description
- The Second Generation Locator for Urban Search and Rescue Operations (SGL for USaR) is mission oriented towards solving critical problems following large scale structural collapses in urban locations. The devotion, courage and expertise of rescuers need to be matched by procedures and technology that will enable safe and effective responses. This Integrated Project will combine chemical and physical sensors integration with the development of an open ICT platform for addressing mobility and time-critical requirements of USaR Operations. The project will also focus on medical issues and on the relevant ethical dilemmas. SGL for USaR has marshaled a pan-European interdisciplinary project team to produce a well-balanced consortium of 21 partners including rescue teams, researchers and SMEs along with the support of 15 LOIs. The project is formed by eight sub-projects (work packages) running in parallel. These WPs address the development of simulation environments; the development and validation of portable devices for location operations; the development and validation of smart sensors environment for monitoring the situation under the ruins; the management of medical information, including privacy and bioethics; and finally the development of an ICT platform that will integrate all the previous data, ensure interoperability and control the flow of the information from the field to the operational center. SGL for USaR will deliver methods and guidelines, as well as, tangible prototypes: a stand-alone FIRST responder device that integrates five different location methods (five in one); a networked rapid casualty location system (REDS) equipped with wireless sensor probes; an advanced environmental simulator for training and testing search and rescue units, including canine teams; and a prototype mobile operational command and control platform. These solutions can be also applied in security applications and thus they can create additional commercial opportunities.