*** See Tracking section for "through the wall" millimeter microwave imaging systems used for covert viewing inside structures.
*** See miscellaneous for wide-band, tunable plasma capillary antennas
*** See Optics, Lasers for microwave synthesis using two heterodyning lasers
New items (01-14-2001) are in BLUE
SIGTEM TECHNOLOGY, INC.
113 Clover Hill Lane
Harleysville, PA 19438 Phone:
PI:
Topic#: (215) 513-9477
Chun Yang
AF 00-235 Title: Frequency-Domain Adaptive Antenna Processing for GPS Jam Suppression and Attitude Determination Abstract: Two technological innovations are proposed in the framework of a unique frequency-domain GPS receiver architecture for GPS jam suppression and attitude determination. The first innovation is a frequency-domain blind adaptive processing technique used to steer nulls to suppress both narrowband and wideband jammers. The second innovation is a new concept of angle-locked loop (ALL) based upon frequency-domain digital beamforming and spatial processing for attitude determination. This will lead to a frequency-domain GPS receiver as a genuine navigation sensor that will provide the full six degrees of freedom (6DOF) position and attitude plus timing information. In Phase I, the proposed concepts will be formulated, analyzed, and simulated in computer for performance prediction and engineering tradeoff. In Phase II, the Phase I approach will be implemented into an operational prototype for testing and demonstration.
JAYCOR, INC.
9775 Towne Centre Drive
San Diego, CA 92121 Phone:
PI:
Topic#: (256) 837-9100
T.G. Bo Henderson
AF 00-048 Title: Robust Microtip Emitter Arrays for Microelectronics Abstract: The technology to fabricate wide band semiconductor microtips and vacuum field effect transistors will be developed. More specifically, micro-vacuum-tube electronics utilizing CVD diamond microtip emitters (patent pending) as the cold cathode, a CVD diamond micro-patterned grid or self aligned gate, and a CVD diamond anode will be developed. Each device will be 3 microns square and will be fabricated in an array having 10 million devices in 1 cm^2. The very small vacuum tubes will have plate currents of 100 micro-amps at grid voltages of a few volts. Individual microtriodes could be connected together using modern semiconductor metalization methods to form extremely radiation tolerant high temperature processors. Or the microtriode array can be ganged together to form an extremely high power RF amplifier which has plate current of 1,000 amps/cm^2 and plate voltages in the kilovolt range. Grid voltages on the order of tens of volts will control the current emission and potentially produce megawatts of power from a 1 cm^2 device. During Phase I, CVD diamond microtip emitter arrays will be fabricated and tested in the laboratory in a diode configuration. The Phase II program will design, fabricate, test, and deliver CVD diamond microtriodes.
FISCHER CUSTOM COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
2917 West Lomita Blvd.
Torrance, CA 90505 Phone:
PI:
Topic#: (310) 891-0635
Joseph Fischer
NAVY 00-028 Title: High Frequency Transmit Mast Clamp Current Probe Abstract: Fischer Custom Communications, Inc. proposes to determine the types of magnetic core materials required to design and fabricate a current injection transformer capable of exciting various parts of a ships superstructure to act as a transmit antenna in the 2 MHz to 30 MHz frequency range. Conventional high frequency shipboard antennas occupy substantial volume, making them difficult to site on the ship without interfering with ship operations. Conventional anntennas have high maintenance and have a significant and distinct radar cross section. A current injection transformer is virtually maintenance free and would replace existing transmit antennas. By using the existing ship structure as an antenna, the current injection transformer provides HF communication and eliminates adverse operations, maintenance and RCS impact of conventional antennas. In Phase I the appropriate magnetic core materials will be determined and feasibility of the current injection transformer will be demonstrated Conventional high frequency shipboard antennas are difficult to site on the ship without interfering with ship operations, have high maintenance and a significant radar cross section. The transmit mast current probe is virtually maintenance free, has a significantly lower radar cross section and would replace the exisitng transmit antennas. The price of a transmit mast probe will be significantly less than the conventional shipboard HF communication antenna. The annual maintenance cost of the transmit mast probe will be a fraction of the conventional HF transmit antenna. Commercial applications include industrial and recreational maritime communications as well as other industrial and recreational HF communications systems.
SENSOR TECHNOLOGIES & SYSTEMS, INC.
