13 Dec 2006

AFRL-Sponsored Technology Enables Surface-Enhanced Raman Detection of Hazardous Chemicals

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is a technology that enables scientists to detect the presence of chemicals at extremely low levels of concentration (potentially as low as the single-molecule level). This technology applies both to national security--particularly for the identification of threatening chemical and biological agents--and

13 Dec 2006

AFRL Developing options for Next-Generation Strike Tanker

AFRL is laying the groundwork to develop a next-generation tactical tanker concept. This tanker will retain its high-lift characteristics to enable forward basing while producing a very stable wake, which will create an acceptable flow field to refuel a wide variety of air vehicles. AFRL and Lockheed Martin partnered to complete approximately 200

13 Dec 2006

AFRL Improves Accuracy of Computational Fluid Dynamics Calculations

AFRL designers can maximize air vehicle performance and minimize cost when they know how air flows over an air vehicle concept. AFRL developed a tool that improves the accuracy of the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) solutions that the laboratory uses to study this type of airflow. This advancement improves AFRL's ability to deliver low-cost,

13 Dec 2006

AFRL Researcher Earns Patent for Speech-Based Audio Distance Display System

Users of virtual auditory displays can experience a virtual hearing impairment since current displays do not produce robust distance cues. However, an AFRL researcher has earned a patent for a speech-based audio system that gives listeners the ability to accurately judge the distance of sound sources. Dr. Douglas Brungart, an AFRL senior computer

13 Dec 2006

AFRL Develops New Video Imaging Technology

AFRL engineers improved battlefield communications with the development of an advanced video encoder that will increase the transportation speed, quality, and quantity of images that unmanned air vehicles supply while surveying battlefields. The technology will enhance the flow of video information from the battlefield through the use of commercial

13 Dec 2006

AFRL Evaluates Life-Saving Body Cooling Technology for Firefighters

AFRL's Fire Research Group is evaluating the Vapor Relief™ System (VRS), a new, commercial off-the-shelf technology that is leading the way in providing firefighters with the means to stay cool in extreme heat conditions. The VRS has potential uses throughout the Department of Defense and the civilian firefighting community. This cooling technology

13 Dec 2006

AFRL Proves Feasibility of Plasma Actuators

AFRL is laying the groundwork to develop revolutionary hypersonic aerospace vehicles. Researchers are examining the feasibility of replacing traditional mechanical actuators, which move like wing flaps to control an air vehicle's flight control surfaces, with plasma actuators that require no moving parts and are more reliable. As part of its

13 Dec 2006

AFRL Enhances Reactive Conformal NLET Technology

As part of its Reactive Conformal Inlet Technology Enhancement program, AFRL is examining conformal inlet technology. Conformal engine air inlets are flush to an air vehicle's fuselage, causing less drag and increasing survivability compared to other inlet designs. AFRL is examining technology to take full advantage of the benefits associated with

13 Dec 2006

AFRL Earns Patent for Airframe Integrated Energy Storage Technology Concept

Future air vehicles with onboard systems for powering directed energy weapons will require capacitors that, if manufactured using today's technology, would weigh thousands of pounds. Consequently, AFRL researchers have begun exploring ways to integrate load-bearing capacitor fibers into air vehicle structure to reduce airframe weight, free up

13 Dec 2006

AFRL Completes Aerospace Relay Mirror System Demonstration

AFRL's Aerospace Relay Mirror System (ARMS) program successfully completed a formal review of laboratory test results. ARMS is a prototype laser relay system designed to redirect and focus the beam of a ground-based or airborne high-energy laser (HEL) onto a target, significantly increasing the HEL's range and lethality. Compared to a regular laser