KALM
Early warnings when forming emergency lanes
KALM is an interactive warning system for drivers designed to help emergency responders reach the scene of an incident faster and more safely.
The project addresses a problem that is often recognized too late in traffic: emergency lanes are not formed in time or are formed incorrectly. For emergency responders, this means lost time. For drivers, it means stress, uncertainty, and sometimes simply feeling overwhelmed.
This is exactly where KALM comes in. Instead of simply alerting drivers with flashing lights and sirens, KALM facilitates calmer, clearer, and more personalized communication between emergency vehicles and cars.
Research
To avoid viewing the situation solely from the perspective of drivers, we also spoke with a paramedic as part of our research. This was particularly important because it quickly became clear that it’s not just about technology, but about seconds, attention, and clear communication in an emergency situation.
The discussion helped us make the problem more tangible: Emergency responders need clear paths, and drivers need early guidance. KALM aims to bring these two needs together.
Concept
KALM alerts drivers well in advance when an emergency vehicle is approaching. The warning is designed to be noticeable without causing additional stress. That’s why the system uses multiple cues: a soft beep, a pulsing light, a vibration in the steering wheel, and a simplified display.
An important part of the concept is the personal touch. Instead of an anonymous warning, a message from the first responder appears—for example, their name and a personal message. This makes the situation feel less abstract. The emergency vehicle is once again associated with a real person who is trying to help someone.
KALM then provides brief, specific instructions: whether an emergency vehicle is approaching and is on the same route, how to form an emergency corridor, and whether additional assistance is needed. The goal is to give drivers more control over the situation while also buying valuable time for emergency responders.
Implementation
Prototype
For the prototype, we designed a system consisting of two modules: one in the emergency vehicle and one in the car. The emergency vehicle transmits information about the route and the emergency to nearby vehicles. This information is processed in the car and displayed via the screen, sound, lights, and vibration.
From a technical standpoint, we used Raspberry Pis, GPS modules, a display, LEDs, a vibration motor, and a web-based user interface. The front end was implemented using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, and the back end using Node.js. For the prototype, we also set up a simulation of the communication between the emergency vehicle and the car.
Design
In terms of design, KALM was intentionally kept understated. The app uses dark backgrounds, clean typography, shades of blue to evoke emergency lights, and warm accent colors to draw attention. The interface is minimalist so that drivers aren’t overwhelmed with information in an already stressful situation.
Trailer
- time
- 3. Semester, Winter 2020
- Team
- Kitty QuachAnn-Kathrin TissenLisa Jochem
- Role / Responsibility
- IdeationConceptDesigntechnical integrationtechnical prototype
