| Agave BioSystems, Inc.
P.O. Box 100 , Ithaca, NY 14850 (512) 373-8601 PI: John Ramsey (607) 272-0002 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0231 |
Cornell University
12 Day Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853 (607) 255-7123 ID#: A11A-014-0164 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T014 Awarded:9/12/2011 |
| Title: High-capacity and Cost-effective Manufacture of Chloroperoxidase | |
| Abstract: The chloroperoxidase enzyme from the filamentous fungus Caldariomyces fumago has applications in industrial chemical synthesis and the detection and inactivation of chemical warfare agents. Chloroperoxidase is capable of regio- and enantioselective oxygenations and halogenations of organic substrates. When performed chemically, these reactions typically require aggressive reagents and reaction conditions, and lead to the formation of undesired by- products. Widespread adoption of enzyme-catalyzed synthetic strategies is hindered by the high cost of purified proteins, and by the challenges of retaining the native activity of proteins expressed using heterologous host systems. Chloroperoxidase is a heavily glycosylated protein, and only when it is expressed in filamentous fungal hosts such as Aspergillus niger are the post-translational modifications necessary for its activity performed with fidelity. Development of optimized Aspergillus strains and constructs has facilitated heterologous expression of a range of secreted proteins. In this Phase I, Agave BioSystems proposes to develop a system for expression and purification of chloroperoxidase (CPO) from C. fumago using the filamentous fungus Aspergillus niger as host. Fermentation conditions will be optimized for high volume and cost-effective production, and the biochemical properties of the recombinant enzyme will be characterized. | |
| Agave BioSystems, Inc.
P.O. Box 100, Ithaca, NY 14850 (512) 373-8601 PI: Kathie Berghorn (607) 272-0002 Contract #: W81XWH-11-C-0480 |
Rutgers University
Office of Research and Sponsor, 675 Hoes Lane, Rm. R109 Piscataway, NJ 08854 (732) 418-8464 ID#: A11A-030-0459 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T030 Awarded:10/3/2011 |
| Title: Specific Epigenetic Molecules Involved in Wound Healing and Repair | |
| Abstract: The ability to direct the wound pathways following injury could provide a critical path in wound care at crucial times during the progression of healing. A promising field of study in wound healing is epigenetics; alterations in gene expression caused by mechanisms other than changes in DNA sequence. Identification of epigenetic factors and their manipulation may result in the development of novel therapies that enhance wound recovery as well as diagnostic tests that assess the progress of wound repair. In this Phase I, Agave BioSystems, in collaboration with Dr. Vincenzo Pirrotta of Rutgers University, proposes to characterize the role of Polycomb Group (PcG) complexes during the wound healing process and manipulate PcG repression to accelerate wound healing. PcG complexes are known to regulate multiple genes involved in keratinocyte differentiation and proliferation during wound healing. We anticipate that PcG repression may have different effects at different stages in the healing process. While derepression might be advantageous to express genes that promote healing, it is known that PcG repression of other genes is required for cell proliferation that is also essential for wound healing. Therefore, the specific PcG targets and timing of PcG derepression are important and may require a two-stage treatment. | |
| Agile RF, Inc.
93 Castilian Drive, Santa Barbara, CA 93117 (805) 968-5159 PI: Chris Elsass (805) 968-5159 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0226 |
UC, Santa Barbara
Office of Research, 3227 Cheadle Hall Santa Barbara, CA 93105 (805) 893-4034 ID#: A11A-016-0394 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T016 Awarded:9/16/2011 |
| Title: High Performance Complex Oxide Thin Film Materials to Enable Switchable Film Bulk Acoustic Resonators (FBAR) for Low-Loss Radio Frequency Devices | |
| Abstract: The proposed project focuses on a new technology that has a built-in switch to turn the filter on and off, and thus is functionally equivalent to a high-selectivity filter and a low-loss switch, where the switch draws no DC power. Agile calls this new invention the Switchable Trimmable Acoustic Resonator (STAR). An array of such filters could implement a very compact and reconfigurable high-selectivity filter bank. Similar, BST-based STAR filters could be combined to make a low-loss and high-selectivity duplexer or TR switch. There are many other possibilities for frequency-agile components including filters with selectable and flexible bandwidths. Thus the proposed technology will have a profound impact on the front-end filtering problem in modern communications. This project will investigate the full potential and limits of this technology, and result in the first demonstration of voltage-controlled or tunable STAR devices. The technology is enabled by perovskite oxides, specifically BST and SrTiO3. The quality of the devices is highly sensitive to film quality and orientation. As is well-established in semiconductor devices, molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) offers the highest quality thin film materials and excellent control over film orientation and MBE-grown BST films will be a major focus of this program. | |
| Agiltron Corporation
15 Cabot Road, Woburn, MA 01801 (781) 935-1200 PI: Jing Ma (781) 935-1200 Contract #: W31P4Q-11-C-0274 |
University of Arizona
PO Box 3308, Tucson, AZ 85721 (520) 626-6000 ID#: A11A-005-0278 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T005 Awarded:8/4/2011 |
| Title: Ultra compact, efficient, and reliable GaN based deep UV laser for Raman spectroscopy | |
| Abstract: Leveraging Agiltron's industrial leading developments and production of Raman instruments, external cavity laser and nonlinear optical components, we propose to develop a new class of high performance compact deep ultraviolet (UV) laser for Raman spectroscopy. The approach is closely coupled with recent progress in GaN blue laser and external resonator enhanced second harmonic generation (SHG) to push the deep UV laser performance well beyond current state-of-the-art. The proposed deep UV laser incorporates a GaN based external cavity laser with resonator enhanced SHG. This innovative design has multiple improvements that overcome the deficiencies associated with conventional approaches in system size and wall plug efficiency. The technical approach will be proved in Phase I through numerical analysis, design and experimentation. A compact prototype deep UV laser will be produced in Phase II for delivery to Army. | |
| Aneeve
22207 Linda Drive, Torrance, CA 90505 (310) 873-3024 PI: Huaping Li (310) 983-3048 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0230 |
Yale
Department of Applied Physics, P.O. Box 208284 New Haven, CT 06520 (202) 432-4273 ID#: A11A-018-0276 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T018 Awarded:9/6/2011 |
| Title: Thin-Film Multiferroic Heterostructures for Frequency-Agile RF Electronics | |
| Abstract: We aim to undertake a Phase I study of multiferroic heterostructure thin film composite materials (CoFeB / PMN-PT) and their applications in high frequency (>10GHz) microwave passive circuit building blocks. In this Phase I investigation, Aneeve Nanotechnologies together with Prof Charles Ahn (Yale University) and Dr. Pedram Khalili (UCLA) will develop multiferroic heterostructure systems to demonstrate magneto-electrically tunable RF isolators. The project will consist of material sputter deposition (CoFeB/PMN-PT), material characterization (MOKE, SQUID, SEM, AFM), device design / fabrication (metallization, etching) and device RF testing (GHz range). Within Phase 1 we envisage to fabricate 2 batches of 20 devices focusing on key figures of merit. | |
| Barron Associates, Inc.
1410 Sachem Place, Suite 202 Charlottesville, VA 22901 (434) 973-1215 PI: William Gressick (434) 973-1215 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0222 |
University of Virginia
PO Box 400195, Charlottesville, VA 22904 (434) 924-4270 ID#: A11A-019-0335 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-t019 Awarded:8/26/2011 |
| Title: A Rugged Automated Training System | |
| Abstract: "Barron Associates, Inc. proposes to develop the Rugged Automated Training (RAT) system, a cost-effective, rugged, automated environment to train and deploy small animals to detect landmines and other compounds of interest, and to evaluate their performance. The RAT system will train animals to recognize odorants using standard Pavlovian conditioning procedures in specialized, automated operant chambers controlled by custom software. It is well-documented that animals experience an involuntary physiologic response when exposed to compounds that they have been trained to recognize, a phenomenon that will be exploited in the present effort to automate the training of animals to detect mines. A novel, wireless, non-invasive, body-worn sensor backpack will collect and relay data, in real time, from the animal to a PC that will employ specialized algorithms to automatically determine when the animal has discovered a substance that it has been trained to recognize. An acoustic local positioning system will be used to accurately and automatically determine the location of the animals and any detected mines within the search grid. The RAT system will also train the animals to respond to cue beacons that will guide their movements within the search field with minimal human interaction. " | |
| Boston Applied Technologies, Inc.
6F Gill Street, Woburn, MA 01801 (781) 935-2800 PI: Xiaomei Guo (781) 935-2800 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0229 |
University of Minnesota
McNamara Alumni Center, Suite, 200 Oak Street SE Minneapolis, MN 55455 (612) 626-2244 ID#: A11A-018-0480 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T018 Awarded:9/6/2011 |
| Title: Thin-Film Multiferroic Heterostructures for Frequency-Agile RF Electronics | |
| Abstract: In this proposal, Boston Applied Technologies, Incorporated (BATi) together with University of Minnesota proposes to develop a high quality epitaxially grown multiferroic thin film heterostructure through a simple wet chemical route, which has been demonstrated the capability of growing high quality multilayer films through nano-engineering and introducing proper buffer layers. The feasibility of developing of an electrically tunable RF isolator utilizing of the magnetoelectric coupling effect of the heterostructure will be evaluated. | |
| Bridger Photonics, Inc
2310 University Way, Bldg 4-4, Bozeman, MT 59715 (406) 585-2774 PI: Randy Reibel (406) 585-2774 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0242 |
University of Arizona
College of Engineering, Bldg 72, Rm 303 Tucson, AZ 85721 (520) 626-4328 ID#: A11A-007-0512 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T007 Awarded:8/24/2011 |
| Title: DYNAMICALLY PROGRAMMABLE AND ADAPTIVE MULTI-BAND COMPRESSIVE IMAGING SYSTEM | |
| Abstract: Bridger Photonics and the University of Arizona will develop a passive multi-band compressive sensor for imaging and object recognition applications. The Army has identified a need for multi-band imagery for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions among others. Multi-band systems offer enhanced discrimination capability and the ability to perform in adverse conditions (at night, smoke, fog, etc.). Compressive sensing is ideally suited to multi-band imaging systems as it offers improved performance while reducing size, weight and power, as well as hardware and data bandwidth requirements. Compressive sensing is particularly beneficial when some of the desired spectral bands lie outside of the visible spectrum as focal plane arrays, especially in the mid-wave and long-wave IR bands, have poor performance and high costs. Furthermore, the on-going need for improved performance and increased functionality within shrinking form factors renders compressive sensing a logical choice for future systems. Under this effort, the team will examine advanced algorithms and architectures for compressive sensing, provide proof-of-concept adaptive and programmable multi-band hardware demonstrations, and design a portable and adaptive multi-band compressive imaging system and determine its feasibility for implementation during a Phase II effort. | |
| Charles River Analytics Inc.
625 Mount Auburn Street, Cambridge, MA 02138 (617) 491-3474 PI: Corey Lofdahl (617) 491-3474 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0221 |
University of Kentucky Rsrch Found.
Office of Sponsored Projects, 109 Kinkead Hall Lexington, KY 40506 (859) 257-9422 ID#: A11A-011-0112 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T011 Awarded:9/27/2011 |
| Title: Rapid Ethnographic Assessment and Data management Integration Toolkit (READ-IT) | |
| Abstract: Obtaining support from the local population is crucial for successful counterinsurgency (COIN) operations. US forces often fail to adequately understand the ethnographic characteristics of foreign populations-warfighters need access to ethnographic methods which help them to rapidly capture and interpret cultural, social, and economic data. A warfighter in high-risk areas needs easy-to-use tools that integrate the functions of collecting, managing, analyzing, and visualizing ethnographic data. To address this need, Charles River Analytics proposes to design and demonstrate the Rapid Ethnographic Assessment and Data management Integration Toolkit (READ-IT) using a four step process. First, we will leverage Cognitive System Engineering (CSE) techniques to identify the current workflows for warfighters and analysts. Second, we will identify the relevant data collection and analysis techniques in a popular ethnographic tool and augment them with the CSE results. Third, we will combine the analysis techniques with proven components and design a linked suite of tools for rich exploratory data visualization and analysis across geospatial, spatial, and temporal dimensions. Finally, we will design a flexible, plug-in-based system architecture that allows the independent evolution of system components (including handheld applications for warfighters and a workstation for analysts) by leveraging our established capability for developing service-oriented architectures. | |
| Charles River Analytics Inc.
625 Mount Auburn Street, Cambridge, MA 02138 (617) 491-3474 PI: Terry Patten (617) 491-3474 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0240 |
University Louisiana at Lafayette
Office of Research and Sponsor, PO Box 43610 Lafayette, LA 70504 (337) 482-1922 ID#: A11A-020-0114 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T020 Awarded:9/12/2011 |
| Title: Cloud-based Autonomous Real-time Malware Analysis (CARMA) | |
| Abstract: The amount of new malware encountered daily is accelerating at an unprecedented rate, an explosion that is also reflected in target and attack vector diversity. There has also been a dramatic increase in the use of malware kits, a problem in its own right because kits allow adversaries to easily create one-time-use malware variants for which generic signatures and general solutions are neither practical nor effective. We propose to demonstrate a heterogeneous cloud-based defense system that detects novel malware and provides critical functionality in the areas of real-time analysis, scalability, accuracy, and systemic coverage and knowledge distribution. Under our Cloud-Based Autonomous Real-Time Malware Analysis (CARMA) effort, we will study how to use cloud resources to perform deep malware analyses that will address two critical questions. To address the "Is it a variant of existing malware?" question, we will use ideas from genetics and evolutionary biology to perform evolutionary analysis of malware to determine the inheritance relationships among parts of malware across samples. To address the "What does it do?" question, we will use ideas from functional linguistics to identify and characterize the functions of the malware and its constituent parts. | |
| Coherent Technical Services, Inc.
