Business-Gov’t Collaboration in Search and Rescue Technology

Business-Gov’t Collaboration in Search and Rescue Technology

050905-N-0535P-013 New Orleans (Sept. 5, 2005) – U.S. Navy search and rescue (SAR) swimmer, Aviation Warfare Systems Operator 1st Class Tim Hawkins, retrieves and evacuates a victim of Hurricane Katrina from a rooftop in New Orleans into an SH-60B Seahawk helicopter. The Navy's involvement in the Hurricane Katrina humanitarian assistance operations is led by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in conjunction with the Department of Defense. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 3rd Class Jay C. Pugh (RELEASED)

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The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is interested in new technologies in public safety, rescue response and more. The DHS issued a request for comment for 11 proposed research topics it intends to pursue in partnership with small businesses as part of the SBIR Program. 

The proposed areas include automated artificial intelligence sensing technology, counterfeit microelectronic detection, a broadband interoperability platform, biological hazard detection, a mass fatality tracking system, a wearable detector for chemical threats, low-cost diagnostic devices, and streamlined airport checkpoint technology for passengers with limited mobility. 

Some of the topics will be intended to be used for public safety needs and rescue response. Artificial intelligence monitoring, for example, will be designed for Coast Guard Command Centers to improve their radio communication systems with AI technology. 

The AI system would ideally cue watchstanders within the Coast Guard and make search and rescue devices more successful, ultimately improving existing capabilities, according to nextgov.com. Other research topics available for business inquiry similarly look to expedite and improve standard security processes across other government agencies.