The Air Force Research Laboratory has joined forces with students from Michigan Technological University to develop life raft platforms to support sea-based rescue efforts. AFRL researchers will help the U.S. Coast Guard develop a portable and lightweight raft offering fast deployment through helicopters and can carry approximately 100 passengers in 24 hours, the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base said Wednesday.
Elias Johnson, project manager at AFRL, said the team will leverage material expertise and human-centered design methods to identify emergency needs and create a working platform.
“Together we hope with our diverse backgrounds, focus on the end user, and technical knowledge we can save lives with our design,” added Johnson.
The teams will deliberate on the designs and create a prototype within the year. Johnson noted they are seeking to send the selected design to mass production phase once it gets confirmed.