Buoy-shaped hybrid modular deployment life-saving robot with detachable individual rescue systems and solar-powered communication capabilities

Abstract

The Buoy-Shaped Hybrid Rescue Robot with Modular Deployment System and Solar-Powered Communication Capabilities is designed to improve aquatic rescue operations by overcoming the limitations of bulky rescue robots that delay response times. Current solutions, including autonomous lifebuoy deployment and rescue drones, struggle with speed and agility, essential for timely intervention in emergencies. Innovations such as floating rescue robots offer partial solutions but remain hindered by heavy equipment and limited versatility. Our hybrid rescue robot introduces a compact, flexible design that significantly reduces response time. The smaller version of the robot can stabilize individuals in distress, while the larger model autonomously reaches accident sites and deploys rescue modules, like life rafts or buoys, for efficient individual or mass rescues. Future upgrades—expanded size for range, situational awareness cameras, and solar-powered systems—position this robot as a comprehensive, agile tool to ensure swift, effective aquatic rescue.

Description

Buoy-Shaped Hybrid Modular Deployment Life-Saving Robot with Detachable Individual Rescue Systems and Solar-Powered Communication Capabilities

[0001] The utility model belongs to the technical field of rescue equipment and specifically relates to personal and mass rescue robots designed for time-sensitive emergency applications on water, such as in marine, lake, and river rescues. It is particularly focused on rescue operations that involve detection, targeting, and vehicle control systems, as well as rapid deployment by air, sea, or land. The system features a remote-controlled or autonomous vehicle, engineered to reduce the time needed to detect, retrieve, provide life support, and transport drowning victims to safety, all within a smaller and lighter shell.

[0002] Autonomous Lifebuoy Deployment Systems:Patents likeCN83715482describe systems that automatically deploy lifebuoys when sensors detect a person in the water, allowing for faster response in emergency situations.

[0003] Remote-Controlled Rescue Drones: Patents such asCN401634782highlight drones equipped with flotation devices and rescue kits, designed to swiftly transport life-saving equipment to individuals in distress.

[0004] Floating Rescue Robots: Patents likeCN398540617showcase floating robots that assist in rescue operations by providing situational awareness, GPS navigation, and the ability to deploy flotation devices or offer life support.

[0005] Modular Rescue Platforms:CN422924476describes modular platforms that can be quickly deployed on water to support rescue operations, equipped with essential life-saving equipment.

[0006] Rescue Robots with AI and Machine Learning:These patents focus on robots using AI and machine learning algorithms to detect individuals in distress and make real-time decisions during rescue missions.

[0007] Smart Buoys with Communication Systems: Patents related to smart buoys detail devices with GPS and communication technology that can relay critical information to rescue teams and automatically deploy flotation devices when needed

[0008] The Buoy-Shaped Hybrid Rescue Robot with Modular Deployment System and Solar-Powered Communication Capabilities addresses the critical challenges faced in emergency aquatic rescues, particularly the reliance on large, cumbersome rescue robots that hinder rapid deployment. Existing solutions, such as autonomous lifebuoy deployment systems and remote-controlled rescue drones, provide some assistance but often fall short in speed and agility, leading to delayed response times during critical incidents.

[0009] While innovations like floating rescue robots and smart buoys enhance functionality, they still lack the compact design and versatility needed for swift, effective rescues. Many current systems also depend on heavy equipment that complicates transportation and deployment, which can be detrimental in life-threatening situations.

[0010] The standout feature of our hybrid rescue robot is its ability to reduce the time it takes to reach drowning individuals. Its hybrid body allows the smaller version of the robot to support a drowning person and prevent the risk of death. For larger-scale rescues, the robot can autonomously navigate to the accident site and deploy ring-shaped buoys or life rafts. This modular design enables quick integration of rescue aids, ensuring a rapid response in both individual and mass rescue scenarios.

