Helicopter Handling - SATS
Traverse any helicopter type safely in high sea states
SATS - Operational flexibility and reliability with electric drive
SATS™ (Seaboard Aircraft Traversing System) is the latest electric drive version of the renowned TRIGON™ system, designed by MacTaggart Scott to handle helicopters in the dynamic environment of a ship’s flight deck in high sea states. It is supplied with its own electric drive units.
The flight deck of a naval ship experiences movement in six different directions and, more significantly, is subjected to large vertical heave and lateral accelerations. The challenge of ranging the on-board helicopter from the hangar to the flight deck for operational duty cannot be underestimated. The crew relies on the helicopter traversing system to safely conduct this task, which may be mission critical.
SATS, like TRIGON, works on the principal of three wire ropes being attached to the helicopter strong-points from widely dispersed flight deck locations creating a secure web with the helicopter at the centre. By varying the differential tension in the wires, the helicopter can be manoeuvred in a safe and controlled manner using a joystick. Computer control ensures that all handling is smooth and within helicopter limits. Ranging and recovery of the helicopter can be conducted during ship motion under in high sea state conditions.
The electric drive SATS offers some control system advantages over the hydraulic system, being more responsive and having a tighter control loop. Control options are available, including a man-portable chest pack.
MacTaggart Scott is under contract to supply SATS systems for the Royal Navy Type 26.
Six SATS systems have been ordered to date.
SATS will handle any helicopter type and is easily fitted to the ship.
Benefits
- Reliable, safe and proven
- Simple, quick operation
- Low manning levels
- Any aircraft or ship
- Simple installation
- High sea states
- Cost effective
- Low weight
SATS is a trademark of MacTaggart, Scott & Company Ltd.
FLEXIBILITY OF AIRCRAFT TYPE
SATS can be attached to any aircraft type without modification to the aircraft. The appropriate ground support equipment is available from MacTaggart Scott or the aircraft supplier.
The installation of SATS future-proofs the ship, allowing for handling of new helicopters or visiting helicopters.
MODULAR INSTALLATION
SATS is supplied as a set of tested/calibrated modules ready for ease of installation in the vessel.
Installation on-board requires only mechanical seatings. Electrical power is provided from the ship. Installation and commissioning can be supervised by MacTaggart Scott service technicians in minimal time.
COMPUTER CONTROL
Advanced computer control coupled with unrivalled computer modelling of ship motions ensures all handling is performed smoothly and within aircraft limits. Back tension is maintained while hauling in the opposite direction.
The algorithms within the helicopter and ship motion modelling have been validated using a rolling platform located at RAE (now QinetiQ) Boscombe Down.
SAFETY SYSTEMS
Fail-safe brakes ensure the helicopter is always secure. If severe ship motion occurs, that would otherwise apply excessive loads to the airframe, the traverse stops and brakes are applied to all winches. This avoids risk of damage to the helicopter. Following such an event, normal traversing can be safely resumed.