Project: ANTARES (Arduino-based Necessity-Terminating Autonomous REconnaissance System)

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

As the country continues to expand and develop infrastructure, it becomes more susceptible to disasters. Highlighting the need for the improvement regarding disaster management plans in the country, this study was conducted to construct an autonomous system capable of (1) outputting alarm, (2) sending SMS distress signals, (3) and communicating with utility lines to prevent further damage in the event of a disaster. Additionally, the system has a complementary application to access information about logged and current disasters for information dissemination.

METHODS

The system utilized four sensors for three corresponding disasters a) an accelerometer for earthquakes, b) smoke-flame sensors for building fires, and c) water level sensors for floods. ANTARES' software utilized the Arduino programming platform while the Android application employed the use of the Java-based Android Studio for efficient data transferal. Algorithms for fire exit navigation, post-disaster utility line assessment, and data logging features of the application were accessible through the application. The sensors were then calibrated for testing. The autonomous system was then subjected to artificial disaster tests at the DOST-PHIVOLCS Earthquake Simulation Environment.

RESULTS

The system was able to output alarms and messages through the GSM module with minimal latency. Succeeding tests have shown that the optimal value for the accelerometer calibration is the value closest to representing Intensity V earthquakes (±8). All sensors operated optimally when calibrated to process data at 100 samples per second in line with PHIVOLCS standards. Respective disaster response protocols were configured for maximum effectivity with least levels of latency following a responsive utility line manipulation. Regarding the application, tests have shown negligible latency levels ensuring accurate data transferal between the application and the system. Application accuracy for fire exit navigation and post-disaster utility line assessment features issued consistently favorable results with rapid result adaptation to staged post-disaster circumstances.

DISCUSSIONS

All tests conducted on the system have yielded affirmative results proving [the system's] functionality. This study's results support the given technology's potential for commercialization and widespread disaster management application. Using improved versions of the sensors would directly increase system accuracy and significantly lower data transferal latency.