| INTELLIGENT AUTOMATION, INC.
7519 Standish Place, Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20855 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 222-0444
Dr. Chujen Lin AF 02-001 Selected for Award |
| Title: | UWB for Target Identification |
| Abstract: | We propose to develop a target identification system using Time Modulated Ultra-Wide Band (TM-UWB) radars. The prototype hardware will be based on the TM-UWB ASIC chips developed by Time Domain Corporation of Huntsville AL. The only signals transmitted by UWB radars are pulses generated pseudo-randomly in time. The pulses we are currently using are « nanosecond in duration and the energy extends approximately from roughly .8 to 3 gigahertz. The energy content in any conventional frequency band is below the noise, making TM-UWB transmission highly covert unless you know the specific pseudo-random sequence. With TM-UWB there is no carrier frequency, no up-conversion and no down-conversion, and the output stage can be a single transistor which creates a binary pulse, all resulting in decreased radio size, cost, and complexity. The duty cycle of the pulse generated by our current hardware is approximately 1/200, resulting in low power consumption because 99.5% of the time, nothing is being transmitted. Because of the low frequency content of TM-UWB signals, they are able to penetrate foliage and nonmetallic obstacles better than conventional radars. During Phase I, we will design a UWB conformal array antenna system and demonstrate the prototype system in a laboratory environment. The primary potential military application for this technology is the location and identification of obscured objects. Civilian applications include future time domain communications systems as well as airborne mapping of buried cables, pipelines, and mine shafts. IAI and TDC are aggressively working to develop through-the-wall imaging radar for use by polices, fire fighters, and for use by the military for MOUT operations. There is great interest in through the wall imaging, and congress has specifically earmarked substantial funds for this development. The developments from the subject work should lead to the next generation of through-the-wall imaging radar. The ability to electronically steer radio transmissions will also increase the range and/or data rate of TM-UWB radios. |
| SCIENTIFIC APPLICATIONS & RESEARCH ASSOC., INC.
15261 Connector Lane Huntington Beach, CA 92649 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(714) 903-1000
Mr. Michael Marino AF 02-001 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Identification of Small Metallic Objects Using UWB Excitation |
| Abstract: | SARA proposes to design a coherent, hybrid, UWB detector and analyzer (CHUDA) system that uses commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) technology. SARA will use proven technologies and algorithms, developed during the conduct of 5 previous Phase II SBIR programs. CHUDA is comprised of multiple wideband conformal antennas, a hybrid radio frequency (RF) receiver, and a digital signal processor (DSP). This architecture has the combined benefits of spectrum analyzer and transient digitizer systems, while greatly reducing the disadvantages of these systems. The system will detect, identify, and localize ground objects. This SBIR addresses the receive system. We expect "small, metallic object detection" to be the primary product of the proposed technology. This system holds great promise as a commercial product and we envision the following commercial and military applications: The primary military application will be the a mobile and/or airborne system capable of detecting and identifying small (less than 6 ft.) metallic objects in a clutter environment. The system can be used to scan public places (airports, schools, sport stadiums, demonstrations, ...) to detect and pinpoint persons carrying metallic weapons. This system could augment search and rescue efforts. Sensors would be installed at various mountain peaks that are commonly used by hikers and cross country skiers. The system could locate lost individuals from their cell phone transmissions or by providing them with a transponder at the start their trip. The system could be installed in urban areas for localizing cellular 911 emergency calls. The system could be installed in urban areas for stolen vehicle recovery systems. The system could be used by local law enforcement for locating unauthorized transmitters. |
| CYBERNET SYSTEMS CORPORATION
727 Airport Boulevard Ann Arbor, MI 48108 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(734) 668-2567
Mr. Joseph Tesar AF 02-002 Selected for Award |
| Title: | An Optical Health Monitor for High Power Lasers |
| Abstract: | Research on high energy lasers (HELs) has been taking place in laboratories for several years. As the technology matures, HELs are moving out of the laboratory and into applications such as military weapons, industrial material processing and fusion research. HELs make significant demands on the optical components, often subjecting coatings, mirrors and lenses to optical energy near the damage threshold of the element. In less-than-ideal environments, contamination of mirrors and lens elements can quickly cause optical coatings to degrade. For this reason, the need exists for on-going monitoring of the critical elements in a HEL system. Cybernet proposes to develop an automated optical health monitoring system that can alert the laser operator to degraded performance and coordinate predictive maintenance. The system acquires data from a number of standard metrology instruments, storing diagnostic data into a dynamic database. Optical characteristics to monitor include reflectance, transmittance, scatter, photothermal and photomechanical response. Once data from the optical sensors is in the database, software routines based on expert systems will track diagnostic data and alert maintenance personnel when performance decreases, or when optically induced damage is imminent. Commercial applications include industrial material processing (welding, cutting, etc) and fusion research. |
| CLARK-MXR, INC.
7300 Huron River Drive Dexter, MI 48130 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(734) 426-2803
Dr. Larry Walker AF 02-003 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Drilling 170 Micron Diameter Holes |
| Abstract: | The goal of this Phase I program is to define the system concept (including hardware and software) needed to produce holes whose entrance, bore, and exit are contoured to user-defined parameters, reliably and repeatedly time-after-time, with a minimum of intervention by the user, and in less than one minute per hole (hopefully substantially less.) We will demonstrate basic concepts by drilling 170 micron diameter holes in 1 mm thick metal plates using a commercial, ultrashort pulse micromachining workstation, and then compare the results to the requirements set forth in "Specifications for Rapid Hole Drilling" by William Latham. This Phase I program will lay the groundwork for construction and commissioning of a system whose performance provides the best fit to these requirements. This work will find applications in the military in the ABL program, in the automotive industry in the manufacture of fuel injectors that result in better fuel atomization (and consequently more efficient and cleaner burn), in the heavy-duty truck industry by helping them meet the EPA's goal for reducing emissions by CY-2007 (see www.epa.gov/otag/diesel.htm), in micromachining inkjet printers by eliminating the need to use the hazardous and corrosive gases required to run excimer lasers, in biomedical applications in the design and fabrication of "lab-on-a-chip" devices, and in the fabrication of stents serving specialized medical needs. |
| DYNAMIC STRUCTURE & MATERIALS, LLC
205 Williamson Square Franklin, TN 37064 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(615) 595-6665
Dr. Jeffrey S. N. Paine AF 02-003 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Rapid Hole Array Drilling Using Laser and Mechanical Processes |
| Abstract: | An innovative solution is proposed for production of precise hole arrays in metals and other materials. To create arrays of holes on the order of 0.1 to 0.5 mm diameter and 0.5 to 5 mm deep, DSM proposes a combination of high peak-power lasers and very precise and accurate part manipulation. "Pico and femto-second" lasers with very short pulse duration and very high rep-rates produce streams of high intensity energy pulses that excel at micro-drilling of metals. A critical requirement for precise drilling and cutting is the avoidance of heat dissipation and the loss of concentrated energy at the ablation site. With the ability to deposit the energy at very short intervals and high rep-rates, heat dissipation can be minimized. By attempting the precise drilling of sample materials with a number of laser sources, an effective combination of laser wavelength, pulse duration and rep-rate will be determined. A novel part handling and precision manipulation platform will be used to achieve precise drilling control and correct for any laser beam quality errors (taper and/or non-circularity errors). Finally, Phase I will demonstrate the ability to rapidly position and process the part to achieve desired hole production throughput. Precision micro-machining and micro-processing of materials is an increasingly important tool for the production of MEMS, biomedical devices, photonics components, and precision apertures. The ability to accurately drill precise holes and handle the parts to facilitate rapid production of micron level features makes the production of these devices much less expensive. Devices such as the Singlet Oxygen Generator for the ABL and other injection devices can also be realized in a reasonable amount of time with rapid and accurate hole production. |
| E. M. OPTOMECHANICAL, INC.
#310, 13170B Central Ave, SE Albuquerque, NM 87123 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(505) 281-1746
Mr. Thomas A. Swann AF 02-003 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Rapid Laser Drilling and Inspection of Contoured Holes |
| Abstract: | The Air Force's Airborne Laser System needs technology to rapidly produce high-quality 170-micron diameter contoured holes in quantities of millions. At a target rate of one hole per minute, a single production workstation running 24/7 would take 46 years to produce the number of holes required for a fully operational system consisting of seven aircraft. E. M. Optomechanical, Inc. is proposing a unique combination of laser micromachining, machine vision, and robotics technologies into a cost effective workstation capable, with multiple workstations, of meeting the Air Force's quality and throughput requirements. The most critical feasibility issues are how fast can holes be produced, with the techniques necessary to produce high quality contoured holes, and how can the quality of the holes be assessed. The objective of this Phase I technical proposal is to experimentally produce high-quality contoured holes in one minute or less per hole and to determine a means to ensure the quality of the holes that are produced. E. M. Optomechanical has assembled a highly qualified team experienced in producing systems that incorporate laser micromachining, machine vision, and robotics technologies as well as the successful commercialization of work funded through the SBIR program. The Air Force's application is to produce holes in the injector heads of singlet oxygen generators that are used in chemical oxygen iodine lasers. In addition to drilling holes, the system proposed would be versatile enough to be used for many other laser micromachining applications. Commercial micromachining applications include microelectronics packaging, semiconductor manufacturing, medical devices and diagnostics, data storage devices, telecommunications devices, and computer peripherals. |
| EXTRUDE HONE CORPORATION
1 Industry Blvd, P.O. Box 1000 Irwin, PA 15642 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(724) 863-5900
Mr. Ralph Resnick AF 02-003 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Drilling 170 Micron Diameter Holes |
| Abstract: | This project proposes to develop and quantify the performance characteristics for processing the holes in the injector heads of the ABL weapon system. The objective is to provide the Air Force and supporting contractors with the technology and equipment to manufacture holes of virtually arbitrary size, contour and accuracy. Techniques and concepts that will form the basis of machining holes with a new short-pulse laser system will be investigated. Specifically, it will be determined if it is feasible to produce holes of sufficient quality and at production rates capable of meeting specifications for the injector heads of the laser modules for the Air Force ABL weapon system. Development of short-pulse laser machining technology and processing parameters will lead to the design, manufacture and demonstration of a prototype Short-Pulse Laser Machining system capable of meeting the objectives of the injector heads for the laser modules on the Air Force ABL in Phase II. The new short-pulse laser technology proposed represents a significant advance in precision manufacturing and its potential is of the same order as other revolutionary new machining technologies of the past few decades. Short-pulse lasers can be used to precisely machine virtually any material, including metals, dielectrics, semiconductors and those that are optically transparent, and the process yields no heat affected zone, no mechanical damage, burr-free cuts, and no modification of material properties. It is clear that the technology will have broad impact over a range of market sectors and user communities. Both the commercial sector and the DOD would be attracted by the potential of the SP laser as an industrial tool. |
| LASER FARE ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY GROUP
70 Dean Knauss Drive Narragansett, RI 02882 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(401) 738-5777
Dr. Paul Jacobs AF 02-003 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Drilling 170 Micron Diameter Holes |
| Abstract: | The U.S. Air Force must develop the ability to rapidly drill many millions of 170 micron diameter holes through metal plates, to form injector heads as part of its ABL program. The holes must be high quality, non-invasive to the surrounding metal, and the process must be less labor and time intensive than present methods. As discussed in this proposal the physics of material removal with pulsed lasers is uniquely different for short pulse laser drilling (pulse duration < 20 ps) than for the more common long pulse laser drilling ( > 20 ps.). During the proposed Phase I program we will perform analytical modeling of both long pulse and short pulse laser systems. Also, we will down-select the best candidate laser(s), based upon anticipated drilling speed and hole quality. Next, we will assemble/locate prototype candidate laser systems. This prototype system(s) will drill 300 holes in each of three 316 stainless steel plates, 0.2 mm, 1.0 mm, and 5 mm thick. Statistically significant mean value and standard deviation values of : (1) hole drilling time, (2) inlet diameter, (3) inlet eccentricity, (4) outlet diameter, (5) outlet eccentricity, and (6) surface roughness will be demonstrated in Phase I. The ability to drill precise, high aspect ratio holes at a highly productive, cost efficient rate is not only critical to the ABL lasing process, but it is also an enabling capability for other applications such as in the filtration industry and in the airframe industry. Small diameter precision holes have long been considered for the leading edges of airfoils (wings and stabilizers)for drag reduction, but lack of cost effective capability has stifled development of this concept Although these types of holes can be drilled on a limited, ideal condition basis, the time (schedule) and cost make it prohibitive to incorporate large numbers of these holes in concept designs. The benefit of consistent quality, high speed hole drilling on a virtually lights out 24/7 basis would enable these concepts to be a reality. |
| PARADIGM LASERS, INC.
402 Commercial Street East Rochester, NY 14445 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(585) 248-0290
Mr. Tim Irwin AF 02-003 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Drilling 170 Micron Diameter Holes |
| Abstract: | To achieve the required accuracy, precision and production rate we propose to apply our specialized experience in lasers and Electrical Discharge Machining(EDM)for drilling precise 170æm diameter holes. The proposed technique combines the advantages of each of these technologies. Using a DPSS Laser to pre-drill the holes, rapidly removing 90% of the material, and EDM to finish the drilling process, ensures the desired hole geometry and internal surface quality, while having the goal of achieving an operational rate of one BHP injector head every two hours. We will demostrate the drilling process to confirm the soundness of our approach and provide a number of holes in the specified metal stock. A combined process drilling machine will be conceptualized and described for BHP injector production. There is a strong need in the industry for rapid drilling of small diameter precision holes in a variety of materials, a problem that as yet has not been adequately solved. Examples of applications are automotive fuel injection systems, ink jet printers, near-field optical scanning microscopes, Laval nozzles for gas dynamic lasers and many others. We believe that our approach will provide a good solution. |
| PHOTON PRIME INC.
119 South Vine Street Plainfield, IN 46168 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(317) 627-4829
Mr. David E. Stucker AF 02-003 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Drilling 170 Micron Diameter Holes |
| Abstract: | The process of producing tightly toleranced holes on the order of 170 microns enters into a realm of great difficulty. Though thousands of holes are produced in the automotive industry daily approximating this size, standard EDM techniques do not approach the tolerances requested of <0.01 X hole feature for a reasonable process time. Further compounding the problem is the increased difficulty of producing a said hole in a thicker substrate material as could be required for this particular program. In this Phase I Program, a 500W TRW DP-11 high brightness DPSSL laser, as developed under the DARPA sponsored Precision Laser Machining Program, will be used to laser process small diameter holes and evaluated as to define whether the required tolerances may or may not be met in a reasonable cycle time. If successful, it is projected that this process could replace a major portion of the EDM processed holes as done today. Given the success of this Phase I Program, an immediate benefit would be to provide the ABL and GBL Laser Programs a confirmed process and site for limited production of components. If carried through Phase II, it is proposed that a beta turnkey system would result allowing gasoline and diesel fuel injector drilling. Medical component processing would likely follow as applications arise. |
| PHYSICS, MATERIALS & APPLIED MATH RESEARCH, L.L.C.
1333 N. Tyndall Ave. suite 212 Tucson, AZ 85719 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(520) 882-7349
Dr. Kevin Kremeyer AF 02-003 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Small Holes, Drilled in Hard Materials, Using Ultrasort Laser Pulses. |
| Abstract: | Ultrashort laser pulses are able to deposit nearly all of their energy before the target material responds significanly. As a result, they avoid the losses/scattering which typically accompany other forms of laser processing. Another benefit is the absence of the melt-phase with its associated slag and thermal trauma/cracking. The amount of material ablated by each pulse can be controlled by adjusting the pulse energy and spot size. For very small pulse energies, incremeental amounts of material can be removed. If the spot size is gradually reduced from pulse to pulse, the hole can be very smoothly tapered/contoured. Small pulse energies enable fine control, but also necessitate high pulse repetition rates in order to be useful. One of the main concerns involved in rapid pulse succession is the interaction of a given pulse with the ablation plume of its preceding pulse. This problem can be mitigated by machining in a vacuum, however when multiple holes are drilled, the pulses can be alternated among many holes, allowing sufficient time between pulses at any given hole. We propose the application of ultrashort laser pulses to drill arrays of small holes in hard and/or coated materials. lower cost, finer control, drill through coatings, etc The anticipated benefits of this technology are much lower cost and time requirements over conventional drilling methods in the ABL program. The method will also allow higher precision than conventional methods, leading to much finer control, and better mixing in the ABL combustion chamber. If coatings are used on the injector heads to make them more inert, the ultrafast laser drilling method will allow easy penetration of any coating that may be implemented. Another government application is the DOE's request for small holes of very large aspect ratios in diesel fuel injectors to increase their efficiency. This application is clearly for the commercial market, and will lead to advances that are useful to most all liquid combustion applications. Beside these government applications, there are many applications in commercial micro machining and micro-fluidics, as well as medical applications, such as dentistry. |
| BRASHEAR LP
615 Epsilon Dr Pittsburgh, PA 15238 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(412) 967-7831
Robert Sobek AF 02-004 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Beam Train Flexible Structure Control for Airborne/Space-Based Systems |
| Abstract: | Brashear LP proposes to characterize the problem and possible solutions for acoustic induced disturbances. This problem will likely drive the LOS jitter stability of ABL and similar airborne pointing applications. The research will characterize the acoustic disturbance on ABL hardware then use this detailed description to employ more sophisticated methods of jitter control. Such methods include mechanical based solutions (both active and passive) and electronic motion control solutions. The approaches will be quantitatively compared and assessed for practical implementation. The proposed improvements in jitter control would have immediate impact on the ABL program. These benefits would include increased operating range to target, reduced dwell time on target or the possibility of designing and incorporating lightweight, flexible structures to reduce system weight. In addition to ABL any directed energy system on an airborne platform, such as ATL, would also benefit. Other directed energy systems such as M-THEL and SBL could also benefit from the improved jitter performance. Finally, any optical system subject to harsh vibration environments or high acoustic loads (such as those caused by high wind loads) could benefit from the proposed improvements in jitter control. ATL is similar application to ABL that is likely to see a higher acoustic disturbance environment from essentially the same sources as ABL. The goal of ATL is microradian pointing stability on a system intended for installation on various airborne platforms. The disturbance modeling techniques and the jitter control solutions learned in this SBIR would directly apply. Anticipated results for successful Phase I include: 1.A description of the acoustic disturbance problem that can be used to seed advanced jitter control methods. 2.Identification and quantified performance prediction of mechanical and structure based jitter control schemes including their effectiveness on the jitter control as a function of frequency. 3.Identification and quantified performance prediction of motion control based jitter control schemes including their effectiveness on the jitter control as a function of frequency. 4.A quantified benefit to the ABL mission parameters. 5.Experimental data that supports the qualitative attributes of a structure solution to acoustic induced jitter. |
| CSA ENGINEERING, INC.
2565 Leghorn Street Mountain View, CA 94043 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(505) 765-5860
Dr. Jerry Alcone AF 02-004 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Adaptive Filtering and Disturbance Feedforward Approach for Flexible Beam Train Control |
| Abstract: | In this effort, a novel Adaptive Filtering and Disturbance Feed-forward (AFDF) technique is investigated in the context of direct practical application to the ABL beam control system. High performance ATP systems such as those required for ABL often operate in intense aero-acoustic and structural vibration environments. The degradation in performance arising from these disturbances is accentuated as the mass/inertia of the beam train and its support structure are reduced. Further degradation in performance results from the structural-dynamic interactions excited by the high bandwidth, high acceleration operational characteristics, typical of ATP systems. The proposed technique integrates previous proven approaches to AFDF with recent advances in flexible structure sensing and control. The result is a practical AFDF implementation suitable for flexible beam train applications such as the ABL. A unique aspect of the proposed effort is the introduction of closed loop AFDF to improve overall disturbance rejection and simultaneously reduce both structural mode and aero-acoustic environment effects on system performance. CSA currently supports Lockheed-Martin on the development of the integrated beam control system for ABL. The AFDF approach has a direct transition opportunity to the ABL program due to its potential to reduce vibration-induced jitter in the ABL beam control system. Specifically, AFDF can improve performance with respect to turret buffet, stable platform pointing error, and non-common path jitter. CSA also supports a number of other DoD, NASA , and commercial customers in the development of aerospace stabilization systems. Since CSA is an established provider of these solutions, insertion of the higher performance AFDF algorithms represents a significant opportunity. In addition, CSA believes the commercial potential for the AFDF techniques developed in this effort are significant, due to their broad applicability to applications in other industries (e.g. automotive, semi-conductor, medical, etc.). Because AFDF potentially offers higher performance via a more efficient use of available sensing and actuation capability, a large opportunity exists for incorporating into both existing and future products such as isolation tables for wafer manufacturing, high performance automotive suspension systems. |
| PLANNING SYSTEMS INC.
12030 Sunrise Valley Dr, Suite 400, Reston Plaza I Reston, VA 20191 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(321) 768-6500
Mr. Lawrence D. Davis AF 02-004 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Beam Train Flexible Structure Control for Airborne/Space-Based Systems |
| Abstract: | The increasing demands for higher performance optical acquisition, tracking, and pointing (ATP) systems, combined with cost pressures requiring lighter payloads, indicates a need for a new approach to slewing and structural control. The use of lighter weight structures exacerbates the interaction of slew maneuvers and acoustic disturbances with the system's flexible modes, causing errors in the alignment and shape of the optical components that result in degraded optical performance. Such gimbaled systems will require control systems that can accommodate the time-varying disturbances, rigid-body, and flexible dynamics resulting from the changing geometry as the payload is slewed. To address these issues, we will show the feasibility of (Phase I) and demonstrate (Phase II) an adaptive control design approach that works during operation to autonomously identify the time-varying gimbaled optical system dynamics affecting the slewing bandwidth, then design feedback control laws to achieve predefined performance and stability criteria. Our technical approach is based on our Frequency Domain Expert (FDE) control algorithm, which has been demonstrated on the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Middeck Active Control Experiment (MACE-II). The proposed technology development has the potential to significantly enhance the performance of large, gimbaled optics such as ABL and SBL. The ability of the new, autonomous control design procedure to provide both improved slewing and noise abatement without user intervention would prove especially beneficial to systems (such as SBL) with limits on communication with human supervisors. The same technology for control design will be useful in the commercialization arena, particularly for robotic applications in which a single control law is to function for a wide variety of system parameters and geometry. |
| ADVR INC.
910 Technology Blvd, Suite K Bozeman, MT 59718 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(406) 522-0388
Dr. Gregg Switzer AF 02-005 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Frequency-Agile Monolithic Micro-Laser with Ultra-Narrow Linewidth |
| Abstract: | A method for generating a high power, continuous wave (cw) monolithic micro-laser with rapidly tunable, narrow linewidth output is proposed. The concept employs a semiconductor laser coupled to an electro-optically controlled Bragg waveguide in Potassium Titanyl Phosphate (KTP) providing single frequency output. Frequency tuning is achieved by applying a voltage across the waveguide, thereby changing its index of refraction. The targeted tuning range is 30 GHz in 1 ms by applying 18 volts across the waveguide. The output of the laser will be amplified to 1 Watt using a commercially available Yb-doped fiber amplifier. The combined system will provide a high power, rapidly tunable, single frequency output in a robust, monolithic package ideal for tracking fast moving objects in the atmosphere. KTP is an ideal medium for this application because of its high electro-optic figure of merit (~36 pm/V), high threshold for optical damage (~1 GW/cm2), low susceptibility to photo-refractive damage, and the ability to form low loss (0.5 dB/cm) waveguides using standard ion exchange techniques. KTP is transparent from 350 nm to 4500 nm, so the device will work for a wide variety of wavelengths ranges. The proposed monolithic laser will provide rapid tuning over a broad frequency range at high power making it ideal for laser tracking and spectroscopy. |
| COHERENT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
655 Aspen Ridge Drive Lafayette, CO 80026 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 604-2000
Dr. Mark Phillips AF 02-005 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Frequency-Agile Laser for Target Velocity Compensation |
| Abstract: | Frequency-agile lasers with ultra-narrow linewidth are required for several coherent laser applications, including correction for Doppler frequency shifts between fast-moving platforms, and column content Differential Absorption Lidar (DIAL) measurements from Space with atmospheric depth biassing. Coherent Technologies Inc. proposes to develop a compact near-monolithic laser that provides 30GHz tuning capability, tunable over its full range in 1ms. The tuning mechanism will be intracavity phase modulation to provide settling times that are commensurate with the 1ms tuning period. A master oscillator, power amplifier (MOPA) architecture is implemented to allow power scaling to the 1W level and above. This program will leverage off CTI?s previous and existing work in frequency offset-locking of single frequency lasers for space-based platform compensation, and power scaling of single frequency lasers using large core fiber amplifiers to avoid nonlinear optical scattering. The tunable laser will likely be based on Nd:YAG, with amplification in an Yb:glass optical fiber. In the final configuration, a separate single frequency laser will be locked to a reference cell, and the tunable laser will be frequency offset-locked to the reference laser. The Phase 1 program will include a tuning demonstration of the low power tunable master oscillator. Anticipated applications include (1) Platform motion correction in Doppler Lidar systems,(2) Differential Absorption Lidar (DIAL) measurements. |
| COHERENT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
655 Aspen Ridge Drive Lafayette, CO 80026 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 604-2000
Dr. Iain McKinnie AF 02-006 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Robust and Efficient Tunable Laser for HEL Applications |
| Abstract: | CTI proposes a compact, high-efficiency, high beam-quality 2.6-2.9 micron tunable low energy laser (LEL) for SBL applications. The LEL is required for alignment of HEL resonator optics and payload element, testing of diagnostics and low power testing. The proposed transmitter is based on a laser with OPO frequency converter, and provides significant advantages in efficiency, footprint and beam quality over similar state-of-the-art laser pumped OPOs. Improved performance results from two critical patent-pending technologies. The efficiency and beam quality of the drive laser are optimized using a proprietary technology that combines the high efficiency and diffraction-limited output of a single-mode fiber laser with the power-scaling of a bulk laser. The drive laser is also compact and readily ruggedized, with excellent thermal properties. The OPO uses an innovative architecture to maximize efficient conversion to required LEL wavelengths. Absorption problems in this region (common in many nonlinear materials such as PPLN) are minimized. Minor modifications to the OPO architecture can provide up to 40% efficiency enhancement at certain wavelengths, and single frequency operation using a proprietary low-loss spectral control technique. Phase I will conduct risk-reduction demonstrations of the two critical technologies. The program leverages multiple other programs at CTI, enabling delivery of a brassboard prototype laser in Phase II. In addition to LEL applications, robust, compact and efficient frequency-agile laser transmitters in the MWIR region are needed for commercial DIAL sensors for industrial chemical detection, pollution monitoring and leak detection. These lasers are also useful for scientific applications such as high resolution spectroscopy. With minor modifications, SWIR output can be generated as a diagnostic source for WDM communications. High efficiency infrared lasers are also attractive for wind-sensing, free-space communications, search and rescue beacons, IR countermeasures and medicine. |
| FIBERTEK, INC.
