Patent Publication Number: US-10317257-B1

Title: System for situational awareness and method implementing the same

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 13/621,403 filed on Sep. 17, 2012, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/011,749 filed on Jan. 28, 2008 now U.S. Pat. No. 8,271,234 entitled “System for Situational Awareness and Method Implementing the Same” and incorporates all by reference herein. The present application also claims priority and incorporates by reference the subject matter in its entirety of provisional application No. 60/897,593 filed on Jan. 26, 2007. 
    
    
     This invention was made with Government support under W56HZV-07-C-0072 awarded by the United States Army. The Government may have certain rights in this invention. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Technical Field 
     The present invention relates to detection systems and, more particularly, to detection of hazardous materials and situations. 
     Background Art 
     Hazardous material response teams are equipped with Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive (CBRNE) sensors from a variety of vendors. While some of these sensors are cutting-edge, others have been around for decades, originally designed for mounting on tanks on the battlefield. The sensors are usually bulky, have poor or limited connectivity capabilities, and have difficult to read output displays. 
     Typically, each sensor has a proprietary interface with unique settings and alarm levels, and most require the user to visually check the sensor reading on a periodic basis to build a mental model of any trends observed. The workload associated with managing these devices can quickly distract the response team from other critical aspects of the mission, resulting in increased exposure to dangers and decreased effectiveness. 
     Additionally, each sensor type may have its own communications mechanism, which increases complexity, cost, power consumption, etc. It also introduces more custom interfaces that must be monitored in the command post, which makes it that much more difficult to plan, train, and deploy in response to CBRNE threats. Because each sensor vendor has a proprietary and closed solution, it is not easy to aggregate multiple sensors into a cohesive system. 
     Most sensors do not have network connectivity, and may only have local connectivity such as RS-232, IR-DA, or even a line-level output (high/low). Another device must interpret the sensor readings and provide this information to the rest of the network. Often the message specification for communicating with a sensor is proprietary or limited in functionality, making it difficult to fully configure and monitor the sensor. 
     All of these issues make it difficult to design, deploy, or use sensors. This limits the widespread adoption—especially in situations where they are needed most, such as responding to actual CBRNE threats and protecting public events. Thus, there is a need for better detection and monitoring systems. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     According to the present invention, a system for implementing situational awareness includes a plurality of data gathering devices for observing the physical environment and transforming observations of physical phenomena into digital information; a plurality of field monitoring units with each of the plurality of units communicating with a corresponding plurality of data gathering devices to obtain data therefrom; and an aggregate monitoring unit communicating with each of the plurality of field monitoring units to monitor and control each of the plurality of field monitoring units and collect and store data from the plurality of data gathering devices. 
     These and other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent in light of the detailed description on the best mode embodiment thereof, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a schematic representation of a situational awareness system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a schematic representation of a field monitoring unit of the situational awareness system of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a schematic representation of a chain of custody subsystem in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 4  is a schematic representation of a chain of custody subsystem in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 5  is a screenshot depicting mapping and situational awareness as seen on a field monitoring unit of the situational awareness system of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 6  is a screenshot of a sensor view on a field monitoring unit of the situational awareness system of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 7  is a screenshot of a map mark-up module as seen on a field monitoring unit of the situational awareness system of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 8  is a screenshot of a photo module as seen on a field monitoring unit of the situational awareness system of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 9  is a screenshot of a task module as seen on a field monitoring unit of the situational awareness system of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 10  is a screenshot of a chat module as seen on a field monitoring unit of the situational awareness system of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 11  is a schematic representation of an aggregate monitoring unit of the situational awareness system of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 12  is a screenshot depicting mapping and situational awareness as seen on an aggregate monitoring unit of the situational awareness system of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 13  is a screenshot of a task management module as seen on an aggregate monitoring unit of the situational awareness system of  FIG. 1 ; and 
         FIG. 14  is a screenshot of a chat module as seen on an aggregate monitoring unit of the situational awareness system of  FIG. 1 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , a system  10  for implementing sensor reading situational awareness comprises a plurality of data gathering devices  12  for observing elements of the physical environment and transforming these physical observations into digital information for a plurality of field monitoring units  14  that receive information from and maintain communication with the data gathering devices  12 . The system  10  further comprises an aggregate monitoring unit  16  for monitoring, controlling, and communicating with the plurality of field monitoring units  14 . The aggregate monitoring unit  16  is also in communication with an information repository  18 . The system  10  also includes a configuration management server  20  in communication with the plurality of field monitoring units  14  and with a configuration repository  22 . In one embodiment of the present invention, the configuration management server  20  of the system  10  is in communication with a software development station  24 . The system  10  further includes a web browser interface  26 , providing ubiquitous, secure access to both the configuration management server  20  and the aggregate monitoring unit  16 . 
