Physical Optics Corporation — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: N143-129

Description

To address the Navys need for a target-less position sensor for dynamic positioning applications, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Millimeter Wave Position Sensor (MWPS) technology. This proposed MWPS solution is based on a scanning millimeter wave radar and point-cloud-based position detection algorithm. MWPS uses a narrow radar beam that rapidly and adaptively obtains its target profile. In a single cycle (<1 s), radar range measurements are performed on hundreds of surface segments on the target vessel. An on-board computer extracts position and bearing information from the point-cloud data. A servo-driven pan/tilt unit will provide wave motion compensation. As a result, MWPS offers a target-less position sensor with high accuracies (+/-6/0.1deg for position/bearing) and an all-weather operation capability. In Phase I, POC will demonstrate the feasibility of the MWPS technology by performing position detection in various environments (clear air/rain, etc.). A compact, field-deployable system will be proposed by the end of the Phase I development. In Phase II, POC will enhance, optimize, and ruggedize the MWPS technology to meet additional Navys requirements and reach TRL-7.