Dujud LLC — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: SOCOM212-001

Description

Fundamental limitations to Ku-Band planar phased arrays used for the Starlink LEO constellation limit the portability and power efficiency of a man-portable Starlink user terminal. For example, due to these limitations the power output of the array is increased by 500% over the scan angle range for a nearly 24” diameter phased array, with reports of frequent drop outs of signal. Specifically, Starlink’s current phased array experiences (1) extreme degradation of gain at maximum slant (decreasing by greater than 4.8 dB @ 65°), (2) More than 300%-500% increase in output power at slant, (3) the use of an electric motor (increased power, weight) scan past 40° (4), and an overall increase in antenna size to overcome scan loss. The solution proposed within this SBIR proposal details the design aspects of a solid-state 3D phased array at Ku-Band that increases efficiency by an estimated 225% over an identical scan range and enables operation up to ±85° without the use of motors, far beyond identical planar phased arrays. The increase in efficiencies enable a significant reduction in size expected up to 60% of any similar Ku-band planar phased array, while enabling the array to conform to a soldier issued backpack. The wide scanning angle enable increased operational consistency in obstruction-filled environments, including rural locations with overhead trees, or urban environments skyscrapers, which reduces soldiers from being immobilized in open exposed areas in search of a Starlink signal. The increase in efficiency enables reduction in battery size, alongside the lack of motors (further decreasing power consumption), creates the perfect solution for weight reduction, critical for soldiers on the move. Additional benefits include an increase in data-rates, jamming resistance, and reduction in detectable emissions leading to improved performance in covert operations.