     The plurality of data gathering devices  12  may include a variety of different sensors in a multitude of configurations. Each field monitoring unit  14  is in communication with a set  28  of data gathering devices  12 . Each set  28  of data gathering devices  12  may include one or more sensors  12 . Each set  28  within the system  10  may be different from any other set and, thus, may include a unique configuration of sensors  12 . Alternatively, all field monitoring units  14  may communicate with an identical such set  28  of data gathering devices  12 . Various implementations of the system  10  may require different sets  28  of sensors  12 . 
     The data gathering devices  12  may include, but are not limited to, various types of sensors, such as global positioning system (GPS) sensors, hazardous material sensors, biometrics sensors, environmental sensors, diagnostic sensors, and/or media collection sensors. The GPS type sensors provide positioning information associated with each field monitoring unit  14 . The hazardous material sensors may include, but are not limited to, sensors detecting presence of hazardous material, for example, chemical gases, biological vectors, radiological emissions, nuclear materials, and/or explosive conditions. Biometrics sensors may include, but are not limited to, monitors of heart rate, breathing rate, body temperature, blood oximetry, hydration levels, blood glucose levels, and/or body movement such as the personal alert safety system (PASS). The environmental conditions that may be monitored include, but are not limited to, temperature, pressure, wind speed, humidity, and/or precipitation sensors. 
     The data gathering sensors  12  are either physically attached to the field monitoring unit  14  or can be in either long range or short-range wireless communication therewith. In an embodiment in which the data gathering devices  12  are physically attached to the field monitoring units  14 , they are co-located. However, in an embodiment with the data gathering devices  12  being in short range communication with the field monitoring unit, the sensors  12  can be placed in various positions in proximity to the field monitoring unit  14 , which can then aggregate and forward sensor data. In an embodiment in which the sensors  12  support long range communications, the sensors  12  can be placed anyplace and communicate either with the field monitoring units  14 , directly with the aggregate monitoring unit  16  or with both, the field monitoring unit  14  and the aggregate monitoring unit  16 . These sensors  12  would include a clock mechanism for time stamping their readings, a long range communications capability, and, in one embodiment an embedded GPS. However, if, in another embodiment, the sensor  12  is intended for stationary placement, the sensor  12  can be pre-programmed with a target location in advance of placement at that location. 
     Each field monitoring unit  14  receives data and information from a corresponding set  28  of data gathering devices  12 , either wirelessly or through a wired connection. Each field monitoring unit  14  has the capability to communicate with the other field monitoring units  14  and the aggregate monitoring unit  16 . Each of the field monitoring units has a feature allowing it to broadcast data it obtains from its corresponding set  28  of data gathering devices  12  to other field monitoring units  14  and the aggregate monitoring unit  16 . Thus, in the preferred embodiment, each field monitoring unit  14  and the aggregate monitoring unit  16  can view data from each and every field monitoring unit  14  and, consequently, from each data gathering device  12 . Thus, each field monitoring unit  14  has the capability to support global situational awareness and real time observation from other field monitoring units  14 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 2 , the field monitoring unit  14 , depending on a particular configuration, may include, but is not limited to, any combination of the following modules: situational awareness module  31 , chat messaging module  32 , feature management module  33 , message handler module  34 , RFID sensor module  35 , data encryption modules  36 , audio capture module  37 , bar code scanner module  38 , diagnostic sensor modules  39 , video streaming module  40 , photo capture module  41 , SCBA tank sensor module  42 , task management module  43 , battery monitor module  44 , radiation sensor module  45 , unit mapping module  46 , positioning module  47 , environmental sensor modules  48 , voice over IP module  49 , network connection monitor module  50 , chemical sensor modules  51 , sample collection module  52 , heartbeat module  53 , biometric sensor modules  54 , map mack up module  55 , clock monitor module  56 , and/or biological sensor modules  57 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , each field monitoring unit  14 ,  114  is typically a small, portable, embedded single board computing platform with primary function to support the connection of more than one sensor  12  and synthesize the data reported by the sensors and transform it into usable information. Each field monitor unit  14 ,  114  will preferably include a screen  60  to display information and data as shown in  FIGS. 5-10 . The field monitoring unit  14 ,  114  will also preferably include a set of preset buttons  62  and either a hardware or software keyboard  64 . As shown in  FIG. 3 , the field monitoring unit  14 ,  114  can be hand held or adapted for attachment or mounting on a vehicle, such as a motorized cart or a tank, or any other platform. Alternatively, as shown in  FIG. 4 , the field monitoring unit  114  can be worn on a wrist. However, the field monitoring unit  14 ,  114  can be placed on, imbedded in or constructed to take any other form or shape. 
