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Oxley Group Ltd
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14 Sep 21. Mercury Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: MRCY, www.mrcy.com), a leader in trusted, secure mission-critical technologies for aerospace and defense, today successfully demonstrated the Model 8256 Sensor Open Systems Architecture™ (SOSA) aligned Development Platform at the U.S. Army – FACE™ and SOSA Technical Interchange Meeting, proving true heterogenous interoperability with SOSA aligned products from several suppliers. This Phase 2 platform highlights additional signal acquisition, time and frequency displays, and includes expanded system management capabilities.
“SOSA is about interoperability, multi-vendor solutions, reuse, and affordable solutions for the government without vendor lock,” said Paul Mesibov, vice president engineering, Mercury Mixed Signal. “Showing a system in action and using products from multiple vendors—all aligned with SOSA — is proof that the SOSA initiative is working. Model 8256 further solidifies our dedication to developing open standards and delivering on our commitment to Innovation that Matters.”
This Model 8256 development platform consists of an Elma Electronic 3U VPX chassis, Crossfield Technology IPMI software and ChassisBerry chassis manager, an Interface Concept backplane switch module (ComEth4590a), a Concurrent Technology TR H4C single-board computer (SBC), and one Mercury Quartz® Model 5550, an eight-channel A/D and D/A converter 3U OpenVPX board based on the Xilinx® Zynq® UltraScale+ RFSoC, all aligned with the SOSA Technical Standard.
“Learning a new standard can take time to understand and implement correctly. It is much easier to start with a working system pre-configured to meet the objectives of SOSA”, said Ken Grob, director of embedded computing, Elma Electronic Inc. “The Model 8256 being demonstrated enables engineers to immediately start working on their applications while minimizing the risks encountered when working with new technology and standards. We are very pleased to be part of the Model 8256 development platform.”
“The Model 8256 development platform not only provides access to high-performance hardware but does so with open-standards-based chassis management capabilities,” said Terry Hulett, products general manager, Crossfield Technology LLC. “We are pleased to offer the system software that delivers the common access and interfaces into system management functions for all of the platform components to be truly interoperable with each other.”
Mercury envisions, creates, and delivers innovative technology solutions purpose-built to meet their customers’ most pressing high-tech needs. Visit the Model 8256 SOSA aligned Development Platform product page for more information including a video or contact Mercury at (866) 627-6951 or .
About the SOSA Consortium
The Open Group Sensor Open Systems Architecture™ (SOSA) Consortium aims to create a common framework for transitioning sensor systems to an open systems architecture, based on key interfaces and open standards established by industry-government consensus. The SOSA Consortium enables government and industry to collaboratively develop open standards and best practices to enable, enhance, and accelerate the deployment of affordable, capable, interoperable sensor systems.
14 Sep 21. Peli BioThermal Showcase Life-Saving Products at DSEI. Next generation of Golden Hour™ products introduced at leading defence and security exhibition. Peli BioThermal, the global name in temperature controlled packaging solutions, will showcase its latest version of Golden Hour™ One products for the first time at DSEI 2021, the world’s largest gathering of the defence and security community. The Peli BioThermal team of experts will be located at stand H1-748 in the Medical Hub dedicated to those at the forefront of military medicine solutions, where the company will introduce its innovative Golden Hour One products at the bi-annual event, being held at ExCel, London from 14 – 17 September, 2021.
The Golden Hour One equips individual soldiers with life-saving blood products in far-forward combat areas and the two newest versions of the company’s ultra-light, reusable thermal packaging containers are designed to carry and protect one unit of whole blood. Both the rectangular and cylinder versions are equipped with built in data loggers to track temperature information and reliably protect the safety of the life-saving blood product payload.
