This advanced development effort provides a physical device for real-time embedding and retrieval of logistics data to track selected structural parts on aircraft (or other weapon systems). The specific research innovation is called the smart-part, which is a stand-alone information logging device to be embedded on a variety of weapon system structural parts, and will store and retrieve (EMIT) specific data on demand. The smart-part could be embedded into a host component as a module during manufacture, or could be bonded onto the component as a template during retrofit. In either form, the smartpart is externally powered and interrogated through a radio-frequency probe. This device will have a non-volatile memory capable of data retention for ten years. This effort will define the operating constraints of such a device; methods of data communication; and man-machine considerations. The initial approach involves a radio frequency (rf) communication and power transfer based on prior successful research efforts by the offeror.
