SBIR-STTR Award

The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project include a high performance, low cos, dependable, novel antenna with high data bandwidth in 1000s of Gb (Tb) and high data rate speeds in 1000s of Gb/s (Tb/s). The elevated performance of this antenna, the cost effectiveness due to its 3D rapid prototype printing fabrication, and the easy integration to existing technologies may promote proliferation of wireless communications. The antenna may enable global connectivity and increase access to internet/phone connectivity for previously inaccessible areas of the globe, especially to disadvantaged and underserved communities. The high data bandwidth and speed rates will positively impact the scientific community and technologies based on data transfer such as remote learning, remote healthcare (remote surgery, patient consultation), the defense industry, telework (work from home during this COVID-19 pandemic), etc. The antenna’s technical superiority and low cost support substantial anticipated commercial success. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project addresses critical challenges in the two emerging wireless communications systems: LEO-SATCOM (Low Earth Orbit – Satellite Communications) and 5G mobile phone/internet. This project will develop a unique antenna technology that will be integrated into satellite gateways, 5G ground terminals and also satellites in orbit. The wide aperture angle of the antenna provides a wide scanning angle capability that enables connection to highly inclined satellites. The antenna is also capable of multi-beam analysis to enable the simultaneous tracking of multiple satellites and to insure no down time during handoffs. The radiation beam pattern has excellent characteristics of high gain (Equivalent Isotropic Radiated Power), very narrow beamwidth, and low cross polarization. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.

The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II project is to develop a full satellite communication (satcom) terminal commonly known as VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal) for fixed and mobile platforms such as residences, manned and unmanned aerial vehicles, and maritime crafts. This novel satellite communication antenna can be used for Low, Medium and Geosynchronous Earth Orbits (LEO/MEO/GEO). Inexpensive, rapid prototyping will promote the proliferation of satcom technology that will serve disadvantaged communities, low resourced businesses in remote areas, transportation-related industries, and national security. This SBIR Phase II project seeks to develop a satcom antenna technology. The technology pushes the technical limits of current satcom antenna technologies (?dish? antenna and phased-array antenna also known as electronically steerable antenna, flat panel, and others). The technical capabilities metrics include an extremely high data bandwidth output that is 100 times current bandwidth and a data traffic speed that is 100-times that of current technologies for speed performance. In addition, this approach provides reliable, dependable connectivity with a view angle capability that covers a large spatial angle. The large view angle, used in radar applications, enables a unique tactical scanning advantage of the sky for defense operations and provides simultaneous engagement capability to several flying targets at once, i.e., Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs) or drones. With a relatively small footprint compared to current antennas, this approach addresses several capability gaps encountered in the defense industry. It also addresses internet connectivity/voice communication issues that have plagued extensive areas of the earth, making urban cable communication networks and moving platforms such as leisure and commercial air and maritime transportation more accessible.This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.