“For more than a decade, military personnel worldwide have trusted our pioneering products and world leading technology to securely, safely transport blood supplies, pharmaceuticals, tissues, biologics and vaccines globally to where they are needed most,” said Paul Terry, Director of Sales EMEA, at Peli BioThermal. “We are delighted to be able to share our knowledge and extensive expertise within this specialist sector at DSEI. We will be exhibiting products incorporating our Golden Hour™ Technology, winner of the 2003 US Army’s Greatest Invention Award, which have helped save so many military lives on the front line and beyond over the years.”
Peli BioThermal will be exhibiting its family of Golden Hour products, which safely transport critical blood to troops fighting in far-forward combat areas without access to fixed medical facilities. Peli BioThermal’s patented, award-winning Golden Hour technology provides military personnel access to the whole blood or platelets needed to save lives on the battlefield during the critical first hour after injury.
The Golden Hour technology was invented by Peli BioThermal in 2003 in response to the US Army’s request for a reliable temperature controlled container that medics could use to transport blood and platelets in combat zones and serves as the foundation for Peli BioThermal’s products Crēdo Cube™ and Crēdo DURACUBE™ HD, which will also be exhibited at DSEI alongside the low profile and life-saving Golden Hour systems including:
- Golden Hour™ One – The next generation of Golden Hour products making its debut at the event, both versions (F & V) of this ultra-light package solution protect a single unit of whole blood, maintaining temperature for 18 hours under extreme conditions and perform for 36+ hours under optimal conditions. Ideal for easy, fast assembly and simple pack-out for all seasons.
- Golden Hour™ Mobile – Winner of US Army’s Greatest Invention Award which easily transports up to four units of whole blood and maintains temperature control for 72 hours or more.
- Golden Hour™ Medic – Combat-portable medic pack, this nimble option stores two units of whole blood, keeping blood cool for 24 hours under extreme conditions and up to three days under optimal conditions. Reusable carrier mounts on medic’s kit.
Visit www.pelibiothermal.com to learn more about the wide range of Peli BioThermal products and offerings.
Peli BioThermal is a division of Pelican Products, Inc., which is a portfolio company of Behrman Capital, a private equity investment firm based in New York and San Francisco.
14 Sep 21. Nicomatic launches new DBMM Series micro connectors and showcases extensive aerospace and defence portfolio at DSEI. New space-saving DBMM Range with integrated backshells; Optimus EN4165 aero rectangular series; modular & configurable micro interconnects plus custom designs. Nicomatic, the leading manufacturer of high performance interconnect systems, is showcasing its extensive portfolio of modular, highly-configurable and custom interconnects on Stand H2-872 at DSEI 2021. Specialising in micro connectors for civil and military aerospace applications, Nicomatic has an impressive track record of innovation and customer problem-solving spanning over 40 years, resulting in its products being selected for multiple aerospace and military applications worldwide.
Nicomatic has invested substantially in R & D over the past two years, typically reinvesting over 15% of total revenue into new product development. Launching at DSEI 2021 is the new DBMM Series – Nicomatic’s DMM 2mm connectors now with fully integrated backshells. DBMM connectors save space, measuring only 15mm front to back, are easy to handle and offer excellent EMI protection. Qualified to MIL-DTL-83513, two models are available: DBMM220 (4 to 32 contacts) and DBMM320 (6 to 48 contacts). They suit high power and high frequency applications such as missile systems, military aircraft and radar systems.
Nicomatic will be also be showcasing its aero modular EN4165 Optimus connector, a versatile low-profile, user-configurable rectangular I/O connector series offering high density and space-saving compared to circular connectors. Designers can specify the layout they require, including signal and power contacts. Able to withstand 500 mating and de-mating cycles, high shock and vibration and extreme temperatures, Optimus interconnects provide excellent protection against EMI and are waterproof. Fully interchangeable with existing EN4165 solutions, Optimus connectors are a space-saving and stackable solution designed for equipment interface connection to a harness or in rack & panel installations.
