Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an emergency detection, prevention, and rescue system for hazardous urban water environments developed for hazardous urban water environments, and more particularly to real time detection, risk prediction, and coordinated rescue management for accidental falls, submersion incidents, and other life threatening events occurring in urban drainage and water channels.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Urban waterways present unique challenges due to unpredictable currents, pollution, and human activity, creating potential hazards for residents and workers. Modern monitoring and responsive strategies play a critical role in ensuring safety, enabling rapid identification of risks, and coordinating timely interventions. In real-world scenarios, the approaches protect lives during floods, accidental falls, or industrial water incidents, while supporting efficient rescue operations. Moreover, proactive hazard management enhances public confidence, reduces emergency response times, and contributes to safer, more resilient urban environments where communities are able to live and work with greater security.

[0003] The traditional approaches for managing hazards in urban waterways rely heavily on manual monitoring, visual inspections, and ad hoc emergency responses. However, the practices are time-consuming, labour-intensive, and delayed, reducing the effectiveness of risk detection and rescue operations. Limited coordination and lack of real-time information lead to inconsistent safety enforcement, higher vulnerability during floods or accidents, and slower response times. Additionally, the methods provide minimal predictive capabilities, restrict scalability, and increase the likelihood of casualties or property damage, making it challenging to maintain safe and resilient urban water environments in dynamic, high-risk scenarios.

[0004] CN212460771U discloses an utility model relates to the technical field of lifesaving, in particular to a drowning emergency rescue system, which comprises a stand column, a rescue box, a monitoring unit, a power supply unit and a control unit, wherein the stand column is arranged at the easy occurrence point of a drowning accident, and the top of the stand column is provided with a loudspeaker; the rescue box is arranged at the bottom of the upright post and comprises a box door and a box body; the monitoring unit is arranged on the upright post and comprises a common camera, an infrared camera and a water wave detector; the power supply unit comprises a solar photovoltaic panel and a storage battery; the control unit comprises a central controller, a data receiving module, a data processing module, a communication module and intelligent terminal equipment.

[0005] US20110130636A1 discloses an invention relates generally to systems, devices and methods for global disaster response, more particularly to the rapid detection, qualified assessment and monitoring of disasters and electronic triage of victims, communication, alert and evacuation systems, provision of suitable modular sensing or medical aid solutions, and their rapid deployment via delivery platforms such as disaster messaging formats and resources on client mobile phone applications or physically via remote operated vehicles (unmanned aerial sea or land systems) or targeted air delivery.

[0006] Conventionally, many systems disclosed in the prior art provide a means for hazard monitoring that rely on manual inspections, visual observations, and uncoordinated emergency responses. The methods are time-intensive, inconsistent, and prone to delays, resulting in slower hazard detection and inefficient rescues. Moreover, the reliance also limits scalability, reduces operational efficiency, and hinders timely protection of lives and property in rapidly changing or high-risk water environments.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a system that requires to be capable of continuously monitoring urban water environments, predicting potential risks, and coordinating timely rescue actions for accidents and submersion events. Additionally, the system also needs to improve safety, enhance operational efficiency, support rapid interventions, and ensure reliable protection of lives in hazardous urban waterways.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] An object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of quickly detecting a person falling or entering hazardous urban water areas with high accuracy.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of reducing false alarms by verifying emergency situations through multiple types of event patterns before confirming a real incident.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of enabling timely transmission of emergency alerts with precise location information to ensure faster response and rescue action.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of predicting high risk conditions in water prone zones in advance and provide preventive warnings to reduce accidents.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of assisting in safe and efficient rescue of victims from dangerous water environments even under low visibility and strong flow conditions.

[0013] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of improving victim survival chances by enabling rapid identification, stabilization, and guided movement toward safe exit points.

[0014] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0015] The present invention relates to an emergency detection, prevention, and rescue system for hazardous urban water environments developed for hazardous urban water settings, specifically addressing real time identification of accidental falls or submersion events, assessment of risk conditions, and coordinated management of rescue operations within urban drains, canals, and water passage zones.

[0016] According to an aspect of the present invention, an emergency detection, prevention, and rescue system for hazardous urban water environments comprising of a distributed sensing module in or around at least one water conduit, at least one FMCW radar array adjacent to drains, underpasses, canals, or roadside water channels to monitor surface disruption, sudden mass displacement, and abnormal motion patterns, a plurality of acoustic sensors in drain walls and nearby structures to detect impact sounds, rapid splashing, structural collisions, or distress calls, a plurality of water pressure sensors and flow velocity sensors in the water conduit to detect turbulence spikes, pressure surges, and directional flow disturbances, and an embedded microcontroller coupled to the distributed sensing module to time align data from the radar array, acoustic sensors, and pressure sensors, and execute a machine learning protocol to fuse the time aligned data and detect an abnormal event.

