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    <title>Transport Research International Documentation (TRID)</title>
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    <copyright>Copyright © 2026. National Academy of Sciences. All rights reserved.</copyright>
    <docs>http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss</docs>
    <managingEditor>tris-trb@nas.edu (Bill McLeod)</managingEditor>
    <webMaster>tris-trb@nas.edu (Bill McLeod)</webMaster>
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      <title>Transport Research International Documentation (TRID)</title>
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    <item>
      <title>A Review of Rescue Methods after Intelligent Rescue Equipment Approaches a Drowning Person</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/2676073</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Drowning is still the main cause of accidental death worldwide, and intelligent rescue technology is needed for rapid and effective intervention. This study investigated the rescue methods used by intelligent devices - autonomous rescue devices, auxiliary self-rescue devices, and wearable intelligent rescue devices - when reaching a person who has fallen into the water. Using IEEE Xplore, Scopus, Web of Science and other digital databases, this paper systematically reviews the research on hardware design, sensor integration, control algorithm and human-computer interaction from 2009 to 2025. The results show that multi-sensor fusion, adaptive stability and safe human-computer interaction are crucial for reliable performance in complex aquatic environments. Future advancements are proposed, include enhancing robust perception, adaptive stabilization, and human-computer interaction security to critically address system-level challenges of cross-domain coordination, standardized interoperability, and reliable algorithmic decision-making in complex aquatic environments. These insights provide a basis for advancing intelligent drowning rescue systems, linking technological innovation with practical safety applications.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2026 11:44:56 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/2676073</guid>
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    <item>
      <title>Navigating Partially Unknown Environments: A Weakly Supervised Learning Approach to Path Planning</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/2591715</link>
      <description><![CDATA[In fire rescue missions, the critical research concern revolves around enabling autonomous path planning for mobile robots to quickly and safely navigate to target points. This paper focuses on sampling-based path planning methods under weak supervision. In order to enhance path quality and computational speed, we employ deep learning to perform non-uniform sampling on sampling-based methods, focusing on regions where optimal paths are more likely to exist. Specifically, the generation of non-uniform sampling regions is regarded as a semantic segmentation problem. In this context, diverse map information is utilized to predict non-uniform sampling regions. Inspired by attention mechanisms in deep learning, we propose an attention-guided model for non-uniform sampling path planning. The learning-driven path planning process comprises offline dataset generation, model training, and online model prediction. However, the offline dataset generation is often time-consuming and resource-intensive. To address this challenge, we propose a weakly supervised strategy, which necessitates the generation of only one single path as ground truth per scenario in semantic segmentation training. Furthermore, considering the potential existence of unknown obstacles along the reference path in real-world settings, we leverage deep reinforcement learning to ensure collision-free path tracking in unknown environments. Finally, extensive experimental simulations are conducted to verify the performance of the attention-guided model and collision-free tracking, and demonstrate the superiority of our proposed weakly supervised strategy.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 27 Oct 2025 13:56:42 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/2591715</guid>
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      <title>Workload in helicopter rescue operations – A comparison of two different rescue methods in a randomized cross-over design</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/2602783</link>
      <description><![CDATA[High workloads can deplete cognitive capacity, impairing individuals’ ability to meet task demands and increasing the likelihood of human error. Helicopter rescue operations are inherently complex and require effective multitasking by all crewmembers. This study aimed to quantify subjective workload and physiological activation associated with two different rescue methods, hoist operations and rope operations, in a three-crew Helicopter Emergency Medical Service. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Task Load Index was used to assess workload. Heart rate and heart rate variability were used as markers for physiological activation. Crews performed fifty-five standardized rescue missions covering four distinct terrain categories: alpine, gorge, forest, and vertical environments. Each mission was solved with both rope and hoist rescue methods, in randomized sequence. Linear mixed-model regression analyses were used to account for repeated measures within individuals. Across all mission phases, pilots (n = 4), physicians (n = 3), and rescuers (n = 4) reported lower workloads during hoist operations than during rope operations. For pilots and rescuers, hoist operations were also associated with lower physiological activation. The opposite was found in physicians, who acted as hoist operators. Rescue method affected pilots most markedly, their mean workload scores during active mission being 35 [19,52] for hoisting versus 53 [37,70] for rope operations (R2 = 0.76, p <0.0001). Analogously, pilot mean heart rate was 80 [57,103] during hoisting compared to 88 [65,111] during rope operations (R2 = 0.91, p <0.0001). A reduction in workload could contribute to improved flight safety, favoring hoist as rescue method.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 27 Oct 2025 09:34:57 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/2602783</guid>
