Automated Radome Dielectric Sensor Navy SBIR FY2012.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2012.1 Topic No.: N121-073 Topic Title: Automated Radome Dielectric Sensor Proposal No.: N121-073-0457 Firm: Physical Sciences Inc. 20 New England Business Center Andover, Massachusetts 01810-1077 Contact: David Cook Phone: (925) 743-1110 Web Site: http://www.psicorp.com Abstract: PSI proposes to develop a Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE) system for missile radomes based on time-domain THz technology. The proposed NDE system will identify defects that can lead to failure during flight through signatures in the time-domain THz waveform. Furthermore, the spatially localized THz measurement will provide a map of the THz dielectric properties of the radome. This map will be extrapolated to the microwave frequencies used by the seeker, thus allowing arbitrary radome-seeker pairings and reducing the cost of radome manufacturing and maintenance. In the proposed Phase I effort, PSI will characterize the THz dielectric properties of coupons of radome materials. PSI will then use laser machining to generate simulated defects the radome material coupons and characterize these defects using a time domain THz apparatus. These experimental results will be used to define the requirements of the Phase II prototype apparatus, and a preliminary system level design will be completed. The Phase I effort will provide the foundation for a successful Phase II program resulting in a prototype NDE apparatus capable of scanning a radome with THz radiation and providing data that can be used to map the dielectric constant of the radome and identify and locate defects. Benefits: This program will generate a sensor capable of measuring defects in missile radomes and mapping the dielectric properties of the radome. The map of the dielectric properties can then be used for radome calibration, reducing or eliminating the need for radome-seeker calibration on a test range. Furthermore, combining the dielectric characterization with the NDE measurements for structural integrity will lead to a further reduction in costs and manufacturing time. Commercial applications of the proposed technology include coating process control, basic research in the physical sciences, and inspection of historical artwork and documents. Return