7655 E. Redfield Rd. #10
Scottsdale, AZ 85260 Phone:
PI:
Topic#: (480) 483-1997
Walker Butler
NAVY 00-090 Title: Innovative Air and Surface Strike Weapons Technology Abstract: Sensor Technologies & Systems' personnel have over 35 years experience designing, building and testing active, semi-active and passive RF seekers for air-to-air and air-to-surface missile systems. STS has recently been working at millimeter wave frequencies for low cost ($500-2000) commercial sensor applications. STS proposes to investigate the application of this commercial technology for a very low cost air-ground seeker. This seeker would feature beam steering in aximuth for search and high range resolution for clutter rejection and target identification. STS has been engaged in the design, fabrication, and test of millimeter wave radar sensors for several years. STS was initially contracted under the U.S. Department of Transportation's Integrated Vehicle Highway System program to evaluate the effectiveness of forward-looking radars for collision warning and cruise control for future cars and trucks. This effort lasted from 1993 to 1998 and included the design, fabrication, and test of a 76.5 GHz FM-CW radar mounted on the front of a test vehicle. Since then STS has started development of a miniaturized 76.5 GHz radar for use in this application. This radar has many of the generic features which would qualify it for use as a missile seeker, such as a narrow azimuth beam (1.6 degrees), good range resolution (1.5 feet), a scanning antenna in azimuth (20 beam positions), and radar image processing for scene recognition. The radar transmits only a few milliwatts of power, yet it can easily detect vehicles over 200 meters away. While this range is not sufficient for a seeker, one kilometer should be, so the concept is worth considering. There is component development occurring in the 76-77 GHz band because of the automotive applications. STS Proposes to take advantage of this development to design and test an extremely low cost missile seeker.
SICOM, INC.
7585 E. Redfield Road, Suite 2
Scottsdale, AZ 85260 Phone:
PI:
Topic#: (480) 607-4829
Rod Lee
AF 00-047 Title: Low Power Interference and Jamming Filter for GPS Receivers Abstract: SiCOM proposes to develop a small, low-power, and low-cost device to enable operation of GPS receivers in strong interference and jamming environments. The device will enable GPS receivers, including upgrades to the Military Airborne GPS Receiver (MAGR), and the Army's family of handheld GPS receivers, to operate with partial-band jamming signals 1000 times stronger than otherwise possible with existing military GPS radios. SiCOM proposes to produce the device as a single integrated circuit chip less than 0.3 inch on a side, consuming less than 0.2 watt. The device will perform spectral excision of offending signals using an innovative fast Fourier transform (FFT) algorithm that enables excision without distorting the satellite signals. SiCOM calls this processing "AJAX" (Anti-Jam Adaptive eXcision). Phase I of the proposed project will: 1) determine the feasibility of integrating AJAX processing and an analog-to-digital converter in a single small-size, low-power application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), 2) determine the feasibility of integrating other GPS processing functions, such as de-spreading of GPS signals in the same ASIC, thereby saving additional size, power, and cost of GPS receivers, 3) optimize design features such as word length and automatic gain control, and 4) demonstrate AJAX performance using a modified military GPS receiver.
TOYON RESEARCH CORP. 75 Aero Camino, Suite A Goleta, CA 93117
Phone: PI: Topic#: (805) 968-6787 Kenan Ezal AF 00-174
Title: A Single Port, Anti-jam GPS Antenna with Direction Finding and Home-on-jam Capability
Abstract: Toyon Research Corporation's proposal addresses the growing need for a dual purpose, low-cost, single element, anti-jam (AJ) GPS controlled receive pattern antenna (CRPA) with Direction Finding (DF) capability. The antenna footprint is small enough for use with Small Smart Bombs (SSB) and Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAM). The primary purpose of the antenna is to provide AJ GPS capability for weapon guidance in multiple jammer environments. In the event that the GPS receiver is no longer able to retain its lock on the GPS signal, the antenna provides the direction of the jamming signal to the weapon guidance system, which can then act as a Home-on-Jam weapon. An integral part of this proposal is the development of an autonomous optimal decision making algorithm which determines if and when to pursue the jammer instead of the original target.
SIGTEM TECHNOLOGY, INC.
113 Clover Hill Lane
Harleysville, PA 19438 Phone:
PI:
Topic#: (215) 513-9477
Chun Yang
AF 00-235 Title: Frequency-Domain Adaptive Antenna Processing for GPS Jam Suppression and Attitude Determination Abstract: Two technological innovations are proposed in the framework of a unique frequency-domain GPS receiver architecture for GPS jam suppression and attitude determination. The first innovation is a frequency-domain blind adaptive processing technique used to steer nulls to suppress both narrowband and wideband jammers. The second innovation is a new concept of angle-locked loop (ALL) based upon frequency-domain digital beamforming and spatial processing for attitude determination. This will lead to a frequency-domain GPS receiver as a genuine navigation sensor that will provide the full six degrees of freedom (6DOF) position and attitude plus timing information. In Phase I, the proposed concepts will be formulated, analyzed, and simulated in computer for performance prediction and engineering tradeoff. In Phase II, the Phase I approach will be implemented into an operational prototype for testing and demonstration.
