Laser Technology Improves Radar Maintenance, Saves Time, Money for Surface Forces
Story Number: NNS081012-10
Release Date: 10/12/2008 11:59:00 PM
From Naval Surface Warfare Center Port Hueneme Public Affairs
PORT HUENEME, Calif. (NNS) -- Engineers from Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Port Hueneme, a field activity of Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), will install the first maintenance system utilizing laser technology to improve AN/SPY-1D(V) radar maintenance on board USS Sterett (DDG 104) the week of Oct. 13.
Radar measurements are taken periodically, ensuring alignment specifications and operational capabilities are maintained. Previously, measurements were taken during a four-day period for all four ship arrays. With this new laser technology, the effort can be accomplished in two days, with fewer personnel.
The technique uses a spherically-mounted retro reflector or "laser ball" to accurately measure the array and replaces the time consuming and tedious optical measurement method previously used.
"I knew laser technology had been used, but I wasn't sure how it might fit in the alignment world," said Michael Poland, NSWC Port Hueneme combat systems alignment team leader. "However, after talking with subject matter experts and seeing a demo, I saw a real possibility for this application."
The Navy expects to save more than $400,000 every year for at least the next four years by a reduction in time and labor associated with radar maintenance.
"This technology improves fleet readiness while saving the Navy hundreds of thousands of dollars," said Poland. "It is definitely better, faster and more cost-effective."
NAVSEA is committed to fiscal responsibility and streamlining maintenance and modernization processes, enabling us to maintain our current readiness at a lower cost.
Release Date: 10/12/2008 11:59:00 PM
From Naval Surface Warfare Center Port Hueneme Public Affairs
PORT HUENEME, Calif. (NNS) -- Engineers from Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Port Hueneme, a field activity of Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), will install the first maintenance system utilizing laser technology to improve AN/SPY-1D(V) radar maintenance on board USS Sterett (DDG 104) the week of Oct. 13.
Radar measurements are taken periodically, ensuring alignment specifications and operational capabilities are maintained. Previously, measurements were taken during a four-day period for all four ship arrays. With this new laser technology, the effort can be accomplished in two days, with fewer personnel.
The technique uses a spherically-mounted retro reflector or "laser ball" to accurately measure the array and replaces the time consuming and tedious optical measurement method previously used.
"I knew laser technology had been used, but I wasn't sure how it might fit in the alignment world," said Michael Poland, NSWC Port Hueneme combat systems alignment team leader. "However, after talking with subject matter experts and seeing a demo, I saw a real possibility for this application."
The Navy expects to save more than $400,000 every year for at least the next four years by a reduction in time and labor associated with radar maintenance.
"This technology improves fleet readiness while saving the Navy hundreds of thousands of dollars," said Poland. "It is definitely better, faster and more cost-effective."
NAVSEA is committed to fiscal responsibility and streamlining maintenance and modernization processes, enabling us to maintain our current readiness at a lower cost.
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