Implementation of Wireless IoT Technology in EVAC Slide Emergency Systems

Emergency evacuation slides (EVAC slides) are critical safety devices used on aircraft to enable rapid egress during emergencies. While these slides provide a quick and reliable escape route, communication between separated slides during evacuation remains a challenge. Often, during raft deployment over water, slides may drift apart, impeding communication among evacuees and rescue personnel, potentially compromising safety. Existing aircraft EVAC systems on the market lack integrated wireless communication, relying on visual or shouted voice signals, which are unreliable in noisy or chaotic conditions. With the rise of the Internet of Things (IoT), wireless sensor networks have become effective tools for monitoring and communication in various safety and industrial applications. This paper explores the integration of wireless IoT technology into EVAC slide systems to facilitate inter-slide communication and monitor critical parameters, such as slide air pressure and the floating weight of stranded passengers, through embedded sensors. It proposes the adoption of Long Range (LoRa) modulation technology for wireless communication, selected for its ability to deliver low-power, long-range performance over license-free frequency bands, making it well-suited for emergency evacuation scenarios.