CENTER FOR REMOTE SENSING, INC. 11350 Random Hills Rd. Suite 710 Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: PI: Topic#: (703) 385-7717 Suman Ganguly AF 00-248
Title: Re-Configurable Fractal Based Plasma Antenna
Abstract: Conventional antenna concepts do not allow truly broadband beam control. This proposal describes a plan to design and develop reconfigurable broadband antennas which can be embedded in aircrafts or other platforms. To achieve reconfigurability, we propose to use fractal elements which can be formed (wholly or partly) by using plasma columns. Plasma columns can be switched on or off almost instantaneously and will provide control over the antenna patterns and other characteristics. Plasma columns will also offer stealthy operation. Proposed effort will allow us to design and develop various innovative antennas covering a wide range of frequencies for numerous airborne and spaceborne applications.
| INNOVATIVE RESEARCH
& TECHNOLOGY 843 Yale Street Santa Monica, CA 90403 |
|
| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(310) 828-4538 Dr. W. A. Peebles BMDO 98-003 |
| Title: | Sparse Array Radiometric Imaging (SARI) using an Electronic Mirror |
| Abstract: | A high resolution, millimeter-wave radiometric imaging system with the ability to penetrate obscurants (rain, clouds, dust, sand and smoke) is a highly attractive surveillance tool with broad application to satellite, uninhabited aerial vehicle (UAV) and other military and commercial platforms. Achievement of such a system through application of conventional interferometric or sparse aperture techniques has been shown impractical for many potential applications. This is due to the inherent difficulty of simultaneously satisfying field of view (FOV) and image quality requirements while also maintaining acceptable weight, power and computational limits - this is especially true for satellites and UAV platforms. In response, IR&T has developed an innovative solution to this severe limitation through the use of an "electronic mirror". The Phase I/II Program will demonstrate, for the first time, the new concept of a beam-steerable, sparse array imaging interferometer for application to millimeter-wave radiometric imaging. The electronic mirror allows fewer, higher gain elements thereby reducing the overall antenna weight, power consumption and data analysis complexity. The electronic mirror provides the necessary control to increase the FOV while also providing flexibility to optimize image acquisition and quality in varying weather and tactical situations. The electronic mirror consists of an array of monolithic, solid-state, varactor diodes together with antennas and bias lines. The incident electromagnetic wave is steered through a progressive phase shift introduced across the array through a simple bias voltage. Monolithic fabrication results in the low-cost, high reliability essential for both the proposed military as well as commercial applications. |
J.J.W. CONSULTING, INC. |
|
| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(516) 366-0921 Dr. Richard Augeri AF 98-217 |
| Title: | Very Low Cost Passive Millimeter Wave Imaging |
| Abstract: | The JJW/AIL System, Inc. team has proposed three MMW receiver architectures that result in a very low cost imagining system by utilizing wafer scale MMIC mixers and amplifiers. The first approach uses direct detection. A 95 Ghz Image Intensifier and a special bolometric FPA obtain passive images at 94 Ghz and in the IR spectral region (8-12 mm). The image intensifier uses an amplifier array with a gain of only 26.8 dB as compared to 40 dB required on existing systems. The bolometric array is fabricated via low cost thin film processes. The second approach uses a single quasi-optically injected LO on an array of Schottky mixers and IF amplifiers. The mixer array and IF amplifier array are fabricated using MMIC technology. The single LO greatly reduces the cost of the heterodyne receiver array. The third receiver employs a CW illuminator and the special bolometric FPA to enhance the image scene at 94 Ghz. This system is capable of both MMW and IR imaging. All three approaches provide greater than 10 x 15 degree FOR at 16msec frame rates and a NETD of 1K or less. The proposed Imaging Systems will cost about $10,000 in production quantities. |
| MALIBU RESEARCH ASSOC., INC. 26670 Agoura Road Calabasas, CA 91302 |
| Phone: (818) 880-5494 PI: Gerald E. Pollon Topic#: BMDO 96-003 |
| Title: Sub-MM Wave Electronic-Scan Antenna |
| Abstract: The preferred method of RF beam steering is agile-beam electronic-scan. This is routine at cm wavelengths and state-of-the-art millimeter wavelengths, but no existing technology is feasible for sub-MMW electronic beam-steering. Malibu Research believes we have a potential method for accomplishing this, based on a dynamic version of our FLAPS phased-surface technique. A principal product of ours for millimeter-wave antennas is the FLAPS phased-surface. It utilizes arrays of varying length dipoles to control beam shape and direction. By dynamic variation of the dipole pattern electronic beam scanning will result. The specific means of accomplishing this is by a programmable plasma-display - similar in nature to plasma-display television and laptop computers. The concept and preliminary parameters for this are given in our proposal. The key points are (a) Plasma display resolutions are .lmm to .2mm, sufficient for the required lambda/4 increments at frequencies up to 600 GHz (.4mm); (b) The proposed technique is a merger of two advanced but proven technologies; (b) The plasma-display elements are highly RF conductive ionized gases; (c) The resolution, speed and huge number of computer updatable display elements yields a highly dynamic, large RP size electronic antenna with multi-band capability. The proposed effort would apply this electronic-scan antenna to sub-MMW beam-steering. |
| AMERICAN GNC CORP. 9131 Mason Avenue Chatsworth, CA 91311 |
|
| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(818) 407-0092 Ching-Fang Lin DARPA 96-057 |
| Title: Feature Detection of Man-Made Objects Using Fractal Dimension | |