46591 Expedition Drive, Suite 300 Lexington Park, MD 20653 (301) 880-3341 PI: Patrick Madorin (301) 880-3341 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0220 |
Bucknell University
Moore Aveune, Lewisburg, PA 17837 (570) 577-3493 ID#: A11A-019-0425 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T019 Awarded:8/26/2011 |
| Title: Rugged Automated Training System | |
| Abstract: Hostile conflicts leave behind millions of armed landmines in developing countries throughout the globe. Humanitarian demining is hazardous and labor intensive. A promising development in landmine detection is using small, olfactory sensitive animals trained to act as biosensor detectors. But current methods require skilled trainers following strict protocols, and this extensive time and effort is a limiting step in using animals for landmine detection. In addition, trainer skill level, attention to procedures, and animal performance record keeping all introduce unwanted variables into the process. A rugged automated trainer system is a solution that will provide increased consistency and accuracy, and will increase output by reducing limits on training capacity and efficiency that are due to labor. CTSi and Bucknell University have identified an innovative animal training approach which will deliver large quantities of trained animals. Automation enables use of much less labor and allows ordinary people to supervise an animal training program. Our system will allow precise control stimulus and response conditions, and provide informative, detailed data on training status and performance feedback for many individual animals. It is designed to operate in adverse environmental conditions. Additionally, the approach can easily be expanded and adapted to other humanitarian and security applications. | |
| Computational Sciences, LLC
8000 Madison Blvd., Suite D102-351, Madison, AL 35758 (256) 270-0956 PI: Edward J. Kansa (256) 270-0956 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0245 |
North Carolina State University
2701 Sullivan Drive Admin III,, Admin III, Suite 240 Raleigh, NC 27695 (919) 515-2444 ID#: A11A-015-0066 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T015 Awarded:8/30/2011 |
| Title: A Priori Error-Controlled Simulations of Electromagnetic Phenomena for HPC | |
| Abstract: The project will remove a key difficulty that currently hampers many existing methods for computing unsteady electromagnetic waves in unbounded regions. The accuracy and/or stability of the simulations may deteriorate over long times due to the treatment of the outer boundaries via artificial boundary conditions. We propose to develop a universal algorithm and software that will correct this problem by employing the Huygens' principle and quasi-lacunae in the solutions of Maxwell's equations. The algorithm will provide a temporally uniform guaranteed error bound (no deterioration at all), and the software will enable robust electromagnetic simulations in a high-performance computing environment. The methodology will apply to any geometry, any numerical scheme and any treatment of outer boundaries. It will eliminate the long-time deterioration regardless of both its origin and the way it manifests itself. Dr. Tsynkov of NCSU, who invented this method and is referenced in the Solicitation, is the Academic partner on the project. Phase I includes development of an innovative numerical methodology for high fidelity error-controlled modeling of a broad variety of electromagnetic and other wave-dominated phenomena. Solutions to test problems will be verified against analytical and accurate numerical benchmarks, to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed approach. In Phase II our innovative algorithms will be implemented as robust commercial software tools in a standalone computational module that can be used to fix existing numerical schemes, along with the treatment of the outer boundaries, in computational electromagnetic codes. | |
| DECISIVE ANALYTICS Corporation
1235 South Clark Street, Suite 400 Arlington, VA 22202 (703) 414-5024 PI: Brent Gordon (703) 414-5086 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0246 |
Carnegie Mellon University
School of Computer Science, 5000 Forbes Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15213 (412) 268-1975 ID#: A11A-010-0248 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T010 Awarded:8/30/2011 |
| Title: Story Creation and Inference through Bayesian Extraction (SCRIBE) | |
| Abstract: Without a deep understanding of causes, context, and meaning of the events they observe, Warfighters are unable to reliably develop or execute effective courses of action. Unfortunately, traditional methods of accessing this information require significant effort searching large volumes of unstructured text from varied open sources. Advanced methods for coping with this problem face several challenges: 1) Existing event and entity extraction technology is constrained by expensive language-specific models and predefined event ontologies. 2) Existing methods of organizing information do not respect causal relationships or source quality. 3) There are no effective, general-purpose methods of organizing, visualizing, and navigating a complex web of causally linked events. We propose a system called Story CReation and Inference through Bayesian Extraction (SCRIBE). SCRIBE's explanatory cause-and-effect models are developed through three stages. The event discovery stage uses an innovative unsupervised method which can operate on the spectrum of language genres, from news articles, to micro-blogs, to conversation transcripts in any language. The event linking phase uses statistical cues to link events through the evolving fingerprint of entity and topic references woven into storylines of real-world activities. Finally, SCRIBE's visualization step provides users with interactive visualizations offering views of underlying event sequences at varying granularities. | |
| EE Boost Inc
618 Powers Ferry RD, Cary, NC 27519 (919) 439-4847 PI: Tian Xiao (919) 439-4847 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0243 |
NC State University
2701 Sullivan Drive, Admin Services III; Box 7514 Raleigh, NC 27695 (919) 515-2444 ID#: A11A-006-0258 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T006 Awarded:8/24/2011 |
| Title: A Fast Wave-Based Hybrid Method for Interactive Acoustic Simulation in Large and Complex Environments | |
| Abstract: EE Boost Inc. proposes to develop a new, fast and accurate hybrid wave-based method for acoustic simulation in large and complex environments. The hybrid method combines two efficient methods: the pseudo-spectral time-domain (PSTD) method and the enlarged cell technique (ECT). The PSTD method is extremely fast and accurate in computing fields in large cuboids without internal boundaries and interfaces. The ECT is geometrically flexible and can efficiently and accurately model complex boundaries. By removing the staircase errors, it is much more efficient than the conventional finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method. The integration of the two complementary methods makes the simulation in large and complex environments still extremely fast without sacrificing accuracy. We have extensive experience with the advanced computational algorithms and are in an excellent position to develop such a fast and accurate method to meet the challenging needs of modern applications. The proposed method has some other good features. It is mathematically consistent, and is well suited to interactive simulation and hard acceleration. | |
| Energesis Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
770 Boylston Street #26G, Boston, MA 02199 (617) 947-9773 PI: Olivier Boss (617) 959-2322 Contract #: W81XWH-11-C-0517 |
Boston University
Silvio Conte Building, K602, 72 E. Concord Street Boston, MA 02118 (617) 638-4186 ID#: A11A-034-0222 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T034 Awarded:10/3/2011 |
| Title: Cell Culture Approaches to Generating Brown Adipose Tissue for Autologous Transplantation | |
| Abstract: Obesity and its associated metabolic complications including diabetes are becoming increasingly prevalent in the general population as well as in military personnel. Brown adipose tissue (BAT) is a major site of energy expenditure through thermogenesis, which is mediated by the mitochondrial uncoupling protein-1 (UCP1). Studies in animals over the last 30 years as well as recent data in humans strongly suggest that overweight and obese individuals have a low amount of BAT, and that increasing BAT by about 50 grams in obese patients would induce strong weight loss and improve metabolic status (including glucose metabolism, lipid profiles, and cardiovascular risk). This proposal is a feasibility study to define a prototype source and culture system for the generation of human BAT for autologous transplantation therapy. We have recently identified a brown adipocyte progenitor cell population in human muscle, and propose to isolate and characterize the best brown adipocyte progenitor sub-population from human muscle biopsies, expand these cells, and establish the optimal conditions for in vitro differentiation that can generate approximately 50 grams of BAT cells for transplantation. | |
| Giner Electrochemical Systems, LLC
89 Rumford Avenue, Newton, MA 02466 (781) 529-0504 PI: Simon G. Stone (781) 529-0525 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0234 |
Jet Propulsion Laboratory
4800 Oak Grove Drive, Mail Stop 180-904 Pasadena, CA 91109 (818) 354-4321 ID#: A11A-012-0077 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T012 Awarded:9/28/2011 |
| Title: Electrochemical Generation of Hydrogen from Methanol | |
| Abstract: The US Army has identified limitations of the DMFC (poor efficiency) and RMFC (complex system, high temperature process) approaches, and is soliciting innovation that will enable high efficiency hydrogen generation from methanol in a simple approach that has minimal thermal signature. It is the objective of this project to address these needs through the development of a novel hybrid electrochemical power generation device utilizing a direct methanol electrolyzer (DME) and a hydrogen/air fuel cell (FC). Giner Electrochemical Systems, LLC (GES) and NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) have teamed repeatedly since the early 1990's to advance the state-of-the-art DMFC technology, and will collaborate in this STTR Phase I program to adapt our technology to the DME. Advanced electrocatalysts and electrolyte materials will be developed to optimize the efficiency of the methanol-to-hydrogen conversion, and a unitized cell construction will be developed. A high-pressure DME cathode will provide hydrogen with low levels of MeOH and carbon dioxide. GES' experience in integrated electrochemical systems and recent work by JPL will be leveraged to conceptualize a complete system design for a 25W DME-FC hybrid. This system concept would be realized in Phase II, resulting in the delivery of two 25W systems to the Army. | |
| Giner, Inc.
89 Rumford Avenue, Newton, MA 02466 (781) 529-0501 PI: Avni A. Argun (781) 529-0581 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0232 |
University of Cincinnati
Spon Research Services Office, P.O. Box 210222 Cincinnati, OH 45221 (513) 556-5885 ID#: A11A-013-0078 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T013 Awarded:8/30/2011 |
| Title: Bio-Inspired Copolymer Membranes for Direct Methanol Fuel Cells | |
| Abstract: Implementation of new technologies for soldier survivability often requires lightweight and reliable power sources. Direct-Methanol Fuel Cells (DMFCs) are attractive both in military and consumer electronics applications where their energy density, power output, and lifetime make them ideally suited to address weight and power limitations. DMFCs have been slow to materialize especially due to drastic reduction in fuel efficiency caused by membranes with high methanol permeability. A novel approach to design a new generation of membranes is much needed to overcome the current drawbacks. This program proposes to develop a novel biomimetic composite membrane consisted of block copolymer vesicles functionalized with biological transmembrane proteins such as gramicidin-A. When hosted within a mechanically stable secondary support structure, these membranes are expected to exhibit high proton conductivity and reduced methanol permeability due to the highly selective protein channels formed and aligned within polymer vesicles. The stability and functionality of polymer vesicles will be investigated at methanol concentrations as high as 15M. As a proof-of-concept, the DMFC performance of optimized membranes will also be evaluated using an air-breathing, single cell configuration. The unique processing method combined with the judicious selection of vesicle/protein pairs will make this bio-inspired membrane an attractive component for DMFCs. | |
| Gleason Research Associates, Inc.
5030 Bradford Drive NW, Building One, Suite 220 Huntsville, AL 35805 (256) 883-7000 PI: Joe Manning (256) 876-9247 Contract #: W31P4Q-11-C-0279 |
New Mexico State University
Anderson Hall, Espina St and Stewart St Las Cruces, NM 88003 (575) 646-4502 ID#: A11A-004-0172 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T004 Awarded:7/27/2011 |
| Title: High Fidelity Obscurant Modeling for Sensor Simulations | |
| Abstract: A particle-systems approach is proposed for rendering obscurants in tactical missile scene generation. Obscurants are currently rendered using arrays of voxels, small homogeneous cubes containing concentration and temperature data. Voxels have been highly successful but they require huge data files and are very slow to render. The particle systems would not replace voxels for high-fidelity applications, but would augment them as a much faster, more convenient alternative. In Phase I, the feasibility of this approach will be demonstrated by showing a simple particle-based obscurant plume being rendered in a three-dimensional infrared scene. | |
| HyPerComp, Inc.
