Acorn Science & Innovation, Inc. — Department of Defense SBIR Phase II: 99ST1-0026

Description

This project will design and demonstrate an integrated all optical vertical array utilizing unique patented Extrinsic Faber-Perot Interferometer (EFPI) based vector sensors.These sensors have already been proven to TRL Level 3 under IR&D and will be tuned and modified for the specific application needs of the Navy sponsor.Based on the relative maturity of the core sensors, the large majority of this projectinvolves properly characterizing, tailoring, integrating, testing, and reporting on a complete array system that leverages the EFPI sensors to meet mission requirements.Under the base effort the sensors and integrated array will be characterized in lab and tank tests to verify compliance with all key requirements such as low noise, low power, high pressure capability and broadband performance.The base effort will also construct a dummy A-size prototype to show the low array size and weight properties and to help demonstrate manufacturability in a standard form factor.Under the Option tasking multi-day multi-array testing will be conducted in a shallow water ocean environment to further demonstrate array performance, reliability, and overall system maturity.