| Abstract: This project is intended to purpose a fractal dimension based object detection approach for man-made objects in the ultra-wideband foliage-penetrating (FOPEN) synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imagery. Since man-made objects are significantly different from natural ones from the point of view of fractal dimension, fractal dimension estimates can be used to characterize images and distinguish man-made objects from natural ones efficiently. In this project, natural scene and man-made object modeling with fractal geometric techniques will be pursued with an in-depth investigation of various fractal dimension definitions and their applicability to background characterization and object detection. Wavelet transforms will be utilized as the computational tools. Fractal dimension estimation algorithms will be implemented and compared. An object detection software which implements the fractal-based object detection algorithms will also be developed. In Phase II, the validated algorithms will be implemented in the hardware environment and verified through the prototype system. | |
ARETE ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGIES CORP. |
|
| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(619) 450-1211 Craig Holt DARPA 95-008 |
| Title: High Sweep-Rate Sediment Penetrating Sonar for Detection and Classification of Buried Objects for Environmental and Defense Applications | |
| Abstract: Presently available commercial and military sonar systems can detect, localize, and classify buried underwater mines and hazardous waste containers only under the most benign environmental conditions. Even then, the mapping rates which are realized are too small for the areas which must be surveyed for operationally effective mine countermeasures or cost effective hazardous material remediation. A sonar will be designed and evaluated that exploits emerging broadband source, receiver, synthetic aperature, and image processor technologies to provide a low frequency system that can detect, localize, and classify buried objects with sweep rates an order of magnitude better than presently available. The design will emphasize small aperture and light weight for ease in deployment. A detailed plan will also be developed for concept demonstration eventually leading to prototype development. Anticipated Benefits: This technology could lead to a wide area coverage, covert standoff mine countermeasures capability for buried mines in shallow water regions of Third World Nations. Coverage rates are expected to be an order of magnitude greater than existing sensor systems. Resulting technology would provide a general capability for affordable wide area mapping of hazardous waste containers and ordnance for environmental monitoring and cleanup in coastal area, bays, harbors, and lakes. | |
CHANG INDUSTRIES, INC. |
|
| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(909) 596-7888 Yu-wen Chang DARPA 95-005 |
| Title: Chang-Scan Concealed Weapon Detector | |
| Abstract: Handheld portable millimeter wave concealed weapon detector operating at 94 GHz or higher frequency is proposed for commercial unit development. Feasibility of radar imaging at close distances of handguns with excellent image picture before enhancement has been achieved by us using very small size antenna. Very low emitted power ensures safety of a person under scan. Operation with rechargeable battery, the CHANG-SCAN unit is envisioned to shape like a flash light. The unit has the potential of detecting concealed explosives. Penetrating leather and heavy clothing, the radar imaging technique is considered superior compared with millimeter wave passive imaging technique such as the tripod-mounted detector by Millitech. Our portable unit can also be used to detect objects inside a suitcase with a high range resolution waveform to avoid detecting the surface of the briefcase. Our portable unit should be useful to detect objects behind a wall. Anticipated Benefits: Military benefits: can be adapted for buried mine detection. Special Operation Force weapon Search. Commercial Applications: Airport safety, school safety, concealed object detection such as by law/drug enforcement agencies. The Portable handheld unit can operate at any place at any time contrary to fixed or tripod-mounted unit. | |
MALIBU RESEARCH ASSOC., INC. |
|
| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(818) 880-5494 Gerald E. Pollon DARPA 96-038 |
| Title: Light-Weight, Low-Cost Surveillance Electronic Scan Antenna | |
| Abstract: Radar antennas with large apertures for surveillance and tracking are highly desirable to be electronic scanning, but require a large number of elements. Despite hundreds of millions of dollars of investment in phase shifters, MMIC and other devices, these remain unaffordable in any but the most expensive military system (B1, B2, Patriot and Aegis). Clearly an entirely new approach is required. Malibu Research believes we have such an approach, based on the merging of two proven technologies; our FLAPS EM phased-surface technique and high resolution plasma displays. A principal product of ours for microwave/millimeter wave antennas is the FLAPS phased-surface. It uitlizes arrays of varying length dipoles to control beam shape and direction. By dynamic variation of the dipole pattern electronic beam scanning will result. The specific means of accomplishing this is by a programmable plasma-display -- similar in nature to plasma-display televsion and laptop computers. The concept and preliminary paratmeters for this are given in our proposal. The key points are as follows: (a) The proposed technique is a merger of two advanced but proven technologies. (b) The plasma-display elements are highly RF conductive ionized gases. (c) The resolution, speed and huge number of computer updatable display elements yields a highly dynamic, large RF size electronic antenna with multi-band capability. The proposal effort, including a demonstration, is directed at surveillance antenna application of plasma-display manufacturing technology. | |
MILLITECH CORP. |
|
| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(413) 665-8551 Mario Simonutti DARPA 95-005 |
| Title: High Power 94 GHz Radar Source | |
