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DoD SBIR FY01.1 - SOLICITATION SELECTIONS w/ ABSTRACTS Navy - Air Force - DARPA - BMDO - DTRA - SOCOM - CBD - NIMA |
| APPLIED MATERIAL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
2302 S. Fairview Street Santa Ana, CA 92704 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(714) 545-8825
Mr. William E. Davis NAVY 01-001 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced Packaging Technology for Trident Missile Systems |
| Abstract: | This SBIR proposal is for the development of innovative packaging of radiation hardened electronics in support of Strategic Missile Guidance System upgrades for sea launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs). The Navy Strategic Systems Programs has authorized Life extensions for the Trident Fleet Ballistic Missile Submarines Hull and Missile systems and hence there is significant interest in utilizing all advancements in technology that are available. The Navy has authorized a 20 year extension to the life of the Trident System providing a total life of 42 years; all of the vehicles will be armed with the Trident II D5 missiles. During the life of the Trident missile system the electronics are active and utilized. It is desirable to continue to upgrade the electronics with the latest technology especially technologies that improve radiation hardness. The inertial guidance electronics will be the focus for this project. The opportunity for this SBIR project will be to develop packaging technologies that can be integrated and transferred to the Trident II submarine system throughout the current and extended life of the system. AMT and it's partner Raytheon will develop and apply new technologies that include ball grid array and column grid array interconnection and plastic encapsulated microcircuits.Military systems are rapidly faced with obsolescence and parts availability issues, especially for microelectronic devices. This project will provide an opportunity to utilize commercial technologies that are widely available from large suppliers of semiconductors and significantly enhance the options for the Navy. AMT is presently developing procedures and systems for certifying commercial products for military use and this project will have direct relevance to on-going activities that will lead to high reliability electronics for military applications. |
| MATERIALS & ELECTROCHEMICAL RESEARCH
7960 S. Kolb Rd. Tucson, AZ 85706 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(520) 574-1980
Dr. J.C. Withers NAVY 01-002 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Ceramic Composite Lined Metal Composite Gun Barrels for Small Arms |
| Abstract: | Rapid fire small arms gun performance is limited by wear and erosion in the chromium plated steel gun barrels which are also heavy for infantry use. Ceramic lined steel gun barrels have demonstrated potential to eliminate the wear and erosion but have failure from cracking for lack of toughness, uniform triaxial restraint and offer negligible weight savings. Recent developments in ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) have the potential to overcome the toughness and cracking limitations of monolithic ceramics. CMC liners coupled with outer shells of metal matrix composites (MMCs) have the potential to eliminate wear and erosion, and achieve up to 50% weight savings over chromium plated steel barrels. This program will demonstrate the fabrication of very high thermal conductivity and toughness CMCs that are functionally graded into MMCs to produce a small arms rapid fire barrel which eliminates wear and erosion, and provides 50% weight savings. Modeling and simulation will be conducted concurrent with CMC composition and fabrication processing demonstration, and screen tested using vented bomb, barrel burst test and thermal conductivity. Selected processing will be utilized to fabricate select CMC composition(s) into barrels including attachments, which will be live fire tested.Ceramic composite lined metal composite tubes not only have a substantial market for all gun barrel applications in DoD, law enforcement and recreational, but such composites have a plethora of applications in engines, brakes and chemical processing industries. |
| SURFACE TREATMENT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
P.O. Box 1027 Glen Burnie, MD 21060 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(410) 332-0633
Mrs. . Amy Harmon Krtanjek NAVY 01-002 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Ceramic Barrels for Small Arms |
| Abstract: | Surface Treatment Technologies, Inc. (ST2) proposes the development of Electro-Spark Alloying (ESA) technology for the formation of ceramic coatings on current gun barrel steel and lightweight alternative barrel materials, such as titanium. ESA technology involves the arc deposition of metal and ceramic coatings directly onto metal surfaces. The process forms a coating with a full metallurgical bond, forms no heat affected zone in the base alloy, creates a coating that is amorphous to nano-grained in structure, and exhibits wear and erosion properties far superior to conventional coatings of ceramics and composites of similar chemistries. In addition, the process permits the investigation of functionally gradient coatings for the end-use application. In the Phase I effort, ST2 will investigate both ceramic and refractory metal candidate coatings for conventional gun steel and titanium barrel materials. Unique to this approach will be the coating of a barrel blank, followed by a rotary forging process that will maintain the structural integrity of the coating. This evaluation will include full mechanical and metallurgical analyses, as well as live-fire testing of rifled barrel components. Phase II will expand the potential coatings candidate options, and then focus on manufacturing scale-up requirements in anticipation of a Phase III transition. Lightweight gun barrels with extended life, yet using no toxic and hazardous plating materials for military, law enforcement, and commercial applications. Additional benefits will focus on the power tool industry, medical tools and implants, and engine/transmission markets. |
| THOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
7600 Jefferson NE, Suite 9-115 Albuquerque, NM 87109 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(505) 296-3615
Dr. Stuart T. Schwab NAVY 01-002 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced Ceramic Barrel Materials & Processing Methods |
| Abstract: | Barrel erosion, which is produced by the combination of high temperature and pressure with aggressive propellant combustion products, and the action of the projectile, results in decreased muzzle velocities, increased projectile yaw, and decreased accuracy. New material designs are needed to mitigate erosion in gun barrels, which limits service life Ceramic composites are a leading material candidate for gun barrels because of their thermochemical stability, erosion resistance and low density. Ceramic composites can prolong service life and provide other enhancements to gun barrels. New designs and manufacturing methods are needed to integrate ceramic composite barrels with current infantry weapons, such as the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon. Thor Technologies, Inc. will team with Los Alamos National Laboratory, Materials Research & Design, and FN Manufacturing, Inc. (FNMI) to develop a novel hybrid ceramic composite design and an innovative, low-cost manufacturing method. Polymer infiltration/microwave pyrolysis processing enables manufacture of ceramic composites with integral metallic attachments. In Phase I, a prototype hybrid ceramic barrel will be produced and used to demonstrate improved service life through firing tests at FNMI. The Principal Investigator and the project team have the experience and expertise to develop ceramic composite gun barrels suitable for the infantry combat environment Enhancement of barrel service life will reduce weapon lifecycle costs. The availability of low cost ceramic composites will benefit aerospace and industrial applications ranging from jet engines and rocket motors to corrosion-proof piping for chemical processing. |
| COHERENT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
655 Aspen Ridge Drive Lafayette, CO 80026 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 604-2000
Dr. John Marquardt NAVY 01-003 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Nonlinear Optical Up-Converter for Eye-Safe Imaging |
| Abstract: | Active imaging in the short- and mid-wave infrared has well-known benefits versus shorter wavelengths: eye safety, better visibility through battlefield obscurants, high atmospheric trans-mission, and reduced background emission. However, there are no suitable imaging detectors at eye-safe wavelengths. CTI proposes a nonlinear sum-frequency generator (SFG) to convert an image at 1.55 mm to a shorter wavelength where image intensifiers can be used. In addition, the SFG can provide spectral filtering and optical range-gating capability. Modern nonlinear optical materials can operate with high efficiency using modest pump sources in a compact design. CTI proposes a SFG converter with a large field-of-view, that is relatively temperature insensitive, and operates at room temperature. In Phase I, CTI will conduct detailed analyses and laboratory demonstrations to validate the proposed nonlinear up-converter. In Phase II, an imaging breadboard converter will be tested, optimized, and delivered.(1) increase detection sensitivity in eye-safe laser radar imaging, (2) demonstrate enhanced 2D LADAR imaging through SFG converter, (3) demonstrate receiver techniques through optical range-gating. |
| METROLASER, INC.
18010 Skypark Circle, Suite 100 Irvine, CA 92614 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(949) 553-0688
Dr. Vladimir Markov NAVY 01-003 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Eye-safe LADAR Laser Transmitter |
| Abstract: | This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I Project will produce a design for a monoblock configuration pulsed Er-Yb:glass micro-laser at 1540 nm, suitable for use in coastal LADAR applications at ranges greater than 1 km. Beside LADAR such a laser would be an extremely useful tool for a number of important applications; range finding, remote sensing, optical communications, etc. Our preliminary analysis indicates that the best way to meet the requirements for this laser is through an approach based on the optimal selection of pumping wavelength and cavity configuration, where both pumping and oscillation resonators form attached cavities. This method allows for scalability and versatility, while still achieving excellent performance in a relatively simple and rugged monoblock configuration.The developed system will radically improve the characteristics of lasers at 1540 nm, bringing its construction to a monoblock micro-design. In the commercial sector, the proposed laser will serve as an ideal source for parametric oscillators, high data transfer rate communication systems, spectroscopy, clocks, etc. |
| ARMORWORKS, INC.
2495 S. Industrial Park Ave Tempe, AZ 85282 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(480) 517-1150
Mr. William J. Perciballi NAVY 01-004 Selected for Award |
| Title: | AAAV Composite Armor Systems |
| Abstract: | This proposal describes and SBIR Phase I program to develop a high-performance, low-cost composite armor for the AAAV. Ballistic protection offered by state-of-the-art composite materials are presented and compared to demonstrate the need and performance goals for composite materials as fragment armors and as backings in ceramic armor systems. Ballistic performance models are presented and compared. Hybrid composite armor designs that use low-cost materials are discussed along with development and test plans. Cost models for composite armors are presented. Flammability testing proposed for candidate AAAV armor systems is outlined.Improved composite armor technology applicable to bullet and fragment armor systems. Improved ceramic armor designs that reduce cost and imrpove multiple impact protection of ceramic armors against armor piercing bullets. Composite armor designs and ballistic performance models applicable to personnel, aircraft, ship, and ground vehicle armor systems. |
| COMPOSIX CO.
120 O'Neill Drive Hebron, OH 43025 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(740) 929-4200
Mr. DONALD L. BLAKE NAVY 01-004 Selected for Award |
| Title: | High Performance Composite Backing Armor System for the Advance Amphibious Assault Vehicle (AAAV) |
| Abstract: | The AAAV requires lightweight components that can be affordably produced and assembled. The goal of this SBIR is to develop an effective armor system that can use low cost materials while minimizing overall weight. Reduction in fabrication and material cost of the armor solution translates into a meaningful reduction in the vehicle cost. In this SBIR, we expand the state of the art through the use of conventional materials in innovative ways. The technology focuses of on ways to reduce the overall installed armor costs through material, and manufacturing innovations.We expect that the technology developed in this SBIR will be immediately applicable to other application areas such as Navy patrol boats, Army spall liners, and aircraft armor, where weight and cost are important. Additionaly, we belieive that we can modify the material system to allow its use as a flexible body armor material for law enforcement. The law enforcement market is very price sensitive, and many of the materials in use today are very cost prohibitive. This material would provide a very attractive alternative. |
| KAZAK COMPOSITES, INC.
32 Cummings Park Woburn, MA 01801 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 932-5668
Mr. James Gorman NAVY 01-004 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Multi-Layer Interlocked Pultruded Composite Armor for AAAV |
| Abstract: | KaZaK Composites Incorporated proposes in this Phase I project to develop a novel composite process allowing low cost fabrication of high performance backing armor for AAAV. Key elements of this process implementation include pultrusion of multi-layered glass and hybrid glass/aramid preforms in which the layers are both differentially infiltrated with resin and interlocked with a through-thickness reinforcement. The type and degree of layer interlocking will be chosen to optimize ballistic performance. The varying density of matrix through the thickness of the composite, and the possibilities of multi-resin layering will also be evaluated to optimize the performance-weight-cost tradeoff. During the Phase I project, 12" panels of different constructions will be fabricated and subjected to ballistic testing to resolve key architecture details. Upon selection of a promising composite architecture, a trial run of continuous pultrusion for that composite will be performed. This trial of a multi-layer/material composite armor will not only shed light on processing, but will also provide specimens for ballistic testing. While we intend to evaluate novel composite architectures, our primary focus in Phase I will be to develop the continuous processing parameters allowing a "good" ballistic composite architecture to be fabricated at the lowest possible cost via pultrusion.KCI anticipates that the results of the proposed project will have widespread application in governmental and commercial arenas, both as a means of fabricating highly effective backing armor for various vehicles, and as a primary armor for those applications having less demanding threats. We believe that concentrating on reducing the cost of "good" architectures is at present more important than wringing out the optimum specific weight performance in order to enhance commercialization to law enforcement and VIP protection markets. Given a low cost processing scheme for the basic multi-layered/multi-material construction, architecture modifications to optimize ballistic performance can be easily implemented, either through material substitution or distribution and orientation. |
| ACOUSTECH CORP.
P. O. Box 139 State College, PA 16804 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(814) 867-2629
Mr. James A. McConnell NAVY 01-005 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Piezoelectric Single Crystal Applications |
| Abstract: | A study is proposed in which the performance of an underwater acoustic vector sensor (AVS) containing conventional piezoelectric transducers is compared with that of an AVS containing single crystal piezoelectric transducers. An acoustic vector sensor is a device that measures three orthogonal components of the acoustic particle velocity in conjunction with the acoustic pressure at a single point in space. The sensor employs unimorph bender disks to measure pressure and bimorph bender disks to measure velocity. The size of each device is the same, so the chief parameters that will be evaluated are the sensitivity and bandwidth. Acoustic vector sensors are being planned for use in tactical underwater surveillance platforms that are operated by the U. S. Navy.Improve performance of tactical underwater surveillance platforms operated by the U. S. Navy. |
| AETHER WIRE & LOCATION, INC.
5950 Lucas Valley Road Nicasio, CA 94946 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(415) 662-2055
Mr. Robert A. Fleming NAVY 01-005 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Personnel Identification and Location for MOUT Applications |
| Abstract: | The Marine Corps is currently enhancing its capabilities in Military Operations On Urban Terrain (MOUT) in response to a clear trend toward increased military conflicts in urban settings. The MOUT capability requires new technologies, including a next-generation position-location system that penetrates building walls and tracks individuals within urban structures. This system must be compact, rugged, power-efficient, undetectable by enemy personnel, and immune from multipath and ambient electromagnetic interference. ’ther Wire has developed a communication/location system-the Localizer-that represents a system that could be optimized to meet these requirements. This system is based on Ultra-Wideband RF communications; its signals are inherently difficult to jam, have good multipath properties, and can penetrate urban structures. The Localizer represents the current state of the art and is the product of 10 years of internal and Government funded R&D. ’ther Wire's world class technical expertise will make it possible to meet/exceed the Marine Corps' requirements for MOUT within the limited scope of this SBIR effort. For Phase I, ’ther Wire proposes to 1) address key design issues (e.g., signal attenuation, multipath removal, range limitations, power consumption), 2) construct and test demonstration model, and 3) develop recommendations for further localizer development in Phase II. Phase I success will lead to a Phase II project focused upon advancing the prototype development and optimization/scale-up of the Localizer system for field demonstration. ’ther Wire anticipates developing a next-generation Localizer that will provide accurate personnel identification/location capabilities for the Marines' MOUT applications. This location technology also has diverse commercial potential in applications including asset tracking, fireman buddy systems, home navigation systems for the blind, house-arrest monitors, and automobile collision-avoidance systems. |
| AMERICAN GNC CORP.
888 Easy Street Simi Valley, CA 93065 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(805) 582-0582
Dr. Ching Fang Lin NAVY 01-005 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Multi Sensor Personnel Identification System |
| Abstract: | The objective of this SBIR Phase I project is to design, fabricate, and evaluate a low cost, small size and lightweight, Multi Sensor Personnel Identification System, based on AGNC's commercial product with AGNC's worldwide pending patents, the AGNCTM-2000 CMINU/GPS Palm NavigatorTM. The Palm Navigator is based upon the coremicroTM IMU with MEMS inertial sensors. This provides a problem solution that is low power, low cost, small size, and lightweight. In the proposed system, the coremicroTM IMU is combined with an RF data link and an acoustic phased array sensor for underground and inside structures communication. The acoustic sensor, when used in a cooperative network, is utilized for interrogation, and identification of friend or foe. The proposed system is coupled with a build-in state-of-the-art GPS (Global Positioning System) chipset and exploits the GPS signals to calibrate and align the IMU when GPS is available. During those instances when no radio contact is possible, a sonar relay device is provided to furnish continuous radio contact with remote users. The techniques and systems developed in this project provide a combined military/commercial product that can be exploited in various military and commercial applications, such as Urban warfare, law enforcement, fire fighting, and emergency services equipment. |
| INTELLIGENT AUTOMATION, INC.
7519 Standish Place, Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20855 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 590-3155
Dr. Leonard Haynes NAVY 01-005 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Time-Modulated Ultra-Wideband Personnel Identification System |
| Abstract: | Within the last few years low cost ultra-high precision time delays have become available, and these now make it possible to build UWB communication systems which have no carrier frequency. The only signals transmitted are pulses. With current hardware, the pulses are « nanosecond, and a typical duty cycle is 1/500. The energy of these pulses extends approximately from .5 to 4 gigahertz, and the energy content in any conventional frequency band is far below the noise. Friendly forces (cooperative targets) will carry a small TM-UWB radio which will: 1) provide a local area communication net between friendly forces within range; 2) transmit a unique pseudo random code which will provide a private channel and which will also uniquely identify the particular radio, and 3) provide an accurate range measure from the user to any other radio. TM-UWB technology will also assist in tracking non-cooperative targets inside buildings and under ground. This will be done using Synthetic Aperture and/or Phased Array techniques. Our partner company, Time Domain Corporation is already working on a SAR based system to be used by police for tracking motion through walls, and good results have already been demonstrated.A key opportunity for TM-UWB short range wireless networks is the industrial wireless LAN market. In 1997, wired LAN equipment sales for Internet service providers alone was $18B, while wireless LAN equipment sales were a mere $213M - a gap that is beginning to close even as the market scale increases. As an example, in the health care industry TM-UWB offers a single mechanism for wireless communication to and from mobile instruments, plus it offers the ability to track the position of each of those mobile assets. TDC has raised $70 million in private funds, including funds from Sony, Siemens, US West, and Marconi plus many private investors, all of which is being expended in perfecting TM-UWB. |
| MATERIALS SYSTEMS, INC.
521 Great Road Littleton, MA 01460 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 486-0404
Mr. Daniel Fiore NAVY 01-005 Selected for Award |
| Title: | High-Output Solid-State-Converted Piezoelectrics for Remote Vehicle Sonars |
| Abstract: | This program will demonstrate the performance advantages of applying solid-state- converted (SSC) PMN-PT 1-3 composite transduction materials to selected Navy sonar systems which require greater bandwidth, lower frequency operation, and/or higher source levels to meet their operational objectives. The SSC materials are highly oriented piezoceramics which exhibit up to 80% the strain of very expensive piezo-single crystals, at a cost only modestly higher than traditional piezoceramics. In Phase I, MSI will (a) develop transducer concepts consistent with the emerging SSC manufacturing technology, (b)ÿevaluate the insertion potential into selected Navy sonar systems, (c) down-select to one or more insertion opportunities based on system payoff and transition sponsor interest, and (d) develop and model prototype transducer designs for each of the selected insertion platforms. The follow-on PhaseÿII program will focus on hardware fabrication and performance demonstration.Utilization of higher strain, higher coupling transduction materials will enable acoustic projector designs which are more compact, have increased bandwidths and lower achievable operating frequencies, and provide higher source levels. Smaller and more sensitive hydrophones will also be realized. Commercial applications include medical imaging, NDE, inkjet printing, high strain actuators, optical switching, automotive engine control, and commercial sonars. |
| Q PEAK, INC.
135 South Road Bedford, MA 01730 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 275-9535
Dr. Kevin F. Wall NAVY 01-006 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Visible, diode-array illuminator |
| Abstract: | Diode-laser arrays operating in the visible region of the spectrum offer advantages for illuminator applications, particularly for night and water penetration capability. Recent developments in diode-laser materials allow operation throughout the visible spectrum. At this time, red diode-laser technology is more mature than the existing blue-green or violet diode-laser technology. The novel aspect of this work is the use of recent advances in monolithic silicon microchannel coolers to produce two-dimensional, red, diode-laser arrays. Cylindrical microlenses can be added to the two-dimensional arrays to create high-brightness sources. The initial work in the Phase I program will focus on the production and characterization of linear diode arrays suitable for use in 2D arrays. We will investigate the tradeoffs involved in operating at the shortest possible red wavelengths.At the conclusion of a Phase II program, we would be able to introduce stacked bars commercially. The markets that could be addressed are diode laser pump sources for solid-state lasers and materials processing using the diode lasers directly. Red diode laser arrays also address the photodynamic therapy market for cancer treatment. |
| XYBION CORP.
240 Cedar Knolls Road Cedar Knolls, NJ 07927 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(858) 566-8050
Dr. James Pierre Hauck, Ph.D. NAVY 01-006 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Blue-Green Laser Illumination System Study (BLISS) |
| Abstract: | This project will be devoted to the development of an illuminator technology suitable for use in underwater imaging applications. While there are a number of extant technologies, we will focus on new technologies that may provide higher efficiency, lower cost, and reduced size and weight. A variety of illuminator technologies will be investigated, and compared to requirements derived from analyses of the underwater imaging application, and from platform properties. The illuminator technologies to be investigated include emitter technology, pulse power technology, and optical beam projection technology including the capabilities for varying the beam divergence (zoom). We will focus on new and emerging technologies such as Frequency Doubled Diode Pumped Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Lasers (SHG DP-VCELS), and Electrically Pumped Two Triode Organic Lasers (TTOLs) such as the Tetracence TTOL (TcubedOL). Other candidates will be sought as well.The major advantage of this approach is to be able to illuminate underwater objects from unmanned platforms. A secondary advantage is that the sources will be low cost. A tertiary advantage is that the beam will be zoomable, allowing adaptation of the illumination to allow deeper water penetration. The use on unmanned platforms allows these systems to used in a RPV, the low cost feature allows the imaging to be performed from expendable platforms, and zoom is an additional feature that allows the platform altitude or water penetration depth to be adjusted as necessary. Thus applications such as search and rescue, airborne reconnaissance, imaging for surveillance and security, (coastal through fog), and many others would be feasible. |
| DIGITAL SYSTEM RESOURCES, INC.
12450 Fair Lakes Circle, Suite 500 Fairfax, VA 22033 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(714) 279-3070
Mr. Michael Cox NAVY 01-008 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Automatic Test Equipment (ATE) Commercial-Off-the-Shelf (COTS) Replacement for Obsolete Instruments |
| Abstract: | This SBIR is concerned with extending the service life of existing automated test equipment (ATE) and their associated test program sets. A number of legacy ATE systems will continue to be used for the foreseeable future. The support costs for these systems continue to escalate as they near or pass their intended service lives. SBIR N01-008 addresses the problem with the introduction of commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) instrumentation and processing equipment. DSR's proposed product can provide a form, fit, and functional replacement of the obsolete instrument that minimizes impacts to the existing ATE (hardware and software) and to the test program sets (hardware and software). The DSR proposed product includes several innovative features to capture software design requirements, to validate ATE operation after replacement, and to assist in the resolution of test program tolerance issues.The thrust of this proposal is to develop these innovations for the ATE application, define the product architecture, and to perform a top level design for a sample instrument to validate the concepts.Completion of this effort (Phase I and Phase II) will lead directly to a reduction of Navy ATE support costs through the replacement of obsolete instrumentation. Capability could also be applied to other military or civilian test systems. |
| VEKTREX ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS, INC.
10225 Barnes Canyon Road, Suite A213 San Diego, CA 92121 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(858) 558-8282
Mr. Jef Hulett NAVY 01-008 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Automatic Test Equipment (ATE) Commercial-Off-the-Shelf (COTS) Replacement for Obsolete Instruments |
| Abstract: | Test equipment obsolescence in Department Of Defense (DoD) Automatic Test Equipment (ATE) is a major problem. Many of these systems currently operating were designed and built decades ago. As these systems age their individual test instruments are subject to increasing failure rates. Simultaneously, manufacturer support for these devices is diminishing. Consequently, many complex ATE instruments have, or will, become the problem-prone "system degraders" tracked in ATE program reviews. New Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) instruments would ideally replace these obsolete instruments. However, integration of the new COTS instruments into existing ATE systems presents several challenges. These challenges result from incompatible communication protocols and interface busses, functional differences in the way instruments operate, mechanical packaging changes, and calibration differences. This proposal presents a plan to research and develop a methodology for implementation of a translator module to act as a bridge between the new COTS instrument and the existing ATE system. This translator module, in combination with the new COTS instrument, forms a Composite Replacement Instrument that exactly mimics the function of the original obsolete instrument. This scheme will eliminate many of the integration challenges associated with replacing obsolete instruments in military ATE systems, greatly reducing the cost and complexity of upgrades. The composite replacement instrument has widespread application in civilian and military organizations utilizing ATE systems. As test equipment integrated into ATE systems is obsoleted, it must be replaced. However, integration of new COTS instruments into existing ATE systems presents several challenges. These challenges result from incompatible communication protocols and interface busses, functional differences in the way instruments operate, mechanical packaging changes, and calibration differences. The composite replacement instrument will exactly mimic the obsoleted test equipment. This provides a few benefits. First, it creates a link between legacy ATE and test instrument replacements, which improves ATE flexibility and reduces total upgrade costs. Second, it enables replacement of obsoleted equipment without modification of existing application software. Third, since the ATE interface will not change, no operator training is required. Last, since the functionality of the replaced instrument is not altered, expensive system verification tests are not required. |
| APPLIED SIGNAL & IMAGE TECHNOLOGY
303 Najoles Road, Suite 104 Millersville, MD 21108 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(410) 729-3108
Mr. John J. Schveibinz NAVY 01-009 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Low-Cost Sonobuoy Geographic Position Locator |
| Abstract: | Precise geolocation of deployed sonobuoys is a standing requirement of the U.S. Navy for improving ASW operations. Current approaches to sonobuoy localization often require close over-flight of the sonobuoy by the monitoring aircraft. This compromises the security of the aircraft, and does not provide a precision result. There is a obvious need for a Sonobuoy Geolocation System that has the following characteristics: 1) ability to operate at significant (50 - 100 mile) standoff distances, 2) geolocation of multiple sonobuoys simultaneously, 3) precise location to within 100 meters, 4) low cost @ $50.00 per sonobuoy in production, 5) low probability of intercept and detection, and 6) not susceptible to narrowband jamming. Under Phase I of this effort, ASIT will refine its preliminary system design, for precision geolocation of sonobuoys, at an extremely low cost per system. The novel solution that is proposed specifically does not incorporate Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers on each sonobuoy, but does take advantage of Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) signals to determine precise range and geolocation. The use of low-cost commercial wireless technology is key to the success of the program. During this effort, ASIT proposes to make the design a reality by building a prototype sonobuoy geolocation system that will be ready for demonstration to the customer by the end of the Phase I effort.To address both Government and commercial needs for low-cost, robust, precision geolocation, this effort will use spread spectrum signal processing technology combined with exisiting commercial wireless components to provide a reliable geographic position locator. |
| NAVSYS CORP.