[0017] According to another aspect of the present invention, the system disclosed further includes a predictive risk assessment module implemented by the microcontroller to analyses historical data from the distributed sensing module to learn zone specific risk patterns and to compute a predictive risk score for current and forecast environmental conditions and, when the predictive risk score exceeds a threshold, to drive preventive alerts on at least one of nearby digital signboards and traffic control systems, a plurality of docking chambers along the water conduit at high risk zones to store a plurality of autonomous rescue bots, a motorized hatch with each docking chamber to open only upon emergency confirmation, at least one adjustable ballast chambers with water intake and expulsion valves with the bot to regulate buoyancy between neutral, negative, and positive states, a plurality of multi directional thrusters positioned on outer periphery of the body of the bot to provide vectorable thrust, and a front mounted sensing head with the bot to detect obstacles, victims, and submerged objects in low visibility water.

[0018] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of an emergency detection, prevention, and rescue system for hazardous urban water environments; and
Figure 2 illustrates an isometric view of a plurality of autonomous rescue bots associated with the proposed system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0021] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0022] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0023] The present invention relates to an emergency detection, prevention, and rescue system for hazardous urban water environments developed for hazardous urban water areas, particularly for promptly detecting accidental entry or submersion incidents, evaluating risk levels, and enabling organized rescue coordination within urban drains, canals, and related water flow regions.

[0024] Referring to Figure 1 and 2, an isometric view of an emergency detection, prevention, and rescue system for hazardous urban water environments and an isometric view of a plurality of autonomous rescue bots associated with the proposed system are illustrated respectively, comprising of a distributed sensing module 101 installed in or around at least one water conduit 102, at least one FMCW radar array 103 disposed adjacent to drains underpasses canals 104, a plurality of acoustic sensors 105 embedded in drain walls and nearby structures, a plurality of water pressure sensors 106 and flow velocity sensors 107 embedded in the water conduit 102, a plurality of docking chambers 108 mounted along the water conduit 102 at high risk zones, each docking chamber 108 comprising a sealed housing 109 and a motorized hatch 110 with a water sealed locking unit 111.

[0025] Figure 2, further includes a plurality of autonomous rescue bots 201, each stored in respective docking chamber and comprising a sealed body 202 with pointed edges, at least one adjustable ballast chambers 203, a plurality of multi directional thrusters 204 positioned around an outer periphery of the body 202, a front mounted sensing head including a radar module 205 integrated with a sonar module 206, a rotating LiDAR module 207 mounted on a top surface of the body 202, at least one pressure sensor 208, an articulated gripper 209 carrying a hardened window breaking tool 210 at a distal end and, at least one thermal sensor 211, an oxygen delivery unit on the bot 201 and comprises a sealed pressurized oxygen reservoir 212 mounted within the rescue bot 201, a controllable regulator valve 213 and flow conduit 214, and a flexible outlet interface configured as at least one of a mask or mouthpiece 215, a victim interaction and extraction arrangement disposed with each of the bots 201, the arrangements comprising at least one articulated robotic arm 216 mounted on the rescue bot 201, and at least one compressed air rope launcher 217 installed on a drain wall or adjacent structure.

[0026] The system disclosed herein comprises of a distributed sensing module 101 operates through coordinated acquisition, synchronization, and transmission of multi-modal environmental data from spatially dispersed sensing elements positioned within and around a water conduit 102. In an embodiment of the present invention, the sensing module 101 comprises a FMCW radar array 103 disposed adjacent to drains, underpasses canals 104, or roadside water channels for continuously transmitting frequency-modulated electromagnetic waves toward the monitored water surface and surrounding structural zones and receiving reflected return signals from detected objects or disturbances.

[0027] During operation, the FMCW array 103 measures frequency differentials between transmitted and received signals to determine range, motion velocity, and displacement characteristics. Signal processing circuitry performs Doppler analysis, surface motion mapping, and trajectory tracking to identify sudden mass movements, irregular wave patterns, or anomalous surface disruptions. Upon detection of predefined abnormal motion signatures, the radar array 103 generates real-time event data packets and transmits positional and motion-related information to an embedded microcontroller for further correlation and alert generation.

[0028] In another embodiment of the present invention, the sensing module 101 comprises a plurality of acoustic sensors 105 embedded in drain walls and nearby structures for continuously capturing airborne and structure-borne sound waves generated within the water conduit 102 and adjacent structural surfaces. During operation, each sensor 105 converts detected acoustic vibrations into electrical signals, which are subsequently filtered, amplified, and digitized for frequency spectrum analysis. When identified sound profiles exceed predefined thresholds or match stored emergency patterns, the sensors 105 transmit time-synchronized acoustic event data to the microcontroller to enable rapid situational assessment and response initiation.

