Infrared Risley beam pointer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harford, Steven T.; Gutierrez, Homero; Newman, Michael; Pierce, Robert; Quakenbush, Tim; Wallace, John; Bornstein, Michael

2014-03-01

Ball Aerospace & Technologies Corp. (BATC) has developed a Risley Beam Pointer (RBP) mechanism capable of agile slewing, accurate pointing and high bandwidth. The RBP is comprised of two wedged prisms that offer a wide Field of Regard (FOR) and may be manufactured and operated with diffraction limited optical quality. The tightly packaged mechanism is capable of steering a 4 inch beam over a 60° half angle cone with better than 60 μrad precision. Absolute accuracy of the beam steering is better than 1 mrad. The conformal nature of the RBP makes it an ideal mechanism for use on low altitude aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles. Unique aspects of the opto-mechanical design include i) thermal compliance to maintain bearing preload and optical figure over a wide temperature range; and ii) packaging of a remote infrared sensor that periodically reports the temperature of both prisms for accurate determination of the index of refraction. The pointing control system operates each prism independently and employs an inner rate loop nested within an outer position loop. Mathematics for the transformation between line-of-sight coordinates and prism rotation are hosted on a 200 MHz microcontroller with just 516 KB of RAM.

Quantum steering in cascaded four-wave mixing processes.

PubMed

Wang, Li; Lv, Shuchao; Jing, Jietai

2017-07-24

Quantum steering is used to describe the "spooky action-at-a-distance" nonlocality raised in the Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen (EPR) paradox, which is important for understanding entanglement distribution and constructing quantum networks. Here, in this paper, we study an experimentally feasible scheme for generating quantum steering based on cascaded four-wave-mixing (FWM) processes in hot rubidium (Rb) vapor. Quantum steering, including bipartite steering and genuine tripartite steering among the output light fields, is theoretically analyzed. We find the corresponding gain regions in which the bipartite and tripartite steering exist. The results of bipartite steering can be used to establish a hierarchical steering model in which one beam can steer the other two beams in the whole gain region; however, the other two beams cannot steer the first beam simultaneously. Moreover, the other two beams cannot steer with each other in the whole gain region. More importantly, we investigate the gain dependence of the existence of the genuine tripartite steering and we find that the genuine tripartite steering exists in most of the whole gain region in the ideal case. Also we discuss the effect of losses on the genuine tripartite steering. Our results pave the way to experimental demonstration of quantum steering in cascaded FWM process.

Large angle nonmechanical laser beam steering at 4.6 μm using a digital micromirror device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lindle, James Ryan; Watnik, Abbie T.

2018-02-01

Large angle, nonmechanical beam steering is demonstrated at 4.62 μm using the digital light processing technology. A 42-deg steering range is demonstrated, limited by the field-of-view of the recollimating lens. The measured diffraction efficiency is 8.1% on-axis and falls-off with a sin2 dependence with the steering angle. However, within the 42-deg steering range, the power varied less than 25%. The profile of the steered laser beam is Gaussian with a divergence of 5.2 mrad. Multibeam, randomly addressable beam steering, is also demonstrated.

Laser-phased-array beam steering based on crystal fiber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Deng-cai; Zhao, Si-si; Wang, Da-yong; Wang, Zhi-yong; Zhang, Xiao-fei

2011-06-01

Laser-phased-array system provides an elegant means for achieving the inertial-free, high-resolution, rapid and random beam steering. In laser-phased-array system, phase controlling is the most important factor that impacts the system performance. A novel scheme is provided in this paper, the beam steering is accomplished by using crystal fiber array, the difference length between adjacent fiber is fixed. The phase difference between adjacent fiber decides the direction of the output beam. When the wavelength of the input fiber laser is tuned, the phase difference between the adjacent elements has changed. Therefore, the laser beam direction has changed and the beam steering has been accomplished. In this article, based on the proposed scheme, the steering angle of the laser beam is calculated and analyzed theoretically. Moreover, the far-field steering beam quality is discussed.

Creating and Steering Highly Directional Electron Beams in Graphene.

PubMed

Liu, Ming-Hao; Gorini, Cosimo; Richter, Klaus

2017-02-10

We put forward a concept to create highly collimated, nondispersive electron beams in pseudorelativistic Dirac materials such as graphene or topological insulator surfaces. Combining negative refraction and Klein collimation at a parabolic pn junction, the proposed lens generates beams, as narrow as the focal length, that stay focused over scales of several microns and can be steered by a magnetic field without losing collimation. We demonstrate the lens capabilities by applying it to two paradigmatic settings of graphene electron optics: We propose a setup for observing high-resolution angle-dependent Klein tunneling, and, exploiting the intimate quantum-to-classical correspondence of these focused electron waves, we consider high-fidelity transverse magnetic focusing accompanied by simulations for current mapping through scanning gate microscopy. Our proposal opens up new perspectives for next-generation graphene electron optics experiments.

Creating and Steering Highly Directional Electron Beams in Graphene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Ming-Hao; Gorini, Cosimo; Richter, Klaus

2017-02-01

We put forward a concept to create highly collimated, nondispersive electron beams in pseudorelativistic Dirac materials such as graphene or topological insulator surfaces. Combining negative refraction and Klein collimation at a parabolic p n junction, the proposed lens generates beams, as narrow as the focal length, that stay focused over scales of several microns and can be steered by a magnetic field without losing collimation. We demonstrate the lens capabilities by applying it to two paradigmatic settings of graphene electron optics: We propose a setup for observing high-resolution angle-dependent Klein tunneling, and, exploiting the intimate quantum-to-classical correspondence of these focused electron waves, we consider high-fidelity transverse magnetic focusing accompanied by simulations for current mapping through scanning gate microscopy. Our proposal opens up new perspectives for next-generation graphene electron optics experiments.

Ultra-compact laser beam steering device using holographically formed two dimensional photonic crystal.

PubMed

Dou, Xinyuan; Chen, Xiaonan; Chen, Maggie Yihong; Wang, Alan Xiaolong; Jiang, Wei; Chen, Ray T

2010-03-01

In this paper, we report the theoretical study of polymer-based photonic crystals for laser beam steering which is based on the superprism effect as well as the experiment fabrication of the two dimensional photonic crystals for the laser beam steering. Superprism effect, the principle for beam steering, was separately studied in details through EFC (Equifrequency Contour) analysis. Polymer based photonic crystals were fabricated through double exposure holographic interference method using SU8-2007. The experiment results showed a beam steering angle of 10 degree for 30 nm wavelength variation.

Highly sensitive beam steering with plasmonic antenna

PubMed Central

Rui, Guanghao; Zhan, Qiwen

2014-01-01

In this work, we design and study a highly sensitive beam steering device that integrates a spiral plasmonic antenna with a subwavelength metallic waveguide. The short effective wavelength of the surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) mode supported by the metallic waveguide is exploited to dramatically miniaturize the device and improve the sensitivity of the beam steering. Through introducing a tiny displacement of feed point with respect to the geometrical center of the spiral plasmonic antenna, the direction of the radiation can be steered at considerably high angles. Simulation results show that steering angles of 8°, 17° and 34° are obtainable for a displacement of 50 nm, 100 nm and 200 nm, respectively. Benefiting from the reduced device size and the shorter SPP wavelength, the beam steering sensitivity of the beam steering is improved by 10-fold compared with the case reported previously. This miniature plasmonic beam steering device may find many potential applications in quantum optical information processing and integrated photonic circuits. PMID:25091405

Target tracking and pointing for arrays of phase-locked lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Macasaet, Van P.; Hughes, Gary B.; Lubin, Philip; Madajian, Jonathan; Zhang, Qicheng; Griswold, Janelle; Kulkarni, Neeraj; Cohen, Alexander; Brashears, Travis

2016-09-01

Arrays of phase-locked lasers are envisioned for planetary defense and exploration systems. High-energy beams focused on a threatening asteroid evaporate surface material, creating a reactionary thrust that alters the asteroid's orbit. The same system could be used to probe an asteroid's composition, to search for unknown asteroids, and to propel interplanetary and interstellar spacecraft. Phased-array designs are capable of producing high beam intensity, and allow beam steering and beam profile manipulation. Modular designs allow ongoing addition of emitter elements to a growing array. This paper discusses pointing control for extensible laser arrays. Rough pointing is determined by spacecraft attitude control. Lateral movement of the laser emitter tips behind the optical elements provides intermediate pointing adjustment for individual array elements and beam steering. Precision beam steering and beam formation is accomplished by coordinated phase modulation across the array. Added cells are incorporated into the phase control scheme by precise alignment to local mechanical datums using fast, optical relative position sensors. Infrared target sensors are also positioned within the datum scheme, and provide information about the target vector relative to datum coordinates at each emitter. Multiple target sensors allow refined determination of the target normal plane, providing information to the phase controller for each emitter. As emitters and sensors are added, local position data allows accurate prediction of the relative global position of emitters across the array, providing additional constraints to the phase controllers. Mechanical design and associated phase control that is scalable for target distance and number of emitters is presented.

A 24-GHz portable FMCW radar with continuous beam steering phased array (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peng, Zhengyu; Li, Changzhi

2017-05-01

A portable 24-GHz frequency-modulated continuous-wave (FMCW) radar with continuous beam steering phased array is presented. This board-level integrated radar system consists of a phased array antenna, a radar transceiver and a baseband. The phased array used by the receiver is a 4-element linear array. The beam of the phased array can be continuously steered with a range of ±30° on the H-plane through an array of vector controllers. The vector controller is based on the concept of vector sum with binary-phase-shift attenuators. Each vector controller is capable of independently controlling the phase and the amplitude of each element of the linear array. The radar transceiver is based on the six-port technique. A free-running voltage controlled oscillator (VCO) is controlled by an analog "sawtooth" voltage generator to produce frequency-modulated chirp signal. This chirp signal is used as the transmitter signal, as well as the local oscillator (LO) signal to drive the six-port circuit. The transmitter antenna is a single patch antenna. In the baseband, the beat signal of the FMCW radar is detected by the six-port circuit and then processed by a laptop in real time. Experiments have been performed to reveal the capabilities of the proposed radar system for applications including indoor inverse synthetic aperture radar (ISAR) imaging, vital sign detection, and short-range navigation, etc. (This abstract is for the profiles session.)

Quad-channel beam switching WR3-band transmitter MMIC

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Müller, Daniel; Eren, Gülesin; Wagner, Sandrine; Tessmann, Axel; Leuther, Arnulf; Zwick, Thomas; Kallfass, Ingmar

2017-05-01

Millimeter wave radar systems offer several advantages such as the combination of high resolution and the penetration of adverse atmosphere like smoke, dust or rain. This paper presents a monolithic millimeter wave integrated circuit (MMIC) transmitter which offers four channel beam steering capabilities and can be used as a radar or communication system transmitter. At the local oscillator input, in order to simplify packaging, a frequency tripler is used to multiply the 76.6 - 83.3 GHz input signal to the intended 230 - 250 GHz output frequency range. A resistive mixer is used for the conversion of the intermediate frequency signal into the RF domain. The actual beam steering network is realized using an active single pole quadruple throw (SP4T) switch, which is connected to a integrated Butler matrix. The MMIC was fabricated in a 35 nm InGaAs mHEMT process and has a size of 4.0 mm × 1.5 mm

Achievement and improvement of the JT-60U negative ion source for JT-60 Super Advanced (invited)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kojima, A.; Hanada, M.; Tanaka, Y.

2010-02-15

Developments of the large negative ion source have been progressed in the high-energy, high-power, and long-pulse neutral beam injector for JT-60 Super Advanced. Countermeasures have been studied and tested for critical issues of grid heat load and voltage holding capability. As for the heat load of the acceleration grids, direct interception of D{sup -} ions was reduced by adjusting the beamlet steering. As a result, the heat load was reduced below an allowable level for long-pulse injections. As for the voltage holding capability, local electric field was mitigated by tuning gap lengths between large-area acceleration grids in the accelerator. Asmore » a result, the voltage holding capability was improved up to the rated value of 500 kV. To investigate the voltage holding capability during beam acceleration, the beam acceleration test is ongoing with new extended gap.« less

Free-space transmission with passive 2D beam steering for multi-gigabit-per-second per-beam indoor optical wireless networks.

PubMed

Oh, Chin Wan; Cao, Zizheng; Tangdiongga, Eduward; Koonen, Ton

2016-08-22

In order to circumvent radio spectrum congestion, we propose an innovative system which can provide multiple infrared optical wireless beams simultaneously where each beam supports multi-gigabit-per-second communication. Scalable two-dimensional beam steering by means of wavelength tuning is proposed. A passive beam-steering module constructed with cascaded reflection gratings is designed for simultaneous multi-user coverage. We experimentally characterized the beam-steered system and thoroughly evaluated the performance of steered channels using the spectrally efficient and robust discrete multitone modulation in a bandwidth-limited system deploying 10 GHz telecom transceivers. This study reports the achievement of at least 37 Gbps free-space transmission per beam over a distance of up to 2 m over 5.61° × 12.66° scanning angles.

Holographic memory using beam steering

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chao, Tien-Hsin (Inventor); Hanan, Jay C. (Inventor); Reyes, George F. (Inventor); Zhou, Hanying (Inventor)

2007-01-01

A method, apparatus, and system provide the ability for storing holograms at high speed. A single laser diode emits a collimated laser beam to both write to and read from a photorefractice crystal. One or more liquid crystal beam steering spatial light modulators (BSSLMs) steer a reference beam, split from the collimated laser beam, at high speed to the photorefractive crystal.

Low-Absorption Liquid Crystals for Infrared Beam Steering

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-09-30

liquid crystals for infrared laser beam steering applications. To suppress the optical loss in MW1R and LW1R, we have investigated following...dielectric anisotropy, and low optical loss nematic liquid crystals for infrared laser beam steering applications. To suppress the optical loss in MWIR and...modulators. 1. Objective The main objective of this program is to develop low-loss liquid crystals for electronic laser beam steering in the infrared

Effect of beam steering on the visibility of echogenic and non-echogenic needles: a laboratory study.

PubMed

Uppal, Vishal; Sondekoppam, Rakesh V; Ganapathy, Sugantha

2014-10-01

During peripheral nerve block procedures, needle visibility decreases as the angle of needle insertion relative to skin increases due to loss of reflective signals. The primary aim of our study was to compare the effect of beam steering on the visibility of echogenic and non-echogenic block needles. PAJUNK non-echogenic and echogenic needles were inserted into pork meat at 20°, 40°, 60°, and 70° angles, and electronic beam steering was applied at three different angles (shallow, medium, and steep) to obtain the best possible needle images. Eleven anesthesiologists blinded to the type of needle or use of beam steering scored the images obtained (0 = needle not visible; 10 = excellent needle shaft and tip visibility). Mean scores were used to classify the needles as poor visibility (mean score 0-3.3), intermediate visibility (mean score 3.4-6.6), or good visibility (mean score 6.7-10). At 20°, the visibility scores were intermediate to good in all groups. At 40°, the mean (SD) visibility score for the non-echogenic needle improved significantly from 3.1 (1.4) to 7.9 (1.8) with application of beam steering (difference = 4.8; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.1 to 6.6; P < 0.001). At 60°, the mean (SD) visibility score for the non-echogenic needle was poor 0.6 (0.7) and remained poor 2.4 (1.1) with beam steering. One the other hand, the echogenic needle without beam steering 6.5 (1.8) scored significantly better than the non-echogenic needle with beam steering 2.4 (1.1) (difference = 4.2; 95% CI: 2.7 to 5.6; P < 0.001). At 70°, the mean needle visibility score was poor for the non-echogenic needle with or without beam steering. In contrast, the echogenic needle attained an intermediate visibility score with or without beam steering. Beam steering did not significantly change the visibility scores of either the echogenic or the non-echogenic needle (P = 0.088 and 0.056, respectively) at a 70° angle. The PAJUNK echogenic needle, with or without beam steering, was more visible when compared with the non-echogenic needle at 60° and 70° angles of insertion. In contrast, at a 40° angle of needle insertion, the non-echogenic needle with beam steering was more visible compared with the echogenic needle.

Continuous angle steering of an optically- controlled phased array antenna based on differential true time delay constituted by micro-optical components.

PubMed

Wang, Jian; Hou, Peipei; Cai, Haiwen; Sun, Jianfeng; Wang, Shunan; Wang, Lijuan; Yang, Fei

2015-04-06

We propose an optically controlled phased array antenna (PAA) based on differential true time delay constructed optical beamforming network (OBFN). Differential true time delay is realized by stack integrated micro-optical components. Optically-controlled angle steering of radio frequency (RF) beams are realized and demonstrated by this configuration. Experimental results demonstrate that OBFN based PAA can accomplish RF-independent broadband beam steering without beam squint effect and can achieve continuous angle steering. In addition, multi-beams for different steering angles are acquired synchronously.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Platania, P., E-mail: platania@ifp.cnr.it; Figini, L.; Farina, D.

The purpose of this work is the optical modeling and physical performances evaluations of the JT-60SA ECRF launcher system. The beams have been simulated with the electromagnetic code GRASP® and used as input for ECCD calculations performed with the beam tracing code GRAY, capable of modeling propagation, absorption and current drive of an EC Gaussion beam with general astigmatism. Full details of the optical analysis has been taken into account to model the launched beams. Inductive and advanced reference scenarios has been analysed for physical evaluations in the full poloidal and toroidal steering ranges for two slightly different layouts ofmore » the launcher system.« less

Refractive waveguide non-mechanical beam steering (NMBS) in the MWIR

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Myers, Jason D.; Frantz, Jesse A.; Spillmann, Christopher M.; Bekele, Robel Y.; Kolacz, Jakub; Gotjen, Henry; Naciri, Jawad; Shaw, Brandon; Sanghera, Jas S.

2018-02-01

Beam steering is a crucial technology for a number of applications, including chemical sensing/mapping and light detection and ranging (LIDAR). Traditional beam steering approaches rely on mechanical movement, such as the realignment of mirrors in gimbal mounts. The mechanical approach to steering has several drawbacks, including large size, weight and power usage (SWAP), and frequent mechanical failures. Recently, alternative non-mechanical approaches have been proposed and developed, but these technologies do not meet the demanding requirements for many beam steering applications. Here, we highlight the development efforts into a particular non-mechanical beam steering (NMBS) approach, refractive waveguides, for application in the MWIR. These waveguides are based on an Ulrich-coupled slab waveguide with a liquid crystal (LC) top cladding; by selectively applying an electric field across the liquid crystal through a prismatic electrode, steering is achieved by creating refraction at prismatic interfaces as light propagates through the device. For applications in the MWIR, we describe a versatile waveguide architecture based on chalcogenide glasses that have a wide range of refractive indices, transmission windows, and dispersion properties. We have further developed robust shadow-masking methods to taper the subcladding layers in the coupling region. We have demonstrated devices with >10° of steering in the MWIR and a number of advantageous properties for beam steering applications, including low-power operation, compact size, and fast point-to-point steering.

Holographic memory using beam steering

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chao, Tien-Hsin (Inventor); Hanan, Jay C. (Inventor); Reyes, George F. (Inventor); Zhou, Hanying (Inventor)

2006-01-01

A method, apparatus, and system provide the ability for storing holograms at high speed. A single laser diode emits a collimated laser beam to both write to and read from a photorefractice crystal. One or more liquid crystal beam steering spatial light modulators (BSSLMs) or Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) mirrors steer a reference beam, split from the collimated laser beam, at high speed to the photorefractive crystal.

Packaging consideration of two-dimensional polymer-based photonic crystals for laser beam steering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dou, Xinyuan; Chen, Xiaonan; Chen, Maggie Yihong; Wang, Alan Xiaolong; Jiang, Wei; Chen, Ray T.

2009-02-01

In this paper, we report the theoretical study of polymer-based photonic crystals for laser beam steering which is based on the superprism effect as well as the experiment fabrication of the two dimensional photonic crystals for the laser beam steering. Superprism effect, the principle for beam steering, was separately studied in details through EFC (Equifrequency Contour) analysis. Polymer based photonic crystals were fabricated through double exposure holographic interference method using SU8-2007. The experiment results were also reported.

High-power beam steering using phase conjugation through Brillouin-induced four-wave mixing.

PubMed

Jones, D C; Cook, G; Ridley, K D; Scott, A M

1991-10-15

We report an experimental demonstration of a beam-steering concept. A high-reflectivity phase-conjugate mirror is used to steer a high-power phase-conjugate beam using a low-power signal beam. The high reflectivity phase conjugation is achieved using Brillouin-induced four-wave mixing in a cell containing carbon disulfide.

Integrated phased array for wide-angle beam steering.

PubMed

Yaacobi, Ami; Sun, Jie; Moresco, Michele; Leake, Gerald; Coolbaugh, Douglas; Watts, Michael R

2014-08-01

We demonstrate an on-chip optical phased array fabricated in a CMOS compatible process with continuous, fast (100 kHz), wide-angle (51°) beam-steering suitable for applications such as low-cost LIDAR systems. The device demonstrates the largest (51°) beam-steering and beam-spacing to date while providing the ability to steer continuously over the entire range. Continuous steering is enabled by a cascaded phase shifting architecture utilizing, low power and small footprint, thermo-optic phase shifters. We demonstrate these results in the telecom C-band, but the same design can easily be adjusted for any wavelength between 1.2 and 3.5 μm.

Hybrid III/V silicon photonic source with integrated 1D free-space beam steering.

PubMed

Doylend, J K; Heck, M J R; Bovington, J T; Peters, J D; Davenport, M L; Coldren, L A; Bowers, J E

2012-10-15

A chip-scale optical source with integrated beam steering is demonstrated. The chip was fabricated using the hybrid silicon platform and incorporates an on-chip laser, waveguide splitter, amplifiers, phase modulators, and surface gratings to comprise an optical phased array with beam steering across a 12° field of view in one axis. Tuning of the phased array is used to achieve 1.8°(steered axis)×0.6°(nonsteered axis) beam width with 7 dB background suppression for arbitrary beam direction within the field of view.

Laser-based satellite communication systems stabilized by non-mechanical electro-optic scanners

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ziemkiewicz, Michael; Davis, Scott R.; Rommel, Scott D.; Gann, Derek; Luey, Benjamin; Gamble, Joseph D.; Anderson, Mike

2016-05-01

Laser communications systems provide numerous advantages for establishing satellite-to-ground data links. As a carrier for information, lasers are characterized by high bandwidth and directionality, allowing for fast and secure transfer of data. These systems are also highly resistant to RF influences since they operate in the infrared portion of the electromagnetic spectrum, far from radio bands. In this paper we will discuss an entirely non-mechanical electro-optic (EO) laser beam steering technology, with no moving parts, which we have used to form robust 400 Mbps optical data connections through air. This technology will enable low cost, compact, and rugged free space optical (FSO) communication modules for small satellite applications. The EO beam-steerer at the heart of this system is used to maintain beam pointing as the satellite orbits. It is characterized by extremely low values for size, weight and power consumption (SWaP) - approximately 300 cm3, 300 g, and 5 W respectively, which represents a marked improvement compared to heavy, and power-consuming gimbal mechanisms. It is capable of steering a 500 mW, 1 mm short wave infrared (SWIR) beam over a field of view (FOV) of up to 50° x 15°, a range which can be increased by adding polarization gratings, which provide a coarse adjust stage at the EO beam scanner output. We have integrated this device into a communication system and demonstrated the capability to lock on and transmit a high quality data stream by modulation of SWIR power.

Highly integrated optical phased arrays: photonic integrated circuits for optical beam shaping and beam steering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heck, Martijn J. R.

2017-01-01

Technologies for efficient generation and fast scanning of narrow free-space laser beams find major applications in three-dimensional (3D) imaging and mapping, like Lidar for remote sensing and navigation, and secure free-space optical communications. The ultimate goal for such a system is to reduce its size, weight, and power consumption, so that it can be mounted on, e.g. drones and autonomous cars. Moreover, beam scanning should ideally be done at video frame rates, something that is beyond the capabilities of current opto-mechanical systems. Photonic integrated circuit (PIC) technology holds the promise of achieving low-cost, compact, robust and energy-efficient complex optical systems. PICs integrate, for example, lasers, modulators, detectors, and filters on a single piece of semiconductor, typically silicon or indium phosphide, much like electronic integrated circuits. This technology is maturing fast, driven by high-bandwidth communications applications, and mature fabrication facilities. State-of-the-art commercial PICs integrate hundreds of elements, and the integration of thousands of elements has been shown in the laboratory. Over the last few years, there has been a considerable research effort to integrate beam steering systems on a PIC, and various beam steering demonstrators based on optical phased arrays have been realized. Arrays of up to thousands of coherent emitters, including their phase and amplitude control, have been integrated, and various applications have been explored. In this review paper, I will present an overview of the state of the art of this technology and its opportunities, illustrated by recent breakthroughs.

Laser Beam Steering/shaping for Free Space Optical Communication

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, Xinghua; Wang, Bin; Bos, Philip J.; Anderson, James E.; Pouch, John; Miranda, Felix; McManamon, Paul F.

2004-01-01

The 2-D Optical Phased Array (OPA) antenna based on a Liquid Crystal On Silicon (LCoS) device can be considered for use in free space optical communication as an active beam controlling device. Several examples of the functionality of the device include: beam steering in the horizontal and elevation direction; high resolution wavefront compensation in a large telescope; and beam shaping with the computer generated kinoform. Various issues related to the diffraction efficiency, steering range, steering accuracy as well as the magnitude of wavefront compensation are discussed.

Beam steering via resonance detuning in coherently coupled vertical cavity laser arrays

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Johnson, Matthew T., E-mail: matthew.johnson.9@us.af.mil; Siriani, Dominic F.; Peun Tan, Meng

2013-11-11

Coherently coupled vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser arrays offer unique advantages for nonmechanical beam steering applications. We have applied dynamic coupled mode theory to show that the observed temporal phase shift between vertical-cavity surface-emitting array elements is caused by the detuning of their resonant wavelengths. Hence, a complete theoretical connection between the differential current injection into array elements and the beam steering direction has been established. It is found to be a fundamentally unique beam-steering mechanism with distinct advantages in efficiency, compactness, speed, and phase-sensitivity to current.

Sensing Surveillance & Navigation

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-03-07

Removing Atmospheric Turbulence Goal: to restore a single high quality image from the observed sequence Prof. Peyman...Computer Sciences – Higher wavelet studies , time-scale, time-frequency transformations, Reduced Signature Targets, Low Probability of Intercept...Range Dependent Beam -patterns •Electronic Steering with Frequency Offsets •Inherent Countermeasure Capability Why? W1(t) W2(t) W3

Two-dimensional beam steering array using planar eight-element composite right/left-handed leaky-wave antennas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sanada, Atsushi

2008-08-01

A two-dimensional beam steering array composed of an eight-element antenna array using composite right/left-handed leaky-wave antennas fed by an 8 × 8 Butler matrix network is designed at X-band. An eight-way beam switching in one direction by input port switching and a continuous beam steering in the other direction by frequency sweep are achieved. A wide range beam steering operation covering from -55 to +53 degrees by port switching and from -37 to +27 degrees by frequency sweep is demonstrated with the maximum gain of 9.2 dBi.

High power transcranial beam steering for ultrasonic brain therapy

PubMed Central

Pernot, Mathieu; Aubry, Jean-François; Tanter, Mickaël; Thomas, Jean-Louis; Fink, Mathias

2003-01-01

A sparse phased array is specially designed for non-invasive ultrasound transskull brain therapy. The array is made of 200 single-elements corresponding to a new generation of high power transducers developed in collaboration with Imasonic (Besançon, France). Each element has a surface of 0.5cm2 and works at 0.9 MHz central frequency with a maximum 20W.cm−2 intensity on the transducer surface. In order to optimize the steering capabilities of the array, several transducers distributions on a spherical surface are simulated: hexagonal, annular, and quasi-random distributions. Using a quasi-random distribution significantly reduces the grating lobes. Furthermore, the simulations show the capability of the quasi-random array to electronically move the focal spot in the vicinity of the geometrical focus (up to +/− 15 mm). Based on the simulation study, the array is constructed and tested. The skull aberrations are corrected by using a time reversal mirror with amplitude correction achieved thanks to an implantable hydrophone, and a sharp focus is obtained through a human skull. Several lesions are induced in fresh liver and brain samples through human skulls, demonstrating the accuracy and the steering capabilities of the system. PMID:12974575

High power transcranial beam steering for ultrasonic brain therapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pernot, M.; Aubry, J.-F.; Tanter, M.; Thomas, J.-L.; Fink, M.

2003-08-01

A sparse phased array is specially designed for non-invasive ultrasound transskull brain therapy. The array is made of 200 single elements corresponding to a new generation of high power transducers developed in collaboration with Imasonic (Besançon, France). Each element has a surface of 0.5 cm2 and works at 0.9 MHz central frequency with a maximum 20 W cm-2 intensity on the transducer surface. In order to optimize the steering capabilities of the array, several transducer distributions on a spherical surface are simulated: hexagonal, annular and quasi-random distributions. Using a quasi-random distribution significantly reduces the grating lobes. Furthermore, the simulations show the capability of the quasi-random array to electronically move the focal spot in the vicinity of the geometrical focus (up to +/-15 mm). Based on the simulation study, the array is constructed and tested. The skull aberrations are corrected by using a time reversal mirror with amplitude correction achieved thanks to an implantable hydrophone, and a sharp focus is obtained through a human skull. Several lesions are induced in fresh liver and brain samples through human skulls, demonstrating the accuracy and the steering capabilities of the system.

Fast wavelength tuning techniques for external cavity lasers

DOEpatents

Wysocki, Gerard [Princeton, NJ; Tittel, Frank K [Houston, TX

2011-01-11

An apparatus comprising a laser source configured to emit a light beam along a first path, an optical beam steering component configured to steer the light beam from the first path to a second path at an angle to the first path, and a diffraction grating configured to reflect back at least a portion of the light beam along the second path, wherein the angle determines an external cavity length. Included is an apparatus comprising a laser source configured to emit a light beam along a first path, a beam steering component configured to redirect the light beam to a second path at an angle to the first path, wherein the optical beam steering component is configured to change the angle at a rate of at least about one Kilohertz, and a diffraction grating configured to reflect back at least a portion of the light beam along the second path.

Practicality of electronic beam steering for MST/ST radars, part 6.2A

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Clark, W. L.; Green, J. L.

1984-01-01

Electronic beam steering is described as complex and expensive. The Sunset implementation of electronic steering is described, and it is demonstrated that such systems are cost effective, versatile, and no more complex than fixed beam alternatives, provided three or more beams are needed. The problem of determining accurate meteorological wind components in the presence of spatial variation is considered. A cost comparison of steerable and fixed systems allowing solution of this problem is given. The concepts and relations involved in phase steering are given, followed by the description of the Sunset ST radar steering system. The implications are discussed, references to the competing SAD method are provided, and a recommendation concerning the design of the future Doppler ST/MST systems is made.

Generic simulation of multi-element ladar scanner kinematics in USU LadarSIM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Omer, David; Call, Benjamin; Pack, Robert; Fullmer, Rees

2006-05-01

This paper presents a generic simulation model for a ladar scanner with up to three scan elements, each having a steering, stabilization and/or pattern-scanning role. Of interest is the development of algorithms that automatically generate commands to the scan elements given beam-steering objectives out of the ladar aperture, and the base motion of the sensor platform. First, a straight-forward single-element body-fixed beam-steering methodology is presented. Then a unique multi-element redirective and reflective space-fixed beam-steering methodology is explained. It is shown that standard direction cosine matrix decomposition methods fail when using two orthogonal, space-fixed rotations, thus demanding the development of a new algorithm for beam steering. Finally, a related steering control methodology is presented that uses two separate optical elements mathematically combined to determine the necessary scan element commands. Limits, restrictions, and results on this methodology are presented.

Optical designs for MWIR and four quadrant detectors by using beam steering methods in missile applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sakarya, Doǧan Uǧur

2017-10-01

Beam steering optical arrangement needs less volume envelope for same field of regard than other gimbal approaches. Both for imaging and four quadrant missile applications, volume is critical parameter limiting system performance. Therefore, a conceptual design of beam steering method has been focused on both imaging and four quadrant missiles. In this study; four different optical designs have been made by using both beam steering and regular method for mid-wave infra-red imaging and four quadrant systems. Optical designs performances have been illustrated in simulation results. By using manufactured Risley prisms, some experimental results are conducted to compare simulations results.

Quadrupole Alignment and Trajectory Correction for Future Linear Colliders: SLC Tests of a Dispersion-Free Steering Algorithm

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Assmann, R

2004-06-08

The feasibility of future linear colliders depends on achieving very tight alignment and steering tolerances. All proposals (NLC, JLC, CLIC, TESLA and S-BAND) currently require a total emittance growth in the main linac of less than 30-100% [1]. This should be compared with a 100% emittance growth in the much smaller SLC linac [2]. Major advances in alignment and beam steering techniques beyond those used in the SLC are necessary for the next generation of linear colliders. In this paper, we present an experimental study of quadrupole alignment with a dispersion-free steering algorithm. A closely related method (wakefield-free steering) takesmore » into account wakefield effects [3]. However, this method can not be studied at the SLC. The requirements for future linear colliders lead to new and unconventional ideas about alignment and beam steering. For example, no dipole correctors are foreseen for the standard trajectory correction in the NLC [4]; beam steering will be done by moving the quadrupole positions with magnet movers. This illustrates the close symbiosis between alignment, beam steering and beam dynamics that will emerge. It is no longer possible to consider the accelerator alignment as static with only a few surveys and realignments per year. The alignment in future linear colliders will be a dynamic process in which the whole linac, with thousands of beam-line elements, is aligned in a few hours or minutes, while the required accuracy of about 5 pm for the NLC quadrupole alignment [4] is a factor of 20 higher than in existing accelerators. The major task in alignment and steering is the accurate determination of the optimum beam-line position. Ideally one would like all elements to be aligned along a straight line. However, this is not practical. Instead a ''smooth curve'' is acceptable as long as its wavelength is much longer than the betatron wavelength of the accelerated beam. Conventional alignment methods are limited in accuracy by errors in the survey and the fiducials. Beam-based alignment methods ideally only depend upon the BPM resolution and generally provide much better precision. Many of those techniques are described in other contributions to this workshop. In this paper we describe our experiences with a dispersion-free steering algorithm for linacs. This algorithm was first suggested by Raubenheimer and Ruth in 1990 [5]. It h as been studied in simulations for NLC [5], TESLA [6], the S-BAND proposal [7] and CLIC [8]. The dispersion-free steering technique can be applied to the whole linac at once and returns the alignment (or trajectory) that minimizes the dispersive emittance growth of the beam. Thus it allows an extremely fast alignment of the beam-line. As we will show dispersion-free steering is only sensitive to quadrupole misalignments. Wakefield-free steering [3] as mentioned before is a closely related technique that minimizes the emittance growth caused by both dispersion and wakefields. Due to hardware limitations (i.e. insufficient relative range of power supplies) we could not study this method experimentally in the SLC. However, its systematics are very similar to those of dispersion-free steering. The studies of dispersion-free steering which are presented made extensive use of the unique potential of the SLC as the only operating linear collider. We used it to study the performance and problems of advanced beam-based optimization tools in a real beam-line environment and on a large scale. We should mention that the SLC has utilized beam-based alignment for years [9], using the difference of electron and positron trajectories. This method, however, cannot be used in future linear colliders. The goal of our work is to demonstrate the performance of advanced beam-based alignment techniques in linear colliders and to anticipate possible reality-related problems. Those can then be solved in the design state for the next generation of linear colliders.« less

A new generation of IC based beam steering devices for free-space optical communication

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bedi, Vijit

Free Space Optical (FSO) communication has tremendously advanced within the last decade to meet the ever increasing demand for higher communication bandwidth. Advancement in laser technology since its invention in the 1960's [1] attracted them to be the dominant source in FSO communication modules. The future of FSO systems lay in implementing semiconductor lasers due to their small size, power efficiency and mass fabrication abilities. In the near future, these systems are very likely to be used in space and ground based applications and revolutionary beam steering technologies will be required for distant communications in free-space. The highly directional characteristic inherent to a laser beam challenges and calls for new beam pointing and steering technologies for such type of communication. In this dissertation, research is done on a novel FSO communication device based on semiconductor lasers for high bandwidth communication. The "Fly eye transceiver" is an extremely wide steering bandwidth, completely non-mechanical FSO laser communication device primarily designed to replace traditional mechanical beam steering optical systems. This non-mechanical FSO device possesses a full spherical steering range and a very high tracking bandwidth. Inspired by the evolutionary model of a fly's eye, the full spherical steering range is assured by electronically controlled switching of its sub-eyes. Non mechanical technologies used in the past for beam steering such as acousto-optic Bragg cells, liquid crystal arrays or piezoelectric elements offer the wide steering bandwidth and fast response time, but are limited in their angular steering range. Mechanical gimbals offer a much greater steering range but face a much slower response time or steering bandwidth problem and often require intelligent adaptive controls with bulky driver amplifiers to feed their actuators. As a solution to feed both the fast and full spherical steering, the Fly-eye transceiver is studied as part of my PhD work. The design tool created for the research of the fly eye is then used to study different applications that may be implemented with the concept. Research is done on the mathematical feasibility, modeling, design, application of the technology, and its characterization in a simulation environment. In addition, effects of atmospheric turbulence on beam propagation in free space, and applying data security using optical encryption are also researched.

Multiband Photonic Phased-Array Antenna

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tang, Suning

2015-01-01

A multiband phased-array antenna (PAA) can reduce the number of antennas on shipboard platforms while offering significantly improved performance. Crystal Research, Inc., has developed a multiband photonic antenna that is based on a high-speed, optical, true-time-delay beamformer. It is capable of simultaneously steering multiple independent radio frequency (RF) beams in less than 1,000 nanoseconds. This high steering speed is 3 orders of magnitude faster than any existing optical beamformer. Unlike other approaches, this technology uses a single controlling device per operation band, eliminating the need for massive optical switches, laser diodes, and fiber Bragg gratings. More importantly, only one beamformer is needed for all antenna elements.

Focused Ultrasound Steering for Harmonic Motion Imaging.

PubMed

Han, Yang; Payen, Thomas; Wang, Shutao; Konofagou, Elisa

2018-02-01

Harmonic motion imaging (HMI) is a radiation-force-based ultrasound elasticity imaging technique, which is designed for both tissue relative stiffness imaging and reliable high-intensity focused ultrasound treatment monitoring. The objective of this letter is to develop and demonstrate the feasibility of 2-D focused ultrasound (FUS) beam steering for HMI using a 93-element, FUS phased array. HMI with steered FUS beam was acquired in tissue-mimicking phantoms. The HMI displacement was imaged within the steering range of ±1.7 mm laterally and ±2 mm axially. Using the steered FUS beam, HMI can be used to image a larger tissue volume with higher efficiency and without requiring mechanical movement of the transducer.

Integrated injection-locked semiconductor diode laser

DOEpatents

Hadley, G. Ronald; Hohimer, John P.; Owyoung, Adelbert

1991-01-01

A continuous wave integrated injection-locked high-power diode laser array is provided with an on-chip independently-controlled master laser. The integrated injection locked high-power diode laser array is capable of continuous wave lasing in a single near-diffraction limited output beam at single-facet power levels up to 125 mW (250 mW total). Electronic steering of the array emission over an angle of 0.5 degrees is obtained by varying current to the master laser. The master laser injects a laser beam into the slave array by reflection of a rear facet.

Beam Shaping for CARS Measurements in Turbulent Environments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Magnotti, Gaetano; Cutler, Andrew D.; Danehy, Paul M.

2010-01-01

This paper describes a new technique to mitigate the effect of beam steering on CARS measurements in turbulent, variable density environments. The new approach combines Planar BOXCARS phase-matching with elliptical shaping of one of the beams to generate a signal insensitive to beam steering, while keeping the same spatial resolution. Numerical and experimental results are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach. One set of experiments investigated the effect of beam shaping in the presence of a controlled and well quantified displacement of the beams at the focal plane. Another set of experiments, more qualitative, proved the effectiveness of the technique in the presence of severe beam steering due to turbulence.

MAcro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MÆMS) based concept for microwave beam steering in reflectarray antennas

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Momeni Hasan Abadi, Seyed Mohamad Amin, E-mail: momenihasana@wisc.edu; Booske, John H., E-mail: jhbooske@wisc.edu; Behdad, Nader, E-mail: behdad@wisc.edu

2016-08-07

We present a new approach to perform beam steering in reflecting type apertures such as reflectarray antennas. The proposed technique exploits macro-scale mechanical movements of parts of the structure to achieve two-dimensional microwave beam steering without using any solid-state devices or phase shifters integrated within the aperture of the antenna. The principles of operation of this microwave beam steering technique are demonstrated in an aperture occupied by ground-plane-backed, sub-wavelength capacitive patches with identical dimensions. We demonstrate that by tilting the ground plane underneath the entire patch array layer, a phase shift gradient can be created over the aperture of themore » reflectarray that determines the direction of the radiated beam. Changing the direction and slope of this phase shift gradient on the aperture allows for performing beam steering in two dimensions using only one control parameter (i.e., tilt vector of the ground plane). A proof-of-concept prototype of the structure operating at X-band is designed, fabricated, and experimentally characterized. Experiments demonstrate that small mechanical movements of the ground plane (in the order of 0.05λ{sub 0}) can be used to steer the beam direction in the ±10° in two dimensions. It is also demonstrated that this beam scanning range can be greatly enhanced to ±30° by applying this concept to the same structure when its ground plane is segmented.« less

Optical ray tracing method for simulating beam-steering effects during laser diagnostics in turbulent media.

PubMed

Wang, Yejun; Kulatilaka, Waruna D

2017-04-10

In most coherent spectroscopic methods used in gas-phase laser diagnostics, multiple laser beams are focused and crossed at a specific location in space to form the probe region. The desired signal is then generated as a result of nonlinear interactions between the beams in this overlapped region. When such diagnostic schemes are implemented in practical devices having turbulent reacting flow fields with refractive index gradients, the resulting beam steering can give rise to large measurement uncertainties. The objective of this work is to simulate beam-steering effects arising from pressure and temperature gradients in gas-phase media using an optical ray tracing approach. The ZEMAX OpticStudio software package is used to simulate the beam crossing and uncrossing effects in the presence of pressure and temperature gradients, specifically the conditions present in high-pressure, high-temperature combustion devices such as gas turbine engines. Specific cases involving two-beam and three-beam crossing configurations are simulated. The model formulation, the effects of pressure and temperature gradients, and the resulting beam-steering effects are analyzed. The results show that thermal gradients in the range of 300-3000 K have minimal effects, while pressure gradients in the range of 1-50 atm result in pronounced beam steering and the resulting signal fluctuations in the geometries investigated. However, with increasing pressures, the temperature gradients can also have a pronounced effect on the resultant signal levels.

High-speed electronic beam steering using injection locking of a laser-diode array

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Swanson, E. A.; Abbas, G. L.; Yang, S.; Chan, V. W. S.; Fujimoto, J. G.

1987-01-01

High-speed electronic steering of the output beam of a 10-stripe laser-diode array is reported. The array was injection locked to a single-frequency laser diode. High-speed steering of the locked 0.5-deg-wide far-field lobe is demonstrated either by modulating the injection current of the array or by modulating the frequency of the master laser. Closed-loop tracking bandwidths of 70 kHz and 3 MHz, respectively, were obtained. The beam-steering bandwidths are limited by the FM responses of the modulated devices for both techniques.

Multi-beam and single-chip LIDAR with discrete beam steering by digital micromirror device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rodriguez, Joshua; Smith, Braden; Hellman, Brandon; Gin, Adley; Espinoza, Alonzo; Takashima, Yuzuru

2018-02-01

A novel Digital Micromirror Device (DMD) based beam steering enables a single chip Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) system for discrete scanning points. We present increasing number of scanning point by using multiple laser diodes for Multi-beam and Single-chip DMD-based LIDAR.

A prototype of a beam steering assistant tool for accelerator operations

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

M. Bickley; P. Chevtsov

2006-10-24

The CEBAF accelerator provides nuclear physics experiments at Jefferson Lab with high quality electron beams. Three experimental end stations can simultaneously receive the beams with different energies and intensities. For each operational mode, the accelerator setup procedures are complicated and require very careful checking of beam spot sizes and positions on multiple beam viewers. To simplify these procedures and make them reproducible, a beam steering assistant GUI tool has been created. The tool is implemented as a multi-window control screen. The screen has an interactive graphical object window, which is an overlay on top of a digitized live video imagemore » from a beam viewer. It allows a user to easily create and edit any graphical objects consisting of text, ellipses, and lines, right above the live beam viewer image and then save them in a file that is called a beam steering template. The template can show, for example, the area within which the beam must always be on the viewer. Later, this template can be loaded in the interactive graphical object window to help accelerator operators steer the beam to the specified area on the viewer.« less

Electro-optic deflectors deliver advantages over acousto-optical deflectors in a high resolution, ultra-fast force-clamp optical trap.

PubMed

Woody, Michael S; Capitanio, Marco; Ostap, E Michael; Goldman, Yale E

2018-04-30

We characterized experimental artifacts arising from the non-linear response of acousto-optical deflectors (AODs) in an ultra-fast force-clamp optical trap and have shown that using electro-optical deflectors (EODs) instead eliminates these artifacts. We give an example of the effects of these artifacts in our ultra-fast force clamp studies of the interaction of myosin with actin filaments. The experimental setup, based on the concept of Capitanio et al. [Nat. Methods 9, 1013-1019 (2012)] utilizes a bead-actin-bead dumbbell held in two force-clamped optical traps which apply a load to the dumbbell to move it at a constant velocity. When myosin binds to actin, the filament motion stops quickly as the total force from the optical traps is transferred to the actomyosin attachment. We found that in our setup, AODs were unsuitable for beam steering due to non-linear variations in beam intensity and deflection angle as a function of driving frequency, likely caused by low-amplitude standing acoustic waves in the deflectors. These aberrations caused instability in the force feedback loops leading to artifactual jumps in the trap position. We demonstrate that beam steering with EODs improves the performance of our instrument. Combining the superior beam-steering capability of the EODs, force acquisition via back-focal-plane interferometry, and dual high-speed FPGA-based feedback loops, we apply precise and constant loads to study the dynamics of interactions between actin and myosin. The same concept applies to studies of other biomolecular interactions.

The Potential of Phased Arrays for Planetary Exploration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pogorzelski, Ronald J.

2000-01-01

Phased array antennas provide a set of operational capabilities which are very attractive for certain mission applications and not very attractive for others. Such antennas are by no means a panacea for telecommunications. In this paper the features of phased arrays are reviewed and their implications for space missions are considered in terms of benefits and costs. The primary capability provided by a phased array is electronic beam agility. The beam direction may be controlled at electronic speeds (vs. mechanical actuation) permitting time division multiplexing of multiple "users." Moreover, the beam direction can be varied over a full hemisphere (for a planar array). On the other hand, such antennas are typically much more complicated than the more commonly used reflectors and horns and this implies higher cost. In some applications, this increased cost must be accepted if the mission is to be carried out at all. The SIR-C radar is an example of such a case albeit not for deep space. Assuming for the sake of argument that the complexity and cost of a phased array can be significantly reduced, where can such antennas be of value in the future of planetary exploration? Potential applications to be discussed are planetary rovers, landers, and orbiters including both the areosynchronous and low orbit varieties. In addition, consideration is given to links from deep space to earth. As may be fairly obvious, the deep space link to earth would not benefit from the wide angle steering capability provided by a phase array whereas a rover could gain advantage from the capability to steer a beam anywhere in the sky. In the rover case, however, physical size of the aperture becomes a significant factor which, of course, has implications regarding the choice of frequency band. Recent research work concerning phased arrays has suggested that future phased arrays might be made less complex and, therefore, less costly. Successful realization of such phased arrays would enable many of the planetary missions discussed in this paper and significantly broaden the telecommunications capabilities available to the mission designers of the future.

Remote steering of laser beams by radar- and laser-induced refractive-index gradients in the atmosphere Remote steering of laser beams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheltikov, A. M.; Shneider, M. N.; Voronin, A. A.; Sokolov, A. V.; Scully, M. O.

2012-01-01

Refractive-index gradients induced in the atmospheric air by properly tailored laser and microwave fields are shown to enable a remote steering of laser beams. Heating-assisted modulation of the refractive index of the air by microwave radiation is shown to support small-angle laser-beam bending with bending angles on the order of 10-2. Ionization of the atmospheric air by dyads of femto- and nanosecond laser pulses, on the other hand, can provide beam deflection angles in excess of π/5, offering an attractive strategy for radiation transfer, free-space communications, and laser-based standoff detection.

Dispersionless Manipulation of Reflected Acoustic Wavefront by Subwavelength Corrugated Surface

PubMed Central

Zhu, Yi-Fan; Zou, Xin-Ye; Li, Rui-Qi; Jiang, Xue; Tu, Juan; Liang, Bin; Cheng, Jian-Chun

2015-01-01

Free controls of optic/acoustic waves for bending, focusing or steering the energy of wavefronts are highly desirable in many practical scenarios. However, the dispersive nature of the existing metamaterials/metasurfaces for wavefront manipulation necessarily results in limited bandwidth. Here, we propose the concept of dispersionless wavefront manipulation and report a theoretical, numerical and experimental work on the design of a reflective surface capable of controlling the acoustic wavefront arbitrarily without bandwidth limitation. Analytical analysis predicts the possibility to completely eliminate the frequency dependence with a specific gradient surface which can be implemented by designing a subwavelength corrugated surface. Experimental and numerical results, well consistent with the theoretical predictions, have validated the proposed scheme by demonstrating a distinct phenomenon of extraordinary acoustic reflection within an ultra-broad band. For acquiring a deeper insight into the underlying physics, a simple physical model is developed which helps to interpret this extraordinary phenomenon and predict the upper cutoff frequency precisely. Generations of planar focusing and non-diffractive beam have also been exemplified. With the dispersionless wave-steering capability and deep discrete resolution, our designed structure may open new avenue to fully steer classical waves and offer design possibilities for broadband optical/acoustical devices. PMID:26077772

Diffraction Efficiency of Thin Film Holographic Beam Steering Devices

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Titus, Charles M.; Pouch, John; Nguyen, Hung; Miranda, Felix; Bos, Philip J.

2003-01-01

Dynamic holography has been demonstrated as a method for correcting aberrations in space deployable optics, and can also be used to achieve high-resolution beam steering in the same environment. In this paper, we consider some of the factors affecting the efficiency of these devices. Specifically, the effect on the efficiency of a highly collimated beam from the number of discrete phase steps per period is considered for a blazed thin film beam steering grating. The effect of the number of discrete phase steps per period on steering resolution is also considered. We also present some result of Finite-Difference Time-Domain (FDTD) calculations of light propagating through liquid crystal "blazed" gratings. Liquid crystal gratings are shown to spatially modulate both the phase and amplitude of the propagating light.

High-performance beam steering using electrowetting-driven liquid prism fabricated by a simple dip-coating method

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Enrico Clement, Carlos; Park, Sung-Yong, E-mail: mpeps@nus.edu.sg

2016-05-09

A high degree of beam steering is demonstrated using an electrowetting-driven liquid prism. While prism devices have typically relied on complex and expensive laboratory setups, such as high-vacuum facilities for fabrication of dielectric layers, this work utilizes a simple dip-coating method to provide an ion gel layer as a dielectric, offering 2 or 3 orders higher specific capacitance (c ≈ 10 μF/cm{sup 2}) than that of conventional dielectrics. Analytical studies present the effects of liquid selection and arrangement on overall prism performance. For experimental demonstrations of high-performance beam steering, we not only selected two immiscible liquids of water and 1-bromonaphthalene (1-BN)more » oil which provide the large refractive index difference (n{sub water} = 1.33 and n{sub 1-BN} = 1.65 at λ = 532 nm) between them, but also utilized a double-stacked prism configuration which increases the number of interfaces for incoming light to be steered. At a prism apex angle of φ = 27°, we were able to achieve significantly large beam steering of up to β = 19.06°, which is the highest beam steering performance ever demonstrated using electrowetting technology.« less

Continuous Beam Steering From a Segmented Liquid Crystal Optical Phased Array

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Titus, Charles M.; Pouch, John; Nguyen, Hung; Miranda, Felix; Bos, Philip J.

2002-01-01

Optical communications to and from deep space probes will require beams possessing divergence on the order of a microradian, and must be steered with sub-microradian precision. Segmented liquid crystal spatial phase modulators, a type of optical phased array, are considered for this ultra-high resolution beam steering. It is shown here that in an ideal device of this type, there are ultimately no restrictions on the angular resolution. Computer simulations are used to obtain that result, and to analyze the influence of beam truncation and substrate flatness on the performance of this type of device.

Continuous Beam Steering From A Segmented Liquid Crystal Optical Phased Array

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pouch, John; Nguyen, Hung; Miranda, Felix; Titus, Charles M.; Bos, Philip J.

2002-01-01

Optical communications to and from deep space probes will require beams possessing divergence on the order of a microradian, and must be steered with sub-microradian precision. Segmented liquid crystal spatial phase modulators, a type of optical phased array, are considered for this ultra-high resolution beam steering. It is shown here that in an ideal device of this type, there are ultimately no restrictions on the angular resolution. Computer simulations are used to obtain that result, and to analyze the influence of beam truncation and substrate flatness on the performance of this type of device.

High Bandwidth Optical Links for Micro-Satellite Support

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chao, Tien-Hsin (Inventor); Wilson, Keith E. (Inventor); Coste, Keith (Inventor)

2016-01-01

A method, systems, apparatus and device enable high bandwidth satellite communications. An onboard tracking detector, installed in a low-earth orbit satellite, detects a position of an incoming optical beam received/transmitted from a first ground station of one or more ground stations. Tracker electronics determine orientation information of the incoming optical beam based on the position. Control electronics receive the orientation information from the tracker electronics, and control a waveguide drive electronics. The waveguide drive electronics control a voltage that is provided to an electro-optic waveguide beam steering device. The electro-optic waveguide beam steering device steers an outgoing optical beam to one of the one or more ground stations based on the voltage.

Integrated injection-locked semiconductor diode laser

DOEpatents

Hadley, G.R.; Hohimer, J.P.; Owyoung, A.

1991-02-19

A continuous wave integrated injection-locked high-power diode laser array is provided with an on-chip independently-controlled master laser. The integrated injection locked high-power diode laser array is capable of continuous wave lasing in a single near-diffraction limited output beam at single-facet power levels up to 125 mW (250 mW total). Electronic steering of the array emission over an angle of 0.5 degrees is obtained by varying current to the master laser. The master laser injects a laser beam into the slave array by reflection of a rear facet. 18 figures.

Dynamically reconfigurable holographic metasurface aperture for a Mills-Cross monochromatic microwave camera.

PubMed

Yurduseven, Okan; Marks, Daniel L; Fromenteze, Thomas; Smith, David R

2018-03-05

We present a reconfigurable, dynamic beam steering holographic metasurface aperture to synthesize a microwave camera at K-band frequencies. The aperture consists of a 1D printed microstrip transmission line with the front surface patterned into an array of slot-shaped subwavelength metamaterial elements (or meta-elements) dynamically tuned between "ON" and "OFF" states using PIN diodes. The proposed aperture synthesizes a desired radiation pattern by converting the waveguide-mode to a free space radiation by means of a binary modulation scheme. This is achieved in a holographic manner; by interacting the waveguide-mode (reference-wave) with the metasurface layer (hologram layer). It is shown by means of full-wave simulations that using the developed metasurface aperture, the radiated wavefronts can be engineered in an all-electronic manner without the need for complex phase-shifting circuits or mechanical scanning apparatus. Using the dynamic beam steering capability of the developed antenna, we synthesize a Mills-Cross composite aperture, forming a single-frequency all-electronic microwave camera.

Two-dimensional beam steering using a thermo-optic silicon photonic optical phased array

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rabinovich, William S.; Goetz, Peter G.; Pruessner, Marcel W.; Mahon, Rita; Ferraro, Mike S.; Park, Doe; Fleet, Erin; DePrenger, Michael J.

2016-11-01

Many components for free-space optical (FSO) communication systems have shrunken in size over the last decade. However, the steering systems have remained large and power hungry. Nonmechanical beam steering offers a path to reducing the size of these systems. Optical phased arrays can allow integrated beam steering elements. One of the most important aspects of an optical phased array technology is its scalability to a large number of elements. Silicon photonics can potentially offer this scalability using CMOS foundry techniques. A phased array that can steer in two dimensions using the thermo-optic effect is demonstrated. No wavelength tuning of the input laser is needed and the design allows a simple control system with only two inputs. A benchtop FSO link with the phased array in both transmit and receive mode is demonstrated.

Beam-steering efficiency optimization method based on a rapid-search algorithm for liquid crystal optical phased array.

PubMed

Xiao, Feng; Kong, Lingjiang; Chen, Jian

2017-06-01

A rapid-search algorithm to improve the beam-steering efficiency for a liquid crystal optical phased array was proposed and experimentally demonstrated in this paper. This proposed algorithm, in which the value of steering efficiency is taken as the objective function and the controlling voltage codes are considered as the optimization variables, consisted of a detection stage and a construction stage. It optimized the steering efficiency in the detection stage and adjusted its search direction adaptively in the construction stage to avoid getting caught in a wrong search space. Simulations had been conducted to compare the proposed algorithm with the widely used pattern-search algorithm using criteria of convergence rate and optimized efficiency. Beam-steering optimization experiments had been performed to verify the validity of the proposed method.

Two dimensional thermo-optic beam steering using a silicon photonic optical phased array

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mahon, Rita; Preussner, Marcel W.; Rabinovich, William S.; Goetz, Peter G.; Kozak, Dmitry A.; Ferraro, Mike S.; Murphy, James L.

2016-03-01

Components for free space optical communication terminals such as lasers, amplifiers, and receivers have all seen substantial reduction in both size and power consumption over the past several decades. However, pointing systems, such as fast steering mirrors and gimbals, have remained large, slow and power-hungry. Optical phased arrays provide a possible solution for non-mechanical beam steering devices that can be compact and lower in power. Silicon photonics is a promising technology for phased arrays because it has the potential to scale to many elements and may be compatible with CMOS technology thereby enabling batch fabrication. For most free space optical communication applications, two-dimensional beam steering is needed. To date, silicon photonic phased arrays have achieved two-dimensional steering by combining thermo-optic steering, in-plane, with wavelength tuning by means of an output grating to give angular tuning, out-of-plane. While this architecture might work for certain static communication links, it would be difficult to implement for moving platforms. Other approaches have required N2 controls for an NxN element phased array, which leads to complexity. Hence, in this work we demonstrate steering using the thermo-optic effect for both dimensions with a simplified steering mechanism requiring only two control signals, one for each steering dimension.

Tongue-driven sonar beam steering by a lingual-echolocating fruit bat

PubMed Central

Falk, Benjamin; Chiu, Chen; Krishnan, Anand; Arbour, Jessica H.; Moss, Cynthia F.

2017-01-01

Animals enhance sensory acquisition from a specific direction by movements of head, ears, or eyes. As active sensing animals, echolocating bats also aim their directional sonar beam to selectively “illuminate” a confined volume of space, facilitating efficient information processing by reducing echo interference and clutter. Such sonar beam control is generally achieved by head movements or shape changes of the sound-emitting mouth or nose. However, lingual-echolocating Egyptian fruit bats, Rousettus aegyptiacus, which produce sound by clicking their tongue, can dramatically change beam direction at very short temporal intervals without visible morphological changes. The mechanism supporting this capability has remained a mystery. Here, we measured signals from free-flying Egyptian fruit bats and discovered a systematic angular sweep of beam focus across increasing frequency. This unusual signal structure has not been observed in other animals and cannot be explained by the conventional and widely-used “piston model” that describes the emission pattern of other bat species. Through modeling, we show that the observed beam features can be captured by an array of tongue-driven sound sources located along the side of the mouth, and that the sonar beam direction can be steered parsimoniously by inducing changes to the pattern of phase differences through moving tongue location. The effects are broadly similar to those found in a phased array—an engineering design widely found in human-made sonar systems that enables beam direction changes without changes in the physical transducer assembly. Our study reveals an intriguing parallel between biology and human engineering in solving problems in fundamentally similar ways. PMID:29244805

Tongue-driven sonar beam steering by a lingual-echolocating fruit bat.

PubMed

Lee, Wu-Jung; Falk, Benjamin; Chiu, Chen; Krishnan, Anand; Arbour, Jessica H; Moss, Cynthia F

2017-12-01

Animals enhance sensory acquisition from a specific direction by movements of head, ears, or eyes. As active sensing animals, echolocating bats also aim their directional sonar beam to selectively "illuminate" a confined volume of space, facilitating efficient information processing by reducing echo interference and clutter. Such sonar beam control is generally achieved by head movements or shape changes of the sound-emitting mouth or nose. However, lingual-echolocating Egyptian fruit bats, Rousettus aegyptiacus, which produce sound by clicking their tongue, can dramatically change beam direction at very short temporal intervals without visible morphological changes. The mechanism supporting this capability has remained a mystery. Here, we measured signals from free-flying Egyptian fruit bats and discovered a systematic angular sweep of beam focus across increasing frequency. This unusual signal structure has not been observed in other animals and cannot be explained by the conventional and widely-used "piston model" that describes the emission pattern of other bat species. Through modeling, we show that the observed beam features can be captured by an array of tongue-driven sound sources located along the side of the mouth, and that the sonar beam direction can be steered parsimoniously by inducing changes to the pattern of phase differences through moving tongue location. The effects are broadly similar to those found in a phased array-an engineering design widely found in human-made sonar systems that enables beam direction changes without changes in the physical transducer assembly. Our study reveals an intriguing parallel between biology and human engineering in solving problems in fundamentally similar ways.

High-Directivity Emissions with Flexible Beam Numbers and Beam Directions Using Gradient-Refractive-Index Fractal Metamaterial

PubMed Central

Xu, He-Xiu; Wang, Guang-Ming; Tao, Zui; Cui, Tie Jun

2014-01-01

A three-dimensional (3D) highly-directive emission system is proposed to enable beam shaping and beam steering capabilities in wideband frequencies. It is composed of an omnidirectional source antenna and several 3D gradient-refractive-index (GRIN) lenses. To engineer a broadband impedance match, the design method for these 3D lenses is established under the scenario of free-space excitation by using a planar printed monopole. For realizations and demonstrations, a kind of GRIN metamaterial is proposed, which is constructed by non-uniform fractal geometries. Due to the non-resonant and deep-subwavelength features of the fractal elements, the resulting 3D GRIN metamaterial lenses have extra wide bandwidth (3 to 7.5 GHz), and are capable of manipulating electromagnetic wavefronts accurately, advancing the state of the art of available GRIN lenses. The proposal for the versatile highly-directive emissions has been confirmed by simulations and measurements, showing that not only the number of beams can be arbitrarily tailored but also the beam directions can be steerable. The proposal opens a new way to control broadband highly-directive emissions with pre-designed directions, promising great potentials in modern wireless communication systems. PMID:25034268

Feasibility of a Heavy Ion Beam Probe for W7-X

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Crowley, T. P.; Demers, D. R.; Fimognari, P. J.; Grulke, O.; Laube, R.

