Development of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) for Firefighting in Hazardous Environments

Fire incidents in hard-to-reach and/or hazardous areas present significant challenges to traditional firefighting methods, necessitating innovative solutions to enhance safety and efficiency. Current firefighting technologies present certain inefficiencies in suppressing fires while simultaneously minimizing risks to personnel. This study introduces a firefighting unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) designed to deploy fire-extinguishing balls directly to fire sources, reducing response time and improving suppression accuracy and personnel safety in high-risk environments. The UAV incorporates advanced design features, including real-time monitoring, a stable payload delivery system, and precise navigation. Simulation and field testing were conducted to evaluate its effectiveness in delivering fire-extinguishing balls and suppressing fires in hazardous and confined areas. Results demonstrate the UAV’s ability to deploy fire-extinguishing balls with high precision, significantly reducing fire suppression time compared to conventional methods. Its stable design and monitoring capabilities ensure consistent performance in dynamic environments. This innovative approach represents a step forward in integrating Industry 4.0 technologies into occupational safety and health (OSH) practices, offering a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional firefighting