Physical Optics Corporation — Department of Transportation SBIR Phase I: 151FR6

Description

The Department of Transportation (DOT) is seeking a reliable and distinctive locomotive-based flashing light warning system capable of effectively warning trespassers ahead of the train without offending regular individuals/residences in neighboring areas. To address this DOT need, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop the Locomotive Flashing Light Alerting (FLA) system, which will be mounted on locomotives and focused longitudinally throughout the right of way (ROW). The specific strobe light generated by the FLA system’s Super High Power Light Emitting Diode (SHP LED) projectors provides unique capabilities not only to reliably warn pedestrians/trespassers, using distinctive flashing light day/night and in any weather condition, but also to generate human brain wave activity response stimulating pedestrians and trespassers to leave hazardous railroad areas. These unique capabilities of the FLA system will allow the reduction of trespassing and railroad-related fatalities. At the end of Phase I, POC will demonstrate feasibility by conducting a static test (on an extended road) and a dynamic test (installed on a Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) research vehicle). The Phase II efforts will include manufacturing and demonstrating a working FLA prototype on a running locomotive.