Minimum-time optimization of in-situ antenna performance Navy SBIR FY2012.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2012.1 Topic No.: N121-015 Topic Title: Minimum-time optimization of in-situ antenna performance Proposal No.: N121-015-0867 Firm: Mathematical Systems & Solutions, Inc. 685 Busch Garden Dr. Pasadena, California 91105 Contact: Luke Voss Phone: (818) 248-2142 Abstract: We propose development of a software package which, based on use of accurate and efficient exact-physics computational electromagnetics (CEM) solvers together with a combination of automated and interactive optimization tools, will enable optimization of the properties of on-platform mounted-antenna systems-and, when possible, recovery of original free-space antenna characteristics. For accuracy and modeling flexibility the proposed codes combine the fast, high-order frequency- and time-domain algorithms put recently by our team-which can accurately and efficiently resolve both low- and high-frequency behavior while accounting for scattering, transmission and absorption by metallic, dielectric and magnetic components. These solvers have provided some of the most efficient PDE solution methods in existence: in some cases, our algorithms are up to one-thousand times faster, for a given accuracy, than some of the best alternative solvers. Our overall approach to in-situ antenna optimization, in turn, relies on a combination of classical gradient-based optimization methods (applied to parameters defining geometrical shapes) and a new "path-following" technique, in which optimal antenna shapes and mountings are produced incrementally, as secondary structures (gimbal, secondary antennae, airframe, radome, electronics, etc) are subsequently introduced. Benefits: Our effort will produce a software solution for users of simulation tools for which the limitations implicit in existing solvers represent a significant handicap. These include the military, (Navy, Navy, and Army) as well as commercial concerns (air-framers, space research agencies, remote sensing and medical imaging developers, etc). Thus, there is a significant market for the proposed improved innovative solutions in high-tech industry, and in pursuing the present project MathSys Inc. seeks to cater to that need. The PDE software needs of large high-tech companies, government labs and DoD (such as Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, NASA, DoD agencies, etc.) are massive. MathSys Inc. is well positioned to cater to the needs of such entities, and has open ties at key levels of such organizations. We are certain that the successful completion of the development effort described in this text will find manifold uses and it will generate significant business opportunities for our company. Return