[0029] Yet another embodiment of the present invention, the sensing module 101 comprises a plurality of water pressure sensors 106 embedded in the water conduit 102 for continuously measuring hydrostatic and dynamic pressure variations within the water conduit 102 using pressure-sensitive transduction elements. During operation, each sensor 106 converts detected pressure fluctuations into proportional electrical signals that are digitized and processed to monitor baseline pressure levels, sudden surges, or abnormal turbulence-induced variations. Upon identification of anomalous pressure conditions, the sensors 106 generate time-stamped pressure event signals and transmit corresponding data to the microcontroller for integrated analysis.

[0030] The distributed sensing module 101 further includes flow velocity sensors 107 embedded in the water conduit 102 for continuously determining the speed and directional characteristics of water movement within the conduit 102 using flow-responsive sensing elements. During operation, the sensors 107 measure velocity parameters through real-time detection of fluid motion forces or transit-time differentials, converting such measurements into electrical output signals for digital processing. When detected flow parameters deviate beyond predefined operational thresholds, the sensors 107 generate alert signals and transmit velocity trend data to the microcontroller for correlation with other environmental sensing inputs.

[0031] The embedded microcontroller is operatively coupled to the distributed sensing module 101 to perform synchronized, multi-parameter event analysis for reliable emergency determination. The microcontroller is configured to time-align incoming data streams received from a radar array 103, acoustic sensors 105, and pressure sensors 106 so as to establish temporal correlation among detected signals. Further, the microcontroller executes a machine learning protocol adapted to perform sensor fusion on the time-aligned data to identify patterns indicative of abnormal events. An emergency condition is confirmed only upon determination that multiple sensing parameters concurrently correspond to a fall, plunge, or comparable hazardous occurrence. Upon confirmation, the microcontroller automatically generates and transmits an alert signal including precise geolocation data to a remote authority unit.

[0032] A predictive risk assessment module is implemented by the microcontroller to process, evaluate, and interpret historical and real-time data received from the distributed sensing module 101. The module is structured to identify zone-specific environmental risk patterns by applying predefined analytical models, statistical correlations, and machine-learning-based evaluation protocols. Upon continuous assessment, the module computes a predictive risk score indicative of potential hazard likelihood under prevailing and forecast environmental conditions. Where the computed predictive risk score exceeds a predetermined safety threshold, the module is further configured to automatically initiate preventive alert signals directed to at least one external notification interface, including digital signboards and traffic control systems.

[0033] A plurality of docking chambers 108 is strategically mounted along the water conduit 102 at predetermined high-risk zones to facilitate controlled emergency deployment operations while ensuring structural integrity and operational safety. Each docking chamber 108 incorporates a sealed housing 109 enclosing internal mechanical and electronic components, and a motorized hatch 110 equipped with a water-sealed locking unit 111 configured to prevent unintended ingress of water under pressurized or turbulent conditions. The hatch 110 is operatively governed by the microcontroller to permit opening exclusively upon validated emergency confirmation signals. Additionally, each chamber 108 integrates at least one environmental sensor configured to continuously monitor localized water level and flow parameters, wherein the microcontroller is further configured to inhibit hatch 110 actuation when monitored conditions exceed predefined safe deployment thresholds.

[0034] The plurality of docking chambers 108 herein operates through coordinated control by the microcontroller, which continuously maintains communication with each chamber 108 through a dedicated signal network. Upon detection of an emergency trigger condition, the microcontroller performs sequential verification of system status, chamber readiness, and environmental safety parameters. Only the chamber 108 located nearest to the identified risk zone is selected for potential activation. The microcontroller executes self-diagnostic checks including structural integrity verification, hatch 110 locking status confirmation, and sensor data validation. If all operational conditions are satisfied, the microcontroller transmits an actuation command enabling controlled deployment while simultaneously maintaining real-time monitoring of surrounding water dynamics.

[0035] The sealed housing 109 mentioned herein functions by maintaining a watertight enclosure through reinforced structural walls and gasketed interfaces that prevent ingress of water under varying pressure conditions. The motorized hatch 110 is actuated by an electrically driver coupled to the microcontroller, which regulates rotational or linear motion of the hatch 110. The water-sealed locking unit 111 engages through compression seals and mechanical locking pins that remain secured during standby conditions. Upon receiving a validated deployment command, the microcontroller disengages the locking unit 111, activates the motor drive system, and controls hatch 110 movements in a regulated sequence to ensure smooth opening without compromising structural sealing integrity.

