TACtical MEDical triage SYSTEM For Soldier and Small Unit Operations
Photo credit: U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Joanna Hensley The manual method of documenting battlefield injuries is no longer sufficient
Packaged Systems A simpler approach to C4ISR systems procurement Quickly capturing and communicating medical data are critical challenges that are not being effectively met on today s battlefield. There is a compelling need to send medical information back to a triage station before an injured patient arrives for care. The Tactical Medical Triage System leverages Harris handheld computing and wideband networking radio capabilities to record soldiers medical data in the field and deliver it to doctors in real time, while automatically updating a remote medical database. Procuring a complex Command, Control, Communications, and Computers (C4) system is usually no easy matter. Too often customers spend substantial time and resources, only to find themselves behind schedule and over budget with a system that does not meet their requirements. Harris Corporation s new, simplified approach to C4ISR* systems procurement uses preengineered system configurations that provide fast, cost-effective solutions to today s most critical operational needs, such as tactical medical triage. Instead of designing a unique system for every customer, Harris has developed a comprehensive family of preconfigured systems. Each system is fully integrated and includes all equipment, cables, software, and manuals, with training and installation available. Every system has undergone extensive testing and can be relied upon to meet its objectives. This executive summary describes the Tactical Medical Triage System and outlines the advantages of our packaged C4ISR systems: l Low Risk Field proven and comprehensively tested systems provide existing, cost-effective solutions l Fast Delivery Complete systems can be delivered in a matter of months to meet urgent operational needs l Simplified Procurement Systems can be purchased as off-the-shelf items, eliminating long system definition and development phases l Phased Implementation Packaged systems form building blocks that enable the incremental acquisition of capability l Flexibility Packaged systems are readily customized and can be integrated by in-country partners All this from Harris, a company with over 50 years of large-scale international communications systems experience, the most comprehensive range of tactical communications products, and world-class systems engineering and integration capabilities. *C4ISR = Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Contact Harris now to discuss your C4ISR systems needs: www.harris.com/systems 1
THE OPERATIONAL challenge Seamless capture and transfer of medical data to save lives on the battlefield Combat medics must not only treat patients under battlefield conditions, but also document the injuries and their treatment. This information needs to be rapidly dispatched to a medical center so that time-critical care can be planned and provided. Currently there is no integrated system that supports both the recording and transmission of this medical data in theater. Doctors are therefore not receiving this important sometimes lifesaving information quickly enough to effectively manage treatment. Today s in-field data capture methods do not provide a quick and efficient means for recording medical information. The standard method is to simply write on a patient s body or a paper form with a grease pencil. More advanced methods involve using a PDA to generate an electronic record, but these have numerous drawbacks. The complicated user interface makes them cumbersome and difficult to use. In fact, the process of collecting data at the time of an injury typically requires extensive use of both hands. This can interfere with overall patient care or require additional assistance for transcription. Another major drawback with current systems is that the injury and treatment data remains with the patient or medic; this information can be easily lost or compromised in the field. Doctors are therefore not prepared to immediately treat the patient, and critical care is delayed while the pertinent data is collected again. Many militaries have established medical data repositories to ensure that injury data and medical treatment information are available for follow-on treatments, rehabilitation, and determination of wartime benefits. Since the data manually captured at the point of injury does not automatically populate a centralized data repository, the medic must manually enter the information into a computer at the treatment facility. Any information that was recorded on a PDA-based system also requires an additional step to synchronize it with the database, since current devices do not transmit the data over tactical radio networks. The main liabilities of the current systems include: l Inability to supply triage data to doctors prior to patient arrival l Manual data entry methods that require the use of one or both hands l Inability to wirelessly transmit data to or update medical databases l Documentation of medical status requires additional steps l Data from the point of injury is often lost or damaged, possibly impacting outcomes The optimal solution would convey medical triage data from field medics to waiting doctors and into the healthcare system at large with a design that is both cost-effective and adaptable to
