Integrated EPIRB Beacon in Life Jacket for Marine Rescue
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lifesaving devices do not provide a convenient and immediate means for individuals to send distress messages with GPS coordinates during emergency situations, particularly in marine environments where quick location and rescue are critical.
Innovation Solution
A lifesaving jacket with an integrated EPIRB radio that allows individuals to activate a distress message and GPS coordinates transmission to authorities, utilizing a commercially available tracking and messaging system securely stored in a pocket within a vest or personal flotation device, enabling immediate access and notification during emergencies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate EPIRB device is carried by an individual, then distress message transmission capability is provided, but device portability and immediate accessibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the EPIRB distress beacon device with a personal flotation device (life jacket) into an integrated system. The beacon is positioned within the flotation device to be readily accessible during water-based emergencies, eliminating the need to carry separate devices and ensuring immediate access when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The personal flotation device serves multiple functions: providing buoyancy for water safety and housing/activating the EPIRB distress beacon. This multi-functional design consolidates safety equipment into a single garment that addresses both flotation and distress signaling needs.
2Measurement precision
If GPS tracking capability is integrated into the lifesaving device, then location precision for rescue operations is improved, but device complexity and power requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates GPS tracking functionality with the EPIRB distress beacon system. The GPS receiver determines precise location coordinates that are automatically included in distress signals transmitted to satellites, enabling accurate location identification without requiring separate tracking devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated system automatically activates GPS tracking and transmits location data when the EPIRB is activated during distress. The system self-activates without requiring manual GPS operation, automatically capturing and transmitting position information along with the distress signal.
3Ease of operation
If a pocket is added to store the beacon in the vest, then ease of access and secure storage are improved, but garment complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the personal flotation device into functional sections, including a dedicated pocket or compartment specifically designed to house the EPIRB beacon. This segmented approach allows the beacon to be securely stored in a designated area while maintaining easy access during emergencies.
Solution Approach 2:
The beacon is pre-positioned within a pocket of the flotation device during manufacturing, ensuring it is readily accessible and securely stored before an emergency occurs. This preliminary placement eliminates the need for users to search for or attach the beacon during critical moments.
Data Source
AI summary
The lifesaving jacket with integrated EPIRB radio is a personal safety device that is adapted for use by an individual. The lifesaving jacket with integrated EPIRB radio is designed to be worn as a garment during emergency situations. Should the individual wearing the garment come into the distress during the emergency situation, the individual can activate a beacon that is incorporated into the garment such that a distress message including the GPS coordinates of the garment is transmitted to the appropriate authorities indicating the need for assistance. The lifesaving jacket with integrated EPIRB radio comprises a vest, a beacon, and a pocket.