Smart Missile Advanced Remote Monitoring System

System Excelerator Inc. (SEI) proposes to develop and demonstrate an affordable portable integrated multi-sensor multi-channel processor-decision maker system which automatically collects data on the condition/health of military weapons subsystems, stored tactical mission and associated support equipment. This system provides a complete automated inspection capability using multiple suites of portable digital data processing modules wirelessly connected to a master controller which is connected to the `world' via cellular telephone. Specifically, SEI will upgrade key elements of the first prototype missile health monitoring system called MARMS (Missile Advanced Remote System) utilizing embedded MEMS sensors and DSP-based processing which drastically reduce the cost of field support while determining asset readiness in real time. The upgraded MARMS provides a low cost portable environmental stress and stress history monitoring system where remote monitoring is the only practical method of continual assessment. The upgrade efforts will focus on enhancing system portability including 1) the implementation of a wireless data interface between the host and the sensor unit that will operate in the presence of other units, 2) the addition of new sensors including a combination airflow and anti-disturbance sensors to provide a security alarm in air sealed quarters and 3) the implementation and demonstration of an active power management scheme that permits long term remote operation with storage devices. Low power MEMS sensors; wireless and active power management schemes could be used in both commercial sensor-based systems and military weapons. `Spin-off' sensor modules could be used in defense (safe& arm devices) and commercial (environments sensing) applications. By mainstreaming these application areas with MEMS and low power technology, rapid commercialization of these products is assured.