Haptic Helmet for Emergency Responses in Virtual and Live Environments

Abstract

Communication between team members in emergency situations is critical for first responders to ensure their safety and efficiency. In many cases, the thick smoke and noises in a burning building impair algorithms for navigational guidance. Here we present a helmet-based haptic interface with eccentric motors and communication channels. As part of the NIST PSCR Haptic Interfaces for Public Safety Challenge, our helmet with an embedded haptic interface in the headband enables communication with first responders through haptic signals about direction, measurements, and alerts. The haptic interface can be connected over LoRa for live communication or via USB to VR simulation system. With our affordable, robust, and intuitive system we took victory in the Haptic Challenge after the VR and live trials at a firefighter training facility.