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Product Designer
Product Manufacturer Product Description and Principal Function(s) The Guardian Breathing Apparatus Accessory is a revolutionary device, providing clear and reliable communications for professional Fire-fighters in high-risk environments.The accessory is the first totally dedicated fire-fighting communications device for breathing apparatus masks. Fitted to the mask straps, the ‘BA’ Accessory (used in conjunction with the Guardian Speaker-microphone, connected to a portable 2-way radio) provides outstanding levels of communication clarity in hazardous situations. The system utilizes vibrations through the skull to send and receive communications, rather than a conventional speaker and microphone arrangement. This effectively isolates ambient noise, resulting in increased safety and efficiency during operations within high-risk environments. Key Product Features and Benefits The BA Accessory is the only product on the market using bone conductivity to send AND receive voice signals, making it the market leader in terms of innovation, functionality and reliability.A Pick-up mounted against the wearer’s head, translates vibrations from the skull, generated by speech, into an audible signal; thus excluding ambient noise from the signal. To receive communications, a Vibration Module mounted against the head transmits directly into the wearer’s ear canal, whilst also broadcasting the communication for nearby persons. This unobtrusive method of securing voice transmission empowers the wearer to employ substantial ear protection, whilst maintaining an open communications channel with other field personnel. Developed in conjunction with members of the Qld Fire and Rescue Service, the Guardian system gains advantage over similar products in the following ways: -Comfort. The BA Accessory is the only product on the market that does not adversely affect the comfort and performance of protective equipment worn by the Fire-fighter. Ultra-soft internal polymer components combined with contoured forms give unrivalled user comfort under adverse conditions and over lengthy periods. -Performance. Market leading comfort levels allow Pick-up and Vibration Modules to be located at positions on the head where maximum vibration occurs, ensuring a clear and reliable signal. -Flexibility. The BA Accessory can be fitted easily to all leading BA Mask brands. Once fitted, fine tuning the placement of each module to an individual’s needs is simple and fast. -Ergonomics. The large, flexible PTT (press to talk) button on the Speaker-microphone allows hands-free operation of the BA Accessory. Activation by a third party or by external objects (even through protective chemical suits) is also possible. Modules are also easily adjustable while wearing the mask and the system has been designed to allow use whilst wearing protective gloves. -Innovation. The BA Accessory is the first product on the market to allow the fire-fighter to receive voice communications using bone conductivity. The product also incorporates an outward facing loudspeaker, allowing adjacent fire-fighters to hear commands as they are given. Standard connection conventions are also reversed, allowing a downward-facing socket (from the BA accessory) to connect with a shielded, upward-facing jack in the Speaker-microphone, reducing potential impact and water damage to components. -Quality and Longevity. The unit exceeds stringent flame and heat resistance standards, and is resistant to water, high impact and most chemicals. These material properties, combined with innovative and rationalised manufacturing techniques, have led to the BA Accessory becoming the new benchmark for quality within the market. The device is IP66 rated for ingress protection (with the Speaker-microphone rated IP54) and the combined system is certified intrinsically safe and suitable for use in explosive atmospheres. The Guardian system is adaptable across other fields, with defence, law enforcement and commercial industries currently under assessment. By providing clear two-way communication in the most volatile of situations, and being a robust and reliable product, the Guardian system is now leading the way in safety and operational performance in hazardous situations. |
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Design Award