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    <item>
      <title>First Responder Research: Supporting public safety across land and sea</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/2602548</link>
      <description><![CDATA[The National Urban Security Technology Laboratory (NUSTL) and the United States Coast Guard's Research and Development Center (RDC) have formed a strong partnership, leveraging each other's expertise to enhance public safety across land and sea. NUSTL serves a range of public safety sectors, including the fire service, law enforcement, and emergency management. First responders are actively involved throughout NUSTL's research, development, and test and evaluation projects, offering crucial insights at focus groups and evaluating technologies during field tests. The challenges faced by state and local first responders are often mirrored by the Coast Guard, leading NUSTL and the RDC to deploy similar tools in the field, such as laser protective eyewear, thermal imagers, and real-time language translation tools. By cross-pollinating technological solutions, NUSTL and the RDC achieve mutually beneficial outcomes.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 26 Sep 2025 13:39:59 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/2602548</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Using Research to Challenge Assumptions: Evaluating International Orange alternatives</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/2582998</link>
      <description><![CDATA[In support of its marine safety mission, the United States Coast Guard approves lifesaving equipment intended for use on commercial vessels. Title 46 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Subchapter Q contains strict prescriptive and performance requirements to which equipment must be manufactured and independently tested prior to receiving Coast Guard approval. One of those requirements is color. Permitted colors for Coast Guard-approved lifesaving equipment are variations of orange or reddish orange. The Coast Guard has been receiving increasing numbers of requests to approve alternative colors for lifeboats and other lifesaving equipment and has conducted initial investigations toward that end. In a 2023 comprehensive literature review on lifesaving equipment colors, four colors were identified for detectability testing: fluorescent red, fluorescent orange, fluorescent pink, and fluorescent green. Field testing is ongoing and is scheduled to conclude in summer 2025. The data and associated analysis obtained from field tests will be used to inform future Coast Guard lifesaving equipment regulation and policy reviews and will be made available to global stakeholders.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 06 Aug 2025 15:02:39 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/2582998</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Developing a Lifesaving Device for Mass Rescue Operations</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/2582582</link>
      <description><![CDATA[The International Maritime Organization defines a mass rescue operation (MRO) as a situation where a large number of people in distress need immediate help and the usual resources and capabilities available to search and rescue authorities are inadequate. To serve this need, the United States Coast Guard Research and Development Center has collaborated with the Department of Homeland Security to develop a nonstandard, one-time use, lightweight floating lifesaving device. The desired device differs from existing off-the-shelf Coast Guard and International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea-compliant products. It needs to be lighter, easily deployable by aircraft or vessels, and capable of accommodating at least 100 people for up to 24 hours. Phase I of the project included design concept, prototype development, and controlled environment testing. Phase II of the project, which is forthcoming, concerns final design and open-water testing. The results of Phase II will help the Coast Guard determine if these large-capacity, lightweight lifesaving devices are practical and beneficial as another tool Coast Guard responders can use during mass rescue events.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 01 Aug 2025 08:30:15 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/2582582</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Design of deployable bridge using multistable Miura-ori structure for emergency rescue</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/2554198</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Rapid deployment equipment is crucial in emergency rescue operations during natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods. However, traditional equipment often has limitations such as complex operations, long deployment times, and high manpower requirements. This paper designs a deployable bridge for post-disaster rescue, with its core component being a bistable Miura-ori unit. Bistable characteristics of the Miura-ori unit are shown. Then, finite element model (FEM) and prototype experiments are used to demonstrate the load-bearing capacity and bistable characteristics of the bistable Miura-ori unit. By arranging the bistable Miura-ori units, a deployable bridge with multistable characteristics is achieved, enabling rapid deployment with a single drive. The load-bearing and impact resistance capabilities of the bridge are also tested. This design significantly simplifies system complexity, reduces labor requirements, and ensures high load-bearing capacity and impact resistance, providing a new solution for emergency rescue.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 30 May 2025 14:15:34 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/2554198</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Investigation of pedestrian speed in formation evacuating in two specific water depths</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/2274407</link>
