Multifunctional Design of Load Bearing Antenna Structures for Small UAVs

Aerotonomy, Incorporated, and our research institution partner Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) will continue development of our unique two-stage Multi-Disciplinary Optimization (MDO) system for the design of highly integrated miniature broadband antennae for small UAVs. The concept of structurally-integrated multifunction antennae embedded into airframes is central to the DoD’s "smart skins" technology initiative, offering many significant and obvious benefits over conventional antennae that include reduced weight, aerodynamic drag, and radar cross-section, as well as increased air vehicle and antenna system performance. However, realizing the full potential of integrated antenna systems in small UAVs requires design tools that support 1) the concurrent development of airframe configuration geometry and antenna system architecture, and 2) the detail design of load-bearing antenna structures. To meet this challenge, Aerotonomy and GTRI have developed a unique two-stage Multi-Disciplinary Optimization system that meets the needs of both configuration and detail design optimization. The system incorporates the latest knowledge in conformal load-bearing antenna design, structural and electromagnetic modeling, and optimization techniques.