Optical Air Data System (OADS)
ID: AF241-D014Type: BOTH
Overview

Topic

Optical Air Data System (OADS)

Agency

Department of DefenseN/A

Program

Type: SBIRPhase: BOTHYear: 2024
Timeline
  1. 1
    Release Nov 29, 2023 12:00 AM
  2. 2
    Open Jan 3, 2024 12:00 AM
  3. 3
    Next Submission Due Feb 21, 2024 12:00 AM
  4. 4
    Close Feb 21, 2024 12:00 AM
Description

The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic "Optical Air Data System (OADS)" in their SBIR 24.1 BAA solicitation. The objective of this project is to test and evaluate the accuracy of OADS and determine their suitability and utility as flight-test-specific instrumentation and primary aircraft equipment. OADS use lasers to interrogate the air mass without physically disturbing the flow, providing accurate air data measurements free from errors associated with traditional systems. The initial evaluations will be performed with the OADS integrated into a flight test pod installed on a specially modified F-16 test aircraft. The Phase II objectives include integrating OADS into a flight test pod, collecting flight test data, and evaluating the suitability and utility of OADS as a flight-test-unique truth source of air data measurements. The Phase III applications include transitioning this technology to be the primary means of measuring air data parameters on aircraft, with potential applications in stealth aircraft, hypersonic platforms, and airliners for detecting Clear-Air-Turbulence (CAT). The project duration is not specified, and funding specifics can be found on the solicitation agency's website.

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