Current operations and promising R&D areas
Botlikh Radio Plant, OOO has set up series production of telecommunication devices – routers and switches to be used in state-of-the-art high-speed data networks.
Another newly launched project plans to set up the production of metal powders designed for additive manufacturing of parts via 3D printing. Since this product has high export potential, the company has applied for participation in the development of the Russian Industrial Zone in the Arab Republic of Egypt (the Suez Canal Special Economic Zone).
In the field of dual-use technologies, Botlikh Radio Plant, OOO cooperates with the ERA Technopolis – the company is a member of the technology park (Anapa) where it is developing a project to create high-speed digital tropospheric communication lines.
Botlikh Radio Plant, OOO is a member of the Microwave Technology Platform and the Aviation Mobility and Aviation Technology Platform.
Botlikh Radio Plant, OOO is actively involved in the search for and development of new technology solutions. The company is currently working on several research and development projects as set forth in Table 1 below.
No.
R&D Title
R&D Description
1
Ultra-wideband Microwave Transceiver Modules Based on RF-photonic Components
Application areaThe proposed modules make it possible to create relatively simple and compact antenna stations (AS) located around the perimeter of an aircraft and exchanging signals with the central station (CS) via lightweight fiber optic cable. The CS can be deployed in a relatively comfortable location inside the fuselage without worrying much about size limitations, which means that such a CS will be able to accommodate a more powerful device for processing the signals it receives.
Current project stageThe company has carried out R&D work as part of its overall effort under Activity 1.3 as per the Federal Targeted Program (FTP) entitled “Research and Development in High-Priority Growth Areas for The Science and Technology Sector of Russia, 2014–2020.” The outcome of this work were experimental specimens of RF-photonic communication lines operating at frequencies of up to 12 GHz. The system is composed of three functional units: DAC/ADC units, which are responsible for conditioning the microwave signal and implementing the data transfer protocol; transceiver modules based on RF-photonic components, which facilitate duplex operation of the system; and an antenna array, which performs the scanning across the main lobe of the radiation pattern.
Cross-cutting technology as per the National Technology Initiative (NTI)Wireless communication technology solutions
2
A LiFi-based Wireless Data Transfer Module
Application areaThe proposed module will make it possible to create standalone wireless access points to be used to connect to the Internet without creating any additional EM radiation burden in the microwave range. Two-way data transmission will be organized using LED lighting devices with the help of LiFi technology. LiFi technology is capable of transmitting information at high speeds using LED lighting. Its operating principle is based on binary-code modulation of the light flux coming from a special LED source.
Current project stageAs part of a dedicated research initiative, the company has designed, manufactured, and tested a transceiver module designated for laboratory use and capable of providing two-way wireless communications using LiFi technology. The transmit/receive channel is implemented as a modulator circuit complete with a modem; it is in charge of converting a digital signal into a signal sequence following the required encoding pattern. The modulator circuit and the modem have similar dimensions, and the overall dimensions of the client device are: 55 x 85 x 30 mm.
Cross-cutting technology as per the National Technology Initiative (NTI)Wireless communication technology solutions
3
A Hardware and Software System Used for Establishing a High-speed Wireless Channel for Communications with Airborne Vehicles
Application areaThe system is designed to establish high-speed communication channels that would support the transfer of large volumes of data (i. e. video channels) in real time. It can be used to facilitate the air-to-ground transfer of data captured during in-flight research and testing operations by unmanned aerial vehicles as well as airborne instrumentation and control stations.
Current project stageAs part of a dedicated R&D initiative, the company has developed a suite of wideband digital communication solutions designed to carry signals between an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and a ground station (GS) at speeds of up to 40 Mbps to distances of up to 160 km (subject always to direct visibility).
The suite includes the following items:- A transceiver module, x2;- A GS-end antenna complete with a rotary support device;- A UAV-end antenna;- The transceiver also supports an Ethernet interface used for payload connectivity.
Additional transceiver features:- Enhanced data transmission secrecy enabled by the direct-sequence spread spectrum technique;- An option to transmit signals according to a pseudorandom frequency-hopping pattern.
Cross-cutting technology as per the National Technology Initiative (NTI)Wireless communication technology solutions
4
An Ultra-wideband Scanner Designed for Electromagnetic Testing of Devices
Application areaThe scanner can be used to examine and test high-frequency and microwave systems of on-board equipment and their electromagnetic compatibility. It can analyze how signal propagates from switched-mode power supply units, measure the spurious radiation coming from printed circuit boards, analyze induced noise, etc.
Current project stageAs part of a dedicated research initiative, the company has designed a scanner covering the frequency range between 1 MHz and 12 GHz and developed a methodology for processing the measurement results. The scanner’s operating principle is based on the detection of short-range EM fields created by the currents in the device being tested.
