Optical and Radio Frequencies Integrated Common Aperture Based on Liquid Crystal

Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a novel Optical and Radio frequencies Integrated Common Aperture based on LIquid Crystals (ORICAL) system that simultaneously supports radio and optical sensor operation. ORICAL is composed of liquidcrystal (LC) elements forming phase-modulating arrays, unifying apertures for radio-frequency (RF) and electro-optical (EO) wavelengths. The LC waveguide phase modulator array will steer RF beams, while LC cells with a blazed grating structure microprismarray will scan optical beams. Applying an electrical field to the elements of both arrays will alter the tilt of the LC molecules switching their refraction index, phase modulating all propagating waves.The proposed ORICAL system is based on a new architecture that does not require mechanical or moving parts. Its advantages are: large arrays, thin assemblies, compact form factor, low driving voltage, low power consumption, and low fabrication costs. InPhase I POC will develop all required components, and demonstrate feasibility. In Phase II, an engineering prototype will be developed for field testing. The proposed ORICAL technology will reduce production costs compared to existing sensors with separate apertures. The most notable benefits will be the availability of better, more cost effective sensor systems for military and commercial aircraft, butalso for automotive applications.