Next Generation Computing and Communication Hub for First Responders in Smart Cities.

Area of Science:

• Computer Science
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Public Safety Technology

Background:

• Smart city infrastructure is evolving, requiring advanced communication platforms for first responders.
• Existing systems lack integrated solutions for cognitive workload monitoring and specialized emergency assistance.
• The US Department of Homeland Security's SmartHub concept provides a framework for integrating new technologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and embed a Next Generation First Responder (NGFR) communication platform within smart city infrastructure.
• To introduce two key extensions: cognitive workload monitoring for first responders and emergency assistance tools for individuals with disabilities.
• To explore the technological and societal implications for smart cities, focusing on interoperability, standardization, and accessibility.

Main Methods:

• Development of a novel AI formalism using an ensemble of machine learning processes and machine reasoning for predictive situation assessment.
• Implementation of a digital twin concept for near-real-time monitoring of NGFR cognitive workload.
• Specification of NGFR interactions based on AI formalism and a unified hub platform for emergency assistance to individuals with disabilities.

Main Results:

• A functional digital twin component demonstrating near-real-time cognitive workload monitoring for first responders.
• A detailed NGFR specification for enhanced emergency assistance, prioritizing accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
• Exploration of smart city dimensions including interoperability, standardization, and assistive technology accessibility.

Conclusions:

• The NGFR hub, with its extensions, represents a significant advancement in smart city emergency services.
• The developed AI formalism and digital twin approach enable improved performance assessment and self-aware computing for first responders.
• The study provides a technology roadmap, positioning the NGFR hub as a benchmark for future emergency management within smart cities.