The Guiding Light

Only if the Titanic had been adequately equipped with rescue gear, many more people would have survived the sinking. The thing with disasters is that they are unpredictable and the only way to outsmart it is to be prepared. Life Guide is one such rescue equipment that takes advantage of technology to ensure safe rescues on a capsizing boat or ship.

Designed as a quarter-circle shaped device, it hooks onto three others, to complete a full circle. It can be used as an alternate light source and in the event of an emergency red LED light start flashing. Essentially the device can be used as a flashlight, exit guide and flotation gear. RFID signals connect each device to the nearest emergency exit. I like the scope of this gear and hopefully it inspires something as comprehensive as this.

Designer: Huang-yu Chen

Radhika Seth

Radhika Seth is a design and technology writer with over 18 years of experience covering products, innovation, and the ideas shaping design. She serves on the jury of international design competitions, including the iF Design Award, and hosts Yanko Design’s Design Mindset podcast. A former Ogilvy advertising professional, she has also taught Communication and Design Journalism, bringing together her experience across design, storytelling, brands, and media.

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