SBIR-STTR Award

As the usage of directed energy systems has risen, the technology behind Fast-Steering Mirrors (FSMs) has become more and more advanced. However, the high level of complexity required for these devices to operate in the highly dynamic environments in which they are deployed has resulted in the development of extremely high-cost systems. Adsys Controls is building upon established low-cost FSM designs in order to produce an affordable FSM that maintains excellent performance metrics. Structural, electrical, optical, and control enhancements will improve the systems performance in extreme operation environments, allowing it to maintain high bandwidth in the presence of broadband disturbances. The development of high-bandwidth, low-cost FSM will lend itself to the expansion of directed energy systems as well as ranging and sensing platforms.Beam Control,fast steering mirror,FSM,Laser,directed energy,beam stabilization,Pointing,low-cost FSM

Fast steering mirrors (FSMs) have become a critical element to meet the demanding performance needs required by high energy laser weapons. Stringent requirements for precision pointing, high power laser handling capability, optical surface figure, high bandwidth, and stressing operating conditions have driven advancements in FSM technology. However, the high level of complexity required for these devices has resulted in extremely high-cost systems. All the while, commercial FSMs are available at significantly reduced costs, albeit with an inability to operate in the high vibration environments required for military systems. During the Phase I program, Adsys Controls performed a preliminary design for a low-cost high performance FSM based on commercial technology. During the Phase II program, the FSM and digital controller design will be completed and a prototype will be manufactured. The device will be tested to validate the design and performance under objective environmental conditions.