Laser Ordnance Safe-Arm Distributor (LOSAD)

Following a very successful Phase I program, INTUITIVE proposes to continue the development of the standalone, Laser Ordnance Safe-Arm Distributor (LOSAD) to be used as a combination safe-arm device and laser energy distributor in this Phase II effort. LOSAD addresses the current need for a laser firing system safe-arm in existing and future MDA programs. The LOSAD utilizes INTUITIVE’s basic ‘optical block’ Ignition Safety Device (ISD) jointly developed with MOOG for THAAD’s laser ordnance system. INTUITIVE will further develop the LOSAD during Phase II to minimize internal switching losses and build/demonstrate working prototypes of single channel and multiple channel devices. LOSAD’s distributor function eliminates the need for duplicate laser firing units for initiating multiple devices. In addition, a higher-level of safety is inherent by use of the optical interrupt in the initiation train (as required by MIL-STD-1901A). The LOSAD will result in a significant improvement in overall safety for multiple device initiation with a desirable reduction in laser diodes and related firing hardware complexities and costs. No such device currently exits in inventory. Not only will LOSAD immediately serve as a back-up for the current THAAD ISD development program, but other DoD programs; NASA/Commercial Space systems; and the commercial demolition, mining, and explosives ordnance industries are prime potential customers. Bottom line: improved safety, reduced complexity, and reduced costs.