14960 Woodcarver Road Colorado Springs, CO 80921 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(719) 481-4877
Ms. Alison Brown NAVY 01-009 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Low-Cost Sonobuoy Geographic Position Locator |
| Abstract: | Under this proposed SBIR effort, NAVSYS will develop a design for a low cost sonobuoy position locator using GPS geolocation technology. GPS has been proposed as an alternative for sonobuoy geolocation, but the environment and DoD security requirements leads to problems with a conventional GPS approach. SAASM compatible OEM modules that prove P(Y) code tracking capability are prohibitively expensive for "disposable" applications such as sonobuoy geolocation. NAVSYS have developed a low cost tracking technology, TIDGETTM, which uses a client/server approach to reduce the functionality needed on the GPS geolocation sensor. This has been previously demonstrated with C/A code operation, installed on a sonobuoy provided by DERA Farnborough. Under this SBIR effort we propose to the develop a P(Y) code TIDGET architecture suitable for installation in US sonobuoys. A feasibility study will be performed to very the performance, physical and cost goals, and test results will be provided demonstrating the P(Y) code geolocation performance using live GPS satellite signals. Under Phase II, a prototype P(Y) code GPS sensor integrated with a government furnished sonobuoy will be .delivered for field testing. The low cost P(Y) TIDGET sensor will provide a cost effective geolocation alternative for sonobuoy applications while meeting the DoD PPS security requirements. Other applications include GPS tracking of radiosondes, for wind-finding support of DoD missions, and geolocation of low cost "smart-sensors" deployed for surveillance applications. |
| COMPUTER SCIENCE & APPLICATIONS
2 Clifford Drive Shalimar, FL 32579 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(850) 651-4991
Mr. Jack Lippert NAVY 01-010 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Large Format Resistive Arrays (LFRA) for Infrared Scene Projectors (IRSP) |
| Abstract: | This proposal is to demonstrate the feasibility of a larger format resistor emitter array, greater than 544x672 pixels. Mega-pixel IR/EO emitter arrays allow higher resolution imagery to be utilized in the testing and performance evaluation of advanced IR array sensors. As both the pixel count and the framerate capability of these sensors increase, the data rate required by the large emitters strain the state-of-the-art. This large format array is to be compatible with, and test, a next generation high-speed scene projector drive electronics, being developed via a FY-1999-2 SBIR topic program, capable of processing real-time image data at rates exceeding 420 MB/sec, roughly 200 Hz for a 1024x1024 array. Use with the GFE electronics set dictates that the "array" for this proposed SBIR effort is defined as all of the necessary components and assemblies from the output interface of the GFE drive electronics to the emitting pixel itself. Besides transforming the digital electronic data into a compatible set of integrated analog voltage singles to drive the array, an additional set of requirements will be dictated by ramifications from the larger array size, packaging needs, and potentially new operational regimes.The large format resistor array increases, simultaneously, the total field of view and resolution with which infrared scenes can be projected to test hardware in the loop simulations. The image quality is realistic to the point that todays IR seekers cannot distinguish the difference, allowing for acurate testing in a cost saving simulation versus flight test. Many hundreds of tests can be executed for the cost and time involved in a single flight test. |
| INDIGO SYSTEMS CORP.
5385 Hollister Ave #103 Santa Barbara, CA 93111 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(805) 690-6643
Mr. James T. Woolaway NAVY 01-010 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Large Format Resistive Arrays (LFRA) for Infrared Scene Projectors (IRSP) |
| Abstract: | Indigo Systems proposes to design and produce a 1024x2048 format high performance Large Format Resistive Array (LFRA) for Infrared Scene Projector (IRSP) applications. The proposed project will leverage Indigo's recently developed 512x512 MIRAGE commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) micro-emitter array technology. Additionally, to the extent possible, our current development activities for a 1024x1024 LFRA will be leveraged to insure project synergy and success. PHASE I: During phase 1 Indigo proposes to advance the 1024x2048 LFRA design from concept through the preliminary design stage of the Indigo detailed integrated circuit design process. During this activity the requirements and specifications for the device will be developed. Complete schematics of the different functional blocks and signal chain will be simulated and evaluated. The outcome of this phase is the Preliminary Design of the ROIC, including concepts studied and an interface description for a high bandwidth scene projector system during. This effort will last 4 months. PHASE I Option: The Phase I continuation (Phase I Option) will last 2 months during which time Indigo will begin the detailed design process for the 1024x2048 LFRA. The outcome will be an Interim Design Report. The objective of the proposed 1024x2048 LFRA development activity is to begin to produce the next generation in LFRA devices for scene stimulation. The current generation of IRSPs using resistive arrays contain on the order of 512x512 emitter pixels. These devices are introducing performance limitations in the testing of many modern currently fielded sensor systems. They do not provide the necessary resolution and FOV coverage to adequately test advanced sensors that are currently under development (i.e., advanced target acquisition sensors, threat warning sensors, IR search and track sensors, surveillance and reconnaissance sensors, and missile seekers). This project will facilitate the transition of existing mature resistive array technology to larger format resistive array based IRSPs for testing next generation IR sensor systems that will require testing in FY01-03. |
| ANACAPA SCIENCES, INC.
301 East Carrillo Street 2FL Santa Barbara, CA 93101 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(805) 966-6157
Dr. Alan Spiker NAVY 01-011 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Web-Based and Traditional Classroom Lesson Design Guide |
| Abstract: | The purpose of this SBIR is to develop and evaluate a Web-based instructional tool (WBIT) that can be used by officers and enlisted personnel to design courseware for traditional classrooms and distance learning environments. The WBIT will be organized around the five phases of ISD/SAT (analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation), and will provide the user with access to state-of-the-art principles of effective lesson design. The latter will reside in a powerful relational database management system forming the knowledge engine of the system. The primary products of Phase I will be a well-developed database of instructional design principles, a demonstration module, and the functional requirements for a complete system. For Phase II, the literature review will be expanded, functionality for the system will be enhanced to encompass all five phases of ISD, and experimentation with various configurations of web-hosting will be employed. The resulting product will be a powerful web-based instructional tool that can guide even novice developers through the complex ISD/SAT process.Benefits of the tool will include faster courseware development, more effective and interesting courseware materials, greater standardization and quality control of courseware, and greater integration of effective classroom techniques with the latest developments in web-based training. These attributes will be combined to produce a more optimized learning environment for student users. Upon conclusion of Phase II, the tool may be deployed either as an adjunct to MIL-HDBK-29612-2 or as a stand-alone system. The principles embodied in this system may be effectively exploited within any industry where a Systematic Approach to Training (SAT) is employed, such as Power Generation, Transportation, and Process Control. |
| APTIMA, INC.
12 Gill Street, Suite 1400 Woburn, MA 01801 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 935-3966
Dr. Kathy Hess NAVY 01-011 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Guide for Instructional Design (GuIDe) |
| Abstract: | Technological advances (e.g., advanced electronic classrooms, video tele-training, and web-based curricula), quickly being incorporated into instructional environments, offer the instructor increased flexibility. To maximize learning we must explore not only technology but the multiple factors that impact training effectiveness. It is not enough to simply incorporate the most recent technological advances into traditional instruction, for doing so does not guarantee an optimal learning, or training, environment. Instead, planning an instructional program requires careful selection of the optimal technology and training mode out of the myriad available. For our Phase I effort we propose to develop a thorough taxonomy of learning issues, based on contemporary cognitive theory and practical training issues, that defines each issue, describes when it is most likely to be a problem and outlines what can be done to maximize the effectiveness of the instruction; this taxonomy will be used to develop a proof-of-concept web-based Guide to Instructional Development (GuIDe) that will help instructors develop the optimal training/instructional environment for their circumstances. Our unique inter-disciplinary combination of expertise and experience, ranging from innovative military training research to hands-on teaching experience in web-based environments, makes us exceptionally well qualified to address the challenge of creating an instructional development guide.A flexible and upgradeable web-based tool instructors can use to develop the optimal instructional environment for their circumstances will be valuable to government, academe, and industry as instructor?s seek to use only that technology that enhances learning. |
| INTELLIGENT AUTOMATION, INC.
7519 Standish Place, Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20855 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 590-3155
Dr. Jacqueline Haynes NAVY 01-011 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Instructional Designer's Workbench |
| Abstract: | Intelligent Automation, Inc. (IAI) proposes to design The Instructional Designer's Workbench (IDW), an expert system that incorporates an extensive set of rules and heuristics derived from (1) research literature; (2) the advice of successful, expert instructors; and (3) policy and parameters set by the Navy. This automated tool will support courseware authors by advising the author on relevant cognitive issues and learning principles and how they should impact design of instruction. An instructional designer will use this tool as he/she considers and implements the design for an instructional program. IDW complements the Instructional Systems Design (ISD) process, advising the designer throughout the stages of the process. As a tool that provides expertise in pedagogy and psychology, IDW will strongly influence the quality and effectiveness of instruction in environments where courseware developers may not have a level of theoretical expertise to inform the development decisions they are asked to make. Regardless of the instructional delivery platform (including classrooms), IDW will be designed to answer queries about design, using cognitive learning principles, pedagogy, and relevant examples of instructional intervention. We believe that the potential for commercialization of our product is closely tied to the rapid growth of the computer-based training (CBT) and distance learning markets. As a participant in the Advanced Distributed Learning Initiative sponsored by OSD, we are keenly aware of the explosive growth and interest in distributed learning systems used in a distance-learning context. We believe that the issue of quality becomes critical in a Web environment, where materials "published" directly by authors have not been subject to the same rigor of professional quality review that most commercial products undergo prior to publication. Therefore, our product will also be marketed to purchasers of CBT and distance learning technologies as a method of reviewing courseware for the quality of its design in terms of cognitive science attributes. |
| TEKNOWLEDGE CORP.
1810 Embarcadero Rd Palo Alto, CA 94303 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 352-9300
Dr. Michelle Sams NAVY 01-011 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Web-Based and Traditional Classroom Lesson Design Guide |
| Abstract: | Current military handbooks primarily focus on instructor-led training. This project will develop an Instructional Design Advisor and Guide for computer- and web-based training. Phase I will be an analysis of the existing literature and initial recommendation of an effective methodology/algorithm that will: 1) recommend an effective instructional method(s) based on situational factors and 2) provide clear, concise guidance on how to design the interactive courseware for a particular lesson. The analysis will compare areas such as instructional technology, learning theory, cognitive psychology, distance learning, human-computer interaction, and lessons learned from practitioners. Research gaps will be identified. Phase II will develop the decision matrix and specific design guidance. The design guidance will be provided in Military Handbook format and also delivered in a computer-based decision aid and instructional design tool. A Phase III effort would focus on developing a knowledge-based agent advisor.Distributed learning technologies are critical components of the goal to provide learning, any time, anywhere. However, the rush to convert courses to the computer or Internet has put the focus on delivery rather than design. The Instructional Design Advisor will provide novice designers with the information they need to develop computer-based lessons that are instructionally effective. |
| BPW, INC.
35 Curle Road Hampton, VA 23669 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(757) 850-8679
Mr. Jack Morris NAVY 01-012 Selected for Award |
| Title: | The Development of an Electrical Wire Chafing Protective Technology for Aircraft |
| Abstract: | This Small Business Innovation Research Phase 1 project describes a patented sensor technology that BPW Incorporated has developed. This technology which is called "ShortWatch," can offer significant improvements in electrical safety. The sensor consists of a temperature and mechanical damage-sensing strip distributed along the length of an electrical wire or distributed along the surfaces of an electrical component. The sensor strip performs three tasks: (1) It senses an overtemperature condition at any point along the length or surface of the electrical wire or cable, (2) It acts as a mechanical damage sensor by sensing continuity in the sensor strip distributed in the electrical cable insulation, (3) It can monitor or check the insulation effectiveness remotely without disturbing or accessing the electrical wiring. Mechanical damage (or deterioration) of the insulation or casing which might expose the energized conductors will result in loss of continuity of the sensor strip and would provide an alarm and/or interrupt power to the component, or warn the operator of a potential problem. This particular SBIR project focuses on developing the technology to protect existing aerospace wiring from chafing or external mechanical damage.We believe that the proposed "ShortWatch" technology would have very broad usage in both aerospace and non-aerospace applications. We foresee the initial applications of this technology in high-risk, high-value applications, which would include aerospace, nuclear power, and oil and gas electrical apparatus. The application of this technology for the residential and low-risk industrial usage would come later as the development costs were amortized. |
| INNOVATIVE DYNAMICS, INC.
2560 North Triphammer Road Ithaca, NY 14850 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(607) 257-0533
Mr. Jack Edmonds NAVY 01-012 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Wire Chafing Diagnostic Technology for Aircraft |
| Abstract: | IDI proposes to investigate passive diagnostic approaches for the detection of wire chafing on the aircraft well before exposure of the bare conductor. Conventional methods involve assessing the reduction in dielectric breakdown of the worn insulation, time domain reflectometry, or other methods that require disconnecting the cable either for access or for circuit protection. The proposed approach uses passive sensors to monitor the chafing action without removing or disconnecting the wires under reviewuation. Noise generated by the chafing can be statistically related to structural vibrations, and the chafing source can be located through signal correlation techniques. Phase I will investigate candidate passive diagnostic approaches. Lab testing on wires in a simulated chafing environment will be performed to validate the approach. Based on the test results, a down select of the preferred measurement approach will be made. Phase II will develop a functional prototype and in-situ demonstration. During the commercialization phase, IDI will work with established HUMS manufacturers to integrate the wire chafing technology into an aircraft health monitoring system. Incorporation of the in-situ wire chafing diagnostic technology into an aircraft health monitoring system will increase the safety and readiness of both military and commercial aircraft fleets. Signification life cycle cost savings could be realized with a reduction of aircraft accidents as well as reduced downtime for inspection, maintenance, and repairs. Such a system could be commercialized to detect wire chafing in space, sea, and land vehicles as well. |
| MATERIALS TECHNOLOGIES CORP.
57 Maryanne Dr. Monroe, CT 06468 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(203) 874-3100
Dr. YOGESH MEHROTRA NAVY 01-012 Selected for Award |
| Title: | THERMOGRAPHY TO THE RESCUE: WIRING SYSTEMS DIAGNOSTICS AND PROGNOSTICS |
| Abstract: | An urgent need exists for diagnostic methods to interrogate wiring of a Navy air vehicle on demand and assess its current health. While naval craft remains in an active status, its wiring materials, particularly insulation, interact with a complex operating environment which accelerates its aging/degradation, especially in the hostile engine environment. Ability to determine if the wire has undergone excessive degradation to warrant its replacement has direct implications on (i) aircraft operation safety and (ii) maintenance cost and the cost of ownership. We propose to place a miniature infrared sensor in a suitable location within each CRITICAL zone or compartment of an aircraft. IR sensor will continuously monitor all the wiring in that zone and send real time data to the flight crew via a single video cable. Under normal flight conditions, any defect in the wiring would manifest itself as a hot spot. Such a thermal disturbance would be instantaneously detected by our high resolution IR sensor and a signal sent in real time while in flight to alert the crew to a wiring problem in that specific area. This instantaneous determination of defects would eliminate the need for ground personnel to spend hours trying to find the defect. Visual images of wiring problems may be recorded on a pocket size videorecorder to monitor the rate of progression of the defect and then "objectively" determine the remaining useful lifeMilitary and commercial aircraft maintenance; chemical plants with explosive and/or corrosive environment; boiler rooms in public buildings; nuclear power plants |
| FLIGHT TECHNOLOGY INTERNATIONAL, INC.
1571 Airport Road Charlottesville, VA 22911 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(804) 978-4359
Mr. Gary Kuehn NAVY 01-013 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Mid-Air Collision Avoidance System (MCAS) Using Mode 5 |
| Abstract: | FTI will research the present need for MCAS by integration of an IFF Mode 5 waveform to provide collision avoidance capabilities for the Navy platform. We will evaluate current transponder hardwares to determine the change/modification requirements necessary for such integration. Also included will be studies of current military systems, hardware and software currently in use, and the technical and functional limitations and restraints required to implement Mode 5 MCAS functions into the IFF transponders. We will provide our solutions in a functional block diagram, including the necessary interfaces and options selected.The commercial potential of this research will be to provide collision avoidance via MCAS using Mode 5, for general, commercial, and NATO aviation. This will provide for greater safety world-wide, and enhance NATO applications as well as increase sales potential to foreign militaries and individuals. |
| SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH CORP.
2300 Windy Ridge Parkway, Suite 400 South Atlanta, GA 30339 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(770) 989-9492
Mr. Ray Wallenmaier NAVY 01-013 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Mid-Air Collision Avoidance System (MCAS) Using Mode 5 |
| Abstract: | Scientific Research Corporation (SRC) proposes to use the Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) Mode 5 Waveform set in the design of a secure high capacity Mid-Air Collision Avoidance System (MCAS). The investigation into the design of MCAS will focus on incorporating the functionality of a collision avoidance system (CAS) upon an existing Government approved Mode 5 IFF Transponder, such as the BAE System's CXP unit. Therefore, the implementation strategy for MCAS is via software. MCAS will provide security provisions such that the data link can not be easily exploited, constant monitoring of the situational awareness of the platform's safety zone, and transparency as not to affect the operational capabilities of the platform that MCAS will be installed on. MCAS will also provide a high degree of "user-friendliness" as not to interfere in any manner with the pilot's ability to successfully complete the intended mission. By embedding MCAS into a Government approved Mode 5 IFF Transponder no additional equipment needs to be installed onto the platform such as the F/A-18F. This design approach offers minimal risk to the Government by minimizing the costs associated with installing a stand-alone commercially available CAS system such as TCAS that offers no security provisions.Since MCAS will be embedded into a Government approved Mode 5 IFF Transponder, MCAS immediately can be used in joint U.S. service training exercises and operations with negligible multi-service integration concerns as well as between U.S. and armed forces of current and future members of NATO. MCAS can also be installed in privately owned aircraft as well as small and mid-size aviation firms without major retrofits to their aircraft or without causing any security breaches for military platforms. |
| APPLIED HYDRO-ACOUSTICS RESEARCH
15825 Shady Grove Road, Suite 135 Rockville, MD 20850 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 218-3249
Mr. Robert Blanchard NAVY 01-014 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Environmental Assessments and Mitigation of Naval Operations |
| Abstract: | The objectives of this research are to research and design the necessary components of an environmental impact assessment software suite and to provide modeled environmental impact assessment results for selected sites. The research will focus on the impact of active acoustic emissions on marine mammals in the oceans. In the research and design portions of the study, AHA will examine the pertinent marine mammal characteristics and develop a database for those characteristics; retrieve and perform statistical analysis of environmental acoustic characteristics of the oceans, including temporal, spatial, and directional variability; investigate active sound propagation and procedures for the assessment of its impact on marine mammals; and incorporate the above items in the design of a web-enabled environmental assessment decision aid software tool. In the assessment portion of the research, AHA will perform acoustic modeling to produce representative summaries of marine mammal impact for selected sites.Many organizations within the U.S. government and private industry could make use of the environmental assessment software tool designed as part of this research, in order to ensure compliance with applicable laws. Examples include companies involved in drilling and recovery of natural resources, underwater construction, oceanic transportation, and marine geophysical and seismic surveying. |
| APPLIED ORDNANCE TECHNOLOGY
103 Paul Mellon Court, Suite A Waldorf, MD 20602 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 843-4045
Andy Rogers NAVY 01-014 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Environmental Assessments and Mitigation of Naval Operations (Air and Surface) |
| Abstract: | A marine environmental compliance and analysis web-enabled toolset will be designed based on extensive prior experience with web and GIS enabled technologies in an environmental analysis and documentation environment. The objective of this research project is to develop an environmental tool capable of efficiently ensuring that the Navy has limited environmental impacts on the marine environment, while maintaining its force readiness and testing and evaluation programs. The toolset will consist of two parts. Part 1 will use existing data, acquisition policy documents, regulations and document design specifications to produce draft NEPA documents based on project requirements that are comparable to previous proposed actions. Part 2 will provide analysis tools for evaluating systems, sub systems, and technology at various stages in the acquisition lifecycle and the corresponding actions that are planned (tests, fielding, OPEVAL, etc). Two key features define this product. One: all the data is cross-referenced by the action or equipment being used, the resource impacted, the location of the action, time of year, the environmental standard operating procedures and regulations. Two: all documents and methods included at the outset will reference approved data, so that new documents can be built using approved language and methods. As changes occur in regulations, approved language and methods, these data will update automatically with minor software enhancements.Broad applicability for the resultant product is anticipated, both within the Navy and in the general environmental community. Any organization doing environmental analysis and documentation will benefit directly from a tool that allows quick and accurate access to previous related documentation. Although the content would change, no release of Navy information would occur, and the design would be useful elsewhere. |
| DIGITAL SYSTEM RESOURCES, INC.
12450 Fair Lakes Circle, Suite 500 Fairfax, VA 22033 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(714) 279-3054
Mr. Ronald Borrell NAVY 01-014 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Environmental Assessments and Mitigation of Naval Operations (Air and Surface) |
| Abstract: | SBIR N00-014 addresses the problem of developing a tool that can provide environmental assessments in support of the deployment and operation of active sonar systems. DSR's proposed product will initially target support of the SH-60R Airborne Low Frequency Sonar (ALFS). The design of the product will be modular so that functions that address unique SH-60R characteristics are easily separable from the basic environmental assessment capability. The proposed environmental assessment capability is based on an existing product that tracks both the acoustic source and the animals' movements, estimating the incident sound intensity and resulting impact on the animals. The product interfaces to a propagation model (selected based on the particular sonar system) to characterize the acoustic propagation and combines this information with models of the migration habits, behavior and physiology of various animal species. Incorporation of information such as ocean characteristics, weather patterns and actual animal sightings are also included in the design. The product is modular enough to accommodate any acoustic propagation model and to support other sonar systems simply by modifying the functions that interface the environmental assessment functions to the unique processing algorithms, interfaces, communication channels and OMI of the selected sonar system.Completion of this effort (Phase I and Phase II) will result in development of a tool that provides an environmental assessment capability to support deployment and operation of the SH-60R acoustics system. With appropriate interface modifications, this same capability could be provided to other U.S. Navy sonar systems and commercial systems that use acoustic energy to explore or characterize the ocean |
| INVOCON, INC.
19221 IH-45 South; Ste. 530 Conroe, TX 77385 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(281) 292-9903
Mr. Alan Haigood NAVY 01-015 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Enhanced Crash Survivable Flight Incident Recorder (ECSFIR) |
| Abstract: | Proposed is a study of incorporation of aircraft incident recorders and Structural Data Recorder Systems (SDRS) into an open architecture wireless network. This Enhanced Crash Survivable Flight Incident Recorder (ECSFIR) will improve flight safety by providing better information to accident investigators and reduce aircraft maintenance costs by improving diagnostics and automating maintenance schedules. Invocon will conduct comprehensive investigations into the ECSFIR system expectations and technical requirements. Consideration will be given to the incorporation of microminiature wireless sensors similar to those previously developed by Invocon. Programmable Surface Acoustic Wave (PSAW) correlators are under investigation by a team including Invocon, Sandia National Laboratories, NASA, and the Air Force Research Lab; in the ECSFIR, they will provide simultaneous RF communications giving the RF data bus extremely high-speed and reliable transmissions. The system will have an open architecture for future expansion and portability between aircraft. Invocon will provide at the Phase I conclusion a report detailing conceptual designs and configuration structures for all ECSFIR elements. Invocon proposes a Phase I Option to demonstrate a prototype wireless ECSFIR aboard a Naval Aircraft. This system will perform most of the major proposed requirements and provide a proof of concept and predetermination of some Phase II obstacles. Commercial airlines are always seeking ways to reduce costs and increase safety. It is likely that the reduction in aircraft maintenance costs alone will demand a system like the proposed ECSFIR. But the market for this type of system extends far outside the aviation industry. In any setting where machinery performance is essential, and failure induced stoppage greatly affects profit, a health maintenance system is imperative and cost effective. Commercial equipment from all types of industry could benefit from component monitoring and performance evaluation: oilrigs, tractor-trailers, locomotives, and industrial equipment. A wireless health monitor like the proposed ECSFIR provides two major benefits over current monitoring systems: convenient retrofitting and acquisition from previously inaccessible areas. Often equipment is designed with unknown weaknesses, and the built-in sensors do not monitor all the critical components. Retrofitting with current wired sensors is not cost efficient, and at times impossible. A wireless system allows quick non-intrusive installation on any component. The incorporation of the microminiature wireless sensors adds one more way to reduce installation complexity and costs. In addition the ability of remote processing paves the way for real-time health monitoring and operator warning notification of potential failures or the end of the life-cycle approaching. |
| MANAGEMENT SCIENCES, INC.
