Project Overview
The Emergency High-Rise Evacuation System project addresses the critical need for a safe, efficient, and accessible evacuation solution for individuals with mobility challenges. Developed for a ninth-floor residence, the system combines safety, user-friendliness, and aesthetic integration as patio furniture, ensuring seamless functionality without altering building structures.
Problem Statement
A ninth-floor resident in Ottawa with mobility challenges faces difficulties evacuating during emergencies due to limited escape options. The existing building lacks viable alternatives beyond stairs and elevators, which are either unsafe or inaccessible in emergencies. This project aims to create an innovative solution tailored to their unique needs.
Key Features
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Patio Furniture Integration
The system is designed to blend with balcony furniture, remaining inconspicuous when not in use. -
Safe Descent Mechanisms
- Options include inflatable slides, crane-like lowering devices, and rail systems.
- Each concept prioritizes controlled descent and occupant stability.
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Ease of Use and Reliability
- The system is weather-resistant and user-friendly, operable by a single individual in under a minute.
- Designed with off-the-shelf components for straightforward maintenance.
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Safety Enhancements
Includes seatbelts, safety nets, and visual/audible alarms to ensure secure operation during emergencies.
Design Concepts
Four design solutions were explored:
- Inflatable Slide System: A foldable patio set transforms into an inflatable slide, providing a swift and cushioned descent.
- Crane-Based System: A balcony-mounted crane arm gently lowers the occupant in a secured chair.
- Roller-Coaster Rail System: A motorized chair glides down a collapsible ladder while maintaining stability.
- Rack-and-Rail Pulley System: Patio furniture doubles as a rail-based evacuation chair with integrated safety features.
Learning Outcomes
This project provided experience in:
- Problem-solving for accessibility challenges.
- Ideation and concept refinement using methods like brainstorming, pairwise comparison, and morph charts.
- Prioritizing safety, durability, and usability in emergency systems.
Explore the innovative solutions that ensure safe and efficient evacuation without compromising aesthetic or functional needs.