Physical Optics Corporation — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: N152-112

Description

To address the Navys need for a high-G mechanical shock- and temperature-shock-tolerant oscillator as a replacement for quartz temperature-compensated crystal oscillators (TCXOs), Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Ferroelectric Resonator Oscillator (FEROS). This proposed solution is based on a new design that utilizes mature POC-developed and commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components. Specifically, the innovation in integration of a ferroelectric-based resonator with COTS oscillator circuitry will enable the FEROS to support precision frequency reference devices. FEROS offers performance comparable to quartz crystal devices, as well as microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)-based devices, with small form factors and the ability to withstand the harsh environment of a high velocity, gun-launched guided projectile, which directly addresses the Hyper Velocity Projectile, SHD FY15-17, PEO IWS 3C Surface Gunnery Program requirements for high-G miniaturized GPS receivers. In Phase I, POC will demonstrate the feasibility of FEROS by developing a prototype design and measuring its performance metrics such as phase noise, jitter, and temperature dependence, at an anticipated TRL-4. In Phase II, POC plans to build a refined prototype device and characterize its frequency accuracy, temperature stability, phase accuracy, and temperature and shock capabilities; it will be delivered at TRL-5/-6.