Abstract:
Mast systems are provided for use with an underwater vehicle. In one example the mast system includes a support base, a mast arm and a mast payload bay. The support base defines a base axis. The mast arm defines a longitudinal axis, and has a free longitudinal mast end and a mast mounting portion longitudinally spaced from the mast end. The mast payload bay is provided at the mast end, and is configured for supporting a payload. The mast arm is mounted to the support base via the mast mounting portion, and the mast arm is selectively deployable with respect to the support base at least between a retracted configuration, in which the mast end is at a first spacing with respect to the mast mounting portion, and an extended configuration, in which the mast end is at a second spacing with respect to the mast mounting portion, the second spacing being greater than the first spacing. The mast system is configured for operating in a marine environment.
Abstract:
A navigational system for surface vessels that provides warning of impending grounding occurrences. A data base of bottom contours and submerged obstructions is compared to various indicators of the surface vessel's position and motion to provide alerts and to display bottom hazards ahead of the vessel.
Abstract:
This device for monitoring the external environment of a platform, in particular a military platform, comprising: - an observation mast (6) linked to the platform and comprising observation means (7) for observing the external environment, - means (10) for processing output information from the observation means (7), - viewing means (11) for viewing the environment linked to the means (10) for processing information, is characterised in that the viewing means (7) comprise at least one digital window (8), comprising an optical system and a photographic sensor, secured to the external surface of the mast (12).