Update on the development of a laser/fiber optic signal transmission system for the Advanced Technology Ejection Seat (ATES)

Abstract

The Cartridge Actuated Device (CAD) Research and Development Branch was tasked by the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, In-Flight Escape Systems Branch to continue to investigate, develop, test, and evaluate the potential to implement a laser energy based Signal Transmission System (STS) for the Advanced Technology Ejection Seat (ATES) Program. ATES is a team program and previous results have been presented by The Boeing Defense and Space Group in April 1998 and by the U. S. Navy at the Safety and Flight Equipment (SAFE) National Symposium in October 2000. The primary objective of the STS phase of the program is to determine the potential for utilizing an electronic sequencer containing laser diodes capable of generating sufficient power to initiate escape system cartridges and CADs. The fiber optic lines selected to transmit the laser signal, the specialized fiber optic connectors, and the energetic devices, which accept the signal and perform required functions, were also evaluated under this effort. This paper presents the design approach, fabrication process, and the test results generated when investigating laser-diode sequencers capable of meeting all ATES requirements. The test results and analysis used to evaluate the capability of the fiber optic lines, specialized fiber optic connectors, and laser ordnance devices are also presented. In conclusion, an approach to conducting ATES system-level sled tests is offered. BACKGROUND The Advanced Technology Ejection Seat (ATES) program is a demonstration effort being managed by the In-Flight Escape Systems Branch at the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division at Patuxent River, MD. All cartridge, Cartridge Actuated Device (CAD) and Signal Transmission System (STS) efforts are the responsibility of the IHDIV, NSWC CAD Research and Development Branch. The Boeing Company, Defense and Space Group in Seattle, WA, is the prime contractor for this effort. An Integrated Product Team approach has been implemented for this program to ensure an efficient evaluation and implementation of all concepts. The primary objective of this program is to integrate the controllable propulsion system developed as the Fourth Generation Escape System onto a modified AV-8B aircraft SIIIS Goodrich Universal Propulsion Company ejection seat. In addition, this program will demonstrate emerging Signal Transmission System (STS) technologies not previously evaluated under the Fourth Generation Escape System effort. The technical approach adopted by the team is to minimize development costs by adapting proven technology from other industries and programs where applicable, and then supplementing the technology gaps with small-scale development programs. To this end, the following ATES design has been selected by the team (See Conceptual Design (Figure (1)): Modified SIIIS (AV-8/B) seat platform with SIIIS baseline catapult Flight controller based on Boeing CREST and ACES II technology (new) Electronic laser sequencer (new) Laser/fiber optic signal transmission system (new) Laser Ordnance devices to accept input signal and generate ballistic pressure output (new) H-motor controllable propulsion system based on ACES II and NACES pintle nozzle technology (new) ACES II drogue and main parachutes (current) This paper is declared a work of the U.S. Government and is not subject to copyright protection in the United States. 1 American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics c)2001 American Institute of Aeronautics & Astronautics or Published with Permission of Author(s) and/or Author(s)' Sponsoring Organization. CATAPULT H MOTOR 9/1/98 ACTUATOR DRIVER SEAT BACK STRUCTUR