An unnamed US-based commercial helicopter operator has engaged energy management platform KULR Technology Group to provide global track and balance support for its fleet of helicopters via KULR VIBE, a proprietary AI-driven vibration reduction solution.

Through KULR VIBE, the company addresses one of the most challenging issues with advanced machinery today; excessive vibrations. Vibrations cause increased maintenance, accelerated component replacements and downtime. Excessive energy-robbing vibrations are destructive to both the helicopter and, in many cases, the operator. By integrating KULR VIBE into its existing hardware and software processes, the client can pinpoint areas where excess vibrations across its fleet may cause system malfunctions, weakened performance, maintenance issues and loss of availability for mission. With KULR VIBE and the 24/7/365 maintenance support it provides, the client can keep its fleet airborne when they could otherwise be grounded or pose a substantial risk to crew members. KULR's mechanical fault diagnostic (MFD) software compliments the learning algorithms and AI functions of KULR VIBE to provide a comprehensive solution for the end customer.

“KULR has a long history of developing products that offer its customers proven solutions built to safely withstand the most severe conditions, from space to extreme heat, while also mitigating the potentially devastating effects of excessive vibration on machinery,” says president and COO Keith Cochran. “Through our KULR VIBE solution we are enabling this client to provide high-quality support to its customers and ensure it can safely carry out some of the most challenging assignments in aviation.”

This contract comes on the heels of the platform identifying and remedying vibration problems on two Bell AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters and one Bell Boeing Osprey V-22 tiltrotor aircraft at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton in southern California. The almost $40 million AH-1Z Viper attack helicopter was previously diagnosed as inoperable before KULR's team quickly identified, resolved and facilitated a return of the aircraft to mission-capable status.

KULR is currently working with a helicopter retrofit company to embed its systems in older aircraft while focusing on a key market of original equipment manufacturers who may wish to install it as factory equipment. The company's immediate focus is two-fold: grow the commercial helicopter business and integrate with the US Department of Defense to help enable its fleet for flight readiness 24/7/365.

The company also sees applications for KULR VIBE in eVTOL aircraft, unmanned aircraft systems, high-performance automobiles, renewable wind energy turbines and industrial motors.