Development of Arduino-Based Panic Alarm With GPS and GSM Modules
Development of Arduino-Based Panic Alarm With GPS and GSM Modules
ISSN No:-2456-2165
Abstract:- This research outlines the creation of a panic with manual and automatic options for activation. In
alarm prototype based on Arduino technology. An contrast, Personal Alarms or Hand-Held Alarms are
examination was undertaken to identify gaps in existing suitable for situations where deterring an attacker without
panic alarm systems. The data collected from this causing harm is essential. The intention is to prevent users
research gap analysis informed the development from facing scrutiny in case of a false alarm, ensuring that
process, which followed the agile software development innocent individuals are not adversely affected.
method. The development utilized C++ web Recognizing the potential for self-defense devices to cause
technologies on a computer equipped with an i5 harm, the researchers aim to disguise these alarms as
processor, 12GB DDR III RAM, a 250GB hard disk entertaining items, making them less conspicuous. This
drive, and a 500GB solid-state drive. dual-purpose design allows users to stay entertained and
calm while alone, whether traveling for work or spending
The study successfully produced a prototype alarm time outdoors.
featuring a GPS and SMS module, addressing the
identified research gap in current panic alarms and This study aims to reduce the likelihood of
offering an additional layer of security during travel. encountering crime or the need for self-defense in the
The GPS module demonstrated approximately 80% current situation. Experiencing an attack, assault, or
accuracy, acknowledging challenges in locating signals robbery is inherently terrifying. Having a straightforward
within buildings or residential areas. Testing involved device that can both deter potential attackers and summon
five locations, including open spaces and indoor settings, assistance is significantly more effective than having no
with the prototype activated while the user moved. The means of protection. As the pandemic gradually subsides
SMS function operated concurrently with the GPS, and people strive to resume work to support their families,
sending messages to the registered user based on the the necessity of travel becomes apparent, and the associated
prototype's location as determined by the GPS. risks of traveling alone should not be underestimated.
Keywords:- Alarm, Arduino, Prototype. The development of a panic alarm stems from the
heightened urgency for enhanced personal and public
I. INTRODUCTION safety, especially in the context of escalating interpersonal
violence during the COVID-19 pandemic. As the pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated interpersonal contributed to a surge in various crimes, including street
violence, constituting a larger share of overall crime, crime victimization and specific types of violent offenses,
primarily driven by firearms (Lalchandani 2022). In US the need for proactive measures to address emergencies
cities, the pandemic resulted in a 15-30% surge in street became evident. A panic alarm, designed to provide swift
crime victimization, even as violent crimes saw a decline, and accessible assistance, emerges as a crucial tool in such
emphasizing the necessity for activity-adjusted crime rates circumstances. The increased crime rates, unpredictable
to gain a more accurate understanding of public safety situations arising from lockdown restrictions, and the
(Massenkoff, 2022). Lockdown restrictions during the necessity for innovative solutions underscores the
pandemic contributed to decreased larceny and robbery significance of developing a panic alarm system. Such a
rates, while homicide rates remained high and auto thefts device can offer a rapid response mechanism, ensuring the
increased (Meyer, 2021). Surprisingly, no single crime well-being of individuals and communities facing emergent
theory could provide a comprehensive explanation for all threats, thereby reinforcing the imperative for its
these varied outcomes. In Queensland, the pandemic led to development in the current socio environmental context.
lower rates of shop theft, other theft, and credit-card fraud,
while property damage, burglary, and motor-vehicle theft II. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
remained relatively unchanged (Payne 2020). Meanwhile,
New York City experienced a significant rise in grand The development of panic alarms play a crucial role in
larceny auto and gun violence crimes during COVID-19, enhancing security by offering a subtle and inconspicuous
whereas rape, other sex crimes, and other crimes showed a means to signal for help in emergencies. Their discreet
notable decrease (Esposito 2021). nature is particularly advantageous in scenarios where
maintaining a low profile is essential, preventing potential
Various alarms are available in the market, each aggressors from realizing that an alert has been triggered.