2629 Townsgate Road, Suite 105 Westlake Village, CA 91361 (805) 371-7556 PI: Lucas Wilcox (805) 371-7500 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0244 |
Southern Methodist University
PO Box 750156, Southern Methodist University Dallas, TX 75275 (214) 768-4338 ID#: A11A-015-0067 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T015 Awarded:8/31/2011 |
| Title: A Priori Error-Controlled Simulations of Electromagnetic Phenomena for HPC | |
| Abstract: Recently significant advances have been made in the high fidelity modeling of electromagnetic phenomena in complex geometries in the time-domain. To make high fidelity simulations of scattering and radiation tractable, the computational region must be truncated in a manner allowing outgoing waves to leave with minimal reflection from the boundary. We, HyPerComp in collaboration with Professor Thomas Hagstrom of Southern Methodist University, propose to investigate and implement the Complete Radiation Boundary Condition (CRBC) for domain truncation in our discontinuous Galerkin based Maxwell's equations solver. The CRBC requires no tuning parameters to achieve optimal performance for a requested accuracy. We will perform a critical comparison of competing domain truncation methods for realistic problems to verify the efficiency and accuracy of the CRBC. Building on numerical evidence of the stability of the CRBC, we will develop a complete stability analysis to further bolster confidence in its use. Our implementation will provide a basis for the development of a general purpose domain truncation library, based on the CRBC, designed to function with existing time-domain codes and to deliver any specified accuracy efficiently. | |
| IMPACT Technology Development
9 Tabor Hill Rd, Lincoln, MA 01773 (508) 951-2436 PI: David Easson (508) 344-9719 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0238 |
University of Massachusetts Lowell
One University Avenue, Lowell, MA 01854 (978) 944-0766 ID#: A11A-014-0173 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T014 Awarded:9/29/2011 |
| Title: High-capacity and Cost-effective Manufacture of Chloroperoxidase | |
| Abstract: Bioengineering offers an efficient and robust route for the production of enzymatic catalysts such as chloroperoxidase (CPO). The CPO from Caldariomyces fumago can catalyze non-specific halogenation of electrophilic organic molecules, epoxidation and hydroxylation of olefins and organic sulfides, and generation of free chlorine from chloride ion. The objectives are to: A. Develop a Caldariomyces fumago expression system and purification scheme to produce milligram quantities of CPO at a purity of 90% or greater. Specifcally, we will carry out Experimental Design techniques to develop a more balanced approach to fermentation improvement. We will use screening designs to evaluate the important factors and interactions on the concentration of CPO, rate of production and purity. The important factors can then be evaluated in a statistically designed optimization study. We will also develop a low cost purification scheme to produce CPO at a purity greater than 90% B. Perform detailed biochemical characterization of the purified enzyme (CPO). We will determine the enzyme's catalytic efficiency and stability under reaction conditions suitable for field use. This will entail identification of model substrates and standardized assay conditions. We will also determine the storage stability (shelf life) of CPO preparations under various environmental conditions. | |
| Impulsonic, Inc.
305 Brookside Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27516 (919) 360-3095 PI: Dinesh Manocha (919) 962-1749 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0236 |
UNC.at Chapel Hill
OSR, CB #1350, 104 Airport Drive, Suite 2200 Chapel Hill, NC 27599 (919) 966-3411 ID#: A11A-006-0059 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T006 Awarded:8/29/2011 |
| Title: Interactive Acoustic Simulation in Urban and Complex Environments | |
| Abstract: Outdoor acoustics simulation plays a vital role in several army and defense-related applications, such as minimizing the noise profile of reconnaissance vehicles to avoid counter-detection, optimizing sensors and systems for tactical advantage, and pinpointing the origin of gunshots using their acoustic signatures. Outdoor acoustics prediction technology is needed to efficiently model large, complex, and dynamic urban and battlefield scenes. State-of-the-art outdoor acoustics prediction methods are restricted, slow, or limited to simple environments. Specifically, no existing method can simultaneously model atmospheric acoustical phenomena, surface interactions with terrain and obstacles, and moving sound sources. We propose to develop a novel hybrid acoustics prediction technique, called multi-domain acoustic transfer (MDAT), which combines numerical and geometric acoustics algorithms. It would handle complex urban and outdoor environments, while running on commodity hardware. It would model broad frequency ranges, atmospheric effects, surface interactions, and dynamic environments with moving sound sources and receivers. Phase I would involve developing the algorithm and a prototype implementation, and evaluating its performance on simple scenes. Phase II would involve developing a full implementation capable of handling large-scale dynamic environments, exploiting multi-core CPUs and many-core GPUs. This implementation would be integrable into existing Army and DoD systems in Phase III. | |
| Infoscitex Corporation
303 Bear Hill Road, Waltham, MA 02451 (937) 429-9008 PI: Vladimir Gilman (781) 890-1338 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0237 |
University of Massachusetts
One University Ave, Lowell, MA 01854 (978) 934-4723 ID#: A11A-014-0054 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T014 Awarded:9/6/2011 |
| Title: High-capacity and Cost-effective Manufacture of Chloroperoxidase | |
| Abstract: The low cost chloroperoxidase can be potentially applicable to the inactivation of chemical agents due to its exceptional stability, broad substrate profile, and high catalytic efficiency. However, the high cost of producing large amounts of CPO is a major obstacle precluding the formulation and field deployment of this enzyme for chemical agent decontamination. Infoscitex Corporation (IST) and University of Massachusetts at Lowell (UML) propose a technology for high yield commercial production of CPO by an improved strain of filamentous fungus Caldariomyces fumago. The high yields of the enzyme production by C. fumago will be achieved via an advanced method of strain improvement by its directed evolution for target resistance established at Infoscitex. The high activity and stability of the resultant product will be assured by use of the most advanced technology for CPO isolation and purification. The new CPO producing strain will be coupled with state of the art protein production and purification capacity to achieve the required kilogram-scale manufacturing capabilities. | |
| Intelligent Automation, Inc.
15400 Calhoun Drive, Suite 400 Rockville, MD 20855 (301) 294-5221 PI: Jyotirmaya Nanda (301) 294-4634 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0249 |
Univ. of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
3322 Siebel Center, 201 N. Goodwin Avenue Urbana, IL 61801 (217) 244-7068 ID#: A11A-010-0382 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T010 Awarded:8/30/2011 |
| Title: Automatic Causality Determination and Narrative Extraction using the Semantic Inference and Filtering Tool (SIFT) | |
| Abstract: Intelligent Automation Inc. (IAI) is teaming with subject matter expert Prof. Dan Roth from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) to propose a web based tool to search, filter, and collaboratively work on "document chains" interactively. The proposed Semantic Inference and Filtering Tool (SIFT) will provide an intuitive interface coupled with advanced Natural Language Processing (NLP) tools for automatic causality determination and narrative extraction from online resources. The proposed web based front end will make it easier for users to interactively narrow down the search space and locate the key document chains they are interested in. The system will allow users to collect and create a personal workspace to work with the selected document chains. Document chain discovery will have a feedback mechanism by which search results can be interactively manipulated by modifying search and ranking parameters. There will be a social networking aspect to the system by which analysts can share and work together on shared workspaces containing one or more document chains. We also propose to develop a working prototype by the end of Phase I that will demonstrate many of these key capabilities to sequence online resources. | |
| LFK Technology Corp.
32614 Coastsite Dr # 205, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 (310) 702-1572 PI: Louis F. Klaras (310) 702-1572 Contract #: W911SR-11-C-0087 |
SRI International
333 Ravenswood Avenue, Mail stop: 306-17 Menlo Park, CA 94025 (650) 859-2243 ID#: A11A-024-0330 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T024 Awarded:9/8/2011 |
| Title: Advanced Wavelength Tuners for Chem-Bio Detection Lasers | |
| Abstract: Active standoff detection of chemical and biological agents with lasers has proven to be very effective. Specific targets include chemical vapors, chemical aerosols, and biological particles. Most notably, the FAL (Frequency Agile Laser) sensor developed by ECBC (Edgewood Chemical Biological Center) has shown capability to detect all of these targets with a single device. Also, optical techniques in point sensors have also proven successful based on micro-lasers such as the QCL (Quantum Cascade Laser) and various solid state lasers with wavelength shifting by OPO (Optical Parametric Oscillation) and using the fundamentally the same phenomenologies of DISC (differential scattering) and DIAL (differential absorption lidar) as applied to FAL. These transmitters require unique wavelength tuners. The Phase I program will address novel approaches to the development of more compact, robust, rapid wavelength tuners with greater selectivity, angular resolution, and repeatability. This will significantly enhance the active standoff and point sensor capability by increasing the probability of detection, decreasing false alarm rates, and decreasing the time required for algorithmic analysis. | |
| Lynntech, Inc.
2501 Earl Rudder Freeway South, College Station, TX 77845 (979) 764-2200 PI: Alan Cisar (979) 764-2200 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0235 |
Vanderbilt University
PMB 407749, 2301 Vanderbilt Place Nashville, TN 37240 (615) 322-2631 ID#: A11A-012-0041 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T012 Awarded:8/30/2011 |
| Title: Efficient Methanol Electrolyzer for Hydrogen Generation | |
| Abstract: While methanol has many properties that make it a potentially excellent fuel for portable fuel cells, the large over potential required for oxidization and its tendency to transport through most electrolytes limits the actual energy densities that can be achieved to a small fraction of its potential. A potential low temperature approach to reducing system complexity and eliminating the problems of cross-over is to electrochemically convert the methanol to hydrogen for use in a hydrogen/air fuel cell. Crossover that occurs at the electrolyzer is returned to the anode feed without needing to be consumed. This allows operation at high methanol concentrations without loss of fuel utilization or energy density. Operation with high fuel concentrations also eliminates the need for a complex product water recovery system. The hydrogen stream is produced efficiently without need of high temperature components and no residual CO. While a conventional DMFC typically operates on dilute methanol, 3M or less, with an electrolyzer included in the system methanol can be supplied as an equimolar mixture of methanol and water. Reforming methanol to hydrogen in a PEM electrolyzer will produce a methanol fuel cell that realizes a much larger portion of the energy potential in methanol. | |
| Lynntech, Inc.
2501 Earl Rudder Freeway South, College Station, TX 77845 (979) 764-2200 PI: Yongzhu Fu (979) 764-2200 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0227 |
Cornell University
373 East Hill Plaza, Ithaca, NY 14853 (607) 255-1050 ID#: A11A-013-0176 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T013 Awarded:8/30/2011 |
| Title: Inorganic Oxide Supported Biomimetic Membranes with Ion Channels for DMFC Application | |
| Abstract: Methanol crossover of commercial Nafion membranes is a major issue that results in lowering of the efficiency of direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs). The reason for high crossover in Nafion membrane is the bulk water transport associated with proton transfer. It is thus advantageous to have separate transport of protons and water. Nature has answered this problem in biological membranes which contain selective proton conducting nanochannels. Lynntech proposes to fabricate biomimetic nanocomposite membranes from a nanoporous inorganic matrix and to functionalize them to form proton conducting nanochannels analogous to that in biological membranes. The inorganic matrix provides the structural strength as well as an ordered structure for the proton conducting channels. The functionalized ion channels provide fast proton transfer ability as well as lower the methanol permeability. The target of Phase I is to determine optimal route for the proposed biomimetic membrane fabrication for proton conductivity and methanol crossover for operation with 15M or higher methanol concentration. Mechanical and thermal stability of the promising membranes will also be determined. Preliminary system design for a 1W passive DMFC system with 15M methanol feed will also be made. | |
| Lynntech, Inc.
2501 Earl Rudder Freeway South, College Station, TX 77845 (979) 764-2200 PI: Ashwin Balasubramanian (979) 764-2200 Contract #: W15P7T-11-C-H281 |
West Virginia University
886 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Morgantown, WV 26506 (304) 293-7398 ID#: A11A-023-0087 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T023 Awarded:9/13/2011 |
| Title: Improved Combustion Efficiency and Reduction of Emissions of Compression Ignition Engines Using On-Board Non Thermal Plasma Generated Hydrogen/Syngas | |
| Abstract: Addition of hydrogen/syngas to a compression engine has shown to improve engine efficiency and emissions. While this has been studied in detail with diesel engines, little has been done to determine its effects on an engine operating on JP-8. There are also several inconsistencies in published reports regarding the effects of H2 injection that need to be addressed. With advancements in fuel reformation, it is possible to generate hydrogen in-situ from JP-8 for engine consumption. However, significant improvements in cost, energy efficiency and fuel consumption can also be realized in this area with the development of a state-of-the-art reformer that can produce H2/syn gas from JP-8 and renewable fuels more efficiently. Lynntech, along with West Virginia University proposes to develop an energy efficient non thermal plasma reformer to reform JP-8 to H2 and H2 rich syn gas. The reformer development will be coupled with detailed studies of the hydrogen injection benefits during the combustion of JP-8 at specified engine loadings and crank angle timing to resolve discrepancies in existing literature. Successful completion of the proposed approach will result in demonstration of improved engine efficiency and emissions that will transition this approach to be implemented across various military and commercial platforms. | |
| Nanohmics, Inc
6201 East Oltorf St., Suite 400 Austin, TX 78741 (512) 389-9990 PI: Steve Savoy (512) 389-9990 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0272 |
The University of Texas at Austin
Office of Sponsored Projects, 101 E. 27th Street Ste. 4.300 Austin, TX 78712 (512) 471-7371 ID#: A11A-022-0432 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T022 Awarded:9/28/2011 |
| Title: Integrated THz Plasmonic Chemical and Biological Sensors | |
| Abstract: Detection of chemical and biological threats is becoming increasingly important in today's world of asymmetric enemies. The threat of attack using chemical and biological warfare (CBW) agents has increased significantly both abroad and at home due to the availability of information and large quantities of industrial chemicals. This growing threat requires new techniques and technologies for high sensitive detection and complex (multiplex) analysis of potential threat matrices. Today's fielded methods are limited in the detection sensitivity as well as the limit of detection and are not amenable to high volume processing. New core technologies are needed that will enable fabrication of large area, highly reproducible, multiplexed CBW agent detection. In order to achieve this goal, Nanohmics proposes to develop a detection technology that consists of an array of sensors that enables complex THz signature profiling of Chemical/Biological Warfare (CBW) targets. The core of the platform consists of non-epitaxial, integrated detector structures that are fabricated using a scalable and reproducible technique. | |
| NanoRelease Technologies, Inc.