| Abstract: A one watt 94 GHz power amplifier with >2 GHz bandwidth will be designed, and an operational brassboard model fabricated. The approach is based upon power combining of four single-diode silicon IMPATT amplifier modules using magic-tees. The brassboard model will serve as a developmental unit during Phase II in which a product development effort will lead to a production version. Also on Phase II, a 2 watt model will be produced. Key characteristics for the product are: 1) operationally robust for field operation, 2) high quality spectral characteristics, 3) producible in moderate quantities at an affordable price, 4) ready for production within 1 to 2 years. Consistent with these guidelines, the technical approach is one of low-to-moderate technical risk. The project will draw from Millitech's unique and extensive capabilities in this area. Research issues, which complement the product development effort, are confined to two areas: 1) Refinement of the RF design in the single-diode building block amplifier module to enhance the manufacturability of these modules which typically have required substantial costly, highly skilled labor. 2) Determining the optimum of several candidate topologies for module-level combining. Refinement of methods for suppression of spurious and broadband noise from the IMPATTs within the production environment will influence the course of these research areas. Anticipated Benefits: This project will provide for the long-awaited but yet unfulfilled need for a 1 watt 94 GHz solid state power amplifier which can be obtained as a commercial product. To date, this power level has not been available except through research lab types of efforts which result in one-of-a-kind, high cost units. This product will allow realization of numerous advanced millimeter wave applications, especially radar. System requirements exist in both military and commercial sectors. | |
RST SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH |
|
| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(714) 772-8274 R.S. Tahim DARPA 96-040 |
| Title: Alternate Power Sources for Aerostats | |
| Abstract: The unique features of microwave power transfer can be harvested for generation of large amounts of electric power thereby eliminating the conventional electric generators needed to operate the systems. This proposal describes the design concepts that will result in very effective and efficient wireless power transfer (WPT) system. Using a large number of internally matched FET devices with high power added efficiency (PAE), an active integrated transmitter antenna array generating (DC to RF) a high power microwave beam will be developed. Such a solid-state transmitter array will also be capable of beam steering in order to keep the beam focused onto a rectenna (mounted to a moving platform) which will be capable of receiving and converting the microwave power into DC power. Beam steering techniques that will either eliminate the conventional phase shifters or minimize their numbers in the phased arrays will be developed to make the WPT system more efficient and effective. A rectenna design approaching 100% (RF to DC) conversion efficiency by retrieving the RF power from the higher order harmonics (generated in the rectifier circuits) will be pursued. Using high power FET devices (PAE exceeding 70%), the WPT systems delivering greater than 60% overall DC to DC conversion efficiency are possible. | |
SCIENTIFIC SYSTEMS COMPANY, INC. |
|
| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(617) 933-5355 B. Ravichandran DARPA 96-057 |
| Title: FOPEN Radar ATR Using Superresolution and Eigentemplates | |
| Abstract: The detection and recognition of man-made objects under foliage conditions requires the use of VHF/UHF ultra-wideband (UWB) radars such as P-3/SAR system developed by ERIM for NAWC/AD and DARPA. At low frequencies and long wavelengths, most of the scatters are in the Rayleigh scattering region and their RCS is low, which enables foliage penetration. However, this also results in a small number of large scatterers on target of interest. Automatic Target Recognition and Detection (ATR/D) using FOPEN SAR needs to utilize higher dimensional features such as polarization, absolute intensity, angle-diversity, frequency-diversity and other multi-kernel attributes of SAR imagery. In addition, since the resolution at low frequencies is degraded, super resolution techniques hold great promise for enhancing ATR performance. There is also a great need for dimensionality reduction in the design of ATR algorithms since the use of higher dimensional attributes results in multidimensional target templates. In this proposal, we describe an efficient ATR approach based on the use of eigentemplates which have been found to be very successful in face recognition and have been shown recently to be close to full template matching in SAR ATR performance. The specific Phase I technical objectives are: 1. aquisition of UWB FOPEN SAR simulated and real data. 2. Resolution enhancement using multidimensional Super resolution algorithms. 3. Development of Eigentemplates and associated ATR algorithms using higher dimensional target attributes. 4. Testing and evaluation of Supper resolution and ATR algorithms on simulated and real data. University of Maryland (Prof. Chellappa) will provide technical support for the SBIR effort. | |
VEXCEL CORP. |
|
| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(303) 444-0094 Richard Carande DARPA 96-057 |
| Title: Next Generation ATR Algorithms and Automatic Target Recognition Algorithms and Terrain Mapping with FOPEN RADAR | |
