TECHNOLOGY AREAS: Air Platform

DOD ACQUISITION PROGRAM SUPPORTING THIS TOPIC: ACAT IC: PEO-T, Tactical Aircraft Programs

OBJECTIVE: Develop a method for insuring all light condition visibility/awareness of aircraft propellers to insure aircrew safety.

DESCRIPTION: The E-2C and C-2A are the only remaining two propeller driven aircraft deployed on U.S. Navy aircraft carriers. High tempo 24 hour day and night flight operations demand that good safety procedures be adhered to and followed by all aircraft carrier personnel. The E-2C program desires to enhance carrier personnel safety by providing innovative aids that increase personnel awareness of rotating propellers/rotors at night and in low visibility conditions. The goal is to reduce the risk of carrier personnel being inadvertently struck by rotating propellers or rotors. The aids should make use of but are not limited to advanced computer hardware and software, lightning, paint and sound technologies. The approach may be one or a combination of technologies. The approach should consider keeping weight and power requirements to a minimum and satisfy the carrier E3 environment requirements if applicable. The approach should be easily incorporated on ship, aircraft or personnel as required. The goal is to implement this technology into carrier flight operations/procedures in two years or less.

PHASE I: Provide a design concept, including theoretical performance specifications in all weather/light conditions, which would be prototyped and demonstrated during Phase II.

PHASE II: Finalize the design and fabricate a functional prototype that may be demonstrated on a selected propeller driven aircraft. Performance tests addressing the specifications reported in Phase I should be conducted.

PHASE III: Improve functional prototype demonstrated in Phase II to a reliable airworthy maintainable component and/or system. Ensure that the technology produced during Phase II can be effectively produced and incorporated efficiently into propeller driven aircraft and helicopters.

COMMERCIAL POTENTIAL: Aircraft manufacturers (both civilian and military aircraft) would incorporate this technology to provide additional safety for ground and air crews required to work in close proximity of propeller aircraft. Commercial airlines flying commuter aircraft and helicopter operators would incorporate this technology to reduce the risk of propeller/rotor strikes and improve safety.

KEYWORDS: Propeller; Visibility; Rotors; Safety; Sensors; Software