Easily customizable thanks to Nicomatic’s modular manufacturing capabilities, the company’s miniature, hi-rel connectors deliver excellent performance and can be stacked closely together to minimize PCB space. Also showing at DSEI are the 1mm pitch nano density AMM Series, rated for 15G vibration, 100G shock and operating temperatures between -65degC to 200degC, plus the 1.27mm pitch EMM Series, which meets the performance requirements of MIL 83513 and is 20% smaller than standard Micro D connectors. Featuring integrated 90° back protection and reversed contacts, EMM connectors suit board-to-board and board-to-wire configurations in any pin selection from 4 to 60 signal contacts.
Nicomatic will also demonstrate its capabilities in cabling solutions, including the Microflex Hi-Rel Flexible Harness for high vibration environments. Stand H2-872
14 Sep 21. Leonardo DRS Launches AC2ES – Advanced A-PNT Solution that Offers Schedule, Cost and Capability Advantages. Leonardo DRS, Inc. announced that it has introduced an advanced and cost-effective Assured Position Navigation and Timing (A-PNT) solution to counter anti-Global Positioning System threats while improving the functionality of a range of combat-critical networking platforms.
The Leonardo DRS AC2ES (A-PNT Converged Computing – Embedded and Scalable) provides A-PNT information in Global Positioning System-threatened environments by using a range of technologies. It is designed for integration in, or designed as an embedded solution, with advanced off-the-shelf systems that provide cost-effective and scalable A-PNT capability for all vehicle platforms currently using the lineup of Leonardo DRS hardware solutions.
The A-PNT technology is designed to operate within existing Leonardo DRS systems giving warfighters in combat vehicle platforms a distinct advantage over similar technology, as users can manage A-PNT functions with familiar hardware. Operators use one screen through a graphical user interface they are already familiar with providing improved situational awareness. AC2ES converges best of breed A-PNT capabilities with cyber-hardened computing to deliver flexible and tailorable options for mounted forces, including A-PNT distribution/sharing with other, on platform systems.
“The threats posed by near-peer competitors require an expeditious fielding of A-PNT capabilities to overcome GPS-denied environments and AC2ES was designed to provide a cost-effective and scalable menu of A-PNT capabilities to provide our customers with procurement and fielding options,” said Bill Guyan, senior vice president and general manager of the Leonardo DRS Land Electronics business. “The challenges of modernization budget constraints demand innovative solutions that improve the affordability of new capabilities; and we’re excited to offer our customers this unique technology to rapidly – and more affordably – achieve modernization objectives in support of Multi-Domain Operations.”
AC2ES benefits users by providing a scalable A-PNT solution with modular upgrade options, making it tailorable to mission requirements. This design also integrates Leonardo DRS’ Edge-Assured™ cyber protection for enhanced system protection and mission-critical user confidence.
The technology provides A-PNT information in Global Positioning System-threatened environments by using a range of technologies from anti-jam and anti-spoofing, M-Code receivers, image-based terminal, and inertial measurement units. The convergence of these technologies into a platform Processing Unit eliminates the need for a separate A-PNT LRU, providing advanced and next generation A-PNT capabilities not currently available with existing stand-alone single purpose alternatives.
AC2ES has the ability to serve as an interim, or “bridge” capability, providing our Army and USMC customers engaged in modernization with options that can reduce costs and accelerate A-PNT capability insertion. Leonardo DRS is developing a next-generation solution based on future customer requirements and forward-looking innovation.
14 Sep 21. Ploughshare plans to generate impact from UK government’s big technology ideas. The company has announced ambitious plans to create hundreds of new ventures that will provided a substantial contribution to the economy and society.
RECOVER system using latent fingerprint technology made available through Ploughshare.
Ploughshare, the company that finds new and inspiring uses for government inventions, plans to increase its pool of innovations by working extensively across the MOD as well as opening up its services to other government departments, maximising the impact of the government’s investment in cutting-edge science and technology and its potential to improve people’s lives and UK prosperity.
As the UK sees more investment in government science than ever before, Ploughshare’s 10-year plan includes a target to take hundreds of technologies to market that will generate Gross Value Added (GVA), exports, and jobs for the UK economy.