| Abstract: Vexcel Corporation, in cooperation with Lockheed Martin Tactical Defense Systems, proposes to identify and develop next generation algorithms for automatic target recognition (ATR) using polarimetric ultra-wideband (UWB) synthetic aperature radar (SAR) data. Specifically, we will address the potential of combining the polarimetric aspects of the foliage penetrating (FOPEN) SARs with interferometric technology. Expected benefits will be improved ATR algorithms and new techniques for mapping terrain under trees, as well as potentially measuring some parameters related to tree height and density. Sensors capable of producing such data are expected to become operational in the near future for both military and civilian applications. While there has been a considerable amount of research conducted in the area of ATR using SAR data, most has focused on the application to more traditional military radar systems, specifically higher frequency systems. Some research into polarimetric aspects of the data have been carried out, as well as investigations into UWB ATR applications. To exploit the new dimensions of this data, we impose important calibration requirements on the sensor data. Specifically, we will investigate the use of calibrated phase and amplitude information available in the polarimetric scattering matrix measurements. This is required to perform accurate polarization synthesis. Throughout this work, we will focus on the eventual operational implementation of the identified new algorithms. Specific real-time applications to UWB sensors will serve as examples. | |
MISSION RESEARCH CORP. |
|
| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(703) 339-6500 Dr. Richard S. Smith III AF 98-097 |
| Title: | TWHA: Tunable, Wide-Bandwidth, High-Average-Power, RF Amplifier |
| Abstract: | MRC will develop a tunable, wide-bandwidth, high-average-power rf amplifier (TWHA) to meet DOD and industrial applications. Using a novel mechanical tuning approach, we will show feasibility of a tunable, UHF-amplitron design based on the fixed-frequency, S-band, super-power amplitron (QK1224) which MRC and Litton have shown can be scaled to lower frequencies. The amplitron's high efficiency allows a compact tube capable of delivering high-average-powers (~ 1 MW, comparable to the average power of a 1 -GW, 1 us, 1 -kHz rf source). A key program feature is the involvement of a major tube manufacturer (Litton) and an industrial partner (DuPont). Litton has sufficient interst in the commercial development of this technology to provide, at no cost, engineering manhours and facilities during Phase I. MRC will team with Litton in Phase II to build and demonstrate the operation of the TWHA. The DuPont collaboration assures the TWHA will meet their requirements for commercial applications. Discussions with industry have identified heat-treatment applications and plasma processing as commercial uses for the TWHA. DOD applications include: DEW, radar, and EW. The broad tuning range (~15%) and instantaneous bandwidth (~5%) allow radar to acquire more information with greater immunity to jamming EW a greater ability to jam. |
MISSION RESEARCH CORP. |
|
| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(703) 339-6500 Dr. John Pasour AF 98-098 |
| Title: | Vacuum High-Power Microwave Load |
| Abstract: | With the latest high-power microwave source developments, high-power microwave loads are needed that can operate in ultra-high vacuum environments at power levels in excess of 3 gigawatts and pulse durations of at least 1 microsecond. There are no commercially available microwave loads that can operate at the required power, energy and vacuum levels, and prototype or specially designed loads that have been developed for high power microwave sources have not yet been able to operate at these levels. MRC proposes to develop a highly absorptive, high-vacuum-compatable load for this application using innovative materials and geometry. A version of this load tailored to existing and planned Phillips Laboratory high-power microwave sources will be designed and developed, and applications of this new technology to a much broader range of microwave shielding problems will be addressed. Commercialization issues will be facilitated by MRC's collaboration with industrial partners that have unique materials processing capabilities and that have agreed to support this effort. |
PULSE POWER PHYSICS, INC. |
|
| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(505) 856-1708 Charles A. Frost AF 98-102 |
| Title: | Solid State Switched Array Impulse Source |
| Abstract: | Powerful ultra-wideband impulse sources are currently developed for application to high resolution impulse radar, material penetrating radar, susceptibility testing, ECM, high power jammers, and covert communications. One approach to radiating the narrow impulses uses laser controlled photoconductive solid state switching (PCSS) to coherently drive arrays of multiple radiating antennas. Because the laser controlled switches can be triggered with low jitter, this modular approach allows efficient beam forming and steering.For some applications alternative low jitter triggered switches which are small, inexpensive, and have very long lifetimes are needed. For example, a compact array powered by miniature synchronized pulsers could be used for ground surveillance radar, as a covert communications link, and also as a convenient source for RCS measurements and antenna calibration. We will develop a solid-state switched array impulse source for these applications.The solid-state switched array impulse sources could also be used as lightweight impulse radar transmitters for airborne radar systems for detecting and identifying surface or sub-surface UXO and land mines and for military target discrimination at long range. The triggered solid-state switches could be used directly as Pockels cell drivers, laser drivers, and for laboratory pulse generators. |
| INTEGRATED SENSORS,
INC. 502 COURT STREET UTICA, NY 13502 |
|
| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(315) 798-1377 WALTER E SZCZEPANSKI AF 98-141 |
| Title: | SYNTHETIC APERTURE RADAR (SAR) ENHANCING TECHNOLOGIES |
| Abstract: | There is a critical need for an all weather capability to detect and classify military targets using high resolution synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imagery. In many applications major difficulties arise because of the radio frequency interference (RFI) sources which can inadvertently or intentionally interfere with the operation of the SAR. Homogeneous processor architectures currently used to accomplish the real time SAR processing are ill equipped for the RFI mitigation function. Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGA) and block floating point (BFP) devices have demonstrated substantial throughput (up by a factor of 10), size, weight, and power advantages over central processing units (CPU) such as the Power PC while maintaining wide dynamic range (>120dB). Combining these specialized processing devices with general purpose CPUs into a heterogeneous processor has been shown to be feasible. Therefore, Integrated Sensors, Inc. (ISI) proposes to design an efficient COTS based heterogeneous parallel processor architecture and processing element optimized for real-time RFI detection and rejection. Representative hardware components, such as SHARP's BDSP 9124 block floating point device and special purpose field programmable gate arrays (FPGA), will provide the basis of the proposed processing element. |
