ARMY - 169 Phase I Selections from the 09.3 Solicitation

---------- ARMY ----------

169 Phase I Selections from the 09.3 Solicitation

(In Topic Number Order)

Applied Systems Intelligence, Inc. 3650 Brookside Parkway Suite 500 Alpharetta, GA 30022
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(770) 518-4228 Norman Geddes ARMY 09-124 Awarded: 1/22/2010
Title:	Aviators Intelligent Assistant
Abstract:	U.S. Army Aviation Soldiers continue to support full spectrum operations across the globe from stability and support operations in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom to preparation for Major Combat Operations on the Korean peninsula while confronting an ever increasing challenge of information systems overload. As the Army Aviation transitions to the glass cockpit with advent of the CH-47F, UH-60M and AH-64D Block III, the Army has recognized the opportunity to apply cognitive decision aiding tools to provide the Army aviator with more situational awareness of the ground combat environment, thereby improving combat effectiveness without degrading the safety of the platform or its occupants. To aid the Army aviator with this flood of mission and system data, Applied Systems Intelligence, Inc. (ASI) will develop and demonstrate an innovative software capability called the Situational Awareness Fusion Enhancement Aid (SAFE- Aid). This software aiding system is an associate, a human-centered intelligent system built from the start to be an intelligent team member for its human counterparts. More than just an assistant, an associate is made to have a deep understanding of its human team mates, as well as their missions, their systems and their environment. Emphasis during Phase I is on rapid demonstration and preparation for flight certification on Army rotorcraft.

Soar Technology, Inc. 3600 Green Court Suite 600 Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(734) 327-8000 Glenn Taylor ARMY 09-124 Awarded: 1/21/2010
Title:	Aviators Intelligent Assistant
Abstract:	Army helicopter pilots are inundated with information in the cockpit, and more is coming. With new technology constantly pushing new information into the cockpit, there is an ever-increasing demand for smarter management of that information before it overwhelms the pilot. Too much â€œhead-down timeâ€ spent navigating or deciphering cockpit display information is bad for the pilot and the mission. Unless the information provided is relevant to the current mission and task, pilots will only be distracted from flying their aircraft. With all the cockpit information to sort through, critical decision points may be missed in the course of flying a mission. For this work, we propose to develop display management technology that will be used to assist in tracking and displaying information relevant to critical decision points: notifying a pilot when a decision point is imminent, providing information relevant to making the decision, and giving alerts if required information is not available prior to the decision point becoming active. We aim to design a general framework for this capability, instantiating it for the particular domain of Army Aviations, but reusable in other domains.

Advanced Rotorcraft Technology, Inc. 635 Vaqueros Avenue Sunnyvale, CA 94085
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(650) 968-1464 H. Chengjian ARMY 09-125 Awarded: 1/21/2010
Title:	Advanced Turboshaft Engine/Drivetrain Modeling Technique for Real Time Rotorcraft Simulation
Abstract:	Modeling turboshaft engine and drivetrain dynamics is a vital part of modern rotorcraft simulation as they are closely coupled with the main/tail rotor dynamics and impact the aircraft performance and transient response.The current engine models for real time simulation are mostly custom built and based on the table look-up of the engine steady state performance map. The map lookup solution is not only limited by the availability of empirical engine performance data, but also suffers from an inaccuracy in modeling the engine transient states. For drivetrain dynamics, a single rotational degree of freedom (DOF) for a rigid shaft is typically utilized. In reality, the rotorcraft drivetrain dynamics includes multiple DOFs including elastic torsion. Even for a conventional single main rotor configuration, there are main gearbox dynamics and a tail rotor drive system which have distinct frequencies and transient characteristics. This proposal aims to develop a first principle based engine and drivetrain dynamics modeling method that will reflect rotorcraft propulsion system physics and, hence, provide an accurate physics-based solution. The proposed solution will be analytically formulated and applicable for generic turboshaft engine and drivetrain modeling. The high fidelity method developed will also be evaluated and tested in an industry standard rotorcraft modeling and simulation program to support real time flight simulation.

Systems Technology, Inc. 13766 S. Hawthorne Blvd. Hawthorne, CA 90250
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 679-2281 Chi-Ying Liang ARMY 09-125 Awarded: 1/22/2010
Title:	STI-TP-1127-Advanced Turboshaft Engine/Drivetrain Modeling Technique for Real Time Rotorcraft Simulation
Abstract:	Simulation is an indispensable tool in the development and evolution of modern rotorcraft designs and flight training activities, with the gas turbine engine being a particularly demanding component to simulate. To provide for enhanced simulation fidelity regarding this critical component, the Army has identified a need for a generic turboshaft engine/drivetrain model. Such a model will be used to support real-time rotorcraft flight simulation activities that can be initiated early in the design cycle. To meet this need, Systems Technology, Inc. is pleased to propose GenEng, a physics-based model of generic architecture that can be readily integrated into industry standard simulations. When fully developed, GenEng will be a gas turbine engine model that is a careful blend of performance requirements, physics, and abstraction. GenEng will feature a virtual test stand through which the model can be executed as a stand alone application to ease checkout and parameter tuning functions. A beta version of GenEng will be created in Phase 1 and integrated into a real-time rotorcraft simulator to demonstrate feasibility of the approach via a limited piloted simulation of start up and low speed characteristics. An alpha version of the model currently exists as a proof of concept.

NanoTechLabs Inc. 409 W. Maple St. Yadkinville, NC 27055
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(336) 849-7474 Richard Czerw ARMY 09-126 Awarded: 5/19/2010
Title:	Ionic NanoLubricants for Wear Reduction
Abstract:	laterOne method to improve reliability, readiness, and survivability of military hardware operating under harsh environmental conditions is reducing frictional loss and wear within equipment. A phase I effort is proposed to prepare compositions of novel nanomaterials and ionic liquid blends with current lubricating oils and assess their potential utility as nanofluid lubricants. A systematic screening of the blends will allow for down selection of promising fluids for further testing of their physical properties and further consideration of their cost and environmental impacts. Such improvements may provide reduction in maintenance costs by reduction of wear and also a reduction of weight associated with thermal management systems.

NEI Corporation 400 E Apgar Drive Somerset, NJ 08873
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(732) 868-3141 Kenneth Eberts ARMY 09-126 Awarded: 3/25/2010
Title:	Nano-Lubricant/Fluid for Improved Weapons System
Abstract:	More efficient heat removal from ground-based and airborne Army vehicles can (i) enhance the performance of these systems, particularly in hot climates; (ii) reduce the heat signature, and (iii) help reduce the weight of thermal control systems such as radiators. Building upon NEIâ€™s nanoscale materials technologies, we propose to develop a new class of heat transfer fluid that is based on particle additives with a unique surface morphology. The Phase I program is aimed at producing stable particle- containing fluids, and demonstrating that the heat transfer properties of these fluids are significantly better than the currently used fluids (e.g. oil and grease). It is anticipated that the Nanofluid will improve power transfer and heat rejection. Specifically, a series of particle-containing fluids will be produced and tested for thermal conductivity, viscosity, and heat transfer rate. Additionally, several gallons of Nanofluids will be supplied to the Army by the end of Phase I base program. Once the proof-of-concept is demonstrated in Phase I, the technology will be implemented on a commercial scale in Phase II by meeting the performance requirements criteria specified by the Army.

UES, Inc. 4401 Dayton-Xenia Road Dayton, OH 45432
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 426-6900 Amarendra Rai ARMY 09-126 Awarded: 3/10/2010
Title:	Advanced Nano-Lubricant/Fluid for Improved Weapon System
Abstract:	The purpose of the project is to formulate and develop advanced nano-lubricant/fluid and demonstrate their potential to reduce gear erosion wear in the Army missile weapon systems. The tribological performance of the developed nano-lubricant fluid will determined and compared with that of the currently used lubricant. Based on the performance evaluation, advanced nano-lubricant/fluid systems and processes will be identified for further development in Phase II.

BINACHIP, INC. 203 N. WABASH AV, SUITE 203 CHICAGO, IL 60601
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(312) 346-5660 David Zaretsky ARMY 09-127 Awarded: 5/24/2010
Title:	FPGA Low Power Design Rules
Abstract:	Commercial FPGA programming software tools use logic synthesis tools to route the connections between logic gates, look-up tables, and memory units. Current commercial tools, however, are optimized to maximize operation speed and minimize area and memory utilization. This proposal addresses the needs of the Department of Defense for a solution that provides a means of reducing FPGA power consumption for any specific target architecture. We proposed in this Phase I research to develop the LPS (Low-Power Synthesis) tool, a stand-alone software tool plugin for commercial synthesis tools that will optimize RTL designs for low-power. The LPS tool will take in an input RTL design and a set of design rules for the target FPGA architecture, perform a comprehensive set of low-power optimizations, and then generate an output RTL design for the backend logic synthesis tool. We will test the power optimizations and the LPS tool on a set of large multi-media benchmarks. Our proposed work will address DODâ€™s requirements for a low-power synthesis tool by providing a generic entry point for virtually all commercial logic synthesis tools, providing a low-cost solution for low-power FPGA design, and providing an automated framework that will reduce low-power design times from months to hours.

Irvine Sensors Corporation 3001 Red Hill Avenue Building #4-108 Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(714) 435-8920 John Leon ARMY 09-127 Awarded: 6/17/2010
Title:	FPGA Low Power Design Rules
Abstract:	Irvine Sensors Corporation (ISC) and the University of Southern California (USC) plan to develop a semi-automatic framework for designing energy-efficient applications on FPGA. The framework utilizes the â€œdomain-specific modeling techniqueâ€ to rapidly estimate and optimize the power consumption of circuit designs on FPGA. Major components of the framework include (1) a domain modeling front-end, (2) a set of domain-specific design rules for energy-efficient designs, (3) an extensible and reusable database of low-level component power functions, and (4) a plug-in interface for interacting with existing FPGA design tools. The findings from Phase I will be used in the design of the Phase II prototype.

Corvid Technologies, Inc. 145 Overhill Drive Mooresville, NC 28117
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(704) 799-6944 John Cogar ARMY 09-128 Awarded: 5/24/2010
Title:	The Behavior within Minimum Signature Propellants during Impact IM Tests
Abstract:	The objective of this proposal is to identify modeling and simulation (M&S) tools that will be useful in assessing rocket and missile propulsion systems for compliance with insensitive munitions (IM) requirements. The solicitation is focused on UN Hazard Class 1.1 minimum signature detonable propellants. Comprehensive testing to ascertain IM compliance for such systems is time-consuming and expensive. High-fidelity computational tools exist for similar propellant systems that can be used to address the assessment of existing and new propellants, serve as a design tool for reducing sensitivity, and act as a “numerical” test capability for certification against IM requirements. With continuing research and development as laid out in this proposal, these existing tools can be adapted to address the physical behavior of minimum signature propellants. Providing a solution to reduce or eliminate testing would make development of IM compliant rocket motors and missile systems cost effective and provide a means to speed up the qualification of new propellants.

IllinoisRocstar LLC 60 Hazelwood Drive P. O. Box 3001 Champaign, IL 61826
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(217) 766-2567 Mark Brandyberry ARMY 09-128 Awarded: 5/19/2010
Title:	Behavior of Minimum Signature Propellants During Impact ITests on Insensitive Munitions
Abstract:	Predicting the violent behavior of energetic materials in accident scenarios is an important issue for the analysis of the performance of explosives and solid rocket propellants. We propose a computational program to predict the shock initiation behavior and subsequent energy release that leads to violent reaction of minimum signature propellants under several impact threat conditions. The modeling effort will focus on multiscale, multiphysics simulations using verified and validated models on high-performance parallel computer platforms. Both double-base and composite-modified double-base propellants will be examined. A critical component of our effort will consist of highly resolved mesoscale modeling calculations. These are crucial to bridging the enormous gap between device- scale models that are often based on empirical descriptions rather than first principles, and atomistic scale models that take into account the underlying discrete nature of matter, but are often difficult to relate to engineering-scale results. Our multiscale, chemo-thermo- mechanical approach to modeling and simulation of shock physics will explicitly address physical features and phenomena at the macro- (device), meso- (aggregate of crystals) and micro-scales (individual crystal) in an integrated manner.

Physical Sciences Inc. 20 New England Business Center Andover, MA 01810
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 689-0003 Allan Dokhan ARMY 09-128 Awarded: 6/28/2010
Title:	The Impact Ignition Sensitiveness and Reaction Violence of Solid Propellants from Insensitive Munition Threats
Abstract:	Physical Sciences Inc. has proposed to develop a reliable and robust model that will accurately predict the violent behavior of propellants on impact from insensitive munition threats. During Phase I, we have proposed a program that will allow us to resolve critical thermal-chemical-mechanical behavior of solid propellants on impact using a combination of high-speed diagnostic tools to enable development and calibration of our high fidelity model. These experimental results will serve in calibrating our model and evaluating its performance accuracy. Overall, we have proposed a program that will allow a reliable, confident, and detailed outline of the necessary physics and chemistry needed to develop a full model in Phase II and ensure a successful program to the Army.

Columbia Gorge Research, LLC 2555 NE 205th Avenue PO Box 382 Fairview, OR 97024
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(503) 328-8518 Eric Udd ARMY 09-129 Awarded: 4/21/2010
Title:	Innovative Sensor to Measure Detonation Properties of Propellants and Explosives
Abstract:	Distributed fiber grating sensor technology is used to support the measurement of key blast wave parameters including position, velocity, pressure and temperature. The system will support and characterize existing propellants and explosives and be used to demonstrate the difference between materials that deflagrate and detonate.

Creare Inc. P.O. Box 71 Hanover, NH 03755
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(603) 643-3800 Michael Jaeger ARMY 09-129 Awarded: 5/15/2010
Title:	Thin-Film Sensor Suite for Measuring Detonation Properties
Abstract:	The dynamics during the early stages of detonation of energetic materials determine the development path of the explosion. These dynamics are extremely difficult to measure, however, since the entire event may last of order a microsecond and the temperature and pressure conditions are characteristic of extreme shock. Fast, high-resolution diagnostic tools are needed to characterize these early stages to better understand how detonations progress for specific materials. This is particularly important for developing or screening new munitions with improved energetic performance and for developing safer explosives with reduced susceptibility to sympathetic detonation or fast cook-off. Creare proposes to develop a thin-film detonation wave sensor that measures fast temperature rise and pressure rise at discrete points and that continuously measures the position and velocity of the detonation wave along the wave propagation path. In Phase I, we will develop a preliminary design for the sensor, predict its performance, and develop a conceptual approach for manufacturing it. In the Option Phase and Phase II, we will finalize the sensor design, build prototypes, and demonstrate their functionality for characterizing the early stages of detonation.

Physical Optics Corporation Applied Technologies Division 20600 Gramercy Place, Bldg 100 Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 320-3088 Juan Hodelin ARMY 09-129 Awarded: 4/15/2010
Title:	Fiber Optic Detonation Sensor
Abstract:	To address the Armyâ€™s need for a sensor to accurately measure the detonation properties of explosives and propellants, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Fiber Optic Detonation Sensor (FIODS), based on a novel combination of fiber optic velocity, pressure, and temperature sensors. The FIODS system consists of fiber optic probes that are inserted into the explosive under test, and the remote processing unit that detects and processes the optical signal. FIODSâ€™ innovations in design of fiber optic pressure sensor and optical sensors enabling continuous velocity, pressure, temperature and position measurements for detonation wave at over 10^7 samples/s in intrinsically safe and reliable way directly address the Armyâ€™s need for a detonation diagnostic tool. In Phase I, POC plans to design the FIODS system and demonstrate the feasibility of using fiber optics sensors that can safely be used internally or externally to measure key blast-wave parameters. The Phase I tests will demonstrate the difference between energetic material deflagration and detonation. During Phase II, POC will design, fabricate, package, test, and demonstrate a FIODS that can be safely embedded into an energetic material to support measurement of the blast-wave parameters for the validation of theoretical models.

Enig Associates, Inc. 4600 East West Hwy Suite 500 Bethesda, MD 20814
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 680-8600 Fred Grace ARMY 09-130 Awarded: 3/9/2010
Title:	Novel Light-weight Warhead for Breaching and Destroying Hardened Structures
Abstract:	Enig Associates, Inc. is proposing an innovative and novel electrical approach, using pulsed power to convert explosive chemical energy into lethal jets to attack MOUT targets when fired from light weapons. The device is in the form of a precursor warhead optimized to maximize cavity diameter in brick and concrete targets so that a maximum size follow-through munition can be delivered within combatant structures. The overall warhead is compatible with weight and size constraints of light weapons having diameters of 66 to 84 mm. Further the precursor device will be completely autonomous carrying minimum power on-board to seed the pulsed power system and start the energy harvesting process. Electrical energy generated will power liners of metal and reactive materials into jet penetrators that represent more effective precursors to facilitate main munition lethality. Teaming partners Lockheed Martin Missiles & Fire Control (TX) and Nammo Talley (AZ) will provide assistance in identifying systems requirements leading to weaponization of the proposed technology.

General Sciences, Incorporated 205 Schoolhouse Road Souderton, PA 18964
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(215) 723-8588 Charles Files ARMY 09-130 Awarded: 3/29/2010
Title:	Enhancement of Penetration Capability of Light Warheads Into Hardened Walls.
Abstract:	The changing aspects of enemy threats requires that our defense tactics be modified in order to optimize war fighting effectiveness. Urban targets at one time focused on armored vehicles and tanks, however, as the enemy has changed to a more terroristic type of fighter the targets have become the people which are usually inside barricades, bunkers and buildings. This requires a more effective man-portable penetrating device capable of penetrating the targets and eliminating the personnel inside. An enhancement is needed to allow for better wall breaching capability by the light warheads in order to create behind penetration damage and wall collapse. A technique to provide this enhancement would be to enlarge the penetration hole to allow for larger follow through charges thus delivering greater target damage and behind the wall effects. General Sciences, Inc. (GSI) proposes the use of reactive linear shaped charges that can be configured as light warheads to enhance effectiveness against these targets by providing more target breakup, larger penetrating holes and behind penetrations effects (fire and blast)

CohesionForce, Inc. P.O. Box 11578 Huntsville, AL 35814
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(256) 562-0600 David Phillips ARMY 09-131 Awarded: 3/30/2010
Title:	Model Annotation Tool
Abstract:	During the process of using Model Based Design and Implementation (MBDI), challenges have been identified with the loss of traceability between the higher level model of the system and the lower level implementation. This results in difficulty to optimize the system since feedback from the system is related to the lower level constructions. CohesionForce proposes a Model Annotation Tool (MAT) that will extend capabilities found in the open source community and integrate them into the identified MBDI tool chain. The proposed approach leverages existing technology to solve the traceability problem and support back-annotation of high level models with information vital for optimization.

DSPlogic, Inc. 13017 Wisteria Drive Suite 420 Germantown, MD 20874
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 977-5970 Michael Babst ARMY 09-131 Awarded: 3/29/2010
Title:	Quantitative Back-Annotation of Simulink Models for Hardware Synthesis Optimization
Abstract:	Model Based Design and Implementation (MBDI) is an attractive alternative for FPGA development for several reasons: 1) Many Subject Matter Experts (SME) are already familiar with MBD environments for designing and validating algorithms, 2) the visual, data- flow oriented nature of MBD make it easy to describe highly parallel algorithms, 3) design automation eliminates traditional design, code, unit test and implementation phases, and 4) there is less risk of system design being â€œlost in translationâ€ or errors being introduced in later design phases. The primary difficulties with MBDI are design optimization and validation. The SME must be able to optimize FPGA design tradeoffs, such as power, resource utilization and clock speed. Second, there must be a reliable method to validate bit- and cycle-accurate FPGA operation. Both of these tasks are made more difficult by the various stages of design representation, and hierarchical flattening that take place in the design flow. In order to optimize and validate the design, the SME must be able to clearly visualize and simulate the implemented design at all abstract representation levels, including the final implementation. This requires the output of the FPGA implementation tools to be back-annotated and linked to the Model in an intuitive way that is easy for the SME to understand. The primary goal of this project is to create a tool to solve this problem, allowing the optimized model developed by the SME to be the design for the final, fully validated implementation

CADNexus Inc. 1165 R Massachusetts Ave Suite 101 Arlington, MA 02476
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 316-1689 Al Magnuson ARMY 09-132 Awarded: 6/7/2010
Title:	Automated Preparation of Geometry Models for Computational Applications
Abstract:	CADNexus proposes to develop a complete integrated system for CAD model preparation built on best-in-breed products from CADNexus and ESI Group. The combined solution holds promise for greater automation and robust capability to deal with CAD model preparation problems in all the popular CAD formats with broad connectivity to commercial and government meshing and simulation packages. The combined system will use the CADNexus CAPRI CAE Gateway and ESIâ€™s CFD-GEOM and CFD-Viscart products. Other technology from the companies may also be leveraged as needed in the Phase 1 effort. CAPRI is naturally suited as an upfront engine to provide automated geometry import, processing and watertight tessellation of CAD data to ESI CFD-GEOM and ESI CFD- Viscart. The ESI toolset can provide advanced healing, feature simplification, 3D mesh generation, component wrapping into a single watertight mesh, and rich graphical interface to operate the integrated system.

HyPerComp, Inc. 2629 Townsgate Road Suite 105 Westlake Village, CA 91361
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(805) 371-7500 Kuo-Yen Szema ARMY 09-132 Awarded: 3/4/2010
Title:	Automated Preparation of Geometry Models for Computational Applications
Abstract:	In this proposed effort we seek to develop and integrate CAD repair algorithms that greatly decrease the time spent preparing complex geometry for grid generation as part of numerical simulation problem setup. Highly detailed CAD models are critical for design and manufacture of all sorts of geometries, from antennas to vehicles, bridges and buildings. However, in many cases small features in the CAD model are not needed for the numerical simulations carried out using those models, such as those involving structural mechanics, fluid dynamics, or electromagnetics. De-featuring, or simplifying CAD models and performing associated clean-up of the geometry entities remains a large bottleneck in the simulation process. In addition, deficiencies exist in exchanging data among CAD tools. This proposal outlines methods for greatly reducing the CAD preparation time using existing technology developed at HyPerComp, open source solutions where available for data exchange, and the development of new and novel capabilities for importing geometry and performing CAD clean-up.

Polatin Corporation 57 Janet Terrace New Hartford, NY 13413
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(315) 797-7125 James Tonnison ARMY 09-132 Awarded: 4/21/2010
Title:	Accurate and Fast Gridding of CAD Models for Computational Applications
Abstract:	The research described in this proposal is intended to provide a basis for the development of advanced software technologies for accurately and quickly gridding CAD models for computational applications. The specific purpose of this work is to: (1) import and automatically repair CAD models; (2) develop means to automatically remove internal or external features; (3) automatically identify features such as gaps, holes, etc., and allow users to specify which features to retain and automatically remove the remaining features; (4) ensure watertightness; and (5) export the prepared model in specified formats.

Combustion Research and Flow Technology, Inc. 6210 Kellers Church Road Pipersville, PA 18947
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(215) 766-1520 Brian York ARMY 09-133 Awarded: 3/3/2010
Title:	Power-On Missile Stage Separation Simulation
Abstract:	The proposed Phase I effort involves the formulation of innovative technical approaches for accurately simulating the transient power-on separation event for a two stage, supersonic/hypersonic missile. Our starting point for analyzing power on missile stage separation involves the use of both structured and unstructured grid Navier-Stokes codes which were used to support the KEI separation problem and validated with relevant shock tunnel data. The recent work that we performed for the power-on stage separation problem provided us with unique insights into the limitations of CFD to support the design and evaluation of stage separation concepts and design details. This program initiates work to improve the CFD codes by focusing on areas where major deficiencies were observed. These include numerical methodology, turbulence modeling, chemical kinetics for afterburning, and particulate modeling (impingement of molten particles and associated wall interactions). The upgraded CFD capabilities developed in this effort will be applied in Phase II to demonstrate that they improve comparisons with available test data.

