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Frequency agile THz detectors for multiplicative mixing

Award Information
Agency: Department of Defense
Branch: Air Force
Contract: FA9550-10-C-0177
Agency Tracking Number: F08B-T26-0241
Amount: $100,000.00
Phase: Phase II
Program: STTR
Solicitation Topic Code: AF08-BT26
Solicitation Number: 2008.B
Timeline
Solicitation Year: 2008
Award Year: 2010
Award Start Date (Proposal Award Date): 2010-09-30
Award End Date (Contract End Date): 2011-09-29
Small Business Information
825 S. Myrtle Ave.
Monrovia, CA 91016
United States
DUNS: 195754056
HUBZone Owned: No
Woman Owned: No
Socially and Economically Disadvantaged: No
Principal Investigator
 Ravi Verma
 Senior Scientist
 (626) 471-9700
 ravi.verma@tanner.com
Business Contact
 Kevin Dinniene
Title: Director
Phone: (626) 471-9778
Email: kevin@tanner.com
Research Institution
 University of Calif. Santa Barbara
 University of Calif. Sant
 
Institute for Terahertz Tech.
Santa Barbara, CA 93106
United States

 (805) 893-8809
 Nonprofit College or University
Abstract

ABSTRACT: A system that operates at room temperature and that could scan for concealed weapons from standoff distances of >10 m would be a tremendous asset for US military homeland security personnel worldwide. THz imaging can, potentially, be used for this application, but it requires the development of a new class of THz detectors whereby the signal to noise ratios are improved significantly. Tanner Research is proposing the use of multiplicative mixing THz detectors for this purpose. In Phase I, we demonstrated an initial class of prototype devices that are consistent with such multiplicative mixers, and we documented the potential benefits of such devices as ca. 40 to 70 dBs. In Phase II, we will demonstrate such multiplicative mixing THz detectors, and also demonstrate the metrics associated with it’s use. At the end of the Phase II project, we will have mitigated all risk elements associated with the science, and will be in a position to initiate a commercialization effort. BENEFIT: A standoff THz imaging system capable of detecting concealed weapons and explosives from a standoff distance of >10 m would significantly enhance the capabilities of US personnel around the world. Specifically, in Afghanistan, the IED remains the insurgents’ weapon of choice, and the proposed system would significantly reduce the potency of IEDs.

* Information listed above is at the time of submission. *

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