510 Herndon Parkway Herndon, VA 20170 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 471-7671
Dr. Floyd Hovis AF 02-006 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Multi-Wavelength Low-Power Solid State Lasers for Space Based Laser Systems |
| Abstract: | Abstract: The emergence of space-based lasers as a viable alternative for ballistic missile destruction in space has started a flourish of activity aimed at the development and testing of components and systems required for this application. Current schedule for the completion of these tests is very tight, and the lack of some special items not yet commercially or otherwise available calls for their early and accelerated development. A low-power laser device is needed for a high fidelity low-power realization of a beam with similar characteristics to the one produced by the high power HF laser. This beam is used for emission optics adjustments to precisely aim and focus the high power radiation on the target. Several concepts will be proposed and analyzed. This effort will lead to the design, testing and space qualification of the required lasers. The multi-wavelength and tunability capabilities provided by these lasers, within a power range of 1-10 watts, are very valuable characteristics for their use in other fields such as lidar applications. The novel solid-sate laser technology to be developed will decrease the size, weight and cost of high-power diode-pumped lasers. These reductions will make affordable applications including materials processing and large area displays |
| Q PEAK, INC.
135 South Road Bedford, MA 01730 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 275-9535
Dr. Alex Dergachev AF 02-006 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Tunable diode-pumped IR laser source |
| Abstract: | The Space-Based Laser (SBL) requires a Low Energy Laser (LEL) system to serve as a high fidelity surrogate during startup and optical alignment portions of test operations. In this proposal, we will develop a CW, diode-pumped solid state laser that can meet the requirements for the LEL, namely a CW power level in the 1-10 W range, and wavelengths in the 2600-2900-nm region. The device, based on a direct diode-pumped Er:YLF crystal, is rugged, compact, tunable, and well suited for space-based systems. The general approach will be to develop the simplest possible design with a low component count, providing extreme compactness and ruggedness. In a Phase II program the diode-pumped Er:YLF laser first operated in the Phase I effort would be further engineered into a prototype unit suitable for field tests. The proposed laser technology has immediate applications in laser medicine, for precision surgery. Other possible applications are in low-level detection of gases for process control and in precision cutting and drilling of selected materials. |
| SPIRE CORPORATION
One Patriots Park Bedford, MA 01730 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 275-6000
Dr. Kurt J. Linden AF 02-006 Selected for Award |
| Title: | New 2.7 micron Fiber Laser for Space Laser System Cost Reduction |
| Abstract: Abstract not available... | |
| ACULIGHT CORPORATION
11805 North Creek Parkway S., Suite 113 Bothell, WA 98011 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(425) 482-1100
Dr. David C. Gerstenberger AF 02-007 Selected for Award |
| Title: | High Energy Laser Diagnostics for Space Based Applications |
| Abstract: | In support of the SBL-IFX program, the Air Force Research Laboratory is interested in the development of advanced laser diagnostics that will provide diagnostic and monitoring optical tools to contribute to the success of the SBL mission. We propose here a novel laser system that can be used in a variety of applications related to this mission and can play a key role in the success of the SBL program. This source is based on a continuous wave (CW), room temperature, widely tunable, single frequency, diode-pumped, doubly resonant optical parametric oscillator (DRO). The diode-pumped nature of this source results in a device that is compact, requires small amounts of power and offers the potential for packaging to meet final flight requirements. We propose an innovative and enabling technology with the potential to address many of the outstanding issues associated with the design and deployment of the IFX flight vehicle and future SBL missile defense system. The source has application in measuring key HF laser parameters and has significant utility in a wide array of applications including sensing and combustion diagnostics. |
| KESTREL CORPORATION
3815 Osuna Road NE Albuquerque, NM 87109 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(505) 345-2327
Dr. Leonard John Otten AF 02-007 Selected for Award |
| Title: | High Energy Laser Diagnostics for Space Based Applications |
| Abstract: | Kestrel Corporation proposes an adaptation of a new technology that provides compact set of laser wavefront diagnostics that have the ruggedness needed for a space based applications. An application of a unique grating based phase diversity sensor offers a sensitive wavefront measurement that includes tip and tilt information. The proposed Phase I SBIR will update theoretical models of the sensors and conduct laboratory experiments with existing equipment to demonstrate the diagnostic concepts. The application of the distorted grating wavefront sensing to cornea characterization represents a significant commercial technology transfer opportunity. Exploration of the advanced optical imaging technology can lead to applications in other existing biophysical techniques, e.g., cell level spectroscopy, to assist in understanding the development of a number of eye diseases. Uses in battlefield IR imaging through the highly disturbed atmosphere near the Earth's surface are reasonable extrapolations of the technology. Because the concept does not require an artificial beacon, the technology offers a heretofore unavailable covert compensation capability. |
| MEASUREMENT ANALYSIS CORPORATION
P.O. Box 1127 Torrance, CA 90505 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 378-5261
Mr. Ronald E. Lukins AF 02-008 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Active In-Situ Contamination Control |
| Abstract: | A device and system has been envisioned that may be highly suitable for cleaning high energy laser mirrors in space, and capable of mitigating or reduce charge buildup, and capable of removing hydrocarbon film contaminants. Low-energy reactive plasma technology is known to encompass windows of high reactivity where the combination of system operating parameters and the conditions at the surface to be cleaned are such that high reactivity (cleaning) rates can be achieved. An innovative approach has been developed that allows a low-cost means for addressing the feasibility of these systems to accomplish desired objectives (precision cleaning, charge buildup mitigation,and hydrocarbon film removal). Several spin-off activities and commercial applications such as pllution preventing replacement of solvent for hydrocarbons, other organic contaminants, and bio-mass reduction are already known. the company would be the first entity to develop, market, and deliver a devise to remove particulate and hydrocarbon film contaminants from SBL coated high energy laser mirrors in space. We would work closely with the Air Force during Pahse I, II, and III in order to meet customer requirements. Upon completion, our primary market targets would be DoD/Government agencies, and satellite manufacturers. During development we would also investigate technology transfer for non-space based applications. |
| SOUTH BAY SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY CORP
7525 W. 81st St., Playa del Rey, CA 90293 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 615-8432
Dr. Roger J. Withrington AF 02-008 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Active In-Situ Contamination Control |
| Abstract: | The objective of the proposed program is to demonstrate that CO2 jet spray cleaning can be applied to the in-situ contamination control of optics in future Space Based Laser weapon systems. The ability to remove particulate contamination and achieve cleanliness levels of 100 on ultra low absorption coatings on single crystal silicon substrates will be demonstrated via scatter measurements. Electrostatic charge effects that may impact the contamination control process will be assessed. On phase 2, the conceptual design of a cleaning system developed on phase 1 will be built and used to establish whether successful in-situ particle removal can be applied in an SBL geometry without re-contaminating other optical surfaces. The experimentation will be performed in a vacuum, be in a geometry that is representative of SBL systems and make use of the Active Contamination Experiment for SBIRS low (ACES) program hardware. The result will be an affordable experiment that can subsequently be upgraded to a shuttle hitch-hiker experiment to validate the technology in space. Provides a fail-safe method to achieve extremely high particulate cleanliness levels on optics critical to SBL performance in space. Can also be applied to airborne and ground based laser systems that have similar cleanliness levels making them costly to maintain. Commercial applications include contamination control for commercial satellites, space manufacturing processes and particulate removal in adverse environments. |
| KESTREL CORPORATION
3815 Osuna Road NE Albuquerque, NM 87109 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(505) 345-2327
Dr. Leonard John Otten AF 02-009 Selected for Award |
| Title: | High Temporal and Spatial Resolution Laser Beam Diagnostic Sensor |
| Abstract: | Kestrel Corporation, with our collaborator Boeing SVS, proposes an infrared hyperspectral imaging technology to remotely sense the spatially distributed spectral signature fingerprints of a high energy laser against a distant target. This technology offers high temporal and spatial resolution for the purpose of measuring laser beam characteristics during airborne HEL engagements, while simultaneously collecting target response data. In this Phase I SBIR, we will define the requirements for a hyperspectral sensor and use of an existing MWIR hyperspectral imager to demonstrate the key technical issues. We will show that the sensor can be used to observe the HEL beam size, energy distribution, location on the target, and target spectral response, with centimeter spatial distribution at rates in excess of 30 full samples per second. The proposed technique takes advantage of the existence of Kestrel developed IR hyperspectral imaging to simultaneous observe reflected HEL energy with the IR radiation and absorption associated with the interaction of the beam on the target. Coupled with existing sensor pointing and tracking from SVS, the sensor offers a spectral, spatial, signature map created at milli-second rates with immediate presentation of the engagement results Uses within the commercial jet engine industry to measure engine performance across a broad band of applications including allow potentially debilitating flaws in the jet engine to be diagnosed during testing. The work addresses Airborne Laser (ABL) program requirements for an adjunct mission sensors and National Reconnaissance Office's (NRO) requirement for ultraspectral sensing. Government and commercial uses environmental monitoring, and applications in treaty verification and counter drug surveillance all benefit from a molecular line resolution spectral imager. |
| PHOTON RESEARCH ASSOCIATES, INC.
5720 Oberlin Drive San Diego, CA 92121 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(858) 455-9741
Dr. George M. Beardsley AF 02-009 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Remote Imaging for Airborne Laser Target Observation |
| Abstract: | Flight testing of the Airborne Laser (ABL) weapon system requires detailed characterization of the beam-target interaction, including beam energy flux, uniformity, size, position and duration on target, over a several-second interaction period while the ballistic missile target ascends rapidly. This Proposal addresses the design of a remote imaging system, including a sensor, tracking sub-system, and airborne platform, capable of providing the necessary radiometric accuracy and spatial and temporal resolution while flying at a safe distance from both the target missile trajectory and the high-energy ABL beam. Typical test engagements will occur at the ABL flight altitude (40,000 feet) and above. A high-altitude sensor platform minimizes atmospheric attenuation and turbulence effects. We will assess the option of using the USAF-NASA `ARES' WB-57, with which our company has extensive mission planning and operations experience. We will explore the extent to which advanced image processing, including deconvolution algorithms leveraging the large signal due to ABL illumination, can deliver the required resolution with an affordable sensor aperture. The proposed high altitude, high spatial/temporal resolution remote imaging system is potentially applicable to other missile defense test scenarios, such as hit-to-kill intercepts outside the atmosphere. It would provide high-frame-rate image sequences of the impact debris cloud, minimally degraded by atmospheric effects. It would also be useful for observation and diagnosis of high altitude laser weapon effects testing in future USAF programs. |
| LUNA INNOVATIONS INCORPORATED
2851 Commerce Street Blacksburg, VA 24060 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(540) 953-4266
Mr. Robert S. Fielder AF 02-010 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Directed Energy Target Failure Sensors |
| Abstract: | For the Phase I project, Luna Innovations proposes to develop a fiber optic, high-temperature, multiplexed temperature and strain sensor system for use in directed energy weapon experiments. Luna will leverage its experience with high temperature sensors and their patented fiber-optic based sensor systems to complete this research. A novel system will be based on proven fiber optic sensor technology, and will combine independent strain and temperature measurements in multi-parameter transducers. Sensors will be multiplexed to provide a distributed sensing system capable of making temperature and strain field measurements near the point of beam impingement. Fiber optic sensors are immune to electromagnetic interference, making them an ideal technology for advance energy weapon research. Luna's previous work in high temperature sensors for gas turbine applications has attracted the attention of several aerospace and aerospace sensor leaders who have agreed to test related high temperature sensors. By closely collaborating with these industry principals, Luna's technology will quickly transition from the laboratory to the market place, and will be engineered to meet specific industry needs. In addition to target failure analysis, the high temperature strain and temperature sensors developed here will find wide application in gas turbine, industrial, and structural monitoring systems. ú Commercial and military aircraft propulsion industry ú Turbine engine power generation industry ú Marine gas turbine industry ú Automotive industry ú Industrial processes ú Civil structural monitoring |
| SECOTEC, INC.
4935 CENTURY ST., STE 201 HUNTSVILLE, AL 35816 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(256) 722-0000
Mr. David A. Kalin AF 02-010 Selected for Award |
| Title: | NO-Contact Damage and Optical Witnessing Network |
| Abstract: | A low cost, lightweight, optical network for target damage indication in flight with an optical monitoring array of wide and narrow FOV optical detectors built into a thin ring mounted on the rear of the vehicle. By alternating the FOV sensors, impact locations on the target can be monitored on the vehicle for both roll and distance. The optical monitoring will be non-contact and will look for in-band changes in the sensor field of view (HEL or KE damage). This system can monitor the location and time of impact as well as function as a pyrometer to determine the temperature and extent of the impact. A breakwire system can also be used to augment damage. Advanced capability to score GBL and SBL system. High temperature material processing will also be benefitted |
| ATEC, INC.
387 Technology Drive College Park, MD 20742 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 403-1744
Dr. John Lawler AF 02-011 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Heat Flux Sensor With Minimized Impact On Boundary Conditions |
| Abstract: | We propose to develop a heat flux sensor that can be used to estimate the temperature and heat flux on the far side of a wall as a function of time. The configuration of the sensor is specifically designed to minimize the sensor's impact on the temperature and heat flux boundary conditions on the sensor's side of the wall, while allowing for both the capability of measuring very high heat fluxes and a high frequency response. Our sensor will employ components and techniques that are currently being used to study time-resolved (15 kHz) and spatially-resolved (0.3 mm) localized heat transfer rates under a vapor bubble during boiling. Our heat flux sensor will allow the measurement of the heat flux on the far side of a wall. This type of device would improve the development and testing of lasers, explosives, or chemical reactions, since our sensor will provide more accurate knowledge of the processes occurring at the interior containment wall of the testing apparatus. |
| JONA GROUP LTD.
140 Marine Street Farmingdale, NY 11735 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(631) 420-1271
Ronald Rothchild AF 02-011 Selected for Award |
| Title: | New Thermal Sensors for Use with Inverse Heat Conduction Problems |
| Abstract: | Transient and high intensity heat transfer events are difficult to characterize by conventional means. Temperature is inherently an integral so precise information about the transfer process is lost by averaging. A temperature measurement can be differentiated, but then small errors due to noise and limited resolution are exaggerated. Moreover, high intensity transients can lead to temperatures that are destructively high for conventional sensors. To accurately characterize transients, an instrument is needed that can directly measure heat flux, or the rate of change of temperature dT/dt, over a broad temperature range. Jona proposes to address this need with a combination of calibrated intermediates with isolated elements, and dynamic range compression. Internal heat transfer will attenuate potentially destructive temperature peaks, while range compression enhances resolution and linearity. Objectives of Phase I are: 1. Survey potential instrument applications and develop a classification to minimize the required variations. 2. Develop conceptual designs for both heat flux and dT/dt measurements, and determine structural and dynamic requirements. 3. Develop means to compensate for actual temperature when measuring dT/dt. 4. Confirm critical mechanisms empirically and demonstrate direct rate measurement. 5. Prepare a preliminary design for prototypes to be built in Phase II The proposed instrument will permit accurate measurement of rapid thermal events, minimizing or avoiding the attenuation and averaging effects of intervening structure, even in locations with difficult access and destructively high temperatures. |
| METSYS CORPORATION
2014 Millwood Road Millwood, VA 22646 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(540) 837-2186
Mr. Daniel R. Flynn AF 02-011 Selected for Award |
| Title: | New Thermal Sensors for Use with Inverse Heat Conduction Problems |
| Abstract: | Inverse heat conduction involves the application of diffusion theory for estimating unknown boundary conditions, energy generation, rates, or thermophysical properties from measured temperatures or heat fluxes at other locations. Inverse problems are said to be ill-posed in that small errors in the data can produce randomly large variations in the prediction. It has recently been shown that the available of reliable measurements of the rate of change of temperature or heat flux with time can, in conjunction with temperature or heat flux data, provide much more reliable predictions than those obtained using the latter data alone. Unfortunately, there are no reliable sensors available for direct measurement of the rate of change of temperature or heat flux. It is proposed to develop such sensor designs, model their performance, develop simulation tools and error analyses, identify fabrication technologies, and develop plans for verification of sensor performance The sensors to be developed will be of critical importance in experimental investigations of heat conduction problems where the data must be analyzed by inverse heat conduction techniques, such as predicting what energy inputs at an inaccessible surface produced a measured response at an accessible surface. Examples include a structure subjected to a directed energy beam, surface conditions in the interior of a rocket or jet engine, or structures subjected to fire or explosion. Such sensors also can be used in fire detection systems. |
| MICROWAVE BONDING INSTRUMENTS
2400 N. Lincoln Ave. Altadena, CA 91001 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(626) 296-6480
Dr. John Mai AF 02-011 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Microwave Bonded Heat-flux Sensor Array for High Temperature Applications. (Topic: New Thermal Sensors for Use with Inverse Heat Conduction Problems) |
| Abstract: | Starting with a proven high-sensitivity, high-density, micro-mechanical electrical system (MEMS) temperature-sensor array design, we propose to make appropriate material substitutions to create a thermal sensor capable of operating in hostile environments, such as at high temperatures, underwater, and in a vacuum. We will then use our patented microwave bonding processing technology to stack these temperature arrays to create robust, low cost, heat flux sensor arrays compatible with flush mounting in thin material substrates. Microwave Bonding Instruments, Inc., was founded to commercialize microwave silicon wafer bonding technology developed at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (Pasadena, California). The Company's mission is to become the leading provider of IC, MEMS, and MOEMS assembling equipment for advanced hybrid device applications. MBI is positioning its equipment in the current $2.4 billion die level interconnect equipment niche. Expertise gained from this project will assist MBI in packaging of other MEMS devices for telecommunications and MEMS fluidic devices valued together at up to $3 billion in 2001. |
| REDWOOD SCIENTIFIC, INC.
1005 Terra Nova Blvd. Pacifica, CA 94044 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(650) 738-8083
Dr. John L. Lawless AF 02-011 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Novel Heating-Rate Sensor for Use with Inverse Heat Conduction Problems |
| Abstract: | A new and novel sensor is proposed for measuring temperature and heating rate (dT/dt) in hostile environments. The sensor is optical and allows heating rates to be measured remotely. A small button of sensor material is placed on the target. Light emitted from the button is collected by optics and (optionally) directed in a fiber optic to deliver the light to a photodetector. The photodetector can be positioned remotely. This system can measure hearing rates (and temperatures) in materials subjected to rapid heating even in hostile environments. This is important for Air Force directed energy studies investigating material response to directed energy. It will also be useful in applications of commercial interest such as steel manufacture. High quality steel requires accurate control of temperatures during processing. Our sensor would replace current methods to measure steel temperature which fail in the hot and hostile environment of a steel plant. |
| G A TYLER ASSOC. INC. DBA THE OPTICAL SCIENCES CO.
1341 South Sunkist Street Anaheim, CA 92806 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(714) 772-7668
Dr. Terry Brennan AF 02-012 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Active Target Tracking through Deep Atmospheric Turbulence |
| Abstract: | Conventional tracking schemes have reached their performance limit for systems such as the Airborne Laser operating in deep turbulence environments. The next generation of high precision tracking systems must exploit all information available to produce the desired track correction. A study of tracking from an integrated sensor perspective is proposed. This will include, but not be limited to, the use of wavefront sensor measurements to enhance the track estimate. A methodology will be developed which will lead to the assessment of tracking performance limits as a function of system parameters such as the Rytov number. Tracking concepts developed in this effort will be evaluated in detail with wave-optics simulations. A successful completion of this study of active tracking in deep turbulence will advance the state of beam control technology for systems experiencing tracking degradation due to high scintillation. This means extending the effective range of operation for weapons systems such as the Airborne Laser system. The concepts developed here will also have application to ground based laser systems and long range laser communication systems |
| TEMPEST TECHNOLOGIES LLC
Suite 208, 8929 South Sepulveda Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90045 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 216-1677
Dr. Yun Wang AF 02-012 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Active Target Tracking through Deep Atmospheric Turbulence |
| Abstract: | In this proposal we consider the development of statistical image processing and filtering techniques for optical tracking in systems such as the AirBorne Laser (ABL) tactical missile defense system. Based on a combination of stochastic modeling for non-uniform illumination patterns with nonlinear Bayesian filtering, our methods promise to provide greatly enhanced tracking and pointing. Scintillation, the turbulence-induced fluctuation of image intensities, is widely regarded as a major problem for tracking and adaptive optics. The methods we propose herein provide the potential to mitigate significantly the effects of scintillation, thus enhancing system performance. Our estimation techniques are also relevant to problems of anisoplanatism that are of crucial importance in extended range ABL system design. Also included in this effort are the study of data fusion from wavefront sensors and pupil plane imagery and development of robust control designs for pointing. Collaborating with scientists and engineers at Georgia Tech, Trex Enterprises, and AFRL, we will use wave propagation simulations data and data collected in tests at Lincoln Laboratory's ACL facility to score the performance of these algorithms. Our partnership with Trex Enterprises, a leading developer of optical tracking hardware, will allow us to leverage the results obtained in this effort into hardware systems in a most efficient and cost-effective manner. Potential commercial applications will be of a military nature, as the effort proposed herein is heavily focused toward advancing ABL system capabilities. Other optical tracking and imaging systems will benefit, however, from improvements derived from this research. |
| LUNA INNOVATIONS INCORPORATED
2851 Commerce Street Blacksburg, VA 24060 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(540) 953-4270
Dr. Daniela Marciu Topasna AF 02-013 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Transparent Ionically Self-Assembled Thin Films for Contamination |
| Abstract: | We propose to develop improved, cost effective coatings for high-energy laser mirrors and windows that repel contamination based on transparent, highly efficient, and durable ionically self-assembled monolayer (ISAM) films. The proposed program involves 1) demonstration of the underlying principle using aqueous ISAM chemistry and 2) build and test a prototype coating based on the new technology. This revolutionary method of creating multifunctional thin-films monolayer by monolayer has been proven to yield self-assembled, homogeneous thin films that can be deposited on any size and shape substrates, as well as on transparent flexible substrates. The ISAM technique allows for precise structural and thickness control at the nanometer level as well as for fabrication of thick multi-layer films. Luna Innovations has previously shown that the ISAM technique can be used to fabricate multifunctional thin-films monolayer by monolayer that are optically, electronically and photonically- active. The ISAM thin films offer additional major advantages of excellent homogeneity for low scattering loss, high thermal and chemical stability, and low-cost. The development of the organic thin film coatings will benefit the laser industry for contamination control of laser windows and mirrors. Coatings that repel contamination fabricated from ISAM thin films have a variety of military and commercial applications such as laser systems, various optical systems, telescopes, and window coatings for buildings. |
| METASTABLE INSTRUMENTS, INC.
5988 Mid Rivers Mall Drive, Suite 236 St. Charles, MO 63304 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(636) 447-9555
Dr. George Dube AF 02-013 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Develop Coatings that Repel Contamination |
| Abstract: | Attenuated total internal reflection couples light from the inside of a transparent optical material into an absorbing contaminant contacting the polished surface of that material. If that contaminant is strongly absorbing and the angle of incidence is optimized, more than 80% of the light is absorbed by the contaminant. At a certain mid infrared wavelength, water has very strong absorption, resulting in an absorption depth of less than one micrometer. We propose using pulsed mid infrared laser light absorbed by attenuated total internal reflection to remove water, ice, particles and other contaminants from the polished surfaces of optical elements, such as laser mirrors, windows and domes. Parasitic oscillations (total internal reflections) will losslessly trap the light within the material until it illuminates a contaminated area, at which time attenuated total internal reflection will transfer some of the light into the contaminant, thus heating and removing that contaminant. Internally reflected laser light may also be used to detect the presence of surface contaminants. For substrates not transparent at the mid infrared wavelength and in some other cases, the addition of a simple cover plate or coating may optimize the attenuation of the internal reflection and the contaminant removal process. Clean and dry polished surfaces are crucial for the successful operation of high power lasers, low scatter photographic/optical/lithographic devices and submicron semiconductor components. This space-qualifiable cleaning technique consumes no fluids or materials, works equally well on entrance and exit surfaces, does not increase the IR signature of the host platform and is capable of both detecting and removing water, ice, frost, dew, particles and other contaminants. |
| PVD PRODUCTS, INC.
