ACR Electronics, a pioneer in marine safety technology, has received a special mention in the Marine Safety and Security category at the 33rd edition of the prestigious 2024 DAME Awards during METSTRADE.

Presented on the ACR stand in hall 3, stand 432, visitors are invited to visit the stand for comprehensive demonstrations of the new innovation and to learn about its potential to transform marine safety.

Engineered to meet and exceed the rigorous industry standards, the eVDSD (Electronic Visual Distress Signalling Device), boasts compliance with RTCM Standard 13200, USCG specifications for a Night Visual Distress Signal mandated by 33 CFR part 175, and Transport Canada regulations, positioning it as an exemplary replacement for traditional pyrotechnic flares.

The Pro E-Flare is yet another competitive electronic device introduced by ACR Electronics. The device introduces a distinctive two-colour distress light in red/orange and cyan, a characteristic officially approved for carriage, elevating its functionality to that of an advanced alert and notification system. The globally recognised SOS distress light emitted by the device follows a specific pattern of three short flashes, three long flashes, and three short flashes.

With a distress light luminosity measuring at an impressive 55cd (candela), surpassing the RTCM standard of 50cd, the Pro E-Flare goes a step further by incorporating a near-infrared component for night vision detection. This advanced design delivers beyond basic illumination showcasing enhanced effectiveness against shoreline background light distractions, ensuring optimal visibility of its users in critical situations.

“We are delighted that the ResQFlare PRO has been recognised for its innovative technological advancement,” says Mikele D’Arcangelo, Vice President of Global Marketing and Product Management.

"The device's advanced features, including its buoyancy and superior signalling capabilities, make it an essential tool for any sea farer venturing into open waters.

“Offshore ventures inherently present unique challenges, necessitating the highest safety standards, and the importance of having an electronic visual distress signal, such as the ACR ResQFlare Pro E-Flare, cannot be overstated. Traditional pyrotechnic flares, while once standard, pose inherent risks and limitations and require specific training.”

The Pro E-Flare not only meets and exceeds regulatory requirements but also provides a safer, user-friendly, and eco-conscious alternative to hazardous pyrotechnic flares. Its innovative design supports ACR’s commitment to sustainability, minimising environmental impact while ensuring the highest level of reliability in critical situations.

A total of 58 products were honoured with DAME Design Award nominations this year. The ACR ResQFlare PRO, along with the other DAME-nominees are showcased in a special display at METSTRADE, located in Hall 13 (Elicium) at the heart of the show.

In addition to the ResQFlare PRO, visitors can also expect to see the company’s broad portfolio of products exhibited on the stand including the new SR303 (GMDSS Survival Radio), the Pathfinder AIS (AIS Search and Rescue Transmitter), and the Bivy Stick Mesh (the first satellite messenger to integrate advanced LoRa-enabled mesh networking with the global reach of the Iridium Satellite network).