This strategy is just part of a number of changes Ploughshare is making as part of a relaunch that sees it take on a renewed purpose and ambition to make more government innovations prosper.
Sir Patrick Vallance, Government Chief Scientific Adviser, said:
It is vital we support and encourage the innovation of our leading scientists and engineers in the UK. Ploughshare’s commercialisation capabilities enable us to continue to harness the use of new technologies which have real and beneficial impact in our society.
Defence Minister Jeremy Quin said:
Ploughshare is a prime example of the innovation driven by our new Defence and Security Industrial Strategy which enables us to capitalise on industry expertise whilst boosting skills and jobs across the UK.
The UK is a science and technology powerhouse and support for companies like Ploughshare is greatly enhanced by Defence’s £6.6 billion investment in research and development.
Hetti Barkworth-Nanton, CEO of Ploughshare, said:
Ploughshare has more than 15 years’ experience in the commercialisation of government-owned knowledge assets.
In the last 12 months we have significantly transformed our approach in both the identification of new technology and also the acceleration of mass-adoption game-changing innovations.
The pace has increased exponentially, as has the quality of the innovation that Ploughshare is now taking to market.
Ploughshare has already delivered over £117m Gross Value Added and £152m of exports since our inception – our plans will increase this significantly over the next 10 years.
Alongside its relaunch, Ploughshare has released a new Impact Report that describes its renewed focus to ensure UK government science delivers real prosperity to the economy, our society, people’s lives, and the environment. Hetti continues, “Our pipeline of new innovation has never looked so exciting, and targeting our business on delivering impact at pace will ensure that government science gets into the hands of users quickly and really makes a difference for society as a whole.
This emphasis on maximising impact, taking a long-term view of the societal good we can create, is at the heart of our new purpose.”
Doug Umbers, Interim Chief Executive of Dstl, said, “Dstl scientists work tirelessly to develop new concepts and technologies to keep the UK armed forces and public safe from harm. Ploughshare has been a vital partner in capitalising on many of these inventions to enhance UK prosperity.
Ploughshare, wholly owned by the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), has unique access to a wide range of technologies developed by leading scientists and engineers at the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and wider government.”
Since it was founded in 2005 it has licensed more than 140 innovative technologies and created more than 400 jobs. Ploughshare’s team has delivered a large number of projects that include a predictive test for sepsis that has the potential to save millions of lives a year; a technology that recovers fingerprints from ‘impossible’ surfaces that will lead to more gun and knife crime convictions; and a control system that allows uncrewed boats fully autonomous navigation at high-speed that will be used to protect our armed forces.
The government’s Defence and Security Industrial Strategy published earlier this year recognises Ploughshare’s potential to unlock more intellectual property (IP), noting that “the MOD will… explore options for a greater use of Ploughshare Innovations Ltd to accelerate the commercialisation of government controlled dual-use IP.”