Cross-cutting technology as per the National Technology Initiative (NTI)Wireless communication technology solutions
5
Development and Creation of Electromechanically-controlled Beam-scanning Phased Antenna Arrays Designed to Provide Satellite Communications Connectivity for Moving Objects
Application area
The proposed antenna systems are low-profile bi-directional mobile satellite antennas designed to exchange data in motion. The mobile satellite system is equipped with GPS functionality and a gyroscopic tracking system that makes it possible to find the satellite quickly (in less than 3 minutes) and accurately in fully automatic mode. High directivity performance enables the system to receive data from and transmit data to the satellite at speeds greater than 10 mb/s.
Current project stageAs part of several dedicated R&D projects, the company has developed prototype specimens of electrically-controlled beam-scanning phased antenna arrays supporting a frequency range of up to 30 GHz.
Cross-cutting technology as per the National Technology Initiative (NTI)Wireless communication technology solutions
6
A Technique for Non-contact Monitoring of High-speed Vibration Processes
Application areaThe proposed technique can be used for non-contact monitoring of vibrations (achieved by registering mechanical displacements) occurring in objects with natural resonance frequencies of up to 100 MHz as well as for creating sensors that enable the construction of ‘digital twins.’
Current project stageAs part of a dedicated R&D effort (commissioned by Power Machines, OAO), the company has developed a prototype specimen of a non-contact mechanical displacement sensor that will act as a probe in sensors used on high-temperature high-permittivity microwave ceramics. It ensures stable functioning of the latter sensors in harsh high-temperature environments and makes it possible to reduce the frequency of the microwave pilot to 5–6 GHz, thus enabling the use of cheap microwave components. Thanks to the signal processing algorithms developed for this solution, it can deliver displacement measurements with an accuracy as low as 10 μm.
Cross-cutting technology as per the National Technology Initiative (NTI)Robotics and sensorics
7
A Resonant Wireless Power Transmission System
Application areaThe resonant wireless power transmission system is designed to deliver non-contact power supply to on-board equipment and to enable wireless recharging of unmanned aerial vehicles.Wireless energy transfer is made possible by utilizing the electromagnetic induction phenomenon occurring between two resonant circuits (one transmitting and one receiving) using magnetic resonance technology at a frequency of 6.78 MHz, which is approved for such uses. The system is characterized by high efficiency and provides a high degree of freedom in how the object being charged can be oriented in space thanks to the use of adaptive circuits with non-linear capacitive elements.
Current project stageWorking under a grant from the Innovation Support Foundation, the company has carried out R&D work in the course of which it developed and manufactured a prototype specimen of the system. Based on the test results obtained (according to which the prototype was able to wirelessly transmit a power of 10 W to a distance of 10 cm), it can be asserted that an outcome where the power transmission level will reach 120 W and the efficiency will exceed 85 % is quite attainable.
Cross-cutting technology as per the National Technology Initiative (NTI)Unmanned aerial vehicles
8
Scanning Antenna-based Long-range Radars for Motor Vehicles
Application areaThe innovative basis of the project is the use of electrically-controlled lens-type antennas based on non-linear dielectric materials. The simple design and low cost of production of the radar system being developed will allow the marketers to position these products both in the end-consumer segment, as an autonomous emergency prevention system, and in the domestic automotive segment, as part of active car safety systems.
Current project stageWorking under a grant from the Innovation Support Foundation, the company has carried out R&D work in the course of which it developed and manufactured a prototype of the radar system as well as developed software that will be used to process the data received.
Cross-cutting technology as per the National Technology Initiative (NTI)Robotics and sensorics
9
Electrically Reconfigurable Microwave Filters using Bulk Acoustic Waves
Application areaSome of the latest RF front-end solutions being developed today for the mobile phone market are attempting to integrate more and more frequency bands and operating modes, while minimizing power consumption and footprint. An integral part of such solutions is a bank of microwave filters, usually based on thin-film bulk acoustic wave (BAW) resonators, whose job is to perform the selection of input/output frequencies of the microwave signal.Modern BAW resonators operating at microwave frequencies are multilayer thin-film structures, each of which usually contains one piezoelectric layer (AlN, ZnO). The working frequency of such resonators is determined by their structural thickness and the elastic properties of their layers and hardly ever lends itself to electrical controls. The development of BAW resonators with electrically controllable resonance frequency is a challenging problem, whose solution can bring about significant improvements in modern filter devices and microwave systems.
Current project stageIn the course of the research, the company has created a suite of scientific and technical solutions working toward the development of a technology for creating electrically reconfigurable microwave filter components based on bulk acoustic waves and designed for use in new-generation smart telecommunications systems. What has been accomplished so far is the development of laboratory specimens of reconfigurable microwave BAW resonators.