      <description><![CDATA[The implementation of a well-organized formation for evacuation plays a critical role in ensuring the safety of individuals during flood events. To investigate the effectiveness of formation evacuating, this study conducted experiments under two specific water depths (0.35 m up to the knee and 0.60 m above the knee). The efficiency of two common evacuation methods, namely single-file formation without a rescue rope (referred to as “without rope”) and single-file formation with a rescue rope (referred to as “with rope”), was discussed through questionnaire and trajectory analysis. The findings indicate that the majority of pedestrians (over 60 %) perceive a reduced level of fatigue in single-file formation compared to individual walking (referred to as “individual”) in both 0.35 m and 0.60 m water. Not only was the fatigue level the lowest, but it also exhibited the highest speed growth rate in “with rope”. Specifically, pedestrian speed increased by 11.24 % in 0.60 m water and by 4.85 % in 0.35 m water compared to “individual”. Analysis of pedestrian step characteristics revealed that the increase in pedestrian step frequency was the primary factor contributing to the speed increase in “with rope”. Moreover, the step length and step frequency of pedestrians were effectively harmonized in “with rope”, particularly in 0.60 m water. Considering factors such as fatigue level and evacuation speed, it is evident that single-file formation evacuating with rescue rope significantly improves evacuation efficiency. This study provides fundamental data and offers practical recommendations for the development of effective flood evacuation strategies.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 29 Jan 2024 09:16:27 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/2274407</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Use of Simulations to Predict Lifeboat Survivability in Extreme Waves and the Effectiveness of Coxswain Performed Actions</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/2310050</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Simulations were used to investigate the performance of lifeboats in high sea states using a virtual wave tank. Numerical simulations were performed in regular and irregular waves to study launch performance in extreme weather conditions. Limitations in launch equipment and the role of the timing of coxswains’ actions were investigated. The study indicated that the lifeboat may not be able to successfully launch when significant wave heights are above 8 m and the lifeboat is launched near the trough of a wave. High initial setback and continuous wave forces result in the vessel being unable to clear away from the launch platform. As wave heights increase, the amount of setback and time to exit the launch area increases. Over 35% of launches resulted in the lifeboat being unable to clear from the launch area when significant wave heights were 10 m or above. The study also identified that delay in completion of actions performed by the coxswain, such as releasing the lifeboat hooks and applying throttle, can increase setback and time to exit the launch area.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 22 Dec 2023 08:46:58 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/2310050</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Investigating Abandonment Errors in Cruise/Passenger Ships: Researching the Reasons Leading to Life-Losses During an Evacuation</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/2310048</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Over the course of time and under the auspices of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), safety at sea has significantly increased. Numerous regulations have been adopted in an effort to increase safety standards onboard ships and reduce the probability of accidents. Unfortunately, abandonment procedures still remain at large inefficient. A very indicative example is provided by the evacuation of Costa Concordia, which lasted more than 6 hours, although the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) dictates this type of operation should not exceed 30 minutes. This research effort aims to provide a clear understanding to the causes behind the inefficiencies and flaws existing in the current evacuation procedures. By deploying a qualitative method, causes behind the accidents and how these can affect the abandonment process will be explored; contributions of the human element and how the psychological/behavioral attributes of people can affect the outcome of an evacuation will be included. Finally, the design of passenger/cruise ships will be discussed in an attempt to identify possible areas of improvement.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 22 Dec 2023 08:46:58 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/2310048</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>A Multi-Objective Model of Railway Emergency Rescue Center Location</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/2000928</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Railway rescue centers are the railway terminal within a given network reserved for storing and dispatching emergency materials. It is very significant to improve railway emergency response capabilities. This paper, based on the analysis of railway emergency response modes, designed a hierarchical structure of rescue centers classified based on a scale of emergency demand. Considering this ranking of rescue centers and risk assessment, a multi-objective model was established for hierarchical rescue center location with the goal of both minimizing costs and minimizing rescue reaction time. Additionally, a solution algorithm as introduced in order to solve the aforementioned model. Finally, real data from a case study was used to validate the model. The results show that this model is feasible and reasonable and can provide theoretical support for the construction of railway emergency logistics systems.