     Referring back to  FIG. 1 , the aggregate monitoring unit  16  aggregates and monitors data received from all of the field monitoring units  14  and, consequently, from all of the data gathering devices  12 . The aggregate monitoring unit  16  collects and logs all sensor  12  readings that are collected, and subsequently broadcast, by the field monitoring unit  14  into the information repository  18 . In the preferred embodiment, all sensor readings are tagged with time and location to enable post mission reporting and analysis, which can be reviewed for time critical and/or geographical perspective. Similarly, field monitoring units&#39;  14  text messages are also collected, logged, reported, and reviewed as necessary. 
     The aggregate monitoring unit  16  can send messages to each of the field monitoring units  14 . Messages can be sent to all units  14  simultaneously or point to point between specific units. 
     Referring to  FIG. 11 , the aggregate monitoring unit  16 , depending on a particular configuration, may include, but is not limited to, any combination of the following modules: situational awareness module  131 , chat messaging module  132 , message handler module  134 , data encryption modules  136 , audio playback module  137 , sensor graphing modules  139 , video streaming module  140 , photo capture module  141 , task management module  143 , unit mapping module  146 , positioning module  147 , voice over IP module  149 , network connection monitor module  150 , sample collection module  152 , heartbeat module  153 , map mark up module  155 , clock monitor module  156 , information repository interface module  158 , report generator module  159  and/or simulation module  160 . 
     The information repository  18  is a data storage system that houses all collected data. The data is retrievable and cross referencable for analysis and reporting. The information repository  18  can reside on the same device as the aggregate monitoring unit  16  or on any other computer that is network accessible to the aggregate monitoring unit  16 . 
     The web browser interface  26  provides a mechanism for users to observe the global situation, position, readings, collected data, reports, and analytical results from the aggregate monitoring unit  16 . In the preferred embodiment, the web browser interface  26  runs on the aggregate monitoring unit  16  but can be viewed from any authorized computer connected remotely. The main functions typically utilized through this interface to the aggregate monitor  16  include, but are not limited to, monitoring real time sensor status and positioning of field monitoring units  14  displayed on a map, as shown in  FIG. 12 , reviewing historical charts and graphs of sensor readings as they vary over time and space, reviewing task management progress and status, as shown in  FIG. 13 , viewing digital media (photos, video, and audio clips) collected by the field monitoring units  14 , as shown in  FIGS. 5-10 , checking on the operational status and configuration of the field monitoring unit  14  and any connected sensors  12 , and/or communicating with the field monitoring unit(s)  14 , as shown in  FIG. 14 . 
     The configuration management server  20  is accessible by the system administrator through the web interface  26 . Using the web interface  26 , the system administrator can prescribe a base system configuration of software modules for field monitoring units  14  in accordance with either a variety of application profiles or tailored for a specific field monitoring unit  14 . When the field monitoring unit then comes online, the field monitoring unit identifies itself to the configuration management server  20  across the network, which then queries the configuration repository  22  to determine if the calling field monitoring unit has been correctly configured for field deployment. If a discrepancy is detected by the configuration management server  20 , the configuration management server  20  then retrieves the correct software modules from the configuration repository  22  and pushes these software modules down to the field monitoring unit  14  for installation. The field monitoring unit  14  then loads these correct modules and informs the configuration server  20  of success or failure. 
     The configuration management server  20  also facilitates the automatic configuration and loading of software modules onto the field monitoring units  14 . When a known sensor  12  is connected to the field monitoring unit  14 , the field monitoring unit checks its local software library to find the supporting software module. If the necessary module is not available locally, the field monitoring unit  14  contacts the configuration management server  20 , registers that the new sensor is connected and requests the necessary software to communicate and control the sensor  12 . The necessary software is then transmitted over the network, preferably wirelessly, to the field monitoring unit  14 , which then automatically loads and starts the software and sends a confirmation back to the configuration server that the requested software is now installed and operational. 
