FLOOD ALARM DEVICE

I-Background of the Project

Flood is one of the most dangerous natural disasters which threaten different
aspects of people’s lives including health risks, loss of human lives, road closures,
economic impacts, and destruction of properties. Flooding can be defined as “the rising
and overflowing of a body of water, especially onto normally dry land.” Statistics show
flood-related events comprise 31.9% of the natural disasters that occurred in the
Philippines in the years 1990-2014 (Callanga et al., 2020). Today, it is still one of the
biggest problems that the country faces.

During intense precipitation, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and

Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) can only issue warnings about the
potential for flooding in broad areas, not on individual roads or locations. Moreover,
flood structures in Metro Manila are deemed ineffective in preventing unprecedented
flooding caused by severe tropical storms (Gilbuena et al., 2013) (Callanga et al, 2020).
These concerns give rise to the need for real-time monitoring of water levels and early
flood prediction, which will play an active role for the management of flooding.

The vicinity of the Mystical Rose School of Caloocan, Inc. Sampaguita Building is
known to be a flood-prone area. The flood alarm device developed in this project was
designed to be installed underground the street of the said building. Before the
drainage canals overflow on the surface, the device’s speakers and light bulbs will
activate to alert the people in the vicinity that a flood is about to occur. The alarm will
be useful and necessary for the community’s preparations, especially if there are young
children and students present and if the area is prone to flooding. As students of the
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Strand, this capstone project aims
to fulfill the goal of creating a functional flood alarm device that would benefit the
students, parents, teachers, and the people living in the vicinity of Mystical Rose School
of Caloocan, Inc. Sampaguita Building.

A flood alarm device, as its name suggests, is a gadget designed to detect and
predict flooding before it happens in a specific area and to warn nearby individuals of a
potential flooding occurrence. This warning will allow these individuals sufficient time to
make preparations to cope with the event. Similar to flood alarm systems developed in
previous studies, the flood alarm device in this project will be designed to monitor the
water level in real-time, to alert the people that a flood will occur, and to encourage
them to make necessary preparations in order to deal with the event.
II-Importance of the Study

The need for real-time water level monitoring and early flood prediction, as well
as the actual experiences of particular members in this group who went to and studied
at the Mystical Rose School of Caloocan, Inc. Sampaguita Building serve as the
foundation for this project's rationale. The aforementioned structure is situated on
Sampaguita Street, which is highly susceptible to flooding or, to put it another way,
floods easily. Flooding in this area occurs frequently during severe rainfalls as well as
typhoons. Particular students in this group knew from personal experience what it was
like to travel to school or to be stuck when the street flooded. Because the school's
elementary and preschool departments are located in the Sampaguita Building, this
poses a serious problem. Due to their younger age ranges compared to other
departments, the students who attend this school are particularly more susceptible to
the damaging effects of flooding.

For this particular reason, the students were inspired and motivated to build a
flood alarm device that would benefit the people, especially the young students, in the
Mystical Rose School of Caloocan, Inc. Sampaguita Building. The main mechanism of
this device relies on monitoring the water level in real time. When the water level
reaches a certain height underground, the alarm will activate – alerting people that a
flood is expected to occur before it actually happens above the ground or on the
surface. The project will address the concerns and needs regarding the early prediction
of flooding at Mystical Rose School of Caloocan, Inc. Sampaguita Building.

This study will be beneficial to the following:

Students. As young kids are much more susceptible to negative consequences of

flooding, the risks regarding their safety will be lessened drastically during an
occurrence of flooding. They will also be informed and updated on the real-time water
level situation around the vicinity.

School Administration. As an institution that values the safety of its students, the
results of this study will be beneficial as a useful tool that will help them make sound
decisions and provide clear instructions to the students, parents, and other people in
the vicinity during heavy rainfalls.

