Multiple Antennas Extending Phased Optical Communication

To address the Navy’s need for a mobile phased array antenna for robotic autonomous systems (RAS), Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop Multiple Antennas Extending Phased Optical Communication (MAEPOC). It is based on a new design that utilizes POC-developed mature components and commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components. Specifically, the innovation in MAEPOC enables a group of RASs to relay communication to a far-field location through the use of radio frequency (RF) phased signals. As a result, MAEPOC offers a strong communication link to both near and far locations, intercommunication between RAS members, and formation of its array antenna, which directly address the acquisition program (Joint Strike Fighter) requirements. Thus, it safeguards forward missions and provides accurate navigation guidance in jammed environments. The signal strength provided by MAEPOC will maintain a steady RF communication link with areas that would otherwise be denied by jamming. In Phase I, POC will demonstrate MAEPOC’s feasibility through theoretical and actual design analysis for both software and hardware components. POC will develop a limited-scale technology readiness level (TRL)-3 prototype to demonstrate feasibility of high-risk components. In Phase II, POC plans to enhance MAEPOC to develop a TRL-5/-6 prototype for real-time proof-of-concept demonstrations and software-/hardware-in-the-loop (SIL/HIL) testing.