The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic "Wireless Airborne Instrumentation Network (WAIN)" as part of the SBIR 24.1 BAA. The objective is to develop a network-based data acquisition system that can wirelessly transmit airborne instrumentation data from one point to another. The system should be capable of transmitting two signals wirelessly around impediments of various sizes, shapes, and locations, with a bit error rate (BER) of less than 10^-6 and time correlation per IEEE 1588 Version 2. It should also comply with Air Force Cyber Security and Airworthiness standards, and output packets compliant with IRIG-106 Chapters 20-28. The government will provide drawings/sketches of a scale model test fixture.
The project will have two phases. Phase I is not required for this topic, as it is intended for technology that is already proven and ready to move directly into Phase II. Offerors interested in participating in Phase II must include "Phase I-type" feasibility documentation that substantiates the scientific and technical merit and effort of the proposed work. Phase II involves developing and manufacturing an integrated wireless instrumentation system that can withstand airborne environments associated with high-performance military aircraft. The goal is to achieve a Technical Readiness Level (TRL) of 6 based on Air Force standards and be ready to function in an airborne operational environment.
In Phase III, the technology can have both military and commercial applications. In the military application, wireless instrumentation implementations will reduce aircraft downtime for Type-2 Modification installations. In the commercial application, the solutions will be useful for commercial aircraft manufacturers for flight testing and operational use.
The project has a funding opportunity for small businesses through the SBIR program. The solicitation is currently closed, and more information can be found on the DOD SBIR website.