Every second counts when a soldier has been injured, and the Tactical Medical Triage System ensures that critical data flows to the next level of care quickly and efficiently Photo Courtesy of U.S. Army. Photo credit: Sgt. Jesse Houk changes in technology. Additionally, it should provide enhanced capabilities to allow medics to capture this data easily and efficiently, in parallel with patient care. With its Tactical Medical Triage System that features an intuitive, voice-driven user interface, Harris provides a stand-alone solution that also can be integrated into a larger network of our wideband radios. In short, the system enables more responsive and effective treatment at the time of injury and facilitates medical record-keeping. The Harris Tactical Medical Triage System provides medics: l Real-Time Data Transfer With seamless transmission of pictures, audio, and medical records from the point of injury over the Harris network infrastructure and automatic update of centralized data repositories l E-Records from Standard Forms Generates and updates records based on standard forms such as the Tactical Combat Casualty Care Card (TCCC) and Field Medical Card (DD-1380) l Store and Forward Capability Safeguards data by automatically storing medical information locally when communications are not available, and pushing records to the database when the link is restored l Extended Capabilities Providing on-the-move access to applications such as medical reference and medical supply inventory programs 3
solution overview Improving continuity of care on the battlefield The Tactical Medical Triage System uses the advanced networking capabilities of the new Falcon III family of tactical radio products and the Harris Ruggedized Tablet running the specialized TacMed application. This IP-based system can collect and distribute data from the point of injury to its final destination. In a typical scenario, an injury occurs in theater and a medic is deployed to the location. He captures the details of both the injury and treatment through the TacMed application, using the hands-free interface while providing medical care. Once all the necessary information is recorded, it is disseminated to a medevac helicopter (if required), triage station, and centralized database using a tactical communications link, ensuring continuity of patient care. The next-level care facilities can receive medical information from multiple deployed Tactical Medical Triage Systems. Doctors and other health care professionals are able to view and analyze the medical data before incoming patients arrive for care. Key Features: l Easy-to-Use, Intuitive Interface Multiple means of collecting medical information including voice-driven, hands-free input allows medics to perform critical job functions and generate electronic medical records at the same time. l Open Standards, IP-Based Communications Allows networked distribution and access of medical information across Harris tactical radios and other equipment, overcoming existing architecture gaps. l Scalability The network can be expanded simply by deploying multiple instances of the Tactical Medical Triage System or by adding system components at any site. l Flexible Connectivity The Harris integrated radio networking waveforms and communications products automatically establish self-forming, self-healing, mesh networks that enable medics to route medical information to a forward deployed triage station. l Customized Off-the-Shelf Availability The Tactical Medical Triage System is a Harris packaged system based on ruggedized military equipment. It is available for delivery now and can be readily customized as required.
Photo credit: U.S. Navy photo by Special Warfare Operator 1st Class (SEAL) Joel Beam To facilitate continuity of care, the patient s vitals, onsite treatment, and other details enter the health care system at the point of injury 5
low-risk solution The Tactical Medical Triage System is ready for delivery A standard Tactical Medical Triage System includes sufficient equipment for two medics to independently collect intheater medical data and disseminate it in real time to a forward deployed triage station. The standard system can typically be delivered within four months and includes: l Two handheld dismount kits, each with a Multiband Networking Handheld (MBNH) and a Haris Ruggedized Tablet with the Harris TacMed application l A relay data kit which includes a Multiband Networking Radio (MBNR) in a vehicular configuration for relaying and distributing the collected medical triage data l A triage data kit which includes an MBNR and a Windowsbased ruggedized laptop capable of securely receiving and storing the collected medical data The dismount kit enables the collection of data at the point of injury via the TacMed application running on the tablet. This kit s handheld MBNH radio provides a means to transmit the medical data in the form of voice, images and text to the triage station through an Adaptive Networking Wideband Waveform (ANW2) mobile, ad hoc IP data network. The relay kit supports the data transport, while also providing additional ANW2 range for data distribution, and the triage kit is where all data is received. Through the use of both an MBNR and PC with the TacMed database application, all of the medical information collected at the point of injury is at the disposal of the doctors who need it most. This configuration is very flexible, and additional functionality and alternate equipment sets are easily incorporated, either at initial purchase or as a subsequent upgrade. Typical add-ons include: l Acquiring additional dismount, relay, or triage kits for larger scale deployments l Third-party Android applications such as medical reference and inventory programs Additional connectivity options are available including: l Extended relay range using Harris SATCOM or High Capacity Line-of-Sight radios l Tactical cellular integration with Harris 3G or 4G LTE kits which leverage the onboard cellular capabilities of the tablet l Simultaneous distribution of medical data to multiple triage stations l Remote access to the medical data via an existing military network or from a tactical operations center
