SI2 TECHNOLOGIES, INC — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: AF161-134

Description

ABSTRACT: SI2 Technologies, Inc. (SI2) will enable low cost electronically steered multiband SATCOM capability on aircraft and Group 5-sized UAVs with our innovative phased array technology. The low profile array will provide full transmit and receive operation over multiple commercial and military satellite bandswith full azimuth and hemispherical elevation coverage. The proposed array aperture is based on SI2s proven array technology, which enables excellent scan beam scanning performance over very wide bandwidths.In PH I, SI2 will design a conformal electronically steered antenna aperture. We will also simulate the achievable performance on a representative UAV platform, and develop a manufacturing and structural integration plan for the multiband phased array technology. SI2 will validate our design and manufacturing approach via fabrication and test of prototype arrays to demonstrate TRL 4 at the conclusion of the PH I program. In PH II, we will optimize RF performance of the conformal array and thoroughly test its performance. The most economical designs and manufacturing methods will be used to minimize cost.; BENEFIT: The Air Force has the urgent need for transmitting and receiving BLOS data updates during mission execution. These mission data updates include lower data rate transmission of Air Tasking Order (ATO) updates, target position updates, imagery intelligence and streaming video. Currently the most common technology used for military and commercial SATCOM is a parabolic reflector antenna on a gimballed mount that points the antenna at the satellite of interest. While this solution is practical for ground-based operations, it is bulky and cumbersome to implement on airborne platforms, particularly UAVs where SWAP requirements are very stringent. This array will enable multiband SATCOM capabilities on UAVs in a conformal and aerodynamic profile and eliminate the need for large mechanically steered reflector antennas.This conformal phased array technology can be applied to any commercial manned or unmanned platform where it is desired to eliminate bulky SATCOM antennas. The anticipated low cost of the conformal arrays will make it an attractive option for commercial aircraft.