6022 Constitution Avenue NE Albuquerque, NM 87110 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(505) 255-8611
Mr. Roger P. Case NAVY 01-015 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Digital Data Download (D3) with Crash Survivable Memory |
| Abstract: | This proposal presents innovative research that will result in a multi-purpose, crash survivable, universal flight information system and data recorder (UFDR). The UFDR will digitally process and record structural, engine/propulsion, electrical/avionics, environmental, exceedance, and event data to crash survivable memory with capacity for terrabytes of data. It will have advanced features for processing and storing voice and data from Integrated Mechanical Diagnostics and data from Aircraft Health Monitoring Sensors. This is a øsingle boxñ solution that offers significant function, weight, and total ownership cost advantages over current technology. The UFDR will incorporate a very high-speed transceiver with data compression algorithms that will download hours of flight data in a few minutes making it unnecessary to spend millions on øblack boxñ recovery. The architecture is backwards compatible to legacy aircraft as well as future aircraft. Reduced parts count and lower power consumption will dramatically improve fielded reliability. Field Programmable Gate Arrays will provide upgradeability, programming flexibility, flight data sensor management, enhanced reliability and product longevity. This innovative approach is low cost, modular, expandable and configurable to support legacy, new and undefined requirements and communication protocols.The proposed UFDR offers reduced weight and significant cost saving with increased functionality combining the conventional Air Data Recorder, Health Usage Monitoring System, and Integrated Mechanical Diagnostics units. Based on successful completion of the UFDR research, MSI will prototype, manufacture and market the UFDR to the military and civil aviation communities. We anticipate developing strong marketing relationships with aerospace, avionics and aircraft manufacturers, owner/operators and aircraft servicing organizations. These relationships assure that the UFDR is compatible with state-of-the-art avionics design. |
| PHYSICAL OPTICS CORP.
Information Technologies Div., 20600 Gramercy Plac Torrance, CA 90501 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 320-3088
Dr. Andrew Kostrzewski NAVY 01-015 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Flight Anomalous Event Recorder Information Technology Open (FAERITO) Digital Data Download (D3) |
| Abstract: | Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes a new approach to Digital Data Download (D3) with Crash Survivable Memory. Based on this approach we will develop a system called Flight Anomalous Event Recorder Information Technology Open (FAERITO) D3, to collect and quickly download hours of video, audio, and sensor diagnostic data. This system will use 3400 g crash-survivable PCMCIA packaging cushioned with aerogel, which is an outstanding thermal insulator and 3400 g crush protector. The FAERITO system will be compatible with SDRS, CFSIR, and FLDR, all of which will be integrated into the single FAERITO package. The crash-survivable-memory FAERITO system will be based on non-volatile newest-generation multi-Gbyte flash memory and POC's soft-computing and soft-communication (SC2) hypercompression technology, which offers up to 4000:1 compression for TV-class video. It will enable automatic recording of anomalous events (both spatial and temporal) without a priori knowledge of the specific nature of these events. FAERITO will also incorporate wireless sensor LAN technology that is still unknown to present commercial (or military) 2G and 2.5G wireless telephony, and which is equivalent to futuristic 3G wireless units. It will provide capabilities to transfer TV-class imagery, video, imaging radar, teleconferences, and other interactive and IP video information.Many commercial applications will benefit from the diverse components and system features of FAERITO information technology, including: emerging generations of interactive wireless video (3G wireless phone), IP-video, cellular video phones, e-commerce security, video surveillance, video games, telemedicine, robotics, physical protection, video conferencing, MPEG-4, and finally, civilian FAA black-box flight data recorders. |
| COMPUTER OPTICS, INC.
120 Derry Road, P.O.Box 7 Hudson, NH 03051 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(603) 889-2116
Dr. Jonathan S. Kane NAVY 01-016 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Development of New Processes for the Refurbishment of Infrared Search and Track (IRST) Germanium (Ge) domes |
| Abstract: | A proprietary method is analyzed for the refurbishing IRST germanium domes that have been damaged in flight operations in adverse hostile environments which include particulates such as sand, rain., aerosols, etc. The COI technique involves removing the damaged surface and then restoring the domes on a production basis to their original focal length performance specification. Improved coating machine technology is evaluated in the application of Amorphous Diamond Like Carbon (ADLC) via a process known as Ion-Assisted Filtered Cathodic Arc, IFCAD, process coating technology to Germanium substrates operating in the 7.5 to 14 micron band. The result is a low cost refurbished dome that has a harder outer coating than the original dome and hence longer expected lifetime. The proposed research will benefit not only government programs but will also benefit existing work currently at Computer Optics Inc. The technology developed under this proposal will have direct application to laser optics, the electric power industry and construction. |
| GENVAC AEROSPACE CORP.
110 Alpha Park Cleveland, OH 44143 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(440) 646-9986
Mr. Laszlo Takacs NAVY 01-016 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Development of New Processes for the Refurbishment of Infrared Search and Track (IRST) Germanium (Ge) domes |
| Abstract: | A procedure has been developed to refurbish hemispherical infrared (IR) windows designed for use on the Infrared Search and Track (IRST) System. The two stage program will enable repair of the surface coated germanium (Ge) windows, more commonly known as domes, which have failed to meet IR transmission and focus specifications. Failure to meet specifications is due to a high density of pits in the aperture area generated from exposure to adverse environmental conditions at high velocities. Stage 1 (immediate) involves removal of surface material, which will result in a finished dome that meets transmission requirements with 4.7% maximum deviation from the specified focus. This process may introduce slight image aberration, which may or may not be within acceptable tolerance of the optical system. A dome refurbished using stage 1 will be delivered at the end of SBIR Phase I. Stage 2 will implement a process to add Ge to the dome surface in an amount necessary to allow resurfacing to the original design dimensions. This process would return the dome to the like-new operational performance. Feasibility for stage 2 will be demonstrated during SBIR Phase I. Delivery of domes refurbished using stage 2 would occur during SBIR Phase II. The electric power utility industry utilizes IR sensors in the same bandwidth as the IRST sensor to perform evaluation on above ground power transmission lines for insulation leaks. These leaks result in power transmission loss costing the utility companies millions of dollars annually. To identify failures in power line insulation, public utilities use specially configured aircraft that fly over the nation's power lines using IR sensors to detect the leaks. The location of the failed insulation along the power line is detected and the information sent to the power company for repair. The IR systems used in the utility company's aircraft have the same type of IR window used in an IRST system. While less harsh (lower speed), the utility company aircraft's IR system is subject to much of the same environment as the F-14D IRST. The utility companies' IR systems experience more usage than the IRST. Further, flights are made at lower altitudes where airborne particulate matter has a greater opaqueing effect on the IR window. Resulting failure of the IR window occurs at least as often in the IRST. Development of a refurbishment process can be directly applied to this particular commercial application. |
| NAVMAR APPLIED SCIENCES CORP.
65 West Street Road, Suite B-104 Warminster, PA 18974 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(215) 675-4900
Mr. Edward Garabed NAVY 01-017 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Shallow Water Bottom Characteristic Measurement Sensors |
| Abstract: | This SBIR proposes the design of an expendable sensor system for in-situ measurement of bottom characteristics such as bottom loss and bottom back-scatter. The data would be inputs to acoustic performance models such as Tactical Decision Aids (TDAs). This sensor system will obtain real time environmental data in shallow water to optimize the deployment and performance of acoustic sensors such as Air Deployable Active Receiver (ADAR), Advanced Low Frequency Sonar (ALFS), and Directional Command Active Sonobuoy System (DICASS). The unique features of this proposal concept are near bottom sensor strings combined with near bottom small sources to obtain bottom characteristics at low grazing angles without the need for large high power sources. The sources proposed here are only 170 (dB//uPA2 in a one-octave band) compared to the 200 to 215 (dB//uPA2 in a one-octave band) source level required by near surface measurement systems. The proposed system also utilizes an in-buoy processing system to compute bottom loss and bottom back-scatter from measurements of signal level and arrival times. Only results that can be directly input to TDA will be transmitted to tactical aircraft adding no additional processing burden on the tactical aircraft system.This proposed device will satisfy a critical need for a rapid response environmental measurement system to acquire data and in-situ measurements for accurate on site tactical decision aids, nowcast active sonar predictions and buoy deployment geometry optimization, and perform this task in a more environmentally friendly manner with smaller sources. This development will allow the measurement of ocean bottom parameters safely at sites close to shore and at sites which are off-limits to the current large source level system. Commercial markets include offshore environmental bottom sediment data collection, coastal environmental studies and potentially off shore oil exploration. |
| RDA, INC.
P.O. Box 49 Doylestown, PA 18901 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(540) 349-8083
Mr. Ronald H. Buratti NAVY 01-017 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Shallow Water Bottom Characteristic Measurement Sensors |
| Abstract: | Detailed knowledge of the operational environment can be exploited to improve the capabilities of active sonar detection and classification systems. The deployment geometry, transmit bandwidth and averaging time can all be set to optimize detection performance given the detection system has a detailed knowledge of the operational environment. In addition, more detailed knowledge may also provide target classification clues derived from the received echo shape. The environmental data gathered on station could be integrated into a tactical decision aid (TDA) that is run prior to the start of the Anti Submarine Warfare (ASW) search phase of the mission. One of the more difficult parameters to measure in-situ is the bottom scattering strength vs. grazing angle. Knowledge of the bottom scattering strength is critical in shallow water operation where the bottom reverberation is the dominant source of interference. This is especially true in downward refracting environments. The bottom scattering strength is difficult to measure because bottom reverberation is a function of a number of complex parameters such as the transmission loss to the bottom and the bottom loss verses grazing angle curve. This SBIR solicitation (N01-017) proposes the development of a new sensor capable of making a bottom loss measurement. To keep development and production costs manageable, this new sensor will leverage heavily on existing air deployed sonobuoy technology. The proposed sensor would be used in conjunction with existing sonobuoys already in the Navy's inventory. In this SBIR solicitation we shall address the methodology and feasibility of such a technique.The product of this SBIR will have a direct impact on existing and proposed air deployed ASW search systems. The proposed system could be used either prior to the deployment of or in conjunction with existing or planned ASW search sensors. The benefit to the fleet will be an increased awareness of the operational environment leading to more effective mission planning and execution. The proposed sensor could potentially be marketable to non-military government agencies for the purpose of harbor monitoring and surveillance. More specifically, we see a potential market to drug interdiction agencies needing to detect and classify small vessels that may escape detection by radar systems yet have strong acoustic signatures. |
| FFF ENGINEERING DESIGN
176 Albert Street North Arlington, NJ 07032 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(201) 615-3201
Mr. Odilo Vazquez NAVY 01-018 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Semi-Active Side-Lateral Engine Mounts for Control of Vibration and Shock Loading |
| Abstract: | The objective of this proposal is to define a program that will investigate the E-2C vibration and shock dampening side engine mount requirements and develop an innovative semi-active vibration and shock mount system for the E2C aircraft's side lateral mounts. Currently, there is no system available that incorporates both vibration nulling and appreciable shock alignment in a compact package. FFF is proposing an innovative hybrid MR concept that can meet the E-2C's requirements in a package that can withstand the aerospace environmental conditions and the installation constraints.New semi active mounts can be used on many of the curent classes of aircrafts and helicopters. The combination of improving vibration isolation while maintaining static alingment under shock loads can be applicable to many commercial and miliatry programs including land vehicles and marime applications. |
| INTELLIGENT AUTOMATION, INC.
7519 Standish Place, Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20855 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 590-3155
Dr. Leonard Haynes NAVY 01-018 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Side lateral Engine Mount |
| Abstract: | The key innovation of this proposal is combining an MR fluid damper with a stiction based shock absorber to provide adaptive damping and shock absorption as a means to upgrade the current side lateral engine mount which provides no vibration isolation. Our concept is focused on minimizing the certification process for use on E-2C and C-2A aircraft, and therefore minimizing the time and cost to being installation on actual Navy aircraft. The proposal also describes the control algorithms which will allow the system to be totally autonomous. We have organized the proposed project so that by the end of Phase 1 we will be able to test the key aspects of the system and assess the benefits with respect to adaptive damping based on MR fluid. By the end of Phase 2 we will have a fully integrated adjustable damping and shock absorbing side lateral engine mount which would be ready to begin the certification process.Our first commercialization focus will be to achieve a system which the Navy will use on E2-C and C-2A aircraft. Later commercialization will focus on other aircraft adaptive isolation mounts, and then on applications beyond aircraft. |
| QRDC, INC.
Box 562 Excelsior, MN 55331 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(952) 556-5205
Dr. Daryoush Allaei NAVY 01-018 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Smart Engine Mounts with Energy Managing Continuous Structural Elements |
| Abstract: | Vibration and shock attenuation is the focus of this SBIR project. We offer to demonstrate the feasibility of the Smart Engine Mount with Energy Managing Continuous Structural Elements system concept suitable for use in airborne vehicles such as E-2C aircraft. Excess vibration energies will be channeled and attenuated inside the Smart Engine Mount whose continuous and connected elements will have energy flow control and energy managing capabilities. This innovative Smart Engine Mount concept may be used as an effective semi-active and hybrid barrier between vibration energy generated by an engine and sensitive optical and electrical components inside an aircraft. The entire smart mount will be composed of three main layers in which semi-active and hybrid energy-managing elements will be embedded. In other word, vibration and shock disturbances injected into the engine mounts will be confined, diverted, converted, absorbed, steered, and dissipated using embedded passive elements and active actuators. It is this energy-managing feature of the smart mount that makes our concept unique and effective. In addition, our approach will be distinct when compared with conventional discrete mounts because our smart mount will be made of continuous elements that are interconnected to make the entire mount system significantly more effective. Finally, the semi-active feature of the proposed Smart Engine Mount will have the capability of changing it stiffness and/or damping rates in an on-off manner to accommodate operational changes.More effective engine mounts may be used on many of the current commercial piston and turboprop aircraft as well as helicopters. The combination of improved vibration isolation while maintaining static alignment conditions under shock loads will also be applicable to better isolating a variety of military and commercial power trains from the rest of the vehicle. In addition to airborne types, these vehicles include passenger automobiles, commercial trucks, marine vehicles such as submarines and surface ships. |
| ADVANCED ROTORCRAFT TECHNOLOGY, INC.
1685 Plymouth Street, Suite 250 Mountain View, CA 94043 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(650) 968-1464
Dr. Chengjian He NAVY 01-019 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced Rotorcraft Shipboard Landing Aerodynamic Interference Software Modules |
| Abstract: | Shipboard landing presents a multitude of problems for rotorcraft that must be addressed to assure safe operation. The interaction of the rotor downwash with the ship's deck and the interaction of the ship airwake with the rotor are two key areas of this "Dynamic Interface" that must be fully evaluated to establish limits on shipboard operations for rotorcraft. The high cost and inherent danger of shipboard testing have been major impediments to supporting the Fleet in this critical area. The use of simulation to provide a Rotorcraft Shipboard Operational Limit Prediction Tool will enhance flight test productivity, reduce cost, and increase the safety of flight test operations. Advanced Rotorcraft Technology Inc. (ART) has developed FLIGHTLAB, a comprehensive rotorcraft modeling tool, and has added extensive utilities to support flight testing and validation. Under this SBIR, ART proposes to extend the aerodynamic and interference modeling in FLIGHTLAB to fully encompass the shipboard landing environment and to incorporate automated prediction of the Rotorcraft Shipboard Operating Limits and a prototype Maritime version of the ADS -33 Handling Qualities analysis. The resulting Rotorcraft Shipboard Operational Limit Prediction Tool will greatly facilitate the test and evaluation of helicopter shipboard landing. The tool developed will expedite rotorcraft/ship qualification, benefit both military and commercial rotorcraft shipboard landing training, and facilitate commercial airline landing zone planning. |
| CONTINUUM DYNAMICS, INC.
34 Lexington Avenue Ewing, NJ 08618 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(609) 538-0444
Dr. Robert M. McKillip, Jr. NAVY 01-019 Selected for Award |
| Title: | A Real-Time Airwake Model for Dynamic Interface Simulation Support |
| Abstract: | A novel physics-based real-time computational method of representing the airwake of Navy ships to support rotorcraft shipboard landing simulation studies is proposed for research and development. In this method, the unsteady ship airwake is modeled using vortex doublet elements shed from sharp edges of the ship superstructure, and the approaching rotorcraft is described by a panel-based fuselage model and freely distorting wake analysis. Use of fast panel methods and octree sorting structures may allow this highly complex wake representation to be calculated in real-time, using networked computers in a parallel computation environment. The airwake model representation provides an appropriately detailed level of fidelity to capture handling qualities features of importance to shipboard rotary-wing aircraft operations, while maintaining real-time computation throughput. This approach promises to revolutionize "dynamic interface" simulation by combining physics-based models of helicopter flight dynamics, rotorcraft free wake representations, unsteady ship airwake generation, and, optionally, ship motion dynamics. The resulting simulation environment may be used to quantify operational shipboard approach envelopes without the considerable time and expense of at-sea testing.Software developed under the proposed program would drastically reduce Navy costs associated with at-sea qualification testing of various ship/rotorcraft combinations, by replacing a significant number of tests with computer simulation. The airwake software would also enhance the safety of commericial helicopter pilots operating from offshore oil platforms or in urban environments when used with flight simulator systems. |
| GALORATH, INC.
100 North Sepulveda Blvd, Suite 1801 El Segundo, CA 90245 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 414-3222
Mr. Dan Galorath NAVY 01-020 Awarded: 07MAR01 |
| Title: | Software Cost and Schedule Estimating |
| Abstract: | There is an acute need for the development of software estimation techniques that will allow government organizations and contractors to realistically determine the scope of software development projects up-front and to refine these estimates and make project decisions during development based on quantified estimates and risk assessments. This information is needed on new developments, upgrades and maintenance for the variety of languages and methods used within NAVAIR and the Department of Defense, as well as a broad range of other government and commercial organizations. Research by the Navy and others has identified realistic software estimation as a "Best Practice". Galorath proposes "plug-ins" to its commercial SEER models that will considerably enhance the state of the art in software project estimation and tracking. Plug-ins will include data mining and other techniques, a database of project histories and trends, as well as tighter integration of project management functionality. Once this SBIR is successfully completed, users will be able to: ú Estimate software development cost, schedule, and risk with more accuracy, early in the acquisition cycle. ú Better evaluate risks and make informed decisions both early and throughout the project. ú Better prepare project "estimates to complete". GartnerGroup has identified SEER as best in class and has estimated significant growth in the software estimation tool and services market. The products resulting from this SBIR will help Galorath achieve this significant growth. |
| MAROTZ, INC.
13518 Jamul Drive Jamul, CA 91935 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(916) 801-8022
Mr. John Amacker NAVY 01-020 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Software Cost and Schedule Estimating |
| Abstract: | The objective of this Phase 1 proposal is to demonstrate the feasibility of developing a set of software estimation tools and procedures that will estimate software development cost and schedule for software efforts of Naval Aviation. The set of software cost and schedules estimation tools and procedures developed through this project will include Marotz, Inc.'s software estimation tool Cost Xpert. The software estimation models in Cost Xpert will be customized and calibrated to reflect Naval Aviation's specific software development domain and to estimate the costs and schedules of Naval Aviation software development projects with a standard deviation of 10% or less. This set of tools will also include a tool with the ability to update Naval Aviation's project estimates and project baselines to with metrics gathered from by Naval Aviation's automated project management tools. This tool will allow Naval Aviation to record and store actual project metrics, compare actual results with estimated results, when appropriate create new project estimates or baselines, and finally correlate the metrics needed to refine and calibrate the customized Naval Aviation software estimation models.These tools and procedures hold the promise of allowing Naval Aviation to not only effectively plan for the allocation of its resources in the development of new and upgraded systems for the Fleet but also become more dynamic and systematic in its decision making processes throughout the entire lifecycle of its projects increasing the probabilities of project success. Marotz, Inc. anticipates that the same software management professionals that use its estimation tool Cost Xpert will be interested in a tool that ties together general purpose software management tools used by Naval Aviation, the estimation models in Cost Xpert 3.0 and a PERK database. It will be using its established sales channels and relationships with clients to market this tool. Marotz, Inc. estimates that a successful software process simulation tool will be achieve $500 thousand in revenue in its first year after release and $2 million in its second year. |
| TECHNOMICS, INC.
5290 Overpass Road #206 Santa Barbara, CA 93111 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 415-1005
Mr. Richard B. Collins II NAVY 01-020 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Software Cost and Schedule Estimating |
| Abstract: | The proposal addresses development of a tool to improve software cost and schedule estimating accuracy. After collecting and building a preliminary database of historical software cost, technical, and programmatic data, we will explore application of innovative methods and techniques to use in the software estimating tool. The anticipated results of this research include: 1) an increase in the accuracy of software development and maintenance cost and schedule estimates; 2) a more realistic and defensible quantification of uncertainty (estimating error range); and 3) a reduction in the effort required to generate an estimate and calibrate the estimating tool.Our proposed software cost-estimating tool will be tailored to both the unique requirements of Department of Defense (DOD) organizations and to the unique needs of industry, including defense and other commercial concerns. Because the model will provide a more accurate and defensible cost estimate, we believe we will achieve substantial market penetration within DoD. Consequently, defense firms developing and maintaining software would then have a strong incentive to also purchase and use this model in order to: 1) determine what the government's estimate of their project will be and 2) produce an estimate that the government is more likely to consider reasonable. Because of its proposed built-in capability to tailor itself to the salient attributes of a specific software organization, the model can also be rapidly generalized for use by other commercial firms. |
| CONTINUUM DYNAMICS, INC.
34 Lexington Avenue Ewing, NJ 08618 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(609) 538-0444
Dr. WilliamJ. Usab, Jr. NAVY 01-021 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Pressure Sensitive Non-Slip Surface Appliqu‚ for Low Drag |
| Abstract: | Military and commercial aircraft use non-slip treatments on upper areas of the aircraft to provide safe walking surfaces for maintenance personnel and pilots during routine service operations and, in some cases, cockpit access. Current non-slip surface treatments for aircraft rely on fixed surface roughness to provide traction. While these surface treatments provide slip resistance, significant performance penalties in terms of aerodynamic drag can arise due to the surface roughness of these devices. Continuum Dynamics, Inc. (CDI) proposes the development of an innovative Pressure Sensitive Non-slip Surface Appliqu‚ (PSNSA) which is slip resistant when pressure is applied to the surface. Under aircraft flight conditions the PSNSA device has a smooth surface equivalent to aircraft skin yielding low viscous drag and improved aircraft performance relative to current surface treatments. In addition, this non-slip device offers the potential for greater slip resistance in all weather conditions reducing the risk of accidents and injury.The successful development of the proposed PSNSA concept will reduce operating costs for commercial and military aircraft by reducing drag. Additionally this device will make maintenance operations safer by providing better non-slip surfaces on aircraft wings. |
| TDA RESEARCH, INC.
12345 W. 52nd Ave. Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 940-2317
Dr. Silvia Luebben NAVY 01-021 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Non-skid Coatings for Aircraft |
| Abstract: | Horizontal external surfaces on military and civil aircraft are usually treated with non-slip coatings to provide a safe pathway for maintenance personnel walking on with tools and equipment during service and repair. Current non-slip treatments are heavy and degrade the aerodynamic performance of the airplane because of their high profile. The Department of Navy is looking for a new effective slip resistant surface treatment that does not increase the drag and weight of the aircraft. In this Phase I SBIR project TDA proposes to develop a new anti-slip nanocomposite coating that is light and does not require a high-profile surface roughness to be effective. This new multicomponent material will offer good dry and wet traction and will be applied as a regular topcoat.TDA's material will have immediate application as a coating for the upper surfaces of military and commercial aircraft. Non-skid coatings have other applications including flooring for ramps, aisles, walkways, steps, handicap zones, docking stations, recreational and commercial boats; in forklifts traffic areas, around machinery and in chemical transfer zones. Industries that benefit from the use of anti-slip coatings include chemical plants and transformers, food processing plants, paper mills, hospitals, railroads and subways, wineries, sewage and treatment plants, swimming pools, schools and public facilities. |
| CAPE COD RESEARCH, INC.
19 Research Road East Falmouth, MA 02536 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(508) 540-4400
Mr. Francis L. Keohan NAVY 01-022 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Fasteners/Rivets for Watertight Integrity and Corrosion Prevention in Permanent Application |
| Abstract: | Military aircraft require corrosion inhibiting sealants around fasteners gaps to prevent fuel leaks, water ingress, and corrosion. Conventional selants must be wet-applied during assembly, which results in excessive labor costs and downtime. Limitations of conventional polyether and polysulfide-based sealants include: the slowness of cure below room temperature, contraction during cure, and cumbersome application methods. A novel fastener sealant based on an expandable matrix resin with microencapsulated curing agents and chrome-free anticorrosive agents is proposed for this application. The sealant is designed to be pre-applied to metallic fasteners, form a thin, dry outer film surface and remain shelf-stable. Upon insertion into a hole, the shearing forces reflow the sealant and activate the base resin curing. The curing process will be accompanied by a controlled level of material expansion for effective sealing. The proposed sealant system should effectively protect aircraft structures from water intrusion and associated corrosion processes. Pre-applied fastener sealants will be formulated with microencapsulated curing agents, low toxicity corrosion inhibitors and rheological additives and tested for adhesion to aluminum and composites, fuel and water barrier properties, resistance to thermal and chemical degradation, and corrosion inhibiting properties. The physical performance will be compared to commercial sealants meeting MIL-S-81733.A pre-applied,chrome-free, expandable sealant having excellent corrosion inhibiting properties would provide the DoD with a cost-effective process for maintaining military aircraft. Potential commercial applications would include the manufacture and repair of civilian aircraft, automotive and marine products. |
| METSS CORP.
