Browse Topic: Radio equipment
ABSTRACT Ultra-wideband (UWB) radio ranging technology was integrated into a local positioning system (LPS) for tracking mobile robots. A practical issue was the occasional large sporadic errors in the radio range data due to multipath due to reflections and attenuation effect caused by radio penetration through mediums. In this paper, we present a filtering and system integration of the radios with vehicle sensors to produce location and orientation of a moving object being tracked. We introduced a fuzzy neighborhood filter to remove outliers from range data, a progressive trilateration filter to improve update rate and produce a fused estimate of vehicle location with a compass and wheel speed sensors. Experiments were recorded and estimated position and orientation were validated against the video recording of vehicle ground truth. The UWB LPS can be used for navigation and guidance of multiple mobile robots around a command vehicle, and employed for tracking of assets of interest
ABSTRACT Modern vehicular systems are comprised of numerous electronics control units (ECUs) that consist of thousands of microelectronics components. Individual ECU systems are reliant upon “trust” in the supply chain for defense. This paper describes an approach utilizing historically offensive-based cybersecurity technology, side-channels, to quantify and qualify malicious ECU states in a bus-agnostic, logically-decoupled method of assurance and verification. Providing a measure of supply chain assurance to end-users. Citation: Yale Empie, Matthew Bayer, “Assurance and Verification of Vehicular Microelectronic Systems (AV2MS): Supply Chain Assurance through Utilization of Side Channel Radio Frequency Emissions for Improved Ground Vehicle Cybersecurity,” In Proceedings of the Ground Vehicle Systems Engineering and Technology Symposium (GVSETS), NDIA, Novi, MI, Aug. 16-18, 2022
ABSTRACT Antennas are critical to providing digital connectivity to our warfighters. Military mobile networks are much more constrained in operation compared to commercial wireless networks. Military vehicles are limited in size, and must support a large number of different radios. Challenges to both the network and the mobile vehicles require antennas to perform to higher standards. Antenna performance tradeoffs are presented, along with a description of antenna integration methods and emerging technologies to solve integration challenges
ABSTRACT Leader-follower autonomous vehicle systems have a vast range of applications which can increase efficiency, reliability, and safety by only requiring one manned-vehicle to lead a fleet of unmanned followers. The proper estimation and duplication of a manned-vehicle’s path is a critical component of the ongoing development of convoying systems. Auburn University’s GAVLAB has developed a UWB-ranging based leader-follower GNC system which does not require an external GPS reference or communication between the vehicles in the convoy. Experimental results have shown path-duplication accuracy between 1-5 meters for following distances of 10 to 50 meters. Citation: K. Thompson, B. Jones, S. Martin, and D. Bevly, “GPS-Independent Autonomous Vehicle Convoying with UWB Ranging and Vehicle Models,” In Proceedings of the Ground Vehicle Systems Engineering and Technology Symposium (GVSETS), NDIA, Novi, MI, Aug. 16-18, 2022
ABSTRACT This paper will present a 3 Unit (3U) OpenVPXTM form factor radio card module technology for a 3U OpenVPXTM form factor chassis which supports Phase 1 of the U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Research, Development and Engineering Center’s (CERDEC’s) Hardware/Software Convergence (HWC) Program
ABSTRACT Radio frequency products spanning multiple functions have become increasingly critical to the warfighter. Military use of the electromagnetic spectrum now includes communications, electronic warfare (EW), intelligence, and mission command systems. Due to the urgent needs of counterinsurgency operations, various quick reaction capabilities (QRCs) have been fielded to enhance warfighter capability. Although these QRCs were highly successfully in their respective missions, they were designed independently resulting in significant challenges when integrated on a common platform. This paper discusses how the Modular Open RF Architecture (MORA) addresses these challenges by defining an open architecture for multifunction missions that decomposes monolithic radio systems into high-level components with well-defined functions and interfaces. The functional decomposition maximizes hardware sharing while minimizing added complexity and cost due to modularization. MORA achieves
