Blackhawk is constantly developing and improving our technology and services. Our roadmap for 2023 has much in store – focusing on what is coming in the next 3-6 months.
Highlights for 2023…
BLUETOOTH ASSET MANAGEMENT:
We have developed a Bluetooth Low-Energy (BLE) beacon solution for monitoring large numbers of assets. The solution is much like the Apple Airtag or Samsung Smartag systems but is designed for commercial use rather than consumers. Small, inexpensive BLE “pucks” can be fitted to assets which emit a signal that can be detected by a BLE reader, such as a mobile application or dedicated BLE gateway. This is not a traditional GPS tracking system where the device can determine its position and report over a cellular network. Instead, the device’s location can be determined by its proximity to the reader (within a range of approximately 50-100 meters) and the reader relays the position over a network. The BLE solution allows for cost-effective inventory management of large volumes of assets, creating operational efficiency and situational awareness. Contact us if you would like to know more.
EASY HOUR-METER:
Many customers operate machinery and equipment and want to change their preventative maintenance programs from a reactive schedule to a proactive hours-based program based on actual runtime. This has numerous benefits including on-time servicing based on usage, reduced wastage against under or over-servicing, and more efficient resource planning by knowing what needs servicing ahead of time. Connecting machinery normally requires installation of a wired telematics device which can be a little costly in terms of time and money. Blackhawk is bringing to market a new rapid, self-install hour-meter device which can monitor engine run-time as well as location. The device can be easily installed in a few minutes and requires no special training or tools to install. Contact us if you would like to know more about this device or arrange a trial unit.
QR TAGS:
We will soon be introducing a new series of rugged QR tags for assets, machinery, and industrial applications. These QR tags will have a Globally Unique Identifier (GUID) asset ID number, providing a secure and unique way of tagging assets and linking users to a dedicated asset webpage. This means that users can access asset information or services just by scanning the QR code – no application or login is required. Anyone, including customers or team members, can interact with any asset using this system. The technology can be used for a variety of purposes, such as maintenance bookings, breakdown reports, service checklists, parts ordering, access to service history, warranty information, proof of service or delivery, and much more. The possibilities are endless, and any user can update an asset’s location, add photos, or update the asset’s status or condition, making it possible to build and maintain a digital asset inventory using any device that can scan a QR code. This allows any organization to implement digital forms without any application or user setup. Users can self-onboard themselves by scanning the QR code and registering as a user. View our QR Tag product page or contact us to learn more.
UI UPDATE:
During 2023 you will see changes to the platform User Interface (UI) as we update to the latest Web frameworks. This will provide a more modern look and feel to the Blackhawk platform, but also faster response times and greater consistency across the desktop web-interface and mobile app interfaces. These changes will happen in phases and there will be advanced notice as to when these changes will happen – so no need to worry about your favourite features or reports suddenly changing without notice.