Proof of Concept: Semiconductor based Doppler Radar Cloud Profiler (DRCP)

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S&AO Limited was established to reinvent the market for atmospheric remote sensing bydeveloping existing concepts into world leading technology and solutions. The currentportfolio of designs includes a Radar Wind Profiler, a Lightning Detection Solution, and theDoppler Radar Cloud Profiler, which is the subject of this Innovate UK Proof of Conceptsubmission. The sensor designs have been developed by Dr Dirk Klugmann, the founder ofS&AO, who is an internationally recognised expert in the field of atmospheric observations.This project designs, builds and tests an initial bench prototype of the DRCP to carry outfeasibility studies and test the science and engineering of the concept. S&AO will also look toprotect its intellectual property with a patent.If successful, the DRCP will provide for the first time cost-effective yet extensive access to avaluable, high quality data set of unobscured height coverage of cloud observations as well aswater droplet sizes and velocities throughout layers of cloud, even in the presence of fog. Ourrecently completed Innovate UK Proof of Market project confirmed the demand for this newand ubiquitous data-set which will enable meteorological and climate scientists to bothenhance their existing atmospheric models and create new models.The improved weather forecast accuracy that will result from the use of DRCP data willprovide significant operational benefits in key transportation markets. For airlines and airportoperators, more timely and accurate forecasts will provide an early warning of impendingicing and fog conditions allowing them to more efficiently manage and re-plan their servicesto reduce the impact of delays and reduce the need for diversions and cancellations. In theroad transport sector, improved forecasts of icing conditions will better inform the decision todeploy road gritters. In both cases there are clear financial savings and increased safety for thevehicle operators and the travelling public.