Naval automated personnel tracking

This tracking system, developed by Blue Glue, ensures the whereabouts of all personnel aboard a vessel can be known at all times through use of wearable radio transmitter tags.

Every 1.5 seconds, the tag emits a pulse of data that identifies the tag wearer. Radio receivers fitted around the ship detect this signal, and based on the strength of signal received, the system can determine where on board the person is. Every tag is programmed to transmit at a unique time so that transmissions do not mask each other. The system also features the use of laser and infrared beams as hazard zone entry alert devices. If a person steps through the beam and interupts light transmission to a receptor, the system is alerted.

The NAPT technology was shown to work well in the course of demonstration trials conducted on the recently decommissioned HMAS Kanimbla, meeting all the CTD target performance measures. The Department of Defence Capability Development Group is considering further development of the technology, which may lead to transition into service with Navy.