Design & Modeling of a Dispersive Pulse Compressor based Frequency Tunable HPM System
Abstract
An investigation into the suitability of dispersive pulse compression using helically corrugated waveguides for generating high power, short pulse signals in the region around 1 to 2GHz using chirping, (relatively) longer pulse signals from compact microwave sources is proposed. The pulses will typically be Fourier limited with a frequency spread anticipated to be of around 6%. The technique is flexible and may readily to be built for different frequencies. A suitable dispersive structure will be simulated to provide optimum pulse compression at a selected centre frequency bearing in mind the likely losses in the waveguide. The peak fields in the waveguide will be compared to likely criteria for breakdown resulting in an estimate for the peak power capacity of the waveguide. Theoretical analysis will consider a range of opportunities to maximise the spectral flexibility of a single pulse compressor. The analysis will estimate the primary dimensions (length, diameter) of the compressor waveguide. The performance of the pulse compressor(s) will be simulated in extensive time domain simulations. Schemes will be considered where the frequency flexibility is extended using sequences of pulse compressors. Time domain simulations will be undertaken of a microwave power amplifier/source suitable to take full advantage of the pulse compressor. These will identify a suitable amplifier/source technology and estimate its power and efficiency. This will be augmented by an analysis of the literature and the market for existing sources and amplifiers which could be used in initial exploitation of the compressor.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jul 24, 2019
- Source ID
- FA95501817014
Entities
People
- Kevin Ronald
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- United States Air Force
- University of Strathclyde