| Search-and-rescue teams face the problem of how best to utilize search resources. A simulated visual coverage of a search box can assist in understanding the chances of detecting a search object from the various search patterns available to a search manager. This study increased this understanding by simulating a search team pass through a search box and displaying what the team could see. The terrain's simulation was done with digital elevation data, using Global Positioning System (GPS) technology. Randomly picked search object points were placed in the search box, and the visual area of the various search patterns was marked to determine if the search object was visible, that is, detectable. This modeling allowed a benchmark to be developed for use in future research. The model also produced the resulting numerical chance of finding the search object between various search patterns. A pattern of going straight to designated points in a search box was also explored. The social impact of this study is possibly reducing the time in finding a victim, thereby increasing the chances of saving a life. The results of this study can help search managers to make more efficient use of resources during a search mission. These actions will increase the public's confidence and support of the professionally led and voluntarily manned search teams during search-and-rescue missions. |