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 15 Aug 2023 09:00:59 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/2000928</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Usage of the global navigation satellite systems in safety and protection issues</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/1909003</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Currently, global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) play a key role in the broad field of security and human life. In principle, almost every area of human activity (for example, mining, energy or construction) systems related to saving human life are introduced. Generally, satellite navigation is an indispensable element of this type of systems. In this paper, authors present basic principles of the GNSS operation and the current state of knowledge about usage of the global navigation satellite systems in the area of safety, protection and rescue issues.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 20 Apr 2022 16:15:59 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/1909003</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Investigating the Polar Code’s function-based requirements for life-saving appliances and arrangements, and the performance of survival equipment in cold climate conditions – test of SOLAS approved desalting apparatus at low temperatures</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/1889231</link>
      <description><![CDATA[As the sea ice extent steadily decreases, the Arctic region is simultaneously experiencing extensive growth in commercial shipping activities, in areas which previously were considered inaccessible for most ships during large periods of the year, increasing the probability of accidents or incidents occurring. The International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters (The Polar Code) states that resources shall be provided to support survival following abandoning a ship; desalting apparatus is proposed for the provision of the recommended amount of freshwater. However, previous studies have shown that the expected performance criteria for survival equipment are significantly reduced in cold climate conditions. In this paper, the authors present and discuss the results of testing SOLAS approved desalting apparatus at low temperatures in a controlled and enclosed environment, studying the equipment's performance capabilities.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 28 Feb 2022 09:53:03 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/1889231</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Coast Guard: More Information Needed to Assess Efficacy and Costs of Vessel Survival Craft Requirements</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/1844170</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Since 2010, the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Coast Guard investigated over 50,000 maritime vessel accidents, including some resulting in casualties (dead or missing persons). The Coast Guard investigates accidents and requires vessels to carry lifesaving equipment to reduce the likelihood of casualties. Among this equipment are out-of-water survival craft to ensure no part of a person is immersed in water. The Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2016 includes a provision for the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) to examine the extent of vessel-based casualties from water immersion and the efficacy of various lifesaving equipment. This report assesses the extent the Coast Guard has (1) data from 2010 through 2019 showing vessel-based casualties and survivability; (2) estimated costs and benefits of implementing out-of-water survival craft requirements for vessel owners; and (3) guidance for designating cold water areas and corresponding equipment requirements based on the best available data. GAO reviewed Coast Guard guidance and vessel accident data and interviewed Coast Guard and industry officials. GAO makes four recommendations, including that the Coast Guard require investigators collect data about people’s use of lifesaving equipment in accidents, fully implement cost estimate best practices for out-of-water survival craft requirements, and if necessary, update cold water areas determinations. DHS concurred with 3 of 4 recommendations. GAO continues to believe the findings in the report support the recommendations.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 12 Apr 2021 09:22:53 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/1844170</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Thermodynamic Optimization of Liferaft Designed for Polar Regions</title>
      <link>https://trid.trb.org/View/1721104</link>
      <description><![CDATA[The risk assessment conducted in the Polar Water Operation Manual (PWOM) defines the equipment required in the Personal Survival Kits (PSK) and Group Survival Kits (GSK) as the IMO Polar Code only mentions items that are to be considered (guideline). According to the requirements defined in the IMO Polar Code you are to be able to survive for a minimum of 5 days (or until being rescued). This means that the life raft participants are to be able to produce the amount of energy required to compensate for the heat loss for an extended period of time (minimum 5 days). For a time, span of 5 days it is not likely that an average person is able to produce more than about 150 Watts on an average. The cumulative energy produced by the participants in the raft is to compensate for the energy lost. The energy produced by the human body through metabolic processes is a complex study and will vary with age, weight, body surface area, fitness and physical activity level. This study assesses the metabolic rates required for survival utilizing different types of lifesaving appliances. The assessment is conducted utilizing a theoretical approach, applying the laws of thermodynamics and heat balance calculations. The study indicates that survival in cold climate is possible, when the correct equipment is utilized.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 15 Jul 2020 09:12:16 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://trid.trb.org/View/1721104</guid>
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