Development of Low-Cost Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave Radar for Under Debris Search and Rescue Operations

Abstract

Conventional methods of search and rescue for earthquake victims include the use of sniffer dogs and rescue teams. However, use of technology has improved chances of early recovery of buried alive victims. One such particular method is the use of RF signals to detect vital signs such as heartbeat and breathing frequency. In this work, a suitable radar system is designed and built that is low-cost and is able to detect vital signs such as heatbeat and breathing. Several antennas including horn, patch Vivaldi and helical were simulated for this work. Based on the results helical antenna was selected due to its better performance under given scenario. The scanner is deisgned to operate in the range of 0.8 to 1.2 GHz and possible interference sources are also identified. System components were selected based on the intrasystem compatibility and performance parameters. In the end, the system was tested behind the wooden door and cement-faced brick walls. There are successful detections of both breathing and heartbeat signals.