Order Received Equipment Procurement 60 days Kit Integration 15 days Acceptance Testing 15 days Optional Installation in Trailer or Vehicle 5 days Training 5 days Delivery Complete 1 2 3 MONTHS 4 Shipping 10 days Site Acceptance Testing 10 days Order Received Equipment Procurement 70 days Kit Integration 15 days Acceptance Testing 15 days Training 10 days 1 2 3 4 MONTHS Typical Four-Month Delivery Schedule Delivery Complete Shipping 10 days Site Acceptance Testing 5 days Low-Risk System Characteristics: l Pre-engineered system implementation l Integration risks are eliminated l Standard interfaces and protocols ease incorporation of future enhancements l Leverages the combat-proven Harris Falcon III radio technology l Expandable, with ability to add features and equipment 7
system description Distributing medical triage data in a scalable and cost-effective manner The Tactical Medical Triage System supports dissemination of electronic medical data in a hierarchical deployment environment. Its primary function is to provide medical information to doctors in theater in real time, enabling prompt and effective treatment of battlefield injuries. In the example deployment shown below, information collected by the medics is transmitted to the relay and distributed to the triage center for storage in a centralized database, for dissemination to doctors. Medical data is collected in the field at the dismount level using the Harris RF-3590 Ruggedized Tablet and Harris TacMed application. Leveraging embedded voice recognition technology, TacMed provides a voice-driven interface which allows hands-free navigation and data entry. This provides the medic with full use of both hands to care for patients. Once the data is entered, the system s built-in store and forward capability safeguards the medical records locally on the tablet when communications are not available; the information is automatically pushed to the database when the link is restored. The medic, relay, and triage levels are connected using the Adaptive Networking Wideband Waveform (ANW2) running on the Harris radios. This mobile, ad hoc networking waveform (MANET) enables simultaneous voice and data communications for coordination or follow-up on any medical data transmitted. To support rapid setup in the widest possible range of applications, the Tactical Medical Triage System equipment is delivered in lightweight, portable cases. Relay kits can be installed in a variety of vehicles or deployed at fixed locations. And the flexible design of the Harris networking radio waveforms makes the system highly scalable; medical data distribution to additional units is enabled by simply adding equipment at the desired echelons. In addition to the tactical radio products outlined above, the dismount kits can be augmented with the Harris Tactical Cellular System, providing 3G or 4G LTE. As shown in the diagram, triage and relay sites can be optionally outfitted with vehicular and portable Broadband Global Area Network (BGAN) SATCOM and High Capacity Line-of-Sight (HCLOS) kits. An optional Tactical Operations Center (TOC) kit also can be added to provide full integration into the tactical network. This would provide storage to route all captured data back to a centralized location, as well as the ability to retrieve any previously generated information. BGAN Military Network HCLOS ANW2 TOC TRIAGE ANW2 ANW2 RELAY ANW2 DISMOUNT
Tactical Medical Triage System Configuration TRIAGE KIT TOC KIT HCLOS KIT RELAY KIT VEHICULAR BGAN KIT PORTABLE BGAN KIT DISMOUNT KIT TACTICAL CELLULAR KIT MBNR DISMOUNT KIT STANDARD CONFIGURATION OPTIONAL CAPABILITIES RF-7600P-SU501 Tactical Medical Triage System Equipment Standard Configuration Triage Kit (Qty 1) Relay Kit (Qty 1) Dismount Kit (Qty 2) l RF-7800M-MP Multiband Networking Radio (MBNR) in a 50W Base Station configuration including Vehicular amplifier adapter (VAA) l Windows-based laptop with onboard storage and the TacMed database application for management and distribution of collected medical data l RF-7800M-MP MBNR in a 50W Vehicular System configuration l VAA for vehicle power conditioning and external power output for accessories such as loudspeakers and battery chargers l RF-7800M-HH Multiband Networking Handheld (MBNH) including antennas, cables, carrying case, spare battery, and charger l RF-3590 Harris Ruggedized Tablet including charging and data cables, docking station and connectors, spare battery, and battery charger l TacMed Android Application Optional Capabilities l Tactical Operations Center (TOC) Kit l HCLOS Kit l Vehicular BGAN Kit l Portable BGAN Kit l Tactical Cellular Kit l MBNR Dismount Kit 9
