Piezo Torquer Mechanism for Seeker Gimbal Cost Reduction

OKSI will develop and demonstrate the use of very low cost piezo motors as a mechanism for actuating a two-axis gimbal set for use with an imager. OKSI will demonstrate the ability to track a moving target using these low cost piezo motors based only on imagery produced via the sensor. Concurrently, OKSI will investigate and demonstrate the feasibility of retrofitting the torquers of an existing gimbal of a missile seeker using this low cost actuator technology and conduct Hardware In the Loop (HWIL) testing of the retrofitted seeker assemble at a major missile manufacturer. OKSI has a written commitment from at least one major missile manufacturer to support this development effort. The retrofit seeker will serve as a test-bed prototype for further technology development and adaptation of the technology to appropriate missile seekers, and gimbals for various DOD and commercial applications.