12734 Cimarron Path, San Antonio, TX 78249 (210) 877-0111 PI: Allison C. Rice-Ficht (979) 458-1024 Contract #: W81XWH-11-C-0512 |
Texas A&M Research Foundation
400 Harvey Mitchell Pkwy S., Suite 100 College Station, TX 77843 (979) 845-8616 ID#: A11A-029-0101 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T029 Awarded:9/14/2011 |
| Title: Nanoparticle Technology for Minimally-invasive Delivery of DNA Vaccines | |
| Abstract: Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus causes an acute debilitating disease in humans characterized by fever, mylagia, headache, lymphopenia and malaise and can also lead to neurological symptoms and encephalitis. The highly pathogenic strains are frequently associated with epidemics in North Central and South America and VEEV is classified as a category B select agent. Vaccines against VEEV have been elusive in that live attenuated vaccines produce life long immunity in some and no detectable immune response or adverse effects in others. Inactivated virus fails to protect against aerosol challenge. A DNA vaccine under intensive testing in different formulations and routes of delivery has had promising but incomplete success. Particle mediated epidermal delivery (PMED) of the vaccine is the most promising yet but has not protected all subjects. We propose a method for delivery of the existing DNA vaccine using a controlled release nanoparticle that provides a continual boosting effect through increased levels of antigen uptake and presentation. Controlled release particles developed in our labs have dramatically enhanced efficacy of safe but poorly performing vaccines. We propose a nanoparticle delivery platform to improve efficacy of the VEEV DNA vaccine and permit ease of delivery through PMED or intranasal administration. | |
| Neya Systems, LLC
12330 Perry Hwy, Suite 220 Wexford, PA 15090 (724) 612-2959 PI: Parag Batavia (724) 612-2959 Contract #: W81XWH-11-C-0481 |
Carnegie Mellon University
5000 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 (412) 268-5000 ID#: A11A-032-0191 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T032 Awarded:8/5/2011 |
| Title: A Casualty Evacuation Mission Management System for High Degree of Freedom Platforms | |
| Abstract: The combined team of Neya Systems, LLC (NSL), and Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), propose to develop the Casualty Evacuation Mission Management System (CEMMS), an effort that will provide significant opportunities to: 1. Develop a Domain Specific Language (DSL) that enables translation from commander's intent to UGV commands, leveraging a large base of work developed under an existing Army SBIR program. 2. Develop on-line interaction methods, such as speech, gestures, and direct data connections, to indicate specific mission parameters such as location of casualties. 3. Develop a Mission Execution Enginethat interprets the DSL in real time, and includes high-degree-of-freedom on- line planning capabilities. 4. Move beyond simple, isolated examples of autonomous robot command and control to address the broad challenge of mission planning, mission management, and task execution. 5. Demonstrate how the low-level JAUS standardization work in SAE AS-4 can enable more effective use of robotic systems exercising greater autonomy, increasing interoperability, modularity, and rapid development. | |
| NovaShield, Inc
918 Deming Way, Floor 3 Madison, WI 53717 (608) 833-2610 PI: Gregory Zelesnik (608) 833-2610 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0241 |
University of Wisconsin - Madison
21 N. Park Street, Room 6410 Madison, WI 53715 (608) 262-4880 ID#: A11A-020-0014 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T020 Awarded:8/26/2011 |
| Title: Malware Understanding using Dependence Graphs, Clustering, and Mining. | |
| Abstract: The number of distinct malware being released into the wild is growing at an alarming rate. Some IT security companies are seeing more than 5,000 new malware instances each day. IT security companies can no longer keep pace with this deluge using manual, labor-intensive malware analysis techniques for generating specifications that detect them. There is a need for proven and deployable automated malware analysis techniques that can analyze large volumes of malware quickly and accurately. Researchers performing work in the area of behavior-based malware analysis are exploring new techniques that will address this problem: automated dependence graph construction; graph mining tools that identify specific behaviors in a dependence graph; semi-automated specification generation; and malware classification using clustering techniques. In this Phase I STTR proposal, NovaShield, Inc. will focus on malware understanding and aspects of malware classification. More specifically, NovaShield will concentrate on dependence graph construction algorithms that build rich dependence graphs efficiently, as well as clustering techniques that organize malware into families based on their behavior profiles. This will lay the groundwork for creating techniques that perform behavior mining and automated generation of behavior specifications for detecting malware, which will be pursued in Phase II. | |
| NP Photonics, Inc.
UA Science and Technology Park, 9030 S. Rita Road, Suite #120 Tucson, AZ 85747 (520) 799-7424 PI: Wei Shi (520) 799-7413 Contract #: W31P4Q-11-C-0276 |
University of Arizona
PO BOX 3308, 888 N EUCLID AVE STE 510 TUCSON, AZ 85722 (520) 626-6000 ID#: A11A-005-0088 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T005 Awarded:8/24/2011 |
| Title: Deep ultraviolet laser for Raman spectroscopy | |
| Abstract: NP Photonics proposes to develop an ultra-stable, compact, and highly reliable deep ultraviolet (UV) laser source for Raman spectroscopy. For this, we will draw on NP Photonics' long experience with the commercialization of single- frequency fiber lasers and amplifiers. In cooperation with the University of Arizona, we offer two technical approaches to produce the deep UV laser source. (1) High power, ultra-stable and compact single-frequency fiber laser operating at 980 nm will be developed by using NP Photonics' highly Yb-doped phosphate fibers. Two successive frequency doublers will be used to convert the high power narrow linewidth 980 nm laser to 245 nm UV laser. (2) Ultra-stable and compact single-frequency all fiber-based laser around 480 nm will be demonstrated using a distributed Bragg reflector upconversion fiber laser consisting of a short length of thulium-doped fluoride glass fiber and two Bragg fiber gratings on small-core silica fibers. The 480 nm laser is then amplified by a triple-clad thulium-doped fluoride fiber amplifier. The 240 nm UV laser will be achieved through the frequency doubling of the high power 480 nm laser. The two technical approaches for developing a compact deep UV source will be evaluated in terms of efficiency, size, robustness, and stability. | |
| NuCrypt LLC
1840 Oak Ave., Suite 212S, Evanston, IL 60201 (847) 275-8996 PI: Gregory S. Kanter (847) 733-8750 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0248 |
Northwestern University
633 Clark Street, Evanston, IL 60208 (847) 491-3003 ID#: A11A-008-0259 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T008 Awarded:8/30/2011 |
| Title: High Speed Room Temperature Single Photon Counters | |
| Abstract: Detecting light at the single photon level is a fundamental measurement function that is useful in a wide variety of applications, including such diverse fields as biological spectroscopy, laser ranging, and quantum communications. Avalanche photodiode (APD) based single photon detectors (SPDs) are very convenient in that they are small solid state devices that don't require cryogenic cooling. Si-based APD devices have high performance for < 1 micron wavelengths. III-V material APDs are sensitive to the telecom bands (1.3 and 1.5 micron), but generally have inferior performance. Recently methods of high speed gating of III-V APDs has lead to dramatic improvements in their speed. We propose to optimize the III-V APD performance for high speed (GHz) gated operation by appropriate electronic control and system optimization. The use of nonlinear frequency conversion can allow for higher performance Si detectors to measure telecom wave- bands. The nonlinear interaction can add extra noise however. We will build a model for the noise processes and validate it with experimental measurements. The high speed performance of the Si detector will also be optimized. The feasibility of combining appropriate up-conversion with such high speed Si APDs for building low-noise multi-GHz detectors will be evaluated. | |
| Oceanit Laboratories, Inc.
Oceanit Center, 828 Fort Street Mall, Suite 600 Honolulu, HI 96813 (808) 531-3017 PI: Ganesh Arumugam (808) 531-3017 Contract #: W31P4Q-11-C-0295 |
Vanderbilt University
School of Engineering, VU Station B 351604 Nashville, TN 37235 (615) 343-3878 ID#: A11A-013-0051 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T013 Awarded:8/30/2011 |
| Title: Biomimetic Membranes for Direct Methanol Fuel Cells | |
| Abstract: The proposed research effort is focused on developing a highly conducting, nanostructured membrane for use in high temperature direct methanol fuel cells (DMFC). Polymer nanofiber mats with high temperature stability and water retaining inorganic nanoparticles will be prepared through electrospinning process. The nanofiber mats will be compacted and the pores will be infiltrated using a hydrophobic sulfonated polymeric material and cross linked to the nanofibers to decrease the methanol permeability and maintain the conductivity at high temperatures (100°C). Finally, the fabricated nanofiber based membrane will be tested for their proton conductivity and methanol permeability and will be compared with the Nafion® counterpart. Based on the results obtained in Phase I, Phase II efforts will be focused on optimizing the membrane properties for developing a nanofiber based membrane stack for operating a 1W DMFC employing concentrated methanol (>15M). | |
| Parabon NanoLabs, Inc.
11260 Roger Bacon Drive, Suite 406 Reston, VA 20190 (703) 689-9689 PI: Michael Norton (304) 696-6627 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0269 |
Marshall University
401 11th Street, Suite 1400 Huntington, WV 25701 (304) 696-3468 ID#: A11A-021-0220 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T021 Awarded:9/26/2011 |
| Title: Origami Antibodies for Threat Sensing | |
| Abstract: Beginning from an advanced stage of development, this Phase I STTR project will produce designs and prototypes for a ricin-specific artificial antibody constructed using DNA origami. These novel constructs will provide both a capture function (mimicking the properties of an antibody) and intrinsic electro-optical reporting functionality, a significant improvement over current antibody capability. Accordingly, they will prove a compelling substitute for antibodies in a wide variety of applications, beginning with ELISA-like field tests for threat sensing, but generalizable to all current antibody applications. Phase I includes two experimental thrusts. The first involves the design and characterization of constructs that demonstrate control of important physical properties, including size, shape, charge and relative hydrophobicity; the second is the development and demonstration of a synthetic construct to capture and report optically the threat agent ricin. These efforts will lead to specifications for enhancements to Parabon’s existing origami design automation software, specifically for the creation of artificial antibodies. Such enhancements are essential for computing optimal placement of capture and response elements, and displaying surface charge and relative hydrophobicity profiles. Phase II objectives will include development of artificial antibodies with more complex electro-optical reporting mechanisms and implementation of the software specifications developed in Phase I. | |
| Perceptronics Solutions, Inc.
3527 Beverly Glen Blvd., Sherman Oaks, CA 91423 (818) 788-1025 PI: Amos Freedy (818) 788-4830 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0223 |
UCLA
Department of Sociology, 299 Haines Hall Los Angeles, CA 90095 (310) 267-4965 ID#: A11A-011-0030 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T011 Awarded:9/12/2011 |
| Title: High Risk Rapid Ethnographic Assessment Tool (HRREAT) | |
| Abstract: This proposal is to develop a High Risk Rapid Ethnographic Assessment Tool (HRREAT) that will provide commanders and their staff with a fully-integrated, user-friendly suite of tools for the rapid collection, management, analysis, modeling, and visualization of ethnographic data in denied areas to enhance planning and decision making activities. Ethnographic data has become highly important in counterinsurgency as well as in conventional combat planning and decisions. While there are many existing and new tools that can help military personnel rapidly gather such data even in risky and/or denied areas, the potentially available tools are not integrated into one accessible system and are not easily used by non-specialist personnel. Moreover, ethnographic analyses are most often divorced from overall planning and decision making. Our solution to these problems is to combine a number key social network, planning and decision support components that we are developing in several closely related SBIR projects with new ethnographic analysis components. This will create a customized and productized tool suite that enhances ethnographic data collection and analysis and visualization, puts the data into a planning and decision making framework, and – most important – can be quickly transitioned to operational users, both in the military and in commercial environments. | |
| Performance Lasers
17540 Cumana Terrace, San Diego, CA 92128 (858) 674-5644 PI: Harry Rieger (858) 674-5644 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0228 |
University of Vermont
201E Votey, Burlington, VT 05405 (802) 656-1922 ID#: A11A-009-0011 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T009 Awarded:8/31/2011 |
| Title: Compact, Rugged, and Low-Cost Wavelength-Versatile Burst Laser | |
| Abstract: Very compact, robust, and low cost multi wavelengths burst lasers for standoff CBRNE (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive) detection and identification are proposed. Although a single focused laser pulse on target can do the detection, the probability of hitting the right contaminated spot is low. Therefore, scanning a laser pulse train will cover a larger suspected contaminated area and, hence, most likely will detect the suspected agent. Operating the laser in a burst mode will enable the laser system to simplify dramatically in comparison to a laser that operates continuously at high repetition rate. Diode pumped solid state lasers without any cooling are best suited for this mission. Commercial missions such as the one under development by the University of Vermont for launching laser produced acoustic waves into structures like bridges and roads to detect structural defects can greatly benefit from this burst laser development. | |
| Physical Sciences Inc.
20 New England Business Center, Andover, MA 01810 (978) 689-0003 PI: Christopher M. Gittins (978) 689-0003 Contract #: W911SR-12-C-0004 |
Rochester Institute of Technology
Sponsored Research Services, Rochester, NY 14623 (585) 475-7987 ID#: A11A-028-0357 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T028 Awarded:12/12/2011 |
| Title: Infrared Signatures of Liquid-Contaminated Surfaces | |
| Abstract: Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) and its academic partner, the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), will develop and test physics-based models for predicting long wavelength infrared (LWIR, 8 to 12 micro-m) reflectance and emittance spectra of surfaces co | |
| Polaris Sensor Technologies, Inc.
