Our research > Optical, photonics and quantum > RF sources and sensors
Leading-edge research in sources and sensors, photonics characterization and simulation and design
Advanced optics and photonics are critical for sensing and characterization across the ultra-violet, visible, short-wave infrared and mid-wave infrared regions of the radio frequency (RF) spectrum. These foundational capabilities underlie our research for defense customers to support development and enhancement of novel sensing and countermeasure systems.
We have been at the forefront of high-value optical advancements, creating laser system designs and enabling integration with the ability to adjust and control the spectral, spatial, temporal and energy parameters as desired. Our direct line of sight / point source simulator and laser-based wireless power transfer (LBWPT) system, which has achieved near-record-high conversion efficiency, provide portable, flexible and reconfigurable sources for use in field operations. We also pioneered the development of laser-based counter-IED systems as part of the Department of Defense Laser Defeat Working Group. These systems enable resilient, agile, reconfigurable sources that can provide photonics on-demand for applications ranging from power generation to countermeasure systems.
Our extensive background includes developing and operating optical characterization facilities, unmanned aerial vehicle characterization laboratories, laser source and sensor characterization facilities and a fieldable laser parameter characterization platform. We have recently designed a mobile, reconfigurable platform for evaluating pointing, tracking and source parameters for high energy laser systems to enhance fielded system performance.
Key capabilities include:
Working in well-equipped facilities, our research engineers and scientists perform all major tasks required during the development process, including detailed design, analysis and optimization of systems, as well as full-scale characterization and performance evaluations required for system development and the rapid development of prototypes.
Our extensive background includes developing and operating optical characterization facilities, unmanned aerial vehicle characterization laboratories, laser source and sensor characterization facilities and a fieldable laser parameter characterization platform. We have recently designed a mobile, reconfigurable platform for evaluating pointing, tracking and source parameters for high energy laser systems to enhance fielded system performance.
Key capabilities include:
- Advanced modelling and simulation leveraging tools such as ZEMAX, SOLIDWORKS and PRO-E for design efficiency
- Fabrication and assembly using 3D printing for fast turnaround and lower costs
- Research, development and integration of air and ground systems using hardware-in-the-loop system testing and hardware verification to reduce risk during development and sustainment
- Real-time control techniques to accelerate development, fabrication and sustainment by utilizing photonic and robotic components (e.g., in the Laser IRCM Tracker Evaluation (LITE) Laboratory and an ATGM Laboratory)
- Integration of optic-based components and systems into mobile artillery systems to identify and verify payloads and improve mission success rates
Working in well-equipped facilities, our research engineers and scientists perform all major tasks required during the development process, including detailed design, analysis and optimization of systems, as well as full-scale characterization and performance evaluations required for system development and the rapid development of prototypes.
