The version of the DynaFlight™ system that is specifically designed for seismic applications is called DynaFlight-SeisBag™. Its basic components are described in detail under DynaFlight™ system; here we explain how DynaFlight-SeisBag™ actually works in the field.

The operation begins with the DynaFlight-SeisBag™ ground management software that manages the people, equipment, helipad locations and everything else associated with aerial seismic operations. Using three dimensional survey data (SEG files), seismic bag deposit locations are input into this software, which will calculate them based upon geophone points or whatever other criteria are chosen. Then the CompactFlash™ computer card containing the locations is removed from the ground PC and plugged into the onboard processor.
Up in the air, the pilot can focus on flying and deploying the bags, since most operations don't require pilot input. He or she need only glance at the DynaViz™ display to learn the nearest seismic bag deposit location, which is accurate to a metre or better. When the bag is deployed, the DynaFlight-SeisBag™ software automatically records the actual location of the drop, and then presents the next target. The pilot can deposit the bags in any order and the software will adjust, always showing the location of the next nearest drop. The software maintains maintains a permanent, three dimensional record of all flight paths, including date and time. Optional telemetry allows live tracking of the helicopter as well as upload and download of the target points and mission plans between the ground station and the helicopter.
Without ever looking away from the windshield, the pilot can control the entire DynaFlight-SeisBag™ system via the Tophat switch on the collective or cyclic. By the touch of a button, all information required, such as a base reference map or a full moving map with up-to-the-moment job information is shown on the DynaViz™ display so neatly placed within but not intruding on the pilot's line of vision.
Once back on the ground, the pilot plucks the CompactFlash™ computer card from the onboard processor and plugs it back into the ground PC, thereby transferring all data about the day's work — job maps, deployment locations, flight pattern and so on — to the ground management software, facilitating production of reports, maps, invoices and all the other minutia of the aerial seismic business.
Using the DynaFlight™ system is that simple.
Accuracy: Sub-meter, when used with DynaNav DynaBase™ Differential Station or other differential service as approved by DynaNav. Update Speed: Less than 0.1 second latency and presented at ten position solutions per second or better. Time to first fix: Less than 1 minute.
DynaByte™ Processor |
DynaViz™ Display Unit |
|
|---|---|---|
width |
7.25 ins (18.5cm) |
6.25ins (16cm) |
height |
6.5 ins (16.5cm) |
5.25ins (13cm) |
depth |
5ins (13cm) |
6.5ins (16cm) |
weight |
3.8lbs (1.7kg) |
1.6lbs (0.6kg) |