ABSTRACT The Modular Open RF Architecture’s (MORA) core objective is to logically decompose radio frequency (RF) systems for efficiency, flexibility, reusability, and scalability while enabling management, health monitoring, and sharing of raw and/or processed data. MORA extends the Army’s Vehicular Integration for C4ISR/EW Interoperability (VICTORY) architecture. MORA was introduced to the GVSETS community in 2015 at version 1.0 of the specification, and has matured with the help of community, industry, and academia partners to its current version 2.3. This paper discusses the current state of the MORA specification and how it has evolved beyond its initial topology to encompass the entirety of the RF chain in an open and modular fashion. In addition, this paper will describe the purpose of MORA, the objectives of its development, its foundation, and the basic concepts and core features. Citation: J. Broczkowski, D. Bailey, T. Ryder, J. Dirner, “Modular Open RF Architecture (MORA
ABSTRACT This work presents the development of a high fidelity Simulation In the Loop/Hardware In the Loop simulation environment using add-ons to Autonomous Navigation Virtual Environment Laboratory (ANVEL) and a navigation unit developed by Auburn University’s GPS and Vehicle Dynamics Lab (GAVLAB) in support of the United States Army’s Autonomous Ground Resupply Science Technology Objective. The developed add-ons include a real time interface for ANVEL, Inertial Measurement Unit module, Wheel Speed Sensor module, and a GPS module that allows simulated signals or generated Radio Frequency signals. The developed add-ons allow for faster development of navigation algorithms and controllers due to a readily available, highly accurate truth from ANVEL and can be configured to introduce realistic errors from sensors, hardware, and GPS signals such that algorithm and controller robustness can be easily examined
ABSTRACT Tactical Radio Systems such as the Mid-Tier Networking Vehicular Radio (MNVR) and the Handheld, Manpack, and Small Form Fit (HMS) Radio provide common functions that can be componentized with standardized interfaces. In the Army’s acquisition and testing processes, next generation radios are being fielded with related systems and components as capabilities. Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) is an ideal methodology to develop a Reference Architecture using a common development process. MBSE uses a formal model of a system of systems to represent all systems engineering information. Key benefits of MBSE include traceability, communication, configuration management and common languages and notations. This paper evaluates implementation experiences in applying MBSE to develop a Reference Architecture (RA) that provides VICTORY interfaces for radio, computing systems, and Satellite Communications (SATCOM) terminals. The information representation of the Hardware/Software (HW
ABSTRACT The Integrated Bridge currently fielded in the MRAP FoV is a capabilities insertion that provides data integration and visualization services to the vehicle crew. The Integrated Bridge combines displays, data buses, video sensors, switches/routers, radio interfaces, power management components, etc. to provide a unified view as well as a vehicle system control means to its crew members. The Integrated Bridge provides a flexible and modular architecture that can readily be adapted to the variety of Government Furnished Mission Equipment found in the MRAP FoV utilizing developmental hardware and software augmented with VICTORY technology to provide additional standardization and capabilities. This paper describes the continuation and capability extension of the VICTORY Radio Adapter, now called the Integrated Bridge GPIU (General Purpose Interface Unit). Details of the work leading to the fielding of a significantly enhanced version of the GPIU are discussed. GPIU software and
Delivered by Team Hersa, a joint Defense Equipment & Support (DE&S) and Defense, Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL) enterprise, the Radio Frequency Directed Energy Weapon (RFDEW) can detect, track and engage a range of threats across land, air and sea. The system uses radio waves to disrupt or damage critical electronic components inside enemy platforms, such as drones, causing them to stop in their tracks or fall out of the sky. As such, it offers a solution for the protection and defense of critical assets and bases. Capable of downing dangerous drone swarms with instant effect, at only 10p per shot, the RFDEW is a highly capable and cost-effective alternative to traditional missile-based air defense systems. It will be able to effect targets up to 1 km away, with further development in extending the range ongoing. Its high level of automation also means the system can be operated by a single person
A new scientific technique could significantly improve the reference frames that millions of people rely upon each day when using GPS navigation services, according to a recently published article in Radio Science
Delivered by Team Hersa, a joint Defense Equipment & Support (DE&S) and Defense, Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL) enterprise, the Radio Frequency Directed Energy Weapon (RFDEW) can detect, track and engage a range of threats across land, air and sea. The system uses radio waves to disrupt or damage critical electronic components inside enemy platforms, such as drones, causing them to stop in their tracks or fall out of the sky. As such, it offers a solution for the protection and defense of critical assets and bases
