Transforming PPE: How to Integrate Wireless Mesh Communication Technology into Your PPE Products
If businesses were already struggling to adapt to fast-paced industry changes, 2020 and 2021 have provided a challenge like no other. From hospitals to factory floors, we’re now all adapting to concepts like ‘social distancing’ that would have seemed alien to us less than a year ago. The COVID-19 pandemic seemingly came out of nowhere, disrupting our economy and forcing businesses to change their operations and processes overnight. While some digitally mature businesses might have been able to weather the storm, others are still grappling with this idea of a so-called ‘new normal’. We’re having to find new ways to get on with our day jobs in a way that keeps everybody safe. It’s a rapidly changing picture with no clear end in sight, but we can be certain of one thing; PPE and social distancing are here to stay.
PPE manufacturers are working tirelessly to ensure businesses have everything they need to keep workplaces COVID-secure, but there’s always room for innovation. In critical work environments such as hospitals, where the risk of contamination is high, manufacturers know that PPE has far more potential than is currently being realised. Smart eyewear already exists, that can relay information visually, smart helmets can already detect collisions using integrated acceleration sensors, and smart workwear can monitor the wearer’s wellbeing, broadcasting information about their temperature and heart rate. All of these innovations have one thing in common: they communicate data.But what about something as simple as the human voice?
Even now, in 2021, workers in critical environments like hospitals are often forced to stop what they’re doing and remove their PPE in order to physically interact with an intercom system, walkie talkie or phone. If it wasn’t ideal before, it’s certainly not ideal post-pandemic. To get around this, sites would employ Bluetooth technology to enable site-wide hands-free communication, but it’s complex to set up, is limited in terms of number of users and is prone to failure. It’s a problem that PPE manufacturers are all too familiar with, but until recently there’s been no real alternative for dependable, hands-free intercom.
Insert mesh communication
A mesh-based intercom system doesn’t replace PMR or cellular technologyaltogether, but it’s an ideal solution for small teams on-the-move who need to exchange complex information quickly, in a stable and fluid network. One of the greatest advantages of wireless mesh communication is that it operates as a self-sufficient standalone network, with no need for a ‘base station’ and zero dependence on cellular reception. It can be voice-activated, making it perfect for COVID-secure work environments where contact should be kept to a minimum, enables two-way conversation at a range of up to 3,000 meters and connects up to 15 users.
The opportunity for PPE Manufacturers
Now it’s up to manufacturers to figure out how best to incorporate this hands-free communication technology into their PPE products. They could build their own solution, retaining full control but at a greater risk and cost. That is, if they have the capabilities of introducing such complex technologies into their line of business.
Or they can partner with an external solutions provider like Cardo Crew to seamlessly incorporate wireless mesh technology into their current suite of products, fulfilling an immediate need in the market.
If you’re a PPE manufacturer and you’re considering a partnership to elevate your PPE products and incorporate smart communication technology, we’re ready to talk.
Our process typically involves several key stages, all designed to ensure a future proof solution that keeps your business commercially fit and competitive:
Stage 1 – We set up an introductory call with the right person in your business, whether it’s R&D, Product Development or Business Development. We find out precisely what you’re looking for and work out whether Cardo Crew is a good fit.
Stage 2 – We then move onto a technical session, inviting more tech-oriented employees from your businesses to explore our solutions and their capabilities with live, hands-on demonstrations. We’ll also send some demo units directly to you.
Stage 3 – We then have a follow-up meeting and collect any feedback you may have, as well as answering any questions that weren’t answered in stages one or two.
Stage 4 – With the technology explored, we’ll then move onto commercial discussions and talk about the technology in the context of your products and customers.
Stage 5 – All being well, we’ll move into a design phase with a kick-off meeting and several review meetings along the way.
Stage 6 – Once we’re all happy with the designs, we begin our commercial partnership and get down to mass production.
With you for the long run
We don’t see our clients as customers, we see them as partners. That’s because our success is based on your success, and we want to ensure that our technology complements your end product perfectly. If you’re a PPE manufacturer interested in incorporating wireless mesh hands-free communication technology into your PPE products, get in touch today. www.cardocrew.com
