Physical Optics Corporation — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: A17-040

Description

To address the U.S. Army need for low-profile broadband antennas that can operate in the UHF (200-440 MHz) and L (950-2150 MHz) bands, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Low-profile, Multiband Antenna (LOMUA). This device is based on a design utilizing planar elements backed by an artificial magnetic conductor for size reduction. Specifically, the LOMUA system will radiate efficiently in the frequency bands of interest (gain = -3 dB at UHF, gain = 0 dB at L-band), and have a 360 deg operational azimuth, while supporting both right-hand and left-hand circular polarization. In Phase I POC will develop a proof-of-concept electrically small, multiband antenna through simulation and analysis, and will perform sufficient analysis to verify that the designed antenna can efficiently radiate frequencies in the UHF and L-band and meet the required antenna capabilities. In Phase II, POC plans to optimize the LOMUA design, quantifying performance metrics and enhancing the design through modification, and to fabricate and deliver a prototype. POC will also prepare a transition plan and evaluate LOMUA in a representative vehicular platform environment at technology readiness level (TRL)-5/-6.