Firefighters are often faced with daunting challenges when combating high-rise fires. In response, the Industrial Design College of LAFA has developed Hero, a fire truck that revolutionizes fire protection with the application of Internet of Everything (IOE) technology. This innovative design combines the interactive capabilities of a control panel with advanced firefighting methods, transforming the modular panel into an integrated interactive screen.
"Only heroes go against the fire," says Xue Wenkai, one of the designers from the Industrial Design College of LAFA. Inspired by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's tribute to the brave, the fire truck is aptly named "Hero in harm's way."
What sets Hero apart from traditional fire trucks is its unique integration of IOE technology. Firefighters can generate preset data, such as foam ratio and water displacement, on the interactive screen for direct use on-site. Additionally, multiple drones equipped with fire extinguishing bombs and other devices assist in firefighting efforts. The use of infrared thermal imaging allows for real-time fire detection, with feedback sent back to the interactive screen. Hero brings a new dawn to the fire protection industry, combining cutting-edge technology with the bravery of firefighters.
Ensuring the safety of rescue personnel and on-board equipment, Hero's doors and body are designed with thickened steel plates and embedded metal protective nets. The side of the vehicle features an integrated interactive panel equipped with a tablet computer screen, aiding in the formulation of safer and more effective rescue plans.
With dimensions of 12000mm x 3000mm x 3800mm, Hero is designed to navigate the harsh environments firefighters encounter. Its robust construction and advanced technology make it a powerful tool in the fight against high-rise fires.
"Hero explores the application of IOE in the fire protection industry, optimizing the functions of existing fire trucks," explains Sun Jian, another designer from the Industrial Design College of LAFA. "By integrating the interactive screen, firefighters can generate preset data for direct use on-site, while drones provide additional support in extinguishing fires."
Hero's interactive screen allows firefighters to analyze the fire situation and receive real-time positioning information. The screen displays a fire scene modeling image, enabling firefighters to locate and rescue the wounded. From an aerial perspective, firefighters can observe the rotation and analyze the fire point, with the virtual spray path of the fire monitor accurately displayed on the screen for precise positioning. Firefighters can control the drones through the interactive screen, delivering fire bombs to remedy the situation.
The development of Hero began in March 2021 and was completed in May 2021 at the Industrial Design College of LAFA. In June 2021, Hero was exhibited at the Lu Xun Academy of Fine Arts Art Museum, showcasing the innovative design and its potential to revolutionize fire protection.
Hero's design is based on extensive research into fire accidents and the challenges faced by firefighters. By streamlining operating procedures and integrating modern technology, Hero bridges the gap between traditional fire protection and intelligent fire protection.
"The most challenging aspect of this design was integrating 5G technology with the traditional firefighting operation process," notes Li Fengze, a designer from the Industrial Design College of LAFA. "Our goal was to ensure firefighters could quickly adapt to the new form and speed up rescue efforts while reducing casualties."
Hero's design has been recognized with the prestigious Iron A' Design Award in the Vehicle, Mobility, and Transportation Design category. This award acknowledges Hero's well-designed, practical, and innovative features that meet professional and industrial requirements. By integrating industry best practices and competent technical characteristics, Hero contributes to a better world, providing fulfillment and positive feelings.
With Hero, the Industrial Design College of LAFA has pushed the boundaries of fire protection, creating a fire truck that combines advanced technology with the bravery of firefighters. This innovative design marks a new era in firefighting, ensuring the safety of both firefighters and the communities they serve.
Project Designers: Wenkai Xue
Image Credits: Image #1: Designer Xue Wenkai, Sun Jian, Li Fengze and Jia Zhuohang, 2021.
Image #2: Designer Xue Wenkai, Sun Jian, Li Fengze and Jia Zhuohang, 2021.
Image #3: Designer Xue Wenkai, Sun Jian, Li Fengze and Jia Zhuohang, 2021.
Image #4: Designer Xue Wenkai, Sun Jian, Li Fengze and Jia Zhuohang, 2021.
Image #5: Designer Xue Wenkai, Sun Jian, Li Fengze and Jia Zhuohang, 2021.
Project Team Members: Designer: Xue Wenkai
Designer: Sun Jian
Designer: Li Fengze.
Project Name: Hero
Project Client: Wenkai Xue