720-G Lakeview Plaza Blvd. Columbus, OH 43085 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(614) 842-6600
Dr. Gideon Salee NAVY 01-022 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Fasteners/Rivets for Watertight Integrity and Corrosion Prevention in Permanent Application |
| Abstract: | During aircraft and helicopter production fasteners are currently wet installed with two-component polysulfide-sealant. Applying the two-component sealant is both time consuming and labor intensive. The excess sealant can be classified as hazardous waste. MIL-STD-7179 requires that fasteners be wet installed with sealant to secure water tightness and corrosion prevention. METSS is proposing to apply its expertise in the area of sealants, environmentally friendly corrosion inhibitors, and micro-encapsulation to develop a coating that is applied during the manufacturing process of the fastener /rivet. The dry non-toxic coating developed will provide lubricity during installation, water tightness, and comply with current environmental laws and regulations. Under the proposed program, METSS will evaluate three different approaches to obtaining this objective. These are: (a) low compression set, water repellant, elastomeric coatings; (b) Post fastening, swellable coatings; and (c) post fastening, foamable coatings. Each of these technologies is technically and commercially viable, thereby offering the potential for a near-term solution to this critical problem.The results from this Phase I program will lay the groundwork for a leak-proof, corrosion resistant coating that can be applied on a rivet or other type of fastener used by the U.S. Navy during its manufacturing and will eliminate the need to apply a wet, two-component, polysulfide sealant prior to the rivet or fastener installation. METSS expects that the proposed improvements will very significantly increase the rate of riveting, make it much less labor intensive, reduce worker exposure to hazardous chemicals, and avoid the handling and disposal of hazardous wastes. Successful completion of the research and development work, with participation by one or more potential partners, will facilitate technology transfer and insertion. Subsequent optimization and commercialization efforts by METSS and its development partner(s) will have a significant impact on the specialty fastener sector, which in turn will be able to supply the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, and U.S. Coast Guard, as well as the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force with commercially available corrosion resistant, fastening systems. The technology developed should have additional uses in commercial and industrial markets, for example in the automotive, marine, and building construction industry sectors. |
| SYSTEMS & MATERIALS RESEARCH CONSULT
113 S. Cuernavaca Austin, TX 78733 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(512) 263-0822
Dr. Alan V. Bray NAVY 01-022 Awarded: 07MAR01 |
| Title: | Fasteners/Rivets for Watertight Integrity and Corrosion Prevention in Permanent Application |
| Abstract: | Polysufide sealants work well in rivets/fasteners for Naval aricraft, providing sealing and corrosion prevention functions, but their installation is problematic. The labor and waste hazardous materials associated with mixing the sealant are costly and time consuming. Systems and Materials Research (SMRC) proposes to develop a one-part polysulfide (1K-PS) nanocomposite sealant that activates with the pressure of installation. A nano-putty, containing environmentally friendly anti-corrosion additives, will be formed from COTS 1K-PS liquid by blending in nano-clays and polymeric thickeners. The nano-putty is an uncured state that will be encapsulated to prevent premature cure. The 1K-PS encapsulated nano-putty will be formed into collars and assembled onto the rivet. A full scale demonstration will be conducted at the end of Phase I on a 7075 T6 aircraft aluminum sheet test bed. SMRC has formed a Phase I alliance with a large aircraft fastners company as technical consultant and potential Phase III licensee for self-seal rivets. Southwest Texas State Univeristy, a leader in nanocomposite reserach, will provide subcontract research services, and full access to an 8500 square foot state-of-the- art materials development laboratory. A commericalization plan will be prepared in Phase I that will center on development of a licensing agreement with the Phase I commerical partner rivet manufacturer.The labor and time savings of a self-seal rivet design makes this a very attrractive commerical product. In addition to the cost savings in manufacture and maintenance, the 1K-PS nanocomposite self seal rivet will virtually eliminate hazardous waste volume while improving the reliability of the rivet seal. This improvement comes from standardizing the amount of sealant applied, and the improved sealing function that results from using a nano-clay constituent. Commericalization will be appraoched through licensing the technology to rivet manufacturing companies, with the SMRC Phase I commercial partner as the first licensing target. |
| MAINSTREAM ENGINEERING CORP.
200 Yellow Place, Pines Industrial Center Rockledge, FL 32955 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(321) 631-3550
Dr. Robert P. Scaringe NAVY 01-023 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Phase I Demonstration of a Passive Missile Environment Monitor |
| Abstract: | The ability to safely detect fuel leaks, salt and water intrusion, charge, shock and temperature extremes in a missile canister is lacking. Normal methods used to determine a fuel leak, moisture, charge, or exposure to extreme temperatures and shock inside a missile canister are inadequate because they require power to operate. The introduction of voltage and current into the volatile fuel vapors, no matter how small, can be catastrophic in that it can ignite the very liquid it is attempting to detect. Battery powered systems are also impractical due to the five year certification period. Mainstream has a developed a concept for a passive inexpensive non-electrical, non-mechanical sensor to perform these detection functions. This indicator does not introduce any electrical discharge when performing the monitoring. Under this Phase I effort, Mainstream will completely demonstrate the leak detector and investigate the ideal configuration for this Navy missile application. The Phase I effort includes an extensive experimental demonstration of a visual indicator for use in missile canisters. Phase I will include critical proof-of-concept experiments to demonstrate the feasibility and accuracy of the proposed monitor. This product would complement our existing line of passive system monitors and our marketing studies have indicated markets for a moisture/temperature/shock version of this monitor for the shipping industry, a charge/moisture/shock/temperature version of this indicator for the computer and electronics industries (for use in shipping and storage), and a fuel leakage indicator configuration for the energy industry. |
| MIDE TECHNOLOGY CORP.
56 Rogers Street Cambridge, MA 02142 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(617) 252-0660
Dr. Brett Masters NAVY 01-023 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Low-Cost Missile Environment Monitor |
| Abstract: | The determination of the environmental extremes that a sensitive piece of equipment has been exposed do during shipping and storage is of critical importance. All electronic equipment and chemicals have limitations as far as specific environmental conditions are concerned. If these specific conditions have been exceeded, serious operational problems can result. It is therefore crucial that a sensor that can determine if environmental parameters have been exceeded operates reliably over a long period. To date, most sensors operate with electrical power. This poses serious problems for sensors that need to operate over an extended period of time as batteries deplete and alternative energy sources are required. Mid‚ proposes a sensor array that is purely mechanical and will require no electrical power. This array of sensors will utilize the unique qualities of intelligent materials, specifically smart gels and shape memory alloys to determine if the limitations set for the humidity, temperature, shock, fuel, salt and water levels have been exceeded. This sensor will be built on proven technology and will be extremely cost effective.The smart materials environmental monitor promises substantial returns from the ability to monitor environmental conditions inside commercial shipping containers for sensitive items such as electronics. The monitor offers an inexpensive and easy-to-use solution to check for and ameliorate environmental exceedances. |
| SCENTCZAR CORP.
213 Taylor Street Fredericksburg, VA 22405 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(540) 372-2004
Dr. Joseph E. Roehl NAVY 01-023 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Low-Cost Missile Environment Monitor utilizing a beam of radio frequency (RF) energy |
| Abstract: | This project will develop a monitoring system for the inside of Tomahawk missile canisters that can operate for an indefinite period exceeding five years with power provided by an external hand held reader using radio frequency (RF) energy. The hand held, battery operated reader will power the transponder inside the missile canister using RF energy to penetrate through its skin, charging a miniature storage capacitor that will operate a micro-power data acquisition system. The sensors will be passive devices only requiring power during readout. Our entire system of transponder and sensors will be easily installed in new or existing canisters without tools because it will be packaged in miniature modules with adhesive backings. All the sailor need do is remove the protective layer on the back of each package and press fit the module to the inside skin of the canister. Phase I will demonstrate the concept in the laboratory with breadboard sensors, the RF link, and a simple breadboard reader. Phase II will engineer an entire system which, in addition to working for Tomahawk missile canisters, will be easily adaptable to a wide variety of commercial applications.System will have wide application in grocery retailing, military logistics, and agriculture, where perishable items must be checked for spoilage without breaking open a package. |
| LAMBDA RESEARCH
5521 Fair Lane Cincinnati, OH 45227 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(513) 561-0883
Mr. Paul Prevey NAVY 01-024 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Innovative Gas Turbine Engine Propulsion |
| Abstract: | Low Plasticity Burnishing (LPB) has been shown to provide twice the HCF strength of shot peening, and four times the strength after FOD in Ti-6Al-4V and IN718 laboratory specimens exposed to turbine engine temperatures. The deep compressive layer produced by LPB is comparable to laser shock peening (LSP), and can fully arrest the growth of 0.020 in. deep fatigue cracks. LPB offers higher speed, lower cost, and better surface finish than LSP, and is performed on conventional CNC machine tools in a manufacturing or engine overhaul shop environment. The feasibility of applying LPB to compressor blades critical to the NAVAIR IHPTET and VAATE programs to improve damage tolerance and HCF life will be established in Phase I. LPB processing parameters and control software will be developed for following the complex surface of a compressor blade using existing tooling and 4-axis LPB facility. The HCF life and damage tolerance of LPB processed blades will be compared to the current practice of shot peening. Thorough documentation of HCF performance of LPB processed blades and development of an automated production LPB facility for blade rework will be undertaken in Phase II. The anticipated benefit of the proposed effort to NAVAIR is substantial reduction in the total cost of aircraft ownership and improved fleet readiness. LPB blade processing will improve engine HCF life and FOD tolerance, resulting in reduced costs of both replacement parts and maintenance. Increased damage tolerance will reduce required inspection time for further man-hour savings and increased on-wing time. The initial cost savings for the T56-A-427 compressor alone are estimated at $3.6M annually. Current military expenditures of $2B annually to address fatigue of aging aircraft and legacy engines provide the immediate market for LPB and potential savings to the DoD. Commercialization will, therefore, begin with NAVAIR overhaul and then expand to other military aviation applications. LPB is well positioned for commercialization due to low costs of operation and capitalization relative to laser shock peening(LSP), and improved depth and stability of the compressive layer produced by LPB relative to shot peening. LPB can be applied easily during manufacturing operations with conventional CNC tools at engine overhaul centers for much less than new blade costs. Demand for improved HCF performance and cost reduction from military owner-operators will lead to LPB processing of new blades and other critical rotating parts during manufacturing. Military applications will be followed in the commercial aviation sector, driven by improved HCF performance and cost reduction. Potential secondary commercial opportunities for LPB to improve HCF performance in the aerospace, automotive, and power generation turbine industries are vast, and will follow the initial military applications over a period of several years. |
| MAGCANICA, INC.
6723 Draper Avenue La Jolla, CA 92037 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(413) 442-1010
Mr. Ivan J. Garshelis NAVY 01-024 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Innovative Gas Turbine Engine Propulsion |
| Abstract: | Output shaft torque is a very useful parameter for health and usage monitoring, as well as electronic control, of turboshaft engines. Magnetoelastic polarized band technology is a novel method of torque sensing that provides a wireless signal while maintaining superior torsional stiffness, low mass, and packaging flexibility. Although this technology has been successfully proven in many automotive and industrial applications, its use to date has been limited to average torque measurement and niche production volumes. The objective of this project is to prove the feasibility of a magnetoelastic non-contact torque sensor for turboshaft and turboprop engine applications, with the specific goal of achieving a repeatable signal having large bandwidth from actual measurements on an engine output shaft. This test program is intended to demonstrate enhanced performance as compared with existing torque sensor systems, which more often than not present a heavy compromise among the desired resolution, bandwidth, and packaging. The significant weight and cost reductions, and long-term rotorcraft safety enhancements that can be achieved by the U.S. Navy through this new torquemeter make it well worth evaluating. This initial proveout is intended to provide the basis for a Phase II project to commercialize the technology for various military and commercial gas turbine engine applications.Torque is one of the most fundamental parameters used to analyze and control the performance of rotating machinery. Although all gas turbine engines generate mechanical torque at certain individual stages, turboshaft (and turboprop) engines are particularly well-suited for analysis of their system performance through torque monitoring due to the fact that they provide mechanical power through an output shaft. By demonstrating the feasibility, in hardware, of a magnetoelastic non-contact torque sensor for gas turbine engine output shafts that provides a high bandwidth signal, the following benefits are anticipated: Far greater flexibility in packaging layout of the engine output shaft assembly Improved torsional stiffness and output signal resolution with respect to existing strain gauge and phase shift torque sensors Elimination of compliant torsion bar used in existing phase shift torque sensors, with a consequent weight and cost reduction Lower torque sensor system and output shaft assembly physical length and mass Improved ability to detect, and eventually prevent, potentially hazardous engine transient events such as flutter, surge, and stall Improved HUMS capability during engine operation Improved controllability of engine torque balancing in dual engine configurations Enhanced capability for diagnostics in helicopter flight testing programs, especially airframe-engine matching and drive system dynamics The commercial implications of a successful high bandwidth torque sensor development program are significant. Truly non-contact, robust, accurate torque measurement for a variety of vehicle and industrial applications has been an elusive goal for many years. The advent of magnetoelastic polarized band technology, in combination with recent improvements in magnetic field sensor technology, suggest the strong possibility that at last reliable torque measurement, including that of transient events, is a real prospect for machine designers across many fields. Such a development could be put to use successfully in such varied applications as automotive engine control for reduced emissions, power control of helicopter engines and rotors, and tool condition monitoring in CNC machining centers. Due to the fact that there are literally millions if not billions of rotating shafts in the field that could benefit from integrated torque sensing, the ramifications of a successful program for U.S. military and industrial applications are exceptionally broad indeed. |
| MENON & ASSOC., INC.
12282 Libelle Ct. San Diego, CA 92131 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(858) 549-8886
Dr. Suresh M. Menon NAVY 01-026 Awarded: 07MAR01 |
| Title: | Detection of foreign materials in prepregs |
| Abstract: | Fiber-reinforced polymer prepreg materials are supplied in the form of tape, tow, fabric, etc. During the cutting and lay-up processes, some of the backing material (release film) remains on the material. Composite parts manufactured using such prepreg materials can fail since the backing material prevents a good bond between individual plies. Menon and Associates proposes to demonstrate a magnetic resonance (MR) system to detect the backing material. MR principle is based on exciting the hydrogen atoms inside the material being inspected. Depending on the state of hydrogen we receive a unique signal. For example, the resin used inside the prepreg and the polyethylene or paper backing material have hydrogen atoms. However, the state of the hydrogen atoms in these two are different. We have a hand-held MR probe that can measure relaxation times of the hydrogen atoms in prepreg materials. This will detect any remaining backing material. In addition, if the backing material is aluminum, the MR field gets distorted and this also gives a good response. Using MR (similar to MRI in medical imaging) we can potentially measure wrinkles and voids at different depths by monitoring drastic variations in the signal from the hydrogen atoms from inside the composite. The capability of the proposed MR sensor for early flaw detection will result in a) improved fabrication and thus capability, b) increased life-time of the composite structure, and c) increased cost effectiveness. The commercialization potential is not limited to military uses but also includes civilian applications. Examples are the civilian aerospace industry, the automobile industry and sports industry. |
| THERMAL WAVE IMAGING, INC.
845 Livernois Street Ferndale, MI 48220 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(248) 414-3730
Dr. Steven M. Shepard NAVY 01-026 Awarded: 07MAR01 |
| Title: | Enhanced Scanning Thermography for Large Scale Composite NDE |
| Abstract: | The increased use of composite materials in the manufacture of structural aircraft components such as the V-22 tiltrotor requires that Nondestructive Evaluation is performed frequently in the early stages of the fabrication process. Although Pulsed Thermography has been demonstrated to be an effective tool for many composite NDE applications, it lacks the speed and low cycle time required for frequent inspection during manufacturing. We have proposed a new approach to composite NDE, Enhanced Scanning Thermography, that provides the advantages offered by pulsed Thermography in a continuous scanning system that is ideal for the large, complex composite structures. The system will inspect parts while they are in the tooling at each debulk cycle, and provide fast, automated identification and measurement of defects such as wrinkles, voids or tape inclusions without operator input or intervention.Our proposal was formulated based on input from current and prospective customers in Government and private aerospace manufacturing, service, and R&D, including NASA, commercial airline, and military NDE personnel. We found that several major aerospace customers (Boeing, GKN Westland, Lockheed-Martin) were still using very crude scanning systems, simply because the systems matched the geometry of the parts they were inspecting. These customers indicated a high degree of interest in a scanning system that would incorporate the advanced features of the pulsed systems that they were using on other applications. Although the proposal has focused primarily on aerospace applications, significant market opportunities exist in the automotive and energy industries. The growing use of composites in automotive manufacturing and is presenting new QA and NDE challenges to the industry. TWI has been a pioneer in applying Pulsed Thermographic solutions to automotive applications, and has worked with Ford, General Motors, Chrysler, Nissan and numerous Tier 1 suppliers. The automotive market is distinctly different than the aerospace market, primarily because of the high volume requirements and the importance of autonomous, on-line systems. TWI has recognized and responded to these needs, will build on our experience in the automotive industry in marketing the scanning system." |
| POLYSPEC, L.P.
6614 Gant Road Houston, TX 77066 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(281) 397-0033
Mr. Paul H. Anderson NAVY 01-027 Awarded: 20FEB01 |
| Title: | Sprayable Polysulfide Elastomeric Development |
| Abstract: | This project will develop a polysulfide based coating system that can be spray applied to marginally sound coatings that are coating steel substrates. The coating will be high solids, preferrably 100% solids, to minimize its environmental impact due to VOCs. The coating will have a low cure stress to aid in the adhesion. The adhesion of the coating system will be such that it will be able to wet out most common coatings already in use by the Navy.The coating will be able to adhere to most coatings used on Navy structures. The cure stress will be very low minimizing the chance of lifting a marginally sound coating system previously installed on the steel. The finalized system will expand our product line to include a process that our customer base is looking for. |
| UTILITY DEVELOPMENT CORP.
112 Naylon Avenue Livingston, NJ 07039 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(973) 994-4334
Mr. Harry s. Katz NAVY 01-028 Awarded: 20FEB01 |
| Title: | Flexible Marking Paint for Asphaltic Airfield Pavements |
| Abstract: | Our main objective will be to investigate and develop flexible, abrasion resistant, environmentally compliant, waterborne acrylic marking paint for use on asphaltic airfield pavements. The developed paint will have reduced shrinkage upon cure and better adhesion to asphalt surface than currently used paint. The improved paint will have good flow and wetting to provide durability and excellent physical properties that will prevent deficiencies such as curling and cracking when applied on new paved surfaces. UDC will prove the feasibility and potential advantages of the new environmentally safe marking paint during this Phase I program. The developed materials will be tested in accordance with industry standards and ASTM methods. The tests will include elongation, tensile strength, residual cure stress, adhesion to asphaltic concrete, and abrasion resistance. At the end of Phase I, we will provide a report with results and conclusions, and a Phase II plan, schedule and cost estimate. This program will provide a flexible, abrasion resistant, environmentally compliant, marking paint for use on asphaltic airfield pavements. These marking paints will be directly transferable to all airfields with asphaltic pavements. This paint will also be used to mark municipal roads and parking structures. |
| UTILITY DEVELOPMENT CORP.
112 Naylon Avenue Livingston, NJ 07039 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(973) 994-4334
Mr. Harry S. Katz NAVY 01-029 Awarded: 20FEB01 |
| Title: | High Adhesion Marking Paint for Portland Cement Concrete |
| Abstract: | Our main objective will be to investigate and develop flexible, abrasion resistant, environmentally compliant, waterborne acrylic marking paint for use on Portland Concrete Cement airfield pavements. The developed paint will have reduced shrinkage upon cure and better adhesion to Portland cement surface concrete than currently used paints. The improved paint will have good flow and wetting to provide durability and excellent physical properties. UDC will prove the feasibility and potential advantages of the new environmentally safe marking paint during this Phase I program. The developed materials will be tested in accordance with industry standards and ASTM methods. The tests will include elongation, tensile strength, residual cure stress, adhesion to Portland Concrete Cement concrete, and abrasion resistant. The developed materials and processing will be demonstrated by spray coating and testing of small test samples. At the end of Phase I, we will provide a report with results and conclusions, and a Phase II plan, schedule and cost estimate. This program will provide a flexible, abrasion resistant, environmentally compliant, marking paint for use on Portland Concrete Cement airfield pavements. These marking paints will be directly transferable to all airfields with Portland Concrete Cement pavements. This paint will also be used to mark municipal roads and parking lots and concrete structures. |
| SIGMA TECHNOLOGIES INTL, INC.
10960 N. Stallard Place Tucson, AZ 85737 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(520) 575-8013
Dr. Ali Boufelfel NAVY 01-030 Awarded: 14APR01 |
| Title: | High Temperature, High Energy Density Multilayer Power Capacitors |
| Abstract: | At this point in time, existing capacitors technologies fail to meet satisfactorily Navy application needs for parts that are able to deliver energy densities greater than 1 J/cc and that are able to operate in severe conditions such as high temperatures, high operating voltages, and high currents. As a solution to this problem, Sigma proposes to develop a unique multilayer capacitor architecture to produce parts that are projected to deliver energy densities over 10 J/cc. These parts will be rugged enough to withstand the harsh conditions. In the phase I program, we propose to design and fabricate high voltage, high current, high temperature capacitors, with an energy density in the range of 10-20J/cc, based on existing and proven capacitor technology. The new capacitor design will based on Sigma's new nanocomposite patented technology that allows the production of polymer/inorganic multilayer capacitors that have improved self healing characteristics, higher breakdown strength, lower dielectric absorption and superior thermal and mechanical properties which result in higher current carrying ability. In the Phase II program, specific DOD applications will be addressed and capacitors will be produced and delivered for field testingThe new generation high energy density capacitors will serve a multitude of critical high power defense and commercial applications which may include motor controllers, inverters, power conversion, advanced linear motor, implantable defibrillators, pulsed lasers, electromagnetic catapults, high energy switches, radar modulators, isotope separation lasers, directed energy weapons, countermeasure pulse generators and other applications in the power electronics industry |
| TRS CERAMICS, INC.
2820 East College Avenue State College, PA 16801 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(814) 238-7485
Dr. Ming-Jen Pan NAVY 01-030 Awarded: 24APR01 |
| Title: | High Dielectric Constant Polymer for Power Electronic Applications |
| Abstract: | Recently it was discovered that a relaxor ferroelectric copolymer consisting of poly(vinylidene flouride - trifluoroethylene) (PVDF-TrFE) exhibits a dielectric constant >60, more than 20 times the values of existing polymer film capacitors. In this SBIR program, TRS Ceramis and its subsidiary Centre Capacitor will demonstrate the feasibility of using this materials for compact, high volumetric efficiency, and low cost capacitors. This technology will bridge the gap between low ESR capacitors made with linear polymer, dielectric ceramics, and ferroelectric ceramics and high capacitance valued components such as electrolytics and ultracapacitors. In Phase I, commercially available polymer film will be processed to determine the optimum irradiation and film annealing conditions. The effect of electrode material (metallization)will also be studied to determine if self-healing electrode technology can be applied to this material. Prototype capacitors will be constructed by lamination techniques and the results will be used for pilot production in Phase II. The overall goal is to meet or exceed the DOD energy density requirement for DC bus capacitors.We anticipate relaxor PVDF-TrFE to be a breakthrough in capacitor technology leading to high volumetric efficiency components applicable to a broad range of markets. Besides military applications, PVDF-TrFE capacitors are expected to find wide use for implantable defibrillators, industrial motor drives, and electric vehicles. |
| BROADATA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
2545 W. 237th Street, Suite K Torrance, CA 90505 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 530-1416
Mr. Ling Sha NAVY 01-031 Awarded: 09APR01 |
| Title: | Combined Direct Digital Synthesis, Predistortion and Efficiency Enhancement RI Power Amplifier |
| Abstract: | Broadata Communications, Inc. (BCI) proposes to development a novel Direct Digital Synthesizer (DDS) for high power radio frequency (RF) amplifiers. The development of this DDS is in response to the Navy's requirement for the development of a technique to pre-distort the signal fed to a high power RF amplifier in such a manner as to reduce distortion components to a point lower than -40dBc. This technology will combine digital synthesis and digital pre-distortion with efficiency enhancement to boost RF power amplifier efficiency and, at the same time, reduce cross modulation distortion often associated with higher efficiency power amplifiers. This device will be fabricated using the latest available, off-the-shelf commercial technology. It will be suitable for high power and high efficiency base station applications. Phase I will focus on hardware architecture design and algorithm simulation. In Phase II, a RF power amplifier, driven by the DDS with pre-distortion compensation, will be built to demonstrate the feasibility of the systems.The proposed DDS power amplifier approach is applicable to both, military and commercial markets. High efficiency power amplifier translates into lower battery weight or longer usage and lower costs. Together with low distortion generated by DDS with predistortion for today's highly complex and stringent modulation schemes, the proposed technology is a win-win solution for the wireless communication industry. |
| LINEARIZER TECHNOLOGY, INC.