231 Andover Street Wilmington, MA 01887 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 694-9455
Mr. Larry Stelmack AF 02-013 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Rugged Packaging of Laser Optics |
| Abstract: | The program will emphasize contamination control and the testing of candidate protective, low-maintenance coatings for high-energy laser optics. Coatings will be screened for adherence, environmental durability, and optical properties. The most promising approaches will be applied to laser optical components, and tested. Specifications and conceptual designs will be generated for the most successful coating process and associated deposition and substrate handling equipment. The availability of robust packaging methods for coated optical components will have benefits in many areas of application for lasers, including material processing systems, LIDAR systems, and aerospace systems. Many non-optical commercial applications will be served in data storage, wear and friction reducing coatings, microelectromechanical devices, microelectronics manufacture, displays, and ophthalmics. |
| SRS TECHNOLOGIES
1800 Quail Street, Suite 101, P.O. Box 9219 Newport Beach, CA 92660 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(256) 971-7846
Mr. Greg Laue AF 02-017 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Stress Coatings for Large Scale Membrane Mirrors |
| Abstract: | The need for very large aperture (>10m) mirrors for space applications is pushing current technology to its limits in providing a material and design that meet required launch restraints. The concept of using a membrane mirror would allow a light-weight and deployable primary to become a viable option in multi-meter sized aperture imaging and High Energy Laser systems. To maintain the required shape yet retain the pliability of a membrane, methods of applying thin-film optical coatings to counteract residual stress in the membrane to maintain a prescribed curvature will be developed using evaporative deposition. This includes metrology techniques to measure the thickness and stress in such coatings, which will be prescribed by finite element analysis. The end result is a coating process to maintain a curvature in a membrane mirror with traceability to large-scale production. The successful demonstration of the proposed concept of using stress-coatings to maintain a curvature in a membrane mirror will provide an immediate impact on many current and future USAF, NASA, and other DoD space-based large aperture imaging or High Energy Laser (HEL)applications. Many require multi-meter apertures capable of being deployed after launch. The development of this technology would enable such designs to become a reality and also open the door for commercial parties that are interested in the use of very large aperture mirrors. This would not be limited to HEL or imaging applications but also radio frequency and even microwave transmission. |
| TRITON SYSTEMS, INC.
200 TURNPIKE ROAD Chelmsford, MA 01824 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 250-4200
Dr. Akbar Fard AF 02-017 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Innovative Coating Design to Shape Compliant Optics into a Parabolic Net-Shape |
| Abstract: | Triton systems, a leading developer of thin film membrane materials for space application, has teamed up with Professor Christopher Jenkins of the Compliant Structures laboratory of the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology (SDSM&T) and Dr. Jack Bradshaw of Atkinson Thin Film Systems to address the critical design and fabrication requirements of large space-based optical telescopes. On this Phase I, Triton's team will utilize its broad experimental and theoretical expertise in membrane materials and coatings to develop a parabolic net-shape telescope. It is well known that the coating of a substrate produces intrinsic and extrinsic stress leading to deformation of substrate. In this program, we will use this concept to shape a parabolic mirror. We propose to design a "tunable coating" system that leads to control the shape of membrane. A mathematical stress coating model will be developed. This stress model will provide us with prescription coating that will guide the coating material selection, polymer membrane selection, coating geometry, and device fabrication. Moreover, We will develop a new metrology to evaluate important membrane properties, in particular, the coating stress. The success of the proposed concept will provide a revolutionary approach to fabricate large, lightweight, space-based telescopes. Some of the benefits of stress coating technique to obtain a net-shape mirror are: ú Reduced optical wavefront distortion ú Less stringent structural and material requirements ú No need for make-up gas, in contrast to inflatable structure ú Low weight and low cost space-based mirror ú Less handling logistics requirements ú Scalable to large telescope |
| PHYSICAL SCIENCES INC.
20 New England Business Center Andover, MA 01810 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(925) 743-1110
Dr. David J. Cook AF 02-018 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Application of Quantum Cascade Lasers to High Explosive Detection |
| Abstract: | Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) proposes to develop and demonstrate a chemically-specific standoff sensor for detection of explosive materials within sealed containers, buildings, or clothing. Differential absorption LIDAR (DIAL) methodology will be used to provide chemical specificity. Our innovation is the extension of DIAL technology to Far-IR (THz) wavelengths for enabling structure-penetrating radiation to probe molecular features of target substances. This technology represents a long-standing need with the DoD, FAA, and security community for detection of explosive devices containing little or no metal concealed in trucks, luggage, packages, and under clothing. The Phase I program will demonstrate the feasibility of the concept through experimental measurements of absorption spectra of target compounds and structural materials and the first demonstration of a current-pumped Quantum Cascade laser-based sensor in the THz frequency regime. In the Phase II portion of the program, a compact sensor will be developed, tested, and delivered to the Air Force. This program will demonstrate a structure-penetrating DIAL apparatus with the capability of chemically- specific detection of explosive materials. Such an apparatus represents a long-standing need in the military for the detection of hidden illicit materials. Significant commercial applications of the enabling sensor technology exist in the petro-chemical and bulk materials processing industry. PSI has already established a commercialization partnership with the Dow Corporation to exploit these markets. |
| SENSPEX
524 Camino de la Tierra Corrales, NM 87048 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(505) 922-0037
Mr. Miguel Moreno AF 02-018 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Application of Quantum Cascade Lasers to High Explosive Detection |
| Abstract: | During the past few years, and particularly in the last few months after the events of the September 11 terrorist attack, the need of a portable remote-detection system for chemicals agents and explosives has become a priority and necessity to combat global terrorism and confront modern chemical and biological warfare. The present times also offer significant advanced in science and technology to solve critical problems. This project will develop a portable remote sensing system for detecting explosives and chemical agents. The system will use Raman spectroscopy, quantum cascade lasers, and Lidar technology. The program described in this Phase I proposal will determine the feasibility of the concept of an IR Lidar Raman system based in a low resolution Raman spectrometer and the use of QC lasers as the excitation source in the IR region. Completion and performance of the proposed system will follow in Phase II. There is a need for advanced chemical detection sensors. The application of a portable chemical detection system based in Lidar technology is broad. Extending from identification of harmful clouds and vapors, remote detection of high explosives, drug smuggling surveillance and detection, to environmental remote analysis. |
| CSA ENGINEERING, INC.
2565 Leghorn Street Mountain View, CA 94043 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(505) 765-5860
Dr. Jerry Alcone AF 02-019 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Improved Adaptive Reconstructor Algorithm Performance using Field Programmable Gate Arrays |
| Abstract: | A key element required for the successful implementation of higher performance Adaptive Optics (AO) systems is to increase processor performance while minimize mass, volume, and power consumption. A processor based on Field Programmable Gated Arrays, FPGA, offers significant advantages in implementing an ideal image processing architecture. These include: true parallelism, interface throughput, multiply accumulate throughput, determinism, simplicity, and flexibility. Closely associated with this is the Adaptive Reconstructor Algorithm, ARA, used to estimate the wave front. The ARA offers significant improvement in AO performance by changing the basic characteristics of the AO loop to minimize the residual slope error. The computational load, memory requirement and input-output requirements of the ARA heavily impact the processor. It must be tailored to the resolution and dynamic range (both spatial and temporal) of the DM and the Wave Front Sensor, WFS. It must also be integrated with the dynamics of the DM control loop so as to enhance the disturbance rejection characteristics of the system. This effort focuses on developing an appropriate ARA to be used in a FPGA implementation to greatly improve overall AO performance. AO systems are an integral component of directed energy and other optical systems. The performance improvements sought with this effort are key to meeting the stringent performance objectives required tracking targets through atmospheric turbulence for DoD applications of interest. In addition, there is significant commercial potential to be realized for the ARA and FPGA-Processor approach. These include industrial robotics and inspection systems, large dimension process controllers, and medical lasers and imaging systems. |
| G A TYLER ASSOC. INC. DBA THE OPTICAL SCIENCES CO.
1341 South Sunkist Street Anaheim, CA 92806 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(714) 772-7668
Dr. Glenn A. Tyler AF 02-019 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Real Time Adaptive Signal Processors for On-line Performance Optimization of Adaptive Optical Systems |
| Abstract: Abstract not available... | |
| MISSION RESEARCH CORPORATION
Post Office Drawer 719, 735 State Street Santa Barbara, CA 93102 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(937) 429-9261
Dr. Matthey R. Whiteley AF 02-020 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Tracking Through Laser-Induced Clutter for Air to Ground Directed Energy Systems |
| Abstract: | We address acquisition, tracking, and aim-point selection on tactical targets for air-to-ground high-energy laser (HEL) applications. Effects of complex natural clutter are considered, in addition to effects related to laser propagation such as weather, battlefield obscurants, atmospheric turbulence and thermal blooming. We propose the use of passive multi-spectral sensing techniques for rejecting natural clutter during initial target acquisition. Active, multi-pulse laser radar imaging is proposed for mitigating effects of camouflage, smoke, and other battlefield obscurants in target tracking and aim-point selection. To treat turbulence, thermal blooming, and aero-optical effects, we propose a new direction-angle ambiguity rectification technique. This technique builds on a block-matching algorithm for imaging through horizontal turbulence to determine the laser pointing errors present over a target scene extending many isoplanatic patches. From this information, the direction-angle ambiguity associated with high-resolution range measurements in the presence of turbulence, thermal blooming, and aero-optical gradients may be corrected for use in pattern recognition. Additionally, the block-matching processing output may be used to correct tilt-anisoplanatism resulting in proper HEL stabilization. We propose the development of a MATLAB toolbox to interface Government-developed WaveTrain and Infrared Modeling and Analysis (IRMA) codes for simulation and analysis of tactical directed energy applications. Laser radar imaging techniques show great promise in navigation, identification, and remote sensing. The technologies developed here can be applied to 3-dimensional imaging of objects at long ranges over horizontal paths or through obscurants such as clouds and smoke. This technology may be applied to airport traffic control, fire-fighting, and autonomous vehicles. Additionally, this technology may be used in applications where long-range laser pointing is required, such as laser designation, laser communication, and laser weapons. This effort will result in a software toolbox that integrates capabilities of two existing Government codes for propagation modeling and scene generation. This toolbox may be used in other projects to address the combined effects of propagation and scene clutter in air-to-ground imaging and beam control applications. |
| TREX ENTERPRISES CORPORATION
10455 Pacific Center Court San Diego, CA 92121 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(858) 646-5479
Dr. Mikhail Belen'kii AF 02-020 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Tracking Through Laser-Induced Clutter for Air to Ground Directed Energy Systems |
| Abstract: | Dramatic improvements in laser power and beam control technology combined with agility and speed with which directed energy can be retargeted and delivered through the atmosphere to the target makes laser-based weapon highly desirable for several key mission tasks in tactical battlefield environments. Success of the air to ground directed energy systems depends on their ability to acquire and track stationary or slow-moving targets on the ground in changing scene environments under different weather and smoke conditions, camouflage conditions, and in the presence of strong background reflection. To develop a new tracking capability, we propose to build and demonstrate a novel multi-spectral tracking system, which integrates polarization diverse adaptive multichannel radar (AMR) with an optical tracker. In addition, we propose to develop and test two novel tracking algorithms: a hybrid filter, which allows us to track multiple optical targets in clutter environment, and polarization space-time adaptive processing technique, which uses space, time, and polarization diversity to enhance radar tracking performance. Phase I evaluates performance of active and passive optical trackers for various engagment scenarios and selects the best approach, develops and validates a hybrid tracking filter, develops polarization extension of space-time adaptive radar processing technique and evaluates its performance. It also evaluates the effects of anisoplanatism and thermal blooming on pointing accuracy of a combat beam and develops a concept for integration of the radar with an optical tracker. Tracking or observing objects through smoke and fire conditions has always been a problem for firefighters as well as vehicles attempting to navigate through fog. Infrared scanners deployed on large forest fires only could provide information on the actual fire line. Tracking in clutter algorithms developed under this program could lead to a considerable increase in imagery information acquired from a flying platform on location of equipment and personnel. These algorithms can also increase a reliability of navigation systems used on cars. |
| NOVA PHASE, INC.
435 Route 206 Newton, NJ 07860 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(973) 300-4400
Dr. Barry Wechsler AF 02-021 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Periodically Poled Stoichiometric Lithium Tantalate for Nonlinear Optical Frequency Conversion |
| Abstract: | This proposed research effort program will enable new sources of laser radiation from the near uv through the mid-IR. This will be accomplished by growth and characterization of large high-quality stoichiometric lithium tantalate crystals and demonstration of the superior performance of these crystals in nonlinear optical frequency conversion of well established laser sources via quasi-phase matching. Quasi-phase matched devices base on stoichiometric lithium niobate have applications in generation of laser wavelengths not currently readily availble from blue generation for laser projection displays, mid-IR wavelengths for medical lasers and remote sensing of chemical and biological agents. Periodically poled devices are also used for wavelength channel switching and line switching in telecommunications. |
| PHYSICAL SCIENCES INC.
20 New England Business Center Andover, MA 01810 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(925) 743-1110
Dr. Douglas J. Bamford AF 02-021 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Periodically Poled Stoichiometric Lithium Tantalate for Nonlinear Optical Frequency Conversion |
| Abstract: | The Air Force needs non-linear optical crystals which can efficiently convert radiation at the wavelengths of solid-state lasers into radiation at other wavelengths. Existing materials which have the desired non-linear conversion efficiency have other shortcomings, including vulnerability to optical damage and limited ultraviolet transparency. Recently a promising new material with superior damage resistance and ultraviolet transparency, stoichiometric lithium tantalate, has become commercially available. Wafers of this material have shown good non-linear conversion efficiency when patterned appropriately. Our innovation is the production of patterned stoichiometric lithium tantalate using commercially practicable techniques which have already led to one successful product, periodically poled lithium niobate. The result will be a commercial product which meets Air Force requirements for conversion efficiency, damage resistance, and transparency. During Phase I we will prove feasibility by showing that our patterning techniques are effective on commercially available substrates. In Phase II we will prove practicality by decreasing the size of the patterned features, increasing the thickness of the patterned wafers, and measuring the non-linear optical performance of the resulting optical chips when pumped with high-average power solid-state lasers. At the same time, we will work with a commercial partner, Deltronic Crystal Industries, to establish the necessary crystal-growth facilities. This program will lead to commercial production of a new non-linear optical material. We will work in partnership with Deltronic Crystal Industries, a major supplier of optical crystals, to enable rapid market penetration. Customers will include the developers of high-average power optical parametric oscillators and second-harmonic generators pumped by solid state lasers, who wish to avoid the damage issues associated with existing materials. |
| FARR RESEARCH, INC.
614 Paseo Del Mar NE Albuquerque, NM 87123 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(505) 293-3886
Dr. Everett G. Farr AF 02-022 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Artificial Dielectrics and Fresnel Lenses for High Power Microwave Applications |
| Abstract: | Lens antennas with large apertures could be useful in a variety of High-Power Microwave (HPM) and Ultra-Wideband (UWB) applications. Such lenses are needed in the frequency range of 0.2-2 GHz, and they must have low loss and dispersion. Existing lenses made of solid dielectric materials, such as polyethylene, are too dense and weigh too much to be practical for large apertures. To build a lightweight lens, one would consider an artificial dielectric (AD) material. Commercially available artificial dielectrics are typically composed of conductively coated glass micro-spheres embedded in epoxy. While they have one-sixth the density of polyethylene, they could be made even lighter with an improved design. A lighter artificial dielectric can be manufactured in a variety of forms, the most promising of which appears to be a uniform array of discs embedded into a lightweight foam. The density of such a material is roughly proportional to the bandwidth of the material. If we limit the high end of the material performance to 2 GHz, then our calculations show that metallic discs embedded in foam will have a density one-third that of commercially available ADs, and one-eighteenth that of polyethylene. To achieve even lighter lenses, we propose the use of Fresnel lenses for the narrowband HPM case. Fresnel lenses use less material than conventional lenses because they allow for 360-degree phase shifts in the aperture fields as they pass through the lens. Fresnel lenses may be composed of standard or artificial dielectric materials, and they can provide an additional factor of three in weight reduction. They are effective only over a narrow bandwidth, but for HPM applications that may be sufficient. This research will lead to a new design for a large, lightweight lens antenna suitable for use in High-Power Microwave or Ultra-Wideband Antennas. A prototype artificial dielectric material will be built and tested during Phase I. We will also develop a design for a Fresnel Lens that will further reduce the weight for narrowband applications. |
| RF ENGINEERING
157 North Reamstown Road Stevens, PA 17578 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(717) 336-0865
Mr. Ron Focia AF 02-022 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Artificial Dielectrics for High Power Microwave Applications |
| Abstract: | The objective of this proposal is to demonstrate the feasibility of producing lightweight artificial dielectric materials for High Power Microwave (HPM) source lens designs. Conventional HPM lenses are usually machined from a dense material exhibiting the desired electrical characteristics, such as polyethylene, and are inherently heavy. Heavy lenses are undesirable for handheld, mobile, aircraft, and especially spacecraft applications. There is an alternative approach to source lens design. Lightweight artificial dielectrics can be constructed of a composite material. One element of the composite is a low loss background (or substrate) dielectric and the other is an additive consisting of metallic particles, metallic flakes, or conducting spheres. The additive acts to increase the dielectric constant of the substrate material and a wide range of values are theoretically possible. Additionally, if the substrate is made of plastic, manufacturing of components can be greatly simplified by using injection molding techniques and the weight can be significantly reduced by introducing voids into the material. Other more complicated alternatives exist for manufacturing composite dielectrics for use in narrow band applications. In this case, resonant structures are used in a periodic array and theoretically any value of permittivity and permeability, even negative, can be achieved. Any application suffering a penalty for the weight of conventional electromagnetic lenses will benefit from this research. The cost of manufacturing will also be greatly reduced by technology investegated in the Phase I research. |
| PHOTODIGM, INC.
1225 N. Alma #110, Bld. 412, P.O. Box 830938 Dallas, TX 75083 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(214) 768-3032
Dr. Gary Evans AF 02-023 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Lenslike Grating-Outcoupled Surface Emitting Laser with Superstrate Reflector |
| Abstract: | This proposal describes two major improvements to an existing research concept for a high-average-power surface-emitting semiconductor laser with high brightness. The existing concept is the use of a lenslike lateral waveguide with a grating in the longitudinal direction to provide feedback for laser oscillation in second-order and outcoupling from the substrate surface in first-order. We predict that such a device, with a cavity length of about 1 cm and a lateral active width of about 100 um can provide about 10 W of peak power. By monolithically combining 40 columns of these devices on 250 um centers, a peak power of 400 W could be obtained from a 1 cm x 1 cm chip area. A grown-in epitaxial reflecting stack will minimize loss of light caused by the bi-directional outcoupling of the grating. Efficient transfer of heat from the quantum well active region is obtained by mounting the device junction-side down with uni-directional emission through the transparent, anti-reflection coated substrate. Uniform current-injection and low contact resistance will be achieved by direct metalization to the contact layer. Distributed contacts and narrow (compared to the width of the lens waveguide) contacts will be investigated to provide low resistance. Semiconductor lasers are by far the most efficient source of laser light. However, a long term problem has been maintaining beam quality, coherence and brightness as the laser power is scaled to the Watt level and beyond. High power semiconductor lasers at the Watt level are required today for both EDFA and RAMAN amplification in fiberoptic telecom systems in order to enable transmission of data over long distances. Higher power (up to 10 W and 100 W levels) semiconductor lasers are also required for pumping solid state and fiber lasers, as well numerous industrial applications including laser welding and medical applications such as photodynamic therapy. The monolithic GSE approach in this proposal is inherently low cost to manufacture and will significantly increase the coherence and brightness of high power (100 W level) semiconductor lasers while maintaining high efficiency. |
| STELLAR DISPLAY CORPORATION
2020 Centimeter Circle Austin, TX 78758 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(512) 997-7780
Dr. Leonid Karpov AF 02-025 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Development of Super High Frequency Schottky Barrier Vacuum Transistors |
| Abstract: | An extremely high speed transistor is proposed for low-noise high frequency amplifiers using a Schottky barrier with vacuum gap. Low-cost vacuum microelectronic devices have immediate opportunities in the $100 Mn market for cell phone RF devices. They haave further opportunities in high-speed and radiation hardened circuits. |
| AEROVIRONMENT INC.
825 S. Myrtle Avenue Monrovia, CA 91016 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(626) 357-9983
Dr. Zaher Daboussi AF 02-026 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Dynamic DC Source and Load System with Energy Recycle Capability |
| Abstract: | The development of batteries, fuel cells, flywheels, and other portable energy sources requires power electronics devices to test performance parameters. In most cases, the power electronics devices serve as a load, distributing energy to the grid. For batteries, the devices can also serve as a source of energy for charging. To date, these devices have only been available and cost-effective for large systems on the order of ten-kW's or more and for high voltage. The proposed Phase I effort will investigate the feasibility of developing a bi-directional source/load device with on-grid capability in the two- to five-kW power range. For battery laboratories, with twenty to thirty test stations, the individual station devices would tie into a master server through a DC bus. These devices would have complex characterization capabilities to preserve the functionality of the commercial industrial test devices. They would also have fast charge capabilities. AeroVironment will overcome technical challenges using our commercial high power equipment as a design basis along with our extensive power electronics expertise. By demonstrating feasibility, we will enable greater flexibility in testing portable energy sources such as batteries and fuel cells and allow excess energy to be recycled to the grid. Anticipated benefits include the ability to characterize battery and other energy source performance parameters through a complex range of cycles, while allowing excess energy to be recycled to the grid. Commercial applications include not only government test laboratories, but also the industrial fast charge market for batteries. |
| TLC PRECISION WAFER TECHNOLOGY, INC.
1411 West River Road North Minneapolis, MN 55411 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(612) 341-2795
Mr. Sasidhar Vajha AF 02-027 Selected for Award |
| Title: | A 94 GHz Aperture Coupled Circularly Polarized Transceiver Antenna |
| Abstract: | Current spaceborne communication systems and missile seeker systems require parallel advances in the W-band (94 GHz) multifunction phase array antenna systems. Relatively large aperture areas of the existing antenna systems radiate heat rapidly into space from the RF components. Also, the existing low-phase noise, tunable local oscillators (LO) used for the RF front-ends of the spaceborne communication systems are external, relatively heavy and bulky. A small low-cost, light weight power and thermal management system integrated with the RF system, which occupy less space si needed. The proposed light weight, lwo cost, 94GHz phase array transceiver antenna will have excellent thermal management and exceptional power and resolution. The proposed all MMIC 94GHz aperture coupled transceiver antenna will take care of the thermal management issue by taking advantage of the aperture coupling. It has a novel low phase-noise LO which include a TLC designed 47GHz DRO followed by a TLC's doubler MMIC. There are a wide variety of possible post appications in both commercial and defense sectors in addition to the missile seeker,smart weapon, and radiometry applications. The proposed project will have potential use fo the Federal Government in telecommunications portable and Satellite applications as well as radar and meteorological sensing systems. The potential for high precision radar, tracking system in commercial telecommunication systems is enormous. |
| TOYON RESEARCH CORP.
Suite A, 75 Aero Camino Goleta, CA 93117 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(805) 968-6787
Mr. Michael P. Grace AF 02-027 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Multifunction Phase Array Antennas |
| Abstract: | Space-based radars for detection and precision tracking of air and ground targets over the entire battlefield require extremely large apertures. Toyon Research proposes to develop an innovative active lens antenna concept that promises excellent RF and DC power efficiency as well as excellent thermal, mass, and packaging efficiency. The proposed research will explore the use of component technologies developed on the TRAM program and other efforts in the active lens application. The ultimate goal will be to develop an antenna system with very large bandwidth capable of meeting tactical air-and ground surveillance requirements. The proposed research will develop a new generation of space-based radars to detect and track mobile targets with higher performance and lower cost than previous designs. A constellation of such radars will give the U.S. a better picture of trouble spots around the globe and support immediate, pinpoint response when intervention is appropriate. |
| BRIMROSE CORPORATION OF AMERICA
5024 Campbell Blvd.,, Suite E Baltimore, MD 21236 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(410) 668-5800
Dr. G.V. Jagannathan AF 02-028 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Next-Generation 35-40% Efficient Multijunction Solar Cell: Development of High Efficiency (>35%) and Radiation Resistant 4-Junction Solar Cells on InP |
| Abstract: | Brimrose Corporation has identified 0.75, 1.0, 1.5 and 1.91 eV band gap III-V semiconductor materials, lattice matched to InP for producing high efficiency 4- junction solar cells for space application. Phase I objective are follows: (1) Optimize the epitaxial growth of 0.75 and 1.0 eV materials and tunnel junction inter connecting these two band gap solar cells and fabricate a high efficiency single junction solar cell and characterize it to prove the concept and (2) Optimize through modeling and epitaxial growth results the 4-junction solar cell device structure. Phase II objectives are : (1) Optimize the growth conditions for producing the optimized 4-junction solar cell structure and subsequently fabricate and test the 4-junction device. (2) optimize the conditions for large area processing (3"diameter or more) and (3) Design a inter connected dual chamber MOCVD multi wafer production reactor for producing these 4-junction solar cell structure in a continuous manner without the problem of memory effects. Samples of single junction cell and details of optimized 4-junction solar cell structure through modeling will be provided to Air Force at the end of Phase I program. The success of the research will be the availability of very high efficiency 4-junction solar cell for space application. The major spin off is the use of this solar cell system for production of high efficiency concentrator terrestrial solar energy conversion system. |
| HITTITE MICROWAVE CORPORATION
12 Elizabeth Drive Chelmsford, MA 01824 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 250-3343
Mr. Peter Katzin AF 02-029 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Phased Array Antenna Power Amplifier Modules |
| Abstract: | Today's high-performance radars rely on electronically steered arrays made of thousands of radiating elements with a transmit/receiver (T/R) module connected to each element. One critical design goal for T/R modules is maximization of the power-added efficiency (PAE) of the transmitter power amplifier, usually defined near its saturated output power level (Psat). As more sophisticated modulation waveforms or multiple carriers are introduced, power amplifiers near saturation introduce unacceptable distortion effects. This means that the output power has to be backed-off from Psat with potentially major degradation in PAE. This program will focus on development of distortion reduction and efficiency enhancement techniques applicable to complex modulation or multi-carrier systems and practical implementation of these circuits, including adaptive bias optimization to compensate for variations in signal levels, temperature, and load conditions. The design approach to be evolved will stress capabilities for distortion cancellation and efficiency enhancement, and for integration of the complete circuit into one (or more) MMIC chip(s) that can be incorporated into standard T/R modules. The proposed program will lead to MMIC design concepts for reduction of non-linear distortion and efficiency enhancement in power amplifiers for one or more specific applications with well-defined frequencies of operation, bandwidths, and modulation formats. Successful development of such concept will lead to expansion of the range of application of power amplifiers, in general, and space-based radars, in particular. |
| CALABAZAS CREEK RESEARCH, INC.