Residents in the Vicinity. They will be updated regarding the current water-level
situation during heavy rainfalls, helping them to make quick decisions to minimize the
negative consequences of flooding, such as health risks and damage to property.

Future Researchers. The results of this study may be used as a useful reference in
the development of a much more complex and reliable flood alarm device or system.
III - Review of Related Literature and Studies

The following literature review presents valuable information and studies

regarding the problem and objectives of this study, which include preventing the
negative consequences of flooding by developing a flood alarm device or system.

In a research study conducted by Callanga et al. (2020), it was stated that

statistics show flood-related events comprise 31.9% of the natural disasters that
occurred in the Philippines in the years 1990-2014. As such, flooding is still one of the
biggest problems that the country faces. During heavy rainfalls, the Philippine
Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) can only
issue warnings about the potential for flooding in broad areas, not on individual roads
or locations. Moreover, flood structures in Metro Manila were seen as ineffective in the
prevention of unprecedented flooding caused by severe tropical storms (Gilbuena et al.,
2013) (Callanga et al, 2020). Their study aims to confront these problems and address
the lack of a real-time flood warning system, which may reduce the loss of lives and
damage to property. The flood warning system developed by Callanga et al. (2020) was
able to give real-time water level updates. Moreover, the device was audible for the
people in the vicinity. They have concluded that the device was efficient as a flood
alarm device when installed in different river systems.

In addition, a local study conducted by Yumang et al. (2017) presented a flood

water level monitoring system for the community in Pandacan, Manila, which was prone
to flooding as it is located nearby the Pasig River. The system was equipped with water
level sensors, three LED lights mounted to a PVC pipe, and a system that sends an SMS
notification to the people in Pandacan. The study results showed that the design of the
system satisfied the objectives the researchers aimed for.

Meanwhile, in a study published by Alfarra and Alsibai (2017), an optimized flood

warning system was presented in the hopes of improving flood disaster management
and forecasting. By continually sensing streamflow and water level in real-time, the
proposed system offered early flood detection around the vicinity of the Pahang River,
Malaysia. The system was equipped with sensors that acquired real-time data on the
water level and streamflow of the river. When the levels exceed the specified limit, the
sensors send a message back to their station, informing them that a flood is expected
to occur. The proposed system was stated to be beneficial to the residents living in the
vicinity of the Pahang River as heavy rainfalls and typhoons which cause floods
frequently occur around these parts.

These studies contributed ideas and insights into the rationale, the process, and
the execution of this capstone research project. Previous studies have proven the need
for water level real-time monitoring and early flood prediction by pieces of evidence
such as ineffective flood structures, insufficient news warnings, and the existence of
flood-prone areas. This capstone research study aims to address these problems by
developing a flood alarm device which will be used by and situated in Mystical Rose
School of Caloocan, Inc. Sampaguita Building.
 IV-Discussion of the Project and Documentation

PROJECT PLANNING

CAPSTONE PROJECT TIMELINE

Week No. Project Tasks/Activities

Week 1 Project Planning and Start of Flood Alarm Device Development

Week 2 Project Planning of MRSCI Sampaguita Building Miniature

Week 3 Start of Miniature Project Making
Week 4 Continuation of Miniature Project Making

Week 5 Continuation of Miniature Project Making

Completion of Miniature Project Making and Project Performance of Flood

Week 6
Alarm Device

Week 7 Project Completion of Flood Alarm Device and Research Paper

Week 1: Project Planning and Start of Flood Alarm Device Development

The project planning occurred with

the whole group discussing ideas for the
capstone project. The ideas include
organic cardboard, earthquake-proof
building, CD as solar panels, and the flood
alarm device. The organic cardboard was
excluded because of its lack of impact and
benefits. The earthquake-proof building
was also excluded because of lack of
expertise. Sarmiento, Anquira, and
Gandeza were assigned to try making the
CD solar panels while Torion, Alcantara,
and Mendoza were assigned to the flood
alarm device.

