Sensor system aims to keep kids from drowning
A wearable swim monitor and drowning detection system has launched on crowdfunding site <a href="http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/the-seal-wearable-swim-monitoring-and-drowning-detection-system">indiegogo</a> this week, with the aim of making the jump from concept to production.
The SEAL system consists of waterproof SealBands that are clasped loosely around the necks of swimmers, GuardBands worn by lifeguards or parents, a portable hub unit that sits near the pool and a battery charger.
All four devices work together to form a wireless network. Each swimmer band continually reports the swimmer's status to both the central hub and to the lifeguard/parent band, and each band contains a unique electronic signature so that numerous swimmers can be monitored at the same time.
If the system detects a swimmer in distress, interim warnings followed by a high intensity audio, visual and vibrating alarm are triggered on the parent band and the central hub, as well as the swimmer band.
Another benefit of the technology is that it can be set to four different levels, from acting as an immersion alarm for the non-swimmer (triggering the moment the band submerges in water), all the way to the highest level for safeguarding elite swimmers or triathletes.
"Most pool alarms on the market today signal if someone has fallen into the water, with the goal of keeping people safe by restricting access to the pool," said inventor Graham Snyder.
"But it's hard to learn to swim without getting wet. The SEAL system lets swimmers play, jump, dive, and even hold their breath yet remain safe in the water while wearing a comfortable, wireless swim band."