Combustion Research and Flow Technology, Inc. 6210 Kellers Church Road Pipersville, PA 18947
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(215) 766-1520 Sanford Dash ARMY 09-134 Awarded: 2/25/2010
Title:	Air-Breathing Missile Thrust Measurement
Abstract:	Innovative approaches to make direct measurements of thrust/drag forces on scramjet inlets will be designed, constructed, and demonstrated in this Phase I program for use in hypersonic shock tunnel facilities. Two force measurements will be made. The first is a local skin friction measurement, that in conjunction with CFD, can help predict integrated drag values. Skin friction gages will be modified/calibrated for use in the shock tunnel and will provide validation of the correlation used to obtain skin friction from a Reynolds analogy formulation, still needed for high resolution since numerous heat transfer gages can be implemented but only several skin friction gages. Innovative surface interpolation techniques will be utilized in integrating the forces. The second technique is a global force measurement that provides net model thrust and which will be configured to work with the ASET vehicle geometry. On-board recording devices are required here to isolate the test model. Substantive CFD support for experimental planning and for proof of concept validation is a key component of this proposed effort.

Omnitek Partners, LLC 111 West Main Street Bay Shore, NY 11706
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(631) 665-4008 Richard Murray ARMY 09-135 Awarded: 4/26/2010
Title:	Innovative Inertia Devices
Abstract:	The primary objective of this project is to study the feasibility of the development of several novel classes of inertia sensors such as accelerometers and gyros for use for flight control in high-G gun-fired munitions and mortars. The proposed inertia sensor concepts are intended to provide high sensitivity of better than 0.05 G while being capable of withstanding setback acceleration levels of over 120,000 Gs. The inertia sensors are also intended to require minimal time (3 msec or less) to settle post firing and consume relatively low power. The sensors are to be produced using existing MEMS manufacturing processes, thereby are expected to be relatively low cost and highly reliable and have a wide range of potential commercial applications. The proposed novel inertia sensor designs are scalable across all munitions applications and should allow the development of low-cost inertia-based components for flight control of high-G gun-fired munitions with the goal of providing very affordable guidance and control systems for all future guided munitions applications, including large to medium caliber rounds.

Solid-State Research, Inc. 47 Fairview Road Weston, MA 02493
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 297-2794 Demetrios Papageorgiou ARMY 09-135 Awarded: 4/15/2010
Title:	A High-Sensitivity Accelerometer Capable of Surviving Launch Shock
Abstract:	The MEMS accelerometer described uses an innovative method of ensuring extreme shocks while providing high-bandwidth, milli-g sensitivity within a fraction of a millisecond. With overall dimensions of approximately several cubic millimeters, the device can readily be used on all munitions.

Galt LLC 6075 Jackson Road Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(734) 470-6851 Subhashree Ramadoss ARMY 09-136 Awarded: 8/18/2010
Title:	Multispectral Gamma Detector for Explosives Analysis
Abstract:	The coupling of a neutron source and a Compton camera based on fast inorganic scintillation crystals is proposed as a means for imaging high explosives and other materials at intermediate ranges. The use of scintillators allows one to deploy relatively large active detection areas, which are crucial if short measurement times are going to be achieved. The temporal response of the fast scintillation component of the BaF2 crystals that we intend to use will not only mitigate pulse pile-up concerns and allow precise depth-imaging in pulsed applications, but it also enables the precise position-sensing of the gamma-ray interaction location. The main focus of the Phase I research is to develop a 3-element bar-detector design to validate the feasibility previously predicted through models and measurements, so that a scaled prototype device can be fabricated and tested in Phase II.

Physical Optics Corporation Applied Technologies Division 20600 Gramercy Place, Bldg 100 Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 320-3088 Wondwosen Mengesha ARMY 09-136 Awarded: 4/14/2010
Title:	Digital Explosive Ordance Detection System
Abstract:	To address the Armyâ€™s need for a multispectral gamma detector to support explosives detection, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Digital Explosive Ordnance Detection (DEOD) system. This system is based on a pixelated NaI(Tl) scintillator and embedded signal enhancement and pulse-shape discrimination software. The innovation in pixelated detector design for signal enhancement and noise suppression, coincidence detection approach, and signal discrimination will enable detection of explosive quantities as low as 10 kilograms using Prompt Gamma Neutron Activation Analysis (PGNAA). DEOD offers high-resolution (1â€“3%) detection of gamma lines with energies 2-11 MeV needed for PGNAA, and achieves directionality to within 10 degrees. It allows real-time (

NEMS/MEMS WORKS,LLC. 2306 Longview Drive Columbia, MO 65203
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(573) 808-0235 Steve Apperson ARMY 09-137 Awarded: 5/17/2010
Title:	Fast-Impulse Solid Fuel Miniature Thruster
Abstract:	Nanothermite composites containing metallic fuel and inorganic oxidizer have unique combustion properties that make them potentially useful for microthruster applications. The properties can be further tuned by addition of other chemicals in the nanoscale as required for different applications. The tailored characteristics of such energetic materials include tunable reaction rate, pressure and temperature. The present research effort will be aimed at characterizing various nanothermite materials in prototype thruster motors. The objective is to gain understanding of thrust performance of different nanothermites in different thruster motor designs. This will determine the most efficient material and motor design to produce the shortest possible thrust duration with the largest possible total impulse. The chamber design parameters such as structural material and cross-sectional area will be investigated to determine its effect on performance. Additionally, the type of nanocomposites and how it is loaded into the motor will be tested. Besides the actual thruster design considerations, the overarching consideration is the specific application in which the thrusters will be used. This will determine the ultimate requirements of the thrust impulse. Our goal will be to identify the specific guidance application and determine exact performance requirements leading to the development of fabrication and integration strategy.

Tanner Research, Inc. 825 S. Myrtle Ave. Monrovia, CA 91016
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(626) 471-9700 Amish Desai ARMY 09-137 Awarded: 5/13/2010
Title:	Fast Response Thrusters to Enhance PGM Accuracy
Abstract:	Terminal accuracy is imparted into spin-stabilized precision-guided munitions (PGM) by short-duration lateral impulses applied behind the center of mass. Most important for spinning projectiles, however, the thrusters must first function very fast. Thrusters with hot-wire ignition need 1-to-3 msec just to ignite. During the hot-wire heat-up time a 105mm howitzer projectile spins 120Âº-to-360Âº making fast, predictable ignition response as important to accuracy as very short thrust duration. In Phase I, Tanner Research proposes to integrate an EFI-based 100 nanosecond-response ignition system with high combustion-rate energetics (COTS or GFE). For the proposed test bed demonstration Tanner will use a thruster body design already proven to survive 40,000g acceleration (Navy hypervelocity projectile). Ideally, Tanner Research will EFI initiated thrusters capable of order 100 nanosecond response (initiation) times and submillisecond burn times. Our final goal will be to show the technology can be scaled up to 150N of thrust force.

GCAS Incorporated 1531 Grand Avenue 1531 Grand Avenue San Marcos, CA 92078
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(760) 591-4227 Rajee Setty ARMY 09-138 Awarded: 2/1/2010
Title:	Multi-Threaded Missions and Means Framework
Abstract:	As military planners and analysts rely more on modeling and simulation to provide information on which to base strategic and tactical decisions, simulation credibility becomes more important. Multi agent systems and networks are becoming critical to military missions; this requires a mission-centric awareness that enables critical insight of network functioning for decision makers. We will explore different ways to organize the collaboration of actions between autonomous agents in multiple military domains.

Integrated Activity-Based Simulation Research, Inc P.O. Box 421 Rolla, MO 65402
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(573) 202-8373 Kofi Nyamekye ARMY 09-138 Awarded: 1/8/2010
Title:	Multi-Threaded Missions and Means Framework
Abstract:	The Missions and Means Framework (MMF) has been primarily used to examine and develop combat operation models that examine the matching of military tasks associated with the combat operations in question with the military means needed to successfully achieve those objectives. For a military operational thread to execute successfully, it must often interact with other military operational threads that provide essential capabilities required at specific times. In Phase I-Base, the IABSRI will use Axiomatic Design scientific principles for complex interactions among the operational threads to formulate the MMF paradigm. From the MMF paradigm, IABSRI will model the ontology for matching the military assets to the mission. The IABSRI will then create the knowledge base for matching the military assets with the capabilities requirements to any mission tasks. In Phase I-Option, IABSRI proposes to use the multi-agent modeling and simulation concepts to design a small-scale experimental test bed to simulate the interaction effects between logistical thread and combat operation to determine any favorable or unfavorable outcomes. We propose to trace back any unfavorable outcomes to material and/or personnel state changes up to specific tasks and/or capabilities that caused the mission failures. Phase I innovation would benefit the construction industry.

Advanced Cooling Technologies, Inc. 1046 New Holland Avenue Lancaster, PA 17601
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(717) 295-6061 David Sarraf ARMY 09-139 Awarded: 1/27/2010
Title:	Advanced Cooling Methods for Film Capacitors
Abstract:	Power inverters convert electrical power from one voltage and frequency to another. They are used in a variety of commercial and military systems, including electric vehicles, solar and wind energy power conditioning, and More Electric Aircraft. The ability to effectively cool the capacitors in these inverters is limiting the maximum operating temperature and packaging density of the inverters. Current practice is to reject heat axially, from the base of the capacitor to a mounting plate. This results in large temperature gradients and limits capacitor performance. This Phase I program will investigate cooling the capacitors radially, using a high-conductivity thermal link to bring the heat to the base plate. Finite Element analysis has shown that this approach allows higher capacitor power dissipation before reaching a limiting dielectric temperature and eliminates local hot spots that can lead to early failure. Effective capacitor cooling will allow reduction in the number of capacitors used and use of coolants operating at higher temperatures. It will also allow the use of COTS components, such as commercially- available, unmodified capacitors, with their proven high reliability and known characteristics. Phase II will construct and demonstrate one or more inverters using this radial cooling technology in relevant environments.

Technology Assessment & Transfer, Inc. 133 Defense Highway, Suite 212 Annapolis, MD 21401
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(410) 987-8988 Greg Slavik ARMY 09-139 Awarded: 3/11/2010
Title:	Capacitor thermal management for mobile power electronics
Abstract:	Technology Assessment & Transfer, Inc. (TA&T) proposes a complete thermal management solution for high power capacitors in military vehicle converters/inverters and similar devices that addresses not only self-heating but also high temperature ambient conditions. The Armyâ€™s recent push to utilize the primary internal combustion engine coolant loop in hybrid vehicles to transport heat away from these drive electronics eliminates the cost, weight, and volume of dedicated secondary cooling loops. Current capacitor arrays in these converters rely on convective cooling and therefore occupy large volumes. Increased coolant temperatures have heated ambient air near levels to the already limited maximum temperature of the high power capacitors. TA&T proposes an actively cooled solution that is isolated from the ambient and interfaces to the existing system coldplate, while allowing higher power density in the capacitor array.

Cornerstone Research Group, Inc. 2750 Indian Ripple Road Dayton, OH 45440
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 320-1877 Richard Tillinger ARMY 09-140 Awarded: 2/26/2010
Title:	Bio-Inspired Ballistic Shock Absorber
Abstract:	High-frequency shocks are a continuing problem for personnel and equipment on today''s battlefields. The need exists to better protect vehicles, buildings, critical microelectronics components, and especially personnel in the severe, high-acceleration environments associated with ballistic impact. Advanced characterization and computational modeling of ballistic impact responses are needed to better define the physics of shock mitigation and to enable design of new protection concepts. Improved material shock response and decreased acceleration in response to ballistic shock are needed to reduce occupant injury and increase survivability of sensitive equipment in severe ballistic events. The proposed solution must be capable of mitigating ballistic shocks while addressing the increasing demand of protecting occupants in advanced armored vehicles or electronics equipment in the next-generation smart munitions and guided projectiles. Cornerstone Research Group Inc. (CRG) proposes to develop, model and demonstrate an innovative bio-inspired armor protective system and shock attenuating materials that protect military occupants and advanced hardware against detrimental shock or load transmission due to ballistic impacts. The overall process to obtain a realistic, workable solution will encompass two pathways: 1) a computational tool to support the design and development of armor protective systems against ballistic shock, and 2) a bio-inspired armor protective system.

M4 Engineering, Inc. 4020 Long Beach Blvd Long Beach, CA 90807
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(562) 981-7797 Jinhua Huang ARMY 09-140 Awarded: 1/12/2010
Title:	Bone-Foramen-Inspired Material System for Ballistic Shock Mitigation
Abstract:	In the current proposal, the bone-foramen biological designs will be utilized to develop a shock mitigation material system that attenuates the ballistic response to the industry standard tolerance level. The proposed material system will be capable of mitigating detrimental high frequency shocks for equipment and reducing fatal low frequency load transmission for occupants. A bone-foramen inspired material system consists of basic materials which will be basic metallic foams with different densities. The density distribution pattern is governed by the bone-foramen material distribution pattern. LS- DYNA will be employed to capture the ballistic response-mitigation behavior. The M4 Engineering in-house optimization package will be applied to the optimization of the bone- foramen inspired material system for best ballistic response-mitigation behavior. High strain rate compressive and indentation tests using split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) will be conducted to establish and verify the material properties for constitutive model in LS-DYNA. MIL-STD-810F Large Scale Ballistic Shock Simulator (LSBSS) and Drop Table experiments will be performed to quantify the mitigation of ballistic response on the optimized bone-foramen inspired material system.

4-D Imaging, Inc. 3139 Campus Drive Suite 500 Norcross, GA 30071
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(678) 938-9598 Richard Pracht ARMY 09-141 Awarded: 3/5/2010
Title:	Real-time Video Restoration Processor for Mitigating Atmospheric Distortion
Abstract:	Atmospheric distortion is a naturally occurring phenomenon that can severely limit the capabilities of long range optical and infrared sensors, particularly those with optical paths close to the ground or other hot surfaces. This distortion can adversely affect the U.S. Armyâ€™s ability to identify and target objects at long-range. In addition, advanced imaging systems can also be limited by atmospheric distortion rather than sensor technology. Accordingly, it will be necessary to restore image information in order to take full advantage of next-generation sensors. 4-D Imaging has developed and optimized a patent-pending algorithm that is specifically designed to suppress atmospheric turbulence in video. The algorithm uses adaptive multigrid control grid interpolation to estimate a dense displacement vector field based on the characteristics of atmospheric distortion present in an image sequence. The displacement field is then used as part of a distortion compensation process that preserves genuine motion, such as that of objects moving in front of a stationary background. 4-D Imaging proposes to use this algorithm in the development of a compact real-time video restoration processor that can be easily incorporated into existing imaging systems.

Argos Intelligence, LLC 3417 Chartley Lane Roswell, GA 30075
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(678) 641-2380 Robert Bock ARMY 09-141 Awarded: 3/9/2010
Title:	The OPtimal Turbulence Effects Correction System (OPTEC) for Enhanced Long-Range Tactical Imaging
Abstract:	Argos Intelligence proposes to develop the OPtimal Turbulence Effects Correction (OPTEC) System, a low cost and innovative image restoration processor for restoring atmospherically degraded video imagery in real-time. OPTEC leverages the computational power of the new generation programmable Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) and builds on existing, demonstrated image processing algorithms for mitigating the effects of atmospheric turbulence and camera jitter. OPTEC will provide unprecedented, real-time imaging capabilities in severe environmental conditions and is designed to be small, inexpensive, versatile and adaptable in order to support a number of long-range imaging systems, video formats and resolutions. Furthermore, since OPTEC is built on a highly parallel, scalable GPU platform, it is ideally suited to support existing and future imaging systems. The Phase I research will focus on the OPTEC system design and architecture and the development of a working, integrated prototype for an end-to-end Phase I demonstration. In addition, Argos Intelligence will develop a detailed Phase II experimental and demonstration plan that will test the OPTEC performance in operationally-realistic settings. The Argos Intelligence OPTEC System will restore the original information content of the imagery so that a sensor operator can take full advantage of next-generation imaging systems.

Architecture Technology Corporation 9977 Valley View Road Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(952) 829-5864 Jordan Bonney ARMY 09-142 Awarded: 2/10/2010
Title:	Integrative Communications Effects Environment
Abstract:	The proposed Integrative Communications Effects Environment (ICEE) is a gateway that allows the creation of a "mixed-mode" test environment where live, virtual, and constructive (simulated) nodes can exchange data with one another during realtime test execution. ICEE bridges the mixed-mode testing capability gap, combining constructive (simulated), virtual (mostly real hardware), and live (completely real hardware) nodes. ICEE solves the problems that have traditionally plagued operational testing of mobile, wireless communications networks such as operational realism, scalability, and execution efficiency.

Scalable Network Technologies Inc 6100 Center Drive #1250 Los Angeles, CA 90045
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 338-3318 Sheetalkumar Doshi ARMY 09-142 Awarded: 2/15/2010
Title:	Realistic Communications Effects for Evaluation of Tactical Command and Control and Situational Awareness applications
Abstract:	The concept of Live, Virtual and Constructive (LVC) test environments is central tenet for OTCâ€™s BCNIS program, which will provide realistic situational awareness (SA) and command and control (C2) tactical environment to support operational testing, without the costs and constraints of deploying a large number of physical units in the field. However, three primary issues remain unresolved for the successful deployment of LVC in the BCNIS framework: â€¢ Identification of appropriate integration interfaces between the physical and constructive networks that are operationally meaningful. â€¢ Identification of the requirements for the fidelity of the communication network models as well as the fidelity of wireless communication effects due to buildings, foliage, terrain and similar factors that are operationally meaningful. â€¢ Identification of methods for data collection and instrumentation of the LVC NUT, so that evaluators can monitor and analyze the complex interactions of LVC networks. In Phase 1 of the SBIR effort, SNT will precisely identify the requirements and feasible mechanisms for such an LVC environment from the interface, fidelity, and data collection & analysis perspectives outlined above. In Phase 2, SNT will develop a prototype of the LVC Network Integration solution and demonstrate its applicability to the BCNIS environment.

Applied Technology Associates 1300 Britt SE Albuquerque, NM 87123
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 767-1241 Bill Walker ARMY 09-143 Awarded: 9/7/2010
Title:	Inertially Stabilized Smart Camera (ISSC)
Abstract:	Applied Technology Associates (ATA) proposes to develop an inertially stabilized smart camera (ISSC) which provides an innovative inertial-sensor-based / digital-image- stabilization hybrid solution to the problems posed by long standoff, narrow field of view imaging. This solution makes use of ATAâ€™s magneto-hydrodynamic (MHD) angular rate sensors (ARS), FPGA-based mechanical control and digital stability algorithms to achieve the solicitation objectives. Low frequency motion is addressed through closed-loop mechanical control, and higher frequency motion is addressed through the use of an open loop sensed motion based digital stability algorithm.

Physical Optics Corporation Electro-Optics Systems Division 20600 Gramercy Place, Bldg. 100 Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 320-3088 Oleg Galkin ARMY 09-143 Awarded: 9/7/2010
Title:	Micromechanically Stabilized Surveillance Platform
Abstract:	To address the Army need for inertially stabilized smart cameras (ISSC), Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Micromechanically Stabilized Surveillance Platform (MSSP) based on a new optical stabilization scheme using MEMS scanning mirror and a novel design integrating computer-on-module technology. The innovation in the optical system design will allow image stabilization of less than 1 milliradian in the presence of vibrations in the 10 to 100 milliradian range and with the bandwidth of 1-100 Hz. The novel use of extremely compact microcomputers will enable onboard camera control, video data processing, and wireless communication. As a result, the MSSP system can be deployed on small unmanned ground and aerial vehicles and will provide the Army with long-range surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, which directly address the Future Combat Systems (Brigade Combat Team) program requirements. In Phase I, POC will demonstrate the feasibility of MSSP system by studying and analyzing suitable camera, embedded computation, and inertial stabilization technology and assembling and testing the proof-of-concept prototype. In Phase II, POC plans to develop the functional prototype and demonstrate its performance with prescribed parameters, estimate the Phase III preproduction costs, and suggest necessary revisions to the design.

Creare Inc. P.O. Box 71 Hanover, NH 03755
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(603) 643-3800 Michael Jaeger ARMY 09-144 Awarded: 3/29/2010
Title:	Portable Mass Spectrometer with Disposable Mass Analyzer
Abstract:	Analysis of chemical samples in the field and in confined areas has many advantages over laboratory analysis. Laboratory analyses can be slow, involve increased expense, lead to additional waste generation and disposal problems, and may introduce errors due to sample degradation or mishandling. In situ analysis mitigates all of these problems. The specific aim of this project is the development of a truly portable mass spectrometer for chemical analysis. Our device will feature greatly reduced size and improved portability over commercially available units by combining proven, miniaturized mass spectrometer, vacuum system, and mass analysis technologies. These technologies will be combined with an easy-to-use package and interface that will enable soldiers-in-the-field to perform chemical analyses. The Creare team is extremely well qualified to develop and transition/commercialize this technology. Creare is a leading developer of miniaturized instruments for use in military applications and NASAâ€™s Jet Propulsion Laboratory is a pioneer in the development of MEMS mass analyzers.

Torion Technologies 796 East Utah Valley Drive, Suite 200 American Fork, UT 84003
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(801) 705-6600 Christopher Bowerbank ARMY 09-144 Awarded: 3/10/2010
Title:	Microfabricated Mass Spectrometer for Near Real-Time Toxic Chemical Detection
Abstract:	A need for miniaturized mass spectrometer (MS) instrumentation exists for both stationary point monitoring and applications where instrument size is critical, including military swatch test monitoring of chemical agent permeation rates and field detection of chemical agents. A 50% size and weight reduction over current portable MS instrumentation through modern microfabrication techniques while maintaining excellent performance represents a major breakthrough in detection capability. Planar, microfabricated ion trap (IT) MS devices will be constructed that meet these requirements of high sensitivity, high resolution, tandem MS operation, high operating pressure, reduced cleaning and service requirements, unsurpassed robustness, and ease of use. A novel two-plate microfabrication approach is proposed which will allow higher electric field accuracy than is possible using other microfabricated techniques, resulting in high mass resolution and sensitivity. The dual analyzer will simultaneously characterize both positive and negative ions (including MS/MS mode), allowing detection of a broad range of chemical targets. This approach allows the benefits of microfabricationâ€”higher operating pressure, lower power, lower costâ€”while overcoming the performance deficiencies of other MS techniques. Widespread interest in the first high performance microfabricated linear ITMS system is anticipated with commercial applications for detection of explosives, drugs, toxic industrial chemicals, and environmental pollutants.

