Obstacle warning and landing system rotorcraft/UAVs

Continuous and full 360-degree obstacle awareness around stationary and moving platforms remains limited by the movement mechanism and emitter base platform required for obstacle detection. Current issues are related to the transfer of information from the emitter(s) to the processor and the movement of the transceiver base itself. The signal coupling component typically results in a slip-ring design to transfer the electronic data in a constant rotating platform; resulting in an inherent Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR) loss. A system that could achieve rapid hemispherical coverage without slip-ring/switch designs would improve SNR significantly. A lightweight, cost effective means to initially detect small, hazardous objects during rotorcraft low speed and landing operations has been developed, and initial prototype testing is in progress. This obstacle warning and landing system (OWLSys) incorporates an advanced electromechanical positioning system, mounted on the exterior of the platform, coupled with next generation LADAR capability. The system provides 360 degree coverage around the aircraft, and roughly 215 degree hemispherical coverage from ground to rotor blade tip on a single system mounting design. Dual systems can be configured to expand coverage to near spherical around the platform. Designed to detect power line hazards for rotorcraft originally, OWLSys provides a minimum obstacle detection size capability (6-8mm) with improved coverage area/volume; at a cost benefit.