20937 Comer Drive Saratoga, CA 95070 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(408) 741-8680
Dr. R. Lawrence Ives AF 02-030 Selected for Award |
| Title: | MEMS-based Traveling Wave Tube Amplifiers for Space Applications |
| Abstract: | We propose to develop and demonstrate a miniaturized, high efficiency, 100 GHz, 5 W, traveling wave tube amplifier (TWTA) incorporating micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) fabrication techniques. A combination of innovative component designs based on three-dimensional (3D) MEMS fabrication capabilities and advanced computational tools will lay the foundation for miniaturizing TWTAs, thus enabling operation at or above 100 GHz. Initially, the program will investigate novel concepts to miniaturize critical components while optimizing for high efficiency and reduced mass. In particular, the development will focus on TWTAs utilizing field emission arrays (FEAs) as the electron beam source. FEAs offer significant improvements in efficiency compared to conventional, thermionic cathodes. Periodic permanent magnet (PPM) focusing and slow-wave circuits designed around MEMS fabrication technology will provide compact, lightweight devices. Millimeter-wave RF sources would find wide application for space-based applications due to their small size, light weight, and impressive RF performance. Significant data transfer rates could be achieved for advanced communication applications. |
| MICROWAVE BONDING INSTRUMENTS
2400 N. Lincoln Ave. Altadena, CA 91001 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(626) 296-6480
Dr. John Mai AF 02-030 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Cold Cathode Design for Miniature Traveling Wave Tube Amplifiers (Miniature Traveling Wave Tubes for Space Application) |
| Abstract: | The integration of carbon nanotubes (CN), which have low-power and high-current density electron emission properties, into a MEMS-scale microwave source, represents a first step to achieve the desired goal of power output in the watts range and frequency greater than 100 GHz. MBI proposes to develop an enabling technology to produce a MEMS microwave source based on a MBI CN cold cathode array. By implementing the following steps based on the cold cathode electron source concept, MBI plans to achieve by Phase II the frequency and power specifications required: (1) Modify several existing MEMS designs to study the feasibility of achieving the power and frequency specifications of solicitation AF020-030. (2) Synthesize CN, test the current emission, and adjust the growth parameters of CN cold cathodes for this application requirement. (3) Begin preliminary CN substrate integration experiments in candidate microwave source subcomponents. In collaboration with experts in this field, initial studies will be performed on various microwave tube amplifier designs that can utilize MBI's cold cathode as well as stacked bonding technology to lead to a Phase II deliverable of a compact, W-band microwave amplifier with minimal power requirements. MBI will be collaborating with existing working microwave tube designs at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (nanoklystron) and the Stanford Linear Accelerator Center (Klystrino). MBI, was founded to commercialize microwave silicon wafer bonding technology developed at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The Company's mission is to become the leading provider of IC, MEMS, and MOEMS assembling equipment for advanced hybrid device applications. MBI has a $154,000 California grant to explore other applications for its technology, and will position any consumer cold cathode design for entry into the expected $70 billion flat panel display market. |
| BRASHEAR LP
615 Epsilon Dr Pittsburgh, PA 15238 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(412) 967-7575
Mr. Robert Jungquist AF 02-031 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Lightweight Primary Mirror Technology |
| Abstract: | Brashear LP proposes to further develop ULE(TM) Lightweight Mirrors. The overall structural efficiency of primary mirrors, such as the one used in ABL or proposed for SBL, is currently limited by the minimum thickness of the core cell walls, and front and back face sheets that is achievable with traditional glass manufacturing methods. The technical objectives of this Phase I activity is to establish the lightest weight ULE(TM)primary mirror design that is achievable while retaining the performance characteristics necessary to satisfy the existing ABL program requirements using novel PM mirror manufacturing techniques. Special attention will be given to launch and/or landing requirements of SBL and ABL. This will entail trading front and rear face sheet thickness, core thickness, as well as cell wall thickness, cell size and geometry. In addition, Brashear LP will evaluate manufacturing techniques that allow an aggressively light-weighted PM to be realized without the complications of quilting print-thru of the core due to polishing pressures as well as 1-G release quilting for Space Based systems. Also, core manufacturing techniques will be evaluated which allow thinner face sheets and improve mirror manufacturing time by altering the current process by which cores and final mirrors are made. The primary initial beneficiary for this SBIR effort is the USAF/BMDO Airborne Laser (ABL) program. The technology and processes developed under this SBIR will enable the ABL aircraft to meet aggressive weight targets at reasonable costs. Current technology is expensive and heavy. The higher level of performance will help support additional sale of ABL aircraft. The current approach uses conventional lightweight mirror technology, which has a significant weight penalty compared to the proposed approach. The reduced weight of the proposed optics will allow additional reductions in the size and weight of the structure required to support them. The technology developed will benefit all applications requiring the use of lightweight optical systems in dynamic environments. As substrate costs are reduced and performance goals are demonstrated, the market for space based and terrestrial applications will be opened to the technology as well. The ability to address terrestrial applications will be very cost dependent. |
| FOSTER-MILLER, INC.
350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 684-4368
Dr. Peter Warren AF 02-031 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Low-Cost Manufacturing of Composite Hybrid Isogrid Mirror (CHIM) |
| Abstract: | The Air Force requires lightweight, stiff and stable mirrors for use in high quality, space-based optical observation and energy projection systems. The current state-of-the-art uses various types of honeycomb core material with optical and composite face sheets. The honeycomb material, while excellent in compression, does not transfer the bending shear loads efficiently enough for truly lightweight optical systems. Honeycomb mirrors also are slow and costly to manufacture. The proposed program will develop a novel mirror system that uses highly efficient truss structures to provide bending stiffness for a thin meniscus mirror face sheet. The Composite Hybrid Isogrid Mirror or CHIM uses purely axially oriented, high-modulus fibers to provide an efficient, dimensionally stable support structure. This structure provides even, distributed load to the face sheet and reduces the system mass by using truss elements to transfer load rather than honeycomb plates. The planned manufacturing techniques reduce and simplify the steps required and thus reduce production cost and schedule. Foster-Miller will develop the system through a careful plan of design, modeling, sectional manufacturing and testing and full prototype manufacture and testing. Complete development of this technology will provide a mirror system that will enable better, lighter, and less expensive optical instruments. (P-020085) In addition to the myriad of Air Force missions such as SBL and ABL that would take advantage of extremely stiff and lightweight mirrors, many NASA and private observatories would be ready customers of the CHIM mirror technology. Many industries, such as microchip and printed circuit board manufacturing, use large mirrors in their photolithography machines. While these mirrors are not subjected to the same mass restrictions as aerospace instruments, they still need to be extremely stiff so as not to vibrate in the factory environment. Reduction in manufacturing cost would enable the FMI team access to this highly lucrative market. |
| SCHAFER CORPORATION
321 Billerica Road Chelmsford, MA 01824 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(818) 880-0779
Dr. William Goodman AF 02-031 Selected for Award |
| Title: | High Structural Efficiency, Silicon Lightweight Mirrors (SLMS) |
| Abstract: | Schafer proposes to further develop Silicon Lightweight Mirrors (SLMs) technology, an all silicon foam-core composite mirror material that is extremely stiff, highly polishable and low cost. High structural efficiency primary mirrors are required for the Air Force Deployable Optical Telescope System (DOTS) and the Airborne Laser (ABL). SLMS technology would greatly reduce the weight of the ABL telescope. SLMS technology has an order of magnitude higher specific stiffness than ULE and offers a potential weight savings of the PM of >250 lbs. Thus, 600 lbs or more are realizable in just the Telescope Assembly of ABL. The complete Turret Ball Assembly weight savings is estimated to be greater than this due to weight savings in the Gimbal Assembly. In the Phase I project, Schafer and teammates Brashear LP and ERG would produce two, spherical, 12.7 cm diameter lightweight SLMs mirrors that demonstrate the DOTS performance goals. During the Phase II project we would leverage the experience gained from the Phase I project, to manufacture two 60 cm diameter DOTS primary mirrors. Finally, in Phase II, the team would initiate the activities required to produce a near-net shape 1.5 meter diameter SLMs substrate for use as an ABL primary mirror prototype. The competitive advantages of SLMs technology as opposed to other materials for high-energy laser beam director are its superior properties and ease of fabrication. Optical glasses, such as ultralow-expansion (ULE) titanium silicate glass and Zerodur suffer from very low thermal conductivity, which leads to irradiance mapping. Also, for glasses, the thickness required to obtain high stiffness results in primary mirror faceplates that are very heavy. The areal density for these glass faceplates can range from 50-60 kg/m2. Compositional and microstructural inhomogeneity in ULE results in anisotropy in the thermal expansion and consequential loss of figure. Likewise, Zerodur also experiences thermal hysteresis that results in figure loss. SLMs technology has a decided advantage in static and dynamic distortion over both glasses and metals. Finally, SLMs can be coated with existing VLA coatings, making them ideal replacements for the uncooled silicon optics and glass primary mirrors used on ABL, SBL, THEL and MTHEL. The primary commercial marketplaces for SLMs components are aerospace corporations such as Boeing, Lockheed-Martin, Raytheon, Ball, TRW, Kodak and our partner Brashear LP. The target markets and products that have been identified to date are Primary mirrors for scientific instruments, primary mirrors for high energy lasers, imaging mirrors, laser scan mirrors, reflective panels, fast steering mirrors and high-energy laser beam walk mirrors. Schafer and our teammates are currently combining resources to market products in some of these areas. Lloyd Harkless, Director of Directed Energy and ABL Program Manager at Brashear LP, is supporting this project with substantial Internal Research and Development funding. |
| MISSION RESEARCH CORPORATION
735 State Street Santa Barbara, CA 93101 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(603) 886-8860
Dr. Daniel R. Weimer AF 02-032 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Real Time Prediction of High-Latitude Ionosphere Electrodynamics |
| Abstract: | A fundamental result of the solar wind's interaction with the Earth is the generation of electric fields and currents in the high-latitude ionosphere, which in combination with the geomagnetic field, control the dynamics of the near Earth space and plasma environment. This "space weather" that results can have a significant impact on military and civilian communications, radar, electric power distribution, and navigation systems, including GPS receivers. The proposed project will demonstrate a prototype design for a real time forecast of electrodynamic parameters in the high-latitude ionosphere, namely, the electric fields, currents, and Joule heating, as well as associated geomagnetic effects. The prediction will be obtained by means of the real time data stream from a solar wind monitor at the L1 orbit. The objectives will be obtained by a combination of a "tilted phase front" propagation model for the interplanetary magnetic field, an empirical model of ionospheric electric potential, and a similar model for field-aligned currents (FAC), which is base on magnetic Euler potentials. As there does not exist a model for the ionospheric conductivity with the desired accuracy, the FAC model will be used in a innovative technique to compute the desired parameters without requiring the conductivity. The proposed activity will produce prototype programs which will provide a solid foundation for the Phase II design of an accurate, and efficient real time electrodynamic prediction model. The parameters that are derived from this prediction model are intended to be used as an input to other high-latitude ionospheric specification and forecast models, which are the basis for a number of application codes that support DoD and civilian missions. The anticipated benefits of this program are more accurate predictions of the ionospheric conditions which affect communications, radar, satellite orbits, and navigation systems. The prediction model alone will be able to predict geomagnetic variations on the ground, which are of particular interest to the electric power industry. Thus this work may have use in a broad range of military and commercial space weather applications. |
| SPACE ENVIRONMENT CORPORATION
399 North Main, Suite 325 Logan, UT 84321 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(435) 752-6567
Dr. J. Vincent Eccles AF 02-032 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Assimilating Physics-Based Model for High-Latitude Electrodynamics Specifications and Forecasts |
| Abstract: | We propose to design a physics-based, Kalman filter, data assimilation model of high-latitude electrodynamics. Our new model will provide accurate specifications and forecasts for convection electric fields, particle precipitation, conductances, Joule heating rates, and field-aligned and ionospheric currents. High-resolution patterns of the electrodynamic parameters will be calculated continuously as a function of time, and a unique feature of the model will be its ability to capture sharp electrodynamic boundaries and mesoscale structures. The physics-based model will be a time-dependent, high-resolution, coupled model containing a high-latitude ionospheric model and an MHD electrodynamic model of magnetosphere-ionosphere coupling. The data to be assimilated will include ground-based magnetometer and radar data, in situ satellite measurements, data from imaging satellites, and GPS-TEC measurements. The data will be assimilated via a Kalman filter technique, which has been successfully used in meteorology and oceanography. In addition to producing a workable design of an innovative electrodynamic model, we will write a software design document and we will formulate a validation plan. We will also write a comprehensive report on the strengths and limitations of all current electrodynamic models, and in particular, we will show why they are not capable of providing accurate electrodynamic parameters. The assimilating model of high-latitude electrodynamics will benefit numerous military and civilian systems and operations. On the civilian side, it will benefit power companies that have extensive electric grids and it will also benefit the WAAS system that is being implemented by the FAA for commercial airlines. On the military side, it will be a benefit to personnel using HF communications, OTH radars, and navigation systems based on single-frequency GPS receivers. |
| SPACE MICRO
12872 Glen Circle Road Poway, CA 92064 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(858) 292-7000
Mr. David R. Czajkowski AF 02-033 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Low Power Space Computer Incorporating VLIW and SEU Mitigation |
| Abstract: | Innovative commercial computer architectures and power saving technologies such as VLIW and frequency scaling are leveraged from state-of-the-art portable computing initiatives, but also addressing the unique space radiation environment eg(SEU). Use of pervasive IP cores, a novel triple modular reundancy technique, and world-class silicon foundries with rad tolerant processes enable Space Micro to develop a low cost rad hard, high performance space computer approach. Our low power space computer (LPSC) concept offers the promise of unparralled performance in space applications, leapfrogging today's space computer offerings. Applications include DOD satellites, NASA/ESA/NASDA missions, and commercial space platforms. |
| STAR BRIDGE SYSTEMS, INC.
7651 South Main Street Midvale, UT 84047 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(801) 984-4444
Mr. Jim Yardley AF 02-033 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Power Efficient Space Computer |
| Abstract: | Power consumption in microprocessors is rapidly increasing. Reconfigurable computing using FPGA chips where functions can be performed in parallel instead of the traditional serial processing methods of existing microprocessors offers the opportunity for increased capability and performance at great savings to electrical power requirements. With traditional microprocessors, only a very small portion of each chip does productive work at any moment. Yet the entire chip consumes power. The reconfigurable computing approach uses a much larger proportion of the circuitry of each chip to do meaningful work at any moment. Star Bridge Systems is developing reconfigurable computers with associated software to cost effectively program and utilize low power consumption computers. There are many opportunities for improved performance and capability of computers using recongifurable logic. Using parallel computing techniques, made possible through a specialized software development system called Viva, actual reconfigurable computers are now cost effective. This technology is scalable for any type of system from small battery powered applications to supercomputers. Reconfigurable computers will find future applications in any type of digital processing application from DSP control to high level processing. |
| FOSTER-MILLER, INC.
350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 684-4170
Dr. Nese Orbey AF 02-034 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Unique High Temperature Liquid Crystal Polymer Substrate for Thin Film Solar Cells |
| Abstract: | Thin film solar cells have promise of producing high specific power values (over 1000W/kg) if a light weight substrate that permits growth of high-quality semiconductor material is available. Past results using CuInSe2 -type materials on polymer substrates have suffered because the CIGS quality has been low due to the limitations on growth temperature imposed by the thermal properties of the polymers used. Cells of CIGS on metal foils have suffered from the problems of the substrate's high density and high conductivity which prevents integrated interconnects. Foster-Miller proposes using PBO, which has been shown to have a useful temperature in vacuum approaching 600øC. This is comparable to the maximum temperature for the soda lime glass used as a substrate in the highest efficiency devices. The PBO substrate should enable CIGS deposition at a temperature high enough to yield high-quality material for high-efficiency solar cells. The high mechanical strength of PBO allows use of a very thin substrate film, which allows for very high specific power values at low cost. Phase I will document solar-cell material quality versus growth temperature, evaluate PBO as a substrate, and document potential problems; samples of CIGS on PBO will be furnished for evaluation. (P-020264) Commercial prospects for CIGS-type cells on PBO are excellent. PBO can be supplied as long, large-area rolls to permit continuous processing and monolithic integration for modules. There is a strong need for a good substrate on which to produce high-efficiency thin-film photovoltaics for both terrestrial and space applications; flexible flat-panel displays are another possible use. Foster-Miller, Inc. plans to supply PBO substrates to our solar-cell production partner for production as soon as feasible. |
| ITN ENERGY SYSTEMS, INC.
8130 Shaffer Pkwy Littleton, CO 80127 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 285-5103
Dr. Joseph Armstrong AF 02-034 Selected for Award |
| Title: | PBO and Silicone-Resin Free-Standing High-Temperature Films for Monolithically-Integrated CIGS Devices |
| Abstract: | ITN Energy Systems, Inc. is developing a space photovoltaic (PV) product based on our commercialization partner, Global Solar Energy, Inc.'s (GSE) flexible thin-film polycrystalline copper-indium-gallium-diselenide (CIGS) technology. These devices are being made as discrete cells on metallic foil substrates, as well as a monolithically integrated device on a polymeric substrate. While we have demonstrated a cell efficiency approaching 10% on a polyimide (PI) substrate, the record efficiency of 18.8% as measured at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) was deposited on a rigid glass substrate, and approaching 18% on a flexible stainless steel foil substrate. ITN has demonstrated that PBO films can survive higher processing temperature than our baseline Upilex PI substrate. Furthermore, we have teamed with Dow Corning to develop free-standing silicon-resin based foils that will be capable of achieving the higher processing temperatures in order to pursue higher efficiencies. Both the PBO and silicones should be able to achieve processing temperatures above 500§C while providing an electrically insulated substrate to facilitate monolithic integration. ITN shall acquire PBO films and Dow Corning shall provide prototype silicone-based films to demonstrate CIGS devices, and the best performing substrate shall be utilized in Phase 2 to demonstrate monolithically-integrated PV modules. Reduced manufactured cost due to monolithic integration, ability to utilize higher-efficiency CIGS processing than used with polyimide substrates, specific power much higher than cells on metallic foils due to the reduced weight while demonstrating comparable efficiencies. |
| PHYSICAL SCIENCES INC.
20 New England Business Center Andover, MA 01810 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 689-0003
Dr. Robin Coxe AF 02-035 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Reconfigurable Logic for Imaging Processing |
| Abstract: | Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) proposes to demonstrate the feasibility of reconfigurable computers for image processing on future satellite platforms. A pipelined, inherently parallel procedure such as image processing is conducive to an approach based on field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) with SRAM logic. Reconfigurable computing platforms have the potential to provide near-real time, customized data products directly from the sensor to the user in the field. PSI proposes to demonstrate the radiometric calibration of archived data from the PSI AIRIS hyperspectral sensor in a reconfigurable FPGA at a data rate of at least 30 Hz. PSI also proposes to detail two alternative concepts for a low-cost, ground-based prototype constructed from COTS components, a crucial precursor to a spaceborne system. In addition to performing the radiometric calibration of hyperspectral data from a variety of sensor platforms, the prototype will be capable of executing user-selected image processing algorithms, again at real-time video rates. Both system concepts will be designed to radically decrease the time between data collection and dissemination of processed data to the end user, will support applications developed on PCs, and will meet size, weight, power, and interface requirements of a generic space-based remote sensing platform. A successful Phase I program would set the groundwork for full-scale hardware-in-the-loop demonstrations of a real time hyperspectral image processor with a variety of sensor configurations and a space-qualification plan in Phase II. An engineering model of a reconfigurable image processing unit for a space sensor would be a key goal in Phase III. Several of the numerous commercial and military applications of reconfigurable processors include onboard image processing capabilities for remote sensors on satellites, as well as on trucks, airplanes, UAVs, and UUVs. The technology could eventually be generalized to provide expanded digital signal processing capabilities for military and commercial radars, laser devices, communications satellites and ground-based mobile communications systems. |
| CRYSTAL RESEARCH, INC.
45275 Northport Court, Suite B Fremont, CA 94538 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(510) 445-0833
Dr. Suning Tang AF 02-036 Selected for Award |
| Title: | A Monolithic Integrated On-Chip Optical Interconnect Bus Based on Electrically Switchable Bragg Gratings in Polymer Waveguides |
| Abstract: | Crystal Research, Inc. proposes a monolithic integrated optoelectronic chip module concept to optically interconnect chip-level VLSI circuits. Realizing the fact that integration of photonics devices on-chip avoids many of bottlenecks associated with current system architectures, we propose to develop an on-chip optical waveguide interconnect technology for data transmission at rates exceeding 10 gigabits per second. The proposed architecture employs advanced polymer waveguide circuits and innovative electro-optic switchable gratings. Similar to electrical interconnection buses, where control and data signals can be relayed between senders (for example, processors) and receivers (for example, memories), an optical bus based on polymer waveguides is proposed for the first time to provide the optical equivalent of an electronic bus line driver. The bus architecture proposed herein represents one of the major milestones for the realization of on-chip optical bus. Furthermore, broadcasting of high-speed clock signals can be easily achieved through electro-optic waveguide fanout gratings. Crystal Research, Inc. will deliver a preliminary prototype device to the funding agency by the end of Phase I for proof of concept demonstration. Current high performance electronics are limited by interconnects rather than the processor speed. The proposed optical interconnect technology will provide a better alternative to release such a bottleneck. This proposed technology is strictly attached to VLSI technologies. As a result, the feasibility of future transfer this technology to other microelectronic companies is promising. Potential post applications of the proposed idea include intra-MCM, inter-MCM, and wafer-scale optoelectronic interconnects. |
| OPTICOMP CORPORATION
PO Box 10779 Zephyr Cove, NV 89448 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(775) 588-4176
Mr. Peter Guilfoyle AF 02-036 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Distributed Optoelectronic Switching Modules for Highly Dynamic On-Chip and Chip-to-Chip Interconnects |
| Abstract: | The primary goal of the proposed Phase I SBIR effort is to develop high speed, highly dynamic chip-to-chip interconnects utilizing hybrid waveguides and GaAs based VCSEL and photodetector technology in order to relieve the chip-to-chip interconnect bottleneck. The interconnects are accomplished using a unique distributed switching architecture that is low cost, fault tolerant, redundant, format independent, and dynamically reconfigurable. This architecture and the associated hardware can be readily implemented to realize high speed, dynamic chip-to-chip interconnects for demanding computing and signal processing applications. OptiComp Corporation occupies a 7,000 square foot facility which includes a full service, backend semiconductor fabrication cleanroom and optoelectronic device integration laboratory, a optoelectronic testing area, and a MBE based growth facility. OCC?s design center includes optoelectronic based modeling software for VCSELs and waveguide structures, as well as full EDA schematic capture and mask and PCB layout. These facilities support optoelectronic device modeling and design, growth, fabrication, integration, and test. The proposed program will offer a dual-use commercialization opportunity for high speed chip-to-chip interconnects because it will provide a low cost solution that is highly dynamic, redundant, fault tolerant, and format independent. This chip-to-chip interconnect scheme has significant market potential, especially for demanding military and commercial interconnects. |
| POLARONYX, INC
4025 Ribbon Dr. San Jose, CA 95130 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(650) 387-0889
Dr. Jian Liu AF 02-036 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Reconfigurable polymer based substrate mode optical interconnects |
| Abstract: | We propose a reconfigurable planar optical interconnect structure by using a reprogrammble polymer based hologram integrated with a substrate guided wave plate. The input signals are coupled into the substrate with a grating or micro mirror coupler, zigzagged within the substrate, and then coupled out of the substrate at the desired destination by the reconfigurable waveguide hologram. The reconfigurable waveguide hologram consists of multi layers of inter leaved electrodes sandwiched with EO polymer materials, like PDLC. By controlling the electrodes and the applied voltages, the waveguide grating can tune the coupling wavelength with the needed coupling efficiency. Compact and cost effective 1-D and 2-D structures with features of reconfiguration will be demonstrated. Communications Industry Researchers(CIR), a leading fiber optics survey company, predicted that the U.S. market for tunable (reconfigurable) optical technologies will surpass $1.3 billion by 2005, driven by the needs of service providers and equipment manufacturers to reduce the costs associated with building, operating and maintaining networks. The technology we are developing is in this market and can be used in optical add/drop, gain equalization filters, wavelength switching, and tunable laser source. This huge market provides PolarOnyx a remarkable opportunity to fully develop its reconfigurable polymer based substrate mode optical interconnects and apply them into optical fiber telecommunications. |
| POWER TECHNOLOGY SERVICES (PTS), INC.
