Ideal Power ESC1833-8-1IP DC/DC converters have been used in the world's first automated system that can detect potentially hazardous items on airport runways. The system not only detects, but also locates, foreign object debris (FOD) around the clock, creating far safer runways.
The automated FOD detection system is the first radical new approach to runway inspection for more than 40 years. Under ICAO guidelines, runways receive a full visual inspection two to four times a day.
The new FOD detection system uses networked high frequency and high resolution radars to sweep the runway every minute, enabling a continuous runway inspection. Items as small as a suitcase wheel or metal bolt can be located to within 3m, and highlighted on a central user display along with their GPS coordinates.
A high specification camera, powered by the DC/DC Converter, automatically linked to the radar, uses advanced optics, together with an illuminator and pan-tilt mechanism to see objects up to 1km away, in all light levels or weather conditions. An image is then relayed back to the operator who can assess the risk and make an appropriate decision to action.
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