Sensor Networks for Emergency Response: Challenges and Opportunities

  • Authors:

  • Konrad Lorincz;David J. Malan;Thaddeus R. F. Fulford-Jones;Alan Nawoj;Antony Clavel;Victor Shnayder;Geoffrey Mainland;Matt Welsh;Steve Moulton

  • Affiliations:

  • Harvard University;Harvard University;Harvard University;Harvard University;Harvard University;Harvard University;Harvard University;Harvard University;Boston University

  • Venue:
  • IEEE Pervasive Computing
  • Year:
  • 2004

Quantified Score

Hi-index 0.00

Visualization

Abstract

Sensor networks are an emerging technology consisting of extremely low-power, small, and low-cost nodes integrating sensing, computation, and communication capabilities. This article explores their use in emergency medical care and disaster response and highlights some challenges that must be addressed in these environments' instrumentation. Specifically, the authors focus on the need for a common protocol and software framework to integrate a range of devices into a disaster response scenario, including wearable vital sign sensors, handheld computers, and location-tracking tags. Their architecture, CodeBlue, provides naming and discovery, robust-routing, and security services, specifically tailored to critical-care applications. To model and test this architecture, they've developed small, low-power pulse oximetry and two-lead EKG sensors, as well as a robust radio frequency-based location tracking system that can survive significant tracking infrastructure failures. By allowing continuous, real-time, noninvasive, wireless monitoring and tracking of multiple patients and first responders, these technologies have the potential to revolutionize emergency care.