200 Westside Square, Suite 320 Huntsville, AL 35801 (256) 562-0087 PI: Peter Erbach (256) 562-0087 Contract #: W911SR-11-C-0084 |
Louisiana State University
Department of Chemistry, 211 Choppin Hall Baton Rouge, LA 70803 (225) 578-7202 ID#: A11A-026-0242 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T026 Awarded:8/31/2011 |
| Title: Improve pyrotechnic smoke formulations that produce low flame | |
| Abstract: The objective of this research is to develop materials that may replace the current generation of visible smoke formulations used by the U.S. military. In particular the materials must produce low flame so that they do present a fire hazard, have relatively low toxicity, and are efficient. The efficiency is defined in a figure of merit that combines fill factor, yield factor, extinction coefficient and density. Additionally, other targets are neutral buoyancy and volatility that affect obscurant duration. Polaris and LSU propose a novel method based on polymeric chemistry to provide formulations that accomplish all of the objectives listed above. We have demonstrated formulations in the lab that provide high density smokes with low toxicity and low temperatures of reaction. For this proposal the Polaris / LSU team will refine the mixtures and delivery concepts to meet the guidelines established by the Army. We will build sample units, optically test samples in an aero-chamber to validate the extinction coefficients, and develop models to aid designing discharge devices. | |
| Princeton Lightwave, Inc.
2555 Route 130 South, Suite 1, Cranbury, NJ 08512 (609) 495-2554 PI: Mark Itzler (609) 495-2551 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0247 |
University of Virginia
351 McCormick Road, Room E219, PO Box 400743 Charlottesville, VA 22904 (434) 243-2068 ID#: A11A-008-0293 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T008 Awarded:8/30/2011 |
| Title: GHz-range photon counting with single-photon avalanche photodiodes | |
| Abstract: In the past few years, there have been promising demonstrations of new approaches to short-gate (i.e., sub- nanosecond) operation of single-photon avalanche diodes (SPADs) with gating frequencies as high as 2 GHz. However, these demonstrations have had limitations, including operation at just a single fixed frequency, fairly high residual afterpulsing levels, and the lack of industrialization required for commercial deployment. For this proposed Phase 1 effort, we describe a development effort that will build on these new techniques but that will overcome the limitations of their initial demonstrations. In particular, we will realize frequency-agile GHz-range SPAD operation with low-afterpulsing single photon counting over a wide range of gating frequencies. With this high-frequency photon counting capability, we will also conduct more fundamental studies of avalanche pulse behavior and the afterpulsing phenomenon. The results of these characterization efforts will then be used to achieve further improvements in our GHz-range gating circuits. | |
| Propagation Research Associates
1275 Kennestone Circle, Suite 100 Marietta, GA 30066 (678) 384-3401 PI: G. Martin Hall (678) 384-3403 Contract #: W31P4Q-11-C-0289 |
Duke University
Suite 710 Erwin Square, 2200 W Main Street, Box 104010 Durham, NC 27705 (919) 681-8684 ID#: A11A-001-0328 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T001 Awarded:8/4/2011 |
| Title: Low-Cost Chaos Radar | |
| Abstract: Propagation Research Associates, Inc., (PRA) and Duke University propose to extend the recent developments of matched filtered chaos into a low-cost high range-resolution chaotic waveform radar. In the Phase I effort, PRA and Duke will design the radar system and build a prototype waveform generator that will exploit three essential properties of chaotic waveforms that can be applied to enhance radar performance in specific mission areas. The first property is flexibility in that chaotic waveforms can support both homodyne and heterodyne architectures, which allows these waveforms to be implemented in any radar design. The second property is orthogonality, which allows the use of multiple simultaneous chaotic waveforms due to low cross correlation of distinct chaotic waveforms. Finally, the third property is indetectability, which results from the randomness of the waveforms that spread the spectrum for low probability of intercept. PRA and Duke propose to exploit these three properties to design a cost-effective chaos radar for a specific mission. | |
| Q Peak, Inc.
135 South Road, Bedford, MA 01730 (781) 275-9535 PI: Yelena Isyanova (781) 275-9535 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0224 |
Johns Hopkins University
Suite 225 Mergenthaler Hall, 3400 N. Charles Street Baltimore, MD 21218 (410) 516-6126 ID#: A11A-009-0284 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T009 Awarded:8/30/2011 |
| Title: Compact, Rugged, and Low-Cost, Wavelength-Versatile Burst Laser | |
| Abstract: Q-Peak Inc., in collaboration with The Johns Hopkins University (JHU), proposes to develop an extremely compact, air- cooled, lightweight, multi-wavelength, burst-mode laser based on the combination of a Q-switched, Nd-doped, oscillator-amplifier laser, and efficient, robust nonlinear optical frequency converters. | |
| Quantum Signal, LLC
200 N. Ann Arbor St., Saline, MI 48176 (734) 429-9100 PI: Mitchell Rohde (734) 429-9100 Contract #: W81XWH-11-C-0503 |
Massachusetts Institute of Technol
77 Massachusetts Avenue, Room 35-237A Cambridge, MA 02139 (617) 452-3262 ID#: A11A-033-0187 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T033 Awarded:9/12/2011 |
| Title: TerrAdapt: A system for autonomous terrain classification and terrain-adaptive driving | |
| Abstract: The Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Quantum Signal LLC propose to research and develop the TerrAdapt system for terrain classification and vehicle driving control. This work will result in fundamental research advances, but will be practical enough for application on today's COTS vehicle platforms. The system will maximize vehicle mobility due to the following key features: 1) TerrAdapt will merge both proprioceptive and exteroceptive sensor inputs to obtain a rich, physics-based prediction of terrain properties; 2) TerrAdapt will employ state-of-the-art methods for terrain classification to allow the system to learn from experience, and adapt to changing terrain conditions; 3) TerrAdapt will ensure safe vehicle control, and will enable automatic avoidance of both geometric and non-geometric hazards; 4) TerrAdapt will be applicable to both semi-autonomous systems and fully autonomous vehicles; 5) TerrAdapt will rely on low-cost COTS hardware, and be designed as an "add on kit" for integration with existing vehicle platforms. | |
| Redondo Optics, Inc.
811 N. Catalina Avenue, Suite 1100, Redondo Beach, CA 90277 (310) 292-7673 PI: Edgar Mendoza (310) 292-7673 Contract #: W911SR-12-C-0011 |
University of New Mexico
Center for High Technology Mat, Albuquerque, NM 87131 (505) 272-7092 ID#: A11A-027-0100 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T027 Awarded:11/4/2011 |
| Title: Integrated Electrophoretic Capillary Nanofluidic Biochip for Separation of Long DNA Molecules | |
| Abstract: Redondo Optics Inc. (ROI), in collaboration with Center for High Technology Materials at the University of New Mexico proposes to design, produce, extensively test, and demonstrate the performance of a next generation integrated electrophoretic capillary | |
| Robotic Research LLC
555 Quince Orchard Road, Suite 300 Gaithersburg, MD 20878 (240) 631-0008 PI: Karl Kluge (240) 631-0008 Contract #: W81XWH-12-C-0001 |
Jet Propulsion Laboratory
4800 Oak Grove Drive, Pasadena, CA 91109 (818) 393-3458 ID#: A11A-033-0290 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T033 Awarded:11/1/2011 |
| Title: Mobility Optimization via Enhanced Robotic Sensing (MOVERS) | |
| Abstract: Robotic Research in partnership with Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) proposes to develop the Mobility Optimization via Enhanced Robotic Sensing (MOVERS) system for any two-wheeled, four-wheeled or tracked robotic platform to autonomously perform hazardous terrain detection and classification and adjust its driving control strategy to safely negotiate hazardous terrain. Our goal is to develop automatic terrain classification and motion-control algorithms that will enable medical robots and mobility assist devices currently being developed by the US military to negotiate hazardous terrain. Various unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) are being developed for search and rescue missions, casualty extraction, and other vital tasks. These platforms may have to drive through ice, mud, sand, loose/thick gravel, steep inclines and hills during their mission. These conditions can cause wheel/track slippage, sinkage or in the worst case, overturn, resulting in mission failure or endangering the life of a warfighter. Another application of this proposed technology is to assist wounded soldiers and disabled veterans who use electric powered wheel chairs (EPWs). This technology could help a disabled veteran navigate slippery/wet, sandy or muddy terrain by detecting the hazardous terrain type and adjusting the driving parameters of the EPW to safely drive without getting stuck or overturning. | |
| Ryon Technologies
1 Davol Square, Suite 203 Providence, RI 02903 (401) 523-5277 PI: Joseph Geiser (401) 714-8275 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0239 |
Brown University
Department of Chemistry, 324 Brook St. Providence, RI 02912 (401) 863-3767 ID#: A11A-017-0144 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T017 Awarded:8/26/2011 |
| Title: Sensitive and Shape-Specific Molecular Identification | |
| Abstract: The ability to rapidly detect, identify and monitor chemical agents remains a challenge of significant importance to the Armed Forces. Existing chemical sensing techniques have shortcomings that inhibit widespread implementation. To address this situation, Ryon Technologies is developing a portable instrument that is based on Rydberg Fingerprint Spectroscopy (RFS) in combination with mass spectrometry (MS). The dual detection of the RFS signal and the MS signal provides a two-dimensional readout where each molecule is positively identified through its mass and its structural fingerprint. This unique approach ensures that all molecules can be unambiguously identified, allowing the monitoring for chemical agents without false alarms. Because of the inherent sensitivity of detecting charged particles, very minute amounts of material will be possible to analyze. The development focuses on reducing all dimensions of the apparatus, including the vacuum envelope and the sample inlet. Through computational modeling the design is optimized for maximum sensitivity with the minimum number of parts. | |
| SA Photonics, LLC
130 Knowles Drive, Suite A Los Gatos, CA 95032 (970) 921-3401 PI: Frank Muennemann (650) 269-5762 Contract #: W81XWH-11-C-0482 |
Stanford University
Lucas MRS/I Center, Radiology, 1201 Welch Road, PS-08 Stanford, CA 94305 (650) 723-9529 ID#: A11A-031-0255 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T031 Awarded:10/3/2011 |
| Title: Development of Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) Phantoms to Enhance the Diagnosis of Moderate Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) | |
| Abstract: Survival rates for soldiers injured by IED blasts and similar trauma are enhanced by prompt, high-quality medical care. Among the survivors, however, increasing numbers report symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). Mild and moderate TBIs with no skull-penetrating wounds are difficult to detect and diagnose with commonly used diagnostic systems. Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI), a subset of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), shows great promise to diagnose TBIs and guide treatment planning, but the technique currently lacks standardized data acquisition, presentation and instrumentation standards. The Diffusion Tensor Imaging Reference Standard (DTIRS) will standardize diagnostic DTI information and its presentation as an image. DTIRS will provide hardware (a standard phantom) and a validating procedure by which calibration data are to be obtained, processed, and compared to absolute physical standards. The DTIRS phantom's construction continuously controls fiber tension and placement; this ensures high accuracy and repeatability anisotropic diffusion properties. Its innovative construction maximizes the number of voxels per slice which are used for calibration; this maximizes calibration speed and accuracy. The validation procedure takes advantage of the phantom's shape and large volumes with anisotropic diffusion properties to algorithmically identify large regions of interest which become the basis of calibration uniformity tests. | |
| Scientific Applications & Research Assoc., Inc.
6300 Gateway Dr., Cypress, CA 90630 (714) 224-4410 PI: Jay Cleckler (714) 224-4410 Contract #: W911SR-12-C-0009 |
UC, San Diego
9500 Gilman Drive, Department of Physics, 0354 La Jolla, CA 92093 (858) 534-4174 ID#: A11A-025-0004 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T025 Awarded:11/22/2011 |
| Title: UV Enhanced Electrostatic Discharge (UVEED) | |
| Abstract: Biological weapon attacks are a continuing threat to the US military and homeland security. Current fluorescent detection technology has poor performance against spore based bioweapons threats. PCR, immunoassay, and lab-on- a-chip detection technologies are accurate, but are slow and require a constant stream of expensive reagents. | |
| Scieval LLC
1293 Salt Lake Drive, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 (727) 735-4950 PI: Mark Bennahmias (949) 354-3501 Contract #: W31P4Q-11-C-0275 |
Georgia Institute of Technolobg
Shcool of Electrical and, Computer Engineering Atlanta, GA 30332 (404) 717-3085 ID#: A11A-002-0473 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T002 Awarded:8/10/2011 |
| Title: Matched Filter Chaos Communications | |
| Abstract: The use of chaotic hybrid systems has been recently demonstrated in for potential noise-resilient matched-filter communications. A first demonstration at low (audio) frequencies using a combination of analog and digital components has been demonstrated. With this proposal, our objective is to devise a "chaos-on-a-chip" system that can exhibit similar features to those in while operating in the range of RF frequencies. The proposed structure of the emitter and receiver will combine a back-end based on FPGA/DSP technology with an analog front-end for amplification and transmission. The proposed architecture is named COSMIC (Chaotic Oscillator Secure Matching fIlter Communications. | |
| SIMULATION TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
5021 Bradford Drive, Suite 145 HUNTSVILLE, AL 35805 (256) 955-7288 PI: Dewayne Satterfield (256) 955-7279 Contract #: W31P4Q-11-C-0277 |
University of Alabama Huntsville
301 Sparkman Drive, Shelby Center 144 Huntsville, AL 35899 (256) 824-4368 ID#: A11A-004-0237 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T004 Awarded:7/16/2011 |
| Title: High Fidelity Obscurant Modeling for Sensor Simulations | |
| Abstract: A technique that enables new methods of obscurant modeling with faster rendering while maintaining or improving physical fidelity is proposed. the proposed technique not only exhibits the qualities of voxel based obscurants, but matches real-world data as well. The main objective from Phase I efforts will be a specification for the technique of generating physically correct and efficient obscurant model. The result of Phase I will also show the feasibility of using the obscurant technique for modeling with system simulations. | |
| Strategic Feasibilities, Inc.
