Precise Ensemble Network Communications Allowing PNT (Positioning, Navigation, and Timing)

The Air Force Research Laboratory is seeking proposals for the development of a network clock ensemble and its implementation on a VPX card capable of running pntOS. The project aims to create a robust ensemble algorithm that can evaluate local and remote timing references for stability, trustworthiness, and source validity. The algorithm should incorporate a weighting system and feature outlier rejection to ensure accurate time. The contractor will be required to deliver prototype cards, networking methods, and an ensemble algorithm to the Government for further development and testing. Key aspects of the project include: • Development of a network clock ensemble and its implementation on a VPX card • Creation of a resilient network method to disseminate timing and stability information • Design of a weighting system and outlier rejection to ensure accurate time • Delivery of prototype cards, networking methods, and an ensemble algorithm • Modification of a Commercial-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) 3U VPX card to function with pntOS • Emphasis on open standards for data and physical interfaces to simplify future integration and upgrades