     Software engineers, building or maintaining software modules on one or more software development workstations  24  connect to the configuration management server  20  and deliver new and updated software modules than can then be provisioned to the field monitoring units  14 . When field monitoring units  14  request software modules that do not exist, an automatically generated report is filed by the configuration management unit  20  and inserted into the software development workstation&#39;s  24  work queue as a problem report. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , in one embodiment of the present invention, the system  10  includes a chain of custody subsystem  70  for providing a chain of custody timeline of possession and transferal of collected hazardous materials or other legally important items in the field. At least one sample container  72  would be available to a carrier of the field monitoring unit  14 ,  114 . Additionally, either radio frequency identification (RFID) tags or barcode labels  74  would be also provided for attachment to the sample collection container  72 . The field monitoring unit  14  would optionally include a scanner  76  for reading either radio frequency identification (RFID) tags or barcode labels, as shown in  FIG. 3 . Alternatively, as shown in  FIG. 4 , a standalone scanner  78  for reading either radio frequency identification (RFID) tags or barcode labels  74  would be provided. 
     The RFID tags or barcode labels  74  are placed on sample collection containers  72 , scanned and associated with a particular sample collected. The information is logged with the aggregate monitoring unit  16  into the information repository and provides a chain of custody timeline. Thus, identifying information such as radio frequency identification (RFID) tags or barcode labels  74  will be used for sample collection tasks and can be associated with a specific task, allowing the aggregate monitoring units&#39; observers to trace the chain of custody of sample collections to support legal requirements. 
     In operation, one or more sensors, or data gathering devices  12 , are connected to one or more field monitoring units  14  through either a direct-wired connection or a wireless connection, as shown in  FIG. 1 . When the device  12  is connected to the field monitoring unit  14 , the field monitoring unit  14  ‘discovers’ the device  12  and automatically loads the necessary software component module to begin interacting with the device. This may include configuring the device, running device diagnostics, level setting or calibrating the device, and ultimately listening to the device for readings. In the event that the field monitoring unit  14  to which the device  12  is connected does not have access to the necessary supporting software module, the field monitoring unit  14  will access the configuration management server  20  across the network and request the corresponding software support. 
     Each field monitoring unit  14  is connected to at least two logical sensors, for example, a chemical threat sensor and a global positioning unit (GPS). In such exemplary arrangements, all chemical threat data can be tagged with location and time stamps so that its temporal and spatial significance can be considered. In an embodiment where multiple sensors  12  in a set  28  are connected to the field monitoring unit  14 , as shown in  FIG. 6 , more complex synthesized relationships can be derived. For instance, a gas sensor detecting increasing carbon monoxide (CO) in conjunction with weather sensors indicating still air conditions at a location would provide early warning to imminent threat from an accumulation of CO. If a biometric sensor was also connected and indicated lowered blood oxygen levels in the wearer of the field monitoring unit  14 , it could be deduced that the person was in danger of being overcome. Such data can be synthesized and a local warning can be communicated to the field monitoring unit  14  to which the sensors are connected. 
     Beyond the immediate local information, the field monitoring units  14  also can provide global situational awareness. All field monitoring units  14  broadcast their synthesized sensor data in a multiplexed, peer-to-peer mode of operation. Each field monitoring unit  14  is made aware of the sensor  12  status of all other field monitoring units  14  on the network. As the information is tagged with location and time stamp information, it is possible to plot the sensor readings overlaid on map images to provide all operators or observers with the overall picture, as seen in  FIGS. 5, 7 and 12 . Each field monitoring unit  14  is shown on the map by an indicator, as seen in  FIG. 5 . The information is continuously broadcast over the available communications channels (WiFi, WiMax, EDGE, GPRS, etc.). With the field monitoring unit  14  indicators positioned on the map, the operator of each of the field monitoring units  14  can select an indicator for any other field monitoring unit  14  and immediately drill down to see the actual sensor reading values for any and all of the selected field monitoring unit&#39;s  14  connected sensors. Such functionality enables remote operators and managers to obtain detailed position and time tagged sensor readings without the need to communicate verbally over radio links. 
     The aggregate monitoring unit  16  would listen to the broadcast sensor  12  information through the field monitoring units  14  and would not only collect and display current situational readings from all field monitoring units  14  on the network, but would also log all these readings to the database repository  18 . The information would also be displayed in real time as trend analysis, showing readings over time for each reporting field monitoring unit  14  and for the whole aggregate system. Additionally, the stored information would be available for after action reporting and analysis. 