Black Forest Engineering, LLC 12930 Morris Trail Colorado Springs, CO 80908
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(719) 593-9501 Stephen Gaalema ARMY 09-145 Awarded: 4/30/2010
Title:	Advanced Readout Development for High Performance Corrugated Quantum Well Infrared Photoconductors Technology
Abstract:	Black Forest Engineering has developed readout integrated circuit (ROIC) methods that provide large charge integration capability in a small pixel pitch. A small pixel pitch allows high image resolution and large image formats with significant reduction in optics size and weight. The large charge capability results from in-pixel dark current pedestal subtraction and switched capacitor signal integration. During Phase I, BFE will demonstrate by design and analysis that pixel circuit modifications will provide low noise signal extraction compatible with corrugated quantum well infrared photoconductor (C-QWIP) operation at cryogenic temperatures. The readout pixel circuitry will be designed in a 15 Âµm pixel pitch with performance demonstrated in Phase I. On Phase II, this new pixel circuitry will be demonstrated in a larger format ROIC and hybridized to C-QWIP detector arrays. The Phase II ROIC will have on-chip ADC and support array size up to 2Kx2K at 60 Hz frame rates.

Nova Research, Inc. DBA Nova Sensors 320 Alisal Road, Suite 104 Solvang, CA 93463
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(805) 693-9600 Christopher Baxter ARMY 09-145 Awarded: 5/13/2010
Title:	Advanced Readout Development for High Performance Corrugated Quantum Well Infrared Photoconductors Technology
Abstract:	place holder for the abstract

Modus Operandi, Inc. 709 South Harbor City Blvd., Suite 400 Melbourne, FL 32901
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(321) 473-1421 Richard Hull ARMY 09-146 Awarded: 4/8/2010
Title:	Services for Proactive Automatic Information Requests (SPAIR)
Abstract:	The present Distributed Common Ground System-Army (DCGS-A) reacts to commandersâ€™ Requests for Intelligence (RFI). RFIâ€™s are created by analysts based on their assessment of the commanderâ€™s intent, planning guidance, Army doctrine, specific Commanders Critical Information Requirements (CCIR), and Essential Elements of Friendly Information (EEFI). Specific RFIâ€™s are heavily influenced by the knowledge and experience of commanders and their staffs. But this actually results in limitations in crafting RFIs since anything beyond the scope of their knowledge and experience will be overlooked. Moreover, individual biases and â€˜blind spotsâ€™ come into play, which also can result in critical information being overlooked. This is of particular concern during counter-insurgency and anti-terrorist operations, where knowledge of indigenous cultures, customs, and social networks is extremely important. The US Army requires the capability to automatically and proactively find information that is relevant to a unitâ€™s situation and offer the information to the commanderâ€™s staff. Services for Proactive Automated Information Requests (SPAIR) analyzes Commanderâ€™s Critical Information Requirements to detect gaps based on a combat model, automatically collects information to fill the gaps, and presents the information to the commander.

Stottler Henke Associates, Inc. 951 Mariner's Island Blvd., STE 360 San Mateo, CA 94404
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(206) 545-3533 Tamitha Carpenter ARMY 09-146 Awarded: 7/21/2010
Title:	Targeting Critical Information Requirements with Robust Knowledge
Abstract:	We propose to target critical information requirements with an innovative extensible agent architecture that employs multiple levels of knowledge discovery and information fusion. The proposed system concept, Informant, will employ a combination of machine learning- based bootstrapping techniques and end-user accessible ontology development tools to facilitate the development and maintenance of background knowledge. This background knowledge will enable an analogy based CCIR capture process in which Informant infers information requirements from a case base of historic combat situations and a description of the unique combat situation that gave rise to these requirements. Informant will further apply its background knowledge to translate these CCIRs into specific RFIs and other machine-actionable guidance. Once codified, CCIRs will drive a knowledge discovery process that may involve anything from straightforward data retrieval to intricate information extraction and inference depending on the form of requirement and the availability of the information resources at the time. Once identified, critical information will be disseminated in a concise but unpackable form compatible with mobile devices. Phase I research and development of a limited prototype will provide a solid foundation for the complete implementation of Informant in Phase II and its eventual commercialization.

AKELA, Inc. 5551 Ekwill Street Suite A Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(805) 683-6414 Allan Hunt ARMY 09-147 Awarded: 3/22/2010
Title:	Helmet Mounted Radar System (HRMS)
Abstract:	The objective of this proposal is to demonstrate the feasibility of developing a helmet mounted radar system that uses technology similar to that currently being developed for sense through the wall applications.

Helios Remote Sensing Systems, Inc. 101 Bleecker Street Utica, NY 13501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(315) 732-0101 Walter Szczepanski ARMY 09-147 Awarded: 5/26/2010
Title:	Helmet Mounted Radar System (HRMS)
Abstract:	The Helios Remote Sensing Systems team will develop a miniature, low power, 360- degree field of view Moving Target Indicator (MTI) radar sensor that will alert the soldier to the whereabouts of targets out to at least 25 meters with a goal of 50 meters while operating in harsh environments. The sensor will be mounted, embedded, and integrated within the Advanced Combat Helmet and associated sensor suites. Special attention has been paid to system weight, power consumption, and health of the soldier for this application. The total weight of the system is projected to be less than 2 Â½ pounds with less than one pound mounted on the helmet. Several options will be investigated as a means to cue the soldier to the whereabouts of the targets. Special waveforms are considered for tag interrogation to enable precise location of blue forces, as well as target discrimination. Detection of small arms fire is included as part of the trade study. The compact, low cost, low-power radar will employ a novel 360 degree field of view helmet mounted antenna, novel signal, clutter and motion compensation processing algorithms and state-of-the-art chip-based implementations to optimize performance and low power operation.

SI2 Technologies 267 Boston Road North Billerica, MA 01862
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 495-5300 Thomas Goodwin ARMY 09-147 Awarded: 4/13/2010
Title:	Lightweight, Helmet Integrated MTI Radar System (1000-140)
Abstract:	SI2 Technologies proposes to use its novel Direct Write printing technology to integrate conformal, embedded antennas into an Advanced Combat Helmet (ACH) and combine the embedded antennas with radar electronics to develop a fully integrated Moving Target Indicator (MTI) radar system. In Phase I, the Concept of Operations (CONOPS) for the Helmet Mounted Radar System will be defined in consultation with the Army, and based on this information SI2 will conduct a feasibility study that will include radar system definition and evaluate antenna integration approaches. SI2 will define specific approaches to using the data from the radar sensor to cue the soldier to the location of the detected target. The performance of the conformal, embedded antennas will be simulated and a functional block diagram of the MTI radar system will be developed. Considerations for covertness and RF safety (Specific Absorption Rate - SAR) will be included in the feasibility study. Phase I will define a proof of concept for the MTI radar system. In Phase II, a prototype demonstrator system will be developed, and Phase III will integrate the MTI radar system with the ACH.

L. C. Pegasus Corporation 225 Long Avenue Building 15 Hillside, NJ 07205
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(973) 923-3028 Thomas Koscica ARMY 09-148 Awarded: 4/13/2010
Title:	Tunnel Detection using MASINT Techniques
Abstract:	This proposed effort is focused on the development of a suite of fiber optic sensors that will detect, and locate tunnels. The system will be able to determine the depth of the tunnel and map the location of the tunnel on an overlay of a map. The system will also be able to determine if the tunnel has power and be able to detect the presence of human beings.

McQ Inc. 1551 Forbes St. Fredericksburg, VA 22405
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(540) 373-2374 Barry Jones ARMY 09-148 Awarded: 1/27/2010
Title:	Tunnel Detection using MASINT Techniques
Abstract:	McQ will build upon its extensive experience with MASINT unattended ground sensors and electronics systems to develop a portable sensor system that will detect, classify and provide location information for buried tunnels. We will first demonstrate the technical feasibility of using MASINT techniques to exploit both the signals associated with tunnel detection and the physics of propagation to detect tunnels and determine their characteristics. During Phase I we will also develop a preliminary design for a system that will readily and effectively use this capability to provide operators the information that they need for tunnel detection and characterization. Our proposed sensors will employ multiple modalities for sensing the signals associated with activities and routine functions of underground facilities and sites. The sensors will also use our advanced signal processing to classify the nature of target activities. Signal correlation between multiple sensors will provide location and depth information about the signals and the underground sites. Our experience base will also allow us to propose a complete operational system that addresses all aspects of system deployment and operation in addition to the basic sensor operation. Within the scope of the Ph1/Ph2 program, McQ will design, develop, test and deliver a completely functional air deliverable geologic sensor suitable for production and deployment.

TiaLinx, Inc. 1101 Dove Street, Suite 240 Newport Beach, CA 92660
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(949) 285-6255 Fred Mohamadi ARMY 09-148 Awarded: 1/14/2010
Title:	Tunnel Detection using MASINT Techniques
Abstract:	In response to this SBIR Phase I solicitation, TiaLinx proposes to develop a suite of sensors that will detect, and locate tunnels and monitor them for traffic. The system will be able to determine the depth of the tunnel and locate the tunnel on an overlay of a map. The system will also be able to determine if the tunnel has power and be able to detect the presence of human beings. Additionally, TiaLinx will modify itâ€™s flagship product, Eagle5 ultra wideband (UWB) RF Imaging system to address and map any ground contour and combine the results for data mining with inclusion of seismic sensor array (Spider1) output.

FiveFocal LLC 1035 Pearl Street Boulder, CO 80302
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 532-5699 Huck Wach ARMY 09-149 Awarded: 3/1/2010
Title:	Passive Multispectral Ranging Imager for Visual Odometry
Abstract:	Accurate Position Location Information (PLI) enables deployment and coordination of ground-based assets, e.g. soldiers and ground vehicles, and is required for safe and effective completion of diverse missions. PLI from computer machine vision, e.g. visual navigation, has the potential to replace GPS in urban, indoor, high cover, and jammed GPS environs. An additional benefit to visual navigation is that the system may be configured to continuously upgrade maps of explored surroundings for improved situational awareness and intel briefing prior to subsequent asset deployment. The primary failure modes of any visual odomentry system will be under conditions of 1) rapid motion which degrades or interrupts good feature flow, 2) sparse or degraded good features in low light, smoke,haze or in featureless surroundings, and 3) large ambiguity in the range of good features in outdoor and wide open settings. FiveFocalâ€™s proposed solution is a soldier-mounted, multispectral passive ranging and imaging system optimized to provide richer information to robust localization and mapping algorithms â€“ the vision and mapping system would fit into a credit-card size footprint.

Intelligent Automation, Inc. 15400 Calhoun Drive Suite 400 Rockville, MD 20855
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 294-5263 Peter Abeles ARMY 09-149 Awarded: 3/23/2010
Title:	Visual Measurement-based Autonomous Navigation
Abstract:	Providing Position Location Information (PLI) for individual warfighters increases their effectiveness, enables much greater cooperation between forces, and provides strategic information to commanders. Current technologies which attempt to provide PLI use Inertial Measurement Units (IMU) and Global Positioning System (GPS). This combination is undesirable due to weight, size, and power issues. To address this critical challenge, Intelligent Automation Inc. (IAI), along with Prof. Carlo Tomasi of Duke University and Boeing Research and Technology (BR&T), propose to develop SeeStar, an accurate and efficient visual navigation system (VNS). SeeStar has the following key innovations that will produce accurate and stable results in a practical form factor: â€¢ Uses three camera, two forward looking cameras acting as a stereo pair and one off angle camera. In our team''s past work [6], it was shown that a wide field of view and high resolution are both needed for high accuracy. â€¢ Recover information from blurred images caused by uneven and extraneous motions instead of discarding them. â€¢ Prevent unbounded growth of error by detecting and recognizing previously seen landmarks. â€¢ Use provably unbiased motion estimation algorithm.

Primordial, Inc. 1021 Bandana Boulevard East Suite 225 Saint Paul, MN 55108
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(651) 395-6201 Randy Milbert ARMY 09-149 Awarded: 3/16/2010
Title:	SoldierVision: Visual Measurement Based Autonomous Navigation
Abstract:	Primordial, Evolution Robotics and Professor Clark Olson propose SoldierVisionTM: a vision-based autonomous navigation system for soldiers in the GPS-denied battlefield. Existing wearable dead-reckoning devices, relying on inertial measurement units (IMUs) and stride estimates, rapidly lose accuracy as the soldier moves and are currently of limited value for the dismounted soldier. However, recent advances in computer vision algorithms have opened up the possibility of using low cost cameras (e.g. mounted to the soldierâ€™s helmet) to perform vision-based localization and navigation. The proposed SoldierVision product will build on our partnerâ€™s (Evolution Roboticsâ€™) state-of-the- art vSLAMTM technology, which relies on pattern recognition to automatically create a map of the visible surroundings and localize the camera within the environment. Evolution Robotics developed the pattern recognition software for the Sony Aibo robot and has collaborated with the military on projects ranging from RPG detection to UAV autonomous navigation. An impressive recent application of computer vision techniques to localization and navigation was the use of binocular camera-based odometry to assist the Mars Rovers in their semi-autonomous exploration of the Martian surface (a truly GPS-denied environment). At the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, our team member Professor Clark Olson spent 5 years working on computer vision techniques for the Mars rovers, and we are excited to leverage his expertise in this area. Also, Primordial is in an excellent position to commercialize this product, having already integrated our patented Ground GuidanceÂ® navigation software into the Armyâ€™s Land Warrior system for dismounted soldiers. In phase I, Primordial will develop a prototype version of SoldierVision, building on Evolution Roboticsâ€™ innovative vSLAM technology, and we will perform a live demo with human subjects in order to realistically assess the feasibility of the proposed system.

Altusys Corp P O Box 1274 Princeton, NJ 08542
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(609) 651-4500 Gabriel Jakobson ARMY 09-150 Awarded: 5/17/2010
Title:	Problem Conceptualization & Resolution of Network Problems in Tactical Environment
Abstract:	The methods that has been historically developed and fielded for alarm and fault management in traditional communications networks do not provide adequate operational assurance for complex ad hoc tactical networks, especially for unskilled and inadequately trained operational personnel. Work on tactical network operations management that is proposed under ARMY 09-150 will use a novel approach that integrates the following key technologies: (a) Cognitive network and mission situation awareness; (b) Intelligent and highly visual network operator interface that is adaptable to the skill-levels of network operators; (c) Real-time spatio-temporal event correlation; and (d) Distributed multi-agent system (MAS) technology. These key technologies are embedded into the Multi-Agent Systems Based Situation Management (MAS-SM) architecture developed at Altusys. Our goal is to produce a technology that will significantly automate critical tactical network management processes, increase the cognitive decision-making power of network personnel and reduce the mission accomplishment time-frame. We have already shown an effective implementation environment for tactical situation awareness and decision support for the tasks that we addressed in the AFRL and MDA contracts using the Altusysâ€™ real-time situation management technology and distributed multi-agent systems (MAS) implementation environment. Our plan is to investigate the feasibility of using the same implementation environment for the ARMY 09-150 contract.

Drakontas LLC 200 Federal Street ACIN Technology Center, Suite Camden, NJ 08103
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(215) 887-5570 James Sim ARMY 09-150 Awarded: 8/19/2010
Title:	Problem Conceptualization & Resolution of Network Problems in Tactical Environment
Abstract:	The current generation of network management systems (NMS) is designed by and for highly trained network engineers and computer scientists, but significant gaps exist in the usefulness of these tools for the Signal Engineers and Warrant Officers responsible for managing the warfighter Tactical Network. To address this gap, Drakontas proposes to develop a comprehensive specification for a new approach to network management: a Human-Centered Network Visualizer. The goal of the Human-Centered Network Visualizer is to do for network management what â€œsituation awarenessâ€ tools have done for command and control (C2). The Human-Centered Network Visualizer will improve network situation awareness across all echelons of command, particularly for those warfighters whose knowledge of network technology may be limited, but who need information about spectrum, network elements, security and access control. Drakontas proposes to design a single, integrated methodology for display and manipulation of network elements, traffic, security, and mission information by typical network operators. The research team consists of specialists in human factors analysis, software development, and network management; the approach also incorporates ongoing research partnerships with Drexel University and other federal agencies as described in the proposal.

SA Technologies, Inc. 3750 Palladian Village Drive Building 600 Marietta, GA 30066
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(770) 565-9859 Rashaad Jones ARMY 09-150 Awarded: 6/23/2010
Title:	Problem Conceptualization & Resolution of Network Problems in Tactical Environment
Abstract:	Our objective is to document the types of problems network management operators have in high stress environments and to create a report on best processes for problem resolution. Our research involves understanding the role expertise has on situation awareness (SA) in the network operations (NetOps) work domain. Our approach is multifaceted. Since very little research has been conducted for this work domain, we begin by leveraging our work on expertise and SA in areas such as aviation and Army Infantry operations. We propose to perform observational studies on inexperienced operators and compare them to experienced operators to identify the differences in problem resolution between each group. Our proposed research will provide a low-risk, high payoff model for the Army based on a solid theoretical framework and existing cognitive task analyses that capture network centric warfare needs for the Army. The results of our Phase I research will be a report on the best processes for problem resolution to effectively support inexperienced operators. The product of the proposed research, when carried through to Phase II, will be a goal-supporting system for network management operators designed to help them cope with the challenges of network centric warfare.

k-Space Associates, Inc. 2182 Bishop Circle East Dexter, MI 48130
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(734) 426-7977 Charles Taylor ARMY 09-151 Awarded: 6/16/2010
Title:	In-situ Stress and Temperature Optical Monitoring for low-cost heteroepitaxial substrates for HgCdTe infrared detectors.
Abstract:	The feasibility of an in-situ, real-time, non-contact system for optically monitoring temperature in the range 25-800C on Si, GaAs, and CdTe-buffered Si/GaAs substrates will be demonstrated. Real-time measurement of thin-film stress and surface reflectivity during deposition on these substrates, including samples provided by NVESD, will also be developed. Temperature measurement will be performed via band-edge thermometry and blackbody radiation analysis, while stress and reflectivity measurement will be made using an etalon-based multiple laser array approach. Data acquisition will be home-pulse triggered, with provisions made for the non-integer shaft-to-stage rotation ratio of V80H MBE reactors.

Operational Technologies Corporation 4100 N. W. Loop 410 Suite 230 San Antonio, TX 78229
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(210) 731-0000 John Bruno ARMY 09-152 Awarded: 2/15/2010
Title:	Handheld Aptamer-Magnetic Bead-Quantum Dot Sensor for Rickettsiae
Abstract:	Operational Technologies (OpTech) has developed a rapid (15 minute) ultrasensitive one- step plastic-adherent DNA aptamer-magnetic bead (MB) plus aptamer-quantum dot (QD) sandwich assay for Campylobacter detection (J. Fluorescence 19:427-435, 2009), which is quantified with a commercially available handheld and battery-operated fluorometer. This highly portable and facile system has a validated limit of detection of < 10 cfu/ml for C. jejuni and works with push-button ease under rugged field conditions. Therefore, OpTech proposes extension of its patent-pending one-step plastic cuvette-adherent aptamer-MB-aptamer-QD sandwich assays for sensitive antigen (not antibody) detection of early pre-symptomatic rickettsial targets (from the spotted fever and typhus groups) using its lightweight and rugged handheld fluorometer. OpTech will obtain killed rickettsiae from the Army and develop a target cocktail for DNA aptamer selection to enable a general rickettsial assay. At the end of Phase I, OpTech will deliver 100 lyophilized prototype rickettsial assays to the Army for independent testing and evaluation. In Phase II, OpTech will optimize assay performance with respect to specificity, sensitivity and shelf life. OpTech will also optimize shelf life to > 2 years at 35oC by increasing the level of trehalose or other excipients and innovative vacuum or air-tight packaging of the lyophilized assays.

Physical Optics Corporation Applied Technologies Division 20600 Gramercy Place, Bldg 100 Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 320-3088 Gregory Zeltser ARMY 09-152 Awarded: 3/1/2010
Title:	Rickettsiae Detection Dipstick
Abstract:	To address the Army need for a handheld, field-usable assay capable of diagnosing rickettsial disease in soldiers to aid early treatment, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Rickettsiae Detection Dipstick (RDD). The RDD is based on a combination of lateral flow immunochromatography technology and lab-on-chip principles. The RDD assay will rapidly (10 min) differentiate between spotted fever group (SFG) and typhus group (TG) Rickettsiae by detecting rickettsial antigens in blood. The RDD will be inexpensive, not require power or special storage conditions, and have at least 85% of the sensitivity and specificity of current gold-standard assays. All that is necessary to perform the assay is prepackaged in a kit. The one-step assay protocol is easy to perform and the results are easily interpreted by minimally trained personnel. In Phase I, POC will demonstrate RDD feasibility by fabricating the dipstick and demonstrating its capability to identify inactivated SFG and TG Rickettsiae in blood, as well as provide 100 assays for testing at NMRC. In Phase II, POC plans to optimize the RDD design and performance parameters, and perform extensive testing to provide the required level of sensitivity and specificity, and pursue FDA approval in Phase III.

Elintrix 4901 Morena Boulevard Suite 124 San Diego, CA 92117
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 483-1321 Alan Barnett ARMY 09-153 Awarded: 2/15/2010
Title:	Wearable Fiber Optic-Enabled Chemical Nanosensor Array for Warfighters
Abstract:	Harmful exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that occur in operational environments and workplaces represents a health- and performance-risk to dismounted Warfighters and other personnel. There is an unmet need for a highly-integrated, minimalist sensing capability that not only meets sensing requirements, but that can be used where the architectural constraints imposed by specific use-scenarios would render other approaches sub-optimal or impractical. Porous-silicon photonic-crystal materials offer the possibility of mounting millimeter-size sensors directly on the distal end of an optical fiber, resulting in a lightweight, low-cost, flexible, micro-scale, probe-like, optical-sensor solution that could be integrated into the fabric of items of kit or used in applications where minimally-invasive architectures are necessary. This proposal aims to pursue the integration of porous-silicon sensor material with optical fiber to result in a highly-capable, lower-power package, to perform testing to characterize the selectivity, sensitivity, regeneration and reliability performance-characteristics that can be achieved, and to lay the foundation for future work to improve performance and provide an unobtrusive, soldier-worn solution. Under the Option phase of the work, the sensor will undergo characterization testing under conditions of varying humidity.

CellTraffix Inc. 15 Schoen Place Pittsford, NY 14534
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(585) 739-6134 Joel Wojciechowski ARMY 09-154 Awarded: 3/1/2010
Title:	In Vivo Stem Cell Extraction Device
Abstract:	The need for controlled medical tissue regeneration for use in trauma or disease therapies has long existed. Only recently, however, has sufficient technology been developed to even begin exploring potential human applications. A key breakthrough was the discovery of the stem cell as a significant element for regeneration. Yet, in order for stem cells to be of medical use, cells of the similar (allogeneic) type as the patient are needed â€“ preferably from the patient herself (autologous). Moreover, sufficient numbers of stem cells need to be made available. This is especially difficult in trauma patients where little time is given to prepare for sufficient autologous stem cell harvest. Our proposed research will build upon CellTraffixâ€™ established technology for the capture of functioning circulating stem cells from the blood. We propose a plan that will work towards: 1. Scalable increase of our technology into a device that will harvest a sufficient number of stem cells for clinical regenerative purposes (without the need for ex vivo expansion) 2. Safe, implantable, and removable interface with the patient 3. Development of the technology towards commercial use in the private sector, government application, and multi-national healthcare industries

Designed Altobaric Technology Incorporated 32416 Maria Court Livonia, MI 48152
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(248) 987-2326 D. Stephen ARMY 09-154 Awarded: 2/24/2010
Title:	In Vivo Stem Cell Extraction Device Operational Under Hyperbaric Conditions
Abstract:	This submission describes techniques for extracting pluripotential, resident stem cells from patients requiring tissue engineered surgical reconstruction by inducing the release of those cells that is known to occur under altered ambient pressures. Fundamental to this goal is the design and construction of a hyperbaric-adapted aspiration and apheresis device. Elucidation of the most efficient chamber depth and ambient gas composition has not yet been defined by laboratory experiments. Therefore the range of environments where this device must work must initially be quite broad. Exploratory testing on the efficacy of maintaining the patient, and the proliferating stem cells, under these hyperbaric conditions (i.e. "saturation state") will be conducted. Further, preliminary testing on the ideal surfaces and enclosed matrices for the maturing engineered tissue can be conducted in the same chamber environment. Several lines of investigation will emerge from this Phase-I study, both in the laboratory and in clinical trials. All will need as their foundation the ability to release (perhaps even to induce) undifferentiated cells, and the to cull and nurture those cells. Currently tissue engineering has a luxury of elegant ideas and potential uses and a relative lack of raw materials. The product of this endeavor will help relieve that scarcity.