[0036] The environmental sensor operates by continuously measuring localized hydraulic parameters including water level, flow velocity, and pressure conditions at the chamber 108 outlet using calibrated sensing elements. The sensor converts detected physical conditions into electrical signals that are transmitted to the microcontroller through a real-time data interface. The microcontroller processes the incoming data and compares the values against established deployment thresholds. If the monitored conditions indicate excessive turbulence, elevated water levels, or unsafe flow rates, the microcontroller automatically generates an inhibition command preventing hatch 110 actuation, thereby ensuring safe operational control and preventing deployment under hazardous environmental circumstances.

[0037] A plurality of autonomous rescue bots 201 operates in a coordinated manner under navigation logic and real-time environmental sensing feedback. Each bot 201 autonomously undocks from a respective docking chamber 108 upon activation, establishes wireless communication with the microcontroller, and initiates localization using onboard mapping sensors. During operation, the bots 201 dynamically regulate buoyancy, propulsion vectors, and positional stability in response to hydrodynamic conditions. The bots 201 comprising a sealed body 202 with pointed edges functions as a pressure-resistant enclosure configured to isolate internal electronic, mechanical, and oxygen supply components from water ingress.

[0038] The bots 201 further include at least one adjustable ballast for selectively admitting or expelling water through controllable intake and discharge valves to regulate buoyancy. During descent, intake valves open to allow water entry, thereby increasing overall mass and enabling negative buoyancy. For ascent, expulsion valves activate to discharge stored water, restoring positive buoyancy. In neutral positioning, the ballast chambers 203 maintain a balanced water volume to achieve stable hovering conditions. The valves operate in response to automated buoyancy control protocols that interpret depth, orientation, and positional feedback, thereby ensuring precise vertical positioning and stable operational equilibrium in varying underwater pressure conditions.

[0039] The bots 201 include a plurality of multi directional thrusters 204 positioned around an outer periphery of the body 202 to generate vector able propulsion by independently adjusting thrust magnitude and orientation through ball-and-socket mounting assemblies. Each thruster 204 operates via controlled electric motor actuation to produce directed water jet streams. During navigation, coordinated thrust modulation enables translational movement, rotational maneuvering, and station holding. The thrusters 204 respond continuously to navigation control signals derived from environmental sensors, ensuring stable positioning even under turbulent flow conditions. The distributed arrangement of thrusters 204 around the outer periphery enables omni-directional maneuverability, allowing the rescue bot 201 to maintain precise spatial orientation while performing scanning, gripping, or breaching operations.

[0040] At least one flow velocity sensor is integrated on the bot 201 to continuously measure surrounding water movement parameters by detecting dynamic pressure variations and flow rate differentials across its sensing interface. During operation, the sensor generates real-time data representing current direction and velocity magnitude. This data is transmitted to the microcontroller, which calculates compensatory propulsion requirements. Based on the measured flow conditions, the microcontroller dynamically adjusts thruster 204 orientation and thrust output to counteract drift forces. This continuous feedback loop ensures that the rescue bot 201 maintains stable positioning, prevents displacement by strong currents, and preserves operational accuracy during precision rescue interventions.

[0041] A front mounted sensing head including a radar module 205 integrated with a sonar module 206 configured to operate through synchronized radar and sonar emission and reception cycles to detect surrounding objects. The radar module 205 transmits electromagnetic signals to identify above-water or partially submerged structures, while the sonar module 206 emits acoustic pulses to detect underwater obstacles and victims. Returned signal reflections are processed to determine object distance, size, and relative position. Integrated data fusion protocols combine radar and sonar outputs to generate accurate situational awareness even in low visibility conditions.

[0042] A rotating LiDAR module 207 is mounted on a top surface of the body 202 and operates in synchronization with a camera, the module 207 being configured to continuously capture spatial data and generate a real-time three-dimensional map representing drain geometry, accumulated debris, and structural openings for accurate environmental assessment and navigation. The rotating LiDAR module 207 herein functions by emitting rapid laser pulses while rotating along a defined axis to scan the surrounding environment. During operation, reflected laser signals are received and processed to calculate precise distance measurements to nearby surfaces and objects.

[0043] This dataset is processed in real time to construct three-dimensional maps of drain structures, debris fields, and openings. The LiDAR module 207 synchronizes with navigation systems to assist in path planning, obstacle avoidance, and accurate positioning of rescue tools within confined underwater environments. The camera operates by capturing continuous visual imagery using a waterproof optical sensor assembly configured for low-light aquatic conditions. During operation, the camera transmits real-time video streams to onboard processors and remote monitoring systems. Image processing protocols enhance visibility, identify structural features, and assist in detecting human forms or movement patterns. The camera synchronizes with LiDAR mapping data to overlay visual textures onto generated spatial models.

