STRIDE: A Game-Changer For Firefighters

September 18th, 2024 | Applications

New research discusses a novel application of LiDAR technology to wildfire management. LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) is a remote sensing method that uses light pulses to measure variable distances. By bouncing laser beams off objects and recording the time it takes for the signal to return, LiDAR systems can create highly detailed, three-dimensional (3D) landscape maps. In wildfire management, these 3D maps provide crucial information for firefighters. A new STRIDE tool (Simulating Travel Rates in Diverse Environments) leverages LiDAR data to estimate travel time across diverse terrains. STRIDE surpasses conventional travel time models by incorporating both slope and factors like vegetation density and ground roughness. These additional considerations are particularly significant in wildfire scenarios, where vegetation density can significantly impede firefighter progress.

The accuracy of STRIDE hinges on the detailed 3D data acquired via LiDAR. LiDAR systems emit rapid pulses of light, and the precise measurement of the return signal allows for calculating distances between the LiDAR sensor and various points on the ground. This enables the creation of digital elevation models (DEMs) that accurately depict the landscape’s topography.

By integrating LiDAR-derived DEMs with data on vegetation density and ground roughness, STRIDE offers a comprehensive assessment of travel time across wildland environments. This information is critical for firefighters, enabling them to make informed decisions about deployment strategies and resource allocation. STRIDE’s improved accuracy can potentially enhance firefighter safety and expedite wildfire containment efforts.

In conclusion, the research highlights a promising application of LiDAR technology in wildfire management. By providing high-fidelity 3D maps and developing sophisticated travel time estimation tools like STRIDE, LiDAR empowers firefighters with the information they need to navigate complex wildfire scenarios more effectively.

Read more

 Related Content: Affordable Polarimetric LIDAR For Precision Farming

Events & Shows

SPIE Optifab 2024
17 Oct – 19 Oct, 2024
Rochester, New York
Booth 1303

SPIE Photonics West 2025
28 Jan – 30 Jan, 2025
Rochester, New York
Booth 143

The Equal Employment Opportunity Clause required under Executive Order 11246, and the employee notice clause pertaining to employee rights under the National Labor Relations Act, set forth in 29 CFR Part 471 Appendix A to Subpart A, are incorporated by reference in this purchase order. By accepting this purchase order, vendor additionally certifies that, to the extent applicable, this contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR §§ 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin. Moreover, these regulations require that covered prime contractors and subcontractors take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status or disability, that it complies with the authorities cited above, and that it does not maintain segregated facilities or permit its employees to perform services at locations where segregated facilities are maintained, as required by 41 CFR 60-1.8.