In a recent collaborative effort, two innovative firms located within the Sci-Tech Daresbury campus have combined their expertise to assist a search and rescue operator in Vietnam. The joint venture between Revector, a specialist in telecommunications, and 4D Products, a product design firm, promises to enhance the efficiency of locating missing individuals in challenging environments.
By leveraging their respective strengths, the duo has developed a bespoke mobile tracking device designed to detect signals from missing persons’ mobile phones. This marks a significant leap forward in search and rescue operations, particularly in areas with dense vegetation and difficult terrain.
Revector’s Innovative Solution
Revector, with a two-decade legacy in telecommunications, security, and intelligence, played a crucial role in this initiative by adapting their expertise in analysing International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) numbers. Typically employed for fraud detection, this technology has been repurposed for search and rescue operations in Vietnam.
The phone tracking device engineered by Revector can zero in on a missing person’s mobile phone signal, narrowing the search area to a 20-metre radius. This is especially beneficial in South East Asia, where dense vegetation and lack of terrain reference points hamper traditional search methods.
4D Products’ Contribution
4D Products, spurred into action following a networking event at Sci-Tech Daresbury, was instrumental in designing a custom cradle to house Revector’s 10kg signal tracking unit. The cradle, which fits seamlessly into a standard backpack, ensures that the device is both protected and operational.
Their design allows search teams to carry the tracking unit comfortably, with the option to attach the accompanying long antenna to a specially engineered handle. This handle aids in directing the antenna towards transmitted phone signals, thereby improving the accuracy of the device.
Synergy at Sci-Tech Daresbury
The proximity of both firms within the Sci-Tech Daresbury campus enabled an expedited development process. Located just three doors apart, the teams could quickly move from concept to prototype within a month, significantly reducing the time usually required for such projects.
Shane Wilson, CEO at Revector, highlighted the advantage of their close working relationship: “When we had a question, we would knock on 4D Products’ door and discuss the next steps. That’s the benefit of Sci-Tech Daresbury, it brings innovative companies together under one roof.”
Designing for Practicality
The custom cradle designed by 4D Products not only protects the tracking unit but also ensures it remains fully functional during search operations. The cradle’s integration into a standard backpack design allows for ease of use and practicality in the field.
The long antenna, an essential component of the tracking device, can be attached to a handle for directional accuracy. This feature was added based on feedback from Revector, and 4D Products was able to deliver a working prototype the same day.
Collaborative Dynamics
Adam Farrall, a product designer at 4D Products, praised the seamless collaboration, stating, “We were able to talk through intricate designs and bring concepts to life quickly due to our close proximity. This project exemplifies the flexibility and responsiveness fostered at Sci-Tech Daresbury.”
The speed and efficiency of this project underscore the benefits of close-knit ecosystems like Sci-Tech Daresbury, where collaboration is not just encouraged but is a fundamental aspect of daily operations.
Impact on Search and Rescue
The phone tracking device developed by Revector and 4D Products is poised to revolutionise search and rescue missions in Vietnam. By significantly narrowing the search area, the device enhances the chances of locating missing persons swiftly, which is crucial in life-threatening situations.
This innovative solution not only underscores the capabilities of both firms but also highlights the potential of technology to address real-world problems effectively. The success of this project could pave the way for similar collaborations in other regions.
Words from the Partners
John Leake, business growth director at Sci-Tech Daresbury, expressed his satisfaction with the collaboration: “Competitive advantage is not just about great minds working together, but also speed of response. The close proximity of businesses facilitates ideation and commercialisation, and we take great pleasure in seeing Revector and 4D Products prospering together.”
This sentiment reflects the broader ethos of the Sci-Tech Daresbury campus, where innovation and collaboration are key drivers of success.
The joint effort by Revector and 4D Products exemplifies the power of collaboration in driving technological innovation. Their rapid development and effective solution showcase the immense potential of combining expertise from different fields.
As the phone tracking device begins to assist search and rescue operations in Vietnam, it stands as a testament to the impact of strategic partnerships and the innovative spirit fostered within ecosystems like Sci-Tech Daresbury.
