In late September and early October of 2024, Hurricanes Helene and Milton ravaged the Southeastern United States, unleashing gusts that reached a staggering 180 miles per hour, wreaking havoc on homes, buildings, and infrastructure by toppling structures, uprooting trees, severing power lines, and rendering roads impassable. The storms caused widespread flooding throughout the region. Survivors faced harm akin to the disconnection from essential power sources, rendering them unable to keep their cellphones charged and maintain contact with loved ones eager for updates. Additionally, many were deprived of internet access, hindering their ability to research safe locations to seek help.
When disaster struck, a convoy of relief vehicles from the Cell Outreach Utilizing Volunteer Engagement program arrived on the scene, bringing with them essential resources: power, light, and internet connectivity. The selfless efforts of the volunteers who brought cars to the affected areas greatly eased the distress faced by hurricane victims and emergency personnel.
The three autonomous vehicles within the IEEE Mobility Open Innovation Ecosystem (MOVE) program showcase American Communities equipped with resilient energy and communication infrastructures to support vital operations and connectivity in regions severely impacted by catastrophic natural disasters. The teams of three had previously been dispatched to regions impacted by both Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton.
“Pink Cross shoppers and numerous workers received vital assistance from the technologies deployed at disaster sites through the MOVE autos, exemplifying IEEE’s crucial support during times of crisis,” notes Loretta Arellano, IEEE MOVE director.
Offering post-disaster help
IEEE MOVE volunteers often partner with others to provide electrical power to the organization’s shelters equipped with windmills on MOVE-1 and MOVE-2.
The vehicles’ onboard power generation systems also enable simultaneous charging of up to 100 smartphones, thereby enhancing the communication abilities of American Red Cross personnel and disaster victims alike.
“A significant number of Pink Cross shoppers and numerous worker members were aided by the technologies deployed at disaster sites by the MOVE vehicles, highlighting the crucial support provided by IEEE during times of crisis.”
In regions where conventional communication networks are impaired, the vehicles utilize satellite TV dishes to establish a connection, thereby restoring internet and phone functionality.
Introducing MOVE-3, a game-changing van unveiled in August, offering unparalleled versatility and flexibility. Unlike its larger counterparts, the MOVE-3’s innovative modular architecture enables seamless disassembly and reconfiguration of its power and gearing components at Pink Cross facilities.
The “depart assist behind” feature enables the van to engage gear while the team moves to other locations, explains Tim Troske, a senior member of IEEE and lead for the MOVE-3 operations.
The mobile response vehicle is tactically deployed to provide aid in regions devastated by wildfires, earthquakes, and other natural disasters.
“It’s this shared vision of harnessing technical expertise to benefit humanity that drives us to dedicate our time and energy to fulfilling the IEEE mission.”
“When contemplating a catastrophic event in Hawaii, I realized that transporting relief efforts by van might be impeded by logistical challenges,” remarked IEEE Senior Member and MOVE volunteer. Here is the rewritten text:
“Although the van may be transported to the airport, a MOVE volunteer will likely assist in unloading the equipment and securing it for transport by air cargo to destinations across the Pacific.”
MOVE-3’s design meets essential wants. This innovative solution replaces traditional diesel generators with a reliable 4-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack, capable of sustaining telecom services for up to 48 hours on a single charge. The battery will be recharged using a portable solar panel or the vehicle’s alternator.
Following the devastation caused by Helene and Milton, the fleet’s capabilities demonstrated immense value, according to Arellano.
“For us, fulfilling the IEEE’s mission to advance human knowledge is what drives our dedication to this important work.”
