Optical Weight and Center of Gravity Measurement System

Real-time, condition based maintenance of Helicopters requires a robust means of monitoring the load on the airframe and rotor real-time. Luna Innovations Incorporated is proposing an all-optical-fiber based system to enable real-time monitoring of the center of gravity (C.G.) and gross weight (G.W.) of the rotorcraft during loading and unloading immediately prior to take-off and in-flight. The system will provide input to the Health and Usage Monitoring System (HUMS) as well as to the pilot and the autopilot systems enabling safer, more accurate flight control. The proposed system may also enable fly-by-wire for future upgrade of rotorcraft, extending the flight envelope beyond the normal stability limits, improving performance and mission capability. The modern battlespace requires EMI immune load cells suitable for a wide temperature range which are inherent properties of the proposed light weight optical fiber based system. Integration of the proposed system into existing airframes and hardware could extend the useful service life and performance envelope of rotorcraft platforms. Luna is teaming with an OEM airframe manufacturer for guidance ensuring that the developed technology will address commercial performance requirements and enable early adoption. The proposed optical fiber system platform can also be extended for turbine engine and actuator control.