serving distinct purposes, the common goal is to attract These discreet alarms can take various forms, including
attention for assistance, protection, alerting, and warning. small, easily concealable devices or inconspicuous buttons
Smoke alarms, for instance, are obligatory for buildings, integrated into everyday objects. The importance of panic
This study adheres to the Agile Software V. REVIEW OF THE RELATED LITERATURE
Development Method, commencing with the identification AND STUDIES
of design requirements primarily based on the recognized
research gap, specifically focusing on GPS (Global The studies used in this paper share a common theme
Positioning System) and GSM (Global System for of designing security and alarm systems based on GSM and
Messaging Communication). In the design phase, the GPS technologies. A communication equipment alarm
researchers systematically iterate through planning, system utilizing a GSM module was utilized to connect
execution, and evaluation cycles for the alarm until it various modules for sending short messages and giving
successfully achieves its objectives and addresses the voice alarms in the event of equipment breakdown using
identified gaps. The technologies employed in this project ARM chip LPC2103 as the main control circuit (Xuan,
include Arduino Nano, Arduino GPS & GSM modules, 2010). While GPS and GSM modules, a microcontroller,
LED module, and a 130dB Speaker module. Utilizing these and a mobile client, automatically send GSM short message
technologies, the researchers aim to create and develop the alerts and report the vehicle's position when an alarm
intended Panic Alarm, designated as the "Arduino-based threshold is breached (Ye, 2013). This research used the
panic alarm." The algorithm governing the device's same technologies for vehicle positioning and anti-theft
functionality will be elucidated throughout the alarm's alarm systems and was proven effective in providing real-
development. The agile development method is applied to time alarms and post-theft location tracking. Similar to this,
both software and hardware development processes. This the integration of GSM/GPRS, GPS, and Bluetooth
methodology involves breaking down features into sprints modules established a comprehensive car anti-theft and
and developed it within short timeframes. Each sprint is navigation system. With features like vibration sensors and
integrated based on the existing panic alarms, as it real-time GPS positioning, this system achieves global car
addressed the identified research gaps. This iterative cycle, alarm functionality. (Xiao-Ming, 2011). In addition,
encompassing identifying requirements, designing, utilizing a mature and reliable GSM mobile network as a
developing, testing, deploying, and reviewing, forms the community alarm system with MCU AT89C52 series as the
fundamental framework for the evolution of the Arduino- core, the system employs infrared monitoring, and LCD
based panic alarm. alarms for timely accident handling. (Wang, 2015)
Moreover, a car security alarm system network design
The microcontroller or the brain of the device where it will be the one controlling the other components attached to it.
The chip module that will provide the location of the prototype.
The chip module that will provide the capability of the prototype to send messages.
The components responsible for providing additional functionality to the prototype that makes up the alarm; make up the
sound of the prototype with the press of the button along with an LED Light.
Fig. 6: Wires
Fig. 7: Switch
The LiPo Battery is used to give some power 5 (14.560416, 121.065354) is considered invalid according
to other components of the prototype such as the LED to Google Maps. In summary, the GPS module accurately
lights, modules, etc. provided location data for the first three test locations when
compared to Google Maps, while for Locations 4 and 5, the
VIII. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION GPS coordinates did not match the actual location names
according to Google Maps. This section of the study
A. Accuracy Test addresses the outcomes of the accuracy testing conducted
The GPS coordinates for Location 1 (14.562113, on the components employed in the research. It is crucial to
121.000724), Location 2 (14.5539, 121.0180), and note that the researchers operated within limited resources,
Location 3 (14.5536167, 121.0220008) precisely and there is room for enhancement by subsequent
correspond to the actual locations of Boyle St., Makati, researchers with a more comprehensive understanding and
Washington Sycip Park, and Greenbelt 5 Valet Parking, additional resources. With this acknowledgment, the first
respectively, as verified on Google Maps. However, the criterion in Reliability testing pertains to the GPS Signal
GPS coordinate for Location 4 (14. 33 7632121 01 24.096) Strength. When testing the GPS module (GY-NE06MV2),
does not align with the Google Maps location of EDSA bus several advantages and disadvantages became apparent.
station SM. Additionally, the GPS coordinate for Location
Starting with the disadvantages, the module is not further details on this aspect will be discussed
well-suited for indoor use, as its antenna necessitates a subsequently.
direct satellite signal to receive GPS data. Another
limitation is its reliance on a wide and unobstructed skyline The SMS Signal Strength, akin to the GPS module,
for data reception, making it ineffective in areas surrounded exhibits both advantages and disadvantages. Notably, one
by tall buildings. Furthermore, it requires 10-20 minutes to of its strengths is the consistent delivery of SMS messages.
establish a signal, even if all prerequisites are met. On the Another advantage lies in its superior signal strength
positive side, the module demonstrates consistency in compared to the GPS, enabling it to transmit SMS even in
sending data to the serial monitor and operates without areas with poor reception, while the GPS may provide
disturbance when the necessary conditions are met. inaccurate or no results. Conversely, a drawback is the
Additionally, the GPS accuracy is commendable, but potential sudden loss of signal. Another disadvantage is the
absence of an indication when the SIM card has no load.
The evaluation involved a series of tests wherein a test shows reliable performance of the input signal
button connected to the GSM module was pressed, and the detection on the GSM module across multiple button
subsequent measurement of time intervals was recorded. presses.
