Softweb Hackathon 2014 was an incredible opportunity for employees. As iOS developers we were raring to test our programming skills. The first issue was team selection, since we are a group of 25 developers. Rather than picking and choosing like everyone else, we devised a mini-game to select our team members. Everyone wrote their names on a piece of paper which were then picked up from a small bowl. This way, we were able to realize that we are a flexible group of developers ready to work with anyone and everyone!
The winners (of the mini-game). This is how Team 5 came into existence!
Next up was the brainstorming session where contributions rolled in fiercely. After shuffling through this app and that, we decided to create a mobile application that could transform a person’s mood! Sounds exciting, doesn’t it?
The Idea
Thus, Mood Swinger was born. It is an app that integrates with most heart rate monitors, and is especially useful for patients with a heart condition. Based on the readings gathered from the device, the app can determine the mood of person.
Methodology: How it Works
- The maximum heart rate is, on average, the highest your pulse rate can get based on your age
- To calculate your predicted maximum heart rate:
- 220 – Your Age = Predicted Maximum Heart Rate
For example: A 40-year-old’s predicted maximum heart rate is 180. The minimum heart rate is 40 bpm.
- Another method is Heart Rate Variability Measurement:
- POMS(Profile of Mood States)
- Tension-anxiety 41.5 ± 9.1
- Anger-hostility 47.6 ± 11.7
- Depression-dejection 44.5 ± 8.0
- Fatigue 43.4 ± 7.8
- Confusion 36.9 ± 7.3
Mood Swinger: The App
The app allows its users to import their favorite photos, videos and songs. Based on the heart-rate readings, the app presents relevant media which helps users relax and in-turn make them happy. In addition, alerts regarding the users mood, can be sent to emergency contacts.
The Fun and Games
One of many things we learnt from the Softweb Hackathon was that 24 hours is a long time. Thankfully, the presenters had this in mind and they devised various games and fun-filled activity for the entire duration of 24 hours. Vipul was our star in this section. Though we did not manage a win anywhere, he was scampering across all the three floors for every activity! All in all, it was a memorable experience and we are definitely looking forward to the next hackathon and whatever else follows!