7800 Netherlands Drive Raleigh, NC 27606 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(919) 362-1501
Mr. John Driscoll AF 02-037 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Novel High Current Switch for Spacecraft Power Bus Control |
| Abstract: | The proposed semiconductor-insulator-semiconductor ("SIS") is herein defined as a structure consisting of two semiconductor layers separated by an insulator. PTS proposes such a SIS structure as a latching on/off switch consisting of a GaN-AlGaN emitter or cathode and a SiC anode. The GaN cathode will be designed as an efficient electron gun or cathode. The SiC anode will be designed as both an efficient electron receiver as well as a hole emitter. The design will take advantage of the high thermal conductivity of SiC to dissipate the anode heat. The SIS insulator will be a vacuum, gas or solid. Both anode and cathode emitting/receiving surfaces will be designed as a low work function or negative electron affinity emitter. This microminiature vacuum switch will turn on and off within nanoseconds. The switch will conduct high current, block high voltage, and will accrue the advantages of ballistic charge transfer at operating temperatures approaching 500 degrees Centigrade. The device will be used for aerospace applications and will replace less efficient solid state and spark gap switches. The device will also be useful in pulse power applications with unlimited Di/Dt and blocking voltage. |
| SRS TECHNOLOGIES
1800 Quail Street, Suite 101, P.O. Box 9219 Newport Beach, CA 92660 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(256) 971-7804
Mr. Paul A. Gierow AF 02-038 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Processing of Membrane Materials for Integrated Elements |
| Abstract: | Space-based antenna systems require large amounts of power and aperture area to achieve desired coverage and resolution. This Phase I effort will demonstrate a method of printing electronics to interconnect a series of PV cells on a polyimide backplane. This same technology will be applied to print electrical feed lines and radiating elements of a radiofrequency antenna. This technology will replace chemical etching lithography techniques currently used to manufacture RF elements. The printing technique uses the parent polyimide material coupled with metal-ion containing materials. Once cured, the bond between the substrate and metal interface becomes extremely strong improving the reliability and operation of the elements. The use of this technology will enable expanded processes that accommodate production of large continuous film rolls - necessary to fulfill eventual flight requirements. The development of increased efficiency flexible membrane cells will lead to the replacement of traditional rigid panel photo-voltaic arrays. This work will demonstrate the integration of a cell series into a complete integrated one-piece structure that will eliminate many of the concerns of current arrays. The combination of the cells with printed RF elements will support large area and high power antenna systems. The technology is applicable to high power commercial satellites, as well as small micro-sats. The technology has value in the development of commercial and DoD high-altitude airships and long duration air vehicles. |
| INTERNATIONAL SOLAR ELECTRIC TECHNOLOGY (ISET)
8635 Aviation Blvd. UNIT#E Inglewood, CA 90301 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 216-1423
Dr. VIJAY K. KAPUR AF 02-039 Selected for Award |
| Title: | High Efficiency Non-Vacuum Processed Thin-Film Photovoltaics |
| Abstract: | We propose to apply ISET's non-vacuum process for fabricating high efficiency thin film CIGS solar cells on polymeric substrates. This project has the potential to meet the specific power density and low cost goals set by US Air Force. The success of this project will have a positive impact on both the space and terrestrial solar power markets. The project has a potential to meet the specific power density and low cost goals set by various space power projects. The success of this project will have a positive impact on the terrestrial markets also. |
| APECOR
Research Pavalion, 12424 Research Parkway, St.453 Orlando, FL 32826 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(407) 823-0185
Mr. Zaki Moussaoui AF 02-040 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Parallel-Connected Converters with Innovative Control |
| Abstract: | This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project intends to develop a solar-based expandable, parallel-connected power system with robust maximum power point tracking (MPPT) capability. Solar energy is regarded as an important resource of power energy in the future. As the need for flexible, scalable solar power requirements increases, and in an effort to avoid redesign of solar based power system, a modular infrastructure of power processing management is implemented for maximum utilization of the available power from multi-channel solar array sources. In the proposed system, dither signal is adopted to avoid the trapped-in instability of MPPT controller, and switching cycle, sampling signal and dither signal are synchronized to achieve robust MPPT control. Two-level shared-bus configuration is elaborated to allow the paralleled channels operate in different modes without interaction between each other. Also such structure has the advantage of the flexibility for power expansion and near uniform current sharing. Finally, the potential instability sources and their corresponding solutions, redundant shared-buses for fault-tolerance are also presented in this proposal. The trend toward utilizing natural energy and long-term cost/schedule benefits will make the proposed system accepted by the spacecraft and electric propulsion power systems. Also, it is believed that in the very future such systems have the potential to be extended to home utility and high power application. $20,000,000 |
| VPT, INC.
P.O. Box 253 Blacksburg, VA 24063 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(540) 552-5000
Mr. Steve Butler AF 02-040 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Parallel-Connected Converters with Innovative Control |
| Abstract: | VPT Inc. proposes a modular, high-efficiency series-connected boost regulator (SCBR) solar array peak-power tracker (PPT). The modular SCBR PPT allows fault-tolerant parallel operation and is ideal for an expandable satellite power system. The proposed approach combines several innovative technologies and features. These include (1) use of proven VPT standard product hybrid dc-dc converters capable of screening to space quality levels, (2) use of a VPT proprietary current sharing method that provides for fault tolerance with a single current share bus and no master-slave operation, (3) use of a VPT patented magnetic feedback control (without optocouplers) that allows operation down to the zero volts, necessary for SCBR operation, and (4) demonstrated radiation tolerance to over 100Krads total dose and 60MeV of single-event operation. For lower cost, systems can be configured with VPT's commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) modules. In this Phase I SBIR VPT will (1) design proposed changes into one of VPT's standard product dc-dc converter modules to allow SCBR operation without the need for external circuitry, (2) design a current sharing method into the module using a common fault-tolerant current share bus, (3) design a dither-based PPT controller, and (4) demonstrate operation of the modular SCBR PPT system with a breadboard. A low-cost, modular, space-qualified peak-power tracking system that is ideal for small or medium-size satellites |
| ADVANCED MECHANICAL TECHNOLOGY, INC.
176 Waltham Street Watertown, MA 02472 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(617) 926-6700
Dr. Joseph Gerstmann AF 02-041 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Space-Flight Assessment of a Small-Scale Collins Type Cryocooler Concept |
| Abstract: | A compact, reliable, efficient and inexpensive cryocooler requiring less than 1kW of power for 2W of cooling at 10Kelvin is being developed and will be demonstrated. This performance is at least twice as efficient as the best current state-of-the-art for small low-temperature cryocoolers. The proposed technical approach, whose feasibility has been confirmed, is to apply the advantageous features of large-scale cryogenic refrigerators to compact and reliable small-scale systems by implementing a novel thermodynamic cycle in a mechanically innovative machine. Size, cost and complexity are reduced in the proposed concept by employing a modular design whereby each stage is of identical construction (except for length), and where the heat exchanger and expander are constructed as an integral unit. The expanders are of extremely simple floating piston construction that requires no seals or mechanical power transmission devices to extract power from the cold expander. Piston motion is controlled by electro-mechanically actuated "smart" valves that require no mechanical valve linkages or mechanical timing mechanisms. This further reduces system complexity, improves reliability, and eliminates thermal leakage paths. Expander power is dissipated in the warm end of the expander by throttling gas to and from the compressor suction and discharge, and a reservoir volume. The proposed cryocooler is intended for use by Very Long Wavelength Infrared (VLWIR) sensor technology which requires cooling at 10K. The need for improved cryocoolers is not limited to space missions or military uses. There is presently a sizable market for sub-10K cryocoolers for devices such as cryopumps and MRI magnets that can benefit from improved cryogenic cooling. The emerging field of superconducting cryo-electronics is expected to require tens of thousands of small sub-10K cryocoolers within the next decade. In particular, digital superconducting electronics, which promises ultra-fast signal processing and tera/peta-flop computing speeds, will require cooling at 4K. Thus, the development of an inexpensive, reliable, and efficient cryocooler will better meet the cryogenic cooling needs of several existing technologies, and should serve as an enabling technology for emerging cryo-electronics applications. |
| ATLAS SCIENTIFIC
1367 Camino Robles Way San Jose, CA 95120 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(408) 507-0906
Ali Kashani AF 02-041 Selected for Award |
| Title: | A Multi-Stage Hybrid 10 Kelvin Cooler |
| Abstract: | We propose to develop a multi-stage hybrid cooler capable of providing 1 W of cooling at 10 K. To achieve the most efficient and reliable hybrid cooler possible, we propose to combine a multi-stage, linear-drive pulse tube with a low-temperature reverse-Brayton stage. In this way we will take advantage of the strengths of each system, while minimizing their respective weaknesses. The system avoids the inherent losses associated with a regenerator at low temperature, as well as, the inefficiencies associated with the Joule-Thompson process, by incorporating a novel turbo-expander in the low temperature reverse-Brayton stage. The use of a low-vibration, linear, compressor for the pulse-tube stage provides a large pressure ratio allowing the size and expense of the recuperative heat exchanger to be minimized. These features result in a low-mass reverse-Brayton stage that can be fabricated reliably, at a reasonable cost, without sacrificing performance. The proposed hybrid cryocooler will achieve unprecedented efficiency below 10 K without resorting to high-unit-cost technologies such as super-critical shafts or extremely precise bearing clearances. The system will exhibit the high reliability and low vibration associated with pulse-tube and turbomachine-based reverse-Brayton systems. The result is a cryocooler that is ideally suited to cooling space-borne loads at or below 10 K. The proposed cooler can be employed in a wide variety of commercial applications such as: - Cryopumps for semiconductor manufacturing - Liquefaction of industrial gases - HTS filters for the communication industry - Superconducting magnets for MRI systems - Superconducting magnets for power generation and energy storage - SQUID magnetometers for heart and brain studies - Superconducting router - Radio astronomy - Laboratory environment |
| CREARE INC.
P.O. Box 71 Hanover, NH 03755 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(603) 643-3800
Dr. Anthony J. Dietz AF 02-041 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced Multistage Technology for 10-Kelvin Space-Borne Cryocoolers |
| Abstract: | Advanced space-borne infrared sensor technology requires cooling at temperatures near 10 K. Cooling loads for these detectors will range from 0.25 to 1.0 W. The satellites carrying these sensors also have additional cooling loads at different temperatures. A multistage cooler capable of cooling multiple loads will offer large potential gains in system efficiency and weight. Turbomachine-based, Brayton cryocoolers are ideal candidates for these missions because they are highly efficient, lightweight, vibration-free, adaptable to multiple stages, and have long, maintenance-free lifetimes. State-of-the-art technology exists for all the critical components except for a 10 K turboalternator. Creare proposes to develop an advanced, high efficiency turboalternator optimized for a multistage, multi-load application to be identified by the Air Force. The advanced turboalternator promises to enable a significant reduction in cryocooler input power and cooling system mass. In Phase I we will select an optimum multistage, multi-load cooling cycle based on analysis and trade studies. We will then design a turboalternator for these specific conditions. In Phase II we will fabricate the turboalternator and conduct a series of tests to demonstrate its performance and to address the specific technology challenges in a multistage multi-load cycle. The development of advanced low-temperature turboalternators will enable the development of high-efficiency, low-temperature cryocoolers. Multistage cryocoolers will offer substantial savings in power and weight. Military applications include space-based surveillance and missile-defense systems. Scientific applications include space-based infrared telescopes. Commercial applications include communication satellites, superconducting instruments, and hypercomputers. |
| EQUINOX INTERSCIENCE, INC.
PO Box 518 Pinecliffe, CO 80471 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 499-2399
Dr. Daniel R. Ladner AF 02-042 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced Regenerator for Low Temperature Applications |
| Abstract: | The proposed project will develop an advanced low temperature regenerator to enable efficient 4K cooling for many military, scientific, and commercial needs not adequately met by current technology cryocoolers. Our unique approach meets the low vibration and stable temperature requirements of IR detectors and other applications, including space and airborne detectors, SC electronics and communications, medical magnetometry, and radio-astronomy. Our regenerator technology mitigates the problems associated with low frequency PT and GM regenerative coolers by enabling efficient higher frequency operation. The high frequency smoothes out the temperature fluctuations and vibration excursions inherent in the low frequency coolers while reducing their power requirements and operational costs. 4K regenerative coolers operate at low frequency because of void volume losses in their high porosity regenerators. Our new approach decreases porosity, allowing a 4K PTC to operate at 20 Hz instead of 1 Hz, resulting in a reduction in cold end displacement, improved temperature regulation, higher cooling efficiency, higher reliability, lower cost, and reduced cryocooler maintenance . IR imaging and spectroscopy, Ground-based IR Astronomy, Cryopumps, Magnetoencephalography, Magnetocardiography, Radioastronomy, Low Temperature Superconducting Electronics and Communication. |
| FLUID FLOW TECHNOLOGIES, L.L.C.
28112 Meadow Dr. Evergreen, CO 80439 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 670-4964
Dr. Greg C. Glatzmaier AF 02-042 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Novel Orbital Compressor for Next Generation Cryocoolers |
| Abstract: | Refrigeration needs for space-based applications require cryocooling systems, which are compact, light-weight, energy efficient, and reliable. Overall system performance is highly dependent on the characteristics and performance of a key component, the compressor. The compressor and its mechanical power source are generally the most mechanically complex components of the refrigeration system. State-of-the-art gas compressors offer excellent performance for terrestrial applications where maintenance is not a critical issue but can lack the performance characteristics required for long-term, maintenance-free space applications. Fluid Flow Technologies, L.L.C. proposes to develop a compressor, which is completely novel in its design and operation, and demonstrate performance characteristics, which will meet the rigorous requirements for space-based cyrocooling applications. This design is based on a very simple mechanism, resulting in a compressor that is light-weight, compact, hermetically sealed, and extremely reliable. Another key feature, which is a benefit for space applications, is a design that is mechanically balanced, possessing no net angular or linear momentum, resulting in a quiet and vibration-free operation. The anticipated results from the Phase 1 work plan are the demonstration of the mechanical operation of a small-scale compressor prototype. These results will provide the basis for a full-scale design, which meets the Air Force's rigorous requirements for space-based cryocooling applications. The full-scale compressor is expected to be compact, light-weight, maintenance-free, with a life time greater than 10 years. Knowledge gained in Phase 1 will provide a design basis for variations of the Phase 1 design, which can be applied to compressor designs for terrestrial uses as well. |
| TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS, INC.
5445 Conestoga Court, #2A Boulder, CO 80301 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 443-2262
Mr. Steve Nieczkoski AF 02-042 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced Component Technology for Next Generation Cryocoolers |
| Abstract: | Present day cryogenic refrigeration technology lacks a major component: a long-life, oil-free, dc-flow circulating compressor. Technology Applications, Inc. in collaboration with Scroll Labs, proposes to address this shortcoming by developing an innovative oil-free scroll compressor with a potential operating lifetime in excess of ten years. The chief innovation is the "floating scroll" concept, which balances pressure and centrifugal forces acting on the scrolls, thereby minimizing forces on contacting scroll surfaces to essentially eliminate wear. This concept is presently under development for medical applications involving oxygen concentration. We propose to drive this technology toward long-life cryocooler applications for both space flight and ground-based systems. Numerous shortcomings of both Stirling and pulse tube cryocoolers using flexure bearing linear compressors can be overcome if a long-life, dc-flow circulating compressor is developed: thermodynamic efficiencies at low temperatures, remote and distributed cooling, and vibration isolation. The primary goal will be to extend operational lifetime to ten years without maintenance intervals by improving mechanisms, materials, fabrication methods, and upgrading the design with features not conducive to commercial cost constraints. Secondary goals include minimizing weight, input power, and induced vibrations such that this compressor can be used in the many applications with mission critical restrictions on these parameters. This unique oil-free compressor offers: long lifetime, high electrical and thermodynamic efficiency, contamination resistant operation, high-pressure ratios at moderate-to-high flow rates, variable flow capacity, and compact and light weight packaging. Developing this compressor can dramatically improve our nation's cooling and thermal management systems in the arena of surveillance, superconductivity, and electronics. |
| BECK ENGINEERING
3319 21st Ave NW Gig Harbor, WA 98335 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(253) 853-1703
Dr. Douglas S. Beck AF 02-043 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced Multi-Temperature Load Cooler |
| Abstract: Abstract not available... | |
| STIRLING TECHNOLOGY COMPANY
4208 West Clearwater Ave Kennewick, WA 99336 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(509) 735-4700
Dr. Songgang Qiu AF 02-043 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced Multi-Stage Cryogenic Cooling Technology |
| Abstract: | Stirling Technology Company (STC) proposes to conceptually design a multi-stage cryocooler, capable of lifting up to 2 watts at 35 K with additional heat loads at higher temperatures and rejecting to an 300 K environment, that meets Air Force criteria for robustness and compact size. The compressor will be based on STC's existing high-production linear alternator/motor design. Bench testing of the linear alternator at the cooler drive frequency will also be conducted in Phase I. While cryocoolers with heat lifting capacities of over 2 watts at 35 K have already been developed, a low-maintenance, reliable and robust multistage cryocooler is required for use by the Air Force. STC has developed compact, light-weight cryocoolers based on existing linear compressor technology. The RemoteGenT family of engines and the BeCoolT family of cryocoolers have accumulated over 300,000 hours of operation collectively. A single Stirling engine has been in operation at STC for over 66,000 hours without maintenance or performance degradation. NASA has selected STC to provide Stirling engines for deep space and planetary missions. These missions require units with very high reliability and robustness. Testing has been conducted to determine the reliability and robustness of the space power generators, including operating the engine under launch load conditions. The proposed cryocooler will leverage as heavily as possible from the linear motor/alternator design of these engines to provide a very reliable, robust, compact, light-weight, low-maintenance pulse tube cryocooler. |
| TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS, INC.
5445 Conestoga Court, #2A Boulder, CO 80301 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 443-2262
Dr. Robert Mohling AF 02-043 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced Multi-stage Cryogenic Cooling Technology |
| Abstract: | Many advanced space-based reconnaissance systems critical to national security employ infrared detectors, optics, and thermal baffles that require multi-stage cooling. If cryocoolers such as Stirlings with single point cooling are used, then multiple coolers will be required that impose mass, power, volume, and reliability penalties; redundancy further increases these penalties. These penalties can be mitigated through the use of a single cryocooler with multiple cooling stages, thereby also reducing the number of compressors and electronic controllers. The objective of the Phase I study is to develop and demonstrate the feasibility of a Multi-Stage Brayton Cryocooler (MSBC) with simultaneous cooling capacities of 6 W at 85 K and 2 W at 35 K. The cryocooler system will be highly leveraged off components currently under development: a micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) based expander, an oil-free scroll compressor, and a high effectiveness counterflow heat exchanger. The MSBC's operational capabilities include significant integration advantages: the cooling fluid can be circulated over long distances providing isolation from cooler-induced interference, variable load capability, and a distributed cold-head that can accommodate large are focal pane assemblies (FPA). These features and capabilities will significantly reduce satellite power and heat rejection requirements, decrease overall weight, and greatly simplify cooling system integration. The features of this unique multi-stage cryocooler offer the capability of simultaneous cooling at multiple temperatures for multiple focal planes, optics, and baffling. Potential applications cooling systems for advanced surveillance and communications for the military, commercial communications, and NASA science programs. |
| FOSTER-MILLER, INC.
350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 684-4237
Mr. David Walker AF 02-044 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Development of a Micro-Pumped Cryogenic Two Phase Heat Transport System |
| Abstract: | Foster-Miller is proposing a simple solution to the problem of cooling satellite instrumentation to cryogenic temperature. The system is a micro-pumped, 2-phase heat transport loop that employs multiple MEMS-size micro-pumps to move a cryogenic fluid between an evaporator and a condenser. The system is simpler than either a cryogenic CPL or loop heat pipe and a liquid accumulator and a sintered capillary wick structure are not needed for operation, which greatly reduces both the system mass and fluid charge. The micro-pumped cryogenic heat transport loop is particularly adaptable for use across a 2-axis gimbal, since flexure can be provided by simply adding coils to the system tubing. The use of multiple MEMS micro-pumps provides redundancy and reliability to the system and can control temperature precisely at the electronic interface. The pump power required is very low, on the order of 7 mW, which does not add significantly to the heat load of the system. (P020195) The micro-pumped cryogenic heat transport loop is applicable to both government and commercial satellite applications. The system is seen as an enabling technology, since no satisfactory way to cool satellite electronics to cryogenic temperature are now available. Short-term potential applications exist for military satellites. Commercial applications will develop when the heat transport system becomes available. |
| K TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
500 Office Center Drive, Suite 250 Fort Washington, PA 19034 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(215) 628-8681
Mr. Mark J. Montesano AF 02-044 Selected for Award |
| Title: | High Performance Passive Flexible Cryogenic and Ambient Heat Transport Material (kTC P203) |
| Abstract: | Flexible cryogenic and ambient cooling is essential to meet emerging requirements for advanced systems and is enabling technology for increasingly compact / higher density Air Force and Department of Defense infrared sensing payloads. k Technology Corporation (kTC) proposes a general technology development that permits the design of a high performance passive flexible cryogenic and ambient heat transport material. The conductivity of the proposed material system will exceed 1000 W/mK at all temperatures between 5 and 300K. In addition, the proposed technology development will allow the material system to be tailored and optimized for any temperature in this range at greater conductivity values. This proposed effort will develop a material system that can be specifically designed to satisfy Air Force requirements. The encapsulated APG foils to be demonstrated under this program would have applications in the commercial satellite market, as well as the obvious military and NASA uses. Key potential post application relies heavily on the successful verification and certification of the proposed materials' performance. With increasing acceptance, encapsulated APG will be attractive to automotive and power supply manufacturers. Enabling technologies will allow the increase of production and the realization of the economies of scale. |
| ISOSTATIC TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
23555 Euclid Avenue Euclid, OH 44117 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(216) 692-5400
Dr. James M.Marder AF 02-045 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Large Focal Plane Array Cryogenic Integration Technology |
| Abstract: | The objective of this Phase I SBIR proposal is to demonstrate the feasibility of utilizing high-pressure helium contained within a dual-volume system as the basis for future 10 K cryogenic thermal storage units (CTSUs). The motivation for developing 10 K CTSU technology stems from the high specific input power needed for 10 K cryocoolers (~1000 W/W) in concert with: (a) anticipated heat loads (~1.5 W) of large infrared focal plane arrays operating at 10 K; and (b) a need that the focal plane arrays remain isothermal for optimum performance. To reduce input power from 1.5 kW (or more) to more manageable levels of several hundred watts, large focal plane arrays will need to be duty-cycled. To enable duty-cycling without incurring performance-degrading variations in focal plane temperature, CTSUs operating at (or slightly less than) 10 K are a practical necessity. The ultimate objective for this SBIR program is to develop, demonstrate, and commercialize 10 K CTSU technology. In Phase I, we will develop potential concepts and evaluate concept feasibility. In Phase II, we will design, manufacture, and test a subscale, weight/volume optimized, proof-of-concept breadboard test unit. In Phase III, we will transition the technology into government and/or commercial use. The main contribution of the 10 K CTSU to the DoD is that future missions with 10 K detectors may not be feasible from system power standpoint and/or cooler availability standpoint unless the detectors are duty-cycled. The only way to duty-cycle detectors without incurring a degradingly large variation in sensor temperature is to utilize a 10 K CTSU. Thus, a 10 K CTSU is an enabling technology, a power saving technology, and a performance enhancing technology that will be a critical facet of future 10 K imaging systems. One additional benefit of an ultra-high pressure He 10 K CTSU is that if the sensor operating temperature is a few degrees less than or greater than 10 K, the sensible heat device will still function as intended, whereas a latent heat based CTSU would not. |
| AVYD DEVICES, INC.
2925 College Avenue, Unit A-1 COSTA MESA, CA 92626 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(714) 751-8553
Dr. HONNAVALLI R VYDYANATH AF 02-046 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Development of High performance, low noise VLWIR HgCdTe photodiodes |
| Abstract: | Phase I effort will focus on demonstration of the feasibility of our approach to reduce detector noise via improvement of carrier lifetime and suppression of tunneling related dark currents. Phase I objective includes demonstration of VLWIR HgCdTe films with much improved carrier lifetime and reducd absorber layer carrier concentration. In Phase II, we plan to demonstrate VLWIR detector arrays with detectivity performance superior to the current state of the art. Military applications include improved serveillence and threat warning capabilities. Commercial applications include industrial and auto emission monitoring, tumor detection, environmental monitoring etc. |
| SMART PIXEL INC
590 Territorial Drive, Suite B Bolingbrook, IL 60440 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(630) 771-0206
Dr. Tae Seok Lee AF 02-046 Selected for Award |
| Title: | High-Performance HgCdTe VLWIR Photovoltaic Detectors |
| Abstract: | We propose a new generation of non-equilibrium superlattice, high efficiency VLWIR(14 um and longer) detectors that operate in the 40-77K temperature range. The objectives will be achieved by combining the advantages of the molecular beam epitaxy(MBE) crystal growth technique, an innovative non-equilibrium device architecture, and a superlattice structure to control the absorption cut-off wavelength more precisely. For improved space surveillance and threat warning capabilities, where the ability to detect faint objects at great distances is absolutely necessary, a breakthrough sensor technology such as that proposed here is critical. The proposed detectors are anticipated to have enormous potential not only in military, but also in commercial applications including industrial and auto-emission monitoring, tumor detection, environmental monitoring, and fire detection etc. |
| NEURAL COMPUTING SYSTEMS, LLC
2081 Business Center Drive, Suite 206 Irvine, CA 92612 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(949) 475-1840
Dr. Bradley Denney AF 02-048 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced Algorithms for Exploitation of Space-Based Imagery |
| Abstract: | This SBIR will examine the use of hyperspectral mixture models that may be used to create shadow invariant images for material matching and hidden target detection and tracking. This proposal introduces an "Illumination-based Linear Unmixing Procedure" (ILUMP). ILUMP assumes that every image is illuminated by two spectrally different illumination sources and that at each pixel the illumination source may be partly occluded. This is typically the case in outdoor daytime scenes where there is both sunlight and skylight illumination. The ILUMP formulation requires more sophisticated and computationally expensive model estimation. But this more precise model helps improve the results of applications such as shadow removal and material matching. The proposed contract would further the development of this model by developing model parameter estimation methods and applications of the proposed technologies. The proposed technologies are applicable to remote sensing applications for environmental applications, geological applications, and defense applications. Additionally the techniques may be transferable to color image processing for photo labs, digital cameras, and film studio production and processing. |
| SPECTRAL SCIENCES, INC.