For more information, including the Impact Report, visit www.ploughshare.co.uk or find Ploughshare at the DSEI trade show this week. (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)
14 Sep 21. Irish Air Corps equips PC-12 fleet with SitaWare C2 software. The command-and-control system has been fitted to utility and ISTAR types Longstanding operator of Systematic’s SitaWare command-and-control (C2) suite, Defence Forces Ireland, has installed the software on its fleet of four Pilatus PC-12NG aircraft. Operated by the Irish Air Corps, one aircraft is configured for the utility role and three ‘SPECTRE’ platforms provide an advanced Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) capability to the Defence Forces. SitaWare Headquarters and SitaWare Frontline both feature on the aircraft, with Headquarters used for overall mission management and Frontline to interface with ground and naval components, explains Captain Paul Shorte, CIS Officer at the Defence Forces Training Centre. The software can draw on data from the multi-mission sensors that are fitted to the ‘SPECTRE’ platforms as well as information from external sources. SitaWare enables data to be shared with all mission participants, ensuring seamless C2 and near real-time situational awareness across all domains and command levels. “Onboard the PC-12s SitaWare is intended for a range of military and non-military roles,” says Capt Shorte, “For example, the software was recently used to help tackle wild fires, where it was linked to crews operating on the ground.” “The software also enables us to seamlessly handover the management of an operation to a new aircraft when it comes on-station. When they arrive they already have all of the mission data and are fully appraised of the situation,” adds Capt Shorte. SitaWare is also set to be integrated on the two Airbus C295 aircraft that are due to enter service with the Irish Air Corps in 2023, these platforms will primarily focus on maritime patrol duties. “Defence Forces Ireland are an experienced operator of the entire SitaWare suite across all branches, and are quick to introduce innovative ways of working with the software,” notes Matthew Millward, Systematic’s Vice President of Business Development for UK, North Africa and Western Europe, “Their use of the software on board the PC-12 aircraft further demonstrates SitaWare’s multi-domain utility.” SitaWare has been used in a number of operational roles with Defence Forces Ireland, as varied as fisheries protection, peacekeeping in the Middle East, and counter narcotics. Recently SitaWare was used by the Defence Forces as they assisted in the Irish government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The SitaWare suite is operationally proven and has been delivered to more than 30 countries. The software provides comprehensive C2 across all levels of the battlespace, from the dismounted commander with SitaWare Edge through to mounted elements with SitaWare Frontline, and higher levels of command with SitaWare Headquarters.
14 Sep 21. Collins Aerospace unveils updates to SCi-Toolset, enhancing its ability to turn ISR data into actionable intelligence.
- Recent updates enable collection and fusion of both active and passive sensor data
- Modular software design means SCi-Toolset can operate as standalone applications or as a system
- In use with and available to both civilian and military sectors
Collins Aerospace recently announced a number of technical updates to its SCi (Simplifying Complex information)-Toolset, a highly capable and proven data management, analysis and intelligence development software solution designed to work within closed coalition, shared enterprise environments.
SCi-Toolset offers a flexible and modular approach to ISR data management, exploitation and dissemination – whether as a single stand-alone node deployed in the battlespace, or as part of a wider data-sharing solution spread across multiple independent sites. The SCi-Toolset simplifies complex information gathered from many different sensors so analysts can disseminate relevant information across bandwidth-constrained networks to military decision makers.
“With its comprehensive functionality and suite of powerful interactive capabilities, SCi-Toolset provides the actionable intelligence needed to support decisions that matter,” said Dave McClure, vice president and general manager of ISR and Space Solutions for Collins Aerospace. “This functionality ensures advanced situational awareness of both the local and wider battlespace for not only the individual warfighter, but also the broader command structure. And all of this is achieved through instantaneous shared-distribution of sensor-driven data not tied to any specific source or format.”
Through recent updates to its radar data management capabilities and databases, the SCi-Toolset can collect both passive and active data, day or night, over either land or sea for use by both ground and maritime forces.
The SCi-Toolset is already being used by a number of international air forces, coalitions and specialist ISR operators in both the civilian and military sectors.
09 Sep 21. Advanced Material Development. At DSEI. Here’s an overview of their technologies and applications:
STEALTH
Radar absorbing materials - a broadband radio frequency (RF) absorption capability using ultra-thin and lightweight single-layer and laminated nanomaterial coatings. The technology can be optimised to match a material’s rheology, mechanical and thermal properties, enabling integration with composite matrices and foam structures, further enhancing the absorption performance. The technology is being developed to help reduce the RF signatures of aerospace, ground and maritime vehicles and reduce radar interference from windfarms.