[0011] Planned enhancements, such as increasing the size for long-range operations, adding situational awareness cameras, and incorporating solar-powered capabilities, make this robot a comprehensive solution. It effectively addresses the shortcomings of existing rescue technologies while ensuring timely and efficient assistance for those in distress.

[0012] In the field of aquatic rescue, existing systems continue to face several critical challenges that hinder their efficiency, especially during time-sensitive emergencies. One of the primary issues is the reliance on large, cumbersome rescue equipment that significantly delays deployment and complicates transportation. In emergency situations like marine, lake, or river rescues, reaching a drowning victim quickly is essential to saving lives, yet many current systems are too slow or bulky for rapid, effective use. These systems typically require large vessels or significant manpower to operate, limiting their flexibility, particularly in remote or hazardous environments.

[0013] Another major limitation of current systems is their specialization, where solutions designed for individual rescues are not optimized for mass rescues, and vice versa. This lack of adaptability creates the need for multiple systems to handle different types of emergencies, adding unnecessary complexity and delays to rescue operations. This inefficiency is particularly problematic in large-scale incidents where multiple individuals may be in distress, requiring swift and versatile rescue solutions.

[0014] Current rescue technologies also often suffer from inadequate detection and targeting systems. While some solutions utilize GPS or sensors to detect victims, their integration is frequently slow, imprecise, or prone to failure in challenging conditions. Misidentifying a victim’s location or delays in deploying flotation devices often result in prolonged search times, which can be fatal in fast-moving or widespread water incidents. Even after victims are detected, the deployment of life support systems, such as flotation devices, is often delayed, increasing the risk of drowning.

[0015] Furthermore, many rescue devices still rely heavily on human oversight. Remote-controlled systems are useful but can be difficult to operate in adverse conditions such as rough seas, poor visibility, or fast-flowing water. The absence of fully autonomous systems capable of independent navigation and real-time decision-making remains a significant shortcoming. Existing autonomous systems also lack the versatility to handle both individual and mass rescues effectively. This lack of autonomy increases the workload on rescue teams and limits the system's ability to function in challenging environments without direct human control.

[0016] Another persistent issue is the reliance on non-renewable power sources, which limits the operational range and duration of many rescue devices. Many existing rescue robots and drones suffer from short battery life or frequent charging requirements, which makes them unsuitable for long-range or prolonged rescue missions. The absence of renewable energy solutions, such as solar power, further restricts their usability in environments where access to power is limited or non-existent, such as remote coastal regions or during prolonged emergency operations.

[0017] Moreover, most existing systems are not equipped with advanced communication capabilities that can provide continuous updates during a rescue operation. In aquatic environments, communication is essential for relaying critical information to rescue teams, especially in large-scale incidents involving multiple victims. Many systems still rely on outdated communication methods or lack integration with modern technologies like GPS or real-time communication, which hampers coordination and response times.

[0018] In summary, while some innovations have improved certain aspects of water rescue technology, significant problems remain unresolved. The slow response times, lack of versatility for individual and mass rescues, inefficiency in detecting and targeting victims, dependence on human operation, limited operational range due to energy inefficiency, and poor communication capabilities all contribute to the persistent challenges in aquatic rescues. These problems highlight the urgent need for a lightweight, versatile, autonomous rescue system that can address both individual and mass rescues, reduce response times, enhance energy efficiency with renewable power sources, and provide continuous communication for better coordination during emergency operations.

[0019] The Buoy-Shaped Hybrid Modular Deployment Life-Saving Robot with Detachable Individual and Mass Rescue Systems and Solar-Powered Communication Capabilities offers a comprehensive solution to the critical challenges identified in emergency aquatic rescues. By combining advanced technology, innovative design, and enhanced functionality, this rescue robot addresses the limitations in speed, versatility, detection, autonomy, energy efficiency, and communication, ensuring a more effective and timely response to drowning incidents, whether individual or mass-scale.

