DON26TZ01-NV001 TITLE: Thermally Tolerant Optical Fire Detectors
COMPONENT TECHNOLOGY PRIORITY AREA(S): Sustainment
PROJECTED CMMC LEVEL REQUIREMENT: Level 2 (Self)
OBJECTIVE: Development and demonstration of an optical fire detector capable of an artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML)-enhanced Optical Fire Detector (OFD) capable of operating in temperatures up to 400°F, enabling deployment in high-performance engine nacelles without compromising responsiveness or coverage.
DESCRIPTION: All aircraft engine nacelles require reliable and rapid-fire detection systems to ensure airworthiness and flight safety. OFDs are preferred over other technologies due to their fast response times and comprehensive coverage. However, existing OFDs are typically limited to operating in temperatures below 200°F, rendering them unsuitable for certain high-temperature nacelle environments that exceed this threshold.
Current Limitations of the Alternative (Thermally Robust Temperature-sensing Lines):
• Slower detection response compared to optical methods
• Limited coverage due to sensor placement constraints
• Lack of non-destructive calibration, increasing maintenance complexity and downtime AI/ML Integration for False Alarm Reduction:
• Real-time signal classification to distinguish between genuine fire signatures and benign stimuli such as sunlight, engine exhaust, or infrared (IR) reflection
• Adaptive filtering based on operational context, reducing nuisance alarms and increasing system confidence
Thermal Design Enhancements:
• Material and packaging innovations to withstand prolonged exposure to 400°F (204°C) environments
• Calibration methodologies resilient to the thermal cycling, vibration, and Electromagnetic Interference common to nacelle-mounted systems
• Integration compatibility for both retrofit of legacy platforms and new platforms.
Expected Benefits:
• Improved fire detection performance in thermally extreme zones
• Increased aircraft survivability and mission readiness
• Enhanced maintainability through non-invasive self-test and diagnostic capabilities
• Improved fleet sustainability
PHASE I: Develop an innovative approach for an OFD suitable for use in a hot (up to 400°F) aircraft environment. Demonstrate the OFD detection capability of a hydrocarbon flame in a 400°F environment, as well as the ability to avoid a false alarm from other light or heat sources.
The Phase I effort will include prototype plans to be developed under Phase II.
PHASE II: Develop and demonstrate practical implementation of a production-scalable OFD developed in Phase I that can function as a "drop-in" replacement for current fire detectors (mounting and wiring). Evaluate performance of production scalable unit in accordance with MIL-F-23447 and MIL-STD-810H.
PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Produce a functional OFD that passes all environmental and fire detection qualification testing. Prepare the OFD for installation on a selected aircraft. Deliver all needed data to verify functionality for fire detection and any limitations due to false positives. Document any software needed for fire detection used in the OFD.
Thermally tolerant and robust OFD benefits commercial aircraft by enabling mounting in high temperature areas. The increased operational temperature would increase the life of the component. OFDs can also be used in manufacturing, chemical process, and oil refinement. High temperature environments may be needed or result in these industries. Any improvements to software detection through AI/ML would reduce the number of false positives, which results in a reduction of expensive cleanup, extensive operation downtime, and potential environmental issues.
REFERENCES:
KEYWORDS: Optical Fire Detector; OFD; Fire protection; High temperature; Electronics; Fire; Flame
TPOC 1
Michael Vamos
(570) 954-0836
michael.a.vamos.civ@us.navy.milTPOC 2
Michael Cosgrove
(301) 995-3993
michael.p.cosgrove6.civ@us.navy.mil
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