AED Hunter: Gamified AED Retrieval Training System

Overview

AED Hunter is a gamified location-based mobile application that investigates and enhances Automated External Defibrillator (AED) retrieval in real-world settings. Public awareness of AED locations is crucial for prompt retrieval in cardiac emergencies, yet most bystanders lack familiarity with nearby AED placements.

Approach

• Gamified mobile interaction: Turning AED retrieval into an engaging adventure to encourage repeated user participation
• Simulation-based investigation: Simulating AED retrieval in real-world pedestrian networks under various scenarios to identify key elements for improving retrieval efficiency
• Semi-supervised classification: Detecting mobile device usage patterns during AED retrieval tasks to understand user behavior

Results

• Through repeated interactions, user confidence and willingness to locate AEDs significantly improved
• Simulation analysis confirmed the viability of the gamification framework and identified crucial aspects for efficient AED retrieval
• Key elements such as location awareness and familiarity with pedestrian networks were shown to affect retrieval efficiency

Significance

AED Hunter demonstrates that gamified mobile applications can effectively improve public awareness of AED locations, potentially reducing retrieval time during cardiac emergencies and contributing to better survival outcomes.