EDF2021: AMLTD
Additive Manufacturing of Lightweight Laser Target Designator
Objective: To develop a miniature Laser Target Designator, compliant to small class UAV payload size requirements without any decrease in their performance
THE PURPOSE
Unmanned aircraft System (UAS) have become an integral part of international conflicts in recent years, especially since their role is no longer limited to surveillance and reconnaissance. The implementation of Laser Target designator (LTD) systems enables UASs to be employed in target acquisition missions for precision target marking. The increased demand for UAS units has accelerated their development, further decreasing their dimensions to improve their flexibility and portability as well as overall survivability in the field. On the other hand, this miniaturization trend leads to trade-offs between the UAS features and its payload.
This evolving operational environment requires the development of a next generation of (LTD) devices that would comply with more stringent payload requirements without any decrease in their performance.
PROJECT SCOPE
This project addresses the main technology challenges that hamper the development of low size, weight, power and cost (SWaP-C) LTDs and will support the continuing development of miniature UASs.
To achieve this result, AMLTD activities will focus on four critical approaches, each led by a consortium partner:
· Novel and enhanced of optical components (AKTYVUS PHOTONICS)
· Use lightweight materials prepared with selective laser melting/3d printing (FTMC)
· Multiphysics simulation of the system thermomechanical properties (OpenEngineering)
· Topology optimization of stress-tolerant optomechanical structures (GDTech)
· ALTUS LSA act as a final integrator, guiding the project, as the system is tailored to be integrated in their VTOL (ATLAS 204).
Where are we now?
Currently the project is moving toward its second stage, focusing on the design of the new part. Thanks to the improved optical design (Aktyvus) and better process simulation (both for the 3D printing and for the laser generation) we can guide the design of the laser and achieve a low SWaP design.
CURRENTLY IN DEVELOPMENT
|
SECOND STAGE
|
CURRENTLY IN DEVELOPMENT | SECOND STAGE |
PARTNERS
Consortium leader:
Consortium partners:
