Body-Worn MUM-T Platform for Firefighter Location and Video Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing personal alert safety systems (PASS) in firefighting do not provide precise location information and do not allow other firefighters to see the 'point of view' of a firefighter in trouble, posing risks in IDLH environments.
Innovation Solution
A system integrating a manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) device with thermal cameras, GPS, RF control, and unmanned vehicles for real-time video feed and precise location tracking, featuring redundancy and compartmentalized failure modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a traditional PASS alarm is used, then the device is simple and easy to operate, but it does not provide precise location information or video feed capability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple previously separate systems (PASS alarm, thermal camera, GPS location tracker, video feed device, and unmanned vehicle controller) into a single integrated body-worn unit. This merging provides comprehensive information including precise location, video feed, and thermal imaging while managing complexity through integrated design and automated functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The body-worn unit is designed as a multi-functional device that simultaneously performs PASS alarm functions, thermal imaging, GPS location tracking, video recording, and unmanned vehicle control. This universal device replaces multiple separate pieces of equipment, providing comprehensive fireground information and control capabilities in one unit.
2Reliability
If unmanned vehicles are deployed to reduce personnel risk, then firefighter safety is improved, but the system requires complex coordination and control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The unmanned vehicle is equipped with autonomous navigation capabilities using GPS and onboard sensors, allowing it to navigate and return to base automatically without continuous manual control. The vehicle can self-manage basic operations while the firefighter maintains strategic control through the body-worn unit, reducing the complexity of human-vehicle coordination.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements real-time feedback through video transmission from the unmanned vehicle to the firefighter's body-worn display, and through GPS location tracking. This continuous feedback loop allows the firefighter to monitor the vehicle's status and environment, enabling safe autonomous operation with minimal intervention.
3Measurement precision
If multiple sensors and systems are integrated in the body worn device, then measurement precision and information capability are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The body-worn unit is designed as a modular system with separate functional modules for PASS alarm, thermal imaging, GPS location, video recording, and wireless communication. Each module operates independently but integrates through standardized interfaces, allowing precise measurements from multiple sensors while managing complexity through modular architecture.
4Reliability
If redundancy systems are implemented for life safety, then reliability is improved, but the device complexity and power requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements intelligent power management that activates redundant systems only when needed. The PASS alarm continuously monitors motion and periodically checks system status, while video recording and thermal imaging are activated on-demand or periodically based on detection events. GPS location is continuously tracked but transmitted periodically, reducing overall power consumption while maintaining reliability through selective redundancy activation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables real-time video feed and precise location tracking, allowing for coordinated rescue operations and reducing risks in IDLH environments through redundancy and fail-safe mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
Long wave infrared (LWIR) commonly known as thermal imaging
Implementation Method 2
One or more GPS/GLONASS and other navigation systems for both the remote controller and MUM-T unit
Implementation Method 3
3D modeling with rangefinders including laser (LIDAR)
Implementation Method 4
ultrasonic (SONAR)
Implementation Method 5
Multi-band, multi-protocol RF transceivers for telemetry and remote control
Data Source
AI summary
A system for a manned-unmanned teaming platform (MUM-T) for firefighting, search, rescue, and performing autonomously or remote-controlled HAZMAT tasks (“Tasks”). Interfacing with this system, a unit that can be body worn by a firefighter, remotely controlled by an operator or entirely autonomous by itself with a combination of a microprocessor, cameras that broadcast both video feed, RF telemetry with global positioning system (GPS) location as well as using rangefinders and received signal strength index (RSSI) triangulation for keeping track of the location of the operator.