[0044] This coordinated functioning of the LiDAR module 207 and the camera enables precise navigation, detailed inspection of submerged structures, and accurate alignment of rescue tools relative to detected victims or obstacles. At least one pressure sensor 208 is integrated within the bot 201 for measuring differential water pressure across its sensing diaphragm to determine localized pressure gradients around submerged vehicle doors. During deployment, the sensor 208 continuously monitors pressure variations to assess internal versus external water pressure conditions. The measured data is transmitted to the microcontroller, which evaluates structural stress levels and determines safe intervention parameters. This information is utilized to guide breaching operations, ensuring that glass breaking or entry actions occur under controlled conditions that minimize sudden structural collapse or hazardous pressure equalization events.

[0045] An articulated gripper 209 fitted with a hardened window breaking tool 210 at a distal end to deliver a controlled impact precisely at predetermined stress points of a glass surface to facilitate effective and targeted breakage. The articulated gripper 209 operates through multi-axis joint actuation enabling controlled positioning and precise mechanical manipulation. During operation, the gripper 209 extends toward targeted surfaces and stabilizes itself. The hardened window breaking tool 210 positioned at the distal end generates controlled impact pulses delivered at predefined stress points on glass surfaces. The articulated motion of the gripper 209 allows accurate tool alignment, controlled breaching, and subsequent manipulation for positioning oxygen delivery interfaces near a victim.

[0046] At least one thermal sensor 211 oriented with the bot 201 for detecting infrared radiation emitted from surrounding objects and converting the detected thermal signatures into electronic signals. During operation, the sensor 211 continuously scans the environment to identify temperature variations indicative of human presence. The generated thermal data is processed to distinguish biological heat patterns from ambient temperature fluctuations. This enables accurate localization of victims even in dark or turbid water conditions. The sensor 211 provides continuous real-time thermal mapping inputs to the microcontroller to guide navigation, victim targeting, and activation of subsequent rescue assistance operations.

[0047] A vital sign estimation module configured to determine at least respiratory movement, body 202 temperature, and overall body 202 motion, and further configured to regulate operation of an oxygen delivery unit associated with the bot 201 based on the estimated vital parameters. The vital sign estimation module is configured to initiate operation of the oxygen delivery unit exclusively upon determining, through evaluation of thermal imaging data and detected motion patterns, that a condition of insufficient respiration or the absence of normal breathing movement is present, thereby preventing unnecessary oxygen deployment. The oxygen delivery unit includes a sealed, pressurized oxygen reservoir 212 securely mounted within the rescue bot 201, a controllable regulator valve 213 connected to a flow conduit 214, and a flexible outlet interface configured as either a mask or a mouthpiece 215.

[0048] The outlet interface is arranged to be positioned proximate to the victim’s airway through operation of the articulated gripper 209, thereby enabling the controlled administration of breathable oxygen at a regulated flow rate for immediate respiratory support during rescue operations. The oxygen delivery unit functions by regulating controlled oxygen flow from an internal pressurized reservoir 212 through an electronically actuated valve. Upon activation by the vital sign estimation module, the oxygen delivery unit opens the regulator valve 213 to release oxygen at a calibrated flow rate. The oxygen is conveyed through the conduit 214 to an outlet interface positioned near the victim’s airway.

[0049] The oxygen delivery unit operates continuously until adequate respiration patterns are detected or manual override commands are received. The sealed pressurized oxygen reservoir 212 stores oxygen under controlled high-pressure conditions within a reinforced containment cylinder. During operation, the reservoir 212 maintains a stable internal pressure through structural sealing and pressure-retention valves. Upon activation of the delivery unit, oxygen is released in a regulated manner through an outlet port connected to the flow conduit 214. The reservoir 212 remains isolated from environmental exposure, thereby preserving oxygen purity and maintaining operational readiness throughout prolonged underwater rescue missions.

[0050] The controllable regulator valve 213 operates by modulating the opening aperture to precisely control oxygen flow rate from the pressurized reservoir 212. During activation, electronic control signals adjust valve 213 positioning to maintain a predetermined delivery pressure. The connected flow conduit 214 transports oxygen through a sealed pathway to the outlet interface while preventing leakage or contamination. The mask or mouthpiece 215 operates by forming a localized oxygen delivery zone around the victim’s airway. During deployment, the articulated gripper 209 positions the interface securely to maintain optimal proximity. The mask or mouthpiece 215 remains stable during underwater currents due to secure positioning and flexible sealing properties. This controlled delivery arrangement supports respiratory stabilization until the victim is safely retrieved.