[0020] One of the standout features of this robot is its compact and lightweight Buoy -shaped hybrid body, which directly resolves the issue of large, cumbersome rescue systems that slow down response times. The smaller version of the robot is specifically designed to be agile and easy to transport, allowing for rapid deployment by air, sea, or land. Its compact design ensures that it can be swiftly dispatched even in remote or difficult-to-access areas, overcoming the delay caused by the need for heavy machinery or large vessels. Despite its small size, the hybrid body is capable of supporting a drowning individual, preventing death by keeping the victim suspended in water through its Buoy-shaped structure, which provides essential buoyancy and life support. This ability to maintain a person's safety while waiting for further assistance significantly enhances the system's utility in life-threatening situations.

[0021] The invention also solves the issue of specialized systems by providing a modular deployment system. This feature allows the robot to adapt seamlessly to both individual and mass rescue scenarios. In the case of a large-scale incident, the robot can autonomously navigate to the accident site and deploy ring-shaped buoys, which are essential for saving multiple lives. The modular design means that rescue aids can be quickly integrated depending on the situation, offering a flexible and versatile solution for a variety of rescue operations. By addressing the need for adaptable systems, the robot eliminates the inefficiency of using multiple specialized devices, providing a one-stop solution that reduces response times and improves rescue outcomes in both small and large-scale emergencies.

[0022] To overcome the shortcomings of existing detection and targeting systems, the hybrid rescue robot incorporates advanced sensors and targeting technologies that allow it to detect drowning victims with precision and speed. Equipped with GPS and situational awareness cameras, the robot can autonomously scan the water for victims, significantly reducing the time it takes to locate and reach them. This capability solves the problem of delayed detection and misidentification that often plagues current systems. The robot’s real-time analysis of its environment ensures that it can make quick, accurate decisions even in challenging conditions such as rough seas, poor visibility, or fast-flowing water. This innovation ensures that rescue efforts are not delayed by inefficient or slow detection mechanisms, making it a key solution in time-sensitive scenarios.

[0023] The autonomous navigation system of the robot directly addresses the limitations posed by human-dependent control systems. While remote-controlled drones and robots are effective in certain conditions, they are often challenging to operate in adverse weather or rough waters. This robot, however, is designed to operate fully autonomously, reducing the need for constant human oversight and enabling it to function effectively in challenging environments. Its detachable motor provide enhanced speed and maneuverability, allowing it to reach victims quickly and efficiently. The autonomy of the robot also extends to its ability to make real-time decisions about deploying life-saving equipment based on the situation it encounters, ensuring that it can act swiftly to save lives without waiting for human intervention. This feature is particularly useful in mass rescue scenarios, where human operators may be overwhelmed by the scale of the incident.

[0024] One of the most innovative aspects of the invention is its solar-powered communication system, which addresses the issue of energy inefficiency in current rescue devices. Many existing systems rely on short-lived batteries or frequent recharging, limiting their operational range and duration. The integration of solar panels in this robot ensures that it has a renewable energy source, allowing it to operate for extended periods in remote or difficult-to-reach areas where recharging may not be possible. This feature makes the robot highly suitable for long-range missions or for use in situations where power supply is uncertain, such as in remote coastal areas or during prolonged rescue operations. By relying on solar power, the robot also reduces the environmental impact of rescue operations and ensures that it can remain active for as long as needed, without the risk of power depletion.

[0025] In addition to energy efficiency, the robot’s solar-powered communication capabilities provide continuous, real-time updates to rescue teams. This feature addresses the problem of inadequate communication systems that can hinder coordination during large-scale rescue operations. The robot’s communication system is integrated with GPS and satellite-based technology, allowing it to relay information about its location, the number of victims detected, and the status of its rescue mission back to command centers or rescue teams. This continuous data flow ensures that rescuers are always aware of the situation and can make informed decisions about further interventions. This feature is particularly important in large-scale or remote incidents, where clear and consistent communication is vital for ensuring the safety of all victims involved.