Agave BioSystems, Inc. P.O. Box 100 Ithaca, NY 14850
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(607) 272-0002 Janet Huie ARMY 09-155 Awarded: 2/8/2010
Title:	A Point-of-Care Field Assay for Dengue Viruses
Abstract:	Dengue viruses are transmitted by mosquito vectors throughout tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and Central and South America. Four serotypes circulate, DEN-1 through -4, and immunity to one type does not preclude illness from another type and can exacerbate subsequent disease with another type. While dengue fever can be a mild infection, dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) and dengue shock syndrome (DSS) cause death at a high rate and are associated with multiple serotypes worldwide. Dengue fever symptoms, especially at the early acute stage, can resemble infection with other disease agents, such as malaria and rickettsial diseases, with different treatment regimens. Loop- mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) is a recently developed technique with similar or better detection sensitivity and specificity compared to PCR assays, but allows a single temperature incubation and simple readout more suitable to field devices. LAMP also offers the potential of detection in less pure samples, such as blood, facilitating quick field sample preparation. Therefore, Agave BioSystems proposes to develop a real-time reverse-transcriptase loop-mediated isothermal amplification (real-time RT-LAMP) diagnostic for detection of Dengue viruses in human serum.

Biosearch Technologies, Inc 81 Digital Drive Novato, CA 94949
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(415) 883-8400 Jerry Ruth ARMY 09-155 Awarded: 2/22/2010
Title:	Development of a Simple and Rapid Assay for Field Detection of Dengue Viral RNA
Abstract:	Biosearch Technologies is a fluorescent oligonucleotide probe and assay development company which has been involved in recent government contracts for Biowatch 1 and 2, and in the production of infectious disease assays for the US Air Force. Biosearch is the only CDC-approved vendor for the 2009 HINI swine flu. For this Solicitation, Phase I will develop and provide a Point-of-Care (POC) assay for the four known serotypes of dengue virus. The assay will use an isothermal system called Recombinase Polymerase Amplification (RPA) which is capable of detecting down to one copy of virus target in 20 minutes at 37 degrees C. The instrumentation is stand-alone, and provides detection using field-deployable battery power. The assay reagents are dried and currently stable without refrigeration. Nasal swabs, buccal swabs, or small volumes of blood require no sample preparation, simply mix the sample and begin the amplification reaction. Detection is by direct fluorescence, and the instrument is capable of multiplexing.

Calbiotech, Inc 10461 AUSTIN DR STE D SPRING VALLEY, CA 91978
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(619) 660-6162 Noori Barka ARMY 09-155 Awarded: 3/29/2010
Title:	Development of a Simple and Rapid Assay for Field Detection of Dengue Viral RNA
Abstract:	Dengue virus is a mosquito born flavivirus that represents a major threat to military forces deployed to tropical areas of the world. Accurate and efficient diagnosis of dengue is important for military health, clinical care, epidemiology, pathogenesis studies, and vaccine research. Currently, there are several PCR-based methods for detecting viral nucleic acid in serum, and this technique is frequently used in the case of the Dengue virus. However, the loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) technique provides a novel, easy-to-use alternative. Unlike conventional PCR which requires a thermocycler, LAMP reactions are held at a constant temperature and the read out can be done with the naked eye. There are sufficient common regions in the genomes of all four strains to develop â€˜pan-dengue reagentsâ€. In this project, a generic LAMP protocol will be established, and investigations into the development of LAMP probes will be done to allow the specific identification of each dengue strain.

Operational Technologies Corporation 4100 N. W. Loop 410 Suite 230 San Antonio, TX 78229
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(210) 731-0000 John Bruno ARMY 09-156 Awarded: 3/4/2010
Title:	Multiplex Aptamer-Based Sensor for Tick-borne Diseases
Abstract:	Operational Technologies Corporation (OpTech) has patents pending for: 1) one-step plastic-adherent aptamer-magnetic bead (MB) plus aptamer-quantum dot (QD) sandwich assays (already successfully applied to ultrasensitive detection of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever or CCHF under a recent Army SBIR project), and 2) a multiplex cartridge in which the assays self-assemble as they traverse microfluidic channels (< 100 ÂµL). Various sized QDs can be utilized with a monochrome light source to enable simultaneous multicolored emissions for each type of captured pathogen in a clinical sample. OpTech developed this concept for rapid (< 15 minute) food and water safety testing, but can apply it to tickborne-borne viral and rickettsial detection in infected ticks or clinical samples in panels of 20 or more analytes. In Phase I, OpTech will develop DNA aptamers that distinguish Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus (TBEV) from a spotted fever group rickettsia, and CCHF (using OpTechâ€™s existing aptamers). OpTech will also team with Nanohmics, Inc., to develop a cartridge and portable fluorometer design for Phase II development. OpTech will attempt to demonstrate multiplex assay potential in Phase I by spectrofluorometry and deliver 100 prototype assays to the DoD at the conclusion of Phase I for independent testing and evaluation by the Army.

VecTOR Test Systems, Inc 2033 Yellowthroat Place Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(805) 390-0647 Kirti Dave ARMY 09-156 Awarded: 2/8/2010
Title:	Development of a Multiplex Hand-held, Field-deployable Assay for the Detection of Tick-borne Encephalitis Virus (TBEV), Crimean- Congo
Abstract:	VecTOR Test Systems, Inc. proposes to develop a hand-held, field-deployable multiplex assay capable of detecting and identifying TBEV, CCHFV, and/or Rickettsia in ticks collected from deployed military service areas. The proposed dipstick assays will provide results within 30 minutes and will be stable at ambient storage conditions. Assays developed in similar format for other arthropod vectors e.g. the mosquito vector for detection of Malaria circumsporozoite proteins, WNV, SLE, EEE, and WEE and have found commercial application. The development of easy to use tests will be important for detection of pathogens of military importance and will be useful in the commercial sector for vector surveillance and control programs.

Linea Research Corporation 1020 Corporation Way Palo Alto, CA 94303
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(650) 533-9546 Yong Lee ARMY 09-157 Awarded: 2/15/2010
Title:	Portable Device for Noninvasive Monitoring of PTSD and mTBI
Abstract:	Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) are considered to be among the hallmark injuries of the war in Iraq and Afghanistan. Of the 4,000 people with traumatic brain injuries in the Defense Departmentâ€™s TBI registry, 80 to 85 percent have mTBI and 10 to 20 percent of troops screen positive for PTSD during redeployment screenings. Among the various neurodiagnostic devices, electroencephalogram (EEG) and functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) are most amenable for integration into a low-cost, portable system. Combining the EEG-based electrophysiological signals and fNIRS-based hemodynamic signals may prove to be effective in screening/diagnosing mTBI and PTSD. In the proposed program we plan to combine a novel fNIRS system with EEG and build an EEG-fNIRS integrated device that will provide the platform for U.S. Army researchers to develop diagnostic models for PTSD and mTBI. The platform will consist of a skull cap embedded with ECG electrodes and fNIRS optodes, and hardware for data acquisition, synchronization and data formatting. The instrumented cap will be designed to allow easy donning with minimal preparation and will allow the wearer sufficient movement required to conduct physical and cognitive tasks during evaluation.

Physical Optics Corporation Applied Technologies Division 20600 Gramercy Place, Bldg 100 Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 320-3088 John Matthews ARMY 09-157 Awarded: 2/23/2010
Title:	Photonic Magnetometer and Infrared Imaging System
Abstract:	Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Photonic Magnetometer and Infrared Imaging (PHOMIR) system to address the Armyâ€™s need for a novel portable multimodal neuro-imaging device. The proposed system is based on simultaneous measurement of brain-related electrophysiological and hemodynamic patterns associated with mild traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The innovative PHOMIR system design combines POCâ€™s photonic magnetometer technology with functional near infrared imaging of the prefrontal cortex and offers cross-correlation of neuromagnetic imaging and blood-oxygenation levels. This design also eliminates interference and cross talk between these techniques. The result is a multimodal neuroimaging system with

Quantum Applied Science and Research Inc. 5764 Pacific Center Blvd Suite 107 San Diego, CA 92121
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 228-1093 Konstantine Ermolaev ARMY 09-157 Awarded: 2/15/2010
Title:	Integrated EEG+fNIRS Measurement System for In-field Collection of mTBI Data
Abstract:	There is a pressing need to collect physiologic data associated with mild traumatic brain injury and post traumatic stress disorder near the forward edge of the battle area. Of the potential methods, only the electroencephalogram (EEG) and functional Near Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) have the potential to be made portable and inexpensive. In this program we will integrate elements of a commercial fNIRS sensor into the body of the most advanced EEG sensor currently available. The EEG sensor has the unique capability that it does not require the use of conducting fluids to make adequate electrical contact to the scalp, thereby enabling reliable data collection without subject preparation under non clinical conditions. In Phase I we will develop preliminary concept designs for: a) the integrated EEG+fNIRS sensor, b) a high density head mounting structure, and c) the user interface. The mounting structure will be an extension of a new anatomically self- referencing design that can be put on in minutes. The final outcome of Phase I will be a preliminary definition of the first product.

TDA Research, Inc. 12345 W. 52nd Ave. Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 261-1145 Brady Clapsaddl ARMY 09-158 Awarded: 3/29/2010
Title:	Application of Novel Insect Repellent Formulations to Military Clothing
Abstract:	Vector-borne diseases plague hundreds of millions of people worldwide, including U.S. soldiers who operate abroad. To reduce the impact of vector-borne diseases on military operations, the Military employs the arthropod repellent system, which combines a permethrin-treated uniform with the use of DEET repellent on exposed skin not covered by the uniform. An increasing permethrin-resistant arthropod population around the world makes the development of factory-treated uniforms with insect repellents other than permethrin an increasing necessity. TDA Research, Inc. proposes to develop novel, non- permethrin insect repellent formulations and techniques to apply them to military clothing. We will test the new formulations on fabric for both the standard Army Combat Uniform (ACU) and the Fire Retardant ACU, which has proved difficult to treat with previous formulations. Tests and analysis will assess the efficacy and durability of the improved treated fabric, and project its cost in production.

TIAX LLC 35 Hartwell Avenue Lexington, MA 02421
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 498-5926 Dolly Batra ARMY 09-158 Awarded: 2/15/2010
Title:	Development of New Repellent Application Techniques for Military Clothing
Abstract:	The development of new insect-repellent treatments for military textiles and uniforms is a crucial challenge facing the U.S. Army as the current treatment methods have been found to be ineffective in impregnating the insecticide, permethrin, in the newly fielded Flame Retardant Army Combat Uniforms (FRACUs). In addition, the current impregnation technique also shows a decrease in permethrin concentration in Army Combat Uniforms (ACUs) upon wear and laundering. TIAX proposes to develop new permethrin treatments that are chemically compatible with and specific for the FRACU and the ACU. In addition, our new treatments will have a robust adherence to the textile and will be applicable for large scale treatments of textiles or uniforms at the factory level. Finally, we will ensure that the new treatments do not interfere with other important textile characteristics such as its strength, color-fastness and hand.

Giner, Inc. 89 Rumford Avenue Newton, MA 02466
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 529-0527 Mourad Manoukian ARMY 09-159 Awarded: 2/8/2010
Title:	Solid State Transcutaneous Carbon Dioxide Sensor
Abstract:	The United States Army (The Army) has identified the need for a device that can accurately and non-invasively measure the partial pressure carbon dioxide (PCO2) that is suitable for use in combat casualties who have hypovolemic shock, acute lung injury, massive resuscitation, and other factors that alter the exhaled or end-tidal CO2 (ETCO2)- PCO2 relationship. Based on these considerations, Giner, Inc. proposes to develop a non- invasive, transcutaneous (ptcCO2) solid-state electrochemical carbon dioxide microsensor that is accurate, reliable, safe, easy to use and operates at near body temperature and demonstrate its performance for continuous and rapid (less than 30 seconds for 90% of full response) detection of carbon dioxide in the range 0 â€“ 250 mm Hg with resolution of 2 mm Hg. The proposed novel microsensor will utilize solid polymer electrolytes and thick-film screen printing technology to fabricate reproducible and inexpensive (less than $600 for quantities greater than 1,000) microsensor designed for independent operation, complete with its own battery power source and data display interface.

Polestar Technologies, Inc. 220 Reservoir Street, Suite 32 Needham Hgts, MA 02494
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 449-2284 James Kane ARMY 09-159 Awarded: 3/5/2010
Title:	Noninvasive CO2 Sensor for Controlling Ventilation of Combat Casualties
Abstract:	Polestar Technologies, Inc. proposes a Phase I SBIR project for the development of a new transcutaneous CO2 sensor to address the need for a noninvasive sensor that is capable of providing reads with the accuracy required for controlling mechanical ventilation during ambulatory care. The new sensor is designed to provide significantly faster response times compared with existing transcutaneous sensors thus reducing the potential for differences due to measurement lag as is observed with current transcutaneous sensing technologies when compared with sampled blood gas analyzer readings. Animal studies will be conducted to evaluate the performance of the new sensor under a range of conditions including normal ventilation, and induced hypocapnia and hypercapnia.

Aspen Systems, Inc. 184 Cedar Hill Street Marlborough, MA 01752
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(508) 281-5322 Tom Lovell ARMY 09-160 Awarded: 1/15/2010
Title:	Mobile Cooling for the Dismounted Soldier
Abstract:	Heat stress is a critical issue for United States military personnel, particularly those individuals wearing highly insulative personal protective equipment. Aspen Systems proposes to develop and produce an innovative mobile personal cooling system which is relatively small, lightweight, and unobtrusive for the dismounted soldier application. It will integrate seamlessly with the soldier ensemble. By mitigating the effects of heat stress, the high-performance system promises to minimize or eliminate core body temperature rise, significantly extend mission duration, and increase cognitive and physical performance.

Creare Inc. P.O. Box 71 Hanover, NH 03755
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(603) 643-3800 Michael Izenson ARMY 09-160 Awarded: 1/25/2010
Title:	Compact Microclimate Control System
Abstract:	Protective garments that isolate a dismounted soldier from the environment can also build up excessive internal heat and humidity, impairing performance and possibly leading to heat casualties. We propose to develop an innovative microclimate control system that will maintain a cool, dry environment inside protective garments. There are two key innovations: (1) a novel cooling process that enables refrigeration for dismounted soldiers using a system with very low mass, and (2) a unique cooling garment that removes both heat and humidity from inside protective garments. In Phase I we will prove the feasibility of our approach through laboratory tests that demonstrate both of these key innovations. We will use the test results to produce a conceptual design for a full-size system.

Cascade Designs 4000 1st Ave S Seattle, WA 98134
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(206) 676-6047 Tim Oriard ARMY 09-161 Awarded: 1/11/2010
Title:	Modular In-Line Water Purifier for MOLLE Hydration Systems
Abstract:	Addressing the water purification needs of the Army in a lightweight and compact system is not trivial given the diverse range of waterborne contaminants that could potentially be found on the battlefield. Based upon Cascade Designs expertise at developing individual water purification systems for the military and outdoor markets, we are proposing a novel in-line filter design that is based on incorporating multiple water purification technologies contained in a MOLLE compatible filter housing. Our proposed in-line filter will comprise of both size exclusion filtration and adsorptive media with fast sorption kinetics. By conducting proof-of-concepts experiment based on the NSF P248 protocol, we intend to demonstrate in Phase I that our proposed in-line filter design is capable of satisfying the stringent flow rate, filter capacity and microbiological removal requirements established by the Army. The Phase I option will focus on demonstrating that the in-line filter can similarly remove a diverse range of chemical contaminants including organic pollutants and heavy metals. In Phase II we will continue to optimize the performance of the system, design, assemble and test MOLLE compatible prototypes, and finally deliver 50 low-rate initial production filters to the Army for field testing in a relevant environment.

Lynntech, Inc. 2501 Earl Rudder Freeway South College Station, TX 77845
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(979) 693-0017 Roger van Boeyen ARMY 09-161 Awarded: 1/18/2010
Title:	Electrochemical Pump Driven Individual Water Purification Device
Abstract:	Clean, microbiologically safe drinking water is a critical requirement for warfighter sustainment on the battlefield. When access to potable water is limited during dismounted on-the-move-missions, soldiers must make water from local sources using an Individual Water Purifier (IWP). However, currently used IWP technologies such as iodine, chlor- floc tablets, and commercially available IWPs do not meet the DoD’s requirements for a hands-free, in-line water purification. Filtration-based methods of disinfection possess many advantages over chemical methods but require significant user effort and frequent filter maintenance when operated with turbid water. Lynntech’s solution is to utilize a high efficiency electrochemically-actuated pump to generate the pressure needed for effortless water disinfection through filtration. The novel pump is compact, lightweight, and is sufficiently low power to exceed the 135 L purification target on a single CR123 battery and enables novel design features such as disassembly-free filter maintenance and process failure indication. The Phase I effort will demonstrate the feasibility of a breadboard electrochemically-actuated pump integrated with an IWP to meet the DoD’s performance requirements. During the Phase II, a prototype device including control electronics, user interface, and safety features will be prepared for NSF P248.

Advanced Mechanical Technology, Inc. 176 Waltham Street Watertown, MA 02472
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 926-6700 Charles Hannon ARMY 09-162 Awarded: 1/22/2010
Title:	Thermoelectric-Powered Field Kitchen Appliances
Abstract:	Cooking appliances in U.S. Army field kitchens are currently heated by burning JP-8 fuel using electrically powered burners. Power is supplied by a separate JP-8 fired generator that serves multiple appliances simultaneously. This is inefficient, as generators are only 20-25% efficient, and unreliable since failure of the generator results in the failure of the entire kitchen operation. This is a significant risk because field generators have typical mean time between failures of only 500 hours. It is necessary to develop a means to individually provide electrical power to burners used in field kitchen appliances. This is a prime application for cogeneration, since there is a need for both thermal and electrical energy. Since the thermal energy demand is significantly greater than the electrical demand, an ideal technology is thermoelectric power generation (TEGs). Thermoelectric generators are solid state semiconductor devices that generate electrical power when subjected to a thermal gradient. Being solid-state devices, they require no maintenance. The longevity and reliability of TEGs have been demonstrated in long term space missions where radio-isotope decay is used as the heat source. TEG-powered field kitchen appliances will operate without the need for a generator and thereby improve the reliability of field feeding operations.

Alphabet Energy, Inc. 239 8th street Suite 12 San Francisco, CA 94103
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(917) 575-8724 MATTHEW SCULLIN ARMY 09-162 Awarded: 1/18/2010
Title:	Low-Cost Thermoelectric Subsytem for Self-Powered Equipment
Abstract:	This SBIR Phase I project will address the technological risks in bringing silicon-based nanostructured thermoelectric materials from a proven laboratory concept to a scalable prototype device. Thermoelectric materials offer great promise in development of self- powered equipment for military use. They are compact, lightweight, highly reliable and virtually maintenance free. Implementation to date has been precluded by the high cost per watt and the low design temperature of existing thermoelectric materials Alphabet Energyâ€™s silicon nanowire thermoelectric materials use low-grade silicon as a raw material and a manufacturing process that utilizes standard semiconductor fabrication tools and facilities. This leads to a device cost in the order of 20Â¢/Watt, 50-100 times cheaper than existing thermoelectrics. Silicon nanowire thermoelectric materials have been tested at temperatures up to 600C without degradation or loss of performance. As such much greater temperature gradients are possible, leading to power densities with existing performance materials of up to 17 kW/m2. Alphabet Energyâ€™s SiNW thermoelectrics can provide a 100W of electric generation for a cost of as little as $16 at 10% efficiency. Furthermore we have an established development pathways to higher efficiencies of 20% or more, leading to a cost of only $8.

Applied Physical Sciences Corp. 475 Bridge Street Suite 100 Groton, CT 06340
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(860) 448-3253 Jeffrey Allanach ARMY 09-163 Awarded: 1/21/2010
Title:	Automated Data Recording Technology for Assessing Parachute Performance and Use
Abstract:	Applied Physical Sciences Corp. (APS) in collaboration with Capewell Inc. will develop an automated system for logging parachute usage and performance electronically using a miniature embedded data logger which interfaces directly with commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) radio frequency identification (RFID) readers. The proposed system is intended to replace parachute logbooks with a small, removable data logger that can measure parachute opening shock and altitude descent. The focus of this Phase I effort will be to develop an integrated platform with electronics and sensors that requires minimal servicing, and that may be easily and safely retrofitted to existing parachute systems, both personnel and cargo. Commercialization within the US Army and the civilian skydiving markets will be pursued.

Intelligent Automation, Inc. 15400 Calhoun Drive Suite 400 Rockville, MD 20855
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 294-4630 Devendra Tolani ARMY 09-163 Awarded: 1/15/2010
Title:	Wireless Parachute Data Recorder with RFID Tracking Capability
Abstract:	Intelligent Automation, Inc. teaming with Parks College Parachute Research Group–PCPRG and Boeing Research and Technology-BR&T to propose an innovative, ruggedized, wireless Parachute Data Recorder (PDR) based on Radio-frequency identification (RFID) and ZigBee wireless technologies. It will accurately capture, store and transmit data collected in relation to parachute usage and performance. This recorder will serve two purposes–acting as a log book for usage data and as a data acquisition unit to assess parachute performance. The proposed design will include both, RFID technology for storage of typical parachute log book entries and a ZigBee based wireless down link for the denser performance data from sensors. The main unit will be located in the pack tray and wireless load cells will be incorporated in the parachute risers. Wireless sensing modalities will minimize the functional impact and improve safety. The maintenance record supported by this recorder as well as the performance data will be useful for accident investigations. Having a standard recorder for all parachute systems reduces the need for specialized testing for ongoing parachute design improvements. We plan to leverage several key technologies (Portable Data recorder, sensing technologies) developed under other ongoing programs at IAI, thus further mitigating the technical risks.

Frontier Performance Polymers Corporation 3328 Belt Road Dover, NJ 07801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(973) 989-8463 Jerry Chung ARMY 09-164 Awarded: 1/25/2010
Title:	Advanced Lightweight Bomb Suit Facial Protection System
Abstract:	The objective of this proposal is to develop advanced lightweight facial protection system for bomb suit face shield with lightweight, excellent transparency and high ballistic resistance to reduce combat load and improve mobility for explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) soldiers and combat engineers during missions. To accomplish this goal, Frontier will develop a novel high performance lightweight transparent material technology that would meet all the weight, transparent design and ballistic resistance requirements. During the Phase I effort, Frontier will demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed concept and innovation, identify and address the technical hurdles, perform proof-of-concept validation as well as address the performance and cost issues. The success of the proposed technology will lead to high performance bomb suit face shield having superior ballistic protection and good optical quality and 30~50% weight reduction. Moreover, Frontierâ€™s novel transparent armor material technology would allow robust face shield design to accommodate more flexibility to address the operational comfortableness and effectiveness.

