Silversword Software and Services, LLC (4S) is developing a novel, robust, Free Space Optical (FSO) communications technology entitled Through the Air Link Optical Component (TALOC), applicable for use on military aircraft, both manned and unmanned. TALOC provides a foundation for measuring range and pose angle between airborne platforms that enables formation of a phase array antenna. A key use case for phase array is making a highly localized Radio Frequency (RF) link between an Unmanned Airborne Vehicle (UAV) and a ground station. During Phase 2, we will perform a detailed design and build of a laboratory demonstration system using Commercial Off-the-Shelf (COTS) and custom components. Demonstration hardware will include optical, electronic and software elements. Two demonstration stages are envisioned. For stage 1, the number of test articles is limited and the mechanical structures are at breadboard level. For stage 2, optics, electronics, and software will be improved based on stage 1 findings. Stage 2 mechanical structures will move in the direction of aircraft mounting. Finally, Phase 2.5 work will include production prototype level design for all elements and will lead to phase array system flightworthiness for a relevant environment. Phase 2 option work includes detailed design review and initiation of production prototype development in preparation for a flight demonstration. Phase 2 technical objectives are: Design the antenna element demonstration unit using COTS and custom components Design a Signal Seed Unit (SSU) surrogate demonstration unit Acquire demonstration components and test for performance functionality Design and fabricate stage 1 demonstration optical, electronic, and mechanical components Write stage 1 demonstration operational software Test stage 1 Electro-Optic, electronic, and mechanical subsystem assemblies for performance Conduct stage 1 demonstration Prioritize risk areas going forward and potential mitigation strategies Conduct cycle of design, fabrication, component testing, software development, subsystem performance testing and demonstration for stage 2 Perform Technology Readiness Level (TRL) assessment to show TRL 5 or greater Develop production prototype plans for Phase 2.5.
Benefit: A successful Phase 2 demonstration will open the path to important commercial and military opportunities. Two of these are telecommunications and terrain survey. These areas are discussed below with reference to commercial products/services and military systems transition to programs of record. Commercialization Strategy The commercial opportunities cited in this section are large scale. Accordingly, 4S intends to approach them via enlisting participation from established service provider entities. Telecommunications commercial opportunities Low Earth Orbit (LEO) internet service is notable among emerging telecommunications initiatives. Costing $10 Billion and projected to generate up to $30 Billion revenue by 2025, the SpaceX 12,000 satellite constellation plan is a particularly striking example. As these LEO projects emerge, phase array technology will be poised to overlay groundbreaking enhancements on their impact. If, instead of a single RF antenna, each satellite links to a cluster of tethered RF nodes, broad band data streams may be bidirectionally directed in parallel to highly localized surface receivers. This capability approaches the flexibility afforded by fiber optic networks, while avoiding the last mile cost and security vulnerabilities of these systems. An early version of phase array narrowcast communications could be deployed in the form of aerostats or drones hovering over urban areas for 5g/6g connectivity. Terrain mapping commercial opportunities Presently based on LIDAR, the global mobile mapping market size is projected to reach $37 Billion by 2023. In the case of large area surveys, combining phase array antenna and Side Looking Airborne Radar (SLAR) technology may offer competitive advantages. The potential value added to SLAR by phase array lies in the fact that SLAR cross range resolution is inversely proportional to antenna length in the direction of flight. If a phase array antenna is extended hundreds of meters by phase alignment of a linearly deployed swarm, SLAR cross range resolution becomes competitive with LIDAR while across track range is inherently well beyond the capability of LIDAR. Validating this potential technical advantage and proving the commercial potential entails an R&D investment cost, but one that may prove cost beneficial for future terrain mapping initiatives. Transition Plan Summary The Phase 1 SBIR was supported by the F/A-18 office at NAVAIR (PMA 265). We look forward to a mutually beneficial continuation of this support. Additionally, 4S is currently investigating Prime Contractor transition assistance. During Phase 2, manufacturing relationships will be affirmed and initial evaluation production units will be anticipated to be delivered at the end of Phase 2.5. Phase 2.5 will include flight testing deliverable prototypes in a relevant environment.
Keywords: Mesh Network, Time of Flight, Modeling and Simulation, 3D map, UAV swarm, free space optical, retro-reflector, Phase array antenna