     Various combination of modules  31 - 57 ,  131 - 160  may reside on field monitoring unit  14 , the aggregate monitoring unit  16 , or both, as shown in  FIGS. 2 and 11 . The message handler module  34 ,  134  receives messages from other field monitoring units  14  and the aggregate monitoring unit  16 . First, the message handler module provides a filtering mechanism to determine whether the message received is one that the field monitoring unit on which the message handler is running has an interest in processing the message. The message handler module makes this decision by reading the message header and cross checking against the registry of modules that have registered with the message handler module for messages of the type specified in the message header. If the message is not of interest to the hosting field monitoring unit, the message is discarded. If another software module has registered an interest in receiving the message, the message is forwarded by the message handler to one or more registered modules. 
     The situational awareness module  31 ,  131  registers with the message handler for situational awareness messages. These messages contain real time information about the location and status of other field monitoring units and their attached sensor sets. The situational awareness module processes the messages and delegates the presentation of field monitoring unit status to the unit mapping module, which marks a map on the display with an icon indicating the location and status of each reporting field monitoring unit, as seen in  FIGS. 5, 7 and 12 . 
     The unit mapping module  46 , 146  supports a variety of viewing capabilities, such as zooming and pan and scan. The mapping of the field monitoring units can be overlaid on drawn maps or photographs that are tagged with GPS coordinates, as seen in  FIGS. 5, 7 and 12 . One embodiment uses maps and aerial photography available from GoogleMaps (a registered trademark of Google, Inc.). In another embodiment, Topologically Integrated Geographic Encoding and Referencing (TIGER) data is available from the US Census Bureau. However, other means and engines for obtaining such information are within the scope of the present invention. For areas in which map data is not available, it is also possible to use digitally scanned images or simple hand drawn maps that have been tagged with GPS coordinates in the corners. 
     The map markup module  55 ,  155  allows the placement of markers, or waypoints, on the map of a single field monitoring unit or the aggregate monitoring unit, which are then broadcast to all other field monitoring units and the aggregate monitoring unit, as seen in  FIGS. 5, 7 and 12 . In one embodiment, these markers may be simple ‘x’ waypoint markers with attached labels. In more complex embodiments, the map markup may be more complex overlays akin to the telestrator used in many sports broadcasts. These markers are encoded in messages and shared with all interested field monitoring units and the aggregate monitoring unit, which can simultaneously display the same markups on each of their mapping displays. 
     The chat messaging module  32 ,  132  facilitates the capture, transmission, and display of text messages between field monitoring units. The user interface for this module presents a preconfigured set of messages that can be sent at the press of a button, for example, preset buttons  62 , as shown in  FIGS. 3 and 4  or on the screen. Alternatively, custom messages can be constructed using the field monitoring unit&#39;s or the aggregate monitoring unit&#39;s keyboard  64 , or a software keyboard  64 , if the field monitoring unit does not have a keyboard available, as shown in  FIGS. 3 and 4 . The chat messaging module receives chat messages forwarded by the message handler module and presents them in a rolling chat log on the screen, as seen in  FIGS. 10 and 14 . 
     The audio capture module  37 , 137  uses a microphone on the field monitoring unit to capture and stream audio data in digital form to other field monitoring unit&#39;s or the aggregate monitoring unit. Audio streams can also be stored locally on the field monitoring unit for later transmission. On the aggregate monitoring unit, the audio module can playback available audio streams received from the field monitoring units. 
     The photo capture module  41 ,  141 , in one embodiment, uses a camera embedded in the field monitoring unit to capture a digital photograph. In another embodiment, it relies on a wireless camera that is paired with the field monitoring unit and wirelessly dumps all photographs onto the field monitoring unit for processing. Photographs can be automatically transmitted from the field monitoring unit to the aggregate monitoring unit or another field monitoring unit. The photo capture module also provides a user interface on the field monitoring unit that displays the photo for review that requires user intervention to perform quality review of the photo before transmitting it to the aggregate monitoring unit or another field monitoring unit. 
     The video streaming module  40 ,  140 , in one embodiment, uses the video cameras embedded in the field monitoring unit to capture a video stream, as shown in  FIG. 8 , display the video stream locally on the host field monitoring unit and forward the video stream to another field monitoring unit and/or to the aggregate monitoring unit. In another embodiment, the video streaming module displays the video stream on the field monitoring unit alone or receives a video stream from another field monitoring unit. The video streaming module may also run on the aggregate monitoring unit. 
