Physical Optics Corporation — Department of Homeland Security SBIR Phase II: H-SB014.1-004

Description

To address the DHS need for a single wireless device that will monitor multiple physiological and environmental conditions of and surrounding a first responder, and relay the information to the incident command, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to advance the new Wireless Physiological and Environmental Monitoring (WiPEM) system proven feasible in Phase I. The novel WiPEM system provides critical information not only on the physiological status of multiple first responders to be monitored and transmitted to the incident command, but also on critical surrounding information to enhance the situation awareness. It incorporates four major components: (1) an array of physiological sensors integrated directly onto the SCBA (Self Contained Breathing Apparatus), (2) an array of miniaturized environmental sensors in a wearable package, (3) processing and communication electronics compatible with the Public Safety band of the LTE cell phone network, and (4) ergonomic mechanical packaging. The novel design of the open-architecture system is compatible with existing Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) and working with the industrial leaders of PPE, including Scott Safety, will enable certification for various applicable NFPA standards in the future. In Phase I, POC performed comprehensive analyses, assessments, and feasibility demonstrations of an optimal solution to address DHS requirements and first responder needs to comply with the existing PPE/SCBA systems and FEMA requirements. In Phase II, POC plans to develop a fully functional prototype system according to the outline developed in the Phase I detailed technical analysis for further testing and continue development of smart algorithms for sensor data processing.