During the M&TSI summer program at the University of Pennsylvania, I had the opportunity to embark on a transformative journey in the world of technology and innovation. It was during this program that I, alongside a talented team comprising Aidan Guo, Crystal Zhang, Reine Huang, and Kate Hong, envisioned and developed the project Decibel.

In today's fast-paced world, where apartment living is the norm for many, managing noise levels can be a daunting task. Whether you're a resident trying to enjoy some peace and quiet or a building manager striving to create a harmonious environment, noise can be a persistent issue. This is where Decibel steps in – a modulated sound monitoring system designed to revolutionise noise management in apartment buildings.

Decibel is not just another noise monitoring system; it's a comprehensive solution that empowers both building managers and residents. Our goal is to provide real-time noise data for better self-regulation of sound and informed managerial decisions, ultimately enhancing living environments and optimising noise management strategies.

At the heart, Decibel is a system composed of three key components:

Decibel Monitoring Device: Installed in each apartment unit, this device uses an advanced I2S MEMS microphone with a high sampling rate of 44,100 samples per second. It ensures accurate sound data acquisition while respecting tenant privacy. Decibel detects sound waves but does not record or store speech-related data, prioritizing privacy.

Digital Display Unit: Mounted on the wall, this display unit provides real-time average decibel values through a dynamic color bar. Green indicates acceptable sound levels, while red and yellow signify higher levels that may require attention. It sends decibel level data to the cloud every 5 seconds if there are changes in the measured noise.

Mobile Application: Designed for both residents and building managers, the mobile app offers detailed noise level analytics, real-time data, and notifications. Residents can track their individual noise data and receive notifications, fostering self-regulation.

Decibel ensures efficient noise management through automated functions. When the measured apartment noise consistently exceeds a set threshold for more than 3 minutes, the system takes action:

It displays the apartment noise level and flashes red on the digital display unit.

If the noise remains above the threshold for 2 more minutes, a notification is sent to the tenant via the mobile app.

If the noise level continues to exceed the threshold for over 6 minutes, the building manager receives a notification, enabling timely intervention.

These functions operate within specified timeframes, allowing tenants to create noise during designated periods while respecting quiet hours.

Decibel differentiates itself in several key ways:

Targeted Approach: While other solutions cater to short-term rentals, Decibel focuses on apartment complexes, offering a more cost-effective and flexible noise management solution.

Tenant Self-Monitoring: Decibel empowers residents to monitor their noise levels, reducing neighbor conflicts and enhancing community harmony.

Affordability: By eliminating unnecessary features and maintaining a user-friendly design, Decibel provides an intuitive interface at a significantly lower cost.

Decibel's primary customers are real estate management companies (REMCs). They purchase the system and subscribe to the service, making them crucial stakeholders. Apartment residents are the end users who benefit from improved noise management and community harmony.

The market for noise prevention in apartments is substantial and growing, with the potential for widespread adoption. Noise management is an essential aspect of apartment living, and Decibel addresses this need effectively. We did a live demonstration of Decibel at the summer program  

Decibel's journey doesn't end here. We are continually working to enhance our system's performance and user-friendliness. Our future plans involve transitioning from Raspberry Pi-based architecture to custom PCB boards, which will improve efficiency, reduce size, and enhance reliability.

Security and privacy remain paramount. All audio data is processed locally, preventing external transmission or storage of sensitive information. Our communication with resident and manager apps, as well as Firebase integration, is encrypted to safeguard user data.

Decibel is not just a product; it's a solution that enhances the quality of life in apartment complexes. It alleviates the challenges posed by interfloor noise, resolves disputes objectively, and fosters a harmonious community.

As we move forward, we will continue to collect quantitative metrics and qualitative feedback to measure Decibel's impact on noise reduction, complaint resolution, occupancy rates, and resident satisfaction. Our aim is to provide building management teams with data-driven decision-making tools and create a more harmonious living environment for all.