     The task management module  43  of the field monitoring unit  14  receives task assignments from the aggregate monitoring unit, as shown in  FIGS. 9 and 13 . The task management module also displays these tasks, assigned from the aggregate monitoring unit to the field monitoring unit. Each task or subtask is presented with a completion indicator that can be selected when the task is completed. On selection, a task completion message is generated that indicates completion of the task at a specific time and place. Additional information, such as digital photographs, barcode or RFID tag identifications can be added as digital information to the task completion message prior to transmission back to the aggregate monitoring unit. 
     The aggregate monitoring unit  16  employs a richer task management and definition module  143  that assigns one or more tasks to the operator of each field monitor unit  14 . Task organization is hierarchically defined, allowing tasks to have subtasks up to the depth desired by the task creator. The task management module allows real time monitoring of progress of completion of each task through communication between the aggregate monitoring unit  16  and the field monitoring unit  14 . Task completion is reported to the aggregate monitoring unit  16  in real time with time stamp and location tags. This task monitoring information is also stored in the information repository  18 . Sample collection identifiers, media or sensor readings including video or digital photographs can be associated with completed tasks and stored together by operators of the field monitoring units. 
     The voice over IP module  49 ,  149  provides a transport for voice communications between the field monitoring units and aggregate monitoring unit without the use of radios. Voice conversations may be held in conference call mode heard by the aggregate monitoring unit and all field monitoring units on the network, or it may be restricted to a point to point conversation between any two field monitoring units or a field monitoring unit and the aggregate monitoring unit. 
     The RFID sensor module  35  supports the command, control, and communication necessary for the field monitoring unit to operate in collaboration with an RFID reader  76 ,  78 , as shown in  FIGS. 3 and 4 . The RFID reader detects RFID tag  74  identity information on material goods and hands that information off to the field monitoring unit for use in logistics management and tracking of hazardous or other materials. RFID tags may also be used for tagging and identifying sample collection containers  72 . The tag read is combined with the time and location and transmitted as message alone or as part of a task completion message. The RFID module may also be used to write data to RFID tags in the field. 
     The bar code scanner module  38  supports the command, control, and communication necessary for the field monitoring unit to operate in collaboration with a bar code scanner  76 ,  78 . The bar code scanner reads bar code  74  (or universal identifier, UID) identity information on material goods and hands that information off to the field monitoring unit for use in logistics management and tracking of hazardous or other materials. Bar codes or UID&#39;s may also be used for tagging and identifying sample collection containers  72 . The bar code or UID is combined with the time and location and transmitted as a message alone or as part of a task completion message. 
     The sample collection module  52 ,  152  coordinates the capabilities of the task management module and either the RFID or bar code scanner modules to provide the necessary logging and tracking of collected samples to be in compliance with regulatory and legal requirements for tracing the chain of custody for hazardous or regulated materials and substances, including chemical, radiological, and biological items. 
     The battery monitor module  44  periodically checks the status of the field monitoring unit&#39;s battery, providing feedback to the field monitoring unit operator of low levels. Battery power level status is also reported to the aggregate monitoring unit through messages sent back when critical thresholds are encountered. 
     The positioning module  47 ,  147  monitors a positioning sensor to obtain the field monitoring unit&#39;s location to be used in tagging messages that will be broadcast to other field monitoring units or the aggregate monitoring unit. In one embodiment, the positioning sensor is a GPS unit. In other embodiments, the position sensor is an inertial guidance system, a pedometer, a network positioning system that uses triangulation between network nodes, or other more advanced positioning systems. 
     The clock monitor module  56 ,  156  obtains time information from an onboard clock in the field monitoring unit in one embodiment. In another embodiment, the clock monitor module obtains the time from the GPS unit. 
     The network connection monitor module  50 ,  150  monitors signal strength of the wireless network connection, available bandwidth over the connection, and the identity of the network nodes to which the field monitoring unit has been connected. The network connection monitor module, when able to connect to many networks with varying characteristics, uses assigned algorithms for selecting the best available network connection option for mission data transmission and power management requirements. 
     The heartbeat module  53 ,  153  monitors the outgoing messages from the field monitoring unit. In the event that no outgoing messages are being generated for a defined period of time, the heartbeat module will generate a simple message to inform the other field monitoring units and the aggregate monitoring unit that the host field monitoring unit is still in operation. The heartbeat message provides time and location information. 