2017-10-01

A feasibility study of a Heavy Ion Beam Probe (HIBP) diagnostic for the Wendelstein 7-X (W7-X) superconducting stellarator, incorporating the accelerator and energy analyzer (currently in Greifswald) from the 2 MeV TEXT-U HIBP, is being carried out. The study's results are positive: beam trajectory simulations in the W7-X standard magnetic configuration, with central densities up to 1020 m-3, predict that it will be possible to measure the equilibrium plasma potential and Er at all radii, and simultaneously measure temporally and spatially resolved fluctuations of ne and potential for r / a >0.5. This will provide a unique capability to advance understanding of neoclassical and turbulent particle and energy transport in W7-X. Within this feasibility study, the beam is injected and detected through the K11 and N11 ports respectively, and the toroidal magnetic field is in the ` + φ ' direction. Additional beam simulations reveal that most radii can be accessed in 7 other paradigm magnetic configurations. It's anticipated that electrostatic beam steering suitable for studying all these configurations is plausible; it will have plate dimensions comparable to TEXT-U's with smaller electric fields and higher voltages. Initial estimates of anticipated heat load from the W7-X plasma on the steering systems indicate it will be significant, but tractable. Our conclusion from these studies is that an HIBP diagnostic for W7-X is feasible. This work is supported by US DoE Award DE-SC0013918.

First demonstration of simultaneous measurement of beam current, beam position, and beam tilt on induction linac using combined B-dot monitor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Xiaozhong; Pang, Jian; Chen, Nan; Li, Qin; Dai, Wenhua; Ma, Chaofan; Zhao, Liangchao; Gao, Feng; Dai, Zhiyong

2017-06-01

The authors previously reported that the axial B-dots can be used to directly measure the beam tilt and demonstrated that the axial B-dots are applicable to a coaxial calibration stand. In this study, a combined B-dot monitor composed of four axial B-dot loops and four azimuthal ones is tested for the simultaneous measurement of the time-varying beam current, beam offset, and beam tilt at the output of the injector of the DRAGON-I induction linac. In the experiments, the beam offset and beam tilt at the position of the monitor are proportionally adjusted using a pair of steering coils. Eight waveforms acquired from the B-dot monitor are analyzed to reconstruct the time-varying beam current, beam offset, and beam tilt. The original signals of both the azimuthal B-dot and the axial B-dot ports change significantly with respect to the current applied to the steering coils. The measured beam tilt is linearly dependent on the current applied to the steering coils and agrees well with the measured beam offset.

Dynamic Time Multiplexing Fabrication of Holographic Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystals for Increased Wavelength Sensitivity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fontecchio, Adam K. (Inventor); Rai, Kashma (Inventor)

2017-01-01

Described herein is a new holographic polymer dispersed liquid crystal (HPDLC) medium with broadband reflective properties, and a new technique for fabrication of broadband HPDLC mediums. The new technique involves dynamic variation of the holography setup during HPDLC formation, enabling the broadening of the HPDLC medium's wavelength response. Dynamic variation of the holography setup may include the rotation and/or translation of one or more motorized stages, allowing for time and spatial, or angular, multiplexing through variation of the incident angles of one or more laser beams on a pre-polymer mixture during manufacture. An HPDLC medium manufactured using these techniques exhibits improved optical response by reflecting a broadband spectrum of wavelengths. A new broadband holographic polymer dispersed liquid crystal thin film polymeric mirror stack with electrically-switchable beam steering capability is disclosed. XXXX Described herein is a new holographic polymer dispersed liquid crystal (HPDLC) medium with broadband reflective properties, and a new technique for fabrication of broadband 10 HPDLC mediums. The new technique involves dynamic variation of the holography setup during HPDLC formation, enabling the broadening of the HPDLC medium's wavelength response. Dynamic variation of the holography setup may include the rotation and/or translation of one or more 15 motorized stages, allowing for time and spatial, or angular, multiplexing through variation of the incident angles of one or more laser beams on a pre-polymer mixture during manufacture. An HPDLC medium manufactured using these techniques exhibits improved optical response by reflecting 20 a broadband spectrum of wavelengths. A new broadband holographic polymer dispersed liquid crystal thin film polymeric mirror stack with electrically switchable beam steering capability is disclosed.

GMTIFS: the adaptive optics beam steering mirror for the GMT integral-field spectrograph

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Davies, J.; Bloxham, G.; Boz, R.; Bundy, D.; Espeland, B.; Fordham, B.; Hart, J.; Herrald, N.; Nielsen, J.; Sharp, R.; Vaccarella, A.; Vest, C.; Young, P. J.

2016-07-01

To achieve the high adaptive optics sky coverage necessary to allow the GMT Integral-Field Spectrograph (GMTIFS) to access key scientific targets, the on-instrument adaptive-optics wavefront-sensing (OIWFS) system must patrol the full 180 arcsecond diameter guide field passed to the instrument. The OIWFS uses a diffraction limited guide star as the fundamental pointing reference for the instrument. During an observation the offset between the science target and the guide star will change due to sources such as flexure, differential refraction and non-sidereal tracking rates. GMTIFS uses a beam steering mirror to set the initial offset between science target and guide star and also to correct for changes in offset. In order to reduce image motion from beam steering errors to those comparable to the AO system in the most stringent case, the beam steering mirror is set a requirement of less than 1 milliarcsecond RMS. This corresponds to a dynamic range for both actuators and sensors of better than 1/180,000. The GMTIFS beam steering mirror uses piezo-walk actuators and a combination of eddy current sensors and interferometric sensors to achieve this dynamic range and control. While the sensors are rated for cryogenic operation, the actuators are not. We report on the results of prototype testing of single actuators, with the sensors, on the bench and in a cryogenic environment. Specific failures of the system are explained and suspected reasons for them. A modified test jig is used to investigate the option of heating the actuator and we report the improved results. In addition to individual component testing, we built and tested a complete beam steering mirror assembly. Testing was conducted with a point source microscope, however controlling environmental conditions to less than 1 micron was challenging. The assembly testing investigated acquisition accuracy and if there was any un-sensed hysteresis in the system. Finally we present the revised beam steering mirror design based on the outcomes and lessons learnt from this prototyping.

Fabrication of solar beam steering electrowetting devices—present status and future prospects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khan, I.; Castelletto, S.; Rosengarten, G.

2017-10-01

Many different technologies are used to track the movement of the sun to both enable concentration of its energy and maximize the yearly energy capture. Their present main limitations are the cost, size, visual impact and wind loading, particularly for applications involving mounting to a building. A parabolic concentrator, for example, along with its steering equipment is heavy and bulky, and is not suitable for rooftop applications. Instead, thin and flat solar concentration devices are required for hassle-free rooftop applications. The use of electrowetting-controlled liquid lenses has emerged as a novel approach for solar tracking and concentration. By steering sunlight using thin electrowetting cell arrays, bulky mechanical equipment is not required. The basic concept of this technology is to change the shape of a liquid interface that is formed by two immiscible fluids of different refractive indices, by simply applying an electric field. An important challenge in electrowetting beam steering devices is the optimization of the design and fabrication process for each of their main constituent components, to maximize optical efficiency. In this paper, we report on the state-of-the-art fabrication methods for electrowetting devices for solar beam steering. We have reviewed the present status of different components types and related fabrication methods, and how they affect the efficiency and performance of such devices. The work identifies future prospects in using electrowetting beam steering devices for solar energy applications. This paper will help researchers and developers in the field to determine the components and fabrication process that affect the development of efficient beam steering electrowetting devices.

Integrated feeds for electronically reconfigurable apertures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nicholls, Jeffrey Grant

With the increasing ubiquity of wireless technology, the need for lower-profile, electronically reconfigurable, highly-directive beam-steering antennas is increasing. This thesis proposes a new electronic beam-steering antenna architecture which combines the full-space beam-steering properties of reflectarrays and transmitarrays with the low-profile feeding characteristics of leaky-wave antennas. Two designs are developed: an integrated feed reflectarray and an integrated feed transmitarray, both of which integrate a leaky-wave feed directly next to the reconfigurable aperture itself. The integrated feed transmitarray proved to be the better architecture due to its simpler design and better performance. A 6-by-6 element array was fabricated and experimentally verified, and full-space (both azimuth and elevation) beam-steering was demonstrated at angles up to 45 degrees off broadside. In addition to the reduction in profile, the integrated feed design enables robust fixed control of the amplitude distribution across the aperture, a characteristic not as easily attained in typical reflectarrays/transmitarrays.

Adaptive beam tracking and steering via electrowetting-controlled liquid prism

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cheng, JT; Chen, CL

2011-11-07

We report an electrowetting-controlled optofluidic system for adaptive beam tracking and agile steering. With two immiscible fluids in a transparent cell, we can actively control the contact angle along the fluid-fluid-solid tri-junction line and hence the orientation of the fluid-fluid interface via electrowetting. The naturally formed meniscus between the two liquids can function as an optical prism. We have fabricated a liquid prism module with an aperture size of 10 mm -10mm. With 1 wt.% KCl and 1 wt.% Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate added into deionized water, the orientation of the water-silicone oil interface has been modulated between -26 degrees andmore » 26 degrees that can deflect and steer beam within the incidence angle of 0 degrees-15 degrees. The wide-range beam tracking and steering enables the liquid prism work as an electrowetting solar cell. (C) 2011 American Institute of Physics. [doi: 10.1063/1.3660578]« less

Adaptive beam tracking and steering via electrowetting-controlled liquid prism

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheng, Jiangtao; Chen, Chung-Lung

2011-11-01

We report an electrowetting-controlled optofluidic system for adaptive beam tracking and agile steering. With two immiscible fluids in a transparent cell, we can actively control the contact angle along the fluid-fluid-solid tri-junction line and hence the orientation of the fluid-fluid interface via electrowetting. The naturally formed meniscus between the two liquids can function as an optical prism. We have fabricated a liquid prism module with an aperture size of 10 mm × 10mm. With 1 wt. % KCl and 1 wt. % Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate added into deionized water, the orientation of the water-silicone oil interface has been modulated between -26° and 26° that can deflect and steer beam within the incidence angle of 0°-15°. The wide-range beam tracking and steering enables the liquid prism work as an electrowetting solar cell.

Experimental validation of a Monte Carlo proton therapy nozzle model incorporating magnetically steered protons.

PubMed

Peterson, S W; Polf, J; Bues, M; Ciangaru, G; Archambault, L; Beddar, S; Smith, A

2009-05-21

The purpose of this study is to validate the accuracy of a Monte Carlo calculation model of a proton magnetic beam scanning delivery nozzle developed using the Geant4 toolkit. The Monte Carlo model was used to produce depth dose and lateral profiles, which were compared to data measured in the clinical scanning treatment nozzle at several energies. Comparisons were also made between measured and simulated off-axis profiles to test the accuracy of the model's magnetic steering. Comparison of the 80% distal dose fall-off values for the measured and simulated depth dose profiles agreed to within 1 mm for the beam energies evaluated. Agreement of the full width at half maximum values for the measured and simulated lateral fluence profiles was within 1.3 mm for all energies. The position of measured and simulated spot positions for the magnetically steered beams agreed to within 0.7 mm of each other. Based on these results, we found that the Geant4 Monte Carlo model of the beam scanning nozzle has the ability to accurately predict depth dose profiles, lateral profiles perpendicular to the beam axis and magnetic steering of a proton beam during beam scanning proton therapy.

Low Cost High Performance Phased Array Antennas with Beam Steering Capabilities

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-12-01

characteristics of BSTO, the RF vacuum sputtering technique has been used and we investigated effects of sputtering parameters such as substrate...sputtering parameters , various sets of BSTO films have been deposited on different substrates and various size of CPW phase shifters have been fabricated...measurement of phase shifter 18 4. Optimization of the sputtering parameters for BSTO deposition 19 4.1 The first BSTO film sample 20 4.2 The second BSTO

A Study of Phased Array Antennas for NASA's Deep Space Network

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jamnejad, Vahraz; Huang, John; Cesarone, Robert J.

2001-01-01

In this paper we briefly discuss various options but focus on the feasibility of the phased arrays as a viable option for this application. Of particular concern and consideration will be the cost, reliability, and performance compared to the present 70-meter antenna system, particularly the gain/noise temperature levels in the receive mode. Many alternative phased arrays including planar horizontal arrays, hybrid mechanically/electronically steered arrays, phased array of mechanically steered reflectors, multi-faceted planar arrays, phased array-fed lens antennas, and planar reflect-arrays are compared and their viability is assessed. Although they have many advantages including higher reliability, near-instantaneous beam switching or steering capability, the cost of such arrays is presently prohibitive and it is concluded that the only viable array options at the present are the arrays of a few or many small reflectors. The active planar phased arrays, however, may become feasible options in the next decade and can be considered for deployment in smaller configurations as supplementary options.

Experimental demonstration of in-plane negative-angle refraction with an array of silicon nanoposts.

PubMed

Wu, Aimin; Li, Hao; Du, Junjie; Ni, Xingjie; Ye, Ziliang; Wang, Yuan; Sheng, Zhen; Zou, Shichang; Gan, Fuwan; Zhang, Xiang; Wang, Xi

2015-03-11

Controlling an optical beam is fundamental in optics. Recently, unique manipulation of optical wavefronts has been successfully demonstrated by metasurfaces. However, these artificially engineered nanostructures have thus far been limited to operate on light beams propagating out-of-plane. The in-plane operation is critical for on-chip photonic applications. Here, we demonstrate an anomalous negative-angle refraction of a light beam propagating along the plane, by designing a thin dielectric array of silicon nanoposts. The circularly polarized dipoles induced by the high-permittivity nanoposts at the scattering resonance significantly shape the wavefront of the light beam and bend it anomalously. The unique capability of a thin line of the nanoposts for manipulating in-plane wavefronts makes the device extremely compact. The low loss all-dielectric structure is compatible with complementary metal-oxide semiconductor technologies, offering an effective solution for in-plane beam steering and routing for on-chip photonics.

Standard-M mobile satellite terminal employing electronic beam squint tracking

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hawkins, G. J.; Beach, M. A.; Hilton, G. S.

1990-01-01

In recent years, extensive experience has been built up at the University of Bristol in the use of the Electronic Beam Squint (EBS) tracking technique, applied to large earth station facilities. The current interest in land mobile satellite terminals, using small tracking antennas, has prompted the investigation of the applicability of the EBS technique to this environment. The development of an L-band mechanically steered vehicle antenna is presented. A description of the antenna is followed by a detailed investigation of the tracking environment and its implications on the error detection capability of the system. Finally, the overall hardware configuration is described along with plans for future work.

Amplitude Control of Solid-State Modulators for Precision Fast Kicker Applications

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Watson, J A; Anaya, R M; Caporaso, G C

2002-11-15

A solid-state modulator with very fast rise and fall times, pulse width agility, and multi-pulse burst and intra-pulse amplitude adjustment capability for use with high speed electron beam kickers has been designed and tested at LLNL. The modulator uses multiple solid-state modules stacked in an inductive-adder configuration. Amplitude adjustment is provided by controlling individual modules in the adder, and is used to compensate for transverse e-beam motion as well as the dynamic response and beam-induced steering effects associated with the kicker structure. A control algorithm calculates a voltage based on measured e-beam displacement and adjusts the modulator to regulate beammore » centroid position. This paper presents design details of amplitude control along with measured performance data from kicker operation on the ETA-II accelerator at LLNL.« less

Millimeter wave experiment of ITER equatorial EC launcher mock-up

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Takahashi, K.; Oda, Y.; Kajiwara, K.

2014-02-12

The full-scale mock-up of the equatorial launcher was fabricated in basis of the baseline design to investigate the mm-wave propagation properties of the launcher, the manufacturability, the cooling line management, how to assemble the components and so on. The mock-up consists of one of three mm-wave transmission sets and one of eight waveguide lines can deliver the mm-wave power. The mock-up was connected to the ITER compatible transmission line and the 170GHz gyrotron and the high power experiment was carried out. The measured radiation pattern of the beam at the location of 2.5m away from the EL mock-up shows themore » successful steering capability of 20°∼40°. It was also revealed that the radiated profile at both steering and fixed focusing mirror agreed with the calculation. The result also suggests that some unwanted modes are included in the radiated beam. Transmission of 0.5MW-0.4sec and of 0.12MW-50sec were also demonstrated.« less

Two-dimensional free-space beam steering with an optical phased array on silicon-on-insulator.

PubMed

Doylend, J K; Heck, M J R; Bovington, J T; Peters, J D; Coldren, L A; Bowers, J E

2011-10-24

We demonstrate a 16-channel, independently tuned waveguide surface grating optical phased array in silicon for two dimensional beam steering with a total field of view of 20° x 14°, beam width of 0.6° x 1.6°, and full-window background peak suppression of 10 dB. © 2011 Optical Society of America

Cyclic additional optical true time delay for microwave beam steering with spectral filtering.

PubMed

Cao, Z; Lu, R; Wang, Q; Tessema, N; Jiao, Y; van den Boom, H P A; Tangdiongga, E; Koonen, A M J

2014-06-15

Optical true time delay (OTTD) is an attractive way to realize microwave beam steering (MBS) due to its inherent features of broadband, low-loss, and compactness. In this Letter, we propose a novel OTTD approach named cyclic additional optical true time delay (CAO-TTD). It applies additional integer delays of the microwave carrier frequency to achieve spectral filtering but without disturbing the spatial filtering (beam steering). Based on such concept, a broadband MBS scheme for high-capacity wireless communication is proposed, which allows the tuning of both spectral filtering and spatial filtering. The experimental results match well with the theoretical analysis.

SU-E-T-645: Qualification of a 2D Ionization Chamber Array for Beam Steering and Profile Measurement

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gao, S; Balter, P; Rose, M

2015-06-15

Purpose: Establish a procedure for beam steering and profile measurement using a 2D ionization chamber array and show equivalence to a water scanning system. Methods: Multiple photon beams (30×30cm{sup 2} field) and electron beams (25×25cm{sup 2} cone) were steered in the radial and transverse directions using Sun Nuclear’s IC PROFILER (ICP). Solid water was added during steering to ensure measurements were beyond the buildup region. With steering complete, servos were zeroed and enabled. Photon profiles were collected in a 30×30cm{sup 2} field at dmax and 2.9 cm depth for flattened and FFF beams respectively. Electron profiles were collected with amore » 25×25cm{sup 2} cone and effective depth (solid water + 0.9 cm intrinsic buildup) as follows: 0.9 cm (6e), 1.9 cm (9e), 2.9 cm (12e, 16e, 20e). Profiles of the same energy, field size and depth were measured in water with Sun Nuclear’s 3D SCANNER (3DS). Profiles were re-measured using the ICP after the in-water scans. Profiles measured using the ICP and 3DS were compared by (a) examining the differences in Varian’s “Point Difference Symmetry” metric, (b) visual inspection of the overlaid profile shapes and (c) calculation of point-by-point differences. Results: Comparing ICP measurements before and after water scanning showed very good agreement indicating good stability of the linac and measurement system. Comparing ICP Measurements to water phantom measurements using Varian’s symmetry metric showed agreement within 0.5% for all beams. The average magnitude of the agreement was within 0.2%. Comparing ICP Measurements to water phantom measurements using point-by-point difference showed agreement within 0.5% inside of 80% area of the field width. Conclusion: Profile agreement to within 0.5% was observed between ICP and 3DS after steering multiple energies with the ICP. This indicates that the ICP may be used for steering electron beams, and both flattened and FFF photon beams. Song Gao: Sun Nuclear’s invitation of speak and financial support for attending the 8th QA & Dosimetry Symposium in Orlando, Florida 2015.« less

SPS Beam Steering for LHC Extraction

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gianfelice-Wendt, Eliana; Bartosik, Hannes; Cornelis, Karel

2014-07-01

The CERN Super Proton Synchrotron accelerates beams for the Large Hadron Collider to 450 GeV. In addition it produces beams for fixed target facilities which adds complexity to the SPS operation. During the run 2012-2013 drifts of the extracted beam trajectories have been observed and lengthy optimizations in the transfer lines were performed to reduce particle losses in the LHC. The observed trajectory drifts are consistent with the measured SPS orbit drifts at extraction. While extensive studies are going on to understand, and possibly suppress, the source of such SPS orbit drifts the feasibility of an automatic beam steering towardsmore » a “golden” orbit at the extraction septa, by means of the interlocked correctors, is also being investigated. The challenges and constraints related to the implementation of such a correction in the SPS are described. Simulation results are presented and a possible operational steering strategy is proposed.« less

Design Performance of Front Steering-Type Electron Cyclotron Launcher for ITER

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Takahashi, K.; Imai, T.; Kobayashi, N.

2005-01-15

The performance of a front steering (FS)-type electron cyclotron launcher designed for the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) is evaluated with a thermal, electromagnetic, and nuclear analysis of the components; a mechanical test of a spiral tube for the steering mirror; and a rotational test of bearings. The launcher consists of a front shield and a launcher plug where three movable optic mirrors to steer incident multimegawatt radio-frequency beam power, waveguide components, nuclear shields, and vacuum windows are installed. The windows are located behind a closure plate to isolate the transmission lines from the radioactivated circumstance (vacuum vessel). The waveguidemore » lines of the launcher are doglegged to reduce the direct neutron streaming toward the vacuum windows and other components. The maximum stresses on the critical components such as the steering mirror, its cooling tube, and the front shield are less than their allowable stresses. It was also identified that the stress on the launcher, which yielded from electromagnetic force caused by plasma disruption, was a little larger than the criteria, and a modification of the launcher plug structure was necessary. The nuclear analysis result shows that the neutron shield capability of the launcher satisfies the shield criteria of the ITER. It concludes that the design of the FS launcher is generally suitable for application to the ITER.« less

Two-Dimensional Array Beam Scanning Via Externally and Mutually Injection Locked Coupled Oscillators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pogorzelski, Ronald J.

2000-01-01

Some years ago, Stephan proposed an approach to one dimensional (linear) phased array beam steering which requires only a single phase shifter. This involves the use of a linear array of voltage-controlled electronic oscillators coupled to nearest neighbors. The oscillators are mutually injection locked by controlling their coupling and tuning appropriately. Stephan's approach consists of deriving two signals from a master oscillator, one signal phase shifted with respect to the other by means of a single phase shifter. These two signals are injected into the end oscillators of the array. The result is a linear phase progression across the oscillator array. Thus, if radiating elements are connected to each oscillator and spaced uniformly along a line, they will radiate a beam at an angle to that line determined by the phase gradient which is, in turn, determined by the phase difference between the injection signals.The beam direction is therefore controlled by adjusting this phase difference. Recently, Pogorzelski and York presented a formulation which facilitates theoretical analysis of the above beam steering technique. This was subsequently applied by Pogorzelski in analysis of two dimensional beam steering using perimeter detuning of a coupled oscillator array. The formulation is based on a continuum model in which the oscillator phases are represented by a continuous function satisfying a partial differential equation of diffusion type. This equation can be solved via the Laplace transform and the resulting solution exhibits the dynamic behavior of the array as the beam is steered. Stephan's beam steering technique can be similarly generalized to two-dimensional arrays in which the beam control signals are applied to the oscillators on the perimeter of the array. In this paper the continuum model for this two-dimensional case is developed and the dynamic solution for the corresponding aperture phase function is obtained. The corresponding behavior of the resulting far-zone radiation pattern is displayed as well.

Project Echo: Antenna Steering System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Klahn, R.; Norton, J. A.; Githens, J. A.

1961-01-01

The Project Echo communications experiment employed large, steerable,transmitting and receiving antennas at the ground terminals. It was necessary that these highly directional antennas be continuously and accurately pointed at the passing satellite. This paper describes a new type of special purpose data converter for directing narrow-beam communication antennas on the basis of predicted information. The system is capable of converting digital input data into real-time analog voltage commands with a dynamic accuracy of +/- 0.05 degree, which meets the requirements of the present antennas.

Implementation of a Novel Low-Cost Low-Profile Ku-Band Antenna Array for Single Beam Steering from Space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Host, Nicholas K.; Chen, Chi-Chih; Volakis, John L.; Miranda, Felix A.

2013-01-01

Phased array antennas afford many advantages over traditional reflector antennas due to their conformality, high aperture efficiency, and unfettered beam steering capability at the price of increased cost and complexity. This paper eliminates the complex and costly array backend via the implementation of a series fed array employing a propagation constant reconfigurable transmission line connecting each element in series. Scanning can then be accomplished through one small (less than or equal to 100mil) linear motion that controls propagation constant. Specifically, each element is fed via a reconfigurable coplanar stripline transmission line with a tapered dielectric insert positioned between the transmission line traces. The dielectric insert is allowed to move up and down to control propagation constant and therefore induce scanning. We present a 20 element patch array design, scanning from -25 deg. less than or equal to theta less than or equal to 21 deg. at 13GHz. Measurements achieve only10.5 deg. less than or equal to theta less than or equal to 22 deg. scanning due to a faulty, yet correctable, manufacturing process. Beam squint is measured to be plus or minus 3 deg. for a 600MHz bandwidth. This prototype was improved to give scanning of 3.5 deg. less than or equal to theta less than or equal to 22 deg. Cross-pol patterns were shown to be -15dB below the main beam. Simulations accounting for fabrication errors match measured patterns, thus validating the designs.

A Waveguide Antenna with an Extended Angular Range for Remote Steering of Wave-Beam Direction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sobolev, D. I.; Denisov, G. G.

2018-03-01

A new method for increasing the angular range of a waveguide antenna for remote steering of the wave-beam direction in thermonuclear-fusion experimental setups with plasma magnetic confinement is proposed. Characteristics for large beam inclination angles can be improved using the synthesized nonuniform waveguide profile. For small angles, the characteristics remain invariable, the waveguide profile differs only slightly from the regular shape, and can be fit to limited waveguide-channel sizes.

Image Processing In Laser-Beam-Steering Subsystem

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lesh, James R.; Ansari, Homayoon; Chen, Chien-Chung; Russell, Donald W.

1996-01-01

Conceptual design of image-processing circuitry developed for proposed tracking apparatus described in "Beam-Steering Subsystem For Laser Communication" (NPO-19069). In proposed system, desired frame rate achieved by "windowed" readout scheme in which only pixels containing and surrounding two spots read out and others skipped without being read. Image data processed rapidly and efficiently to achieve high frequency response.

Single chip lidar with discrete beam steering by digital micromirror device.

PubMed

Smith, Braden; Hellman, Brandon; Gin, Adley; Espinoza, Alonzo; Takashima, Yuzuru

2017-06-26

A novel method of beam steering enables a large field of view and reliable single chip light detection and ranging (lidar) by utilizing a mass-produced digital micromirror device (DMD). Using a short pulsed laser, the micromirrors' rotation is frozen in mid-transition, which forms a programmable blazed grating. The blazed grating efficiently redistributes the light to a single diffraction order, among several. We demonstrated time of flight measurements for five discrete angles using this beam steering method with a nano second 905nm laser and Si avalanche diode. A distance accuracy of < 1 cm over a 1 m distance range, a 48° full field of view, and a measurement rate of 3.34k points/s is demonstrated.

Characteristics of a four element gyromagnetic nonlinear transmission line array high power microwave source.

PubMed

Johnson, J M; Reale, D V; Krile, J T; Garcia, R S; Cravey, W H; Neuber, A A; Dickens, J C; Mankowski, J J

2016-05-01

In this paper, a solid-state four element array gyromagnetic nonlinear transmission line high power microwave system is presented as well as a detailed description of its subsystems and general output capabilities. This frequency agile S-band source is easily adjusted from 2-4 GHz by way of a DC driven biasing magnetic field and is capable of generating electric fields of 7.8 kV/m at 10 m correlating to 4.2 MW of RF power with pulse repetition frequencies up to 1 kHz. Beam steering of the array at angles of ±16.7° is also demonstrated, and the associated general radiation pattern is detailed.

Characteristics of a four element gyromagnetic nonlinear transmission line array high power microwave source

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Johnson, J. M., E-mail: jared.johnson@ttu.edu; Reale, D. V.; Garcia, R. S.

2016-05-15

In this paper, a solid-state four element array gyromagnetic nonlinear transmission line high power microwave system is presented as well as a detailed description of its subsystems and general output capabilities. This frequency agile S-band source is easily adjusted from 2-4 GHz by way of a DC driven biasing magnetic field and is capable of generating electric fields of 7.8 kV/m at 10 m correlating to 4.2 MW of RF power with pulse repetition frequencies up to 1 kHz. Beam steering of the array at angles of ±16.7° is also demonstrated, and the associated general radiation pattern is detailed.

Beam director design report

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Younger, F.C.

1986-08-01

A design and fabrication effort for a beam director is documented. The conceptual design provides for the beam to pass first through a bending and focusing system (or ''achromat''), through a second achromat, through an air-to-vacuum interface (the ''beam window''), and finally through the vernier steering system. Following an initial concept study for a beam director, a prototype permanent magnet 30/sup 0/ beam-bending achromat and prototype vernier steering magnet were designed and built. In volume II, copies are included of the funding instruments, requests for quotations, purchase orders, a complete set of as-built drawings, magnetic measurement reports, the concept designmore » report, and the final report on the design and fabrication project. (LEW)« less

Subwavelength diffractive acoustics and wavefront manipulation with a reflective acoustic metasurface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Wenqi; Xie, Yangbo; Popa, Bogdan-Ioan; Cummer, Steven A.

2016-11-01

Acoustic metasurfaces provide useful wavefront shaping capabilities, such as beam steering, acoustic focusing, and asymmetric transmission, in a compact structure. Most acoustic metasurfaces described in the literature are transmissive devices and focus their performance on steering sound beam of the fundamental diffractive order. In addition, the range of incident angles studied is usually below the critical incidence predicted by generalized Snell's law of reflection. In this work, we comprehensively analyze the wave interaction with a generic periodic phase-modulating structure in order to predict the behavior of all diffractive orders, especially for cases beyond critical incidence. Under the guidance of the presented analysis, a broadband reflective metasurface is designed based on an expanded library of labyrinthine acoustic metamaterials. Various local and nonlocal wavefront shaping properties are experimentally demonstrated, and enhanced absorption of higher order diffractive waves is experimentally shown for the first time. The proposed methodology provides an accurate approach for predicting practical diffracted wave behaviors and opens a new perspective for the study of acoustic periodic structures. The designed metasurface extends the functionalities of acoustic metasurfaces and paves the way for the design of thin planar reflective structures for broadband acoustic wave manipulation and extraordinary absorption.

46 CFR 182.610 - Main steering gear.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 7 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Main steering gear. 182.610 Section 182.610 Shipping...) MACHINERY INSTALLATION Steering Systems § 182.610 Main steering gear. (a) A vessel must be provided with a main steering gear that is: (1) Of adequate strength and capable of steering the vessel at all service...

Infrared Semiconductor Metamaterials

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-09-01

Approved for public release. 13. SUPPLEMENTARY NOTES 14. ABSTRACT The central objective of this program is to create a new class of programmable ...this program is to create a new class of programmable infrared optic that can steer or focus beams and is reconfigurable at electronic time...element of a programmable infrared optic that can steer or focus beams and is reconfigurable at electronic time-scales. B. Major

Control of small phased-array antennas

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Doland, G. D.

1978-01-01

Series of reports, patent descriptions, calculator programs, and other literature describes antenna control and steering apparatus for seven-element phased array. Though series contains information specific to particular system, it illustrates methods that can be applied to antennas with greater or fewer numbers of elements. Included are programs for calculating beam parameters and design functions and information to interfacing digital controller to beam-steering apparatus.

A noble refractive optical scanner with linear response

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mega, Yair J.; Lai, Zhenhua; DiMarzio, Charles A.

2013-03-01

Many applications in various fields of science and engineering use steered optical beam systems. Currently, many methods utilize mirrors in order to steer the beam. However, this approach is an off-axis solution, which normally increases the total size of the system as well as its error and complexity. Other methods use a "Risely Prisms" based solution, which is on-axis solution, however it poses some difficulties from an engineering standpoint, and therefore isn't widely used. We present here a novel technique for steering a beam on its optical axis with a linear deflection response. We derived the formulation for the profile required of the refractive optical component necessary for preforming the beam steering. The functionality of the device was simulated analytically using Matlab, as well as using a ray-tracing software, Zemax, and showed agreement with the analytical model. An optical element was manufactured based on the proposed design and the device was tested. The results show agreement with our hypothesis. We also present some proposed geometries of the several other devices, all based on the same concept, which can be used for higher performance applications such as two-dimensional scanner, video rate scanner etc.

Beam-Forming Concentrating Solar Thermal Array Power Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hoppe, Daniel J. (Inventor); Cwik, Thomas A. (Inventor); Dimotakis, Paul E. (Inventor)

2016-01-01

The present invention relates to concentrating solar-power systems and, more particularly, beam-forming concentrating solar thermal array power systems. A solar thermal array power system is provided, including a plurality of solar concentrators arranged in pods. Each solar concentrator includes a solar collector, one or more beam-forming elements, and one or more beam-steering elements. The solar collector is dimensioned to collect and divert incoming rays of sunlight. The beam-forming elements intercept the diverted rays of sunlight, and are shaped to concentrate the rays of sunlight into a beam. The steering elements are shaped, dimensioned, positioned, and/or oriented to deflect the beam toward a beam output path. The beams from the concentrators are converted to heat at a receiver, and the heat may be temporarily stored or directly used to generate electricity.

The Spaceborne Imaging Radar program: SIR-C - The next step toward EOS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Evans, Diane; Elachi, Charles; Cimino, Jobea

1987-01-01

The NASA Shuttle Imaging Radar SIR-C experiments will investigate earth surface and environment phenomena to deepen understanding of terra firma, biosphere, hydrosphere, cryosphere, and atmosphere components of the earth system, capitalizing on the observational capabilities of orbiting multiparameter radar sensors alone or in combination with other sensors. The SIR-C sensor encompasses an antenna array, an exciter, receivers, a data-handling network, and the ground SAR processor. It will be possible to steer the antenna beam electronically, so that the radar look angle can be varied.

3D high- and super-resolution imaging using single-objective SPIM.

PubMed

Galland, Remi; Grenci, Gianluca; Aravind, Ajay; Viasnoff, Virgile; Studer, Vincent; Sibarita, Jean-Baptiste

2015-07-01

Single-objective selective-plane illumination microscopy (soSPIM) is achieved with micromirrored cavities combined with a laser beam-steering unit installed on a standard inverted microscope. The illumination and detection are done through the same objective. soSPIM can be used with standard sample preparations and features high background rejection and efficient photon collection, allowing for 3D single-molecule-based super-resolution imaging of whole cells or cell aggregates. Using larger mirrors enabled us to broaden the capabilities of our system to image Drosophila embryos.

Beam director design report: Volume 1

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Younger, F.C.

1986-08-01

A design and fabrication effort for a beam director is documented. The conceptual design provides for the beam to pass first through a bending and focusing system (or ''achromat''), through a second achromat, through an air-to-vacuum interface (the ''beam window''), and finally through the vernier steering system. Following an initial concept study for a beam director, a prototype permanent magnet 30/sup 0/ beam-bending achromat and a prototype vernier steering magnet were designed and built. In volume I, the design requirements are stated, the design is summarized and illustrated, and detailed analysis and computations are provided. Also, a summary of materialsmore » used, a description of the manufacturing process, and a summary of project funding are provided. (LEW)« less

The effect of electronically steering a phased array ultrasound transducer on near-field tissue heating.

PubMed

Payne, Allison; Vyas, Urvi; Todd, Nick; de Bever, Joshua; Christensen, Douglas A; Parker, Dennis L

2011-09-01

This study presents the results obtained from both simulation and experimental techniques that show the effect of mechanically or electronically steering a phased array transducer on proximal tissue heating. The thermal response of a nine-position raster and a 16-mm diameter circle scanning trajectory executed through both electronic and mechanical scanning was evaluated in computer simulations and experimentally in a homogeneous tissue-mimicking phantom. Simulations were performed using power deposition maps obtained from the hybrid angular spectrum (HAS) method and applying a finite-difference approximation of the Pennes' bioheat transfer equation for the experimentally used transducer and also for a fully sampled transducer to demonstrate the effect of acoustic window, ultrasound beam overlap and grating lobe clutter on near-field heating. Both simulation and experimental results show that electronically steering the ultrasound beam for the two trajectories using the 256-element phased array significantly increases the thermal dose deposited in the near-field tissues when compared with the same treatment executed through mechanical steering only. In addition, the individual contributions of both beam overlap and grating lobe clutter to the near-field thermal effects were determined through comparing the simulated ultrasound beam patterns and resulting temperature fields from mechanically and electronically steered trajectories using the 256-randomized element phased array transducer to an electronically steered trajectory using a fully sampled transducer with 40 401 phase-adjusted sample points. Three distinctly different three distinctly different transducers were simulated to analyze the tradeoffs of selected transducer design parameters on near-field heating. Careful consideration of design tradeoffs and accurate patient treatment planning combined with thorough monitoring of the near-field tissue temperature will help to ensure patient safety during an MRgHIFU treatment.

Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen paradox and quantum steering in a three-mode optomechanical system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Qiongyi; Ficek, Zbigniew

2014-02-01

We study multipartite entanglement, the generation of Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen (EPR) states, and quantum steering in a three-mode optomechanical system composed of an atomic ensemble located inside a single-mode cavity with a movable mirror. The cavity mode is driven by a short laser pulse, has a nonlinear parametric-type interaction with the mirror and a linear beam-splitter-type interaction with the atomic ensemble. There is no direct interaction of the mirror with the atomic ensemble. A threshold effect for the dynamics of the system is found, above which the system works as an amplifier and below which as an attenuator of the output fields. The threshold is determined by the ratio of the coupling strengths of the cavity mode to the mirror and to the atomic ensemble. It is shown that above the threshold, the system effectively behaves as a two-mode system in which a perfect bipartite EPR state can be generated, while it is impossible below the threshold. Furthermore, a fully inseparable tripartite entanglement and even further a genuine tripartite entanglement can be produced above and below the threshold. In addition, we consider quantum steering and examine the monogamy relations that quantify the amount of bipartite steering that can be shared between different modes. It is found that the mirror is more capable for steering of entanglement than the cavity mode. The two-way steering is found between the mirror and the atomic ensemble despite the fact that they are not directly coupled to each other, while it is impossible between the output of cavity mode and the ensemble which are directly coupled to each other.

High-Capacity Communications from Martian Distances Part 4: Assessment of Spacecraft Pointing Accuracy Capabilities Required For Large Ka-Band Reflector Antennas

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hodges, Richard E.; Sands, O. Scott; Huang, John; Bassily, Samir

2006-01-01

Improved surface accuracy for deployable reflectors has brought with it the possibility of Ka-band reflector antennas with extents on the order of 1000 wavelengths. Such antennas are being considered for high-rate data delivery from planetary distances. To maintain losses at reasonable levels requires a sufficiently capable Attitude Determination and Control System (ADCS) onboard the spacecraft. This paper provides an assessment of currently available ADCS strategies and performance levels. In addition to other issues, specific factors considered include: (1) use of "beaconless" or open loop tracking versus use of a beacon on the Earth side of the link, and (2) selection of fine pointing strategy (body-fixed/spacecraft pointing, reflector pointing or various forms of electronic beam steering). Capabilities of recent spacecraft are discussed.

Double wedge prism based beam deflector for precise laser beam steering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tyszka, Krzysztof; Dobosz, Marek; Bilaszewski, Tomasz

2018-02-01

Aiming to increase laser beam pointing stability required in interferometric measurements, we designed a laser beam deflector intended for active laser beam stabilization systems. The design is based on two wedge-prisms: the deflecting wedge driven by a tilting piezo-platform and the fixed wedge to compensate initial beam deflection. Our design allows linear beam steering, independently in the horizontal or vertical direction, with resolution of less than 1 μrad in a range of more than 100 μrad, and no initial deflection of the beam. Moreover, the ratio of the output beam deflection angle and the wedge tilt angle is less than 0.1; therefore, the noise influence is significantly reduced in comparison to standard mirror-based deflectors. The theoretical analyses support the designing process and can serve as a guide to wedge-prism selection. The experimental results are in agreement with theory and confirm the advantages of the presented double wedge system.

LIONs at the Stanford Linear Accelerator Center

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Constant, T.N.; Zdarko, R.W.; Simmons, R.H.

1998-01-01

The term LION is an acronym for Long Ionization Chamber. This is a distributed ion chamber which is used to monitor secondary ionization along the shield walls of a beam line resulting from incorrectly steered charged particle beams in lieu of the use of many discrete ion chambers. A cone of ionizing radiation emanating from a point source as a result of incorrect steering intercepts a portion of 1-5/8 inch Heliax cable (about 100 meters in length) filled with Argon gas at 20 psi and induces a pulsed current which is proportional to the ionizing charge. This signal is transmittedmore » via the cable to an integrator circuit whose output is directed to an electronic comparators, which in turn is used to turn off the accelerated primary beam when preset limits are exceeded. This device is used in the Stanford Linear Accelerator Center (SLAC) Beam Containment System (BCS) to prevent potentially hazardous ionizing radiation resulting from incorrectly steered beams in areas that might be occupied by people. This paper describes the design parameters and experience in use in the Final Focus Test Beam (FFTB) area of the Stanford Linear Accelerator Center.« less

Non-mechanical beam control for entry, descent and landing laser radar (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stockley, Jay E.; Kluttz, Kelly; Hosting, Lance; Serati, Steve; Bradley, Cullen P.; McManamon, Paul F.; Amzajerdian, Farzin

2017-05-01

Laser radar for entry, descent, and landing (EDL) applications as well as the space docking problem could benefit from a low size, weight, and power (SWaP) beam control system. Moreover, an inertia free approach employing non-mechanical beam control is also attractive for laser radar that is intended to be employed aboard space platforms. We are investigating a non-mechanical beam steering (NMBS) sub-system based on liquid crystal polarization grating (LCPG) technology with emphasis placed on improved throughput and significant weight reduction by combining components and drastically reducing substrate thicknesses. In addition to the advantages of non-mechanical, gimbal free beam control, and greatly improved SWaP, our approach also enables wide area scanning using a scalable architecture. An extraterrestrial application entails additional environmental constraints, consequently an environmental test plan tailored to an EDL mission will also be discussed. In addition, we will present advances in continuous fine steering technology which would complement the coarse steering LCPG technology. A low-SWaP, non-mechanical beam control system could be used in many laser radar remote sensing applications including meteorological studies and agricultural or environmental surveys in addition to the entry, descent, and landing application.

Study of a high-resolution, 3D positioning cadmium zinc telluride detector for PET.

PubMed

Gu, Y; Matteson, J L; Skelton, R T; Deal, A C; Stephan, E A; Duttweiler, F; Gasaway, T M; Levin, C S

2011-03-21

This paper investigates the performance of 1 mm resolution cadmium zinc telluride (CZT) detectors for positron emission tomography (PET) capable of positioning the 3D coordinates of individual 511 keV photon interactions. The detectors comprise 40 mm × 40 mm × 5 mm monolithic CZT crystals that employ a novel cross-strip readout with interspersed steering electrodes to obtain high spatial and energy resolution. The study found a single anode FWHM energy resolution of 3.06 ± 0.39% at 511 keV throughout most of the detector volume. Improved resolution is expected with properly shielded front-end electronics. Measurements made using a collimated beam established the efficacy of the steering electrodes in facilitating enhanced charge collection across anodes, as well as a spatial resolution of 0.44 ± 0.07 mm in the direction orthogonal to the electrode planes. Finally, measurements based on coincidence electronic collimation yielded a point spread function with 0.78 ± 0.10 mm FWHM, demonstrating 1 mm spatial resolution capability transverse to the anodes-as expected from the 1 mm anode pitch. These findings indicate that the CZT-based detector concept has excellent performance and shows great promise for a high-resolution PET system.

Reconfigurable dual-band metamaterial antenna based on liquid crystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Che, Bang-Jun; Meng, Fan-Yi; Lyu, Yue-Long; Wu, Qun

2018-05-01

In this paper, a novel reconfigurable dual-band metamaterial antenna with a continuous beam that is electrically steered in backward to forward directions is first proposed by employing a liquid crystal (LC)-loaded tunable extended composite right-/left-handed (E-CRLH) transmission line (TL). The frequency-dependent property of the E-CRLH TL is analyzed and a compact unit cell based on the nematic LC is proposed to realize the tunable dual band characteristics. The phase constant of the proposed unit cell can be dynamically continuously tuned from negative to positive values in two operating bands by changing the bias voltage of the loaded LC material. A resulting dual band fixed-frequency beam steering property has been predicted by numerical simulations and experimentally verified. The measured results show that the fabricated reconfigurable antenna features an electrically controlled continuous beam steering from backward  ‑16° to forward  +13° at 7.2 GHz and backward  ‑9° to forward  +17° at 9.4 GHz, respectively. This electrically controlled beam steering range turns out to be competitive with the previously reported single band reconfigurable antennas. Besides, the measured and simulated results of the proposed reconfigurable dual-band metamaterial antenna are in good agreement.

Method and system for controlling the position of a beam of light

DOEpatents

Steinkraus, Jr., Robert F.; Johnson, Gary W [Livermore, CA; Ruggiero, Anthony J [Livermore, CA

2011-08-09

An method and system for laser beam tracking and pointing is based on a conventional position sensing detector (PSD) or quadrant cell but with the use of amplitude-modulated light. A combination of logarithmic automatic gain control, filtering, and synchronous detection offers high angular precision with exceptional dynamic range and sensitivity, while maintaining wide bandwidth. Use of modulated light enables the tracking of multiple beams simultaneously through the use of different modulation frequencies. It also makes the system resistant to interfering light sources such as ambient light. Beam pointing is accomplished by feeding back errors in the measured beam position to a beam steering element, such as a steering mirror. Closed-loop tracking performance is superior to existing methods, especially under conditions of atmospheric scintillation.

Improvements to the FATOLA computer program including nosewheel steering: Supplemental instruction manual

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carden, H. D.; Mcgehee, J. R.

1978-01-01

Modifications to a multidegree of freedom flexible aircraft take-off and landing analysis (FATOLA) computer program, which improved its simulation capabilities, are discussed, and supplemental instructions for use of the program are included. Sample analytical results which illustrate the capabilities of an added nosewheel steering option indicate consistent behavior of the airplane tracking, attitude, motions, and loads for the landing cases and steering situations which were investigated.

Wavefront modulation and subwavelength diffractive acoustics with an acoustic metasurface.

PubMed

Xie, Yangbo; Wang, Wenqi; Chen, Huanyang; Konneker, Adam; Popa, Bogdan-Ioan; Cummer, Steven A

2014-11-24

Metasurfaces are a family of novel wavefront-shaping devices with planar profile and subwavelength thickness. Acoustic metasurfaces with ultralow profile yet extraordinary wave manipulating properties would be highly desirable for improving the performance of many acoustic wave-based applications. However, designing acoustic metasurfaces with similar functionality to their electromagnetic counterparts remains challenging with traditional metamaterial design approaches. Here we present a design and realization of an acoustic metasurface based on tapered labyrinthine metamaterials. The demonstrated metasurface can not only steer an acoustic beam as expected from the generalized Snell's law, but also exhibits various unique properties such as conversion from propagating wave to surface mode, extraordinary beam-steering and apparent negative refraction through higher-order diffraction. Such designer acoustic metasurfaces provide a new design methodology for acoustic signal modulation devices and may be useful for applications such as acoustic imaging, beam steering, ultrasound lens design and acoustic surface wave-based applications.

Experimental validation of a transformation optics based lens for beam steering

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yi, Jianjia; Burokur, Shah Nawaz, E-mail: shah-nawaz.burokur@u-psud.fr; Lustrac, André de

2015-10-12

A transformation optics based lens for beam control is experimentally realized and measured at microwave frequencies. Laplace's equation is adopted to construct the mapping between the virtual and physical spaces. The metamaterial-based lens prototype is designed using electric LC resonators. A planar microstrip antenna source is used as transverse electric polarized wave launcher for the lens. Both the far field radiation patterns and the near-field distributions have been measured to experimentally demonstrate the beam steering properties. Measurements agree quantitatively and qualitatively with numerical simulations, and a non-narrow frequency bandwidth operation is observed.

Amplitude steered array

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dietrich, F. J.; Koloboff, G. J.; Martel, R. J.; Johnson, C. C. (Inventor)

1974-01-01

A spin stabilized satellite has an electronically despun antenna array comprising a multiplicity of peripheral antenna elements. A high gain energy beam is established by connecting a suitable fraction or array of the elements in phase. The beam is steered or caused to scan by switching elements in sequence into one end of the array as elements at the other end of the array are switched out. The switching transients normally associated with such steering are avoided by an amplitude control system. Instead of abruptly switching from one element to the next, a fixed value of power is gradually transferred from the element at the trailing edge of the array to the element next to the leading edge.

Microstrip Yagi array for MSAT vehicle antenna application

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Huang, John; Densmore, Arthur; Pozar, David

1990-01-01

A microstrip Yagi array was developed for the MSAT system as a low-cost mechanically steered medium-gain vehicle antenna. Because its parasitic reflector and director patches are not connected to any of the RF power distributing circuit, while still contributing to achieve the MSAT required directional beam, the antenna becomes a very efficient radiating system. With the complete monopulse beamforming circuit etched on a thin stripline board, the planar microstrip Yagi array is capable of achieving a very low profile. A theoretical model using the Method of Moments was developed to facilitate the ease of design and understanding of this antenna.

Ultrasound beam steering of oxygen nanobubbles for enhanced bladder cancer therapy.

PubMed

Bhandari, Pushpak; Novikova, Gloriia; Goergen, Craig J; Irudayaraj, Joseph

2018-02-15

New intravesical treatment approaches for bladder cancer are needed as currently approved treatments show several side effects and high tumor recurrence rate. Our study used MB49 murine urothelial carcinoma model to evaluate oxygen encapsulated cellulosic nanobubbles as a novel agent for imaging and ultrasound guided drug delivery. In this study, we show that oxygen nanobubbles (ONB) can be propelled (up to 40 mm/s) and precisely guided in vivo to the tumor by an ultrasound beam. Nanobubble velocity can be controlled by altering the power of the ultrasound Doppler beam, while nanobubble direction can be adjusted to different desired angles by altering the angle of the beam. Precise ultrasound beam steering of oxygen nanobubbles was shown to enhance the efficacy of mitomycin-C, resulting in significantly lower tumor progression rates while using a 50% lower concentration of chemotherapeutic drug. Further, dark field imaging was utilized to visualize and quantify the ONB ex vivo. ONBs were found to localize up to 500 µm inside the tumor using beam steering. These results demonstrate the potential of an oxygen nanobubble drug encapsulated system to become a promising strategy for targeted drug delivery because of its multimodal (imaging and oxygen delivery) and multifunctional (targeting and hypoxia programming) properties.

Wideband plasmonic beam steering in metal gratings.

PubMed

de Ceglia, Domenico; Vincenti, Maria Antonietta; Scalora, Michael

2012-01-15

We demonstrate controllable light deflection in thick metal gratings with periodic subwavelength slits filled with an active material. Under specific illumination conditions, the grating becomes nearly transparent and acts as a uniform optical phased-array antenna where the phase of the radiating elements is controlled by modifying the index of refraction of the material that fills each slit. The beam-steering operational regime occurs in a wide wavelength band, and it is relatively insensitive to the input angle.

2D Traveling Wave Array Employing a Trapezoidal Dielectric Wedge for Beam Steering

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Host, Nicholas K.; Chen, Chi-Chih; Volakis, John L.; Miranada, Felix A.

2014-01-01

This presentation addresses the progress made so far in the development of an antenna array with reconfigurable transmission line feeds connecting each element in series. In particular, 2D traveling wave array employing trapezoidal Dielectric Wedge for Beam Steering will be discussed. The presentation includes current status of the effort and suggested future work. The work is being done as part of the NASA Office of the Chief Technologist's Space Technology Research Fellowship (NSTRF).

Theory of using magnetic deflections to combine charged particle beams

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Steckbeck, Mackenzie K.; Doyle, Barney Lee

2014-09-01

Several radiation effects projects in the Ion Beam Lab (IBL) have recently required two disparate charged particle beams to simultaneously strike a single sample through a single port of the target chamber. Because these beams have vastly different mass–energy products (MEP), the low-MEP beam requires a large angle of deflection toward the sample by a bending electromagnet. A second electromagnet located further upstream provides a means to compensate for the small angle deflection experienced by the high-MEP beam during its path through the bending magnet. This paper derives the equations used to select the magnetic fields required by these twomore » magnets to achieve uniting both beams at the target sample. A simple result was obtained when the separation of the two magnets was equivalent to the distance from the bending magnet to the sample, and the equation is given by: B s= 1/2(r c/r s) B c, where B s and B c are the magnetic fields in the steering and bending magnet and r c/r s is the ratio of the radii of the bending magnet to that of the steering magnet. This result is not dependent upon the parameters of the high MEP beam, i.e. energy, mass, charge state. Therefore, once the field of the bending magnet is set for the low-MEP beam, and the field in the steering magnet is set as indicted in the equation, the trajectory path of any high-MEP beam will be directed into the sample.« less

Radio-over-optical waveguide system-on-wafer for massive delivery capacity 5G MIMO access networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Binh, Le N.

2017-01-01

Delivering maximum information capacity over MIMO antennae systems beam steering is critical so as to achieve the flexibility via beam steering, maximizing the number of users or community of users in Gb/s rate per user over distributed cloud-based optical-wireless access networks. This paper gives an overview of (i) demands of optical - wireless delivery with high flexibility, especially the beam steering of multi-Tbps information channels to information hungry community of users via virtualized beam steering MIMO antenna systems at the free-license mmW region; (ii) Proposing a novel photonic planar integrated waveguide systems composing several passive and active, passive and amplification photonic devices so as to generate mmW carrier and embedded baseband information channels to feed to antenna elements; (iii) Integration techniques to generate a radio over optical waveguide (RoOW) system-on-wafer (SoW) comprising MIMO planar antenna elements and associate photonic integrated circuits for both up- and down- links; (iv) Challenges encountered in the implementation of the SoW in both wireless and photonic domains; (v) Photonic modulation techniques to achieve maximum transmission capacity per wavelength per MIMO antenna system. (vi) A view on control-feedback systems for fast and accurate generation of phase pattern for MIMO beam steering via a bank of optical phase modulators to mmW carrier phases and their preservation in the converted mmW domain . (vi) The overall operational principles of the novel techniques and technologies based on the coherent mixing of two lightwave channels The entire SoW can be implemented on SOI Si-photonic technology or via hybrid integration. These technological developments and their pros- and cons- will be discussed to achieve 50Tera-bps over the extended 110 channel Cband single mode fiber with mmW centered at 58.6GHz and 7GHz free-license band.

Beam control in the ETA-II linear induction accelerator

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chen, Yu-Jiuan

1992-08-21

Corkscrew beam motion is caused by chromatic aberration and misalignment of a focusing system. We have taken some measures to control the corkscrew motion on the ETA-11 induction accelerator. To minimize chromatic aberration, we have developed an energy compensation scheme which reduces energy sweep and differential phase advance within a beam pulse. To minimize the misalignment errors, we have developed a time-independent steering algorithm which minimizes the observed corkscrew amplitude averaged over the beam pulse. The steering algorithm can be used even if the monitor spacing is much greater than the system`s cyclotron wavelength and the corkscrew motion caused bymore » a given misaligned magnet is fully developed, i.e., the relative phase advance is greater than 27{pi}.« less

Beam control in the ETA-II linear induction accelerator

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chen, Yu-Jiuan.

1992-08-21

Corkscrew beam motion is caused by chromatic aberration and misalignment of a focusing system. We have taken some measures to control the corkscrew motion on the ETA-11 induction accelerator. To minimize chromatic aberration, we have developed an energy compensation scheme which reduces energy sweep and differential phase advance within a beam pulse. To minimize the misalignment errors, we have developed a time-independent steering algorithm which minimizes the observed corkscrew amplitude averaged over the beam pulse. The steering algorithm can be used even if the monitor spacing is much greater than the system's cyclotron wavelength and the corkscrew motion caused bymore » a given misaligned magnet is fully developed, i.e., the relative phase advance is greater than 27[pi].« less

Practical UAV Optical Sensor Bench with Minimal Adjustability

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pilgrim, Jeffrey; Gonzales, Paula

2013-01-01

A multiple-pass optical platform eliminates essentially all optical alignment degrees of freedom, save one. A four-pass absorption spectrometer architecture is made rigid by firmly mounting dielectric-coated mirror prisms with no alignment capability to the platform. The laser diode beam is collimated by a small, custom-developed lens, which has only a rotational degree of freedom along the standard optical "z" axis. This degree is itself eliminated by adhesive after laser collimation. Only one degree of freedom is preserved by allowing the laser diode chip and mount subassembly to move relative to the collimating lens by using over-sized mounting holes. This allows full 360 deg motion of a few millimeters relative to the lens, which, due to the high numerical aperture of the lens, provides wide directional steering of the collimated laser beam.

Meta-tips for lab-on-fiber optrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Principe, M.; Consales, M.; Micco, A.; Crescitelli, A.; Castaldi, G.; Esposito, E.; La Ferrara, V.; Cutolo, A.; Galdi, V.; Cusano, A.

2016-05-01

We realize the first optical-fiber "meta-tip" that integrates a metasurface on the tip of an optical fiber. In our proposed configuration a Babinet-inverted plasmonic metasurface is fabricated by patterning (via focused-ion-beam) an array of rectangular aperture nanoantennas in a thin gold film. Via spatial modulation of the nanoantennas size, we properly tune their resonances so as to impress abrupt arbitrary phase variations in the transmitted field wavefront. As a proof-of-principle, we fabricate and characterize several prototypes implementing in the near-infrared the beam-steering with various angles. We also explore the limit case where surface waves are excited, and its capability to work as refractive index sensors. Notably, its sensitivity overwhelms that of the corresponding gradient-free plasmonic array, thus paving the way to the use of metasurfaces for label-free chemical and biological sensing. Our experimental results, in fairly good agreement with numerical predictions, demonstrate the practical feasibility of the meta-tip concept, and set the stage for the integration of metasurfaces, and their exceptional capabilities to manipulate light, in fiber-optics technological platforms, within the emerging "lab-on-fiber" paradigm.

Study of a high-resolution, 3-D positioning cadmium zinc telluride detector for PET

PubMed Central

Gu, Y; Matteson, J L; Skelton, R T; Deal, A C; Stephan, E A; Duttweiler, F; Gasaway, T M; Levin, C S

2011-01-01

This paper investigates the performance of 1 mm resolution Cadmium Zinc Telluride (CZT) detectors for positron emission tomography (PET) capable of positioning the 3-D coordinates of individual 511 keV photon interactions. The detectors comprise 40 mm × 40 mm × 5 mm monolithic CZT crystals that employ a novel cross-strip readout with interspersed steering electrodes to obtain high spatial and energy resolution. The study found a single anode FWHM energy resolution of 3.06±0.39% at 511 keV throughout most the detector volume. Improved resolution is expected with properly shielded front-end electronics. Measurements made using a collimated beam established the efficacy of the steering electrodes in facilitating enhanced charge collection across anodes, as well as a spatial resolution of 0.44±0.07 mm in the direction orthogonal to the electrode planes. Finally, measurements based on coincidence electronic collimation yielded a point spread function with 0.78±0.10 mm FWHM, demonstrating 1 mm spatial resolution capability transverse to the anodes – as expected from the 1 mm anode pitch. These findings indicate that the CZT-based detector concept has excellent performance and shows great promise for a high-resolution PET system. PMID:21335649

Steering and collimating ballistic electrons with amphoteric refraction

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Radu, A.; Dragoman, D.; Iftimie, S.

2012-07-15

We show that amphoteric refraction of ballistic electrons, i.e., positive or negative refraction depending on the incidence angle, occurs at an interface between an isotropic and an anisotropic medium and can be employed to steer and collimate electron beams. The steering angle is determined by the materials' parameters, but the degree of collimation can be tuned in a significant range by changing the energy of ballistic electrons.

Utah State University's T2 ODV mobility analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Davidson, Morgan E.; Bahl, Vikas; Wood, Carl G.

2000-07-01

In response to ultra-high maneuverability vehicle requirements, Utah State University (USU) has developed an autonomous vehicle with unique mobility and maneuverability capabilities. This paper describes a study of the mobility of the USU T2 Omni-Directional Vehicle (ODV). The T2 vehicle is a mid-scale (625 kg), second-generation ODV mobile robot with six independently driven and steered wheel assemblies. The six wheel, independent steering system is capable of unlimited steering rotation, presenting a unique solution to enhanced vehicle mobility requirements. This mobility study focuses on energy consumption in three basic experiments, comparing two modes of steering: Ackerman and ODV. The experiments are all performed on the same vehicle without any physical changes to the vehicle itself, providing a direct comparison these two steering methodologies. A computer simulation of the T2 mechanical and control system dynamics is described.

Radial microstrip slotline feed network for circular mobile communications array

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Simons, Rainee N.; Kelly, Eron S.; Lee, Richard Q.; Taub, Susan R.

1994-01-01

In mobile and satellite communications there is a need for low cost and low profile antennas which have a toroidal pattern. Antennas that have been developed for mobile communications include a L-Band electronically steered stripline phased array, a Ka-Band mechanically steered elliptical reflector antenna and a Ka-Band printed dipole. In addition, a L-Band mechanically steered microstrip array, a L-Band microstrip phased array tracking antenna for mounting on a car roof and an X-Band radial line slotted waveguide antenna have been demonstrated. In the above electronically scanned printed arrays, the individual element radiates normally to the plane of the array and hence require a phase shifter to scan the beam towards the horizon. Scanning in the azimuth is by mechanical or electronic steering. An alternate approach is to mount microstrip patch radiators on the surface of a cone to achieve the required elevation angle. The array then scans in the azimuth by beam switching.

