Tactical Electronics

Tactical Electronics Aviation will expand the operational capability of the R.A.P.T.R. system by researching the possibility of utilizing the vehicle as an airborne platform for other types of operations other than ISR. The possibilities are endless. Here are just a few…

REMOTE SENSING R.A.P.T.R. remote sensing functions include electromagnetic spectrum sensors, biological sensors, and chemical sensors. Biological sensors are sensors capable of detecting the airborne presence of various microorganisms and other biological factors. Chemical sensors use laser spectroscopy to analyze the concentrations of each element in the air and can be carried by the R.A.P.T.R. COMMERCIAL AERIAL IMAGING Aerial Surveillance of large areas is made possible with the R.A.P.T.R. system. Surveillance applications include: livestock monitoring, wildfire mapping, pipeline security, home security, and road patrol. HD video and still photography can be transmitted in real time or recorded, and flight paths can be modified on the fly using ground control software. A topographical map is updated in real time to show flight path history. Photographs can be tagged with geographical information allowing for precise locating and photogrammetry production of 3-dimensional images for survey purposes. STRUCTURAL INSPECTIONS Because of its small size and precise gps navigation system, the R.A.P.T.R. the crew can operate the vehicle in close proximity to large structures such as bridges, dams, towers, and buildings for the purpose of inspection. High resolution video and photography capabilities eliminate the need for ropes, harnesses and putting personnel in dangerous situations by suspending them high above the ground for the purpose of inspecting structural integrity. Inspection personnel may now see the details of these inspections from the safety of their desk. The inspection process may now be documented thoroughly through archived photographic images to be compared to future inspections for the purpose of measuring wear and damage progression.

OIL, GAS, and MINERAL EXPLORATION/PRODUCTION The R.A.P.T.R. could be used to perform geophysical surveys. The production side of oil and gas exploration entails the monitoring of the integrity of oil and gas pipelines and related installations. For above-ground pipelines, this monitoring activity could be performed using digital cameras mounted on one, or more, R.A.P.T.R. units. TRANSPORT The R.A.P.T.R. is capable of transporting small payloads. Most payloads are stored in an internal payload bay somewhere in the airframe. For the R.A.P.T.R., external payloads can be tethered to the bottom of the airframe. With fixed wing UAVs, payloads can also be attached to the airframe, but aerodynamics of the aircraft with the payload must be carefully assessed and monitored. The neural adaptive flight technology possessed by the R.A.P.T.R. enables it to automatically adjust for changes to the center of gravity caused by changes in payload. SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH The R.A.P.T.R. is uniquely capable of penetrating areas which may be too dangerous for piloted craft. Carrying a payload specifically designed for sampling, the R.A.P.T.R. can fly into a cloud of hazardous gasses for the purpose of obtaining atmospheric samples without risk to human life.