Intraweapon Wireless Communication

We propose an intra-weapon wireless communications technique for use within hard-target, penetrating weapon systems. Our hardened and robust technique will eliminate the hardwired physical links that are often severed by the tremendous shock loadsexperienced by these weapons upon impact. We describe a communications system that is based on resonant electromagnetic fields for communications between the weapon sensor suite, attached to the nose of the munition, and the explosive fuzing section,located in tail of the munition. The overall objective of the effort described in this Phase I proposal is to analyze feasibility using finite-element analysis, measurement of explosive electrical properties, development of field couplers for the cavity,development of a communications protocol, and preliminary shock engineering analyses of our design. We foresee markets in safety related applications where high reliability data links are required including automotive crash detection and airbag activation.Additionally, robust links to "black-box" on-board data recorders in a variety of transportation modes will be a valuable use of this technology. Government markets include smart munitions and artillery projectiles. A robust link between aircraft andair-launched weapons will also have market potential.