3 Nami Lane, Unit C-9 Hamilton, NJ 08619 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(609) 584-8424
Mr. Roger Dorval NAVY 01-031 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Digital Compensation for Distortion |
| Abstract: | The development of a digital signal synthesizer with integrated predistortion linearization (DSS/PDL) is proposed. The DSS/PDL will generate complex waveforms and predistort these waveforms so as to compensate for the distortion of high power amplifiers (HPAs). All signal generation and processing will be done digitally. The use of digital processing for the predistortion (PD) allows precise complex transfer characteristics to be more easily generated. It also allows greater flexibility in generating and modifying these responses. Linearizer Technology, Inc. (LTI) will use its extensive experience in the design and manufacture of linearizers to develop a new class of digital distortion equalizers that offer superior performance, are faster and more efficient than earlier designs, and that are commercially viable. A novel architecture will be employed to overcome stability problems and allow a wider dynamic bandwidth than previously possible. Linearizers are essential in systems carrying bandwidth efficient modulated (BEM), high data rate digital signals. The largest part of LTI's business is providing linearizers to manufacturers of HPAs for satellite earth stations. Linearization is also of great value to the wireless telephone and personal communication industry. The implementation of digital techniques will allow LTI to produce linearizers with greater performance at a lower cost.LTI specializes in the solution of problems involving all aspects of non-linearity in communications systems. Although LTI provides both manufacturing and consulting services, LTI's principal business is the production of linearizers for microwave power amplifiers. LTI now makes more than ten standard linearizer models covering the L,S,C,X,Ku,K and Ka bands, designed specifically for satellite ground station and terrestrial applications. In addition, LTI offers custom linearizer design services for frequencies from base-band through millimeter wave and above, and engineering consultation for all forms of distortion related problems. LTI Linearizers are in use in the US and throughout the world. Users include SSPA, TWTA and KPA manufacturers, satellite system operators, major teleports and satellite users. These customers have continually expressed a desire for linearizers that will provide increased linearity, greater operational bandwidth and do not require alignment. These are the features offered by the DSS/DPL to be developed by this proposal. The digital predistortion technology will be initially integrated into the design of our standard linearizer products and offered as an option. This option will be promoted in the same way other LTI products have successfully been promoted. A new line of high performance linearizers tailored to the cellular and personal communications market place will be developed. This market place has not been directly addressed by LTI because of the difficulties involved in producing linearizers with very high C/I performance. The development of multi-band linearizers will also be considered. Interest has been expressed in a single linearizer to cover the C,X and Ku-bands for tri-band TWTAs. Such multi-band performance has not been possible with a single PD generator, but with a digital PD it should be achievable. Other business opportunities are anticipated as word spreads of the capabilities of digital PD linearizers. |
| V CORP. TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
7042 Nighthawk Court Carlsbad, CA 92009 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(760) 931-1011
Dr. Scott R. Velazquez NAVY 01-031 Selected for Award |
| Title: | High-Resolution Digital Linearity Distortion Compensator |
| Abstract: | This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project demonstrates a breakthrough approach to high-resolution linearity error compensation (LinComp) using computationally-efficient digital signal processing to reduce harmonic and intermodulation distortion in digital-to-analog converters (DACs), analog-to-digital converters (ADCs), sampling circuitry, and radio frequency amplifiers (or the combination of these devices in the complete RF chain) by at least 24 dB. This technology improves the dynamic range by at least four bits, enabling very accurate synthesis of data at high intermediate frequencies (IF) with very high sample rates (e.g., 18-bit dynamic range with 300 MHz sample rate or 12-bit dynamic range at GHz sample rates). The LinComp technology reduces the size, power, and cost of radar systems and RF transceivers by eliminating much of the RF electronics and reducing the digital signal processing requirements. The significant performance improvements afforded by this approach over traditional compensation techniques will be demonstrated in Phase I by implementing the digital processing in realtime FPGA hardware, demonstrating efficient auto-calibration routines, an testing the processor on a combination of devices in an RF chain. The auto-calibration routines will be built in FPGA hardware in the Phase I Option. V-Corp has confirmed the technical efficacy of the LinComp processing methodology by testing with state-of-the-art digital-to-analog and analog-to-digital converters. This compensation approach requires less hardware, provides much better dynamic range, and provides compensation over a wider bandwidth than competing linearity compensation methods (such as phase-plane compensation and dither). Very importantly, the LinComp processor will always exceed the state-of-the-art because it can easily be upgraded as new, more powerful DAC, ADC, and amplifier products become available. During Phase II, a compact LinComp DAC prototype will be developed with a high-speed waveform generator and RF electronics to enable high IF direct digital synthesis (DDS).The LinComp approach overcomes the critical D/A conversion bottleneck which limits performance of state-of-the-art radio frequency transceiver systems. Virtually any high-performance modern electronic system will benefit from the LinComp DAC. Significant applications include enhancement of radar systems, wideband universal RF transceivers, specialized test equipment, and medical imaging systems. |
| ALPHATECH, INC.
50 Mall Road Burlington, MA 01803 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 273-3388
Dr. John J. Fox NAVY 01-032 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Multi-Source Sensor Simulation for Decision-Making Systems |
| Abstract: | ALPHATECH proposes to design, develop, and demonstrate an integrated multi-source sensor simulation (MS3). It will be built upon a software infrastructure specifically designed for the integration of legacy software components. ALPHATECH will exercise the proposed architecture by integrating several existing simulation components through a well defined process that will adapt them for architectural compliance. The simulation will feature the generation of sophisticated target motions, GMTI sensor reports, an integrated user interface, and(optionally) SIGINT sensor reports. The user interface will support the specification of the scenarios, control of the simulation parameters, and visualization of the results.The proposed technology will help provide the DoD a tool for developing and testing algorithms that process multi-source data. In addition, the proposed design will have commercial applicability to any system involving the simulation of heterogeneous networks of sensors |
| COGNITECH CORP.
1060 East 100 South, Suite 202 Salt Lake City, UT 84102 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(801) 322-0101
Dr. Jerome B. Soller NAVY 01-032 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Simulating Data for the Development of Decision-Making Systems |
| Abstract: | Sensor outputs form the foundation for decision support systems. Accurate models and simulations of these sensor outputs enables effective development, test, evaluation and use of decision support systems. Phase I focuses on chemical/biological detectors because their variability embodies cutting-edge problems in the field of sensors and detectors. Phase I will focus upon the requirements, specifications, design, and methodology for modeling and simulating the inputs to decision support systems from outputs of detection (sensor) systems, which transform input data sources and associated uncertainties. These uncertainties include meteorological fluctuations, intrinsic and extrinsic noise of detection system channels and components, computer precision errors, and external disturbances. Existing simulations will be evaluated for incorporation into the methodology. Phase I will develop an initial prototype simulation of decision support system inputs, based on the methodology and simplified sensor models and simulations for the emerging Navy Artemis and ion mobility spectrometer detection systems. The resulting methodology will be extensible to other sensors. Phase I option period will add a graphical user interface prototype, initial database, and perform verification and validation. Phase II will develop a fully functional software prototype, including support for synchronized time representations between simulations.The sensor simulation environment will have applications as a simulation environment used by sensor/instrument manufacturers, government program managers, chemical process industries, and the developers of decision support systems. |
| DYNAMICS TECHNOLOGY, INC.
21311 Hawthorne Blvd., Suite 300 Torrance, CA 90503 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 543-5433
Mr. Randall Patton NAVY 01-032 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Non-Acoustic ASW Sensor Modeling & Decision Aids |
| Abstract: | Dynamics Technology, Inc. (DTI) will develop non-acoustic ASW (NAASW) sensor algorithms and software to provide simulated sensor data, measures of performance, and innovative displays to support the analysis and development of decision aids for submarine situation awareness/vulnerability and mission planning. The approach is based on adapting and extending the Navy-standard PC-FOM suite of NAASW sensor performance models, which encompasses a wide range of sensors/signatures, and leverages two decades of Navy R&D and validation against high-fidelity simulations and field data. PC-FOM sensor models are designed to run rapidly and to provide militarily useful measures of performance such as probability of detection, making it ideally suited to decision aids. In addition to sensor performance modeling, DTI will develop candidate processing algorithms and displays (e.g. vulnerability maps, route planners) for integration into existing or future mission planning tools. Phase I research will: 1) demonstrate the utility of existing PC-FOM models and identify/prioritize upgrades and additions, (2) define NAASW decision aid CONOPS and display concepts, (3) demonstrate sample algorithms for vulnerability displays, and (4) determine the detailed requirements for Phase II development of a prototype NAASW sensor model and decision aid. The proposed effort supports a current need for vulnerability assessment and mission planning tools to support submarine operations in littoral environments. There are identified user needs and transition to operational use by Special Forces (NAVSPECWARCOM), ONI (threat assessment), ASW forces (e.g. vs. foreign air-independent propulsion subs), and the Submarine Technology Program (N775). |
| OCEAN SENSOR SYSTEMS, INC.
3561 N.W. 97th Terrace Coral Springs, FL 33065 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(954) 796-6583
Dr. Ken Holappa NAVY 01-033 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Innovative Sensor Technologies for In-Situ Air and Ocean Sampling under Extreme Conditions |
| Abstract: | The objective of this proposal is to demonstrate the feasibility of measuring in-situ the parameters necessary for the calculation of heat and momentum flux at the air-sea interface under very calm to moderate sea conditions. The Micro-Buoy proposed here will provide an off the shelf solution for the measurement of the near surface fluxes at a cost low enough to permit multiple synoptic deployment. Multiple buoy deployments will enable a better understanding of the local variability on time and space scales of order of seconds and meters to days and kilometers. The Micro-Buoy is fitted with the eddy correlation heat and mass flux instrumentation. With this package the heat and momentum flux is found at both sides of the air-sea interface. Measurements within a distance less than the significant wave height are difficult due to imperfect coupling to the sea surface of the measurement platform. The Micro-Buoy will allow accurate, high-resolution measurement of temperature and velocity micro-structure to within fractions of a meter of the water surface. Once the Micro-Buoy technology is developed, custom sensor packages will also be possible in addition to a standard set of sensor packages through the implementation of a modular design strategy.The expected market for the Micro-Buoys is the scientific community including various governmental agencies, academic institutions and the offshore oil industry. All of these parties have an interest in low-cost accurate assessment of the ocean environment and the air-sea surface fluxes of heat and momentum. |
| ENGINEERING ACOUSTICS, INC.
933 Lewis Dr., Suite C Winter Park, FL 32789 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(407) 645-5444
Mr. Thomas H. Ensign NAVY 01-034 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Compact High-Power Electronic Components |
| Abstract: | This Phase I SBIR proposed the development of technology that will lead to smaller, lighter and more efficient power amplifiers for driving the highly reactive loads presented by active sonar transducers. Compared to other amplifier components, existing designs employ physically large, high weight magnetic components in the amplifier-transducer coupling interface. Proposed research will focus on two new and innovative circuit topologies that accomplish the required transducer image impedance transformation by novel means. The approaches have the potential to realize substantial amplifier size and weight reduction while maintaining high overall efficiency when driven by state-of-art Class D power modules. The final part of the investigation will consider a fusion of the two approaches that may have advantage, especially for low frequency applications where magnetic components greatly increase size and weight of the amplifier. Phase I option will involve the design and fabrication of prototype power amplifier circuitry to test the analysis developed in Phase I and verify the operation of each circuit approach.The proposed research provides an important means of reducing overall weight and size in power amplifiers used in active sonar systems. Results will apply to the immediate market for the space/weight/efficiency optimized power amplifiers aboard Navy surface, submarine and airborne ASW platforms; and autonomous acoustic source systems such for acoustic tomography, active Navy sonobuoys, acoustic countermeasures, LELFAS and ADLFP. Other applications for the resulting technology will be in spacecraft and aircraft systems, where the benefits of space/weight efficient products are obvious. Additional applications include power distribution and power amplifier systems, control actuator driver circuits and high power modulators for communications |
| GREEN MOUNTAIN RADIO RESEARCH CO.
50 Vermont Avenue Colchester, VT 05446 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(802) 655-9670
Dr. Frederick H. Raab NAVY 01-034 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Compact High-Power Electronic Components |
| Abstract: | This Phase-I SBIR program will investigate novel techniques for the efficient delivery of signal power to reactive loads such as are required in sonar systems. Class-D and class-S power amplifiers with very fast switching offer a theoretical efficiency of 100 percent. Maintaining high efficiency with a reactive load is achieved by very fast switching, achieved by a new type of complementary MOSFET. Bandwidth can be extended by a new minimum-rating filter that allows maximum bandwidth within a given set of power-amplifier voltage and current ratings. An electronically tuned output filter allows significant extension of the frequency range. Electronically tuned inductors and semiconductor capacitors currently under development for another application can be adapted for such filters. Commercial applications include not only sonar and high-power audio amplifiers, but also RF power systems including RF heating, antenna tuning, jamming, and magnetic-resonance imaging. |
| QORTEK, INC.
4121 Jacks Hollow Road Williamsport, PA 17702 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(570) 745-3555
Mr. John Staron NAVY 01-034 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Compact High-Power Electronic Components |
| Abstract: | This proposal is to advance switching power electronics technologies to enable a compact agile acoustic source for high time-bandwidth product variable depth sonar. The solution is based on proprietary concept of interlaced polydrive high-energy inverter that uses DSP microcontroller to implement the switching architecture functions. The converter section will utilize a new compact `soft switch" resonant design and the thermal solution uses new isothermal heat pipe technology as to enable efficient packaging. The system will be tolerant of poor power factor loads. The digital controller will be able to download accurate phasing information directly into the drive electronics at high-speeds essential to the integrity of the waveforms. This modular system remote programmable towed array technology will function at full operational efficiency with an inverter module failure and enables `at convenience' low-cost replacement.Immediate applications include the enabling the use of high efficiency power electronics for the controls and audio systems industries. QorTek will be partnering with Universal Voltronics for technology transition of the proposed power electronics into new commercial products and Lockheed-Martin for use in U.S. Navy sonar systems. |
| SATCON TECHNOLOGY CORP.
161 First Street Cambridge, MA 02142 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(410) 694-8054
Mr. William Hall NAVY 01-034 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Silicon Carbide Technology for a Hull Mounted Sonar System |
| Abstract: | The development of compact, light-weight power-electronics for driving underwater acoustic transducers has been the subject of research over the past 30 or more years. Improvements have occurred in parallel with advances in power electronic switching devices, most notably, the development of the silicon MOSFET, essential for the high-efficiency switching-amplifier technology widely used today. We are on the threshold of another advance in power-electronics, the advent of silicon-carbide semiconductor technology, which offers great improvement in semiconductor operating temperature and voltage ranges. Its higher temperature capability will enable greater packaging density and its higher voltage capability will provide a closer matching of the switching device voltage rating with the voltage requirements of typical transducers, leading to the possibility of size reduction in impedance matching components. We propose to research the application of silicon carbide technology to an example hull-mounted sonar system, the AN/SQS-53C (part of SQQ-89 system), and determine its beneficial impact on transducer, power-amplifier and overall system design.As a minimum, we expect an improvement in power-amplifier density due to the higher temperature capability of silicon carbide, a benefit particularly significant for pulsed-power applications such as the 53C, with its high peak-to-average power ratio. A major benefit is the possibility of eliminating the power-amplifier output transformer. This transformer weighs an estimated 3 pounds and occupies about one-third of the volume of the power amplifier. For a system of about 600 amplifiers, the weight savings would be on the order of 1800 pounds. We expect the high voltage, high frequency capability of silicon-carbide switching devices will be adequate for driving the transducer element directly, eliminating the need for the output transformer. If the transformer can be eliminated, a third benefit is the possibility of integrating the power amplifier with the transducer, offering the opportunity for another significant reduction in overall system size and weight. |
| ARETE ASSOC.
P.O. Box 6024 Sherman Oaks, CA 91413 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 413-0290
Dr. J. Zandy Williams NAVY 01-035 Selected for Award |
| Title: | A Low-Cost Airborne EO Oceanographic Measurement System |
| Abstract: | The goal of this SBIR proposal is to evaluate the feasibility of transferring technology developed by Arete Associates for a UAV surrogate payload, the Airborne Remote Optical Spotlight System (AROSS), to a system capable of being mounted on an aerial photography airplane. AROSS is a field-tested and robust electro-optical system producing time-series imagery with sufficient resolution and spatial coverage for Navy METOC requirements. The approximate cost of $2000 per hour to fly AROSS, while not expensive by military standards, restricts its non-warfare or commercial use and its participation in ongoing scientific research. The development of a system similar to AROSS, which can utilize commercial aircraft, would cost less to build and reduce operating cost by a factor of 5 to 10. The limitation of the new system will be a restriction in the viewing geometry resulting from using a downward looking viewport instead of a military-based turret. Arete proposes to assess the effects of the restricted viewing geometry, using AROSS data, and determine the engineering requirements to mount such a system on standard, commercial aircraft.The successful transfer of AROSS technology to a system capable of being mounted in a commercial aircraft will be an inexpensive oceanographic research asset. This asset will directly benefit the Navy wave modeling community who require wide-area measurements of METOC parameters, including directional wave spectra, in the littoral zone. The lower operating cost of the proposed system will be more in-line with the budgets of typical field experiments designed to enhance scientific understanding of coastal processes. Government agencies responsible for coastal waterways, such as USACE, and mapping, such as NIMA, represent potential customers who can utilize the low-cost rapid bathymetric and current survey capability of the proposed system. |
| GERBER SCIENTIFIC, INC.
1643 Benatana Way Reston, VA 20190 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 742-9844
Dr. Hermann E. Gerber NAVY 01-035 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Miniature Infrared Transmissometer (MIT) |
| Abstract: | The goal of this Phase I effort is to find a practical optical and physical instrumentation geometry that will result in a miniature infrared transmissometer (MIT) capable of estimating in-situ and in real time the atmospheric extinction coefficient for aerosols with particles ranging in size from a fraction of a micron to tens of microns. The approach of this research is to investigate the wavelength scaling between light scattered by the particles in the visible spectrum and the aerosol infrared extinction coefficient in the two atmospheric windows as a function of potential MIT geometries. Such scaling was previously described in the literature, but has not yielded a practical and miniature atmospheric sensor for estimating infrared extinction. Innovative solutions for known problems with the wavelength-scaling method will be sought to make the MIT a practical wavelength-scaling instrument.There presently exists no practical method for real-time and in-situ measurements infrared aerosol transmission (extinction). An atmosheric sensor such as the MIT would benefit the operation of infrard optical systems. |
| PRAXIS, INC.
2200 Mill Road, 5th Floor Alexandria, VA 22314 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(202) 767-6022
Mr. Kenneth A. Cannon NAVY 01-035 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Optimization of an Ionospheric Imaging Instrument for Geosynchronous Orbit |
| Abstract: | Disturbances in the earth's ionosphere can affect systems that rely on trans-ionospheric RF propagation. Validated DoD needs for real-time monitoring of ionospheric weather are not being met by current remote sensing techniques. Our proposal supports development of an ionospheric imaging instrument capable of providing realtime information on a global basis about ionospheric irregularities to improve tactical operational responses supporting surveillance, navigation, communication, missile defense, and precision geolocation. This SBIR effort focuses on reducing the instrument's cost, mass, and volume to facilitate integration as a secondary payload on geosynchronous satellite platforms. Future deployments aboard these platforms will enable real-time global monitoring of ionospheric disturbances affecting both DoD and Civil Sector systems.A successful effort would lead to production of multiple ionospheric imaging instruments as part of a global multi-platform geosynchronous real-time imaging system for monitoring structures and tracking irregularities within the earth's ionosphere. The system would provide real-time information to systems affected by ionospheric disturbances leading to improved surveillance, navigation, communication, missile defense, and precision geolocation. Potential applications to private industry communication systems may also provide benefits. |
| PROSENSING
150 Fearing Street Amherst, MA 01002 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(413) 549-6920
Dr. Ivan PopStefanija NAVY 01-035 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Weather Radar Processor for Rapid Scanning Tactical Radars |
| Abstract: | This Phase I SBIR proposal describes a weather radar processor that will be used to add a weather surveillance mode to existing military radar systems. Existing tactical radars, such as the TPQ-37 and MPQ-64, are highly sensitive search and track radars whose basic operational parameters are ideally suited for weather surveillance applications. During Phase I, we plan to work with engineers from the radar manufacturer to design one or more weather surveillance modes for the TPQ-37 and MPQ-64. A custom radar signal processor will be designed to extract reflectivity and Doppler data from the analog output of the radars. This data will be merged with antenna scanning, time stamp and geo-location information to accurately display the output data in world coordinates. Recurring and non-recurring costs to modify the radars for weather surveillance applications will be determined. The pulse-to-pulse scanning agility of these radars makes them especially powerful tools for the study of rapidly developing convective weather systems that are poorly characterized by conventional PPI-scanning weather radars.Commercial applications include modification of existing and new TPQ-37 and MPQ-64 radars for tactical and civilian weather surveillance applications. The radar processor developed through this SBIR can be readily modified for use with other civilian weather radars. |
| WESTERN ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY LAB
620 Applegate St., PO Box 518 Philomath, OR 97370 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(401) 783-1787
Dr. Michael S Twardowski NAVY 01-035 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Four-Dimensional (4-D) Atmospheric and Oceanographic Instrumentation: A Novel Dual Wavelength Optical Beam Attenuation Meter for Automated Underwater |
| Abstract: | The technical and commercial feasibility of developing a miniature dual wavelength optical beam attenuation meter for use with Automated Underwater Vehicle (AUV) systems such as the REMUS is evaluated. The meter will use a novel Scattering over Dual-Pathlengths (SDP) approach, where two measurements of light backscattering are made with identical angular weighting functions but over different pathlengths. Using a single source, beam attenuation is readily derived from the ratio of scattered fluxes measured by the detectors and the difference between the two pathlengths. A key issue to address in determining feasibility is the tradeoff between increasing resolution and decreasing signal return as a result of increasing pathlength differentials between the two scattering measurements. A second challenge will be determining how to minimize and account for any light that is scattered more than the single incident in the sample volume (intersection of detector field of view and source beam), but still makes it to the detector. The SDP approach is likely the key to solving the apparent paradox of making high resolution attenuation measurements over very long pathlengths with a compact sensor. The sensor will be low power, robust, and have the approximate dimensions and volume of a hockey puck.Beam attenuation is a key property in diver visibility and vulnerability models, lidar performance models, and in determining particle concentrations in natural waters. Currently there is no commercially available miniature sensor for measuring optical beam attenuation with high accuracy. Such sensors are needed for deployment on the new generation of sampling platforms such as AUVs, profiling/gliding floats (e.g., the ALACE floats), and long-term, unattended observing systems. In the near future, thousands of such sampling platforms will be built. Revenues for a compact, high accuracy attenuation sensor costing about $3000 per unit are expected to be about $1.5 million annually (500 units per year). |
| NAL RESEARCH CORP.
8708 Sudley Road Manassas, VA 20110 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 392-5676
Dr. Ngoc Hoang NAVY 01-036 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Data Link System for In-Situ Ocean Observing Platforms |
| Abstract: | According to a report by the National Oceanographic Partnership Program (NOPP), knowledge of the ocean is demanded by many constituencies including climatologists, fishermen and fisheries managers, harbor pilots, coastal zone managers, Navy and Coast Guard commanders, Public Health Service officers, environmental protection professionals, commercial and recreational boat and ship operators, weather forecasters, and the offshore mining and oil industry. Many of these needs are being met by in-situ ocean observing platforms such as drifting surface buoys, moored buoys, floats, remotely operated vehicles and ships, just to name a few. For these platforms, the NOPP has placed a high priority on the development of technologies that disseminate data in a timely manner. A variety of commercially available low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite systems produced by the private sectors are now in, or will soon achieve, operational status. They have the potential to meet NOPP's requirements including two-way communications, real-time data transmission, global coverage, high data rate and reduced costs. As a result, NAL Research proposes to design and build a data link system utilizing LEO satellites to collect environmental parameters from ocean observing platforms and to deliver them to users worldwide in real-time.Satellite data link system can be extremely useful in many applications. Ships, airplanes and trucks have relied on geostationary satellites to provide mobile satellite services for years. Now, LEO satellite data link system will soon make mobile satellite services available for individuals. Any type of transmission, internet connection, voice, fax, data or paging, will soon be able to reach its destination anywhere on the planet. The system will simplify communications for business professionals such as salespeople, field producers and reporters for television networks, construction engineers sending plan revisions, oil-company geologists uploading test results, just to name a few. People who live in thinly populated areas that will never be covered by regular cellular phone service, travelers, private pilots, yachtsmen and disaster relief teams will benefit from the LEO satellite-based data link system as well. |
| OMNET, INC.
Box 1285, (21 North Central Avenue) Staunton, VA 24402 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 588-1078
Dr. David Martin NAVY 01-036 Selected for Award |
| Title: | A System for the delivery of data from remote unattended platforms using a Low Earth Orbit Satellite (LEOS) system |
| Abstract: | Field observational programs coordinated under the Ocean.US program require a reliable, global coverage, cost-effective, and flexible method of returning data from remote platforms, including moorings, surface drifters, and ALACE and PALACE floats. The present methods of doing this have many disadvantages: high costs, excessive latency, limited bandwidth, and limited geographic coverage. The PI proposes an integrated system for the retrieval and delivery of data from remote-moored and drifting unmanned sites and platforms in the ocean, using the Iridium Low Earth Orbiting Satellite (LEOS) system as the data carrier. The project will be coordinated with the Ocean.US Office and Ocean.US participants. The system will include a remote data communications package, bulk purchases and management of Iridium airtime, a data download hub with an Internet gateway, two-way comm- unications capability, and itemized billing. In Phase I, the PI will work in close collaboration with the NOPP Ocean.US Office to develop a detailed design, determine the cost-effectiveness of the proposed system and compare it with existing and planned next generation systems. We will prepare a risk and cost-benefit analysis comparison. We will also survey the market, both within the US oceanographic community and beyond.The anticipated benefits to the ocean research and operational communities are the availability of a system for the retrieval of remote data from ocean platforms which: = Provides true global geographic coverage = Uses a small, lightweight, low-power remote unit = Includes platform location capability = Provides higher base bandwidth (10 kbits/sec) than currently-available systems = Allows for channel multiplexing to achieve higher effective bandwidths = Has a lower cost per kilobyte of data traffic than any currently-available system = Can transmit data in real-time = Allows two-way communications = Provides a central system for support, itemized billing, and carrier quality monitoring = Provides a mechanism for automatic real-time distribution of data via the Internet = Provides a web-based data management and display service The system will be cost effective for delivery of data from terrestrial sites as well as ocean platforms. It has many potential commercial applications, including data communications for: = Ocean drilling platforms = River monitoring stations = Vessels at sea and in port (e-mail and data) = Geologic (earthquake) monitoring sites = Hazardous waste monitoring sites = Railroad infrastructure monitors = High-value mobile cargo monitoring = ...and others The proposed system would have advantages over the systems presently used for these applications: = Low cost per kbyte = Higher bandwidth = A single protocol/procedure globally = Lower cost equipment = Global coverage = Real-time data delivery = Allows two-way communications = Central itemized billing for multiple sites |
| ATLANTEC ENTERPRISE SOLUTIONS, INC.
