RT LTA obtained a patent for a new Aerostat Winch
This post is also available in: 
עברית (Hebrew)
Israeli RT obtained a patent for a new winch for the SkyStar 100 mini aerostat system.
The patented winch is portable and light weighted, with automatic following wind direction 360 degree rotation ability, as well as an advanced cable transmission mechanism which protects the optical fiber and extends the cable life. The patented winch was designed especially for the company’s mini Aerostat system, the SkyStar 100.
The new patented winch combines an enhanced alert system, which alerts the operator if the tension is too high or too low, thus prevents system breakdown. Built as one unit that combines all; winch, cable and energy source, the new patented winch is not dependent on an external energy source and stands on its own.
Rami Shmueli, RT’s CEO, says that “The new winch will allow the use of sophisticated and enhanced payloads that have never been installed on such a small aerostat before. This will allow a wider range of uses of the Aerostat.”
The Skystar 100 Aerostat is a mini tactical balloon system, ideal for close surveillance and reconnaissance missions. The system is compact, robust and can be transported, assembled, launched and operated by two personnel after minimal training, providing field commanders with real time reconnaissance capability. The system has electro optical payload operational day and night, as well as other reconnaissance and communication systems. Backpack or pickup truck transportable, the system can be assembled and launched in only 15 minutes, with up to 1,000 feet surveillance range. The Skystar 100 is operational under all weather conditions with low operational and maintenance costs. Systems’ PCS has 1 KM operational range from the aerostat.
Skystar 100 Handheld Personal Ground Control Station (PGCS) is a compact unit that can be worn over a protective vest or mounted on a tripod. The Personal Ground Control Station unites a user-friendly software interface with advanced Real-time Control hardware. The PGCS includes an integral Digital Video Recorder (DVR), for recording video and data during the entire mission. Map and video telemetry displayed simultaneously on a Personal Ground Control Station screen. Navigation capabilities such as point to coordinate and hold coordinate as well as manual control modes are integral part of the system. The system can be used as a relay for other systems such as mini UAVs or ground sensors.