Phased array radar technology has been gaining popularity since its initial introduction in the 1960s and is now being used in a variety of applications, from military and defense to civilian sectors and even space exploration. This cutting-edge technology has revolutionized radar systems by offering unparalleled flexibility, precision, and speed. At the heart of phased array radar lies a sophisticated antenna system composed of numerous individual elements, each capable of independently emitting and receiving radio waves. Unlike traditional radar systems that rely on mechanically rotating antennas, phased array radars electronically steer their beams, enabling rapid and precise target acquisition. This breakthrough is made possible by meticulously controlling the phase of radio waves emitted from each antenna element
This SAE Standard describes a reference system architecture based on LTE-V2X technology defined in the set of ETSI standards based on 3GPP Release 14. It also describes cross-cutting features unique to LTE-V2X PC5 sidelink (mode 4) that can be used by current and future application standards. The audience for this document includes the developers of applications and application specifications, as well as those interested in LTE-V2X system architecture, testing, and certification
Riding aboard NASA's Psyche spacecraft, the agency's Deep Space Optical Communications technology demonstration continues to break records. While the asteroid-bound spacecraft doesn't rely on optical communications to send data, the new technology has proven that it's up to the task. After interfacing with the Psyche's radio frequency transmitter, the laser communications demo sent a copy of engineering data from over 140 million miles (226 million kilometers) away, 1. times the distance between Earth and the Sun. This achievement provides a glimpse into how spacecraft could use optical communications in the future, enabling higher-data-rate communications of complex scientific information as well as high-definition imagery and video in support of humanity's next giant leap: sending humans to Mars
Riding aboard NASA’s Psyche spacecraft, the agency’s Deep Space Optical Communications technology demonstration continues to break records. While the asteroid-bound spacecraft doesn’t rely on optical communications to send data, the new technology has proven that it’s up to the task. After interfacing with the Psyche’s radio frequency transmitter, the laser communications demo sent a copy of engineering data from over 140 million miles (226 million kilometers) away, 1½ times the distance between Earth and the Sun
Modern cars and autonomous vehicles (AVs) use millimeter wave (mmWave) radio frequencies to enable self-driving or assisted driving features that ensure the safety of passengers and pedestrians. This connectivity, however, can also expose them to potential cyberattacks
For years, expertise in terrestrial applications has served as a launchpad for innovation. Companies honed their skills by building the networks that connected us on earth, but now, eyes are turning skyward. By adapting their capabilit ies to the unique demands of non-terrestrial applications, these same players are unlocking new possibilities and rewriting the rules of communication beyond the atmosphere. Here, Dan Rhodes, Director of Business Development at designer and manufacturer of RF-to-mmWave components and subsystems, Filtronic, explores the bridge between terrestrial expertise and non-terrestrial ambitions, highlighting how terrestrial success is becoming the fuel for stellar solutions. Bridging the terrestrial and non-terrestrial worlds is not merely a matter of applying existing technologies to a new canvas. While both environments share fundamental principles of communication and rely on robust components such as transmitters, receivers, filters and amplifiers, the shift
The development of hypersonic missiles represents the most significant advancement of defense weaponry since the 1960s. However, they also pose unique challenges for both design and technology. The term “hypersonic” refers to any speed faster than five times the speed of sound, or above Mach 5. Modern hypersonic missile systems require extensive communications interconnects within a highly confined space. This space requirement creates a demand for solutions combining small form factor with reduced weight and rugged construction to withstand high vibration and impact conditions from deployment to target. Currently there are two types of hypersonic weapons. Hypersonic glide vehicles (HGVs), also known as boost-glide vehicles, typically launch from ballistic missiles and are released at a specific altitude, speed, and with the flight path tailored to a target without being powered. Hypersonic cruise missiles (HCMs) are powered all the way to their targets, flying at lower altitudes than
Researchers at the University of Birmingham have developed a new type of high-performance “phase shifter” using a liquid gallium alloy — which varies the phase angle of microwave and millimeter-wave radio signals — for use in advanced phase array antenna systems