Report for simultaneous, multiple independently steered beam study for Airborne Electronically Steerable Phased Array (AESPA) program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1978-01-01

Design concepts of an array for the formation of multiple, simultaneous, independently pointed beams for satellite communication links were investigated through tradeoffs of various approaches which were conceived as possible solutions to the problem. After the preferred approach was selected, a more detailed design was configured and is presented as a candidate system that should be given further consideration for development leading to a preliminary design. This array uses an attenuator and a phase shifter with every element. The aperture excitation necessary to form the four beams is calculated and then placed across the array using these devices. Pattern analysis was performed for two beam and four beam cases with numerous patterns being presented. Parameter evaluation shown includes pointing accuracy and beam shape, sidelobe characteristics, gain control, and beam normalization. It was demonstrated that a 4 bit phase shifter and a 6 bit, 30 dB attenuator were sufficient to achieve adequate pattern performances. The phase amplitude steered multibeam array offers the flexibility of 1 to 4 beams with an increase in gain of 6 dB if only one beam is selected.

Characterization of depolarizing fringing fields of a liquid crystal spatial light modulator for laser beam steering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haellstig, Emil J.; Martin, Torleif; Stigwall, Johan; Sjoqvist, Lars; Lindgren, Mikael

2004-02-01

A commercial linear one-dimensional, 1x4096 pixels, zero-twist nematic liquid crystal spatial light modulator (SLM), giving more than 2π phase modulation at λ = 850 nm, was evaluated for beam steering applications. The large ratio (7:1) between the liquid crystal layer thickness and pixel width gives rise to voltage leakage and fringing fields between pixels. Due to the fringing fields the ideal calculated phase patterns cannot be perfectly realized by the device. Losses in high frequency components in the phase patterns were found to limit the maximum deflection angle. The inhomogeneous optical anisotropy of the SLM was determined by modelling of the liquid crystal director distribution within the electrode-pixel structure. The effects of the fringing fields on the amplitude and phase modulation were studied by full vector finite-difference time-domain simulations. It was found that the fringing fields also resulted in coupling into an unwanted polarization mode. Measurements of how this mode coupling affects the beam steering quality were carried out and the results compared with calculated results. A method to compensate for the fringing field effects is discussed and it is shown how the usable steering range of the SLM can be extended to +/- 2 degrees.

Kirigami Nanocomposites as Wide-Angle Diffraction Gratings.

PubMed

Xu, Lizhi; Wang, Xinzhi; Kim, Yoonseob; Shyu, Terry C; Lyu, Jing; Kotov, Nicholas A

2016-06-28

Beam steering devices represent an essential part of an advanced optics toolbox and are needed in a spectrum of technologies ranging from astronomy and agriculture to biosensing and networked vehicles. Diffraction gratings with strain-tunable periodicity simplify beam steering and can serve as a foundation for light/laser radar (LIDAR/LADAR) components of robotic systems. However, the mechanical properties of traditional materials severely limit the beam steering angle and cycle life. The large strain applied to gratings can severely impair the device performance both in respect of longevity and diffraction pattern fidelity. Here, we show that this problem can be resolved using micromanufactured kirigami patterns from thin film nanocomposites based on high-performance stiff plastics, metals, and carbon nanotubes, etc. The kirigami pattern of microscale slits reduces the stochastic concentration of strain in stiff nanocomposites including those made by layer-by-layer assembly (LBL). The slit patterning affords reduction of strain by 2 orders of magnitude for stretching deformation and consequently enables reconfigurable optical gratings with over a 100% range of period tunability. Elasticity of the stiff nanocomposites and plastics makes possible cyclic reconfigurability of the grating with variable time constant that can also be referred to as 4D kirigami. High-contrast, sophisticated diffraction patterns with as high as fifth diffraction order can be obtained. The angular range of beam steering can be as large as 6.5° for a 635 nm laser beam compared to ∼1° in surface-grooved elastomer gratings and ∼0.02° in MEMS gratings. The versatility of the kirigami patterns, the diversity of the available nanocomposite materials, and their advantageous mechanical properties of the foundational materials open the path for engineering of reconfigurable optical elements in LIDARs essential for autonomous vehicles and other optical devices with spectral range determined by the kirigami periodicity.

Two-dimensional wavelength routing for transparent optical wireless networking

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shi, Haiyan; Liang, Kefei; Sheard, Stephen J.; O'Brien, Dominic C.; Faulkner, Grahame E.

2005-08-01

In this article a novel system architecture that uses a combination of wavelength and spatial diversity for indoor infrared wireless communications is presented. This configuration promises to fully exploit the available bandwidth of optics and demonstrate all-optical networking. Electronic processing is restricted to mobile terminals, with base stations potentially remaining passive, without any conversion between optics and electronics. For the downlink, multiple transmitter beams with different wavelengths are steered from the fiber infrastructure through the base station to mobile terminals located in different positions. An optimum combination of diffractive optics and reflective optics (a diffraction grating and an array of mirrors) can flexibly steer each transmitter beam and enable full control over the required coverage pattern. For the uplink, in the transmitter, another grating and an array of mirrors can direct multiple beams upward from different mobile users toward the base station. System simulation shows that the downlink has the potential to approach 10 Gbit/s, while maintaining wide-area coverage (such as in a room of 3m×4m×4m) with the help of fine optical tracking. System modeling indicates that the uplink is more susceptible to power losses than the downlink, but the utilization of dynamic beam steering in the uplink can suppress power losses to a tolerable level (e.g. below 30dB). An array of 16 mirrors has been designed to implement point-to-point beam steering in a room of 3m×1m×1m. Two-dimensional coverage patterns measured at a distance of 0.5 m and 1.5 m coincide with simulation results. Operation at 1 Gbit/s has been demonstrated successfully for tracking in two dimensions.

Automated laser guidance of neuronal growth cones using a spatial light modulator.

PubMed

Carnegie, David J; Cizmár, Tomás; Baumgartl, Jörg; Gunn-Moore, Frank J; Dholakia, Kishan

2009-11-01

The growth cone of a developing neuron can be guided using a focused infra-red (IR) laser beam [1]. In previous setups this process has required a significant amount of user intervention to adjust continuously the laser beam to guide the growing neuron. Previously, a system using an acousto-optical deflector (AOD) has been developed to steer the beam [2]. However, to enhance the controllability of this system, here we demonstrate the use of a computer controlled spatial light modulator (SLM) to steer and manipulate the shape of a laser beam for use in guided neuronal growth. This new experimental setup paves the way to enable a comprehensive investigation into beam shaping effects on neuronal growth and we show neuronal growth initiated by a Bessel light mode. This is a robust platform to explore the biochemistry of this novel phenomenon. (c) 2009 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim

1-D ELECTRO-OPTIC BEAM STEERING DEVICE

PubMed Central

Wang, Wei-Chih; Tsui, Chi Leung

2011-01-01

In this paper, we present the design and fabrication of a 1D beam steering device based on planar electro-optic thermal-plastic prisms and a collimator lens array. With the elimination of moving parts, the proposed device is able to overcome the mechanical limitations of present scanning devices, such as fatigue and low operating frequency, while maintaining a small system footprint (~0.5mm×0.5mm). From experimental data, our prototype device is able to achieve a maximum deflection angle of 5.6° for a single stage prism design and 29.2° for a cascaded three prisms stage design. The lens array shows a 4µm collimated beam diameter. PMID:22199458

Plasmonic phased array feeder enabling ultra-fast beam steering at millimeter waves.

PubMed

Bonjour, R; Burla, M; Abrecht, F C; Welschen, S; Hoessbacher, C; Heni, W; Gebrewold, S A; Baeuerle, B; Josten, A; Salamin, Y; Haffner, C; Johnston, P V; Elder, D L; Leuchtmann, P; Hillerkuss, D; Fedoryshyn, Y; Dalton, L R; Hafner, C; Leuthold, J

2016-10-31

In this paper, we demonstrate an integrated microwave phoneeded for beamtonics phased array antenna feeder at 60 GHz with a record-low footprint. Our design is based on ultra-compact plasmonic phase modulators (active area <2.5µm²) that not only provide small size but also ultra-fast tuning speed. In our design, the integrated circuit footprint is in fact only limited by the contact pads of the electrodes and by the optical feeding waveguides. Using the high speed of the plasmonic modulators, we demonstrate beam steering with less than 1 ns reconfiguration time, i.e. the beam direction is reconfigured in-between 1 GBd transmitted symbols.

MEMS tracking mirror system for a bidirectional free-space optical link.

PubMed

Jeon, Sungho; Toshiyoshi, Hiroshi

2017-08-20

We report on a bidirectional free-space optical system that is capable of automatic connection and tracking of an optical link between two nodes. A piezoelectric micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) optical scanner is used to steer a laser beam of two wavelengths superposed to visually present a communication zone, to search for the position of the remote node by means of the retro-reflector optics, and to transmit the data between the nodes. A feedback system is developed to control the MEMS scanner to dynamically establish the optical link within a 10-ms transition time and to keep track of the moving node.

Optical fiber meta-tips

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Principe, Maria; Micco, Alberto; Crescitelli, Alessio; Castaldi, Giuseppe; Consales, Marco; Esposito, Emanuela; La Ferrara, Vera; Galdi, Vincenzo; Cusano, Andrea

2016-04-01

We report on the first example of a "meta-tip" configuration that integrates a metasurface on the tip of an optical fiber. Our proposed design is based on an inverted-Babinet plasmonic metasurface obtained by patterning (via focused ion beam) a thin gold film deposited on the tip of an optical fiber, so as to realize an array of rectangular aperture nanoantennas with spatially modulated sizes. By properly tuning the resonances of the aperture nanoantennas, abrupt variations can be impressed in the field wavefront and polarization. We fabricated and characterized several proof-of-principle prototypes operating an near-infrared wavelengths, and implementing the beam-steering (with various angles) of the cross-polarized component, as well as the excitation of surface waves. Our results pave the way to the integration of the exceptional field-manipulation capabilities enabled by metasurfaces with the versatility and ubiquity of fiber-optics technological platforms.

Enhanced betatron radiation by steering a laser-driven plasma wakefield with a tilted shock front

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Changhai; Liu, Jiansheng; Wang, Wentao; Li, Wentao; Qi, Rong; Zhang, Zhijun; Qin, Zhiyong; Liu, Jiaqi; Fang, Ming; Feng, Ke; Wu, Ying; Ke, Lintong; Chen, Yu; Wang, Cheng; Xu, Yi; Leng, Yuxin; Xia, Changquan; Li, Ruxin; Xu, Zhizhan

2018-03-01

We have experimentally realized a scheme to enhance betatron radiation by manipulating transverse oscillation of electrons in a laser-driven plasma wakefield with a tilted shock front (TSF). Very brilliant betatron x-rays have been produced with significant enhancement both in photon yield and peak energy but almost maintain the e-beam energy spread and charge. Particle-in-cell simulations indicate that the accelerated electron beam (e beam) can acquire a very large transverse oscillation amplitude with an increase in more than 10-fold, after being steered into the deflected wakefield due to the refraction of the driving laser at the TSF. Spectral broadening of betatron radiation can be suppressed owing to the small variation in the peak energy of the low-energy-spread e beam in a plasma wiggler regime. It is demonstrated that the e-beam generation, refracting, and wiggling can act as a whole to realize the concurrence of monoenergetic e beams and bright x-rays in a compact laser-wakefield accelerator.

Method for removing tilt control in adaptive optics systems

DOEpatents

Salmon, Joseph Thaddeus

1998-01-01

A new adaptive optics system and method of operation, whereby the method removes tilt control, and includes the steps of using a steering mirror to steer a wavefront in the desired direction, for aiming an impinging aberrated light beam in the direction of a deformable mirror. The deformable mirror has its surface deformed selectively by means of a plurality of actuators, and compensates, at least partially, for existing aberrations in the light beam. The light beam is split into an output beam and a sample beam, and the sample beam is sampled using a wavefront sensor. The sampled signals are converted into corresponding electrical signals for driving a controller, which, in turn, drives the deformable mirror in a feedback loop in response to the sampled signals, for compensating for aberrations in the wavefront. To this purpose, a displacement error (gradient) of the wavefront is measured, and adjusted by a modified gain matrix, which satisfies the following equation: G'=(I-X(X.sup.T X).sup.-1 X.sup.T)G(I-A)

A new medium energy beam transport line for the proton injector of AGS-RHIC

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Okamura, M.; Briscoe, B.; Fite, J.

2010-09-12

In Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL), a 750 keV medium energy beam transport line between the 201 MHz 750 keV proton RFQ and the 200 MeV Alvarez DTL is being modified to get a better transmission of the beam. Within a tight space, high field gradient quadrupoles (65 Tm) and newly designed steering magnets (6.5 mm in length) will be installed considering the cross-talk effects. Also a new half wave length 200 MHz buncher is being prepared. The beam commissioning will be done in this year. To enhance the performance of the proton linacs, the MEBT is being modified. New quadrupolemore » magnets, steering magnets and a half wave length buncher as shown in Figure 7 will be installed and be commissioned soon.« less

SU-E-T-361: Energy Dependent Radiation/light-Field Misalignment On Truebeam Linear Accelerator

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sperling, N; Tanny, S; Parsai, E

2015-06-15

Purpose: Verifying the co-incidence of the radiation and light field is recommended by TG-142 for monthly and annual checks. On a digital accelerator, it is simple to verify that beam steering settings are consistent with accepted and commissioned values. This fact should allow for physicists to verify radiation-light-field co-incidence for a single energy and accept that Result for all energies. We present a case where the radiation isocenter deviated for a single energy without any apparent modification to the beam steering parameters. Methods: The radiation isocenter was determined using multiple Methods: Gafchromic film, a BB test, and radiation profiles measuredmore » with a diode. Light-field borders were marked on Gafchromic film and then irradiated for all photon energies. Images of acceptance films were compared with films taken four months later. A phantom with a radio-opaque BB was aligned to isocenter using the light-field and imaged using the EPID for all photon energies. An unshielded diode was aligned using the crosshairs and then beam profiles of multiple field sizes were obtained. Field centers were determined using Omni-Pro v7.4 software, and compared to similar scans taken during commissioning. Beam steering parameter files were checked against backups to determine that the steering parameters were unchanged. Results: There were no differences between the configuration files from acceptance. All three tests demonstrated that a single energy had deviated from accepted values by 0.8 mm in the inline direction. The other two energies remained consistent with previous measurements. The deviated energy was re-steered to be within our clinical tolerance. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that radiation-light-field coincidence is an energy dependent effect for modern linacs. We recommend that radiation-light-field coincidence be verified for all energies on a monthly basis, particularly for modes used to treat small fields, as these may drift without influencing results from other tests.« less

Digital Beam Steering Device Based on Decoupled Birefringent Prism Deflector and Polarization Rotator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pishnyak, Oleg; Kreminska, Lyubov; Laventovich, Oleg D.; Pouch, John J.; Miranda, Felix A.; Winker, Bruce K.

2004-01-01

We describe digital beam deflectors (DBDs) based on liquid crystals. Each stage of the device comprises a polarization rotator and a birefringent prism deflector. The birefringent prism deflects the beam by an angle that depends on polarization of the incident beam. The prism can be made of the uniaxial smectic A (SmA) liquid crystal (LC) or a solid crystal such as yttrium orthovanadate (YVO4). SmA prisms have high birefringence and can be constructed in a variety of shapes, including single prisms and prismatic blazed gratings of different angles and profiles. We address the challenges of uniform alignment of SmA, such as elimination of focal conic domains. Rotation of linear polarization is achieved by an electrically switched twisted nematic (TN) cell. A DBD composed of N rotator-deflector pairs steers the beam into 2(sup N) directions. As an example, we describe a four-stage DBD deflecting normally incident laser beam within the range of +/- 56 mrad with 8 mrad steps. Redirection of the beam is achieved by switching the TN cells.

RF beam transmission of x-band PAA system utilizing large-area, polymer-based true-time-delay module developed using imprinting and inkjet printing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pan, Zeyu; Subbaraman, Harish; Zhang, Cheng; Li, Qiaochu; Xu, Xiaochuan; Chen, Xiangning; Zhang, Xingyu; Zou, Yi; Panday, Ashwin; Guo, L. Jay; Chen, Ray T.

2016-02-01

Phased-array antenna (PAA) technology plays a significant role in modern day radar and communication networks. Truetime- delay (TTD) enabled beam steering networks provide several advantages over their electronic counterparts, including squint-free beam steering, low RF loss, immunity to electromagnetic interference (EMI), and large bandwidth control of PAAs. Chip-scale and integrated TTD modules promise a miniaturized, light-weight system; however, the modules are still rigid and they require complex packaging solutions. Moreover, the total achievable time delay is still restricted by the wafer size. In this work, we propose a light-weight and large-area, true-time-delay beamforming network that can be fabricated on light-weight and flexible/rigid surfaces utilizing low-cost "printing" techniques. In order to prove the feasibility of the approach, a 2-bit thermo-optic polymer TTD network is developed using a combination of imprinting and ink-jet printing. RF beam steering of a 1×4 X-band PAA up to 60° is demonstrated. The development of such active components on large area, light-weight, and low-cost substrates promises significant improvement in size, weight, and power (SWaP) requirements over the state-of-the-art.

2D Doppler backscattering using synthetic aperture microwave imaging of MAST edge plasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thomas, D. A.; Brunner, K. J.; Freethy, S. J.; Huang, B. K.; Shevchenko, V. F.; Vann, R. G. L.

2016-02-01

Doppler backscattering (DBS) is already established as a powerful diagnostic; its extension to 2D enables imaging of turbulence characteristics from an extended region of the cut-off surface. The Synthetic Aperture Microwave Imaging (SAMI) diagnostic has conducted proof-of-principle 2D DBS experiments of MAST edge plasma. SAMI actively probes the plasma edge using a wide (±40° vertical and horizontal) and tuneable (10-34.5 GHz) beam. The Doppler backscattered signal is digitised in vector form using an array of eight Vivaldi PCB antennas. This allows the receiving array to be focused in any direction within the field of view simultaneously to an angular range of 6-24° FWHM at 10-34.5 GHz. This capability is unique to SAMI and is a novel way of conducting DBS experiments. In this paper the feasibility of conducting 2D DBS experiments is explored. Initial observations of phenomena previously measured by conventional DBS experiments are presented; such as momentum injection from neutral beams and an abrupt change in power and turbulence velocity coinciding with the onset of H-mode. In addition, being able to carry out 2D DBS imaging allows a measurement of magnetic pitch angle to be made; preliminary results are presented. Capabilities gained through steering a beam using a phased array and the limitations of this technique are discussed.

Beam steering performance of compressed Luneburg lens based on transformation optics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Ju; Wang, Cong; Zhang, Kuang; Hao, Yang; Wu, Qun

2018-06-01

In this paper, two types of compressed Luneburg lenses based on transformation optics are investigated and simulated using two different sources, namely, waveguides and dipoles, which represent plane and spherical wave sources, respectively. We determined that the largest beam steering angle and the related feed point are intrinsic characteristics of a certain type of compressed Luneburg lens, and that the optimized distance between the feed and lens, gain enhancement, and side-lobe suppression are related to the type of source. Based on our results, we anticipate that these lenses will prove useful in various future antenna applications.

Recent technical advances in general purpose mobile Satcom aviation terminals

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sydor, John T.

1990-01-01

A second general aviation amplitude companded single sideband (ACSSB) aeronautical terminal was developed for use with the Ontario Air Ambulance Service (OAAS). This terminal is designed to have automatic call set up and take down and to interface with the Public Service Telephone Network (PSTN) through a ground earth station hub controller. The terminal has integrated RF and microprocessor hardware which allows such functions as beam steering and automatic frequency control to be software controlled. The terminal uses a conformal patch array system to provide almost full azimuthal coverage. Antenna beam steering is executed without relying on aircraft supplied orientation information.

Electrothermally actuated tip-tilt-piston micromirror with integrated varifocal capability.

PubMed

Morrison, Jessica; Imboden, Matthias; Little, Thomas D C; Bishop, D J

2015-04-06

MEMS micromirrors have proven to be very important optical devices with applications ranging from steerable mirrors for switches and cross-connects to spatial light modulators for correcting optical distortions. Usually beam steering and focusing are done with different MEMS devices and tilt angles in excess of 10 degrees are seldom obtained. Here we describe a single MEMS device that combines tip/tilt, piston mode and varifocal capability into a single, low cost device with very large tilt angles. Our device consists of a 400 micron diameter mirror driven with thermal bimorphs. We have demonstrated deflection angles of ± 40 degrees along both axes, a tunable focal length which varies between -0.48 mm to + 20.5 mm and a piston mode range of 300 microns - four separately controllable degrees of freedom in a single device. Potential applications range from smart lighting to optical switches and devices for telecom systems.

Development of BPM Electronics at the JLAB FEL

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sexton, D.; Evtushenko, P.; Jordan, K.; Yan, J.; Dutton, S.; Moore, W.; Evans, R.; Coleman, J.

2006-11-01

A new version of BPM electronics based on the AD8362 RMS detector, which is a direct RF to DC converter, is under development at the JLAB FEL. Each of these new BPM electronics utilizes an embedded ColdFire Microprocessor for data processing and communication with the EPICS control system via TCP/IP. The ColdFire runs RTEMS, which is an open source real-time operating system. The JLAB FEL is a SRF Energy Recovery LINAC capable of running up to 10 mA CW beam with a 74.85 MHz micropulse frequency. For diagnostic reasons and for machine tune up, the micropulse frequency can be reduced to 1.17 MHz, which corresponds to about 160 μA of beam current. It is required that the BPM system would be functional for all micropulse frequencies. By taking into account the headroom for the beam steering and current variations the dynamic range of the RF front end is required to be about 60 dB. A BPM resolution of at least 100 μm is required, whereas better resolution is very desirable to make it possible for more accurate measurements of the electron beam optics. Some results of the RF front end development are presented as well as the first measurements made with an electron beam.

Development of BPM Electronics at the JLAB FEL

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sexton, D.; Evtushenko, P.; Jordan, K.

2006-11-20

A new version of BPM electronics based on the AD8362 RMS detector, which is a direct RF to DC converter, is under development at the JLAB FEL. Each of these new BPM electronics utilizes an embedded ColdFire Microprocessor for data processing and communication with the EPICS control system via TCP/IP. The ColdFire runs RTEMS, which is an open source real-time operating system. The JLAB FEL is a SRF Energy Recovery LINAC capable of running up to 10 mA CW beam with a 74.85 MHz micropulse frequency. For diagnostic reasons and for machine tune up, the micropulse frequency can be reducedmore » to 1.17 MHz, which corresponds to about 160 {mu}A of beam current. It is required that the BPM system would be functional for all micropulse frequencies. By taking into account the headroom for the beam steering and current variations the dynamic range of the RF front end is required to be about 60 dB. A BPM resolution of at least 100 {mu}m is required, whereas better resolution is very desirable to make it possible for more accurate measurements of the electron beam optics. Some results of the RF front end development are presented as well as the first measurements made with an electron beam.« less

Development of BPM Electronics at the JLAB FEL

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Daniel Sexton; Pavel Evtushenko; Kevin Jordan

2006-05-01

A new version of BPM electronics based on the AD8362 RMS detector, which is a direct RF to DC converter, is under development at the JLAB FEL. Each of these new BPM electronics utilizes an embedded ColdFire Microprocessor for data processing and communication with the EPICS control system via TCP/IP. The ColdFire runs RTEMS, which is an open source real-time operating system. The JLAB FEL is a SRF Energy Recovery LINAC capable of running up to 10 mA CW beam with the micropulse up to 74.85 MHz. For diagnostic reasons and for the machine tune up, the micropulse frequency canmore » be reduced to 1.17 MHz, which corresponds to about 160 ?A of beam current. It is required that the BPM system would be functional for all micropulse frequencies. By taking into account the headroom for the beam steering and current variations the dynamic range of the RF front end is required to be about 60 dB. A BPM resolution of at least 100 ?m is required, whereas better resolution is very desirable to make it possible for more accurate measurements of the electron beam optics. Some results of the RF front end development are presented as well as the first measurements made with an electron beam.« less

Space-to-Space Power Beaming Enabling High Performance Rapid Geocentric Orbit Transfer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dankanich, John W.; Vassallo, Corinne; Tadge, Megan

2015-01-01

The use of electric propulsion is more prevalent than ever, with industry pursuing all electric orbit transfers. Electric propulsion provides high mass utilization through efficient propellant transfer. However, the transfer times become detrimental as the delta V transitions from near-impulsive to low-thrust. Increasing power and therefore thrust has diminishing returns as the increasing mass of the power system limits the potential acceleration of the spacecraft. By using space-to-space power beaming, the power system can be decoupled from the spacecraft and allow significantly higher spacecraft alpha (W/kg) and therefore enable significantly higher accelerations while maintaining high performance. This project assesses the efficacy of space-to-space power beaming to enable rapid orbit transfer while maintaining high mass utilization. Concept assessment requires integrated techniques for low-thrust orbit transfer steering laws, efficient large-scale rectenna systems, and satellite constellation configuration optimization. This project includes the development of an integrated tool with implementation of IPOPT, Q-Law, and power-beaming models. The results highlight the viability of the concept, limits and paths to infusion, and comparison to state-of-the-art capabilities. The results indicate the viability of power beaming for what may be the only approach for achieving the desired transit times with high specific impulse.

Design of patient-specific focused ultrasound arrays for non-invasive brain therapy with increased trans-skull transmission and steering range

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hughes, Alec; Hynynen, Kullervo

2017-09-01

The use of a phased array of ultrasound transducer elements to sonicate through the skull has opened the way for new treatments and the delivery of therapeutics beyond the blood-brain barrier. The limited steering range of current clinical devices, particularly at higher frequencies, limits the regions of the brain that are considered treatable by ultrasound. A new array design is introduced that allows for high levels of beam steering and increased transmission throughout the brain. These improvements are achieved using concave transducers normal to the outer-skull surface in a patient-specific configuration to target within the skull, so that the far-field of each beam is within the brain. It is shown that by using pulsed ultrasound waves timed to arrive in-phase at the desired target, sufficient levels of acoustic energy are delivered for blood-brain barrier opening throughout the brain.

Design of patient-specific focused ultrasound arrays for non-invasive brain therapy with increased trans-skull transmission and steering range.

PubMed

Hughes, Alec; Hynynen, Kullervo

2017-08-03

The use of a phased array of ultrasound transducer elements to sonicate through the skull has opened the way for new treatments and the delivery of therapeutics beyond the blood-brain barrier. The limited steering range of current clinical devices, particularly at higher frequencies, limits the regions of the brain that are considered treatable by ultrasound. A new array design is introduced that allows for high levels of beam steering and increased transmission throughout the brain. These improvements are achieved using concave transducers normal to the outer-skull surface in a patient-specific configuration to target within the skull, so that the far-field of each beam is within the brain. It is shown that by using pulsed ultrasound waves timed to arrive in-phase at the desired target, sufficient levels of acoustic energy are delivered for blood-brain barrier opening throughout the brain.

An ultra-fast EOD-based force-clamp detects rapid biomechanical transitions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Woody, Michael S.; Capitanio, Marco; Ostap, E. Michael; Goldman, Yale E.

2017-08-01

We assembled an ultra-fast infrared optical trapping system to detect mechanical events that occur less than a millisecond after a ligand binds to its filamentous substrate, such as myosin undergoing its 5 - 10 nm working stroke after actin binding. The instrument is based on the concept of Capitanio et al.1, in which a polymer bead-actin-bead dumbbell is held in two force-clamped optical traps. A force applied by the traps causes the filament to move at a constant velocity as hydrodynamic drag balances the applied load. When the ligand binds, the filament motion stops within 100 μs as the total force from the optical traps is transferred to the attachment. Subsequent translations signal active motions, such as the magnitude and timing of the motor's working stroke. In our instrument, the beads defining the dumbbell are held in independent force clamps utilizing a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) to update the trap beam positions at 250 kHz. We found that in our setup, acousto-optical deflectors (AODs) steering the beams were unsuitable for this purpose due to a slightly non-linear response in the beam intensity and deflection angle vs. the AOD ultra-sound wavelength, likely caused by low-amplitude standing acoustic waves in the deflectors. These aberrations caused instability in the force feedback loops leading to artefactual 20 nm jumps in position. This type of AOD non-linearity has been reported to be absent in electro-optical deflectors (EODs)2. We demonstrate that replacement of the AODs with EODs improves the performance of our instrument. Combining the superior beam-steering capability of the EODs, force acquisition via back-plane interferometry, and the dual high-speed FPGA-based feedback loops, we smoothly and precisely apply constant loads to study the dynamics of interactions between biological molecules such as actin and myosin.

Nanophotonic projection system.

PubMed

Aflatouni, Firooz; Abiri, Behrooz; Rekhi, Angad; Hajimiri, Ali

2015-08-10

Low-power integrated projection technology can play a key role in development of low-cost mobile devices with built-in high-resolution projectors. Low-cost 3D imaging and holography systems are also among applications of such a technology. In this paper, an integrated projection system based on a two-dimensional optical phased array with fast beam steering capability is reported. Forward biased p-i-n phase modulators with 200MHz bandwidth are used per each array element for rapid phase control. An optimization algorithm is implemented to compensate for the phase dependent attenuation of the p-i-n modulators. Using rapid vector scanning technique, images were formed and recorded within a single snapshot of the IR camera.

Optically addressed ultra-wideband phased antenna array

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bai, Jian

Demands for high data rate and multifunctional apertures from both civilian and military users have motivated development of ultra-wideband (UWB) electrically steered phased arrays. Meanwhile, the need for large contiguous frequency is pushing operation of radio systems into the millimeter-wave (mm-wave) range. Therefore, modern radio systems require UWB performance from VHF to mm-wave. However, traditional electronic systems suffer many challenges that make achieving these requirements difficult. Several examples includes: voltage controlled oscillators (VCO) cannot provide a tunable range of several octaves, distribution of wideband local oscillator signals undergo high loss and dispersion through RF transmission lines, and antennas have very limited bandwidth or bulky sizes. Recently, RF photonics technology has drawn considerable attention because of its advantages over traditional systems, with the capability of offering extreme power efficiency, information capacity, frequency agility, and spatial beam diversity. A hybrid RF photonic communication system utilizing optical links and an RF transducer at the antenna potentially provides ultra-wideband data transmission, i.e., over 100 GHz. A successful implementation of such an optically addressed phased array requires addressing several key challenges. Photonic generation of an RF source with over a seven-octave bandwidth has been demonstrated in the last few years. However, one challenge which still remains is how to convey phased optical signals to downconversion modules and antennas. Therefore, a feed network with phase sweeping capability and low excessive phase noise needs to be developed. Another key challenge is to develop an ultra-wideband array antenna. Modern frontends require antennas to be compact, planar, and low-profile in addition to possessing broad bandwidth, conforming to stringent space, weight, cost, and power constraints. To address these issues, I will study broadband and miniaturization techniques for both single and array antennas. In addition, a prototype transmitting phased array system is developed and shown to demonstrate large bandwidth as well as a beam steering capability. The architecture of this system can be further developed to a large-scale array at higher frequencies such as mm-wave. This solution serves as a candidate for UWB multifunctional frontends.

Method for removing tilt control in adaptive optics systems

DOEpatents

Salmon, J.T.

1998-04-28

A new adaptive optics system and method of operation are disclosed, whereby the method removes tilt control, and includes the steps of using a steering mirror to steer a wavefront in the desired direction, for aiming an impinging aberrated light beam in the direction of a deformable mirror. The deformable mirror has its surface deformed selectively by means of a plurality of actuators, and compensates, at least partially, for existing aberrations in the light beam. The light beam is split into an output beam and a sample beam, and the sample beam is sampled using a wavefront sensor. The sampled signals are converted into corresponding electrical signals for driving a controller, which, in turn, drives the deformable mirror in a feedback loop in response to the sampled signals, for compensating for aberrations in the wavefront. To this purpose, a displacement error (gradient) of the wavefront is measured, and adjusted by a modified gain matrix, which satisfies the following equation: G{prime} = (I{minus}X(X{sup T} X){sup {minus}1}X{sup T})G(I{minus}A). 3 figs.

Channeling technique to make nanoscale ion beams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Biryukov, V. M.; Bellucci, S.; Guidi, V.

2005-04-01

Particle channeling in a bent crystal lattice has led to an efficient instrument for beam steering at accelerators [Biryukov et al., Crystal Channeling and its Application at High Energy Accelerators, Springer, Berlin, 1997], demonstrated from MeV to TeV energies. In particular, crystal focusing of high-energy protons to micron size has been demonstrated at IHEP with the results well in match with Lindhard (critical angle) prediction. Channeling in crystal microstructures has been proposed as a unique source of a microbeam of high-energy particles [Bellucci et al., Phys. Rev. ST Accel. Beams 6 (2003) 033502]. Channeling in nanostructures (single-wall and multi-wall nanotubes) offers the opportunities to produce ion beams on nanoscale. Particles channeled in a nanotube (with typical diameter of about 1 nm) are trapped in two dimensions and can be steered (deflected, focused) with the efficiency similar to that of crystal channeling or better. This technique has been a subject of computer simulations, with experimental efforts under way in several high-energy labs, including IHEP. We present the theoretical outlook for making channeling-based nanoscale ion beams and report the experience with crystal-focused microscale proton beams.

Micro-scanning mirrors for high-power laser applications in laser surgery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sandner, Thilo; Kimme, Simon; Grasshoff, Thomas; Todt, Ulrich; Graf, Alexander; Tulea, Cristian; Lenenbach, Achim; Schenk, Harald

2014-03-01

We present two novel micro scanning mirrors with large aperture and HR dielectric coatings suitable for high power laser applications in a miniaturized laser-surgical instrument for neurosurgery to cut skull tissue. An electrostatic driven 2D-raster scanning mirror with 5x7.1mm aperture is used for dynamic steering of a ps-laser beam of the laser cutting process. A second magnetic 2D-beam steering mirror enables a static beam correction of a hand guided laser instrument. Optimizations of a magnetic gimbal micro mirror with 6 mm x 8 mm mirror plate are presented; here static deflections of 3° were reached. Both MEMS devices were successfully tested with a high power ps-laser at 532nm up to 20W average laser power.

Optical ground station optimization for future optical geostationary satellite feeder uplinks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Camboulives, A.-R.; Velluet, M.-T.; Poulenard, S.; Saint-Antonin, L.; Michau, V.

2017-02-01

An optical link based on a multiplex of wavelengths at 1:55 μm is foreseen to be a valuable alternative to the conventional radio-frequencies for the feeder link of the next-generation of high throughput geostationary satellite. Considering the limited power of lasers envisioned for feeder links, the beam divergence has to be dramatically reduced. Consequently, the beam pointing becomes a key issue. During its propagation between the ground station and a geostationary satellite, the optical beam is deflected (beam wandering), and possibly distorted (beam spreading), by atmospheric turbulence. It induces strong fluctuations of the detected telecom signal, thus increasing the bit error rate (BER). A steering mirror using a measurement from a beam coming from the satellite is used to pre-compensate the deflection. Because of the point-ahead angle between the downlink and the uplink, the turbulence effects experienced by both beams are slightly different, inducing an error in the correction. This error is characterized as a function of the turbulence characteristics as well as of the terminal characteristics, such as the servo-loop bandwidth or the beam diameter, and is included in the link budget. From this result, it is possible to predict intensity fluctuations detected by the satellite statistically (mean intensity, scintillation index, probability of fade, etc.)). The final objective is to optimize the different parameters of an optical ground station capable of mitigating the impact of atmospheric turbulence on the uplink in order to be compliant with the targeted capacity (1Terabit/s by 2025).

DAZZLE project: UAV to ground communication system using a laser and a modulated retro-reflector

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thueux, Yoann; Avlonitis, Nicholas; Erry, Gavin

2014-10-01

The advent of the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) has generated the need for reduced size, weight and power (SWaP) requirements for communications systems with a high data rate, enhanced security and quality of service. This paper presents the current results of the DAZZLE project run by Airbus Group Innovations. The specifications, integration steps and initial performance of a UAV to ground communication system using a laser and a modulated retro-reflector are detailed. The laser operates at the wavelength of 1550nm and at power levels that keep it eye safe. It is directed using a FLIR pan and tilt unit driven by an image processing-based system that tracks the UAV in flight at a range of a few kilometers. The modulated retro-reflector is capable of a data rate of 20Mbps over short distances, using 200mW of electrical power. The communication system was tested at the Pershore Laser Range in July 2014. Video data from a flying Octocopter was successfully transmitted over 1200m. During the next phase of the DAZZLE project, the team will attempt to produce a modulated retro-reflector capable of 1Gbps in partnership with the research institute Acreo1 based in Sweden. A high speed laser beam steering capability based on a Spatial Light Modulator will also be added to the system to improve beam pointing accuracy.

A novel phase assignment protocol and driving system for a high-density focused ultrasound array.

PubMed

Caulfield, R Erich; Yin, Xiangtao; Juste, Jose; Hynynen, Kullervo

2007-04-01

Currently, most phased-array systems intended for therapy are one-dimensional (1-D) and use between 5 and 200 elements, with a few two-dimensional (2-D) systems using several hundred elements. The move toward lambda/2 interelement spacing, which provides complete 3-D beam steering, would require a large number of closely spaced elements (0.15 mm to 3 mm). A solution to the resulting problem of cost and cable assembly size, which this study examines, is to quantize the phases available at the array input. By connecting elements with similar phases to a single wire, a significant reduction in the number of incoming lines can be achieved while maintaining focusing and beam steering capability. This study has explored the feasibility of such an approach using computer simulations and experiments with a test circuit driving a 100-element linear array. Simulation results demonstrated that adequate focusing can be obtained with only four phase signals without large increases in the grating lobes or the dimensions of the focus. Experiments showed that the method can be implemented in practice, and adequate focusing can be achieved with four phase signals with a reduction of 20% in the peak pressure amplitude squared when compared with the infinite-phase resolution case. Results indicate that the use of this technique would make it possible to drive more than 10,000 elements with 33 input lines. The implementation of this method could have a large impact on ultrasound therapy and diagnostic devices.

Land vehicle antennas for satellite mobile communications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Haddad, H. A.; Paschen, D.; Pieper, B. V.

1985-01-01

Antenna designs applicable to future satellite mobile vehicle communications are examined. Microstrip disk, quadrifilar helix, cylindrical microstrip, and inverted V and U crossed-dipole low gain antennas (3-5 dBic) that provide omnidirectional coverage are described. Diagrams of medium gain antenna (9-12 dBic) concepts are presented; the antennas are classified into three types: (1) electronically steered with digital phase shifters; (2) electronically switched with switchable power divider/combiner; and (3) mechanically steered with motor. The operating characteristics of a conformal antenna with electronic beam steering and a nonconformal design with mechanical steering are evaluated with respect to isolation levels in a multiple satellite system. Vehicle antenna pointing systems and antenna system costs are investigated.

Land vehicle antennas for satellite mobile communications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Haddad, H. A.; Pieper, B. V.; Mckenna, D. B.

1985-01-01

The RF performance, size, pointing system, and cost were investigated concepts are: for a mechanically steered 1 x 4 tilted microstrip array, a mechanically steered fixed-beam conformal array, and an electronically steered conformal phased array. Emphasis is on the RF performance of the tilted 1 x 4 antenna array and methods for pointing the various antennas studied to a geosynchronous satellite. An updated version of satellite isolations in a two-satellite system is presented. Cost estimates for the antennas in quantities of 10,000 and 100,000 unites are summarized.

Detection of quantum steering in multipartite continuous-variable Greenberger-Horne-Zeilinger-like states

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Meng; Xiang, Yu; He, Qiongyi; Gong, Qihuang

2015-01-01

The multipartite entangled state has drawn broad attention for both foundations of quantum mechanics and applications in quantum information processing. Here, we study the spatially separated N -partite continuous-variable Greenberger-Horne-Zeilinger-like states, which can be produced by a linear optical network with squeezed light and N -1 beamsplitters. We investigate the properties of multipartite Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen steering possessed by those states, and find that the steering of a given quantum mode is allowed when not less than half of the modes within the states take part in the steering group. This is certified by the detection of the correlation between position and momentum quadratures of the steered mode and a combination of quadratures of other modes inside the steering group. The steering is evidenced by the high correlation where the steering group can infer the quadratures of the steered mode to high precision, i.e., below the quantum limit for the position and momentum quadratures of the steered quantum mode. We also examine the influence of inefficiency on the multipartite steering, and derive the threshold of the loss tolerance. Furthermore, we discuss the collective N -partite steering induced by the asymmetric loss on beams, which exists when a given quantum mode can only be steered by all the remaining N -1 modes collaboratively. The present multipartite steering correlation may have potential applications in certain quantum information tasks where the issue of trust is important, such as one-sided device-independent quantum secret sharing.

Electro-Optic Beam Steering Using Non-Linear Organic Materials

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-08-01

York (SUNY), Buffalo, for potential application to the Hughes electro - optic beam deflector device. Evaluations include electro - optic coefficient...response time, transmission, and resistivity. Electro - optic coefficient measurements were made at 633 nm using a simple reflection technique. The

Multipass Steering: A Reference Implementation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hennessey, Michael; Tiefenback, Michael

2015-10-01

We introduce a reference implementation of a protocol to compute corrections that bring all beams in one of the CEBAF linear accelerators (linac) to axis, including, with a larger tolerance, the lowest energy pass using measured beam trajectory data. This method relies on linear optics as representation of the system; we treat beamline perturbations as magnetic field errors localized to regions between cryomodules, providing the same transverse momentum kick to each beam. We produce a vector of measured beam position data with which we left-multiply the pseudo-inverse of a coefficient array, A, that describes the transport of the beam through the linac using parameters that include the magnetic offsets of the quadrupole magnets, the instrumental offsets of the BPMs, and the beam initial conditions. This process is repeated using a reduced array to produce values that can be applied to the available correcting magnets and beam initial conditions. We show that this method is effective in steering the beam to a straight axis along the linac by using our values in elegant, the accelerator simulation program, on a model of the linac in question. The algorithms in this reference implementation provide a tool for systematic diagnosis and cataloging of perturbations in the beam line. Supported by Jefferson Lab, Old Dominion University, NSF, DOE.

Broadband beam steering using chalcogenide-based Risley prisms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Florea, Catalin; Sanghera, Jasbinder; Aggarwal, Ishwar

2011-03-01

In this paper, we propose using chalcogenide glasses for improved, large-angle, beam steering of infrared radiation, with minimal spectral dispersion and improved thermal performance over wavelength intervals covering the 2 to 12-μm range. For example, we evaluate that full-angle dispersion in the 2 to 5 μm region for LiF/As2S3 combination should be three times smaller than in the case of LiF/ZnS combination. We also evaluate that using the ZnSe/As2Se3 combination will provide twice as small thermal walk-off than a similar ZnS/Ge system in the 8 to 12-μm region.

ICESat-2 ATLAS Beam Steering Mechanism (BSM)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hinkle, Matthew

2015-01-01

This work covers the design and test of a beam steering mechanism (BSM) used to accurately guide a laser on the Advanced Topographic Laser Altimeter System (ATLAS) down to Earth in order to measure elevation. It describes the main components in the BSM that allows it to perform and meet stringent requirements. Requirements of the BSM include two-axis steering of the transmitted laser beam, +-5000 uRad mechanical motion in each axis, and 1.5 uRad RMS pointing stability among many other requirements. The BSM uses four voice coil actuators in order to locate the mirror at the angle we need. There are four Differential Position Sensors that determine the position and angle of the mirror at all times. These sensors were verified through optical testing in both ambient and thermal conditions. Testing and extensive analyses were performed on the two-axis flexure throughout the program to check flexure thickness, positive margins, and infinite life. The mirror mount design has been modified to eliminate radial preload, while incorporating a titanium wave spring to provide an axial preload of 10.8N. The BSM underwent multiple tests in order to verify all components work as required under various conditions.

Digital Beamforming Scatterometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rincon, Rafael F.; Vega, Manuel; Kman, Luko; Buenfil, Manuel; Geist, Alessandro; Hillard, Larry; Racette, Paul

2009-01-01

This paper discusses scatterometer measurements collected with multi-mode Digital Beamforming Synthetic Aperture Radar (DBSAR) during the SMAP-VEX 2008 campaign. The 2008 SMAP Validation Experiment was conducted to address a number of specific questions related to the soil moisture retrieval algorithms. SMAP-VEX 2008 consisted on a series of aircraft-based.flights conducted on the Eastern Shore of Maryland and Delaware in the fall of 2008. Several other instruments participated in the campaign including the Passive Active L-Band System (PALS), the Marshall Airborne Polarimetric Imaging Radiometer (MAPIR), and the Global Positioning System Reflectometer (GPSR). This campaign was the first SMAP Validation Experiment. DBSAR is a multimode radar system developed at NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center that combines state-of-the-art radar technologies, on-board processing, and advances in signal processing techniques in order to enable new remote sensing capabilities applicable to Earth science and planetary applications [l]. The instrument can be configured to operate in scatterometer, Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), or altimeter mode. The system builds upon the L-band Imaging Scatterometer (LIS) developed as part of the RadSTAR program. The radar is a phased array system designed to fly on the NASA P3 aircraft. The instrument consists of a programmable waveform generator, eight transmit/receive (T/R) channels, a microstrip antenna, and a reconfigurable data acquisition and processor system. Each transmit channel incorporates a digital attenuator, and digital phase shifter that enables amplitude and phase modulation on transmit. The attenuators, phase shifters, and calibration switches are digitally controlled by the radar control card (RCC) on a pulse by pulse basis. The antenna is a corporate fed microstrip patch-array centered at 1.26 GHz with a 20 MHz bandwidth. Although only one feed is used with the present configuration, a provision was made for separate corporate feeds for vertical and horizontal polarization. System upgrades to dual polarization are currently under way. The DBSAR processor is a reconfigurable data acquisition and processor system capable of real-time, high-speed data processing. DBSAR uses an FPGA-based architecture to implement digitally down-conversion, in-phase and quadrature (I/Q) demodulation, and subsequent radar specific algorithms. The core of the processor board consists of an analog-to-digital (AID) section, three Altera Stratix field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), an ARM microcontroller, several memory devices, and an Ethernet interface. The processor also interfaces with a navigation board consisting of a GPS and a MEMS gyro. The processor has been configured to operate in scatterometer, Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), and altimeter modes. All the modes are based on digital beamforming which is a digital process that generates the far-field beam patterns at various scan angles from voltages sampled in the antenna array. This technique allows steering the received beam and controlling its beam-width and side-lobe. Several beamforming techniques can be implemented each characterized by unique strengths and weaknesses, and each applicable to different measurement scenarios. In Scatterometer mode, the radar is capable to.generate a wide beam or scan a narrow beam on transmit, and to steer the received beam on processing while controlling its beamwidth and side-lobe level. Table I lists some important radar characteristics

Stability and Curving Performance of Conventional and Advanced Rail Transit Vehicles

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1984-01-01

Analytical studies are presented which compare the curving performance and speed capability of conventional rail transit trucks with self steering (cross-braced) and forced steering (linkages between carbody and wheelsets) radial trucks. Truck curvin...

Development and Characterization of a Small Spacecraft Electro-Optic Scanner for Free-Space Laser Communications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Davis, Scott; Lichter, Michael; Raible, Daniel

2016-01-01

Emergent data-intensive missions coupled with dramatic reductions in spacecraft size plus an increasing number of space-based missions necessitates new high performance, compact and low cost communications technology. Free space optical communications offer advantages including orders of magnitude increase for data rate performance, increased security, immunity to jamming and lack of frequency allocation requirements when compared with conventional radio frequency (RF) means. The spatial coherence and low divergence associated with the optical frequencies of laser communications lends themselves to superior performance, but this increased directionality also creates one of the primary technical challenges in establishing a laser communications link by repeatedly and reliably pointing the beam onto the receive aperture. Several solutions have emerged from wide angle (slow) mechanical articulation systems, fine (fast) steering mirrors and rotating prisms, inertial compensation gyros and vibration isolation cancellation systems, but each requires moving components and imparts a measured amount of burden on the host platform. The complexity, cost and size of current mechanically scanned solutions limits their platform applicability, and restricts the feasibility of deploying optical communications payloads on very compact spacecraft employing critical systems. A high speed, wide angle, non-mechanical solution is therefore desirable. The purpose of this work is to share the development, testing, and demonstration of a breadboard prototype electro-optic (EO) scanned laser-communication link (see Figure 1). This demonstration is a step toward realizing ultra-low Size, Weight and Power (SWaP) SmallSat/MicroSat EO non-mechanical laser beam steering modules for high bandwidth ( greater than Gbps) free-space data links operating in the 1550 nm wavelength bands. The elimination of all moving parts will dramatically reduce SWaP and cost, increase component lifetime and reliability, and simplify the system design of laser communication modules. This paper describes the target mission architectures and requirements (few cubic centimeters of volume, 10's of grams of weight with milliwatts of power) and design of the beam steering module. Laboratory metrology is used to determine the component performance including horizontal and vertical resolution (20urad) as a function of control voltage (see Figure 2), transition time (0.1-1ms), pointing repeatability and optic insertion loss. A test bed system demonstration, including a full laser communications link, is conducted. The capabilities of this new EO beam steerer provide an opportunity to dramatically improve space communications through increased utilization of laser technology on smaller platforms than were previously attainable.

Large optical nonlinearity of ITO nanorods for sub-picosecond all-optical modulation of the full-visible spectrum

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Peijun; Schaller, Richard D.; Ocola, Leonidas E.; Diroll, Benjamin T.; Ketterson, John B.; Chang, Robert P. H.

2016-09-01

Nonlinear optical responses of materials play a vital role for the development of active nanophotonic and plasmonic devices. Optical nonlinearity induced by intense optical excitation of mobile electrons in metallic nanostructures can provide large-amplitude, dynamic tuning of their electromagnetic response, which is potentially useful for all-optical processing of information and dynamic beam control. Here we report on the sub-picosecond optical nonlinearity of indium tin oxide nanorod arrays (ITO-NRAs) following intraband, on-plasmon-resonance optical pumping, which enables modulation of the full-visible spectrum with large absolute change of transmission, favourable spectral tunability and beam-steering capability. Furthermore, we observe a transient response in the microsecond regime associated with slow lattice cooling, which arises from the large aspect-ratio and low thermal conductivity of ITO-NRAs. Our results demonstrate that all-optical control of light can be achieved by using heavily doped wide-bandgap semiconductors in their transparent regime with speed faster than that of noble metals.

Experimental validation of an 8 element EMAT phased array probe for longitudinal wave generation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Le Bourdais, Florian, E-mail: florian.lebourdais@cea.fr; Marchand, Benoit, E-mail: florian.lebourdais@cea.fr

2015-03-31

Sodium cooled Fast Reactors (SFR) use liquid sodium as a coolant. Liquid sodium being opaque, optical techniques cannot be applied to reactor vessel inspection. This makes it necessary to develop alternative ways of assessing the state of the structures immersed in the medium. Ultrasonic pressure waves are well suited for inspection tasks in this environment, especially using pulsed electromagnetic acoustic transducers (EMAT) that generate the ultrasound directly in the liquid sodium. The work carried out at CEA LIST is aimed at developing phased array EMAT probes conditioned for reactor use. The present work focuses on the experimental validation of amore » newly manufactured 8 element probe which was designed for beam forming imaging in a liquid sodium environment. A parametric study is carried out to determine the optimal setup of the magnetic assembly used in this probe. First laboratory tests on an aluminium block show that the probe has the required beam steering capabilities.« less

Expeditionary Rubber Removal Capability

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-12-31

the modified spray unit or system with equivalent capabilities. 24 25 9.8. A pressure sensor or caster wheels should be incorporated into the...DISCUSSION 18 8.0 CONCLUSIONS 23 9.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 24 APPENDIX A – DETAILED LIST OF EQUIPMENT AND MODIFICATIONS 26 APPENDIX B – LIST OF SOURCES FOR...tall Weight – 4820 lb (No Attachments) Top Speed – 18 mph High Flow Hydraulics (Optional) – 26 gpm Steering – All Wheel Steering Cargo Max Load

Leading the Development of Concepts of Operations for Next-Generation Remotely Piloted Aircraft

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-01-01

overarching CONOPS. RPAs must provide full motion video and signals intelli- gence (SIGINT) capabilities to fulfill their intelligence, surveillance, and...reached full capacity, combatant commanders had an insatiable demand for this new breed of capability, and phrases like Pred porn and drone strike...dimensional steering line on the video feed of the pilot’s head-up display (HUD) that would indicate turning cues and finite steering paths for optimal

UAV-borne lidar with MEMS mirror-based scanning capability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kasturi, Abhishek; Milanovic, Veljko; Atwood, Bryan H.; Yang, James

2016-05-01

Firstly, we demonstrated a wirelessly controlled MEMS scan module with imaging and laser tracking capability which can be mounted and flown on a small UAV quadcopter. The MEMS scan module was reduced down to a small volume of <90mm x 60mm x 40mm, weighing less than 40g and consuming less than 750mW of power using a ~5mW laser. This MEMS scan module was controlled by a smartphone via Bluetooth while flying on a drone, and could project vector content, text, and perform laser based tracking. Also, a "point-and-range" LiDAR module was developed for UAV applications based on low SWaP (Size, Weight and Power) gimbal-less MEMS mirror beam-steering technology and off-the-shelf OEM LRF modules. For demonstration purposes of an integrated laser range finder module, we used a simple off-the-shelf OEM laser range finder (LRF) with a 100m range, +/-1.5mm accuracy, and 4Hz ranging capability. The LRFs receiver optics were modified to accept 20° of angle, matching the transmitter's FoR. A relatively large (5.0mm) diameter MEMS mirror with +/-10° optical scanning angle was utilized in the demonstration to maintain the small beam divergence of the module. The complete LiDAR prototype can fit into a small volume of <70mm x 60mm x 60mm, and weigh <50g when powered by the UAV's battery. The MEMS mirror based LiDAR system allows for ondemand ranging of points or areas within the FoR without altering the UAV's position. Increasing the LRF ranging frequency and stabilizing the pointing of the laser beam by utilizing the onboard inertial sensors and the camera are additional goals of the next design.

Results of the Updated NASA Kennedy Space Center 50-MHz Doppler Radar Wind Profiler Operational Acceptance Test

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barbre', Robert E., Jr.; Deker, Ryan K.; Leahy, Frank B.; Huddleston, Lisa

2016-01-01

We present here the methodology and results of the Operational Acceptance Test (OAT) performed on the new Kennedy Space Center (KSC) 50-MHz Doppler Radar Wind Profiler (DRWP). On day-of-launch (DOL), space launch vehicle operators have used data from the DRWP to invalidate winds in prelaunch loads and trajectory assessments due to the DRWP's capability to quickly identify changes in the wind profile within a rapidly-changing wind environment. The previous DRWP has been replaced with a completely new system, which needs to undergo certification testing before being accepted for use in range operations. The new DRWP replaces the previous three-beam system made of coaxial cables and a copper wire ground plane with a four-beam system that uses Yagi antennae with enhanced beam steering capability. In addition, the new system contains updated user interface software while maintaining the same general capability as the previous system. The new DRWP continues to use the Median Filter First Guess (MFFG) algorithm to generate a wind profile from Doppler spectra at each range gate. DeTect (2015) contains further details on the upgrade. The OAT is a short-term test designed so that end users can utilize the new DRWP in a similar manner to the previous DRWP during mission operations at the Eastern Range in the midst of a long-term certification process. This paper describes the Marshall Space Flight Center Natural Environments Branch's (MSFC NE's) analyses to verify the quality and accuracy of the DRWP's meteorological data output as compared to the previous DRWP. Ultimately, each launch vehicle program has the responsibility to certify the system for their own use.

Fractal propagation method enables realistic optical microscopy simulations in biological tissues

PubMed Central

Glaser, Adam K.; Chen, Ye; Liu, Jonathan T.C.

2017-01-01

Current simulation methods for light transport in biological media have limited efficiency and realism when applied to three-dimensional microscopic light transport in biological tissues with refractive heterogeneities. We describe here a technique which combines a beam propagation method valid for modeling light transport in media with weak variations in refractive index, with a fractal model of refractive index turbulence. In contrast to standard simulation methods, this fractal propagation method (FPM) is able to accurately and efficiently simulate the diffraction effects of focused beams, as well as the microscopic heterogeneities present in tissue that result in scattering, refractive beam steering, and the aberration of beam foci. We validate the technique and the relationship between the FPM model parameters and conventional optical parameters used to describe tissues, and also demonstrate the method’s flexibility and robustness by examining the steering and distortion of Gaussian and Bessel beams in tissue with comparison to experimental data. We show that the FPM has utility for the accurate investigation and optimization of optical microscopy methods such as light-sheet, confocal, and nonlinear microscopy. PMID:28983499

Analysis of the orbit distortion by the use of the wavelet transform

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matsushita, T.; Agui, A.; Yoshigoe, A.; Takao, M.; Aoyagi, H.; Takeuchi, M.; Nakatani, T.; Tanaka, H.

2004-05-01

We have adopted matching pursuit algorithm of discrete wavelet transform (DWT) for the analysis of the beam position shift correlated with the motion of insertion device(ID). The beam position data measured by the rf beam position monitors have included high-frequency `noises' and fluctuation of background level. Precise evaluation of the electron beam position shift correlated with the motion of the ID is required for estimation of the steering magnet currents in order to suppress the closed orbit distortion (COD). The DWT is a powerful tool for frequency analysis and data processing. The analysis of DWT was applied to the beam position shift correlated with the phase motion of APPLE-2 type undulator (ID23) in SPring-8. The result of the analysis indicated that `noises' are mainly composed of the components of 50 ˜ 6.25Hz and < 0.1Hz. We carried out the data processing to remove the `noises' by the matching pursuit algorithm. Then we have succeeded in suppressing the COD within 2 μm by the use of the steering magnet currents calculated from the processed data.

Ultra-Wideband, Dual-Polarized, Beam-Steering P-Band Array Antenna

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

duToit, Cornelis

2014-01-01

A dual-polarized, wide-bandwidth (200 MHz for one polarization, 100 MHz for the orthogonal polarization) antenna array at P-band was designed to be driven by NASA's EcoSAR digital beam former. EcoSAR requires two wide P-band antenna arrays mounted on the wings of an aircraft, each capable of steering its main beam up to 35deg off-boresight, allowing the twin radar beams to be steered at angles to the flight path. The science requirements are mainly for dual-polarization capability and a wide bandwidth of operation of up to 200 MHz if possible, but at least 100 MHz with high polarization port isolation and low cross-polarization. The novel design geometry can be scaled with minor modifications up to about four times higher or down to about half the current design frequencies for any application requiring a dual-polarized, wide-bandwidth steerable antenna array. EcoSAR is an airborne interferometric P-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR) research application for studying two- and three-dimensional fine-scale measurements of terrestrial ecosystem structure and biomass, which will ultimately aid in the broader study of the carbon cycle and climate change. The two 2×8 element Pband antenna arrays required by the system will be separated by a baseline of about 25 m, allowing for interferometry measurements. The wide 100-to- 200-MHz bandwidth dual-polarized beams employed will allow the determination of the amount of biomass and even tree height on the ground. To reduce the size of the patches along the boresight dimension in order to fit them into the available space, two techniques were employed. One technique is to add slots along the edges of each patch where the main electric currents are expected to flow, and the other technique is to bend the central part of the patch away from the ground plane. The latter also facilitates higher mechanical rigidity. The high port isolation of more than 40 dB was achieved by employing a highly symmetrical feed mechanism for each pair of elements: three apertures coupling to the patch elements were placed along the two symmetry lines of the antenna element pair. Two apertures were used in tandem to excite two of the stacked patch elements for one polarization; the other was used to excite one element from one side and the other element from the other side, opposite in phase, taking care of the remaining polarization. The apertures narrow down to a small gap where they are excited by a crossing microstrip line to prevent any asymmetrical excitation of the two sides of the aperture gap, minimizing port-to-port coupling. Using patches that are non-planar leads to higher mechanical rigidity and smaller patch sizes to fit into the available space. Aperture coupling minimizes direct metal-to-metal connections. Using an aperture coupling feed mechanism results in a feed network for two antenna elements with a total of three feed points, plus one simple in-phase combiner to reduce it to two ports. It greatly reduces the complexity of the alternative, but more conventional, way of feeding a pair of two dual-polarized elements with high port isolation.

Single-cell isolation using a DVD optical pickup

PubMed Central

Kasukurti, A.; Potcoava, M.; Desai, S.A.; Eggleton, C.; Marr, D. W. M.

2011-01-01

A low-cost single-cell isolation system incorporating a digital versatile disc burner (DVD RW) optical pickup has been developed. We show that these readily available modules have the required laser power and focusing optics to provide a steady Gaussian beam capable of optically trapping micron-sized colloids and red blood cells. Utility of the pickup is demonstrated through the non-destructive isolation of such particles in a laminar-flow based microfluidic device that captures and translates single microscale objects across streamlines into designated channel exits. In this, the integrated objective lens focusing coils are used to steer the optical trap across the channel, resulting in the isolation of colloids and red blood cells using a very inexpensive off-the-shelf optical component. PMID:21643294

Zoned near-zero refractive index fishnet lens antenna: Steering millimeter waves

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pacheco-Peña, V., E-mail: victor.pacheco@unavarra.es; Orazbayev, B., E-mail: b.orazbayev@unavarra.es; Beaskoetxea, U., E-mail: unai.beaskoetxea@unavarra.es

2014-03-28

A zoned fishnet metamaterial lens is designed, fabricated, and experimentally demonstrated at millimeter wavelengths to work as a negative near-zero refractive index lens suitable for compact lens antenna configurations. At the design frequency f = 56.7 GHz (λ{sub 0} = 5.29 mm), the zoned fishnet metamaterial lens, designed to have a focal length FL = 9λ{sub 0}, exhibits a refractive index n = −0.25. The focusing performance of the diffractive optical element is briefly compared with that of a non-zoned fishnet metamaterial lens and an isotropic homogeneous zoned lens made of a material with the same refractive index. Experimental and numerically-computed radiation diagrams of the fabricated zoned lens are presentedmore » and compared in detail with that of a simulated non-zoned lens. Simulation and experimental results are in good agreement, demonstrating an enhancement generated by the zoned lens of 10.7 dB, corresponding to a gain of 12.26 dB. Moreover, beam steering capability of the structure by shifting the feeder on the xz-plane is demonstrated.« less

Monolithic beam steering in a mid-infrared, surface-emitting, photonic integrated circuit.

PubMed

Slivken, Steven; Wu, Donghai; Razeghi, Manijeh

2017-08-16

The mid-infrared (2.5 < λ < 25 μm) spectral region is utilized for many purposes, such as chemical/biological sensing, free space communications, and illuminators/countermeasures. Compared to near-infrared optical systems, however, mid-infrared component technology is still rather crude, with isolated components exhibiting limited functionality. In this manuscript, we make a significant leap forward in mid-infrared technology by developing a platform which can combine functions of multiple mid-infrared optical elements, including an integrated light source. In a single device, we demonstrate wide wavelength tuning (240 nm) and beam steering (17.9 degrees) in the mid-infrared with a significantly reduced beam divergence (down to 0.5 degrees). The architecture is also set up to be manufacturable and testable on a wafer scale, requiring no cleaved facets or special mirror coating to function.

