Products - MALMS Mobile |
MALMS Mobile provides accurate photometric measurement of both inset and elevated services (Runway Centre Line, TDZ, Inset and Elevated Edge, Inset Approach) on the runway. The system has been designed to deliver accurate measurement, and effective data collection at all times, while also offering versatility and ease of use. In particular, the control of data collection is through the use of a intuitive touch screen system, so enabling its use by all staff - even those with little computer skills - and minimising training requirements. The data measurement and data collection system comprises of the following key elements:
Custom Trailer
This is extremely robust and has been designed specifically to enable the sensor arrays to be mounted and easily adjusted to the correct position for measuring both inset and elevated fittings, and to positioned for safe transit. This trailer ensures that the system is design optimised for data quality, whilst providing versatile and flexible equipment that can be deployed with any vehicle. The use of specially designed suspension provides an extremely stable measurement platform, and enables high speed running (speeds in excess of 65 km/h are practical). It is also possible to fit two sensor arrays to facilitate the measurement of both sides of elevated fittings in a single run.
Light Sensor Array
This comprises multiple, high accuracy, multi-range photometers for the accurate measurement of Lux, from which the beam intensity is calculated, These custom designed photopic sensors, include photopic response filters, and are calibrated on a photometric bench against a NPL [UK National Physical Laboratory] photometer. They each have three measurement ranges (with automatic range selection) and are optimised for maximum data collection at any vehicle speed over the Lux range required for AGL measurement. In fact, each sensor node has its own microprocessor to control the measurement cycle, provide automatic range changing / diagnostics and network interface. The array also includes a colour sensor , which is used to confirm the colour coding of lighting and to check data validity. Additionally, sensor calibration is stable and so no on-site re-calibration is required and the sensors are temperature controlled for maximum accuracy in operational conditions.
The Position Sensor Array
This is dedicated to locating the position of the light source. It uses custom designed sensors that detect when the vehicle passes over a lamp and the offset of the light sensor array (relative to the axis of the lamp) at this point. This information is used to determine the location of each light sensor relative to the light source being measured, during data collection, and hence what data is used in the calculation of Average Beam Intensity. These sensors have been customised designed for maximum accuracy, and for high mechanical strength to meet airside requirements.
The Navigation Module
This has a number of roles, including the provision of additional information for calculating the position of the sensors in the beam. It includes a GPS (Global Positioning System), which is integral to ease of use and data quality, and this determines vehicle position to within 100m??. This data is used to determine which runway lighting section is being measured, and the system is configured to accept differential correction factors when available, which provide the added accuracy required to improve data verification and assist the location of specified fittings. The module also incorporates a high-precision Angular Velocity Sensor that detects changes in vehicle direction, and a distance sensor input for connection of the Distance Transducer on the trailer. When data from these two are combined, this is used to validate the course and distance driven. Data from the Position Array and Navigation module is vital for the accurate calculation of the location of the sensors in the beam and the distance from the light source for each measurement.
Communications Network
A rugged, high speed MALMS Data Network connects the sensor arrays to the data logger. This network, which is based on the CAN (Control Area Network) technology that is increasingly used in automotive applications, provides reliable, robust and high-speed communications over the wide range of environmental conditions experienced on airfields. The number of connections needed has also been minimised to further increase system reliability
Data Logger
This is a rugged (PC compatible) computer system with integral back-lit touch screen which provides a robust, reliable, easy to use data collection system. The logger, which is designed to be mounted in the towing vehicle, is built with industrial grade electronics, waterproof / military connectors, a solid state disk drive and incorporates a vehicle 12V power supply designed to handle all possible voltage variations. These features, housed within a metal enclosure, ensure a long reliable service life under all operating conditions. The touch screen user interface, back-lit for ease of use at night, employs simple menu windows that provide the operator with easy access to the main system facilities. There is no operational requirement for keyboard or mouse, and so no computer skills are required. The system facilities enable the operator to; test the system, establish the data collection run , accurately control data collection, undertake the initial data calculation, and review results, generate a report, and manage the transfer of the data to the MALMS Office system. In addition the system includes some advanced diagnostic routines which continually check system operation, log operator actions, monitor driving quality, and enable, if necessary, remote support from TMS.
System Facilities
