Fintan Pritchard

Final Project

SONGBIRD COMMUNICATOR

In the aftermath of major disasters, traditional communication channels such as cellular networks or internet connectivity can be severely compromised due to their reliance on vulnerable infrastructure. This leaves individuals struggling to contact emergency services or check on the well-being of loved ones. With repair efforts for these networks prioritized for vital community centers and municipal buildings, many can be left without a means to communicate for weeks. Songbird is a low-cost communication device designed around the raspberry pi Pico board and a LoRa transmitter. The device allows owners to send and receive short text messages, ensuring they remain connected even when traditional communication lines are down.

Research

A custom Python program was used to help understand people’s instincts in dangerous disasters nicknamed ‘Routes’. Blending a custom multiple-choice adventure with a concise survey sparked higher participation and engagement. Structured as a narrative-driven quest, it contextualized questions and therefore resulted in enriched responses. Character codes were used with a data map to help visualize their journey and decisions.

Subsequently, interviews with civil engineers helped understand the environment of use, timeframe, and rescue processes within disasters. Finally, a participatory study was held with a group to help design an intuitive and comfortable user interface

Prototyping

Prototyping became the main focus of development. The utilization of the new controller, adapted radio transmitter, and old E-ink display became difficult, resulting in a high-spec functional prototype being required. This prototype was used to assess feasibility, component compatibility, and cost considerations. Initially consisting of a Pi Pico W, a LoRa transmitter, and a Waveshare E-ink display – three key components, it was quickly built and programmed.

Consistent, multiple interaction models were created via foam or FDM printing. One of the most important was the Interaction Jig, a later-cut and printed jig that allowed for dynamo, body length, and handle positioning changes during testing.

The Result

Ultimately, Songbird is a low-cost, low-powered, text-based communication device for disaster-prone areas. Users mount the non-obtrusive design on a load-bearing wall within their homes for peace of mind. In the event of a disaster, any devices in the area mesh together and connect to a local hub in the nearest municipal building, allowing communication over long distances. The clip-based system on the back, with the Pico and transmitter mounted inside, allows users to detach the core and connect it to their phone, allowing users to utilize an app instead of an interface if preferred.

Songbird has a strong foundation, which, with a little more development time, will turn into a commercially viable product.