Cross-cutting technology as per the National Technology Initiative (NTI)Wireless communication technology solutions
Botlikh Radio Plant, OOO has set up series production of telecommunication devices – routers and switches to be used in state-of-the-art high-speed data networks.
Another newly launched project plans to set up the production of metal powders designed for additive manufacturing of parts via 3D printing. Since this product has high export potential, the company has applied for participation in the development of the Russian Industrial Zone in the Arab Republic of Egypt (the Suez Canal Special Economic Zone).
In the field of dual-use technologies, Botlikh Radio Plant, OOO cooperates with the ERA Technopolis – the company is a member of the technology park (Anapa) where it is developing a project to create high-speed digital tropospheric communication lines.
Botlikh Radio Plant, OOO is a member of the Microwave Technology Platform and the Aviation Mobility and Aviation Technology Platform.
Botlikh Radio Plant, OOO is actively involved in the search for and development of new technology solutions. The company is currently working on several research and development projects as set forth in Table 1 below.
| No. | R&D Title | R&D Description |
| 1 | Ultra-wideband Microwave Transceiver Modules Based on RF-photonic Components |
Application area The proposed modules make it possible to create relatively simple and compact antenna stations (AS) located around the perimeter of an aircraft and exchanging signals with the central station (CS) via lightweight fiber optic cable. The CS can be deployed in a relatively comfortable location inside the fuselage without worrying much about size limitations, which means that such a CS will be able to accommodate a more powerful device for processing the signals it receives. Current project stage The company has carried out R&D work as part of its overall effort under Activity 1.3 as per the Federal Targeted Program (FTP) entitled “Research and Development in High-Priority Growth Areas for The Science and Technology Sector of Russia, 2014–2020.” The outcome of this work were experimental specimens of RF-photonic communication lines operating at frequencies of up to 12 GHz. The system is composed of three functional units: DAC/ADC units, which are responsible for conditioning the microwave signal and implementing the data transfer protocol; transceiver modules based on RF-photonic components, which facilitate duplex operation of the system; and an antenna array, which performs the scanning across the main lobe of the radiation pattern. Cross-cutting technology as per the National Technology Initiative (NTI) Wireless communication technology solutions |
| 2 | A LiFi-based Wireless Data Transfer Module | Application area The proposed module will make it possible to create standalone wireless access points to be used to connect to the Internet without creating any additional EM radiation burden in the microwave range. Two-way data transmission will be organized using LED lighting devices with the help of LiFi technology. LiFi technology is capable of transmitting information at high speeds using LED lighting. Its operating principle is based on binary-code modulation of the light flux coming from a special LED source. Current project stage As part of a dedicated research initiative, the company has designed, manufactured, and tested a transceiver module designated for laboratory use and capable of providing two-way wireless communications using LiFi technology. The transmit/receive channel is implemented as a modulator circuit complete with a modem; it is in charge of converting a digital signal into a signal sequence following the required encoding pattern. The modulator circuit and the modem have similar dimensions, and the overall dimensions of the client device are: 55 x 85 x 30 mm. Cross-cutting technology as per the National Technology Initiative (NTI) Wireless communication technology solutions |
| 3 | A Hardware and Software System Used for Establishing a High-speed Wireless Channel for Communications with Airborne Vehicles | Application area The system is designed to establish high-speed communication channels that would support the transfer of large volumes of data (i. e. video channels) in real time. It can be used to facilitate the air-to-ground transfer of data captured during in-flight research and testing operations by unmanned aerial vehicles as well as airborne instrumentation and control stations. Current project stage As part of a dedicated R&D initiative, the company has developed a suite of wideband digital communication solutions designed to carry signals between an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and a ground station (GS) at speeds of up to 40 Mbps to distances of up to 160 km (subject always to direct visibility). The suite includes the following items: - A transceiver module, x2; - A GS-end antenna complete with a rotary support device; - A UAV-end antenna; - The transceiver also supports an Ethernet interface used for payload connectivity. Additional transceiver features: - Enhanced data transmission secrecy enabled by the direct-sequence spread spectrum technique; - An option to transmit signals according to a pseudorandom frequency-hopping pattern. Cross-cutting technology as per the National Technology Initiative (NTI) Wireless communication technology solutions |
| 4 | An Ultra-wideband Scanner Designed for Electromagnetic Testing of Devices | Application area The scanner can be used to examine and test high-frequency and microwave systems of on-board equipment and their electromagnetic compatibility. It can analyze how signal propagates from switched-mode power supply units, measure the spurious radiation coming from printed circuit boards, analyze induced noise, etc. Current project stage As part of a dedicated research initiative, the company has designed a scanner covering the frequency range between 1 MHz and 12 GHz and developed a methodology for processing the measurement results. The scanner’s operating principle is based on the detection of short-range EM fields created by the currents in the device being tested. Cross-cutting technology as per the National Technology Initiative (NTI) Wireless communication technology solutions |
