Clearsonics Hands Free Communication

Usability

In times of an emergency a help phone must be simple to use and as unrestrictive as possible. A hands-free phone only needs the user to press a button once, even if they were injured or disabled it is easier to press a button than to hold onto a handset.

The user needs reassurance that the phone is connected. A push button with travel, will let them know that it has been pressed. Both visual and audible feedback is important to indicate that a call has been placed. A delay in any feedback would appear as an eternity in an emergency situation.

In relation to using a handset the cord length determines the restriction to a users movement and means only one hand is free.

The hands-free user has the flexibility to use both hands. This then allows the user to do other tasks such as: applying first aid, directing traffic, taking notes or even receive instructions to fix a car with their head under the bonnet which could be even more important for remote locations. A hands-free help phone should be able to operate in the expected maximum noise environment.

More than one person should be able to receive information from a hands-free phone, it is not restricted to a one to one conversation.

During a lightning storm it is much safer to use a hands-free phone than to hold onto a handset.

Hands-free phones are not as susceptible to vandalism and therefore are more available to those in need. If a help phone is provided then it will be relied upon and expected to be in working order, not with a cord hanging down with bare wires and no handset to be found. Additionally all help phones should be tested to ensure the utmost availability where the level of testing is conclusive.

This put together with detection and automatic reporting of accidental damage or vandalism (hit by a vehicle or receiving severe blows) will maximise availability.

Consider the wheelchair dependant driver whose car is failing and can stop next to a help phone in the emergency lane. With a handset phone the driver would have to get out of the vehicle necessitating the placement of the wheelchair in the first lane of traffic.

A hands-free help phone powered by solar and connected through GSM will be

a higher initial investment but should prove the lowest in lifecycle costs whilst providing the upmost usability and flexibility for those who will rely on it.