ENABLING TECHNOLOGIES Harris tablets and wideband radios empower the system s advanced capabilities The wideband nature of the Falcon III radios, along with our advanced data processing and edge device capabilities, enables Harris to provide an off-the-shelf Tactical Medical Triage System. Harris Ruggedized Tablet Medics will rely upon the robust capabilities of the Harris Ruggedized Tablet to seamlessly record and transmit medical information in theater. It is an Android-based tablet with a 7 multi-touch, sunlight readable display, which can be tethered to a Harris radio and also can communicate via built-in USB, 10/100 Ethernet, or Bluetooth. With a Mini PCIe Cellular Modem slot with Dual SIM card support, the tablet can be configured to leverage 3G or 4G LTE. The heart of the tablet is a dual core, 1.5 GHz processor with 2 GB of LPDDR2 memory and 128 GB of internal non-volatile memory (NVM). The device supports an SD card for removable storage and a USB Host and OTG ports for ancillary USB devices. An embedded sensor array includes an accelerometer, inclinometer, digital compass, barometric pressure gauge, thermometer, gyroscope, and proximity/ambient light sensors, providing the medic with a flexible tool for whatever the mission requires. Additional supported outputs include an HDMI interface, ancillary transceiver module (ATM), and a docking connector. The tablet features front and rear facing cameras for capturing visual details of the injury and treatment, while multiple microphones support the system s advanced noise cancelling and voice recognition technology. This capability enables the TacMed application to capture medical data quickly through an intuitive, voice-driven user interface, for real-time update of a centralized medical repository. Multiband Networking Radios Military units that need to view and transmit medical data and also communicate by voice will utilize the strengths of the Harris multiband radios. In the standard configuration, medics will use the RF-7800M-HH Multiband Networking Handheld (MBNH), while the relay and triage sites will each be outfitted with the RF- 7800M-MP Multiband Networking Radio (MBNR) manpack. The RF-7800M enables the high-speed flow of combat medical information across a secure, mobile, tactical wireless network enabling the critical connection between in-field forces and upechelon command platforms and treatment facilities. The MBNR incorporates the ANW2 waveform which can transmit data at rates up to 5 Mbps and an advanced, mobile, ad hoc networking (MANET) protocol. The MANET network automatically forms between the available nodes and self-heals as nodes go in and out of range. The result is that data captured in the field can be immediately shared with other units and triage specialists, even when on the move. The increased flow and timeliness of health status information in theater enables doctors to make faster, more informed decisions.
FEATURES Benefits Harris Ruggedized Tablet RF-3590 Rugged, Lightweight Portability Flexible User Interface and Redundant Control Wireless Networking Weighing in at 2 pounds, the Harris tablet is built to MIL-STD-810G and MIL-STD-461F specifications for exceptional performance under battlefield conditions The user can navigate and enter data by three different means: l Audio commands l Multi-touch screen that works with bare or gloved fingers l Dual optical track pads Enables stand-alone communications via cellular 3G/4G LTE, Wi-Fi (802.11n), and Bluetooth 4.0 BLEANT Multiband Networking Radios RF-7800M High-Speed Waveform Ad Hoc Networking Simultaneous Voice and Data With the manpack radio supporting data rates up to 5 Mbps, the Adaptive Networking Wideband Waveform (ANW2) provides the necessary bandwidth for transmitting emergency medical data to the next level Keeps mobile nodes connected to the network to expand the deployed range; eliminates the need for extensive preplanning of networks before a mission Allows real-time discussion and coordination of medical data transmitted to the triage/treatment centers 11
service offering After-sales service supports mission-critical systems worldwide Harris has earned a worldwide reputation as the low-risk vendor of choice for tactical radios and systems, with 99 percent of our international program customers reporting that Harris meets or exceeds their expectations. Our responsive program management team and customer service organization will deliver and support a highly capable medical triage communications system. An agile manufacturing process enables Harris to modify production to meet customer demands. With one of the highestvolume defense communications manufacturing facilities in the world, we have the commitment and capability to deliver on our promises. Unlike many other companies, Harris has boots on the ground experience, supporting our products from initial fielding to obsolescence. In fact, we are currently servicing systems that have been deployed for more than 20 years, underscoring our absolute commitment to customer satisfaction. Our customers rate Harris an average of two times higher than our nearest competitor. As a proven provider of advanced radio, sensor, and integrated systems to customers in over 120 countries, Harris has extensive experience in providing logistics and sustainment support throughout the world. We have developed highly successful processes for fielding, maintaining, supporting, repairing, and upgrading our equipment, no matter where it is deployed. Many of our product and technical service representatives have prior military experience, and establish a close, personal bond with our customers. Our comprehensive service offering includes classic telephone and email support as well as web-based services. The Harris Premier website (https://premier.harris.com/) provides customized access to: l Computer-based training courses and manuals l Frequently asked questions l Application notes l Purchase of accessories and ancillaries Customers also can use the website to: l Download and track software upgrades l Receive warranty and maintenance support, including RMA numbers and returned goods status System training is another important consideration. Harris trains approximately 5,000 students per year on the installation, operation, and maintenance of its equipment and systems. This process occurs in our company classrooms, at customer locations, and in the field. Our students (our customers) consistently rate the training they receive as meeting or exceeding their expectations.
