Manufacturing Techniques, Inc. — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: AF191-102

Description

MTEQ’s approach to developing AgilePod® Capability Enhancements for LIDAR is based on our proven ISR payload capabilities and specifically our reconnaissance gimbal architecture that incorporates an innovative inner “Pitch Gimbal� providing a Coude path to the off-gimbal laser source while also carrying the LIDAR receiver (optic and sensor) and, optionally, a high-resolution context camera. We believe this approach is inherently modular and will enable the agile reconfiguration of the LIDAR to incorporate improved or alternate capabilities. MTEQ will execute two primary tasks on this effort. On Task 1 MTEQ will conduct the following major tasks: a survey of LIDAR technologies, systems, and vendors; tailoring and use of a radiometric model to assess performance of LIDAR approaches; a survey of candidate UAS platforms and their relevant characteristics impacting the LIDAR; and development of both system and subsystem level requirements that will serve as the basis for the Task 2 design activities. On Task 2 MTEQ will develop the LIDAR design concept, including the following major subtasks: adapting our existing “roll-tube� outer gimbal to the larger AgilePod to accommodate various LIDARs; developing the concept for the Pitch Gimbal with Coude path; and modifying the AgilePod structures to incorporate a retractable door mechanism.