SAFE, Inc. 5032 S. Ash Avenue, Ste. 101 Tempe, AZ 85282
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(480) 820-2032 Brian Goedken ARMY 09-164 Awarded: 3/23/2010
Title:	The MaxPro EOD Face Shield with CrystalShield Armor
Abstract:	Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technicians must maintain intense focus during the disposal of hazardous materials. EOD bomb suit helmets are both heavy and bulky, in part due to the oversized face shield and the heavy plastic visor. The hefty visor also reduces balance of the face shield which can become a distraction to the Technician. Safe has developed the MaxPro (TM) face shield incorporating Safeâ€™s advanced CrystalShield (TM) armor technology. The combined system will provide an increase in ballistic protection (V50 2,600 ft/sec for 0.22 FSP) while weighing only 2.5 pounds. The MaxPro face shield offers improved functionality of the face shield with single-push button operation of the flip-up/flip-down visor. Also proposed are optional features to support lighting and defogging. The unique design of the MaxPro system also allows easy interchange-ability between the EOD helmet and the Advanced Combat Helmet requiring only the addition of a lightweight mount to the ACH. Combined, all of these features provide a remarkable enhancement to personnel protection.

Infoscitex Corporation 303 Bear Hill Road Waltham, MA 02451
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 890-1338 Vladimir Gilman ARMY 09-165 Awarded: 1/22/2010
Title:	Enzymatic Wool Shrink-Treatment
Abstract:	Individual protection is a high priority mission for the United States Army. Flame and heat resistant protective clothing systems are required to ensure the safety of military personnel in deployed and other hazardous environments. Its low flammability, self- extinguishing nature, and tendency not to melt make wool an excellent candidate for use in protective clothing systems. Unfortunately woolâ€™s natural structure makes it highly susceptible to shrinkage unless treated. While methods for rendering wool machine washable and dryable exist on a commercial scale overseas, the lack of domestic infrastructure and restrictions imposed by the Berry Amendment stand as a major obstacle between the US Army and continued provision of high performance protective garments. In this Phase I SBIR proposal, the Infoscitex team proposes the development of an enzymatic treatment process capable of rendering wool washable in a cost-effective, environmentally-friendly fashion. This process will enable establishment of a commercial supply of washable wool produced in the United States.

Physical Optics Corporation Photonic Systems Division 20600 Gramercy Place, Bldg. 100 Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 230-3088 Anna Asanbaeva ARMY 09-165 Awarded: 1/9/2010
Title:	Washable Wool Products for Individual Protection
Abstract:	To address the Army need for a process to generate shrink-resistant wool, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Enzymatic treatment enhanced by a COrona Discharge pretreatment (ECOD) process that reduces wool shrinkage after laundering, without deteriorating wool properties such as strength and flame resistance. The process is based on corona discharge pretreatment followed by simultaneous treatment with a protease and transglutaminase to reduce the profile of wool fiber scales. The innovation of a unique integration of corona discharge pretreatment with enzymatic treatment to impart anti-shrinkage properties to wool fibers with fiber stabilization provided by transglutaminase-mediated cross-linking allows the elimination of environment-damaging chemicals while obtaining a wool product that addresses the needs of the Army and the general consumer. In Phase I, POC plans to assemble a prototype and define the optimal parameters for the corona discharge and enzymatic treatments. The feasibility of ECOD will be demonstrated by a comparison of material treated with corona discharge alone, enzymatic treatment alone, and the ECOD process, and an evaluation of manufacturing needs and costs. At the end of Phase II, the ECOD process will reach technology readiness level (TRL) 4-5 and be ready for potential transition to the PEO Soldier.

Sheep Venture Company 9785 Maroon Circle Suite 360 Englewoold, CO 80112
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(334) 897-3002 Mitch Driggers ARMY 09-165 Awarded: 1/22/2010
Title:	Washable Wool Products for Individual Protection
Abstract:	The increase in burn injuries suffered by US Soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan has made flame resistant combat clothing of great importance to improving individual Soldier protection. Wool is a naturally flame resistant fiber, but its tendency to irreversibly shrink when washed and dried has limited its use in combat clothing. Sheep Venture Company (SVC) proposes to research and develop a viable domestic washable wool treatment or process that can reliably prevent wool from shrinking when washed without affecting its other properties including fire resistance. SVCâ€™s innovative approach will lead at the end of Phase I to at least one recommended treatment or process for further work in Phase II, and to a proposed design for a manufacturing line for commercial application of the recommended treatment or process. SVC will also establish key performance standards for washable wool at the top (prepared for spinning) and yarn stage, whereas standards are only available at present for finished knitted and woven fabrics. These new standards will mean that new processes and treatments can be evaluated at the top and yarn stage, reducing development time and costs, and will be of great benefit as new washable wool products are developed in Phase II.

Federal Fabrics-Fibers 45 West Adams Street Lowell, MA 01851
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 441-3037 Fred Geurts ARMY 09-166 Awarded: 2/1/2010
Title:	One-Time Use Parafoil
Abstract:	FFF proposes to design and produce a very low cost one time use RAM air parafoil using a cookie cutter approach. This design is a new innovative and radical approach to solving the problem of cutting manufacturing costs, and is based on the basic design principles developed by FFF back in 2005 when a totally bonded RAM air parafoil prototype proof of concept was designed and produced. This approach although similar will allow more automation than FFFâ€™s original approach. Also, it will allow the use of a very cost effective fabric to be utilized. The design is such that potential drawbacks of using this very inexpensive fabric are overcome and actually used to advantage.

Physical Sciences Inc. 20 New England Business Center Andover, MA 01810
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 689-0003 Jay Rushforth ARMY 09-166 Awarded: 2/2/2010
Title:	ParaPrinter Structured Composite Textile Fabrication System for Parafoil Manufacturing Applications
Abstract:	Due to the logistics involved with recovering Army parafoils from drop zones, there is a real operational need for cost reduction in parafoil manufacturing. To support the Armyâ€™s technological requirements in this area, Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI), with team members Solution Inc. and Slingshot Sports Inc., propose a powerful new innovative technique for parafoil manufacturing called ParaPrinter. This enabling technology for parafoil design and manufacturing uses composite textile base formulations and innovative construction techniques to replace current production methods, which incorporate rip-stop nylon and sewing. PSIâ€™s ParaPrinting technology is a free space laminating technique: A continuous process that constructs 3D foil shapes, as a unitary membrane, from chemical coatings and sophisticated yarn patterns. This automated casting process not only increases production, but it reduces 90% of the labor cost associated with sewing and handling rip stop nylon, films or other exotic materials. ParaPrinting simplifies the structural reinforcement step by laying down complex yarn patterns during the lamination process with computer-controlled precision. With the ParaPrinter, low-cost production can be achieved while still maintaining the desirable form and durability of current Army 2K parafoils.

Lynntech, Inc. 2501 Earl Rudder Freeway South College Station, TX 77784
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(979) 693-0017 Waheguru Singh ARMY 09-167 Awarded: 1/25/2010
Title:	Biometric-based Flame Retardant Materials for Combat Uniforms and Equipment: Coatings/Fibers Developed from Sustainable and Green Processes
Abstract:	There are currently several options for flame retardant materials for a variety of civilian and military uses, most all of these flame retardants are based on halogens and minerals that are harmful and toxic chemicals. Therefore, more environmentally friendly and non- toxic alternatives are needed as the public becomes more aware of the environmental issues facing the planet. Lynntechâ€™s approach will be to use a non-toxic, renewable plant extract to develop a novel fire retardant compound. Material will be isolated, purified, identified and evaluated for its FR properties. The new material will be then covalently grafted in polymeric form on to the cotton based fabric surfaces to produce breathable, comfortable fabric materials that will be permanently fire resistant. Fire retardant, physical properties and toxicity of the modified surfaces will be analyzed. The overall goal is to take existing fabrics, with their desirable physical properties and high level of comfort, and add a flame retardant capability. The functionalized textile material will have thermal stability, reduction in smoke generation and flammability, reasonable cost, no skin and environmental toxicity, and permanence while retaining desired properties of the starting material. Our novel flame resistant textile material will withstand harsh conditions without leaching of the agents.

TIAX LLC 35 Hartwell Avenue Lexington, MA 02421
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 498-5137 Brad Pindzola ARMY 09-167 Awarded: 2/1/2010
Title:	Biomimetic Non-toxic Flame Retardant Materials from Sustainable Processes
Abstract:	Fire resistant materials contribute to increased safety and protection of people in a wide variety of situations. Yet, the flame retardant chemicals that are used to impart this protection are themselves increasingly being found to pose an environmental and human health threat. Brominated organic molecules, the largest class of flame retardant, have been shown to persist in the environment and to be toxic to humans. Studies are increasingly showing that other flame retardant chemicals, including the organophosphates, have the same problems. TIAX LLC proposes to develop a new flame retardant material inspired by the flame retardant strategies found in nature, to demonstrate its effectiveness and to show that it is unlikely to be toxic either to humans or our environment.

Akron Polymer Systems, Inc. 2990 Gilchrist Road Suite 2100 Akron, OH 44305
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(330) 794-6359 Matthew Graham ARMY 09-168 Awarded: 2/1/2010
Title:	Antimicrobial Coatings for Medical Shelters
Abstract:	Approximately 2 million infections are acquired in hospitals annually with a major source of bacterial contamination being frequently touched common surfaces. This problem also exists for Combat Surgical Hospitals. Current anti-bacterial coatings are not suitable for these environments because of human toxicity, low activity, and/or poor adhesion. The goal of this project is to develop a low cost, non-toxic, robust, and versatile anti-microbial system that can be easily applied to a range of surfaces. To achieve this goal, a novel core-shell nanoparticle is proposed. The shell with be chitosan, a well known non-toxic anti-microbial, and a non-toxic acrylic polymer for the core. These materials can be economically prepared with a low cost, single step aqueous based reaction that results in a stable dispersion in water. The aqueous dispersion can be applied to surfaces by a simple spraying procedure. Once applied, the nanospheres will coalesce into a monolithic anti-microbial surface like a latex paint. Efforts will focus on evaluating core materials to maximize the coalescence and adherence of the anti-microbial film on rigid and fabric surfaces. Samples will be prepared and submitted for evaluation.

Innova Materials 3624 Market St. Suite 5E Philadelphia, PA 19104
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(267) 566-3574 Michael Young ARMY 09-168 Awarded: 1/25/2010
Title:	IonArmourÂ® Next Generation Antimicrobial Technology
Abstract:	This SBIR Phase I proposal to the Department of Defense, Army, requests funding for Innova Materials to demonstrate the feasibility of a technology for providing the highest levels of safe, cost-effective, continuous antimicrobial protection for products and materials. The proposed technology is called the IonArmourÂ® Next Generation (IonArmourÂ® NG) technology platform, and it is initially targeting application to US Army Deployable Medical Systems (DEPMEDS). As described in Army Topic ARMY 09-168, â€œAntimicrobial Coatings for Medical Shelters,â€ there are several serious shortcomings to existing antimicrobial technology, including inadequate efficacy, lack of amenability to application to walls, toxicity/health concerns, easy damageability in the field, poor durability, and high cost. The key proposed innovation involves a new method of incorporating antimicrobial ingredients into materials. While the focus in the antimicrobial industry has historically been placed on antimicrobial ingredients themselves, the ways by which those ingredients are incorporated into materials can dramatically alter antimicrobial properties, cost, and other considerations. IonArmourÂ® NG focuses on this overlooked optimization pathway. This proposal seeks to demonstrate how embedding antimicrobial ingredient particles directly into the surfaces of materials or into the surfaces of coatings can overcome the shortcomings of existing antimicrobial technology.

TRITON SYSTEMS, INC. 200 TURNPIKE ROAD CHELMSFORD, MA 1824
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 250-4200 Yoojeong Kim ARMY 09-168 Awarded: 1/12/2010
Title:	Antimicrobial Coatings for Medical Shelters(1001-4
Abstract:	U.S. Army’s Deployable Medical System (DEPMEDS) consists of rigid aluminum ISO- standard shelters which house laboratory, radiology, pharmacy, sterilization departments, and operating rooms and soft wall TEMPER units (Tent, Expandable, Modular, Personnel) which house patient wards and auxiliary units. Although operating rooms are routinely cleaned, in the event of a sudden influx of casualties it may not be possible to clean thoroughly between operations. In addition, cleaning of walls of the soft wall shelters or liners may not be feasible. Therefore, antimicrobial coatings on the walls of both rigid and soft wall shelters are desirable to reduce nosocomial transmission of drug resistant bacterial infections. Triton Systems, Inc. proposes to develop antimicrobial coatings for medical shelters using an EPA-approved, non-leaching, non-toxic, non-oxidizing biocide. A successful conclusion of Phase I will demonstrate a greater than 2-log reduction of bacterial population based on the EPA and the JIS Z 2801 tests.

KaZaK Composites Incorporated 10F GIll Street Woburn, MA 01801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 932-5667 Tim Mustone ARMY 09-169 Awarded: 1/22/2010
Title:	Low-Cost Manufacturing of Lightweight, Flexible Ballistic Protective Fabric for Arc Shaped Shelters
Abstract:	KaZaK Composites will work with Federal Fabrics-Fibers to develop alternative material and configuration approaches for lightweight, flexible, cost-effective ballistic armor to protect airbeam shelters. In parallel, we will demonstrate innovative means of integrating flexible armor with the shelter, and evaluate a new technology that can be used as a field modification to significantly upgrade load carrying capacity of air beams in existing shelters. This alternative approach involving structural as well as material innovation would allow slightly heavier, much lower cost armor solutions. Phase I will include design and testing of ballistic samples made with fiber materials spanning a wide range of cost and weight, and demonstrate an innovative means of reducing the amount and weight of high cost fabric required to provide the desired ballistic protection in a flexible system. Finally we will perform experiments demonstrating simple airbeam structural upgrades. The wide range of design and experimental information developed in Phase I will be compiled in a trade study, and used as a basis to recommend an approach to proceed with into Phase II. During Phase II KaZaK team will finalize system designs based on Phase I experience and military comment, then proceed to fabricate and test full scale prototypes.

Tex Tech Industries Inc. 105 North Main St PO Box 8 North Monmouth, ME 04265
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(207) 933-9203 Stan Farrell ARMY 09-169 Awarded: 1/18/2010
Title:	Lightweight, Flexible Ballistic Protection System for Arc Shaped Shelters
Abstract:	Currently the air beam/arc shelters have no protection from mortar fragmentation or other indirect fire. In many cases, customary methods of ballistic protection such as sandbag walls and/or concrete barriers may require more logistical support than is available leaving the military personal vulnerable to enemy attack. The U.S. Army has evaluated the use of off-the-shelf armor materials and found them to be too heavy or too costly for real- time use. To protect the soldier from motor fragmentation, a lightweight protection is required that is low cost enough to be purchased for a large number of soft shelter systems. Tex Tech Industries and the University of Maine at Orono (UMaine) have the expertise, manufacturing capability, and plan to provide the U.S. Military protection against small arms and fragmenting munitions for Arc Shaped Shelters.

TRITON SYSTEMS, INC. 200 TURNPIKE ROAD CHELMSFORD, MA 01824
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 250-4200 James Gorman ARMY 09-169 Awarded: 1/29/2010
Title:	Rollaway Deployable Kevlar Felt Ballistic Protection for Arch-Shaped Shelters (1001-437)
Abstract:	Triton Systems Inc., supported by Production Products of St. Louis MO, proposes to develop a flexible sandwich construction and storage/deployment mechanism to provide specification ballistic protection for the air-supported TEMPER tent and related shelters. The principal innovation is to use a thin high density Kevlar felt as the ballistic-resistant core of a flexible sandwich, whose bonded faces provide weather/abrasion resistance and, optionally, chem-bio protection and/or fire retardant features. In order to erect the flexible ballistic protection within the air supported TEMPER tent we propose to store the flexible sandwich on rolls or drums whose length corresponds to the longitudinal spacing between airbeams in the shelter. Formed aluminum tracks will be assembled to the airbeams with Velcro straps and the flexible sandwich edge treatments will slide up and down on these tracks in the manner of high end window treatments. Should the stiffness of the rolled ballistic sandwich membrane be too small in the width dimension to avoid sagging, fiberglass battens will be added in a manner not to impede smooth rolling and unrolling of the protective curtains. A subscale working model of the flexible ballistic curtain will be fabricated in the Phase I to demonstrate deployment and stowage functioning.

Charles River Analytics Inc. 625 Mount Auburn Street Cambridge, MA 02138
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 491-3474 Sam Mahoney ARMY 09-170 Awarded: 7/20/2010
Title:	Services for Situational Awareness Through Uncertainty Representation of Ad-Hoc Network Data (SATURN)
Abstract:	There has been a massive growth in the volume and sources of data that can enhance the situational awareness of modern soldiers. Unfortunately, the capabilities of tactical networks have failed to keep pace with this growth, and a number of critical network constraints limit the ability of soldiers to effectively share and leverage available data. Tactical decision making, therefore, is subject to the risks associated with poorly informed Situational Awareness (SA) (e.g., incorrect assumptions, poor decision making). To improve soldier SA at the edge of the tactical network, Charles River Analytics is pleased to present our approach for designing, demonstrating and evaluating Services for Situational Awareness Through Uncertainty Representation of Ad-Hoc Network Data (SATURN). SATURN can be summarized in three major components: (1) our solution will allow the soldier to manage their own SA needs through simplistic user interfaces driven by programmatic SDK Libraries that can be incorporated into any common operational picture; (2) our solution will provide real-time processing, management, and storage of incoming intelligence data to support evolving SA needs through flexible data constructs; and (3) our solution will infer and efficiently present meta-information alongside entities and events required by active COIs to ensure adequately synchronized soldier SA.

Scientific Systems Company, Inc 500 West Cummings Park - Ste 3000 Woburn, MA 01801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 933-5355 Rajesh Krishnan ARMY 09-170 Awarded: 3/30/2010
Title:	FAUST: Finite-field Algebra for Unbeatable Situational-awareness in Tactical-networks
Abstract:	We propose FAUST, the Finite-field Algebra for Unbeatable Situational-awareness in Tactical-networks. FAUST utilizes Boston University’s CPISync, an advanced data set reconciliation primitive that significantly improves synchronization and transmission of different types of Situational Awareness information among nodes using common SA platforms. FAUST offers better performance for dissemination of information vs. commonly used approaches of flooding or epidemic dissemination. Information types that can be reconciled encompass SA, data and geographical, and network topology. CPISync supports scalable dissemination, providing information-theoretic guarantees on communication complexity. It is a lower level protocol that maximizes the value of the information exchanged during an encounter (data synchronization). This primitive improves network performance by enabling larger aggregation of data (scalability), higher data collection rates during link failures, and efficient utilization of low bandwidth data links. These protocols tie together with network-wide protocols that work when no end- to-end paths are available and that provide persistence to data (survivability). In Phase I, SSCI will demonstrate performance improvement over baseline standard data synchronization mechanisms for ordered data, using a virtual network. Comparison metrics include communication latency, energy consumption, and volume of data synchronized per unit time. Phase II will enable user self-management in the field, such as allowing the users to select the groups that it belongs to.

Intelligent Automation, Inc. 15400 Calhoun Drive Suite 400 Rockville, MD 20855
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 294-5255 Wilbur Peng ARMY 09-171 Awarded: 5/19/2010
Title:	High-Fidelity Network Simulation Using a Flexible Agent-Based Parallel Discrete Event Simulation Framework
Abstract:	Highly parallel computing clusters hold out significant promise for improving fidelity of mobile ad-hoc network (MANET) simulations as well as increases in the scale of network simulations to hundreds or thousands of network nodes. However, harnessing such systems for parallel discrete event simulation (PDES) of MANETs presents significant challenges in model programming and implementation, achieving efficient processor utilization, and physical layer modeling. In this effort, we propose an agent-based simulation framework that incorporates the following aspects: 1) Flexible time management. We hypothesize that selective relaxation of some certain time management constraints can lead to significant performance increases while remaining within bounds of acceptable fidelity, 2) Reuse and integration of existing and new network models. An agent based approach will provide effective ways to integrate existing and new models within a PDES system, and 3) High fidelity physical layer simulation of carrier recovery, synchronization, demodulation, and decoding, and signal propagation. The result of the overall effort will provide a new high-fidelity scalable MANET simulation capability infeasible on current hardware.

21st Century Systems, Incorporated 6825 Pine Street, Suite 141 Omaha, NE 68106
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(573) 458-5963 Robert Woodley ARMY 09-172 Awarded: 3/31/2010
Title:	Agent-Enabled Logistics Enterprise Intelligence System (AELEIS)
Abstract:	Current Army logistics systems contain massive amounts of data that need to be effectively extracted into actionable information. But, the databases themselves do not contain all that is needed to make it actionable. The Army needs an effective Enterprise Intelligence System to find data from many sources, process it in an integrated fashion, and disseminate actionable information on the readiness of the fleet vehicles. 21st Century Systems, Incorporated, in conjunction with the Intelligent Maintenance Systems Center, proposes the Agent-Enabled Logistics Enterprise Intelligence System (AELEIS) to meet this need. AELEIS features an agent-based approach to autonomously mine data from multiple sources, and combine it into actionable knowledge. AELEIS processes data in many forms and the processing occurs in the background so that information is available at a momentâ€™s notice when the operator needs it. AELEIS uses advanced technologies such as Adaptive Resonance Theory, Evidential Reasoning, and Control Theoretic diagnostics and prognostics. With our extensive experience in decision support, service oriented technologies, and ontological systems, and with a 100th percentile SBIR commercialization rating, we are just the company to deliver this capability that will allow logistics managers and commanders to make faster, better decisions that will ultimately save lives on the battlefield.

Physical Optics Corporation Applied Technologies Division 20600 Gramercy Place, Bldg 100 Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 320-3088 Wenjian Wang ARMY 09-172 Awarded: 4/9/2010
Title:	Grid-Based Real-Time Enterprise Intelligence System for Logistics Data Mining and Integration
Abstract:	To address the U.S. Armyâ€™s need for an enterprise data mining expert system with real-time decision support to fleet managers, operators, and commanders, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a novel Grid Real-time Enterprise Intelligence Service (GREIS) incorporating grid-based data mining, advanced statistical classification, and a high-performance net-centric rule engine, all integrated within an enterprise system architecture. The innovative use of multidimensional hierarchical online analytical processing cubes, a net-centric rule engine, and advanced statistical classification methods enables the GREIS to perform multidimensional data mining on both structured and unstructured logistics data, quickly capture diagnostic knowledge and data mining results for diagnostic reasoning and trend prediction, and discover hidden fault patterns and trends with high consistency, reliability, and accuracy. The GREIS is implemented via a map-reduce programming paradigm with autonomous task splitting and parallel processing, saving an order of magnitude of time in real-time execution. In Phase I POC will demonstrate the feasibility of GREIS through analysis and simulation, including DoDAF OV-1 development, data gap analysis, and development and integration of key components into a Phase I prototype. In Phase II POC will develop a simulated prototype to demonstrate realistic operation of the GREIS in global fleet support environments.