TECHNOLOGY SERVICE CORP. |
|
| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(203) 268-1249 STEVEN JAROSZEWSKI AF 98-141 |
| Title: | SYNTHETIC APERTURE RADAR (SAR) ENHANCING TECHNIQUES |
| Abstract: | SAR is a critical technology for obtaining military and economic intelligence, terrain height and cover information, and a variety of other data. Because of its long coherent integration times and wide bandwidth, SAR is extremely vulnerable to RF interference, intentional noise jamming and coherent repeater jamming. The proposed research will identify the sources of interference that affect SARs operating in different frequency bands, quantify the effects of this interference on the SAR image and develop (to a first level) concepts that can negate the intereference. The techniques for rejecting the interference include space-time adaptive processing, adaptive time gating and frequency domain nulling, coherent signal subtraction and monopulse processing/cell censoring. Also investigated will be interpolation techniques to restore the portions of the signal lost due to the gating and filtering of the interference.A matrix will be generated that summarizes the impact of each interference source on the SAR's performance, the interference rejection required, the ability of the jammer negation techniques to achieve these requistite levels and the cost of incorporating each negation concept. This matrix will help to identify the most critical threats and the optimal rejection techniques for a Phase II development and demonstration program. |
GORCA TECHNOLOGIES, INC. |
|
| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(609) 273-8200 Hesham Attia DARPA 98-006 |
| Title: | A Lightweight Radar for Detecting Low Altitude Airborne Targets from an Aerostat |
| Abstract: | A lightweight, low-cost radar for detecting low-altitude airborne targets from a lighter-than-air airborne platform is proposed. The sensor offers an all-weather, all-visibility-conditions MTI and tracking capability for situation awareness and the possible activation and guidance of counter measures. A special proprietary microstrip phased array antenna concept coupled with a novel radar configuration, both of them made possible by GT's self-calibration and motion compensation techniques, results in the lightweight, low-cost practical construction. Depending on system parameters, the proposed sensor suite is expected to have a detection range of about 50 km, weigh between 50 and 150 lb, and consume less than 500 watts of prime power. Phase I will consist of requirements analysis, concept development, trade-off analysis, performance evaluation, and designing a prototype sensor suite with separable modules for radar, data up/down link, signal processor, displays and controls. Phase II will consist of developing and integrating a prototype sensor with GFE lifting body and ground mobility platform for a live demonstration program. |
GORCA TECHNOLOGIES, INC. |
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| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(609) 273-8200 Dr. Kenneth Abend ARMY 98-118 |
| Title: | Countermine Vehicle Forwar Looking Terrain Mapping SAR |
| Abstract: | A simple, rugged, and novel forward- looking, synthetic aperture radar (SAR) is proposed for mapping terrain variations in front of a countermine vehicle system for control of mine-clearing plow depth. Antenna steering is not required. Range resolution is obtained with a stepped frequency waveform and accurate terrain elevation relative to the vehicle is obtained with the aperture generated by the vehicle's forward motion. High quality SAR imaging is possible in the presence of severe motion irregularities because of a reliable, high accuracy, computationally efficient, auto-focus / autonomous-motion-compensation technique developed by GORCA Technologies (GT) to focus data in the presence of severe motion irregularities without the uuse of INS, GPS, nor any of the external data source. GT has successfully imaged F-15 radar data collected during a 4g maneuver, and forward-looking synthetic-aperture sonar data (for shallow-water mine avoidance). GT is currently building a tiny mm-wave sensor prototype for side-looking SAR imaging from a small UAV. Phase I will include experiments with the microSAR(tm) equipment mounted on a test vehicle traveling over rough terrain. The data will be processed to obtain accurate elevation estimates 10 meters ahead of the sensor, and the Phase II real-time terrain-mapping plow-control system will be defined. BENEFITS: Mine clearing operations via a remotely piloted plow vehicle such as the drive-by-wire Grizzly requires information to control plow depth under all visibility conditions. This sensor can also be used in civilian mine clearing, and in earth and snow moving equipment. A similar sensor could provide look- ahead terrain data for an active suspension system in an off-road military vehicle or a civilian luxury, sports-utility, or emergency medical vehicle. |
INTELLIGENT AUTOMATION, INC. |
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| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(301) 590-3155 Dr. Chiman Kwan ARMY 98-118 |
| Title: | Ultra Wide Band Radar Terrain Mapping Sensor |
