Inspiration
Our inspiration came from the devastating floods in Kazakhstan, where we witnessed the urgent need for advanced rescue equipment. Rescue teams lacked the necessary tools to effectively locate and save lives in these extreme conditions. This prompted us to create a solution that could address this gap and potentially save lives in future disasters.
What it does
SenSun is an autonomous drone equipped with AI-powered thermal cameras, specifically designed for life-saving missions in natural disaster scenarios. The drone is capable of detecting human heat signatures from afar, allowing rescue teams to locate and assist victims more quickly and efficiently, even in challenging environments such as flooded areas, forests, or mountains.
How we built it
Our team of engineers and software developers collaborated extensively to design and implement the drone. We consulted with PhD experts from Rice University on advanced data transmission systems for long-range operations. Using a combination of AI, thermal imaging technology, and autonomous navigation, we built a resilient and reliable tool for emergency response teams.
Challenges we ran into
One of the biggest challenges we faced was ensuring reliable, long-distance video transmission. Maintaining clear, real-time video feeds from the drone over large distances in varied terrains required innovative solutions in both hardware and software. We also encountered difficulties in coordinating our team across different disciplines and ensuring seamless communication between all stakeholders.
Accomplishments that we're proud of
We are proud of successfully building a fully functional prototype of SenSun that can autonomously navigate challenging environments and detect heat signatures. Another accomplishment is fostering a strong, collaborative team that overcame technical challenges and logistical obstacles to create a life-saving tool. Additionally, the successful integration of long-range communication systems is a milestone that positions our drone for real-world applications.
What we learned
Throughout this project, we learned the importance of teamwork and interdisciplinary collaboration. Managing complex technical problems, especially related to AI and data transmission, taught us the value of iterative development and constant testing. Additionally, working closely with government agencies gave us insight into the regulatory landscape and how to effectively communicate with officials.
What's next for SenSun
Our next step is to offer SenSun as an innovative product for disaster response and expand its applications on a global scale. We plan to enhance the drone’s capabilities, improve its range and accuracy, and integrate even more advanced AI features. Furthermore, we aim to collaborate with international rescue organizations and governments to ensure that SenSun becomes a crucial part of their life-saving arsenal.
Built With
- android-studio
- dji
- java
- kotlin
- opencv
- python
- radio-engeniring
- raspberry-pi
Log in or sign up for Devpost to join the conversation.