State-supported Industrial Technology Research Institute won silver in the commercial safety category of the 2018 Edison Awards April 11 in New York for an innovative device that boosts visibility for emergency responders and victims during fires.
ITRI based in northern Taiwan’s Hsinchu County was recognized for its Fluid-Driven Emergency Rescuer micro-hydropower technology. Developed by the institute’s Green Energy and Environment Research Laboratories, it uses emissions from hoses and sprinklers to generate lights and thermal imaging.
According to ITRI Vice President Hu Yie-zu, the technology has been applied to two unique devices: the Fluid-Driven Tactical Nozzle and Fluid-Driven Sprinkler Light. The former features a thermal imaging camera as well as a light-emitting diode lamp that produces sufficient illumination without external power, while the latter emits laser beams that can guide people to escape routes through thick smoke.
“The lightweight FDTN is superior to traditional firefighting equipment as it can identify heat spots and victim locations and eliminate the need to carry a battery supply, reducing the weight of responders’ gear,” Hu said, adding that a number of firefighting squads in Taiwan are using the device.
Project researcher Liao Jung-huang said the team is working to refine the technology based on user experiences so as to strengthen its commercial potential and lifesaving applications.
According to Frank Bonafilia, executive director of the Edison Awards, the ITRI devices can be adopted throughout the world. He expressed hope that the institute can forge connections with enterprises in the U.S. to grow the technology and make a tangible impact in promoting fire safety and rescue.
Founded in 1973, ITRI plays a vital role in fostering innovation-driven sectors in Taiwan, with recent research endeavors focusing on the fields of quality health, smart living and sustainable development. It has helped incubate over 270 high-tech companies, including global integrated circuit powerhouse Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd.
The Edison Awards, established in 1987, honor excellence in new product and service design, R&D and marketing. The winners of this year’s prizes were chosen from a selection of around 350 of the world’s top innovations. (SFC-E)
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