Low-Power, Monolithically Printed, Conformal, Sensors and Associated Microelectronics (B&P 1000-024)

SI2 Technologies, Inc. (SI2) proposes to apply its Direct Write (DW) technology to develop a conformal distributed antenna system for unmanned air vehicles (UAVs). Arrays of conformal antenna modules will be distributed on the UAV airframe, replacing individual protruding antennas. SI2's DW antenna modules will be integrated with the UAV's structure, making greater use of vehicle acreage. As a result, this antenna system affords improved vehicle performance. For example, SI2's conformal array exhibits high reliability since non-mechanical beam steering is employed and graceful degradation is possible as individual elements are damaged during mission-incurred wear and tear. In Phase I, SI2 demonstrated the ability to Direct Write high-performance electronics for a multitude of applications. SI2 will build on this success in Phase II and produce hardware in support of demanding UAV communication requirements.