The recent CHARIoT Challenge produced nine prototypes for the implementation of Internet of Things (IoT) data in the daily activities of first responders through the use of augmented reality (AR) in an effort to improve response time and provide previously unobtainable information during emergencies.
The challenge, hosted by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), awarded cash prizes to two teams that developed IoT transmitters and seven teams that produced AR interfaces for accessing the data during duty, a U.S. Department of Commerce press release said.
IoT is a term used to describe devices connected to the internet which provide and receive data, a video on NIST’s website said. This includes things such as cell phones, smartwatches and GPS devices. According to the release, first responders have been unable to use this data during the course of duty due to the lack of durable and practicable technology.
“Imagine firefighters crawling on their hands and knees through a smoky environment; they can’t tactilely handle — let alone see — a smartphone to access maps or building data or receive notifications that might otherwise inform and aid in their mission,” the release said. “Additionally, too many notifications would distract the first responder. That’s why NIST’s CHARIoT Challenge focused on developing a unified interface that could display information without impeding a public safety user’s mission.”
The use of AR, an overlay of computer-generated data and images over the user’s vision, is seen as a solution to the problem, the release said. With the system’s implementation, first responders such as firefighters, paramedics and police officers could get up-to-date information on the location of victims and emergencies, as well as use it to avoid traffic and other delays.
The two finalists in the IoT track were Team FRITES, which won first place and $25,000 and Team SmartIoT, which came in second place and received $12,500, the release said. Team JANUS Research Group and Team North Star Simulations tied for first place in the AR track, receiving $25,000 each.
“The prototypes developed through the CHARIoT Challenge can make a substantial impact on public safety organizations,” the release said. “However, the work is not over yet. Several of the CHARIoT winners shared their plans to continue and advance their efforts for first responders.”
NIST is further providing two commercialization programs, “the PULSE Accelerator and a funding opportunity for technical and business assistance (TABA) or a demonstration project with public safety,” the release said.
“Those who are interested in applying for research funding related to the public safety technology marketplace should consider submitting an application to the PSIAP-2022 funding opportunity by Jan. 18, 2022,” the release said. “To stay up to date on NIST’s PSCR Division and future prize challenges, be sure to subscribe to the PSCR newsletter.”