Erallo Technologies, Inc. 20 Taylor Street Littleton, MA 01460
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 884-8199 Rajan Zambre ARMY 09-173 Awarded: 2/24/2010
Title:	Smart Sensors for Real-Time Bridge Monitoring
Abstract:	Currently there are no bridge monitoring systems that can work with temporary bridges. Any existing systems are tuned for permanent structures, are not remotely operated, require considerable installation time, and need sophisticated equipment for calibration. Their cost is very high per installation, making it impractical for the large number of Armored Vehicle Launched Bridges (AVLBs) and Line of Communication Bridges (LOCB) deployed. They also use complex and sensitive sensors, like laser fiber optics, that fail in harsh weather conditions and require trained technicians for installation. Thus, a more practical approach (based on years of research developed and demonstrated by Dr. H. GangaRao) is to use simple, rugged sensors, like strain gauges and accelerometers that can provide strain, displacement/tilt, acceleration, and velocity measurements. In combination with specialized, unique algorithms, smart networking, and real-time, remote communications â€“ the system can be simple yet powerful. Additionally, the system will enable multiple bridges to be simultaneously monitored. The demonstrated algorithms were developed from work conducted by Dr. H. GangaRaoâ€™s team over the past 10 years, including damage detection methods for the US Armyâ€™s AVLBs.

FBS, Inc. 3340 West College Ave. State College, PA 16801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(814) 234-3437 Steven Owens ARMY 09-173 Awarded: 2/17/2010
Title:	Smart Sensor Network for Platform Structural Health Monitoring
Abstract:	The military faces a challenge with regard to temporary bridge inspection, as most existing monitoring solutions are designed around the monitoring of permanent bridge structures. These temporary structures are now being used in semi-permanent installations and are experiencing loads and cycles far above their originally designed limits. There is a need to provide a system for these bridges to automatically assess the bridge condition, predict the remaining life, and communicate that information to decision makers. The approach presented here involves the development of a modular system that is capable of interfacing with multiple sensor platforms. There are many possible techniques for monitoring a bridge structure from localized monitoring technologies to overall assessment technologies. Potential techniques include acoustic emission, ultrasonic bulk wave and guided waves, strain gages, eddy current, environmental sensors, load cells, and fiber optic sensors. FBS has put together a team that collectively has experience in all of these areas. FBS has been working for years in the area of ultrasonic health monitoring technologies, and Mistras Group, doing business as Physical Acoustics Corporation (PAC) is a world leader in the implementation of health monitoring solutions for civil structures.

MillenWorks 1361 Valencia Avenue Tustin, CA 92780
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(714) 426-5532 Charlie Van Druff ARMY 09-174 Awarded: 3/31/2010
Title:	Personal Protective Equipment-Integrated Restraints for Blast Mitigating Seats
Abstract:	Current military vehicle seat and restraint systems have limitations when it comes to soldier interface and protection. The safety system needs to protect and enable the occupant during all phases of vehicle operation without impinging on mission. This includes helping steady a soldier during rough off-road maneuvers and allowing maximum freedom of movement to operate equipment or engage the enemy while moving. The Seat/restraint system must also protect the crew from injury during crash, rollover or mine-blast events. The restraint should not hinder rapid vehicle ingress and egress. The goal of the proposed MillenWorks CREW Egress Technology (CREW-ET) program is to identify (Phase I) and develop (Phase II) a fully functional restraint solution that will encourage soldier/crew usage without undue encumbrance or degradation of the mission. The four restraint solutions presented in this proposal are focused on the above requirements for soldiers wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as well as other gear needed to complete the mission. Investigation of concepts that will enhance ingress and egress from seats and vehicles will result in a Phase II proposal to develop a safety system that will accommodate a wide range of soldiers and their equipment in a wide variety of military vehicles.

Physical Optics Corporation Applied Technologies Division 20600 Gramercy Place, Bldg 100 Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 320-3088 Eric Gans ARMY 09-174 Awarded: 3/31/2010
Title:	Protective Equipment-Integrated Automatic Lightweight Safety Restraint System
Abstract:	To address the Armyâ€™s need for personal protective equipment-integrated restraints for blast-mitigating seats, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Protective Equipment-Integrated Automatic Lightweight Safety (PALS) Restraint System based on a fully autonomous activation system that is initiated immediately upon the soldierâ€™s sitting in a blast-mitigating seat. The PALS system comprises two main components: the Personal Soldier Mount (PSM) and the Adaptive Vehicle Mount (AVM). The lightweight PSM is mounted securely on the existing personal protective equipment and consists of a low-profile (~0.3 in. thick) array of self-engaging â€œfingers.â€ The AVM, which is mounted on the seat, contains a series of parallel Kevlar-based fibers with cable slack controlled by an automatic tensioning system allowing for freedom of movement during transit with immediate locking when an acceleration threshold is reached. A blast-resistant quick-release cable instantly ejects the various arresting cables, thereby allowing for rapid exit from the vehicle. In Phase I, POC will collaborate with our consultant, Advanced Mission Systems (AMS), to design, develop, and test (in an ingress/egress study) a prototype, demonstrating the feasibility of PALS. In Phase II, POC plans to optimize the design for a myriad of combat vehicles and equipment types.

Applied Sciences, Inc. 141 W. Xenia Ave. PO Box 579 Cedarville, OH 45314
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 766-2020 David Burton ARMY 09-175 Awarded: 3/17/2010
Title:	Nano-scale Silicon-Carbon Anodes for High Capacity Lithium Ion Batteries
Abstract:	Equipment and ordnance in the Defense arsenal have become increasingly more sophisticated, ranging from complex electronic systems for surveillance, hybrid vehicles, portable soldier systems, unmanned aerospace and underwater vehicles, to directed energy weapons systems with high pulse power demand. These systems are increasingly more reliant on battery power having reduced operating cost and life cycle costs, for operation of complex instrumentation during longer missions. To meet these increasing demands for portable power, Applied Sciences, Inc. (ASI) proposes to build upon its recent success in developing silicon-carbon anodes that do not suffer from expansion related capacity decay observed by other researchers during the first few cycles. , , These anodes have demonstrated specific capacities of 1000 mAh/g to high cycle numbers in a full cell configuration against conventional cathodes. It is proposed to alter the alloying process to increase the specific anode capacity to 2000 mAh/g and further advance its power capability. ASI will also work with DOE Laboratories to fully characterize the silicon-carbon anodes before and after cycling to assist in the development of strategies to boost the energy and power performance of these anodes and lithium ion battery cells.

Nanogreen Solutions Corporation 3 Eastern Lane Rutland, MA 01543
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(508) 886-8879 Lisen Cheng ARMY 09-175 Awarded: 4/2/2010
Title:	Carbon Nanofiber Reinforced Si Nanowire Li-Ion Battery Anodes
Abstract:	There is a strong need to develop low cost, high energy and power capacity electrode materials for high performance Li-ion battery applications. Collaborating with leading nanomaterials research institutions, in this program, NanoGreen Solutions proposes an innovative CNF reinforced SiNW Li-ion battery anode nano-composite with unprecedented performance. The embedded CNF networks will not only enhance the structural integrity of weaken SiNWs upon the Lithium insertion/extraction cycles, but also increase the electrical conductivity of the silicon nanowire anode. The improved mechanical robustness and electrical conductivity will substantially suppress capacity fade rate, increase charge/discharge charge rate, and eliminate potential safety problem caused by joule heat. The proposed nanostructured anode presents a promising approach to realize a new generation electricity storage system for military and commercial electric vehicle applications. NanoGreen Solutions will demonstrate the feasibility of this innovative approach in Phase I.

Minerva Systems & Technologies, LLC 55 John Clarke Road Middletown, RI 02842
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(401) 855-6721 Kalyan Ganesan ARMY 09-176 Awarded: 4/20/2010
Title:	Flat Panel Shelter-Mountable Phased Array Antenna for DoD Systems of Record
Abstract:	The objective of this proposal is to develop innovative concept designs for flat-panel, low- profile, smallest possible aperture, phased-array GBS receive antennas in the 10.5 â€“ 13.5 GHz Ku-band and 20.2 â€“ 21.2 GHz K/Ka-band. Furthermore, the objectives include that the antenna be realized within a 40â€ cross section. Conventional array antenna designs to meet the G/T requirements in the Ku and Ka bands would require apertures that are significantly large. Thus, it is the objective of this proposal to achieve novel designs by employing Metamaterials (Mtms) to realize physically smaller apertures without compromising on the bandwidth as well as on other capabilities of the terminal.

Oceanit Laboratories, Inc. Oceanit Center 828 Fort Street Mall, Suite 600 Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(808) 531-3017 Derek Ah Yo ARMY 09-176 Awarded: 7/10/2010
Title:	Flat Panel Shelter-Mountable Phased Array Antenna for DoD Systems of Record
Abstract:	A low-cost, low-profile, phased-arrray SATCOM antenna with multi-beam and on-the- move capability is proposed for the Global Broadcast System (GBS) with operation in the Ka frequency band. Autonmous real-time beam steering will be achieved through a proprietary beam steering technique.

Artium Technologies, Inc. 150 West Iowa Avenue Suite 202 Sunnyvale, CA 94086
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(408) 737-2364 William Bachalo ARMY 09-177 Awarded: 2/10/2010
Title:	Development and Evaluation of Trajectory-Insensitive Particle Measurement Methods for Icing Cloud Characterization
Abstract:	Droplet size, LWC, and temperature are the primary parameters in icing. Numerical models and algorithms have been developed to correlate LWC, temperature, and droplet size values with different icing types and severity. However, these algorithms and models are in early stage development and need extensive testing. Reliable measurements of cloud droplet spectra as well as droplet dynamics are a key to these development efforts. The need to characterize mixed phase clouds suggests the combined use of imaging techniques to obtain information on particle shape allowing droplets to be discriminated from ice crystals and other particles. A cloud mapping system has been proposed. It consists of a PDI (phase Doppler interferometer) probe and an HSI (high speed imaging) probe, and is capable of time resolved measurements of drop size distributions, LWC, and particle concentration that will provide cloud characteristics as a function of time and location in the clouds. Acceptance of this new system will require the careful evaluation of the measurements methods, extensive comparisons to the established results, and reconciliation of any differences in the measurements.

Droplet Measurement Technologies Inc. 2545 Central Ave Boulder, CO 80301
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 440-5576 Darrel Baumgardner ARMY 09-177 Awarded: 2/10/2010
Title:	Advanced Sensors for Helicopter Icing Research
Abstract:	A measurement system for measuring the icing characteristics of mixed phased clouds from helicopters is being proposed. The Advanced Sensors for Helicopter Icing Research (ASHIR) is a hybrid system that integrates optical and thermal sensors with sophisticated signal processing algorithms in a configuration suitable for mounting on the aircraft fuselage and light enough to be boom mounted. Regardless of the mounting location the system is designed for immunity to high off-boresight angles of cloud particles arriving at the sample volume.

ADA Technologies, Inc. 8100 Shaffer Parkway Suite #130 Littleton, CO 80127
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 792-5615 Lu Wen ARMY 09-178 Awarded: 3/18/2010
Title:	Advanced Anode Materials for Improved Power in Lithium-Ion Batteries
Abstract:	Today''s military equipment has become increasingly reliant on powerful and sophisticated electronic components that require a wide range of batteries providing: high energy and power per unit mass and volume, operation in a wide range of temperatures, long storage life, and safety. Hence, the Army has migrated to the use of lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries with significantly reduced weight as compared to previous-generation alkaline and carbon-zinc batteries. However, the demand for improvements to Li-ion batteries continues to grow. To address this need, ADA Technologies, Inc. proposes to develop improved electrode materials for Li-ion batteries for increased power. This proposed project will result in improved energy and power densities, wider operation temperature ranges, inherently safer operation, and excellent storage / cycle lives as compared to current Li-ion batteries.

Lithium Battery Engineering 87 Everdale Rd. Randolph, NJ 07869
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(973) 393-7540 Andrew Manning ARMY 09-178 Awarded: 3/18/2010
Title:	Development of High Power Lithium-ion Batteries
Abstract:	High power rechargeable lithium batteries are desired for a wide variety of military products. Increasingly powerful and sophisticated military and civilian equipment require higher power batteries to function reliably under various conditions. Rechargeable lithium battery cells currently available have about 4.7kW/kg specific power for continuous discharge. By improving existing materials, electrode and cell designs in lithium-ion, the battery power density and specific power can be vastly improved. This work will also achieve no voltage delay, even after long storage periods, operability in a wide range of temperatures, long storage life, and safety.

Accurate Automation Corporation 7001 Shallowford Road Chattanooga, TN 37421
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(423) 894-4646 Peter Krueger ARMY 09-179 Awarded: 3/11/2010
Title:	High Power Laser Triggered Carbon Nanotube Switch
Abstract:	Accurate Automation Corporation proposes to develop a high power switch with a laser trigger to minimize pulse-to-pulse jitter. The switch will incorporate carbon nanotube electrodes for long life and high current capacity. The initial design of the switch will provide switching of up to 25 kV DC. The integral control of the switch will allow multiple switches to be triggered simultaneously or in a specific phased time sequence.

Tritec Systems, Inc. 4825 University Square, Suite 7 Huntsville, AL 35816
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(256) 653-6145 Anthony Kikel ARMY 09-179 Awarded: 5/5/2010
Title:	Phasing Multiple High Power Impulse RF Sources
Abstract:	The proposed research will investigate the application of Metamaterial-based Ferro- Electric Phasing Elements (MPE) into a universal impulse synchronization technology that is independent of the HPM impulse source employed in the architecture. The MPE technology will be investigated and be required to phase impulses, produced by HPM sources while, at the same time providing, high microwave power handling, minimal insertion losses, and other critical performance parameters. This research will serve as a feasibility demonstration for the insertion of the MPE into phased High Power Microwave (HPM) source architectures for applications such as impulse radars, electronic device neutralization, and ground penetrating radars. This research will form the basis for the development of a new HPM source phasing technology formed by a metamaterial linear sweep phasing function. The proposed MPE phasing properties are independent of the HPM sources technology employed. The MPE brassboard demonstration in this Phase I will demonstrate phase shift, high microwave power handling and insertion loss. Successful demonstration of the MPE devices will lead to joint operation demonstration of the phased elements and HPM sources, enabling development of novel universal HPM source phasing technology.

Physical Optics Corporation Applied Technologies Division 20600 Gramercy Place, Bldg 100 Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 320-3088 Xiaowei Xia ARMY 09-180 Awarded: 5/11/2010
Title:	Performance Optimized Solar Energy Generation Technology
Abstract:	To address the Army need for a novel primary power technology that gathers power from the high-altitude platform environment, such as photovoltaics (PV), Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Performance Optimized Solar Energy Generation (POSEG) technology. The proposed POSEG is based on flexible high mobility transport material and high quantum yield photosensitized material, coated with a transparent electrode, and encapsulated in a transparent protective layer. The innovation in solar-spectrum-matching through doping with photosensitized material in an efficient light-trapping structure to improve solar conversion efficiency will enable the device to achieve a power conversion efficiency >20% and a specific mass power of ~1000 W/kg. In Phase I, POC will demonstrate the feasibility of POSEG by fabricating and testing flexible prototype photovoltaic cells that could be incorporated into a high-altitude platform as a limited-scale demonstration of the cell concept and manufacturing process. In Phase II, POC plans to further refine the solar cell design and develop a draft design of full-scale manufacturing equipment to reduce the solar cell production cost significantly, and reach Technology Readiness Level 4.

Cogent3D, Inc. 9121 E Tanque Verde PMB 181 Tucson, AZ 85749
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(520) 445-8022 Richard Clark ARMY 09-181 Awarded: 1/15/2010
Title:	Dynamic Formats in Distributed Simulation Systems
Abstract:	The objective of this topic is to evaluate real-time/runtime construction terrain technologies and determine if these can be directly connected to an enhanced OneSAF constructive simulation through an open API (Open Low Level Extensible Terrain Query API). Doing so would enable OneSAF to support correlated dynamic distributed simulation with run-time published or on-the-fly procedural terrain construction enabled visuals and simulation applications. The Phase I effort will focus on designing and implementing a prototype low level terrain query API that meets the objectives described in the proposal. With assistance from the US Army, these objectives will be sorted by priority, ensuring that our effort will be focused on the areas considered most important to the customer. Prototype API implementation will be developed in Phase I to allow side-by-side comparisons of performance and quality of static terrain OneSAF versus dynamic 3-D terrain enabled OneSAF. The Phase I Option effort will focus on implementing additional prototype API functional calls based on the selected functional calls that provide the most important correlation characteristics in the Phase I evaluation. Beyond the Diamond Visionics Genesis interfaced in phase an additional dynamic terrain systems will be interfaced in Phase II.

Dignitas Technologies, LLC 14258 Anastasia Lane Orlando, FL 32828
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(407) 259-9915 Jon Watkins ARMY 09-181 Awarded: 1/14/2010
Title:	Dynamic Formats in Distributed Simulation Systems
Abstract:	There is a strong recent trend of core Army technologies heading towards greater convergence and reuse, as illustrated by programs such as OneSAF and SE Core. However, in parallel with this trend, selected areas are actually diverging through heavy investment in technologies that do not conform well to the mantra of commonality. A key area of divergence for virtual simulation is image generation technology, with heavy recent investment in run-time publishing and procedural geometry concepts. Both of these concepts fit poorly into the classic pre-distributed terrain database approach used in major Army applications all the way back to SIMNET. However, these technologies may provide value in the areas of dynamic environment and leveraging fielded hardware. As a result, it is important to study how run-time publishing and procedural geometry concepts can be applied to SE Core, OneSAF, and other core simulation technologies. Dignitas Technologies, along with subcontractor CAE, will do a survey of run-time publishing and procedural geometry technologies and investigate ways to integrate these technologies into leading Army technologies such as OneSAF.

Abamis IT Solutions 3251 Progress Drive, Suite A Orlando, FL 32826
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(407) 207-0123 Warren Macchi ARMY 09-182 Awarded: 1/19/2010
Title:	Terrain Database Correlation and Automated Testing Technologies
Abstract:	Terrain database correlation and automated testing are areas needing innovative and reliable solutions. Specifically, there are minimal correlation testing solutions and the vast majority of terrain database verification processes rely on human-in-the-loop testing. Hence, these tests are time consuming, costly, and do not prevent the interoperability and/or fair fight issues. This effort will investigate new mechanisms for automated correlation testing through a fundamental approach which begins by identifying the problems inherent with achieving fair fight and interoperability. The effort continues by defining metrics to be used in capturing individual correlation measures in the areas of terrain database physical representation and terrain services functionality. These correlation measures are aggregated to develop a high level correlation scoring system. Finally, this effort will look into a configurable mechanism where users can specify the measures, the relative weight or priorities of the measures, and the failure criteria for correlation testing and reporting.

Dignitas Technologies, LLC 14258 Anastasia Lane Orlando, FL 32828
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(407) 259-9915 Jon Watkins ARMY 09-182 Awarded: 1/15/2010
Title:	Terrain Database Correlation and Automated Testing Technologies
Abstract:	The modeling and simulation industry has long been plagued by errors in synthetic natural environment representations and services. Terrain correlation issues span a wide range of layers, including database generation, data content, run-time algorithms, and system functional effect. These issues are highly damaging in terms of cost and training impacts. Although multiple attempts have been made to identify and fix correlation issues, each of these attempts has fallen short in terms of functionality or breadth of application. A comprehensive attack on this problem, including a focus on building common architectures and algorithms, will mitigate correlation problems. The common solution must look beyond the virtual domain, such as consideration of live (e.g. geo-pairing and LVC) and command and control (CJMTK) considerations. Such a common solution is more easily addressed at this time, given the growing commonality between programs (e.g. OneSAF, LVC-IA), and the growth of centralized component-building programs like SE Core and LT2. Dignitas Technologiesâ€™ Phase I efforts will address two key focus areas: near-term implementation of selected test prototypes and a longer-term effort to define a set of principles and standards that can grow into a Correlation Analysis for Terrain Representations (CATR) concept.

FBS, Inc. 3340 West College Ave. State College, PA 16801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(814) 234-3437 Michael Avioli ARMY 09-183 Awarded: 3/10/2010
Title:	Dual mode embedded ultrasonic guided wave tomography system for real time health monitoring of composite vehicle armor structures
Abstract:	FBS proposes an embedded sensor based dual mode structural health monitoring (SHM) technique for monitoring damages in composite vehicle armor structures. The passive mode of the proposed SHM technique utilize acoustic emission (AE) sensors to continuously monitor the composite armor structures. Once a damage event is identified from the AE signals, active ultrasonic guided wave tomography tests will be conducted to provide imaging studies of the damage. The location and severity of the damage can be evaluated from the guided wave tomogram. The proposed dual mode saves system bandwidth and energy for damage detection and reporting and therefore can be easily combined with wireless sensing and energy harvesting techniques to provide not only on-board display of damage status but also wirelessly report the damage status to a remote base.

Impact Technologies, LLC 200 Canal View Blvd Rochester, NY 14623
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(585) 424-1990 Michael Roemer ARMY 09-183 Awarded: 4/23/2010
Title:	Composite Armor Structural Monitoring (CASM)
Abstract:	In this project, Impact Technologies is adapting an existing composite material damage assessment technology to composite armor structures. A vibro-acoustic methodology is applied to determine damage location and severity on composite armor using both passive and active approaches. The passive approach relies on external excitation to both wake the system and generate excitations that can be used to detect existing or nascent damage. The active approach utilizes embedded piezoelectric actuators to generate intrinsic excitations. A significant portion of the Phase I effort is a sensor selection study, where among others, macro-fiber composite patches, piezoceramic transducers, and fiber Bragg gratings will be evaluated as potential embeddable sensing hardware. Impact will leverage its experience with advanced modeling tools to analyze the dynamics of ballistics impacts on anisotropic laminate panels, and verify those models with laboratory testing. The models will then be exercised to produce the information necessary to optimally locate sensors and actuators within the material. At the conclusion of the Phase I program a preliminary system concept based on Impactâ€™s proprietary nodal-based sensor/communications network will demonstrate how sensor data is collected, processed, and delivered to both local and remote displays to provide real-time decision support.

Luna Innovations Incorporated 1 Riverside Circle Suite 400 Roanoke, VA 24016
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(540) 961-4507 Vladimir Kochergin ARMY 09-183 Awarded: 5/4/2010
Title:	Real Time Damage Monitoring of Composite Vehicle Armor Structure Integrity Using Embedded Sensors
Abstract:	Composite materials are increasingly employed in vehicle armor due to their high strength to mass ratio. The complex structure of composite vehicle armor panels leads to complex modes of failure of such panels when exposed to battlefield environment. There is a need to develop NDT/NDE technology to assess the health state of such panels on the battlefield. Luna Innovations proposes to develop an all-fiber optic ultrasonic NDE solution to address this problem. The key component of SHM system is a highly multiplexible transducer generating ultrasonic waves in the predefined locations of the optical fiber. Using such a technique, 10s of transducers and 1000s of sensors can be placed on the optical fibers embedded or surface-mounted to the composite panel. In Phase I the feasibility of the solution will be experimentally demonstrated and the model of the wave propagation in armor panel will be developed. In Phase II, sensors, transducers will continue to be refined and instrumented panels will undergo extensive testing and validation. In Phase III, Luna will commercialize the developed technology. The developed technology will be used on the FCS Armor ATO, TWVS ATO and on various army light weight vehicles including JLTV, MMWV and MRAP.

