Next Generation First Responder Communication Hub

As technology advances, First Responders are presented with a growing suite of increasingly sophisticated sensors and communication tools that provide vital, up-to-the-minute situational awareness information about their surroundings, location and status of nearby First Responders, and personal well-being. For example, programs such as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Apex Next Generation First Responder (NGFR) program are redefining the technical toolset available to First Responders. Additionally, an array of communication systems and devices is presented to the First Responder. These devices include short-range voice radios, smartphones with broadband network access, sophisticated multi-band voice and data radios, and everything in between. However, the number of available communication devices, their potential incompatibility between groups and jurisdictions of First Responders, and the ever increasing amount of low-level data to process can distract, frustrate, and overwhelm the First Responder. A need exists for an intelligent communications interface that interconnects the variety of sensors and electronics worn or carried by a Next Generation First Responder with multiple communication systems. This device would be a communications hub - a central device that efficiently, securely, and resiliently routes incoming and outgoing information to the chosen destination using the best available communication medium. A communications hub would improve efficiency and effectiveness of information transmission while removing the burden of constantly communicating low-level but critical data, thus allowing First Responders to focus on the task at hand.