Autonomous and Adaptive Technique to Collect and Analyze RF Effects Data

High-Power Microwave and Radio-Frequency Directed Energy Weapon (HPM/RF DEW) Technologies effectively engage electronic systems in mission scenarios, debilitating or disrupting critical functionality. Optimal selection of HPM/RF DEW source parameters is dependent upon both the inherent susceptibility of the circuitry and the ease with which RF radiation couples from the outside of a system to the circuitry within. A number of techniques exist to identify the key source parameters; however, all are not without their shortcomings. This proposal offers an innovative empirically-driven automated testing technique to quickly determine the coupling cross-section, inherent susceptibility and level of device disruption for targets of interest. The technique exploits the underlying mechanisms by which RF energy is coupled into a device to dissect the multi-variable optimization problem into two discrete analysis steps, significantly simplifying the determination of the optimal set of source parameters. BENEFIT: The finalized system would generate a large database of RF effects quickly. The Department of Defense and commercial entities looking to gain confidence in the RF immunity of their products would benefit from the availability of such an analysis. Indeed, it is much cheaper to include RF mitigation/hardening from the start, rather than to retrofit systems in the field. Retrofitting can cost 10 to 15 times as much as an initial design adjustment. Although improved gaskets, seal materials, designs, and metalized composite materials are becoming available to improve shielding, verification that these components are effective is an arduous process. Manufacturers in this area would directly benefit from the proposed research and engineering, and customers would gain confidence in the electromagnetic hardening of these solutions.