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| Photo Courtesy Department of Emergency Services |
A world-first helicopter “black box”, the HeliMax, has been developed
by Caloundra’s HeliCentre Australia.
It combines mapping, data recording and remote messaging capabilities into a tamper-proof unit that can transmit information directly to a remote computer. A prototype is already being tested in cattle mustering and surf-lifesaving helicopters in Queensland.
The device can plot search and rescue flights and record areas yet to be covered, as well as monitor helicopter hours and record incidents and other situations where a permanent flight record is essential.
HeliCentre, which has operated on the Sunshine Coast for 13 years, was established by two ex-Royal Australian Air Force engineers, Gary Castle and David Miles. The company holds maintenance contracts with a number of major aviation firms.
The HeliMax was developed when the Helicopter Mustering Association three years ago asked for a tamper-proof live recording device to enable its members to keep a record of true flying hours and so keep track of maintenance requirements.
The Queensland Government recently granted HeliCentre $38 850 to further develop the prototype for the United States, Canadian and Australian markets.
“After three years in research and development, the support of the State Government means we can now really progress the HeliMax over the next six to 12 months and hopefully gain the necessary accreditations that will allow us to move into commercial production,” Gary Castle said.
Engineering director David Miles said that while the company planned to produce 40 black boxes in the first year, the invention had a worldwide potential market of 50 000 units. They are expected to sell for between $5000 and $10 000 and can also be installed in small planes.
“It is exciting and we’ve still got a bit of a way to go,” design consulting engineer Will Shrapnel said. “We are hoping to tap into markets in Europe and the United States and part of the plan includes setting up a production facility and assembly plant at Caloundra Airport.”
Queensland is a leading aviation hub for Australia and for the Asia Pacific, and the HeliMax will further enhance that status. Ten of Australia’s 16 leading helicopter training schools are based in the Smart State.
Last reviewed 19 January 2006