Cross-Compatible Electronic Kneeboard Integration

TECH FOCUS AREAS: Network Command, Control and Communications; General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)



TECHNOLOGY AREAS: Electronics; Information Systems; Battlespace



OBJECTIVE: This topic seeks to provide cross-compatible software between iOS flight planning and execution software and Tactical Assault Kit / Team Awareness Kit (TAK), thereby eliminating the need for pilots/aircrew to actively engage with two separate devices during mission execution.



DESCRIPTION: Air Combat Command (ACC) identified a need for the development of cross-compatible software between TAK and iOS devices. This proposed project would provide integration between native iOS apps used extensively by pilots for mission planning and execution to eliminate the need for aircrew to actively engage with two different devices (i.e., an iPad for flight apps and an Android tablet for ATAK). This functionality would allow pilots to interact with ground units without the added distraction of a second electronic kneeboard device.



PHASE I: In Phase I, this topic seeks to develop a plan for cross-compatible software that allows the TAK environment and native iOS apps to interact on the same electronic kneeboard device. This software must allow pilots to actively interact with both environments without the need for two separate devices. Program report must outline at least two methods for a cross-compatible electronic kneeboard solution and proved a detailed roadmap of the project objectives for phase II.



PHASE II: In Phase II, firms will develop and integrate cross-compatible solution on a single electronic kneeboard device. Initial prototype must demonstrate the ability to engage with native iOS applications and ATAK using one tablet. Prototype must be tested during a live exercise alongside existing system to demonstrate its capabilities and effectiveness. Integrate solution with the latest version of ATAK and establish procedure for regular updates.



PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Software has the potential to be utilized in government, commercial, and civilian applications. The final product would help bridge the gap between native iOS applications used extensively across the aviation community with the ground-based situational awareness features of TAK. Widespread use of the software would provide feedback to improve the integration of these two systems and allows avenues for continued improvement.



NOTES: The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the proposed tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 5.4.c.(8) of the Announcement and within the AF Component-specific instructions. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR Help Desk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us





REFERENCES:


https://apps.dtic.mil/dtic/tr/fulltext/u2/1069441.pdf
https://www.sbir.gov/sbirsearch/detail/1627235
https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/citations/ADA387109




KEYWORDS: Electronic Kneeboard; Flight Companion; Electronic flight bag; aerial situation awareness; ADS-B