Sensor integration and testing in an airborne environment

Timothy P. Ricks; Julie T. Streling; Kirk W. Williams

doi:10.1117/12.630833

5 November 2005 Sensor integration and testing in an airborne environment

Timothy P. Ricks, Julie T. Streling, Kirk W. Williams

Proceedings Volume 5995, Chemical and Biological Standoff Detection III; 59950T (2005) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.630833
Event: Optics East 2005, 2005, Boston, MA, United States

Abstract

The U.S. Army Redstone Technical Test Center (RTTC) has been supporting captive flight testing of missile sensors and seekers since the 1980's. Successful integration and test of sensors in an airborne environment requires attention to a broad range of disciplines. Data collection requirements drive instrumentation and flight profile configurations, which along with cost and airframe performance factors influence the choice of test aircraft. Installation methods used for instrumentation must take into consideration environmental and airworthiness factors. In addition, integration of test equipment into the aircraft will require an airworthiness release; procedures vary between the government for military aircraft, and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the use of private, commercial, or experimental aircraft. Sensor mounting methods will depend on the type of sensor being used, both for sensor performance and crew safety concerns. Pilots will require navigation input to permit the execution of accurate and repeatable flight profiles. Some tests may require profiles that are not supported by standard navigation displays, requiring the use of custom hardware/software. Test locations must also be considered in their effect on successful data collection. Restricted airspace may also be required, depending on sensor emissions and flight profiles.

Citation Download Citation

Timothy P. Ricks, Julie T. Streling, and Kirk W. Williams "Sensor integration and testing in an airborne environment", Proc. SPIE 5995, Chemical and Biological Standoff Detection III, 59950T (5 November 2005); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.630833

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