[0051] A swarm communication and coordination module comprises LoRaWAN-based wireless transceivers integrated into the plurality of rescue bots 201 and operatively coupled to control logic executed by at least one processor. The module being configured to establish and maintain a resilient mesh network for coordinated multi-robot operations in dynamic aquatic environments. The module is further configured to enable autonomous leader election, distributed task allocation, and real-time role reassignment among swarm members, including victim tracking, stabilization, extraction assistance, and flow regulation. The assignments are determined based on continuously evaluated environmental parameters including water depth, flow velocity, turbulence intensity, and structural constraints present within the rescue zone.

[0052] A victim interaction and extraction arrangement is operatively disposed on each rescue bot 201 to facilitate controlled engagement, stabilization, and assisted retrieval of a conscious victim from a hazardous drainage environment. The arrangement comprises at least one articulated robotic arm 216 mounted on the rescue bot 201 through a motorized ball-and-socket joint enabling multi-axis positioning, and at least one compressed-air rope launcher 217 installed on a drain wall or adjacent support structure. The rope launcher 217 is operatively coupled to the microcontroller configured to process LiDAR-derived positional data and fluid-flow parameters to calculate an optimal firing angle and distance, thereby deploying a high-strength floating rope to land in proximate reach of the conscious victim for secure extraction assistance.

[0053] Upon detection of a conscious victim, LiDAR sensors generate spatial coordinates while the flow sensors determine water velocity and direction. The microcontroller processes this data to determine safe engagement parameters. The robotic arm 216 is actuated to approach and stabilize the victim without exerting excessive force. Simultaneously, the rope launcher 217 is aligned and triggered to deploy a floating rope within reachable proximity. Continuous feedback from sensors enables real-time adjustment of arm 216 position, rope tension, and stabilization actions until extraction is safely completed. The articulated robotic arm 216 herein operates through multiple servo-driven segments controlled by the microcontroller.

[0054] The motorized ball-and-socket joint provides omnidirectional rotational capability, allowing the arm 216 to orient along pitch, yaw, and roll axes. Sensor inputs, including proximity and force-feedback data, guide precise movement toward the victim. The microcontroller regulates motor torque and joint articulation to ensure stable grasping without causing injury. Once engaged, the arm 216 maintains adaptive grip pressure by continuously monitoring resistance and movement signals. The joint operation allows dynamic repositioning to counter fluid forces, thereby maintaining victim stabilization during rescue operations and facilitating controlled transfer toward a secure extraction point.

[0055] The compressed air rope launcher 217 mentioned above functions by storing pressurized air within a sealed chamber connected to a directional launch barrel. Upon receiving deployment instructions from the microcontroller, a release valve is actuated to rapidly discharge compressed air, propelling a high-strength floating rope toward the calculated target position. The microcontroller determines firing parameters using LiDAR-derived distance measurements and flow-velocity data to compensate for environmental drift. Adjustable barrel orientation operations align the launcher 217 to the computed angle. A navigation module disposed on at least one rescue bot 201 to determine and continuously update a safe traversal route for victim evacuation within an urban flood or hazard environment.

[0056] The navigation module integrates a positioning receiver with pre-loaded digital urban map datasets containing geospatial information relating to exit corridors, ramps, emergency access routes, and embankments. The module further cooperates with onboard inertial sensors to generate motion-referenced positional estimates when satellite-based signals degrade or become unavailable. Through sensor-fusion processing and path-validation logic, the navigation module ensures uninterrupted route tracking, dynamic obstacle avoidance, and controlled buoyancy-assisted movement to securely escort the victim toward the nearest identified safe exit location.

[0057] The inertial sensors mentioned above operate by continuously measuring motion parameters including linear acceleration, angular velocity, orientation, and directional heading of the rescue bot 201. The sensors generate high-frequency motion data streams that are processed to calculate relative displacement and trajectory estimation. During intervals when positioning signals weaken or are lost, the navigation module utilizes inertial sensor data to perform dead-reckoning calculations, thereby maintaining continuous path tracking. The sensors also detect sudden movement disturbances or drift conditions and provide corrective feedback signals. Through continuous motion monitoring and trajectory estimation, the inertial sensors ensure uninterrupted navigation accuracy and stable escort movement.

[0058] The embedded microcontroller is configured to validate the occurrence of an emergency event only upon establishing a multi-parameter correlation among independently detected signals. Specifically, the microcontroller analyses data from the FMCW radar array 103 to identify a sudden downward movement pattern and temporally associates the detection with at least one corresponding acoustic signature representing impact, splashing, structural collision, or human distress. In addition, the microcontroller verifies the presence of a hydraulic anomaly detected through the water pressure and flow-velocity sensors. The emergency condition is confirmed only when all the inputs occur within a predefined time correlation window, thereby substantially minimizing erroneous detections and reducing false positive alerts.

[0059] The present invention works best in following manner, where the system is deployed along hazardous urban water environments including drains, canals, underpasses, and roadside water conduits 102, and the distributed sensing module 101 continuously performs multi-parameter environmental monitoring to detect potential emergency situations. The FMCW radar array 103 installed adjacent to the water conduit 102 continuously emits frequency modulated signals and processes reflected wave variations to identify sudden surface disturbances, abnormal motion patterns, and rapid mass displacement indicative of a fall or plunge event. Simultaneously, the plurality of acoustic sensors 105 embedded within drain walls and surrounding structures continuously capture sound signatures and transmit real-time audio data to the embedded microcontroller, where the sound data is analyzed for impact noises, splashing patterns, structural collisions, or human distress calls. The plurality of water pressure sensors 106 and flow velocity sensors 107 installed within the conduit 102 continuously measure hydraulic fluctuations, turbulence spikes, pressure surges, and directional flow disturbances and transmit synchronized measurements to the embedded microcontroller. The embedded microcontroller performs time alignment of radar data, acoustic signatures, and hydraulic sensor readings and executes machine learning fusion protocols to correlate multiple sensing parameters, thereby confirming emergency events only when combined sensor evidence satisfies predefined correlation thresholds.

[0060] Upon confirmation, the embedded microcontroller generates precise location coordinates and transmits emergency alerts to the remote authority unit while simultaneously activating the predictive risk assessment module, which analyses historical sensor patterns to compute real-time zone specific risk scores and automatically triggers preventive warnings through digital signboards and traffic control systems when risk thresholds are exceeded. Following emergency confirmation, the embedded microcontroller actuates the motorized hatch 110 of the docking chamber 108 only when environmental sensors within the chamber 108 verify safe water level and flow conditions. The rescue bot 201 is then released and dynamically regulates buoyancy using the adjustable ballast chambers 203 while the multi directional thrusters 204 provide vector controlled propulsion based on real-time flow sensor readings to maintain positional stability against strong currents. The radar module 205 and sonar module 206 detect obstacles and victims, while the LiDAR module 207 synchronizes with the camera to generate real-time three dimensional environmental mapping for navigation. The thermal sensor 211 and the vital sign estimation module analyze thermal patterns and motion signatures to determine victim respiration status and selectively activate the oxygen delivery unit when inadequate breathing is detected. The swarm communication and coordination module establishes mesh connectivity among multiple rescue bots 201, elects the leader robot, assigns cooperative roles, and directs formation of upstream barrier configurations to reduce water flow around the victim. The navigation module integrates positioning receiver data with inertial sensor measurements to generate stable escort paths toward safe exit points, while the victim interaction and extraction arrangement enables stabilization, oxygen support, and safe retrieval of the victim from hazardous water conditions.

[0061] The invention is industrially applicable in urban infrastructure safety management, particularly in cities with extensive drainage networks, canals, underpasses, and roadside water channels prone to accidental falls and flooding incidents. The system implemented by municipal authorities, disaster management agencies, smart city planners, and public safety organizations to improve emergency response efficiency, reduce rescue time, and minimize loss of life. The invention is also useful in high rainfall regions, flood prone zones, and densely populated urban areas where real time monitoring, risk prediction, and coordinated rescue support are essential for ensuring public safety and effective incident management.

