Centeye, Inc. — Department of Defense STTR Phase I: AF19A-T016

Description

The overall goal of this project is to prototype a physical robust autonomous nano UAS having the following characteristics: 1) It can handle repeated contacts with hard obstacles at speeds up to 10 meters per second, 2) it includes integrated chemical sensing capable of identifying and homing in on chemicals of interest, 3) it incorporates autonomy technology enabling auto hover and avoidance of obstacles while traveling in a desired direction, with top-level guidance provided by an operator or other, and 4) can be packed into a case that fits inside the cargo pocket of warfighter fatigues or the work-apparel of civilian users. This project builds off previously developed technology by Centeye to provide vision-based autonomy to general nano UAS, and efforts by research institution UC Riverside to develop tough and durable bio-inspired nano materials. Phase I is a risk-reduction effort in which we will prototype structural elements representative cages, and chemical sensing elements using fiber-based materials, as well as identify process-related issues. In Phase II we will prototype and test one or more complete systems that incorporate Centeye’s existing autonomy technology, with testing performed in tough (cluttered and windy) conditions.