5832 Mossrock Drive, Rockville, MD 20852 (602) 359-2238 PI: Terence Kades (240) 481-3193 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0225 |
Oklahoma State University
Center for Veterinary Health, Science, 264 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK 74078 (405) 921-3831 ID#: A11A-019-0188 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T019 Awarded:9/28/2011 |
| Title: Rugged Automated Training System | |
| Abstract: It is accepted that certain animals have the olfactory and learning ability to be trained in the detection of explosives and other compounds. The possibility of using rats and other small mammals to detect landmines, and potentially IED's is very real. In order to perform the detection task efficiently and effectively, these animals need to be trained, and certified as reliable and accurate. Currently, the training of animals is generally expensive and slow, and requires significant human effort and skill. The objective of this Proposal is to effectively train and evaluate small animals with an automated training system that is cost effective, rugged, reliable, easy to use, maintain and repair. With such a system, large numbers of animals including rodents, could be trained for the task of detecting, and marking landmine contamination, for later removal. Our proposal outlines three possible small innovative animal training system designs, all based on the Operant Conditioning regime. We also propose two innovative solutions for the having the animal communicate a positive detection to its handler. In some instances the bush and grass is too tick for the handler to see the animal. Phase 1 will test validate the most suitable practical and effective designs. | |
| Streamline Automation, LLC
3100 Fresh Way SW, Huntsville, AL 35805 (256) 713-1220 PI: Roberto Di Salvo (256) 713-1220 Contract #: W15P7T-11-C-H280 |
University of Alabama
Office for Sponsored Programs, Box 870104 Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 (205) 348-5152 ID#: A11A-023-0506 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T023 Awarded:8/31/2011 |
| Title: Dual Fuel Use of JP-8 and Hydrogen for Improved Compression Ignition Engine Performance | |
| Abstract: With the advent of more efficient hydrogen reforming systems, a practical hydrogen source has lead to investigations on the operating characteristics of diesel (JP-8) engines with a hydrogen/syngas additive. Several sources have reported that higher thermal efficiencies and lower pollution occur when hydrogen is added to the fuel stream. The objective of this proposal is to experimentally quantify the advantages of using (reformed) hydrogen to supplement JP-8 in modern CI engines. The results of this project will be used to determine what fuel-hydrogen ratios are most advantageous for engine performance and pollution mitigation. Based on the results of engine performance testing, the integration with available JP-8 reformer hardware will be evaluated.The objective of this project is to determine the effect on engine performance of introducing hydrogen/syngas into a compression ignition engine and develop a means to integrate the in-situ hydrogen/syngas production into a comprehensive system. Specific technical objectives include the experimental determination of the effects of mixing hydrogen and/or syngas with JP-8 on combustion thermal efficiency and emissions, and assessment of system level impacts such as performance, size, weight, safety, scaling and cost. | |
| Structured Materials Industries
201 Circle Drive North, Unit # 102 Piscataway, NJ 08854 (732) 302-9274 PI: Nick M. Sbrockey (732) 302-9274 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0219 |
Univ. of Colorado - Colorodo Spring
Office of Sponsored Programs, 4120 Austin Bluffs Parkway Colorado Springs, CO 80919 (719) 255-3153 ID#: A11A-016-0005 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T016 Awarded:9/6/2011 |
| Title: MOCVD of High Performance Complex Oxide Films for Switchable Film Bulk Acoustic Resonators | |
| Abstract: In this STTR program, Structured Materials Industries, Inc. (SMI) and partners will develop high efficiency, switchable RF filters. The technical approach is based on thin films of paraelectric BaxSr1-xTiO3 and SrTiO3, which can show piezoelectric behavior under an applied DC bias. When integrated into resonator structures, these materials can act as both an RF filter and an RF switch. Combining these functions will greatly simply manufacture of RF circuits and reduce RF losses, resulting in communication systems with greater efficiency, smaller footprint and reduced cost. The critical enabler for our approach is SMI's metal organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) technology, which can produce complex oxide films of exceptional quality for efficient RF filter operation. In addition, MOCVD provides a direct and quantitative means for compositional grading and compositional doping, which can further enhance device properties such as temperature stability and reduce dielectric loss. MOCVD is scalable to large wafer sizes and high volume production, for ultimate production of the switchable RF filters in high volume and at low cost. MOCVD is also compatible with standard semiconductor fabrication techniques, which will enable a greater degree of integration for the RF filters, for greater functionality and additional cost reduction. | |
| TechFlow, Inc.
2155 Louisiana Blvd., NE, Suite 3200 Albuquerque, NM 87110 (505) 903-6843 PI: Sameer Hemmady (505) 903-6845 Contract #: W31P4Q-11-C-0273 |
University of New Mexico
Pre-Award Services, 1700 Lomas, NE Suite 2200 MSC01 1247 Albuquerque, NM 87131 (505) 277-4186 ID#: A11A-001-0471 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T001 Awarded:7/17/2011 |
| Title: Low-Cost Chaos Radar | |
| Abstract: To address the Army's requirement for Low-Cost Chaos-based Radar solution, TechFlow Scientific and the University of New Mexico will design, develop, and test a prototype chaos based radar employing a coherent receiver with a matched filter. In Phase-I, we will perform a careful design study of the chaos-radar system components. We will develop robust technical solutions such as the use of Titanium Vanadium Dioxide phase-change materials, neural network algorithms, cellular-automata inspired broadband antennas, and InGaP/GaAs synchrodyne amplifiers to address key technical challenges such as the need for high-speed switching of the chaotic oscillator dynamics, equalization techniques to account for inter-symbol-interference due to finite channel coherence bandwidths, novel broadband antennas to accommodate chaotic waveforms, and stable broadband RF power amplifiers for transmission and reception, respectively. We will perform high-fidelity modeling and simulation analysis of the radar system in a simulated cluttered environment to gauge performance. We will also design and fabricate preliminary prototype chaotic oscillators and matched filters operating at lower-RF frequencies, which will be scaled to higher operating frequencies in Phase- II. Our approach will focus on increasing reliability and lowering implementation costs. Our team comprises a cohesive team of internationally-reputed scientists in chaos, radar engineering, antennas, wireless communications and embedded systems. | |
| Texas Research Institute Austin, Inc.
9063 Bee Caves Road, Austin, TX 78733 (512) 263-2101 PI: Russell Austin (512) 263-2101 Contract #: W31P4Q-11-C-0265 |
Univ of Alabama - Huntsville
Office of Sponsored Programs, Von Braun Research Hall, E-12 Huntsville, AL 35899 (256) 824-2657 ID#: A11A-003-0262 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T003 Awarded:7/17/2011 |
| Title: Conducting Stress-Strain Analysis by Remote Sensing | |
| Abstract: Cracks and loose fasteners are continuing structural problems on H-60 helicopters resulting in unexpected downtime to repair/replace structures. This reduces availability to the warfighter, increases risk, and is expensive and time consuming. The proposed embedded system would provide early detection and assessment of loose fasteners and strain allowing planned repairs and mitigating problems. TRI has developed the LAHMP™ family of low power, lightweight, wireless, embedded and rugged sensor data collection, storage and transceiver systems. The LAHMP™ system is rugged, versatile, embeddable and provides monitoring of large areas with just a few COTS sensors. This SBIR effort will adapt existing LAHMP™ fixed wing architectures to monitoring rotorcraft structures, specifically: measuring strain and detecting loose fasteners in UH-60 structures. The breadboard system will be battery powered; communicate wirelessly over a 2.4GHz mesh network; be small and lightweight; and will maximize use of COTS components. Phase II will address ruggedization; long term reliability and battery life; and improvements to the system. Each LAHMP™ would be mounted on structures prone to damage and would collect data from several strain gauges and sensors allowing large area detection of loose fasteners. Data would then be available on demand for WiFi enabled devices. | |
| TIPD, L.L.C.
1430 N. 6th Ave., Tucson, AZ 85705 (520) 250-4405 PI: Li Li (520) 622-0804 Contract #: W31P4Q-11-C-0280 |
University of Arizona
PO Box 3308, 888 N Euclid Aven Ste 510 Tucson, AZ 85722 (520) 626-6000 ID#: A11A-005-0008 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T005 Awarded:8/4/2011 |
| Title: Deep ultraviolet laser for Raman spectroscopy | |
| Abstract: The University of Arizona has demonstrated high-average-power all-solid-state ultraviolet (UV) lasers based on harmonic generation in borate crystals. TIPD is proposing the development of a compact, stable high power UV laser source based on the University's exsisting CsLiB6O10 laser, developing these sources for a wide variety of applications, both commercial and defense. | |
| Torch Technologies, Inc.
4035 Chris Drive, Suite C Huntsville, AL 35802 (256) 319-6019 PI: Dan Hahs (256) 319-6000 Contract #: W31P4Q-11-C-0264 |
Auburn University
310 Samford Hall, Auburn, AL 36849 (334) 844-1838 ID#: A11A-002-0311 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T002 Awarded:7/17/2011 |
| Title: Matched Filter Chaos Communications | |
| Abstract: A plan is presented to demonstrate the feasibility and practicality of a radio-frequency Hayes-Corron (H-C) chaos- based communication system employing an optimal spread-spectrum chaotic communication theory to achieve superior low-power, low-probability of interception, multiple-user access, and portability goals. By integrating three concepts: 1) chaotic spreading sequence generation, 2) Hayes encoding, and 3) Corron matched filtering, the richness of chaotic system behavior is harnessed in the key transformational processes of the communications scheme. Chaotic spreading sequences have previously been demonstrated in published research to provide security benefits. Hayes encoding is an efficient method by which information can be encoded on a chaotic waveform using arbitrarily low-power modulation so that a symbol can be encoded on nearly every carrier oscillation. Corron matched filtering is a cutting-edge extension of standard linear matched filter theory to chaotic waveforms permitting their optimal detection. At low frequencies the H- C concept has been demonstrated using low-power COTS components. Under this effort a RF H-C design study will be conducted. A Matlab simulation of a digital audio H-C system will be built and detailed model development undertaken using PSPICE and other tools. A prototype oscillator and matched filter will be fabricated and tested/evaluated for controllability, reliability, and performance. | |
| Traclabs, Inc.
100 Northeast Loop 410, Suite 520 San Antonio, TX 78216 (281) 461-7886 PI: Robert Burridge (281) 461-7886 Contract #: W81XWH-11-C-0520 |
Texas A&M University
TEES, 1470 William D. Fitch Parkway College Station, TX 77845 (979) 458-7617 ID#: A11A-032-0250 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T032 Awarded:9/28/2011 |
| Title: Adjustable Autonomy for Intelligent Operation of Mobile Manipulators | |
| Abstract: In recent years, the military has been integrating robotic systems into tasks previously performed entirely manually by soldiers. Examples include explosive ordnance disposal (EOD), surveillance and reconnaissance, urban search and rescue (USAR), chemical, biological, and nuclear (CBN) operations, and medical assistance and evacuation. A typical application is for a soldier (remote operator) to teleoperate a mobile robotic platform (generally coupled with a simple manipulator) that is operating nearby – often within direct line-of-sight. Although this technique removes the operator from the acute dangers surrounding the task, the rudimentary nature of current operator interfaces requires intense concentration and makes even simple tasks tedious. As a result, the personal risk to the operator is increased and the full capability of the mechanism is not realized. We propose to design and implement an adjustably autonomous control architecture for complex robot systems that combines robust autonomy with intuitive operator control. This work brings together decades of experience with autonomous control of the highly dexterous Robonaut and decades of experience in remotely operating robots in the field for USAR applications. The resulting system reduces the cognitive load on operators and increases effective utilization of robots in a wide variety of applications. Our dual-armed mobile robotic testbed (TRACBot) has 26 degrees of freedom, LIDAR, stereo, thermal, and color imaging sensors, and will be used for system evaluation and demonstration in several medically-relevant robotics scenarios. | |
| VIBRATESS
104 Chaucer Rd., Charlottesville, VA , Charlottesville, VA 22901 (434) 296-2400 PI: Tatyana Khromova (434) 296-2400 Contract #: W911NF-11-C-0271 |
University of Virginia
Office of Sponsored Programs, P.O. Box 400195 Charlottesville, VA 22904 (434) 924-4270 ID#: A11A-022-0113 Agency: Army Topic#: A11a-T022 Awarded:9/28/2011 |
| Title: THz Biosensor Based on Plasmonic Nanoarchitectures | |
| Abstract: In this collaborative STTR project between Vibratess LLC and UVA, we intent to conduct a combined theoretical and experimental study of plasmonic architectures for utilization with biological and chemical sensing in the THz spectral range. Plasmon Polariton (SSPP) devices that utilize metamaterials constructed of a conductor with sub-wavelength periodic structural features on it surface can tailor THz frequencies via the surface geometry. The objectives of this Phase I project are: 1) to define a new class of THz plasmonic nanostructures applicable for biosensing including focusing devices for enhancing interaction between the THz field and material under test, devices for coupling quazi- optical THz input/output radiation to waveguides, devices to transmit surface plasmon polariton propagation with minimal losses, and switches or modulators to allow for propagation control; 2) to demonstrate that these highly effective components for spectroscopy-based sensing can be implemented using relatively simple nano-manufacturing techniques; 3) to develop a conceptual design of an integrated chemical/biological spectroscopic sensor based on the THZ plasmonic nanostructures. | |
| 3 Phoenix, Inc.
