BDM: Biodegradable Defense Module

System that integrates components that allow the user to alert their surroundings or defend themselves. Our project is a backpack with an alarm, a GPS, a zipper to reduce theft, and a pyramidal base.

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Inspiration

This project surged on personal experience as it came out of personal need. As a student, I struggle with transportation and the lack of security on Mexican streets. According to Economista, in 2023, at least 38 robberies occurred every day on the streets of Mexico, tormenting citizens and causing insecurity. Likewise, my country is particularly lacking in respect to women's safety, every woman or young student has at least felt insecure walking around the streets. These factors resulted in the brainstorm to come up with a project such as BDM: Biodegradable Defense Module. Its main objective is to integrate the use of biodegradable materials and technology into an aid that provides protection to people who require it.

What it does

Our prototype is a gadget made of biodegradable plastic filament with an alarm made from recyclable components on its right strap that is activated by pulling it. It also has a GPS that locates the user and their belongings using API system adaptation. Likewise, on the bottom, it has a pyramidal base made out of biodegradable plastic thats hard enough to serve as a pointed defense element.

How we built it

Our process began with developing the idea and the modeling on the software SOLIDWORKS to define the characteristics of its design and measurement parameters. Then we carried on to the integrated hardware and software investigation to figure out the process that would be needed to develop the gadget, although we did not have the coding skills required, we researched the proper processes.

Challenges we ran into

As a beginner in the world of technology, it was hard to get the proper skills to develop the project properly. The main challenges were adapting to new software and following a working pace optimal for the development of my ideas.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

As an independent project, we registered SURVIVA to PrepApps, a contest for technological innovations for solving real-world challenges, in which it was awarded 3rd place, out of over 60 projects, being recognized for its contribution to the 16th Sustainable Development Goals. Furthermore, SURVIVA was awarded best mechatronic innovation in EXPOCIENCIAS SONORA, winning special mentions for best media and a direct pass to EXPOCIENCIAS NACIONAL, a national scale tech fair.

What we learned

Over the course of this project, I was able to develop my own skills along the project to sustain it. Mostly with SOLIDWORKS and other software elements that powered the creation of our model, in addition to hardware skills such as basic circuit theorems with Arduino and side habilities to fabricate our prototype.

What's next for ISM: Integrated Defense Module

We are looking forward to expanding our knowledge to develop our project further and materializing it outside of our current capabilities.

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