99 South Bedford Street, Suite 7 Burlington, MA 01803 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 273-4770
Dr. Robert Sundberg AF 02-048 Selected for Award |
| Title: | The Adaptive Spectral and Abundance Processing (ASAP) Algorithm |
| Abstract: | This proposal addresses the urgent need for near real-time algorithms for detection, identification and tracking of objects in highly structured environments. Spectral Sciences, Inc. (SSI) proposes to develop an innovative new algorithm for improved clutter mitigation and target detection for Hyperspectral Imaging (HSI) sensors called the Adaptive Spectral and Abundance Processing (ASAP) algorithm. ASAP will include fused spatial-spectral processing of endmember abundance images and spectra obtained from a new real-time adaptive unmixing algorithm. The approach is based on the proven technology found in the Sequential Maximum Angle Convex Cone (SMACC) algorithm that simultaneously determines spectral endmembers, representing the most `pure' material spectra in the scene, and abundance images for each endmember. In Phase I, SSI will define and demonstrate an adaptive version of the SMACC algorithm that is capable of processing a continuous stream of HSI data and is suitable for Phase II real-time implementation. Phase I also includes the definition, development and demonstration of fused spatial-spectral detection algorithms that will exploit the spatial information contained in the endmember abundance images and the spectral information contained in the endmember spectra. The processing chain will be demonstrated and evaluated with synthetic and measured HSI data. The development of ASAP will provide a needed real-time target detection, identification and characterization tool for HSI sensors looking at objects in highly structured environments. The proposed technique has relevance to any of the myriad applications of HSI sensors being implemented around the world, including scientific observation, agribusiness, precision mining, urban planning and military surveillance. |
| SPECTRAL SCIENCES, INC.
99 South Bedford Street, #7 Burlington, MA 01803 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 273-4770
Dr. Robert Y. Levine AF 02-048 Selected for Award |
| Title: | HSI and MSI Atmospheric Correction Using Neural Networks |
| Abstract: | Developing real-time, unsupervised, on-board data processing algorithms for emerging remote sensing technologies is a key step towards overcoming bottlenecks in both ground-based processing and transmission capability to a ground receiving station. An important initial processing step is the application of an atmospheric correction algorithm (ACA), in which the effects of the intervening atmosphere are removed from hyperspectral and multispectral images (HSI and MSI). Spectral Sciences, Inc. proposes to develop a novel Neural Network (NN) based ACA for HSI and MSI sensors that can be embedded in an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) to perform autonomous, real-time, and on-board atmospheric correction. While sophisticated, non-real time ground-based ACA's have been developed, their representation in terms of a NN has yet to be demonstrated. Significantly, the NN approach may exceed their performance, particularly for the difficult problem of aerosol characterization (visibility and type over various surfaces). The objectives of Phase I are to demonstrate that NN's can accurately perform the ACA functions, which are atmospheric parameter retrieval and spectral reflectance calculation. In Phase II, the NN algorithms will be implemented in a complete, fully automated software package, in preparation for Phase III transitioning onto ASIC or FPGA hardware. Applications include surface terrain mapping and reflectance characterization, oceanography and marine biology, forestry, precision agriculture, mineral prospecting, environmental monitoring including monitoring of pollutants, and a variety of military applications such as surveillance, intrusion detection, and technical intelligence. Installations are envisioned on satellites, aircraft, and ground-based HSI and MSI platforms, and at ground stations for off-line processing. |
| SCHAFER CORPORATION
321 Billerica Road Chelmsford, MA 01824 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(505) 242-9992
Mr. Edward Nielsen AF 02-050 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Small Launch Vehicle Concept |
| Abstract: | Miniaturization technology has enabled small satellites in the 100 to 1,000-lb weight range. The ability to produce these satellites has outpaced the ability of military and commercial sector to cheaply launch them into space. Current spacelift is expensive; e.g., it costs roughly $15M to launch a 1,000-lb satellite to Low Earth Orbit, or $15,000 per lb of spacecraft weight. Small satellite potential is hindered by the lack of affordable and reliable spacelift. The market for affordable small launch vehicles is characterized by the classic "chicken and egg" problem. Space users are reluctant to address mission needs with small satellites because launch cost dominates the price of their architectures. Launch vehicle providers are reluctant to focus on developing small low-cost launch systems due to a fear that the customer base will not support the development cost. A Small Launch Vehicle (SLV) using innovative propulsion and structural technologies is proposed to meet this need. A number of innovations are proposed in the propulsion system which minimize technical risk in the development phase and therefore. Successful demonstration of technologies offered in this proposal through the Phase II will ensure mitigation of highest risk element in the recurring cost of SLV. An important consideration for a SLV is economics. A successful business strategy requires a balance between acceptable investor return on investment and a launch price that is competitive. For an SLV, initial investment and operational flight rate are closely coupled to reach business closure. With low transmitting power and small apertures, small-sats are designed to operate in low earth orbit. Large constellations are required to provide full earth coverage at these low orbiting altitudes. An SLV makes economic sense to launch these large constellations with launch costs that are a fraction of existing expendable launch vehicles on a per-pound basis. Besides the military utility of a low cost SLV for small tactical satellites, the commercial sector is fast approaching the technology basis for routine deployment of small-sats. This proposal offers an innovative solution to enable small-sat launch. |
| STARCRAFT BOOSTERS, INC.
3106 Beauchamp Street Houston, TX 77009 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(757) 930-4966
Dr. Ted Talay AF 02-050 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Reusable Booster Technology for Small Launch Vehicles |
| Abstract: | This proposal addresses AF02-050 ?Small Launch Vehicle Technology?. A need exists for a Small Launch Vehicle (SLV) for deployment of tactical and commercial satellites singly or in satellite constellations and architectures. The SLV must be highly responsive in providing for rapid deployments of these payloads at greatly reduced launch costs. Increased reliability, reusability, and operations efficiency can fulfill these requirements. The objective of this proposal is the conceptual design of the smallest suborbital, reusable, rocket-powered booster demonstrator that provides configuration and technology traceability to and risk mitigation for a future SLV. The primary propulsion will be a Reusable Propulsion Module (RPM) powered by engines now completing development. The booster will provide a laboratory for tests of new launch vehicle technologies and operational approaches and demonstrate improvements in reliability through inspection and reuse. To this end, it is proposed to determine the most critical technologies for the SLV to be tested by the demonstrator and to provide for a mitigation plan for retiring any associated risks during Phase II and Phase III activities. The development and flight test of such a demonstrator will provide a high level of confidence of achieving cost, reliability and response goals for the later, operational SLV. Demonstration of the technologies and operational approaches studied in Phase I research and as products of the full SBIR process will be applicable to a broad range of future launch vehicles. By demonstrating launch cost reductions, increased reliability, and rapid response capabilities, the subscale flight demonstrator will provide important calibration and validation information for cost and operations models. This research will also reduce the risk in high payoff technologies that have the greatest impacts on the cost, reliability, and response goals for an Small Launch Vehicle. Commercialization of these technologies will have a high payoff for companies that utilize them in both existing and future launch vehicles for USAF Space Control, NASA ISS Servicing, and various commercial space launch missions in the one to two metric ton class. Other potential applications include the acceleration of sounding rockets, target systems, and scramjet vehicles to high velocity. This Phase I research builds upon over six years of privately supported work on the StarBooster architecture approach. Starcraft Boosters, Inc. will seek to partner in Phase II and Phase III with several major aerospace commercial companies to move forward with this demonstration and commercialization effort. |
| SPACEDEV
13855 Stowe Drive Poway, CA 92064 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(858) 375-2042
Mr. Jeffrey Janicik AF 02-051 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Small Shuttle-Compatible Propulsion Module |
| Abstract: | NASA and the Air Force have established a need for smaller payloads launched on the Shuttle Hitchhiker Experiment Launch System (SHELS) to achieve longer missions and/or more useful orbits by use of a propulsion module (PM). For Phase I, SpaceDev will improve on and demonstrate the practicality of the Maneuvering and Transfer Vehicle (MTV) when deployed from SHELS. The MTV is a scalable, affordable and modular design that utilizes safe, storable propellants (nitrous oxide and Plexiglas). The primary difficulty in implementing a PM for SHELS is the stringent safety requirements of the Space Transportation System (STS). SpaceDev proposes to perform a thorough investigation of the SHELS/STS safety requirements combined with a careful design optimization process that emphasizes safety, cost, and performance. SpaceDev will show that an Advanced MTV can serve as a PM and host spacecraft bus that will maximize the available volume and mass for potential SHELS experiments/instruments. In addition, SpaceDev will design a catalyst bed for multiple MTV restarts and select new fuel core compositions to increase performance and potentially reduce vehicle mass and volume. SpaceDev intends to apply these findings to a Small Launch Vehicle (SLV) conceptual design in the event SHELS launches are not readily available. Many payloads get dropped off in an undesirable orbit due to current launch vehicle cost constraints. A recent California-funded SpaceDev study shows almost 700 planned or existing small satellites that need secondary launches. The fact is there are numerous potential customers who could benefit from the capabilities of an MTV. It is safe and affordable and it can be scaled to provide the desired performance. Furthermore, an MTV with SpaceDev's advanced spacecraft bus subsystems can perform on-demand orbit transfer, rendezvous with orbiting objects, and maneuvering for inspection and docking. These mission capabilities could be considered in great demand especially with the recent trend of high failure rates in commercial communication satellites. |
| ATA ENGINEERING, INC
11995 El Camino Real, Suite 200 San Diego, CA 91230 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(858) 792-3985
Dr. Gareth Thomas AF 02-052 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Payload Adapter for Satellite Missions Launched using ICBM-derived Launch Vehicles |
| Abstract: | The proposed program addresses the development of a lightweight payload adapter able to accommodate a wide range of satellite geometries. Although several concepts will be evaluated before one is selected, the proposal describes a preliminary concept that achieves this objective. This candidate solution consists of a graphite epoxy/honeycomb core laminate formed into an essentially flat plate which provides the most versatile mounting surface for any combination of primary and secondary payloads. The only feature that varies from one launch configuration to the next is the placement of titanium inserts for the payload mounts. An integral low-bending-stiffness outer band provides the capability to tune the modal frequencies of the system to achieve a high level of payload vibration isolation. This innovation reduces cost and part count and greatly facilitates the manufacturing process while meeting challenging structural requirements without resorting to unproven and difficult-to-obtain materials. The preliminary design includes an optional feature that allows for the use of constrained layer damping to reduce vibration levels during sine-sweep testing. Small-scale specimen modal testing to confirm the feasibility of this approach to increase structural damping is included in the Phase I scope of work. The payload adapter researched in Phase I and developed in Phase II will potentially be flown on future missions by the contracting companies. The adapter will be initially designed for a specific launch vehicle, but the technology will be easily adaptable to other launch vehicles. Launch vehicle providers will save money from not having to design a new adapter for each mission. Launch services users such as the Air Force will save launch costs since custom adapter development will be reduced. Additional cost will be saved through increased payload capacity through the reduced adapter weight. |
| CSA ENGINEERING, INC.
2565 Leghorn Street Mountain View, CA 94043 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(650) 210-9000
Mr. Joseph R. Maly AF 02-052 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Payload Adapter for Satellite Missions Launched using ICBM-derived Launch Vehicles |
| Abstract: | Deactivated ICBMs are a logical means of putting payloads into space, but missile systems are not designed for satellite launches, and payload accommodations on deactivated missiles are inadequate for standard payloads. Furthermore, the vibration and acoustic environments during launch of an ICBM are much more severe than the environments seen on a rocket developed specifically for satellites. The need for new, low-cost launch vehicles combined with the availability of these deactivated ICBMs drive a need to develop a payload adapter to manifest multiple satellites on these new vehicles. CSA Engineering sees this as a unique opportunity to develop a modular, composite payload-adapter system with integrated vibration and acoustic suppression capability. The focus of our concept will be to develop an approach in which a minimal set of components can be interchanged to accommodate multiple payloads on one or more launch vehicles. Vibration damping and whole-spacecraft payload isolation have become proven technologies for reducing the dynamics environment during launch. This SBIR will develop new technology by integrating both types of vibration suppression into a low-cost composite payload adapter. One obvious market is the large number of small satellites to be launched over the next several years by all branches of the DoD. These satellites could be launched on a variety of launch vehicles on which this new adapter could be used, including the Peacekeeper launch vehicle, the OSP/Minotaur space launch vehicle, Taurus, Pegasus, and others. The commercial satellite market also has a need for this new adapter. This profit-driven market is continually striving to increase margins and one way to do that is to sell excess capacity on launchers. And the added benefit of vibration isolation of the satellites and the reduced acoustics will make this an attractive option to customers. |
| SOMMER MATERIALS RESEARCH
640 North Main Suite G North Salt Lake, UT 84054 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(801) 631-5500
Dr. Jared L. Sommer AF 02-054 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Low-Cost Enamel Coatings on Stainless Steel Foil for Thin Film Photovoltaics |
| Abstract: | High-efficiency photovoltaic cells fabricated from copper-indium-gallium-diselenide (CIGS) technology are important for the generation of low-cost electrical energy. Greater cost benefits could be realized if photovoltaic films could be fabricated on flexible metal foils using a roll-to-roll manufacturing process. A thin insulative layer is required to separate the CIGS film from the metal foil. This insulative coating should exhibit excellent adhesion to the metal substrate and be compatible with the CIGS and metal substrate layer, both thermophysically and chemically. An inexpensive method of applying this coating over large areas without surface defects is also needed. Sommer Materials Research (SMR) proposes to apply thin pinhole-free enamel coatings to stainless steel foil for CIGS solar cells. Air spraying and electrophoretic deposition will be used to obtain thin uniform coatings. The enamel coatings will exhibit excellent flexibility and be compatible with CIGS processing conditions. The electrically insulative coating will also show high bond strength, a high use temperature, and a compatible thermal expansion coefficient to the CIGS layer and metal foil. Thin enamel coatings on metals have a proven track record commercially and may be the key for producing inexpensive high-efficiency solar cells for military, aerospace, and commercial use. The enameled foils will exhibit high flexibility and compatibility, allowing roll-to-roll fabrication of inexpensive solar arrays. The thin coatings will be uniformly deposited on both sides of the foil without defects. These photovoltaic cells can be used in a wide variety of applications, such as roof and building facades, power sources for consumer goods, and solar modules for space satellites. |
| TRITON SYSTEMS, INC.
200 TURNPIKE ROAD Chelmsford, MA 01824 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 250-4200
Dr. Somesh Mukherjee AF 02-054 Selected for Award |
| Title: | A Novel Insulating Thin Film for High Efficiency Photovoltaics Utilizing Metallic Substrates |
| Abstract: | Triton proposes to develop unique insulating layers for a molybdenum and stainless steel film substrates to produce a thin film copper indium gallium diselenide (CIGS) photovoltaic (PV) cell. The high efficiency and excellent stability of CIGS thin film solar cells will provide for a cost effective solar electricity generation system. Since CIGS deposition requires relatively high processing temperature (600øC), the device fabrication must take place on substrates such as stainless steel or Molybdenum foil. This precludes monolithic device integration such as series connection of solar cells and incorporation of bypass and blocking diodes. These later processes are analogous to crystalline solar cell panel and array fabrication and accepted industry practice, because the device is produced on a conductive substrate and simple etching procedures can not expose an insulating or conductive layer to isolate or interconnect cells with relative ease. The key to implementing monolithic processes is incorporation of an insulating layer between the active cell and the substrate. The proposed program directly addresses this need. During Phase I, Triton will demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed insulating materials for CIGS deposition CIGS solar cells can be used for space applications because of their tolerance to high energy irradiation. They can also be used in remote areas for power generation and in power crisis situations as evidenced recently California. |
| PRINCETON SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS, INC.
7 Deer Park Drive, Monmouth Junction, NJ 08852 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(732) 274-0774
Mr. John L Lowrance AF 02-055 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Star Trackers Based Upon Advanced Sensor Technologies |
| Abstract: | Modern star trackers are based primarily upon Charge-Coupled Device (CCD) image sensors. CCDs are sensitive to the space radiation environment and can degrade rapidly under the influence of energetic charged particles and x-ray and gamma-ray photons. Recently, new types of image sensors have been developed that show promise of being more radiation-tolerant than CCDs. These Active Pixel Sensors (APS) are based on complimentary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) processing can also include on-chip analog-to-digital converters, on-chip correlated double sampling, and addressability of individual pixels. A back-illuminated CMOS imager can combine the advantages of CMOS arrays with the sensitivity and uniformity advantages of the highest quality CCD arrays. This Phase I study will address the development of a back illuminated CMOS array for star tracker and other high performance applications, ending with the conceptual design for a back-illuminated CMOS array. In Phase II the design will be completed, fabricated and evaluated. The anticipated benefit of Phase I is a star tracker conceptual design that affords greater radiation tolerance and lower cost without sacrificing performance. The prospect of reduced cost and improved radiation tolerance will make the proposed CMOS based star tracker attractive to DOD, NASA and commercial spacecraft manufacturers. There may be a broader market for star trackers as a backup for GPS navigation systems which can be disabled by jamming. This is a more cost conscious market where a CMOS focal plane incorporating the A/D converter and other circuits on the chip can lead to significant cost savings. |
| ITN ENERGY SYSTEMS, INC.
8130 Shaffer Pkwy Littleton, CO 80127 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 285-5149
Dr. Lin Simpson AF 02-057 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Antenna Arrays for Spectroscopic Division of Wavefront Focal-Plane Imaging Polarimetry |
| Abstract: | This SBIR Phase I project will develop an enabling technology that performs Spectroscopic Division of Wavefront Polarimetry using Antenna Arrays in an imaging focal-plane configuration. ITN will combine groups of four carefully designed antennas to form a single pixel that completely determines the polarization state of light. The high frequency energy collected by each antenna will be converted to a usable signal with integrated rectifiers (diodes, bolometers, etc.). Since frequency collection is simply a geometric/engineering issue for antennas, ITN will be able to combine antennas in a focal-plane array to detect a broad spectrum of wavelengths with resolution and band-widths engineered to the specific requirements of the application. ITN has the advanced e-beam lithographic processing available in-house to perform the challenging research and development needed to design, build, and test the small antennas/rectifiers that scale with the wavelength of the light for optimum collection efficiency. Furthermore, ITN has substantial polarimetry expertise including patented technology with unique calibration capabilities. While the processing and goals of this program will be challenging, development of a high-resolution focal-plane array that simultaneously measures the full polarization state of light at multiple (perhaps hundreds or thousands) wavelengths will revolutionize the IR and visible imaging detector industry. An uncooled focal-plane imaging array polarimeter that simultaneously measures the full polarization state of light at multiple wavelengths by itself is extremely unique. However, the unique capabilities combined with relatively low material cost, compared to present IR detectors, and no moving parts is truly an enabling technology that will revolutionize the IR and visible imaging detector industry; providing a market pull for applications ranging from phenomenological polarimetry research and development, in/on-line material characterization, to surveillance with unmatched recognition and tracking abilities. Commercially, surveillance is a growing multi-billion dollar industry. However, development of the unique capabilities of an inexpensive multiple wavelength imaging polarimeter will be truly enabling; not only capturing present market share with superior technology, but also expanding commercial and military markets to applications that had previously been limited by technology and cost. |
| PLANNING SYSTEMS INC.
12030 Sunrise Valley Dr, Suite 400, Reston Plaza I Reston, VA 20191 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(228) 689-8458
Dr. Walton McBride AF 02-057 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Simulation of Round-the-Clock Polarization-based Target Discrimination by an Airborne Sensor from .4 to 14 microns |
| Abstract: | In response to this Phase I topic, Planning Systems Incorporated (PSI) proposes the development of physics-based algorithms to characterize the effects of the environment on polarization-based imagery collected by an airborne platform over a 24-hour period anywhere in the world, and the development of interactive simulation tools to test these algorithms. A backwards raytrace technique, capable of creating photorealistic simulations, will be used to model the polarized spectral imagery recorded by a simulated array of "mini-sensors" in the imaging plane. The polarized skylight distribution incident on the scene and imager will be modeled using a state-of-the-art Monte Carlo technique developed by Texas A&M University. PSI will leverage proprietary algorithms that simulate the effect of important environmental phenomena such as forward scattering and turbulence, which were previously developed for use with unpolarized imagery. PSI will also apply previously developed techniques that create a surface topology with user-selected spatial correlation statistics. By simulating the approach of an airborne imager from any angle at any time of day, developed algorithms will be directly useful in determining military approach scenarios for optimal target detection/discrimination. Direct follow-on commercial applications include improved airborne monitoring of agricultural/forestry crops and enhanced airborne identification of illicit crops. The proposed effort will provide the tools necessary to help determine the benefits to the military of using polarization in target detection/discrimination missions. These results will be directly applicable to other efforts to discriminate targets from an airborne platform; this includes crop health assessment and the ability to remotely detect illicit crops among legal crops/natural vegetation. |
| THE SCATTER WORKS, INC.
17 Wagon Wheel Rd. North Attleboro, MA 02760 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(508) 695-3164
Dr. John C. Stover AF 02-057 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Polarization Phenomenology Modeling and Simulation |
| Abstract: | The proposed work suggests a method of analyzing multiple images of the same surveillance scene in order to enhance identification of ground-based objects. The multiple images, which must be obtained using different measurement parameters (polarization, wavelength, relative position, etc.), are compared to a data base generated from scattering models of different objects (and materials) of common ground based objects. A unique method of comparison is employed that allows a computer to generate identification results and related probability of success. The object is to prove the comparison technique for the situation of scattered sunlight; however, once proven, it can be applied to other input data sets, such as, IR emission. Generating the scattering database is a significant portion of the work. Optimizing the choice of parameters to be compared is a key element of the project. In addition to using modeled scatter data for numerical experiments; a set of samples will be measured to obtain their scattering characteristics. This data will be analyzed in a similar way to demonstrate feasibility. If successful the project will demonstrate a technique that can be used to enhance information gathered from surveillance photos. The fact that the comparison technique depends on models to create a comparison data means that the required data base information can be generated in a manner that is very cost effective compared to actually taking data. If successful for use with visible scattered light, then a similar comparison technique can be developed for other forms of surveillance, such as mid-IR emission or even illumination of the scene by radio wave to micro-wave frequencies. |
| SCION ASSOCIATES
439 Fillmore Street Port Townsend, WA 98368 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(360) 379-4681
Mr. Robert C. Livingston AF 02-058 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Geophysical Interpretation of Digital Ionosonde Signatures |
| Abstract: | The high-frequency ionosonde is a familiar instrument in radio science and an essential asset for operational propagation prediction. However, the capability of the typical ionosonde is under-utilized: it provides a vast amount of information about the ionosphere and its dynamics, extending from short- through very large spatial scales, but little advantage is taken of these data. We propose a merger of software and hardware that can significantly expand the capabilities of the ionosonde as a scientific and operational support instrument. A complex echo recognition approach to data processing has been proven by many years of HF radar science using the NOAA Dynasonde. The technique utilizes the full complex signal returns, resulting in ionogram data of outstanding resolution and precision. In trade for this enhanced function, the processing algorithms place stringent requirements on receiver hardware phase performance. We outline the software tasks necessary to adapt the approach to real-time operation in a generalized, network-based user interface. The hardware effort will specify the receiver performance necessary to meet data processing requirements, considering existing and new receiver designs, with an emphasis on the digital detection portion of the system. The proposed approach provides a cost effective means to obtain significant performance improvement from an asset that is essential to operational DoD systems and to radio science research. |
| SPACE ENVIRONMENT CORPORATION
399 North Main, Suite 325 Logan, UT 84321 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(435) 752-6567
Dr. J. Vincent Eccles AF 02-058 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Geophysical Interpretation of Digital Ionosonde Signatures |
| Abstract: | The ionosonde is an important ionospheric monitor for determining ionospheric parameters useful in nav/com technologies as well as assimilative space weather models. Unfortunately, existing analysis software requires human assistance to obtain quality parameters suitable for assimilation. Even when expertly reduced, many parameters required by assimilation models, such as error estimates, are not provided. Therefore, existing ionosonde datastreams are not utilized in space weather operations, assimilation models, or other applications. We propose to define and test software technology to overcome the continued neglect of valuable ionosonde networks. First, we will produce a detailed report of the necessary parameters and information required by assimilation models from ionosondes to advance the relevancy of ionosondes. The proposed software package will use innovative ionogram analysis methods including (1) algorithms to remove RF artifacts not associated with the ionosphere, (2) time-series analysis of ionograms, (3) physics-based, expert determination of the ionogram trace, (4) expanded output resulting from the advanced analysis including traditional ionogram characteristics, ionosphere parameters, ionosphere drivers, and, importantly, associated errors and variation characteristics of output parameters. The package will possess adaptable data input capability to allow for broad use. Key technologies to be developed under this proposed effort are aimed at making existing ionosonde networks immediately valuable to the space weather community. The Air Force has ionosonde networks and would be an immediate market for the techology. However, users of other ionosondes and legacy ionosonde databases would be able to use the package. Additional application possibilities will be available as low-power ionosondes become more attractive for use in RF sensitive environments. |
| SRS TECHNOLOGIES
1800 Quail Street, Suite 101, P.O. Box 9219 Newport Beach, CA 92660 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(256) 971-7031
Mr. Brian Patrick AF 02-059 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Active Controlled Membrane Mirrors with Shape Memory |
| Abstract: | The increasing demand for large aperture imaging and High Energy Laser (HEL) space-based systems has led to a technology push for light-weight, deployable primary mirrors. The use of a thin, space-rated, polymer membrane material as a primary mirror is a possible solution for this problem. SRS has developed processes to produce membranes with a very precise optical quality surface with very low areal density. Incorporation of Shape Memory Alloys (SMA) into an optical quality membrane will then provide the required energy necessary for deployment after launch. Using this process a precision optical shape can be formed using an SMA/Membrane material then a thermal step allows for efficient packaging. Another thermal step then lets the material recover its initial shape. The use of a non-contact magnetic actuation system would then allow for final shape optimization. Under this effort feasibility demonstrations will be conducted on a membrane/SMA composite for use as a deployable mirror, and a non-contact magnetic actuator system. The successful demonstration of the proposed concept of a Polymer Membrane/Shape Memory Alloy material to perform as a deployable primary mirror will provide an immediate impact on many current and future USAF, NASA, and other DoD space-based large aperture imaging or High Energy Laser (HEL) applications. Many require multi-meter apertures capable of being deployed after launch. The development of this technology along with a feasibility demonstration of a non-contact magnetic actuation system would enable such designs to become a reality and also open the door for commercial parties that are interested in the use of very large aperture mirrors. |
| AEC-ABLE ENGINEERING CO. INC.
