Align

This is UpRight, our posture helping belt which prevents people from getting a bad posture
This is ClearWay, which helps visually impaired people by mainly using sensors in order to help people who cannot navigate efficiently

Inspiration

We wanted to create simple yet powerful wearable devices that help people live safer, healthier, and more independent lives. Our inspiration came from seeing how assistive technology can empower people — whether it’s helping someone with vision impairment move confidently or helping someone improve their posture and reduce pain.

What it does

Align features two main innovations:

Smart Helmet: Equipped with ultrasonic distance sensors on the front and back, it detects nearby obstacles and emits beeps to alert the wearer — providing an added sense of spatial awareness for visually impaired users.

Posture Belt: Uses a tilt sensor to detect when the wearer bends too far and sounds a gentle alert. This helps users maintain proper posture and prevent back strain.

How we built it

We built both devices using Arduino microcontrollers, ultrasonic sensors, tilt sensors, and piezo buzzers. We designed and tested custom circuits to process sensor data in real time and trigger audio feedback. We also optimized sensor placement for the most accurate detection angles and consistent alerts.

Challenges we ran into

We faced challenges in sensor calibration — ensuring accurate distance detection and minimizing false beeps. Integrating multiple sensors on the helmet while keeping it lightweight and comfortable also required experimentation. For the belt, tuning the tilt sensitivity was tricky to make it responsive but not overly sensitive.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

We’re proud of creating two fully functional prototypes that demonstrate real-world impact. Both devices work reliably and showcase how accessible, low-cost technology can make daily life easier for people with mobility or posture challenges.

What we learned

We learned how to integrate multiple sensors effectively, fine-tune real-time feedback systems, and think critically about user experience and accessibility. We also gained valuable insight into how small design decisions — like alert sound timing or sensor placement — affect overall usability.

What's next for Align

Next, we plan to make the devices wireless, add Bluetooth connectivity for data tracking, and improve the form factor with 3D-printed enclosures. We also hope to collaborate with accessibility organizations and physical therapists to refine and test Align in real-world settings.