As part of its efforts to improve the use of IMSMA in the field the GICHD is currently working on a worldwide trial to evaluate the usability of handheld data-collection tools for Mine Action. The test is focused on the use of the SWEDEC developed EOD-IS Survey tool with a direct wireless data feed to IMSMA. The first training associated with this evaluation was conducted in Chile between the 15th and 26th of March 2004. The results of this field test will provide an information basis for the future planning and development of handheld-based applications.
The first week of training took place at the central command of engineers of the Chilean Armed Forces located in Santiago de Chile. The training combined classroom practice with practical exercises in a nearby park, where virtual minefields were mapped (see photo above). The training data collected was then synchronized with a test IMSMA system. The second week of training was conducted in the city of Arrica, which is located on the border between Chile and Peru. Using the skills developed during the first week the trainees performed a series of technical surveys to map and record live minefields located in the border area directly into the existing IMSMA database in use in Chile.
The event was organized by the RSC Latin America and the National Demining Commission of Chile (CNAD). Training for the Chilean Armed Forces was provided by SWEDEC and the GICHD Regional Support Coordinator for Latin America. The test will be monitored and independently evaluated by a team from the University of Kansas working under the direction of the GICHD.
Over the next twelve months, the Humanitarian Demining units of the Chilean Armed Forces, will use the EOD-IS Survey tool to digitally collect minefield information while conducting technical surveys. During the trial the survey units will also collect additional information about the usability, strengths and weaknesses of the survey tool. As is the standard practice of the GICHD, no minefield related information collected during the conduct of the test will be used in the study or released without the permission of the government of Chile.
The EOD-IS Survey tool was developed by SWEDEC, and is composed of a Handheld Computer, Laser Range Finding Binoculars, a digital camera and a GPS. All communication between the different devices is performed using the Bluetooth specification a wireless communication protocol.
Users enter data directly into the handheld computer using a simple menu system to complete IMSMA compatible data collection sheets. Benchmark, landmark and other positioning and perimeter information is captured automatically by the GPS and Laser Range Finding Binoculars or may be entered manually. Use of the binoculars allows users to stand-off from the suspected hazard and still capture precise positioning data. All of the data collected with the handheld EOD-IS Survey unit is directly imported into IMSMA, using maXML, the extensible mark-up language data transfer standard for mine action, developed by the GICHD.
