Portfolio
Advanced AV Systems Implementation at Air Methods, Colorado
Air Methods, a leading helicopter operator in the United States, contracted Logic Integration to design and install state-of-the-art AV systems at their new training facility in Aurora, Colorado. The facility serves multiple functions, providing specialized training rooms for mechanics, pilots, and medical staff.
The primary training room, designed to be versatile, can be divided into two separate areas or combined into one large space. This flexibility was crucial for Air Methods, allowing them to use the space effectively for both combined and separate training sessions while sharing sources, content, and sound seamlessly. The AV system integrated in this room includes Crestron control processors, a BiAmp audio DSP system for managing audio inputs from various sources including wired and wireless microphones, 5500 lumen projectors, and Egan podiums. Each area of the room features a Crestron screen for easy control over the systems and the ability to switch between combined and separate modes with minimal effort.
For smaller training rooms, the setup included 70” LCD panels and comprehensive microphone systems, ensuring clarity and accessibility in training communications.
Air Methods Corporation, headquartered in the U.S., operates its air medical division across 48 states and Haiti, focusing primarily on emergency medical services. The division handles 70,000 to 100,000 patient transports annually, making it a critical component of healthcare delivery in many areas.
The project presented several challenges, including strict timelines essential for Air Methods to relocate their 24/7 operations seamlessly to the new facility. The positions for content connection points remained undecided until the final project phases, adding complexity to the installation process. Additionally, the training facility had low ceilings, complicating the installation of a large video wall as close to the ceiling as possible. The need for distinct audio feeds from various sources also demanded a sophisticated audio distribution setup.
To overcome these challenges, Logic Integration selected Samsung commercial 55” displays with ultra-narrow bezels for their slim profile and excellent visual quality. Chief Connexsys video wall mounts were used to achieve a minimal 2” clearance from the ceiling grid, ensuring optimal placement. The AV setup included six Crestron transmitter/receiver pairs distributed throughout the command center to manage content delivery to the video processor. The operations centers were also equipped with two additional satellite TV receivers for news feeds and QSC ceiling speakers to distribute audio uniformly across the space. A wall-mounted source selector and volume control allowed end users to easily switch between sources and adjust volume as needed.
- Crestron Control Processors
- Central to the system, these processors manage all the AV functionalities, enabling seamless transitions between different room configurations and easy content sharing.
- BiAmp Audio DSP System
- This digital signal processing system handles all audio routing and mixing, accommodating inputs from multiple sources including microphones, ensuring clear audio delivery in every training scenario.
- High-Lumen Projectors
- 5500 lumen projectors were installed to provide bright, clear visuals necessary for effective training and presentations, even in well-lit rooms.
- Egan Podiums
- These podiums are equipped with integrated AV controls, making it easier for instructors to manage their presentations.
- Samsung Commercial Displays
- Used primarily in the operations centers, these 55-inch displays feature ultra-narrow bezels for a nearly seamless video wall, crucial for monitoring detailed operational data.
- Chief Connexsys Video Wall Mounts
- These mounts allow the video walls to be installed just 2 inches from the ceiling, maximizing the use of space in rooms with low ceilings.
- Crestron Transmitter/Receiver Pairs
- Distributed throughout the facility, these devices facilitate high-quality video distribution to multiple screens without signal degradation.
- QSC Ceiling Speakers
- Deployed across the facility, these speakers provide uniform sound coverage, crucial for clear communication in emergency operation scenarios.
- Source Selector and Volume Control
- Wall-mounted controls allow users to easily choose and adjust their audio sources, enhancing the flexibility of the command center's AV systems.
The installation of the advanced AV systems at Air Methods’ new facility enabled efficient monitoring of multiple flight operations and the simultaneous viewing of two cable channels within a single room. This capability is essential for making critical operational decisions in real-time, significantly enhancing the effectiveness of Air Methods' command centers.