Rolls-Royce revolutionizes shiplift control

Thursday, 8 July 2004

(Miami, Florida) - New software that provides revolutionary advances in shiplift control and operation technology by providing the safest and most cost-effective means of dry-docking ships was launched today by Syncrolift, Inc., a Rolls-Royce company.

ATLAS DockMaster, its new flagship control software, will build on the success of the original ATLAS software in service on many of the 226 Syncrolift installations worldwide. A Syncrolift® shiplift is a large marine elevator used for lifting ships out of, or lowering ships into, the water.

ATLAS DockMaster now offers groundbreaking advances in shiplift technology and provides unprecedented control and visibility to the operator. It does this through the ability to 'tailor' docking load profiles automatically and intelligently; enhanced docking capability for vessels requiring an interrupted blocking system; and new asset protection systems to monitor the status of loads transmitted to and from the vessel being docked.

Under the Windows ™ operating system ATLAS DockMaster presents information in stunning, crystal-clear graphics, which have been ergonomically and aesthetically optimized for fast, safe dockings.

“The information and capabilities provided by ATLAS DockMaster make today's Syncrolift the safest, most cost-effective means of dry-docking ships,” said Geoff Stokoe, President, Syncrolift, Inc. “Combining proven features with cutting-edge advances, ATLAS DockMaster offers Syncrolift-equipped shipyards unparalleled advantages.”

For over 15 years, ATLAS has provided advanced control capabilities to Syncrolift operators, combining condition monitoring of the shiplifting equipment with a wide range of detailed information about the status of the vessel and supporting structures during a docking. ATLAS DockMaster includes all features previously available in ATLAS.

Syncrolift, Inc has a long history of customer care and offers various service support initiatives to enhance the owner's investment and ensure a lifetime of trouble-free operation. ATLAS DockMaster was, therefore, developed using a modular approach that allows seamless integration with existing installations. An upgrade process is being offered to existing Syncrolift customers, even those with equipment approaching obsolescence, enabling them to take advantage of the software's powerful new features.