Introduction and Project Summary

According to research recently published in Ear and Hearing, “hearing loss was the most prevalent sensory disorder in the United States”¹ from 1990 to 2019. Given that extended exposure to loud noise can cause and worsen hearing loss, it is important to be mindful of the volume in one’s environment, as well as identify the direction a sound is coming from. While there are apps and sensors to measure decibels, it’s disruptive to have to pull out your phone or a decibel meter throughout the day.

In contrast, a bracelet would provide users with a more direct visual reminder of sound levels in their environment. Using the deciBright bracelet, you can discreetly check on the loudness of your environment through the bracelet’s colored lights, and choose different modes such as directional sensing, averaging volume, and instantaneous volume. It’s adjustable, comfortable, and durable enough to wear all day. With the accompanying web app, you can track statistics about your exposure over time, modify the sound threshold levels to suit your needs, and customize the colors to make the bracelet a fashionable accessory.

 

 

 

¹https://journals.lww.com/ear-hearing/fulltext/2024/01000/hearing_loss_prevalence,_years_lived_with.24.aspx