Ultrastretchable Conductive Fibers for Adaptive, Field Expedient Antennas
Abstract
Develop a highly tunable and reconfigurable wire antenna for long range mobile communications using a stretchable conductor consisting of elastomeric fibers with a liquid metal core composed of eutectic Galn. The proposed work will be c.ompleted in two phases and is planned in order to put prototypes into the hands of users quickly (within 6 months) while a more detailed characterization is canied out. The primary focus during Phase I (6 months) will be the rapid development of more robust interconnects, which are key to realizing this technology in practice. In addition, five prototype antennas will be designed, fabricated, and delivered to the sponsor. In Phase II (12 months), a more comprehensive electrical and mechanical characterization of the prototypes and assessment of the various interconnect strategies and antenna designs will be unde11aken. From these data, the most promising interconnect strategies and antenna designs will be undertaken and the Phase I prototypes will be redesigned for the VHF band (30-300 MHz). The VHF antennas will then be characterized in the lab and in the field at operationally relevant distances and powers. Second generation prototype will be delivered at the conclusion of Phase II.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jan 12, 2017
- Source ID
- W911NF1610057
Entities
People
- Jacob J. Adams
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- North Carolina State University
- Office of the Secretary of Defense