Emergent-to-Legacy Automated Voice Comms for Airspace Safety

Currently, KalScott is executing a Phase II project where one-way VHF voice comms transmissions are broadcast from a UAV. The message can then be heard by air traffic controllers and pilots in manned aircraft using legacy VHF radios. We now propose to develop and demonstrate two-way communications, by incorporating speech-to-text capability, which will enable the UAV to comprehend VHF messages from a human agent (such as a base air traffic controller), and respond appropriately. In the proposed Phase II-E project, we will conduct device development, and testing (in the lab, field and flight).

NASA currently conducts flight tests under the UTM and AAM programs, where the AAR can be integrated. Also, NASA currently is involved in firefighting flights by UAVs in California. The AAR can serve as an automated alerting system, where helicopter and firefighting aircraft pilots can hear the alerts over standard aviation radios. NASA and the FAA personnel at the FAA Tech Center in Atlantic City indicated that the AAR may be applicable to the FAA's Universal Data Translator effort. KalScott is also the prime contractor on a USAF project to develop unmanned ground vehicles for airfield sustainment roles. This device can be used to alert USAF pilots about robotic vehicles operating on the airfield via VHF airband broadcasts. We are also in discussion with several parties involved in the Smart Cities programs, where the digital data sharing enabled by the SDR can be useful. 

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 5) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.