High-Strength and High-Durability Radio Frequency (RF) Transparent Structures

The goal of our effort is to develop RF transparent materials for conformal, load-bearing antenna structures (CLAS). In Phase I, we will focus on concept development and structural and RF properties assessment for unique composite weaves. The materials developed for this SBIR will be directed towards Northrop Grumman's LOBSTAR (LOw Band STructural ARray) program, for which we are subcontractors, tasked with design of the RF transparent control surface. The key innovation to be developed in this program is a composite fabric that exhibits superior mechanical and electrical properties achieved through hybridization of select materials. The planned work will build upon the team's extensive prior experience in conformal load-bearing antenna structures and antenna designs. Prior to founding NextGen two years ago, Dr. Jay Kudva worked at Northrop Grumman since 1980; during the last ten years, he initiated and pioneered Northrop Grumman R&D efforts in CLAS technologies. NextGen has teamed with Bally Ribbon Mills (BRM), who specialize in unique composite fabrics, and Don Chang of Spatial Digital Systems (SDS), who has in-depth expertise in antenna designs. Additionally, Edward Kuester of UC Boulder, an electrical engineer with extensive background in antenna materials, will serve as a program consultant.