The Harris Tactical Medical Triage System provides economic benefits throughout its entire life cycle: Low Risk Our customer knowledge, program management, technical expertise, and world-class customer support serve to reduce fielding risk. High Performance The open architecture design capitalizes on technology refresh of components, maximizing the value of customers investments over an extended time period. System Sustainment and Supportability Sustainment issues are reduced by the use of rugged military equipment (with existing training and ILS packages) and the availability of Harris field service representatives. Life-cycle costs are reduced by: l Use of common equipment and software applications l 24/7 support capabilities l Available in-country training and training material l Common equipment interfaces and programming l Availability of installation and maintenance by in-country partners l Availability of extended warranties beyond the standard 12 months l Low-cost upgrade paths 13
proven performance Harris RFCD supplies tactical and public safety radio products in over 120 countries worldwide Millions of people and hundreds of government agencies throughout the world rely on assured communications solutions from Harris to deliver critical information to the right place at the right time. They know there is too much riding on the outcome to risk anything less. What sets Harris apart is our depth of expertise, breadth of experience, and focus on providing the most advanced products, systems, and services that meet or exceed the requirements of our customers. Harris is one of the only companies in the world specializing in advanced technology for capturing, aggregating, distributing, and analyzing the full range of wireless communications including voice, data, video, and imaging. We use this unique capability to provide systems and networks for customers in defense, intelligence, government, public safety, healthcare, and energy markets. Harris RF Communications Division (RFCD) is the leading supplier of tactical, secure voice and data communications products, systems, and networks to military, government, and commercial organizations worldwide. More than 50 years of international experience is leveraged into the design and deployment of Harris RFCD s packaged C4ISR system solutions. The Tactical Medical Triage System is one more example of Harris responding to the needs of its customers. Harris has internationally acclaimed products which have left everyone else in the dust. l International Customer I firmly believe that Harris RF Communications really listens to their customer base and lives by the creed: the customer is king. I truly feel that sense of partnership with Harris, and I ve been dealing with Harris for years now. l NATO Staff Member
Always connected. Never alone. Corporate Headquarters RFCD Headquarters and Manufacturing RFCD Hubs RFCD Offices RFCD Partners Tactical Customers Public Safety Customers Tactical and Public Safety Customers Our proven solutions provide: l Voice, data, and video where it s needed, when it s needed l Cost effectiveness throughout the life cycle of the system No long, costly development cycle Unsurpassed in-country support during and after delivery l Scalability and growth options l Configurable solution sets l On-time delivery of quality systems 15
the harris difference As your partner, Harris is committed to your success Harris Corporation welcomes the opportunity to discuss the Tactical Medical Triage System in more detail, and how it can be applied to your missions and applications. We believe that our packaged systems provide a significant value to you, our customer, in the following ways: l The systems are available now, eliminating long and expensive development and procurement cycles l The use of the latest wideband Falcon III tactical radios supports new operational capabilities that have not been previously possible l Falcon III software-defined radio technology uses open architectures and standard interfaces, allowing the system to incorporate new capabilities and stave off obsolescence l Pre-engineered system designs emphasize commonality of equipment and resources to reduce life-cycle sustainment costs such as training, sparing, and maintenance l Our systems engineers and in-country partners can readily customize the solution, as required l The systems are supported by our world-class customer service organization that operates in every part of the world and is second to none With approximately $6 billion (USD) in annual revenue, Harris is an international communications and information technology company serving government and commercial markets worldwide. We are confident that our packaged C4ISR system solutions represent the best value with the lowest schedule, cost, and technical risks for meeting your complex operational challenges. Our solutions leverage: l Falcon III wideband radio technology l Harris advanced edge device technology l Open standards and interfaces l Focused program teams l Over 50 years experience providing state-of-the-art military systems l Product service teams that deploy to our customer l Nearly 7,000 engineers and scientists throughout the corporation
Pushing data to the next level of care to improve outcomes and save lives 17
Front Cover Photo credit: Department of the Army RF Communications Division 1680 University Avenue Rochester, NY USA 14610 www.harris.com 1-800-4-HARRIS Telephone 585-244-5830 Special thanks to the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, and U.S. Navy for providing some of the images used in this brochure. This information was approved for publishing per the ITAR as Basic Marketing Information of Defense Articles or per the EAR as Advertising Printed Matter. Specifications are subject to change without notice. 2013 Harris Corporation 1/13 ES-121A