Advanced Optical Beam Forming Networks for Broadband Phased Array Antenna Systems

Description of research

In the framework of a new, large national project (MEMPHIS) the TE group will design and test novel large scale integrated optical beamforming systems. Within this project a single-chip, silica-based optical beam former component will be developed that employs true time delay ring resonators. By tuning these resonators, a continuously adjustable broadband time delay can be obtained. To achieve low-cost multi-signal-path beam-forming technology, WDM signal path multiplexing will be employed. In this way multiple signal paths can be handled by just a single beamforming element, which reduces system complexity and cost. In addition to these component architecture investigations, beam former control and signal path research will be performed as well. In this work issues like optimal signal-to-noise-ratio, sideband and carrier suppression, filtering, multibeaming and matrix switching will be addressed.

The research assignment will include aspects such as large scale optical beamforming network design for RF phased array antenna systems, system analysis, testing and optimization of technology, and design. In cooperation with other university groups, companies and institutes, the true time delay device platform has to be integrated with the laser devices, high-frequency modulators and feedback units, followed by beam steering tests in combination with state-of-the-art antenna elements.

Advisor(s)

Dr. Ir. C. G. H. Roeloffzen

Duration

1^st July 2008 – 1^st July 2012

Project

SmartMix-MEMPHIS (Merging Electronics and Micro & Nano Photonics in Integrated Systems)

Sponsor

Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs

Strategic Research Orientation

DSN - Dependable Systems and Networks

Links to relevant web pages:

-	Homepage PhD: http://www.el.utwente.nl/te/personnel/burla.htm

-	Homepage chair: http://www.el.utwente.nl/te/personnel/leferink.htm

-	Homepage project: http://www.smartmix-memphis.nl/

-	Homepage CTIT SRO: http://www.ctit.utwente.nl/research/sro/dsn/

Pictures

Phased array antenna for radio astronomy: optical beamforming in the antenna tile

OBFN chips in TriPleX^TM technology

OBFN chip mounted on substrate with optical fibers and electronic control