Broadband Multichannel Slipring

To address the U.S. Navy need for a robust, reconfigurable, high-speed communication system to transfer data between remote sensors and inboard processing equipment aboard submarines, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Broadband Multichannel Slipring (BMCS). This proposed device is based on a Fiber Optic Rotary Joint (FORJ), time division multiplexing (TDM), wavelength division multiplexing (WDM), and roll-ring technologies. It will include a three-channel FORJ, a three-channel roll-ring electrical slipring, and a three-channel RF coupler. The BMCS will simultaneously transfer analog/digital, optical, and electrical signals/data at high speeds/data rates, it will be lightweight and compact, durable, reliable, and maintenance-free, with wide bandwidth, low loss, and high security. The novel BMCS is bidirectional and freely rotating. In Phase I POC will demonstrate the feasibility of transmitting multiple data, audio/video, and sensing signals through a prototype BMCS at high speed between a stationary base and a rotary platform. In Phase II POC plans to fully develop a BMCS to replace current Navy copper-based rotary joints with sufficient capacity for future sensors.