Infrared digital speedometer

Abstract

In traffic accidents, a phenomenon is observed where the speedometer needle jams at a certain value after the impact. Using the residual reading of the speedometer, we may infer the approximate vehicle speed while the impact occurred. Based on the function of typical speedometer, the impact characteristic and damage mechanism of vehicles, this report describes the research of how the analog speedometer can be improved to come up with a digital version. This project was aimed at the design of an Infrared Digital Speedometer for drivers and other road users. The main objective of this project was to design and construct a low- cost infrared based digital speedometer that will last long to help minimize various problems road users go through that is frequent replacement of worn- out analog speedometers, charges for over speeding, and road accidents as a result of over speeding. The approaches used to solve this problem included; gathering requirements, designing, implementing, testing and validating the system. Information for system study was gathered using tools such as interviews, observation, and study of relevant literature. Class diagrams were used in the analysis and design of the system. The technologies used in the implementation of the objectives of this study included; C++ and Arduino. The outcome of the project was an integrated system capable of measuring the speed of the moving vehicle, detecting the obstacle when in reverse mode, sounding an alarm when the set speed limit is exceeded, and showing the direction in which, the wheel is moving. Upon successful testing and system validation, we believe that the system can improve road usage, safety, and improve the relationship between various road users that is; drivers, pedestrians and traffic officers.