SENTINEL
“The Ocean’s Guardian”
The Marine Lifeguard Ambulance
“Setting new standards for water rescue efficiency”
Framing the Design Potential
The problem?
Ocean lifeguards waste time and energy due to inefficient rescue equipment, which can significantly affect rescue times and potentially cost lives.
The products?
“A lot of rescue aids are simply re-purposed leisure equipment, for example, a paddleboard is just a surfboard, and a Jet Ski is just adapted for rescue purposes, so rescuers adapt the way they rescue people to the equipment rather than the equipment for them.” Design Researcher - Ross kemp
The Impact?
We can do better… Through good, product design, we can provide a faster, more efficient solution than what the rescue industry currently has; intern, assisting in the prevention of drownings, and the loss of life.
Design Process
Secondary Research was conducted through the use of online databases, peer-reviewed papers, Case studies, Lifeguard Instructor manuals, etc.
Understanding the stakeholders or those affected by any design intervention into the water rescue industry is imperative for providing a positive design solution.
An in-depth product analysis of current industry offerings was necessary to understand where these products fell short and where design intervention could be targeted for the highest degree of impact.
Participatory Research
Through role-playing active victim rescue scenarios with other trained professionals, I was able to grasp the impact of a lifeguard skillset proficiency, the demand placed on the rescuer and the equipment they select, as well as how the environment can hinder a guard in performing a fast ocean rescue.
Ideation & Prototyping