[0026] Finally, the robot’s detachable modular systems further enhance its adaptability and utility in various rescue scenarios. The ability to deploy different modules, such as flotation devices, or even medical kits, allows the robot to provide tailored solutions based on the specific needs of the situation. For instance, in a mass rescue, the robot can deploy multiple flotation rings to provide support to several individuals at once, while in an individual rescue, it can focus on providing life support to a single victim. This modularity ensures that the robot can handle a wide range of emergencies with minimal preparation time, making it a versatile tool for rescue teams.

[0027] In conclusion, the Buoy-Shaped Hybrid Modular Deployment Life-Saving Robot effectively addresses the major challenges in aquatic rescues by offering a compact, autonomous, and versatile solution that significantly reduces response times, enhances detection and targeting, operates efficiently with renewable energy, and provides continuous communication for better coordination. Its innovative design and advanced technology position it as a comprehensive solution capable of saving lives in both individual and mass rescue operations, overcoming the limitations of existing rescue technologies.

[0028] The most important advantages include:

[0029] Versatile Design:The Hybrid Portable Rescue Robot can be configured in various shapes (e.g., buoy, board) to suit different rescue scenarios, enhancing its adaptability.

[0030] Remote Operation:The robot can be controlled via radio frequency, allowing for safe operation from a distance, particularly in dangerous environments.

[0031] Self-Inflation Capability:Its ability to self-inflate upon activation ensures rapid deployment, crucial during emergencies.

[0032] Lightweight and Portable:The robot's compact design makes it easy to transport and deploy, facilitating quick access to remote or hard-to-reach areas

[0033] Modular Functionality:Additional modules can be attached for specific tasks, such as carrying medical supplies or providing flotation assistance.

[0034] Enhanced Visibility: The use of reflective materials improves the robot's visibility in low-light conditions, increasing safety during rescue operations.

[0035] Integrated Solar Power:Solar panels extend operational time, allowing the robot to function effectively in extended rescue scenarios without relying solely on battery power.

[0036] Water-Resistant Design:The robot's construction protects electronic components from water exposure, ensuring reliable operation in aquatic environments.

[0037] User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive controls and interfaces simplify operation for rescue personnel, enhancing responsiveness during emergencies.

[0038] Real-Time Monitoring: The integration of sensors provides real-time data on environmental conditions, allowing for informed decision-making during rescue missions.

[0039] Durable Materials:Built from robust materials, the robot withstands harsh conditions, ensuring longevity and reliability in the field.

[0040] Improved Safety for Rescuers:By enabling remote operation, the robot reduces the risk to human rescuers, particularly in hazardous situations.

[0041] Cost-Effective Solution:Its multifunctionality and durability reduce the need for multiple rescue devices, leading to cost savings for organizations.

[0042] Rapid Deployment:The quick inflation and setup time ensure the robot can be ready for use within minutes, critical for effective emergency response.

[0043] Facilitates Group Rescues:Multiple inflatable modules can be deployed simultaneously to assist several individuals, improving the chances of saving lives in large-scale emergencies.

[0044] : The main robot body featuring two primary sections: a solid section and a flexible section

[0045] : The inflatable and hybrid section of the robot

[0046] : The robot's flexible section accommodating inflatable components

[0047] : The buoy-shaped inflatable section of the robot designed for rescue operations.

[0048] : The inflatable section with additional rescue modules designed for group rescue operations.

[0049] : The robot's solid body, showcasing the placement of electromechanical components.

[0050] : The solid body, which consists of two sections: the lower section and the section housing the propulsion system

[0051] : The upper part of the robot's solid body, where the activation system for the inflatable section is located

[0052] : The robot in various operational modes.

[0053] : The positioning of the robot on the user's body.

[0054] : The positioning of the robot on the user's body in the expanded state.

