Portuguese Falcon

A proposal is underway for the government to extend the Portuguese Continental Shelf beyond 200 nautical miles, with representation made at the United Nations to the Commission on the Limits of the Extension of Continental Shelf.

Nelson Santo, who has wide experience in the offshore industry, is attracted by the Falcon's reputation for power, reliability, role-changing capability and manoeuvrability. Rapid role-change during operations is a key feature where intelligent electronics offer a 'plug and go' simplicity that allows up to 128 devices to be added and changed easily. This makes adding bolt-on accessories easier, including extra cameras, lights, tracking system, manipulator and sonar. Special tooling can also be attached on a removable skid.

ROV pilots like the finger-tip manoeuvrability of the Falcon and its ability to hold steady in strong cross-currents. This comes from its five brushless DC thrusters each having drive electronics with velocity feedback for precise and rapid control in all directions. Pilots also have a new-generation flight display that shows compass and depth and vehicle pitch and roll, camera tilt angle, umbilical turns counter, and time and date. It also displays editable user messages and system menus. For pilots, Taste of Imagination has established its own training division with simulators that include operating activities usually found at sea.

Courses cover technical skills required for the operations and maintenance of the ROV, and knowledge of the work environment and regulations.With over 200 Falcons in use around the globe Saab Seaeye has created a winning formula with an ROV small enough to be manhandled, yet packed with technological innovations.