The Self Leveling Gimbal was designed at the request of a military (Navy) department that was retrofitting several vessels which were equipped with an old and unsatisfactory Self Leveling VASI. This request was for a unit that would be more sensitive to the pitch and roll of the vessel and which would not oscillate (quiver and continue to move from severe movements of the vessel).
Our former company, having previously designed a similar device for the Canadian Military forces during the Vietnam war, agreed to develop and supply the Self Leveling Glide Path Indicator expressly for naval and other sea going end uses.
The Downing Self Leveling Glide Path Indicator eliminates all over-movement when the vessel is pitching or rolling. The over-movement present on other units continues until it stabilizes. The Downing unit virtually eliminates the oscillation so that slight or dramatic movement in either direction does not effect the stability of the VASI.
The device is composed of two separate elements: The Downing Visual Approach Slope Indicator (VASI), Model 800 and the Downing Gimbal, Model 2000.
The VASI is installed on the center platform of the Gimbal where its center of gravity is stabilized so that regardless of the vessels posture, it remains level. The supporting structure of the Gimbal may roll in a multitude of positions, without changing the level of the center platform. This allows the VASI to provide a stable 3-color lighted corridor for the helicopter's approach. It provides the pilot a much needed safe glide path in darkness to land upon a sea going vessel or other pitching and rolling surface.
The Gimbal is further perfected to provide against any sudden or over-movement that may occur in the position of the support structure. If the vessel moves, the central platform does not. There is no oscillation or vibration.
This unit is built to order and is made with non corrosive material. |
