SBIR-STTR Award

A new generation of position sensors is proposed that will enable dramatic improvements in the performance of fast steering mirrors for both space and airborne platforms. Sensors with resolution of 1 part in 38,000,000 or better and 16 bit accuracy are feasible. This represents a factor of 5 to 10 improvement in jitter suppression relative to the current state-of-the-art for space-qualified hardware. These objectives are achievable with this new generation of signal conditioning electronics. Blue Line proposes to bring this technology to Technology Readiness Level of 8 by the end of Phase II. The result will be a functional building block that may be used with several types of sensors including both differential and single-ended position sensors, a new class of rotary position sensors, and edge sensors for segmented mirror telescopes. These products in turn will directly enable both commercial and government applications for more advanced mechanisms such as beam steering mirrors for high precision lead ahead pointing, new gimbal designs, platform stabilization systems, large segmented relay mirrors, self-sensing linear actuators and a host of unforeseen new opto-mechanical systems. This technology could prove especially important to the success of Airborne Infrared (ABIR) and Precision Tracking Space System (PTSS).

Keywords:
Fsm Position Sensors, Radiation Tolerant, Space Qualified, Jitter Suppression, 24 Bit Adc, Fpga, Analog Signal Detection Ic

This Phase II SBIR will create a new generation of position sensors with unprecedented performance in terms of dynamic range, accuracy, data rates and latency. Dramatic improvements in the performance of optical beam control systems for high precision pointing, tracking and lead-ahead targeting will follow. Jitter in line-of-sight image stabilization systems can be reduced by a factor of 20 relative to current state-of-the-art sensors. Phase II will include the full development of key component technologies. This includes the following: a radiation tolerant design for a custom IC for signal detection; a radiation tolerant 24 bit ADC hybrid circuit; implementation of a new self-sensing temperature compensation method; new algorithms for linearity error correction; and new approaches to self-calibration at the next assembly level. The system will be packaged in a small flight grade module with SpaceWire interface. It requires only a standard 28 VDC power supply. Two versions will be offered: a lower cost airborne version; and a radiation tolerant system designed to meet Level 1 quality requirements for space-based applications. By the end of Phase II the technology will be available at TRL 8. A flight-grade unit will be built and subjected to qualification level performance and environmental tests.

Keywords:
Position Sensors, Rotary Sensors, Radiation Tolerant, Space Qualified, Airborne, High Accuracy, High Resolution, 24 Bit Adc