Monitoring for fires in densely-populated
informal settlements
unproven, emerging technology into our
resilience-strengthening programs,
the Red Cross needed a partner willing
and able to drive the technological
innovation and offer a user-centered
prototype for our research.
Oxit Springs into action
Oxit’s team worked tirelessly to help the Red Cross prove that the concept they had in mind was not only technically feasible, but achievable with the potential to scale globally. The team designed a custom sensor with the Red Cross, tested it in a mock settlement, manufactured the sensors, shipped them, and passed the inspection process in Kenya – all in less than 60 days, an unparalleled logistical accomplishment. Within days of the devices’ arrival in Africa, the Oxit team continued to exceed expectations and deployed engineers to Kenya to help receive, set up, and train local staff to install and use the devices.
Solution Overview
After reviewing the needs of both the community and their response teams, the Oxit team went to work to develop a custom LoRaWAN Solution. Due to Nairobi’s weak communications infrastructure, several provisions had to be in place in case cellular connections and/or power were lost, which could result in the loss of highly valuable data and limit community response to a potential catastrophe. Oxit’s engineers were able to create a solar-powered solution with redundant data storage and uploading capabilities at the edge. The device data was easily monitored by community leaders and response agencies via a web dashboard where the data could be analyzed and alerts triggered. The dashboard also made it easy to troubleshoot irregularities, quickly locate damaged or missing sensors that had to be replaced, and tune the sensors’ thresholds for the unique indoor environments. Rather than pursue its own path, the Red Cross depended on Oxit’s deep knowledge of product development and ability to quickly and nimbly design a test sensor that was well-suited to the environment and the community’s needs.
Result
Kenya
distribution in less than 60 days.
Why Oxit?
The path to delivering great value and the desired results is dependent on the right technology decisions. Allowing the Red Cross to quickly test the fundamental theories upfront with real-world users so that together we can maximize the likelihood of hitting the Red Cross goals of reducing fire deaths.
Hardware Development
Software Development
IoT Experience
Understanding of the broader partnership ecosystem
Appropriately assigned roles and responsibilities
Interdependence
Matrixed team of relationship managers
Regular and open communication
Self-awareness
About Oxit
Oxit Engineering Services helps companies succeed by doing away with the idea of transactions and focusing on
relationships to help them achieve their product innovation goals. Our team has exceptional knowledge and experience
with IoT technologies and provides our clients with a competitive edge by accelerating time-to-market while reducing
development costs.
This case study illustrates how Oxit Engineering Services can help create an effective solution with a client – but most
importantly, it demonstrates Oxit’s commitment to excellence in product delivery and cultivating relationships.
About the American Red Cross
Helping to Save Lives Around the World
Each year, disasters and crises devastate millions of people. As part of the world’s largest humanitarian network, Red
Cross Red Crescent teams provide relief and hope in nearly every corner of the globe. Volunteers often come from the
communities they serve, making us powerful change-makers. Together, Red Cross Red Crescent teams not only
respond to emergencies such as earthquakes, droughts, and health epidemics, but also help neighborhoods prepare for
future disasters and ensure that children receive the vaccines they need to stay healthy.