Noncontact Interlock Latch Alarm

To address the Navyís need for an aerial refueling latch indicator, Intellisense Systems, Inc. (Intellisense) proposes to develop a new Noncontact Interlock Latch Alarm (NILA) based on an innovative, low-size, -weight, -power, and -cost (SWaP-C) proximity sensor outfitted with smart latch detection microelectronics and LED indicators to detect and confirm the aerial refueling probe is securely latched onto the drogue fuel receptacle. Specifically, the innovation in the use of the proximity sensor allows NILA toówithout contactódetect and localize the aerial fuel probe with respect to the drogue receptacle. This allows the proximity sensor to be positioned to avoid obstructing the latching mechanism or being susceptible to direct collision. Furthermore, since the proximity sensor detects only metallic objects, dirt, oil, grease, fuel, rain, fog, and snow will not affect the latch detection, and all probes can be positively detected. NILAís low power consumption extends its operational time and makes it safe to use with the fuel probe. The use of solid-state microelectronics makes NILA rugged and easily conformable to the outer hull of the drogue without any modifications. As the probe engages with the drogueís latching mechanism, the proximity sensor detects impedance changes, and these changes are correlated with the probeís inductive magnetic signature. Once the probe is detected in position, NILA signals the LED indicator lights to notify the receiver of a successful latching. In Phase I, Intellisense will determine the system requirements and complete a preliminary prototype design to determine technical feasibility. Then, Intellisense will develop and refine the initial design concepts, converging on a final prototype design. NILA will be modeled in a computer-aided design software for integration tests. Finally, Intellisense will assemble a benchtop/breadboard testing apparatus to demonstrate NILAís feasibility. Based on the demonstration, Intellisense will outline a plan for Phase II, including identifying any risks and risk mitigation strategies. A final report will be prepared to address requirements, completed laboratory tests, and the prototype design. In the Phase I Option, Intellisense will continue to refine the prototype design and will prepare for Phase II system-level demonstration and validation. In Phase II, Intellisense will produce a full prototype design and hardware/software system. Throughout Phase II, requirements will be reassessed against original design assumptions, and a requirements document will be produced, outlining the path to full system qualification. Component-level testing will be performed on actual hardware and software. A system-level test will also be conducted to demonstrate and validate the system meets requirements. The robustness of the NILA system will also be considered so that we can capitalize on any developmental flight opportunities.