Telecom Design: connected solutions for ageing well
A fall detector worn close to the person
VIBBY OAK is a heavy-fall detector developed by Telecom Design, worn on the wrist or around the neck. It supports people who want to maintain their independence at home or in a care setting, adding an automatic alert option when they are unable to press a button.
The device communicates with a compatible receiver, which forwards the alarm to a telecare centre or care staff.
The detector combines several features to support everyday assistance:
- Automatic heavy-fall detection without pressing a button
- SOS button to trigger an alert manually
- Manual cancellation of an alert triggered by mistake
- Wrist or pendant wear, with a choice of wristband colours
- Multiprotocol radio communication with a compatible receiver
An automatic alert when calling for help becomes difficult
After a fall, a person may be disorientated, unable to move or unable to call for help. VIBBY OAK combines motion sensors with an algorithm designed to recognise heavy falls, characterised in particular by acceleration and a significant impact with the ground.
The system then monitors the wearer’s movements to decide whether to send an alert. This technology targets heavy falls; it does not mean that every type of fall is detected.
A solution integrated into the assistance pathway
VIBBY OAK can be paired with telecare equipment installed in the home or a nurse call system in a care setting. The detector sends the alert; the receiver and its connected service manage onward transmission and the response.
Its multiprotocol radio settings facilitate integration into different environments. The protocol and compatibility requirements should be checked with the professional deploying the solution.
A format suited to the wearer’s habits
Wristband or pendant: the wearing option can be chosen to suit the person’s habits. A choice of wristband colours also allows users to personalise the device, encouraging acceptance and regular wear.
Telecom Design states a battery life of up to two years, without daily charging. The manufacturer also describes the device as water- and shock-resistant. A dedicated app allows the wearing mode, battery status and detector identifiers to be viewed or configured.
How does it work?
- Identify signs of a fall
The sensors record the wearer’s movements and look for a combination of signals corresponding to loss of balance, acceleration and impact with the ground. - Analyse the wearer’s response
According to Telecom Design’s description of the technology, the algorithm monitors movements for 30 seconds after impact. Remaining motionless or failing to get up helps confirm the fall. - Send the alert
When the detection criteria are met, the device automatically sends an alarm to the paired receiver. The receiver forwards it to the telecare service or relevant team, depending on the installation.
The SOS button remains available to request help manually, without waiting for automatic detection.
Features
- Automatic heavy-fall detection
An alarm can be sent without any deliberate action by the wearer when the device recognises a fall that meets its algorithm’s criteria. - SOS calls on demand
The central button allows the wearer to report a problem or feeling of insecurity through the assistance system paired with the detector. - Managing false alerts
If a fall alert is triggered by mistake, the wearer can cancel it by covering the detector with the palm of their hand, following the manufacturer’s instructions. - Multiprotocol integration
Radio settings allow pairing with different transmitters and alarm equipment. Telecom Design also offers protocol integration to meet operators’ requirements. - Long battery life
The manufacturer states an operating life of up to two years. This avoids daily charging; battery monitoring should still be arranged with the service provider. - Configuration and traceability
The dedicated app allows wrist or neck wear and the radio protocol to be selected. It also provides access to battery status, the serial number and radio identifiers. - Home and care settings
The same alert principle can be used within a home telecare service or a compatible nurse call system to notify the relevant professionals.