Abstract
Advanced optical stealth technology is increasingly important in the role of aircraft platforms whether manned (e.g. F117A) or unmanned (e.g. X47B Pegasus). Here we consider the concept validity of using low power passive reflective display elements rather than high power active projection to achieve the same result. This paper presents practical consideration towards minimal radiated power, and power requirements using adaptive passive methods. Prism-coupling as a means of probing thin liquid crystal layers to obtain information on optical tensor parameters is possible using the Kraetschmann-Raether configuration. Leaky liquid crystal cells composed of a glass/ITO/aligning layer/liquid crystal/aligning layer/ITO/glass multi-layer structure support guided modes. Optical reflectivity as a function of incident angle and applied voltage are compared with theory generated from a Fresnel matrix formalism. Reflectivities are then simulated across an aircraft platform to evaluate the method for low power consumption and minimal radiated optical radiation.
DOI
10.1117/12.2585165
Publication Date
2020-11-08
Event
SPIE Future Sensing Technologies, 9-13 November 2020
Publication Title
PROCEEDINGS VOLUME 11525
Publisher
SPIE
ISSN
0277-786X
Embargo Period
2024-11-22
Recommended Citation
Lavers, C., & Johnson, R. (2020) 'Experimental modelling with theoretical validation of liquid crystal display elements for UAV optimal (optical) stealth', PROCEEDINGS VOLUME 11525, . SPIE: Available at: https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2585165
