Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, we were unable to record our presentation that we had planned out. We worked day and night to put this application together to make a positive impact on our world! Please view our presentation here: Click here to view pitch
Inspiration
The inspiration for this app came from the increase in missing person reports across the United States.
What it does
The application records the location of users while they have an internet connection and sends the data to a remote server. When either the user requests for assistance (active SOS) or when the backend function determines that a user has been offline for too long (passive SOS), the application will send an SMS message to the user's contacts, alerting them of the potential risks of the user. I link is also sent to the contact so that they may view the user's location history and last known location.
How we built it
This application was built using Firebase (Realtime Database, Firestore, Authentication, Hosting, and Functions), React Native using the Expo Platform, and the numerous APIs available from the Google Maps Platform.
Challenges we ran into
Challenges we ran into include:
- Developing a method for displaying map data to a user without the user needing the application.
- Developing a method for sending location data in the background.
- Handling data when the user was offline.
Accomplishments that we're proud of
Our team is extremely proud of the work done towards all three components of the project, the website, the application, and the function which supports the entirety of the passive SOS system.
What we learned
From this project, we learned:
- How to implement the Google Maps Platform.
- How to schedule tasks within Firebase Functions.
- How to securely store and implement API keys.
What's next for ExploreSafe
Continued development of the application will open up the possibilities for ExploreSafe in non-outdoor situations. This could be especially useful in finding those who have been kidnaped or are otherwise missing.
Instructions
1.) Please go to the Google Play Store and install the latest version of the mobile app called "Expo Go". 2.) Upon installing "Expo Go" click the "Enter URL manually". 3.) Enter in the following URL: exp://exp.host/@martian.botanist/ExploreSafe?release-channel=default 4.) Done! This will load the app!
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