Sub-consultant to JP Khamken Industries, Inc.
The Airborne and Special Operations Test Directorate (ABNSOTD) is responsible for testing
and certification of airdrop rigging procedures for every item of equipment to be airdropped,
airlifted, sling-loaded, or in any way transported or delivered by U.S. Army or Air Force
aircraft. Certification is finalized with the publication of approved airdrop rigging procedures
in the appropriate technical and training manuals. All of these activities were being done using
labor-intensive manual processes.
ABNSOTD needed an automated method to measure the physical parameters of an airdrop or air transport
item; provide a multi-perspective digital image of the item; assist in the creation of an airdrop rigging
kit or air transport kit; and assist in analyzing the effects of modifying the existing rigging kits or air
transport kits.
CCI was commissioned to conduct a study to determine the state-of-the-art in multi-perspective digital
imaging systems and make determinations as to the suitability of available systems. Systems were graded
based on current suitability and the amount and ease of modification that might be necessary.
In addition, CCI evaluated the candidate tools for their ability to import and export images to and from
existing modeling and simulation programs and CAD/CAM systems.
The study assessed the feasibility, design trade-offs, costs (including procurement and sustainment) and
risks associated with the development, procurement and use of an automated rigging kit analysis tool. It
also addressed techniques that could be used to validate the accuracy of the tool.
CCI prepared a comprehensive report detailing the findings of the study.