Physical Optics Corporation — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: A19-073

Description

To address the Army’s need for secure, common software for information exchange in avionics, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop new Secure and Portable Avionics-to-Device (SPADE) interface software. It is based on encryption and hardware abstraction methods developed, tested, and implemented on various military platforms. Specifically, the innovation in avionics-interface software will enable the SPADE technology to securely facilitate the transfer of data between the core avionics and any mobile device or display (e.g., EFB, tablet, smartphone, HUD, windshield display). As a result, this software will ensure that future display technologies can be integrated without changing the core architecture of currently fielded avionics and improve the secure connectivity of pilots’ mobile devices (such as EFBs) to the avionics, which directly addresses the Army’s requirements. SPADE will implement open systems architecture, which will ensure integration with mission planning systems and future display systems, to reduce not only cost but also integration time. In Phase I, POC will design a SPADE model and architectural elements, and develop feasibility prototype software demo (TRL-3) using existing component technologies. In Phase II, we will develop a fully functional prototype (TRL-6) that will be ready for demonstration to the Army of cross-platform capability.