Active thermal camouflage - technology that can obscure an object’s signature from infra-red (IR) gaze at the flick of a switch. AMD’s device can control the apparent thermal emissivity of personnel or equipment, keeping high-value assets and people safe. The IR camouflage concept is scalable, ultra-thin and lightweight, for application across platform types. The same technology can be used to provide thermal management and, potentially, tactical IR covert communications. They will have a demo of this at DSEI
PROTECTION
Laser weapons − eyewear and sensor protection. Stable, thin, flexible films and coatings that counter laser-directed energy weapons. This technology can be integrated simply into personal equipment, such as visors and goggles or provide electro-optic protection for cameras and sensors. As a film, it could also provide anti-laser dazzle protection on the cockpit windscreen, offering an extra layer of protection for the pilot against directed energy weapons. Our materials provide a sharper frequency response, improved stability and are lower cost than alternative technologies. They have funding for this from the US DoD.
Electromagnetic shielding for ultra-lightweight broadband shielding. Advanced, hybrid, nanocarbon-based inks and coatings provide a non-metallic electromagnetic (EM) and RF shielding technology. The shielding provides broadband protection, which is lighter, thinner and lower cost than comparative technologies. It can be integrated into composites or applied as a coating onto numerous substrate materials and can withstand harsh environmental conditions. The UK MOD has funded prototype development, which demonstrates enhanced capabilities to protect electronic systems in both defence and the commercial sector.
SENSING
CBRN sensors – Highly selective and sensitive chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) sensing platforms that are based on nanomaterial and photonic-crystal technology. An array of sensors could allow for fast determination of a specific threat through a change in resistance or a colour change upon exposure to external analytes such as chemical warfare agents. This novel approach enables low-cost, lightweight, passive wearable ChemBio sensors that can be incorporated into or onto every warfighter’s combat uniform. The technology might also be integrated into gas masks as a residual life indicator.
Embedded structural health monitoring. Multifunctional materials enable resistive sensors for structural health monitoring that have a unique combination of extremely high sensitivity and a large dynamic range. Embedded in system substrates, these sensors could provide valuable real-time data on a platform or a component’s structural integrity including the detection of structural fatigue and micro-cracking.
Flexible electronics. Highly conductive 2D nanomaterial inks can be printed or embedded into flexible materials and fabrics as small-scale electronics or antenna applications. These flexible electronics can match the thermal and mechanical properties of host structures for potential ‘Internet of Things’ devices, wearables, and covert and medical use. This technology is also currently being developed for RF identification tags and smart sensors embedded into vehicle components.
11 Sep 21. How collaboration and new technologies are transforming Typhoon production. The Typhoon’s UK production line is being transformed through the introduction of new technology, an innovative spirit and effective collaboration across BAE Systems teams and with key suppliers.
The days of ‘old tech’ 2D drawings and text-heavy instructions are being replaced by the ‘new tools’ of 3D animated work instructions, augmented reality, projected work instructions and use of headsets, all being harnessed to help drive further efficiencies.
Martin Knott is the Assembly Team Lead for Airframe Technology Delivery and explains how the need for change is being driven by a focus on export programmes affordability with a variation of production rates and requirements.
“We’re investing in technologies and techniques that support the operators and help them do their jobs, increasing efficiency.”
That support includes 3D animated instructions, created by the Company’s manufacturing engineering teams, which show the operator what needs to happen in a process and the sequence it needs to happen in.
Martin likens it to the way we look for information when at home: we pick up a tablet and look at YouTube tutorials.
These new innovations can be found on the Typhoon production line integrated into smart gantry systems. Each gantry features a projection system that live tracks a part and guides the operator to the correct positioning.
The use of tablets that provide augmented reality information is also making things clearer and more intuitive for the production line worker; easier to handle, their flexibility is a big plus.
When it comes to working in confined spaces on the airframe, newly developed headsets allow the fitter or electrician to work hands free, with the information they need projected in front of them or overlayed onto the ‘real world’.
The project has its roots in BAE Systems’ ‘Factory of the Future’ initiative where technologies are developed and often implemented in other areas of the business. One example is the Intelligent Workstation, which came out of a collaboration with the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) in Sheffield and was recently introduced to the Typhoon production line.
