On Body Power Module for First Responders

Next Generation First Responders (NGFRs) will carry more battery powered sensors and wirelessly connected devices (cellphones, radios, heads up displays, and physiological sensors), which will have a range of power requirements and charging connectors. Requiring first responders to track battery levels and recharge multiple devices would distract from their missions. A Power Module for First Responders (PMFR) that would service all the current and emerging requirements of rechargeable on-body devices would save first responders from the burden of monitoring their own electronic devices, thereby allowing them to focus on the tasks at hand. TDA will produce 10 standard PMFRs and 5 intrinsically safe (CSA) power modules of the PMFR (for first responders that have to operate around combustible fuels or explosives). Detailed testing will be conducted to assess and demonstrate performance of the PMFR units both in laboratory environments and during field demonstrations to assess their form, fit, and function. TDA will produce a detailed test report on charge/discharge cycles along with minimum service lifetimes for the PMFR battery packs. The TDA final report will include an evaluation of the prototypes against all the Phase I and Phase II requirements. The PMFR software architecture and functions will be developed based upon the guidelines in the Next Generation First Responder handbook. Our PMFR will provide a low profile, On Body solution for first responders, industrial workers, and DOD personnel who are looking for a way to cost effectively maintain their suite of rechargeable, On Body, electronic devices.