Scantrol says it has introduced a new version of its Symmetry Control package, and it is also backwards compatible (through upgrades) for present users of its Scantrol 2000 autotrawl system.
It said it was introducing the new program after two year's development work, saying it felt version 2000 "no longer gave room to add the new functionality required to keep up with the demands for catching efficiency".
The latest offering can use parameters such as the speed of water flow in the trawl.
It runs in MS Windows and the package has a new computer and monitor designed to give a simple presentation with a focus on what is important for monitoring and controlling the trawl geometry and catching efficiency.
The skipper will see the symmetry of the trawl, the wire lengths and also the history of different parameters through graphic displays.
He can pull up an earlier run to get an overview and understanding of what really happened and then compare different trawl hauls.
New functions
Also new is a function allowing the bridge to choose the sensitivity of the winches as needed, depending on different weather conditions and fishing situations -- faster, slower or even tow with the brakes on.
Scantrol says this will have an automatic mode too.
The keyboard has been changed to offer more choices and more user-friendly solutions.
A touch screen is on offer as well as the normal LCD monitor.
Scantrol says the new program is also set up for an easy upgrade for all other types of autotrawl systems.
It is being used at the moment on Scottish vessel BRODD 1 and New Zealand's Amatal.
