Optically clear multi-layered protective window/sensor film for use on rotary wing aircraft

Since the inception of windscreens on aircraft, the effects of erosion on the transparent materials utilized for this application has been problematic. With the development of faster aircraft, Night Vision Goggles and various sensors which utilize electromagnetic waves in the visible and IR ranges this problem has been intensified. The team at United Protective Technologies, propose to provide data to demonstrate the feasibility of eliminating erosion through the use of an innovative protective window film which is applied directly to the environmentally exposed surfaces of windscreens and sensor windows. This material can be applied in a multiple layer configuration or as single layer sheets. When the film is removed it will leave no residue on underlying layers, and will not adversely affect light transmission. It will absorb particulate impact which may otherwise damage an unprotected window, therefore increasing pilot safety. This film will work equally well on various windscreen materials including Glass, Acrylic, and Polycarbonate. Installation techniques will also be developed which will reduce the risk of the film detaching from the protected surface during flight. Lastly this protective film will filter out harmful UV radiation which not only affects pilots, but also expensive cockpit instrumentation.