Phase shifter for antenna beam steering

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jindal, Ravi, E-mail: rjindal21@gmail.com; Razban, Tchanguiz, E-mail: tchanguiz.razban-haghighi@univ-nantes.fr

Wide band Array Antenna operates in Ku-band (10.7-12.7 GHz) frequency composed of N×N radiating elements. This antenna aims at the reception of television satellite signals. The goal of this research is to provide better possibility of electronic beam control instead of manual or mechanical control, and design compact and low cost phase shifters to be inserted in the feeding network of this antenna. The electronic control of the phase shifter will allow the control of beam steering. The emphasis of this project will be done at the beginning on the design of a good phase shifter in Ku band. The aimmore » of this research is to define, simulate, release and measure a continuous phase shifter. Better reflection loss, low transmission loss, low Cost of array antennas, large range of phase-shifter, phase flatness and bandwidth will be achieved by providing better gain.« less

Low Cost Beam-Steering Approach for a Series-Fed Array

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Host, Nicholas K.; Chen, Chi-Chih; Volakis, John L.; Miranda, Felix A.

2013-01-01

Phased array antennas showcase many advantages over mechanically steered systems. However, they are also more complex and costly. This paper presents a concept which overcomes these detrimental attributes by eliminating all of the phased array backend (including phase shifters). Instead, a propagation constant reconfigurable transmission line in a series fed array arrangement is used to allow phase shifting with one small (less than or equal to 100mil) linear mechanical motion. A novel slotted coplanar stripline design improves on previous transmission lines by demonstrating a greater control of propagation constant, thus allowing practical prototypes to be built. Also, beam steering pattern control is explored. We show that with correct choice of line impedance, pattern control is possible for all scan angles. A 20 element array scanning from -25 deg less than or equal to theta less than or equal to 21 deg. with mostly uniform gain at 13GHz is presented. Measured patterns show a reduced scan range of 12 deg. less than or equal to theta less than or equal to 25 deg. due to a correctable manufacturing error as verified by simulation. Beam squint is measured to be plus or minus 2.5 deg for a 600MHz bandwidth and cross-pol is measured to be at least -15dB.

20 MHz Forward-imaging Single-element Beam Steering with an Internal Rotating Variable-Angle Reflecting Surface: Wire phantom and Ex vivo pilot study

PubMed Central

Raphael, David T.; Li, Xiang; Park, Jinhyoung; Chen, Ruimin; Chabok, Hamid; Barukh, Arthur; Zhou, Qifa; Elgazery, Mahmoud; Shung, K. Kirk

2012-01-01

Feasibility is demonstrated for a forward-imaging beam steering system involving a single-element 20 MHz angled-face acoustic transducer combined with an internal rotating variable-angle reflecting surface (VARS). Rotation of the VARS structure, for a fixed position of the transducer, generates a 2-D angular sector scan. If these VARS revolutions were to be accompanied by successive rotations of the single-element transducer, 3-D imaging would be achieved. In the design of this device, a single-element 20 MHz PMN-PT press-focused angled-face transducer is focused on the circle of midpoints of a micro-machined VARS within the distal end of an endoscope. The 2-D imaging system was tested in water bath experiments with phantom wire structures at a depth of 10 mm, and exhibited an axial resolution of 66 μm and a lateral resolution of 520 μm. Chirp coded excitation was used to enhance the signal-to-noise ratio, and to increase the depth of penetration. Images of an ex vivo cow eye were obtained. This VARS-based approach offers a novel forward-looking beam-steering method, which could be useful in intra-cavity imaging. PMID:23122968

20 MHz forward-imaging single-element beam steering with an internal rotating variable-angle reflecting surface: Wire phantom and ex vivo pilot study.

PubMed

Raphael, David T; Li, Xiang; Park, Jinhyoung; Chen, Ruimin; Chabok, Hamid; Barukh, Arthur; Zhou, Qifa; Elgazery, Mahmoud; Shung, K Kirk

2013-02-01

Feasibility is demonstrated for a forward-imaging beam steering system involving a single-element 20MHz angled-face acoustic transducer combined with an internal rotating variable-angle reflecting surface (VARS). Rotation of the VARS structure, for a fixed position of the transducer, generates a 2-D angular sector scan. If these VARS revolutions were to be accompanied by successive rotations of the single-element transducer, 3-D imaging would be achieved. In the design of this device, a single-element 20MHz PMN-PT press-focused angled-face transducer is focused on the circle of midpoints of a micro-machined VARS within the distal end of an endoscope. The 2-D imaging system was tested in water bath experiments with phantom wire structures at a depth of 10mm, and exhibited an axial resolution of 66μm and a lateral resolution of 520μm. Chirp coded excitation was used to enhance the signal-to-noise ratio, and to increase the depth of penetration. Images of an ex vivo cow eye were obtained. This VARS-based approach offers a novel forward-looking beam-steering method, which could be useful in intra-cavity imaging. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Using Stars to Align a Steered Laser System for Cosmic Ray Simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krantz, Harry; Wiencke, Lawrence

2016-03-01

Ultra high energy cosmic rays (UHECRs) are the highest energy cosmic particles with kinetic energy above 1018eV . UHECRs are detected from the air shower of secondary particles and UV florescence that results from interaction with the atmosphere. A high power UV laser beam can be used to simulate the optical signature of a UHCER air shower. The Global Light System (GLS) is a planned network of ground-based light sources including lasers to support the planned space-based Extreme Universe Space Observatory (EUSO). A portable prototype GLS laser station has been constructed at the Colorado School of Mines. Currently the laser system uses reference targets on the ground but stars can be used to better align the beam by providing a complete hemisphere of targets. In this work, a CCD camera is used to capture images of known stars through the steering head optics. The images are analyzed to find the steering head coordinates of the target star. The true coordinates of the star are calculated from the location and time of observation. A universal adjustment for the steering head is determined from the differences between the two pairs of coordinates across multiple stars. This laser system prototype will also be used for preflight tests of the ESUO Super Pressure Balloon mission.

Precision orbit raising trajectories. [solar electric propulsion orbital transfer program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Flanagan, P. F.; Horsewood, J. L.; Pines, S.

1975-01-01

A precision trajectory program has been developed to serve as a test bed for geocentric orbit raising steering laws. The steering laws to be evaluated have been developed using optimization methods employing averaging techniques. This program provides the capability of testing the steering laws in a precision simulation. The principal system models incorporated in the program are described, including the radiation environment, the solar array model, the thrusters and power processors, the geopotential, and the solar system. Steering and array orientation constraints are discussed, and the impact of these constraints on program design is considered.

Inverse free steering law for small satellite attitude control and power tracking with VSCMGs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Malik, M. S. I.; Asghar, Sajjad

2014-01-01

Recent developments in integrated power and attitude control systems (IPACSs) for small satellite, has opened a new dimension to more complex and demanding space missions. This paper presents a new inverse free steering approach for integrated power and attitude control systems using variable-speed single gimbal control moment gyroscope. The proposed inverse free steering law computes the VSCMG steering commands (gimbal rates and wheel accelerations) such that error signal (difference in command and output) in feedback loop is driven to zero. H∞ norm optimization approach is employed to synthesize the static matrix elements of steering law for a static state of VSCMG. Later these matrix elements are suitably made dynamic in order for the adaptation. In order to improve the performance of proposed steering law while passing through a singular state of CMG cluster (no torque output), the matrix element of steering law is suitably modified. Therefore, this steering law is capable of escaping internal singularities and using the full momentum capacity of CMG cluster. Finally, two numerical examples for a satellite in a low earth orbit are simulated to test the proposed steering law.

Multi beam observations of cosmic radio noise using a VHF radar with beam forming by a Butler matrix

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Renkwitz, T.; Singer, W.; Latteck, R.; Rapp, M.

2011-08-01

The Leibniz-Institute of Atmospheric Physics (IAP) in Kühlungsborn started to install a new MST radar on the North-Norwegian island Andøya (69.30° N, 16.04° E) in 2009. The new Middle Atmosphere Alomar Radar System (MAARSY) replaces the previous ALWIN radar which has been successfully operated for more than 10 years. The MAARSY radar provides increased temporal and spatial resolution combined with a flexible sequential point-to-point steering of the radar beam. To increase the spatiotemporal resolution of the observations a 16-port Butler matrix has been built and implemented to the radar. In conjunction with 64 Yagi antennas of the former ALWIN antenna array the Butler matrix simultaneously provides 16 individual beams. The beam forming capability of the Butler matrix arrangement has been verified observing the galactic cosmic radio noise of the supernova remnant Cassiopeia A. Furthermore, this multi beam configuration has been used in passive experiments to estimate the cosmic noise absorption at 53.5 MHz during events of enhanced solar and geomagnetic activity as indicators for enhanced ionization at altitudes below 90 km. These observations are well correlated with simultaneous observations of corresponding beams of the co-located imaging riometer AIRIS (69.14° N, 16.02° E) at 38.2 MHz. In addition, enhanced cosmic noise absorption goes along with enhanced electron densities at altitudes below about 90 km as observed with the co-located Saura MF radar using differential absorption and differential phase measurements.

Pointing error analysis of Risley-prism-based beam steering system.

PubMed

Zhou, Yuan; Lu, Yafei; Hei, Mo; Liu, Guangcan; Fan, Dapeng

2014-09-01

Based on the vector form Snell's law, ray tracing is performed to quantify the pointing errors of Risley-prism-based beam steering systems, induced by component errors, prism orientation errors, and assembly errors. Case examples are given to elucidate the pointing error distributions in the field of regard and evaluate the allowances of the error sources for a given pointing accuracy. It is found that the assembly errors of the second prism will result in more remarkable pointing errors in contrast with the first one. The pointing errors induced by prism tilt depend on the tilt direction. The allowances of bearing tilt and prism tilt are almost identical if the same pointing accuracy is planned. All conclusions can provide a theoretical foundation for practical works.

Method and apparatus for optimizing the efficiency and quality of laser material processing

DOEpatents

Susemihl, Ingo

1990-01-01

The efficiency of laser welding and other laser material processing is optimized according to this invention by rotating the plane of polarization of a linearly polarized laser beam in relation to a work piece of the material being processed simultaneously and in synchronization with steering the laser beam over the work piece so as to keep the plane of polarization parallel to either the plane of incidence or the direction of travel of the beam in relation to the work piece. Also, depending to some extent on the particular processing being accomplished, such as welding or fusing, the angle of incidence of the laser beam on the work piece is kept at or near the polarizing or Brewster's angle. The combination of maintaining the plane of polarization parallel to plane of incidence while also maintaining the angle of incidence at or near the polarizing or Brewster's angle results in only minimal, if any, reflection losses during laser welding. Also, coordinating rotation of the plane of polarization with the translation or steering of a work piece under a laser cutting beam maximizes efficiency and kerf geometry, regardless of the direction of cut.

Method and apparatus for optimizing the efficiency and quality of laser material processing

DOEpatents

Susemihl, I.

1990-03-13

The efficiency of laser welding and other laser material processing is optimized according to this invention by rotating the plane of polarization of a linearly polarized laser beam in relation to a work piece of the material being processed simultaneously and in synchronization with steering the laser beam over the work piece so as to keep the plane of polarization parallel to either the plane of incidence or the direction of travel of the beam in relation to the work piece. Also, depending to some extent on the particular processing being accomplished, such as welding or fusing, the angle of incidence of the laser beam on the work piece is kept at or near the polarizing or Brewster's angle. The combination of maintaining the plane of polarization parallel to plane of incidence while also maintaining the angle of incidence at or near the polarizing or Brewster's angle results in only minimal, if any, reflection losses during laser welding. Also, coordinating rotation of the plane of polarization with the translation or steering of a work piece under a laser cutting beam maximizes efficiency and kerf geometry, regardless of the direction of cut. 7 figs.

Instrument Design Optimization With Computational Methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moore, Michael H.

Using Finite Element Analysis to approximate the solution of differential equations, two different instruments in experimental Hall C at the Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility are analyzed. The time dependence of density fluctuations from the liquid hydrogen (LH2) target used in the Qweak experiment (2011-2012) are studied with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and the simulation results compared to data from the experiment. The 2.5 kW liquid hydrogen target was the highest power LH2 target in the world and the first to be designed with CFD at Jefferson Lab. The first complete magnetic field simulation of the Super High Momentum Spectrometer (SHMS) is presented with a focus on primary electron beam deflection downstream of the target. The SHMS consists of a superconducting horizontal bending magnet (HB) and three superconducting quadrupole magnets. The HB allows particles scattered at an angle of 5.5° to the beam line to be steered into the quadrupole magnets which make up the optics of the spectrometer. Without mitigation, remnant fields from the SHMS may steer the unscattered beam outside of the acceptable envelope on the beam dump and limit beam operations at small scattering angles. A solution is proposed using optimal placement of a minimal amount of shielding iron around the beam line.

Instrument design optimization with computational methods

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Moore, Michael H.

Using Finite Element Analysis to approximate the solution of differential equations, two different instruments in experimental Hall C at the Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility are analyzed. The time dependence of density uctuations from the liquid hydrogen (LH2) target used in the Q weak experiment (2011-2012) are studied with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and the simulation results compared to data from the experiment. The 2.5 kW liquid hydrogen target was the highest power LH2 target in the world and the first to be designed with CFD at Jefferson Lab. The first complete magnetic field simulation of the Super High Momentummore » Spectrometer (SHMS) is presented with a focus on primary electron beam deflection downstream of the target. The SHMS consists of a superconducting horizontal bending magnet (HB) and three superconducting quadrupole magnets. The HB allows particles scattered at an angle of 5:5 deg to the beam line to be steered into the quadrupole magnets which make up the optics of the spectrometer. Without mitigation, remnant fields from the SHMS may steer the unscattered beam outside of the acceptable envelope on the beam dump and limit beam operations at small scattering angles. A solution is proposed using optimal placement of a minimal amount of shielding iron around the beam line.« less

Advances in optical structure systems; Proceedings of the Meeting, Orlando, FL, Apr. 16-19, 1990

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Breakwell, John; Genberg, Victor L.; Krumweide, Gary C.

Various papers on advances in optical structure systems are presented. Individual topics addressed include: beam pathlength optimization, thermal stress in glass/metal bond with PR 1578 adhesive, structural and optical properties for typical solid mirror shapes, parametric study of spinning polygon mirror deformations, simulation of small structures-optics-controls system, spatial PSDs of optical structures due to random vibration, mountings for a four-meter glass mirror, fast-steering mirrors in optical control systems, adaptive state estimation for control of flexible structures, surface control techniques for large segmented mirrors, two-time-scale control designs for large flexible structures, closed-loop dynamic shape control of a flexible beam. Also discussed are: inertially referenced pointing for body-fixed payloads, sensor blending line-of-sight stabilization, controls/optics/structures simulation development, transfer functions for piezoelectric control of a flexible beam, active control experiments for large-optics vibration alleviation, composite structures for a large-optical test bed, graphite/epoxy composite mirror for beam-steering applications, composite structures for optical-mirror applications, thin carbon-fiber prepregs for dimensionally critical structures.

Quasi-ideal dynamics of vortex solitons embedded in flattop nonlinear Bessel beams.

PubMed

Porras, Miguel A; Ramos, Francisco

2017-09-01

The applications of vortex solitons are severely limited by the diffraction and self-defocusing spreading of the background beam where they are nested. Nonlinear Bessel beams in self-defocusing media are nondiffracting, flattop beams where the nested vortex solitons can survive for propagation distances that are one order of magnitude larger than in the Gaussian or super-Gaussian beams. The dynamics of the vortex solitons is studied numerically and found to approach that in the ideal, uniform background, preventing vortex spiraling and decay, which eases vortex steering for applications.

Airy beams on two dimensional materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Imran, Muhammad; Li, Rujiang; Jiang, Yuyu; Lin, Xiao; Zheng, Bin; Dehdashti, Shahram; Xu, Zhiwei; Wang, Huaping

2018-05-01

We propose that quasi-transverse-magnetic (quasi-TM) Airy beams can be supported on two dimensional (2D) materials. By taking graphene as a typical example, the solution of quasi-TM Airy beams is studied under the paraxial approximation. The analytical field intensity in a bilayer graphene-based planar plasmonic waveguide is confirmed by the simulation results. Due to the tunability of the chemical potential of graphene, the self-accelerating behavior of the quasi-TM Airy beam can be steered effectively. 2D materials thus provide a good platform to investigate the propagation of Airy beams.

Improved grating angular sensor for LISA and MGRS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Ke-Xun; Lu, Patrick; Byer, Robert L.

2009-03-01

LISA requires high precision angular beam pointing and telescope steering. In this paper, we report recent results for an improved grating angular sensor. We have achieved better than 0.2 nrad/Hz1/2 at 1 kHz with 14 mW of incident power, a factor of 5 improvement over our previously reported results. At 1 Hz we achieved 1-2 nrad/Hz1/2. We realized these improvements by enclosing the grating angular sensor assembly in a vacuum chamber and mounting the optics components on a zerodur glass plate, thereby lowering the noise floor at low frequencies. Furthermore, by upgrading the electronics and thus the detector power handing capability, we also investigated sensitivity scaling versus incident laser power. The results will benefit the design of grating angular sensors.

An ANSERLIN array for mobile satellite applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Colomb, F. Y.; Kunkee, D. B.; Mayes, P. E.; Smith, D. W.; Jamnejad, V.

1990-01-01

Design, analysis, construction, and test of linear arrays of ANSERLIN (annular sector, radiating line) elements are reported and discussed. Due to feeding simplicity and easy construction as well as good CP performance, a planar array composed of a number of such linear arrays each producing a shaped beam tilted in elevation, is a good candidate as a vehicle-mounted mechanically steered antenna for mobile satellite applications. A single level construction technique was developed that makes this type of array very cost competitive with other low-profile arrays. An asymmetric 19.5 inch long four-element array was fabricated and tested with reasonable performance. A smaller five-element symmetric array (16 inch long) was also designed and tested capable of operating in either sense of circular polarization. Efforts were made to successfully reduce this effect.

Mitigation of beam fluctuation due to atmospheric turbulence and prediction of control quality using intelligent decision-making tools.

PubMed

Raj, A Arockia Bazil; Selvi, J Arputha Vijaya; Kumar, D; Sivakumaran, N

2014-06-10

In free-space optical link (FSOL), atmospheric turbulence causes fluctuations in both intensity and phase of the received beam and impairing link performance. The beam motion is one of the main causes for major power loss. This paper presents an investigation on the performance of two types of controller designed for aiming a laser beam to be at a particular spot under dynamic disturbances. The multiple experiment observability nonlinear input-output data mapping is used as the principal components for controllers design. The first design is based on the Taguchi method while the second is artificial neural network method. These controllers process the beam location information from a static linear map of 2D plane: optoelectronic position detector, as observer, and then generate the necessary outputs to steer the beam with a microelectromechanical mirror: fast steering mirror. The beam centroid is computed using monopulse algorithm. Evidence of suitability and effectiveness of the proposed controllers are comprehensively assessed and quantitatively measured in terms of coefficient of correlation, correction speed, control exactness, centroid displacement, and stability of the receiver signal through the experimental results from the FSO link setup established for the horizontal range of 0.5 km at an altitude of 15.25 m. The test field type is open flat terrain, grass, and few isolated obstacles.

Quality control methods for linear accelerator radiation and mechanical axes alignment.

PubMed

Létourneau, Daniel; Keller, Harald; Becker, Nathan; Amin, Md Nurul; Norrlinger, Bernhard; Jaffray, David A

2018-06-01

The delivery accuracy of highly conformal dose distributions generated using intensity modulation and collimator, gantry, and couch degrees of freedom is directly affected by the quality of the alignment between the radiation beam and the mechanical axes of a linear accelerator. For this purpose, quality control (QC) guidelines recommend a tolerance of ±1 mm for the coincidence of the radiation and mechanical isocenters. Traditional QC methods for assessment of radiation and mechanical axes alignment (based on pointer alignment) are time consuming and complex tasks that provide limited accuracy. In this work, an automated test suite based on an analytical model of the linear accelerator motions was developed to streamline the QC of radiation and mechanical axes alignment. The proposed method used the automated analysis of megavoltage images of two simple task-specific phantoms acquired at different linear accelerator settings to determine the coincidence of the radiation and mechanical isocenters. The sensitivity and accuracy of the test suite were validated by introducing actual misalignments on a linear accelerator between the radiation axis and the mechanical axes using both beam steering and mechanical adjustments of the gantry and couch. The validation demonstrated that the new QC method can detect sub-millimeter misalignment between the radiation axis and the three mechanical axes of rotation. A displacement of the radiation source of 0.2 mm using beam steering parameters was easily detectable with the proposed collimator rotation axis test. Mechanical misalignments of the gantry and couch rotation axes of the same magnitude (0.2 mm) were also detectable using the new gantry and couch rotation axis tests. For the couch rotation axis, the phantom and test design allow detection of both translational and tilt misalignments with the radiation beam axis. For the collimator rotation axis, the test can isolate the misalignment between the beam radiation axis and the mechanical collimator rotation axis from the impact of field size asymmetry. The test suite can be performed in a reasonable time (30-35 min) due to simple phantom setup, prescription-based beam delivery, and automated image analysis. As well, it provides a clear description of the relationship between axes. After testing the sensitivity of the test suite to beam steering and mechanical errors, the results of the test suite were used to reduce the misalignment errors of the linac to less than 0.7-mm radius for all axes. The proposed test suite offers sub-millimeter assessment of the coincidence of the radiation and mechanical isocenters and the test automation reduces complexity with improved efficiency. The test suite results can be used to optimize the linear accelerator's radiation to mechanical isocenter alignment by beam steering and mechanical adjustment of gantry and couch. © 2018 American Association of Physicists in Medicine.

Coherent optical monolithic phased-array antenna steering system

DOEpatents

Hietala, Vincent M.; Kravitz, Stanley H.; Vawter, Gregory A.

1994-01-01

An optical-based RF beam steering system for phased-array antennas comprising a photonic integrated circuit (PIC). The system is based on optical heterodyning employed to produce microwave phase shifting by a monolithic PIC constructed entirely of passive components. Microwave power and control signal distribution to the antenna is accomplished by optical fiber, permitting physical separation of the PIC and its control functions from the antenna. The system reduces size, weight, complexity, and cost of phased-array antenna systems.

On the Fringe Field of Wide Angle LC Optical Phased Array

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, Xighua; Wang, Bin; Bos, Philip J.; Anderson, James E.; Pouch, John; Miranda, Felix; McManamon, Paul F.

2004-01-01

For free space laser communication, light weighted large deployable optics is a critical component for the transmitter. However, such an optical element will introduce large aberrations due to the fact that the surface figure of the large optics is susceptable to deformation in the space environment. We propose to use a high-resolution liquid crystal spatial light modulator to correct for wavefront aberrations introduced by the primary optical element, and to achieve very fine beam steering and shaping at the same time. A 2-D optical phased array (OPA) antenna based on a Liquid Crystal on Silicon (LCOS) spatial light modulator is described. This device offers a combination of low cost, high resolution, high accuracy, high diffraction efficiency at video speed. To quantitatively understand the influence factor of the different design parameters, a computer simulation of the device is given by the 2-D director simulation and the Finite Difference Time domain (FDTD) simulation. For the 1-D OPA, we define the maximum steering angle to have a grating period of 8 pixel/reset scheme; as for larger steering angles than this criterion, the diffraction efficiency drops dramatically. In this case, the diffraction efficiency of 0.86 and the Strehl ratio of 0.9 are obtained in the simulation. The performance of the device in achieving high resolution wavefront correction and beam steering is also characterized experimentally.

Distributed Beam Former for Distributed-Aperture Electronically Steered Antennas

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-11-01

of planar or conformal aperture, it will be replaced by a distributed aperture configuration with a base-band digital network that is used to combine...beam forming network that can be designed with pre-set scanning directions. The beam former for this stage can be realized using a printed Butler...matrix (Bona et al, 2002; Neron and Delisle, 2005), a printed Rotman lens (Kilic and Dahlstrom, 2005) or other switched time delay system. The

An L-band SAR for repeat pass deformation measurements on a UAV platform

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hensley, Scott; Lou, Yunling; Rosen, Paul; Wheeler, Kevin; Zebker, Howard; Madsen, Soren; Miller, Tim; Hoffman, Jim; Farra, Don

2003-01-01

We are proposing to develop a miniaturized polarimetric L-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR) for repeat-pass differential interferometric measurements of deformation for rapidly deforming surfaces of geophysical interest such as volcanoes or earthquakes that is to be flown on a unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) or minimally piloted vehicle (MPV). Upon surveying the capabilities and availabilities of such aircraft, the Proteus aircraft and the ALTAIR UAV appear to meet our criteria in terms of payload capabilities, flying altitude, and endurance. To support the repeat pass deformation capability it is necessary to control flight track capability of the aircraft to be within a specified 10 m tube with a goal of 1 m. This requires real-time GPS control of the autopilot to achieve these objectives that has not been demonstrated on these aircraft. Based on the Proteus and ALTAIR's altitude of 13.7 km (45,000 ft), we are designing a fully polarimetric L-band radar with 80 MHz bandwidth and a 16 km range swath. The radar will have an active electronic beam steering antenna to achieve a Doppler centroid stability that is necessary for repeat-pass interferometry. This paper presents some of the trade studies for the platform, instrument and the expected science.

Design of long induction linacs

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Caporaso, G.J.; Cole, A.G.

1990-09-06

A self-consistent design strategy for induction linacs is presented which addresses the issues of brightness preservation against space charge induced emittance growth, minimization of the beam breakup instability and the suppression of beam centroid motion due to chromatic effects (corkscrew) and misaligned focusing elements. A simple steering algorithm is described that widens the effective energy bandwidth of the transport system.

Concepts and cost trade-offs for land vehicle antennas in satellite mobile communications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Haddad, H. A.

1948-01-01

Several antenna design concepts, operating at UHF (821 to 825 MHz transmit and 866 to 870 MHz receive bands), with gain ranging between 6 and 12 dBic, that are suitable for land mobile vehicles are presented. The antennas may be used within CONUS and ALASKA to communicate to and from a geosynchronous satellite. Depending on the type of steering mechanism, the antennas are broken down into three categories; (1) electronically scanned arrays with phase shifters, (2) electronically switched arrays with switchable power dividers/combiners, and (3) mechanically steered arrays. The operating characteristics of two of these design concepts, one a conformal antenna with electronic beam steering and the other a nonconformal design with mechanical steering, were evaluated with regard to two and three satellite system. Cost estimates of various antenna concepts were made and plotted against their overall gain performance.

Microphone array measurement system for analysis of directional and spatial variations of sound fields.

PubMed

Gover, Bradford N; Ryan, James G; Stinson, Michael R

2002-11-01

A measurement system has been developed that is capable of analyzing the directional and spatial variations in a reverberant sound field. A spherical, 32-element array of microphones is used to generate a narrow beam that is steered in 60 directions. Using an omnidirectional loudspeaker as excitation, the sound pressure arriving from each steering direction is measured as a function of time, in the form of pressure impulse responses. By subsequent analysis of these responses, the variation of arriving energy with direction is studied. The directional diffusion and directivity index of the arriving sound can be computed, as can the energy decay rate in each direction. An analysis of the 32 microphone responses themselves allows computation of the point-to-point variation of reverberation time and of sound pressure level, as well as the spatial cross-correlation coefficient, over the extent of the array. The system has been validated in simple sound fields in an anechoic chamber and in a reverberation chamber. The system characterizes these sound fields as expected, both quantitatively from the measures and qualitatively from plots of the arriving energy versus direction. It is anticipated that the system will be of value in evaluating the directional distribution of arriving energy and the degree and diffuseness of sound fields in rooms.

Precision gimballed mirror control in remote sensing LIDAR for environmental monitoring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, Ravindra; Mudgil, Ashwani; Prakash, Chandra; Pal, Suranjan

2006-12-01

Differential Absorption Lidar (DIAL) Systems are advantageously used to detect and measure very small concentrations of trace gases in the atmosphere. There is a requirement to interrogate and search for the presence of one or more of toxic agents out of a large number (about 20 or so) of possible agents at distances up to several kilometers with the help of a ground-based multi-wavelength DIAL system employing pulsed, tunable laser sources in the wavelength bands of 2-5 micron and 9.2-10.8 micron. The Laser beams from the two sources are directed in the atmosphere with a predefined divergence to scan the atmosphere. Two methodologies can be implemented to provide the beam steering, one is to mount the entire telescope of transmitting and receiving channel on to a motorized gimbal platform and second is to keep the optical telescope stationary and use a slewing mirror to steer the beam in required direction. The first scheme is named as mass control and second scheme is called mirror control. Both the schemes have relative advantages and disadvantages and in the present DIAL application second scheme is being adopted. The present opto-mechanical configuration of DIAL system employs a 700 x 500 mm 2 (Elliptical) steering mirror for transmitting the collimated beams in a required direction and receiving the reflected beam as well. In the receiving channel a Telescope is used which collects the return beam and focuses the same on to a detector. The slewing mirror is housed in a gimbal mount having a sufficient FOR (Field of Regard) in Azimuth and elevation plane. The paper describes the modeling and simulation of Opto-mechanical and servo-mechanical subsystems of precision gimbaled mirror and also discusses the issues related to design of control system. The requirement specifications in regard to field of regard, slew rates 5°/s, scanning rates 1°/s are to be met with stringent beam pointing and scanning accuracies. The design of this system is categorized as multidisciplinary problem. The design parameters obtained from opto-mechanical analysis forms the input for control system design. The design of control system is carried out using conventional design methodologies.

Ultrasonic NDE and mechanical testing of fiber placement composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Zhanjie; Fei, Dong; Hsu, David K.; Dayal, Vinay; Hale, Richard D.

2002-05-01

A fiber placed composite, especially with fiber steering, has considerably more complex internal structure than a laminate laid up from unidirectional prepreg tapes. In this work, we performed ultrasonic imaging of ply interfaces of fiber placed composite laminates, with an eye toward developing a tool for evaluating their quality. Mechanical short-beam shear tests were also conducted on both nonsteered and steered specimens to examine their failure behavior and its relationship to the structural defects indicated by ultrasonic imaging.

Advanced Optics for a Full Quasi-Optical Front Steering ECRH Upper Launcher for ITER

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Moro, A.; Alessi, E.; Bruschi, A.

2009-11-26

A full quasi-optical setup for the internal optics of the Front Steering Electron Cyclotron Resonance Heating (ECRH) Upper Launcher for ITER was designed, proving to be feasible and favorable in terms of additional flexibility and cost reduction with respect to the former design. This full quasi-optical solution foresees the replacement of the mitre-bends in the final section of the launcher with dedicated free-space mirrors to realize the last changes of directions in the launcher. A description of the launcher is given and its advantages presented. The parameters of the expected output beams as well as preliminary evaluations of truncation effectsmore » with the physical optics GRASP code are shown. Moreover, a study of mitre-bends replacement with single mirrors for multiple beams is described. In principle it could allow the beams to be larger at the mirror locations (with a further decrease of the peak power density due to partial overlapping) and has the additional advantage to get a larger opening with compressed beams to avoid conflicts with side-walls port. Constraints on the setup, arising both from the resulting beam characteristics in the space of free parameters and from mechanical requirements are taken into account in the analysis.« less

SPS phase control system performance via analytical simulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lindsey, W. C.; Kantak, A. V.; Chie, C. M.; Booth, R. W. D.

1979-01-01

A solar power satellite transmission system which incorporates automatic beam forming, steering, and phase control is discussed. The phase control concept centers around the notation of an active retrodirective phased array as a means of pointing the beam to the appropriate spot on Earth. The transmitting antenna (spacetenna) directs the high power beam so that it focuses on the ground-based receiving antenna (rectenna). A combination of analysis and computerized simulation was conducted to determine the far field performance of the reference distribution system, and the beam forming and microwave power generating systems.

Sub-μrad laser beam tracking

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Buske, Ivo; Riede, Wolfgang

2006-09-01

We compare active optical elements based on different technologies to accomplish the requirements of a 2-dim. fine tracking control system. A cascaded optically and electrically addressable spatial light modulator (OASLM) based on liquid crystals (LC) is used for refractive beam steering. Spatial light modulators provide a controllable phase wedge to generate a beam deflection. Additionally, a tip/tilt mirror approach operating with piezo-electric actuators is investigated. A digital PID controller is implemented for closed-loop control. Beam tracking with a root-mean-squared accuracy of Δα=30 nrad has been laboratory-confirmed.

Controllable Sonar Lenses and Prisms Based on ERFs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bar-Cohen, Yoseph; Sherrit, Stewart; Chang, Zensheu; Bao, Xiaoqi; Paustian, Iris; Lopes, Joseph; Folds, Donald

2004-01-01

Sonar-beam-steering devices of the proposed type would contain no moving parts and would be considerably smaller and less power-hungry, relative to conventional multiple-beam sonar arrays. The proposed devices are under consideration for installation on future small autonomous underwater vehicles because the sizes and power demands of conventional multiple-beam arrays are excessive, and motors used in single-beam mechanically scanned systems are also not reliable. The proposed devices would include a variety of electrically controllable acoustic prisms, lenses, and prism/lens combinations both simple and compound. These devices would contain electrorheological fluids (ERFs) between electrodes. An ERF typically consists of dielectric particles floating in a dielectric fluid. When an electric field is applied to the fluid, the particles become grouped into fibrils aligned in rows, with a consequent increase in the viscosity of the fluid and a corresponding increase in the speed of sound in the fluid. The change in the speed of sound increases with an increase in the applied electric field. By thus varying the speed of sound, one varies the acoustic index of refraction, analogously to varying the index of refraction of an optical lens or prism. In the proposed acoustic devices, this effect would be exploited to control the angles of refraction of acoustic beams, thereby steering the beams and, in the case of lenses, controlling focal lengths.

Suitability of holographic beam scanning in high resolution applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kalita, Ranjan; Goutam Buddha, S. S.; Boruah, Bosanta R.

2018-02-01

The high resolution applications of a laser scanning imaging system very much demand the accurate positioning of the illumination beam. The galvanometer scanner based beam scanning imaging systems, on the other hand, suffer from both short term and long term beam instability issues. Fortunately Computer generated holography based beam scanning offers extremely accurate beam steering, which can be very useful for imaging in high-resolution applications in confocal microscopy. The holographic beam scanning can be achieved by writing a sequence of holograms onto a spatial light modulator and utilizing one of the diffracted orders as the illumination beam. This paper highlights relative advantages of such a holographic beam scanning based confocal system and presents some of preliminary experimental results.

Automatic phase control in solar power satellite systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lindsey, W. C.; Kantak, A. V.

1978-01-01

Various approaches to the problem of generating, maintaining and distributing a coherent, reference phase signal over a large area are suggested, mathematically modeled and analyzed with respect to their ability to minimize: phase build-up, beam diffusion and beam steering phase jitter, cable length, and maximize power transfer efficiency. In addition, phase control configurations are suggested which alleviate the need for layout symmetry.

Overnight non-contact continuous vital signs monitoring using an intelligent automatic beam-steering Doppler sensor at 2.4 GHz.

PubMed

Batchu, S; Narasimhachar, H; Mayeda, J C; Hall, T; Lopez, J; Nguyen, T; Banister, R E; Lie, D Y C

2017-07-01

Doppler-based non-contact vital signs (NCVS) sensors can monitor heart rates, respiration rates, and motions of patients without physically touching them. We have developed a novel single-board Doppler-based phased-array antenna NCVS biosensor system that can perform robust overnight continuous NCVS monitoring with intelligent automatic subject tracking and optimal beam steering algorithms. Our NCVS sensor achieved overnight continuous vital signs monitoring with an impressive heart-rate monitoring accuracy of over 94% (i.e., within ±5 Beats-Per-Minute vs. a reference sensor), analyzed from over 400,000 data points collected during each overnight monitoring period of ~ 6 hours at a distance of 1.75 meters. The data suggests our intelligent phased-array NCVS sensor can be very attractive for continuous monitoring of low-acuity patients.

An Expert System For Tuning Particle-Beam Accelerators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lager, Darrel L.; Brand, Hal R.; Maurer, William J.; Searfus, Robert M.; Hernandez, Jose E.

1989-03-01

We have developed a proof-of-concept prototype of an expert system for tuning particle beam accelerators. It is designed to function as an intelligent assistant for an operator. In its present form it implements the strategies and reasoning followed by the operator for steering through the beam transport section of the Advanced Test Accelerator at Lawrence Livermore Laboratory's Site 300. The system is implemented in the language LISP using the Artificial Intelligence concepts of frames, daemons, and a representation we developed called a Monitored Decision Script.

3D Laser Processing : The Renault Rl5

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rolland, Olivier C.; Meyer, Bernard D.

1986-11-01

The RL5, a five-axis robot, is designed to steer a powerful laser beam on 3 dimensional (3D) trajectories with a great accuracy. Cutting and welding with a CO2 laser beam, drilling with a YAG laser beam are some applications of this machine which can be integrated in a production line. Easy management and modifications of trajectories, obtained either in a teaching mode or by a CAD-CAM system, give the laser tool its main interest : flexibility.

Aeroelastic Tailoring via Tow Steered Composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stanford, Bret K.; Jutte, Christine V.

2014-01-01

The use of tow steered composites, where fibers follow prescribed curvilinear paths within a laminate, can improve upon existing capabilities related to aeroelastic tailoring of wing structures, though this tailoring method has received relatively little attention in the literature. This paper demonstrates the technique for both a simple cantilevered plate in low-speed flow, as well as the wing box of a full-scale high aspect ratio transport configuration. Static aeroelastic stresses and dynamic flutter boundaries are obtained for both cases. The impact of various tailoring choices upon the aeroelastic performance is quantified: curvilinear fiber steering versus straight fiber steering, certifiable versus noncertifiable stacking sequences, a single uniform laminate per wing skin versus multiple laminates, and identical upper and lower wing skins structures versus individual tailoring.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Clayton, James; Shedlock, Daniel; Langeveld, Willem G.J.

Two goals for security scanning of cargo and freight are the ability to determine the type of material that is being imaged, and to do so at low radiation dose. One commonly used technique to determine the effective Z of the cargo is dual-energy imaging, i.e. imaging with different x-ray energy spectra. Another technique uses the fact that the transmitted x-ray spectrum itself also depends on the effective Z. Spectroscopy is difficult because the energy of individual x rays needs to be measured in a very high count-rate environment. Typical accelerators for security applications offer large but short bursts ofmore » x-rays, suitable for current-mode integrated imaging. In order to perform x-ray spectroscopy, a new accelerator design is desired that has the following features: 1) increased duty factor in order to spread out the arrival of x-rays at the detector array over time; 2) x-ray intensity modulation from one delivered pulse to the next by adjusting the accelerator electron beam instantaneous current so as to deliver adequate signal without saturating the spectroscopic detector; and 3) the capability to direct the (forward peaked) x-ray intensity towards high-attenuation areas in the cargo (“fan-beam-steering”). Current sources are capable of 0.1% duty factor, although usually they are operated at significantly lower duty factors (~0.04%), but duty factors in the range 0.4-1.0% are desired. The higher duty factor can be accomplished, e.g., by moving from 300 pulses per second (pps) to 1000 pps and/or increasing the pulse duration from a typical 4 μs to 10 μs. This paper describes initial R&D to examine cost effective modifications that could be performed on a typical accelerator for these purposes, as well as R&D for fan-beam steering.« less

Development of a compact superconducting rotating-gantry for heavy-ion therapy

PubMed Central

Iwata, Yoshiyuki; Noda, K.; Murakami, T.; Shirai, T.; Furukawa, T.; Fujita, T.; Mori, S.; Sato, S.; Mizushima, K.; Shouda, K.; Fujimoto, T.; Arai, H.; Ogitsu, T.; Obana, T.; Amemiya, N.; Orikasa, T.; Takami, S.; Takayama, S.

2014-01-01

An isocentric superconducting rotating-gantry for heavy-ion therapy is being developed [ 1]. This rotating gantry can transport heavy ions having 430 MeV/u to an isocenter with irradiation angles of over ±180°, and is further capable of performing fast raster-scanning irradiation [ 2]. A layout of the beam-transport line for the compact rotating-gantry is presented in Fig. 1. The rotating gantry has 10 superconducting magnets (BM01-10), a pair of the scanning magnets (SCM-X and SCM-Y) and two pairs of beam profile- monitor and steering magnets (ST01-02 and PRN01-02). For BM01-BM06 and BM09-BM10, the combined-function superconducting magnets are employed. Further, these superconducting magnets are designed for fast slewing of the magnetic field to follow the multiple flattop operation of the synchrotron [ 3]. The use of the combined-function superconducting magnets with optimized beam optics allows a compact gantry design with a large scan size at the isocenter; the length and the radius of the gantry will be to be ∼13 and 5.5 m, respectively, which are comparable to those for the existing proton gantries. Furthermore, the maximum scan size at the isocenter is calculated to be as large as ∼200 mm square for heavy-ion beams at the maximum energy of 430 MeV/u. All of the superconducting magnets were designed, and their magnetic fields were calculated using the Opera-3d code [ 4]. With the calculated magnetic fields, beam-tracking simulations were made. The simulation results agreed well with those of the linear beam-optics calculation, proving validity of the final design for the superconducting magnets. The five out of 10 superconducting magnets, as well as the model magnet were currently manufactured. With these magnets, rotation tests, magnetic field measurements and fast slewing tests were conducted. However, we did not observe any significant temperature increase, which may cause a quench problem. Further, results of the magnetic field measurements roughly agreed with those calculated by the Opera-3d code. The design study as well as major tests of the superconducting magnets was completed, and the construction of the superconducting rotating-gantry is in progress. The construction of the superconducting rotating-gantry will be completed at the end of FY2014, and be commissioned within FY2015. Fig. 1.Layout of the superconducting rotating-gantry. The gantry consists of 10 superconducting magnets (BM01–BM10), a pair of the scanning magnets (SCM-X and SCMY), and two pairs of beam profile-monitor and steering magnets (STR01–STR02 and PRN01–PRN02).

Initial alignment method for free space optics laser beam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shimada, Yuta; Tashiro, Yuki; Izumi, Kiyotaka; Yoshida, Koichi; Tsujimura, Takeshi

2016-08-01

The authors have newly proposed and constructed an active free space optics transmission system. It is equipped with a motor driven laser emitting mechanism and positioning photodiodes, and it transmits a collimated thin laser beam and accurately steers the laser beam direction. It is necessary to introduce the laser beam within sensible range of the receiver in advance of laser beam tracking control. This paper studies an estimation method of laser reaching point for initial laser beam alignment. Distributed photodiodes detect laser luminescence at respective position, and the optical axis of laser beam is analytically presumed based on the Gaussian beam optics. Computer simulation evaluates the accuracy of the proposed estimation methods, and results disclose that the methods help us to guide the laser beam to a distant receiver.

Near-Infrared and Optical Beam Steering and Frequency Splitting in Air-Holes-in-Silicon Inverse Photonic Crystals.

PubMed

Tasolamprou, Anna C; Koschny, Thomas; Kafesaki, Maria; Soukoulis, Costas M

2017-11-15

We present the design of a dielectric inverse photonic crystal structure that couples line-defect waveguide propagating modes into highly directional beams of controllable directionality. The structure utilizes a triangular lattice made of air holes drilled in an infinitely thick Si slab, and it is designed for operation in the near-infrared and optical regime. The structure operation is based on the excitation and manipulation of dark dielectric surface states, in particular on the tailoring of the dark states' coupling to outgoing radiation. This coupling is achieved with the use of properly designed external corrugations. The structure adapts and matches modes that travel through the photonic crystal and the free space. Moreover it facilitates the steering of the outgoing waves, is found to generate well-defined, spatially and spectrally isolated beams, and may serve as a frequency splitting component designed for operation in the near-infrared regime and in particular the telecom optical wavelength band. The design complies with the state-of-the-art Si nanofabrication technology and can be directly scaled for operation in the optical regime.

Near-Infrared and Optical Beam Steering and Frequency Splitting in Air-Holes-in-Silicon Inverse Photonic Crystals

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

We present the design of a dielectric inverse photonic crystal structure that couples line-defect waveguide propagating modes into highly directional beams of controllable directionality. The structure utilizes a triangular lattice made of air holes drilled in an infinitely thick Si slab, and it is designed for operation in the near-infrared and optical regime. The structure operation is based on the excitation and manipulation of dark dielectric surface states, in particular on the tailoring of the dark states’ coupling to outgoing radiation. This coupling is achieved with the use of properly designed external corrugations. The structure adapts and matches modes that travel through the photonic crystal and the free space. Moreover it facilitates the steering of the outgoing waves, is found to generate well-defined, spatially and spectrally isolated beams, and may serve as a frequency splitting component designed for operation in the near-infrared regime and in particular the telecom optical wavelength band. The design complies with the state-of-the-art Si nanofabrication technology and can be directly scaled for operation in the optical regime. PMID:29541653

Self-Balancing, Optical-Center-Pivot, Fast-Steering Mirror

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moore, James D.; Carson, Johnathan W.

2011-01-01

A complete, self-contained fast-steering- mirror (FSM) mechanism is reported consisting of a housing, a mirror and mirror-mounting cell, three PZT (piezoelectric) actuators, and a counterbalance mass. Basically, it is a comparatively stiff, two-axis (tip-tilt), self-balanced FSM. The present invention requires only three (or three pairs for flight redundancy) actuators. If a PZT actuator degrades, the inherent balance remains, and compensation for degraded stroke is made by simply increasing the voltage to the PZT. Prior designs typically do not pivot at the mirror optical center, creating unacceptable beam shear.

Innovative remotely-controlled bending device for thin silicon and germanium crystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

De Salvador, D.; Carturan, S.; Mazzolari, A.; Bagli, E.; Bandiera, L.; Durighello, C.; Germogli, G.; Guidi, V.; Klag, P.; Lauth, W.; Maggioni, G.; Romagnoni, M.; Sytov, A.

2018-04-01

Steering of negatively charged particle beams below 1 GeV has demonstrated to be possible with thin bent silicon and germanium crystals. A newly designed mechanical holder was used for bending crystals, since it allows a remotely-controlled adjustment of crystal bending and compensation of unwanted torsion. Bent crystals were installed and tested at the MAMI Mainz MIcrotron to achieve steering of 0.855-GeV electrons at different bending radii. We report the description and characterization of the innovative bending device developed at INFN Laboratori Nazionali di Legnaro (LNL).

Development of the auto-steering software and equipment technology (ASSET)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McKay, Mark D.; Anderson, Matthew O.; Wadsworth, Derek C.

2003-09-01

The Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory (INEEL), through collaboration with INSAT Co., has developed a low cost robotic auto-steering system for parallel contour swathing. The capability to perform parallel contour swathing while minimizing "skip" and "overlap" is a necessity for cost-effective crop management within precision agriculture. Current methods for performing parallel contour swathing consist of using a Differential Global Position System (DGPS) coupled with a light bar system to prompt an operator where to steer. The complexity of operating heavy equipment, ensuring proper chemical mixture and application, and steering to a light bar indicator can be overwhelming to an operator. To simplify these tasks, an inexpensive robotic steering system has been developed and tested on several farming implements. This development leveraged research conducted by the INEEL and Utah State University. The INEEL-INSAT Auto-Steering Software and Equipment Technology provides the following: 1) the ability to drive in a straight line within +/- 2 feet while traveling at least 15 mph, 2) interfaces to a Real Time Kinematic (RTK) DGPS and sub-meter DGPS, 3) safety features such as Emergency-stop, steering wheel deactivation, computer watchdog deactivation, etc., and 4) a low-cost, field-ready system that is easily adapted to other systems.

A Real-Time Capable Software-Defined Receiver Using GPU for Adaptive Anti-Jam GPS Sensors

PubMed Central

Seo, Jiwon; Chen, Yu-Hsuan; De Lorenzo, David S.; Lo, Sherman; Enge, Per; Akos, Dennis; Lee, Jiyun

2011-01-01

Due to their weak received signal power, Global Positioning System (GPS) signals are vulnerable to radio frequency interference. Adaptive beam and null steering of the gain pattern of a GPS antenna array can significantly increase the resistance of GPS sensors to signal interference and jamming. Since adaptive array processing requires intensive computational power, beamsteering GPS receivers were usually implemented using hardware such as field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). However, a software implementation using general-purpose processors is much more desirable because of its flexibility and cost effectiveness. This paper presents a GPS software-defined radio (SDR) with adaptive beamsteering capability for anti-jam applications. The GPS SDR design is based on an optimized desktop parallel processing architecture using a quad-core Central Processing Unit (CPU) coupled with a new generation Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) having massively parallel processors. This GPS SDR demonstrates sufficient computational capability to support a four-element antenna array and future GPS L5 signal processing in real time. After providing the details of our design and optimization schemes for future GPU-based GPS SDR developments, the jamming resistance of our GPS SDR under synthetic wideband jamming is presented. Since the GPS SDR uses commercial-off-the-shelf hardware and processors, it can be easily adopted in civil GPS applications requiring anti-jam capabilities. PMID:22164116

A real-time capable software-defined receiver using GPU for adaptive anti-jam GPS sensors.

PubMed

Seo, Jiwon; Chen, Yu-Hsuan; De Lorenzo, David S; Lo, Sherman; Enge, Per; Akos, Dennis; Lee, Jiyun

2011-01-01

Due to their weak received signal power, Global Positioning System (GPS) signals are vulnerable to radio frequency interference. Adaptive beam and null steering of the gain pattern of a GPS antenna array can significantly increase the resistance of GPS sensors to signal interference and jamming. Since adaptive array processing requires intensive computational power, beamsteering GPS receivers were usually implemented using hardware such as field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). However, a software implementation using general-purpose processors is much more desirable because of its flexibility and cost effectiveness. This paper presents a GPS software-defined radio (SDR) with adaptive beamsteering capability for anti-jam applications. The GPS SDR design is based on an optimized desktop parallel processing architecture using a quad-core Central Processing Unit (CPU) coupled with a new generation Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) having massively parallel processors. This GPS SDR demonstrates sufficient computational capability to support a four-element antenna array and future GPS L5 signal processing in real time. After providing the details of our design and optimization schemes for future GPU-based GPS SDR developments, the jamming resistance of our GPS SDR under synthetic wideband jamming is presented. Since the GPS SDR uses commercial-off-the-shelf hardware and processors, it can be easily adopted in civil GPS applications requiring anti-jam capabilities.

The Implications of Encoder/Modulator/ Phased Array Designs for Future Broadband LEO Communications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vanderaar, Mark; Jensen, Chris A.; Terry, John D.

1997-01-01

In this paper we summarize the effects of modulation and channel coding on the design of wide angle scan, broadband, phased army antennas. In the paper we perform several trade studies. First, we investigate the amplifier back-off requirement as a function of variability of modulation envelope. Specifically, we contrast constant and non-constant envelope modulations, as well as single and multiple carrier schemes. Additionally, we address the issues an(f concerns of using pulse shaping filters with the above modulation types. Second, we quantify the effects of beam steering on the quality of data, recovery using selected modulation techniques. In particular, we show that the frequency response of the array introduces intersymbol interference for broadband signals and that the mode of operation for the beam steering controller may introduce additional burst or random errors. Finally, we show that the encoder/modulator design must be performed in conjunction with the phased array antenna design.

Method of achieving ultra-wideband true-time-delay beam steering for active electronically scanned arrays

DOEpatents

Loui, Hung; Brock, Billy C.

2016-10-25

The various embodiments presented herein relate to beam steering an array antenna by modifying intermediate frequency (IF) waveforms prior to conversion to RF signals. For each channel, a direct digital synthesis (DDS) component can be utilized to generate a waveform or modify amplitude, timing and phase of a waveform relative to another waveform, whereby the generation/modification can be performed prior to the IF input port of a mixer on each channel. A local oscillator (LO) signal can be utilized to commonly drive each of the mixers. After conversion at the RF output port of each of the mixers, each RF signal can be transmitted by a respective antenna element in the antenna array. Initiation of transmission of each RF signal can be performed simultaneously at each antenna. The process can be reversed during receive whereby timing, amplitude, and phase of the received can be modified digitally post ADC conversion.

Compact, semi-passive beam steering prism array for solar concentrators.

PubMed

Zheng, Cheng; Li, Qiyuan; Rosengarten, Gary; Hawkes, Evatt; Taylor, Robert A

2017-05-10

In order to maximize solar energy utilization in a limited space (e.g., rooftops), solar collectors should track the sun. As an alternative to rotational tracking systems, this paper presents a compact, semi-passive beam steering prism array which has been designed, analyzed, and tested for solar applications. The proposed prism array enables a linear concentrator system to remain stationary so that it can integrate with a variety of different solar concentrators, and which should be particularly useful for systems which require a low profile (namely rooftop-mounted systems). A case study of this prism array working within a specific rooftop solar collector demonstrates that it can boost the average daily optical efficiency of the collector by 32.7% and expand its effective working time from 6 h to 7.33 h. Overall, the proposed design provides an alternative way to "follow" the sun for a wide range of solar thermal and photovoltaic concentrator systems.

Luneburg lens with extended flat focal surface for electronic scan applications.

PubMed

Li, Ying; Zhu, Qi

2016-04-04

Luneburg lens with flat focal surface has been developed to work together with planar antenna feeds for beam steering applications. According to our analysis of the conventional flattened Luneburg lens, it cannot accommodate enough feeding elements which can cover its whole scan range with half power beamwidths (HPBWs). In this paper, a novel Luneburg lens with extended flat focal surface is proposed based on the theory of Quasi-Conformal Transformation Optics (QCTO), with its beam steering features reserved. To demonstrate this design, a three-dimensional (3D) prototype of this novel extend-flattened Luneburg lens working at Ku band is fabricated based on 3D printing techniques, whose flat focal surface is attached to a 9-element microstrip antenna array to achieve different scan angles. Our measured results show that, with different antenna elements being fed, the HPBWs can cover the whole scan range.

Beam steering for virtual/augmented reality displays with a cycloidal diffractive waveplate.

PubMed

Chen, Haiwei; Weng, Yishi; Xu, Daming; Tabiryan, Nelson V; Wu, Shin-Tson

2016-04-04

We proposed a switchable beam steering device with cycloidal diffractive waveplate (CDW) for eye tracking in a virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) display system. Such a CDW diffracts the incident circularly polarized light to the first order with over 95% efficiency. To convert the input linearly polarized light to right-handed or left-handed circular polarization, we developed a broadband polarization switch consisting of a twisted nematic liquid crystal cell and an achromatic quarter-wave retardation film. By cascading 2-3 CDWs together, multiple diffraction angles can be achieved. To suppress the color dispersion, we proposed two approaches to obtain the same diffraction angle for red, green, and blue LEDs-based full color displays. Our device exhibits several advantages, such as high diffraction efficiency, fast response time, low power consumption, and low cost. It holds promise for the emerging VR/AR displays.

ATLAS Beam Steering Mechanism (BSM) Lessons Learned

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Blumenstock, Kenneth A.; Cramer, Alexander K.; Gosten, Alan B.; Hakun, Claef F.; Haney, Paul G.; Hinkle, Matthew R.; Lee, Kenneth Y.; Lugo, Carlos F.; Matuszeski, Adam J.; Morell, Armando;

ATLAS Beam Steering Mechanism Lessons Learned

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Blumenstock, Kenneth A.; Cramer, Alexander K.; Gostin, Alan B.; Hakun, Claef F.; Haney, Paul G.; Hinkle, Matthew R.; Lee, Kenneth Y.; Lugo, Carlos F.; Matuszeski, Adam J.; Morrell, Armando;

Toward operation of series IDs at BL43LXU of SPring-8

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Baron, A. Q. R.; Tanaka, T.; Soutome, K.

2016-07-27

This paper discusses two issues relating to using 3 small gap insertion devices in series at BL43LXU of SPring-8 to make a uniquely powerful source in the 15-26 keV region of the x-ray spectrum. The issues discussed are (1) damage to the covers of the downstream IDs by radiation from the upstream IDs and (2) proper steering of the electron beam to get the best photon beam properties. After tests in several configurations, including one where an ID was run without an impedance-reducing cover, the damage issue was solved by installing a distributed absorber in the most downstream ID. Themore » steering issues were mostly resolved by the introduction of appropriate corrector magnets and feedback. The paper is written from the viewpoint of an interested beamline scientist impressed with the cooperation of different groups to make a source for new science possible.« less

Sun-Relative Pointing for Dual-Axis Solar Trackers Employing Azimuth and Elevation Rotations

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Riley, Daniel; Hansen, Clifford W.

Dual axis trackers employing azimuth and elevation rotations are common in the field of photovoltaic (PV) energy generation. Accurate sun-tracking algorithms are widely available. However, a steering algorithm has not been available to accurately point the tracker away from the sun such that a vector projection of the sun beam onto the tracker face falls along a desired path relative to the tracker face. We have developed an algorithm which produces the appropriate azimuth and elevation angles for a dual axis tracker when given the sun position, desired angle of incidence, and the desired projection of the sun beam ontomore » the tracker face. Development of this algorithm was inspired by the need to accurately steer a tracker to desired sun-relative positions in order to better characterize the electro-optical properties of PV and CPV modules.« less

Low-Cost Phased Array Antenna for Sounding Rockets, Missiles, and Expendable Launch Vehicles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mullinix, Daniel; Hall, Kenneth; Smith, Bruce; Corbin, Brian

2012-01-01

A low-cost beamformer phased array antenna has been developed for expendable launch vehicles, rockets, and missiles. It utilizes a conformal array antenna of ring or individual radiators (design varies depending on application) that is designed to be fed by the recently developed hybrid electrical/mechanical (vendor-supplied) phased array beamformer. The combination of these new array antennas and the hybrid beamformer results in a conformal phased array antenna that has significantly higher gain than traditional omni antennas, and costs an order of magnitude or more less than traditional phased array designs. Existing omnidirectional antennas for sounding rockets, missiles, and expendable launch vehicles (ELVs) do not have sufficient gain to support the required communication data rates via the space network. Missiles and smaller ELVs are often stabilized in flight by a fast (i.e. 4 Hz) roll rate. This fast roll rate, combined with vehicle attitude changes, greatly increases the complexity of the high-gain antenna beam-tracking problem. Phased arrays for larger ELVs with roll control are prohibitively expensive. Prior techniques involved a traditional fully electronic phased array solution, combined with highly complex and very fast inertial measurement unit phased array beamformers. The functional operation of this phased array is substantially different from traditional phased arrays in that it uses a hybrid electrical/mechanical beamformer that creates the relative time delays for steering the antenna beam via a small physical movement of variable delay lines. This movement is controlled via an innovative antenna control unit that accesses an internal measurement unit for vehicle attitude information, computes a beam-pointing angle to the target, then points the beam via a stepper motor controller. The stepper motor on the beamformer controls the beamformer variable delay lines that apply the appropriate time delays to the individual array elements to properly steer the beam. The array of phased ring radiators is unique in that it provides improved gain for a small rocket or missile that uses spin stabilization for stability. The antenna pattern created is symmetric about the roll axis (like an omnidirectional wraparound), and is thus capable of providing continuous coverage that is compatible with very fast spinning rockets. For larger ELVs with roll control, a linear array of elements can be used for the 1D scanned beamformer and phased array, or a 2D scanned beamformer can be used with an NxN element array.

Issues and opportunities: beam simulations for heavy ion fusion

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Friedman, A

1999-07-15

UCRL- JC- 134975 PREPRINT code offering 3- D, axisymmetric, and ''transverse slice'' (steady flow) geometries, with a hierarchy of models for the ''lattice'' of focusing, bending, and accelerating elements. Interactive and script- driven code steering is afforded through an interpreter interface. The code runs with good parallel scaling on the T3E. Detailed simulations of machine segments and of complete small experiments, as well as simplified full- system runs, have been carried out, partially benchmarking the code. A magnetoinductive model, with module impedance and multi- beam effects, is under study. experiments, including an injector scalable to multi- beam arrays, a high-more » current beam transport and acceleration experiment, and a scaled final- focusing experiment. These ''phase I'' projects are laying the groundwork for the next major step in HIF development, the Integrated Research Experiment (IRE). Simulations aimed directly at the IRE must enable us to: design a facility with maximum power on target at minimal cost; set requirements for hardware tolerances, beam steering, etc.; and evaluate proposed chamber propagation modes. Finally, simulations must enable us to study all issues which arise in the context of a fusion driver, and must facilitate the assessment of driver options. In all of this, maximum advantage must be taken of emerging terascale computer architectures, requiring an aggressive code development effort. An organizing principle should be pursuit of the goal of integrated and detailed source- to- target simulation. methods for analysis of the beam dynamics in the various machine concepts, using moment- based methods for purposes of design, waveform synthesis, steering algorithm synthesis, etc. Three classes of discrete- particle models should be coupled: (1) electrostatic/ magnetoinductive PIC simulations should track the beams from the source through the final- focusing optics, passing details of the time- dependent distribution function to (2) electromagnetic or magnetoinductive PIC or hybrid PIG/ fluid simulations in the fusion chamber (which would finally pass their particle trajectory information to the radiation- hydrodynamics codes used for target design); in parallel, (3) detailed PIC, delta- f, core/ test- particle, and perhaps continuum Vlasov codes should be used to study individual sections of the driver and chamber very carefully; consistency may be assured by linking data from the PIC sequence, and knowledge gained may feed back into that sequence.« less

Ultraino: An Open Phased-Array System for Narrowband Airborne Ultrasound Transmission.

PubMed

Marzo, Asier; Corkett, Tom; Drinkwater, Bruce W

2018-01-01

Modern ultrasonic phased-array controllers are electronic systems capable of delaying the transmitted or received signals of multiple transducers. Configurable transmit-receive array systems, capable of electronic steering and shaping of the beam in near real-time, are available commercially, for example, for medical imaging. However, emerging applications, such as ultrasonic haptics, parametric audio, or ultrasonic levitation, require only a small subset of the capabilities provided by the existing controllers. To meet this need, we present Ultraino, a modular, inexpensive, and open platform that provides hardware, software, and example applications specifically aimed at controlling the transmission of narrowband airborne ultrasound. Our system is composed of software, driver boards, and arrays that enable users to quickly and efficiently perform research in various emerging applications. The software can be used to define array geometries, simulate the acoustic field in real time, and control the connected driver boards. The driver board design is based on an Arduino Mega and can control 64 channels with a square wave of up to 17 Vpp and /5 phase resolution. Multiple boards can be chained together to increase the number of channels. The 40-kHz arrays with flat and spherical geometries are demonstrated for parametric audio generation, acoustic levitation, and haptic feedback.

