Zweithelfer
fictional future project | October 2023 to July 2024 | with Hannah Moser, Moritz Nussbaumer, Moritz Schneidawind5–10% of deaths could be prevented if first aid were provided in a timely manner. The problem: More than half of all adults completed their last first aid course over ten years ago. Many people feel too shy or afraid to help in emergencies, leading to hesitation and inaction. This highlights a significant need for accessible assistance and confidence in emergency situations.
For our fictional future project, we began by selecting a technology and identifying a problem that could be addressed through it. After initial research, we agreed to focus on AR technology. From there, we explored different possible applications and scenarios for AR, using methods such as future wheels to broaden our perspective and develop ideas. Finally, we decided to focus on the field of first aid. To build a strong foundation for our concept, we carried out further research, conducted interviews with professionals, and tested AR glasses ourselves to better understand the technology’s potential and limitations.
research and ideation
We then set a scenario which we used as a base for our concept. In our scenario, we envision that in 5–10 years, everyone will have a first aid kit equipped with "Second Aiders" in their car. The Second Aider is a pair of AR glasses designed to guide users through step-by-step first aid instructions, making it easier and more effective to provide immediate help in emergencies.
scenario
The Zweithelfer is used after the accident site has been secured. Once the glasses are switched on, an emergency call is automatically placed, and the current location is transmitted to the appropriate hospital control center.
concept and functions
The first responder describes the incident as usual and answers the control center's questions. Afterward, the control center transfers the case to the AI assistant, which has been listening during the conversation and is thus able to determine the necessary measures to guide the responder effectively.
The first responder is then guided through first aid step by step with the help of visualizations and animations displayed on the AR glasses. Once all necessary measures have been completed, the responder is reconnected with the control center for further instructions and support until the ambulance arrives.
The AI records the actions taken during first aid to document care provided, but it deliberately avoids video recording to prevent putting pressure on responders and to discourage bystanders from becoming passive observers. The objective is to encourage more people to offer first aid by reducing anxiety and perceived scrutiny.
For our Zweithelfer, we have adapted the previous DIN-standardized first aid kit to fit our concept. Since the AI guides the first responder on which packs are needed, it is crucial to avoid any misunderstandings. To achieve this, we decided to use four distinct colors, numbered up to a maximum of 4, making it easy to identify and select the right supplies quickly. Additionally, we wanted the glasses to remain simple yet evoke the emergency vibe of safety glasses, ensuring they are intuitive and clearly linked to their life-saving purpose.
product design
In the future, the Zweithelfer could become a standard feature in every first aid kit. Looking even further ahead, we envision a scenario where everyone wears AR glasses in their daily lives. In that case, the Zweithelfer could be seamlessly integrated as a standard application within the AR glasses, with the first aid kit simply acting as an additional, expandable feature, eliminating the need for separate glasses and making the system always accessible when needed.
possible future steps
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