Unfortunately, Sarmiento and the

others have failed in making the CD solar
panels. On the other hand, Torion, Alcantara,
and Mendoza were successful in developing
the flood alarm device. The materials used for
the device were a circuit board, speakers,
light bulbs, electric wires, metal nuts, ping
pong balls, and popsicle sticks.
 The mechanism relies on the buoyancy of ping pong balls to
activate. The speakers and light bulbs activate as the ping pong
balls go upward. The creation of the flood alarm device was
successful. Further improvement will be made in the following
weeks.

Week 2: Project Planning of MRSCI Sampaguita Building Miniature

Aside from the actual device, the group will be making a miniature of the MRSCI
Sampaguita Building, which is the area that the device will be installed. The group
discussed the lengths, widths, and heights of each part of the miniature. Jacob led the
sketching of the miniature layout.
 The group also inquired from Ma’am Chavez, the project adviser, which
appropriate materials should be used for the miniature. Opinions from each member
were also expressed regarding the materials and design. Lastly, the group estimated the
cost for these materials and the amount of contribution for each member.

Week 3: Start of Miniature Project Making

This week was the
start of the miniature project
making. The group canvassed
and purchased the materials
necessary for the miniature.
The group scheduled to start
the making the miniature. In
each day, members were
almost complete with only a
few absences.

The base is made of

plywood, a material strong enough
to support the whole miniature.
The measurements of each part
was also accomplished. Then, we
proceeded into cutting the base
and different parts of the miniature
such as walls and floors. In other
parts, cardboard, sticks, and thin
wires will be used.
Week 4: Continuation of Miniature Project Making

For this week, the group focused on finishing the base and first
floor of the building. Because of the complicated structures of the gate,
waiting area, and room layout of the first floor, the group took a long period
of time accomplishing the first floor. Aside from the difficulty of such
structures, the materials were also not enough; therefore, a few members
had to buy another set of materials. Fortunately, the group was able to finish
the first floor for this week. The planning for each part in the second floor
was also discussed by the group. Then, the group began on making the
second floor.
 Week 5: Continuation of Miniature Project Making

After finishing the first floor, the group began making the second floor. The second
floor consists of rooms, grills, outside arch, and rooms. Torion began measuring and cutting
the cardboard for the floors and walls. Moreover, each member helped in painting and
cutting sticks for the grills. In addition, the process of attaching the gates and posts was
also accomplished. The posts that serve as the foundation of the building are made of
plywood so that it can support each floor.

Among the parts in the second floor, the grills took the longest period of time as it
was difficult to glue each thin wire one by one. The group was able to finish the second
floor for this week. Compared to the first two floors, the remaining floors above will be a lot
easier because they will only consist of walls with windows.
 Week 6: Completion of Miniature Project Making

After the first two floors, this

week, the group started on the third
and fourth floors. These floors are
identical as they both only consist of
wall with attached windows. Torion
measured the walls on the cardboard
and the positioning of each window.
Then, the other members cut and
painted the walls, and they have
attached the windows as well.

Before sticking the walls

on the miniature, the posts that
serve as foundation were put first.
Then, the group completed each
floor of the building. After finishing
each floor, the group proceeded
on making the roof.

The roof is also made of cardboard. After measuring and

cutting the cardboard, the group stuck the roof on top of the building.
Finally, the road in front of and the trees beside the building were also
accomplished.
Week 7: Project Completion of Flood Alarm Device and Research Paper

After the group had

finished the miniature, the group
has now proceeded the project
completion. Torion began looking
for an aquarium for the
demonstration of the flood alarm
device. Then, he began making
the device’s case and stand. The
case was made to protect and
cover the device. It was of acrylic
glass so that the activation of light
bulb can still be seen even if the
device is covered with the case.
The stand was stuck to the
aquarium. The flood alarm device
is now complete. It is ready for
demonstration.

