Conformal load-bearing antenna structures (CLAS): initiative for multiple military and commercial applications

Allen J. Lockyer; Kevin H. Alt; Jayanth N. Kudva; Robert W. Kinslow; Allan C. Goetz

doi:10.1117/12.276607

19 June 1997 Conformal load-bearing antenna structures (CLAS): initiative for multiple military and commercial applications

Allen J. Lockyer, Kevin H. Alt, Jayanth N. Kudva, Robert W. Kinslow, Allan C. Goetz

Author Affiliations +

Proceedings Volume 3046, Smart Structures and Materials 1997: Smart Electronics and MEMS; (1997) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.276607
Event: Smart Structures and Materials '97, 1997, San Diego, CA, United States

Abstract

The Structures Division of the Air Force's Wright Laboratory is sponsoring the development and demonstration of a new high pay-off technology termed CLAS--Conformal Load Bearing Antenna Structures. Northrop Grumman Corporation and TRW/ASD are developing the technology under the `Smart-Skin Structure Technology Demonstration (S³D)' program, contract, No. F33615-93-C-3200. The program goal is to design, develop, fabricate, and test a CLAS component and lay the foundation for future work where potential benefits from structurally integrated antennas may be realized. Key issues will focus but are not limited to the design, structures, and manufacturing aspects of antenna embedment into load bearing aircraft structures. Results from Phase 1 of the program have been previously reported, where initial pay-offs in reducing overall airframe acquisition and support cost, weight, signature, and drag were quantitatively and qualitatively identified. A full-sized CLAS component, featuring a broadband multi-arm spiral embedded in sandwich stiffened structure, will be fabricated and tested for static strength, durability, and damage tolerance. Basic electrical performance, (e.g., radiation patterns, gain, and impedance) will also be verified; however, extensive electrical validation will be the subject of further work. Key aspects of the work and progress to date are detailed below. Also covered are future projections of CLAS technology expansion beyond tactical aircraft into other military products highlighting ships, army vehicles, and `spin-off' commercial applications to civil aircraft and the automotive industry.

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Allen J. Lockyer, Kevin H. Alt, Jayanth N. Kudva, Robert W. Kinslow, and Allan C. Goetz "Conformal load-bearing antenna structures (CLAS): initiative for multiple military and commercial applications", Proc. SPIE 3046, Smart Structures and Materials 1997: Smart Electronics and MEMS, (19 June 1997); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.276607

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