Arbitrary Electromagnetic Signal Generation Using Nonlinear Materials
Researchers at Montana State University and S2 Corporation have developed a patented method to generate precision-shaped RF and optical waveforms using nonlinear materials and advanced signal predistortion.
Status: Available for Non-Exclusive Licensing
Technology Overview
This patented technology enables precisely shaped electromagnetic waveforms — optical or RF — by applying carefully engineered amplitude and phase modulation to an input signal before it passes through a nonlinear material. The system uses advanced mathematical techniques, including pre-distortion and waveform correction, to compensate for the nonlinear effects, resulting in a high-fidelity output waveform that matches the target shape, even when harmonics or frequency shifts are involved.
By shifting the complexity into a predistortion stage, the approach makes it possible to generate clean, high-speed signals using widely available nonlinear media such as periodically-poled crystals and waveguides. This reduces the need for bulky post-processing hardware and streamlines integration into modern photonic and RF platforms
Applications
- Coherent FMCW Laser Radar
- Secure RF transmission & adaptive radar
- Quantum sensing & atomic interferometry
- Nonlinear frequency conversion
- High-speed fiber-optic transceivers
Benefits
- High-fidelity waveform generation with minimal distortion
- Works with second- and third-order nonlinear materials
- Reduces hardware complexity and system cost
- Compatible with existing photonic & RF platforms
- Scalable for high-speed, high-bandwidth use
Opportunity
Developed by Montana State University and S2 Corporation, this innovation is protected under U.S. Patent No. 11,150,536 and is available for commercial, non-exclusive licensing and integration into advanced communication and sensing systems.
Contact
Tess Kirkpatrick
(406) 994-7775