Conference Publication Details
Mandatory Fields
Kim, Jinkee; Riza, Nabeel A.
Proceedings of SPIE, 2754, Advances in Optical Information Processing VII; Aerospace/Defense Sensing and Controls
Fiber Array Optical Coupling Design Issues for Photonic Beamformers
1996
April
Published
1
()
Optional Fields
Fiber arrays Optical coupling Optical loss Phased array antennas GRIN lenses Phased arrays Optical alignment Fiber optics Microlens array Cylindrical lenses Etching
271
282
Orlando, Florida, USA
Novel two-dimensional (2-D) optical polarization switching array-based photonic time delay units (PTDUs) have been introduced for phased array antenna and wideband signal processing applications. The use of low loss optical fibers allows remoting of the photonic beamformer, along with providing a compact, lightweight, and low electromagnetic interference (EMI) microwave frequency signal interconnection and distribution method, such as needed for very large aperture wide instantaneous bandwidth phased array antennas/radars. However, there are losses associated with multiple fiber interconnects that limit the maximum number of array channels in these systems. Thus, accurate analysis of such losses is crucial to the design of an optimal photonic fiber-based system. In this paper, we present theoretical design and simulation results on optical fiber array interconnects for our 2-D N bit M channel photonic beamformer for wideband phased array antennas. In addition, we discuss an alignment technique for the large channel count fiber arrays proposed for our beamformer that uses V-grooved silicon wafers. Note that these precise V- groove structures are fabricated via crystallographic perfection of the substrate, accurate alignment of the etch pattern with respect to the crystal planes, and optimized etch conditions. This paper discusses these and other fiber array issues.
10.1117/12.243136
Grant Details