Researchers have created electrostatic materials that function even with extremely weak ultrasound, heralding the era of permanent implantable electronic devices in biomedicine. Recent research explores implantable medical devices that operate wirelessly, yet finding a safe energy source and protective materials remains challenging. Presently, titanium (Ti) is used due to its biocompatibility and durability. However, radio waves cannot pass through this metal, necessitating a separate antenna for wireless power transmission. Consequently, this enlarges the device size, creating more discomfort for patients
In the ever-evolving landscape of electronic warfare (EW), the imperative for technological prowess has never been more pronounced. At the vanguard of this evolution stands a technological marvel-high-performance software defined radios (SDRs). This article provides on an in-depth exploration of the transformative potential embedded in SDRs, focusing on their remarkable attributes of very high bandwidths, wide tuning ranges, and high channel counts. From the foundational principles of SDRs to their nuanced applications in modern warfare, this narrative endeavors to unravel the complexities and possibilities presented by these cutting-edge systems
Light fidelity (LiFi) technology holds immense potential to revolutionize wireless communication networks by utilizing light bulbs for reliable and cost-effective interconnections. Integration of LiFi technology with advanced solutions is proposed to significantly enhance the passenger experience in autonomous buses. The reliability and performance limitations inherent in traditional radio frequency (RF) technologies are addressed, resulting in a consistent and reliable wireless connection for self-driving cars. The proposed solution incorporates key features such as a LiFi-powered real-time tracking and notification system, on-board assistance for seat location, and precise bus seat occupancy information gathering. Additionally, the paper aims to improve punctuality through a LiFi-powered passenger boarding system, facilitating the widespread adoption of autonomous vehicles as a trusted and efficient mode of transportation. A thorough technical examination and a successful
Small mobile robots carrying sensors could perform tasks like catching gas leaks or tracking warehouse inventory. But moving robots demands a lot of energy, and batteries, the typical power source, limit lifetime and raise environmental concerns. Researchers at the University of Washington have now created MilliMobile, a tiny, self-driving robot powered only by surrounding light or radio waves
A team of University of Otago researchers and physicists have demonstrated a new form of antenna, developed with a small glass bulb containing an atomic vapor. The bulb was wired with laser beams and could therefore be placed far from any receiver electronics. Dr. Susi Otto, from the Dodd-Walls Centre for Photonic and Quantum Technologies, led the field testing of the portable atomic radio frequency sensor. Such sensors, that are enabled by atoms in a so-called Rydberg state, can provide superior performance over current antenna technologies as they are highly sensitive, have broad tunability, and small physical size, making them attractive for use in defense and communications
More airports are starting to adopt and test the use of radio frequency (RF) mitigation techniques to counter the operation of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in violation of civilian airspace rules. While civilian aviation regulatory agencies are welcoming the integration of more commercially operated UAS into civilian airspace, airports are responding to the growing number of incidents in recent years with counter measures to ensure drones do not interfere with regular operations
A wireless device called the UroMonitor enables accurate, noninvasive monitoring of bladder pressure in patients with overactive bladder. It is the first device to enable catheter-free telemetric ambulatory bladder pressure monitoring in humans. The UroMonitor was developed as a noninvasive approach for assessing function of the lower urinary tract, without the need for catheter placement. The UroMonitor is a small, flexible device — no more than 2 in. across — that is placed into the patient’s bladder. Once in place, the device wirelessly transmits bladder pressure data to a small radio receiver taped to the lower abdomen
More airports are starting to adopt and test the use of radio frequency (RF) mitigation techniques to counter the operation of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in violation of civilian airspace rules. While civilian aviation regulatory agencies are welcoming the integration of more commercially operated UAS into civilian airspace, airports are responding to the growing number of incidents in recent years with counter measures to ensure drones do not interfere with regular operations. In the U.S., the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) now receives more than 100 reports per month from pilots that have observed UAS operating near airports or within a restricted area of civilian airspace. The problem is a unique one for the FAA and other civilian aviation regulatory agencies who want to unleash as much commercial UAS innovation as possible within civilian airspace, but simultaneously recognize rogue operators are a problem. The FAA's method for addressing the operation of drones near
