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Ontario Tech Design League – Rescue Band
Ontario Tech Design League – Rescue Band
1st Place – Ontario Tech Design League | 2023
Project Summary
Project Summary
The Rescue Band was developed during a 48-hour design competition as an assistive wearable device for individuals suffering from panic disorder—a condition characterized by sudden and repeated panic attacks. Our goal was to create a non-invasive, easy-to-use, and reliable device that could detect signs of a panic attack and initiate emergency response protocols if needed. The band uses PPG (photoplethysmography) sensors to monitor physiological signals such as heart rate variability and integrates a voice-controlled system that prompts the user to describe their feelings. Based on these readings and voice inputs, the device can autonomously determine whether the user is experiencing a panic attack.
In the event of a detected panic attack, Rescue Band provides the user with critical options: to contact a trusted guardian, initiate a call to emergency services (911), or simply record the incident. This functionality aims to bridge the gap between experiencing an episode and accessing help, especially when the individual may be unable to act on their own. The design emphasizes simplicity, comfort, and accessibility—ensuring the device is usable across age groups and everyday environments. We combined biomedical research, sensor integration, and user-focused product design to deliver a concept that could save lives and promote peace of mind.
Key Skills Gained
Key Skills Gained
User-centered wearable design
PPG sensor research and signal interpretation
Voice-controlled system planning and emergency logic
CAD modeling for ergonomic enclosures
Rapid ideation and design validation under time constraints
Accomplishments
Accomplishments
Ideated and developed a life-saving wearable device in 48 hours to detect panic attacks and autonomously offer emergency response options.
Researched and selected PPG sensors to detect changes in heart rate and stress indicators associated with panic disorder.
Integrated a voice response mechanism that enables users to speak during a panic episode, with the system analyzing tone and keywords for additional confirmation.
Designed the Rescue Band enclosure in SolidWorks, optimized for wrist comfort, discreet use, and sensor contact with the skin.
Outlined emergency logic pathways, including manual or automatic contact of 911 or a designated guardian, based on sensor and user input.
Conducted human factors research to ensure the device would be intuitive and usable for individuals of all ages and technological backgrounds.
Awarded 1st Place in our division for innovation, practicality, and impact.
uOttawa Design League – Underwater Submarine Bot
uOttawa Design League – Underwater Submarine Bot
3rd Place – uOttawa National Engineering Design League | 2023
Project Summary
Project Summary
SubZero Vision is a tethered underwater drone system designed to support first responders during urban flooding emergencies. Our goal was to create a modular, low-cost, rapidly deployable robotic platform capable of visually inspecting murky floodwaters, identifying potential hazards (e.g., vehicles, debris), and detecting trapped individuals. Designed with rescue teams in mind, the robot used a suite of sensors, including sonar, infrared, and GPS, to navigate and relay underwater visuals in real time. It was controllable via a surface-mounted joystick interface and connected through a waterproof tether.
Given the toxic and debris-filled conditions of flood zones, the team emphasized modularity, portability, and ruggedness. The system featured four thrusters (2 vertical, 2 horizontal) for precise maneuverability, a sealed 3D-printed housing for electronics, and a clear design for sensor placement and integration. My role focused on the mechanical integration of the propulsion system, sensor selection, and designing the waterproof electrical system architecture—ensuring safety and functionality across environmental conditions. The final design was praised for its realistic cost, practical deployment strategy, and sensor research depth.
Key Skills Gained
Key Skills Gained
Sensor research (sonar, infrared, LiDAR, and GPS)
Underwater electronics sealing and thermal insulation
Modular mechanical design for rapid field deployment
Multidisciplinary team collaboration in emergency engineering
Design for manufacturing (3D printing, waterproof fittings, BOM planning)
Accomplishments
Accomplishments
Mechanical Integration Lead: Designed the structure to house and align 4 brushless propellers, ensuring control across all axes while maintaining water-tightness and balance.
Waterproof Enclosure Design: Contributed to the enclosure and seal planning, selecting O-rings and rubber gaskets to isolate electronics and motors.
Power System & Motor Selection: Assisted in selecting appropriate LiPo battery (11.1V, 5000mAh), brushless motors, and motor controllers for runtime, thrust, and size efficiency.
Sensor Research & Implementation: Evaluated and proposed Ping Sonar, infrared display, and GPS+altitude sensors, prioritizing use in turbid water conditions based on detection reliability.
Rapid Prototyping: Modeled and simulated the main body in CAD; contributed to the manufacturing plan using 3D printing (Cura software) for all three modular shell components.
Cost Optimization: Helped refine the design to meet a budget of $1,122 CAD, which included electronics, sensors, motors, and waterproofing hardware—all documented in a detailed Bill of Materials.
Environmental Research & Design Justification: Investigated how floodwaters interact with sensors, including debris interference, visibility limits, and body detection frequency analysis—directly informing component layout and mounting.
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