The proposed Time Modulated-Ultra Wideband (TM-UWB) precision tracking and communications system has been designed to track firefighters through flames, heavy smoke, or dense steam, according to the Time Domain Corporation, headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama. The wireless digital communications technology was completed as Phase 1 of a U.S. Department of Commerce Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. Time Domain�s partner, Intelligent Automation, Inc. of Rockville, Maryland, will submit a Phase 2 proposal to build a prototype of the system.
If the Phase 2 proposal is approved, the companies will jointly develop the Ultra Radio (ultra-wideband location tracking radio). The design plans envision a small, light, battery-operated device that would be integrated with a firefighter’s uniform, is projected to have a usable range of 100 to 200 meters, and would be able to operate in extremely high temperatures, heavy smoke, and wet conditions.
(Source:�New Wireless Device Could Rescue Firefighters,� Mike Mayor, Wireless.NewsFactor.com, Apr. 20, 2001)
