Fuel Tank Ullage Oxygen Sensor

To address the Navy’s need for an oxygen sensor for fuel tank environments, Intellisense Systems, Inc. (Intellisense) proposes to advance the development of a new Fuel Tank Ullage Oxygen Sensor (FLAGON) system that was demonstrated and proven feasible in Phase I. The FLAGON is based on open-path self-referencing wavelength modulation absorption spectroscopy. Specifically, the innovative fiber-optic sensor probe design and the sensor system architecture, combined with the implementation of first- and second-harmonic detection and machine learning algorithms allow real-time oxygen concentration sensing in harsh environments without requiring periodic calibration or maintenance. This compact and highly sensitive oxygen sensor technology will be compatible with operation in fuel tanks and in aircraft environments, directly addressing the Navy requirements. In Phase II, Intellisense will refine the system design based on the Phase I results and build an on-aircraft prototype of this new oxygen sensor, conduct testing in a fuel tank environment, verify the system size, power, and interface requirements, and demonstrate the sensor’s performance in a representative fuel tank. The successful Phase II development will lead to a calibrated and environmentally tested fuel tank oxygen sensor reaching technology readiness level 5 (TRL-5) and leading to a final sensor design that is ready for flight testing in Phase III.