14585 Avion Pwy, Suite 200 Chantilly, VA 20151 (703) 956-6480 PI: Bob Smarrelli (703) 956-6480 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0298 |
George Mason University
4400 University Drive, MS 1G5 Fairfax, VA 22030 (703) 993-1000 ID#: N11A-015-0048 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T015 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Image Feature Extraction for Improved EW Classification | |
| Abstract: The team of 3 Phoenix, Inc and George Mason Univserity propose to develop and evaluate innovative algorithms for a multi-modal adaptive data fusion system applicable for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and tracking (ISRT) in general environments. In particular the algorithm will be designed for automatic target recognition in high density littoral environments. The approach presented in this proposal represents the potential to reduce operator load and allow for constant updating of algorithm performance. We anticipate that the results of this effort will demonstrate the feasibility of the algorithms and the path to implementation. | |
| Active Spectrum, Inc.
1191 Chess St., Suite F, Foster City, CA 94404 (650) 269-0401 PI: Christopher White (650) 269-0401 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0304 |
Virginia Tech
Office of Sponsored Programs, 460 Turner Street Blacksburg, VA 24060 (540) 231-5281 ID#: N11A-016-0236 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T016 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Tunable Bandstop Filters for Suppression of Co-site Interference and Jamming Sources | |
| Abstract: We propose to develop miniaturize, high performance bandstop filters demonstrating low insertion loss in the 1-20 GHz range, broad tuning, and high RF power handling capability for interference mitigation in shipboard radar and communications systems. | |
| Adaptive Methods, Inc
5860 Trinity Parkway, Suite 200 Centreville, VA 20120 (703) 968-8040 PI: Lewis Hart (703) 968-8040 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0291 |
Penn State University
Applied Research Laboratory, N. Atherton St. State College, PA 16804 (814) 863-7731 ID#: N11A-018-0039 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T018 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Automated Situational Understanding for Undersea Warfare Decision Support | |
| Abstract: The Anti Submarine Warfare Commander (ASWC) needs an accurate operational picture and timely answers to critical questions in order to take effective action. They operate under severe time pressure, performing complex multi- component decision tasks, and in rapidly evolving and changing information and situational states. Our overarching technical objective for the proposed work is to provide an effective, flexible USW Situational Understanding Framework (SU-Framework) from which tools and systems can be built that help warfigthers rapidly obtain clear and accurate situation understanding. The proposed technology will make new and emerging data types and sources available to the warfighter in a concise, actionable presentation by automatically organizing, prioritizing, fusing and reasoning upon entity data to estimate the value of situational entities. This project will provide rapid integration and non-trivial reasoning; judiciously select all "useful" data which maximizes hypothesis discrimination in order to provide consistent, formal inference for expert-quality deductions. The SU-Framework is both extendable and open to mitigate risks of unknown future requirements and technology. Ultimately the SU-Framework will facilitate transitioning newer, better technologies into CV-TSC V2 Increment 3 and future builds of USW-DSS allowing ASW warfigthers to exploit more information while shielding them from the need to manually work through it. | |
| Advanced Anti-Terror Technologies Corp. (A2T2)
896 W Minneola Ave, Suite 57 Clermont, FL 34711 (407) 733-7478 PI: J. Bliss (757) 683-4051 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0412 |
Old Dominion University
Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA 23529 (757) 683-4051 ID#: N11A-001-0258 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T001 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: Automated Human and System Performance Assessment in Operational Environments | |
| Abstract: Our Fused-Realities-Assessments-Modules (FRAM) as self-contained deployable add-ons enables innovative new levels and types of automated quantification strategies for combining human and system performance in real-time for fused performance monitoring and after-action-review purposes. FRAM accomplishes this by fusing output of normative models of behaviors (cognitive/procedural/team), human states (affective/physiological/brain-computer- interfaces/Neuroergonomics), system states (operational vehicle states and/or simulation models), and contextual situation states (live/virtual/constructive/serious-game scripts/scenarios). FRAM's novel model captures differences in cognitive and procedural behaviors by innovative conceptualizations that extends and evolves Mission-Essential- Competencies (MECs) and Principles of Performance Measurement (Dwyer and Salas 2000) constructs by evolving validated team performance measurement models and methods to include the air-platform system itself as a "pseudo team member"! We posit that many of the current validated team training models and methods that hold air-platform systems as a constant, can be extended and evolved by allowing the air-platform systems to be varied and objectively measured within military requirements constructs similarly to other human team members. Adverse air-platform system traits manifest analogously as team weaknesses; which can be identified, documented, and corrected early in development cycles, saving lives, increasing effectiveness, increasing ease-of-use across a range of skill-levels, and providing multiple levels and types of extensive cost savings. | |
| Advanced Infoneering, Inc.
4 Wendram Bluff NE, Iowa City, IA 52240 (319) 248-9503 PI: Thomas Schnell (319) 631-4445 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0410 |
University of Iowa
3131 Seamans Center, Iowa City, IA 52242 (319) 631-4445 ID#: N11A-001-0065 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T001 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: Automated Human and System Performance Assessment in Operational Environments | |
| Abstract: The development of complex aviation weapons systems involves flight testing at various stages of the design cycle. Test pilots are highly trained individuals with flight and assessment skills necessary to evaluate the performance of test articles. Test pilots might subconsciously use their high level of expertise and skill to compensate for adverse test article traits. What is needed is a system that allows for automatic quantification and documentation of pilot workload expenditure and performance for use during the flight test cycle. This will provide test pilots with enhanced means to identify adverse test article traits early in the design-test cycle. We propose to develop a self-contained, flight hardened system that predicts pilot procedural behavior and quantifies the experienced cognitive loading using fused sources of real-time information derived from a normative behavior model, human operator, aircraft state, and situational context. We call this the Automated Human System Performance Assessment (AHSPA) tool. The AHSPA tool will increase the probability of detection of adverse system traits during the flight test phase and thereby reduce/avoid costly fixes in fielded systems. We have a signed letter of intent from the USN Test Pilot school to work with our team as a potential transition customer. | |
| Advanced Rotorcraft Technology, Inc.
635 Vaqueros Avenue, Sunnyvale, CA 94085 (408) 523-5100 PI: Hossein Saberi (408) 523-5100 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0421 |
Pennsylvania State University
233B Hammond Building, Pennsylvania State University University Park, PA 16802 (814) 865-1966 ID#: N11A-010-0266 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T010 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: High Fidelity Helicopter Lag Damper Model for Comprehensive Rotor Analysis | |
| Abstract: This research is dedicated to developing high fidelity lag damper models to significantly improve the accuracy of the analysis of the rotor lead-lag damperforces over a wide range of blade lead-lag motion amplitudes, temperatures, and frequencies in support of aircraft design and engineering applications. The model development will emphasize the dampers with various configurations (e.g., linearstroke and snubber) and various materials (e.g., elastomeric materials, fluidic materials, and various combinations of these two materials).Semi-active dampers with feedback control will also be modeled. The developeddamper model will be suited for modern comprehensive rotorcraft analysis systems formulated using multi-body and finite element methodology. In Phase~I of this SBIR, ART will team with Penn State University and the work will focuson the development of the time domain elastomeric damper, the time domainfluid-elastomeric damper, and the magnetorheological fluid-elastomeric damper. The Phase~I efforts will also focus on integration of the lag damper models ina comprehensive rotorcraft analysis system. In addition, Phase~I will demonstrate the feasibility, accuracy, and capability of the models viastability and loads analyses of a rotorcraft in both ground resonanceand forward flight. | |
| Aerius Photonics, LLC.
2223 Eastman Ave., Suite B, Ventura, CA 93003 (805) 642-4645 PI: Chad Wang (805) 642-4645 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0308 |
University of Illinois
3108 Micro and Nanotechnology, 208 N. Wright Street, Urbana, IL 61801 (217) 265-0563 ID#: N11A-024-0476 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T024 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: 2-Dimensional Phase Controlled Coherent VCSEL Arrays for Military Applications | |
| Abstract: Aerius Photonics and the University of Illinois propose to develop a large two-dimensional coherently coupled Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser (VCSEL) array that will enable phase controlled operation, providing a building block for electronic steering of optical beam outputs with no mechanical parts. In Phase I, the program team will design the array including epitaxial layers, VCSEL array structure and assembly/hybridization approach. In addition, Phase I tasks will include the fabrication and test of a small prototype for risk reduction purposes. Also in Phase I, the program team will define the commercialization plan to guide action in Phase II and Phase III of the program. In Phase II, the team will develop and build a larger array to demonstrate the beam steering capability at higher output power in a deployable configuration. The resulting products will be integrated into systems that benefit the mission of DoD in a range of areas and that will be transitioned into manufacturing in Phase III. | |
| Albido Corporation
19 Leaming Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80906 (719) 337-4318 PI: Viorel Olariu (719) 502-1348 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0278 |
UCCS
1420 Austin Bluffs Parkway, Colorado Springs, CO 80918 (719) 255-3321 ID#: N11A-030-0401 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T030 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Wireless Torque Sensor for Condition Based Maintenance | |
| Abstract: In recent years, the need for highly reliable, durable and non-intrusive systems for monitoring the health condition of naval structures becomes more and more recognized. Of particular importance is the condition based maintenance of Navy rotating machinery (motors, generators, pumps, gear systems, etc.). Such Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) systems should be able to detect failures in their early stages so that the repairs would be less expensive or, even better, it should be able to predict the critical conditions so that preventive actions can be taken to avoid possible damage. Albido proposes a novel system capable of structural health monitoring, particularly of measuring high-bandwidth torque of naval rotating machinery operating in extreme environments, which uses wireless true passive sensors. Albido's sensors will be able to make both static and dynamic torque measurements on small or large shafts. Due to its small thickness and low weight, Albido's sensors can be used on moving structures without disturbing the aerodynamic properties. The proposed system is low cost, low maintenance, reconfigurable, adaptive, scalable, easy to install on new or existing structures, and does not disrupt the environment. | |
| American Maglev Technology of Florida, Inc.
109 Anderson Street Suite 201, Marietta, GA 30060 (770) 845-7130 PI: Andrew Wissing (770) 845-7130 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0349 |
University of Houston
Beam Particle Dynamics Lab, 4800 Calhoun Road Houston, TX 77204 (713) 553-7715 ID#: N11A-028-0091 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T028 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: New Affordable Energy Storage Technologies for Power Grids and Micro-Grids | |
| Abstract: AMT proposes a high density energy storage Electromechanical Battery (EMB) based on a unique flywheel system. The proposed module can both receive and deliver significant amounts of energy repeatedly. The system employs a novel ac homopolar motor design which guarantees a zero magnetic and dissipative loss during the storage cycle, thus eliminating what is the greatest loss component (1%) in comparable permanent magnet based competitors. This motor seamlessly solves the requirement of voltage coupling over a high range of speeds through a field winding which resides on the stator. The monolithic rotor makes it ideally suited to high speed and robustness; thus it offers a higher power density capability over competing energy storage solutions. The 3rd greatest loss component in similar energy storage systems, the active bearing (0.07%), is also reduced (approximately 1/3) by the use of a new trapped field magnet which acts as a magnetic bearing.During Phase I of the project, AMT proposes to complete the design of the EMB, compute the axial and transverse stiffness of the HTS magnetic bearings, and complete the design of the homopolar motor. During the Option Period, the Team will build and test the ac homopolar motor. During a potential Phase II, AMT, with the help of strategic partners, Huntsman Chemical, Inc. and Ricardo Inc., will build and test a 10 KW-hr energy storage module in conjunction with this proposal. Energy storage time and round trip efficiency are two key parameters sought in the testing. | |
| Analysis, Design & Diagnostics, Inc.
