2. OPERATING DETAILS
2.1 THE DOCKING PROCEDURE
The following section is a step-by-step description of a docking routine, how it is started, performed and completed. Some examples are given below with two different SAFEDOCK display variations illustrated. The description of the variation delivered with the actual project will be apparent from appendix A, User Guide, Pilots.
(a) The docking procedure can be activated from any one of the following three options:
(i) SAFEDOCK Operator selecting the Aircraft Type to be docked from the Operators Panel.
(ii) Remote selection of Aircraft Type from the GOS system. Such a command must be confirmed at the SAFEDOCK Operator Panel. (Please refer to Volume 2, the GOS Manual, if applicable.)
(iii) Automatic selection of Stand and Aircraft Type, via GOS, based on FIS flight information available to GOS by means of a database interface. Such a command must be confirmed at the SAFEDOCK Operator Panel. (Please refer to Volume 2, the GOS Manual, if applicable).
(b) At start of docking an Aircraft Type is assigned. A profile for the selected aircraft has previously been set up using parameters such as nose outline and optionally also nose height and engine position. During the docking procedure the laser equipment measures the corresponding parameters of the actual aircraft. The captured data are compared to a safety profile of the assigned aircraft. If the safety margin, related to the aircraft type concerned, is too small, the display will show STOP/ID FAIL.
(c) Before a docking procedure is activated, the operator must confirm his action by pressing a four-digit password, if this authorization feature has been included in the SAFEDOCK configuration. When the password is confirmed the system is activated.
(d) Before the docking can be commenced, a self-test is carried out by the SAFEDOCK system. The correct position of a test object and the distance measuring accuracy is checked. A failed test would indicate ERR 3 on the LED Display.
(e) The AIRCRAFT TYPE is then shown on the LED Display unit and on the Operator Panel LCD screen. SAFEDOCK standard is that floating arrows on the azimuth and closing rate display indicates that the system is ready for docking. The laser-scanning unit is now activated. In case of bad weather conditions the text DOWN GRADE is displayed, and the floating arrows are disabled. This is a message to the pilot to take extra care. The “closing rate” bar will light up, as is normal, when the aircraft is detected by the system.
(f) When the laser-scanning unit is activated, the Operator Panel LCD screen will show the Aircraft Type and status ACTIVE. The system is now trying to capture an approaching aircraft.
(g) The closing rate LEDs will be activated when the aircraft is caught by the laser, usually > 50 metres before the stop position. The yellow arrow in the azimuth display, will indicate the lateral position of the aircraft with respect to the centreline, and a red flashing arrow will indicate the direction to steer. The Operator Panel LCD screen will now show TRACKING.