[0055] TheHybrid Portable Rescue Robotfeatures aMain Hybrid Flexible and Inflatable Section(1), which acts as the robot's core structure, supporting both activation modules and rescue operations. This section is equipped withsolar cells(1-1-1) on its surface to enhance operational duration, especially in extended rescue missions. For added visibility, amarine-grade reflective strip(1-1-2) is positioned on the body, increasing the robot's visibility in water environments. Abi-directional zipper(1-1-3) is installed to securely deploy the rescue buoy upon inflation. Theinflatable buoy(1-2), which can be activated either remotely or manually, includesrescue handles(1-2-1) that allow distressed individuals to hold on securely. Additionalreflective strips(1-2-2) on the buoy enhance visibility at night, whilesolar cells(1-2-3) provide further power to extend operational capabilities. In situations where remote activation is not possible, anoral inflation tube(1-2-4) allows for manual inflation by rescue personnel.

[0056] The robot also includesdetachable rescue modules(1-3) to support multiple individuals during rescue operations. Each module features adetachment mechanism(1-3-1) for easy activation, anoral inflation tube(1-3-2) for manual use if needed, and aCO₂cartridge(1-3-4) for fast inflation. These modules also come with apropulsion system(1-3-5) to maintain stability in the water and prevent overturning.

[0057] Beneath the flexible structure is therobot's solid section, designed to house allmechanical and electronic components(2). This section has alower shell(2-1) that encases the primary electronic components, such as thepropeller shaft(2-1-2) for power transmission and anelectric motor(2-1-3) positioned to reduce capsizing risks. Inside, alithium battery(2-1-4) powers the robot, with anLED light(2-1-5) for enhanced visibility. Thekey ring(2-1-6) enables easy transport, while thedetachable propulsion system(2-1-7) includes a motor and propeller. Amicro servo motor(2-1-8) manages the directional control, andattachment holes(2-1-9) connect the middle and bottom shells. Thecharging and power socket(2-1-10) is located at the rear for easy access.

[0058] Themiddle shell(2-2) acts as a protective cover for critical mechanical elements like theCO₂cartridge(2-2-1), which enables the inflatable module to activate. Amanual inflator(2-2-2) can be used to transfer CO₂ into the inflatable section if needed, controlled by aparacord(2-2-3) connected to a servo motor. Theservo motor(2-2-4) functions as a winch to engage the inflator, and amotor speed controller(2-2-5) regulates speed during movement. Theradio receiver and flight controller(2-2-6) enable autonomous navigation. Themiddle shell section(2-2-7) is specifically designed to house the CO₂ and other essential components, whileattachment holes(2-2-8) connect the middle and lower shells. Alever(2-2-9) allows CO₂ gas to flow from the cartridge into the inflatable section, directed by avalve(2-2-10).

[0059] The robot operates in multiple functional modes, includingdrone-assisted deployment(3-1) for aerial transport,remote-controlled maneuvering(3-2) for water navigation, andmanual carrying(3-3) for ground-level deployment by rescue teams. When compactly attached, the robot has atransportable module(4-1) for ease of movement, and in an inflated state, it is designed foractive rescue mode(4-2), showing secure handling by rescue personnel.

[0060] Modular Design for Customization: The robot’s modular design allows for the integration of various additional modules, enabling customization for specific rescue missions, such as search and recovery operations, medical assistance, or environmental monitoring.

[0061] Enhanced Safety Features:Equipped with reflective materials and safety mechanisms, the robot ensures visibility in emergency situations, improving safety for both rescue personnel and victims during operations, thereby increasing the overall effectiveness of rescue missions.

[0062] Advanced Technology Integration:The robot utilizes state-of-the-art technology, including remote-controlled activation, inflation mechanisms, and a sophisticated propulsion system, providing a modern solution that enhances the capabilities of traditional rescue methods.

[0063] Training and Simulation Applications:The Hybrid Portable Rescue Robot can be utilized in training programs for rescue personnel, simulating real-life rescue scenarios, which helps improve skills, response times, and preparedness in actual emergency situations.

[0064] Research and Development Potential:The robot's innovative design and functionalities present opportunities for further research and development, paving the way for advancements in rescue technologies and their applications in various industrial sectors, such as emergency response, disaster management, and marine safety.

