safeway

kenna designed . . . "safeway"

Safeway is a door handle that illuminates and plays audio so that people with disabilities, specifically those who may be blind or deaf, can easily locate exits incase of an emergency. In an emergency situation, tensions are typically high and people go into panic mode and people with disabilities are often left to fend for themselves. Even though the ADA mandates that every building is assessable to all people, doesn't mean that every building is to the degree it deserves. Safeway serves as that additional step by being a guiding light and sound. By being placed on the inside of doors it helps people know to go through them in order to find the next one which eventually will be the exit.   

Design decisions I made throughout this process were to use a white LED for the flashing light. It is the brightest and can be seen through smoke the best and is also what firefighters use in their helmet flashlights. I also decide the handle itself would be made out of aluminum because it is a heat resistant, sustainable, sound and light echoing material. I also chose to put the light on the inside of the handle so it could be more durable and attach a metal plate to the backing to project the sound out of while simultaneously reflecting the light off of it.