7200 Hollister Ave. Goleta, CA 93117 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(805) 690-2439
Mr. David Murphy AF 02-060 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Long-Stroke Isolation System for Large Flexible Space Structures |
| Abstract: | The proposed SBIR Phase 1 program will conceptually develop a lightweight long stroke isolation system for large flexible space structures, and ready this technology for a follow-on SBIR Phase 2 hardware validation program. The isolation system technology to be developed will provide mechanical/electrical connection and dynamic isolation between large steerable deployable appendage and spacecraft, respectively. The proposed Phase 1 program will establish isolation system concept feasibility through design and analytical modeling, and trade study/evaluation activities. Concept feasibility will be determined by quantitatively and/or qualitatively assessing isolation characteristics, agility characteristics, safe mode operation, power/data transfer, weight, cost, complexity, reliability, packaging, deployment, and survivability. The proposed Phase 1 program will be executed through a team approach, working concurrently with the AFRL and other subsystem technology partners. The potential benefits and commercial value of isolation systems could be enormous, as this technology is mission enabling for future missions. Future spacecraft trends for both the DoD and commercial markets are focusing on larger and larger deployed solar array, antenna, and other mechanical systems in an effort to increase mission capability. These large deployable systems will require an isolation system that provides long stroke frictionless motion and isolation of flexible dynamics to completely fulfill mission requirements. A feasible isolation system is mission enabling for many future applications, and as such will capture significant commercial value. |
| HONEYBEE ROBOTICS
204 Elizabeth Street New York, NY 10012 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(212) 966-0661
Mr. Kiel Davis AF 02-060 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Long-Stroke Isolation System for Large Flexible Space Structures |
| Abstract: | The objective of this proposal is to establish the feasibility of a lightweight, articulated boom concept capable of providing a mechanical connection between two spacecraft while maintaining a high-degree of dynamic isolation. During a previous study, the functional tasks of the boom system were defined and preliminary performance requirements for subsystems were derived. Basic boom system principles were reported and a technology concept was formulated. This proposal seeks to further characterize the boom system feasibility through analytical and experimental investigation of critical functions. Specifically, the proposed research will focus on the design and performance of the boom's robotic joints. The system's kinematic configuration will be validated through analysis of workspace, packaging and deployment requirements. The robotic joint design concept will be validated through thorough analysis of joint performance models and simulations that assume the use of existing, commercially available components and technologies. Robotic joint technical challenges will be identified and a program plan will be formulated that includes an implementation and development strategy for any new technologies. Designs and test plans for critical-function breadboards will be developed. One breadboard will be built and tested. While the Honeybee Robotics work to date has been largely project-based, the company is eager to expand its business in the area of recurring sales and product lines. The proposed application has a large potential in the commercial satellite industry and Honeybee Robotics believes that it is well placed, with the development assistance of the SBIR program, to make the innovation commercially available if successful. |
| CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS INC.
625 Mount Auburn Street Cambridge, MA 02138 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(617) 491-3474
Dr. Mark L. Hanson AF 02-062 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Multi Agent-based Satellite System for Information Fusion (MASSIF) |
| Abstract: | Recent military operations illustrate the importance of information dominance and the subsidiary need to provide enhanced battlespace awareness to the warfighter. The emergence of space-based assets offers an unprecedented opportunity to enhance battlespace awareness. Because space-based assets are inherently distributed and are becoming even more so due to satellite clusters, achieving information dominance requires fusing large amounts of information between sensors and vehicles based on intelligence requirements. For satellite clusters, this implies that cluster management (e.g. formation planning, payload management, etc.) needs to be more closely coupled with information fusion. In cluster operations, traditional research has focused on formation control algorithms. Here, we focus on information fusion with respect to: 1) assessing the battlespace situation with respect to overall mission requirements; 2) determining the information needs based on high-level user-generated requirements; and 3) translating the information needs into high-level cluster specific tasking. We propose to develop a Multi Agent-based Satellite System for Information Fusion (MASSIF). The innovation is the application of computational intelligence techniques such as fuzzy logic and Bayesian belief networks with distributed agent technology and messaging for information fusion in distributed systems such as spacecraft clusters. We see considerable potential for this approach in enhancing cluster management control. The proposed technology will directly support and augment present and future autonomous systems involving multiple spacecraft, UAVs, and underwater submersibles. It is also applicable to complex systems such as power plants that possess distributed components, which require reconfiguration and monitoring. The core technology complements various ongoing projects including a current effort sponsored by NASA to build a distributed environment for spacecraft onboard planning and scheduling. We also plan to generalize the agent to embed in our Intelligent Agent Toolkit for use in any domain requiring intelligent agent interaction. |
| INTERFACE AND CONTROL SYSTEMS, INC.
8945 Guilford Road, Suite 120 Columbia, MD 21046 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(410) 290-7600
Pat Cappelaere AF 02-062 Selected for Award |
| Title: | ABEL: an Adaptive Belief Engine for Satellite Cluster Data Fusion |
| Abstract: | To support autonomous scenarios, future constellations of satellites must manage multiple sources of information carrying various levels of uncertainty. Multi-mode payloads will be autonomously configured based on fusion of evidences provided by independent cooperative agents. This will require an advanced architecture to loosely couple distributed knowledge sources. The Adaptive Belief Engine will concurrently manage uncertain information from onboard processing agents as part of a Cluster Manager's intelligent reasoning. The same engine will concurrently support integrated Fault Management at the vehicle and/or cluster level. It will manage, corroborate or refute evidences with varying degrees of certainty. These evidences are dynamically gathered from various diagnostics and prognostics engines providing unparalleled confidence in spacecraft automation. Results will be accumulated into the embedded shared database. Significantly, a cooperating expert system will evaluate rules, dynamically uploaded, that will trigger based on user-tunable thresholds of certainty associated with the current set of hypotheses. The real-time executive will then concurrently process specified scripts to intelligently task the cluster payload and elements or even recover from newly detected faults. This component will be integrated within a distributed blackboard architecture required to allow interchange of information across heterogeneous elements such as subsystems, satellite clusters or other unmanned vehicles. - Increase return in opportunistic acquisition of data (based on unanticipated events detected onboard) for military or science applications. Sophisticated image or geo-location processing algorithms intrinsically generate uncertain data. However, combination of enough evidences provided by cooperating agents could result in opportunistic acquisition not previously anticipated. Autonomous and continuous monitoring of wide areas becomes possible. Stealth or silent mode of operations becomes the norm until specific data is downlinked. This results in an effective data compression ratio that can reach 10,000:1 as proven by the New Millennium Space Technology 6 program. - Increase effectiveness in delivering the right information at the right time to the right person (i.e. "direct to the shooters or the scientists"). - Enhanced fault management allowing uncertainty within a set of cooperating diagnostics/prognostics engines working at the subsystem or system level and providing the means for autonomous recovery. - Decreased ground support cost due to a more effective onboard autonomous fault management recovery architecture that will communicate with the onboard planner and/or the model-based reasoner to reconfigure or re-plan as necessary. This open architecture provides the necessary framework for inclusion of best-of-breed products to interoperate in a cooperative manner assuming that they handle uncertainty in a similar manner. This paves the way for more intelligent and capable systems in the field. - Significant software cost reduction by providing a freely available, open-source component supported by a proven software vendor. Potential Commercial Applications of the Research and Development There is an increasing desire in many organizations, including the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the Department of Defense (DOD), to use constellations or fleets of autonomous spacecraft working together to accomplish complex mission objectives. The Afghan conflict saw the first unmanned vehicle with missile capability opening the way to Unmanned Combat Air Vehicle (UCAV) constellations already planned by the Air Force and the Navy. The Office of Naval Research, Future Naval Capabilities, states: "Let robots do the dangerous work. Naval forces can enhance their capabilities with technologies that increase the autonomy, performance and affordability of their organic uninhabited vehicle systems. Autonomous systems will let Sailors and Marines disperse throughout the battlespace and still operate effectively, influencing the action over great distances and long spans of time." NASA's Space Launch Initiative has invested significant resources to perform risk reduction in key technology area deemed necessary to close the business case for the next-generation space vehicle. One such technology area (TA-5), will address risks in developing an Integrated Vehicle Health Management system onboard the vehicle and on the Ground. The National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), National Security Agency (NSA), and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) programs such as Counter Camouflage, Concealment and Deception (Counter CC&D), Foliage Penetration (FOPEN) and UAV classified programs will also greatly benefit from this proposal work. These capabilities usually require a multi-mode radar and need to be interfaced with other sensors. Onboard processing and fusion of uncertain data is a key element. The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has initiated the TechSat-21 program to serve as a proof of concept mission for a new paradigm for space missions. This paradigm seeks to reduce costs and increase system robustness and maintainability by distributing functionality over several micro-satellites flying in formation. Our involvement in this program gives us a unique opportunity to address both system/cluster level health management as well as radar payload data fusion in a flight configuration. |
| AEROASTRO, INC.
520 Huntmar Park Drive Herndon, VA 20170 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(858) 481-3785
Mr. Ray Zenick AF 02-063 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Proximity Inspection Sensor Array and Remote Radio Frequency Diagnostic Tool |
| Abstract: | A significant problem for stakeholders in large satellite systems is the difficulty of getting data about these systems when it counts the most - in orbit and during critical anomalous situations. Near-field diagnostic tools - including visual and infrared images and close-range radio frequency measurements - are now becoming feasible to examine performance, anomalies, and failures on orbit. AeroAstro proposes the conceptual development of a sensor suite for satellite inspection. The goal is to develop a `toolbox' for inspection and failure diagnosis, and to study how this would be implemented on a mission such as XSS-11. AeroAstro will focus on the development of an RF probe, which could be used in space to inspect the RF signals emanating from a target satellite. This probe would be much like an intelligent spectrum analyzer, which when used in conjunction with a calibrated, wide-bandwidth antenna would be capable of signal level, classification, and quality measurements of a target satellite's transponders, antennas, waveguide assemblies, and near-field RF emissions. Based on patented conceptual work already completed by AeroAstro, the RF probe high-level design relies on straightforward RF technology. Commercial-off-the-shelf components will be used wherever possible, and AeroAstro will leverage other ongoing RF work for certain components where applicable. AeroAstro will develop a conceptual satellite diagnostic `toolbox' and apply this concept to existing satellite inspection systems, with a particular focus on bringing the RF probe to near-PDR level in Phase I. The Phase I effort will provide a solid foundation for developing a working RF probe prototype for ground testing with an actual satellite in Phase II. The primary application of the RF probe is providing satellite information-gathering and diagnostic capabilities. In addition, the RF probe could be used for intelligence gathering on uncooperative spacecraft, undetected by the target satellite, or used in sentry mode to detect foreign satellites entering into a sensitive designated area around an important satellite. Satellite manufacturers, insurers, and operators would all benefit from proposed technology. Furthermore, the technologies developed through this project, including digital RF components, miniaturization, and signal processing tools, have applicability to other terrestrial applications. These spin-offs will be harnessed and commercialized. |
| SDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
One Crystal Park, 2011 Crystal Drive, Suite 100 Arlington, VA 22202 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(505) 275-0101
Dr. Dunning Idle V AF 02-063 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Remote Satellite Diagnostics |
| Abstract: | SOpsSim-RSDT is physics based with detailed spacecraft models, orbital environment effects, and an analyst workstation. It models prox-ops of servicing-inspection vehicles with Resident Space Objects (RSOs) as well as ground, airborne, space-based, or RSO attached sensors producing realistic data. It processes real world or simulated signature data. The outputs describe the RSO system state. This proposal emphasizes a single area that should give good early results for Phase I. That is developing the theory, code, and observation data needed to determine current and future attitude motion and mass properties based on images available from the AFRL Starfire Optical Range and then based on optical cross section only. We will test against computer generated images, and then against real field data. Knowledge of attitude motion and mass properties will reveal details of Attitude Control System (ACS) operation and momentum-wheel motion. To demonstrate a new capability enabled by such knowledge, we also examine the case of a spacecraft in a three-axis tumble with failed attitude control, requiring external stabilization. We propose a device that flies in formation with the tumbling RSO, latches onto it, and despins it. This is the vital precursor to all servicing scenarios that include lost attitude control. SOpsSim-RSDT anticipated benefits are focused on providing satellite analysts a platform for modeling both cooperative and uncooperative Resident Space Objects. Current capabilities of the toolkit include scheduling ground and airborne sensor overflight, planning rendezvous and proximity operations for teleoperated servicing missions, and high fidelity 3D graphics visualization of the relative geometry between sensors and RSOs. The ultimate goals for the toolkit increased spacecraft effective mission lifetime through better knowledge of RSO system state prior to a servicing mission, and increased Space Situation Awareness for organizations tasked with monitoring all RSOs. SOpsSim-RSDT anticipated benefits include but are not limited to: * Capability to model the complex physical geometry of spacecraft for visualization and synthesis of expected signatures such as imagery and optical cross section * Capability to model basic subsystems of spacecraft including power, attitude control, communications, thermal control, propulsion, and payload * Earth orbit propagation (using NORAD element sets or user supplied ECI radius and velocity vectors), relative proximity operations orbit propagation, and attitude propagation for planning sensor to RSO relative geometry and deriving attitude pose estimates from synthetic and real world images and cross section measurements * Linearized Least Squares Estimator which can use a sequence of attitude pose estimates to derive both attitude trajectory, angular velocity path in ECI or spacecraft body space, and principal moments of inertia of RSO * Polytope search algorithm for optimized search of basic states from which to initialize estimator * Evaluation of servicing mission, to include orbitology, servicer design and operations, and rendezvous, proximity operations, and docking trajectories * High fidelity visualization of complex robot manipulator geometry * Avoidance of plume impingement affects during proximity operations, stationkeeping, and final docking/capture * Initial human control of flight path and manipulator trajectories can be used as a starting point for evaluating mission feasibility and optimization of final automated control sequence * Point design TALON spacecraft allows the capture of uncooperative RSOs in uncontrolled full three-axis tumbles. This includes use of video imagery to estimate current target attitude, attitude rate, and mass properties. * Point design INCHWORM allows self repair without the cost of mounting a full repair mission. This will avoid the major expense of the launch of a servicing spacecraft and even the propellant costs of a maneuvering a space based servicing spacecraft. It also will allow for self assembly of large structures such as Space Based Laser or Relay Mirror beam expander optics. For spacecraft which are already on-orbit, INCHWORM is the ideal platform for diagnostics sensors. It can externally attach to an RSO and then "walk" over the exterior surface to place sensors in desired locations. It can then conduct spacecraft repairs if equipped with the appropriate end-effector tools. * Potential Integration with other current and planned Joint BattleSpace InfoSphere products for mission evaluation, conduct joint exercises, military utility studies, and operator training and rehearsal SOpsSim-RSDT is designed as one of a series of Satellite Advisor Module (SAM) modules that cooperate in aiding Ground Systems Operators (GSO) GSOs and the warfighter customers. The SAM series of products are all aimed at providing a unified robust environment to research, develop, implement, and VVA within. Ultimately, the SAM interface can evolve into the actual operational interface with training features being used as operational aids and operational features being embedded into the training tutors. SAM products are designed upon shared communication and DMT type environments to ensure that realistic high fidelity team training occurs including the stress of simulated combat operations. |
| SCIENTIFIC SOLUTIONS INC
55 Middlesex street Chelmsford, MA 02144 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 251-4554
Dr. John Noto AF 02-064 Selected for Award |
| Title: | An innovative dayglow spectrometer utilizing Fabry-Perot etalons |
| Abstract: | This proposal investigates the use of two different Fabry-Perot based airglow sense to determine the most efficacious design of a daytime airglow sensor. Using a combination of holographic optical elements and Fabry-Perot etalons a system will be designed that will have the ability to observe several different wavelengths during the entire diurnal period. Airglow observations proposed in Phase I will be used to validate the holographic FP-CCD coupling optics. Then two strawman models will be developed to compare and contrast an FP imaging system with a non-imaging system this will allow the full system design of a dayglow spectrometer that will be constructed in Phase II. The system will provide spatial as well as spectral information, allowing the detection of 630.0nm airglow to be used as a predictor of equatorial spread-f. Scientific Solutions has a long heritage of airglow observations including a robotic airglow photometer in Chile, the proposed system will incorporate many of the same design elements. The final system will be autonomous, capable of independent or remote controlled operation over the Internet. The commercial aspects of this technology are unlimited. An immediate customer will be NOAA and the Air Force both who need thermospheric dynamics information for many space weather models. A variant of this technology can be used for in-situ clear air turbulence detection and the construction of very efficient LIDAR systems. |
| ITN ENERGY SYSTEMS, INC.
8130 Shaffer Pkwy Littleton, CO 80127 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 285-5116
Dr. Michael Schwartz AF 02-067 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Low Temperature Ceramic Oxygen Generating System |
| Abstract: | ITN Energy Systems, Inc. proposes to develop an electrically-pumped, low-temperature ceramic oxygen generating system to support aeromedical and On-Board Oxygen Generating System uses. The proposed ceramic oxygen generating system is based on ITN's novel five-layer, monolithically integrated unit cell and incorporates an advanced, low-temperature (500-700 oC) thin-film electrolyte. In addition, the system will incorporate state-of-the-art components, including recuperators, heat exchangers, insulation and air blowers to minimize the system size and power consumption. During this Phase I program, ITN will design, fabricate and operate a ceramic oxygen generating system resulting in the characterization of a small-scale (0.1-1 liter/min) breadboard device. Experimental results will be used to gain an understanding of the performance issues associated with the low temperature operation of a ceramic oxygen generating system. A model of the overall system will also be developed and used to optimize the system for minimum size, weight and input power. Successful completion of Phase I will result in the demonstration of the basic ceramic oxygen generation components. Performance metrics will be determined and an overall system design for the OBOGS will be performed. The use of a thin-film, monolithically-integrated unit cell will result in a ceramic oxygen generating system that will be more efficient and more compact than existing electrochemical approaches for oxygen generation from air. This device is also expected to be more efficient than the pressure swing adsorption technique. This will allow for the ITN ceramic oxygen generating system to find applications in the Air Force On-Board Oxygen Generating System and in commercial applications for the generation of medical grade oxygen. |
| NEXTECH MATERIALS, LTD.
720-I Lakeview Plaza Blvd. Worthington, OH 43085 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(614) 842-6606
Dr. Matthew M. Seabaugh AF 02-067 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Low Temperature Ceramic Oxygen Generation |
| Abstract: | Numerous applications within the military and medical fields would benefit from compact and electrically efficient oxygen generation systems. Ceramic-based electrochemical oxygen generation systems are under consideration for military applications, including oxygen supplies for aircraft, medevacs, and mobile hospitals. On-board oxygen generation systems (OBOGs) reduce logistics costs associated with liquid oxygen delivery systems. Current OBOGS systems, based on molecular sieve and pressure swing absorption (PSA) technology, generate low-pressure, oxygen-enriched air (90-95% oxygen). Compared to PSA systems, ceramic oxygen generation systems provide higher purity oxygen (>99%) at higher pressures (>2,500 psi), in a smaller unit, with reduced lifecycle costs and no moving parts. The advantages of ceramic oxygen generation systems are well known, although successful deployment has been elusive. NexTech Materials will collaborate with Northrup Grumman to demonstrate cerium oxide-based ceramic electrolyte materials that operate at low (~650 C) temperatures in systems that are manufacturable, smaller, more reliable, and more efficient. In the Phase I program, materials and components for working prototype will be produced and assembled to prove the viability of the concept and demonstrate oxygen generation. In Phase II, breadboard ceramic oxygen systems will be optimized with respect to system design and operation. The targeted ceramic oxygen generation system will operate at low temperature and provide high pressure, high purity oxygen for life support and medical applications. Potential commercial applications include medical oxygen generation for home health, paramedic and disaster relief and small-scale oxygen generation for welding, chemical, and semiconductor manufacturing. |
| VIRTUAL SIMULATION AND TRAINING INC.
1538 Scottsgate Court North Xenia, OH 45385 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(937) 879-4183
Mr. John F. Lethert AF 02-068 Selected for Award |
| Title: | DMT Training Requirements and Capability Analysis |
| Abstract: | Distributed Mission Training (DMT) provides mission training and rehearsal in a simulated full-mission environment. Since technology cannot support a completely realistic environment, analyses are critical to determine what technology permits to be trained, and to what level it can be trained. Technology vs. training performance trade-offs need to be consciously examined and prioritized. Virtual Simulation and Training, Inc.(VSAT), supported by the University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI), will perform the research and analysis needed to tailor the Air Force standard Training System Requirements Analysis (TSRA) process for the DMT environment. These analytic changes will then be supported by an interactive Mission Training Analysis Database (MTAD) ultimately connecting task requirements to training equipment performance characteristics on one end of a continuum, and to issues understood by high level decision-makers on the other. The new process, called Distributed Mission Training Streamlined Requirements Analysis (DMTSRA), will differ substantially from the standard TSRA process. Phase I will include research to develop the DMTSRA process using the combat portion of an air-to-air fighter mission. Results will be incorporated into a prototype MTAD. The architecture and key features of the MTAD will also be demonstrated in Phase I. Benefits include: (1) production of valid technology-training trade-off data supporting high-level decisions; (2) audit trail from mission tasks and scenarios, through measures of performance and effectiveness, finally to the required characteristics of DMT media (simulators) and other DMT components, (3) ability to determine the effects of new players, threats, scenarios, and subsystems on DMT performance requirements, and (4) ability to determine what training is not effective in DMT so that it can be addressed elsewhere. Potential commercial products are the DMTSRA process, the MTAD architecture, populated MTADs, and related software packages. Potential customers include a wide variety of military and civilian aerospace systems and other complex systems requiring training analysis. |
| OMNI MEASUREMENT SYSTEMS, INC.
1150 Airport Drive S. Burlington, VT 05403 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(802) 865-5223
Mr. Mark Harvie AF 02-069 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Aircrew Bladder Relief Capability |
| Abstract: | Omni Measurement Systems, Inc. of South Burlington, Vermont has designed a comfortable, automated bladder relief system for female and male aircrew members flying long-distance missions in aircrafts without toilet facilities. The system does not use any type of catheter, is compact and can be worn so that it is not visible to others. The pilot can chose between two hands-free and odor-free methods of urine collection: either an attached bag or detachable bag. The system keeps female pilots dry after urination, unlike the adult diapers currently being worn. For male pilots, the system not only keeps them dry, but requires significantly less time and attention to use than currently available "piddle packs". The Omni Bladder Relief System could easily be adapted for use by ambulatory, bedridden and wheelchair-bound adults with urinary incontinence. It can be used by civilian, hang glider and glider pilots whose aircraft lack toilet facilities, and long-distance truckers and race car drivers whose vehicles lack toilet facilities. It can be adapted for use by rescue workers, firefighters and other professionals who cannot remove their protective suits to urinate. It can also be used by male and female ground troops, and soldiers in tanks. |
| PRECISION DESIGN INC.
P.O. Box 2064 Weatherford, OK 73096 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(580) 772-2140
Mr. Craig Easter AF 02-069 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Aircrew Bladder Relief Capability |
| Abstract: | The VARS (Vacuum Assisted Relief System) is a novel system that provides aircrew bladder relief of both male and female pilots using the same type private individual interface. Comfort for long duration flights is achieved through a natural interface. The system may be integrated to the aircraft or secured to the body by belt clip or other methods. The system includes barrier creams, an interface that replaces existing undergarments, plastic tubing, and in some cases pumps and reservoirs. The system has features that provide for essentially eliminating leakage and additionally provides for drying of the skin. This system has usage across the social spectrum from astronauts to those confined to wheelchairs. Commercialization Potential: Urinary incontinence alone. Prevalence: About 13 million adults Replacement of conventional diapers a 3.5 billion annual market. VARS has the same potential to replace disposable diapers as disposable diapers did in the early 60's, in eliminating laundry trucks |
| APTIMA, INC.