Claims

A hybrid portable rescue robot, comprising:(a) a main hybrid flexible and inflatable section configured to support rescue operations; said section comprising solar cells positioned on its surface to extend operational duration;(b) a marine-grade reflective strip located on said main hybrid flexible and inflatable section to increase visibility in water environments;(c) an inflatable buoy deployable via a bi-directional zipper and equipped with rescue handles and reflective strips to aid distressed individuals;(d) a detachable rescue module attached to said main hybrid flexible and inflatable section, configured to support additional individuals, said module comprising a detachment mechanism, a CO₂ cartridge for rapid inflation, and a propulsion system to maintain stability in the water;(e) a solid section positioned beneath said main hybrid flexible and inflatable section, comprising a lower shell that houses a propeller shaft, an electric motor, a lithium battery, and an LED light for enhanced visibility;(f) a middle shell configured to protect essential mechanical elements, including a CO₂ cartridge, a manual inflator, and a servo motor for inflating said main hybrid flexible and inflatable section;(g) a micro servo motor configured for directional control;(h) a radio receiver and flight controller configured for autonomous navigation.Based on claim 1, wherein said hybrid portable rescue robot further comprises a transportable module for ease of movement in a compact state and an active rescue mode that enables deployment by rescue personnel when in an inflated state.Based on claim 1,wherein said solid section further comprises a charging and power socket located at the rear for easy access, attachment holes connecting the middle and lower shells for structural integrity, and a manual activation lever to release CO₂ from the cartridge into the inflatable section.Based on claim 1 and claim 3, wherein the inflatable buoy is additionally configured with an oral inflation tube to allow for manual inflation by rescue personnel.Based on claim 1,wherein the detachable rescue module further comprises an oral inflation tube for manual use in the event of remote activation failure.Based on claim 1 and claim 2,wherein the propulsion system of said detachable rescue module includes a motor and propeller to enhance stability and prevent overturning in turbulent water conditions.Based on claim 1 and claim 3,wherein said lower shell further includes a key ring for ease of transport by rescue personnel and an LED light positioned to increase visibility of the rescue robot during nighttime operations.Based on claim 1 and claim 3,wherein said middle shell is configured with a motor speed controller to regulate the speed of the robot during movement.Based on claim 1, wherein said rescue handles on the inflatable buoy are ergonomically designed to enhance grip for distressed individuals in wet conditions.Based on claim 1 and claim 3,wherein said marine-grade reflective strip on the main hybrid flexible and inflatable section is configured to provide 360-degree visibility.Based on claim 1, wherein said solar cells on the main hybrid flexible and inflatable section are arranged in a grid pattern to maximize energy absorption.Based on claim 1 and claim 2, wherein said active rescue mode is operable through both remote and manual activation methods to ensure versatility in deployment scenarios.Based on claim 1 and claim 2,wherein the radio receiver and flight controller are configured to support autonomous navigation for unmanned operations in remote rescue missions.Based on claim 1 and claim 3,wherein said middle shell further comprises attachment holes to securely join with the lower shell for modular assembly and disassembly.Based on claim 1 and claim 3,wherein the electric motor in the lower shell is positioned such that its weight distribution reduces the risk of capsizing.Based on claim 1 and claim 3, wherein said micro servo motor is further configured to adjust the angle of the propulsion system to provide enhanced directional control.Based on claim 1, wherein the detachable rescue module’s propulsion system is configured to operate independently, allowing for controlled separation from the main rescue robot.Based on claim 1 and claim 3,wherein the charging and power socket is weather-sealed to prevent water ingress and damage to electronic components.Based on claim 1 and claim 3,wherein the main hybrid flexible and inflatable section includes multiple attachment points for modular expansion of additional rescue devices.Based on claim 1 and claim 3,wherein the manual inflator in the middle shell is actuated by a paracord connected to the servo motor, enabling quick and reliable inflation in emergency situations.

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