Wireless Intra-Soldier Networking

Key Bridge provided research and technology evaluation for medium-bandwidth personal area networks for the distribution of gun-sight video and sensor data. 

An intelligent soldier kit is more effective when devices can share information and status.

Wired networks are cumbersome, fragile and potentially dangerous, while wireless networks must operate reliably and securely.

Wireless Personal-Area Data and Video Networking

Enhanced mobility and improved Soldier-system interface are main components of the Mounted/Dismounted Maneuver Force Operating Capability (FOC) doctrine to improve the Soldier payload. 

The Soldier must be free to explore the widest range of motion in order to have maximum Situational Awareness (SA) and increase survivability. Dismounted Soldier operations include security checkpoint duties, urban operations, and room clearing.

Due to the range of operational environments, a variety of sensors and a more integrated Soldier sensor are required.

Weapon sight imagery and data to a HMD has improved Soldier integration to a degree. The weapon sight sensor is used for SA, target location, target acquisition, and engagement in short range situations. Imagery and other information can be sent to HMD in order to free the Soldier from having to look directly into the weapon mounted sight. This allows for searching around corners and through doorways without endangering the Soldier using the weapon. 

Currently, this interface is done with cabling and connectors from the weapon to the HMD, which does not allow for full mobility by the Soldier.  The cables are not only restrictive to the Soldier, but are also a source of failure and a safety hazard.  The actual cabling and connector can have simple failures, such as an unseated connector, or more complex failures such as broken wires within the cable. These hardware failures increase mission preparation time to verify proper operation of cabled equipment. 

The military connectors can also have significant weight due to shielding and weatherproofing. 

Wireless communications and data allow for more maneuverability which translates into enhanced survivability, as well as lighter weight payload and lower failure rates due to the absence of cabling between the weapon sight and the HMD.