Conformal High-Efficiency Emitter Systems Enhancement (CHEESE)

ABSTRACT:In this Phase II effort, FIRST RF proposes a pragmatic approach targeting small UAS systems but easily scalable to meet the demands of any platform. Small tactical aircraft have drag constraints but have challenges of extremely tight payload restrictions, limited internal space and available power. For these platforms, FIRST RF proposes a low profile, multi-band antenna requiring no internal volume and capable of supporting both existing and emerging datalink needs. The approach offers combined advantages of enabling multi-band communication, enhancing datalink range, and extending mission endurance through reduced drag. Simulation and analysis during the Phase I have paved the way for the Phase II proving the design validity of this approach. During the Phase II, two prototype units will be produced for demonstration.BENEFIT:Efficient multiband communications for small tactical airborne platforms will provide advantages by supporting seamless distribution of high quality ISR data directly to the warfighter even in environments with denied or nonexistent communication infrastructure.Low profile antenna solutions that support this mission are an enabling technology that extend time on station and improved link ranges.Commercial and dual-use applications are also present for disaster relief operations where communications infrastructure has been damaged and the ability to immediately establish high quality distribution of information can be invaluable.The CHEESE antenna system will support expanding capabilities in tactical radio systems that currently integrate diversity receiver and transmitter architectures.Future radio architectures utilizing the CHEESE antenna system will be able to support MIMO waveforms and beamforming.These future technology enhancements will greatly improve the range, data rates and A/J performance of tactical data link systems.Recent FIRST RF product releases, field demonstration and testing of diversity aperture combining, MIMO and beamforming technology will be enabled on small UAV platforms with the CHEESE antenna system.