Embedded Electro-Optic Sensor Network for the On-Site Calibration and Real-Time Performance Monitoring of Large-Scale Phased Arrays

摘要

This progress report summarizes the outline and synopsis of Opteos' Phase I SBIR project entitled 'Embedded Electro-Optic Sensor Network for the On- Site Calibration and Real-Time Performance Monitoring of Large-Scale Phased Arrays'. The main objective of the project is to develop an innovative electric- field sensor network based on an electro-optic field-detection technique (the Electro-optic Sensor Network, or ESN) for the performance evaluation of phased antenna arrays at the end of their development/production cycle, and furthermore, for onsite test and calibration of deployed large-scale phased arrays. During this reporting period, Opteos, Inc. invited Robert C. Parks, a COR for this SBIR project, to discuss and finalize the overall R AND D direction for the Phase I SBIR project. As a result of productive discussions, we have agreed that Opteos would focus its effort on several key objectives during this Phase I, including enhancement of the stability of the EO sensor, acquisition of a fiber-optic-based switch, development of optical-switch control electronics, and a small scale feasibility demonstration at the end of Phase I. This plan maximizes flexibility so that Opteos would be able to pursue either an external, multi-element scanning array of EO sensors or an embedded network of sensors. In addition to the kickoff meeting, Opteos has surveyed the available product space for an adequate, commercially produced optical switch for this SBIR project. As a result of our effort, Opteos was able to identify an optical switch that can support four EO sensors in a sequential manner.