Cambridge key to windfarm-aircraft conflict
Aveillant will install its 3D Holographic Radar™ technology at fast-growing Cambridge Airport before the end of this year.
The site will be a permanent proving ground that will pave the way for airports around the UK to deploy the wind turbine radar clutter solution.Aveillant’s technology can reliably discriminate between turbines and aircraft based on observable differences in their behaviour – an ability not replicated in any other currently available or planned technology.
Cambridge Airport is in the vicinity of Wadlow Wind Farm and Aveillant’s long range detection capability means it will be able to track aircraft overflying the wind farm, making the airport an ideal location.
Past trials have shown that Aveillant technology can effectively differentiate between wind farm Doppler returns and air traffic of all sizes and speeds.
“Results from Cambridge Airport will give us the data required to roll out into the UK market next year,” says David Crisp, CEO of Aveillant.
“Our data will be accurate over 20 nautical miles, allowing Air Traffic Control to route aircraft safely and economically.”
Archie Garden, Cambridge Airport Director says “Wind turbine clutter is a pressing issue for the aviation industry and we are pleased to play a part in addressing it through supporting Aveillant’s extremely promising technology.
“Whilst we are not currently affected by Wadlow Wind Farm, we may well be in the future as new wind farms are developed. Should that time come, we want to ensure that we are part of the best solution available.”
A 2011 spin-out from Cambridge Consultants, Aveillant’s 3D Holographic Radar™ is poised to become the new standard for addressing the impact of wind turbines on aviation safety and airfield Primary Surveillance Radar.
As Business Weekly exclusively revealed in early August, Aveillant is in the process of raising £3.5 million Series B cash to underpin commercial rollout and hopes to attract international investors to the new round.
The company plans to double headcount once the new funds are safely garnered and start shipment of its technology for universal field trials by the middle of next year. The establishment of a Cambridge Airport proving ground for the technology is an important stepping stone.