12 Gill Street, Suite 1400 Woburn, MA 01801 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(202) 842-1548
Dr. Michael Paley AF 02-070 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Time Critical Targeting Cell (TCTC) for Team Training and Evaluation |
| Abstract: | The training of effective teams has become increasingly important in both military and civilian settings. The state of our current knowledge about taskwork and teamwork processes enables us to propose a theory-anchored, systematic method for the design of team training and evaluation. In Phase I we will design an integrated team training system, that employs a synthetic task environment representing the Time Critical Targeting Cell (TCTC), that links team competencies, mission scenarios, and measures of performance to provide focused, distributed simulation-based training. This team training system will afford its user the ability to define team synthetic tasks that will train team competencies and generate tailored feedback, based on performance measures, to support training processes. In doing so, we believe that this project offers the unique opportunity to close the loop in the scenario-based training development process. Synthetic task environments, capable of distributed simulations, provide the infrastructure for this training and the proposed team training system will be built as an extension of the Distributed Dynamic Decisionmaking (DDD) team-in-the-loop simulator. In Phase II, we will operationalize the requirements for the team training system and develop a tool to create and administer distributed, scenario-based team training. The team training system described in this proposal provides an integrated method to design and execute team training and evaluation. Our approach gives training developers a specific process to generate training programs that are directly related to specific team competencies. Incorporating scenario design and specification of measures of performance into the team training tool will help to ensure that the simulation-based training, using the DDD, will trigger the targeted competencies and generate feedback that supports learning. The tools we propose will reduce the front-end time and effort needed to design training scenarios and improve the quality of the time spent training teams. This tool will be useful to military and commercial applications that need to train and are dependent on high-reliability team performance. |
| INTELLIGENT SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY, INC.
2800 28th Street, Suite 306 Santa Monica, CA 90405 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 581-5440
Dr. Azad M. Madni AF 02-071 Selected for Award |
| Title: | ProcessTrainT: Cognitive Model-driven Distributed Interactive Training for the C2 Aerospace Operations Center (AOC) |
| Abstract: | The Aerospace Operations Center is a weapon system through which the Joint Forces Component Commander exercises command and control of aerospace forces. The mission of the AOC is to plan, execute, and assess aerospace operations. These functions cut across multiple aerospace disciplines and specialties in both a vertical and horizontal fashion creating a major training challenge. The paramount need of AOC personnel today is for a cognitive framework-driven process training implemented via an Internet/Intranet environment that allows students easy, 7x24 access to scenario-based process training. Phase I of this effort will demonstrate the feasibility of designing and developing an interactive, scenario-based process training system. The training system will benefit all military/civilian/commercial programs requiring a cognitive framework for assessing the importance and relevance of information flow. Commercial applications include: emergency preparedness planning and execution training for hospitals, trauma care, natural disasters, as well as major event planning (e.g., Olympics). |
| STOTTLER HENKE ASSOCIATES, INC.
1660 So. Amphlett Blvd., Suite 350 San Mateo, CA 94402 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(650) 655-7242
Mr. Richard Stottler AF 02-071 Selected for Award |
| Title: | An Intelligent Tutoring System for the Aerospace Operations Center (AOC) |
| Abstract: | The ultimate goal is to improve the cognitive skills of AOC personnel by providing them practice, evaluation, and feedback in simulated AOC operational scenarios. This will be accomplished by the development of an Intelligent Tutoring System for AOC operations. The ITS will allow instructors to create scenarios and to customize methods to automatically evaluate student decisions. Evaluation of student decisions will occur automatically by the ITS which is monitoring the student's and possibly other team members' actions. Based on this and other information the ITS will automatically assemble a debriefing which will include the student's correct and incorrect decisions; for the incorrect ones a description of what the correct decision should have been and why, playbacks of critical events, and additional information from the scenario run. The ITS will automatically formulate a remedial course of instruction which includes additional scenarios to test the student's updated knowledge and provide additional practice in their weakest areas. During Phase I we will elicit the required AOC knowledge including models of information flow and processes, design the AOC simulator and instructional strategies and demonstrate a limited prototype of the Tactical Decision-Making ITS to prove its feasibility beyond a doubt. AOC personnel are the direct targets for this effort. Other military applications of the technology abound. Commercial variants could be directed toward large companies to teach their information flow, processes, organization, and policies to employees. |
| SONALYSTS, INC.
215 Parkway North, P.O. Box 280 Waterford, CT 06385 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(860) 326-3792
James E. McCarthy AF 02-072 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Integrated Satellite Operations Training and Rehearsal for Multiple Satellite System Ground Control |
| Abstract: | The Phase I effort will develop a Functional Description Document to establish requirements/constraints for a closed-loop adaptive training architecture that will support mission-area training. This training architecture will provide integrated satellite operations training as well as mission rehearsal for multiple satellite systems by using advanced interactive multimedia instruction (IMI); intelligent tutoring system (ITS) technology; and advanced modeling, simulation, stimulation, and visualization technologies. Preliminary designs for an Instructional Expert and Learner Model will be included the Phase I effort. Also, a demonstration will be created with the appearance of a prototypical closed-loop training curriculum for a targeted mission-area that will be implemented under the new three-phase Satellite Training Concept. Finally, a curriculum analysis and a first-level requirements analysis will be performed. The curriculum analysis will provide a sample of the content to be taught with the technology. The first-level requirements analysis will describe the implications of the closed-loop functionality from a software perspective. The Phase I effort will provide the groundwork for a solid training system that will support continued research into training effectiveness, satellite operations training continuum concepts, human systems integration, manning reduction, and automation of satellite system operation. Human resources allocated to student and instructor billets are a major life-cycle driver in any complex system. Advanced learning technologies have the potential to reduce both training times to achieve mission-capable personnel and to reduce instructor billets for equivalent training. Closed-loop adaptive training concepts also apply to efficient and effective maintenance of mission-critical skills. A scaleable and extendable architecture based on proven COTS components offers the potential for open-architecture solutions and competitive pressure to provide better training for less cost. |
| OPTICAL RESEARCH ASSOCIATES
3280 E. FOOTHILL BLVD.,, SUITE 300 PASADENA, CA 91107 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(216) 831-0780
Arvi Jeffery AF 02-073 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced Runway Lighting Technology for Portable Applications |
| Abstract: | Optical Research Associates (ORA), teamed with key subcontractors, will develop an efficient and reliable temporary runway lighting system to improve the ability of pilots to land at secondary landing sites under battlefield conditions. ORA will present runway lighting systems that are fully FAA compliant and based on the latest advances from the lighting industry. All systems will be developed to be robust and operator-friendly, for use by Joint operators in all world-wide theatres of operation and under all environmental conditions. While the main objective is a build a tactical system for U.S. and allied military services, a secondary application is as a temporary, backup lighting system for commercial airfields throughout the US. |
| PROTOBOX LLC
1464 North Broad St. Fairborn, OH 45324 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(937) 879-2588
Mr. George J. Valentino AF 02-073 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced Concepts for Runway Visualization (ACRV) |
| Abstract: | Protobox LLC has formulated a series of advanced concepts to improve runway visualization at both austere fields and at more permanent installations. We propose specific improvements to the existing, yet dated EALS (Emergency Airfield Lighting System), as well as a revolutionary concept called the Augmented Reality Runway Visualization System (ARRVS). The goals of our research effort will be to maintain or improve, but never diminish, the aircrew's ability to locate the runway and to safely land on (or takeoff from) the runway, while at the same time reducing weight, volume, and power requirements of conventional, portable runway lighting systems. Our research also includes a process for interacting with operational organizations, aircrews, and standards organizations, so that a melding of these advanced concepts with existing and emerging runway lighting standards and operational considerations will occur. From our pre-proposal activities, we believe that such a process will be critical to the overall viability of any proposed runway visualization system. Additionally, our concepts will be compatible with Night Vision Goggle (NVG) and other on-board sensor systems. Our proposal also includes preliminary plans for Phase II and III. A Phase I demo of the ARRVS will also be conducted. Our advanced concepts for runway visualization provide the basis for significant weight and volume reductions when compared to conventional portable and emergency runway lighting systems. We have plans for new features, functions, and capabilities that can be added to the existing EALS, plus new concepts that significantly changes the conventional runway lighting paradigm in order to improve the overall performance of the aircraft-aircrew-runway "system." |
| CHI SYSTEMS, INC.
Gwynedd Office Park, 716 N. Bethlehem Pike, Ste 300 Lower Gwynedd, PA 19002 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(407) 277-9288
Dr. Kelly Neville AF 02-078 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Messaging Interaction Simulation |
| Abstract: | Readiness training for satellite operators does not currently feature certain important systems that exist in the operations center - systems that play a major role in space operations and, more importantly, systems that play key roles in coordinating with and supporting external agencies and personnel. While the specific systems that are excluded vary somewhat across satellite systems, they can include the weather system (e.g., the Advanced Meteorological Information System [AMIS]), scheduling system, Defense Message System (DMS), and subscriber terminal (ST). The exclusion of these systems from the training environment is problematic for a number of reasons including the loss of opportunities for training teamwork within the SOC and larger mission team. CHI Systems proposes to improve the training provided to satellite operators by developing a system that emulates the functionality of the four systems listed above. This system, called the Multi-Use Training Technology (MUTT), will be implemented as a training suite workstation that is networked to an instructor workstation that features training exercise controls, uses intelligent agent technology to monitor and assess trainee proficiency; and allows the instructor to communicate with the trainee via the emulated DMS and ST as well as via a separate messaging tool that supports training-related communications. The Multi-User Training Technology (MUTT) represents an important training device for satellite operators across Department of Defense (DoD) services and agencies. It is similarly valuable to training commercial satellite operators, although for these operators the Defense Message System (DMS) portion would likely be excluded. American business depends on over 150 commercially owned communications and imaging satellites, and the DoD manages and uses significant numbers as well. The war in the Balkans reportedly made use of four dozen satellites from nearly two dozen countries. Clearly, there is a demand for satellite operators, and the rapidly growing role of space in both military and commercial applications means that these operators will be increasingly challenged. Accordingly, high quality and thorough training will become increasingly important for satellite operators. MUTT represents a set of key components of that training - training of the use of the operations center weather system, scheduling system, DMS, and subscriber terminal (ST), and training of the team coordination required to successfully use the latter three systems. MUTT will be built using commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) and inhouse software and technology. In addition, it will feature agent-based instructional capabilities that are influenced by preceding research and development efforts but which are uniquely suited to the requirements and characteristics of satellite operations personnel. |
| SYTRONICS, INC.
4433 Dayton-Xenia Road, Building 1 Dayton, OH 45432 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(937) 431-6121
Mr. John Friskie AF 02-078 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Messaging Interaction Simulation |
| Abstract: | Space systems are expensive to develop and deploy. Oftentimes, budgeting tradeoffs dictate increases in spacecraft development at the expense of developing the training systems needed to learn how to operate it. This results in on-the-job training using operational equipment versus using a controlled training environment. This is especially the case in learning the use of subscriber terminals by space crews. To counter this problem, we propose the Collaborative Operational Unit Messaging Simulation and Interaction Modeling (COMSIM) system. COMSIM applies advances in computer-supported collaborative learning to create a subscriber terminal learning environment separate from operational equipment. Additionally, COMSIM trains message interaction as the inherently collaborative activity it is through innovative applications of enterprise software, intelligent agents, and distributed simulations. A COMSIM-based training system will train space crews to become expert in messaging and provide aerospace forces to see the big picture value messaging plays in overall military operations. Potential commercial applications include COMSIM-based training environments for commercial telecommunication services that are expected to greatly increase in availability over the next decade. Additionally, we foresee opportunity to apply COMSIM to the war on terrorism as the Federal Government engineers computer support and information sharing systems to allow diverse Federal agencies share knowledge. |
| DIAMOND VISIONICS LLC
400 Plaza Drive, Suite-A, PO Box 1276 Vestal, NY 13851 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(607) 729-8526
Mr. Graham Upton AF 02-080 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Imagery Manipulation for Simulator Databases |
| Abstract: | In military simulation, there is an ever-increasing demand to support more complexity in the visualization of synthetic environments. Tools that automate the generation of terrain databases from overhead imagery are necessary for simulations that require a high degree of geo-specific 3D cultural content given limited resources. Current tools do not address the removal of time-specific artifacts such as aircrafts, vehicles, and shadows. This reduces database realism and thereby limits the situations in which these databases can be used. In Phase I, Diamond Visionics will focus on investigating the technical feasibility of developing a highly-automated process that will perform the following steps: merge and orthorectify various numbers and types of images, automatically recognize and replace selected objectionable time-specific artifacts from image with realistic and believable non-time-specific data, and generate OpenFlight models of selected items, correlated with the source imagery. Phase I provides a documented baseline, by feasibility studies and risk reduction demonstrations, of a road map to an automated tool for the removal of time-specific artifacts from overhead imagery and a road map to an automatic creation of 3D cultural features from overhead source imagery usable for simulator database development. The technology which will allow overhead imagery to be rapidly converted to simulator databases will have potential applications on military simulators for rapid ability to do mission rehearsal for situations which come up on short notice. This would include applications such as drug interdiction operations, air traffic control in hostile areas, insertion, evacuations, etc. In commercial airline applications it will increase fidelity of simulation and improve speed of generating new databases for new PC-IG with new data of commercial airfields, rather than re-hosting old databases from legacy simulators. Furthermore, any application that demands photo-realistic, accurate and quick response databases will benefit by this technology |
| CREARE INC.
P.O. Box 71 Hanover, NH 03755 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(603) 643-3800
Dr. Robert Kline-Schoder AF 02-081 Selected for Award |
| Title: | System for Enhanced Communications in High Noise Environments |
| Abstract: | Creare proposes to design, fabricate, and test a system that will simultaneously protect personnel working in extremely high noise environments and enhance voice communications. Current Air Force ground crews are forced to work in close proximity to aircraft engines that produce in excess of 150 db of noise, which can result in noise-induced hearing loss after brief exposures without sufficient hearing protection. These flight and ground crews also have a need to communicate with other personnel. However, no existing hearing protection system offers the right level of noise reduction for these crews to work safely in extreme noise environments while simultaneously enhancing the communication signal for effective communication. Our extreme noise communication enhancement system is based on combined passive and active noise reduction technologies and will mitigate the contribution of both air- and bone-conducted noise on the inner ear while improving speech communications. During the Phase I project, we will demonstrate innovative algorithms for enhancing communication signals in high noise environments and develop a design of a system for enhanced communications in high noise environments. During the Phase II project, we will fabricate and test a prototype system for enhanced communications in high noise environments. The Creare system for enhanced communications in high noise environments will reduce the harmful effects of long duration exposure to extremely high noise levels and will facilitate speech intelligibility. The system will be used by tank crews, flight crews, flight deck personnel, mechanized infantry, and commercial operators of noisy equipment. |
| RED TAIL HAWK CORPORATION
135 Storm Rd. Groton, NY 13073 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(607) 272-1288
Dr. John W. Parkins AF 02-081 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Development of a 50 dB ANC Ultra-Plug |
| Abstract: | An active noise control (ANC) earplug with communications capability is proposed. The earplug implements a new passive attenuation feature that will improve attenuation by 10 dB(A) over traditional earplugs. When used in combination with the ANC and a passive earmuff, over 50 dB(A) of noise attenuation will be achieved. The attenuation of the system will be limited only by bone-conducted noise. The bone-conducted noise is minimized in the ANC earplug compared to traditional earplugs. Speech communications will be sensed using a novel and superior approach. RTH Corporation will deliver to the Air Force an ANC earplug prototype that has been tested on an acoustic test fixture as well as on one human. The use of the ANC earplug with an earmuff will provide noise attenuation superior to any personal hearing protection device. This technology is directly applicable to the civilian aircraft environment as well as manufacturing plants, construction sites ... The improved attenuation results in superior protection from hearing trauma and improved speech intelligibility. |
| SHEET DYNAMICS, LIMITED
1776 Mentor Avenue Suite 170 Cincinnati, OH 45212 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(513) 631-0579
Dr. Stuart Shelley AF 02-081 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Active Acoustic and Bone Conduction Noise Cancellation for 150 dB(A) Noise Environments |
| Abstract: | There is a great need for improved hearing protection equipment with integral communication for high noise military environments such as flight lines and aircraft carrier flight decks. Deep insertion, communication earplugs (Attenuating Custom Communication Earplug - ACCES) combined with earmuffs are the current, state-of-the-art. Through a separate Program Research and Development Announcement (NR:01-01-HE, "Active Noise Reduction Earplug System") the Air Force is soliciting approaches to add active noise reduction capability to the ACCES earplugs to improve the low frequency noise reduction. Regardless of the reduction in acoustic pressure that can be achieved near the eardrum by any means, the factor limiting the reduction in perceived loudness (cochlear response) is bone conduction of acoustic energy directly to the cochlea. SDL proposes an innovative study that accounts for both the acoustic and bone conduction pathway contributions to cochlear response, evaluating the feasibility of actively attenuating the cochlear response attributable to both mechanisms. This technology has immediate commercial application to civilian industrial sectors including the airline industry, firefighters, law enforcement, search and rescue, industrial high pressure cleaning and sandblasting, mining and other areas. |
| OPTICS 1, INC.
3050 E Hillcrest Drive, Suite 100 Westlake Village, CA 91362 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(603) 432-2148
Mr. Michael E. Couture AF 02-082 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Viewer for Vision Research in Developing Agile Laser Eye Protection |
| Abstract: | The use of laser devices in the battlefield is rapidly increasing - from low power line-of-sight communications to high-power lasers designed to disable or destroy enemy weaponry. These laser devices operate over a wide range of spectral regions, depending on specific application. With the increasing number of devices, the hazard to battlefield personnel is becoming a potentially significant issue. If protective devices are to be designed and deployed to personnel, it is key that these devices do not introduce unacceptable levels of image distortion that may have physiological effects such as disorientation, headache, or nausea. OPTICS 1 has extensive experience in the area of night vision goggle design and development and specifically in the area of direct-view laser eye protection devices using optical limiter materials. Principal benefits and use for this technology will remain in the military sector for the immediate future. Evaluation of this technology and fabrication of potential devices/instruments will enable quantitative study of physiological interaction between directed energy devices and human tissue. In addition, detailed evaluation of human factors will enable development of protection devices that can be worn for extended periods of time without undue distress to the wearer. |
| PHYSICAL OPTICS CORPORATION
20600 Gramercy Place, Bldg. 100 Torrance, CA 90501 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 320-3088
Dr. Kevin Yu AF 02-082 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Agile Laser Filters Visual Simulation Device |
| Abstract: | Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Agile Laser Filter Visual Simulation (ALFVIS) device, based on Multiplexed Reflection Holographic Filters (MRHFs) and a Liquid Crystal Digital Switch (LCDS) panel. The proposed ALFVIS will have a form of a viewer for vision research on the effects of agile laser protection filter. POC's approach combines simple, compact, rugged optical components that perform high-efficiency band-rejection and have high transmission in the high- and low-pass regions. The multiplexed holographic filters can be easily swapped out to match the agile laser eye protection filters being emulated. The proposed device offers high switching speed, low voltage and low power and high stability of field response over years of field operations. In Phase I, POC will design and build the key components and analyze their performance, and will present an experimental proof-of-concept demonstration, so that in Phase II we can build a preproduction prototype. The proposed technology will form the basis of a new generation of test equipment for vision research into agile laser eye protection. Potential applications include modules incorporated into display systems, sensor protection, remote sensing, product inspection, manufacturing process control and medical instrumentation. |
| CREARE INC.
P.O. Box 71 Hanover, NH 03755 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(603) 643-3800
Mr. Harold P. Greeley AF 02-083 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Remote Cognitive State Assessment Using Voice Analysis |
| Abstract: | Military and civilian experience has shown that long-duration assignments present increased risk of performance failures as the mission progresses. This is due to interruption of normal sleep cycles and to the psychological pressures of the living and working environment. The overall objective of this project is twofold: (1) to ensure the safety and effectiveness of friendly military personnel, and (2) to access the level of fatigue of military opponents. Creare proposes to provide these measures using automated voice analysis software algorithms that can be operated from a wide range of hardware platforms already receiving remote communications from military personnel. In Phase I, we will identify and characterize changes in fatigue sensitive components of voiced words as the speaker's level of alertness changes. Voice analysis results will be compared to fatigue assessment techniques routinely used in sleep laboratories. In Phase II, we will design, build, and test a system that automatically determines a remote speaker's level of fatigue. Further testing will be done to extend the capabilities of the system to discriminate between changes in voice due to fatigue, intoxication, or physical impairment. Extension of the system's capabilities to non-English speakers will also be demonstrated. The ability to predict the readiness of personnel involved in long duty time or stressful activities has widespread military and commercial uses. Military planners will be given the ability to recognize fatigue-related weaknesses in their own forces as well as in the forces of their opponents. Planners and supervisors of airlines, truck fleets, and bus lines, as well as police and firefighter companies will be given a capability that will result in fewer accidents and increased efficiency. |
| SPEECH TECHNOLOGY & APPLIED RESEARCH CORP.
4 Militia Drive Lexington, MA 02421 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 863-0310
Dr. Joel MacAuslan AF 02-083 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Fatigue Assessment through Voice Analysis |
| Abstract: | This project will produce a speech-based fatigue assessment system. Speech-based systems can have very limited intrusivity, making them useful for a wide variety of military, commercial, and even private-vehicle applications. Indeed, some systems can be fully passive, permitting fatigue assessment in the course of other communications, even in opponents. This project will select certain reliably automated, acoustic measures of vocal control, laryngeal dynamics, and speech articulation to produce an estimator that correlates highly with fatigue measures. The emphasis will be on measures that have high potential for rapid and robust assessment, with minimal human judgments except for high-level control of the system. Phase I will focus on feasibility, establishing a set of measures that, for a modest collection of native English speakers, demonstrate the required correlation with fatigue. The system architecture will also be a deliverable for Phase I. Phase II will produce an operational prototype. It will additionally address other, potentially confounding influences, such as hypoxia and antihistamine use, to differentiate these from fatigue. Phase II will also investigate the importance of task variety and native languages other than English. Many activities in both civilian and military operations can benefit from a fatigue-assessment product that is passive or minimally invasive. Such assessments based on speech can provide critical information about alertness and task performance for both friendly and hostile forces. These assessments are also valuable to government agencies responsible for human safety or other high potential-loss activities, such as the FAA, local fire departments, and FEMA. Likewise, many commercial entities with similar concerns can benefit: trucking and shipping companies, nuclear-power operators, emergency medical services, and airlines. |
| APTIMA, INC.
12 Gill Street, Suite 1400 Woburn, MA 01801 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(202) 842-1548
Dr. Jared Freeman AF 02-085 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Adaptive Training for Real-Time Intelligence Monitoring & Evaluation |
| Abstract: | We propose to develop an Intelligent Tutoring System for AF intelligence analysts (ITS4Intel) that helps student analysts to refine and apply the two cognitive skills that are fundamental to their work: categorization and inference. It will use scenario-based training to team them to assess the quality of intel products (e.g., messages); assess their relevance to current information requirements; make assessments of intent, predictions, and other inferences from the data; and select the best sources from which to elicit additional information. The system will employ three technologies: an extension of Latent Semantic Analysis for modeling human categorization abilities, an IBIS architecture for representing relations between elements of knowledge and emulating expert inference over it, and an instructional system shell that integrates these modeling engines and adaptively presents explicit instruction, practice scenarios, and feedback. A significant innovation is the explicit representation of mental models that elicits observable and measurable indicators of cognitive state and process. By working with the explicit models, students will learn how to structure and use a large, complex body of intelligence material. A key efficiency of this effort is that it will leverage knowledge acquisition research underway in an existing AFRL SBIR concerning AF intelligence analysis. When completed, the Phase I work will produce as catalog of mental models and quality assessment heuristics used by expert intelligence analysts in a specific domain, training objectives for intel analysts, measures of student performance, a prototype training system, and an evaluation of the prototype by operational personnel. The Phase II work will produce a robust system for training AF intelligence analysts, deep and formally represented knowledge of the mental models employed by analysts, and validated measures of cognitive state and cognitive processes pertaining to intel analysis. In Phase III, we will transition the system to other markets that value training in qualitative analysis skills, and address opportunities to transform the training system into a job aid for AF intel analysts. |
| STOTTLER HENKE ASSOCIATES, INC.
1660 So. Amphlett Blvd., Suite 350 San Mateo, CA 94402 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(206) 545-1478
Mr. Terrance Goan AF 02-085 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Exploiting Latent Semantics for Embedded Intelligence Monitoring and Trainer Development. |
| Abstract: | We propose an innovative approach to achieving Cognitive Readiness with respect to Information Warfare through a combination of automated monitoring, adaptive information display, real-time coaching, and the capture of scenarios suitable for training and rehearsal. In particular we will investigate the exploitation of Latent Semantic Analysis, which is a means for making accurate comparisons of the semantic similarity between pieces of textual information, and has been applied with success to a number of problems closely related to the task at hand. But real-time monitoring of intelligence information poses some unique challenges including the need to maintain the currency of LSA's matrices, and feeding its voracious appetite for training data. To overcome these obstacles we propose a unique combination of new and proven techniques. Our approach will exploit our recent advances in fully automated search to capture the required training data, as well as recent techniques for detecting content drift so as to minimize the update requirements of the LSA matrices. Our Phase I work-centered research and design, and the development and operational testing of a limited prototype, will lay the groundwork for the Phase II complete implementation and validation of our technology, called Aware. The technology proposed herein offers the potential to fulfill the market demand for tools to increase productivity in the processing of electronic documents, and tools that can support "situational visibility" and competitive intelligence. |
| ALPHATECH, INC.
50 Mall Road Burlington, MA 01803 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 273-3388
Dr. Steve Zabele AF 02-089 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Enhanced Interoperability Through Common Translation Architecture |
| Abstract: | The primary goal of this SBIR is to develop a layered architectural approach for future inter-exchange gateways that enables data translation from one medium to another and/or among several mediums. For example, with the mandated proliferation of Link-16 over the next 5 |