Embedded Antenna Loops for the VHF-UHF

The next generation Warrior systems pose a number of challenging problems for communications. In particular, the fast-growing amount of information the individual soldier is required to receive and transmit requires radio and communication systems withincreased performance. This need is complicated by current antennas which impede the mobility of the soldier by protruding from the soldier system. In addition, the high loads carried by the soldier put pressure on system designers to seek technologywhich can reduce weight. What is needed is an antenna system which is conformal to the body and which can be embedded into the soldier system to optimize performance and mobility. Foster-Miller and its partner, BAE Systems, plan to design and evaluatesuch an embedded antenna system as part of the proposed program. (P-00860)The proposed development of a wearable antenna system for the dismounted soldier will provide a major improvement in communication performance, operational logistics and soldiersafety. Body borne, loop antenna technology, which eliminates the need for antennas that protrude from the body, has high market potential in applications such as thefollowing: law enforcement, large system maintenance, wearable computers, and specialoperations and disaster relief.