SBIR/STTR Award attributes
To address the Navy’s need for manned-unmanned directional mesh enhanced tactical airborne networks, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop an Airborne Directional Mesh Network (ADINET) system, based on a new design that utilizes a unique integration of routing algorithms, cross-layer framework, and hybrid digital/analog beamforming technology. Specifically, the innovation in the optimization of spectrum allocation, cross-layer routing, transmit power management, the real-time reconfigurable radio framework, analog beamforming, and digital precoding will enable ADINET to form manned-unmanned directional ad-hoc mesh networks that are self-healing, self-reconfigurable, and backwards compatible with legacy networks like the Common Data Link (CDL) and Multifunction Advanced Data Link (MADL). Therefore, this system offers the capability to exchange video, metadata, and voice throughout the network. ADINET directly addresses the acquisition program requirements to provide a long-range, survivable, digital interoperability network bridge, and communications relay and data management capabilities. In Phase I, POC will demonstrate the feasibility of ADINET by developing conceptual approaches to manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) directional mesh networking, and identify the preferred approach through modeling, simulation, and analysis. In Phase II, POC plans to mature ADINET into a readily usable system at technology readiness level (TRL)-5 and to prepare for integration into the Navy’s tactical systems.