Key supply chain partners in the smart gantry system include UK-based Systems Integration specialists Fairfield Control Systems and French company Diota, a leading software provider in augmented reality solutions and the developers of the projection systems being used.
Ian Sudlow, Head of Technology Delivery for Airframe, says: “This is another great example of the work we are doing to spin out technology from our Factory of the Future project at Warton and deliver benefit onto our current programmes.
“The use of collaborative technologies has the potential to significantly reduce cost, improve quality and enable our skilled workforce to add value by providing them with the information they need exactly at the point and in the format they need it.
“These technologies form a key part of our manufacturing approach for the future and it’s great to see us able to de-risk and leverage their potential on Typhoon. I’m really proud of what the team has achieved with this work in a relatively short time span.”
Smart Gantry
Equipped with projectors that can live-track the build of avionic trays for the Typhoon aircraft, the gantry helps guide the operator in the process they are carrying out.
Designed for larger parts in the Typhoon aircraft assembly process, the gantry builds on the successful introduction of the intelligent workstation developed with the AMRC and extends the team ability to use technology on larger scale components and assemblies.
Traditionally operators had to use drawings or refer to written instructions explaining where to drill a hole for instance. The gantry projector system puts that information right in front of them, actually on the part, it may also be colour coded, all to provide clear point of use instructions.
The gantry design has been ‘future proofed’ to enable upgrading and the team are continually looking at ways to improve the system, as well as exploring future technologies that may be of benefit to the assembly process.
Headset Tech
Operating in confined, tight spaces on the Typhoon airframe has been one of the challenges for production line workers. It has not been made any less difficult by the continuing need to refer to drawings and written instructions.
The headset technology Neelofar Ansari, a Senior Manufacturing Engineer in Airframe Technology Delivery, has helped to introduce, are easing that strain, improving working conditions and making the tasks involved easier to complete.
They allow the fitter or electrician to work hands free, with the information they need projected in front of them or overlayed onto the ‘real world’.
Neelofor explains: “The labels they need to put in place as part of the process are overlayed, so they don’t need to keep continually referring back to drawings. Here they can see it all in front of them.”
She says that the development of the technology originated from a challenge set by the operators to provide a solution to this difficult activity and during the development the feedback received from operators has been vital in ensuring the technology is of help to them in their roles and is delivering efficiencies.
She says: “We’ve been told when things aren’t working as well as they could be and that is really important. People must be comfortable with the technology and confident that it is benefitting them.
“When operators start using the technology and we begin to get the feedback, that’s when the project becomes really exciting, you find out how best to improve the technology to work for the operators and the job at hand.”
14 Sep 21. British Engineers reveal ground-breaking electric uncrewed concept vehicle. BAE Systems and Malloy Aeronautics have announced plans to explore the development of an all-electric ‘heavy lift’ uncrewed air system (UAS) as a potential new solution to deliver cost-effective, sustainable rapid response capability to military, security and civilian customers.
The all-electric powered concept vehicle will be designed with a top speed of 140 kilometres per hour and the ability to carry a class-leading 300kg payload with a range of 30 kilometres.
The cutting-edge technology could be used for a range of applications such as performing ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore movements to support military and security operations and logistics. Emitting zero carbon, the uncrewed system could help revolutionise military operations where there is a requirement to carry heavy loads, helping to keep military personnel out of harm’s way in dangerous situations or disaster zones, whilst reducing the environmental impact of our armed forces.
The companies are exploring opportunities to collaborate on capability, design, manufacture and marketing of the concept vehicle.
Dave Holmes, Advanced Projects, Technology & Manufacturing Director for BAE Systems’ Air Sector, said: “It’s fantastic to be working with Malloy Aeronautics on this ground-breaking technology. Bringing together Malloy’s proven track record of innovative technology in this field, with our understanding of the military operating environment and extensive engineering and systems integration experience, will enable us to develop a sustainable and cost-effective solution for both military and commercial customers.”
