EMU Systems Heat Stress Management System

Climate change is intensifying heat stress worldwide, with projected economic losses exceeding $2.3 trillion annually by 2030. EMU Systems addresses this urgent challenge with a practical, design-driven solution that helps people stay safe and productive in rising temperatures. Originally developed for elite tennis players, EMU set out to reduce heat-related health risks, keep play possible when safe, and provide a clear, data-backed way to measure and manage heat exposure. This innovative technology can empower workers, athletes, and communities across sectors—offering real-time insights, predictive analytics, and actionable guidance to navigate extreme heat with confidence and care.

EMU was designed to be a portable, weather-station-grade system capable of accurately measuring air temperature and key environmental factors in full sun—a significant technical challenge in a compact form. It combines environmental and physiological data to assess heat stress risk in real time. The design solution included: • A clear, easy-to-understand interface for non-expert users. • Actionable guidance based on risk levels to support safe decision-making. • Fast, reliable deployment in any location. The result is a scientifically robust, user-friendly tool that overcomes the distinct challenge of accurate measurement of air temperature in full sun.

EMU’s implementation in elite tennis has led to fewer heat-related medical incidents for players and spectators, while earning high satisfaction from athletes due to its transparent, data-informed risk management. Tournament administrators benefit from a clear policy that supports decisions across players, staff, spectators, and stakeholders like media partners. Beyond tennis, the system’s adaptable design is now being applied to a wide range of environments—including sporting events, festivals, construction sites, agriculture, and mining—offering a scalable, effective solution for managing heat stress wherever people gather, work, or perform under rising temperatures.

The Environmental Measurement Unit (EMU) is engineered to deliver precise, real-time data in challenging outdoor environments. At its core is an advanced aspiration chamber, which uses an integrated fan to draw ambient air across temperature and humidity sensors housed within a louvred radiation shield. The funnel-shaped internal design thermally isolates incoming air from heated surfaces, while exhausted air is directed across the shield to further reduce heat influence—ensuring high-fidelity measurements in full sun. The system’s robust construction features a durable aluminium hub that houses the electronics and supports carbon fiber poles to reduce heat transfer and weight to the sensors. This lightweight yet strong framework withstands tough field conditions while remaining highly portable. A modular design allows individual components to be easily removed, packed, or replaced, improving serviceability and extending product life. Interchangeable parts ensure minimal downtime and easy upgrades. EMU provides real-time environmental data through Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity, enabling seamless integration with software platforms for monitoring and decision-making. Every element of the EMU has been carefully designed to balance precision, durability, ease of use, and deployment speed—making it ideal for a wide range of use cases, from elite sport to industry and public safety applications.