SBIR/STTR Research Award
Compact Optimized Multimode Simulator Utilizing a Novel Electronically Steerable Antenna
Award amount
$729,951Program and phase
SBIR · Phase IIAward year
2003Award details
- Awarding agency
- Department of Defense
- Branch
- Army
- Recipient company
- WaveBand Corporation
- Proposal award date
- Not reported
- Contract end date
- Not reported
- UEI
- Not reported
- Solicitation number
- Not reported
- Topic code
- Not reported
Research abstract
WaveBand's solution for RF target glint signature generation as it applies to a compact range multi-mode hardware-in-the-loop (HWIL) simulator is based on the following three innovations:- phase/amplitude controlled electronically steerable module (ESM)- wide angular view adjustable MMW optics- trichroic beamcombiner, for the alternatively used geometry RF transparent/IR folding windowThe combination of these novel, but verified, techniques allows WaveBand to optimize the compact range design and fabrication both in terms of the overall range footprint and its cost and complexity. WaveBand's solution overcomes inherent compact rangelimitations caused by the fact that the far-field antenna requirements cannot be satisfied.The application of these innovations will enable:- 10 MHz angle of arrival update rate for the composite signal synchronized with the seeker waveform.- GHz instantaneous bandwidth.- +/- 1.5 deg. Accuracy of the beam pointing.- Dynamically adjustable beamwidth comparable with the seeker under the test (SUT).- Multi mode operation by combining IR and SAL signals with MMW on SUT.Phase II will demonstrate the functionality of the proposed compact simulator and its integration with 5-axes Flight Control Simulator and MMW signal generator.The compact range based on ESM will benefit MMW radar development for automotive, aviation, security, railroads and marine markets as a compact and affordable test bed.
Technology keywords
Not reported