The test encompassed five instances, each revealing
specific details: C. Sound Attenuation Result
Press 1 initiated at 21.686 seconds and concluded at The diagram illustrates the outcomes of the speaker's
23.732 seconds, resulting in a time interval of 2.046 sound test, where SPL stands for Sound Pressure Level,
seconds. representing the measurement of sound loudness in a
Press 2 commenced at 3.247 seconds and terminated at specified area [Svantek, 2023]. R1 and R2 denote the
3.292 seconds, yielding a time interval of 2.045 distances from the sound source. As anticipated, there is a
seconds. decrease in Sound Pressure Level (SPL) as the
Press 3 was initiated at 22.306 seconds and concluded at measurement distance extends from the source, indicating
22.353 seconds, resulting in a time interval of 2.047 sound attenuation over distance. Specifically, at 5 meters,
seconds. the SPL is 13.98 dB lower than at 1 meter. The attenuation
effect becomes more pronounced with increasing distances:
Press 4 commenced at 14.814 seconds and concluded at
at 10 meters, the attenuation is 20 dB, at 15 meters, it is
14.860 seconds, yielding a time interval of 2.046
seconds. 23.52 dB, at 20 meters, it is 26.02 dB, and at 25 meters, the
attenuation reaches 27.96 dB. There is an exponential
Press 5 began at 32.334 seconds and ended at 32.380
relationship between distance and sound attenuation - the
seconds, resulting in a time interval of 2.046 seconds.
farther from the source, the greater the sound level drops
The interval time between the button presses is very off. This is expected due to the geometric spreading of
consistent, around 2.046 seconds for each one. This acoustic waves. A clear trend is seen of increasing sound
indicates that the GSM module is reliably detecting the attenuation at larger distances from the source, verifying
button presses and accurately reporting the timing. The the principle of sound amplitude reduction over distance.
consistency of the intervals shows precise performance of The results align with typical expectations for acoustic
the GSM module in detecting a triggered input event. propagation and drop-off. The data indicates consistent and
appropriate functionality of the sound measuring system
Overall, based on the consistent button press intervals, used in this test.
the GSM module appears to be functioning properly in
detecting digital input signals and reporting the timing. The
Table 3: Sound Attenuation Results
Trial R1 SPL 1 (dB) R2 SPL 2 (dB) Difference in SPL
1 1 meter 90 5 meters 76.02 13.98
2 1 meter 90 10 meters 70 20
3 1 meter 90 15 meters 66.48 23.52
4 1 meter 90 20 meters 63.98 26.02
5 1 meter 90 25 meters 62.04 27.96
The provided illustration depicts the digital mockup of of the first iteration of the prototype, focusing on
the panic alarm created through TinkerCad. It's important to implementing the speaker and the LED light. Regarding the
note that certain components, namely the GPS and GSM LED light, discussions centered on determining the
modules, are not available in TinkerCad and have been duration of its blinking, with the light intensity set at 500
substituted with placeholders. Following the assembly of lumens. Concurrently, the speaker settings were configured
the identified components, Cycle 2 commences. In the to emit sound at 90 decibels, alternating between
initial stages of Cycle 2, the team initiates the construction frequencies of 2000 and 5000 hertz
The picture displayed is the initial tangible incorporating the GPS and GSM modules into the
representation of the prototype. In the photograph, only a prototype.
standard LED is affixed to the device, as the COB LED had
not been received at the time the photo was taken. The inclusion of these modules also involves
Following a thorough testing and program review, the team integrating their respective codes, and facilitating
proceeds to Cycle 3. Cycle 3 marks the initiation of communication between the microcontroller (Arduino) and
the modules themselves.
Upon completing the assembly of the physical performed at any location. The team initiated the first round
components of the GPS and GSM modules, along with of testing for the GPS and GSM modules in their initial
their corresponding code integration, the team progresses to state. As the prototype advanced, actual on-site tests were
testing in Cycle 4. This phase involves comprehensive conducted. The subsequent image illustrates the operational
testing of the prototype's functionalities. Initial tests include states of the prototype: turned on, idle, and in the off mode.
examining the speaker and light functions, which can be
Upon activation of the prototype alarm, it initiates the another message to the designated number, and the cycle
GPS module followed by the initialization of the GSM repeats until the alarm is turned off.
module. Subsequently, the alarm enters an IDLE mode,
continuously monitoring its location via the GPS module. E. Technical Requirements
While in idle mode, the system responds to user commands. The Arduino-based panic alarm is a blend of software
If the user inputs the command "Test-S" or "S," the system and diverse hardware technologies. In the programming
triggers a corresponding message to the user-entered aspect of the panic alarm development, C++ was employed
number, thus testing the SMS module. Similarly, upon for coding on the Arduino Uno, and the Arduino IDE
entering the command "Test-G" or "G," the system sends a served as the software for compiling and communicating
corresponding message containing the GPS location of the with the Arduino Uno. In terms of hardware, the prototype
alarm to the user-inputted number, thereby testing the GPS alarm utilized the following components: GY-NE06MV2
module. If the user activates the alarm, it dispatches a for the GPS module, SIM800L for the GSM module, a 4-
message to the specified number, activates the LED light, ohm 2W Speaker, 6W OCB LED light, Mts-103 3 feet 3
and initiates the speaker, alerting those in proximity. The files Switch, 3000mAh 3.7V LiPo battery. Additionally, for
activation includes a 3-minute delay; if the alarm is not the development of the device, tools such as a computer
deactivated within this time frame, the system sends equipped with an i5 processor, 12GB DDR III RAM,
250GB hard disk drive, and 500GB solid-state drive were
utilized.
F. Program Code