1419 Forest Drive, Suite 205 Annapolis, MD 21403 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(410) 990-1100
Dr. Thomas Koch NAVY 01-037 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Technology for Shipbuilding Affordability |
| Abstract: | The objective of the project is to demonstrate that practical, affordable, and reusable software components can be used to create an affordable, real-time production monitoring and control system for U.S. shipyards. Atlantec and National Steel and Shipbuildng will develop, test, and demonstrate two product prototypes: "Production Monitor" an application that integrates engineering, production, with planning and scheduling; and "Shop Floor Client," a computer work station located in production areas. "Shop Floor Client" will allow production workers to retrieve and edit on-line production information from an on-site computer. Production processes will also be visualized in a "geographical" view of shipyard facilities, showing an activity at the production location providing the actual work status by work resource. The Proposed products, "Production Monitor" and "Shop Floor Control" will support just-in-time practices, enhancing productivity and reducing costs in U.S. Shiyards. Interim product, product model information, production status, and work order information will be accessable anywhere at anytime in the enterprise. The products will enable shipyards to integrate concurrent operations with real-time production information. The products will be affordable, practical, and will be easy to use and implement. |
| INDUSTRIAL PLANNING TECHNOLOGY, INC.
4555 State Road 524 Cocoa, FL 32926 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(321) 427-4892
Dr. Patrick W. Rourke NAVY 01-037 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Automated Planning and Design for Producability and Maintainability |
| Abstract: | Ship construction represents one of the more challenging planning problems in industry today. The purpose of this proposal is to reduce ship construction and operation costs by making optimal use of available automated fabrication facilities and designing for maintainability. An efficient algorithm for solving this class of problem has been discovered. The feasibility of developing software tools for automatic assembly planning and detailing of ship structure and outfitting and automatic maintenance removal planning will be demonstrated, using this algorithm. The tools would automatically plan assemblies, determine joint locations in piping and seam locations in structure, layout piping in banks, and plan maintenance access. A working prototype will be developed to verify that acceptable levels of fidelity and performance can be achieved. These new innovative tools will use accurate models of shipbuilding fabrication processes and life cycle operations so that they generate optimal designs/plans for shop production. In addition to the construction cost and life cycle maintenance savings, use of these tools will enable a substantial reduction in planning man-hours. The intent is to develop software components to be integrated into existing commercial CAD/CAM and planning systems. New design and planning business practices using these tools will be outlined.Anticipated savings are $160 million per year in construction costs and $1 million per year in planning costs for U.S. shipyards and $16 million per year in reduced ship maintenance costs for ship owners. This assumes that 10% of piping fabrication work is moved from in-dock and in-module on-site fabrication to mechanized shop fabrication as a result of this project and that 5% of structural fabrication operations are moved from on-site fabrication to mechanized process lanes as a result of this project. A 5% reduction in ship maintenance costs is assumed through optimum design for maintenance. |
| KNOWLEDGE BASED SYSTEMS, INC.
1408 University Drive East College Station, TX 77840 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(979) 260-5274
Dr. Perakath Benjamin NAVY 01-037 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Material Identification and Procurement System (MIDAPS) |
| Abstract: | We propose to design, build, and deploy a Material Identification and Procurement System (MIDAPS). MIDAPS facilitates information-integrated synchronization of construction activities with materials management functions through a rapidly reconfigurable, centralized relational database management system. MIDAPS facilitates both new construction and ship repair jobs. The Phase I effort will define, design, and build a prototype MIDAPS. The Phase II effort will rapidly transition the innovation into an operational shipyard application. The most significant innovation of the MIDAPS concept is the development of a materials system that becomes a real time management decision tool rather than a quasi-static information statusing tool. MIDAPS benefits include (a) significant reductions in ship construction and repair cycle time and cost, and (b) substantial gains in ship throughput and capacity. The proposed open-architecture, model-based approach will produce accelerated and affordable deployment of the technology to the U.S. shipbuilding community.MIDAPS applications areas include Enterprise Resource Planning, Material Requirements Planning, Finite Capacity Scheduling, Material Planning and Control, and Production Planning and Control. |
| RLW, INC.
1346 South Atherton Street State College, PA 16801 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(814) 867-5122
Mr. Lewis Watt NAVY 01-037 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Technology for Shipbuilding Affordability |
| Abstract: | A well-designed integration of a machine's control system with a CBM system will reduce manufacturing costs, simplify maintenance, reduce risk of critical failures, and reduce life-cycle cost of the machinery. This Phase I proposal's goal is to demonstrate the commercial and technical merit and feasibility of a combined CBM and control system for diesel generator sets on the Caterpillar 3608 and 3616. This machinery is not now digitally controlled, nor is it equipped with a CBM system. Both generators are either currently in service or scheduled for service soon aboard Navy ships, and each will eventually feature an electronic fuel control system. Choosing to integrate the engine control and CBM systems before designing either system will significantly reduce design, development, and implementation costs of both compared to designing and building both systems separately and then integrating after the fact. For example, the two systems can share a substantial portion of the sensors and other elements that typically compose the separate systems, thus reducing the total number of parts required and systems costs. The work accomplished by successfully integrating the engine control and CBM systems will benefit these generator sets and other machinery throughout the Navy and in commercial applications. Note attached letter of support from Caterpillar.The benefits anticipated from this project fall into three categories: 1) The direct and near term benefits derived from cost savings in acquisition and maintenance of the 3600 series gen-sets. Savings result from avoiding the cost of separate CBM and control systems and from the reduced cost of maintenance compared with a periodic preventative philosophy of run-to-failure. 2) Lessons learned and system design accomplished on this project will translate readily to other ship machinery, both new and legacy, generating savings as described above. 3) Because of the R&D accomplished in the project has direct and immediate application outside the DoD, rapid commercialization is anticipated in 3600 series gen-sets, and on a wide array of other machines. Note attached letter of support from Caterpillar. |
| CLEVELAND MEDICAL DEVICES, INC.
11000 Cedar Avenue, Suite 130 Cleveland, OH 44106 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(216) 791-6720
Mr. Frederick J. Busch NAVY 01-038 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Cellular Wireless Sensor System for Aircraft Health Management |
| Abstract: | Modern wireless systems such as cellular are practical due to the integration of radio, processing, and semiconductor technologies, and as production volumes have grown, component prices have dropped. Reduced costs and well-developed design methods may now combine to provide software controlled and highly cost effective wireless monitoring. The development and production costs for this equipment are easily offset by reduced maintenance cost and staffing allowed to users of the system. For military aircraft maintenance applications equally important issues are improvements in mission effectiveness and capability that result from reduced down time, higher reliability and sortie generation rates, and improved safety. Use of the commercial Industrial, Scientific, and Medical bands for this system design allow commercial reuse, and thus provides lower cost and greater availability to military users. The system will be designed with a Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) Automatic Repeat reQuest (ARQ) for high spectral efficiency and reliability. The MicroRadio and data acquisition technology base of Cleveland Medical Devices provides an ideal starting point for this program.Greater military aircraft mission effectiveness, crew safety, and simplified maintenance are the chief benefits of this program to the military. However, the methods developed here will be immediately applicable to civilian aircraft maintenance, particularly airliners and corporate aircraft, and also to myriad other civilian monitoring applications. Virtually any complex equipment for which expensive regular maintenance is required could benefit from this new technology. Health monitoring of humans and animals may prove to be an even larger market than industrial and military data acquisition. |
| LUNA INNOVATIONS, INC.
2851 Commerce Street Blacksburg, VA 24060 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(540) 961-4516
Mr. Robert Harman NAVY 01-038 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Wireless Sensors Systems for On-Board Aircraft Health Monitoring |
| Abstract: | Aircraft diagnostic and prognostic systems can enhance aircraft safety, reduce total costs of ownership, and increase asset availability. However, they require a great deal of integration with the platform. Wiring such a system into the aircraft makes up a large percentage of overall system complexity, cost, and weight. Wireless transducers have enormous potential to simplify new and retrofitted diagnostic/prognostic systems by eliminating currently required cabling and interconnects, enhancing robustness via redundancy, easing sensor placement, and reducing system weights. A wireless system also allows for flexibility in sensor placement to meet changing system needs and to aid in identifying, troubleshooting, and monitoring emerging fleet problems. Luna Innovations and its research partners will develop a wireless sensor system for on-board, real-time aircraft health monitoring. The development team will survey the aircraft application and determine candidate sensors and system architecture. The system will work under constraints such as long operational lifetime, low power, non-light-of-sight, high bandwidth and ease of integration. The developed system will consider flight qualification, sensor size, and will offer performance comparable to existing systems. Luna will leverage previous wireless sensor development efforts and commercial production capabilities to satisfy the immediate Navy requirements and bring the developed technology to near-term market. Luna Innovations anticipates large related markets in preventive maintenance systems and diagnostic instrumentation coupled with wireless transmission capability. Specific applications include shipboard, spacecraft, aircraft, and nuclear/conventional power plant health monitoring, transportation vehicle design and testing, and industrial rotating machine monitoring. The previous success in this area resulted in a spin-off company, dedicated to the production of wireless instrumentation systems for industrial rotating machine health monitoring utilizing off-the-shelf RF technology, and has over $1 million/year in revenue. Products resulting from this research will undergo immediate transition for introduction to the market. |
| BUSINESS PERFORMANCE GROUP, LLC
5301 Shilshole Ave. NW, #330 Seattle, WA 98107 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(206) 706-8075
Mr. H. Bruce Bongiorni NAVY 01-039 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Integrated Simulation-Based Design Environment |
| Abstract: | This proposal provides a solution to problems in using disparate integrated computer-based design tools to determine the performance of underwater weapon and vehicle concepts. The proposed system would consist of a suite of domain-specific engineering software applications that undersea weapon and vehicle engineers would access and operate via personal computers as thin-clients over a secure network. Critical to enabling this design environment is a middle layer of software that provides workflow management, messaging services, analysis integration, optimization, and data and model persistence. A presentation layer of software applications will be able to provide an immersive user interface to interactwith engineering applications. Such a system can be easily extended as new analysis applications become available and as the user community grows. The benefit of such a system has two components, reduction of total ownership cost, and improved quality of design. The reduction of cost comes from the fact that potential design conflicts have been resolved early in design, in such a way that optimizes not only the weapon or vehicle design, but also its manufacturability, and life cycle maintenance costs. The system acheives this benefit by encouraging product team members to utilize the best available design, manufacturing, and operation tools, as well as to communicate and negotiate frequently. The system benefits not only the design team, but also the application developers, by allowing easier updates of codes during the design cycle, and by providing an environment to test, validate, and benchmark new codes. To the undersea weapon and vehicle design community, the system provides a framework for the product development, access to all the necessary applications, and produces greater capability than the individual applications alone. |
| TRIDENT SYSTEMS, INC.
10201 Lee Highway, Suite 300 Fairfax, VA 22030 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 691-7781
Mr. Michael Stoddard NAVY 01-039 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Integrated Simulation-Based Design Environment |
| Abstract: | With the increasing complexity and size of advanced system designs come increasing requirements for an integrated set of methods and tools to measure, evaluate and predict behavior and performance. An environment is needed that will allow the engineer to rapidly iterate through multiple design paths and options, while evaluating the capability and completeness at multiple levels of abstraction. An integrated distributed environment is needed for engineers that support their processes and tools. This environment must support design, visualization and analysis at varying levels of detail. These capabilities can only be realized through the incorporation of a framework consisting of an integrated set of tools sharing a central design data repository that has "plug-in" support for external tools and codes. Creation of a robust environment to support complex systems development includes several key elements: first, an extensible framework and for integrating tools for designing, simulating and visualizing various aspects of the design; second, a process for using the tools and integrating and sharing their data; and third, a formal schema for describing, capturing and interrelating the data used by the tools. This project will attempt to realize a prototype of such an environment for the design and optimization of undersea weapons and vehicles. Successful completion of this project will represent a significant advancement in the design and optimization of undersea weapons and vehicles decreasing the design time while improving the performance and overall quality of the systems produced. This environment will provide an open, ubiquitous, distributed environment that will not only integrate existing and future codes and tools but also provide configuration management, asynchronous integration, advanced analytical and visual capabilities, as well as a flexible scalable environment based on Trident's Interchange product. |
| SOFTWARE & ENGINEERING ASSOC.
1802 N. Carson Street, Suite 200 Carson City, NV 89701 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(775) 882-1966
Mr. Douglas E. Coats NAVY 01-040 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Modeling of Composite Solid Propellant Combustion |
| Abstract: | Chemical kinetics based solid propellant combustion predictive capabilities have developed to the point where it is possible to compute combustion properties of solid propellants. Specifically burning rates over a range of pressures and temperatures. This capability will reduce the time, effort, and cost in developing solid propellants for a variety of combustion devices from rockets to air bags.The ability to predict solid propellant combustion properties will reduce cost and effort in designing and formulating new propellants. The cost savings to industry and the government are potentially enormous since only likely propellant formulations will be progress to the mix, cure, and testing phase of the development cycle. |
| BARRON ASSOC., INC.
1160 Pepsi Place, Suite 300 Charlottesville, VA 22901 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(804) 973-1215
Dr. B. Eugene Parker, Jr. NAVY 01-041 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Prediction of Hyperbaric Oxygen Seizures Using Neural Networks |
| Abstract: | It is known that hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) exposure causes seizures in animals and humans, although the mechanism by which this occurs is still incompletely understood. Oxygen toxicity is a concern, for example, in certain types of military diving operations, as well in treating patients in clinical HBO chambers. At present, the most reliable physiological "marker" known to anticipate HBO-induced seizures is escape from cerebral vasoconstriction. To provide an "early warning" system for increased probability of HBO-induced seizures practicable for field and clinical use, non-invasive measurement parameters are needed. For example, hyperbaric hyperoxia is known to increase the parasympathetic influence in the regulation of the heart. Therefore, subtle changes that occur in cardiovascular parameters (e.g., heart-rate variability) prior to the onset of seizures may be exploitable markers. Barron Associates, Inc. will apply its neural network estimation and classification technology, in conjunction with various signal analysis and nonlinear dynamics pre-processing techniques, to identify predictive cardiovascular parameters and to relate such parameters to seizure onset time and/or the probability of seizure occurrence. Successful development of a methodology that can account for individual differences in HBO susceptibility will lead to improved safety in diving and clinical applications. The proposed neural network-based predictive modeling technology has strong potential for application/integration in the Lung Automatic Regenerator (LAR) V Oxygen Breathing Device used by Special Operations Forces breathing pure oxygen. HBO therapy is widely used for the medical treatment of decompression sickness (i.e., the "bends") and many severe medical conditions (e.g., chronic wounds, acute blood loss, anemia, carbon monoxide poisoning, tissue/bone damage from radiation, gangrene, smoke inhalation, crush injuries, decompression sickness, air or gas embolism, persistent fungal infections, cyanide poisoning, bone infection, skin flaps/grafts with poor blood supply, and cerebral palsy). Improved prediction of HBO toxicity will have a large impact in HBO treatment. |
| CREARE, INC.
P.O. Box 71 Hanover, NH 03755 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(603) 643-3800
Mr. David B. Kynor NAVY 01-041 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Prediction of Hyperbaric Oxygen Toxicity |
| Abstract: | Military divers and medical patients undergoing hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy may breathe pure oxygen. The elevated ambient pressure levels in these circumstances lead to high partial pressures of oxygen which can become toxic. The goal of this program is development of a Diver Warning System capable of monitoring environmental and physiological parameters and predicting impending seizures due to oxygen toxicity. During Phase I, we will review existing data and literature, implement several novel data processing algorithms, and determine which parameters are most predictive of impending seizures. During Phases II and III, the work will be extended to include additional hyperbaric testing and integration of the Diver Warning System into the LAR V Rebreather used by military divers.Successful completion of this project will increase the safety of military divers exposed to hyperbaric oxygen. The technology developed under this program may also benefit recreational scuba divers and medical patients undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy. |
| VAXIN, INC.
500 Beacon Parkway West Birmingham, AL 35209 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(205) 934-6979
Dr. Felix Siegel NAVY 01-042 Awarded: 26APR01 |
| Title: | Needleless Topical Administration of Dengue DNA Vaccine |
| Abstract: | Dengue virus (DV) is a serious threat to people including military personal in endemic areas. So far no prophylactic vaccine is available. The aim of this study is to develop a DV vaccine patch. Transcutaneous vaccination by topical application of a patch requires a lower level of medical training, is economical, painless, safe, and effective in a number of animal models. The hypothesis is that the expression of pre-membrane and envelope proteins (preM/E) in the outer layer of the skin following inoculation of DNA vaccines can stimulate neutralizing antibodies against preM/E and thereby induce a protective immune response against DV infection. Cholera toxin has been used as adjuvant for transcutaneous vaccination. We have previously shown that an immune response can be elicited by topical application of a plasmid coupled to adenovirus and that GM-CSF can enhance the potency of transcutaneous vaccines. In these studies, we will evaluate cholera toxin as well as GM-CSF as potential adjuvant for a DNA-based transcutaneous vaccine against DV. We will also compare the protocols developed in this proposal to their counterparts using intramuscular injected DNA vaccines. The line of investigation proposed herein may allow the development of efficacious and safe vaccination protocols against DV infection.The transcutaneous DNA-based vaccine as proposed in these studies could arrive as the first prophylactic vaccine against dengue virus infection if its efficacy and safety should appear superior to other methods. People living in endemic areas, military personal deployed to the tropics and subtropics and travelers would greatly benefit from an effective dengue vaccine, particularly a dengue vaccine patch that can be administered simply and confers no pain. |
| EIC LABORATORIES, INC.
111 Downey Street Norwood, MA 02062 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 769-9450
Dr. Job Bello NAVY 01-043 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Autonomous Solid Phase Microextraction for Explosives Detection and Identification |
| Abstract: | The overall goal of this project will be to develop an automated sampling and chemical analysis system that can be used for detecting trace concentration of explosives in marine environments. Such an analysis system can be integrated into a small autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) and employed for the identification and mapping of unexploded ordnance in bodies of water. Phase I will involve the design and fabrication of a prototype pre-concentration sampling instrument based on solid-phase microextraction (SPME). The prototype sampling instrument will automate the steps involved in the SPME sampling (extraction and desorption) and will be designed so that it can be easily interfaced with existing analytical methods for detecting explosives. The proposed design will utilize miniaturized components to achieve a compact, rugged sampling system that can be easily integrated in AUVs.The development of an autonomous underwater sampling and chemical analysis system for explosives will be both beneficial to the military and commercial sectors. An underwater explosive analysis system will be particularly advantageous to the Navy because it will provide an advance warning to naval vessels of the presence of mines in the surrounding area. This is important because it will then allow naval personnel to perform appropriate countermeasure actions. In the commercial sector, the underwater explosive system will also be important for environmental monitoring applications as well as in law enforcement. |
| NOMADICS, INC.
1024 S. Innovation Way Stillwater, OK 74074 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(405) 372-9535
Mr. Colin Cumming NAVY 01-043 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Novel Sample Collection Method for Locating Seamines |
| Abstract: | Nomadics proposes to design and evaluate a fast, in-situ apparatus to sample nitroaromatic explosives in marine waters. The sampler will extract explosive compounds from plumes around seamines and unexploded ordnance (UXO). By following a plume to its source, an autonomous underwater vehicle, guided by the sensor, will be able to locate seamines and UXO. The design introduces two novel technologies to allow rapid detection of trace signature chemicals of seamines. The system uses an innovative method for rapid mass transport of analyte into the sampling chamber. The second innovation is the sensor platform, which uses Nomadics' proven Amplifying Fluorescent Polymer sensor. The sensor has been demonstrated to detect extremely low concentrations of vapor-phase TNT and recent studies substantiate its ability to detect TNT in a water matrix. During the Phase I effort, Nomadics will demonstrate the ability of the collection system to present detectable levels of analyte to the sensor. During the Phase I Option, Nomadics will focus on enhancements to the system to support the transition into full prototyping in Phase II and then commercialization.The proposed system provides a way of locating explosives underwater that can be applied to detecting seamines, locating submerged UXO, finding lost ordnance, etc. These applications can be used by defense units and search and recovery organizations. The novel sample collection system is complementary to a number of sensor technologies, including ion mass spectroscopy, and the sensor platform can be functionalized to detect other substances. Therefore, the proposed technological innovations can be applied to a large number of chemical sampling and analysis scenarios. |
| SUBCHEM SYSTEMS, INC.
665 North Main Road Jamestown, RI 02835 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(401) 874-6294
Dr. Alfred Hanson NAVY 01-043 Selected for Award |
| Title: | A COMPACT SUBMERSIBLE TRACE CHEMICAL ANALYZER FOR TRACKING PLUMES OF CHEMICAL EXPLOSIVES WITH AUTONOMOUS UNDERWATER VEHICLES |
| Abstract: | A small autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV), with appropriate chemical, acoustic and optical sensor systems, would be a useful tool for remote, automated tracking and mapping of underwater plumes of leaking organic chemical explosives and locating their source. Presently it is not possible to survey and track such underwater plumes because available AUV-deployable chemical analyzers do not have the required lower limits of detection and fast response times. The primary goal of this Phase I project is to demonstrate the feasibility of developing an autonomous Submersible Solvent Extraction Module (SubSEM) that utilizes integrated microfluidic circuits to continuously sample and preconcentrate (100X - 1000X) explosive organic chemicals (i.e. TNT, DNT) that may be present at ultra-trace concentration levels in marine waters. The design of the miniature sized SubSEM will enable coupling to comparatively sized submersible chemical detection systems. The resulting compact submersible chemical analyzer will be readily integrated into small AUVs. The envisioned submersible chemical analyzer would also have the analytical selectivity, sensitivity (sub part-per-trillion) and fast response times (seconds) that are required for underway tracking of plumes of chemical explosives and the detection and identification of unexploded ordnance in the marine environment. AUVs with integrated high-resolution chemical and physical sensor systems are clearly needed for rapid detection, classification and localization of mine-like objects and unexploded ordnance in shallow water operating environments. Similarly designed AUVs could also have substantial private-sector applications in marine waters including, environmental investigations of the hydrodynamics of riverine and sewage inputs, hypoxia, harmful algal blooms and chemical pollution events, and commercial aviation search and find missions. There are also numerous private sector applications for submersible chemical analyzers with the lower detection limits afforded by the envisioned SubSEM preconcentration module. Examples include environmental monitoring of industrial and municipal waste streams for compliance and in-line quality assurance monitoring in chemical and pharmaceutical processing plants. |
| THORLEAF RESEARCH, INC.
5552 Cathedral Oaks Road Santa Barbara, CA 93111 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(805) 692-4978
Dr. Paul M. Holland NAVY 01-043 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Underwater Sampling Inlet/Preconcentrator System for In Situ Chemical Measurements of UXO Contaminants in Seawater from AUVs |
| Abstract: | Thorleaf Research proposes to develop and and test a rugged underwater sampling inlet/preconcentrator (SIP) system for in situ chemical analysis of seawater samples from a small autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV). This addresses a key technology gap for in situ underwater sampling and preconcentration of such analytes, mainly how to acquire and pre-process trace level analytes from seawater while remaining within challenging mass, volume and power constraints. Although various miniature chemical detectors are under development for explosives, their potential for the identification of UXO in marine environments will not be realized without complementary developments in technology for underwater collection and pre-processing of samples. The proposed SIP system will be suitable for coupling to such detectors, isolating them from the pressure of seawater at the selected sampling depth, and providing for automated 100-1000x preconcentration of TNT and other UXO analytes. The goal of our proposed SBIR Phase I effort is to demonstrate feasibility for a miniaturized, low power sampling inlet/preconcentrator system for in situ chemical measurements of UXO contaminants in seawater from AUVs, to develop detailed designs for fabricating prototype instrumentation in Phase II, and to fabricate and test a SIP system breadboard in a Phase I Option.By following an inherently modular design approach in developing this sampling technology, it is anticipated that modifications will allow it to be adapted to meet needs for a variety of underwater chemical measurements. This is likely to include terrestrial uses, such as environmental monitoring of water quality and monitoring for hazardous materials. Our proposed SBIR effort to develop a miniaturized, low power, underwater sampling inlet/preconcentrator (SIP) system for in situ chemical analysis addresses these needs in an innovative way, and thus technical developments in the proposed program could have a significant commercial market impact. |
| LANGUAGE SYSTEMS, INC.
