Ribbon Mills and its subcontractor Northrop Grumman Corporation (NGC) propose a Phase II program, to continue the research into advanced complex performs concepts utilizing weaving technology applied to state-of-the-art composites to enhance the revolutionary low frequency, conformal load-bearing antenna structures (CLAS) foliage penetration ground/air moving target indicator (FOPEN GMTI/AMTI) radar concept being developed under NGC's, AFRL sponsored, Low Band Structural Array (LOBSTAR) program for the notional future intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) SensorCraft platform along with various maritime and homeland defense platforms. Leveraging the promising results of the Phase I program entitled "Demonstration of Multiple Fiber Preforms for Local Property Tailoring," a three-task program is proposed to further develop the LOBSTAR array short circuit detail - a unitized through-the-thickness grounding structure. Task 1 will future develop through design and analyses a multifunction variant capable functioning both electrically as grounding structure for the radar and mechanically as a component in a notional substructure concept. This lightweight substructure scheme is envisioned for its potential for substantial reduction of empty weight fraction. Task 2 will involve fabricating and testing structurally and electrically representative coupon and elements to verify the design. Task 3 will focus on detailed documentation and technology transfer throughout the contract.
Keywords: UNITIZED COMPOSITE STRUCTURES LOAD-BEARING ANTENNA