| Abstract: | The key innovation of this proposal is the use of Ultra-wideband (UWB) Time Modulated Impulse Radar. Within the last few years low cost ultra-high precision oscillators have become available, and these now make it possible to build UWB radar systems which have no base band frequency. The only signals transmitted are single pulses which can be generated by a single transistor which is either on or off. Impulses in the time domain generate very wide bandwidth signals in the frequency domain, and the signals generated by our current hardware have bandwidths in the several gigahertz range. UWB is able to penetrate foliage because of its low frequency components, which allows pulses to easily pass through foliage, or even walls, tree trunks, and concrete. In the system we propose, these pulses are generated in a pseudo-random sequence, making them virtually impossible to detect, and very difficult to jam. The energy from each pulse may be far below the noise level and is only detectable if you know exactly when to listen for the pulse, and can average many pulses together. BENEFITS: Our partner company, Time Domain Corporation (TDC), is the patent holder on much of the technology for UWB Time Modulated Impulse Radar and Impulse Communication. They have $15 million in private funds and have already begun marketing several products. IAI will work with TDC to commercialize the technology for a terrain preview sensor, and in several other niche areas. |
GEOSPACE RESEARCH, INC. |
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| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(310) 322-1160 Frank T. Djuth AF 99-067 |
| Title: | Transformation of the HAARP HF Facility into an HF Radar: New Diagnostics for the Natural and Perturbed Environments |
| Abstract: | The proposed project entails the design and construction of an HF digital multichannel radar receiver system and associated HF receiving array for HAARP. With this addition, the HARRP HF facility will become a powerful diagnostic tool for probing the natural ionosphere and monitoring changes in the ionospheric plasma arising from HF wave-plasma interactions. In addition, the radar receiver paves the way for meteor orbit astronomy from high geographical latitudes. The new system is intended to be a permanent facility addition to HAARP. Data acquired with the HF radar system will be accessible over the internet with the aid of a Java-based user interface. File formats will conform to the NetCDF standard. The suggested system will provide new opportunities for observers to conduct experiments at HAARP. As part of the enhanced facility capability, it will be possible to perform experiments dealing with artificial periodic inhomogeneities, stimulated electromagnetic emissions, meteor-radar measurements of mesospheric neutral winds, meteor orbit studies of cometary debris, neutral wind observations via partial reflection techniques, natural D region electron density and electron-neutral collision profiles also obtained through partial reflections, observations of the HF-induced D region heating through cross modulation techniques, the use of the HAARP HF facility of an extremely high resolution ionosonde, the mapping of HF-induced filaments caused by thermal self-focusing in the F region, and finally the passive monitoring of HF background transmissions and beacons to assess the background state of the neutral ionosphere. |
INTELLIGENT AUTOMATION, INC. |
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| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(301) 590-3155 Dr. ChiMan Kwan AF 99-107 |
| Title: | Phased Array Time0Modulated Ultra-Wide Band Radar and Communication |
| Abstract: | The key innovation of this proposal is use of Time Modulated Ultra-wideband (TM-UWB) transmissions to implement low cost, low power phased array radar and radio. Within the last few years low cost ultra-high precision oscillators have become available, and these now make it possible to build TM-UWB radar and communication systems which have no baseband frequency. The only signals transmitted are single pulses which can be generated by a single transistor which is either on or off. Impulses in the time domain generate very wide bandwidth signals in the frequency domain, and the signals generated by our current hardware have bandwidths in the gigahertz range. Since the transmission effectively happens over gigahertz bandwidth, this type of radar and radio is virtually impossible to detect and infeasible to jam. TM-UWB radio requires no frequency allocation since energy is effectively transmitted on a wide band of frequencies simultaneously. Likewise, as long as users use a different pseudo-random pulse timing, there will be no interference between users, and there is no problem with multipath transmission. Gigahertz transmission rates are achievable. Because all that is transmitted is binary pulses, implementation of phased array system is easy and effective. |
| NOVA MANAGEMENT, INC.
400 Camino Agujito Monterey, CA 93940 |
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| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(410) 465-6173 Gerald T. McKindles BMDO 99-003 |
| Title: | Detection of Low Signature Moving Targets by Use of a Backround Detection System (BDS) |
| Abstract: | The detection of low signature moving targets is enhanced and made possible by the application of a technique developed and proven by the Institute of Control Science (ICS) of the Russion Academy of Sciences (RAS). This method has been tested in their laboratory, and in the field using an air defense radar. The Background Detection System (BDS) employs an algorithm developed by ICS/RAS which not only makes detection possible, but also the determination of the targets' dynamic and geometrical parameters. By using two Synthetic Array Radars (SARs) synchronously it is possible to determine the targets' 3D coordinates, and recongnize its' shape. During this program Nova Management, Inc. (Nova) will analyze the applicability of BDS to SAR radar systems, and develop interfaces between them and the BDS algorithm. ICS/RAS will be a subcontractor to Nova, and assist in preparing a simulation of the system. Nova and ICS/RAS currently are teamed together on two on-going DOD contracts. They jointly have experience and capabilities required to successfully achieve outstanding results on bi-national programs. Distribution and access to all data will be in accord with DOD directives, and the specific authorizations of BMDO |