SBIR-STTR Award

The maximum data rates through store interfaces based on MIL-STD-1760 or other interface standards have been previously limited by older technology data bus standards used with these interfaces. This has limited or precluded the ability to conduct efficient and timely transfers of some types of data such as large map or image files, target templates, digitized video, etc. between platforms and weapons, consequently limiting weapon effectiveness and operational flexibility in many instances. With the recent incorporation of a Fibre Channel based alternative data path into existing and evolving store interface standards, the potential exists to overcome these previous limitations. Further work needs to be accomplished, however, to adapt commercial networking and device (such as network switches and terminals) technology to the weapon interface application, taking account of the functional, physical, and environmental requirements associated with weapons (including evolving small weapons) and platforms (including unmanned platforms). The Phase I effort proposed here would analyze the networking functional requirements and implementation considerations associated with airborne weapon carriage and employment, and develop a flexible Fibre Channel network architecture which would satisfy the applicable requirements. Fibre Channel device technology to implement compliant networks would also be assessed, and any deficiencies and plans for resolving them would be documented.

Benefit:
The technology to be developed by this effort will facilitate improved mission effectiveness and operational flexibility for certain projected weapon types. It also has potential commercial application in sensor integration on air and ground platforms.

Keywords:
Aircraft/Weapon Integration, Weapon Control, Stores Management Systems, Avionics Systems, Fibre Channel, Avionics Networks, Fibre Channel Switches, Network Architecture

The maximum data rates through store interfaces based on MIL-STD-1760 or other interface standards have been constrained by older data bus technology used in these interfaces. This has limited or precluded the ability to conduct efficient and timely transfers of certain data types such as large map or image files, target templates, digitized video, etc., between platforms and weapons, consequently limiting weapon effectiveness and/or operational flexibility in many instances. Recent incorporation of a high speed Fibre Channel based alternative data path into key store interface standards provides the potential to overcome such limitations. Further work is needed, however, to adapt existing Fibre Channel networking technology (including switches, terminals, etc.) to this application, considering the unique requirements of evolving weapons and manned/unmanned platforms. A preceding Phase I study analyzed relevant network functional requirements and implementation considerations, developed an adaptable Fibre Channel network architecture for satisfying the identified requirements, and assessed the state of technology needed to implement compliant networks. A recommendation was made to demonstrate and verify the developed network architecture in a manner that would also provide a test and verification environment for future prototype components and networks. This proposal describes a suggested Phase II effort to accomplish that recommendation.

Benefit:
The technology to be developed by this effort will facilitate improved mission effectiveness and operational flexibility for certain projected weapon types. It also has potential commercial application in sensor integration on air and ground platforms.

Keywords:
Aircraft/Weapon Integration, Weapon Control, Stores Management Systems, Avionics Systems, Fibre Channel, Avionics Networks, Fibre Channel Switches, Network Architecture