Defends SafTGlo Photoluminescent Tech

STG Aerospace has been awarded global patents for its recently-launched WEPPS technology, a radical new system for managing and powering emergency lighting systems. The successful patent applications follow the UK-based aerospace company's defense against challenges to patents for SafTGlo, its photoluminescent emergency floorpath marking technology.

STG says WEPPS (Wireless Emergency Primary Power System) has the potential to reduce aviation industry maintenance costs by up to $1 billion US each year by eliminating the emergency lighting system's entire maintenance schedule. It also features a built-in wireless monitoring and diagnostic capability that removes the need for a daily visual inspection of the cabin emergency lights.

Since 2003, STG Aerospace has applied for worldwide patents for many innovative aspects of the WEPPS system; two patents were awarded in May 2007. One relates to the reduced power requirement in the operation of emergency LED lighting, the other for the way the system assesses the MEL status of emergency LED lights.

A further patent was awarded in September 2007 covering SecureControl, a low power, wireless communication system which is the core technology being used for all STG's wireless products. Several more patents for other aspects of WEPPS technology are pending and applied for.

"I applaud the authorities for continuing to protect R&D intensive businesses like ours that develop new technologies which genuinely contribute to progress of industry. Patent protection is vital to ensure we can continue to invest in next generation solutions," said Peter Stokes, chief executive, STG Aerospace.

The WEPPS patent awards come just a few months after STG defended the US and European patents for its SafTGlo photoluminescent (PL) floorpath marking system. Since 1999, STG Aerospace has held patent protection for the application in commercial and military aircraft of the PL technology in all variants of its range of products.

"As the pioneers of PL on aircraft, we view our responsibilities as 'guardians' of best practice and the technology very seriously," Stokes. "SafTGlo is installed on over 4000 aircraft operated by over 100 airlines. It is in the best long term interests of aircraft safety and the technology as a whole to maintain the highest standards in the application of PL systems. These decisions by the US and European patent authorities in our favour demonstrate their recognition of the innovative merit of the system."

In 1995 STG's first ever worldwide patent application covered the use of photoluminescent [PL] emergency way guidance systems on aircraft. The unique PL systems 'store' and simultaneously emit light giving highly visible emergency exit guidance for up to 16 hours in darkness, after a short period of 'charging' with normal cabin lighting.

STG Aerospace says SafTGlo offers a low cost, 100% reliable alternative to electrical systems. The technology is installed on over 4,000 aircraft operated by over 100 airlines worldwide.

The Wireless Emergency Primary Power System, launched in 2007, is a unique innovation for managing and powering emergency lighting systems. Its 'fit for life' lithium battery modules need no charging and no scheduled maintenance, according to the company.

Each module also acts as a node within a secure meshed wireless network based on spread spectrum technology allowing daily checks on the entire emergency lighting system in under 10 seconds. It is estimated to save over 100 technician man hours per aircraft per year.

FMI: www.stgaerospace.com