Providing Local Information for Search and Rescue Using Sensor-Based Local Databases

Abstract

This paper presents the design of a system that is being developed to utilize wireless local databases for making necessary local information readily available to search and rescue teams following a natural disaster. The Search and Rescue Data Access Point (SR-DAP) system is designed for local data storage and retrieval using sensor nodes deployed on the exterior sides of buildings. The paper reports on the results of the interviews conducted with experts to identify types of information items that are needed during search and rescue operations. Also, memory requirements for identified information groups are given. The implementation details of the developed system are provided and initial findings of data reading/writing tests performed in a laboratory environment are presented. The technical feasibility of using wireless sensors for local data storage and retrieval is discussed in the light of the initial findings.