Electronic Bumper for Rotorcraft Brownout Approach and Landing

nGimat proposes to develop a lightweight, low-cost electronic bumper system for maintaining safe clearance from obstacles during brownout approach and landing. To address the system requirements, nGimat will use a phased array system. In Phase I, we will develop a system level concept, design and analyze the antenna system, and build and test critical component to assure a successful transition and completion of a possible Phase II. Trade studies will be carried out through extensive modeling and simulation. In Phase II we will build a prototype antenna array, along with the appropriate hardware/software, perform field test, and conduct further risk analysis to meet the cost/weigh/performance goals.