Idea
To deploy a “plug & play” emergency telecommunication network for communication, zone mapping and response planning.
Concept
By spreading a large number of mobile telecommunication network nodes we are able to set up an emergency network, while the fixed telecommunication infrastructure is down. The nodes will be solid and highly durable, with an attachable balloon working as an antenna enabling greater coverage. This makes it possible to instantly track cell phones by using techniques such as triangulation, in an effort to make search and rescue more efficient.
Having deployed the nodes in strategic positions allows us to create virtual zones of the disaster area. We will then be able to display all active and inactive devices on a virtual map, with an overlay of the zones of the disaster area. Having an overview of this use of the data will provide an excellent basis for the rescue operation to direct orders to the most affected zones.
The software, the communication platform, that makes this possible is responsive and can be ran in any web browser on any device for the greatest compatibility and responsiveness possible. The responsiveness is important to make the solution flexible so that everyone involved in the rescue operation has access to the same picture of the situation. It will work as a great complement to existing tools, and it will therefore be easy to bring it into an operational room and open it up on a device such as a PC or a MAC. All data going through the network can be gathered from the command central. The gathered information will then be displayed and categorized in a way which gives the operator a good overview of the given situation.
As a person in distress you’ll be able to communicate with the operation room, using your cellphone, through the emergency network.
As soon as the network is set up, everyone in the area will receive an automated message telling them that a rescue operation has started. This means that within the first hour, contact between the operating personnel and the distressed have been initiated.
The network uses standardized telecommunication technology.
The network and its nodes are self sustainable for the first 72 hours with the help of batteries and solar panels. Beyond that, the nodes can be connected to any power source available to keep it running as a temporary replacement for the fixed telecommunications infrastructure.
Hardware
Mobile telecommunication network nodes
The node is a military grade waterproof casing telecommunication equipment, a battery for energy and solar cells to keep it functional without any external power source for at least 72 hours. In addition to this, the node contains an expandable balloon carrying an antenna which is used to increase the cellular range of the node.
The nodes can be dispatched by either land or by air. For situations where a land deployment is difficult, a parachute can be attached to the node so that it can be dropped by air. No matter where it is deployed, the node can withstand harsh conditions. The node can be submerged under water while the balloon is in the air acting as an extension cord to the node, making it versatile in for different scenarios.
The nodes will also include an emergency button for persons not possessing a (working) cell phone. The balloons will clearly indicate where these nodes are located, giving all persons in distress the possibility to send out an SOS-message without any other working electronics.
Cellphone/Smartphone of any type
The user will be automatically connected to the new network without any actions required to be taken. The network is GSM based which means that the majority of cell phones will be able to connect to it.