This week, Hailar finished the documentation part of the research paper. The
group has documented each week and saved the pictures on a google drive link. Hailar
was able to finish and submit the documentation part to Torion. Then, Torion began
completing the research paper by revising the background of the study, importance of
the study, and review of related literature. Then, he proceeded on writing the
discussion, conclusion, and recommendation.
PROJECT EXECUTION

CAPSTONE PROJECT TASKS/DUTIES AND DEADLINES

Name Tasks/Duties Deadlines Remarks
1. Torion, Clifford Roy E. Development of the
Device, Miniature
Making, Case and
Stand of the Device,
Leaders

Writing the Research

Paper, Writing
Documentation
2. Alcantara, Nicholas Development of the
Andrew L. Device,
Miniature Making
3. Anquira, John Lloyd C. Miniature Making
4. Calanas, Mcjohn Miniature Making
5. Espartero, Dave Justin Miniature Making
6. Gandeza, Charles Miniature Making
Members (Boys)

7. Hailar, Kian Michael Miniature Making,

Writing
Documentation
8. Mendoza, Leoj A. Development of the
Device, Miniature Before
Making the End Done the
9. Rodriguez, Justine Miniature Making of Week Tasks/Duties
Rhey 7
10. Sarmiento, Angelo F. Miniature Making
11. Abesado, Belle Anne Miniature Making
12. Atienza, Apple Digital Design of the
Parts and
Mechanisms of the
Device, Miniature
Making
Members (Girls)

13. Baldemoro, Dharling Miniature Making

14. Castro, Bea Bianca Miniature Making
15. Corona, Christine Joy Miniature Making
H.
16. Cusap, Leila R. Miniature Making
17. Espena, Angel Miniature Making
18. Jacob, Lovely Nicole Miniature Making
19. Mano, Noimie Miniature Making
20. Punay, Atasha Miniature Making
Stephanie
21. Rodriguez, Ergarda Miniature Making
PROJECT PERFORMANCE

Parts of the Flood Alarm Device

Figure 1.1 Figure 1.2

Figures 1.1 and 1.2 show the parts of the flood alarm device at the front and
back, respectively. The flood alarm device developed in this project is mostly made of
materials that anybody can find in their homes. It consists of a light bulb, a speaker,
electrical wires, metal nuts, syringes, ping-pong balls, a circuit board, and a 9 V battery.
The device takes advantage of the ping-pong balls’ buoyancy when submerged in
water. Ping-pong balls and metal nuts are affixed to the top and bottom of syringes,
respectively. When the water pushes up the ping pong balls, the metal nuts in the
syringe and the other metal nuts at the top come into contact with each other. The
circuit then becomes closed, allowing electric current to flow from the source (9 V
battery) to the speakers and light bulbs. This activates the flood alarm device.

Figures 1.3 and 1.4 show the front and back sides of the flood alarm device.

Figure 1.3 Figure 1.4

Two Levels of the Flood Alarm Device

The flood alarm device is planned to be installed underground at the Mystical

Rose School of Caloocan, Inc. During rainfall, the device will begin to alarm before the
drainage canals underground overflow. The device will operate on two levels which are
based on the current underground water level at the time.

 Level 1

Figure 2.1

The metal nuts wired to the speaker and light bulb are positioned at different
heights. This makes it possible for the flood alarm system to operate on two levels. As
the water level rises, the ping-pong balls are pushed upward. When it reaches a certain
height, the two metal nuts on the right side will come into contact first. As previously
stated, this allows current to flow in the circuit, which then activates the speaker. The
metal nuts on the left side are not yet in contact with each other, therefore, the light
bulbs are not yet turned on. This is the first level of the flood alarm device. The
speakers are activated but the light bulbs are not yet turned on. This is a form of real-
time water level monitoring which informs the people that the underground water level
is rising and a flood is expected to occur. Figure 2.1 shows the Level 1 Mechanism of
the flood alarm device.
  Level 2

