New technology capable of sending and receiving data signals wirelessly through any structure is able to locate anyone on a vessel or offshore installation in real time.
ScanReach’s In:Range utilises a combination of advanced radio technology and intelligent software algorithms and protocols. Signals sent from bracelets worn by crew are picked up by sensors that plug into standard power points. This data is then transmitted to screens on the bridge or, during incidents, to emergency services, land-based facilities or nearby ships.
“InReach is Superman,” stated Arild Sæle, CCO of start-up technology firm ScanReach. “Plug it in and suddenly you can see through walls to know exactly where your crew are located and how to get to them quickly if they need help. From saving individuals to conducting entire vessel evacuations in a fraction of the usual time, this technology can fundamentally transform safety standards at sea. What’s more its applications are almost limitless.”
Privacy enabled
To ensure privacy for those wearing the transmitters, the system’s default setting is ‘sleep’. It activates in a range of situations, such as when alarms are sounded, the wearer presses a button, or movements are made that show distress.
Jon Roger Nesje, CEO of ScanReach, added that the system can also be used as a platform for wireless data exchange to help safer, more effective and efficient operations. “This can be used as the cornerstone of smart ships – it can empower the shipping industry of tomorrow.”
In:Range will launch at the end of the year.
By Rebecca Jeffrey
