WAFE (Safe Wave) is a device that improves the safety of surfers by making them able to communicate with surf buddies or even strangers in a distance range of around 1-2 miles. In this way, accidents might be prevented since it is easier to ask for advice or assistance when someone requires help. For example, think of getting stuck in a rip current or not getting out of fast sets of high waves.
The device is made out of two electronic devices, both (partly and completely) solar-powered, where one is attached to the surfer by a vest, and the smaller component is clicked on the surfboard with a specially designed patch. Besides the communication function, the two parts are connected and measure the distance between the surfer and the board. This connection should improve the survival chances of the surfer in emergencies.
The extra surfboard component creates a connection between you and the board, measuring your distance and sending out an alarm when necessary.
If the surfer is underwater or the board upside down, which both could be a result of the user being unconscious, the connection will be broken. The main device sends an emergency notification to Search And Rescue services. In case of a false positive, this notification can be turned off again very quickly on the main device within a certain number of seconds.