GS Engineering, Inc. 47500 US Hwy 41 Houghton, MI 49931
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(906) 482-1235 Glen Simula ARMY 09-184 Awarded: 3/16/2010
Title:	Innovative Wheel Control Technologies for Mechanical Counter Mine Equipment
Abstract:	GS Engineering (GSE) will develop improvements to current US Army mine rollers that will improve ground-following performance and reduce wheel hop by 50 â€“ 90%, with increased mobility and increased effective threat clearing speed. This will be accomplished by applying advanced suspension technologies to the system, subsystem design changes for improved dynamic stability at high speeds, subsystem improvements for more efficient application of roller down force, and structural optimization of the roller arm assembly. These improvements will also lead to reduced power requirements. GSEâ€™s initial designs have predicted significant performance improvements by reducing wheel hop by over 90%, as compared to current SPARK mine rollers.

Mechanical Simulation International 604 Lakeland Crescent Yorktown, VA 23693
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(757) 344-3005 Ford Cook ARMY 09-184 Awarded: 3/31/2010
Title:	Innovative Wheel Control Technologies for Mechanical Counter Mine Equipment
Abstract:	Explosive Threats (ETs) are a major cause of troop casualties and limit Assured Mobility. Mechanical Simulation International, Inc. (MechSim) proposes to develop innovative wheel control technologies for US Army Mine Roller equipment that will increase the rate of advance while maintaining or improving Mine Roller effectiveness in the defeat of buried pressure plate and ETs. During Phase-I MechSim will conduct a series of studies using modeling and simulation to investigate trends and effectiveness of subsystem level improvements ranging from simple component modifications, such as roller materials and spring and damping rates, to more sophisticated wheel control technologies such as improved suspension geometry, changes in sprung/unsprung mass ratios, and active/semi-active suspension systems. Results from these physics-based virtual experiments will be synthesized into a robust understanding of mine-roller wheel control techniques, trends, and effectiveness at maintaining ground pressure over undulating terrain at various speeds. During Phase-II MechSim will use this knowledge to develop and optimize a modular, scalable and adaptable mine roller wheel control system for current and future counter mine systems. This system will achieve a minimum 50% reduction in wheel hop at a rate of advance of at least 30 kph and will seek to meet the desired rate of 100 kph.

Materials Sciences Corporation 135 Rock Road Horsham, PA 19044
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(215) 542-8400 Richard Foedinger ARMY 09-185 Awarded: 3/16/2010
Title:	Hybrid 4D Braided Textiles for High Pressure Layflat Hoseline (MSC P 9052)
Abstract:	High pressure, layflat hoselines are used in Army water and fuel systems to transport bulk fluid over long distances to provide ease of storage, layout, set-up and retrieval. In order to meet the Armyâ€™s need for an improved hoseline with a higher working pressure (740 psi) and capability to meet all of the multifunctional performance criteria (including light weight, high pressure rating, durability, handling ease, abrasion resistance, fuel and chemical resistance, UV stabilization), new approaches to integrating higher strength fibers and optimizing fiber orientation in the hose jacket are needed. The innovation outlined in this proposal is the development and integration of two synergistic technologies that have the potential to meet all of the multifunctional performance criteria for layflat hoselines; viz., use of multi-material hybrid fiber bundles in a novel 4D (quadraxial) braided architecture. Feasibility will be demonstrated by conducting textile material modeling, parametric analyses, process demonstration trials and testing to characterize the performance candidate hybrid material configurations. The most favorable combination of fiber materials and orientations will be selected and a design concept for a compatible end fitting will be developed to establish a prototype hose design for manufacturing scale-up and performance testing in Phase II.

Talon Technologies, LLC 3311 Carl Ct Edgewood, KY 41017
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(859) 512-2795 Jeramie Lawson ARMY 09-185 Awarded: 2/12/2010
Title:	High Pressure Layflat Hoseline
Abstract:	To overcome the obstacles that previous researchers have been unable to surpass, Talon Technologies has developed a unique hose system that builds on proven high pressure designs. Talon has experience with designing high pressure hoses and understands the challenges facing this project. The concept is to use a braided substrate as reinforcement for a smooth-walled inner channel. This will combine the benefit of having a smooth wall for fluid transfer with the increased stability of a braided reinforcement. Subsequent layers of braid will be added to provide the required burst protection and flexible polymer resins will be used to bond the multiple layers together forming a singular composite reinforcing mechanism. Fibers will be selected based on their physical properties and their performance during the fiber testing outlined in the Phase I work plan. Polymer resins will be selected to allow flexibility of the composite and provide adequate strength and protection to the fiber. The key innovative technologies are the use of a braided design as opposed to the circular knitted and woven designs previously tried. Also, by reinforcing the inner liner with a braided substrate, the hose will have more integrity and be less likely to kink or twist.

Autonomous Solutions, Inc. 990 North 8000 West Petersboro, UT 84325
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(435) 755-2980 Matt Berkemeier ARMY 09-186 Awarded: 2/4/2010
Title:	Improved Tele-Control for Manipulator Equipped Unmanned Ground Vehicles
Abstract:	Under the Phase I program, ASI will examine the available technologies for improving manipulation, create preliminary designs of how to integrate these technologies on current platforms (the Talon and Packbot), and simulate the effects of improved dynamic modeling and sensor feedback on manipulator performance. The deliverables for Phase I will thus be: â€¢ Preliminary design of retrofit packages for the Talon and Packbot including: o Improved joint angle encoders o Force and torque sensors o Stereovision camera o MEMS IMU o Computing resources o Add-on improved gripper â€¢ HRI tests using 3D visualization with a stereo display to document improvements resulting from enhanced depth perception â€¢ A simulation of manipulation control using a dynamic model of the MTRS Packbot

RE2, Inc. 4925 Harrison Street Pittsburgh, PA 15201
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(412) 681-6382 Patrick Rowe ARMY 09-186 Awarded: 3/5/2010
Title:	Modular Intelligent Manipulation system with Intuitive Control (MIMIC)
Abstract:	This proposal presents the design for a Modular Intelligent Manipulation system with Intuitive Control (MIMIC) which significantly increases the effectiveness of robotic manipulators by giving the operator of a robotic arm the sensation that it is his or her arm actually manipulating an object. As the operator moves his hand, the robot arm will mimic the operatorâ€™s arm/hand movements. As resistance is experienced at the end- effector, the operator will â€œfeelâ€ that resistance on his own hand. MIMCâ€™s intuitive control system coupled with our innovative dexterous end-effector solutions will enable more advanced teleoperation capabilities such as using common hand tools, removing batteries, or cutting wires. The comprehensive approach that is presented for MIMIC is well-suited for integration onto next-generation robotic systems. Additionally, the modularity and interoperability of MIMIC allow it to be integrated onto currently fielded UGVs as an upgrade kit, providing a low-cost, improved teleoperation solution for the existing fleet of fielded UGVs.

Robotics Research Corporation 4480 Lake Forest Drive Suite 408 Cincinnati, OH 45242
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(513) 831-9570 James Farrell ARMY 09-186 Awarded: 3/19/2010
Title:	Improved Tele-Control for Manipulator Equipped Unmanned Ground Vehicles
Abstract:	A robust telepresence complemented with augmented reality cueing techniques and with very agile remote manipulation represents the ultimate teleoperation system, but aspects of it may not be cost effective, necessary or viable in specific EOD missions. Conversely, current EOD technology in the areas of manipulator design and control, situational awareness and teleoperation techniques may only require minor modifications to significantly extend the scope and increase the efficacy and adaptability of the EOD teleoperation process. Consequently, this program will prepare an extensive trade-off and cost-benefit analysis, which will include a comprehensive review of teleoperated EOD tasks. Subsequently, their degree of operational efficacy will be quantified and correlated with recommended improvements in fielded EOD equipment and also with the adoption of leading edge technologies such as telepresence robustness, advanced teleoperation techniques, augmented reality cues, end effector design and specialized tooling and manipulator characteristics such as kinematics, accuracy, force control, stability, and mechanical bandwidth. Also a white paper will be prepared that recommends manipulator design, control and tooling technology to address a broad spectrum of EOD teleoperation issues such as costs, dexterity, stable compliance control, bilateral teleoperation, dynamic accuracy, dual arm coordination, keyhole operations and overall operational efficiencies.

Autonomous Solutions, Inc. 990 North 8000 West Petersboro, UT 84325
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(435) 755-2980 Matthew Berkemeier ARMY 09-187 Awarded: 2/4/2010
Title:	Semi-Autonomous Manipulator Control Using 2D and 3D Scene Recognition
Abstract:	Current mobile manipulators require extensive operator involvement to perform even simple tasks, such as opening a door, picking up an object, or emptying a container. â€œFly-the-gripperâ€ algorithms have been implemented to free the user from specifying joint velocities when a desired x, y, z gripper path is desired (Berkemeier, Poulson, et al. 2008), (Johnston, et al. 2008). Further, â€œpoint-and clickâ€ or â€œclick- and-goâ€ functionality allows the user to choose an object in a display and command the gripper to automatically move to the vicinity of the selected point. While this saves the user some trouble, the significantly more difficult task of grasping an object, picking it up, and manipulating it must still be performed manually. These manual operations are performed using a joystick, puck, mouse, or similar input device which requires concentration and hand dexterity and coordination. Often, mobile manipulators are used in difficult situations where technicians are under pressure to finish their tasks quickly in order to preserve human lives (possibly their own). Thus, it is crucial that semi- autonomous robot control algorithms be developed. For maximum benefit, the methods should apply to both existing and future platforms. For existing platforms, a â€œretro-fit kitâ€ would add semi-autonomous manipulation capabilities to the thousands of mobile manipulators already in use. Future platforms, on the other hand, could be designed with suitable hardware already in place to implement the necessary algorithms developed in the proposed work for semi-autonomous manipulator control.

RE2, Inc. 4925 Harrison Street Pittsburgh, PA 15201
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(412) 681-6382 Patrick Rowe ARMY 09-187 Awarded: 2/19/2010
Title:	Semi-Autonomous Manipulator System (SMS)
Abstract:	Current manipulator technologies on robotic platforms are still rather primitive in terms of their control and sensing. Operators are required to control each individual joint, usually just one at a time, in an open-loop manner, resulting in a slow and tedious process to position the end-effector. Additionally, operators typically do not have direct visual line-of- sight to the robotâ€™s working area, forcing the operator to rely on imagery from one or more robot-mounted cameras. It is clear that the next logical step in the evolution of mobile manipulator robotic technology is to move to semi-autonomous operations, and to do so in a manner that makes sense to the operator. This proposal presents RE2â€™s approach for advancing the state of the art of semi-autonomous manipulation for unmanned ground vehicles working in unstructured mission environments. The proposed approach combines RE2â€™s proven, robust robotic manipulator technology, a single-camera- based generic object tracking system, and intuitive user interfaces to create a complete Semi-autonomous Manipulation System (SMS). The primary benefit of the SMS is a significant decrease in the cognitive burden of the operator when controlling the manipulator during these missions, especially missions with tedious and repetitive tasks, thereby decreasing overall mission duration and increasing operator safety.

Vecna Technologies Inc. 6404 Ivy Lane Suite 500 Greenbelt, MD 20770
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 864-0636 Karl Muecke ARMY 09-187 Awarded: 3/19/2010
Title:	Semi-Autonomous Manipulator Control
Abstract:	Current teleoperation and control systems for unmanned ground vehicles (UGV�s) and manipulators are tedious and time consuming to use. Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) technicians devote significant of time and mental energy when attempting to individually control manipulator joints, which could be better used for situational awareness. Effective semi-autonomous manipulator control requires three technologies: an intuitive user interface and control, a perception/sensor system, and robust and scalable autonomous end-effector positioning. Vecna Technologies, Inc. is partnering with Think-A-Move, Ltd. to develop an intuitive speech-driven user interface that gives soldiers hands-free control of the manipulator. Vecna is developing vision processing software that extracts 3D information from a single video camera; eliminating the need for additional costly sensors. The 3D information is used to map the local terrain and identify objects the manipulator interacts with. A heads up display or monocle shows the operator the video feed with an overlay showing the identified objects. Vecna''s robust and scalable autonomous end- effector positioning is absolutely essential to improving UGV EOD manipulation effectiveness. If the robot or object is moving, Vecna''s high-level software will maintain high manipulator accuracy and tracking by accounting for the entire system, rather than just the manipulator like low-level controllers.

Mobile Intelligence Corporation 13620 Merriman Road Livonia, MI 48150
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(734) 367-0430 Douglas MacKenzie ARMY 09-188 Awarded: 3/30/2010
Title:	High Speed Teleoperation with Variable Latency
Abstract:	Teleoperation of high speed ground robots is very difficult. People use an enormous amount of proprioceptive cues to estimate safe travel speeds and compensate for motion jitter in their visual cortex. Simply moving the controls off-board takes away those cues, and makes the task much harder. Worse, the reality of radio links dictates that latency will appear between the time at which a movement is commanded and the time when the video display reflects the resulting vehicle motion. While driving, especially in urban areas, the quality of radio data links can vary tremendously which causes changes in the latency and potential dropouts exceeding a couple seconds. Variable latency quickly becomes irritating and dramatically reduces controllability of the platform, and loss of operator control for longer than a fraction of a second is a serious hazard. To solve this problem, MIC will apply three complementary techniques to improve the vehicle safety and operator experience of high-speed teleoperation with variable latency.

Robotic Research LLC 555 Quince Orchard Road Suite 300 Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(240) 631-0008 Alberto Lacaze ARMY 09-188 Awarded: 3/31/2010
Title:	Teleoperation Of Robots Improvement System (TORIS)
Abstract:	Teleoperated robotic systems are characterized by a lack of situational awareness, and the effects of delays and poor communications. Control of Samll Unmanned Ground Vehicles SUGVs in cluttered environments requires fine control of the platform to avoid obstacles, and align the platforms with doorways or stairways. On larger UGVs, speed is normally paramount for mission success, and communications delays can cause control instabilities that often result in into overturned or damaged vehicles. During Phase I, a prototype system that compensates for delays in the exchange of video and command data between the remote platform and the Soldier Machine Interface will be developed. The system will generate a driving image on the SMI that is compensated for vehicle motion and communication delay.

Signature Research, Inc. P.O. Box 346 Calumet, MI 49913
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(734) 665-4818 Gary Witus ARMY 09-188 Awarded: 3/11/2010
Title:	Predictive Displays and Latency Protections for High Latency Teleoperation
Abstract:	We will develop and demonstrate robust and reliable methods for high-latency teleoperation with Predictive Display (PD), Latency Protection (LP) and Supervisory Control (SC). PD conveys the effects of latent commands not yet reflected in the display. Augmented Reality PD (ARPD) overlays an icon indicating the predicted position and orientation using nominal terrain and motion models. Virtual Reality PD (VRPD) warps the image to the predicted perspective using a â€œ2Â½ Dâ€ model constructed via video feature tracking. LP limits translation and rotation rates, and shapes acceleration response, as functions of observed latency and operator behavior. In extreme situations, LP brakes to prevent operator overreaction. LP is inspired by AntiLock Braking: it has no observable effect within safety margins. Phase I will implement ARPD and LP on a Packbot, and begin VRPD. The Option will test Visual Servoing SC (VSSC) and open-loop Displacement Command SC (DCSC) for high-latency teleoperation, and implement VRPD. VSSC developed under a prior separate effort. ARPD, LP and DCSC are software-only solutions that can be implemented on existing UGVs without additional hardware. We will conduct developmental testing to optimize and compare the methods based on task performance, stress-related biosignals and subjective workload assessment.

ENGeniusMicro, LLC 500 Bishop Street Suite E-3 Atlanta, GA 30318
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(770) 289-8272 Brian English ARMY 09-189 Awarded: 3/29/2010
Title:	Transducer Technologies for Track Health Monitoring
Abstract:	Capacitive strain sensors will be integrated into vehicles tracks for the purpose of health and usage monitoring. Data will be collected by wireless reader and DAQ where data processing and analysis begins. Key innovations include sensor technology and wireless interrogation techniques

MillenWorks 1361 Valencia Avenue Tustin, CA 92780
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(714) 426-5574 Bryan Mariscal ARMY 09-189 Awarded: 3/25/2010
Title:	Transducer Technologies for Track Health Monitoring
Abstract:	Tracked vehicles function in some of the worldâ€™s most challenging terrain. Currently no system exists that will give the warfighter any data or notification informing them of track health. In order to gather that information, the warfighter must perform a visual inspection of the track while it is installed on the vehicle, or remove the track for a more detailed inspection. The need is present for a sensor system that will aid the warfighter in monitoring and measuring track health. The sensor system must be able to measure key parameter data for use by diagnostic and prognostic algorithms to provide information on track health and help predict future track failures. The information produced will allow the warfighter to plan the best use for the tracked vehicle. The complexity stands with the fact that tracks are made from several moving parts made from different materials (Steel, Rubber) making the use of a transducer difficult. MillenWorks has recognized this need and will conduct sensor system evaluation and conceptual design integration.

Signature Research, Inc. P.O. Box 346 Calumet, MI 49913
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(256) 971-9393 Wallace Kistler ARMY 09-192 Awarded: 3/18/2010
Title:	System Design Optimization Model
Abstract:	The proposed effort will develop methodologies to mathematically quantify impacts of lethality, mobility, and non armor survivability technologies (blast mitigation, situational awareness, and fire suppression) on vehicle survivability for the enhancement of the Threat Oriented Survivability Optimization Model (TOSOM). This will allow TOSOM for use in evaluating, performing trade-offs, and optimizing vehicle survivability for both traditional threat countermeasures and non-traditional survivability technologies. TOSOM has been used in the development of requirements, and investigation of countermeasure(s) performance to achieve an optimum or desired level of system survivability given a specific threat environment. This enhancement to the models capability to understand the impacts of countermeasures and non-traditional survivability technologies allows the defense community insights into and focuses research into technology areas that are seen as most able to reduce threat lethality to blue systems.

Orbital Traction LTD 8760 Westpark Dr Houston, TX 77063
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(262) 268-1449 Roy Venton-Walters ARMY 09-193 Awarded: 3/30/2010
Title:	Variable Speed Alternator Drive
Abstract:	It is proposed to demonstrate through modeling and simulation the feasibility of producing a constant velocity accessory drive (CVAD), using a novel continuously variable transmission. This drive will enable an alternator to produce full rated power while operating at idle and across the full range of engine speeds. Employing an existing commercialized traction drive design known as the Milner CVT (MCVT) as a baseline, the focus of the proposed research will be on (i) improvement of baseline MCVT materials to both reduce the size of the core variator as well as to improve the life of the modeled CVAD; and (ii) mitigation of torsional pulse loads from the engine which will tend to lessen the life of the CVAD. The proposed research is anticipated to result in a bolt-on CVAD design that is extremely compact, highly efficient and will work with both existing and increased power alternators.

VanDyne SuperTurbo Inc. 200 West Mountain Ave. Suite A-105 Fort Collins, CO 80521
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(970) 407-0005 Edward Vandyne ARMY 09-194 Awarded: 3/23/2010
Title:	Diesel Waste Heat Recovery Utilizing a SuperTurbocharger
Abstract:	SuperTurbocharger is a compact, low cost, lightweight device being developed for maximum exhaust heat recovery from most piston engines such as those used in U.S. Army ground vehicles. The recovered energy is mechanically transferred to the engine crankshaft by the device, thereby improving the fuel efficiency. Conversely, the same SuperTurbocharger can accelerate the compressor in fraction of a second to reduce turbo lag. Preliminary modeling and tests conducted using the first and second generation prototypes on natural gas, diesel and gasoline engines were very promising. In Phase I, an engine will be selected and modeled without the SuperTurbocharger to establish the baseline on fuel efficiency. Further modeling will be performed on the same engine using the SuperTurbocharger to turbo compound exhaust energy to the maximum. Data will be compared to determine the feasibility of fuel efficiency gains. After successful completion of Phase I, the Phase I option will be exercised to design the SuperTurbocharger based on the Phase I model. In Phase II, a heat recovery system will be developed and built for testing on the selected engine in a laboratory. Necessary improvements will be made to the prototype to be ready for testing on a vehicle in Phase III.

Polaris Sensor Technologies, Inc. 200 Westside Square Suite 320 Huntsville, AL 35801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(256) 562-0087 John Harchanko ARMY 09-195 Awarded: 3/3/2010
Title:	Active Optical Fuse
Abstract:	The Active Protection System for a ground vehicle should provide protection from the full spectrum of threats. Based on our experience in developing optical fuzes, we present our notional concept for a highly accurate active optical fuze that not only requires minimal volume and weight but the additional submunition length required is very small or possible even reduced in some cases where an RF fuze is being utilized. The concept allows for a nose-mounted warhead and is suitable for high-volume manufacturing practices. Finally, the accuracy of the fuze is further enhanced by the use of multiple gates that allow for additional discrimination to ensure proper fuzing. This technology combined with our existing electronics and expertise from our algorithm group will provide a highly accurate, high speed optical fuze.

Tanner Research, Inc. 825 S. Myrtle Ave. Monrovia, CA 91016
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(626) 471-9700 Pat Shoemaker ARMY 09-195 Awarded: 3/16/2010
Title:	Optical Sensor for Proximity Fuzing
Abstract:	Tanner Research proposes to implement a fast-response optical proximity fuze for use with active protection system (APS) counter-munitions (C-M). Use of fast back-end sensor processing inherent in optical systems that implement optical-flow and looming algorithms will be critical in achieving the warhead response times needed to defeat incoming 4000 fps threats: and, especially incoming threats passing off-center to the C-M axis. A single optical sensor can simultaneously detect the threat and determine into which specific radial zone the threat will pass the C-M warhead in a near-miss scenario. Knowing which 30Âº radial (i.e., 12 in 360Âº) will facilitate focusing about 90% of the warhead blast and fragmentation from a directional warhead into any 90Âº sector. Algorithms for fuze command formulation based on looming detection will be evaluated and refined. Finally, options for low-cost, monolithic, micro-size implementations will be considered to establish a roadmap for a prototype system in Phase II.

Charles River Analytics Inc. 625 Mount Auburn Street Cambridge, MA 02138
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 491-3474 Jonah McBride ARMY 09-196 Awarded: 3/25/2010
Title:	Mapping Of Local Environments for Reconnaissance And Training (MOLE-RAT)
Abstract:	Unmanned ground systems provide the warfighter with a variety of standoff capabilities. One application is remote entry and exploration of urban structures and other potentially dangerous enclosed spaces. A robot capable of autonomously navigating these structures while simultaneously building a 3D map of the interior would provide soldiers with data for interactive reconnaissance and mission rehearsal. We propose a solution that uses simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) to track the robotâ€™s location and build a 3D model of the scene using a stereo video camera and standard onboard motion sensors such as IMU and odometry. A particle filter is used to efficiently model and update the robot position and scene model, allowing the system to run in real-time. To mitigate the lack of scene texture typical of indoor imagery, we will employ line features in addition to traditional point features. Our system will also apply geometric constraints, such as planar surfaces and parallel walls, to generate more accurate and reliable location and mapping results. As part of the development effort we plan to perform a thorough system evaluation which will assess the effectiveness of system components and guide the construction of a full system prototype.

