1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 GENERAL
This document is describing the general operation of the SAFEDOCK Docking and Guidance System. Illustrations are given for a generic system or a variation on this, which means that they may deviate slightly from the system actually delivered. However, the project relevant display pictures are presented in the USER GUIDE - Pilots, appendix A. Special features delivered with the system are described in appendix B, SAFEDOCK Features.
1.2 SYSTEM OVERVIEW
The Safegate Docking Guidance System, SAFEDOCK, is designed to provide fast and safe guidance during the aircraft’s approach into the stand area.
The SAFEDOCK system is based on laser scanning and distance measuring technology, and it tracks the lateral and longitudinal position of the aircraft. This 3-dimensional technique ensures that the pilot is provided with the correct stop indication for the aircraft.
All necessary information, such as azimuth guidance, distance to stop, aircraft type, door in use etc is shown on an alphanumeric LED display that is clearly visible for both pilots.
Each individual SAFEDOCK system is controlled from the local Operator Panel or from GOS, the Central Gate Operating System. From GOS all connected SAFEDOCK systems can be individually controlled and monitored.
GOS is also the gateway to the airports database system, FIS, which optionally provides information on scheduled and active flights.
1.3 OPERATIONAL STATES
The SAFEDOCK system has four operational states and also a maintenance mode:
(a) Ready (the system is idling, waiting for a command; Stand can be cleared)
(b) Scheduled (an initiate-docking command has been received from GOS, if applicable)
(c) Active (docking has been started)
(i) Calibration check
(ii) Capturing aircraft
(iii) Tracking aircraft
(iv) Aircraft check
(d) Parked (the docking procedure has been completed)
During the maintenance mode, the following functions can be performed:
(a) Program Load
(b) Stand Configuration and Calibration
(c) Dump of SAFEDOCK configuration data
(d) Dump of SAFEDOCK docking log