Reconfigurable metasurface aperture for security screening and microwave imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sleasman, Timothy; Imani, Mohammadreza F.; Boyarsky, Michael; Pulido-Mancera, Laura; Reynolds, Matthew S.; Smith, David R.

2017-05-01

Microwave imaging systems have seen growing interest in recent decades for applications ranging from security screening to space/earth observation. However, hardware architectures commonly used for this purpose have not seen drastic changes. With the advent of metamaterials a wealth of opportunities have emerged for honing metasurface apertures for microwave imaging systems. Recent thrusts have introduced dynamic reconfigurability directly into the aperture layer, providing powerful capabilities from a physical layer with considerable simplicity. The waveforms generated from such dynamic metasurfaces make them suitable for application in synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and, more generally, computational imaging. In this paper, we investigate a dynamic metasurface aperture capable of performing microwave imaging in the K-band (17.5-26.5 GHz). The proposed aperture is planar and promises an inexpensive fabrication process via printed circuit board techniques. These traits are further augmented by the tunability of dynamic metasurfaces, which provides the dexterity necessary to generate field patterns ranging from a sequence of steered beams to a series of uncorrelated radiation patterns. Imaging is experimentally demonstrated with a voltage-tunable metasurface aperture. We also demonstrate the aperture's utility in real-time measurements and perform volumetric SAR imaging. The capabilities of a prototype are detailed and the future prospects of general dynamic metasurface apertures are discussed.

Acoustic metasurface for refracted wave manipulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Li-Xiang; Yao, Yuan-Wei; Zhang, Xin; Wu, Fu-Gen; Dong, Hua-Feng; Mu, Zhong-Fei; Li, Jing-bo

2018-02-01

Here we present a design of a transmitted acoustic metasurface based on a single row of Helmholtz resonators with varying geometric parameters. The proposed metasurface can not only steer an acoustic beam as expected from the generalized Snell's law of refraction, but also exhibits various interesting properties and potential applications such as insulation of two quasi-intersecting transmitted sound waves, ultrasonic Bessel beam generator, frequency broadening effect of anomalous refraction and focusing.

Ka-band Technologies for Small Spacecraft Communications via Relays and Direct Data Downlink

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Budinger, James M.; Niederhaus, Charles; Reinhart, Richard; Downey, Joe; Roberts, Anthony

2016-01-01

As the scientific capabilities and number of small spacecraft missions in the near Earth region increase, standard yet configurable user spacecraft terminals operating in Ka-band are needed to lower mission cost and risk and enable significantly higher data return than current UHF or S-band terminals. These compact Ka-band terminals are intended to operate with both the current and next generation of Ka-band relay satellites and via direct data communications with near Earth tracking terminals. This presentation provides an overview of emerging NASA-sponsored and commercially provided technologies in software defined radios (SDRs), transceivers, and electronically steered antennas that will enable data rates from hundreds of kbps to over 1 Gbps and operate in multiple frequency bands (such as S- and X-bands) and expand the use of NASA's common Ka-bands frequencies: 22.55-23.15 GHz for forward data or uplink; and 25.5-27.0 GHz for return data or downlink. Reductions in mass, power and volume come from integration of multiple radio functions, operations in Ka-band, high efficiency amplifiers and receivers, and compact, flat and vibration free electronically steered narrow beam antennas for up to + 60 degrees field of regard. The software defined near Earth space transceiver (SD-NEST) described in the presentation is intended to be compliant with NASA's space telecommunications radio system (STRS) standard for communications waveforms and hardware interoperability.

Development of a Digital Control for the Phase Contrast Imaging Alignment Feedback System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hirata, M.; Marinoni, A.; Rost, J. C.; Davis, E. M.; Porkolab, M.

2016-10-01

The Phase Contrast Imaging diagnostic is an internal reference interferometer that images density fluctuations on a 32-element linear detector array. Since proper operation of the system requires accurate alignment of a CO2 laser beam on a phase plate, beam motion due to vibrations of the DIII-D vessel need to be compensated up to 1 kHz. The feedback network controlling the steering mirrors currently uses a linear analog controller, but a digital controller can provide improved stability performance and flexibility. A prototype was developed using an Arduino Due, a low-cost microcontroller, to assess performance capabilities. Digital control parameters will be developed based on the measured frequency and phase response of the physical components. Finally, testing of the digital feedback system and the required revisions will be done to achieve successful performance. This upgrade to the linear analog controller is expected to be used routinely on similar diagnostics in fusion devices, especially in view of restricted access to the machine hall. Work supported in part by the US Department of Energy under DE-FG02-94ER54235, DE-FC02-04ER54698, and the Science Undergraduate Laboratory Internships Program (SULI).

Riemann-Hilbert technique scattering analysis of metamaterial-based asymmetric 2D open resonators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kamiński, Piotr M.; Ziolkowski, Richard W.; Arslanagić, Samel

2017-12-01

The scattering properties of metamaterial-based asymmetric two-dimensional open resonators excited by an electric line source are investigated analytically. The resonators are, in general, composed of two infinite and concentric cylindrical layers covered with an infinitely thin, perfect conducting shell that has an infinite axial aperture. The line source is oriented parallel to the cylinder axis. An exact analytical solution of this problem is derived. It is based on the dual-series approach and its transformation to the equivalent Riemann-Hilbert problem. Asymmetric metamaterial-based configurations are found to lead simultaneously to large enhancements of the radiated power and to highly steerable Huygens-like directivity patterns; properties not attainable with the corresponding structurally symmetric resonators. The presented open resonator designs are thus interesting candidates for many scientific and engineering applications where enhanced directional near- and far-field responses, tailored with beam shaping and steering capabilities, are highly desired.

Space Debris Measurements using the Advanced Modular Incoherent Scatter Radar

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nicolls, M.

The Advanced Modular Incoherent Scatter Radar (AMISR) is a modular, mobile UHF phased-array radar facility developed and used for scientific studies of the ionosphere. The radars are completely remotely operated and allow for pulse-to-pulse beam steering over the field-of-view. A satellite and debris tracking capability fully interleaved with scientific operations has been developed, and the AMISR systems are now used to routinely observe LEO space debris, with the ability to simultaneously track and detect multiple objects. The system makes use of wide-bandwidth radar pulses and coherent processing to detect objects as small as 5-10 cm in size through LEO, achieving a range resolution better than 20 meters for LEO targets. The interleaved operations allow for ionospheric effects on UHF space debris measurements, such as dispersion, to be assessed. The radar architecture, interleaved operations, and impact of space weather on the measurements will be discussed.

Neutral particle beam sensing and steering

DOEpatents

Maier, II, William B.; Cobb, Donald D.; Robiscoe, Richard T.

1991-01-01

The direction of a neutral particle beam (NPB) is determined by detecting Ly.alpha. radiation emitted during motional quenching of excited H(2S) atoms in the beam during movement of the atoms through a magnetic field. At least one detector is placed adjacent the beam exit to define an optical axis that intercepts the beam at a viewing angle to include a volume generating a selected number of photons for detection. The detection system includes a lens having an area that is small relative to the NPB area and a pixel array located in the focal plane of the lens. The lens viewing angle and area pixel array are selected to optimize the beam tilt sensitivity. In one embodiment, two detectors are placed coplanar with the beam axis to generate a difference signal that is insensitive to beam variations other than beam tilt.

Large-pitch steerable synthetic transmit aperture imaging (LPSSTA)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Ying; Kolios, Michael C.; Xu, Yuan

2016-04-01

A linear ultrasound array system usually has a larger pitch and is less costly than a phased array system, but loses the ability to fully steer the ultrasound beam. In this paper, we propose a system whose hardware is similar to a large-pitch linear array system, but whose ability to steer the beam is similar to a phased array system. The motivation is to reduce the total number of measurement channels M (the product of the number of transmissions, nT, and the number of the receive channels in each transmission, nR), while maintaining reasonable image quality. We combined adjacent elements (with proper delays introduced) into groups that would be used in both the transmit and receive processes of synthetic transmit aperture imaging. After the M channels of RF data were acquired, a pseudo-inversion was applied to estimate the equivalent signal in traditional STA to reconstruct a STA image. Even with the similar M, different choices of nT and nR will produce different image quality. The images produced with M=N2/15 in the selected regions of interest (ROI) were demonstrated to be comparable with a full phased array, where N is the number of the array elements. The disadvantage of the proposed system is that its field of view in one delay-configuration is smaller than a standard full phased array. However, by adjusting the delay for each element within each group, the beam can be steered to cover the same field of view as the standard fully-filled phased array. The LPSSTA system might be useful for 3D ultrasound imaging.

Design and development of high frequency matrix phased-array ultrasonic probes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Na, Jeong K.; Spencer, Roger L.

2012-05-01

High frequency matrix phased-array (MPA) probes have been designed and developed for more accurate and repeatable assessment of weld conditions of thin sheet metals commonly used in the auto industry. Unlike the line focused ultrasonic beam generated by a linear phased-array (LPA) probe, a MPA probe can form a circular shaped focused beam in addition to the typical beam steering capabilities of phased-array probes. A CIVA based modeling and simulation method has been used to design the probes in terms of various probe parameters such as number of elements, element size, overall dimensions, frequency etc. Challenges associated with the thicknesses of thin sheet metals have been resolved by optimizing these probe design parameters. A further improvement made on the design of the MPA probe proved that a three-dimensionally shaped matrix element can provide a better performing probe at a much lower probe manufacturing cost by reducing the total number of elements and lowering the operational frequency. This three dimensional probe naturally matches to the indentation shape of the weld on the thin sheet metals and hence a wider inspection area with the same level of spatial resolution obtained by a twodimensional flat MPA probe operating at a higher frequency. The two aspects, a wider inspection area and a lower probe manufacturing cost, make this three-dimensional MPA sensor more attractive to auto manufacturers demanding a quantitative nondestructive inspection method.

Temperature distributions in tissues during local hyperthermia by stationary or steered beams of unfocused or focused ultrasound.

PubMed Central

Lele, P. P.; Parker, K. J.

1982-01-01

Temperature distributions resulting from insonation with stationary or steered beams of unfocused or focused ultrasound were measured in tissue-equivalent phantom, beef muscle in vitro, dog muscle mass, and transplanted murine tumours in vivo. Arrays of 4 to 6 thermocouples stepped through the volume of interest under computer control were used to measure the steady-state temperatures at 600 to 800 locations in both in vitro and in vivo experiments. The results were confirmed in spontaneous tumours in dog patients using fewer multi-thermocouple probes. Plane wave ultrasound was found to result in spatially non-uniform hyperthermia even in superficial tumours. The region of maximum temperature rise was small in extent and was situated at a depth which varied in the different models from 0.5 to 1.0 cm. Neither its location nor its extent could be varied by spatial manipulations of the transducer or by changing the insonation parameters except the ultrasonic frequency. A second region of hyperthermia was produced at depth by reflective heating if an ultrasonically reflective target, such as bone or air-containing tissue, was located below the target tissue. On the other hand, using available steered, focused ultrasound techniques, tumours (whether situated superficially or at depth) could be heated to a uniform, controllable temperature without undesirable temperature elevation in surrounding normal tissues. The use of steered, focused ultrasound permits deposition of energy to be tailored to the specific needs of each individual tumour. The small size of the focal region enables heating of tumours even when located near ultrasound reflecting targets. PMID:6950746

Dual mode scanner-tracker

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mongeon, R. J.

1984-11-01

The beam of a laser radar is moved over the field of view by means of a pair of scanner/trackers arranged in cascade along the laser beam. One of the scanner/trackers operates at high speed, with high resolution and a wide field and is located in the demagnified portion of the laser beam. The two scanner/trackers complement each other to achieve high speed, high resolution scanning as well as tracking of moving targets. A beam steering telescope for an airborne laser radar which incorporates the novel dual mode scanner/tracker is also shown. The other scanner/tracker operates at low speed with low resolution and a wide field and is located in the magnified portion of the laser beam.

Histotripsy Lesion Formation Using an Ultrasound Imaging Probe Enabled by a Low-Frequency Pump Transducer.

PubMed

Lin, Kuang-Wei; Hall, Timothy L; Xu, Zhen; Cain, Charles A

2015-08-01

When histotripsy pulses shorter than 2 cycles are applied, the formation of a dense bubble cloud relies only on the applied peak negative pressure (p-) exceeding the "intrinsic threshold" of the medium (absolute value of 26-30 MPa in most soft tissues). It has been found that a sub-threshold high-frequency probe pulse (3 MHz) can be enabled by a sub-threshold low-frequency pump pulse (500 kHz) where the sum exceeds the intrinsic threshold, thus generating lesion-producing dense bubble clouds ("dual-beam histotripsy"). Here, the feasibility of using an imaging transducer to provide the high-frequency probe pulse in the dual-beam histotripsy approach is investigated. More specifically, an ATL L7-4 imaging transducer (Philips Healthcare, Andover, MA, USA), pulsed by a V-1 Data Acquisition System (Verasonics, Redmond, WA, USA), was used to generate the high-frequency probe pulses. The low-frequency pump pulses were generated by a 20-element 345-kHz array transducer, driven by a custom high-voltage pulser. These dual-beam histotripsy pulses were applied to red blood cell tissue-mimicking phantoms at a pulse repetition frequency of 1 Hz, and optical imaging was used to visualize bubble clouds and lesions generated in the red blood cell phantoms. The results indicated that dense bubble clouds (and resulting lesions) were generated when the p- of the sub-threshold pump and probe pulses combined constructively to exceed the intrinsic threshold. The average size of the smallest reproducible lesions using the imaging probe pulse enabled by the sub-threshold pump pulse was 0.7 × 1.7 mm, whereas that using the supra-threshold pump pulse alone was 1.4 × 3.7 mm. When the imaging transducer was steered laterally, bubble clouds and lesions were steered correspondingly until the combined p- no longer exceeded the intrinsic threshold. These results were also validated with ex vivo porcine liver experiments. Using an imaging transducer for dual-beam histotripsy can have two advantages: (i) lesion steering can be achieved using the steering of the imaging transducer (implemented with the beamformer of the accompanying programmable ultrasound system), and (ii) treatment can be simultaneously monitored when the imaging transducer is used in conjunction with an ultrasound imaging system. Copyright © 2015 World Federation for Ultrasound in Medicine & Biology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Histotripsy Lesion Formation using an Ultrasound Imaging Probe Enabled by a Low-Frequency Pump Transducer

PubMed Central

Lin, Kuang-Wei; Hall, Timothy L.; Xu, Zhen; Cain, Charles A.

2015-01-01

When applying histotripsy pulses shorter than 2 cycles, the formation of a dense bubble cloud only relies on the applied peak negative pressure (p-) exceeding the “intrinsic threshold” of the medium (absolute value of 26 – 30 MPa in most soft tissue). A previous study conducted by our research group showed that a sub-threshold high-frequency probe pulse (3 MHz) can be enabled by a sub-threshold low-frequency pump pulse (500 kHz) where the sum exceeds the intrinsic threshold, thus generating lesion-producing dense bubble clouds (“dual-beam histotripsy”). This paper investigates the feasibility of using an imaging transducer to provide the high-frequency probe pulse in the dual-beam histotripsy approach. More specifically, an ATL L7–4 imaging transducer, pulsed by a Verasonics V-1 Data Acquisition System, was used to generate the high-frequency probe pulses. The low-frequency pump pulses were generated by a 20-element 345 kHz array transducer, driven by a custom high voltage pulser. These dual-beam histotripsy pulses were applied to red-blood-cell (RBC) tissue-mimicking phantoms at a pulse repetition frequency of 1 Hz, and optical imaging was used to visualize bubble clouds and lesions generated in the RBC phantoms. The results showed that dense bubble clouds (and resulting lesions) were generated when the p- of the sub-threshold pump and probe pulses combined constructively to exceed the intrinsic threshold. The average size of the smallest reproducible lesions using the imaging probe pulse enabled by the sub-threshold pump pulse was 0.7 × 1.7 mm while that using the supra-threshold pump pulse alone was 1.4 × 3.7 mm. When the imaging transducer was steered laterally, bubble clouds and lesions were steered correspondingly until the combined p- no longer exceeded the intrinsic threshold. These results were also validated with ex vivo porcine liver experiments. Using an imaging transducer for dual-beam histotripsy can have two advantages, 1) lesion steering can be achieved using the steering of the imaging transducer (implemented with the beamformer of the accompanying programmable ultrasound system) and 2) treatment can be simultaneously monitored when the imaging transducer is used in conjunction with an ultrasound imaging system. PMID:25929995

Experimental demonstration of an optical phased array antenna for laser space communications.

PubMed

Neubert, W M; Kudielka, K H; Leeb, W R; Scholtz, A L

1994-06-20

The feasibility of an optical phased array antenna applicable for spaceborne laser communications was experimentally demonstrated. Heterodyne optical phase-locked loops provide for a defined phase relationship between the collimated output beams of three single-mode fibers. In the far field the beams interfere with a measured efficiency of 99%. The main lobe of the interference pattern can be moved by phase shifting the subaperture output beams. The setup permitted agile beam steering within an angular range of 1 mr and a response time of 0.7 ms. We propose an operational optical phased array antenna fed by seven lasers, featuring high transmit power and redundance.

Linear beam raster magnet driver based on H-bridge technique

DOEpatents

Sinkine, Nikolai I.; Yan, Chen; Apeldoorn, Cornelis; Dail, Jeffrey Glenn; Wojcik, Randolph Frank; Gunning, William

2006-06-06

An improved raster magnet driver for a linear particle beam is based on an H-bridge technique. Four branches of power HEXFETs form a two-by-two switch. Switching the HEXFETs in a predetermined order and at the right frequency produces a triangular current waveform. An H-bridge controller controls switching sequence and timing. The magnetic field of the coil follows the shape of the waveform and thus steers the beam using a triangular rather than a sinusoidal waveform. The system produces a raster pattern having a highly uniform raster density distribution, eliminates target heating from non-uniform raster density distributions, and produces higher levels of beam current.

Research on Precision Tracking on Fast Steering Mirror and Control Strategy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Di, Lin; Yi-ming, Wu; Fan, Zhu

2018-01-01

Fast steering mirror is a device used for controlling the beam direction precisely. Due to the short travel of the push-pull FSM, a compound fast steering mirror system driven by both limited-angle voice coil motor and push-pull FSM together is proposed. In the compound FSM system, limited-angle voice coil motor quickly swings at wide angle, while the push-pull FSM do high frequency movement in a small range, which provides the system with the high bandwidth and long travel. In the control strategy, the method of combining feed-forward control in Kalman filtering with auto-disturbance rejection control is used to improve trajectory tracking accuracy. The simulation result shows that tracking accuracy measured by the compound method can be improved by more than 5 times than that of the conventional PID.

Unclassified Publications of Lincoln Laboratory, 1 January - 31 December 1989. Volume 15

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-12-01

BOLTZMANN MACHINE JA-6051 JA-6290 BEAM PATH CONDITIONING BORON CONTAINING MOLECULES MS-8143 JA-6135 BEAM STEERING BORON TRICHLORIDE MS-8285 JA-6129...BERNZOMATIC TOTE TORCH BORON TRICHLORIDE -ARGON DISCHARGE JA-6260 JA-6129 BIAS CORRELATION BOUNDARY LAYER JA-6326 JA-6192, MS-8141 BINARY INTEGRATION BROADBAND...MS-8345 MODULATORS IRIDIUM MS-7998 JA-6192 67 Subject Index IRIDIUM SILICIDE SCHOTTKY-BARRIER KWAJALEIN DISCRIMINATION SYSTEM INFRARED DETECTORS JA

Development of High-Fill-Factor Large-Aperture Micromirrors for Agile Optical Phased Arrays

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-02-28

Final Project Report Contract/Grant Title: Development of High-Fill-Factor Large-Aperture Micromirrors for Agile Optical Phased Arrays...factor (HFF) micromirror array (MMA) has been proposed, fabricated and tested. Optical-phased-array (OPA) beam steering based on the HFF MMA has also...electrically tuned to multiple 2. 1. Background High-fill-factor (HFF) micromirror arrays (MMAs) can form optical phased arrays (OPAs) for laser beam

Vertical intensity modulation for improved radiographic penetration and reduced exclusion zone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bendahan, J.; Langeveld, W. G. J.; Bharadwaj, V.; Amann, J.; Limborg, C.; Nosochkov, Y.

2016-09-01

In the present work, a method to direct the X-ray beam in real time to the desired locations in the cargo to increase penetration and reduce exclusion zone is presented. Cargo scanners employ high energy X-rays to produce radiographic images of the cargo. Most new scanners employ dual-energy to produce, in addition to attenuation maps, atomic number information in order to facilitate the detection of contraband. The electron beam producing the bremsstrahlung X-ray beam is usually directed approximately to the center of the container, concentrating the highest X-ray intensity to that area. Other parts of the container are exposed to lower radiation levels due to the large drop-off of the bremsstrahlung radiation intensity as a function of angle, especially for high energies (>6 MV). This results in lower penetration in these areas, requiring higher power sources that increase the dose and exclusion zone. The capability to modulate the X-ray source intensity on a pulse-by-pulse basis to deliver only as much radiation as required to the cargo has been reported previously. This method is, however, controlled by the most attenuating part of the inspected slice, resulting in excessive radiation to other areas of the cargo. A method to direct a dual-energy beam has been developed to provide a more precisely controlled level of required radiation to highly attenuating areas. The present method is based on steering the dual-energy electron beam using magnetic components on a pulse-to-pulse basis to a fixed location on the X-ray production target, but incident at different angles so as to direct the maximum intensity of the produced bremsstrahlung to the desired locations. The details of the technique and subsystem and simulation results are presented.

Study of application and key technology of the high-energy laser weapon in optoelectronic countermeasure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qu, Zhou; Xing, Hao; Wang, Dawei; Wang, Qiugui

2015-10-01

High-energy Laser weapon is a new-style which is developing rapidly nowadays. It is a one kind of direction energy weapon which can destroy the targets or make them invalid. High-energy Laser weapon has many merits such as concentrated energy, fast transmission, long operating range, satisfied precision, fast shift fire, anti-electromagnetic interference, reusability, cost-effectiveness. High-energy Laser weapon has huge potential for modern warfare since its laser beam launch attack to the target by the speed of light. High-energy Laser weapon can be deployed by multiple methods such as skyborne, carrier borne, vehicle-mounted, foundation, space platform. Besides the connection with command and control system, High-energy Laser weapon is consist of high-energy laser and beam steering. Beam steering is comprised of Large diameter launch system and Precision targeting systems. Meanwhile, beam steering includes the distance measurement of target location, detection system of television and infrared sensor, adaptive optical system of Laser atmospheric distortion correction. The development of laser technology is very fast in recent years. A variety of laser sources have been regarded as the key component in many optoelectronic devices. For directed energy weapon, the progress of laser technology has greatly improved the tactical effectiveness, such as increasing the range and strike precision. At the same time, the modern solid-state laser has become the ideal optical source for optical countermeasure, because it has high photoelectric conversion efficiency and small volume or weight. However, the total performance is limited by the mutual cooperation between different subsystems. The optical countermeasure is a complex technique after many years development. The key factor to evaluate the laser weapon can be formulated as laser energy density to target. This article elaborated the laser device technology of optoelectronic countermeasure and Photoelectric tracking technology. Also the allocation of optoelectronic countermeasure was discussed in this article. At last, this article prospected the future development of high-energy laser.

A Novel Approach to Beam Steering Using Arrays Composed of Multiple Unique Radiating Modes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Labadie, Nathan Richard

Phased array antennas have found wide application in both radar and wireless communications systems particularly as implementation costs continue to decrease. The primary advantages of electronically scanned arrays are speed of beam scan and versatility of beamforming compared to mechanically scanned fixed beam antennas. These benefits come at the cost of a few well known design issues including element pattern rolloff and mutual coupling between elements. Our primary contribution to the field of research is the demonstration of significant improvement in phased array scan performance using multiple unique radiating modes. In short, orthogonal radiating modes have minimal coupling by definition and can also be generated with reduced rolloff at wide scan angles. In this dissertation, we present a combination of analysis, full-wave electromagnetic simulation and measured data to support our claims. The novel folded ring resonator (FRR) antenna is introduced as a wideband and multi-band element embedded in a grounded dielectric substrate. Multiple radiating modes of a small ground plane excited by a four element FRR array were also investigated. A novel hemispherical null steering antenna composed of two collocated radiating elements, each supporting a unique radiating mode, is presented in the context of an anti-jam GPS receiver application. Both the antenna aperture and active feed network were fabricated and measured showing excellent agreement with analytical and simulated data. The concept of using an antenna supporting multiple radiating modes for beam steering is also explored. A 16 element hybrid linear phased array was fabricated and measured demonstrating significantly improved scan range and scanned gain compared to a conventional phased array. This idea is expanded to 2 dimensional scanning arrays by analysis and simulation of a hybrid phased array composed of novel multiple mode monopole on patch antenna sub-arrays. Finally, we fabricated and characterized the 2D scanning hybrid phased array demonstrating wide angle scanning with high antenna efficiency.

Development of Radar Control system for Multi-mode Active Phased Array Radar for atmospheric probing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yasodha, Polisetti; Jayaraman, Achuthan; Thriveni, A.

2016-07-01

Modern multi-mode active phased array radars require highly efficient radar control system for hassle free real time radar operation. The requirement comes due to the distributed architecture of the active phased array radar, where each antenna element in the array is connected to a dedicated Transmit-Receive (TR) module. Controlling the TR modules, which are generally few hundreds in number, and functioning them in synchronisation, is a huge task during real time radar operation and should be handled with utmost care. Indian MST Radar, located at NARL, Gadanki, which is established during early 90's, as an outcome of the middle atmospheric program, is a remote sensing instrument for probing the atmosphere. This radar has a semi-active array, consisting of 1024 antenna elements, with limited beam steering, possible only along the principle planes. To overcome the limitations and difficulties, the radar is being augmented into fully active phased array, to accomplish beam agility and multi-mode operations. Each antenna element is excited with a dedicated 1 kW TR module, located in the field and enables to position the radar beam within 20° conical volume. A multi-channel receiver makes the radar to operate in various modes like Doppler Beam Swinging (DBS), Spaced Antenna (SA), Frequency Domain Interferometry (FDI) etc. Present work describes the real-time radar control (RC) system for the above described active phased array radar. The radar control system consists of a Spartan 6 FPGA based Timing and Control Signal Generator (TCSG), and a computer containing the software for controlling all the subsystems of the radar during real-time radar operation and also for calibrating the radar. The main function of the TCSG is to generate the control and timing waveforms required for various subsystems of the radar. Important components of the RC system software are (i) TR module configuring software which does programming, controlling and health parameter monitoring of the TR modules, (ii) radar operation software which facilitates experimental parameter setting and operating the radar in different modes, (iii) beam steering software which computes the amplitude co-efficients and phases required for each TR module, for forming the beams selected for radar operation with the desired shape and (iv) Calibration software for calibrating the radar by measuring the differential insertion phase and amplitudes in all 1024 Transmit and Receive paths and correcting them. The TR module configuring software is a major task as it needs to control 1024 TR modules, which are located in the field about 150 m away from the RC system in the control room. Each TR module has a processor identified with a dedicated IP address, along with memory to store the instructions and parameters required for radar operation. A communication link is designed using Gigabit Ethernet (GbE) switches to realise 1 to 1024 way switching network. RC system computer communicates with the each processor using its IP address and establishes connection, via 1 to 1024 port GbE switching network. The experimental parameters data are pre-loaded parallely into all the TR modules along with the phase shifter data required for beam steering using this network. A reference timing pulse is sent to all the TR modules simultaneously, which indicates the start of radar operation. RC system also monitors the status parameters from the TR modules indicating their health during radar operation at regular intervals, via GbE switching network. Beam steering software generates the phase shift required for each TR module for the beams selected for operation. Radar operational software calls the phase shift data required for beam steering and adds it to the calibration phase obtained through calibration software and loads the resultant phase data into TR modules. Timed command/data transfer to/from subsystems and synchronisation of subsystems is essential for proper real-time operation of the active phased array radar and the RC system ensures that the commands/experimental parameter data are properly transferred to all subsystems especially to TR modules. In case of failure of any TR module, it is indicated to the user for further rectification. Realisation of the RC system is at an advanced stage. More details will be presented in the conference.

Coherent beam control with an all-dielectric transformation optics based lens

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yi, Jianjia; Burokur, Shah Nawaz; Piau, Gérard-Pascal; de Lustrac, André

2016-01-01

Transformation optics (TO) concept well known for its huge possibility in patterning the path of electromagnetic waves is exploited to design a beam steering lens. The broadband directive in-phase emission in a desired off-normal direction from an array of equally fed radiators is numerically and experimentally reported. Such manipulation is achieved without the use of complex and bulky phase shifters as it is the case in classical phased array antennas. The all-dielectric compact low-cost lens prototype presenting a graded permittivity profile is fabricated through three-dimensional (3D) polyjet printing technology. The array of radiators is composed of four planar microstrip antennas realized using standard lithography techniques and is used as excitation source for the lens. To validate the proposed lens, we experimentally demonstrate the broadband focusing properties and in-phase directive emissions deflected from the normal direction. Both the far-field radiation patterns and the near-field distributions are measured and reported. Measurements agree quantitatively and qualitatively with numerical full-wave simulations and confirm the corresponding steering properties. Such experimental validation paves the way to inexpensive easy-made all-dielectric microwave lenses for beam forming and collimation.

Phase change material based tunable reflectarray for free-space optical inter/intra chip interconnects.

PubMed

Zou, Longfang; Cryan, Martin; Klemm, Maciej

2014-10-06

The concept of phase change material (PCM) based optical antennas and antenna arrays is proposed for dynamic beam shaping and steering utilized in free-space optical inter/intra chip interconnects. The essence of this concept lies in the fact that the behaviour of PCM based optical antennas will change due to the different optical properties of the amorphous and crystalline state of the PCM. By engineering optical antennas or antenna arrays, it is feasible to design dynamic optical links in a desired manner. In order to illustrate this concept, a PCM based tunable reflectarray is proposed for a scenario of a dynamic optical link between a source and two receivers. The designed reflectarray is able to switch the optical link between two receivers by switching the two states of the PCM. Two types of antennas are employed in the proposed tunable reflectarray to achieve full control of the wavefront of the reflected beam. Numerical studies show the expected binary beam steering at the optical communication wavelength of 1.55 μm. This study suggests a new research area of PCM based optical antennas and antenna arrays for dynamic optical switching and routing.

Near-Infrared and Optical Beam Steering and Frequency Splitting in Air-Holes-in-Silicon Inverse Photonic Crystals

DOE PAGES

Tasolamprou, Anna C.; Koschny, Thomas; Kafesaki, Maria; ...

2017-09-28

Here, we present the design of a dielectric inverse photonic crystal structure that couples line-defect waveguide propagating modes into highly directional beams of controllable directionality. The structure utilizes a triangular lattice made of air holes drilled in an infinitely thick Si slab, and it is designed for operation in the near-infrared and optical regime. The structure operation is based on the excitation and manipulation of dark dielectric surface states, in particular on the tailoring of the dark states’ coupling to outgoing radiation. This coupling is achieved with the use of properly designed external corrugations. The structure adapts and matches modesmore » that travel through the photonic crystal and the free space. Moreover it facilitates the steering of the outgoing waves, is found to generate well-defined, spatially and spectrally isolated beams, and may serve as a frequency splitting component designed for operation in the near-infrared regime and in particular the telecom optical wavelength band. The design complies with the state-of-the-art Si nanofabrication technology and can be directly scaled for operation in the optical regime.« less

Coherent beam control with an all-dielectric transformation optics based lens.

PubMed

Yi, Jianjia; Burokur, Shah Nawaz; Piau, Gérard-Pascal; de Lustrac, André

2016-01-05

Transformation optics (TO) concept well known for its huge possibility in patterning the path of electromagnetic waves is exploited to design a beam steering lens. The broadband directive in-phase emission in a desired off-normal direction from an array of equally fed radiators is numerically and experimentally reported. Such manipulation is achieved without the use of complex and bulky phase shifters as it is the case in classical phased array antennas. The all-dielectric compact low-cost lens prototype presenting a graded permittivity profile is fabricated through three-dimensional (3D) polyjet printing technology. The array of radiators is composed of four planar microstrip antennas realized using standard lithography techniques and is used as excitation source for the lens. To validate the proposed lens, we experimentally demonstrate the broadband focusing properties and in-phase directive emissions deflected from the normal direction. Both the far-field radiation patterns and the near-field distributions are measured and reported. Measurements agree quantitatively and qualitatively with numerical full-wave simulations and confirm the corresponding steering properties. Such experimental validation paves the way to inexpensive easy-made all-dielectric microwave lenses for beam forming and collimation.

Near-Infrared and Optical Beam Steering and Frequency Splitting in Air-Holes-in-Silicon Inverse Photonic Crystals

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tasolamprou, Anna C.; Koschny, Thomas; Kafesaki, Maria

Here, we present the design of a dielectric inverse photonic crystal structure that couples line-defect waveguide propagating modes into highly directional beams of controllable directionality. The structure utilizes a triangular lattice made of air holes drilled in an infinitely thick Si slab, and it is designed for operation in the near-infrared and optical regime. The structure operation is based on the excitation and manipulation of dark dielectric surface states, in particular on the tailoring of the dark states’ coupling to outgoing radiation. This coupling is achieved with the use of properly designed external corrugations. The structure adapts and matches modesmore » that travel through the photonic crystal and the free space. Moreover it facilitates the steering of the outgoing waves, is found to generate well-defined, spatially and spectrally isolated beams, and may serve as a frequency splitting component designed for operation in the near-infrared regime and in particular the telecom optical wavelength band. The design complies with the state-of-the-art Si nanofabrication technology and can be directly scaled for operation in the optical regime.« less

Piezo-based, high dynamic range, wide bandwidth steering system for optical applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karasikov, Nir; Peled, Gal; Yasinov, Roman; Feinstein, Alan

2017-05-01

Piezoelectric motors and actuators are characterized by direct drive, fast response, high positioning resolution and high mechanical power density. These properties are beneficial for optical devices such as gimbals, optical image stabilizers and mirror angular positioners. The range of applications includes sensor pointing systems, image stabilization, laser steering and more. This paper reports on the construction, properties and operation of three types of piezo based building blocks for optical steering applications: a small gimbal and a two-axis OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) mechanism, both based on piezoelectric motors, and a flexure-assisted piezoelectric actuator for mirror angular positioning. The gimbal weighs less than 190 grams, has a wide angular span (solid angle of > 2π) and allows for a 80 micro-radian stabilization with a stabilization frequency up to 25 Hz. The OIS is an X-Y, closed loop, platform having a lateral positioning resolution better than 1 μm, a stabilization frequency up to 25 Hz and a travel of +/-2 mm. It is used for laser steering or positioning of the image sensor, based on signals from a MEMS Gyro sensor. The actuator mirror positioner is based on three piezoelectric actuation axes for tip tilt (each providing a 50 μm motion range), has a positioning resolution of 10 nm and is capable of a 1000 Hz response. A combination of the gimbal with the mirror positioner or the OIS stage is explored by simulations, indicating a <10 micro-radian stabilization capability under substantial perturbation. Simulations and experimental results are presented for a combined device facilitating both wide steering angle range and bandwidth.

Needle Steering in Biological Tissue using Ultrasound-based Online Curvature Estimation

PubMed Central

Moreira, Pedro; Patil, Sachin; Alterovitz, Ron; Misra, Sarthak

2014-01-01

Percutaneous needle insertions are commonly performed for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Accurate placement of the needle tip is important to the success of many needle procedures. The current needle steering systems depend on needle-tissue-specific data, such as maximum curvature, that is unavailable prior to an interventional procedure. In this paper, we present a novel three-dimensional adaptive steering method for flexible bevel-tipped needles that is capable of performing accurate tip placement without previous knowledge about needle curvature. The method steers the needle by integrating duty-cycled needle steering, online curvature estimation, ultrasound-based needle tracking, and sampling-based motion planning. The needle curvature estimation is performed online and used to adapt the path and duty cycling. We evaluated the method using experiments in a homogenous gelatin phantom, a two-layer gelatin phantom, and a biological tissue phantom composed of a gelatin layer and in vitro chicken tissue. In all experiments, virtual obstacles and targets move in order to represent the disturbances that might occur due to tissue deformation and physiological processes. The average targeting error using our new adaptive method is 40% lower than using the conventional non-adaptive duty-cycled needle steering method. PMID:26229729

Single-laser, one beam, tetrahedral magneto-optical trap.

PubMed

Vangeleyn, Matthieu; Griffin, Paul F; Riis, Erling; Arnold, Aidan S

2009-08-03

We have realized a 4-beam pyramidal magneto-optical trap ideally suited for future microfabrication. Three mirrors split and steer a single incoming beam into a tripod of reflected beams, allowing trapping in the four-beam overlap volume. We discuss the influence of mirror angle on cooling and trapping, finding optimum efficiency in a tetrahedral configuration. We demonstrate the technique using an ex-vacuo mirror system to illustrate the previously inaccessible supra-plane pyramid MOT configuration. Unlike standard pyramidal MOTs both the pyramid apex and its mirror angle are non-critical and our MOT offers improved molasses free from atomic shadows in the laser beams. The MOT scheme naturally extends to a 2-beam refractive version with high optical access. For quantum gas experiments, the mirror system could also be used for a stable 3D tetrahedral optical lattice.

Steering and positioning targets for HWIL IR testing at cryogenic conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perkes, D. W.; Jensen, G. L.; Higham, D. L.; Lowry, H. S.; Simpson, W. R.

2006-05-01

In order to increase the fidelity of hardware-in-the-loop ground-truth testing, it is desirable to create a dynamic scene of multiple, independently controlled IR point sources. ATK-Mission Research has developed and supplied the steering mirror systems for the 7V and 10V Space Simulation Test Chambers at the Arnold Engineering Development Center (AEDC), Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC). A portion of the 10V system incorporates multiple target sources beam-combined at the focal point of a 20K cryogenic collimator. Each IR source consists of a precision blackbody with cryogenic aperture and filter wheels mounted on a cryogenic two-axis translation stage. This point source target scene is steered by a high-speed steering mirror to produce further complex motion. The scene changes dynamically in order to simulate an actual operational scene as viewed by the System Under Test (SUT) as it executes various dynamic look-direction changes during its flight to a target. Synchronization and real-time hardware-in-the-loop control is accomplished using reflective memory for each subsystem control and feedback loop. This paper focuses on the steering mirror system and the required tradeoffs of optical performance, precision, repeatability and high-speed motion as well as the complications of encoder feedback calibration and operation at 20K.

SU-E-T-88: Comprehensive Automated Daily QA for Hypo- Fractionated Treatments

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

McGuinness, C; Morin, O

2014-06-01

Purpose: The trend towards more SBRT treatments with fewer high dose fractions places increased importance on daily QA. Patient plan specific QA with 3%/3mm gamma analysis and daily output constancy checks may not be enough to guarantee the level of accuracy required for SBRT treatments. But increasing the already extensive amount of QA procedures that are required is a daunting proposition. We performed a feasibility study for more comprehensive automated daily QA that could improve the diagnostic capabilities of QA without increasing workload. Methods: We performed the study on a Siemens Artiste linear accelerator using the integrated flat panel EPID.more » We included square fields, a picket fence, overlap and representative IMRT fields to measure output, flatness, symmetry, beam center, and percent difference from the standard. We also imposed a set of machine errors: MLC leaf position, machine output, and beam steering to compare with the standard. Results: Daily output was consistent within +/− 1%. Change in steering current by 1.4% and 2.4% resulted in a 3.2% and 6.3% change in flatness. 1 and 2mm MLC leaf offset errors were visibly obvious in difference plots, but passed a 3%/3mm gamma analysis. A simple test of transmission in a picket fence can catch a leaf offset error of a single leaf by 1mm. The entire morning QA sequence is performed in less than 30 minutes and images are automatically analyzed. Conclusion: Automated QA procedures could be used to provide more comprehensive information about the machine with less time and human involvement. We have also shown that other simple tests are better able to catch MLC leaf position errors than a 3%/3mm gamma analysis commonly used for IMRT and modulated arc treatments. Finally, this information could be used to watch trends of the machine and predict problems before they lead to costly machine downtime.« less

Dynamic Curvature Steering Control for Autonomous Vehicle: Performance Analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aizzat Zakaria, Muhammad; Zamzuri, Hairi; Amri Mazlan, Saiful

2016-02-01

This paper discusses the design of dynamic curvature steering control for autonomous vehicle. The lateral control and longitudinal control are discussed in this paper. The controller is designed based on the dynamic curvature calculation to estimate the path condition and modify the vehicle speed and steering wheel angle accordingly. In this paper, the simulation results are presented to show the capability of the controller to track the reference path. The controller is able to predict the path and modify the vehicle speed to suit the path condition. The effectiveness of the controller is shown in this paper whereby identical performance is achieved with the benchmark but with extra curvature adaptation capabilites.

SU-E-T-660: Quantitative Fault Testing for Commissioning of Proton Therapy Machines

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Reilly, M; Rankine, L; Grantham, K

2015-06-15

Purpose: To ensure proper fault testing for the first single room proton therapy machine by establishing a common set of acceptance testing and commissioning parameters with the manufacturer. The following work details the parameters tested and associated results. Methods: Dose rates in service mode were varied to ensure that when the threshold for maximum or minimum MU/min was met, the beam promptly shut off. The flatness parameter was tested by purposely assigning an incorrect secondary scatter, to ensure the beam shut off when detecting a heterogeneous profile. The beam symmetry parameter was tested by altering the steering coil up tomore » 3.0A, thereby forcing the beam to be asymmetric and shut off. Lastly, the quench system was tested by ramping down the magnet to 5% capacity, whereby the quench button was engaged to bring down the magnet current to a safe level. Results: A dose rate increase or decrease in excess of 10% shut the beam off within 5 seconds as observed by the current on a Matrixx ionization chamber array (IBA Dosimetry, Bartlett, TN) A 3.0A change in the beam steering coil introduced a 2% change in the flatness and symmetry profiles with respect to baseline measurements resulting in the beam shutting off within 5 seconds. An incorrect 2nd scatterer introduced a flatness of 4.1% and symmetry of 6.4% which immediately triggered a beam shut off. Finally, the quench system worked as expected during the ramp down procedure. Conclusion: A fault testing plan to check dosimetric faults and the quench system was performed for the first single room proton therapy system. All dosimetric parameters and machine conditions were met to our satisfaction. We propose that the same type of fault testing should be applied to any proton system during commissioning, including scanning beam systems.« less

Multi-Objective Sliding Mode Control on Vehicle Cornering Stability with Variable Gear Ratio Actuator-Based Active Front Steering Systems.

PubMed

Ma, Xinbo; Wong, Pak Kin; Zhao, Jing; Xie, Zhengchao

2016-12-28

Active front steering (AFS) is an emerging technology to improve the vehicle cornering stability by introducing an additional small steering angle to the driver's input. This paper proposes an AFS system with a variable gear ratio steering (VGRS) actuator which is controlled by using the sliding mode control (SMC) strategy to improve the cornering stability of vehicles. In the design of an AFS system, different sensors are considered to measure the vehicle state, and the mechanism of the AFS system is also modelled in detail. Moreover, in order to improve the cornering stability of vehicles, two dependent objectives, namely sideslip angle and yaw rate, are considered together in the design of SMC strategy. By evaluating the cornering performance, Sine with Dwell and accident avoidance tests are conducted, and the simulation results indicate that the proposed SMC strategy is capable of improving the cornering stability of vehicles in practice.

A Car-Steering Model Based on an Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Controller

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amor, Mohamed Anis Ben; Oda, Takeshi; Watanabe, Shigeyoshi

This paper is concerned with the development of a car-steering model for traffic simulation. Our focus in this paper is to propose a model of the steering behavior of a human driver for different driving scenarios. These scenarios are modeled in a unified framework using the idea of target position. The proposed approach deals with the driver’s approximation and decision-making mechanisms in tracking a target position by means of fuzzy set theory. The main novelty in this paper lies in the development of a learning algorithm that has the intention to imitate the driver’s self-learning from his driving experience and to mimic his maneuvers on the steering wheel, using linear networks as local approximators in the corresponding fuzzy areas. Results obtained from the simulation of an obstacle avoidance scenario show the capability of the model to carry out a human-like behavior with emphasis on learned skills.

3D holographic polymer photonic crystal for superprism application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Jiaqi; Jiang, Wei; Chen, Xiaonan; Wang, Li; Zhang, Sasa; Chen, Ray T.

2007-02-01

Photonic crystal based superprism offers a new way to design new optical components for beam steering and DWDM application. 3D photonic crystals are especially attractive as they could offer more control of the light beam based on the needs. A polygonal prism based holographic fabrication method has been demonstrated for a three-dimensional face-centered-cubic (FCC)-type submicron polymer photonic crystal using SU8 as the photo-sensitive material. Therefore antivibration equipment and complicated optical alignment system are not needed and the requirement for the coherence of the laser source is relaxed compared with the traditional holographic setup. By changing the top-cut prism structure, the polarization of the laser beam, the exposure and development conditions we can achieve different kinds of triclinic or orthorhombic photonic crystals on demand. Special fabrication treatments have been introduced to ensure the survivability of the fabricated large area (cm2) nano-structures. Scanning electron microscopy and diffraction results proved the good uniformity of the fabricated structures. With the proper design of the refraction prism we have achieved a partial bandgap for S+C band (1460-1565nm) in the [111] direction. The transmission and reflection spectra obtained by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) are in good agreement with simulated band structure. The superprism effects around 1550nm wavelength for the fabricated 3D polymer photonic crystal have been theoretically calculated and such effects can be used for beam steering purpose.

Multipartite Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen steering and genuine tripartite entanglement with optical networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Armstrong, Seiji; Wang, Meng; Teh, Run Yan; Gong, Qihuang; He, Qiongyi; Janousek, Jiri; Bachor, Hans-Albert; Reid, Margaret D.; Lam, Ping Koy

2015-02-01

Einstein, Podolsky and Rosen (EPR) pointed out in their famous paradox that two quantum-entangled particles can have perfectly correlated positions and momenta. Such correlations give evidence for the nonlocality of quantum mechanics and form the basis for quantum cryptography and teleportation. EPR steering is the nonlocality associated with the EPR paradox and has traditionally been investigated between only two parties. Using optical networks and efficient detection, we present experimental observations of multiparty EPR steering and of the genuine entanglement of three intense optical beams. We entangle the quadrature phase amplitudes of distinct fields, in analogy to the position-momentum entanglement of the original paradox. Our experiments complement tests of quantum mechanics that have entangled small systems or have demonstrated tripartite inseparability. Our methods establish principles for the development of multiparty quantum communication protocols with asymmetric observers, and can be extended to qubits, whether photonic, atomic, superconducting, or otherwise.

Air-coupled laser vibrometry: analysis and applications.

PubMed

Solodov, Igor; Döring, Daniel; Busse, Gerd

2009-03-01

Acousto-optic interaction between a narrow laser beam and acoustic waves in air is analyzed theoretically. The photoelastic relation in air is used to derive the phase modulation of laser light in air-coupled reflection vibrometry induced by angular spatial spectral components comprising the acoustic beam. Maximum interaction was found for the zero spatial acoustic component propagating normal to the laser beam. The angular dependence of the imaging efficiency is determined for the axial and nonaxial acoustic components with the regard for the laser beam steering in the scanning mode. The sensitivity of air-coupled vibrometry is compared with conventional "Doppler" reflection vibrometry. Applications of the methodology for visualization of linear and nonlinear air-coupled fields are demonstrated.

Enhancement of thermal blooming effect on free space propagation of high power CW laser beam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kashef, Tamer M.; Mokhtar, Ayman M.; Ghoniemy, Samy A.

2018-02-01

In this paper, we present an enhanced model to predict the effect of thermal blooming and atmospheric turbulence, on high energy laser beams free space propagation. We introduce an implementation technique for the proposed mathematical models describing the effect of thermal blooming and atmospheric turbulence including wind blowing, and how it effect high power laser beam power, far field pattern, phase change effect and beam quality . An investigated model of adaptive optics was introduced to study how to improve the wave front and phase distortion caused by thermal blooming and atmospheric turbulence, the adaptive optics model with Actuator influence spacing 3 cm the that shows observed improvement in the Strehl ratio and in wave front and phase of the beam. These models was implemented using cooperative agents relying on GLAD software package. Without taking in consideration the effect of thermal blooming It was deduced that the beam at the source takes the Gaussian shape with uniform intensity distribution, we found that the beam converge on the required distance 4 km using converging optics, comparing to the laser beam under the effect of thermal blooming the far field pattern shows characteristic secondary blip and "sugar scoop" effect which is characteristic of thermal blooming. It was found that the thermal blooming causes the beam to steer many centimeters and to diverge beyond about 1.8 km than come to a focus at 4 km where the beam assumed to be focused on the required target. We assume that this target is moving at v = (4,-4) m/sec at distance 4 km and the wind is moving at v = (-10,-10) m/sec, it was found that the effect will be strongest when wind and target movement are at the same velocity. GLAD software is used to calculate the attenuation effects of the atmosphere as well as the phase perturbations due to temperature change in the air and effects caused as the beam crosses through the air due to wind and beam steering.

Enabling high-precision nonlinear three-dimensional photoprocessing of premeditated designs on a conventional multiphoton imaging system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garsha, Karl E.

2004-06-01

There is an increasing amount of interest in functionalized microstructural, microphotonic and microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) for use in biological applications. By scanning a tightly focused ultra-short pulsed laser beam inside a wide variety of commercially available polymer systems, the flexibility of the multiphoton microscope can be extended to include routine manufacturing of micro-devices with feature sizes well below the diffraction limit. Compared with lithography, two-photon polymerization has the unique ability to additively realize designs with high resolution in three dimensions; this permits the construction of cross-linked components and structures with hollow cavities. In light of the increasing availability of multiphoton imaging systems at research facilities, femtosecond laser manufacturing becomes particularly attractive in that the modality provides a readily accessible, rapid and high-accuracy 3-D processing capability to biological investigators interested in culture scaffolds and biomimetic tissue engineering, bio-MEMS, biomicrophotonics and microfluidics applications. This manuscript overviews recent efforts towards to enabling user accessible 3-D micro-manufacturing capabilities on a conventional proprietary-based imaging system. Software which permits the off-line design of microstructures and leverages the extensibility of proprietary LCSM image acquisition software to realize designs is introduced. The requirements for multiphoton photo-disruption (ablation) are in some ways analogous to those for multiphoton polymerization. Hence, "beam-steering" also facilitates precision photo-disruption of biological tissues with 3-D resolution, and applications involving tissue microdissection and intracellular microsurgery or three-dimensionally resolved fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) studies can benefit from this work as well.

Progress and prospects of silicon-based design for optical phased array

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Weiwei; Peng, Chao; Chang-Hasnain, Connie

2016-03-01

The high-speed, high-efficient, compact phase modulator array is indispensable in the Optical-phased array (OPA) which has been considered as a promising technology for realizing flexible and efficient beam steering. In our research, two methods are presented to utilize high-contrast grating (HCG) as high-efficient phase modulator. One is that HCG possesses high-Q resonances that origins from the cancellation of leaky waves. As a result, sharp resonance peaks appear on the reflection spectrum thus HCGs can be utilized as efficient phase shifters. Another is that low-Q mode HCG is utilized as ultra-lightweight mirror. With MEMS technology, small HCG displacement (~50 nm) leads to large phase change (~1.7π). Effective beam steering is achieved in Connie Chang-Hasnian's group. On the other hand, we theoretically and experimentally investigate the system design for silicon-based optical phased array, including the star coupler, phased array, emission elements and far-field patterns. Further, the non-uniform optical phased array is presented.

Pulse Front Tilt and Laser Plasma Acceleration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mittelberger, Daniel; Thévenet, Maxence; Nakamura, Kei; Lehe, Remi; Gonsalves, Anthony; Benedetti, Carlo; Leemans, Wim

2017-10-01

Pulse front tilt (PFT) is potentially present in any CPA laser system, but its effects may be overlooked because spatiotemporal pulse characterization is considerably more involved than measuring only spatial or temporal profile. PFT is particularly important for laser plasma accelerators (LPA) because it influences electron beam injection and steering. In this work, experimental results from the BELLA Center will be presented that demonstrate the effect of optical grating misalignment and optical compression, resulting in PFT, on accelerator performance. Theoretical models of laser and electron beam steering will be introduced based on particle-in-cell simulations showing distortion of the plasma wake. Theoretical predictions will be compared with experiments and complimentary simulations, and tolerances on PFT and optical compressor alignment will be developed as a function of LPA performance requirements. This work was supported by the Office of High Energy Physics, Office of Science, US Department of Energy under Contract DE-AC02-05CH11231 and the National Science Foundation under Grant PHY-1415596.

Wide steering angle microscanner based on curved surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sabry, Yasser; Khalil, Diaa; Saadany, Bassam; Bourouina, Tarik

2013-03-01

Intensive industrial and academic research is oriented towards the design and fabrication of optical beam steering systems based on MEMS technology. In most of these systems, the scanning is achieved by rotating a flat micromirror around a central axis in which the main challenge is achieving a wide mirror rotation angle. In this work, a novel method of optical beam scanning based on reflection from a curved surface is presented. The scanning occurs when the optical axis of the curved surface is displaced with respect to the optical axis of the incident beam. To overcome the possible deformation of the spot with the scanning angle, the curved surface is designed with a specific aspherical profile. Moreover, the scanning exhibits a more linearized scanning angle-displacement relation than the conventional spherical profile. The presented scanner is fabricated using DRIE technology on an SOI wafer. The curved surface (reflector) is metalized and attached to a comb-drive actuator fabricated in the same lithography step. A single-mode fiber, behaving as a Gaussian beam source, is positioned on the substrate facing the mirror. The reflected optical beam angle and spotsize in the far field is recorded versus the relative shift between the fiber and the curved mirror. The spot size is plotted versus the scanning angle and a scanning spot size uniformity of about +/-10% is obtained for optical deflection angles up to 100 degrees. As the optical beam is propagating parallel to the wafer substrate, a completely integrated laser scanner can be achieved with filters and actuators self-aligned on the same chip that allows low cost and mass production of this important product.

Multi-Segment Radius Measurement Using an Absolute Distance Meter Through a Null Assembly

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Merle, Cormic; Wick, Eric; Hayden, Joseph

2011-01-01

This system was one of the test methods considered for measuring the radius of curvature of one or more of the 18 segmented mirrors that form the 6.5 m diameter primary mirror (PM) of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). The assembled telescope will be tested at cryogenic temperatures in a 17-m diameter by 27-m high vacuum chamber at the Johnson Space Center. This system uses a Leica Absolute Distance Meter (ADM), at a wavelength of 780 nm, combined with beam-steering and beam-shaping optics to make a differential distance measurement between a ring mirror on the reflective null assembly and individual PM segments. The ADM is located inside the same Pressure-Tight Enclosure (PTE) that houses the test interferometer. The PTE maintains the ADM and interferometer at ambient temperature and pressure so that they are not directly exposed to the telescope s harsh cryogenic and vacuum environment. This system takes advantage of the existing achromatic objective and reflective null assembly used by the test interferometer to direct four ADM beamlets to four PM segments through an optical path that is coincident with the interferometer beam. A mask, positioned on a linear slide, contains an array of 1.25 mm diameter circular subapertures that map to each of the 18 PM segments as well as six positions around the ring mirror. A down-collimated 4 mm ADM beam simultaneously covers 4 adjacent PM segment beamlets and one ring mirror beamlet. The radius, or spacing, of all 18 segments can be measured with the addition of two orthogonally-oriented scanning pentaprisms used to steer the ADM beam to any one of six different sub-aperture configurations at the plane of the ring mirror. The interferometer beam, at a wavelength of 687 nm, and the ADM beamlets, at a wavelength of 780 nm, pass through the objective and null so that the rays are normally incident on the parabolic PM surface. After reflecting off the PM, both the ADM and interferometer beams return to their respective instruments on nearly the same path. A fifth beamlet, acting as a differential reference, reflects off a ring mirror attached to the objective and null and returns to the ADM. The spacings between the ring mirror, objective, and null are known through manufacturing tolerances as well as through an in situ null wavefront alignment of the interferometer test beam with a reflective hologram located near the caustic of the null. Since total path length between the ring mirror and PM segments is highly deterministic, any ADM-measured departures from the predicted path length can be attributed to either spacing error or radius error in the PM. It is estimated that the path length measurement between the ring mirror and a PM segment is accurate to better than 100 m. The unique features of this invention include the differential distance measuring capability and its integration into an existing cryogenic and vacuum compatible interferometric optical test.

Design of the low energy beam transport line for the China spallation neutron source

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Jin-Hai; Ouyang, Hua-Fu; Fu, Shi-Nian; Zhang, Hua-Shun; He, Wei

2008-03-01

The design of the China Spallation Neutron Source (CSNS) low-energy beam transport (LEBT) line, which locates between the ion source and the radio-frequency quadrupole (RFQ), has been completed with the TRACE3D code. The design aims at perfect matching, primary chopping, a small emittance growth and sufficient space for beam diagnostics. The line consists of three solenoids, three vacuum chambers, two steering magnets and a pre-chopper. The total length of LEBT is about 1.74 m. This LEBT is designed to transfer 20 mA of H-pulsed beam from the ion source to the RFQ. An induction cavity is adopted as the pre-chopper. The electrostatic octupole steerer is discussed as a candidate. A four-quadrant aperture for beam scraping and beam position monitoring is designed.

Shielding NSLS-II light source: Importance of geometry for calculating radiation levels from beam losses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kramer, S. L.; Ghosh, V. J.; Breitfeller, M.; Wahl, W.

2016-11-01

Third generation high brightness light sources are designed to have low emittance and high current beams, which contribute to higher beam loss rates that will be compensated by Top-Off injection. Shielding for these higher loss rates will be critical to protect the projected higher occupancy factors for the users. Top-Off injection requires a full energy injector, which will demand greater consideration of the potential abnormal beam miss-steering and localized losses that could occur. The high energy electron injection beam produces significantly higher neutron component dose to the experimental floor than a lower energy beam injection and ramped operations. Minimizing this dose will require adequate knowledge of where the miss-steered beam can occur and sufficient EM shielding close to the loss point, in order to attenuate the energy of the particles in the EM shower below the neutron production threshold (<10 MeV), which will spread the incident energy on the bulk shield walls and thereby the dose penetrating the shield walls. Designing supplemental shielding near the loss point using the analytic shielding model is shown to be inadequate because of its lack of geometry specification for the EM shower process. To predict the dose rates outside the tunnel requires detailed description of the geometry and materials that the beam losses will encounter inside the tunnel. Modern radiation shielding Monte-Carlo codes, like FLUKA, can handle this geometric description of the radiation transport process in sufficient detail, allowing accurate predictions of the dose rates expected and the ability to show weaknesses in the design before a high radiation incident occurs. The effort required to adequately define the accelerator geometry for these codes has been greatly reduced with the implementation of the graphical interface of FLAIR to FLUKA. This made the effective shielding process for NSLS-II quite accurate and reliable. The principles used to provide supplemental shielding to the NSLS-II accelerators and the lessons learned from this process are presented.

High Speed Modulation, Beam Steering and Control of High Power Diode Lasers

DTIC Science & Technology

2000-03-03

designing the interactive simulator in such a way that the user will be able to probe the system and change parameters on the fly. Pull -down menus will...AR and HR coatings, beam splitters, external cavities, etc) can be built and accessed via pull -down menus within an optical systems graphical GUI...supported in part by the National Science Foundation’s GOALI program under grant number DM59811466 and AFOSR under contract number F49620-97-1-0002 and

The Effects of Ground Plane and Parasitic Layer on Linearly Tapered Slot Antenna

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, Richard Q.; Simons, Rainee N.

1996-01-01

The effects of a large ground plane and an upper parasitic layer on a linearly tapered slot antenna has been experimentally investigated. Results indicate that the presence of a large ground plane causes the beam to steer by as much as 50 deg from the endfire direction in the H-plane. With the addition of a parasitic layer above the fed antenna, further beam scanning can be achieved when the spacing between the fed and parasitic layers is properly chosen.

High Birefringence Liquid Crystals for Laser Hardening and IR Countermeasure

DTIC Science & Technology

2004-09-24

A fast-switching and scattering-free phase modulator using polymer network liquid crystal ( PNLC ) is demonstrated at **=l.55 um for laser beam...steering application. The strong polymer network anchoring greatly reduces the visco-elastic coefficient of the liquid crystal. As a result, the PNLC

Evaluating the Performance of a Visually Guided Hearing Aid Using a Dynamic Auditory-Visual Word Congruence Task.

PubMed

Roverud, Elin; Best, Virginia; Mason, Christine R; Streeter, Timothy; Kidd, Gerald

2017-12-15

The "visually guided hearing aid" (VGHA), consisting of a beamforming microphone array steered by eye gaze, is an experimental device being tested for effectiveness in laboratory settings. Previous studies have found that beamforming without visual steering can provide significant benefits (relative to natural binaural listening) for speech identification in spatialized speech or noise maskers when sound sources are fixed in location. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the performance of the VGHA in listening conditions in which target speech could switch locations unpredictably, requiring visual steering of the beamforming. To address this aim, the present study tested an experimental simulation of the VGHA in a newly designed dynamic auditory-visual word congruence task. Ten young normal-hearing (NH) and 11 young hearing-impaired (HI) adults participated. On each trial, three simultaneous spoken words were presented from three source positions (-30, 0, and 30 azimuth). An auditory-visual word congruence task was used in which participants indicated whether there was a match between the word printed on a screen at a location corresponding to the target source and the spoken target word presented acoustically from that location. Performance was compared for a natural binaural condition (stimuli presented using impulse responses measured on KEMAR), a simulated VGHA condition (BEAM), and a hybrid condition that combined lowpass-filtered KEMAR and highpass-filtered BEAM information (BEAMAR). In some blocks, the target remained fixed at one location across trials, and in other blocks, the target could transition in location between one trial and the next with a fixed but low probability. Large individual variability in performance was observed. There were significant benefits for the hybrid BEAMAR condition relative to the KEMAR condition on average for both NH and HI groups when the targets were fixed. Although not apparent in the averaged data, some individuals showed BEAM benefits relative to KEMAR. Under dynamic conditions, BEAM and BEAMAR performance dropped significantly immediately following a target location transition. However, performance recovered by the second word in the sequence and was sustained until the next transition. When performance was assessed using an auditory-visual word congruence task, the benefits of beamforming reported previously were generally preserved under dynamic conditions in which the target source could move unpredictably from one location to another (i.e., performance recovered rapidly following source transitions) while the observer steered the beamforming via eye gaze, for both young NH and young HI groups.

