Transcript joel

Fire Evacuation System
By Joel Elixson
S
Problem
Indoor fires are responsible for hundreds of deaths and
thousands of injuries annually. In some circumstances, locating
an exit within a brief window of time becomes a matter of life
and death.[2]
[2] http://hamptonroads.com/2008/02/friends-gather-remember-brothers-killed-house-fire
Brief Elaboration
S In 2006 approximately 2,580 people died from indoor fire
related injuries [1]
S Most victims of indoor fires die from inhalation of toxic
gases [1]
[1] http://www.cdc.gov/ncipc/factsheets/fire.htm
Solution
S An adaptive, verbal assistant device to guide the user toward
the safest exit
S A means of integrating the assistant device with common
emergency alert systems
Solution Components
S Low cost, non-invasive RF arrays for windows and doors
S Handheld assistant with 3-axis accelerometer and integrated
speaker set
S Software capable of calculating realistic trajectories and
analyzing environmental signals relayed from RF arrays
Advantages
S Ideally, anyone can install and use the system
S May act as a stand-alone smoke detection system
S Detects whether or not the current escape route has been blocked and
presents the user with alternate routes
S Allows for peripheral additions (e.g. things such as high frequency
generators for breaking windows)
S Can be networked for use in high density housing
S Helps the user die less
Disadvantages
S Requires semi-frequent tests be run to assure working
condition
S Current design is a handheld device despite the likelihood
the user may be crawling to avoid inhaling toxins
S Does not address the fact that half of all indoor fire related
deaths occur in homes without smoke alarms [1]
[1] http://www.cdc.gov/ncipc/factsheets/fire.htm
Customers
S General public
S Commercial housing industry
S Emergency alert companies (e.g. ADT)
Questions?
References
Center for Disease Control and Prevention. “Fire Deaths and Injuries: Fact
Sheet.” 08 August 2008. 12 September 2008.
<http://www.cdc.gov/ncipc/factsheets/fire.htm”>
Pilot Online. “Friends gather to remember brothers killed in house fire.” 1
March 2008. 12 September 2008.
<http://hamptonroads.com/2008/02/friends-gather-remember-brotherskilled-house-fire>