Multi-Function Laser Radar (LADAR) for Rotorcraft Brownout and Cable Warning/Obstacle Avoidance

ASC is involved in the Autonomous Vehicle community (air, ground and sea) and development of Future Combat Systems. The 3D Flash LIDAR camera developed under the proposed program will be the first step towards a commercial collision and hazard avoidance systems. Unique because it is compact and lightweight, making it much more cost effective and deployable than the existing Portable 3D Flash or scanning LIDAR cameras. ASC has developed, designed, and fabricated multiple commercial and military 3D products and is also developing sensors for various space applications. The proposed development would add to the applicability of this technology, and reduce the overall cost and size while making the cameras commercially viable. BENEFIT: Advanced Scientific Concepts, Inc. (ASC) has developed non-mechanical 3D LIDAR imagers based on its patented array technology. 3D Flash LIDAR Cameras (FLC) output 128x128 3D point clouds at video rates. In July, ASCs DragonEye 3D Flash LIDARTM camera was in orbit for 16 days successfully imaging the Endeavor Orbiter (STS-127) to Space Station docking. The LIDAR sensing that ASC has been pursuing is directly in-line with the approach and form-factor needed to enable helicopter landing in reduced visibility. The proposed effort will leverage the current on-going development work ASC has with iRobot and NASA, with a focus on producing a multi-function helicopter mounted 3D Flash LIDAR system for brownout and cable warning and avoidance. Phase I will include a field demonstration and produce the models, requirements and preliminary design concepts to produce a robust Phase II prototype. In Phase II, ASC will fabricate and field test a prototype LIDAR sensor that will be scalable and robust. This compact lightweight sensor will be suitable for demonstration on a helicopter. The sensor will provide real-time point clouds with refresh rates up to 20 Hz. The laser will be eye-safe (1.57um) and require no scanning.