An Open Communication and Sensor Platform for Urban Search and Rescue Operations

In this paper, we present research results carried out in EU funded project SGL for USaR (Second Generation Locator for Urban Search and Rescue Operations). The project aims to develop wireless standalone communication system with embedded sensor network, which is targeted to detect signs of life, locate victims in disaster areas and detect hazards. The system consists of REDS (Remote Early Detection System) wireless sensor network and FIRST portable first responder device integrating 5 different victim location methods. REDS has wireless CO and CO2 sensors, a camera, vibration sensors and a sound sensor for detection of life signs. The system provides also a pointing device to locate objects on the search area. Victim positioning is possible with GPS and radio based time of flight methods. Portable and user operated FIRST device combines field chemical, audio and video measurements for early location of entrapped people, detection of buried people, air quality monitoring in confined spaces and safety and security monitoring. The system level communication is divided in two levels: sensor network level uses short range local communication and communication hubs, which use long range high level communication with operation command centre. During the project, implemented REDS sensor network and FIRST device have been tested on a field conditions and they have proven to be robust and reliable.