Since 2009 an estimated 10,000 aircraft in the UK alone have been targeted by hand held lasers. Targeting of aircraft poses a significant and growing threat to aviation safety, say the authorities. However it can be hard to obtain evidence that will stand up in court; and laser detection equipment is costly.
Scientists at the UK’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) have developed an app. It analyses laser dazzle events, for the police to arrest and prosecute offenders, and deter the targeting of aircraft.
The Laser Event Recorder app (LERapp) has been developed using an iPhone. It uses the inbuilt camera, GPS and connectivity to record, analyse and communicate details of the incident. The app can be modified for use on Android phones and other platforms.Pilots can use their own phone.
Dstl has signed an agreement with Profound Technologies to develop and market the LERapp. The contract is the first to be signed using Dstl’s Easy Access IP contracting framework. This has been designed to help commercialise IP at an early stage in its development or where there are financial risks. Easy Access IP allows companies to develop and refine the work at no cost; Dstl brings products to market.
The Dstl scientist who developed the LERapp, Craig Williamson, said: “The LERapp has the potential to significantly improve aviation safety. It is another example of the innovative and exciting work that Dstl is doing. Like much of our work, there are clear uses outside the military and security environments. The Easy Access IP scheme is a great opportunity to build new links with industry, and reflects our increasing openness to partnering and collaboration.
Randall Fitzgerald, President, Profound Technologies added: “Profound Technologies is excited about the opportunity to commercialize and exploit the technology developed by Dstl. The Easy Access IP program levels the playing field for smaller entities with fewer resources to compete and enter the marketplace. We believe that the technology is much needed and our goal will be to make it an industry standard from a safety standpoint.
The LER app is expected to be available in the summer of 2017.
