Distributed Antenna Applications for Body Worn Platforms

Wearable electronics are of significant interest in several military and commercial applications. The goal of this technology is to optimize performance over a broad bandwidth while minimizing impact on the user. FIRST RF proposes to develop and deliver field-expedient prototypes and models of at least five different technologies for wearable multi-function distributed antenna systems for Land Warrior/Ground Soldier applications, available for immediate testing and human engineering in a battalion unit for the development of network-centric Army operations. Miniaturized separate antennas are proposed for the GPS and EPLRS systems to facilitate rapid development of these products in order to test and develop field-ready hardware in the shortest possible timeframe. The proposed solutions are practical and can be readily manufactured for prompt delivery to the Army war fighter. In order to better assess the suitability of these antennas, each of the prototypes and models that has been developed for this proposal will be delivered to Army in the Phase I kickoff meeting.