Accelerating the data collection process through digital forms and telemetry

The collection of field measurements is an integral part of the decision-making process following a radiological disaster. Currently, data in the field is recorded by pen and paper and either radioed into an operations center or the paper is returned to this location where it is transcribed into a database. This process can lead to transcription errors producing erroneous data, giving an incorrect picture to decision-makers. To alleviate this problem Bechtel Nevada scientists have produced digital forms on palm computers. The information collected on these forms can then be transmitted, real-time through a cellular modem or satellite, back to an operations center directly into the database. This new process avoids the problem of transcription errors in addition to getting the information back to the operations in the most rapid manner possible.

1st Joint Emergency Preparedness and Response/Robotic and Remote Systems Topical Meeting

Accelerating the data collection process through digital forms and telemetry Conference Paper