Physical Optics Corporation — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: SB161-006

Description

To address the militarys need to increase the distance and predictability of maritime surface-to-surface and air-to-surface communications, a cognitive UHF radio for enhanced Global Positioning System (GPS) crosslinks, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Spectrally Cognitive Communication System with Predictability of Extended Link Range (SCYPE). This proposed SCYPE solution includes many technological components recently developed at POC. SCYPE is cognitive in the sense that it has awareness of its environment and adapts radio and network resources to meet data rate (hundreds to tens of thousands of bits per second) and link range (hundreds to thousands of kms) requirements. The SCYPE design approach results in a compact package, ensuring compatibility with multiple platforms including unmanned vehicles as well as manned aircraft and surface ships, which directly addresses DARPA requirements for long link-range maritime communications. In Phase I, POC will develop the SCYPE system concept, plus radio and packaging design. Laboratory experiments and demonstrations will be conducted to mitigate technology risks. In Phase II, POC plans to develop, demonstrate, and validate a prototype SCYPE radio and packaging solution, and develop and evaluate the software to predict RF link range for the SCYPE prototype.