[0062] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) An emergency detection, prevention, and rescue system for hazardous urban water environments, comprising:
i) a distributed sensing module 101 installed in or around at least one water conduit 102, the distributed sensing module 101 comprising;
a) at least one FMCW radar array 103 disposed adjacent to drains, underpasses, canals, or roadside water channels and configured to monitor surface disruption, sudden mass displacement, and abnormal motion patterns;
b) a plurality of acoustic sensors 105 embedded in drain walls and nearby structures and configured to detect impact sounds, rapid splashing, structural collisions, or distress calls; and
c) a plurality of water pressure sensors 106 and flow velocity sensors 107 embedded in the water conduit 102 and configured to detect turbulence spikes, pressure surges, and directional flow disturbances;
ii) an embedded microcontroller operatively coupled to the distributed sensing module 101 and configured to;
a) time align data from the radar array 103, acoustic sensors 105, and pressure sensors 106;
b) execute a machine learning protocol to fuse the time aligned data and detect an abnormal event;
c) confirm an emergency only when multiple sensing parameters correlate to a fall, plunge, or similar hazardous event; and
d) generate and transmit an alert including a precise location of the confirmed emergency to a remote authority unit.
iii) a predictive risk assessment module implemented by the microcontroller configured to analyse historical data from the distributed sensing module 101 to learn zone specific risk patterns and to compute a predictive risk score for current and forecast environmental conditions and, when the predictive risk score exceeds a threshold, to drive preventive alerts on at least one of nearby digital signboards and traffic control systems;
iv) a plurality of docking chambers 108 mounted along the water conduit 102 at high risk zones, each docking chamber 108 comprising a sealed housing 109 and a motorized hatch 110 with a water sealed locking unit 111, the hatch 110 being operatively controlled by the embedded microcontroller to open only upon emergency confirmation;
v) a plurality of autonomous rescue bots 201, each stored in respective docking chamber 108 and comprising:
a) a sealed body 202 with pointed edges;
b) at least one adjustable ballast chambers 203 with water intake and expulsion valves configured to regulate buoyancy between neutral, negative, and positive states;
c) a plurality of multi directional thrusters 204 positioned around an outer periphery of the body 202 by ball and socket joints and configured to provide vectorable thrust;
d) a front mounted sensing head including a radar module 205 integrated with a sonar module 206 configured to detect obstacles, victims, and submerged objects in low visibility water;
e) a rotating LiDAR module 207 mounted on a top surface of the body 202 in sync with a camera and configured to generate a real time 3D map of drain geometry, debris, and openings;
f) at least one pressure sensor 208 configured to measure differential water pressure around doors of a submerged vehicle;
g) an articulated gripper 209 carrying a hardened window breaking tool 210 at a distal end and configured to apply controlled impact at predefined glass stress points;
h) at least one thermal sensor 211 oriented to detect human presence; and
i) a vital sign estimation module configured to estimate at least breathing movement, body 202 temperature, and gross motion and to control an oxygen delivery unit on the bot 201.
vi) a swarm communication and coordination module comprising LoRaWAN based wireless transceivers on the plurality of rescue bot 201 and control logic executed by at least one processor, the module being configured to establish a mesh network, dynamically elect a leader robot, and assign roles among swarm members including victim tracking, stabilization, extraction, and flow control based on water depth, flow rate, and structural constraints;
vii) a victim interaction and extraction arrangement disposed with each of the bots 201, the arrangements comprising at least one articulated robotic arm 216 mounted on a rescue bot 201 by a motorized ball and socket joint and configured to grasp and stabilize a victim, and at least one compressed air rope launcher 217 installed on a drain wall or adjacent structure and configured, under control of the embedded microcontroller to deploy a high strength floating rope toward a conscious victim; and
viii) a navigation module on at least one rescue bots 201 comprising a positioning receiver and pre loaded urban maps and configured to identify nearest safe exit points including at least ramps, emergency access points, and embankments and to generate a safe navigation path for escorting the victim while maintaining buoyancy control.

2) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein each docking chamber 108 includes at least one environmental sensor configured to monitor local water level and flow conditions at an outlet of the chamber 108, and the embedded microcontroller is configured to inhibit opening of the motorized hatch 110 when the monitored conditions exceed a safe deployment limit.

3) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the embedded microcontroller confirms an emergency event only when a sudden downward movement detected by the FMCW radar array 103 is temporally correlated with at least one acoustic signature indicative of impact, splashing, structural collision or distress and at least one hydraulic anomaly detected by the water pressure and flow velocity sensors, thereby reducing false positives.

4) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the hardened window breaking tool 210 is configured to deliver controlled, localized impact pulses to predefined glass stress points with impact energy modulated according to sensed material response so as to fracture the glass without causing excessive structural collapse.

5) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the vital sign estimation module is configured to activate the oxygen delivery unit only when analysis of thermal data and motion patterns indicates inadequate respiration or absence of normal breathing movement, thereby preventing unnecessary oxygen deployment.

6) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the oxygen delivery unit comprises a sealed pressurized oxygen reservoir 212 mounted within the rescue bot 201, a controllable regulator valve 213 and flow conduit 214, and a flexible outlet interface configured as at least one of a mask or mouthpiece 215 arranged to be positioned near the victim’s airway by the articulated gripper 209 so as to supply breathable oxygen under a controlled flow rate.

7) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein when the victim is conscious and able to move, the microcontroller calculates a firing angle and distance for the compressed air rope launcher 217 using LiDAR and flow data, so the rope lands close to the victim.

8) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein under strong current conditions the swarm communication and coordination module causes several bots 201 to line up side by side upstream of the victim to form a temporary barrier that slows the water around the victim.

9) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the navigation module uses both the positioning receiver and motion data from onboard inertial sensors so that the bot 201 continues to follow a safe path even when satellite signals are weak or lost.

10) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the multi directional thrusters 204 are controlled based on real time readings from at least one flow velocity sensor on the bot 201, so that thrust direction and power are adjusted to hold position against strong currents.