SBIR-STTR Award

TeraMetrix proposes to contact and survey potential Air Force (AF) Customers and End Users for the Phase II proposed “Next Generation” Hardened, Cost Reduced, Terahertz (THz) Low Observable (LO) Thickness Measurement System for Depot and Field Sustainment Product. The targeted AF Customers and End Users will assist TeraMetrix to develop the MIL-STD certification requirements, use case, price target and other functional requirements. TeraMetrix will then develop a Phase II implementation plan for developing and constructing a deliverable “Next Generation” THz LO Observable Thickness Measurement System for depot and field use. TeraMetrix is first targeting the Fighter/Bomber PEO and F-22 SPO to develop product feature requirements, develop transition/testing requirements for field squadron sustainment, and obtain the Phase II Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). TeraMetrix currently sells commercial off the shelf (COTS) THz Coating Thickness Measurement Products to DOD aerospace manufacturers. The COTS products are suitable for factory use but require additional hardening and cost reduction for transition squadron field sustainment. TeraMetrix has identified the following certification tests necessary for the “Next Generation” product: MIL STD 180G drop test; MIL STD 810H dust intrusion; MIL STD339/1100 cable durability; IP64 Water Intrusion; and Class I Div. 2 certification for use around previously fuele

A prototype ruggedized, size, and cost-reduced “Next Generation Handheld THz Specialty Coating Thickness Measurement System for Aircraft Depot and Field Sustainment” will be designed, tested and delivered. The prototype will be evolved from TeraMetrix’s COTS light duty single point gauge (SPG) product. The Phase II deliverable will meet the following standards: MIL STD 180G drop test; MIL STD 810H dust intrusion; MIL STD339/1100 cable durability; IP64 Water Intrusion; and Class I Div. 2 certification for use around previously fueled aircraft. A signed supporting MOU from the F-22 Systems Program Office (AFLCMC/WWU) has been obtained. F-22 SPO and Depot has a national defense-related mission need to accurately measure the thickness of multilayer specialty coatings during in-service inspections; and during depot repair and refurbishment of these coatings. Fifth Generation aircraft, such as the F-22, have complex coating stacks that must be applied to exacting thickness tolerance to meet the performance specifications of the aircraft. Baseline technologies are limited in accuracy and precision, and a new and improved capability is required for higher quality aircraft sustainment with the lowest risk of costly rework. This is critical to ensure aircraft perform as expected to maximize survivability of the aircraft and p