Beam-based calibrations of the BPM offset at C-ADS Injector II

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Wei-Long; Wang, Zhi-Jun; Feng, Chi; Dou, Wei-Ping; Tao, Yue; Jia, Huan; Wang, Wang-Sheng; Liu, Shu-Hui; He, Yuan

2016-07-01

Beam-based BPM offset calibration was carried out for Injector II at the C-ADS demonstration facility at the Institute of Modern Physics (IMP), Chinese Academy of Science (CAS). By using the steering coils integrated in the quadrupoles, the beam orbit can be effectively adjusted and BPM positions recorded at the Medium Energy Beam Transport of the Injector II Linac. The studies were done with a 2 mA, 2.1 MeV proton beam in pulsed mode. During the studies, the “null comparison method” was applied for the calibration. This method is less sensitive to errors compared with the traditional transmission matrix method. In addition, the quadrupole magnet’s center can also be calibrated with this method. Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China (91426303, 11525523)

Probing the liquid crystal alignment interface and switching dynamics in a slab waveguide architecture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gotjen, Henry G.; Kolacz, Jakub; Myers, Jason D.; Frantz, Jesse A.; Bekele, Robel Y.; Naciri, Jawad; Spillmann, Christopher M.

2018-02-01

A non-mechanical refractive laser beam steering device has been developed to provide continuous, two-dimensional steering of infrared beams. The technology implements a dielectric slab waveguide architecture with a liquid crystal (LC) cladding. With voltage control, the birefringence of the LC can be leveraged to tune the effective index of the waveguide under an electrode. With a clever prism electrode design a beam coupled into the waveguide can be deflected continuously in two dimensions as it is coupled out into free space. The optical interaction with LC in this beamsteerer is unique from typical LC applications: only the thin layer of LC (100s of nm) near the alignment interface interacts with the beam's evanescent field. Whereas most LC interactions take place over short path lengths (microns) in the bulk of the material, here we can interrogate the behavior of LC near the alignment interface over long path lengths (centimeters). In this work the beamsteerer is leveraged as a tool to study the behavior of LC near the alignment layer in contrast to the bulk material. We find that scattering is substantially decreased near the alignment interface due to the influence of the surface anchoring energy to suppress thermal fluctuations. By tracking the position of the deflected beam with a high speed camera, we measure response times of the LC near the interface in off-to-on switching ( ms) and on-to-off switching ( 100ms). Combined, this work will provide a path for improved alignment techniques, greater optical throughput, and faster response times in this unique approach to non-mechanical beamsteering.

Proposed new accelerator design for homeland security x-ray applications

DOE PAGES

Clayton, James; Shedlock, Daniel; Langeveld, Willem G.J.; ...

2015-01-01

Two goals for security scanning of cargo and freight are the ability to determine the type of material that is being imaged, and to do so at low radiation dose. One commonly used technique to determine the effective Z of the cargo is dual-energy imaging, i.e. imaging with different x-ray energy spectra. Another technique uses the fact that the transmitted x-ray spectrum itself also depends on the effective Z. Spectroscopy is difficult because the energy of individual x rays needs to be measured in a very high count-rate environment. Typical accelerators for security applications offer large but short bursts ofmore » x-rays, suitable for current-mode integrated imaging. In order to perform x-ray spectroscopy, a new accelerator design is desired that has the following features: 1) increased duty factor in order to spread out the arrival of x-rays at the detector array over time; 2) x-ray intensity modulation from one delivered pulse to the next by adjusting the accelerator electron beam instantaneous current so as to deliver adequate signal without saturating the spectroscopic detector; and 3) the capability to direct the (forward peaked) x-ray intensity towards high-attenuation areas in the cargo (“fan-beam-steering”). Current sources are capable of 0.1% duty factor, although usually they are operated at significantly lower duty factors (~0.04%), but duty factors in the range 0.4-1.0% are desired. The higher duty factor can be accomplished, e.g., by moving from 300 pulses per second (pps) to 1000 pps and/or increasing the pulse duration from a typical 4 μs to 10 μs. This paper describes initial R&D to examine cost effective modifications that could be performed on a typical accelerator for these purposes, as well as R&D for fan-beam steering.« less

High-energy laser weapons: technology overview

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perram, Glen P.; Marciniak, Michael A.; Goda, Matthew

2004-09-01

High energy laser (HEL) weapons are ready for some of today"s most challenging military applications. For example, the Airborne Laser (ABL) program is designed to defend against Theater Ballistic Missiles in a tactical war scenario. Similarly, the Tactical High Energy Laser (THEL) program is currently testing a laser to defend against rockets and other tactical weapons. The Space Based Laser (SBL), Advanced Tactical Laser (ATL) and Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures (LAIRCM) programs promise even greater applications for laser weapons. This technology overview addresses both strategic and tactical roles for HEL weapons on the modern battlefield and examines current technology limited performance of weapon systems components, including various laser device types, beam control systems, atmospheric propagation, and target lethality issues. The characteristics, history, basic hardware, and fundamental performance of chemical lasers, solid state lasers and free electron lasers are summarized and compared. The elements of beam control, including the primary aperture, fast steering mirror, deformable mirrors, wavefront sensors, beacons and illuminators will be discussed with an emphasis on typical and required performance parameters. The effects of diffraction, atmospheric absorption, scattering, turbulence and thermal blooming phenomenon on irradiance at the target are described. Finally, lethality criteria and measures of weapon effectiveness are addressed. The primary purpose of the presentation is to define terminology, establish key performance parameters, and summarize technology capabilities.

Spiral-like multi-beam emission via transformation electromagnetics

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tichit, Paul-Henri, E-mail: paul-henri.tichit@u-psud.fr; Burokur, Shah Nawaz, E-mail: shah-nawaz.burokur@u-psud.fr; Lustrac, André de, E-mail: andre.de-lustrac@u-psud.fr

Transformation electromagnetics offers an unconventional approach for the design of novel radiating devices. Here, we propose an electromagnetic metamaterial able to split an isotropic radiation into multiple directive beams. By applying transformations that modify distance and angles, we show how the multiple directive beams can be steered at will. We describe transformation of the metric space and the calculation of the material parameters. Different transformations are proposed for a possible physical realization through the use of engineered artificial metamaterials. Full wave simulations are performed to validate the proposed approach. The idea paves the way to interesting applications in various domainsmore » in microwave and optical regimes.« less

Coherent Control of Diamond Defects for Quantum Information Science and Quantum Sensing

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-04-18

beam steering in micromirror systems [192]. Furthermore, by eliminating require- ments for cryogenic temperatures, our blueprint aims to make the...Isenhower, A. T. Gill, F. P. Lu, M. Saffman, and J. Kim. Independent individual addressing of multiple neutral atom qubits with a micromirror -based

Amplitude-steered, pseudophased antenna array

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, C. C.; Martel, R. J.; Dietrich, F. J.; Koloboff, G. J.

1975-01-01

Beam may be smoothly scanned around ring array without instantaneous phase transitions while maintaining constant radiated power by gradually transferring power from receding element to element next to leading edge of driven segment, and by accomplishing antenna element switching during intervals when no power is being applied to elements being switched.

Coupled Oscillator Based Agile Beam Transmitters and Receivers: A Review of Work at JPL

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pogorzelski, Ronald J.

2006-01-01

This is a review of the work done at Caltech's Jet Propulsion Laboratory during the past decade on development of the coupled oscillator technology in phased array applications to spacecraft telecommunications. First, some historical background is provided to set the work in context. However, this is by no means intended to be a comprehensive review of all work in this area. Rather, the focus is on the JPL contribution with some mention of other work which provided either insight or motivation. In the mid 1990's, R. A. York, and collaborators proposed that an array of mutually injection locked electronic oscillators could provide appropriately phased signals to the radiating elements of an array antenna such that the radiated beam could be steered merely by tuning the end or perimeter oscillators of the array. York, et al. also proposed a receiving system based on such oscillator arrays in which the oscillators provide properly phased local oscillator signals to be mixed with the signals received by the array elements to remove the phase due to angle of arrival of the incident wave. These concepts were viewed as a promising simplification of the beam steering control system that could result in significant cost, mass, and prime power reduction and were therefore attractive for possible space application.

Towards the LISA backlink: experiment design for comparing optical phase reference distribution systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Isleif, Katharina-Sophie; Bischof, Lea; Ast, Stefan; Penkert, Daniel; Schwarze, Thomas S.; Fernández Barranco, Germán; Zwetz, Max; Veith, Sonja; Hennig, Jan-Simon; Tröbs, Michael; Reiche, Jens; Gerberding, Oliver; Danzmann, Karsten; Heinzel, Gerhard

2018-04-01

LISA is a proposed space-based laser interferometer detecting gravitational waves by measuring distances between free-floating test masses housed in three satellites in a triangular constellation with laser links in-between. Each satellite contains two optical benches that are articulated by moving optical subassemblies for compensating the breathing angle in the constellation. The phase reference distribution system, also known as backlink, forms an optical bi-directional path between the intra-satellite benches. In this work we discuss phase reference implementations with a target non-reciprocity of at most 2π μrad \\sqrtHz-1 , equivalent to 1 pm \\sqrtHz-1 for a wavelength of 1064 nm in the frequency band from 0.1 mHz to 1 Hz. One phase reference uses a steered free beam connection, the other one a fiber together with additional laser frequencies. The noise characteristics of these implementations will be compared in a single interferometric set-up with a previously successfully tested direct fiber connection. We show the design of this interferometer created by optical simulations including ghost beam analysis, component alignment and noise estimation. First experimental results of a free beam laser link between two optical set-ups that are co-rotating by  ±1° are presented. This experiment demonstrates sufficient thermal stability during rotation of less than 10‑4 K \\sqrtHz-1 at 1 mHz and operation of the free beam steering mirror control over more than 1 week.

Producing Science-Ready Radar Datasets for the Retrieval of Forest Structure Parameters from Backscatter: Correcting for Terrain Topography and Changes in Vegetation Reflectivity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Simard, M.; Riel, Bryan; Hensley, S.; Lavalle, Marco

2011-01-01

Radar backscatter data contain both geometric and radiometric distortions due to underlying topography and the radar viewing geometry. Our objective is to develop a radiometric correction algorithm specific to the UAVSAR system configuration that would improve retrieval of forest structure parameters. UAVSAR is an airborne Lband radar capable of repeat?pass interferometry producing images with a spatial resolution of 5m. It is characterized by an electronically steerable antenna to compensate for aircraft attitude. Thus, the computation of viewing angles (i.e. look, incidence and projection) must include aircraft attitude angles (i.e. yaw, pitch and roll) in addition to the antenna steering angle. In this presentation, we address two components of radiometric correction: area projection and vegetation reflectivity. The first correction is applied by normalization of the radar backscatter by the local ground area illuminated by the radar beam. The second is a correction due to changes in vegetation reflectivity with viewing geometry.

Experimental evaluation of shape memory alloy actuation technique in adaptive antenna design concepts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kefauver, W. Neill; Carpenter, Bernie F.

1994-09-01

Creation of an antenna system that could autonomously adapt contours of reflecting surfaces to compensate for structural loads induced by a variable environment would maximize performance of space-based communication systems. Design of such a system requires the comprehensive development and integration of advanced actuator, sensor, and control technologies. As an initial step in this process, a test has been performed to assess the use of a shape memory alloy as a potential actuation technique. For this test, an existing, offset, cassegrain antenna system was retrofit with a subreflector equipped with shape memory alloy actuators for surface contour control. The impacts that the actuators had on both the subreflector contour and the antenna system patterns were measured. The results of this study indicate the potential for using shape memory alloy actuation techniques to adaptively control antenna performance; both variations in gain and beam steering capabilities were demonstrated. Future development effort is required to evolve this potential into a useful technology for satellite applications.

Experimental evaluation of shape memory alloy actuation technique in adaptive antenna design concepts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kefauver, W. Neill; Carpenter, Bernie F.

1994-01-01

Creation of an antenna system that could autonomously adapt contours of reflecting surfaces to compensate for structural loads induced by a variable environment would maximize performance of space-based communication systems. Design of such a system requires the comprehensive development and integration of advanced actuator, sensor, and control technologies. As an initial step in this process, a test has been performed to assess the use of a shape memory alloy as a potential actuation technique. For this test, an existing, offset, cassegrain antenna system was retrofit with a subreflector equipped with shape memory alloy actuators for surface contour control. The impacts that the actuators had on both the subreflector contour and the antenna system patterns were measured. The results of this study indicate the potential for using shape memory alloy actuation techniques to adaptively control antenna performance; both variations in gain and beam steering capabilities were demonstrated. Future development effort is required to evolve this potential into a useful technology for satellite applications.

Multi-Objective Sliding Mode Control on Vehicle Cornering Stability with Variable Gear Ratio Actuator-Based Active Front Steering Systems

PubMed Central

Ma, Xinbo; Wong, Pak Kin; Zhao, Jing; Xie, Zhengchao

2016-01-01

Active front steering (AFS) is an emerging technology to improve the vehicle cornering stability by introducing an additional small steering angle to the driver’s input. This paper proposes an AFS system with a variable gear ratio steering (VGRS) actuator which is controlled by using the sliding mode control (SMC) strategy to improve the cornering stability of vehicles. In the design of an AFS system, different sensors are considered to measure the vehicle state, and the mechanism of the AFS system is also modelled in detail. Moreover, in order to improve the cornering stability of vehicles, two dependent objectives, namely sideslip angle and yaw rate, are considered together in the design of SMC strategy. By evaluating the cornering performance, Sine with Dwell and accident avoidance tests are conducted, and the simulation results indicate that the proposed SMC strategy is capable of improving the cornering stability of vehicles in practice. PMID:28036037

Broadband polarization gratings for efficient liquid crystal display, beam steering, spectropolarimetry, and Fresnel zone plate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oh, Chulwoo

Efficient control of light polarization is essential in any optical systems where polarized light is used or polarization information is of interest. In addition to intensity and wavelength, polarization of light gives a very useful/powerful tool to control light itself and observe many interesting optical phenomena in nature and applications. Most available light sources, however, produce unpolarized or weakly polarized light except some of fancy lasers. Therefore, efficient polarization control/generation is important to improve/advance existing or emerging technologies utilizing polarized light. It is also true that polarization can be used to control another properties of light (i.e., intensity, direction). We have introduced and demonstrated achromatic polarization gratings (PGs) as broadband polarizing beam splitters performing ˜100% theoretical efficiency over a wide spectral range. The novel design of achromatic PGs and their effective fabrication method will be presented. Experimental demonstration will show that practically 100% efficient diffraction is achieved by achromatic PGs embodied as thin liquid crystal (LC) layers patterned by holographic photoalignment techniques. Non-ideal diffraction behaviors of the PGs also have been investigated beyond the paraxial limitations via numerical analysis based on the finite-difference time-domain method. We, first, study the effect of the grating regime for this special type of anisotropic diffraction gratings with the minimum assumptions. Optical properties of the PGs at oblique incidence angles and in a finite pixel are numerically predicted and confirmed by experiments. Design and fabrication of small-period PGs are discussed to show how to achieve high diffraction efficiency and large diffraction angles at the same time. Three key innovative technologies utilizing the unique diffraction properties of the PGs have been introduced and experimentally demonstrated. The first application for light-efficient LC displays is the polymer-PG display, which allows an immediate brightness improvement (up to a factor of two) of conventional LC displays by replacing absorbing polarizers with achromatic PGs as thin, transmissive polymer films. We demonstrate the first proof-of-concept prototype projector based on the polymer-PG display and we also discuss optical design considerations and challenges toward a viable solution for our ultrabright pico-projector applications of the polymer-PG display. Second, two novel beam steering concepts based on the PG diffraction have been proposed. The polarization-sensitive diffraction of the PGs provides very attractive beam steering operations with ultra-high efficiency over wide steering angles by all-thin-plate electro-optical systems. We developed a non-mechanical, wide-angle beam steering system using stacked PGs and LC waveplates, and we also demonstrated a continuous beam steering using two rotating PGs, named the Risley grating as a thin-plate version of the Risley prism. The third PG application is in imaging and non-imaging spectropolarimetry. We have shown a snapshot, hyperspectral, full-Stokes polarimeter using inline PGs and quarter-waveplates. The use of PGs as a new polarimetric element for astronomical instruments in the mid-wave IR wavelengths also has been proposed to overcome current limitations of existing IR polarimeters. In the last part of this Dissertation, we introduce a polarization-type Fresnel zone plates (P-FZPs), comprising of spatially distributed linear birefringence or concentric PG (CPG) patterns. Effective fabrication methods of P-FZPs have been developed using polarization holography based on the Michelson interferometer and photoalignment of LC materials. We demonstrated high-quality P-FZPs, which exhibit ideal Fresnel-type lens effects, formed as both LC polymer films and electro-optical LC devices. We also discuss the polarization-selective lens properties of the P-FZPs as well as their electro-optical switching. In summary, we have explored the fundamental diffraction behavior of the polarization gratings and their applications in advanced optics and photonics. The achromatic designs of the PGs allow their broadband diffraction operation over a wide range of spectrum, which increases the applicability of the PGs with a great extent. Three novel technologies that directly benefit from the distinct diffraction properties of the PGs have been developed. In addition, a new diffractive lens element operating solely on light polarization has been introduced and experimentally demonstrated. We conclude this Dissertation with our suggestions of a number of potential innovations and advances in technologies that can be enabled by polarization gratings and related technologies.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kanehira, T; Sutherland, K; Matsuura, T

Purpose: To evaluate density inhomogeneities which can effect dose distributions for real-time image gated spot-scanning proton therapy (RGPT), a dose calculation system, using treatment planning system VQA (Hitachi Ltd., Tokyo) spot position data, was developed based on Geant4. Methods: A Geant4 application was developed to simulate spot-scanned proton beams at Hokkaido University Hospital. A CT scan (0.98 × 0.98 × 1.25 mm) was performed for prostate cancer treatment with three or four inserted gold markers (diameter 1.5 mm, volume 1.77 mm3) in or near the target tumor. The CT data was read into VQA. A spot scanning plan was generatedmore » and exported to text files, specifying the beam energy and position of each spot. The text files were converted and read into our Geant4-based software. The spot position was converted into steering magnet field strength (in Tesla) for our beam nozzle. Individual protons were tracked from the vacuum chamber, through the helium chamber, steering magnets, dose monitors, etc., in a straight, horizontal line. The patient CT data was converted into materials with variable density and placed in a parametrized volume at the isocenter. Gold fiducial markers were represented in the CT data by two adjacent voxels (volume 2.38 mm3). 600,000 proton histories were tracked for each target spot. As one beam contained about 1,000 spots, approximately 600 million histories were recorded for each beam on a blade server. Two plans were considered: two beam horizontal opposed (90 and 270 degree) and three beam (0, 90 and 270 degree). Results: We are able to convert spot scanning plans from VQA and simulate them with our Geant4-based code. Our system can be used to evaluate the effect of dose reduction caused by gold markers used for RGPT. Conclusion: Our Geant4 application is able to calculate dose distributions for spot scanned proton therapy.« less

Semiconductor diode laser having an intracavity spatial phase controller for beam control and switching

DOEpatents

Hohimer, John P.

1994-01-01

A high-power broad-area semiconductor laser having a intracavity spatial phase controller is disclosed. The integrated intracavity spatial phase controller is easily formed by patterning an electrical contact metallization layer when fabricating the semiconductor laser. This spatial phase controller changes the normally broad far-field emission beam of such a laser into a single-lobed near-diffraction-limited beam at pulsed output powers of over 400 mW. Two operating modes, a thermal and a gain operating mode, exist for the phase controller, allowing for steering and switching the beam as the modes of operation are switched, and the emission beam may be scanned, for example, over a range of 1.4 degrees or switched by 8 degrees. More than one spatial phase controller may be integrated into the laser structure.

Semiconductor diode laser having an intracavity spatial phase controller for beam control and switching

DOEpatents

Hohimer, J.P.

1994-06-07

A high-power broad-area semiconductor laser having a intracavity spatial phase controller is disclosed. The integrated intracavity spatial phase controller is easily formed by patterning an electrical contact metallization layer when fabricating the semiconductor laser. This spatial phase controller changes the normally broad far-field emission beam of such a laser into a single-lobed near-diffraction-limited beam at pulsed output powers of over 400 mW. Two operating modes, a thermal and a gain operating mode, exist for the phase controller, allowing for steering and switching the beam as the modes of operation are switched, and the emission beam may be scanned, for example, over a range of 1.4 degrees or switched by 8 degrees. More than one spatial phase controller may be integrated into the laser structure. 6 figs.

Fast steering mirror for laser communication

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Langenbach, Harald; Schmid, Manfred

2005-07-01

Future multimedia satellites require communication at large bandwidth which can be achieved by means of optical communication links. TESAT Spacecom is currently developing a Laser Communication Terminal (LCT) for such applications under DLR contract. EADS Astrium is developing and building the mechanisms for Pointing, Acquisition and Tracking (PAT) of the laser beam between two Laser Communication Terminals. Based on this development work the development of mechanism H/W to be flown on TerraSar X is currently under way. After a short description of the general arrangement of the Mechanisms inside the LCT, the paper describes the design of the fast steering mirrors (FSM) reflecting the critical requirements and the solutions how to achieve them.

Feasibility Activities Completed for the Direct Data Distribution (D(sup )3) Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wald, Lawrence W.

2000-01-01

The Direct Data Distribution (D(sup 3)) project being designed at the NASA Glenn Research Center at Lewis Field will demonstrate a high-performance communications system that transmits information at up to 1.2 gigabits per second (Gbps) from an advanced technology payload carried by the space shuttles in low Earth orbit to small (0.9-m) autonomously tracking terminals on the Earth. The flight communications package features a solid-state, phased-array antenna operating in the commercial K-band frequency that electronically steers two independently controlled downlink beams toward low-cost tracking ground terminals. The array enables agile, vibration-free beam steering at reduced size and weight with increased reliability over traditional mechanically steered reflectors. The flight experiment will also demonstrate efficient digital modulation technology that allows transmission of substantially increased amounts of latency-tolerant data (up to 72 Gb of data per minute of contact time) with very high quality (10(exp -11) bit error rate). D(sup 3) enables transmission from low-Earth-orbit science spacecraft, the shuttles, or the International Space Station directly to NASA field centers and principle investigator sites, or directly into the commercial terrestrial telecommunications network for remote distribution and archive. The ground terminal features a cryocooled receiver for ultralow noise and a reduced antenna aperture as well as open-loop tracking for unattended operations. The D(sup 3) technology validation and service demonstration will help to facilitate NASA's transition from using Government-owned communications assets to using commercially provided services.

Low-Absorption Liquid Crystals for Infrared Beam Steering

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-10-22

Low absorption, MWIR, chlorinated liquid crystals, fluorination, FTIR, eutectic mixture, deuteration, nematic phase, birefringence, overtone...absorption compounds for LWIR and SWIR are also investigated. Key words: Low absorption, MWIR, chlorinated liquid crystals, fluorination, FTIR, eutectic ...the melting point significantly. We did careful investigation and formed a eutectic mixture consisting of five fluorinated compounds without any

An electrostatic elliptical mirror for neutral polar molecules.

PubMed

González Flórez, A Isabel; Meek, Samuel A; Haak, Henrik; Conrad, Horst; Santambrogio, Gabriele; Meijer, Gerard

2011-11-14

Focusing optics for neutral molecules finds application in shaping and steering molecular beams. Here we present an electrostatic elliptical mirror for polar molecules consisting of an array of microstructured gold electrodes deposited on a glass substrate. Alternating positive and negative voltages applied to the electrodes create a repulsive potential for molecules in low-field-seeking states. The equipotential lines are parallel to the substrate surface, which is bent in an elliptical shape. The mirror is characterized by focusing a beam of metastable CO molecules and the results are compared to the outcome of trajectory simulations.

Unsteady Flow Field Measurements Using LDV (Laser Doppler Velocimetry).

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-12-01

data and digitized velocity data F.-o- the LDV signal processors were channeled to a 3D -LDV Computer ,nterface (CI). The CI, multiplexing the inputs...beam al _:gnm.ent Fr L.Zr’.s3 , - steering wedges, within the Bragg ’ell modules serves l: bring the beams back t: parallel. A 7i:r~s:: pe -b:t .e, pla...INITIALS DESCRIPTION C 07/26/83 TML Adapted from DAPNT C 12/12,/85 CLH Modified to print results in either Coctal or integer. C 02/25/87 GBG Modified

Integrated Reconfigurable Aperture, Digital Beam Forming, and Software GPS Receiver for UAV Navigation

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-12-11

Implemented both carrier and code phase tracking loop for performance evaluation of a minimum power beam forming algorithm and null steering algorithm...4 Antennal Antenna2 Antenna K RF RF RF ct, Ct~2 ChKx1 X2 ....... Xk A W ~ ~ =Z, x W ,=1 Fig. 5. Schematics of a K-element antenna array spatial...adaptive processor Antennal Antenna K A N-i V/ ( Vil= .i= VK Fig. 6. Schematics of a K-element antenna array space-time adaptive processor Two additional

Ultrasonic Array for Obstacle Detection Based on CDMA with Kasami Codes

PubMed Central

Diego, Cristina; Hernández, Álvaro; Jiménez, Ana; Álvarez, Fernando J.; Sanz, Rebeca; Aparicio, Joaquín

2011-01-01

This paper raises the design of an ultrasonic array for obstacle detection based on Phased Array (PA) techniques, which steers the acoustic beam through the environment by electronics rather than mechanical means. The transmission of every element in the array has been encoded, according to Code Division for Multiple Access (CDMA), which allows multiple beams to be transmitted simultaneously. All these features together enable a parallel scanning system which does not only improve the image rate but also achieves longer inspection distances in comparison with conventional PA techniques. PMID:22247675

Phased array performance evaluation with photoelastic visualization

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ginzel, Robert; Dao, Gavin

2014-02-18

New instrumentation and a widening range of phased array transducer options are affording the industry a greater potential. Visualization of the complex wave components using the photoelastic system can greatly enhance understanding of the generated signals. Diffraction, mode conversion and wave front interaction, together with beam forming for linear, sectorial and matrix arrays, will be viewed using the photoelastic system. Beam focus and steering performance will be shown with a range of embedded and surface targets within glass samples. This paper will present principles and sound field images using this visualization system.

Ultrabroadband phased-array radio frequency (RF) receivers based on optical techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Overmiller, Brock M.; Schuetz, Christopher A.; Schneider, Garrett; Murakowski, Janusz; Prather, Dennis W.

2014-03-01

Military operations require the ability to locate and identify electronic emissions in the battlefield environment. However, recent developments in radio detection and ranging (RADAR) and communications technology are making it harder to effectively identify such emissions. Phased array systems aid in discriminating emitters in the scene by virtue of their relatively high-gain beam steering and nulling capabilities. For the purpose of locating emitters, we present an approach realize a broadband receiver based on optical processing techniques applied to the response of detectors in conformal antenna arrays. This approach utilizes photonic techniques that enable us to capture, route, and process the incoming signals. Optical modulators convert the incoming signals up to and exceeding 110 GHz with appreciable conversion efficiency and route these signals via fiber optics to a central processing location. This central processor consists of a closed loop phase control system which compensates for phase fluctuations induced on the fibers due to thermal or acoustic vibrations as well as an optical heterodyne approach for signal conversion down to baseband. Our optical heterodyne approach uses injection-locked paired optical sources to perform heterodyne downconversion/frequency identification of the detected emission. Preliminary geolocation and frequency identification testing of electronic emissions has been performed demonstrating the capabilities of our RF receiver.

A robust nonlinear skid-steering control design applied to the MULE (6x6) unmanned ground vehicle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaloust, Joseph

2006-05-01

The paper presents a robust nonlinear skid-steering control design concept. The control concept is based on the recursive/backstepping control design technique and is capable of compensating for uncertainties associated with sensor noise measurements and/or system dynamic state uncertainties. The objective of this control design is to demonstrate the performance of the nonlinear controller under uncertainty associate with road traction (rough off-road and on-road terrain). The MULE vehicle is used in the simulation modeling and results.

Laser diagnostics of welding plasma by polarization spectroscopy.

PubMed

Lucas, Owen; Alwahabi, Zeyad T; Linton, Valerie; Meeuwissen, Karel

2007-05-01

The application of polarization spectroscopy (PS) to detect atomic species in an atmospheric pressure welding plasma has been demonstrated. PS spectra of Na atoms, seeded in the shielding gas flow of a gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) plasma, are presented at different pump beam energies. The nature of the PS technique was found to be very efficient in suppressing the high background emission associated with the welding plasma. The PS spectral profiles appear to be Lorentzian and Lorentzian cubed for high and low pump beam energy, respectively. The effect of beam steering, due to the thermal gradient in the interaction plasma zone, was addressed. It was found that there is 2% unavoidable error in the detectable PS signal.

Beam-splitter switches based on zenithal bistable liquid-crystal gratings.

PubMed

Zografopoulos, Dimitrios C; Beccherelli, Romeo; Kriezis, Emmanouil E

2014-10-01

The tunable optical diffractive properties of zenithal bistable nematic liquid-crystal gratings are theoretically investigated. The liquid-crystal orientation is rigorously solved via a tensorial formulation of the Landau-de Gennes theory and the optical transmission properties of the gratings are investigated via full-wave finite-element frequency-domain simulations. It is demonstrated that by proper design the two stable states of the grating can provide nondiffracting and diffracting operation, the latter with equal power splitting among different diffraction orders. An electro-optic switching mechanism, based on dual-frequency nematic materials, and its temporal dynamics are further discussed. Such gratings provide a solution towards tunable beam-steering and beam-splitting components with extremely low power consumption.

Training Community Modeling and Simulation Business Plan, 2007 Edition. Volume 1: Review of Training Capabilities

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-02-01

Simulation Business Plan, 2007 Edition Volume I: Review of Training Capabilities J.D. Fletcher, IDA Frederick E. Hartman , IDA Robert Halayko, Addx Corp...Community Modeling and Simulation Business Plan, 2007 Edition Volume I: Review of Training Capabilities J.D. Fletcher, IDA Frederick E. Hartman , IDA...Steering Committee for the training community led by the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense (Personnel and Readiness), OUSD( P &R). The task was

Beam-Switch Transient Effects in the RF Path of the ICAPA Receive Phased Array Antenna

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sands, O. Scott

2003-01-01

When the beam of a Phased Array Antenna (PAA) is switched from one pointing direction to another, transient effects in the RF path of the antenna are observed. Testing described in the report has revealed implementation-specific transient effects in the RF channel that are associated with digital clocking pulses that occur with transfer of data from the Beam Steering Controller (BSC) to the digital electronics of the PAA under test. The testing described here provides an initial assessment of the beam-switch phenomena by digitally acquiring time series of the RF communications channel, under CW excitation, during the period of time that the beam switch transient occurs. Effects are analyzed using time-frequency distributions and instantaneous frequency estimation techniques. The results of tests conducted with CW excitation supports further Bit-Error-Rate (BER) testing of the PAA communication channel.

Model studies of crosswind landing-gear configurations for STOL aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stubbs, S. M.; Byrdsong, T. A.

1973-01-01

A dynamic model was used to directly compare four different crosswind landing gear mechanisms. The model was landed as a free body onto a laterally sloping runway used to simulate a crosswind side force. A radio control system was used for steering to oppose the side force as the model rolled to a stop. The configuration in which the landing gears are alined by the pilot and locked in the direction of motion prior to touchdown gave the smoothest runout behavior with the vehicle maintaining its crab angle throughout the landing roll. Nose wheel steering was confirmed to be better than steering with nose and main gears differentially or together. Testing is continuing to obtain quantitative data to establish an experimental data base for validation of an analytical program that will be capable of predicting full scale results.

Shielding NSLS-II light source: Importance of geometry for calculating radiation levels from beam losses

DOE PAGES

Kramer, S. L.; Ghosh, V. J.; Breitfeller, M.; ...

2016-08-10

We present that third generation high brightness light sources are designed to have low emittance and high current beams, which contribute to higher beam loss rates that will be compensated by Top-Off injection. Shielding for these higher loss rates will be critical to protect the projected higher occupancy factors for the users. Top-Off injection requires a full energy injector, which will demand greater consideration of the potential abnormal beam miss-steering and localized losses that could occur. The high energy electron injection beam produces significantly higher neutron component dose to the experimental floor than a lower energy beam injection and rampedmore » operations. Minimizing this dose will require adequate knowledge of where the miss-steered beam can occur and sufficient EM shielding close to the loss point, in order to attenuate the energy of the particles in the EM shower below the neutron production threshold (<10 MeV), which will spread the incident energy on the bulk shield walls and thereby the dose penetrating the shield walls. Designing supplemental shielding near the loss point using the analytic shielding model is shown to be inadequate because of its lack of geometry specification for the EM shower process. To predict the dose rates outside the tunnel requires detailed description of the geometry and materials that the beam losses will encounter inside the tunnel. Modern radiation shielding Monte-Carlo codes, like FLUKA, can handle this geometric description of the radiation transport process in sufficient detail, allowing accurate predictions of the dose rates expected and the ability to show weaknesses in the design before a high radiation incident occurs. The effort required to adequately define the accelerator geometry for these codes has been greatly reduced with the implementation of the graphical interface of FLAIR to FLUKA. In conclusion, this made the effective shielding process for NSLS-II quite accurate and reliable. The principles used to provide supplemental shielding to the NSLS-II accelerators and the lessons learned from this process are presented.« less

Solid state laser communications in space (SOLACOS) high data rate satellite communication system verification program

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pribil, Klaus; Flemmig, Joerg

1994-09-01

This paper gives an overview on the current development status of the SOLACOS program and presents the highlights of the program. SOLACOS (Solid State Laser Communications in Space) is the national German program to develop a high performance laser communication system for high data rate transmission between LEO and GEO satellites (Inter Orbit Link, IOL). Two experimental demonstrator terminals are designed and developed in the SOLACOS program. The main development objectives are the Pointing Acquisition and Tracking subsystem (PAT) and the high data rate communication system. All key subsystems and components are straightway developed to be upgraded in follow- on projects to full space qualification. The main design objective for the system is a high degree of modularity which allows to easily upgrade the system with new upcoming technologies. Therefore, all main subsystems are interconnected via fibers to ease replacement of subsystems. The system implements an asymmetric data link with a 650 MBit/s return channel and a 10 MBit/s forward channel. The 650 MBit/s channel is based on a diode pumped Nd:YAG, Integrated Optics Modulator and uses the syncbit transmission scheme. In the syncbit system synchronization information which is necessary to maintain phase lock of the local oscillator of the coherent receiver is transmitted time multiplexed into the data stream. The PAT system comprises two beam detection sensors and three beam steering elements. For initial acquisition and tracking of the remote satellite a high speed CCD camera with an integrated image processing unit, the Acquisition and Tracking Sensor (ATS) is used. In the tacking mode the beam position is sensed via the Fibernutator sensor which is also used to couple the incoming signal into the receiver fiber. Incoming and outgoing beams are routed through the telescopes which are positioned with a 2 axis gimbal mechanism and a high speed beam steering mirror. The PAT system is controlled by a digital signal processor. For beam control advanced PAT algorithms are under development.

UAVSAR Active Electronically Scanned Array

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sadowy, Gregory, A.; Chamberlain, Neil F.; Zawadzki, Mark S.; Brown, Kyle M.; Fisher, Charles D.; Figueroa, Harry S.; Hamilton, Gary A.; Jones, Cathleen E.; Vorperian, Vatche; Grando, Maurio B.

2011-01-01

The Uninhabited Airborne Vehicle Synthetic Aperture Radar (UAVSAR) is a pod-based, L-band (1.26 GHz), repeatpass, interferometric, synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) used for Earth science applications. Repeat-pass interferometric radar measurements from an airborne platform require an antenna that can be steered to maintain the same angle with respect to the flight track over a wide range of aircraft yaw angles. In order to be able to collect repeat-pass InSAR data over a wide range of wind conditions, UAVSAR employs an active electronically scanned array (AESA). During data collection, the UAVSAR flight software continuously reads the aircraft attitude state measured by the Embedded GPS/INS system (EGI) and electronically steers the beam so that it remains perpendicular to the flight track throughout the data collection

High Quality Liquid Crystal Tunable Lenses and Optimization with Floating Electrodes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Li, Liwei

2013-01-01

In addition to the display application, Liquid Crystals (LC) can be very useful in other applications such as beam steering, tunable lenses, etc. Electro-optical LC tunable lenses have been considered as an alternative to conventional glass lenses because of their ability to change their focal length with the application of a control voltage, as…

46 CFR 72.04-1 - Navigation bridge visibility.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... meters (1640 feet) from dead ahead to 10 degrees on either side of the vessel. Within this arc of... 22.5 degrees abaft the beam on one side of the vessel, through dead ahead, to at least 22.5 degrees... bow, through dead ahead, to at least dead astern. (4) From the main steering position, the field of...

46 CFR 72.04-1 - Navigation bridge visibility.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... meters (1640 feet) from dead ahead to 10 degrees on either side of the vessel. Within this arc of... 22.5 degrees abaft the beam on one side of the vessel, through dead ahead, to at least 22.5 degrees... bow, through dead ahead, to at least dead astern. (4) From the main steering position, the field of...

46 CFR 72.04-1 - Navigation bridge visibility.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... meters (1640 feet) from dead ahead to 10 degrees on either side of the vessel. Within this arc of... 22.5 degrees abaft the beam on one side of the vessel, through dead ahead, to at least 22.5 degrees... bow, through dead ahead, to at least dead astern. (4) From the main steering position, the field of...

Beam Steering Analysis in Optically Phased Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser Array

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xun, Meng; Sun, Yun; Xu, Chen; Xie, Yi-Yang; Jin, Zhi; Zhou, Jing-Tao; Liu, Xin-Yu; Wu, De-Xin

2018-03-01

Not Available Supported by the ‘Supporting First Action’ Joint Foundation for Outstanding Postdoctoral Program under Grant Nos Y7YBSH0001 and Y7BSH14001, the National Natural Science Foundation of China under Grant No 61434006, and the National Key Basic Research Program of China under Grant No 2017YFB0102302.

Achromatic recirculated chicane with fixed geometry and independently variable path length and momentum compaction

DOEpatents

Douglas, David R.; Neil, George R.

2005-04-26

A particle beam recirculated chicane geometry that, through the inducement of a pair of 180 degree bends directed by the poles of a pair of controllable magnetic fields allows for variation of dipole position, return loop radii and steering/focussing, thereby allowing the implementation of independent variation of path length and momentum compaction.

Engineering Sciences Strategic Leadership Plan

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hahn, Heidi A.

The purpose of this report is to promote the three key elements of engineering capabilities, staff and engagement in coordination with an R&D investment cycle; and establish an Engineering Steering Council to own and guide this leadership plan.

Design and evaluation of a 63 element 1.75-dimensional ultrasound phased array for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saleh, Khaldon Y.; Smith, Nadine B.

2003-10-01

Focused ultrasound surgery (FUS) is a clinical method for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in which tissue is noninvasively necrosed by elevating the temperature at the focal point above 60°C using short sonications. With 1.75-dimensional (1.75-D) arrays, the power and phase to the individual elements can be controlled electronically for focusing and steering. This research describes the design, construction and evaluation of a 1.75-D ultrasound phased array to be used in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia. The array was designed with a steering angle of +/-13.5 deg in the transverse direction, and can move the focus in three parallel planes in the longitudinal direction with a relatively large focus size. A piezoelectric ceramic (PZT-8) was used as the material of the transducer and two matching layers were built for maximum acoustic power transmission to tissue. To verify the capability of the transducer for focusing and steering, exposimetry was performed and the results correlated well with the calculated fields. In vivo experiments were performed to verify the capability of the transducer to ablate tissue using short sonications. [Work supported by the Whitaker Foundation and the Department of Defense Congressionally Directed Medical Prostate Cancer Research Program.

Nutating subreflector for a millimeter wave telescope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Radford, Simon J. E.; Boynton, Paul; Melchiorri, Francesco

1990-03-01

Nutating a Cassegrain telescope's secondary mirror is a convenient method of steering the telescope beam through a small angle. This principle has been used to construct a high-performance beam switch for a millimeter wave telescope. A low mass, graphite-epoxy laminate secondary mirror is driven by linear electric motors operated in a frequency compensated control loop. By design, the nutator exerts little net oscillating torque on the telescope structure, resulting in virtually vibration free operation. The inherent versatility of beam switching by subreflector nutation permits a variety of switching waveforms to be tested without making any hardware changes. The nutator can shift the telescope beam by 10 arcminutes, a 1.25 deg rotation of the 75-cm-diam secondary mirror, in an interval of 8 ms and it can sustain a switching frequency of 10 Hz.

Autonomous Shepherding Behaviors of Multiple Target Steering Robots.

PubMed

Lee, Wonki; Kim, DaeEun

2017-11-25

This paper presents a distributed coordination methodology for multi-robot systems, based on nearest-neighbor interactions. Among many interesting tasks that may be performed using swarm robots, we propose a biologically-inspired control law for a shepherding task, whereby a group of external agents drives another group of agents to a desired location. First, we generated sheep-like robots that act like a flock. We assume that each agent is capable of measuring the relative location and velocity to each of its neighbors within a limited sensing area. Then, we designed a control strategy for shepherd-like robots that have information regarding where to go and a steering ability to control the flock, according to the robots' position relative to the flock. We define several independent behavior rules; each agent calculates to what extent it will move by summarizing each rule. The flocking sheep agents detect the steering agents and try to avoid them; this tendency leads to movement of the flock. Each steering agent only needs to focus on guiding the nearest flocking agent to the desired location. Without centralized coordination, multiple steering agents produce an arc formation to control the flock effectively. In addition, we propose a new rule for collecting behavior, whereby a scattered flock or multiple flocks are consolidated. From simulation results with multiple robots, we show that each robot performs actions for the shepherding behavior, and only a few steering agents are needed to control the whole flock. The results are displayed in maps that trace the paths of the flock and steering robots. Performance is evaluated via time cost and path accuracy to demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach.

Autonomous Shepherding Behaviors of Multiple Target Steering Robots

PubMed Central

Lee, Wonki; Kim, DaeEun

2017-01-01

This paper presents a distributed coordination methodology for multi-robot systems, based on nearest-neighbor interactions. Among many interesting tasks that may be performed using swarm robots, we propose a biologically-inspired control law for a shepherding task, whereby a group of external agents drives another group of agents to a desired location. First, we generated sheep-like robots that act like a flock. We assume that each agent is capable of measuring the relative location and velocity to each of its neighbors within a limited sensing area. Then, we designed a control strategy for shepherd-like robots that have information regarding where to go and a steering ability to control the flock, according to the robots’ position relative to the flock. We define several independent behavior rules; each agent calculates to what extent it will move by summarizing each rule. The flocking sheep agents detect the steering agents and try to avoid them; this tendency leads to movement of the flock. Each steering agent only needs to focus on guiding the nearest flocking agent to the desired location. Without centralized coordination, multiple steering agents produce an arc formation to control the flock effectively. In addition, we propose a new rule for collecting behavior, whereby a scattered flock or multiple flocks are consolidated. From simulation results with multiple robots, we show that each robot performs actions for the shepherding behavior, and only a few steering agents are needed to control the whole flock. The results are displayed in maps that trace the paths of the flock and steering robots. Performance is evaluated via time cost and path accuracy to demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach. PMID:29186836

Comparative effect of direct-fed microbials on fecal shedding of Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Salmonella in naturally infected feedlot cattle.

PubMed

Tabe, Ebot S; Oloya, James; Doetkott, Dawn K; Bauer, Marc L; Gibbs, Penelope S; Khaitsa, Margaret L

2008-03-01

The effect of direct-fed microbials (DFM) on fecal shedding of Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Salmonella in naturally infected feedlot cattle was evaluated in a clinical trial involving 138 feedlot steers. Following standard laboratory methods, fecal samples collected from steers were evaluated for change in the detectable levels of E. coli O157:H7 and Salmonella shed in feces after DFM treatment. Sampling of steers was carried out every 3 weeks for 84 days. A significant reduction (32%) in fecal shedding of E. coli O157:H7 (P < 0.001), but not Salmonella (P = 0.24), was observed among the treatment steers compared with the control group during finishing. The probability of recovery of E. coli O157:H7 from the feces of treated and control steers was 34.0 and 66.0%, respectively. Steers placed on DFM supplement were almost three times less likely to shed E. coli O157:H7 (odds ratio, 0.36; 95% confidence interval, 0.25 to 0.53; P < 0.001) in their feces as opposed to their control counterparts. The probability of recovery of Salmonella from the feces of the control (14.0%) and the treated (11.3%) steers was similar. However, the DFM significantly reduced probability of new infections with Salmonella among DFM-treated cattle compared with controls (nontreated ones). It appears that DFM as applied in our study are capable of significantly reducing fecal shedding of E. coli O157:H7 in naturally infected cattle but not Salmonella. The factors responsible for the observed difference in the effects of DFM on E. coli O157:H7 and Salmonella warrants further investigation.

Combining coordination of motion actuators with driver steering interaction.

PubMed

Tagesson, Kristoffer; Laine, Leo; Jacobson, Bengt

2015-01-01

A new method is suggested for coordination of vehicle motion actuators; where driver feedback and capabilities become natural elements in the prioritization. The method is using a weighted least squares control allocation formulation, where driver characteristics can be added as virtual force constraints. The approach is in particular suitable for heavy commercial vehicles that in general are over actuated. The method is applied, in a specific use case, by running a simulation of a truck applying automatic braking on a split friction surface. Here the required driver steering angle, to maintain the intended direction, is limited by a constant threshold. This constant is automatically accounted for when balancing actuator usage in the method. Simulation results show that the actual required driver steering angle can be expected to match the set constant well. Furthermore, the stopping distance is very much affected by this set capability of the driver to handle the lateral disturbance, as expected. In general the capability of the driver to handle disturbances should be estimated in real-time, considering driver mental state. By using the method it will then be possible to estimate e.g. stopping distance implied from this. The setup has the potential of even shortening the stopping distance, when the driver is estimated as active, this compared to currently available systems. The approach is feasible for real-time applications and requires only measurable vehicle quantities for parameterization. Examples of other suitable applications in scope of the method would be electronic stability control, lateral stability control at launch and optimal cornering arbitration.

Amplitude and phase modulation in microwave ring resonators by doped CVD graphene.

PubMed

Grande, M; Bianco, G V; Capezzuto, P; Petruzzelli, V; Prudenzano, F; Scalora, M; Bruno, G; D'Orazio, A

2018-08-10

In this paper, we numerically and experimentally demonstrate how to modulate the amplitude and phase of a microwave ring resonator by means of few-layers chemical vapour deposition graphene. In particular, both numerical and experimental results show a modulation of about 10 dB and a 90 degrees-shift (quadrature phase shift) when the graphene sheet-resistance is varied. These findings prove once again that graphene could be efficiently exploited for the dynamically tuning and modulation of microwave devices fostering the realization of (i) innovative beam-steering and beam-forming systems and (ii) graphene-based sensors.

Laser-Ablated Ba(0.50)Sr(0.50)TiO3/LaAlO3 Films Analyzed Statistically for Microwave Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Romanofsky, Robert R.

2003-01-01

Scanning phased-array antennas represent a highly desirable solution for futuristic near-Earth and deep space communication scenarios requiring vibration-free, rapid beam steering and enhanced reliability. The current state-of-practice in scanning phased arrays is represented by gallium arsenide (GaAs) monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC) technology or ferrite phase shifters. Cost and weight are significant impediments to space applications. Moreover, conventional manifold-fed arrays suffer from beam-forming loss that places considerable burden on MMIC amplifiers. The inefficiency can result in severe thermal management problems.

Research on the Application of Fast-steering Mirror in Stellar Interferometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mei, R.; Hu, Z. W.; Xu, T.; Sun, C. S.

2017-07-01

For a stellar interferometer, the fast-steering mirror (FSM) is widely utilized to correct wavefront tilt caused by atmospheric turbulence and internal instrumental vibration due to its high resolution and fast response frequency. In this study, the non-coplanar error between the FSM and actuator deflection axis introduced by manufacture, assembly, and adjustment is analyzed. Via a numerical method, the additional optical path difference (OPD) caused by above factors is studied, and its effects on tracking accuracy of stellar interferometer are also discussed. On the other hand, the starlight parallelism between the beams of two arms is one of the main factors of the loss of fringe visibility. By analyzing the influence of wavefront tilt caused by the atmospheric turbulence on fringe visibility, a simple and efficient real-time correction scheme of starlight parallelism is proposed based on a single array detector. The feasibility of this scheme is demonstrated by laboratory experiment. The results show that starlight parallelism meets the requirement of stellar interferometer in wavefront tilt preliminarily after the correction of fast-steering mirror.

46 CFR 32.16-1 - Navigation bridge visibility-T/ALL.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... meters (1,640 feet) from dead ahead to 10 degrees on either side of the vessel. Within this arc of... 22.5 degrees abaft the beam on one side of the vessel, through dead ahead, to at least 22.5 degrees... bow, through dead ahead, to at least dead astern. (4) From the main steering position, the field of...

46 CFR 32.16-1 - Navigation bridge visibility-T/ALL.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... meters (1,640 feet) from dead ahead to 10 degrees on either side of the vessel. Within this arc of... 22.5 degrees abaft the beam on one side of the vessel, through dead ahead, to at least 22.5 degrees... bow, through dead ahead, to at least dead astern. (4) From the main steering position, the field of...

46 CFR 32.16-1 - Navigation bridge visibility-T/ALL.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... meters (1,640 feet) from dead ahead to 10 degrees on either side of the vessel. Within this arc of... 22.5 degrees abaft the beam on one side of the vessel, through dead ahead, to at least 22.5 degrees... bow, through dead ahead, to at least dead astern. (4) From the main steering position, the field of...

Laser optical disk position encoder with active heads

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Osborne, Eric P.

1991-01-01

An angular position encoder that minimizes the effects of eccentricity and other misalignments between the disk and the read stations by employing heads with beam steering optics that actively track the disk in directions along the disk radius and normal to its surface is discussed. The device adapts features prevalent in optical disk technology to the application of angular position sensing.

Upgrading the Arecibo Potassium Lidar Receiver for Meridional Wind Measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Piccone, A. N.; Lautenbach, J.

2017-12-01

Lidar can be used to measure a plethora of variables: temperature, density of metals, and wind. This REU project is focused on the set up of a semi steerable telescope that will allow the measurement of meridional wind in the mesosphere (80-105 km) with Arecibo Observatory's potassium resonance lidar. This includes the basic design concept of a steering system that is able to turn the telescope to a maximum of 40°, alignment of the mirror with the telescope frame to find the correct focusing, and the triggering and programming of a CCD camera. The CCD camera's purpose is twofold: looking though the telescope and matching the stars in the field of view with a star map to accurately calibrate the steering system and determining the laser beam properties and position. Using LabVIEW, the frames from the CCD camera can be analyzed to identify the most intense pixel in the image (and therefore the brightest point in the laser beam or stars) by plotting average pixel values per row and column and locating the peaks of these plots. The location of this pixel can then be plotted, determining the jitter in the laser and position within the field of view of the telescope.

Low-Profile, Dual-Wavelength, Dual-Polarized Antenna

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carswell, James R.

2010-01-01

A single-aperture, low-profile antenna design has been developed that supports dual-polarization and simultaneous operation at two wavelengths. It realizes multiple beams in the elevation plane, and supports radiometric, radar, and conical scanning applications. This antenna consists of multiple azimuth sticks, with each stick being a multilayer, hybrid design. Each stick forms the h-plane pattern of the C and Ku-band vertically and horizontally polarized antenna beams. By combining several azimuth sticks together, the elevation beam is formed. With a separate transceiver for each stick, the transmit phase and amplitude of each stick can be controlled to synthesize a beam at a specific incidence angle and to realize a particular side-lobe pattern. By changing the transmit phase distribution through the transceivers, the transmit antenna beam can be steered to different incidence angles. By controlling the amplitude distribution, different side lobe patterns and efficiencies can be realized. The receive beams are formed using digital beam synthesis techniques, resulting in very little loss in the receive path, thus enabling a very-low loss receive antenna to support passive measurements.

Monolithic millimeter-wave diode array beam controllers: Theory and experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sjogren, L. B.; Liu, H.-X. L.; Wang, F.; Liu, T.; Wu, W.; Qin, X.-H.; Chung, E.; Domier, C. W.; Luhmann, N. C., Jr.; Maserjian, J.

1992-01-01

In the current work, multi-function beam control arrays have been fabricated and have successfully demonstrated amplitude control of transmitted beams in the W and D bands (75-170 GHz). While these arrays are designed to provide beam control under DC bias operation, new designs for high-speed electronic and optical control are under development. These arrays will fill a need for high-speed watt-level beam switches in pulsed reflectometer systems under development for magnetic fusion plasma diagnostics. A second experimental accomplishment of the current work is the demonstration in the 100-170 GHz (D band) frequency range of a new technique for the measurement of the transmission phase as well as amplitude. Transmission data can serve as a means to extract ('de-embed') the grid parameters; phase information provides more complete data to assist in this process. Additional functions of the array beam controller yet to be tested include electronically controlled steering and focusing of a reflected beam. These have application in the areas of millimeter-wave electronic scanning radar and reflectometry, respectively.

Correcting the beam centroid motion in an induction accelerator and reducing the beam breakup instability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Coleman, J. E.; Ekdahl, C. A.; Moir, D. C.; Sullivan, G. W.; Crawford, M. T.

2014-09-01

Axial beam centroid and beam breakup (BBU) measurements were conducted on an 80 ns FWHM, intense relativistic electron bunch with an injected energy of 3.8 MV and current of 2.9 kA. The intense relativistic electron bunch is accelerated and transported through a nested solenoid and ferrite induction core lattice consisting of 64 elements, exiting the accelerator with a nominal energy of 19.8 MeV. The principal objective of these experiments is to quantify the coupling of the beam centroid motion to the BBU instability and validate the theory of this coupling for the first time. Time resolved centroid measurements indicate a reduction in the BBU amplitude, ⟨ξ⟩, of 19% and a reduction in the BBU growth rate (Γ) of 4% by reducing beam centroid misalignments ˜50% throughout the accelerator. An investigation into the contribution of the misaligned elements is made. An alignment algorithm is presented in addition to a qualitative comparison of experimental and calculated results which include axial beam centroid oscillations, BBU amplitude, and growth with different dipole steering.

Methodological demonstration of laser beam pointing control for space gravitational wave detection missions.

PubMed

Dong, Yu-Hui; Liu, He-Shan; Luo, Zi-Ren; Li, Yu-Qiong; Jin, Gang

2014-07-01

In space laser interferometer gravitational wave (G.W.) detection missions, the stability of the laser beam pointing direction has to be kept at 10 nrad/√Hz. Otherwise, the beam pointing jitter noise will dominate the noise budget and make the detection of G.W. impossible. Disturbed by the residue non-conservative forces, the fluctuation of the laser beam pointing direction could be a few μrad/√Hz at frequencies from 0.1 mHz to 10 Hz. Therefore, the laser beam pointing control system is an essential requirement for those space G.W. detection missions. An on-ground test of such beam pointing control system is performed, where the Differential Wave-front Sensing technique is used to sense the beams pointing jitter. An active controlled steering mirror is employed to adjust the beam pointing direction to compensate the jitter. The experimental result shows that the pointing control system can be used for very large dynamic range up to 5 μrad. At the interested frequencies of space G.W. detection missions, between 1 mHz and 1 Hz, beam pointing stability of 6 nrad/√Hz is achieved.

Methodological demonstration of laser beam pointing control for space gravitational wave detection missions

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Dong, Yu-Hui; Liu, He-Shan; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190

In space laser interferometer gravitational wave (G.W.) detection missions, the stability of the laser beam pointing direction has to be kept at 10 nrad/√Hz. Otherwise, the beam pointing jitter noise will dominate the noise budget and make the detection of G.W. impossible. Disturbed by the residue non-conservative forces, the fluctuation of the laser beam pointing direction could be a few μrad/√Hz at frequencies from 0.1 mHz to 10 Hz. Therefore, the laser beam pointing control system is an essential requirement for those space G.W. detection missions. An on-ground test of such beam pointing control system is performed, where the Differentialmore » Wave-front Sensing technique is used to sense the beams pointing jitter. An active controlled steering mirror is employed to adjust the beam pointing direction to compensate the jitter. The experimental result shows that the pointing control system can be used for very large dynamic range up to 5 μrad. At the interested frequencies of space G.W. detection missions, between 1 mHz and 1 Hz, beam pointing stability of 6 nrad/√Hz is achieved.« less

Steering characteristic of an articulated bus under quasi steady maneuvering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ubaidillah, Setiawan, Budi Agus; Aridharma, Airlangga Putra; Lenggana, Bhre Wangsa; Caesar, Bernardus Placenta Previo

2018-02-01

Articulated buses have been being preferred as public transportation modes due to their operational capacity. Therefore, passenger safety must be the priority of this public service vehicle. This research focused on the analytical approach of steering characteristics of an articulated bus when it maneuvered steadily. Such turning condition could be referred as a stability parameter of the bus for preliminary handling assessment. The analytical approach employed kinematics relationship between front and rear bodies as well as steering capabilities. The quasi steady model was developed to determine steering parameters such as turning radius, oversteer, and understeer. The mathematical model was useful for determining both coefficients of understeer and oversteer. The dimension of articulated bus followed a commonly used bus as utilized in Trans Jakarta busses. Based on the simulation, for one minimum center of the body, the turning radius was calculated about 8.8 m and 7.6 m at steady turning speed of 10 km/h. In neutral condition, the minimum road radius should be 6.5 m at 10 km/h and 6.9 m at 40 km/h. For two centers of the body and oversteer condition, the front body has the turning radius of 8.8 m, while, the rear body has the turning radius of 9.8 m at both turning speeds of 40 km/h. The other steering parameters were discussed accordingly.

Compact Nonlinear Yagi-Uda Nanoantennas.

PubMed

Xiong, Xiaoyan Y Z; Jiang, Li Jun; Sha, Wei E I; Lo, Yat Hei; Chew, Weng Cho

2016-01-07

Nanoantennas have demonstrated unprecedented capabilities for manipulating the intensity and direction of light emission over a broad frequency range. The directional beam steering offered by nanoantennas has important applications in areas including microscopy, spectroscopy, quantum computing, and on-chip optical communication. Although both the physical principles and experimental realizations of directional linear nanoantennas has become increasingly mature, angular control of nonlinear radiation using nanoantennas has not been explored yet. Here we propose a novel concept of nonlinear Yagi-Uda nanoantenna to direct second harmonic radiation from a metallic nanosphere. By carefully tuning the spacing and dimensions of two lossless dielectric elements, which function respectively as a compact director and reflector, the second harmonic radiation is deflected 90 degrees with reference to the incident light (pump) direction. This abnormal light-bending phenomenon is due to the constructive and destructive interference between the second harmonic radiation governed by a special selection rule and the induced electric dipolar and magnetic quadrupolar radiation from the two dielectric antenna elements. Simultaneous spectral and spatial isolation of scattered second harmonic waves from incident fundamental waves pave a new way towards nonlinear signal detection and sensing.

Compact Nonlinear Yagi-Uda Nanoantennas

PubMed Central

Xiong, Xiaoyan Y. Z.; Jiang, Li Jun; Sha, Wei E. I.; Lo, Yat Hei; Chew, Weng Cho

2016-01-01

Nanoantennas have demonstrated unprecedented capabilities for manipulating the intensity and direction of light emission over a broad frequency range. The directional beam steering offered by nanoantennas has important applications in areas including microscopy, spectroscopy, quantum computing, and on-chip optical communication. Although both the physical principles and experimental realizations of directional linear nanoantennas has become increasingly mature, angular control of nonlinear radiation using nanoantennas has not been explored yet. Here we propose a novel concept of nonlinear Yagi-Uda nanoantenna to direct second harmonic radiation from a metallic nanosphere. By carefully tuning the spacing and dimensions of two lossless dielectric elements, which function respectively as a compact director and reflector, the second harmonic radiation is deflected 90 degrees with reference to the incident light (pump) direction. This abnormal light-bending phenomenon is due to the constructive and destructive interference between the second harmonic radiation governed by a special selection rule and the induced electric dipolar and magnetic quadrupolar radiation from the two dielectric antenna elements. Simultaneous spectral and spatial isolation of scattered second harmonic waves from incident fundamental waves pave a new way towards nonlinear signal detection and sensing. PMID:26738692

Preliminary measurements of the edge magnetic field pitch from 2-D Doppler backscattering in MAST and NSTX-U (invited)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vann, R. G. L.; Brunner, K. J.; Ellis, R.; Taylor, G.; Thomas, D. A.

2016-11-01

The Synthetic Aperture Microwave Imaging (SAMI) system is a novel diagnostic consisting of an array of 8 independently phased antennas. At any one time, SAMI operates at one of the 16 frequencies in the range 10-34.5 GHz. The imaging beam is steered in software post-shot to create a picture of the entire emission surface. In SAMI's active probing mode of operation, the plasma edge is illuminated with a monochromatic source and SAMI reconstructs an image of the Doppler back-scattered (DBS) signal. By assuming that density fluctuations are extended along magnetic field lines, and knowing that the strongest back-scattered signals are directed perpendicular to the density fluctuations, SAMI's 2-D DBS imaging capability can be used to measure the pitch of the edge magnetic field. In this paper, we present preliminary pitch angle measurements obtained by SAMI on the Mega Amp Spherical Tokamak (MAST) at Culham Centre for Fusion Energy and on the National Spherical Torus Experiment Upgrade at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory. The results demonstrate encouraging agreement between SAMI and other independent measurements.

Park Smart

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1999-01-01

The Parking Garage Automation System (PGAS) is based on a technology developed by a NASA-sponsored project called Robot sensorSkin(TM). Merritt Systems, Inc., of Orlando, Florida, teamed up with NASA to improve robots working with critical flight hardware at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The system, containing smart sensor modules and flexible printed circuit board skin, help robots to steer clear of obstacles using a proximity sensing system. Advancements in the sensor designs are being applied to various commercial applications, including the PGAS. The system includes a smartSensor(TM) network installed around and within public parking garages to autonomously guide motorists to open facilities, and once within, to free parking spaces. The sensors use non-invasive reflective-ultrasonic technology for high accuracy, high reliability, and low maintenance. The system is remotely programmable: it can be tuned to site-specific requirements, has variable range capability, and allows remote configuration, monitoring, and diagnostics. The sensors are immune to interference from metallic construction materials, such as rebar and steel beams. Inside the garage, smart routing signs mounted overhead or on poles in front of each row of parking spots guide the motorist precisely to free spaces.