It is hard to imagine an industry more reliant on seamless, resilient, and secure communication than aerospace and defense (A&D). Communication and electromagnetic signal processing are at the core of advanced systems, which is why the trend towards higher frequencies (and millimeter waves) makes optoelectronic signal transmission a critical topic in this sector as technology advances at a rapid pace and demands better performance. A&D communication networks use a mix of digital and analog transmission, with emphasis on the former, but given the industry's proclivity towards lower latency and higher bandwidth applications, analog transmission will play an even larger role in the future. Passive and active electromagnetic sensing (e.g., radar, radio telescopes, and other listening devices) requires high fidelity signal transport for “remote” processing. It brings transport of radio frequency signals over fiber (RFoF) to the forefront, which is an analog technique of converting radio
Radio is a well-established technology. For over 100 years, it has been widely used: in communication, radar, navigation, remote control, remote sensing, and other respects. It is popular because it works; it is reliable. And yet laser has shown itself to be a superior medium of communication. Indeed, the laser-vs-radio debate is already getting old. What is new – and what will truly change the debate – are the transformations currently taking place in laser telecommunications – transformations which will drive innovation in defense
Radio is a well-established technology. For over 100 years, it has been widely used: in communication, radar, navigation, remote control, remote sensing, and other respects. It is popular because it works; it is reliable. And yet laser has shown itself to be a superior medium of communication. Indeed, the laser-vs-radio debate is already getting old. What is new - and what will truly change the debate - are the transformations currently taking place in laser telecommunications - transformations which will drive innovation in defense. It is perhaps worth pausing to remind ourselves of what laser's existing advantages over radio are. Laser communications offer faster data transfer, and greater data capacity. And by virtue of their structure and size, lasers are almost impossible to detect, intercept, or jam. Interference is also rare. Lasers do not ‘leak’ in the same way radio does, and, as against the broad transmission style of radio, they transfer information along a very narrow beam
The rapid advancement of military avionics technologies is revolutionizing the capabilities of next-generation aircraft. One of the common features of modern military avionics systems is the adoption of high-frequency and millimeter-wave (mmWave) communications to achieve higher data rates and enhanced resistance to interference
Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace selected a radar test setup from Rohde & Schwarz based on the R&S SMW200A vector signal generator for multi-channel phase-coherent radar signal generation. Kongsberg is Norway's premier supplier of defense and aerospace-related technologies. The joint strike missile (JSM) is a fifth generation long range precision strike missile. Using advanced sensors, the JSM can locate targets based on their electronic signature. Qualification of the JSM is under way with the Royal Norwegian Air Force (RNoAF). Kongsberg's JSM must operate autonomously in highly contested environments. To increase mission success, the missile has a passive RF sensor that can locate and identify radio frequency emitters. To test and verify this RF direction finding capability in a laboratory, Kongsberg required a multi-channel phase coherent vector signal generator that could be linked to existing test environments
Designing the next generation of RF systems, such as high performance active electronically scanned arrays (AESA), requires contributions from a multidisciplinary team of engineers. Customers within the Department of Defense (DoD) require performance beyond the current state of the art in order to stay ahead of adversaries' capabilities. As engineering teams work to meet these requirements, invariably, limitations in the available design, fabrication, and verification technologies consume the teams' budget for design flexibility, performance, and novel solutions. Ultimately, this leads to concessions in the design and puts the overall project at risk for cost and schedule overruns. Teams must consider the sources of error that drive down design margins and seek newer technologies to ensure projects meet performance and cost objectives on schedule. The process of going from ideation to simulated design to fabricated and measured prototype accrues errors at each step. Identifying
Items per page:
50
1 – 50 of 1442