5959 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Suite 340 Woodland Hills, CA 91367 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(818) 703-5034
Dr. Christine A. Montgomery NAVY 01-044 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Device Independent Voice-To-Voice Language Translation Software |
| Abstract: | The proposed innovative development and demonstration of a pocketable voice-to-voice language translator is achievable because it uses LSI's current PC-based, speaker-independent, two-way voice-to-voice translation software as a foundation for the effort. The development will involve six technical tasks; the first four are planned for the initial Phase I effort, and the last two for a Phase I Option. Tasks 1 and 2 involve extension and enhancement of LSI's current voice translation software using VoiceXML and Java to provide platform independence and a capability for remote activation. Task 3 is dedicated to dialog development/extension for a selected military application, and 4 is a test of the software developed under Tasks 1-3. Task 5 is a proof of concept demonstration for the standalone capability, and 6 involves experimentation with cellular, PDA, and hybrid devices to determine the optimal platform for both local standalone and remote capabilities. Motorola, which has expressed interest in the project, can assist LSI in testing the remote translation software, and in evaluating platforms for local and remote capability. The commercialization strategy for this development will follow LSI's strategy for commercializing our current voice-to-voice translation software, originally ported to the PC environment under a previous DARPA/Air Force effort.The pocketable voice-to-voice translator will benefit LSI's current law enforcement clients, as well as medical and paramedic service providers, retail financial service providers (banks, loan companies, real estate companies, insurance companies), organizations with multinational operations, business travelers and tourists. |
| SPEECHGEAR, INC.
4005 280th Street West Northfield, MN 55057 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(507) 664-0974
Mr. Robert D. Palmquist NAVY 01-044 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Compadre: A Device Independent Voice-to-Voice Language Translator Software Solution |
| Abstract: | Compadre Mission Statement: "To develop and deploy language translation software that is device independent, supports bi-directional translation of multiple languages, produces text transcriptions of spoken conversations and supports translation of text extracted from digital images. This software shall run in both a reduced functionality standalone mode, and by wirelessly connecting to remote servers, a full-function mode. This software shall run on multiple pocketable platforms resulting in a mobile system that is low in cost, easy to use, robust in operation and comfortable to carry and/or wear." The object of this Phase I research effort is to investigate the scientific, technical and commercial merit and feasibility of the system described in the preceding mission statement. Specifically, the team will investigate design options, identify potential applications, and select the best option(s) to pursue in making the system a reality. Four technical areas will be investigated: potential pocketable computing platforms, the operator interface, text recognition software and language translation software. Prototype systems will be developed and demonstrated. The commercial feasibility of this design will also be investigated. By combining both the commercial and technical elements, a complete definition of successful software and system solutions for pocketable language translation devices will be achieved. Applications include all individuals who require multi-lingual capabilities. The mobile translator will benefit a wide range of individuals including military personnel, airport employees, border patrol and customs agents, police, fire fighters, retail clerks, bank tellers, delivery personnel, phone operators, tourists and any industry that sells, develops or manufactures products to/in global markets or employs individuals that do not speak the native language. |
| III-N TECHNOLOGY, INC.
2033 Plymouth Road Manhattan, KS 66, KS 66503 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(785) 770-7814
Dr. Hongxing Jiang NAVY 01-045 Selected for Award |
| Title: | UV/Blue III-Nitride Micro-Cavity Photonic Devices |
| Abstract: | The research proposed here is built on the recent successful fabrication of the first electrically-pumped III-nitride micro-size LED, micro-size LED arrays, and waveguides by the principal investigator's research group at Kansas State University. New physical phenomena and properties begin to dominate as the device size scale approaches the wavelength of the light they emit, transmit, and detect. In this realm, quantum nature of light dominates, enabling more efficient and fast devices. The micro-size lasers and LEDs allow the ability to create arrays of individually controllable pixels on a single chip. Potentially these micro-size light emitters can operate as large arrays or independently to communicate millions of messages (or images) at the same time. Such vast numbers of micro-lasers could be used to read, write or process two-dimensional images, and to speed the flow of information between memory and processing chips as well as between different computer boards. Micro-cavity lasers based on III-nitrides offer additional benefits including shorter emission wavelengths (higher optical storage density and resolution), the ability to operate at much higher voltages and power levels due to their mechanical hardness and larger band gaps, and high speed due to the intrinsically rapid radiative recombination rates. The objectives of this Phase I research are to further develop the III-nitride micro-cavity photonic device technologies and to demonstrate the feasibility for achieving electrical pumped microcavity lasers as well as the integration of miniaturized light emitters with waveguides.III-nitride microdisk and microring lasers and arrays developed here are not only useful in compact displays, but also useful as emitters for remote free space functions and in short distance optical communication and high resolution and high speed optical links. By combining millions of the laser beams of these micro-lasers together, one may also obtain extremely high power lasers with very small size and simple designing. When an array of III-nitride microcavities is reverse biased, it can be modified as a miniaturized UV detector array. Thus III-nitride microcavity photonic devices open many important applications such as optical communications, signal and image processing, optical interconnects, computing, enhanced energy conversion and storage, chemical- and biohazard substances and weapon detection and warning and medical. III-nitride LED technologies will pave the way for full color displays and mixing three primary colors to obtain white LEDs for general lighting. The P.I.s have already developed a novel LED architecture that utilizes microdisk cavity LEDs and can boast the emission efficiency by more than 60%. Finding methods for increasing LED efficiencies is a key step for many applications, including full color displays and general lighting. There is an enormous market interest in the area of general lighting based on LEDs. |
| SENSOR ELECTRONIC TECHNOLOGY, INC.
21 Cavalier Way Latham, NY 12110 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(518) 783-8936
Dr. Remis Gaska NAVY 01-045 Selected for Award |
| Title: | AlN-GaN-InN Based Blue/Ultraviolet Integrated Optoelectronic Devices and Circuits |
| Abstract: | We propose to develop and commercialize GaN-based blue and near UV light integrated optoelectronics technology for modulation, switching, and distribution of blue and near-UV light. This technology will include integrated optical waveguides, splitters, and electrooptical modulators integrated with LEDs and photodetectors. We will investigate waveguiding in thin GaN, AlN, AlGaN, and AlGaInN films grown by SET, Inc. on different substrates. We will evaluate light coupling using commercial LEDs and blue high-brightness LEDs fabricated by SET, Inc. We will explore the integration design of GaN and GaN/AlGaN photodetectors developed by SET, Inc. The initial modulator work will investigate and implement an acousto-optical modulator based on GaN technology. The technology evaluation will rely on modeling and simulation using our optoelectronic CAD tool - simulator called photonic AIM-SpiceBiological and chemical substance detection and identification is very important for medical, biological applications, as well as for chemical and automotive industry. Integrated blue optoelectronics sensors have promise for the development of cheap and reliable GaN-based sensor systems drastically reducing cost, improving reliability, and safety. |
| PROGENY SYSTEMS CORP.
8809 Sudley Road, Suite 101 Manassas, VA 20110 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 368-6107
Mr. Ronald D. Ghen NAVY 01-046 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Sonar Stimulation for Virtual Targets in Netted, Tactical ASW Training on Legacy Submarines |
| Abstract: | The Battle Force Tactical Training (BFTT) Program is the most widely recognized Navy program for in port netted training. The operational fleet desires to achieve a Netted ASW Training capability for the submarine community during range operations. Through use of current underwater communication modem technologies, the submarine would be able to communicate in net-centric training situations thus creating a synthetic battlefield situation. Progeny Systems has technologies that allow us to propose innovative bandwidth utilization, data compression techniques, as well as other weapon simulator systems to support the development of a complete "virtual" battlefield operation. Our communication management and data compression techniques have been successfully demonstrated at CTF-12 during the Advanced Undersea Warfare Concept (AUSWC) system demonstration in August 2000. Our data compression techniques were specifically designed to provide battle group connectivity for the submarine using legacy 2400-baud communication links. Through the adaptation of these data compression, data prioritization and data extraction algorithms to the underwater communication modem technology, we will enable the submarine to participate in BFTT operations. By evaluating Internet-Gaming technologies, we propose to further enhance the submarines ability to participate in this limited connectivity environment thus providing a reliable, efficient connectivity Advanced Training Capability.Progeny Systems is in the unique role of defining and constructing the battle group connectivity infrastructure required to link the ASW systems from surface, sub, air, surveillance and shore-based systems for the AUSWC system. As such, the concept of acoustic modem one-way connectivity for the submarine could be used in non-secure operations during battle group operations. We believe by coupling BFTT ASW Training Goals with the operational ASW Battle Force Connectivity a military commercialization opportunity with ASN RD&A may be available to demonstrate additional objectives in Battle Force Connectivity.The results of this project also have application to both commercial and military systems. Initially, this product would be best applied to government agencies and DoD for fleet submarines. As such, initial customers are intended to be PMS401, PMS415, PMS425, PMS450 programs and NAVSEA 92L1. Since the research is targeted towards improving coordinated (via netted communications) ASW training, the resulting technologies from this topic could support training in complex-theater operations, net-centric war gaming, airborne surveillance, NAVAIR, and surveillance applications requiring multiple participant training operations. Potential commercial applications are bandwidth management tools for enhanced Internet gaming, training for coordinated search and rescue missions and ocean exploration. During the research cycle, we will be in constant contact with industry, military, and university experts in the related fields. This will also provide us with the opportunity to identify new methods for achieving high performance innovative communication applications using industry standard development environments. |
| METROLASER, INC.
18010 Skypark Circle, Suite 100 Irvine, CA 92614 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(949) 553-0688
Dr. Cecil F. Hess NAVY 01-047 Awarded: 09APR01 |
| Title: | Fiber Optic System to Measure the Size Distribution and Concentration of Airborne Aerosols in Multiple Locations of a Sampling Inlet. |
| Abstract: | This proposal discusses the development of an aerosol size spectrometer based on an innovative fiber optic system that provides versatility and ruggedness. The system will be compact and flexible and will provide the capability of installing multiple optical probes in an airborne sampling inlet or duct. The fiber optic system will be capable of measuring the size distribution and concentration of airborne particles using well-established principles that are similar to those used by the externally mounted probes. Analytical and experimental studies will be conducted during Phase I to demonstrate the feasibility of measuring the required size range of 0.5 to 50 æm and to work in flows with velocities from 1 to 100 m/s.The particle sizing system proposed here would be of significant benefit to government and industry engaged in atmospheric particle sizing and pollution monitoring. Instruments presently produced by several manufacturers would derive great benefit from the compactness and multi-probe capability of the proposed system. In addition to the airborne application, potential users include industries and Government agencies interested in powder technology such as food, pulverized coal combustion, and sand blasting. |
| SPEC, INC.
5401 Western Ave., Suite B. Boulder, CO 80301 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 449-1105
Dr. Paul Lawson NAVY 01-047 Awarded: 05APR01 |
| Title: | Characterization of Aerosol Inlets and Ducts |
| Abstract: | Atmospheric aerosols have a strong potential impact on both global radiative forcing and the planetary hydrological cycle. Quantitative measurements of the particle size distribution and composition of aerosols are required to reliably predict the influence aerosols are having on global climate change. Quantitative assessment of aerosol composition (i.e., chemistry) currently requires that air be ingested in the cabin of a research aircraft, where losses in the inlets and tubing are unavoidable. Simple and reliable instrumentation is needed for quantifying particle losses in inlets and tubing. In Phase I, we will design, build and make laboratory tests of a prototype instrumentation system for reliably measuring particle size distribution in tubing just prior to entry into cabin instrumentation. The inlet/tubing characterization system will easily be transferable from station to station and will be totally compatible with measurements made by the FSSP-300 and FSSP-100, currently the most reliable instrument for measuring aerosol size distribution outside the aircraft. In Phase II we will build an airborne version of the new instrumentation system and make comparative measurements with an FSSP-300 mounted on the outside of a research aircraft. It is expected that the new device will eventually be low-cost and readily adaptable for application in all inlet/tubing systems and research aircraft. Aerosol measurements are becoming increasingly more important and it is expected that inlet calibration devices will be purchased by almost all of the groups using research aircraft. In addition to research aircraft, inlet calibration devices will be useful in ground based operations, including measurements of pollutants in urban atmospheres and effluents from stacks. The ground-based applications open an extremely large commercial market. |
| ALPHATECH, INC.
50 Mall Road Burlington, MA 01803 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 273-3388
Dr. Eric Jones, Nikolaos Denis NAVY 01-048 Awarded: 01MAY01 |
| Title: | A Knowledge-Based Indications and Warning Toolkit for Mixed-Initiative Information Warfare Analysis |
| Abstract: | Naval intelligence centers validate, correlate, and analyze information from various sources (cryptologic sensors, tactical airborne reconnaissance, units in contact with the enemy, etc.) to generate Indications and Warning (I&W) in support of friendly operations. Increasingly, naval intelligence centers are deployed in littoral regions around the world. The close proximity of littoral threats significantly decreases warning and reaction time for friendly forces, while anticipated reductions in shipboard manning and increases in the range and quantity of available sensor data further exacerbate workload for intelligence personnel. New information fusion technology is required to help intelligence analysts meet these challenges. Accordingly, we offer a mixed-initiative knowledge-based approach to multi-source intelligence analysis in which user-specified rules and scripts are employed to infer I&W from large volumes of sensor data. To ensure scalability, the proposed system operates in three stages: data transformation, trend identification, and script/plan recognition. Data transformation performs statistical analyses and generates potentially useful abstractions of sensor data. Trend identification monitors these abstractions for user-specified triggering events. Finally, the script/plan recognition step generates I&W by matching these triggers to user-specified scripts for operationally significant activities. The technology developed under this program will immediately benefit cryptanalysts at naval intelligence centers, but also has ready application to intrusion detection for defensive IW, and to multi-source intelligence analysis for DoD and law enforcement. |
| ARGON ENGINEERING ASSOC., INC.
12701 Fair Lakes Circle Fairfax, VA 22033 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 322-0881
Dr. Robert L. Kellogg NAVY 01-048 Awarded: 01MAY01 |
| Title: | Indications and Warning (I&W) Inference Engine for the Information Warfare (IW) Picture |
| Abstract: | There are many approaches to improving IW systems' ability to provide Indications and Warning (I&W) for the Information Warfare (IW) Picture. Traditional approaches have relied on rule based systems to infer the RF environment. But in the modern IW battlespace the rules may change too quickly to effectively write IW heuristics. This SBIR takes an innovative approach to deriving the IW Picture by investigating self-organizing algorithms to quickly classify and parse the RF environment in a high-order parametric space only available to the sensor itself. A number of algorithms have been tentatively identified as prospective candidates for investigation, including hard and soft Hebbian learning and neural-gas algorithms. It is expected that these algorithms have the potential to separate signals not only by their individual parameters (frequency, bandwidth, etc.), but also by important (and a priori unknown) joint parameters such as transmission timing, secondary signal follow on, and diffuse RF environmental changes. During Phase I, the self-organizing algorithms will be selected and put into a mathematical foundation suitable for inferencing using IW system high-order data sets. The algorithms will be coded (JAVA is the current language of choice for machine independence) and subjected to well controlled data sets with parameter vectors that match IW systems used in both the National and Tactical RF environment. The performance of the self-organizing algorithms will be evaluated and compared. It is anticipated that one or more algorithms will be recommended for further testing in a prototype system. Initially this software system will be demonstrated on the new generation of IW systems, such as those built on LIGHTHOUSE Technology. However, by using JAVA as machine independent code, the software can migrate to other generations of IW equipment. It is expected during Phase II that a successful IW Inferencing Engine will become a GCCS-M/CUB software segment. We envision multiple opportunities for commercializing the software products that are developed under this SBIR. The immediate opportunities for commercialization involve other government agencies that have similar problems with rapidly interpreting changes in the RF environment, whether to identify hostile threat or to recognize illicit communications. There are extensive applications in the telecommunication industry for monitoring and predicting traffic loads and managing predictable interference. Further, the same concepts of self-organization may be applied to other disciplines including weather prediction and stock-market forecasting. |
| TECHNOLOGY SERVICE CORP.
11400 West Olympic Blvd., Suite 300 Los Angeles, CA 90064 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 565-2970
Mr. Henry Schmidt NAVY 01-049 Awarded: 01MAY01 |
| Title: | Enhanced Data Rate Performance for VLF/LF |
| Abstract: | Fleet Submarine Broadcast System (FSBS) VLF/LF communications are severely bandwidth limited due to the high Q of the transmit antennas and the low frequency of the VLF/LF band. The existing communications modes were designed using Minimum Shift Key (MSK) waveform modulation built into analog modulation and demodulation equipment. Soon the very capable digital Submarine Low Frequency/Very Low Frequency VMEbus Receiver (SLVR) will be deployed throughout the submarine fleet, and the analog modulators will be replaced by digital modulators. Advanced modulation techniques such as partial response continuous phase modulation (CPM) at higher baud rates can now be considered for implementation in FSBS communications equipment. In addition, Low Density Parity Check Codes (LDPCC) that provide additional coverage performance through forward error correction (FEC) are already being used for FSBS communications and additional improvements in these codes have been identified. Finally, incremental improvements in current Range Extension Mode (REM) message data compression are also feasible. TSC proposes to investigate designs that incorporate a combination of advanced modulation techniques, adaptive data compression, and larger block size and higher code rate LDPCC for the band-limited VLF communication channel in order to increase the data rate of FSBS information transfer 2 to 5 times yet maintain good coverage range.This research will establish the compatibility and combined performance of partial response continuous phase modulation (CPM) used with Low Density Parity Check (LDPC) forward error correction codes and will establish the compatibility and combined performance of these with adaptive message data compression techniques. These results will lead the way for SPAWAR to incorporate these improvements as software modernization/upgrades into Navy VLF/LF transmit and receive terminals. In addition, these results may also be implemented in application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) or software modules as data rate upgrades to HF, VHF or UHF narrowband communications modes. |
| GMA INDUSTRIES, INC.
20 Ridgely Avenue, Suite 301 Annapolis, MD 21401 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(410) 267-6600
Mr. Glenn Wright NAVY 01-050 Awarded: 01MAY01 |
| Title: | Remote Data Set Manipulation and Fusion via Bandwidth-Independent Networks |
| Abstract: | The approached described within this proposal focuses on the identification and analysis of existing data sources and their targeted users, coupled with the development of a prototype client-server network and user application. The results from the data sources and user analysis will provide us with valuable data to be used for testing purposes during Phase I. Also, the information will give us a jump-start in developing the complete system during Phase II. The prototype network and application resulting from Phase I will demonstrate the capabilities of the client-server network. Results will demonstrate the ability for remote users, regardless of bandwidth limitations, to access, view, fuse, and manipulate data from multiple sources. Emphasis will be placed on the layout of the network, the necessary hardware, the development of a user application, and techniques to limit the amount of data that actually needs to be physically moved. A detailed description of how the network will be laid out will be presented, along with how the software will be developed to bring together the entire network.Anticipated benefits include order of magnitude improvement in data management capabilities of remote users restricted by low bandwidth communications channels. Commercial opportunities exist in providing access to data at locations, especially third-world countries, where the data communications infrastructure is rudimentary or non-existent and low-bandwidth satellite communications is the only option. |
| ACULIGHT CORP.
11805 North Creek Parkway S., Suite 113 Bothell, WA 98011 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(425) 482-1100
Dr. Dennis Lowenthal NAVY 01-051 Awarded: 01MAY01 |
| Title: | Optical Powering Of Systems |
| Abstract: | Undersea, fiber optic, cable systems are currently either battery powered or powered from shore via a conductor that is part of the cable. For the former, large battery packs must be deployed wherever electronics are located along the system. For the latter, the conductor in the cable dominates system size and controls system cost. An alternative concept is to power the fiber optic cable system by sending laser power from the shore side of the cable that is tapped off at locations where electronics are located and converted to electrical power for powering the electronics. In Phase I Aculight will extend a breakthrough technology it has developed on DOD funding to demonstrate diffraction limited diode laser bar sources that can be coupled efficiently into single mode fibers at the multi Watt level. In addition, Aculight brings new manufacturing techniques, based on semiconductor fabrication, that will result in robust and long life power sources. This combination will provide an efficient and compact device for supplying optical power into a single mode fiber for optical-to-electrical converters. Our proposed Phase I work will demonstrate the feasibility of achieving the Navy specifications in laboratory experiments. This ambitious plan is possible because of closely related research accomplishments.Techniques that deliver optical power into a single mode fiber, or multi-mode fiber, have significant markets in DOD (illuminators, power into fibers, pumps for fiber lasers) and the commercial sector (telecommunications, marking, materials processing, sources for end pumping solid-state lasers, and medical diagnostics). |
| CRITICAL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
Suite 400 Technology Center, 1001 Broad Street Utica, NY 13501 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(315) 793-0248
Mr. George H. Palmer NAVY 01-052 Awarded: 01MAY01 |
| Title: | Compressed Internet Protocol (IP) Data Via Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (GEO) Satellite Circuits |
| Abstract: | TCP/IP is the leading protocol used by networked applications the Navy requires to perform its mission. However, TCP/IP was designed for use in reliable, but possibly congested, wired networks, and thus does not support stealthy communication over intermittent and degraded wireless links as required by the submarine fleet. To enable IP-based applications in the submarine environment, CTI will investigate and define requirements for an integrated system, comprising enhanced Data Link and Transport layers, and an innovative Application Traffic Controller, that provide optimal SATCOM link utilization despite high/unstable Bit Error Rate, low bandwidth, long latency, and intermittent connection. For use under Low Probability of Detection / Intercept conditions, additional protocol enhancements will provide reliable transport of IP traffic to the submarine without acknowledgement. This system will operate over any intermittent and degraded wireless media such as HF, UHF LOS/SATCOM, and sonar data transmission, providing significant benefit to both Commercial mobile platforms and Naval mobile assets such as surface ships, aircraft, brown-water Navy, and special operation forces. The severely constrained radio communication environment of a submarine coming infrequently to periscope depth, with a small antenna rising barely above the waves from a rolling platform, confounded by anti-jam and LPI requirements, is a worst case for mobile wireless networking. Historically, the commercial wireless industry has not focussed on such harsh environments. Now, however, network operators and equipment manufacturers recognize a large and growing demand for reliable provision of multimedia services to highly mobile users with extremely small devices, despite severe multipath, fading, interference, spectrum crowding, etc. Solutions to this Navy problem should be directly cross-applicable to the consumer space. |
| OPTIMIZATION TECHNOLOGY, INC.
125 West Park Loop, Suite 201 Huntsville, AL 35806 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(256) 721-1288
Mr. Robert C. Cox NAVY 01-053 Awarded: 01JUN01 |
| Title: | Runtime Evaluation and Prediction System (REPS) |
| Abstract: | OTI proposes to research and develop the Runtime Evaluation and Prediction System (REPS) technologies providing the advanced methodology, techniques and integrated tool suite required for the most effective utilization of existing simulation capabilities for real-time or near-real time course-of-action (COA) analysis. In rapidly changing environments, maximum benefit from simulation technologies can be achieved only if the simulation users can reliably predict the time delay from the beginning of a simulation-based analysis effort until the results become available. In addition, REPS capabilities will greatly improve the potential benefit from simulation through significant improvement of productivity from the available resources, including both computing resources and human analyst resources. Significant productivity enhancements are expected from REPS as a consequence of better allocation of the limited human and machine resources to focus on those simulation scenarios that are likely to produce the required analysis results within the specified time constraints.As both DoD and commercial systems continually grow in size and complexity, simulation techniques are increasingly used to evaluate expected system behavior under a wide range of possible conditions. However, increasing size and complexity of the modeled systems also tends to rapidly increase the runtimes for the simulations and the application of simulations for course-of-action (COA) analysis requires that the simulation-based analysis results be available in time to impact the decision making process. Furthermore, it is frequently the case that the selection of simulation configuration parameters can have a very large impact on the runtime of a simulation experiment. REPS provides the additional automated tool support is necessary to reliably and accurately predict the runtime of a simulation model based on the configuration of models, model parameters, and the availability of simulation execution host machines. REPS research will greatly improve the ability to quickly and accurately predict the runtime for simulations employed for the purpose of course-of-action (COA) analysis. Specific benefits from improved predictive abilities include: 1) greater effectiveness of existing simulation based course-of-action (COA) analysis techniques; 2) more efficient utilization of scares human resources; 3) more efficient utilization of limited computing resources; 4) reduced frequency of analysis results that are not produced in time to be useful for decision making processes. |
| KERNCO, INC.
28 Harbor Street Danvers, MA 01923 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 777-1956
Mr. Michael Delaney NAVY 01-054 Awarded: 01MAY01 |
| Title: | Precise Time and Frequency for Navy Applications |
| Abstract: | As the reliance on the Global Positioning System (GPS) increases, so too does the risk to dependant systems caused by GPS signal outages or acquisition problems. Timing and synchronization systems, such as Navy operational sites, can benefit from a precision common time reference that offers atomic frequency standard stabilities without drift or total dependency on GPS receivers. Advanced atomic clock technology utilizing Coherent Population Trapping (CPT) as a basis can provide a compact, cost effective solution to the growing need to provide a coordinated knowledge of time while maintaining independence from the GPS system. NAVSSI and Link-16 terminals could be significantly upgraded upon the availability of reliable atomic clock performance in a package compatible with subject Navy hardware.The CPT clock technology has a wide range of applications outside of the military frequency and time area. A compact, low-power, low cost frequency/time standard would find a market in virtually every aspect of modern electronics including communications, test and measurement, computer networking and personal location and positioning devices. |
| SYNTONICS LLC
9520 Bendix Road, North Columbia, MD 21045 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(410) 480-7205
Mr. Glen E. Cameron NAVY 01-054 Awarded: 01MAY01 |
| Title: | PICO - A Small, Intermediate-Term Precision Time and Frequency Source for NAVSSI and LINK-16 Terminals |
| Abstract: | Syntonics proposes to develop a precision time and frequency source with excellent intermediate-term timing stability (accuracy better than 1e-12 seconds over several hours), long life and high reliability. This intermediate-term precision time and frequency source will use a time scale generator based on an ensemble of small quartz oscillators. This product would give the Navy an inexpensive time and frequency standard with the precision necessary for the Navigation System Sensor Interface (NAVSSI) and Link-16 terminal, but with significantly higher reliability and longer service life that any solution using an atomic physics package.An inexpensive, highly reliable and long-lived time source with the signal purity and short-term (i.e., up to approximately 20 minutes) stability of a good quartz oscillator, and with the intermediate-term (i.e., 20 minutes to one day) stability of an atomic standard would have numerous commercial applications. Today's marketplace offers a variety of cesium- or rubidium-based frequency sources with good intermediate- and long-term time stability, but their short-term stability and phase noise performance is inferior to a precision quartz oscillator. Further, they are relatively expensive, unreliable and short-lived compared to quartz oscillators. |
| INTELLIGENT AUTOMATION, INC.