     The data encryption modules  36 ,  136  provide support for securely encoding and decoding messages that flow to and from the field monitoring unit. The simplest data encryption module is for “clear text”, which performs no transformation of the message to be transmitted. In the preferred embodiment, the field monitoring unit will include one or more FIPS  140  data encryption modules. 
     The diagnostic sensor modules  39 ,  139  are a collection of modules that enable the field monitoring unit to command, control and communicate with an arbitrary array of diagnostics sensors  12  that may be embedded in the field monitoring unit or attached to it. The sensors that may be monitored include, but are not limited to, such phenomena as impact, acceleration, vibration, and/or operating temperature. 
     The SCBA tank sensor modules  42  are a collection of modules that enable the field monitoring unit to command, control and communicate with self contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) sensors that may be connected to the field monitoring unit over a wired or short range wireless personal area network. The SCBA sensor typically provides monitoring of ambient temperature, tank pressure, rig voltage, and personal alert safety system (PASS). 
     The biometric sensor modules  54  are a collection of modules that enable the field monitoring unit to command, control and communicate with an arbitrary array of biometric sensors that may be connected to the field monitoring unit over a wired or short range wireless personal area network. The sensors that may be monitored include, but are not limited to, body temperature, blood oxygen level, pulse, hydration, and/or breathing rate. 
     The environmental sensor modules  48  are a collection of modules that enable the field monitoring unit to command, control and communicate with an arbitrary array of environmental sensors that may be connected to the field monitoring unit over a wired or short range wireless personal area network. The sensors that may be monitored include, but are not limited to, ambient temperature (wet bulb and dry bulb), air flow or wind speed, humidity, barometric pressure, and/or solar radiation. 
     The biological threat sensor modules  57  are a collection of modules that enable the field monitoring unit to command, control and communicate with an arbitrary array of biological threat detection sensors that may be embedded in the field monitoring unit or attached to it. 
     The chemical threat sensor modules  51  are a collection of modules that enable the field monitoring unit to command, control and communicate with an arbitrary array of chemical threat detection sensors that may be embedded in the field monitoring unit or attached to it. The sensors that may be monitored include, but are not limited to, hydrogen cyanide, carbon monoxide, chlorine, lower explosive limits, oxygen levels, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, ammonia, volatile organic compounds (VOC), hydrogen sulfide, nitric oxide, and/or phosphine. 
     The radiological threat sensor modules  45  are a collection of modules that enable the field monitoring unit to command, control and communicate with an arbitrary array of biological threat detection sensors that may be embedded in the field monitoring unit or attached to it. The sensors that may be monitored include, but are not limited to, alpha, beta, gamma, and/or x-ray emission detection sensors. 
     The feature management module  33  is a bootstrapping module that exists at startup of the field monitoring unit to manage the loading of all other modules, including ensuring that their prerequisite modules are loaded successfully. The feature management module also manages all interactions and communications with the configuration management server on behalf of the field monitoring unit. 
     The information repository interface module  158  provides a means for the aggregate monitoring unit  16  to store and retrieve information from the information repository  18 . 
     The report generation module  159  utilizes the functions available from the repository interface module  158  to retrieve information from the information repository  18  to assemble standard and custom reports for administrative purposes. These reports may be assembled and generated in printable format, or made available for online review using the web browser interface  26 . 
     The simulation module  160  utilizes the information repository interface module  158  and elements of the report generation module  159  to playback selected information previously gathered during real operations that can be used for simulation, testing, and training. The simulation module  160  is capable of broadcasting the information so that it appears that it is being generated and broadcast by the aggregate monitoring unit  16  or any number of field monitoring units  14 . 
     Although various devices would be suitable for use as field monitoring units  14  in system  10 , the Catcher 1.0, 1.1, or 2.0 devices manufactured by Catcher Inc. of 44084 Riverside Parkway, Leesburg, Va. is one example of a suitable field monitoring unit  14  in system  10 . Another device suitable for use as a field monitoring unit is Arcom Zypad WL10xx Commercial or Zypad WR11xx Ruggedized wrist mountable computer, manufactured by Eurotec and distributed by Arcom Control Systems, Inc. of 7500 West 161st Street, Overland Park, Kans. 
