Search and Rescue Quadcopter
Our Search and Rescue Quadcopter is a artificial intelligence-enhanced vision system based on radar that can be used to assist in seeking signs of life within buildings or under rubble. Because radar can penetrate through many types of materials, it is possible to locate people when they cannot be seen directly.
Post-disaster search and rescue is a slow and painstaking endeavor. When a radar sensor is attached to a UAV platform, it’s possible to locate people who have been buried alive by searching for their breathing patterns. However, the motion of the drone can corrupt the radar signal. Our unique, patent pending signal processing algorithm removes platform motion interference and makes it possible to identify and potentially save hidden victims.
Concept of Operations
Typically the post-disaster search and rescue process involves three main components. First, we need to navigate to the location using GPS waypoints and image recognition. Second, we must stabilize the UAV using ultrasonic and IMU sensors. Finally, we can engage the radar in order to look for the signature that identifies human breathing and pinpoints the location for the rescue team on the ground.
Quadcopter Prototype
We have already built a functioning quadcopter prototype that carries a radar sensor on the bottom of the aircraft and monitors the area below for signs of breathing. Since we know the typical frequency range of human breathing, we can isolate that signal and determine human presence. Pictures of this prototype are pictured below.
Related Publications
Motion Compensation for an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Remote Radar Life Sensor – PDF Download