Integrated Phase Array Antenna/Solar Cell System for Flexible Access Communication (IA/SAC)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Clark, E. B.; Lee, R. Q.; Pal, A. T.; Wilt, D. M.; McElroy, B. D.; Mueller, C. H.

2005-01-01

This paper describes recent efforts to integrate advanced solar cells with printed planar antennas. Several previous attempts have been reported in the literature, but this effort is unique in several ways. It uses Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) multi-junction solar cell technology. The solar cells and antennas will be integrated onto a common GaAs substrate. When fully implemented, IA/SAC will be capable of dynamic beam steering. In addition, this program targets the X-band (8 - 12 GHz) and higher frequencies, as compared to the 2.2 - 2.9 GHz arrays targeted by other organizations. These higher operating frequencies enable a greater bandwidth and thus higher data transfer rates. The first phase of the effort involves the development of 2 x 2 cm GaAs Monolithically Integrated Modules (MIM) with integrated patch antennas on the opposite side of the substrate. Subsequent work will involve the design and development of devices having the GaAs MIMs and the antennas on the same side of the substrate. Results from the phase one efforts will be presented.

Preliminary measurements of the edge magnetic field pitch from 2-D Doppler backscattering in MAST and NSTX-U (invited).

PubMed

Vann, R G L; Brunner, K J; Ellis, R; Taylor, G; Thomas, D A

2016-11-01

The Synthetic Aperture Microwave Imaging (SAMI) system is a novel diagnostic consisting of an array of 8 independently phased antennas. At any one time, SAMI operates at one of the 16 frequencies in the range 10-34.5 GHz. The imaging beam is steered in software post-shot to create a picture of the entire emission surface. In SAMI's active probing mode of operation, the plasma edge is illuminated with a monochromatic source and SAMI reconstructs an image of the Doppler back-scattered (DBS) signal. By assuming that density fluctuations are extended along magnetic field lines, and knowing that the strongest back-scattered signals are directed perpendicular to the density fluctuations, SAMI's 2-D DBS imaging capability can be used to measure the pitch of the edge magnetic field. In this paper, we present preliminary pitch angle measurements obtained by SAMI on the Mega Amp Spherical Tokamak (MAST) at Culham Centre for Fusion Energy and on the National Spherical Torus Experiment Upgrade at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory. The results demonstrate encouraging agreement between SAMI and other independent measurements.

Large optical nonlinearity of ITO nanorods for sub-picosecond all-optical modulation of the full-visible spectrum

DOE PAGES

Guo, Peijun; Schaller, Richard D.; Ocola, Leonidas E.; ...

2016-09-29

Optical nonlinearity induced by intense optical excitation of mobile electrons in metallic nanostructures can provide dynamic tuning of their electromagnetic response, which is potentially useful for all-optical information processing. Here we report on the sub-picosecond optical nonlinearity of indium tin oxide nanorod arrays (ITO-NRAs) following intraband, on-plasmon-resonance optical pumping, which enables modulation of the full-visible spectrum with large absolute change of transmission, favorable spectral tunability and beam-steering capability. We semi-quantitatively model the permittivity change, whose large amplitude stems from a significant electron redistribution under intraband pumping due to the low electron concentration. Further, we observe a transient response in themore » microsecond regime associated with the slow lattice cooling, which arises from the large aspect-ratio and low thermal conductivity of ITO-NRAs. Finally, our results demonstrate that all-optical control of the visible spectrum can be achieved by using heavily doped wide-bandgap semiconductors in their transparent regime with speed faster than that of noble metals.« less

Optical pseudomotors for soft x-ray beamlines

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pedreira, P., E-mail: ppedreira@cells.es; Sics, I.; Sorrentino, A.

2016-05-15

Optical elements of soft x-ray beamlines usually have motorized translations and rotations that allow for the fine alignment of the beamline. This is to steer the photon beam at some positions and to correct the focus on slits or on sample. Generally, each degree of freedom of a mirror induces a change of several parameters of the beam. Inversely, several motions are required to actuate on a single optical parameter, keeping the others unchanged. We define optical pseudomotors as combinations of physical motions of the optical elements of a beamline, which allow modifying one optical parameter without affecting the others.more » We describe a method to obtain analytic relationships between physical motions of mirrors and the corresponding variations of the beam parameters. This method has been implemented and tested at two beamlines at ALBA, where it is used to control the focus of the photon beam and its position independently.« less

Compact, flexible, frequency agile parametric wavelength converter

DOEpatents

Velsko, Stephan P.; Yang, Steven T.

2002-01-01

This improved Frequency Agile Optical Parametric Oscillator provides near on-axis pumping of a single QPMC with a tilted periodically poled grating to overcome the necessity to find a particular crystal that will permit collinear birefringence in order to obtain a desired tuning range. A tilted grating design and the elongation of the transverse profile of the pump beam in the angle tuning plane of the FA-OPO reduces the rate of change of the overlap between the pumped volume in the crystal and the resonated and non-resonated wave mode volumes as the pump beam angle is changed. A folded mirror set relays the pivot point for beam steering from a beam deflector to the center of the FA-OPO crystal. This reduces the footprint of the device by as much as a factor of two over that obtained when using the refractive telescope design.

A method of predicting the energy-absorption capability of composite subfloor beams

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Farley, Gary L.

1987-01-01

A simple method of predicting the energy-absorption capability of composite subfloor beam structure was developed. The method is based upon the weighted sum of the energy-absorption capability of constituent elements of a subfloor beam. An empirical data base of energy absorption results from circular and square cross section tube specimens were used in the prediction capability. The procedure is applicable to a wide range of subfloor beam structure. The procedure was demonstrated on three subfloor beam concepts. Agreement between test and prediction was within seven percent for all three cases.

Status of a UAV SAR Designed for Repeat Pass Interferometry for Deformation Measurements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hensley, Scott; Wheeler, Kevin; Hoffman, Jim; Miller, Tim; Lou, Yunling; Muellerschoen, Ron; Zebker, Howard; Madsen, Soren; Rosen, Paul

2004-01-01

Under the NASA ESTO sponsored Instrument Incubator Program we have designed a lightweight, reconfigurable polarimetric L-band SAR designed for repeat pass deformation measurements of rapidly deforming surfaces of geophysical interest such as volcanoes or earthquakes. This radar will be installed on an unmanned airborne vehicle (UAV) or a lightweight, high-altitude, and long endurance platform such as the Proteus. After a study of suitable available platforms we selected the Proteus for initial development and testing of the system. We want to control the repeat track capability of the aircraft to be within a 10 m tube to support the repeat deformation capability. We conducted tests with the Proteus using real-time GPS with sub-meter accuracy to see if pilots could fly the aircraft within the desired tube. Our results show that pilots are unable to fly the aircraft with the desired accuracy and therefore an augmented autopilot will be required to meet these objectives. Based on the Proteus flying altitude of 13.7 km (45,000 ft), we are designing a fully polarimetric L-band radar with 80 MHz bandwidth and 16 km range swath. This radar will have an active electronic beam steering antenna to achieve Doppler centroid stability that is necessary for repeat-pass interferometry (RPI). This paper will present are design criteria, current design and expected science applications.

Status of the Direct Data Distribution (D(exp 3)) Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wald, Lawrence

2001-01-01

NASA Glenn Research Center's Direct Data Distribution (D3) project will demonstrate an advanced, high-performance communications system that transmits information from an advanced technology payload carried by a NASA spacecraft in low Earth orbit (LEO) to a small receiving terminal on Earth. The space-based communications package will utilize a solid-state, K-band phased-array antenna that electronically steers the radiated energy beam toward a low-cost, tracking ground terminal, thereby providing agile, vibration-free, electronic steering at reduced size and weight with increased reliability. The array-based link will also demonstrate new digital processing technology that will allow the transmission of substantially increased amounts of latency-tolerant data collected from the LEO spacecraft directly to NASA field centers, principal investigators, or into the commercial terrestrial communications network. The technologies demonstrated by D3 will facilitate NASA's transition from using Government-owned communication assets to using commercial communication services. The hardware for D3 will incorporate advanced technology components developed under the High Rate Data Delivery (HRDD) Thrust Area of NASA's Office of Aerospace Technology Space Base Program at Glenn's Communications Technology Division. The flight segment components will include the electrically steerable phased-array antenna, which is being built by the Raytheon System Corporation and utilizes monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC) technology operating at 19.05 GHz; and the digital encoder/modulator chipset, which uses four-channel orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM). The encoder/modulator will use a chipset developed by SICOM, Inc., which is both bandwidth and power efficient. The ground segment components will include a low-cost, open-loop tracking ground terminal incorporating a cryoreceiver to minimize terminal size without compromising receiver capability. The project is planning to hold a critical design review in the second quarter of fiscal year 2002.

Electrowetting Variable Optics for Visible and Infrared Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Watson, Alexander Maxwell

Miniaturized variable optical devices are important for the fields of medical technology, optical communication, and consumer imaging devices. Areas ranging from endoscopy and optogenetics to atomic clocks and imaging all benefit from versatile optical systems. These applications all require precise and rapid control of imaging focal depth and lateral scanning. Electrowetting variable optics is one emergent technology that has the capability to provide focus tuning, beam steering, and even phase modulation in a small and robust package which requires no moving parts. Furthermore, electrowetting based devices there are attractive due to their transmissive nature, polarization insensitivity, low insertion loss, low electrical power requirements, and high optical quality. These features mean that electrowetting adaptive optical components are an attractive solution, compared with MEMS and liquid crystal optical components. Electrowetting is a technique that enables control of the shape of a liquid droplet with applied voltage. A conductive droplet on a dielectric surface alters its contact angle due to charges that build up between an underlying electrode and the surface of the droplet. This effect can be used to tune the curvature and tilt of liquids within cavities. The liquid boundary creates a high quality surface to use for lensing or steering applications. This thesis will focus on the development of electrowetting based lenses and prisms and applications in imaging for both visible and infrared wavelengths. Within this dissertation is the first demonstration of electrowetting lenses for phase control, as well as the investigation of non-aqueous electrowetting lens liquids for electrowetting lenses operation in the infrared. Key considerations that affect the performance and reliability are dielectric material and thickness, liquid selection and source of ionic conduction. The optical devices presented herein utilize judicious selection of dielectric material and electrowetting liquids to enable low voltage variable optics and demonstrate applications in microscopy and microendoscopy.

Design of a feedback-feedforward steering controller for accurate path tracking and stability at the limits of handling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kapania, Nitin R.; Gerdes, J. Christian

2015-12-01

This paper presents a feedback-feedforward steering controller that simultaneously maintains vehicle stability at the limits of handling while minimising lateral path tracking deviation. The design begins by considering the performance of a baseline controller with a lookahead feedback scheme and a feedforward algorithm based on a nonlinear vehicle handling diagram. While this initial design exhibits desirable stability properties at the limits of handling, the steady-state path deviation increases significantly at highway speeds. Results from both linear and nonlinear analyses indicate that lateral path tracking deviations are minimised when vehicle sideslip is held tangent to the desired path at all times. Analytical results show that directly incorporating this sideslip tangency condition into the steering feedback dramatically improves lateral path tracking, but at the expense of poor closed-loop stability margins. However, incorporating the desired sideslip behaviour into the feedforward loop creates a robust steering controller capable of accurate path tracking and oversteer correction at the physical limits of tyre friction. Experimental data collected from an Audi TTS test vehicle driving at the handling limits on a full length race circuit demonstrates the improved performance of the final controller design.

Online Detection of Driver Fatigue Using Steering Wheel Angles for Real Driving Conditions

PubMed Central

Li, Zuojin; Li, Shengbo Eben; Li, Renjie; Cheng, Bo; Shi, Jinliang

2017-01-01

This paper presents a drowsiness on-line detection system for monitoring driver fatigue level under real driving conditions, based on the data of steering wheel angles (SWA) collected from sensors mounted on the steering lever. The proposed system firstly extracts approximate entropy (ApEn) features from fixed sliding windows on real-time steering wheel angles time series. After that, this system linearizes the ApEn features series through an adaptive piecewise linear fitting using a given deviation. Then, the detection system calculates the warping distance between the linear features series of the sample data. Finally, this system uses the warping distance to determine the drowsiness state of the driver according to a designed binary decision classifier. The experimental data were collected from 14.68 h driving under real road conditions, including two fatigue levels: “wake” and “drowsy”. The results show that the proposed system is capable of working online with an average 78.01% accuracy, 29.35% false detections of the “awake” state, and 15.15% false detections of the “drowsy” state. The results also confirm that the proposed method based on SWA signal is valuable for applications in preventing traffic accidents caused by driver fatigue. PMID:28257094

Control of tunable, monoenergetic laser-plasma-accelerated electron beams using a shock-induced density downramp injector

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Swanson, K. K.; Tsai, H. -E.; Barber, S. K.

Control of the properties of laser-plasma-accelerated electron beams that were injected along a shock-induced density downramp through precision tailoring of the density profile was demonstrated using a 1.8 J, 45 fs laser interacting with a mm-scale gas jet. The effects on the beam spatial profile, steering, and absolute energy spread of the density region before the shock and tilt of the shock were investigated experimentally and with particle-in-cell simulations. By adjusting these density parameters, the electron beam quality was controlled and improved while the energy (30-180 MeV) and energy spread (2-11 MeV) were independently tuned. Simple models that are inmore » good agreement with the experimental results are proposed to explain these relationships, advancing the understanding of downramp injection. In conclusion, this technique allows for high-quality electron beams with percent-level energy spread to be tailored based on the application.« less

Angle Performance on Optima XE

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

David, Jonathan; Satoh, Shu

2011-01-07

Angle control on high energy implanters is important due to shrinking device dimensions, and sensitivity to channeling at high beam energies. On Optima XE, beam-to-wafer angles are controlled in both the horizontal and vertical directions. In the horizontal direction, the beam angle is measured through a series of narrow slits, and any angle adjustment is made by steering the beam with the corrector magnet. In the vertical direction, the beam angle is measured through a high aspect ratio mask, and any angle adjustment is made by slightly tilting the wafer platen during implant.Using a sensitive channeling condition, we were ablemore » to quantify the angle repeatability of Optima XE. By quantifying the sheet resistance sensitivity to both horizontal and vertical angle variation, the total angle variation was calculated as 0.04 deg. (1{sigma}). Implants were run over a five week period, with all of the wafers selected from a single boule, in order to control for any crystal cut variation.« less

Control of tunable, monoenergetic laser-plasma-accelerated electron beams using a shock-induced density downramp injector

DOE PAGES

Swanson, K. K.; Tsai, H. -E.; Barber, S. K.; ...

2017-05-30

Control of the properties of laser-plasma-accelerated electron beams that were injected along a shock-induced density downramp through precision tailoring of the density profile was demonstrated using a 1.8 J, 45 fs laser interacting with a mm-scale gas jet. The effects on the beam spatial profile, steering, and absolute energy spread of the density region before the shock and tilt of the shock were investigated experimentally and with particle-in-cell simulations. By adjusting these density parameters, the electron beam quality was controlled and improved while the energy (30-180 MeV) and energy spread (2-11 MeV) were independently tuned. Simple models that are inmore » good agreement with the experimental results are proposed to explain these relationships, advancing the understanding of downramp injection. In conclusion, this technique allows for high-quality electron beams with percent-level energy spread to be tailored based on the application.« less

Reach Capability of Men and Women: A Three-Dimensional Analysis

DTIC Science & Technology

1978-07-01

anthropometric dimensions are provided. Measurements were taken in a simplified automobile driving compartment without a steering wheel and restraint belts...the opposite hand grasping an aircraft control wheel . Subjects were not permitted to slide from beneath the harness. Reach capability for the right and...experience reaching difficulties. The author’s analysis of her data indicated that "some modifications to the aircraft or to its installations need to be

Phased-Array Antenna With Optoelectronic Control Circuits

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kunath, Richard R.; Shalkhauser, Kurt A.; Martzaklis, Konstantinos; Lee, Richard Q.; Downey, Alan N.; Simons, Rainee N.

1995-01-01

Prototype phased-array antenna features control of amplitude and phase at each radiating element. Amplitude- and phase-control signals transmitted on optical fiber to optoelectronic interface circuit (OEIC), then to monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC) at each element. Offers advantages of flexible, rapid electronic steering and shaping of beams. Furthermore, greater number of elements, less overall performance of antenna degraded by malfunction in single element.

Position determination systems. [using orbital antenna scan of celestial bodies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shores, P. W. (Inventor)

1976-01-01

A system for an orbital antenna, operated at a synchronous altitude, to scan an area of a celestial body is disclosed. The antenna means comprises modules which are operated by a steering signal in a repetitive function for providing a scanning beam over the area. The scanning covers the entire area in a pattern and the azimuth of the scanning beam is transmitted to a control station on the celestial body simultaneous with signals from an activated ground beacon on the celestial body. The azimuth of the control station relative to the antenna is known and the location of the ground beacon is readily determined from the azimuth determinations.

Optically controlled phased array antenna concepts using GaAs monolithic microwave integrated circuits

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kunath, R. R.; Bhasin, K. B.

1986-01-01

The desire for rapid beam reconfigurability and steering has led to the exploration of new techniques. Optical techniques have been suggested as potential candidates for implementing these needs. Candidates generally fall into one of two areas: those using fiber optic Beam Forming Networks (BFNs) and those using optically processed BFNs. Both techniques utilize GaAs Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuits (MMICs) in the BFN, but the role of the MMIC for providing phase and amplitude variations is largely eliminated by some new optical processing techniques. This paper discusses these two types of optical BFN designs and provides conceptual designs of both systems.

Retrieving mesospheric winds and gravity waves using high resolution radar measurements of polar mesospheric summer echoes with MAARSY

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stober, G.; Sommer, S.; Schult, C.; Chau, J. L.; Latteck, R.

2013-12-01

The Middle Atmosphere Alomar Radar System (MAARSY) located at the northern Norwegian island of Andøya (69.3 ° N, 16° E) observes polar mesosphere summer echoes (PMSE) on a regular basis. This backscatter turned out to be an ideal tracer of atmospheric dynamics and to investigate the wind field at the mesosphere/lower thermosphere (MLT) at high spatial and temporal scales. MAARSY is dedicated to explore the polar mesosphere at such high resolution and employs an active phased array antenna with the capability to steer the beam on a pulse-to-pulse basis, which permits to perform systematic scanning of PMSE and to investigate the horizontal structure of the backscatter. The radar also uses a 16 channel receiver system for interferometric applications e.g. mean angle of arrival analysis or coherent radar imaging. Here we present measurements using these features of MAARSY to study the wind field at the MLT applying sophisticated wind analysis algorithms such as velocity azimuth display or volume velocity processing to derive gravity wave parameters such as horizontal wave length, phase speed and propagation direction. Further, we compare the interferometrically corrected and uncorrected wind measurements to emphasize the importance to account for likely edge effects using PMSE as tracer of the dynamics. The observations indicate huge deviations from the nominal beam pointing direction at the upper and lower edges of the PMSE altering the wind analysis.

Mid-sized omnidirectional robot with hydraulic drive and steering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wood, Carl G.; Perry, Trent; Cook, Douglas; Maxfield, Russell; Davidson, Morgan E.

2003-09-01

Through funding from the US Army-Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command's (TACOM) Intelligent Mobility Program, Utah State University's (USU) Center for Self-Organizing and Intelligent Systems (CSOIS) has developed the T-series of omni-directional robots based on the USU omni-directional vehicle (ODV) technology. The ODV provides independent computer control of steering and drive in a single wheel assembly. By putting multiple omni-directional (OD) wheels on a chassis, a vehicle is capable of uncoupled translational and rotational motion. Previous robots in the series, the T1, T2, T3, ODIS, ODIS-T, and ODIS-S have all used OD wheels based on electric motors. The T4 weighs approximately 1400 lbs and features a 4-wheel drive wheel configuration. Each wheel assembly consists of a hydraulic drive motor and a hydraulic steering motor. A gasoline engine is used to power both the hydraulic and electrical systems. The paper presents an overview of the mechanical design of the vehicle as well as potential uses of this technology in fielded systems.

Topics in landing gear dynamics research at NASA Langley

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mccomb, H. G., Jr.; Tanner, J. A.

1986-01-01

Four topics in landing gear dynamics are discussed. Three of these topics are subjects of recent research: tilt steering phenomenon, water spray ingestion on flooded runways, and actively controlled landing gear. The fourth topic is a description of a major facility recently enhanced in capability.

Ion Beam Propulsion Study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2008-01-01

The Ion Beam Propulsion Study was a joint high-level study between the Applied Physics Laboratory operated by NASA and ASRC Aerospace at Kennedy Space Center, Florida, and Berkeley Scientific, Berkeley, California. The results were promising and suggested that work should continue if future funding becomes available. The application of ion thrusters for spacecraft propulsion is limited to quite modest ion sources with similarly modest ion beam parameters because of the mass penalty associated with the ion source and its power supply system. Also, the ion source technology has not been able to provide very high-power ion beams. Small ion beam propulsion systems were used with considerable success. Ion propulsion systems brought into practice use an onboard ion source to form an energetic ion beam, typically Xe+ ions, as the propellant. Such systems were used for steering and correction of telecommunication satellites and as the main thruster for the Deep Space 1 demonstration mission. In recent years, "giant" ion sources were developed for the controlled-fusion research effort worldwide, with beam parameters many orders of magnitude greater than the tiny ones of conventional space thruster application. The advent of such huge ion beam sources and the need for advanced propulsion systems for exploration of the solar system suggest a fresh look at ion beam propulsion, now with the giant fusion sources in mind.

Liquid Crystal Cells for Blazed Grating Steering Devices.

DTIC Science & Technology

1999-12-08

gratings2, and micromirror devices3, among other technologies. Liquid crystalline materials are also under investigation for their potential use in beam...discrete wavelengths over a range encompassing the reflection band. These FDTD-generated data points were superimposed on the curve of the analytic...field intensity pattern is shown in Figure 3.19. The sharp spike in the near field intensity curve is the product of the disclination appearing in

SSC [Superconducting Super Collider] Project: Technical Training for the Future of Texas. Navarro College/Dallas Community College District. Final Report for Year One.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Orsak, Charles; McGlohen, Patti J.

The Superconducting Super Collider Laboratory (SSCL) is a national lab for research on the fundamental forces and constituents of the universe. A major part of the research will involve an oval ring 54 miles in circumference through which superconducting magnets will steer two beams of protons in opposite directions. In response to the…

Experimentally-Based Ocean Acoustic Propagation and Coherence Studies

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-09-30

degradation and/or exploitation of available sonic information. OBJECTIVES An objective is to quantify and explain underwater sound fluctuation...focusing did not entirely match the data because of terrain uncertainty. The paper further notes that a rapid drop-off of received sound level from the...covariance functions of complex demodulated signals. The array gain is defined as the signal to noise ratio for coherently added (beam steered) acoustic

Continuous Beam Steering Through Broadside Using Asymmetrically Modulated Goubau Line Leaky-Wave Antennas.

PubMed

Tang, Xiao-Lan; Zhang, Qingfeng; Hu, Sanming; Zhuang, Yaqiang; Kandwal, Abhishek; Zhang, Ge; Chen, Yifan

2017-09-15

Goubau line is a single-conductor transmission line, featuring easy integration and low-loss transmission properties. Here, we propose a periodic leaky-wave antenna (LWA) based on planar Goubau transmission line on a thin dielectric substrate. The leaky-wave radiations are generated by introducing periodic modulations along the Goubau line. In this way, the surface wave, which is slow-wave mode supported by the Goubau line, achieves an additional momentum and hence enters the fast-wave region for radiations. By employing the periodic modulations, the proposed Goubau line LWAs are able to continuously steer the main beam from backward to forward within the operational frequency range. However, the LWAs usually suffer from a low radiation efficiency at the broadside direction. To overcome this drawback, we explore both transversally and longitudinally asymmetrical modulations to the Goubau line. Theoretical analysis, numerical simulations and experimental results are given in comparison with the symmetrical LWAs. It is demonstrated that the asymmetrical modulations significantly improve the radiation efficiency of LWAs at the broadside. Furthermore, the measurement results agree well with the numerical ones, which experimentally validates the proposed LWA structures. These novel Goubau line LWAs, experimentally demonstrated and validated at microwave frequencies, show also great potential for millimeter-wave and terahertz systems.

Sentinel-1 TOPS interferometry for along-track displacement measurement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, H. J.; Pei, Y. Y.; Li, J.

2017-02-01

The European Space Agency’s Sentinel-1 mission, a constellation of two C-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites, utilizes terrain observation by progressive scan (TOPS) antenna beam steering as its default operation mode to achieve wide-swath coverage and short revisit time. The beam steering during the TOPS acquisition provides a means to measure azimuth motion by using the phase difference between forward and backward looking interferograms within regions of burst overlap. Hence, there are two spectral diversity techniques for along-track displacement measurement, including multi-aperture interferometry (MAI) and “burst overlap interferometry”. This paper analyses the measurement accuracies of MAI and burst overlap interferometry. Due to large spectral separation in the overlap region, burst overlap interferometry is a more sensitive measurement. We present a TOPS interferometry approach for along-track displacement measurement. The phase bias caused by azimuth miscoregistration is first estimated by burst overlap interferometry over stationary regions. After correcting the coregistration error, the MAI phase and the interferometric phase difference between burst overlaps are recalculated to obtain along-track displacements. We test the approach with Sentinel-1 TOPS interferometric data over the 2015 Mw 7.8 Nepal earthquake fault. The results prove the feasibility of our approach and show the potential of joint estimation of along-track displacement with burst overlap interferometry and MAI.

Frequency dependent steering with backward leaky waves via photonic crystal interface layer.

PubMed

Colak, Evrim; Caglayan, Humeyra; Cakmak, Atilla O; Villa, Alessandro D; Capolino, Filippo; Ozbay, Ekmel

2009-06-08

A Photonic Crystal (PC) with a surface defect layer (made of dimers) is studied in the microwave regime. The dispersion diagram is obtained with the Plane Wave Expansion Method. The dispersion diagram reveals that the dimer-layer supports a surface mode with negative slope. Two facts are noted: First, a guided (bounded) wave is present, propagating along the surface of the dimer-layer. Second, above the light line, the fast traveling mode couple to the propagating spectra and as a result a directive (narrow beam) radiation with backward characteristics is observed and measured. In this leaky mode regime, symmetrical radiation patterns with respect to the normal to the PC surface are attained. Beam steering is observed and measured in a 70 degrees angular range when frequency ranges in the 11.88-13.69 GHz interval. Thus, a PC based surface wave structure that acts as a frequency dependent leaky wave antenna is presented. Angular radiation pattern measurements are in agreement with those obtained via numerical simulations that employ the Finite Difference Time Domain Method (FDTD). Finally, the backward radiation characteristics that in turn suggest the existence of a backward leaky mode in the dimer-layer are experimentally verified using a halved dimer-layer structure.

Studies of pointing, acquisition, and tracking of agile optical wireless transceivers for free-space optical communication networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ho, Tzung-Hsien; Trisno, Sugianto; Smolyaninov, Igor I.; Milner, Stuart D.; Davis, Christopher C.

2004-02-01

Free space, dynamic, optical wireless communications will require topology control for optimization of network performance. Such networks may need to be configured for bi- or multiple-connectedness, reliability and quality-of-service. Topology control involves the introduction of new links and/or nodes into the network to achieve such performance objectives through autonomous reconfiguration as well as precise pointing, acquisition, tracking, and steering of laser beams. Reconfiguration may be required because of link degradation resulting from obscuration or node loss. As a result, the optical transceivers may need to be re-directed to new or existing nodes within the network and tracked on moving nodes. The redirection of transceivers may require operation over a whole sphere, so that small-angle beam steering techniques cannot be applied. In this context, we are studying the performance of optical wireless links using lightweight, bi-static transceivers mounted on high-performance stepping motor driven stages. These motors provide an angular resolution of 0.00072 degree at up to 80,000 steps per second. This paper focuses on the performance characteristics of these agile transceivers for pointing, acquisition, and tracking (PAT), including the influence of acceleration/deceleration time, motor angular speed, and angular re-adjustment, on latency and packet loss in small free space optical (FSO) wireless test networks.

High throughput optical scanner

DOEpatents

Basiji, David A.; van den Engh, Gerrit J.

2001-01-01

A scanning apparatus is provided to obtain automated, rapid and sensitive scanning of substrate fluorescence, optical density or phosphorescence. The scanner uses a constant path length optical train, which enables the combination of a moving beam for high speed scanning with phase-sensitive detection for noise reduction, comprising a light source, a scanning mirror to receive light from the light source and sweep it across a steering mirror, a steering mirror to receive light from the scanning mirror and reflect it to the substrate, whereby it is swept across the substrate along a scan arc, and a photodetector to receive emitted or scattered light from the substrate, wherein the optical path length from the light source to the photodetector is substantially constant throughout the sweep across the substrate. The optical train can further include a waveguide or mirror to collect emitted or scattered light from the substrate and direct it to the photodetector. For phase-sensitive detection the light source is intensity modulated and the detector is connected to phase-sensitive detection electronics. A scanner using a substrate translator is also provided. For two dimensional imaging the substrate is translated in one dimension while the scanning mirror scans the beam in a second dimension. For a high throughput scanner, stacks of substrates are loaded onto a conveyor belt from a tray feeder.

Quasi-continuous metasurface for ultra-broadband and polarization-controlled electromagnetic beam deflection.

PubMed

Wang, Yanqin; Pu, Mingbo; Zhang, Zuojun; Li, Xiong; Ma, Xiaoliang; Zhao, Zeyu; Luo, Xiangang

2015-12-04

Two-dimensional metasurface has attracted growing interest in recent years, owing to its ability in manipulating the phase, amplitude and polarization state of electromagnetic wave within a single interface. However, most existing metasurfaces rely on the collective responses of a set of discrete meta-atoms to perform various functionalities. In this paper, we presented a quasi-continuous metasurface for high-efficiency and broadband beam steering in the microwave regime. It is demonstrated both in simulation and experiment that the incident beam deviates from the normal direction after transmitting through the ultrathin metasurface. The efficiency of the proposed metasurface approximates to the theoretical limit of the single-layer metasurface in a broad frequency range, owing to the elimination of the circuit resonance in traditional discrete structures. The proposed scheme promises potential applications in broadband electromagnetic modulation and communication systems, etc.

Design of optical axis jitter control system for multi beam lasers based on FPGA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ou, Long; Li, Guohui; Xie, Chuanlin; Zhou, Zhiqiang

2018-02-01

A design of optical axis closed-loop control system for multi beam lasers coherent combining based on FPGA was introduced. The system uses piezoelectric ceramics Fast Steering Mirrors (FSM) as actuator, the Fairfield spot detection of multi beam lasers by the high speed CMOS camera for optical detecting, a control system based on FPGA for real-time optical axis jitter suppression. The algorithm for optical axis centroid detecting and PID of anti-Integral saturation were realized by FPGA. Optimize the structure of logic circuit by reuse resource and pipeline, as a result of reducing logic resource but reduced the delay time, and the closed-loop bandwidth increases to 100Hz. The jitter of laser less than 40Hz was reduced 40dB. The cost of the system is low but it works stably.

NASA Tech Briefs, November 1995. Volume 19, No. 11

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1995-01-01

The contents include: 1) Mission Accomplished; 2) Resource Report: Marshall Space Flight Center; 3) NASA 1995 Software of the Year Award; 4) Microbolometers Based on Epitaxial YBa2Cu3O(sub 7-x) Thin Films; 5) Garnet Random-Access Memory; 6) Fabrication of SNS Weak Links on SOS Substrates; 7) High-Voltage MOSFET Switching Circuit; 8) Asymmetric Switching for a PWM H-Bridge Power Circuit; 9) Better Ohmic Contacts for InP Semiconductor Devices; 10) Low-Bandgap Thermovoltaic Materials and Devices; 11) Digital Frequency-Differencing Circuit; 12) Imaging Magnetometer; 13) Computer-Assisted Monitoring of a Complex System; 14) Buffered Telemetry Demodulator; 15) Compact Multifunction Inspection Head; 16) Optical Detection of Fractures in Ceramic Diaphragms; 17) Eddy-Current Detection of Cracks in Reinforced Carbon/Carbon; 18) Apparent Thermal Conductivity of Multilayer Insulation; 19) Optimizing Misch-Metal Compositions in Metal Hydride Anodes; 20) Device for Sampling Surface Contamination; 21) Probabilistic Failure Assessment for Fatigue; 22) Probabilistic Fatigue and Flaw-Propagation Analysis; 23) Windows Program for Driving the TDU-850 Printer; 24) Subband/Transform MATLAB Functions for Processing Images; 25) Computing Equilibrium Chemical Compositions; 26) Program Processes Thermocouple Readings; 27) ICAN-Second-Generation Integrated Composite Analyzer; 28) Integrated Composite Analyzer with Damping Capabilities; 29) Computing Efficiency of Transfer of Microwave Power; 30) Program Calculates Power Demands of Electronic Designs; 31) Cost-Estimation Program; 32) Program Estimates Areas Required by Electronic Designs; 33) Program to Balance Mapped Turbopump Assemblies; 34) BiblioTech; 35) Controlling Mirror Tilt With a Bimorph Actuator; 36) Burst-Disk Device Simulates Effect of Pyrotechnic Device; 37) Bearing-Mounting Concept Accommodates Thermal Expansion; 38) Parallel-Plate Acoustic Absorbers for Hot Environments; 39) Adjustable-Length Strut Withstands Large Cyclic Loads; 40) Tool Indicates Contact Angles in Bearing Raceways; 41) Gravity Slides With Magnetic Braking; 42) High-Torque, Lightweight, Pneumatically Driven Wrench for Small Spaces; 43) Device for Testing Compatibility of an O-Ring; 44) Magnetic Heat Pump Containing Flow Diverters; 45) Variable-Tilt Helicopter Rotor Mast; 46) "Beach-Ball" Robotic Rovers; 47) Apparatus Would Measure Temperatures of Ball Bearings; 48) Flexible Borescope for Inspecting Ducts; 49) Texturing Copper To Reduce Secondary Emission of Electrons; 50) Automated Laser Cutting in Three Dimensions; 51) Algorithm Helps Monitor Engine Operation; 52) Flexible Revision of Data-Processing Communications; 53) Software for Managing the Use of Land; 54) Thermal Strap Increases Cryocooling Efficiency; 55) Reversible Nut With Engagement Indication; 56) Control Algorithms for Kinematically Redundant Manipulators; 57) Computed Hydrogen-Flow Splits in a Rocket Engine; 58) Pressure and Thermal Modeling of Rocket Launches; 59) Field of View of a Spacecraft Antenna: Analysis and Software; 60) Digital Controller for Laser-Beam-Steering Subsystem; 61) More About Beam-Steering Subsystem for Laser Communication; 62) Digital Controller for Laser-Beam-Steering Subsystem: Part 2; 63) Interface Circuit Board for Space-Shuttle Communications; 64) Automated Planning of Spacecraft Telecommunications; 65) Artifacts of Spectral Analysis of Instrument Readings; 66) Neural-Network Controller for Vibration Suppression; 67) Adaptive Finite-Element Computation in Fracture Mechanics; 68) Attitude Control for the Cassini Spacecraft; 69) Analytical Model for Fluid Dynamics in a Microgravity Environment; 70) Study of Rocket-Engine Joints Bonded by NVCU/NARloy-Z; 71) Improved Silicon Nitride for Advanced Heat Engines; 72) Parameters for Welding Aluminum/Lithium Alloys; 73) Lightweight Composite Intertank Structure; 74) Foil Patches Seal Small Vacuum Leaks; 75) Data Base on Cables and Connectors; 76) Effect of Clock Mode on Radiation Hardnessf an ADC; and 77) Fault-Tolerant Control for a Robotic Inspection System.

Effect of Tritium on Cracking Threshold in 7075 Aluminum

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Duncan, A.; Morgan, M.

The effect of long-term exposure to tritium gas on the cracking threshold (K TH) of 7075 Aluminum Alloy was investigated. The alloy is the material of construction for a cell used to contain tritium in an accelerator at Jefferson Laboratory designed for inelastic scattering experiments on nucleons. The primary safety concerns for the Jefferson Laboratory tritium cell is a tritium leak due to mechanical failure of windows from hydrogen isotope embrittlement, radiation damage, or loss of target integrity from accidental excessive beam heating due to failure of the raster or grossly mis-steered beam. Experiments were conducted to investigate the potentialmore » for embrittlement of the 7075 Aluminum alloy from tritium gas.« less

Moving receive beam method and apparatus for synthetic aperture radar

DOEpatents

Kare, Jordin T.

2001-01-01

A method and apparatus for improving the performance of Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) systems by reducing the effect of "edge losses" associated with nonuniform receiver antenna gain. By moving the receiver antenna pattern in synchrony with the apparent motion of the transmitted pulse along the ground, the maximum available receiver antenna gain can be used at all times. Also, the receiver antenna gain for range-ambiguous return signals may be reduced, in some cases, by a large factor. The beam motion can be implemented by real-time adjustment of phase shifters in an electronically-steered phased-array antenna or by electronic switching of feed horns in a reflector antenna system.

Radar Attitude Sensing System (RASS)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1971-01-01

The initial design and fabrication efforts for a radar attitude sensing system (RASS) are covered. The design and fabrication of the RASS system is being undertaken in two phases, 1B1 and 1B2. The RASS system as configured under phase 1B1 contains the solid state transmitter and local oscillator, the antenna system, the receiving system, and the altitude electronics. RASS employs a pseudo-random coded cw signal and receiver correlation techniques to measure range. The antenna is a planar, phased array, monopulse type, whose beam is electronically steerable using diode phase shifters. The beam steering computer and attitude sensing circuitry are to be included in Phase 1B2 of the program.

Lasercom system architecture with reduced complexity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lesh, James R. (Inventor); Chen, Chien-Chung (Inventor); Ansari, Homayoon (Inventor)

1994-01-01

Spatial acquisition and precision beam pointing functions are critical to spaceborne laser communication systems. In the present invention, a single high bandwidth CCD detector is used to perform both spatial acquisition and tracking functions. Compared to previous lasercom hardware design, the array tracking concept offers reduced system complexity by reducing the number of optical elements in the design. Specifically, the design requires only one detector and one beam steering mechanism. It also provides the means to optically close the point-ahead control loop. The technology required for high bandwidth array tracking was examined and shown to be consistent with current state of the art. The single detector design can lead to a significantly reduced system complexity and a lower system cost.

LaserCom System Architecture With Reduced Complexity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lesh, James R. (Inventor); Chen, Chien-Chung (Inventor); Ansari, Homa-Yoon (Inventor)

1996-01-01

Spatial acquisition and precision beam pointing functions are critical to spaceborne laser communication systems. In the present invention a single high bandwidth CCD detector is used to perform both spatial acquisition and tracking functions. Compared to previous lasercom hardware design, the array tracking concept offers reduced system complexity by reducing the number of optical elements in the design. Specifically, the design requires only one detector and one beam steering mechanism. It also provides means to optically close the point-ahead control loop. The technology required for high bandwidth array tracking was examined and shown to be consistent with current state of the art. The single detector design can lead to a significantly reduced system complexity and a lower system cost.

Robust flight design for an advanced launch system vehicle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dhand, Sanjeev K.; Wong, Kelvin K.

Current launch vehicle trajectory design philosophies are generally based on maximizing payload capability. This approach results in an expensive trajectory design process for each mission. Two concepts of robust flight design have been developed to significantly reduce this cost: Standardized Trajectories and Command Multiplier Steering (CMS). These concepts were analyzed for an Advanced Launch System (ALS) vehicle, although their applicability is not restricted to any particular vehicle. Preliminary analysis has demonstrated the feasibility of these concepts at minimal loss in payload capability.

Hopping robot

DOEpatents

Spletzer, Barry L.; Fischer, Gary J.; Marron, Lisa C.; Martinez, Michael A.; Kuehl, Michael A.; Feddema, John T.

2001-01-01

The present invention provides a hopping robot that includes a misfire tolerant linear actuator suitable for long trips, low energy steering and control, reliable low energy righting, miniature low energy fuel control. The present invention provides a robot with hopping mobility, capable of traversing obstacles significant in size relative to the robot and capable of operation on unpredictable terrain over long range. The present invention further provides a hopping robot with misfire-tolerant combustion actuation, and with combustion actuation suitable for use in oxygen-poor environments.

Microcomb-Based True-Time-Delay Network for Microwave Beamforming With Arbitrary Beam Pattern Control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xue, Xiaoxiao; Xuan, Yi; Bao, Chengying; Li, Shangyuan; Zheng, Xiaoping; Zhou, Bingkun; Qi, Minghao; Weiner, Andrew M.

2018-06-01

Microwave phased array antennas (PAAs) are very attractive to defense applications and high-speed wireless communications for their abilities of fast beam scanning and complex beam pattern control. However, traditional PAAs based on phase shifters suffer from the beam-squint problem and have limited bandwidths. True-time-delay (TTD) beamforming based on low-loss photonic delay lines can solve this problem. But it is still quite challenging to build large-scale photonic TTD beamformers due to their high hardware complexity. In this paper, we demonstrate a photonic TTD beamforming network based on a miniature microresonator frequency comb (microcomb) source and dispersive time delay. A method incorporating optical phase modulation and programmable spectral shaping is proposed for positive and negative apodization weighting to achieve arbitrary microwave beam pattern control. The experimentally demonstrated TTD beamforming network can support a PAA with 21 elements. The microwave frequency range is $\\mathbf{8\\sim20\\ {GHz}}$, and the beam scanning range is $\\mathbf{\\pm 60.2^\\circ}$. Detailed measurements of the microwave amplitudes and phases are performed. The beamforming performances of Gaussian, rectangular beams and beam notch steering are evaluated through simulations by assuming a uniform radiating antenna array. The scheme can potentially support larger PAAs with hundreds of elements by increasing the number of comb lines with broadband microcomb generation.

Physics design of the injector source for ITER neutral beam injector (invited).

PubMed

Antoni, V; Agostinetti, P; Aprile, D; Cavenago, M; Chitarin, G; Fonnesu, N; Marconato, N; Pilan, N; Sartori, E; Serianni, G; Veltri, P

2014-02-01

Two Neutral Beam Injectors (NBI) are foreseen to provide a substantial fraction of the heating power necessary to ignite thermonuclear fusion reactions in ITER. The development of the NBI system at unprecedented parameters (40 A of negative ion current accelerated up to 1 MV) requires the realization of a full scale prototype, to be tested and optimized at the Test Facility under construction in Padova (Italy). The beam source is the key component of the system and the design of the multi-grid accelerator is the goal of a multi-national collaborative effort. In particular, beam steering is a challenging aspect, being a tradeoff between requirements of the optics and real grids with finite thickness and thermo-mechanical constraints due to the cooling needs and the presence of permanent magnets. In the paper, a review of the accelerator physics and an overview of the whole R&D physics program aimed to the development of the injector source are presented.

A system for characterization of DEPFET silicon pixel matrices and test beam results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Furletov, Sergey; DEPFET Collaboration

2011-02-01

The DEPFET pixel detector offers first stage in-pixel amplification by incorporating a field effect transistor in the high resistivity silicon substrate. In this concept, a very small input capacitance can be realized thus allowing for low noise measurements. This makes DEPFET sensors a favorable technology for tracking in particle physics. Therefore a system with a DEPFET pixel matrix was developed to test DEPFET performance for an application as a vertex detector for the Belle II experiment. The system features a current based, row-wise readout of a DEPFET pixel matrix with a designated readout chip, steering chips for matrix control, a FPGA based data acquisition board, and a dedicated software package. The system was successfully operated in both test beam and lab environment. In 2009 new DEPFET matrices have been characterized in a 120 GeV pion beam at the CERN SPS. The current status of the DEPFET system and test beam results are presented.

The Design and Performance Evaluation of Hydroformed Tubular Torsion Beam Axle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Jaehyun; Oh, Jinho; Choi, Hanho

2010-06-01

Suspensions for vehicles are structural devices used for suspending a vehicle body and absorbing shocks from the road. Thus, the suspensions must be designed such that they can attenuate shocks from a road and make passengers feel comfortable despite the shocks, and improve steering stability, determined by the ground contact force of tires during running of vehicles. Another important factor to be considered while designing suspensions is that the suspensions must maintain desired stiffness and desired durability despite the repeated application of shocks from roads thereto. The present relates, in general, to a tubular torsion beam for rear suspensions of vehicles and a manufacturing method thereof and, more particularly, to the provision of tubular torsion beams having excellent roll stiffness and excellent roll strength, produced through hydroforming. The hydroforming technology has a lot of benefit which is shape accuracy, good durability caused by compressive pressure, and good forming quality. In this study, the performance evaluation of the hydroformed tubular torsion beam axle is evaluated.

Semi-automated high-efficiency reflectivity chamber for vacuum UV measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wiley, James; Fleming, Brian; Renninger, Nicholas; Egan, Arika

2017-08-01

This paper presents the design and theory of operation for a semi-automated reflectivity chamber for ultraviolet optimized optics. A graphical user interface designed in LabVIEW controls the stages, interfaces with the detector system, takes semi-autonomous measurements, and monitors the system in case of error. Samples and an optical photodiode sit on an optics plate mounted to a rotation stage in the middle of the vacuum chamber. The optics plate rotates the samples and diode between an incident and reflected position to measure the absolute reflectivity of the samples at wavelengths limited by the monochromator operational bandpass of 70 nm to 550 nm. A collimating parabolic mirror on a fine steering tip-tilt motor enables beam steering for detector peak-ups. This chamber is designed to take measurements rapidly and with minimal oversight, increasing lab efficiency for high cadence and high accuracy vacuum UV reflectivity measurements.

Eye-safe digital 3-D sensing for space applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beraldin, J.-Angelo; Blais, Francois; Rioux, Marc; Cournoyer, Luc; Laurin, Denis G.; MacLean, Steve G.

2000-01-01

This paper focuses on the characteristics and performance of an eye-safe laser range scanner (LARS) with short- and medium-range 3D sensing capabilities for space applications. This versatile LARS is a precision measurement tool that will complement the current Canadian Space Vision System. The major advantages of the LARS over conventional video- based imaging are its ability to operate with sunlight shining directly into the scanner and its immunity to spurious reflections and shadows, which occur frequently in space. Because the LARS is equipped with two high-speed galvanometers to steer the laser beam, any spatial location within the field of view of the camera can be addressed. This versatility enables the LARS to operate in two basis scan pattern modes: (1) variable-scan-resolution mode and (2) raster-scan mode. In the variable-resolution mode, the LARS can search and track targets and geometrical features on objects located within a field of view of 30 by 30 deg and with corresponding range from about 0.5 to 2000 m. The tracking mode can reach a refresh rate of up to 130 Hz. The raster mode is used primarily for the measurement of registered range and intensity information on large stationary objects. It allows, among other things, target- based measurements, feature-based measurements, and surface- reflectance monitoring. The digitizing and modeling of human subjects, cargo payloads, and environments are also possible with the LARS. Examples illustrating its capabilities are presented.

Rapid Mueller matrix polarimetry imaging based on four photoelastic modulators with no moving parts (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gribble, Adam; Alali, Sanaz; Vitkin, Alex

2016-03-01

Polarized light has many applications in biomedical imaging. The interaction of a biological sample with polarized light reveals information about its composition, both structural and functional. For example, the polarimetry-derived metric of linear retardance (birefringence) is dependent on tissue structural organization (anisotropy) and can be used to diagnose myocardial infarct; circular birefringence (optical rotation) can measure glucose concentrations. The most comprehensive type of polarimetry analysis is to measure the Mueller matrix, a polarization transfer function that completely describes how a sample interacts with polarized light. To derive this 4x4 matrix it is necessary to observe how a tissue interacts with different polarizations. A well-suited approach for tissue polarimetry is to use photoelastic modulators (PEMs), which dynamically modulate the polarization of light. Previously, we have demonstrated a rapid time-gated Stokes imaging system that is capable of characterizing the state of polarized light (the Stokes vector) over a large field, after interacting with any turbid media. This was accomplished by synchronizing CCD camera acquisition times relative to two PEMs using a field-programmable gate array (FPGA). Here, we extend this technology to four PEMs, yielding a polarimetry system that is capable of rapidly measuring the complete sample Mueller matrix over a large field of view, with no moving parts and no beam steering. We describe the calibration procedure and evaluate the accuracy of the measurements. Results are shown for tissue-mimicking phantoms, as well as initial biological samples.

Magneto-Optic Laser Beam Steering

DTIC Science & Technology

1975-10-01

Thin Substrates 16 1. Substrate Thinning 16 2. LPE on TMn Substrates 18 3. Statics of BRIG Crystal Films on Thin Substrates... 19 4. Results...6 Garnet Etch Rate 17 7 Thin Substrate: Film Both Sides 20 8 Thin Substrate: Film One Side 21 9 Film with Substrate Both Sides 23 10 Ratio...Robbins et al reported that iron garnet films could be grown on gallium garnet sub- strates by using a coprecipitated slurry. This technique was

Unclassified Publications of Lincoln Laboratory, 1 January-31 December 1987. Volume 13

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-12-31

Visible-Laser Photochemical Etching of Cr , Mo, and W 5901 High-Speed Electronic Beam Steering Using Injection Locking of a Laser-Diode Array...of High- Power Broad-Area Diode Lasers High-Temperature Point-Contact Transistors and Schottky Diodes Formed on Synthetic Boron- Doped Diamond...SPEECHES MS No. 593IB C02 Laser Radar 6550B Recent Advances in Transition-Metal- Doped Lasers 6714D Radiation Damage in Dry

A Method for Eliminating Beam Steering Error for the Modulated Absorption-Emission Thermometry Technique

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-01-01

emissivity and the radiative intensity of the gas over a spectral band. The temperature is then calculated from the Planck function. The technique does not...pressure budget for cooling channels reduces pump horsepower and turbine inlet temperature DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A – Approved for public release...distribution unlimited 4 Status of Modeling and Simulation • Existing data set for film cooling effectiveness consists of wall heat flux measurements • CFD

Design, fabrication, testing, and delivery of improved beam steering devices

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1973-01-01

The development, manufacture, and testing of an optical steerer intended for use in spaceborne optical radar systems are described. Included are design principles and design modifications made to harden the device against launch and space environments, the quality program and procedures developed to insure consistent product quality throughout the manufacturing phase, and engineering qualification model testing and evaluation. The delivered hardware design is considered conditionally qualified pending action on further recommended design modifications.

Transport and emittance study for 18 GHz superconducting-ECR ion source at RCNP.

PubMed

Yorita, T; Hatanaka, K; Fukuda, M; Ueda, H; Kibayashi, M; Morinobu, S; Tamii, A

2012-02-01

As the upgrade program of the azimuthally varying field (AVF) cyclotron is at the cyclotron facility of the RCNP, Osaka University for the improvement of the quality, stability, and intensity of accelerated beams, an 18 GHz superconducting (SC) ECR ion source has been installed to increase beam currents and to extend the variety of ions, especially for highly charged heavy ions which can be accelerated by RCNP AVF cyclotron. The production development of several ions such as B, O, N, Ne, Ar, Ni, Kr, and Xe has been performed by Yorita et al. [Rev. Sci. Instrum. 79, 02A311(2008); 81, 02A332 (2010)]. Further studies for the beam transport have been done in order to improve the beam current more for injection of cyclotron. The effect of field leakage of AVF main coil is not negligible and additional steering magnet has been installed and then beam transmission has been improved. The emittance monitor has also been developed for the purpose of investigating correlation between emittance of beam from ECR ion sources and injection efficiency. The monitor consists with BPM82 with rotating wire for fast measurement for efficient study.

Submacropulse electron-beam dynamics correlated with higher-order modes in Tesla-type superconducting rf cavities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lumpkin, A. H.; Thurman-Keup, R.; Edstrom, D.; Ruan, J.; Eddy, N.; Prieto, P.; Napoly, O.; Carlsten, B. E.; Bishofberger, K.

2018-06-01

We report the direct observations of submacropulse beam centroid oscillations correlated with higher order modes (HOMs) which were generated by off-axis electron beam steering in TESLA-type superconducting rf cavities. The experiments were performed at the Fermilab Accelerator Science and Technology (FAST) facility using its unique configuration of a photocathode rf gun injecting beam into two separated nine-cell cavities in series with corrector magnets and beam position monitors (BPMs) located before, between, and after them. Oscillations of ˜100 kHz in the vertical plane and ˜380 kHz in the horizontal plane with up to 600 -μ m amplitudes were observed in a 3-MHz micropulse repetition rate beam with charges of 100, 300, 500, and 1000 pC /b . However, the effects were much reduced at 100 pC /b . The measurements were based on HOM detector circuitry targeting the first and second dipole passbands, rf BPM bunch-by-bunch array data, imaging cameras, and a framing camera. Calculations reproduced the oscillation frequencies of the phenomena in the vertical case. In principle, these fundamental results may be scaled to cryomodule configurations of major accelerator facilities.

Submacropulse electron-beam dynamics correlated with higher-order modes in Tesla-type superconducting rf cavities

DOE PAGES

Lumpkin, A. H.; Thurman-Keup, R.; Edstrom, D.; ...

2018-06-04

Here, we report the direct observations of submacropulse beam centroid oscillations correlated with higher order modes (HOMs) which were generated by off-axis electron beam steering in TESLA-type superconducting rf cavities. The experiments were performed at the Fermilab Accelerator Science and Technology (FAST) facility using its unique configuration of a photocathode rf gun injecting beam into two separated nine-cell cavities in series with corrector magnets and beam position monitors (BPMs) located before, between, and after them. Oscillations of ~100 kHz in the vertical plane and ~380 kHz in the horizontal plane with up to 600-μm amplitudes were observed in a 3-MHzmore » micropulse repetition rate beam with charges of 100, 300, 500, and 1000 pC/b. However, the effects were much reduced at 100 pC/b. The measurements were based on HOM detector circuitry targeting the first and second dipole passbands, rf BPM bunch-by-bunch array data, imaging cameras, and a framing camera. Calculations reproduced the oscillation frequencies of the phenomena in the vertical case. In principle, these fundamental results may be scaled to cryomodule configurations of major accelerator facilities.« less

Steerable Space Fed Lens Array for Low-Cost Adaptive Ground Station Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, Richard Q.; Popovic, Zoya; Rondineau, Sebastien; Miranda, Felix A.

2007-01-01

The Space Fed Lens Array (SFLA) is an alternative to a phased array antenna that replaces large numbers of expensive solid-state phase shifters with a single spatial feed network. SFLA can be used for multi-beam application where multiple independent beams can be generated simultaneously with a single antenna aperture. Unlike phased array antennas where feed loss increases with array size, feed loss in a lens array with more than 50 elements is nearly independent of the number of elements, a desirable feature for large apertures. In addition, SFLA has lower cost as compared to a phased array at the expense of total volume and complete beam continuity. For ground station applications, both of these tradeoff parameters are not important and can thus be exploited in order to lower the cost of the ground station. In this paper, we report the development and demonstration of a 952-element beam-steerable SFLA intended for use as a low cost ground station for communicating and tracking of a low Earth orbiting satellite. The dynamic beam steering is achieved through switching to different feed-positions of the SFLA via a beam controller.

Liquid crystal optics for communications, signal processing and 3-D microscopic imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khan, Sajjad Ali

This dissertation proposes, studies and experimentally demonstrates novel liquid crystal (LC) optics to solve challenging problems in RF and photonic signal processing, freespace and fiber optic communications and microscopic imaging. These include free-space optical scanners for military and optical wireless applications, variable fiber-optic attenuators for optical communications, photonic control techniques for phased array antennas and radar, and 3-D microscopic imaging. At the heart of the applications demonstrated in this thesis are LC devices that are non-pixelated and can be controlled either electrically or optically. Instead of the typical pixel-by-pixel control as is custom in LC devices, the phase profile across the aperture of these novel LC devices is varied through the use of high impedance layers. Due to the presence of the high impedance layer, there forms a voltage gradient across the aperture of such a device which results in a phase gradient across the LC layer which in turn is accumulated by the optical beam traversing through this LC device. The geometry of the electrical contacts that are used to apply the external voltage will define the nature of the phase gradient present across the optical beam. In order to steer a laser beam in one angular dimension, straight line electrical contacts are used to form a one dimensional phase gradient while an annular electrical contact results in a circularly symmetric phase profile across the optical beam making it suitable for focusing the optical beam. The geometry of the electrical contacts alone is not sufficient to form the linear and the quadratic phase profiles that are required to either deflect or focus an optical beam. Clever use of the phase response of a typical nematic liquid crystal (NLC) is made such that the linear response region is used for the angular beam deflection while the high voltage quadratic response region is used for focusing the beam. Employing an NLC deflector, a device that uses the linear angular deflection, laser beam steering is demonstrated in two orthogonal dimensions whereas an NLC lens is used to address the third dimension to complete a three dimensional (3-D) scanner. Such an NLC deflector was then used in a variable optical attenuator (VOA), whereby a laser beam coupled between two identical single mode fibers (SMF) was mis-aligned away from the output fiber causing the intensity of the output coupled light to decrease as a function of the angular deflection. Since the angular deflection is electrically controlled, hence the VOA operation is fairly simple and repeatable. An extension of this VOA for wavelength tunable operation is also shown in this dissertation. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

SU-F-T-567: Sensitivity and Reproducibility of the Portal Imaging Panel for Routine FFF QC and Patient Plan Dose Measurements

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Willett, A; Gilmore, M; Rowbottom, C

2016-06-15

Purpose: The purpose of this work was to see if the EPID is a viable alternative to other QA devices for routine FFF QA and plan dose measurements. Methods: Sensitivity measurements were made to assess response to small changes in field size and beam steering. QA plans were created where field size was varied from baseline values (5–5.5cm, 20–20.5cm). Beam steering was adjusted by altering values in service mode (Symmetry 0–3%). Plans were measured using the Varian portal imager (aS1200 DMI panel), QA3 (Sun Nuclear), and Starcheck Maxi (PTW). FFF beam parameters as stated in Fogliata et al were calculated.more » Constancy measurements were taken using all 3 QC devices to measure a MLC defined 20×20cm field. Two clinical SABR patient plans were measured on a Varian Edge linac, using the Portal Dosimetry module in ARIA, and results compared with analysis made using Delta4 (ScandiDos). Results: The EPID and the Starcheck performed better at detecting clinically relevant changes in field size with the QA3 performing better when detecting similar changes in beam symmetry. Consistency measurements with the EPID and Starcheck were equivalent, with comparable standard deviations. Clinical plan measurements on the EPID compared well with Delta4 results at 3%/1mm. Conclusion: Our results show that for FFF QA measurements such as field size and symmetry, using the EPID is a viable alternative to other QA devices. The EPID could potentially be used for QC measurements with a focus on geometric accuracy, such as MLC positional QA, due to its high resolution compared to other QA devices (EPID 0.34mm, Starcheck 3mm, QA3 5mm). Good agreement between Delta4 and portal dosimetry also indicated the EPID may be a suitable alternative for measurement of clinical plans.« less

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Clayton, James; Shedlock, Daniel; Langeveld, Willem G.J.

In the security and inspection market, there is a push towards highly mobile, reduced-dose active interrogation scanning and imaging systems to allow operation in urban environments. To achieve these goals, the accelerator system design needs to be smaller than existing systems. A smaller radiation exclusion zone may be accomplished through better beam collimation and an integrated, x-ray-source/detector-array assembly to allow feedback and control of an intensity-modulated x-ray source. A shaped low-Z target in the x-ray source can be used to generate a more forward peaked x-ray beam. Electron-beam steering can then be applied to direct the forward-peaked x rays towardmore » areas in the cargo with high attenuation. This paper presents an exploratory study to identify components and upgrades that would be required to meet the desired specifications, as well as the best technical approach to design and build a prototype.« less

Terahertz Focusing and Polarization Control in Large-Area Bias-Free Semiconductor Emitters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carthy, Joanna L.; Gow, Paul C.; Berry, Sam A.; Mills, Ben; Apostolopoulos, Vasilis

2018-03-01

We show that, when large-area multiplex terahertz semiconductor emitters, that work on diffusion currents and Schottky potentials, are illuminated by ultrashort optical pulses they can radiate a directional electromagnetic terahertz pulse which is controlled by the angular spectrum of the incident optical beam. Using the lens that focuses the incident near-infrared pulse, we have demonstrated THz emission focusing in free space, at the same point where the optical radiation would focus. We investigated the beam waist and Gouy phase shift of the THz emission as a function of frequency. We also show that the polarization profile of the emitted THz can be tailored by the metallic patterning on the semiconductor, demonstrating radial polarization when a circular emitter design is used. Our techniques can be used for fast THz beam steering and mode control for efficiently coupling to waveguides without the need for THz lenses or parabolic mirrors.

Bending light via adiabatic optical transition in longitudinally modulated photonic lattices

PubMed Central

Han, Bin; Xu, Lei; Dou, Yiling; Xu, Jingjun; Zhang, Guoquan

2015-01-01

Bending light in a controllable way is desired in various applications such as beam steering, navigating and cloaking. Different from the conventional way to bend light by refractive index gradient, transformation optics or special beams through wavefront design such as Airy beams and surface plasmons, we proposed a mechanism to bend light via resonant adiabatic optical transition between Floquet-Bloch (FB) modes from different FB bands in longitudinally modulated photonic lattices. The band structure of longitudinally modulated photonic lattices was calculated by employing the concept of quasi-energy based on the Floquet-Bloch theory, showing the existence of band discontinuities at specific resonant points which cannot be revealed by the coupled-mode theory. Interestingly, different FB bands can be seamlessly connected at these resonant points in longitudinally modulated photonic lattices driven by adiabatically varying the longitudinal modulation period along the propagation direction, which stimulates the adiabatic FB mode transition between different FB bands. PMID:26511890

Random access actuation of nanowire grid metamaterial

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cencillo-Abad, Pablo; Ou, Jun-Yu; Plum, Eric; Valente, João; Zheludev, Nikolay I.

2016-12-01

While metamaterials offer engineered static optical properties, future artificial media with dynamic random-access control over shape and position of meta-molecules will provide arbitrary control of light propagation. The simplest example of such a reconfigurable metamaterial is a nanowire grid metasurface with subwavelength wire spacing. Recently we demonstrated computationally that such a metadevice with individually controlled wire positions could be used as dynamic diffraction grating, beam steering module and tunable focusing element. Here we report on the nanomembrane realization of such a nanowire grid metasurface constructed from individually addressable plasmonic chevron nanowires with a 230 nm × 100 nm cross-section, which consist of gold and silicon nitride. The active structure of the metadevice consists of 15 nanowires each 18 μm long and is fabricated by a combination of electron beam lithography and ion beam milling. It is packaged as a microchip device where the nanowires can be individually actuated by control currents via differential thermal expansion.