7519 Standish Place, Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20855 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 590-3155
Dr. Leonard Haynes NAVY 01-055 Awarded: 30APR01 |
| Title: | Information Warfare Sensor and Wireless Network Using TM-UWB |
| Abstract: | We propose to develop an information warfare sensor network based on Time-Modulated Ultra-Wideband radio. TM-UWB radio has several characteristics which make it ideal for low cost covert recovery of wideband data. The only signals transmitted by UWB radio are pulses generated pseudo-randomly in time. The Fourier transform of a perfect impulse is constant at all frequencies. The pulses we are currently using are « nanosecond in duration and the energy extends approximately from .5 to 4 gigahertz. The energy content in any conventional frequency band is far below the noise, making TM-UWB transmission very difficult to detect unless you know the specific pseudo-random sequence of the pulses. With TM-UWB there is no carrier frequency, there is no up conversion and no down conversion required, and the output stage is a single transistor which creates a binary pulse, all resulting in decreased radio size and complexity. The duty cycle of the pulses is approximately 1/500, resulting in low power consumption because 99.8% of the time, nothing is being transmitted. During phase I we will demonstrate UWB communication at 5 miles with at least two simultaneous channels. We will also evaluate several innovative system concepts related to the IW sensor network, including ad hoc network protocol and range measurement capability.While IW sensors do not represent a very large commercial market, the basic technology has very large commercial potential in health, telecommunication, manufacturing, and security industries. For example, in the health care industry, TM-UWB offers a single mechanism for wireless communication to and from mobile instruments, plus it offers the ability to track the position of each of those mobile assets. |
| PHYSICAL OPTICS CORP.
Information Technologies Div., 20600 Gramercy Plac Torrance, CA 90501 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 320-3088
Dr. Andrew Kostrzewski NAVY 01-055 Awarded: 02MAY01 |
| Title: | Information-Technology-Enhanced Asymmetric Sensor Star (ITEASS) Wireless Network for Recovery of Wide-Band Data |
| Abstract: | Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to design and develop an entirely new wireless network for recovery of wide-band sensor data. This network is based on the Information Technology-Enhanced Asymmetric Sensor Star (ITEASS) architecture, which consists of an asymmetric communication interface (CI) for both longer-distance (100 mile) BLOS (beyond-line-of-sight) communication between a relay and processing center and short-distance (5 mile) sensor wireless LAN (WLAN) with LPI and LPD. The proposed network has exceptionally high tolerance to multipath errors, necessary for sensors fielded in urban and littoral areas. System novelties include: low millisecond latency, essential to real-time interaction sensor control; PCMCIA sensor-specific communication interface; IT-superhigh compression encoding for wide-band sensor data; and spread-spectrum-code-division-multiplexing access (SSCDMA) software and hardware. The ITEASS will be modular to accommodate diverse sensors (TV, video, wide-band RF, radar imaging, sonar, acoustic, seismic, and EO/IR imagery). It will operate at 50 MHz for BLOS: TCDL, CDL, IDL; and ~1 GHz for the sensor LAN. The stand-alone system will cost only ~$100 per board, in spite of its supercomputer-class 8BOPS distributed processing power. It will be compact (2 in. x 3 in. PCB); low-power (~1 W); mass-producible; and designed for both required modes of operation: snap shots and streaming.Commercial applications include the rapidly growing world markets for cellular videophones (2.5G and 3G), video conferencing, IP-streaming video, and video surveillance, which together are expected to generate annual sales of $250 billion in the year 2002. |
| ORINCON CORP.
9363 Towne Centre Drive San Diego, CA 92121 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 351-4440
Dr. Kevin Heaney NAVY 01-056 Awarded: 01MAY01 |
| Title: | A Multisensor Approach to Covert Acoustic Calibration of Littoral Environments Using Sources of Opportunity |
| Abstract: | Submarine detection in the littoral environment is a very challenging problem. Acoustic propagation depends critically on complex oceanography and bottom sediment type. The difficulty lies in determining these quantities in a covert manner. We propose the development of a suite of algorithms that will fuse multiple platform data received from surface ships of opportunity to determine the environmental parameters required for ASW operations. The objective of this work is the development and evaluation of four algorithms (with increasing complexity and pay-off). The algorithms range from critical angle estimation from striation patterns to matched field geoacoustic inversions using simulated annealing. Each algorithm will be developed and evaluated using existing data. One available data set is from the ADS Fleet Exercise Test/SwellEx-99 conducted in 1999. This includes GPS records of ship tracks, environmental measurements for "truth" estimation, and data from ADS and several other acoustic arrays. The objective of Phase I is to validate the scientific approach to environmental characterization and to select appropriate algorithms for further development. In Phase II, a system concept will be developed for insertion into select ASW assets. Phase III will conclude with sea trials and system installation into one or more of the specified IUSS systems.Phase I of this research will lead to robust algorithms that determine the physical quantities of interest to current ASW platforms (beamformers, prediction models, noise models, etc.). These algorithms will be used to produce an automated rapid environmental calibration software suite for the ARCI-IUSS acoustic processing system. We envision this being used daily on a submarine in forward areas where geoacoustic/oceanographic sound speed databases are sparse, or for the ADS system where covert calibration is required. Given accurate geoacoustic parameters for an area and real-time surface ship locations, a real-time ambient noise model can be used to determine tactically relevant system performance. |
| B&B ENGINEERING
616 Worchester Street Herndon, VA 20170 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 471-1518
Dr. Robert A. Sielski NAVY 01-057 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Effectiveness of Doubler Plates as a Permanent Repair Under Cyclic Loads in a Highly Corrosive Environment |
| Abstract: | The feasibility of the use of doubler plates as a permanent repair under cyclic loads in a highly corrosive environment will be demonstrated during the proposed Phase I effort. The work plan will include a review of literature, review of use of doubler plates, investigation of corrosion issues, investigation of crack initiation and growth, and investigation of ultimate strength issues. The review of the past use of doubler plates will include consultation with shipyards that have installed doubler plates as temporary repairs and with shipyards that have had to remove them to perform permanent repairs. Means will be found to reduce corrosion when doublers are placed over a corroded plate to which seawater may still gain access. Design of doublers will be developed of maintain the original structural integrity, including ultimate strength and fatigue and fracture strength. Chapter 100, Hull Structures, of Naval Ships' Technical Manual will be reviewed and a plan developed for updating it to reflect the results of the proposed research as well as other developments in the maintenance, inspection, and repair of ship structure. A plan will be developed for a Phase II effort to experimentally verify the results of the Phase I effort.A significant reduction in the cost of structural repairs to U.S. Navy ships is anticipated if doubler plates are used as permanent repairs. Avoidance of drydocking for structural repairs can save several hundred thousand dollars per repair. If there were only one such instance per year, the U.S. Navy would save several million dollars over a 10 year period, quickly amortizing the investment in this research. Commercial structural design standards such as those contained in the classification societies would benefit as new performance data of doubler plates is incorporated. This would lead to better monitoring & inspection procedures for these repairs as well as provide a more cost-effective strategy for decisions to permanently repair doubler plates. |
| BMA ENGINEERING, INC.
11429 Palatine Drive Potomac, MD 20854 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 299-9375
Dr. Bilal M. Ayyub NAVY 01-057 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Effectiveness of Doubler Plates as a Permanent Repair Under Cyclic Loads in a Highly Corrosive Environment |
| Abstract: | The objectives of Phase I are to survey the use of doubler plates, and provide a methodology for developing quantitative technical rationale (criteria) for their design and their use limitations as a repair fix for surface ships. The specific tasks needed to achieve these objectives of the proposed effort can be enumerated as follows: 1. Identify commonly used repair fixes for surfaces ships, and summarizes experiences of shipyards, owners and operators, 2. Develop methods for stress analysis and residual stresses assessment, 3. Develop methods to assess corrosion concerns, 4. Develop methods for fatigue and fracture assessment, 5. Define the needs of design methods, 6. Develop methods to assess fabrication and maintenance issues, 7. Develop method for setting design criteria and limitations, 8. Demonstrate the methods and processes, 9. Develop a plan for Phase II of the SBIR effort in the form of prototype products with a high potential for successful commercialization, and 10. Optional Effort: Develop a database structure of use experiences, and software architecture and plan. The marine industry needs assistance in understanding the limitations of using doubler plates based on experiences by owners and shipyards. Also, there is a need to efficiently perform designs of doubler plates by recognizing any limitations of their use. The anticipated products from this SBIR effort are in the form of a database and software that would help in meeting the needs of the industry. |
| AEPTEC MICROSYSTEMS, INC.
15800 Crabbs Branch Way, Suite 290 Rockville, MD 20855 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 670-6770
Mr. Thurston Brooks NAVY 01-058 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Wireless Interface to Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) |
| Abstract: | The installation of Programmable Logic Controllers has become an integral part of shipboard control system. The most popular method for PLCs to communicate with external devices is through RS-232 connections using the MODBUS protocol. Newer PLCs support DeviceNet, ControlNet, or Ethernet networks, as well as Data Highway Plus, RS-232C, RS-422A, or RS-423A networks. As the Programmable Logic Controller becomes more prevalent throughout the ship, the use of RS-232 communication techniques increases the cost of the installation. In an effort to reduce the installation costs of shipboard control system, wireless communication to and from the PLC is required. This project will develop low-cost, single-chip wireless units for inclusion into manufacturers equipment to allow direct MODBUS (as well as, other standard protocols) communication between PLCs, other PLCs, SCADA equipment, and HMI interfacesCost Reduction Opportunities Decreased numbers of PLC's ú Decreased amount of cable ú Decreased number of cable/LAN drops ú Faster installation and setup times ú Greatly reduced sensor installation cost ú Quicker system debug and fault isolation Decreased installation of shipboard control and monitoring systems Potential Commercial Applications Potential Commercial and Military Market Opportunities ú Monitoring and control of factory floor ú Power plant monitoring ú Monitoring proper curing of molded materials, cements, concrete, etc ú Monitoring the temperature of sensitive explosives to warn of dangerous situations ú Monitoring the integrity of sealed containers ú Cutting tool feed mechanism control ú Process control in refinery and petroleum industry ú Turbine operation and state monitoring ú Pulp and paper feedwater monitoring ú Monitoring of machinery condition in dangerous, hard-to-reach or moving sites ú Water/Wastewater control ú Material handling and shuttling ú Lighting control |
| LUNA INNOVATIONS, INC.
2851 Commerce Street Blacksburg, VA 24060 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(540) 961-4516
Mr. Robert Harman NAVY 01-058 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Wireless Interface Modules for Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Communications |
| Abstract: | The installation of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) is a major cost driver for shipboard controls and monitoring systems. The proposed effort will develop and demonstrate a wireless interface for PLC controllers within a shipboard environment per the Navy's instrumentation requirements. All situations where reliable, low cost wireless links are established in lieu of wires/cables will directly result in major savings to the Navy during both the installation and maintenance lifetime and will result in reduced weight of the instrumentation system. Luna Innovations and its development team will first determine the best suited wireless technology for shipboard application (audio, radio, infra-red, etc), and develop a suitable wireless communications concept for shipboard data transfer while providing a cost effective approach. The research will focus on commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) technologies and standards such as 802.11 and Bluetooth, resulting in modules that will communicate PLC information directly to a remote centralized control room, requiring non-line-of-sight transmission capability. A prototype interface module will be designed, developed, and then demonstrated at the end of the Phase I program. Luna will leverage previous wireless sensor development efforts and commercial production capabilities to satisfy the Navy requirements and bring the technology to immediate application and near-term product sales. Luna Innovations anticipates large non-defense related markets in industrial control systems, with specific applications including shipboard, spacecraft, aircraft, and nuclear/conventional power plant instrumentation systems. The previous success in this area resulted in a spin-off company dedicated to the production of wireless instrumentation systems for industrial rotating machine health monitoring utilizing off-the-shelf RF technology, and has over $1 million/year in revenue. Products resulting from this research will undergo immediate transition for introduction to the market. |
| LUNA INNOVATIONS, INC.
2851 Commerce Street Blacksburg, VA 24060 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(540) 953-4278
Mr. Robert Harman NAVY 01-059 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Portable Wireless Vibration Monitoring System for Shipboard Applications |
| Abstract: | The rapid development of wireless technology is creating new opportunities and challenges for instrumentation users and suppliers. Wireless sensor systems can significantly decrease instrumentation set-up time and cost, while simultaneously improving sensor signal-to-noise ratios and instrumentation system flexibility. Further, the arduous task of manually collecting accelerometer samples for purposes of machinery health assessment has created a situation where a wireless data conditioning and collection approach would have many benefits; primarily a reduction in man-hours devoted to data collection and reduced instrumentation installation and maintenance costs. Unfortunately, no wireless accelerometer systems are currently available that meet the needs of the Navy's Assessment of Equipment Condition Program and similar harsh environment applications. Luna Innovations proposes to develop a miniature, robust, low power, wireless system for measuring vibration utilizing the emerging RF and MEMS technologies with the primary objective being a target cost and performance equivalent to standard cabled accelerometers. This system will encompass both the sensor and the mobile unit used to collect data from multiple sensors in high-temperature, high-acceleration shipboard environments. Luna and its commercial partners will leverage previous wireless sensor development efforts and commercial production capabilities to satisfy the immediate Navy requirements and bring the developed technology to near-term market. Luna Innovations anticipates large non-defense related markets in industrial preventive maintenance systems and diagnostic instrumentation coupled with wireless transmission capability. Specific applications include shipboard, spacecraft, aircraft, and nuclear/conventional power plant health monitoring, transportation vehicle design and testing, and industrial rotating machine monitoring. The previous success in this area resulted in a spin-off company, dedicated to the production of wireless instrumentation systems for industrial rotating machine health monitoring utilizing off-the-shelf RF technology, and has over $1 million/year in revenue. Products resulting from this research will undergo immediate transition for introduction to the market. |
| KAZAK COMPOSITES, INC.
32 Cummings Park Woburn, MA 01801 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 932-5667
Dr. Jerome Fanucci NAVY 01-060 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Conventional and Revolutionary Material Solutions for Composites Hatches and Scuttles |
| Abstract: | KCI, working with Bath Iron Works, proposes to design, develop and ultimately (in Phase II) install composite hatches and scuttles on DDG51's for sea trials. Our Phase I program has two important parts. First, we will select three DDG51 hatches and/or scuttles and develop replacement designs based on conventional composite material and processing technology. We expect leading designs selected in a Phase I trade study will be E-glass fiber reinforced sandwich panels produced by VARTM processing. We will investigate numerous matrix options including vinyl ester and epoxy loaded with fire-retardant thermosets, phenolics and new materials such as phthalonitrile, to deveop a design that cost-effectively meets MIL-STD-2031 requirements plus goals for weight and impact resistance. We will consider skin-stiffened designs as a potentially superior configuration to damage-prone sandwich panels. A second and perhaps far more important component of our Phase I research will be an investigation of a conceptual tri-component material system termed KCISTM. In Phase I will fabricate KCISTM test specimens and subject them to mechanical, EMI and FST testing. If this new materials technology performs as expected, it could be nearly impervious to expected shipboard fires conditions and could revolutionize the application of composites to shipboard structures. Demonstration of technology for making light-weight, cost-effective, damage-resistant composite hatches and scuttles accepted for use on DDG51 will open a market for similar products on a vast array of commercial and military ships. The same composite technology demonstrated for hatches and scuttles could be applied to a wide range of other shipboard structural parts. A new technology concept, KCISTM, if proven to perform as postulated in this proposal, could revolutionize the entire high temperature and fire-resistant composites industry by providing a material that is nearly impervious to fire at a cost that is competitive with conventional composites meeting the same performance requirements. |
| MISSISSIPPI POLYMER TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
13233 Webre Road Bay Saint Louis, MS 39520 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(228) 533-0825
Dr. Robert M. Springfield NAVY 01-060 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Low-cost Molded Polyparaphenylene Scuttles and Hatches |
| Abstract: | We propose using our unique, self-reinforcing, rigid-rod, polyparaphenylene-based thermoplastic for fabricating low-cost, lightweight scuttles and hatches. This thermoplastic, named Parmaxr Self-Reinforced Polymer ("SRP"), is an extraordinary high-performance polymer that exhibits the strength of metals. Parmaxr SRPs, however, are not long fiber composites, and thus are readily fabricated using conventional low-cost, automated molding methods. The most elegant design solution for hatch and scuttle fabrication is single operation molding. This is not possible with current sandwich-core composite technology, which requires complicated lay-ups. For scuttles and hatches, use of Parmaxr SRPs will offer the following advantages 1) lightweight, possibly including a Parmaxr SRP foam core (sandwich structure); 2) charring, providing an insulating, protective layer in fire situations without toxic gasses; and 3) simplified compression manufacturing methods, enabling production of cost-effective scuttles and hatches. During Phase I we propose to 1) compound Parmaxr SRPs into suitable formulations (ensuring acceptable mechanical, weight, EMI shielding, maintenance, and fire tolerance properties); 2) fabricate and test specimens to qualify formulations for use (with an emphasis on fire situation properties); 3) enter into a collaboration with one or more existing manufacturers of scuttles and hatches for development work; and 4) design prototype scuttles and/or hatches for Phase II development.Lightweight thermoplastic hatches will be commercially viable products to support the commercial cruise industry and perhaps even specialized fire door markets. This technology will offer high quality, low maintenance, low weight and potentially high volume/ low-cost conformal shape doors for commercial and DOD applications. |
| TRITON SYSTEMS, INC.
200 TURNPIKE ROAD Chelmsford, MA 01824 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 250-4200
Mr. James Burnett NAVY 01-060 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Lightweight Advanced Composite Hatches and Scuttles |
| Abstract: | Triton Systems, Inc. proposes to design and develop a lightweight hatch/scuttle using a combination of advanced hybrid metal/polymer matrix composites, fire resistant polymer, and electro-magnetic interference (EMI) shielding polymer for the DDG 51 surface combatant. This combination of materials and processes enables the fabrication of a hatch/scuttle that meets the major design criteria of damage tolerance, EMI shielding, fire resistance, dimensional stability, low weight, low maintenance, and low cost. The hybrid metal/polymer composite is a structure that allows a direct transition from metal matrix composite to polymer matrix composite with efficient load transfer. In addition, the structure allows the co-mingling of metal matrix composite with polymer matrix composite in a unified structure, enhancing damage tolerance and EMI shielding. This approach also allows the co-casting of all of the closure, hinge and sealing fixtures simultaneously, reducing cost. Triton's InstaShield„ polymer will be used for all external gluing, such as gaskets and seals. InstaShield„ is a new conductive resin system that is formulated to high performance EMI shielding specifications, both for advanced composite laminations and adhesive applications.The composite hatch/scuttle proposed for development on this program is expected to have a direct impact on the DDG 51 ship by lightening the hatches and scuttles and reducing maintenance costs. Additional near term Navy applications include the DD21 surface combatant for the 21st century and retrofit onto other naval vessels requiring lower maintenance costs and lighter hatches. Commercial applications include hatches, scuttles and doors for commercial cargo vessels, and commercial cruise liners. Additional applications include missile casing end fittings, space truss tube end fittings, bicycle frame fittings, automobile frames, bodies and joints, drive shaft end fittings, propeller hub assemblies and airframe components of all kinds. |
| BMA ENGINEERING, INC.
11429 Palatine Drive Potomac, MD 20854 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 299-9375
Dr. Bilal M. Ayyub NAVY 01-061 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Development of Probabilistic Design Primary Loads (Vertical & Lateral Bending) for use in a Weight-Optimized Structural Design of CVNX |
| Abstract: | The objectives of Phase I are to develop realistic, extreme primary hull girder loads necessary to facilitate the application of reliability-based methods for investigating the possibility of weight savings for aircraft carrier. In this study, an empirical-analytical methodology will be developed based on sea trials, spectral analysis and extreme value analysis that uses empirical data, operation profiles and motion analysis. The specific tasks needed to achieve these objectives of the proposed effort can be enumerated as follows: 1. Definition of reliability-based design and its needs in terms of load definition; 2. Assessment of primary loads; 3. Probabilistic characteristics of primary loads; 4. Extreme value analysis to determine the probabilistic characteristics of primary loads; 5. Load combinations; 6. Development of design criteria and limitations for primary loads; 7. Methods to assess weight reduction and optimization; 8. Demonstrate the methods and processes; 9. Develop a plan for Phase II of the SBIR effort in the form of prototype products with a high potential for successful commercialization; and 10. Optional Effort: Software architecture and plan. The marine industry needs assistance in accurately, effectively and efficiently assessing loads for aircraft carriers for the purpose of performing reliability-based designs by properly accounting for relevant uncertainties. Such design methods offer the potential for weight savings. The anticipated products from this SBIR effort would help in meeting the needs of the industry. |
| MANSOUR ENGINEERING, INC.
14 maybeck Twin Dr. Berkeley, CA 94708 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(510) 643-4996
Alaa Mansour NAVY 01-061 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Development of Probabilistic Design Primary Loads (Vertical & Lateral Bending) for use in a Weight-Optimized Structural Design of CVNX |
| Abstract: | One of the principle objectives of the project is to reduce construction weight of the CVN(x) and similar naval vessels. With this in mind, it is important to consider all loads influencing members scantlings. Some of the member scantlings are governed by local rather than global loads. Because of this concern, both local and global environmental loads will be investigated in this project if awarded to Mansour Engineering, Inc. In Phase I of the project, an operational profile will be constructed for the CVN (x) in consultation with NAVSEA and NSWCCD personnel, consistent with her service life requirements. Based on the operational profile and wave statistics in areas of operation, a multi-dimensional matrix of sea state (H1/3, Ta), heading angle (0), ship speed (V) and loading condition (W) will be established. A probability of occurrence of each "cell", i.e., each combination of (H1/3, Ta, q, V, W) will be estimated. The time domain computer program LAMB will be used to obtain the response of the ship in each "cell". The response shall include ship motion, global loads such as vertical and lateral bending moments as well as local loads in the various regions of the hull. As much as possible, slamming loads will be included. Long term distribution of ship motion and global and local loads will be determined, and from these, life time extreme values will be estimated. These values may be used as design loads or for guidance in determining member scantlings. Mansour Engineering, Inc. has been awarded and successfully conducted similar work in SBIR project "Reliability of Ship Structures," SBIR N00024-94-C-4059. In Phase II of the project, the strength aspects will be developed, including appropriate limit state equations for global and local structure requirements. As much as possible, the effect of fabrication imperfections on member strength will be included in the limit state equations. Mansour Engineering, Inc. has been awarded and has successfully conducted an SBIR project on this subject, "Structural Fabrication Tolerances and Structural Details," SBIR contract no. N00024-96-C-4123. In Phase III of the project, a weight optimization of the midship section will be conducted based on the extreme loads developed in Phase I and the limit state equations developed in Phase II. The proposed principal investigator, Dr. Alaa E. Mansour has conducted a similar study titled "Reliability-Based Method for Optimal Structural Design of Stiffened Panels," Journal of Marine Structures, Vol. 10, No. 4, June 1997. In addition to the principal investigator, there will be co-workers specialized in Naval ship technology including Dr. Robert Sieleski and Dr. Woei-Min Lin who was responsible for the development of the LAMP software at the Science Applications International Corporation. Significant weight savings in construction of the CVN (x) and similar USN ships are expected if it is demonstrated that an optimized midship section can be achieved with no decrease in structural integrity relative to an existing carrier. This has been demonstrated in other engineering fields (offshore, civil and mechanical) where weight savings can be accomplished when reliability-based structural design methods and optimization techniques are used. The proposed principal investigator is currently conducting a reliability-based study for ABS to reduce structural weight in the design of bulk carriers in order to modify Safe Hull Rules. |
| LEWIS INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
11405 Alabama Hiway 33, P. O. 624 Moulton, AL 35650 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(256) 974-8931
Mr. James M. Lewis NAVY 01-062 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Relay Replacement |
| Abstract: | The objective of this proposal is to prove the feasibility of building high-power Solid State Relays (SSR) using power MOSFET technology, and specifically to produce a unit to replace the Navy N-130 relays. Power MOSFET technology affords the capability to switch high voltage power at high currents with little on-resistance.Solid State Relays built with MOSFETs offer a number of advantages over SSRs constructed from SCRs and TRIACs, such as: lower on resistance, better control signal isolation (coil to contact isolation in relays), higher efficiency, and higher power handling capability.This research will result in the capability to produce efficient Solid State Relays that operate at higher voltages and currents than are currently available. These SSRs will have application in commercial power switching, telecom, and test equipment, where the use of electromechanical relays is currently the standard. |
| MILLENNIUM 3, INC.
POB 5670 Glendale, AZ 85312 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(800) 843-4123
Peter Brady NAVY 01-062 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Relay Replacement |
| Abstract: | The Phase I objective of this R&D project is to confirm the feasibility of developing |