Buffet Load Accurate Measurement System (BLAMS)

In Phase I, IEM demonstrated the feasibility of a Buffet Load Accurate Measurement System (BLAMS) based on self-contained Buffet Load Sensor Nodes (BLSNs) which gathered data while in flight and would at intervals transmit that data (on the ground) to a Parallel Data Collection System (PDCS). IEM will extend and refine this work in the Phase II base period to produce a fully-functional prototype BLAMS for the F-18E/F, including time-synchronizing data collection, BLSNs capable of storing months of data and transmitting this data on cue, unique 2-D ultra-low power strain gauge, power harvesting research, work on integrating data analysis/presentation to be compatible with current systems (with Technical Data Analysis, Inc.), initial certification for compliance with RFI, ruggedness, and so on. A flight-test of BLAMS will be held as part of the SLAP program during the Phase II base which will provide extensive feedback on the performance of the system for use in the Phase II Option, during which the component designs will be refined and finalized to produce rugged, reliable units, certification issues will be extensively addressed, component bonding, installation, and endurance testing will be performed, and a manufacturing plan developed to address projected needs for a later Fleet Survey.