A UAV for search and rescue ABSTRACTAn unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) comprises a visual sensor capable of being remotely monitored, a transmitter capable of broadcasting a signal to be received by at least a search and rescue operator, and a drop pod containing emergency and survival supplies for the survivors' subsistence before the arrival of the main rescue party. Buoyancy means are provided by way of float, pontoon, buoyancy from sufficient fuselage displacement, or inflatable bag to enable the drop pod to float on water. Parachute is used to retard the fall. Heat sensors, water sensor, light beacon and transmitter actuated by the water sensor, or a transponder may be provided on board the drop pod to receive GPS downlink signals, determine the landing location and transmit its location coordinates to the search and rescue operator.FIGURE 1 accompanies the abstract.
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