omiTap - send secrets in taps

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  omiTap's logo

Inspiration

The idea for omiTap app emerged from a simple yet powerful question: What if you could send a message for help without speaking or using visible signals? Imagine being in a dangerous or critical situations, such as being kidnapped (where every movement or sound could alert the captor), trapped or a condition that someone suddenly can not speak. In those moments, having a Omi device with omiTap app to 'silently' send a distress signal could make all the difference. The inspiration behind omiTap was to create a discreet, easy-to-use solution that allows Omi users to send messages through taps: an action so subtle that it could go unnoticed, but still be a lifeline when needed most.

The tap code, sometimes called the knock code, is a way to encode text messages on a letter-by-letter basis in a very simple way. The message is transmitted using a series of tap sounds, hence its name. The tap code has been commonly used by prisoners to communicate with each other. The method of communicating is usually by tapping either the metal bars, pipes or the walls inside a cell. (Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tap_code)

What it does

omiTap uses an IMU sensor and microphone inside a Omi device to detect taps on the device itself or on any audible object. These taps are then translated into secure, silent messages, which can be sent to alert someone in an emergency or communicate a need for help without anyone noticing. Whether it’s a gentle tap on the device or knocking on a wall, omiTap captures the signals and enables a covert, reliable messaging system.

For normal situation, omiTap can teach Omi users to learn and practice to compose and 'read' tap-code messages.

How we built it

We built omiTap with self made Omi device and Omi Apps

Challenges we ran into

One of the main challenges we faced was ensuring the device could reliably detect taps in diverse environments. Different surfaces and varying noise levels could easily confuse the sensor, resulting in false signals. Fine-tuning the sensitivity of the IMU sensor and the microphone was a delicate process, as we had to make sure it could detect taps without being overwhelmed by background sounds.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

We managed to develop a system that detects taps on various surfaces with high accuracy and reliability. Most importantly, we created something that has the potential to make a real difference in emergency situations, giving individuals a discreet way to seek help when traditional communication methods aren’t an option.

What we learned

Throughout the development process, we learned the importance of simplicity in design. It’s easy to get caught up in adding too many features, but we realized that a simple, intuitive solution is often the most effective, especially in high-stress situations. We also learned about the challenges of working with sensitive sensors like the IMU and microphone.

What's next for omiTap

• Utilize the IMU sensor in Omi device
• Create easy custom tap-code for emregency signaling, like sending a SOS or HELP message.
• Develop for Omi v2 hardware that capable to make an output sounds for two ways communication

Built With

• internetofthings
• iot
• nrf52840
• tap-code
• xiao