Piezoelectric Canard Actuation System

To address the Navy need for non-inductive actuators for the canard actuation system, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Piezoelectric Canard Actuation (PiCA) system. The proposed system is based on a new nonmagnetic design of the canard actuation based on ultrasonic piezoelectric motor technology. The innovation in the use of piezoelectric motors will achieve a zero magnetic signature of the system, and new design of the canard based on PiCA technology will allow for achieving high torque and speed in a small form factor that is compatible with low-caliber munitions. As a result, the PiCA system will not corrupt the readings of onboard magnetometers, and will be compatible with the size, weight, and power requirements for the 81 mm and 60 mm mortar rounds, which directly address the PUMA FNC program needs to develop precision-guided munitions. In Phase I, POC will demonstrate the feasibility of PiCA system by developing a system design, specifying its key parameters, and building a proof-of-concept prototype. In Phase II, POC plans to develop a full PiCA prototype, demonstrate its capability to deliver adequate mechanical output, and characterize its non-interference performance in controlled magnetic environment.