All projects

Eva

Design of an Intuitive Building Evacuation system that guides people in public buildings safely and calm to the next emergency exit.

Date:

Jan 2023

Creation Place:

Umeå Institute of Design

Project Length:

4 weeks

Video:

https://youtu.be/5mLr65EATBQ

Redesigning Evacuation: Intuitive, Calm Navigation with Spatial Sound, Visual Cues, and Instant Help Access.

Evacuation faces several critical challenges today. Firstly, the current alarm sounds do not provide clear navigation to the exit and induce anxiety. Moreover, the evacuation signs are confusing and difficult to understand for those unfamiliar with them. Finally, evacuees lack direct access to help buttons when they are in danger.

The EVA system employs multiple alarm devices that can be retrofitted with current plug and switch systems. These devices are positioned along the path to the exit. When the alarms are triggered, evacuees will immediately perceive the direction from the audio without conscious effort.

Fire alarms can cause anxiety
and add to disorientation.

Fire alarms can cause anxiety and add to disorientation.

We’ve all experienced the discomfort when a fire alarm unexpectedly goes off, especially in an unfamiliar setting. For some, this sudden noise combined with the stress of evacuation leads to intense anxiety, disorientation and for others, it can even develop into phonophobia—a fear of loud alarms and sounds. This fear not only causes mental distress but can also hinder effective responses during emergencies.

HMW guide people safe and intuitively out of a building during an evacuation?

Lead people with directional sound

We developed a solution that uses directional sound and visual cues to guide individuals calmly out of public buildings like universities and libraries. This approach ensures a smooth and intuitive evacuation process, reducing stress and confusion during emergencies by providing clear, non-alarming guidance.

Eva seamlessly blends into its environment when not in use which is hopefully 99+% of the time. Its design is subtle, almost invisible, ensuring it doesn’t demand attention in everyday life. However, the moment an alarm is triggered, Eva comes to life, using light and sound to grab attention and guide you to safety instantly.