Laser Survivability Model

ABSTRACT: The goal of this SBIR program is to develop a validated model that predicts ignition of composite aircraft fuel tanks when engaged by a High Energy Laser (HEL). The primary focus of the Phase I research and development program was to develop a baseline capability for modeling laser-initiated fire ignition and sustainment for composite aircraft fuel tanks. The SURVICE Engineering Company team developed and demonstrated an engineering level, stand-alone module based code that will run on common desktop personal computers thereby proving the approach feasibility. A combination of new research and development with previously developed methods and technologies minimized development risk and efficiently supported the key Phase I objectives. The goal of the Phase II effort will be to demonstrate through research, experimentation, optimization, and validation that the Phase I baseline code can be further developed into a limited distribution beta code that can be used for initial studies supporting program efforts. Phase II efforts continue the code module development and enhancement by performing detailed testing, research and development of enhanced simulation equations, detailed validation, integration with higher level codes, and lastly distribution of a beta code version with user interface and operation instructions. BENEFIT: If a laser initiated fire analysis capability existed today, it would certainly be used within the DoD and industry markets to further understand the High Energy Laser (HEL) threat lethality, understand critical damage modes, and support development of mitigation techniques for air and potentially land and sea platforms. The market sector of DoD agencies and industry supporting both weapons and platform development, will grow rapidly as tactical HELs become more prolific. The research, testing, and development conducted during this SBIR in the short term (immediately) will benefit the HEL vulnerability and material/system development organizations for further understanding laser effects, specifically on composites materials and for systems with composite structured fuel storage tanks. This is evident by the major HEL test and evaluation programs currently in progress. In the long term, it will be applicable to commercial air carriers as HEL weapons evolve and become a significant terrorist threat.