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Project Overview

    Calit2 is interested in creating a device to track and record the acceleration of a rock climber. The idea is that by monitoring acceleration data, it will be evident whether or not the individual has sustained a fall serious enough to cause injury. It will also give the climber data on rope and other gear used, thereby helping climbers to assess when it is approaching the time to purchase new equipment due to too much sustained stress. A consumer device would be hooked up to a smart phone through blue-tooth and at the end of a climb, will tell the climber all the forces experienced that day, as well as an update on equipment.

    The above items were created in order to realize the goals outlined above. The following video shows our sensor package in action on both the PVC test dummy, and our team member Joseph Miller. Additionally, a 3D Matlab simulation of a climbing fall is included.

    The prototype sensor package was developed consisting of a 3-axis accelerometer, Bluetooth for real-time data, optional SD memory card slot, Arduino ProMini, and a Lithium Ion rechargeable battery. A 3-D printed housing was designed to protect all components and to attach to the climber without hindering natural movements. Drop tests were conducted by a human and a test dummy built by the team, as shown in the above video. For a 15 meter fall, data indicated falls slightly under 6 G’s, which matched the theoretical simulations. Stress analysis was then conducted on the climbing gear and the subject. Sensors were also placed in various positions to determine any differences in jerk and accelerations. Deliverables consisting of a working prototype sensor package, analysis of the falls on climber and gear, bill of materials and a list of drawings for assembly and production were delivered to Calit2, the sponsor of this project.