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Overview

This project was all a part of my incubator experience in LavaLabs at USC. As my group and I went through the process, we landed on Hatchet, a groundbreaking hardware/software combination designed to revolutionize emergency response, specifically in the realm of firefighting. The Hatchet system enhances on-scene dynamics by providing fire captains with real-time information, including crew location, crucial scene details, and live firefighter metrics. The hardware component, a discreet device attached to the firefighter's thigh, houses GPS, temperature sensors, an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), and a magnetometer.

Problem

Emergency response communication has long been hindered by inefficient systems. Traditional two-way radios allow only one person to speak at a time, leading to delays and potential miscommunication. Critical planning occurs on physical whiteboards, outside the fire scene, and tracking firefighters relies on outdated metal tags placed outside rooms. In high-pressure situations, these inefficiencies can prove fatal.

Process

Identifying the Problem: A a deep dive into the challenges faced by emergency responders. My project manager was a firefighter who understood the landscape in detail. Inefficient communication and outdated tracking methods were identified as critical pain points, demanding a modern solution.

Conceptualization and Ideation: The concept of a hardware/software solution began to take shape. The Anklet, the discreet hardware component, was conceived to provide real-time data on firefighter location and temperature. The software UI aimed to centralize communication, scene details, and tracking, providing an intuitive platform for fire captains.

Feedback: Feedback from firefighters and emergency response teams played a pivotal role in refining the design. Iterative improvements focused on user-friendliness, reliability, and real-world practicality.

User-Centric Design: The UI underwent multiple iterations to ensure a seamless user experience. A user-centric design approach emphasized clarity, simplicity, and quick access to critical information. The interface was refined to be intuitive for fire captains in high-stress situations.

Hardware and Software, Together

The synergy between hardware and software lies at the heart of Hatchet's transformative impact on emergency response. The coupling of the Anklet, a discreet hardware device, with the intuitive software UI creates a seamless and powerful system that empowers fire captains to make informed decisions in real-time.

Creating A Visual Identity From Scratch

Hatchet's design system is carefully crafted to convey a sense of professionalism, reliability, and a touch of energy amidst the urgency of emergency response. Embracing muted, neutral tones with accents of energizing orange, the design creates an atmosphere of calm efficiency within the chaos of emergency situations.