GPS tracking systems, so dependable in the field of vehicle tracking and fleet management generally, have been incorporated an amazing little device measuring only 2x3x6 inches which will be used to locate personnel within buildings. First responders such as fire-fighters and paramedics will be greatly assisted by this product, the Glansep.
The device combines GPS tracking with inertia measurement units (IMU), ultra-band ranging radio, Dopplar radio, a compass, pedometer, magnetometer and altimeter. Other similar devices have been developed but have proved heavy, expensive and unsatisfactory by being cumbersome to use. The name Glansep refers to its geospatial location accountability and navigation system; its small size makes it much more practical in the search for missing personnel within, for example, burning buildings.
A combination of sensors work in harmony so that, when GPS is not available or is in less than optimal range, other signals can be exploited; operation requires no set-up time and although the finite accuracy of GPS tracking will always be the ideal means to achieve pin-point location, Glansep manufacturers still claim that the product has proved that the ‘cocktail’ solution, combining the best of all technologies, is very much the best course, automatically determining the location and orientation of building features and enabling managers to direct first responders with an accuracy previously impossible.