Robotic Research LLC 555 Quince Orchard Road Suite 300 Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(240) 631-0008 Karl Murphy ARMY 09-196 Awarded: 3/29/2010
Title:	Autonomous Indoor Mapping and Modeling
Abstract:	This project aims to create the Autonomy and Visualization Enhancement for Situational Awareness (AVESA) toolkit. AVESAâ€™s goal is to combine greater autonomy with accurate 3D mapping and visualization capabilities for use on Small Unmanned Ground Vehicles (SUGVs) in urban environments, providing significant benefits to the modern warfighter. Using AVESA, a soldier can command a SUGV to enter a structure, search it, and return to its original location. Upon completion of its mission, the 3D maps are transmitted to the soldiers, who are able to analyze the information prior to entering the structure, if required. Because of AVESAâ€™s capabilities, each soldier knows the basic structural layout, greatly enhancing the teamâ€™s situational awareness. The research objectives of this project are to: Develop a video-based Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) library for use on SUGV platforms in static, urban environments; Create a visualization toolkit that takes images as input and outputs texture-mapped 3D surfaces; Implement a software package capable of displaying the 3D surfaces created by AVESA; Work with the sponsor to integrate AVESA and open interfaces (e.g., Cursor on Target);Collect real test data using the pre-existing platforms.

UtopiaCompression, Corporation 11150 W. Olympic Blvd. Suite 820 Los Angeles, CA 90064
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 473-1500 Chaitanya Raju ARMY 09-196 Awarded: 2/16/2010
Title:	VISER: View Invariant Shape Estimation for real-time 3D modeling
Abstract:	A high resolution texture mapped 3D model can convey more information than just a 2D map which will be very useful in critical mission planning tasks, security surveillance, exploration tasks, and simulation and training. UCâ€™s proposes VISER to aid indoor navigation and building of 3D database for the ARMY and other DoD agencies leveraging our in-house capabilities, and current projects. Significant features of the proposed VISER for real-time 3D modeling includes: (1) accurate 3D shape estimation of indoor room and objects in the scene using novel in-house Cognitive Object Recognition System (CORS), (2) novel 3D features, improved landmark matching, and realtime relocalization using our in-house algorithms, (3) novel mono-SLAM for robot navigation coupled with object recognition system and next-view-based image capturing for improved performance, (4) efficient hierarchical VRML indoor 3D database which can be ported into different rendering modalities like PC, PDA, or Tablet PC, and maintained with ease and (5) fast and real time rendering techniques for improved user navigation through the 3D environment. The Phase I and Phase I option effort will include developing the proposed VISER technology prototype, building the corresponding key algorithms, evaluating the feasibility under chosen scenarios, and designing the prototype of a system solution.

Global Engineering Research and Technologies 2845 E. 2nd Street Tucson, AZ 85716
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(520) 829-7655 Ali Boufelfel ARMY 09-197 Awarded: 3/17/2010
Title:	Durability Modeling and Simulation of Composite Materials
Abstract:	For the Phase I effort, Global Engineering and Research Technologies (GERT) will develop a validated methodology to predict damage initiation and growth or durability of composite materials under cyclic loading in extreme temperature conditions. This effort will demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed method by considering both laminated or woven composite materials while including the effect of variability in material properties, fiber placement, fiber volume fraction and fracture toughness. The analysis method will merge the generic (traditional) finite elements of classical continuum (local) mechanics and a special element of (non-local) peridynamic theory. The Phase I effort will consider published experimental investigations in the validation of the proposed approach. The predictions will be compared against the measured edge displacement and local strain data in a composite panel with a notch under uniaxial load. Also, the damage predictions will be compared against the photo micrographs of failure modes. Finally, the proposed method will be integrated into one of the existing finite element programs that can be used to perform damage growth and life prediction of loaded holes in composite laminates.

KaZaK Composites Incorporated 10F GIll Street Woburn, MA 01801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 932-5667 Antonio Miravete ARMY 09-197 Awarded: 3/30/2010
Title:	MMF&EFM: an innovative science-based methodology for modeling and simulating Composite Materials for Durability
Abstract:	Conventional damage tolerance assessments of metallic structures based on crack growth generally do not apply to composites. The current practice of residual strength assessment based on small BVID (barely visible impact damage) and large CDT (critical damage threshold) damage is known to increase service repair costs of thin composite honeycomb panels. There is, therefore, a need to develop better damage tolerance assessment analysis methodologies. KaZaK Composites, Incorporated proposes to utilize their expertise and experience in damage tolerance assessment, mechanical property modeling and life prediction of polymer matrix composites to develop an advanced damage evaluation tool for the USAF. In the proposed work, analysis and tests will be performed to determine the structural strength and integrity of a traditional composite material with controlled defects. A new constituents and micromechanics-based (MMF) and element- failure method (EFM) approach to failure initiation and progression for composites will be employed in the analysis methods for both cases. This advanced numerical tool will begin to be used in association with commercial finite element software to provide the Army with an obvious transition path to assessing composites durability for current applications.

Materials Sciences Corporation 135 Rock Road Horsham, PA 19044
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(215) 542-8400 Anthony Caiazzo ARMY 09-197 Awarded: 3/17/2010
Title:	Durability Modeling and Simulation of Composite Materials (MSC P 9053)
Abstract:	The use of multi-functional composite laminates, including lightweight composite armor panels is increasing on U.S. Army platforms. Future Army Light Tactical Vehicles (LTV), including the Joint Light Tactical vehicles (JLTV) will most likely contain lightweight, armored composite panels that offer significant weight reduction coupled with structural load carrying capability. This SBIR topic focuses on developing a composite material model and post-processing tool compatible with existing Finite Element Analysis software to account for durability failures and represents the composite mechanical properties. The Phase I work is broken into six tasks: 1) Computational Methods Development; 2) Formulation and Implementation of Failure Models; 3) Demonstration of Method for Representative Volume Element (RVE); 4) Fatigue Evaluation Method; 5) Integration with FEA Codes; and 6) Findings and recommendations. The work accomplished under this Phase I SBIR will demonstrate the fidelity of the developed mathematical models to actual test data, and validate the simple case material models as a precursor to developing a new composite material model and corresponding post-processor tools in Phase II.

Akron Rubber Development Laboratory, Inc 2887 Gilchrist Rd Akron, OH 44305
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(330) 794-6600 Ed Terrill ARMY 09-198 Awarded: 4/2/2010
Title:	Fatigue Life Modeling & Simulation of Elastomer-Polymer Materials
Abstract:	High operating temperatures and harsh environments have caused a significant decrease in elastomeric material durability for military vehicles. ARDL will be using recent advances in material technology, testing methodology, processing, and design-analysis concepts to develop the material model and meet the project goal. Material choices and test designs will be established based on the requirements. The goal will be to develop the ability to predict damage initiation and progression in an elastomeric material causing fatigue failure and quantifying service life. Testing techniques and systems at ARDL will be used to verify and co-relate the material model developments. ARDL is proposing to develop a damage model for estimating the fatigue life of elastomeric materials. The material model will be based on the strain energy density and the damage strain energy release rate will be derived using the principle of continuum damage mechanics. This unique material modeling system with new material model and continuum damage-formulation will allow the Army to understand the fatigue life of polymer-elastomer materials. The formulation for damage progression in an elastomeric material will be used to develop a procedure to predict the fatigue life as a function of the nominal strain amplitude under cyclic loading service conditions.

Endurica LLC 6749 SR 12 W Findlay, OH 45840
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(419) 957-0543 William Mars ARMY 09-198 Awarded: 3/31/2010
Title:	Fatigue Life Modeling & Simulation of Elastomer-Polymer Materials
Abstract:	Because of their macromolecular structure, elastomers exhibit unique behavior and require special-purpose modeling and simulation methods. Endurica has developed a patented system for the simulation of fatigue life in elastomeric materials. The fatigue life is the number of cycles that a material will tolerate before developing a crack of specified size. The analysis system embodies 10 man-years of development, and its author has received numerous awards for the work. We propose to address the subject SBIR Phase I feasibility study by applying our simulation system to a series of tasks selected to demonstrate its underlying principles and operability. The tasks will be developed around the following main themes: 1) material model definition, 2) analysis of the multiaxial, variable amplitude duty cycle occurring at a single material point, and 3) simulation of crack nucleation in a rubber component simulated via finite elements. The proposal includes the option to further demonstrate workflow feasibility by experimentally characterizing two materials following our analysis schema.

Alternative Fuel Technology, LLC 12237 Woodbine Redford, MI 48239
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(313) 720-8680 James McCandless ARMY 09-199 Awarded: 4/2/2010
Title:	Ultra High Pressure Jet Propellant-8 (JP-8) Fuel Injection
Abstract:	The author is one of the original members of an engineering team that developed the first production intensified common rail injection system (CAT-Navistar HEUI), and we are therefore very familiar with this technology. We (AFT) have developed a 450-500 bar (6500-7250 psi) common rail pump that is used in our prototype DME fuel system. Although this pump was designed to pump DME, with minor modifications it can very easily pump engine lubricating oil. Since both the CAT HEUI and Navistar''s Electro- Hydraulic injectors use lube oil driven 7:1 hydraulic intensifed injectors, by applying our very high pressure common rail pump will easily allow us to achieve the requested injection pressures (40,000 psi). Considering compressibility losses, etc, we can possibly achieve >45,000 psi. We propose to make design modifications to our DME inlet throttled wobble plate pump, build a prototype and, using a production Navistar injector, demonstrate successful operation on a specially built test bench. We envision that the demonstration will include performance mapping the fuel system at various rail pressures and pulse widths (Injection durations). In phase 1, multiple injections will not be demonstrated because the cost of electronics can not be contained within the program cost limitations. Phase II would include demonstration of multiple injections, as well as injector durability and performance development.

Sturman Industries, Inc. One Innovation Way Woodland Park, CO 80863
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(719) 686-6089 Jeff Gardner ARMY 09-199 Awarded: 2/24/2010
Title:	Ultra High Pressure Jet Propellant-8 (JP-8) Fuel Injection
Abstract:	Future military diesel engines will require fuel system improvements to meet their desired performance targets including increased power density, increased fuel economy, reduced heat rejection and the ability to operate on different heavy hydrocarbon fuels. Sturman Industriesâ€™ hydraulically intensified, ultra high pressure fuel injectors together with their control algorithms provide the performance and flexibility necessary to reach the next level in diesel engine performance. Accordingly, the overall objective of Phase I of this project is to identify a hydraulically-intensified fuel system technology that will meet the militaryâ€™s engine performance and injector durability objectives. The project plan calls for extensive hydraulic simulation and concept design as well as bench testing of existing Sturman injectors that possess some or all of the performance characteristics sought. Optimizations regarding the important fuel system characteristics such as injection quantities, power consumption, dwell between injection events, and repeatability will be conducted. Fuel injectors with Sturmanâ€™s proprietary valve technology are well-suited to meet stringent performance requirements through increased injection pressures and the flexibility for multiple injection events per cycle. The various features will be evaluated with respect to the program technical specifications. The resulting fuel system recommendation will be an optimized combination of the available technology.

Creare Inc. P.O. Box 71 Hanover, NH 3755
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(603) 643-3800 Bruce Pilvelait ARMY 09-200 Awarded: 3/16/2010
Title:	An Advanced Battery Management System for Lithium Batteries
Abstract:	Lithium batteries have excellent capacity, although they require careful management to avoid catastrophic damage. As a result, there is extreme interest in developing a Battery Management System (BMS) to take advantage of the positive attributes of lithium chemistries. Most of the lithium battery manufacturers have developed various forms of BMSs, each with individual strengths and weaknesses. The lack of BMS standardization, and accurate state estimation algorithms, have hampered the widespread adoption of lithium chemistries in spite of the advantages they offer. We will determine the feasibility of developing a universal standard for lithium-based BMSs. We propose to develop a BMS which is compatible with all lithium-based battery types and provides SOC/SOL/SOH, cell balancing, and safe charge/discharge. Our focus is to develop a BMS which has excellent: (1) accuracy, (2) safety, and (3) cost. During Phase I we will evaluate the most recent algorithms and architectures, and most likely propose a universal hybrid algorithm capable of handling multiple lithium-based chemistries. We will conduct testing in the laboratory and evaluate algorithm performance with individual cells and modules obtained from our partners. During Phase II we will complete development and conduct HEV field testing at TRL 6 with our commercialization partners.

Impact Technologies, LLC 200 Canal View Blvd Rochester, NY 14623
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(585) 424-1990 Carl Byington ARMY 09-200 Awarded: 4/30/2010
Title:	An Advanced Battery Management System for Lithium Ion Vehicle Batteries
Abstract:	Impact Technologies, in collaboration with the Penn State Applied Research Laboratory and our OEM partners, proposes to develop and demonstrate an advanced battery management system for lithium-ion vehicle battery packs that ensures adequate, safe, and reliable operation. This system will produce an accurate assessment of state of charge (SOC), state of health (SOH), and state of life (SOL) and will provide electric and thermal control to provide voltage and temperature balancing across the many modules/cells needed to operate hybrid electric and electric vehicles. Phase I will strive to demonstrate the ability to assess SOC (with a 5% accuracy), SOL, and SOH at the cell/module level. Phase II will extend these development for larger packs (> 10 kWh) and develop the other pertinent hardware/software pieces needed to monitor (cell temperature, voltage, and impedance), balance/control (during charge and discharge), and safely operate these larger battery packs, as well as communicate pertinent information to an outside control module. Advanced prognostics will also be developed for prediction of available power and remaining capacity. A prototype unit will then be produced and tested with our OEM partners. In Phase III, we will work with our OEM partners to transition the technology into military and commercial applications.

TDA Research, Inc. 12345 W. 52nd Ave. Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 261-1122 John Olson ARMY 09-200 Awarded: 4/5/2010
Title:	A Universal Battery Management System Using Novel Algorithms for Battery Health
Abstract:	Battery Management Systems (BMS) are critical components of lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery packs. They improve safety, extend life, ensure reliability and thereby reduce costs. However, without careful design and implementation they can actually degrade battery performance, result in lower reliability, add greatly to system costs and even create instead of reduce safety problems. TDA will develop a modular based BMS with universal applicability to battery chemistries and pack size (voltage and capacity). The modularity will allow its components to be customized for specific battery packs without driving a re- design of the entire BMS. We will develop new state of health (SOH) and state of life (SOL) determinations based on advanced algorithms, which will be capable of learning based on the data collected during operation of the battery pack. The project will benefit from years of BMS design experience using the electrochemical expertise of the PI.

DESIGNED NANOTUBES, LLC 4211 WATERS EDGE COVE AUSTIN, TX 78731
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(512) 494-4146 Kurt Pe ARMY 09-201 Awarded: 3/23/2010
Title:	Lower Life Cycle Cost, High Strength Heat Resistant Polymers for Track Bushing & Pads
Abstract:	To develop new materials for the rubber components of tank track system that have increased durability and performance, it is proposed to focus on reduction of crack formation and growth in the rubbers using specially tailored multiwall-carbon nanutubes. Carbon nanotubes as manufactured exist as entangled large clusters that previously have been very difficult to unentangle and exfoliate without severe degradation of the nanotube aspect ratio. These tailored multi-wall carbon nanotubes allow for their full exfoliation in the rubber, provide excellent bonding to the rubber and also have high aspect ratio greater than 60. Significant improvements in modulus, tear strength, creep, temperature resistance and lower hysteresis in the rubber are expected. The carbon nanotubes will be added at a 0.5-2% concentration to the rubber systems to allow for a cost effective system that is at least a 25% improvment in cost and life cycle. DNT proprietary technology fully exfoliates and allows for a selection of surfactants and other chemicals for addition to the carbon nanotubes, all in greater than 90% yield. The tubes will be either melt blended or added to an emulsion of rubber latex and dried (both techniques already demonstrated in other applications)and then added as a master batch to try to minimize changes in the current process. This process should maximize the chances of success in scaleup and fabrication of the parts.

Dyco Industries Inc 1740 Downriver Drive Woodland, WA 98674
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(360) 225-9764 Rick Kingsley ARMY 09-201 Awarded: 4/2/2010
Title:	Lower Life Cycle Cost, High Strength Heat Resistant Polymers for Track Bushing & Pads
Abstract:	Dyco Industries propose the use of a proprietary advanced hybrid polymer that is extremely fast and efficient to create, and when produced retains unsurpassed properties and characteristics. Utilizing a combination of proprietary materials with a proprietary (non-heat injection molding) process, Dyco will use variable density solutions to construct components that accurately reflect the physics desired by the tracked vehicles, as well as the bushings. The solution will utilize dense materials and composites not available in traditional manufacturing, combined with unique process and bonding capabilities. The Dyco team will define and document a prototype design and manufacturing specifications to achieve reduced cost and manufacturing time products with tested physical attributes and characteristics that will surpass the requirements stated in the SBIR. By leveraging combinations of a proprietary manufacturing process and materials, the design will allow increased manufacturing control and provide products at dramatically reduced costs and vastly improved physical properties.

NanoComposites Inc. 3400 Research Forest Drive Suite B4 The Woodlands, TX 77381
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(281) 602-7111 Jeffrey Bahr ARMY 09-201 Awarded: 4/22/2010
Title:	High Strength, Heat Resistant Elastomer Compositions
Abstract:	Military tracked vehicle systems, such as the T-158 used on Abrams M1 tanks face high maintenance costs due to fatigue and accelerated wear of rubber components, including track shoes, and bushings. Due to extreme operating environments featuring abrasive wear, sustained high tensional loads, and high temperatures, the average life of current natural rubber derived elastometer components is seldom more than 1500 miles, and sometimes less, for 55 ton weight class vehicles. NCI proposes to develop a new elastomer composite based on chemically functionalized small diameter multiwall carbon nanotubes (f-MWCNT). Employing this type of chemistry, NCI has demonstrated elastomer compounds with significantly enhanced physical properties such as tensile modulus, retention of strength at elevated temperature, reduction in creep, and greater fatigue resistance for applications in the energy industry. The Phase I effort will aim to enhance key elastomer performance metrics such as hysteresis, creep, and heat transfer by a minimum of 25% over a baseline natural rubber compound that mimics the material currently used in the T158 system. With the proposed technology, operational lifetimes for track system components can potentially be extended to several thousand miles even under highly demanding field conditions.

Polaris Sensor Technologies, Inc. 200 Westside Square Suite 320 Huntsville, AL 35801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(256) 562-0087 Jason Heym ARMY 09-203 Awarded: 3/4/2010
Title:	Vision Based Navigation for SUGV
Abstract:	Accurate calculation of vehicle motion is difficult to accomplish; especially when travelling on rough terrain at high speeds. Motion sensing devices, such as a Global Positioning System (GPS) and an Inertial Navigation System (INS), are readily available but have undesirable disadvantages. Numerous situations exist in which robotic exploration is desired but without motion sensing such exploration is not possible. Therefore, alternative motion sensing capabilities are necessary. A visual motion sensing solution that is efficient in size, power consumption and performance is an approach to equip unmanned vehicles with such capabilities. The purposed solution will combine landmark detection/tracking and motion sensing image processing techniques with an optimal optical and electronic design to create a vision-based motion-sensing device that produces accurate motion calculations with minimal power consumption.

Quantum Signal, LLC 3741 Plaza Drive Suite 1 Ann Arbor, MI 48108
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(734) 994-0028 Mitchell Rohde ARMY 09-203 Awarded: 4/2/2010
Title:	Vision-Based Motion Sensing for Small Unmanned Ground Vehicles
Abstract:	Unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) will play an important role in the nationâ€™s next- generation ground force. As these systems become increasingly autonomous there is increasing need for precise awareness of their absolute position and velocity. Autonomous navigation systems rely on such data to be effective. Unfortunately, todayâ€™s position and velocity sensing technologies have significant drawbacks when applied to UGVs â€“ encoders can be thrown by slippage, GPS by signal jamming, LIDARS are highly emissive, and IMUs by inherent sensor drift and expense. Visual Odometry (VO) is the process of estimating position and velocity information based on camera sensor data, and overcomes many of the drawbacks of other methods. VO has its own drawbacks, however, and these must be overcome if it is to become a major component in future UGV sensing and navigation systems. In this project, a robust, modular VO capability will be developed. It will overcome difficult VO problems by a combination of techniques, including fusion with IMU data. The module, titled â€œVOOMâ€, will be provide precision data and be useful on a wide variety of UGVs from small to large and at a wide range of speeds.

Traclabs, Inc. 100 Northeast Loop 410 Suite 520 San Antonio, TX 78216
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(281) 461-7886 Eric Huber ARMY 09-203 Awarded: 3/13/2010
Title:	A Compact Visual-Odometry Sensor for UGVs
Abstract:	Small, Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGV) will play a significant role in future army applications including reconnaissance, mine detection, explosive ordnance disposal and resupply. Typically, a UGV operates in concert with other agents, including: UGVs, humans, and/or manned vehicles. To successfully navigate in the field, UGVs require reliable odometry. Mechanical odometry is fraught with wheel slip and skid issues and inertial solutions tend to drift over time. Visual odometry uses imagery of the surrounding terrain, acquired over time, to deduce vehicle motion. Salient features are acquired and tracked, from frame to frame, as the vehicle passes them. Natural terrain is particularly suited to this technique as features tend to be well distributed. We propose an innovative visual odometry sensor for use over rough terrain, which requires far less power and is more compact than anything produced to date. The sensor will embody the integration of TRACLabsâ€™ embedded vision processing technologies with innovative visual odometry algorithms developed by Dr. Frank Dellaert of Georgia Tech.. A key feature of the system will be its turn-key operation. Field calibration will not be required to yield continuous 6DOF (Degree-of-Freedom) output. The system will be self-contained and not require coordination with other on-board sensors.

Charles River Analytics Inc. 625 Mount Auburn Street Cambridge, MA 02138
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 491-3474 Peter Weyhrauch ARMY 09-204 Awarded: 4/2/2010
Title:	Mission Language Translator (MLT)
Abstract:	Unmanned robotic systems are a vital component of todayâ€™s military operations. They are useful for reconnaissance, security, logistics, and support, including very high risk operations. Military Commanders and their staffs need to be able to control these system in the field based on dynamic mission needs, but they do not have the necessary skills to program robots in their native control languages, which are better suited for computer scientists and roboticists. Military Commanders and their staffs should be able to specify high-level, autonomous missions for such unmanned systems using familiar military conventions, such as Commanderâ€™s intent, mission objectives, maps with icons and tactical graphics, and other high-level task specifications. We propose to design and demonstrate the feasibility of the Mission Language Translator (MLT), a system that gives Commanders and command staffs the capability to control robotic systems by specifying missions and Commanderâ€™s intent in a natural and intuitive manner and that translates such high-level mission plans into low-level robotic commands for autonomous mission execution.

Neya Systems, LLC 12300 Perry Hwy Wexford, PA 15090
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(724) 799-8078 Parag Batavia ARMY 09-204 Awarded: 3/12/2010
Title:	Standards Based Unmanned Ground Vehicle Mission Language Translator with Graphical Planning Tool.
Abstract:	The long term goal for unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) in the services is to act as force multiplier, to reduce risk to human personnel, and to enable new tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs). UGVs are intended to support a wide range of mission types ranging from EOD, to reconnaissance, to maritime interdiction support, to logistics. While semi-autonomy and autonomy capabilities continue to increase in technology readiness level (TRL) and move towards deployment, there is a gap in the development of the systems used to plan missions that tightly incorporate UGVs. We propose to: 1. Enable Seamless Integration between mission commanders and unmanned assets 2. Develop a Scalable Interaction Model based on available robot assets, defined tactical missions, and real time in-the-field situation. 3. Develop a Tactical Scripting Language that enables translation from commanderâ€™s intent to UGV commands, leveraging a large base of work in the Unmanned Surface Vehicle community. 4. Move beyond simple, isolated examples of autonomous robot command and control to address the broad challenge of mission planning and management. 5. Demonstrate how the low-level JAUS standardization work in SAE AS-4 can enable more effective use of robotic systems exercising greater autonomy.