Advances in Solar Airfield Lighting

Topics

The evolution of solar LED technology as it applies to airfield lighting: a brief history Vast array of present-day solar airfield lighting products:

edge/threshold/taxi lights, PAPIs, MALSR, REILs, etc. Case Studies: General Aviation, Commercial Aviation, Defense

Markets The FAA and perception of solar airfield lighting applications

Technology Review

Light Emitting Diodes (LED)Solar lights use LED technology as their light sourceThe main advantage of LEDs is their efficiency

Solar EnergySolar cells collect this energy and convert it into useable electricity

Energy StorageSolar power is an intermittent energy source therefore energy storage is importantRechargeable batteries are used to store energyThe energy feeding the battery needs to be managedThe energy output of the battery needs to be managed as well.

Technology Review

FAA Standards – AC150/5345-46PhotometricsChromaticityEnvironmental Considerations

PerceptionSolar Lighting won’t work here

VS. VS.

Technology Review – What is Possible – Edge Lights

Taxi Lights – L861T Runway Edge (MIRL)

Technology Review – What is Possible – Approach Lights

2 & 4 Box PAPI REIL

Medium Approach Light System w/ Runway Alignment Solar Power Supply

Technology Review – What is Possible - Other

Wind ConesSignsEGRLsPALC

Who Uses - MilitaryMilitary – US, NATO and others

Rugged, Dependable, Rapidly DeployedFederal & State Government

Disaster Preparedness

Who Uses – Major AirportsMajor Airports

Maintenance, Temporary ApplicationsObstruction, Fence Line, Safety areas

Who Uses – General Aviation

General AviationPermanent Installations

FAA Position

Currently conducting a viability studyDeveloping a requirements standardLooking into possible test airportsMost likely will allow for solar taxi lights firstAmendment to AC 150/5345-46 which will then allow the lights to

be bought using AIP funds.

Questions