SARAH sensor that is entered into a pocket to monitor first responder vital signs.
A team of Amherst Regional High School (ARHS) engineering students is breaking new ground with their innovative smart garment. The Search And Rescue Assistance Hardware (SARAH) is designed to monitor the vital signs of search and rescue (SAR) personnel. The project, supported by the Lemelson-MIT InvenTeam grant, aims to enhance safety and efficiency in high-stakes rescue operations. Collaborating closely with the Amherst Fire Department, the students have developed a base-layer shirt equipped with advanced technology to provide real-time health data to command centers.
The Inspiration Behind SARAH
The team’s inspiration stemmed from a critical question: What happens when search and rescue personnel themselves require rescuing? Recognizing the lack of specialized tools to monitor SAR workers’ health, the students sought to create a solution that could safeguard those who save others.
Parmida A. noted, “We’ve always heard about the sacrifices SAR personnel make. With SARAH, we want to ensure their safety and well-being by providing real-time monitoring, even in remote locations.”
The ARHS team who built and refined the SARAH prototype.
Design and Technology Integration
The garment’s design prioritizes comfort and functionality. It features sensors that track heart rate, body temperature, and oxygen levels, transmitting the data to a centralized hub through an Arduino-powered system. The fabric is a lightweight, moisture-wicking base layer that allows wearers to focus on their missions without discomfort.
Maxwell C. described the technical challenges: “Making the hardware and software communicate well was tricky, but breaking the project into subsystems helped us tackle each problem step by step.”
To ensure user-friendliness, the team incorporated feedback from Amherst Fire Department personnel. “Their insights on sensor placement and operational needs were invaluable,” said Kouta U.
Overcoming Challenges and Patent Development
Prototyping SARAH required creative problem-solving. For example, the team used mannequins to test garment fit and simulated data to refine the software, adhering to Lemelson-MIT rules that restrict human testing. Waterproofing was another hurdle, ultimately resolved through heat-sealing the hardware in plastic.
The team also undertook the provisional patent process, learning to communicate their ideas clearly through flowcharts and diagrams. “Understanding how to articulate every detail of our invention was a fascinating and educational experience,” said Elizabeth S.
Future Applications and Impact
SARAH Smart Garment on a table.
While SARAH was designed for SAR teams, its potential extends beyond emergency services. The team envisions applications for firefighters, hikers, and individuals with medical conditions, such as Alzheimer’s or schizophrenia, who could benefit from remote monitoring.
“Our goal is to make SARAH lightweight, reliable, and scalable,” said Rowan R.. “We hope it becomes an essential tool for improving safety and efficiency in rescue operations.”
Community Support and Collaboration
A highlight of the project has been the students’ connection with the Amherst community. Outreach events and partnerships, especially with the Amherst Fire Department, have provided crucial feedback and
Official congratulations to ARHS for being selected for the Lemelson-MIT InvenTeam grant.
encouragement.
“Working with the Amherst FD has been a dream,” said Yatharth R. “Their support has shaped every aspect of SARAH, from the vitals we collect to how the device is used in the field.”
The project has also brought the team recognition as a Massachusetts state-recognized innovation club and the opportunity to present at MIT’s national audience.
A Bright Future for SARAH
As the team continues refining SARAH, they are optimistic about its potential to revolutionize health monitoring for first responders and beyond. By combining cutting-edge technology with thoughtful design and community collaboration, these ARHS students are paving the way for safer and more efficient emergency response systems.