Fast Two-Axis Beam Scanner for Multi-Function Laser Radar LADAR) for Rotorcraft Brownout and Cable Warning/Obstacle Avoidance

Brownout conditions have been blamed on the loss of more than 20 helicopters and 50 lives since 2001.” There is a compelling need to develop and field a DUSt PENetrating (DUSPEN) LADAR sensor and generate 3D terrain and obstacle maps of the landing zone in near real-time to provide active and accurate visual feedback to pilots during landing in brownout or whiteout conditions. Areté will marry its fiber laser based imaging ladar technology and its extensive experience in 3D imaging ladar systems used for applications in highly turbid medium (littoral waters) with mature and robust fast beam steering technology to produce a state-of-the-art multi-function LADAR for rotorcraft brownout and cable warning/obstacle avoidance. A fast two axis scanner, a critical component of the brownout LADAR system, will be designed during and a proof of concept prototype will be demonstrated in Phase I. The design and demonstration tasks completed in Phase I will provide a solid foundation for the larger system integration and test efforts to be undertaken in Phase II. Areté with its innovative imaging ladar experience and its proven LADAR production capabilities will carry forward the A093C-137 Phase I designs to an advanced technology demonstration in Phase II. BENEFIT: Fire, rescue, police and urgent care rotorcraft which have a high mishap rate due to collision with wires during takeoff/landing resulting in loss of crew and patient life could greatly benefit from the technologies proposed herein.