This project investigated a paradigm shift to develop cost effective network solutions for combat system interconnections. The optical fiber and Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM)-based approach was intended to simplify the number of cables and cable types and reduce cable, hardware and life-cycle (installation, maintenance, upgrade) costs. The paradigm shift is supported by a Business Case Analysis (BCA), based on existing system requirements and cable diagrams, demonstrating significant cost savings. This project used the cost model developed under the 2016 Panel Project, “Paradigm for Optical Networks in Ships: Flexible Communications Infrastructure.”
The project team showed, for cabling in each of five subsystems, that technology required for implementation is mature, and the cost for acquisition, maintenance, and upgrade is significantly reduced using the WDM and fusion splicing concepts.
Request Final Report from NSRP– Distribution Releasable to U.S. Shipyards
Overview
Project Team:
- Penn State Applied Research Laboratory- Electro- Optics Center
- Perspectra Labs
- Ingalls Shipbuilding
2018
NSRP ASE Investment:$150K