     Although various devices would be suitable for use as an aggregate monitoring unit  16  in system  10 , Itronix GoBook Notebooks or Tablet Computers (several models) manufactured by General Dynamics Itronix Corporation of 12825 East Mirabeau Parkway Spokane Valley, Wash. are examples that would be suitable for use as an aggregate monitoring unit  16  in system  10 . Another device suitable for use as an aggregate monitoring unit is Panasonic ToughBooks (several models) manufactured by Panasonic Corporation of North America of One Panasonic Way, Secaucus, N.J. 
     Although numerous devices would be suitable for use as chemical sensors in system  10 , a MultiRAE Plus device manufactured by RAE Systems of 3775 North First Street, San Jose, Calif. is one example of a suitable chemical sensor for use in system  10 . 
     Although numerous devices would be suitable for use as SCBA sensors in system  10 , the AirBoss Sentinel device manufactured by Draeger Safety Inc. of 101 Technology Drive, Pittsburgh, Pa. is one example of a suitable SCBA monitor for use in system  10 . 
     Although various network infrastructures would be suitable for use as a wireless network infrastructure in system  10 , Rajant Breadcrumb Mesh Network (comprised of various combinations of their ME, SE, and LE devices) that is available from Rajant Corporation of 400 E. King Street, Malvern, Pa. is one example of a suitable network infrastructure for use in system  10 . Another suitable network infrastructure is available from Vivato Directed Network, acquired by Catcher Catcher Inc. of 44084 Riverside Parkway, Leesburg, Va. 
     The field monitoring units  14  can be deployed in numerous settings. For example, although not limited to such examples, the field monitoring units  14  can be affixed to a sensor or collection of sensors and deployed to fixed locations, either openly or concealed, mounted to ground, air, and sea vehicles and connected to the vehicle bus and diagnostic systems, strapped to field operators as wrist, forearm, vest, pack or helmet mounted units, or carried by hand or in a pouch or pocket. 
     The field monitoring unit and the aggregate monitoring unit contain one or more off board communications capabilities, depending on mission and configuration needs. The unit could be capable of communicating with other units through any number of currently and future available networks, including but not limited to:
         802.11x WiFi and mesh networking;   802.15.4 Zigbee mesh networking;   802.16 WiMax broadband wireless networking;   GSM/GPRS wireless broadband low-bandwidth networking;   EDGE/3G broadband high bandwidth wireless networking;   Public safety radio networking;   Force Battle Command Brigade and Below (FBCB2); or other   military radio networks (e.g., MCS, ASAS, AFATDS, AMDWS, CSSCS).       

     One main advantage of system  10  is to provide real time global situational awareness of all sensor readings and unit status to all field monitoring units. 
     Another important advantage is that the system  10  of the present invention relieves the soldier or first responder deployed with the field monitoring unit of the burden of juggling many individual sensors, reading each sensor&#39;s unique display, and radioing back the readings to an incident commander. The incident commander can automatically view any and all data from the field monitoring units  14  on the aggregate monitoring unit  16 . 
     Another advantage of the system is that it provides soldiers and first responders with multiple means of inter-unit communication in a single device, whether via voice over IP, chat messaging, streaming video, or simply observation of temporal position and sensor readings. 
     Another advantage of this system is to combine many sensor inputs, such as position, chemical levels, photographs, with operational task assignments to provide context for the information collected. 
     Another advantage of the system is to warehouse all collected mission data, such as positions, times, hazardous material sensor readings, task step completions, and inter-unit communications for later review for necessary safety, legal, and operational assessments. 
     A further advantage of the system is the ability to monitor soldier or first responder stress levels through the biometric sensors in concert with the readings of environmental and hazardous materials sensor readings to gauge the soldier or first responder&#39;s critical health situation and relieve him/her before being overcome. 
     Another advantage of the system is that the field monitoring unit facilitates faster, more informed distributed decision making, as field units are fully aware of one another and do not encounter the information lag that would normally occur if all information is routed through an incident command hub as a bottleneck. 
     A further advantage of the system is that it provides remote management and deployment of software to the field monitoring units on an as-needed basis, allowing real time reconfiguration of the field monitoring units based on which sensors are actually connected. 
     Another advantage of the system is that the system  10  is modular and can be deployed in a configuration required for a particular need. For example, the system  10  may include either some or all functionality (i.e. sensors  12 , modules) described above. Thus, only some modules and/or sensors can be included, depending on the application and implementation. 
     A further advantage is that a subsystem of system  10  can be deployed to implement chain of custody logging in support of future prosecution within the legal system. 
     Although this invention has been shown and described with respect to the detailed embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail thereof may be made without departing from the spirit and the scope of the invention.