Nanosatellite optical downlink experiment: design, simulation, and prototyping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Clements, Emily; Aniceto, Raichelle; Barnes, Derek; Caplan, David; Clark, James; Portillo, Iñigo del; Haughwout, Christian; Khatsenko, Maxim; Kingsbury, Ryan; Lee, Myron; Morgan, Rachel; Twichell, Jonathan; Riesing, Kathleen; Yoon, Hyosang; Ziegler, Caleb; Cahoy, Kerri

2016-11-01

The nanosatellite optical downlink experiment (NODE) implements a free-space optical communications (lasercom) capability on a CubeSat platform that can support low earth orbit (LEO) to ground downlink rates>10 Mbps. A primary goal of NODE is to leverage commercially available technologies to provide a scalable and cost-effective alternative to radio-frequency-based communications. The NODE transmitter uses a 200-mW 1550-nm master-oscillator power-amplifier design using power-efficient M-ary pulse position modulation. To facilitate pointing the 0.12-deg downlink beam, NODE augments spacecraft body pointing with a microelectromechanical fast steering mirror (FSM) and uses an 850-nm uplink beacon to an onboard CCD camera. The 30-cm aperture ground telescope uses an infrared camera and FSM for tracking to an avalanche photodiode detector-based receiver. Here, we describe our approach to transition prototype transmitter and receiver designs to a full end-to-end CubeSat-scale system. This includes link budget refinement, drive electronics miniaturization, packaging reduction, improvements to pointing and attitude estimation, implementation of modulation, coding, and interleaving, and ground station receiver design. We capture trades and technology development needs and outline plans for integrated system ground testing.

Robust Adaptive Beamforming with Sensor Position Errors Using Weighted Subspace Fitting-Based Covariance Matrix Reconstruction.

PubMed

Chen, Peng; Yang, Yixin; Wang, Yong; Ma, Yuanliang

2018-05-08

When sensor position errors exist, the performance of recently proposed interference-plus-noise covariance matrix (INCM)-based adaptive beamformers may be severely degraded. In this paper, we propose a weighted subspace fitting-based INCM reconstruction algorithm to overcome sensor displacement for linear arrays. By estimating the rough signal directions, we construct a novel possible mismatched steering vector (SV) set. We analyze the proximity of the signal subspace from the sample covariance matrix (SCM) and the space spanned by the possible mismatched SV set. After solving an iterative optimization problem, we reconstruct the INCM using the estimated sensor position errors. Then we estimate the SV of the desired signal by solving an optimization problem with the reconstructed INCM. The main advantage of the proposed algorithm is its robustness against SV mismatches dominated by unknown sensor position errors. Numerical examples show that even if the position errors are up to half of the assumed sensor spacing, the output signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio is only reduced by 4 dB. Beam patterns plotted using experiment data show that the interference suppression capability of the proposed beamformer outperforms other tested beamformers.

Preliminary measurements of the edge magnetic field pitch from 2-D Doppler backscattering in MAST and NSTX-U (invited)

DOE PAGES

Vann, R. G. L.; Brunner, K. J.; Ellis, R.; ...

2016-09-13

The Synthetic Aperture Microwave Imaging (SAMI) system is a novel diagnostic consisting of an array of 8 independently phased antennas. At any one time, SAMI operates at one of the 16 frequencies in the range 10-34.5 GHz. The imaging beam is steered in software post-shot to create a picture of the entire emission surface. In SAMI’s active probing mode of operation, the plasma edge is illuminated with a monochromatic source and SAMI reconstructs an image of the Doppler back-scattered (DBS) signal. By assuming that density fluctuations are extended along magnetic field lines, and knowing that the strongest back-scattered signals aremore » directed perpendicular to the density fluctuations, SAMI’s 2-D DBS imaging capability can be used to measure the pitch of the edge magnetic field. In this paper, we present preliminary pitch angle measurements obtained by SAMI on the Mega Amp Spherical Tokamak (MAST) at Culham Centre for Fusion Energy and on the National Spherical Torus Experiment Upgrade at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory. Lastly, the results demonstrate encouraging agreement between SAMI and other independent measurements.« less

Factors Affecting Relationships between the Contextual Variables and the Information Characteristics of Accounting Information Systems.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Choe, Jong-Min; Lee, Jinjoo

1993-01-01

Reports on a study of accounting information systems that explored the interactions among influence factors (e.g., user participation in the development process, top management support, capability of information systems personnel, and existence of steering committees), contextual variables (e.g., organizational structure and task characteristics),…

Out of Bounds: Innovation and Change in Law Enforcement Intelligence Analysis

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-03-01

Community capabilities for policy-level and operational consumers Out of Bounds: Innovation and Change in Law Enforcement Intelligence Analysis...31 4. What Works: Relationships and Sharing...will steer or fund these individuals into pursuing its goals.38 The growing need to understand the nature of low-level crime in relationship to terrorist

Development of the fast steering secondary mirror assembly of GMT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Sungho; Cho, Myung K.; Park, Chan; Han, Jeong-Yeol; Jeong, Ueejeong; Yoon, Yang-noh; Song, Je Heon; Park, Byeong-Gon; Dribusch, Christoph; Park, Won Hyun; Jun, Youra; Yang, Ho-Soon; Moon, Il-Kwon; Oh, Chang Jin; Kim, Ho-Sang; Lee, Kyoung-Don; Bernier, Robert; Alongi, Chris; Rakich, Andrew; Gardner, Paul; Dettmann, Lee; Rosenthal, Wylie

2016-07-01

The Giant Magellan Telescope (GMT) will be featured with two Gregorian secondary mirrors, an adaptive secondary mirror (ASM) and a fast-steering secondary mirror (FSM). The FSM has an effective diameter of 3.2 m and built as seven 1.1 m diameter circular segments, which are conjugated 1:1 to the seven 8.4m segments of the primary. Each FSM segment contains a tip-tilt capability for fine co-alignment of the telescope sub-apertures and fast guiding to attenuate telescope wind shake and mount control jitter. This tip-tilt capability thus enhances performance of the telescope in the seeing limited observation mode. As the first stage of the FSM development, Phase 0 study was conducted to develop a program plan detailing the design and manufacturing process for the seven FSM segments. The FSM development plan has been matured through an internal review by the GMTO-KASI team in May 2016 and fully assessed by an external review in June 2016. In this paper, we present the technical aspects of the FSM development plan.

Global harmonization of quality assurance naming conventions in radiation therapy clinical trials.

PubMed

Melidis, Christos; Bosch, Walther R; Izewska, Joanna; Fidarova, Elena; Zubizarreta, Eduardo; Ulin, Kenneth; Ishikura, Satoshi; Followill, David; Galvin, James; Haworth, Annette; Besuijen, Deidre; Clark, Catharine H; Clark, Clark H; Miles, Elizabeth; Aird, Edwin; Weber, Damien C; Hurkmans, Coen W; Verellen, Dirk

2014-12-01

To review the various radiation therapy quality assurance (RTQA) procedures used by the Global Clinical Trials RTQA Harmonization Group (GHG) steering committee members and present the harmonized RTQA naming conventions by amalgamating procedures with similar objectives. A survey of the GHG steering committee members' RTQA procedures, their goals, and naming conventions was conducted. The RTQA procedures were classified as baseline, preaccrual, and prospective/retrospective data capture and analysis. After all the procedures were accumulated and described, extensive discussions took place to come to harmonized RTQA procedures and names. The RTQA procedures implemented within a trial by the GHG steering committee members vary in quantity, timing, name, and compliance criteria. The procedures of each member are based on perceived chances of noncompliance, so that the quality of radiation therapy planning and treatment does not negatively influence the trial measured outcomes. A comparison of these procedures demonstrated similarities among the goals of the various methods, but the naming given to each differed. After thorough discussions, the GHG steering committee members amalgamated the 27 RTQA procedures to 10 harmonized ones with corresponding names: facility questionnaire, beam output audit, benchmark case, dummy run, complex treatment dosimetry check, virtual phantom, individual case review, review of patients' treatment records, and protocol compliance and dosimetry site visit. Harmonized RTQA harmonized naming conventions, which can be used in all future clinical trials involving radiation therapy, have been established. Harmonized procedures will facilitate future intergroup trial collaboration and help to ensure comparable RTQA between international trials, which enables meta-analyses and reduces RTQA workload for intergroup studies. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Numerical simulation of inducing characteristics of high energy electron beam plasma for aerodynamics applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deng, Yongfeng; Jiang, Jian; Han, Xianwei; Tan, Chang; Wei, Jianguo

2017-04-01

The problem of flow active control by low temperature plasma is considered to be one of the most flourishing fields of aerodynamics due to its practical advantages. Compared with other means, the electron beam plasma is a potential flow control method for large scale flow. In this paper, a computational fluid dynamics model coupled with a multi-fluid plasma model is established to investigate the aerodynamic characteristics induced by electron beam plasma. The results demonstrate that the electron beam strongly influences the flow properties, not only in the boundary layers, but also in the main flow. A weak shockwave is induced at the electron beam injection position and develops to the other side of the wind tunnel behind the beam. It brings additional energy into air, and the inducing characteristics are closely related to the beam power and increase nonlinearly with it. The injection angles also influence the flow properties to some extent. Based on this research, we demonstrate that the high energy electron beam air plasma has three attractive advantages in aerodynamic applications, i.e. the high energy density, wide action range and excellent action effect. Due to the rapid development of near space hypersonic vehicles and atmospheric fighters, by optimizing the parameters, the electron beam can be used as an alternative means in aerodynamic steering in these applications.

Ka-Band Multibeam Aperture Phased Array Being Developed

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reinhart, Richard C.; Kacpura, Thomas J.

2004-01-01

Phased-array antenna systems offer many advantages to low-Earth-orbiting satellite systems. Their large scan angles and multibeam capabilities allow for vibration-free, rapid beam scanning and graceful degradation operation for high rate downlink of data to users on the ground. Technology advancements continue to reduce the power, weight, and cost of these systems to make phased arrays a competitive alternative in comparison to the gimbled reflector system commonly used in science missions. One effort to reduce the cost of phased arrays is the development of a Ka-band multibeam aperture (MBA) phased array by Boeing Corporation under a contract jointly by the NASA Glenn Research Center and the Office of Naval Research. The objective is to develop and demonstrate a space-qualifiable dual-beam Ka-band (26.5-GHz) phased-array antenna. The goals are to advance the state of the art in Ka-band active phased-array antennas and to develop and demonstrate multibeam transmission technology compatible with spacecraft in low Earth orbit to reduce the cost of future missions by retiring certain development risks. The frequency chosen is suitable for space-to-space and space-to-ground communication links. The phased-array antenna has a radiation pattern designed by combining a set of individual radiating elements, optimized with the type of radiating elements used, their positions in space, and the amplitude and phase of the currents feeding the elements. This arrangement produces a directional radiation pattern that is proportional to the number of individual radiating elements. The arrays of interest here can scan the main beam electronically with a computerized algorithm. The antenna is constructed using electronic components with no mechanical parts, and the steering is performed electronically, without any resulting vibration. The speed of the scanning is limited primarily by the control electronics. The radiation performance degrades gracefully if a portion of the elements fail. The arrays can be constructed to conform to a mounting surface, and multibeam capability is integral to the design. However, there are challenges for mission designers using monolithic-microwave-integrated-circuit- (MMIC-) based arrays because of reduced power efficiency, higher costs, and certain system effects that result in link degradations. The multibeam aperture phased-array antenna development is attempting to address some of these issues, particularly manufacturing, costs, and system performance.

New receiving line for the remote-steering antenna of the 140 GHz CTS diagnostics in the FTU Tokamak

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

D'Arcangelo, O.; Bin, W.; Bruschi, A.; Cappelli, M.; Fanale, F.; Gittini, G.; Pallotta, F.; Rocchi, G.; Tudisco, O.; Garavaglia, S.; Granucci, G.; Moro, A.; Tuccillo, A. A.

2018-01-01

A new receiving antenna for collecting signals of the Collective Thomson Scattering (CTS) diagnostics in FTU Tokamak has been recently installed. The squared corrugated section and the precisely defined length make it possible to receive from different directions by remotely steering the receiving mirrors. This type of Remote-Steering (RS) antennas, being studied on FTU for the DEMO Electron Cyclotron Heating (ECH) system launch, is already installed on the W7- X stellarator and will be tested in the next campaign. The transmission of the signal from the antenna in the tokamak hall to the CTS diagnostics hall will be mainly realized by means of oversized circular corrugated waveguides carrying the hybrid HE11 (quasi-gaussian) waveguide mode, with inclusion of a special smooth-waveguide section and a short run of reduced-size square-corrugated waveguide through the tokamak bio-shield. The coupling between different waveguide types is made with ellipsoidal focusing mirrors, using quasi-optical matching formulas between the gaussian-shaped beams in input and output to the waveguides. In this work, after a complete study of feasibility of the overall line, a design for the receiving line will be proposed, in order to realize an executive layout to be used as a guideline for the commissioning phase.

Steering elastic SH waves in an anomalous way by metasurface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, Liyun; Yang, Zhichun; Xu, Yanlong

2018-03-01

Metasurface, which does not exist in nature, has exhibited exotic essence on the manipulation of both electromagnetic and acoustic waves. In this paper, the concept of metasurface is extended to the field of elastic SH waves, and the anomalous refractions of SH waves across the designed elastic SH wave metasurfaces (SHWMs) are demonstrated numerically. Firstly, a SHWM is designed with supercells, each supercell is composed of four subunits. It is demonstrated that this configuration has the ability of deflecting the vertical and oblique incident waves in an arbitrary desired direction. Then, a unique SHWM with supercell composed of only two subunits is designed. Numerical simulation shows its ability of splitting the vertical and oblique incident waves into two tunable transmitted wave beams, respectively. In the process of steering SH waves, it is also found that two kinds of leakages of transmitted waves across the designed SHWM will occur in some particular situations, which will affect the desired transmitted wave. The mechanisms of the leakages, which are different from that of the common high-order diffraction mentioned in existing literatures, are revealed. The current study can offer theoretical guidance not only for designing devices of directional ultrasonic detection and splitting SH waves but also for steering other kinds of classical waves.

Unsynchronized scanning with a low-cost laser range finder for real-time range imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hatipoglu, Isa; Nakhmani, Arie

2017-06-01

Range imaging plays an essential role in many fields: 3D modeling, robotics, heritage, agriculture, forestry, reverse engineering. One of the most popular range-measuring technologies is laser scanner due to its several advantages: long range, high precision, real-time measurement capabilities, and no dependence on lighting conditions. However, laser scanners are very costly. Their high cost prevents widespread use in applications. Due to the latest developments in technology, now, low-cost, reliable, faster, and light-weight 1D laser range finders (LRFs) are available. A low-cost 1D LRF with a scanning mechanism, providing the ability of laser beam steering for additional dimensions, enables to capture a depth map. In this work, we present an unsynchronized scanning with a low-cost LRF to decrease scanning period and reduce vibrations caused by stop-scan in synchronized scanning. Moreover, we developed an algorithm for alignment of unsynchronized raw data and proposed range image post-processing framework. The proposed technique enables to have a range imaging system for a fraction of the price of its counterparts. The results prove that the proposed method can fulfill the need for a low-cost laser scanning for range imaging for static environments because the most significant limitation of the method is the scanning period which is about 2 minutes for 55,000 range points (resolution of 250x220 image). In contrast, scanning the same image takes around 4 minutes in synchronized scanning. Once faster, longer range, and narrow beam LRFs are available, the methods proposed in this work can produce better results.

Holograms for acoustics.

PubMed

Melde, Kai; Mark, Andrew G; Qiu, Tian; Fischer, Peer

2016-09-22

Holographic techniques are fundamental to applications such as volumetric displays, high-density data storage and optical tweezers that require spatial control of intricate optical or acoustic fields within a three-dimensional volume. The basis of holography is spatial storage of the phase and/or amplitude profile of the desired wavefront in a manner that allows that wavefront to be reconstructed by interference when the hologram is illuminated with a suitable coherent source. Modern computer-generated holography skips the process of recording a hologram from a physical scene, and instead calculates the required phase profile before rendering it for reconstruction. In ultrasound applications, the phase profile is typically generated by discrete and independently driven ultrasound sources; however, these can only be used in small numbers, which limits the complexity or degrees of freedom that can be attained in the wavefront. Here we introduce monolithic acoustic holograms, which can reconstruct diffraction-limited acoustic pressure fields and thus arbitrary ultrasound beams. We use rapid fabrication to craft the holograms and achieve reconstruction degrees of freedom two orders of magnitude higher than commercial phased array sources. The technique is inexpensive, appropriate for both transmission and reflection elements, and scales well to higher information content, larger aperture size and higher power. The complex three-dimensional pressure and phase distributions produced by these acoustic holograms allow us to demonstrate new approaches to controlled ultrasonic manipulation of solids in water, and of liquids and solids in air. We expect that acoustic holograms will enable new capabilities in beam-steering and the contactless transfer of power, improve medical imaging, and drive new applications of ultrasound.

Needle path planning and steering in a three-dimensional non-static environment using two-dimensional ultrasound images

PubMed Central

Vrooijink, Gustaaf J.; Abayazid, Momen; Patil, Sachin; Alterovitz, Ron; Misra, Sarthak

2015-01-01

Needle insertion is commonly performed in minimally invasive medical procedures such as biopsy and radiation cancer treatment. During such procedures, accurate needle tip placement is critical for correct diagnosis or successful treatment. Accurate placement of the needle tip inside tissue is challenging, especially when the target moves and anatomical obstacles must be avoided. We develop a needle steering system capable of autonomously and accurately guiding a steerable needle using two-dimensional (2D) ultrasound images. The needle is steered to a moving target while avoiding moving obstacles in a three-dimensional (3D) non-static environment. Using a 2D ultrasound imaging device, our system accurately tracks the needle tip motion in 3D space in order to estimate the tip pose. The needle tip pose is used by a rapidly exploring random tree-based motion planner to compute a feasible needle path to the target. The motion planner is sufficiently fast such that replanning can be performed repeatedly in a closed-loop manner. This enables the system to correct for perturbations in needle motion, and movement in obstacle and target locations. Our needle steering experiments in a soft-tissue phantom achieves maximum targeting errors of 0.86 ± 0.35 mm (without obstacles) and 2.16 ± 0.88 mm (with a moving obstacle). PMID:26279600

Design and Analysis of Tow-Steered Composite Shells Using Fiber Placement

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wu, K. Chauncey

2008-01-01

In this study, a sub-scale advanced composite shell design is evaluated to determine its potential for use on a future aircraft fuselage. Two composite shells with the same nominal 8-ply [+/-45/+/-Theta](sub s) layup are evaluated, where Theta indicates a tow-steered ply. To build this shell, a fiber placement machine would be used to steer unidirectional prepreg tows as they are placed around the circumference of a 17-inch diameter right circular cylinder. The fiber orientation angle varies continuously from 10 degrees (with respect to the shell axis of revolution) at the crown, to 45 degrees on the side, and back to 10 degrees on the keel. All 24 tows are placed at each point on every fiber path in one structure designated as the shell with overlaps. The resulting pattern of tow overlaps causes the laminate thickness to vary between 8 and 16 plies. The second shell without tow overlaps uses the capability of the fiber placement machine to cut and add tows at any point along the fiber paths to fabricate a shell with a nearly uniform 8-ply laminate thickness. Issues encountered during the design and analysis of these shells are presented and discussed. Static stiffness and buckling loads of shells with tow-steered layups are compared with the performance of a baseline quasi-isotropic shell using both finite element analyses and classical strength of materials theory.

Experiment definition phase shuttle laboratory LDRL-10.6 experiment. [using a molniya satellite and ground communication links

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1975-01-01

The acquisition and tracking links of shuttle to molniya satellite and shuttle to ground are established. Link parameters and tolerance are analyzed. A 10-micromillimeter optomechanical subsystem brassboard model was designed and measured for optical properties and weight optimization. The design incorporates an afocal rotating Gregorian telescope in a two-gimbal berylium structure with beam steering control mechanisms. Parameters for both the optomechanical subsystem and spaceborne terminals are included.

Beamspace Multiple Input Multiple Output. Part II: Steerable Antennas in Mobile Ad Hoc Networks

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-09-01

to the transmitter with half the channel transfer function power , since the actual receiver dwells on each channel only half the time. Fourth diagram...steering in a wireless network to maximize signal power and minimize interference [8–10]. The ability to switch beams adds another diversity dimension to...channel transfer function power , since the actual receiver dwells on each channel only half the time. Fourth diagram: The transmit array sends four

A Method for Eliminating Beam Steering Error for the Modulated Absorption-Emission Thermometry Technique

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-01-01

broadened and merged. It is also suitable for environments where broadband emitters such as soot are present. Radiometric measurements in general can be...emitters such as soot are present. Radiometric measurements in general can be made with very high accuracy. The international temperature scale (ITS...by a fitting to a model. In the case of sooting flames, the emissivity is a result of the nearly black absorption and emission features of soot

The effect of a scanning flat fold mirror on a cosmic microwave background B-mode experiment.

PubMed

Grainger, William F; North, Chris E; Ade, Peter A R

2011-06-01

We investigate the possibility of using a flat-fold beam steering mirror for a cosmic microwave background B-mode experiment. An aluminium flat-fold mirror is found to add ∼0.075% polarization, which varies in a scan synchronous way. Time-domain simulations of a realistic scanning pattern are performed, and the effect on the power-spectrum illustrated, and a possible method of correction applied. © 2011 American Institute of Physics

Null steering of adaptive beamforming using linear constraint minimum variance assisted by particle swarm optimization, dynamic mutated artificial immune system, and gravitational search algorithm.

PubMed

Darzi, Soodabeh; Kiong, Tiong Sieh; Islam, Mohammad Tariqul; Ismail, Mahamod; Kibria, Salehin; Salem, Balasem

2014-01-01

Linear constraint minimum variance (LCMV) is one of the adaptive beamforming techniques that is commonly applied to cancel interfering signals and steer or produce a strong beam to the desired signal through its computed weight vectors. However, weights computed by LCMV usually are not able to form the radiation beam towards the target user precisely and not good enough to reduce the interference by placing null at the interference sources. It is difficult to improve and optimize the LCMV beamforming technique through conventional empirical approach. To provide a solution to this problem, artificial intelligence (AI) technique is explored in order to enhance the LCMV beamforming ability. In this paper, particle swarm optimization (PSO), dynamic mutated artificial immune system (DM-AIS), and gravitational search algorithm (GSA) are incorporated into the existing LCMV technique in order to improve the weights of LCMV. The simulation result demonstrates that received signal to interference and noise ratio (SINR) of target user can be significantly improved by the integration of PSO, DM-AIS, and GSA in LCMV through the suppression of interference in undesired direction. Furthermore, the proposed GSA can be applied as a more effective technique in LCMV beamforming optimization as compared to the PSO technique. The algorithms were implemented using Matlab program.

Null Steering of Adaptive Beamforming Using Linear Constraint Minimum Variance Assisted by Particle Swarm Optimization, Dynamic Mutated Artificial Immune System, and Gravitational Search Algorithm

PubMed Central

Sieh Kiong, Tiong; Tariqul Islam, Mohammad; Ismail, Mahamod; Salem, Balasem

2014-01-01

Linear constraint minimum variance (LCMV) is one of the adaptive beamforming techniques that is commonly applied to cancel interfering signals and steer or produce a strong beam to the desired signal through its computed weight vectors. However, weights computed by LCMV usually are not able to form the radiation beam towards the target user precisely and not good enough to reduce the interference by placing null at the interference sources. It is difficult to improve and optimize the LCMV beamforming technique through conventional empirical approach. To provide a solution to this problem, artificial intelligence (AI) technique is explored in order to enhance the LCMV beamforming ability. In this paper, particle swarm optimization (PSO), dynamic mutated artificial immune system (DM-AIS), and gravitational search algorithm (GSA) are incorporated into the existing LCMV technique in order to improve the weights of LCMV. The simulation result demonstrates that received signal to interference and noise ratio (SINR) of target user can be significantly improved by the integration of PSO, DM-AIS, and GSA in LCMV through the suppression of interference in undesired direction. Furthermore, the proposed GSA can be applied as a more effective technique in LCMV beamforming optimization as compared to the PSO technique. The algorithms were implemented using Matlab program. PMID:25147859

Vehicle antenna for the mobile satellite experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Peng, Sheng Y.; Chung, H. H.; Leggiere, D.; Foy, W.; Schaffner, G.; Nelson, J.; Pagels, W.; Vayner, M.; Faller, H. L.; Messer, L.

1988-01-01

A low profile, low cost, printed circuit, electronically steered, right hand circularly polarized phase array antenna system has been developed for the Mobile Satellite Experiment (MSAT-X) Program. The success of this antenna is based upon the development of a crossed-slot element array and detailed trade-off analyses for both the phased array and pointing system design. The optimized system provides higher gain at low elevation angles (20 degrees above the horizon) and broader frequency coverage (approximately 8 1/2 percent bandwidth) than is possible with a patch array. Detailed analysis showed that optimum performance could be achieved with a 19 element array of a triangular lattice geometry of 3.9 inch element spacing. This configuration has the effect of minimizing grating lobes at large scan angles plus it improves the intersatellite isolation. The array has an aperture 20 inches in diameter and is 0.75 inch thick overall, exclusive of the RF and power connector. The pointing system employs a hybrid approach that operates with both an external rate sensor and an internal error signal as a means of fine tuning the beam acquisition and track. Steering the beam is done electronically via 18, 3-bit diode phase shifters. A nineteenth phase shifter is not required as the center element serves as a reference only. Measured patterns and gain show that the array meets the stipulated performance specifications everywhere except at some low elevation angles.

Feasibility of Using Lateral Mode Coupling Method for a Large Scale Ultrasound Phased Array for Noninvasive Transcranial Therapy

PubMed Central

Song, Junho; Hynynen, Kullervo

2009-01-01

A hemispherical-focused, ultrasound phased array was designed and fabricated using 1372 cylindrical piezoelectric transducers that utilize lateral coupling for noninvasive transcranial therapy. The cylindrical transducers allowed the electrical impedance to be reduced by at least an order of magnitude, such that effective operation could be achieved without electronic matching circuits. In addition, the transducer elements generated the maximum acoustic average surface intensity of 27 W/cm2. The array, driven at the low (306 kHz) or high frequency (840 kHz), achieved excellent focusing through an ex vivo human skull and an adequate beam steering range for clinical brain treatments. It could electronically steer the ultrasound beam over cylindrical volumes of 100 mm in diameter and 60 mm in height at 306 kHz, and 30-mm in diameter and 30-mm in height at 840 kHz. A scanning laser vibrometer was used to investigate the radial and length mode vibrations of the element. The maximum pressure amplitudes through the skull at the geometric focus were predicted to be 5.5 MPa at 306 kHz and 3.7 MPa at 840 kHz for RF power of 1 W on each element. This is the first study demonstrating the feasibility of using cylindrical transducer elements and lateral coupling in construction of ultrasound phased arrays. PMID:19695987

Time-delayed directional beam phased array antenna

DOEpatents

Fund, Douglas Eugene; Cable, John William; Cecil, Tony Myron

2004-10-19

An antenna comprising a phased array of quadrifilar helix or other multifilar antenna elements and a time-delaying feed network adapted to feed the elements. The feed network can employ a plurality of coaxial cables that physically bridge a microstrip feed circuitry to feed power signals to the elements. The cables provide an incremental time delay which is related to their physical lengths, such that replacing cables having a first set of lengths with cables having a second set of lengths functions to change the time delay and shift or steer the antenna's main beam. Alternatively, the coaxial cables may be replaced with a programmable signal processor unit adapted to introduce the time delay using signal processing techniques applied to the power signals.

A novel robotic platform for laser-assisted transurethral surgery of the prostate.

PubMed

Russo, S; Dario, P; Menciassi, A

2015-02-01

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is the most common pathology afflicting ageing men. The gold standard for the surgical treatment of BPH is transurethral resection of the prostate. The laser-assisted transurethral surgical treatment of BPH is recently emerging as a valid clinical alternative. Despite this, there are still some issues that hinder the outcome of laser surgery, e.g., distal dexterity is strongly reduced by the current endoscopic instrumentation and contact between laser and prostatic tissue cannot be monitored and optimized. This paper presents a novel robotic platform for laser-assisted transurethral surgery of BPH. The system, designed to be compatible with the traditional endoscopic instrumentation, is composed of a catheter-like robot provided with a fiber optic-based sensing system and a cable-driven actuation mechanism. The sensing system allows contact monitoring between the laser and the hypertrophic tissue. The actuation mechanism allows steering of the laser fiber inside the prostatic urethra of the patient, when contact must be reached. The design of the proposed robotic platform along with its preliminary testing and evaluation is presented in this paper. The actuation mechanism is tested in in vitro experiments to prove laser steering performances according to the clinical requirements. The sensing system is calibrated in experiments aimed to evaluate the capability of discriminating the contact forces, between the laser tip and the prostatic tissue, from the pulling forces exerted on the cables, during laser steering. These results have been validated demonstrating the robot's capability of detecting sub-Newton contact forces even in combination with actuation.

Remote magnetic actuation using a clinical scale system

PubMed Central

Stehning, Christian; Gleich, Bernhard

2018-01-01

Remote magnetic manipulation is a powerful technique for controlling devices inside the human body. It enables actuation and locomotion of tethered and untethered objects without the need for a local power supply. In clinical applications, it is used for active steering of catheters in medical interventions such as cardiac ablation for arrhythmia treatment and for steering of camera pills in the gastro-intestinal tract for diagnostic video acquisition. For these applications, specialized clinical-scale field applicators have been developed, which are rather limited in terms of field strength and flexibility of field application. For a general-purpose field applicator, flexible field generation is required at high field strengths as well as high field gradients to enable the generation of both torques and forces on magnetic devices. To date, this requirement has only been met by small-scale experimental systems. We have built a highly versatile clinical-scale field applicator that enables the generation of strong magnetic fields as well as strong field gradients over a large workspace. We demonstrate the capabilities of this coil-based system by remote steering of magnetic drills through gel and tissue samples with high torques on well-defined curved trajectories. We also give initial proof that, when equipped with high frequency transmit-receive coils, the machine is capable of real-time magnetic particle imaging while retaining a clinical-scale bore size. Our findings open the door for image-guided radiation-free remote magnetic control of devices at the clinical scale, which may be useful in minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic medical interventions. PMID:29494647

Uncoordinated MAC for Adaptive Multi Beam Directional Networks: Analysis and Evaluation

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-08-01

control (MAC) policies for emerging systems that are equipped with fully digital antenna arrays which are capable of adaptive multi-beam directional...Adaptive Beam- forming, Multibeam, Directional Networking, Random Access, Smart Antennas I. INTRODUCTION Fully digital beamforming antenna arrays that...are capable of adaptive multi-beam communications are quickly becoming a reality. These antenna arrays allow users to form multiple simultaneous

Generation of electron Airy beams.

PubMed

Voloch-Bloch, Noa; Lereah, Yossi; Lilach, Yigal; Gover, Avraham; Arie, Ady

2013-02-21

Within the framework of quantum mechanics, a unique particle wave packet exists in the form of the Airy function. Its counterintuitive properties are revealed as it propagates in time or space: the quantum probability wave packet preserves its shape despite dispersion or diffraction and propagates along a parabolic caustic trajectory, even though no force is applied. This does not contradict Newton's laws of motion, because the wave packet centroid propagates along a straight line. Nearly 30 years later, this wave packet, known as an accelerating Airy beam, was realized in the optical domain; later it was generalized to an orthogonal and complete family of beams that propagate along parabolic trajectories, as well as to beams that propagate along arbitrary convex trajectories. Here we report the experimental generation and observation of the Airy beams of free electrons. These electron Airy beams were generated by diffraction of electrons through a nanoscale hologram, which imprinted on the electrons' wavefunction a cubic phase modulation in the transverse plane. The highest-intensity lobes of the generated beams indeed followed parabolic trajectories. We directly observed a non-spreading electron wavefunction that self-heals, restoring its original shape after passing an obstacle. This holographic generation of electron Airy beams opens up new avenues for steering electronic wave packets like their photonic counterparts, because the wave packets can be imprinted with arbitrary shapes or trajectories.

Antibacterial activity of four mouthrinses containing triclosan against salivary Staphylococcus aureus

PubMed Central

Tanomaru, Juliane Maria Guerreiro; Nascimento, Andresa Piacezzi; Watanabe, Evandro; Matoba-Júnior, Fumio; Tanomaru-Filho, Mário; Ito, Izabel Yoko

2008-01-01

The maximum inhibitory dilution (MID) of triclosan-based mouthwashes against 28 Staphylococcus aureus strains was evaluated. Dilutions ranging from 1/10 to 1/655,360 were prepared. Strains were inoculated using a Steers multipoint inoculator. The MID was considered as the maximum dilution capable of inhibiting microorganism growth. The mouthwashes presented different MIDs. PMID:24031267

Antibacterial activity of four mouthrinses containing triclosan against salivary Staphylococcus aureus.

PubMed

Tanomaru, Juliane Maria Guerreiro; Nascimento, Andresa Piacezzi; Watanabe, Evandro; Matoba-Júnior, Fumio; Tanomaru-Filho, Mário; Ito, Izabel Yoko

2008-07-01

The maximum inhibitory dilution (MID) of triclosan-based mouthwashes against 28 Staphylococcus aureus strains was evaluated. Dilutions ranging from 1/10 to 1/655,360 were prepared. Strains were inoculated using a Steers multipoint inoculator. The MID was considered as the maximum dilution capable of inhibiting microorganism growth. The mouthwashes presented different MIDs.

Advanced control of neutral beam injected power in DIII-D

DOE PAGES

Pawley, Carl J.; Crowley, Brendan J.; Pace, David C.; ...

2017-03-23

In the DIII-D tokamak, one of the most powerful techniques to control the density, temperature and plasma rotation is by eight independently modulated neutral beam sources with a total power of 20 MW. The rapid modulation requires a high degree of reproducibility and precise control of the ion source plasma and beam acceleration voltage. Recent changes have been made to the controls to provide a new capability to smoothly vary the beam current and beam voltage during a discharge, while maintaining the modulation capability. The ion source plasma inside the arc chamber is controlled through feedback from the Langmuir probesmore » measuring plasma density near the extraction end. To provide the new capability, the plasma control system (PCS) has been enabled to change the Langmuir probe set point and the beam voltage set point in real time. When the PCS varies the Langmuir set point, the plasma density is directly controlled in the arc chamber, thus changing the beam current (perveance) and power going into the tokamak. Alternately, the PCS can sweep the beam voltage set point by 20 kV or more and adjust the Langmuir probe setting to match, keeping the perveance constant and beam divergence at a minimum. This changes the beam power and average neutral particle energy, which changes deposition in the tokamak plasma. The ion separating magnetic field must accurately match the beam voltage to protect the beam line. To do this, the magnet current control accurately tracks the beam voltage set point. In conclusion, these new capabilities allow continuous in-shot variation of neutral beam ion energy to complement« less

New Cloud and Precipitation Research Avenues Enabled by low-cost Phased-array Radar Technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kollias, P.; Oue, M.; Fridlind, A. M.; Matsui, T.; McLaughlin, D. J.

2017-12-01

For over half a century, radars operating in a wide range of frequencies have been the primary source of observational insights of clouds and precipitation microphysics and dynamics and contributed to numerous significant advancements in the field of cloud and precipitation physics. The development of multi-wavelength and polarization diversity techniques has further strengthened the quality of microphysical and dynamical retrievals from radars and has assisted in overcoming some of the limitations imposed by the physics of scattering. Atmospheric radars have historically employed a mechanically-scanning dish antenna and their ability to point to, survey, and revisit specific points or regions in the atmosphere is limited by mechanical inertia. Electronically scanned, or phased-array, radars capable of high-speed, inertialess beam steering, have been available for several decades, but the cost of this technology has limited its use to military applications. During the last 10 years, lower power and lower-cost versions of electronically scanning radars have been developed, and this presents an attractive and affordable new tool for the atmospheric sciences. The operational and research communities are currently exploring phased array advantages in signal processing (i.e. beam multiplexing, improved clutter rejection, cross beam wind estimation, adaptive sensing) and science applications (i.e. tornadic storm morphology studies). Here, we will present some areas of atmospheric research where inertia-less radars with ability to provide rapid volume imaging offers the potential to advance cloud and precipitation research. We will discuss the added value of single phased-array radars as well as networks of these radars for several problems including: multi-Doppler wind retrieval techniques, cloud lifetime studies and aerosol-convection interactions. The performance of current (dish) and future (e-scan) radar systems for these atmospheric studies will be evaluated using numerical model output and a sophisticated radar simulator package.

Shaping plasmon beams via the controlled illumination of finite-size plasmonic crystals

PubMed Central

Bouillard, J.-S.; Segovia, P.; Dickson, W.; Wurtz, G. A.; Zayats, A. V.

2014-01-01

Plasmonic crystals provide many passive and active optical functionalities, including enhanced sensing, optical nonlinearities, light extraction from LEDs and coupling to and from subwavelength waveguides. Here we study, both experimentally and numerically, the coherent control of SPP beam excitation in finite size plasmonic crystals under focussed illumination. The correct combination of the illuminating spot size, its position relative to the plasmonic crystal, wavelength and polarisation enables the efficient shaping and directionality of SPP beam launching. We show that under strongly focussed illumination, the illuminated part of the crystal acts as an antenna, launching surface plasmon waves which are subsequently filtered by the surrounding periodic lattice. Changing the illumination conditions provides rich opportunities to engineer the SPP emission pattern. This offers an alternative technique to actively modulate and control plasmonic signals, either via micro- and nano-electromechanical switches or with electro- and all-optical beam steering which have direct implications for the development of new integrated nanophotonic devices, such as plasmonic couplers and switches and on-chip signal demultiplexing. This approach can be generalised to all kinds of surface waves, either for the coupling and discrimination of light in planar dielectric waveguides or the generation and control of non-diffractive SPP beams. PMID:25429786

Mesospheric gravity wave momentum flux estimation using hybrid Doppler interferometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Spargo, Andrew J.; Reid, Iain M.; MacKinnon, Andrew D.; Holdsworth, David A.

2017-06-01

Mesospheric gravity wave (GW) momentum flux estimates using data from multibeam Buckland Park MF radar (34.6° S, 138.5° E) experiments (conducted from July 1997 to June 1998) are presented. On transmission, five Doppler beams were symmetrically steered about the zenith (one zenith beam and four off-zenith beams in the cardinal directions). The received beams were analysed with hybrid Doppler interferometry (HDI) (Holdsworth and Reid, 1998), principally to determine the radial velocities of the effective scattering centres illuminated by the radar. The methodology of Thorsen et al. (1997), later re-introduced by Hocking (2005) and since extensively applied to meteor radar returns, was used to estimate components of Reynolds stress due to propagating GWs and/or turbulence in the radar resolution volume. Physically reasonable momentum flux estimates are derived from the Reynolds stress components, which are also verified using a simple radar model incorporating GW-induced wind perturbations. On the basis of these results, we recommend the intercomparison of momentum flux estimates between co-located meteor radars and vertical-beam interferometric MF radars. It is envisaged that such intercomparisons will assist with the clarification of recent concerns (e.g. Vincent et al., 2010) of the accuracy of the meteor radar technique.

Aligning the magnetic field of a linear induction accelerator with a low-energy electron beam

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Clark, J.C.; Deadrick, F.J.; Kallman, J.S.

1989-03-10

The Experimental Test Accelerator II (ETA-II) linear induction accelerator at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory uses a solenoid magnet in each acceleration cell to focus and transport an electron beam over the length of the accelerator. To control growth of the corkscrew mode the magnetic field must be precisely aligned over the full length of the accelerate. Concentric with each solenoid magnet is sine/cosmic-wound correction coil to steer the beam and correct field errors. A low-energy electron probe traces the central flux line through the accelerator referenced to a mechanical axis that is defined by a copropagating laser beam. Correction coilsmore » are activated to force the central flux line to cross the mechanical axis at the end of each acceleration cell. The ratios of correction coil currents determined by the low-energy electron probe are then kept fixed to correct for field errors during normal operation with an accelerated beam. We describe the construction of the low-energy electron probe and report the results of experiments we conducted to measure magnetic alignment with and without the correction coils activated. 5 refs., 3 figs.« less

Secure Network-Centric Aviation Communication (SNAC)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nelson, Paul H.; Muha, Mark A.; Sheehe, Charles J.

2017-01-01

The existing National Airspace System (NAS) communications capabilities are largely unsecured, are not designed for efficient use of spectrum and collectively are not capable of servicing the future needs of the NAS with the inclusion of new operators in Unmanned Aviation Systems (UAS) or On Demand Mobility (ODM). SNAC will provide a ubiquitous secure, network-based communications architecture that will provide new service capabilities and allow for the migration of current communications to SNAC over time. The necessary change in communication technologies to digital domains will allow for the adoption of security mechanisms, sharing of link technologies, large increase in spectrum utilization, new forms of resilience and redundancy and the possibly of spectrum reuse. SNAC consists of a long term open architectural approach with increasingly capable designs used to steer research and development and enable operating capabilities that run in parallel with current NAS systems.

Devices useful for vacuum ultraviolet beam characterization including a movable stage with a transmission grating and image detector

DOEpatents

Gessner, Oliver; Kornilov, Oleg A; Wilcox, Russell B

2013-10-29

The invention provides for a device comprising an apparatus comprising (a) a transmission grating capable of diffracting a photon beam into a diffracted photon output, and (b) an image detector capable of detecting the diffracted photon output. The device is useful for measuring the spatial profile and diffraction pattern of a photon beam, such as a vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) beam.

Compact SAR and Small Satellite Solutions for Earth Observation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

LaRosa, M.; L'Abbate, M.

2016-12-01

Requirements for near and short term mission applications (Observation and Reconnaissance, SIGINT, Early Warning, Meteorology,..) are increasingly calling for spacecraft operational responsiveness, flexible configuration, lower cost satellite constellations and flying formations, to improve both the temporal performance of observation systems (revisit, response time) and the remote sensing techniques (distributed sensors, arrays, cooperative sensors). In answer to these users' needs, leading actors in Space Systems for EO are involved in development of Small and Microsatellites solutions. Thales Alenia Space (TAS) has started the "COMPACT-SAR" project to develop a SAR satellite characterized by low cost and reduced mass while providing, at the same time, high image quality in terms of resolution, swath size, and radiometric performance. Compact SAR will embark a X-band SAR based on a deployable reflector antenna fed by an active phased array feed. This concept allows high performance, providing capability of electronic beam steering both in azimuth and elevation planes, improving operational performance over a purely mechanically steered SAR system. Instrument provides both STRIPMAP and SPOTLIGHT modes, and thanks to very high gain antenna, can also provide a real maritime surveillance mode based on a patented Low PRF radar mode. Further developments are in progress considering missions based on Microsatellites technology, which can provide effective solutions for different user needs, such as Operational responsiveness, low cost constellations, distributed observation concept, flying formations, and can be conceived for applications in the field of Observation, Atmosphere sensing, Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance (ISR), Signal Intelligence. To satisfy these requirements, flexibility of small platforms is a key driver and especially new miniaturization technologies able to optimize the performance. An overview new micros-satellite (based on NIMBUS platform) and mission concepts is provided, such as passive SAR for multi-static imaging and tandem, Medium swath/medium resolution dual pol MICROSAR for in L-C-X band multi-application for maritime surveillance and land monitoring, applications for Space Debris monitoring, precision farming, Atmosphere sensing.

Construction, alignment, and implementation of an acousto-optical deflector-based system for patterned uncaging with ultraviolet light.

PubMed

Civillico, Eugene F; Shoham, Shy; O'Connor, Daniel H; Sarkisov, Dmitry V; Wang, Samuel S-H

2012-08-01

The method of patterned photoactivation is a natural fit for the study of neuronal dendritic integration. Photoactivatable molecules that influence a wide range of extracellular and intracellular neurophysiological functions are available. The choice of photosensitive molecules depends on the research question and will influence the design of the experimental apparatus. An acousto-optical deflector (AOD)-based system can be used for rapid ultraviolet (UV) photolysis in arbitrary spatial and temporal patterns. Photolysis-activated "caged" diffusible molecules or newer light-sensitive membrane proteins can be used in this system. This protocol describes the addition of a UV beam for uncaging to a homebuilt two-photon microscope. The goal is to get UV light from the light source (laser) to the approximate center of the objective's back aperture, passing through a pair of perpendicularly oriented AODs along the way. The protocol also describes the fine alignment of the UV beam and the implementation of AOD-based beam steering. Performing the final alignment with the beam passing through the AODs will ensure that the system is optimized for the idiosyncrasies of the crystals.

Recent advances in automatic alignment system for the National Ignition Facility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wilhelmsen, Karl; Awwal, Abdul A. S.; Kalantar, Dan; Leach, Richard; Lowe-Webb, Roger; McGuigan, David; Miller Kamm, Vicki

2011-03-01

The automatic alignment system for the National Ignition Facility (NIF) is a large-scale parallel system that directs all 192 laser beams along the 300-m optical path to a 50-micron focus at target chamber in less than 50 minutes. The system automatically commands 9,000 stepping motors to adjust mirrors and other optics based upon images acquired from high-resolution digital cameras viewing beams at various locations. Forty-five control loops per beamline request image processing services running on a LINUX cluster to analyze these images of the beams and references, and automatically steer the beams toward the target. This paper discusses the upgrades to the NIF automatic alignment system to handle new alignment needs and evolving requirements as related to various types of experiments performed. As NIF becomes a continuously-operated system and more experiments are performed, performance monitoring is increasingly important for maintenance and commissioning work. Data, collected during operations, is analyzed for tuning of the laser and targeting maintenance work. Handling evolving alignment and maintenance needs is expected for the planned 30-year operational life of NIF.

A new deflection technique applied to an existing scheme of electrostatic accelerator for high energy neutral beam injection in fusion reactor devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pilan, N.; Antoni, V.; De Lorenzi, A.; Chitarin, G.; Veltri, P.; Sartori, E.

2016-02-01

A scheme of a neutral beam injector (NBI), based on electrostatic acceleration and magneto-static deflection of negative ions, is proposed and analyzed in terms of feasibility and performance. The scheme is based on the deflection of a high energy (2 MeV) and high current (some tens of amperes) negative ion beam by a large magnetic deflector placed between the Beam Source (BS) and the neutralizer. This scheme has the potential of solving two key issues, which at present limit the applicability of a NBI to a fusion reactor: the maximum achievable acceleration voltage and the direct exposure of the BS to the flux of neutrons and radiation coming from the fusion reactor. In order to solve these two issues, a magnetic deflector is proposed to screen the BS from direct exposure to radiation and neutrons so that the voltage insulation between the electrostatic accelerator and the grounded vessel can be enhanced by using compressed SF6 instead of vacuum so that the negative ions can be accelerated at energies higher than 1 MeV. By solving the beam transport with different magnetic deflector properties, an optimum scheme has been found which is shown to be effective to guarantee both the steering effect and the beam aiming.

A new deflection technique applied to an existing scheme of electrostatic accelerator for high energy neutral beam injection in fusion reactor devices.

PubMed

Pilan, N; Antoni, V; De Lorenzi, A; Chitarin, G; Veltri, P; Sartori, E

2016-02-01

A scheme of a neutral beam injector (NBI), based on electrostatic acceleration and magneto-static deflection of negative ions, is proposed and analyzed in terms of feasibility and performance. The scheme is based on the deflection of a high energy (2 MeV) and high current (some tens of amperes) negative ion beam by a large magnetic deflector placed between the Beam Source (BS) and the neutralizer. This scheme has the potential of solving two key issues, which at present limit the applicability of a NBI to a fusion reactor: the maximum achievable acceleration voltage and the direct exposure of the BS to the flux of neutrons and radiation coming from the fusion reactor. In order to solve these two issues, a magnetic deflector is proposed to screen the BS from direct exposure to radiation and neutrons so that the voltage insulation between the electrostatic accelerator and the grounded vessel can be enhanced by using compressed SF6 instead of vacuum so that the negative ions can be accelerated at energies higher than 1 MeV. By solving the beam transport with different magnetic deflector properties, an optimum scheme has been found which is shown to be effective to guarantee both the steering effect and the beam aiming.

SweepSAR: Beam-forming on Receive Using a Reflector-Phased Array Feed Combination for Spaceborne SAR

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Freeman, A.; Krieger, G.; Rosen, P.; Younis, M.; Johnson, W. T. K.; Huber, S.; Jordan, R.; Moreira, A.

2012-01-01

In this paper, an alternative approach is described that is suited for longer wavelength SARs in particular, employing a large, deployable reflector antenna and a much simpler phased array feed. To illuminate a wide swath, a substantial fraction of the phased array feed is excited on transmit to sub-illuminate the reflector. Shorter transmit pulses are required than for conventional SAR. On receive, a much smaller portion of the phased array feed is used to collect the return echo, so that a greater portion of the reflector antenna area is used. The locus of the portion of the phased array used on receive is adjusted using an analog beam steering network, to 'sweep' the receive beam(s) across the illuminated swath, tracking the return echo. This is similar in some respects to the whiskbroom approach to optical sensors, hence the name: SweepSAR.SweepSAR has advantages over conventional SAR in that it requires less transmit power, and if the receive beam is narrow enough, it is relatively immune to range ambiguities. Compared to direct radiating arrays with digital beam- forming, it is much simpler to implement, uses currently available technologies, is better suited for longer wavelength systems, and does not require extremely high data rates or onboard processing.

Enhancement and Suppression of Transmission in 3-D Nanoslits Arrays with 1- and 2-D Periodicities

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-01-01

Technologies Group, 410 Jan Davis Dr., Huntsville, AL 35806 M. Scalora Charles M. Bowden Research Center AMSRD-AMR-WS-ST, RDECOM, Redstone Arsenal... Scalora , M., “Second harmonic generation from nanoslits in metal substrates: applications to palladium-based H2 sensor,” J. Nanophotonics 2, 021851 (2008...5] Vincenti, M.A., D’Orazio, A., Buncick, M., Akozbek, N., Bloemer, M.J. and Scalora , M., "Beam steering from resonant sub-wavelength slits

Rugged Walking Robot

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Larimer, Stanley J.; Lisec, Thomas R.; Spiessbach, Andrew J.

1990-01-01

Proposed walking-beam robot simpler and more rugged than articulated-leg walkers. Requires less data processing, and uses power more efficiently. Includes pair of tripods, one nested in other. Inner tripod holds power supplies, communication equipment, computers, instrumentation, sampling arms, and articulated sensor turrets. Outer tripod holds mast on which antennas for communication with remote control site and video cameras for viewing local and distant terrain mounted. Propels itself by raising, translating, and lowering tripods in alternation. Steers itself by rotating raised tripod on turntable.

Sparse aperiodic arrays for optical beam forming and LIDAR.

PubMed

Komljenovic, Tin; Helkey, Roger; Coldren, Larry; Bowers, John E

2017-02-06

We analyze optical phased arrays with aperiodic pitch and element-to-element spacing greater than one wavelength at channel counts exceeding hundreds of elements. We optimize the spacing between waveguides for highest side-mode suppression providing grating lobe free steering in full visible space while preserving the narrow beamwidth. Optimum waveguide placement strategies are derived and design guidelines for sparse (> 1.5 λ and > 3 λ average element spacing) optical phased arrays are given. Scaling to larger array areas by means of tiling is considered.

Electronically steerable millimeter wave antenna techniques for space shuttle applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kummer, W. H.

1975-01-01

A large multi-function antenna aperture and related components are described which will perform electronic steering of one or more beams for two of the three applications envisioned: (1) communications, (2) radar, and (3) radiometry. The array consists of a 6-meter folded antenna that fits into two pallets. The communications frequencies are 20 and 30 GHz, while the radar is to operate at 13.9 GHz. Weight, prime power, and volumes are given parametrically; antenna designs, electronics configurations, and mechanical design were studied.

Laser speckle reduction due to spatial and angular diversity introduced by fast scanning micromirror.

PubMed

Akram, M Nadeem; Tong, Zhaomin; Ouyang, Guangmin; Chen, Xuyuan; Kartashov, Vladimir

2010-06-10

We utilize spatial and angular diversity to achieve speckle reduction in laser illumination. Both free-space and imaging geometry configurations are considered. A fast two-dimensional scanning micromirror is employed to steer the laser beam. A simple experimental setup is built to demonstrate the application of our technique in a two-dimensional laser picture projection. Experimental results show that the speckle contrast factor can be reduced down to 5% within the integration time of the detector.

Recent Upgrades and Extensions of the ASDEX Upgrade ECRH System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wagner, Dietmar; Stober, Jörg; Leuterer, Fritz; Monaco, Francesco; Münich, Max; Schmid-Lorch, Dominik; Schütz, Harald; Zohm, Hartmut; Thumm, Manfred; Scherer, Theo; Meier, Andreas; Gantenbein, Gerd; Flamm, Jens; Kasparek, Walter; Höhnle, Hendrik; Lechte, Carsten; Litvak, Alexander G.; Denisov, Gregory G.; Chirkov, Alexey; Popov, Leonid G.; Nichiporenko, Vadim O.; Myasnikov, Vadim E.; Tai, Evgeny M.; Solyanova, Elena A.; Malygin, Sergey A.

2011-03-01

The multi-frequency Electron Cyclotron Heating (ECRH) system at the ASDEX Upgrade tokamak employs depressed collector gyrotrons, step-tunable in the range 105-140 GHz. The system is equipped with a fast steerable launcher allowing for remote steering of the ECRH RF beam during the plasma discharge. The gyrotrons and the mirrors are fully integrated in the discharge control system. The polarization can be controlled in a feed-forward mode. 3 Sniffer probes for millimeter wave stray radiation detection have been installed.

Research and development of an electron beam focusing system for a high-brightness X-ray generator.

PubMed

Sakai, Takeshi; Ohsawa, Satoshi; Sakabe, Noriyoshi; Sugimura, Takashi; Ikeda, Mitsuo

2011-01-01

A new type of rotating anticathode X-ray generator, where an electron beam of up to 60 keV irradiates the inner surface of a U-shaped Cu anticathode, has achieved a beam brilliance of 130 kW mm(-2) (at 2.3 kW). A higher-flux electron beam is expected from simulation by optimizing the geometry of a combined-function-type magnet instead of the fringing field of the bending magnet. In order to minimize the size of the X-ray source the electron beam has been focused over a short distance by a new combined-function bending magnet, whose geometrical shape was determined by simulation using the Opera-3D, General Particle Tracer and CST-STUDIO codes. The result of the simulation clearly shows that the role of combined functions in both the bending and the steering magnets is important for focusing the beam to a small size. FWHM sizes of the beam are predicted by simulation to be 0.45 mm (horizontal) and 0.05 mm (vertical) for a 120 keV/75 mA beam, of which the effective brilliance is about 500 kW mm(-2) on the supposition of a two-dimensional Gaussian distribution. High-power tests have begun using a high-voltage 120 kV/75 mA power supply for the X-ray generator instead of 60 kV/100 mA. The beam focus size on the target will be verified in the experiments.

Global Harmonization of Quality Assurance Naming Conventions in Radiation Therapy Clinical Trials

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Melidis, Christos, E-mail: christos.melidis@eortc.be; Bosch, Walther R.; Izewska, Joanna

2014-12-01

Purpose: To review the various radiation therapy quality assurance (RTQA) procedures used by the Global Clinical Trials RTQA Harmonization Group (GHG) steering committee members and present the harmonized RTQA naming conventions by amalgamating procedures with similar objectives. Methods and Materials: A survey of the GHG steering committee members' RTQA procedures, their goals, and naming conventions was conducted. The RTQA procedures were classified as baseline, preaccrual, and prospective/retrospective data capture and analysis. After all the procedures were accumulated and described, extensive discussions took place to come to harmonized RTQA procedures and names. Results: The RTQA procedures implemented within a trial by themore » GHG steering committee members vary in quantity, timing, name, and compliance criteria. The procedures of each member are based on perceived chances of noncompliance, so that the quality of radiation therapy planning and treatment does not negatively influence the trial measured outcomes. A comparison of these procedures demonstrated similarities among the goals of the various methods, but the naming given to each differed. After thorough discussions, the GHG steering committee members amalgamated the 27 RTQA procedures to 10 harmonized ones with corresponding names: facility questionnaire, beam output audit, benchmark case, dummy run, complex treatment dosimetry check, virtual phantom, individual case review, review of patients' treatment records, and protocol compliance and dosimetry site visit. Conclusions: Harmonized RTQA harmonized naming conventions, which can be used in all future clinical trials involving radiation therapy, have been established. Harmonized procedures will facilitate future intergroup trial collaboration and help to ensure comparable RTQA between international trials, which enables meta-analyses and reduces RTQA workload for intergroup studies.« less

High-energy laser activities at MBDA Germany

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mohring, Bernd; Dietrich, Stephan; Tassini, Leonardo; Protz, Rudolf; Geidek, Franz; Zoz, Jürgen

2013-05-01

At MBDA Germany a concept for a high-energy laser weapon system is investigated, which is based on existing industrial laser sources. Due to the enormous progress in the field of high-power fiber lasers, commercial industrial fiber lasers are now available delivering a nearly-diffraction limited beam quality with power levels of up to 10 kW. By using a geometric beam coupling scheme, a number of individual high-power fiber laser beams are combined together using one common beam director telescope. A total laser beam power of more than 100 kW can be achieved, which is sufficient for an operational laser weapon system. The individual beams from the different lasers are steered by servo-loops using fast tip-tilt mirrors. This principle enables the concentration of the total laser beam power at one common focal point on a distant target, also allowing fine tracking of target movements and first-order compensation of turbulence effects on laser beam propagation. The proposed beam combination concept was demonstrated by using different experimental set-ups. A number of experiments were performed successfully to investigate laser beam target interaction and target fine tracking, also at large distances and at moving targets. Content and results of these investigations are reported, which demonstrate the complete engagement sequence for a C-RAM scenario. This includes subsequent steps of target acquisition by radar and IR optics, followed by large angle coarse tracking, active fine tracking and destruction of the target by the laser system. This successful implementation of geometric beam combining is an important step for the realization of a laser weapon system in the near future.

OAM-labeled free-space optical flow routing.

PubMed

Gao, Shecheng; Lei, Ting; Li, Yangjin; Yuan, Yangsheng; Xie, Zhenwei; Li, Zhaohui; Yuan, Xiaocong

2016-09-19

Space-division multiplexing allows unprecedented scaling of bandwidth density for optical communication. Routing spatial channels among transmission ports is critical for future scalable optical network, however, there is still no characteristic parameter to label the overlapped optical carriers. Here we propose a free-space optical flow routing (OFR) scheme by using optical orbital angular moment (OAM) states to label optical flows and simultaneously steer each flow according to their OAM states. With an OAM multiplexer and a reconfigurable OAM demultiplexer, massive individual optical flows can be routed to the demanded optical ports. In the routing process, the OAM beams act as data carriers at the same time their topological charges act as each carrier's labels. Using this scheme, we experimentally demonstrate switching, multicasting and filtering network functions by simultaneously steer 10 input optical flows on demand to 10 output ports. The demonstration of data-carrying OFR with nonreturn-to-zero signals shows that this process enables synchronous processing of massive spatial channels and flexible optical network.

Light refocusing with up-scalable resonant waveguide gratings in confocal prolate spheroid arrangements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Quaranta, Giorgio; Basset, Guillaume; Benes, Zdenek; Martin, Olivier J. F.; Gallinet, Benjamin

2018-01-01

Resonant waveguide gratings (RWGs) are thin-film structures, where coupled modes interfere with the diffracted incoming wave and produce strong angular and spectral filtering. The combination of two finite-length and impedance matched RWGs allows the creation of a passive beam steering element, which is compatible with up-scalable fabrication processes. Here, we propose a design method to create large patterns of such elements able to filter, steer, and focus the light from one point source to another. The method is based on ellipsoidal mirrors to choose a system of confocal prolate spheroids where the two focal points are the source point and observation point, respectively. It allows finding the proper orientation and position of each RWG element of the pattern, such that the phase is constructively preserved at the observation point. The design techniques presented here could be implemented in a variety of systems, where large-scale patterns are needed, such as optical security, multifocal or monochromatic lenses, biosensors, and see-through optical combiners for near-eye displays.

Optical resonators for true-time-delay beam steering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gesell, Leslie H.; Evanko, Stephen M.

1996-06-01

Conventional true time delay beamforming and steering devices rely on switching between various lengths of delay line. Therefore only discrete delays are possible. Proposed is a new photonics concept for true time delay beamforming which provides a finely controlled continuum of delays with switching speeds on the order of 10's of nanoseconds or faster. The architecture uses an array of waveguide cavities with different resonate frequencies to channelize the signal. Each spectral component of the signal is phase shifted by an amount proportional to the frequency of that component and the desired time delay. These phase shifted spectral components are then summed to obtain the delayed signal. This paper provides an overview of the results of a Phase I SBIR contract where this concept has been refined and analyzed. The parameters for an operational system are determined and indication of the feasibility of this approach is given. Among the issues addressed are the requirements of the resonators and the methods necessary to implement fiber optic Bragg gratings as these resonators.

Three-Dimensional Microwave Hyperthermia for Breast Cancer Treatment in a Realistic Environment Using Particle Swarm Optimization.

PubMed

Nguyen, Phong Thanh; Abbosh, Amin; Crozier, Stuart

2017-06-01

In this paper, a technique for noninvasive microwave hyperthermia treatment for breast cancer is presented. In the proposed technique, microwave hyperthermia of patient-specific breast models is implemented using a three-dimensional (3-D) antenna array based on differential beam-steering subarrays to locally raise the temperature of the tumor to therapeutic values while keeping healthy tissue at normal body temperature. This approach is realized by optimizing the excitations (phases and amplitudes) of the antenna elements using the global optimization method particle swarm optimization. The antennae excitation phases are optimized to maximize the power at the tumor, whereas the amplitudes are optimized to accomplish the required temperature at the tumor. During the optimization, the technique ensures that no hotspots exist in healthy tissue. To implement the technique, a combination of linked electromagnetic and thermal analyses using MATLAB and the full-wave electromagnetic simulator is conducted. The technique is tested at 4.2 GHz, which is a compromise between the required power penetration and focusing, in a realistic simulation environment, which is built using a 3-D antenna array of 4 × 6 unidirectional antenna elements. The presented results on very dense 3-D breast models, which have the realistic dielectric and thermal properties, validate the capability of the proposed technique in focusing power at the exact location and volume of tumor even in the challenging cases where tumors are embedded in glands. Moreover, the models indicate the capability of the technique in dealing with tumors at different on- and off-axis locations within the breast with high efficiency in using the microwave power.