Optoelectronic Multifunction Signal Processor

Future naval systems will reduce the number of separate shipboard and airborne antennas by sharing sensor, receiver, and signal processing resources. A robust signal processor, capable of handling a multi- tude of signal processing functions over a wide instantaneous signal bandwidth is needed. We propose here the development of a novel two dimensional acousto-optic processor for real-time multifunction signal processing including correlation, convolution, spectral analysis, and ambiguity and Wigner function calculation. Applications for the pro- cessor include pulse-Doppler radar processing, target recognition using synthetic aperture radar processing, and communication and electronic warfare signal processing. The optical design of the processor is based on a newly invented optically efficient, in-line, high stability, two dimensional interferometer using four acousto-optic devices. Via the simple technique of Bragg cell carrier offset adjustments, the processor can generate the desired high dynamic range interferometric output on a chosen spatial carrier that is required for bias removal and electronic post-processing. The proper choice of Bragg cells is key to realizing a wideband, robust, multifunction processor.