The HAZMAT Auxiliary Unit (HAU) technology utilizes handheld hazmat sensors, which many public safety organizations already own, and operates on a wide range of commercial drones. In this way, the HAU leverages existing technology and experience to revolutionize hazmat response strategies and keep responders and the public safe.
HAZMAT Auxiliary Unit: Make Any Drone a HAZMAT Drone
Challenge:
Handheld hazardous material (hazmat) sensors, such as radiation or multi-gas detectors, are used ubiquitously by our nation’s first responders, yet these devices are often difficult or impossible to operate remotely. Typically, first responders hand-carry sensors into dangerous environments to collect data, continuously checking the sensor and verbally relaying data to their team and incident command.
Solution:
The HAZMAT Auxiliary Unit (HAU) enables drones to carry hazmat sensors into dangerous environments faster than current methods, while disseminating critical data via internal long-range radio, independent of local Wi-Fi or congested cellular service.
This low-cost, easy-to-operate technology enables any drone to be outfitted with existing chemical, biological, and radiological handheld sensors. The HAU is drone-platform agnostic and works with a broad array of handheld sensors currently fielded by hazmat teams nationwide.
Key Features:
- Attaches to virtually any drone
- Carries the handheld hazmat sensors responders already use
- Seamlessly transmits real-time hazmat data to responders outside the area
For more technical information, contact Steve King at sking@mitre.org. For licensing opportunities, contact the MITRE Technology Transfer Office at techtransfer@mitre.org.