This January saw 5 groups, from the Ursuline College, consisting of 11 students travelling to the RDS in Dublin to display their projects and compete in the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2016. They were accompanied by their physics teacher and mentor, Mr. Anthony Carolan. The groups consisted of Aoife Kearins, who had developed and patented a wearable app device to combat drowsy driving. This was the first type of device worldwide that actually alerted drivers to drowsiness a good 20 minutes before they would fall asleep. The second group was made up of Laura McGuinn, Denise Conlon & Shauna Griffin, who had studied the effects of ultrasonic waves on the human body.

They tested the physiological changes in blood pressure, eye dilation & brain wave activity. Thirdly, Tina Ghegici had conducted an in-depth statistical analysis of veganism and the media influence that exists for those who adopt a vegan lifestyle. The fourth group consisted of Katie McGoldrick, Maeve Keaney & Leah Rooney, who had investigated the concept of people “walking in circles” when lost. They had measured the angle deviation of those deprived of a frame of reference, such as sight to see how well they could keep in a straight line. Finally, the last group, Maeve Rooney, Ella Morrison & Eva Ryan, had invented a new type of burglar alarm for which they also submitted a patent. This used the novel musical instrument “theremin” to detect the presence of anyone loitering or attempting to break into premises. The Theremin would emit high frequency noises to alert and scare burglars away.

Between all the groups, 2 highly commended and 2 display awards were achieved. The students were highly successful to have made the final and all impressed the judges and public with their innovative projects. All the students had a very enjoyable experience and one in which they will remember for some time. Congratulations to all 5 groups and best of luck in the future with their projects.