senco – a modular fire fighter helmet concept to optimize protection, sight and communication

What it does

Bad sight and communication increase the danger for fire fighters and the persons who are seeking help. Thanks to augmented reality, fire fighters are able to work faster, more safely and efficiently.

Your inspiration

We were able to gain insight in new technologies and opportunities through visiting and talking to experts from several technical institutions. Different needs and suggestion for improvements became apparent after participating in rescue and protection exercises. During our visit we observed how fire fighters used white canes to manoeuvre through smoke and darkness. The communication through the radio seemed to be suboptimal and difficult at times. We created this helmet concept to improve and counteract the problem of bad sight and communication.

How it works

The basic module, which consists of an integrated radio and white LED spotlight, can be upgraded with an augmented reality respirator mask or augmented reality glasses. Sensors, processor, energy source and display come as a full package that is reversibly connected to the helmet with a plug-in. Digital data, like thermal images, mapping and other important information can be monitored through the see-through display, which enables hands-free handling and an optimal overview of the situation. The minimalistic interface design of the augmented reality can be integrated easily into the field of view without distracting its user. Navigation of the interface happens through eye-tracking. The head of operations can use a tablet to send building plans, car plans, hazardous good information or other digital data to the augmented reality systems. The helmet is considered as personal protective equipment, while the additional modules are common property of the fire dep

Design process

Extensive research and analysis of operation fields, operational sequences, requirements, as well as existing helmets and equipment of different fire fighter companies were conducted beforehand. The demands and needs of this field became apparent to us after having in-depth conversations with different people from this industry – fire fighters, head of operations, tutors, retails and development. This knowledge enabled us to develop a well thought out concept, that consisted of alternating processes of discussing, drawing, crafting, CAD modelling and testing. The concept was greatly improved by going through every detail of the field of operation. The design was not just a result of its functions; it was crucial to us to treat both with the same significance that would result in new solutions. Along with the hardware design of the helmet, we also examined the requirements for the interface-design. We evaluated different information and data, which were relevant for the fire fighters and created an information hierarchy. The concept is shown as a design model, while the augmented reality is visualized through graphics.

How it is different

Fire fighters currently use two different helmets depending on fire or technical operations. Thanks to the lightweight helmet shell and the optional nape protection, Senco can be worn for any operation. Due to the inner structure of the shell, stability and sturdiness can be ensured with less material, which results in a lighter helmet. At the present time, only one person in the fire fighter team is using a hand-held thermal camera during operations. He has to check the small display for information while leading the team. Thanks to the modular augmented reality systems, sight and communication can be optimized for everyone, while enabling hands-free handling. It gets easier to move around and orient oneself. The efficiency can be increased, which reduces the operation time and therefore improves the general safety for both fire fighters and people who are seeking help.

Future plans

We are going to present our work to the different companies that supported us through the development process.

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