Back to article list

The Concept 

 

 

This group wanted to design a communication device to help a reception student at the school who has had a tracheotomy. She is unable to use her voice box to speak and she needs to use an oxygen tank to support her breathing.

The group designed portable communication devices, using simple electronic circuits, which would help the student to communicate with other people.

 

 

 

 

 

The Creation

Two prototypes were developed:

Device 1:

  • Eight LED’s are operated by eight momentary switches.
  • When the switches are pushed the corresponding LED lights up.
  • Each LED communicates a message.
  • There is also an alert button which lights up all LED’s and sound the buzzer. This is to attract the attention of people who are not looking.

Device 2:

  • A LCD screen is linked to a number pad.
  • An integrated chip is programmed to allow each number, when pressed, to display a different message on the screen.
  • The chip can be re-programmed to allow different messages to be displayed.
  • A button on the side will be used to sound a buzzer to alert people.
  • A lanyard clip allows the device to be carried around the neck.
  • There is also an alert button which lights up all LED’s and sound the buzzer. This is to attract the attention of people who are not looking.
« Previous articleNext article »