Multi-Function Flare Device for Populated Areas

Abstract

The invention disclosed herein is a securely attached portable, wearable device to enhance safety, visibility and communication capability of safety personnel when such personal leave their vehicles. The device provided is configured to be securely attached to the wearer, and is capable of emitting variable visual and audio signals actuated by a control panel component which is designed so that the user can activate various options of visual and audio signals while in flight. The device may further include GPS capability for tracking, activation and deactivation functions.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 113,117 filed on Nov. 10, 2008.FIELD OF INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates generally to the field of safety and warning indicators and specifically to multifunctional beaconing devices for safety personnel.BACKGROUND[0003]Safety personnel such as law enforcement officers, firefighters, medical personnel, military personnel, and security personnel are frequently involved in situations where they must leave their vehicle or where they interact directly with crowds and the public. Vehicles are generally equipped with alarms, safety devices and tracking devices. Once an individual has left their vehicle, they may be vulnerable and unable to access these features. In such situations, it is desirable to have a device that can be carried on his or her person and which provides access to some or all of these safety features.[0004]In particular, it is desirable for s...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0030]The invention disclosed herein is a securely attached portable, wearable device to enhance safety, visibility and communication capability of safety personnel when such personal leave their vehicles. The device provided is configured to be securely attached to the wearer, and is capable of emitting variable visual and audio signals actuated by a control panel component which is designed so that the user can activate various options of visual and audio signals while in flight. The device may further include GPS capability for tracking, activation and deactivation functions.

Problems solved by technology

Once an individual has left their vehicle, they may be vulnerable and unable to access these features.

However, these devices provide limited functionality.

However, Welch '015 does not solve the problem of quick activation for immediate, unique signaling of a person in need of assistance, nor is it designed to be securely worn on a user's person.

Flare and siren devices are traditionally used to signal distress only in outdoor settings: therefore, their functionality is limited.

Flares, however, pose hazard, are difficult to use in populated (e.g. urban) settings and are often projectile devices that must be thrown in the air.

Personal sirens, whistles and other audio devices may emit a warning sound, but they do not provide a visual cue as to the location of the person in distress, and may also be difficult to distinguish from other sounds in populated areas.

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