Under the Next-Generation First Responder Apex program, Laboratory researchers are developing technologies that can enable drones to provide emergency responders with the information needed to establish situational awareness at disaster sites.

Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Systems

We use our experience developing sensors and decision support software to build systems that are used around the world for coordinating responses to wildfires, aiding urban search-and-rescue missions, assessing damage after hurricanes and earthquakes, and planning for large-scale evacuations. We work closely with local, state, and federal agencies to develop these systems. Our goal is to enable responders to more effectively gain situational awareness, share information, and make decisions in times of crisis. We also prototype technologies, such as communication hubs and solar-powered resources, to aid disaster survivors and refugee populations. Many of our programs involve collaboration across Laboratory groups whose technologies can be applied to disaster and humanitarian missions. 

Featured Projects

Three project team members test the robot's flexibility in an indoor laboratory setting.
disaster relief
These robots can navigate difficult urban disaster terrain to help responders locate and access victims for rescue.
A web application of CAP images, hosted on ArcGIS, is annotated using LADI v2. Circle sizes and colors represent likelihood of damage and damage type, adjustable filters are in the middle, and the right shows a preview of a selected point.
disaster relief
This software program helps disaster responders extract actionable information from post-disaster aerial images.
An screengrab from the video showing about a dozen robots in a large room (representing humans at a party)
sensing
An automated, Bluetooth-based system helps perform contact tracing in a private, anonymous way, offering a method to reduce disease spread during a pandemic.
This image shows Mexico Beach, FL, after it sustained damage from Hurricane Michael in 2018. It was taken through NOAA’s Emergency Remote Sensing program. Satellites could provide similar information after more incidents. (Image courtesy of NOAA.)
disaster relief
Dedicated satellite imaging could help coordinate emergency response to disasters.
A photo of a Google earth image of Bangladesh, with a heat map over it showing mostly red.
Climate modeling / impact prediction / adaptation
We are creating proactive, integrated decision -support tools and services that empower frontline communities to prepare for climate impacts and minimize losses.  

Advancing Our Research

Featured Publications