Wyld launches new technology to create communication networks and aid social distancing in construction

July 17, 2020
The mesh-based mobile app offers a safe way back to the site by creating geo zones
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Wyld Networks has launched a new mobile mesh technology to help get construction workers back on site safely and improve communication and collaboration. The innovative technology can be built into mobile apps to create an instant communication platform, while virtual geo zones allow managed access to construction sites as well as monitoring social distancing and delivering location-aware alerts or safety information.

Wyld mesh networking harnesses the power of peoples’ mobile devices by connecting smartphones directly to other smartphones without the need for cellular 4G/5G or Wi-Fi.  Combined with Wyld’s Fusion platform, the company can create infrastructure-lite wireless networks. Data simply find the quickest and easiest route by hopping between phones to deliver real-time notifications, alerts and content. This is particularly important in remote locations, underground or other sites where there are connectivity challenges. 

Social distancing monitoring can be implemented by creating a personal one or two-meter dynamic geo zones around construction staff and visitors. This provides an accurate picture of how social distancing is being practiced allowing for better planning of site layouts and workflow schedules. Subject to corporate policy and privacy, employers would also have the ability to quickly alert others who have been in close contact with anyone tested positive for COVID-19.

Furthermore, the system can create virtual geo zones around complete construction sites or buildings as well as more physically dangerous or restricted areas. Anyone approaching a physical zone can be sent a message instantly to let them know if they are able to enter and provide guidance on regulations that relate to that particular area.  

“Our mesh technology was originally designed for applications such as major sporting events, music festivals, retail malls and transport hubs to share personalized location-aware information,” said Alastair Williamson, CEO of Wyld Networks, a portfolio company of Tern plc. “But it quickly became clear that it could also play a vital role in construction by providing an instant, low-cost, on-site communications network with the ability to manage social distancing.” 

A mesh network can be deployed more quickly and cost-efficiently than traditional models - even in remote areas or underground environments. If one device leaves the network, it does not cause a break as traffic is routed through multiple paths in the mesh.

 You can see an online demo of the technology at https://wyldmesh.net/register or visit www.wyldnetworks.com for more information.