may2022 - 13

A wing-walker uses a wireless headset
to verbally communicate with the tug
operator during pushback operation.
their tasks productively
and
efficiently.
* Improved situational
awareness -
all crew members
are on the same
page and aware
of any potential
dangers during
ground support
operations.
* Enhanced deicing
operations
- keeps bucket
personnel in constant contact with the deicing driver without
delays and stoppages to expedite deicing operations,
less waste of valuable deicing fluids.
* Expands ground support applications - beyond pushback
and deicing, can be used to facilitate aircraft loading, towing,
maintenance and general ramp operations.
* Hearing protection - protects the hearing of ground crew
personnel against the roar of jet engines and the din of
apron activity and other equipment.
* Contributes to on-time performance - time between flights
(beating the gate clock) is of paramount importance to
airlines. Every minute saved helps avoid delays, contributes
to improved turnaround, bottom-line profitability and
keeps customers happy.
Wireless System Similarities and Differences
Many wireless systems on the market today share similar characteristics.
However there are significant differences worth
mentioning. Most wireless headset systems for the airline
industry utilize a Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications
(DECT) wireless protocol as opposed to Bluetooth wireless.
DECT was developed explicitly for wireless audio. Bluetooth
frequencies are in the ISM band where industrial and consumer
products operate. DECT, however, operates at frequencies
reserved exclusively for voice communication using the
DECT protocol.
Wireless Versus Cordless
Another important distinction between wireless headset
systems is their configuration. There are marked differences
between " wireless " systems and " cordless " systems. Many cordless
wireless communication systems feature headsets that contain
all electronics within the ear cups of the headset. Although
this type of system provides " cordless " freedom and mobility,
the self-contained design means that the headsets may be
inherently heavier and bulkier.
As with any wireless headset, charging is also an important
consideration. Should a self-contained headset require charging,
the headset must be taken out of service and replaced by a fully
charged headset. Rather than having to purchase additional
headsets as backups, many airlines lean toward a wireless system
that features a belt station containing the wireless " radio "
and is powered by a li-polymer battery that provides 24 hours
of continuous use. Should power run low, the user can simply
replace the battery in the belt station and continue working
while the headset remains in service.
Wireless Headsets that " Talk "
Some wireless headset systems also offer a variety of smart
feature sets in the form of audio/voice prompts to assist ground
personnel. These include link/purge status, out of range and low
battery parameters. Many wireless systems simply shutdown
automatically when users are out of range or if the signal is lost.
To provide added safety, some systems provide audio prompts
(such as series of " beeps " ) when the user is approaching the
extent of the system's wireless range. This is followed by a
voice prompt that automatically notifies ground crew members
if communication connectivity has been lost, allowing
them to return within range if possible or react accordingly if
not. An additional voice prompt will then indicate when users
are within the system's wireless range and connectivity has
been restored.
System Durability for the Ramp Environment
Lastly, it is critical to be sure that wireless system components
are purpose-built to stand up to the rigors of the ramp environment.
Not all wireless headsets and system components are created
equal. Look for those that offer marine-grade, watertight,
impact-resistant enclosures, and a wide temperature operating
range. It is also important to remember that wireless headsets
are normally shared by ground crew personnel, so hygiene is
an important factor. Headsets and components should be easy
to clean and maintain. Headset head pads and ear seals should
be made using non-porous materials, polyurethane material for
easy and effective cleaning and disinfection.
Effective communication between the flight deck and
ground crew, and between ground crew members, is critical.
There is a growing consensus among airlines that clear voice
communication is a welcome enhancement to traditional hand
signals and safety protocols. Wireless headset systems improve
overall safety, situational awareness and hearing protection for
ground crew members - contributing to accident avoidance and
on-time airline performance.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
BOB DAIGLE
Bob Daigle, systems manager at David Clark
Company, has more than 15 years of experience
working with hundreds of airlines - from small
regionals to major carriers worldwide - in the
design, configuration and implementation of both
wired and wireless headset systems for airside
communication applications.
May 2022 || AviationPros.com || 13
DAVID CLARK
http://www.AviationPros.com
may2022

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