UAV Elevation Detection for First Responder Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing location detection systems for downed first responders in multi-story buildings lack elevation and floor level detection capabilities, making it difficult for search and rescue teams to accurately locate them in smoke-filled and debris-filled environments.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that communicates with a first responder's emitter and tracker device, providing location information and illumination to help determine the elevation and floor level of the downed responder, and guiding rescue teams through a wireless communication network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a hand-held receiver is used to detect the signal of the first responder's transmitter, then the first responder can be located, but elevation and floor level detection capabilities are lacking
Solution Approach 1:
A UAV (drone) is introduced as an intermediary device between the first responder's transmitter and the search and rescue personnel's receiver. The UAV carries additional sensors (such as LIDAR, cameras, or other detection devices) that can detect elevation and floor level information, relay this information back to the receiver, and enable three-way communication. This intermediary solution allows the system to gain previously inaccessible elevation data without requiring the first responder to wear complex additional equipment.
2Ease of operation
If search and rescue personnel navigate through smoke and debris-filled environments, then they can reach the downed first responder, but visual contact and accurate location detection become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces direct visual contact and mechanical navigation through smoke-filled environments with electromagnetic signal-based detection. The hand-held receiver uses radio frequency signals that can penetrate smoke and debris, while the UAV employs sensors (optical, thermal, or other non-visual detection methods) to detect the first responder's position and relay this information. This substitution allows navigation and detection to continue effectively despite poor visibility conditions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the hand-held receiver monitors multiple personal transmitters, then multiple first responders can be tracked, but the system cannot provide elevation-specific location information
Solution Approach 1:
The hand-held receiver is enhanced with multi-functionality to not only track multiple first responders but also to detect and display elevation and floor level information for each responder. The UAV component provides universal elevation detection capability that works for all responders in the area, allowing the system to simultaneously provide horizontal location, vertical elevation, and floor level identification for multiple individuals.
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 accurate and efficient location of downed first responders by providing elevation and floor level detection, enhancing the ability of rescue teams to navigate through challenging environments and locate individuals in need of assistance.
Implementation Method 1
These systems may operate, for example, using high-frequency radio waves that effectively penetrate dense smoke and follow doorways and corridors
Implementation Method 2
Search and rescue personnel may use the hand-held receiver to detect the signal of the first responder's individually-worn transmitter
Data Source
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AI summary
A tracker device for a first responder including a radio configured to receive a first radio signal from an emitter, and receive a second radio signal from an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The second radio signal includes at least one data packet including location information associated with the emitter. Processing circuitry in communication with the radio is configured to determine at least one location parameter associated with the emitter based on the first radio signal and the location information of the at least one data packet of the second radio signal.