| 5 | Development and Creation of Electromechanically-controlled Beam-scanning Phased Antenna Arrays Designed to Provide Satellite Communications Connectivity for Moving Objects | Application area The proposed antenna systems are low-profile bi-directional mobile satellite antennas designed to exchange data in motion. The mobile satellite system is equipped with GPS functionality and a gyroscopic tracking system that makes it possible to find the satellite quickly (in less than 3 minutes) and accurately in fully automatic mode. High directivity performance enables the system to receive data from and transmit data to the satellite at speeds greater than 10 mb/s. Current project stage As part of several dedicated R&D projects, the company has developed prototype specimens of electrically-controlled beam-scanning phased antenna arrays supporting a frequency range of up to 30 GHz. Cross-cutting technology as per the National Technology Initiative (NTI) Wireless communication technology solutions |
| 6 | A Technique for Non-contact Monitoring of High-speed Vibration Processes |
Application area The proposed technique can be used for non-contact monitoring of vibrations (achieved by registering mechanical displacements) occurring in objects with natural resonance frequencies of up to 100 MHz as well as for creating sensors that enable the construction of ‘digital twins.’ Current project stage As part of a dedicated R&D effort (commissioned by Power Machines, OAO), the company has developed a prototype specimen of a non-contact mechanical displacement sensor that will act as a probe in sensors used on high-temperature high-permittivity microwave ceramics. It ensures stable functioning of the latter sensors in harsh high-temperature environments and makes it possible to reduce the frequency of the microwave pilot to 5–6 GHz, thus enabling the use of cheap microwave components. Thanks to the signal processing algorithms developed for this solution, it can deliver displacement measurements with an accuracy as low as 10 μm. Cross-cutting technology as per the National Technology Initiative (NTI) Robotics and sensorics |
| 7 | A Resonant Wireless Power Transmission System | Application area The resonant wireless power transmission system is designed to deliver non-contact power supply to on-board equipment and to enable wireless recharging of unmanned aerial vehicles. Wireless energy transfer is made possible by utilizing the electromagnetic induction phenomenon occurring between two resonant circuits (one transmitting and one receiving) using magnetic resonance technology at a frequency of 6.78 MHz, which is approved for such uses. The system is characterized by high efficiency and provides a high degree of freedom in how the object being charged can be oriented in space thanks to the use of adaptive circuits with non-linear capacitive elements. Current project stage Working under a grant from the Innovation Support Foundation, the company has carried out R&D work in the course of which it developed and manufactured a prototype specimen of the system. Based on the test results obtained (according to which the prototype was able to wirelessly transmit a power of 10 W to a distance of 10 cm), it can be asserted that an outcome where the power transmission level will reach 120 W and the efficiency will exceed 85 % is quite attainable. Cross-cutting technology as per the National Technology Initiative (NTI) Unmanned aerial vehicles |
| 8 | Scanning Antenna-based Long-range Radars for Motor Vehicles | Application area The innovative basis of the project is the use of electrically-controlled lens-type antennas based on non-linear dielectric materials. The simple design and low cost of production of the radar system being developed will allow the marketers to position these products both in the end-consumer segment, as an autonomous emergency prevention system, and in the domestic automotive segment, as part of active car safety systems. Current project stage Working under a grant from the Innovation Support Foundation, the company has carried out R&D work in the course of which it developed and manufactured a prototype of the radar system as well as developed software that will be used to process the data received. Cross-cutting technology as per the National Technology Initiative (NTI) Robotics and sensorics |
| 9 | Electrically Reconfigurable Microwave Filters using Bulk Acoustic Waves | Application area Some of the latest RF front-end solutions being developed today for the mobile phone market are attempting to integrate more and more frequency bands and operating modes, while minimizing power consumption and footprint. An integral part of such solutions is a bank of microwave filters, usually based on thin-film bulk acoustic wave (BAW) resonators, whose job is to perform the selection of input/output frequencies of the microwave signal. Modern BAW resonators operating at microwave frequencies are multilayer thin-film structures, each of which usually contains one piezoelectric layer (AlN, ZnO). The working frequency of such resonators is determined by their structural thickness and the elastic properties of their layers and hardly ever lends itself to electrical controls. The development of BAW resonators with electrically controllable resonance frequency is a challenging problem, whose solution can bring about significant improvements in modern filter devices and microwave systems. Current project stage In the course of the research, the company has created a suite of scientific and technical solutions working toward the development of a technology for creating electrically reconfigurable microwave filter components based on bulk acoustic waves and designed for use in new-generation smart telecommunications systems. What has been accomplished so far is the development of laboratory specimens of reconfigurable microwave BAW resonators. Cross-cutting technology as per the National Technology Initiative (NTI) Wireless communication technology solutions |