An Embedded State Sensing System for Adaptively Guided Aircraft (1000-110)

SI2 Technologies, Inc. (SI2) proposes to develop an embedded state sensing system for adaptive multifunctional air vehicle structures to enable fly-by-feel or intelligent control. The embedded sensor system will: (1) be capable of actively sensing a number of aerodynamic and structural performance dynamics encountered by the aircraft, (2) enable the efficiency of the aircraft aerodynamics and structure to be maximized throughout the flight envelope, and (3) permit fly-by-feel technologies through the combination of locally processed sensor data and reactive and predictive control algorithms. SI2 will use its proprietary System Integrated Design and Manufacturing (SIDM) technology (which utilizes patented Laser Transfer and Direct Write fabrication techniques) to design and integrate the sensor system directly with the platform’s airframe. SI2’s prior experience in developing structurally integrated electronic systems for air platforms will be utilized to develop a lightweight, robust network of embedded state sensors. BENEFIT: SI2’s approach to developing a structurally integrated sensor system for adaptive multifunctional air vehicle structures minimizes the space, weight, power, and cost burden of implementing “smart structures”. Both structural functionality and aerodynamic efficiency are improved without compromising asset performance (e.g. endurance). Increased structural functionality reduces the need for large safety factors and permits the aircraft to fully exploit the physical limits of airframe and while increasing the flight envelope. Additional aerodynamic efficiency permits increased range and payload while decreasing the stresses on the airframe. This is important for a wide range of aircraft from small unmanned air vehicles (UAVs) to high altitude, long endurance (HALE) aircraft such as the Air Force’s Global Hawk. Hence, the technology may also be extended to commercial aircraft where it may be utilized to increase fuel efficiency, which has significant market impact.