Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: This paper designs and prototypes an automated rescue life jacket (ARLJ) to address the global drowning epidemic (372,000 annual deaths). Unlike passive flotation devices, the system integrates an Arduino Uno microcontroller with multi-sensor architecture: water immersion detectors trigger activation within 2.3 seconds, while KY-039 heartbeat sensors monitor wearer consciousness. A NEO-6M GPS module pinpoint’s location with 4.2-meter accuracy, and a GSM module transmits distress signals via cellular networks. For active rescue, a waterproof BLDC motor (T200 Thruster, 12V, 1300 RPM) drives a custom 3-blade propeller, generating 5.2 kg thrust to propel unconscious wearers at 3.35 m/s toward safety. The mechanical design employs corrosion-resistant aluminum housing for propulsion components and PLA-printed enclosures for electronics, achieving neutral buoyancy through optimized displacement (0.085 m³ volume). Validated via Proteus 8 circuit simulations and aquatic testing, the prototype delivers 2.9-hour runtime from a 12V/15Ah Li-ion battery (52W average consumption). Computational fluid dynamics analysis confirmed propeller efficiency, with shear stress peaking at 17.3 Pa mid-blade and fluid velocity stabilized at 2.6–2.7 m/s. The ARLJ demonstrates 92% reliability in controlled trials, outperforming traditional life jackets in autonomous rescue capability. Limitations include saltwater corrosion resilience and signal latency in remote areas. Future iterations will integrate solar charging and satellite communications for offshore deployment, positioning the system as a scalable solution for high-risk aquatic environments where human intervention is delayed or unavailable
Source: Research Square
Institution: Rwanda Polytechnic
Language: English
Subfield: Ocean Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7204497218