RDAS will baseline its effort from a generic system, the elements of which could be either collocated or non-collocated, wherein the targeting sensor, weapon and fire control systems are integrated, as is the case for modern system development. From the baseline, the sub-elements of the system will be defined and the error sources identified. The errors will then be categorized as fixed, variable or random and then characterized. Concepts for determining misalignment will then be generated. At the conclusion of Phase 1, and in preparation for Phase 2, RDAS will propose for a Phase 1 option to develop the methodology and the criteria needed to select the best concept of those concepts formulated in Phase 1.
Benefits: The proposed research can have tremendous impact on numerous targeting and shooting applications as well as surveillance applications for the DOD. It has the potential to give the battlefield commander better control over his resources and could reduce logistics considerably because system effectiveness of the target/shooting system can be improved substantially. This can reduce operating and support costs significantly. Not only can costs be reduced, but also weapon system performance can be made more effective. In addition, the techniques could be incorporated into UAVs to allow to better identification of impact positions and thus provide the battlefield commander a better means for performing a damage assessment. In the commercial sector, this research has the potential to increase the effectiveness of seismologistsÂ’ efforts in the prediction of earthquakes prior to an incident or the movement of large objects, such as bridges and large buildings. There may be potential to apply this alignment technology to commercial aircraft as a landing aid under adverse weather conditions. The alignment process may also be used to bring together large objects, especially non-rigid objects and structures. However, an analysis has not been accomplished to show the efficacy of these ideas. This may be done in future R&D.
Keywords: Weapon Alignment, Target Handoff, Netfires, Objective Force, Helicopter Weapon Systems, Tactical Missile Systems