Oriol Badia, CEO Malloy Aeronautics, said: “Beyond the military capabilities, there is also clear potential in the commercial, security and humanitarian arenas. Our goal is to work together with BAE Systems to ensure that our capabilities are not just the first and best for defence, but that they become the future workhorse to keep all our personnel safe.”
The all-electric concept vehicle directly supports BAE Systems’ strategy to accelerate technology development through increased investment in research and development, as well as working with industry partners, SMEs and academia. The drive to develop sustainable products and solutions to meet evolving customer requirements is a
21 May 21. Allsalt Maritime introduces new shock monitoring systems for safer operations at sea. Allsalt Maritime is pleased to announce the launch of four new Kinetix models, each designed to provide easily assimilated guidance for maritime professionals to operate safely within designated shock and vibration exposure limits, reducing the risk of damage to vessels or injury to occupants.
High speed watercraft and their crews experience severe shock and vibration levels when operating at sea. Vessel hulls, on-board equipment, and, most importantly, human occupants are subject to damage from overexposure to wave impacts caused by abrupt accelerations from unpredictable rough water. Kinetix, a vessel shock monitoring system by Allsalt Maritime, allows maritime agencies to monitor short- and long-term accelerations, investigate high-impact incidents, and predict vessel maintenance intervals.
Workplace regulations for limiting whole-body vibration (WBV) exposures continue to gain international attention, most notably the EU directive 2002/44/EC which requires employers to assess and mitigate mechanical vibration, such as that found on high-speed craft. Kinetix offers maritime agencies a solution for detecting overexposure in real time, as well as the ability to record acceleration data at a high sample rate for use in validating policy compliance or in legal proceedings or accident investigations.
“The Kinetix product line was developed to reduce the risk that an agency’s assets — either human or equipment — suffer damage or injury when operating at high speeds,” says Dr. Tom Gunston, Chief Scientist for Kinetix.
“We’ve been working hand-in-hand with some of the world’s most respected search, rescue, and patrol organizations to refine the product offering over the past several months. With Kinetix we can now meet client’s needs at every level of maritime operations – from on-board operators to fleet supervisors to health and safety management.”
The Kinetix product line now includes four models, each featuring a marinized sensor network and proprietary analytics software. Agencies requiring more advanced analysis, or the investigation of an incident can take advantage of concierge-level reporting from Allsalt Maritime shock and vibration scientists.
The Kinetix product line:
Operator Edition
- Suited for individual operators concerned with monitoring vessel impacts.
- Provides real-time, on-board feedback through a dash display.
Researcher Edition
- Suited for naval architects and consultants concerned with hull performance and wave impact analysis.
- Stores data in a compact, marinized logger for post-mission analysis.
Fleet Edition
- Suited for agencies concerned with monitoring hull impacts
- Provides real-time speed guidance and post-mission analysis for one vessel or an entire fleet.
Agency Edition
- Suited for agencies concerned with monitoring shock mitigating seat performance and assessing levels of exposure to mechanical whole-body vibration (WBV).
- Provides real-time speed guidance, crewmember overexposure alerts, and post-mission impact analysis.
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Oxley specialises in the design and manufacture of advanced electronic and electro-optic components and systems for air, land and sea applications within the military sector. Established in 1942, Oxley has manufacturing facilities in the UK and USA and enjoys representation worldwide. The company’s products include night vision and LED lighting, data capture systems and electronic components. Oxley has pioneered the development of night vision compatible lighting. It offers a total package incorporating optical filters, equipment modification, cockpit and external lighting along with fleet wide upgrade services including engineering, installation, support, maintenance and training. The company’s long experience of manufacturing night vision lighting and LED indicators, coupled with advances in LED technology, has enabled it to develop LED solutions to replace incandescent and fluorescent lighting in existing applications as well as becoming the lighting option of choice in new applications such as portable military hospitals, UAV control stations and communication shelters.
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