Harshini Brahmavar
Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi
Udupi, Apr 3: In today's world, safety of women, children as well as elders has become a big challenge. Not just schoolgirls, even schoolboys too are not safe enough. Though there are several mobile apps developed for people's safety, the fact remains that it requires precious seconds or even minutes for the victim to activate the emergency signal.
Science students MGM PU College have now developed a self-defense band that can be worn like a watch and can send distress signal at the mere press of a button.
The defense band, called the 'Suraksha Watch', is designed with a GPS antenna. It works through satellite and resembles a normal band that fits most watches. Each 'watch' has a unique ID code.
In the case of an attack, the device sends alert messages to the victim's family, the local police department and the ambulance with one press of a button. Moreover, it lets them know the location details of the victm.
The innovative device secured the sixth place at a national-level competition held in Manipal recently.
Vijaykrishna, one of the team members says the device was developed not with competition in mind. "We wanted to do something to enhance women's safety, and we took up the task of developing this device as a challenge," he said.
At present the team is working on enhancing the performance of the Suraksha watch, which is still in prototype form.
The device comprises a GPRS tracker, micro transmitter and GPS antenna. The students are also planning to install a hidden camera inside the watch. The chip is designed with systematic data programmes.
Another student Shravya said that many mobile apps had been invented for women's safety, but this band easily fits on the wrist and it is practical as opposed to other self-defense devices.
Kusuma Kamath, principal of the college said, "The effort made by these creative students is really appreciable. The department concerned must focus on promoting these helpful devices and introduce them in the market."