Figure 2.2

As the underground water level rises even further, the ping-pong balls are
pushed upward further as well. When it reaches a certain height, the metal nuts on the
left side come into contact with each other. Thus, the light bulb is turned on. The metal
nuts on the right side remain in contact, therefore, the speakers remain activated. This
is the second level of the flood alarm device. Both sides’ metal nuts are in contact with
each other, activating both the speaker and the light bulb. This real-time water level
monitoring informs that a flood is expected to occur in a few moments and that the
people in the vicinity must make immediate preparations to deal with the event. Figure
2.2 shows the Level 2 Mechanism of the flood alarm device.

The identified weaknesses of the device developed in this capstone project

include its durability and non-resistance to water, which is a vital component in a
project that involves water as a subject. Previous studies have been able to satisfy the
needs of their clients with regard to the development of a flood alarm device or system
(Callanga et al., 2020) (Yumang et al., 2017) (Alfarra & Alsibai, 2017). In this project,
however, because of their lack of expertise and resources, the researchers were unable
to develop a waterproof flood alarm device. This is a gap that the future researchers
may improve and focus on. This project can contribute ideas to future research
regarding the development of a real-time water level monitoring device.
PROJECT COMPLETION

Final Outputs

 Flood Alarm Device

After the development of the flood alarm device, a case, stand, and an aquarium
was provided in order to prepare it for demonstration. Water can be poured into the
aquarium to simulate the phenomenon of the water level rising during rainfalls. The
device will automatically activate as soon as the water level reaches the height required
for the device to alarm.
  MRSCI Sampaguita Building Miniature

Project Completion Punch List of Additional Tasks

Tasks Remarks
Finalization of Research Paper Done
Cleaning and Finalization of MRSCI Sampaguita Bldg. Miniature Done
Preparation for Capstone Project Reporting Done
Preparation for Capstone Project Exhibit To be Done
V- CONCLUSION

As per the statements and pieces of evidence provided by Callanga et al. (2020),
Alfarra and Alsibai (2017), and Yumang et al. (2017), real-time water level monitoring
and early flood prediction becomes necessary because of insufficient flood warnings,
ineffective flood structures, and existences of flood-prone areas. Upon careful analysis
of the study, the researchers conclude that the flood alarm device developed in this
project cannot be installed in the Mystical Rose School of Caloocan, Inc. Sampaguita
Building for reasons such as its lack of durability and lack of resistance to water. The
project, however, lays the groundwork and can become the foundation for future
research with regard to the creation and development of a flood alarm device or
system. This project will be useful as a reference in the creation of a device that will be
essential for the people in the vicinity of the Sampaguita Building.

VI- RECOMMENDATION

Based on the findings and conclusions, the researchers came up with the
following recommendations and suggestions that could be explored in future studies:

Students. As young kids are much more susceptible to the negative consequences of
flooding, it is recommended that they are guided to proceed with caution at all times
when intense precipitation occurs.

School Administration. As an institution that values the safety of its students, it is

recommended that they provide countermeasures and guidelines regarding the things
to do when intense precipitation occurs.

Future Researchers. Based on the process, results, and weaknesses of this study,
future researchers can develop a much more durable, complex, and waterproof flood
alarm device or system. The results of this study may be used as a useful reference in
addressing the gaps identified in this study.

VII- REFERENCES

Alfarra, H. & Alsibai, M. (2017). A Wireless Smart Sensor Network for Flood
Management Optimization. International Journal of Engineering Technology and
Sciences. https://doi.org/10.15282/ijets.7.2017.1.5.1067

Callanga, C. et al. (2020). River water lever sensor as river flood warning system.
Academic Journals. https://doi.org/10.5897/IJPS2020.4866

Yumang, A. et al. (2017). Real-time flood water level monitoring system with SMS
notification. IEEE Xplore. https://doi.org/10.1109/HNICEM.2017.8269468