Additive Manufacturing Of conformal Antennas for Fuzes
Abstract
Additive manufacturing (AM) processes have evolved in recent years to a point where they can fabricate radio frequency electronics and antennas with performances comparable to the ones obtained with state-of-the-art traditional techniques. Furthermore, AM allows for the fabrication of structural and conformal electronics, which enables novel designs that improve cost, size, weight, and power (C-SWAP), which is being leveraged by different teams within the Department of Defense to advance their capabilities. With AM, it is also possible to print-on-demand and on the field, providing unprecedented logistical advantages. In the proposed work, the AM process of micro-dispensing and fused deposition modeling are combined with pulsed laser machining to achieve conformal fuze electronics. The work encompasses design, manufacturing, and testing of AM fuze conformal antenna prototypes in collaboration with an AFRL team. Material characterization, as well as AM process development, are envisioned as part of this proposal. Another critical aspect of the research is to develop a wireless proximity feed to the antennas to eliminated penetrations, or vertical interconnects on the structures.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jul 09, 2021
- Source ID
- FA86512010004
Entities
People
- Eduardo Rojas-nastrucci
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory
- Embry–Riddle Aeronautical University
- United States Air Force