Smart IoT-Based Fall Detection System for wheelchair users.

Introduction

As the population ages, the need for effective monitoring systems for the elderly and individuals with mobility impairments becomes increasingly critical. Falls are a significant health risk for these groups, often leading to severe injuries or complications. This project proposes a smart fall detection system that utilizes Internet of Things (IoT) technology, specifically designed to monitor and alert caregivers when a fall occurs. The system employs accelerometer and gyroscope sensors to detect sudden movements, providing a reliable means of ensuring safety for vulnerable individuals.

System Overview

The smart fall detection system can be mounted on a person’s wrist or integrated into a wheelchair. It continuously monitors the user’s movements through a combination of accelerometer and gyroscope sensors, which measure acceleration and orientation. The data collected by these sensors is transmitted to a microcontroller, which processes the information to identify any abrupt changes that may indicate a fall.When a fall is detected, the system triggers an alert via a Wi-Fi connection, notifying family members or caregivers about the situation. To prevent false alarms, the system incorporates a snooze feature. If the user presses the snooze button within five seconds, the alert is canceled; otherwise, the system proceeds to send out an emergency notification.

Hardware Specifications

The hardware components required for this project include:

• Accelerometer Sensor: Measures acceleration forces to detect falls.
• Gyroscope Sensor: Monitors orientation and angular velocity.
• Atmega 328 Microcontroller: Processes sensor data and manages alerts.
• Wi-Fi Modem: Enables communication with the internet for alert notifications.
• LCD Display: Provides visual feedback and status updates.
• LEDs: Indicate system status and alerts.
• Transformer, Resistors, Capacitors, Diodes: Support the electronic circuitry.

Software Specifications

For the software aspect, the project utilizes:

• Arduino Compiler: For programming the microcontroller.
• Programming Language: C, specifically tailored for embedded systems.
• IoTGecko: A platform for managing device connectivity and alerts.

Implementation Steps

• Design and Prototype Development: Create a prototype integrating all hardware components. This includes assembling the sensors, microcontroller, and communication modules.
• Programming: Write the code to process sensor data, detect falls, and manage alert notifications. The code will involve reading values from the accelerometer and gyroscope, determining thresholds for fall detection, and implementing the snooze feature.
• Testing: Conduct extensive testing to ensure the system accurately detects falls and minimizes false alarms. This includes simulating various movement scenarios to refine the detection algorithm.
• Deployment: Once tested, the system can be deployed for real-world use, allowing elderly individuals and wheelchair users to benefit from enhanced safety monitoring.