317 West Forsyth St., Jacksonville, FL 32202 (904) 475-0094 PI: Gary Donoher (904) 475-0094 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0335 |
Johns Hopkins University APL
11100 Johs Hopkins Road, Laurel, MD 20723 (443) 778-2184 ID#: N11A-027-0047 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T027 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Compact, Light Weight, Low Cost, Precision, Non-inertial Underwater Navigation Sensor | |
| Abstract: Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs) provide an ideal platform for conducting reconnaissance missions in riverine and coastal environments. These platforms must be able to navigate accurately without access to GPS. Analysis, Design & Diagnostics (AD&D) has teamed up with Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (JHU/APL) to offer a high-performance Doppler Velocity Log (DVL) capability for UUVs operating in shallow water that uses a novel omni transducer based approach to provide highly accurate navigation inputs and bottom mapping in a light weight, low volume, low power, low cost configuration. This approach uses interferometric signal processing to allow a reduction in required system hardware complexity when compared to a traditional Janus approach. In this effort, AD&D will focus on establishing system requirements, building the transducer, and processing returns to generate detection vectors consisting of range, Doppler, and solid angle to nearby bottom reflectors, while JHU/APL will focus on fusing these vectors to provide a velocity vector and a bottom map. JHU/APL will also be the lead on the sensor-UUV integration effort. In addition to its core navigation capabilities, with appropriate software, this sensor can also provide additional functionality including terrain avoidance, obstacle avoidance, wideband acoustic intercept, and ACOMMS. | |
| AnthroTronix, Inc.
8737 Colesville Rd, L203, Silver Spring, MD 20910 (301) 495-0770 PI: Corinna Lathan (301) 495-0770 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0318 |
AnthroTronix, Inc
8737 Colesville, Silver Spring, MD 20910 (301) 495-0770 ID#: N11A-033-0017 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T033 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Portable Automated Sensor Suite for Performance and Operational Readiness Tracking (PASSPORT) | |
| Abstract: In order to predict and optimize human performance under reduced manpower conditions, it is helpful to model aspects of physical and cognitive performance under varied conditions, highlighting tradeoffs between task time and accuracy, cost, schedule, hardware/software, and human capabilities/limitations). However, current naval human performance models such as Total Crew Model and IMPRINT have yet to be validated, and are limited in terms of fidelity and sensitivity to environmental stressors/variables. In order to support validation of such models, data must be collected within operational scenarios and conditions, and ideally would be collected and analyzed via automated methods using unobtrusive sensors and validated metrics of cognitive and physical performance characteristics. An unobtrusive, digital sensor suite with automated analysis capabilities could support integration of physical, cognitive, and environmental metrics within an operational setting to provide real-time tracking and prediction of human performance, as well as mitigation of performance degradation. The proposed STTR effort seeks to design, develop, and validate a Portable Automated Sensor Suite for Performance and Operational Readiness Tracking (PASSPORT) technology to enable unobtrusive, real-time capture, synchronization, and analysis of environmental, physiological, physical, and subjective measures associated with both physical and cognitive fatigue within operational task environments. | |
| Applied Sciences, Inc.
141 W. Xenia Ave., PO Box 579 Cedarville, OH 45314 (937) 766-2020 PI: David Burton (937) 766-2020 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0447 |
Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Oak Ridge Office, P.O. Box 2001, MS-AD-421 Oak Ridge, TN 37831 (865) 576-7343 ID#: N11A-006-0274 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T006 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: VGCF Cloth for Thin, Flexible Electrodes | |
| Abstract: The proliferation of complex electronic devices for use in warfare ranging across handheld electronics, sensors, hybrid vehicles, unmanned aircraft systems, and directed energy systems are increasing the demand for battery power needed for mission operations. The dramatic evolution in the inventory and use of these electrically-powered systems has stimulated new thrusts in energy harvesting and storage, to enable continuous and autonomous battlefield operations of these systems. To meet the demand for portable electric power, effort is being directed at novel methods for coupling energy harvesting, such as flexible solar cells, with flexible batteries which can be integrated into UAS structures and other portable systems. As identified by the U.S. Navy, requirements for such systems include improvements in charge capacity, internal leakage on charging, shelf life, and cycle life. Applied Sciences, Inc. (ASI) and Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) propose to jointly develop low-cost, high capacity, thin, flexible, conformable, lightweight batteries that are compatible with energy harvesting devices. The proposed battery will use flexible cathodes and anodes developed at ORNL and ASI respectively that can ultimately meet goals of a conformal battery with >10 mAh/cm2, < 100 µA/cm2, 6 month shelf life, and cycle life requirements. | |
| Aptima, Inc.
12 Gill Street, Suite 1400 Woburn, MA 01801 (781) 496-2443 PI: Sarah Chester (781) 496-2441 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0296 |
Carnegie Mellon University
5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 (412) 268-2145 ID#: N11A-031-0262 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T031 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: ADDA Adaptive Decision-making for Distributed Assests | |
| Abstract: When submarines and surface vessels must work together to track targets over the horizon, they need to closely communicate and coordinate their assets to ensure that information about the targets is shared; tasking is assigned and understood; and accurate, informed operational decisions are made in a timely manner. Complicating this coordination is the underlying tasking, decision making, and interpretation of the imprecise or ambiguous sensor data from the ownship and deployed assets, as well as the interrupted communications among the ships in the task group and between the ships and their deployed assets. Adaptive Decision-making for Distributed Assets (ADDA), a decision aid for a distributed network, uses adjustable autonomy between teams and systems to identify and remedy information bottlenecks by dynamically allocating tasking and workflow across the distributed resources and teams, according to the constraints of priorities and timing. Based on modeling of organizational structures and information flow, ADDA will employ proven technologies to recommend courses of action that adapt to changing tasking, priorities, and asynchronous communications and that are tailored to the needs and abilities of the individuals, teams, and systems. | |
| Archinoetics, LLC
700 Bishop St., Suite 2000 Honolulu, HI 96813 (808) 585-7439 PI: Robert Matthews (808) 585-7439 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0317 |
University of California, Irvine
5171 California Avenue, Suite, Irvine, CA 92697 (949) 824-2094 ID#: N11A-033-0585 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T033 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Multi-Sensor Data Collection Suite for Unobtrusive Human Performance Measurement | |
| Abstract: In this proposal, the team of Archinoetics and UCI define a program of research and development to develop a data collection and analysis system for human performance measurement that is (1) inexpensive, (2) modular, (3) easily extensible, and (4) that facilitates easy data analysis. Furthermore, in creating such a system, we will be leveraging know-how, lessons learned, as well as some technical building blocks from several similar multi-million dollar projects under both government and private funding; leverage that will substantially reduce the risks associated with this effort. | |
| Arete Associates
P.O. Box 2607, Winnetka, CA 91396 (818) 885-2200 PI: Nicholas Flacco (818) 885-2265 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0299 |
ARL at PSU
North Atherton Street, State College, PA 16801 (814) 863-2188 ID#: N11A-015-0150 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T015 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Image Feature Extraction for Improved EW Classification | |
| Abstract: The proliferation of inexpensive radar and communication devices has complicated the target identification problem for modern submarine EW systems. Areté Associates and ARL Penn State propose real-time software called Submarine Multi-Sensor Automatic Target Recognition (SMS-ATR). The approach leverages existing periscope imaging ATR algorithms to allow rapid integration of EW intercept data for robust multi-sensor classification. | |
| Arete Associates
P.O. Box 2607, Winnetka, CA 91396 (703) 413-0290 PI: Steven Floyd (703) 413-0290 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0274 |
Carnegie Mellon University
5000 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213 (412) 268-3632 ID#: N11A-037-0337 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T037 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Miniature Electromagnetically Controlled Assembler Robot Swarm: MECA-BOTS | |
| Abstract: Areté Associates, in collaboration with the NanoRobotics Laboratory of Carnegie Mellon University, plans to design and demonstrate a desktop-sized assembly system utilizing a coordinated team of micro-robots. Called MECA-BOTS (Miniature Electromagnetically Controlled Assembler Robot Swarm), this system will be used to construct items and materials of interest to the Navy and the DoD. The micro-robots will operate in parallel to maneuver micro-scale components, thereby producing multi-functional materials and devices difficult or impossible to construct using conventional machining methods. Actuation of the untethered micro-robots will be through a combination of controlled electric and magnetic fields while operating within the assembly workspace. Coordination and control of the micro- robots in the swarm will be handled via a purpose-specific desktop computer system. Each micro-robot will have access to micro-tools and will have a set of simple tasks to accomplish with those tools. Each individual's contribution to the assembly will be minimal, but by coordinating large numbers of micro-robots to work together, complex, smart material systems will be fabricated with unique properties and capabilities. | |
| Aspen Systems, Inc.
184 Cedar Hill Street, Marlborough, MA 01752 (508) 481-5058 PI: Somesh Mukherjee (508) 481-5058 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0276 |
Southwest Research Institute
6220 Culbera Rd, Dept of Microencapsulation San Antonio, TX 78238 (210) 522-2913 ID#: N11A-029-0197 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T029 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Affordable High Strength Mo-Si-B Alloys for High Temperature Applications | |
| Abstract: Mo-Si-B alloys are being considered as possible candidates for high temperature applications such as next generation jet engine blades because of its excellent oxidation resistance and mechanical properties which are much superior to Ni-based super alloys. Navy is looking for cost effective mature Mo-Si-B material production technology for its aerospace applications.In Phase I, Aspen Systems plans to explore cost effective unique processing approaches to develop Mo-Si-B material to a full density with excellent properties. During Phase I, Aspen will formulate and produce a moderate quantity of Mo-Si-B alloy powder by special kind of spray drying technique which has the ability to form particles with a more narrow size distribution when compared to traditional spray drying techniques. The spray-dryed particles will be analyzed for particle size, morphology, composition and thermal stability. These Mo-Si-B alloy premixed powders will be subsequently heat treated(sintering)under protective atmosphere to obtain the desired Mo-Si-B alloy. The sintered material will be further extruded using special extrusion technique with very high strain rate so that fine grained and uniform structure is developed. Properties evaluation including tensile, creep and oxidation of the materials will also be performed during Phase I study. During Phase II program, we will scale-up this process to develop and demonstrate this successful cost effective technology for mass production with proven optimized process parameters based on Phase I data. | |
| ATC - NY
33 Thornwood Drive, Suite 500, Ithaca, NY 14850 (607) 257-1975 PI: David Guaspari (607) 257-1975 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0280 |
Cornell University
Office of Sponsored Programs, 373 Pine Tree Road Ithaca, NY 14853 (607) 255-7123 ID#: N11A-023-0140 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T023 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: DivA: Automated Generation of Logical Code Diversity | |
| Abstract: Computing systems built on identical foundations (hardware, operating systems, etc.) will be vulnerable to the same attacks. To avoid widespread failures, techniques have been sought for introducing "synthetic diversity" into systems. The best studied are low level randomization techniques-for example, pseudorandom run-time decisions that make it impossible for an attacker to predict how a program will be laid out in memory. ATC-NY and Cornell University will develop the DivA system to provide a fundamentally different, and complementary, logical diversity-to generate modules that provide the same service by different computations. DivA exploits the constructive logic principle of "proofs as programs." To generate variant versions of a module, a developer creates an initial seed, implementing it as the program corresponding to a constructive proof; DivA uses heuristic methods to find alternative proofs of the same proposition, and therefore alternative implementations of the module. The NuPrl logical programming environment provides powerful support for creating the seed. By choosing from many versions of many modules, a system integrator or automated recovery mechanism can create a vast number of logically distinct versions of the same system. Testing them all is infeasible, but DivA justifies these combinations by providing strong guarantees of functional correctness. | |
| BlueView Technologies, Inc.
2151 N. Northlake Way, Suite 214, Seattle, WA 98103 (206) 812-3011 PI: R. Thompson (206) 812-3009 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0312 |
University of Washington-APL
4333 Brooklyn Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98195 (206) 543-4043 ID#: N11A-025-0342 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T025 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Low-Power Arctic environmental sensors for UUVs | |
| Abstract: BlueView Technologies, working with the Applied Physics Laboratory at the University of Washington propose to research and develop the application of high frequency imaging sonar to the problem of sea ice thickness and morphology. The use of compact, low power sonar systems in modern Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUV) can deliver a significant advance in the measurement of sea ice characteristics to improve the understanding of sea ice formation and melting, impacts of sea ice on ecosystems and oil spills, navigation through sea ice, prediction of ice extent and formation, and the prediction of climate change. In Phase I, requirements for imaging sonar and mission needs will be evaluated and then specific 12-3/4" UUV sonar configurations, ancillary measurements, and processing to support characterization of the ice thickness and morphology will be selected that optimize the information content yet fits within the 60 W design target. In the option to Phase I, BlueView Technologies will develop a preliminary design for an integrated sonar system from the configurations in Phase I to support integration into a 12-3/4 inch UUV, as well as reduce power to the lowest configuration. Specific areas of risk will be identified and a risk reduction plan produced, including some optional risk reduction testing. Finally, a prediction of performance of the system under different operating modes, such as vehicle depth and speed, will be produced. | |
| Bright Energy Storage Technologies, LLP
8035 E. 40th Ave., Denver, CO 80207 (775) 790-5000 PI: Scott Frazier (303) 263-9900 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0353 |
Colorado State University
Energy Conversion Laboratory, 430 N College Avenue Fort Collins, CO 80524 (970) 491-4787 ID#: N11A-028-0619 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T028 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Advanced-Architecture Compressor/Expanders for Energy Storage Applications | |
| Abstract: Bright Energy Storage Technologies and the Engines and Energy Conversion Laboratory at Colorado State University propose to demonstrate the feasibility of a custom reversible compressor design for use in compressed air energy storage systems. The design proposed combines a very lightweight rotary compressor design with extremely high flow volumes, allowing a highly efficient device at extremely low cost, about an order of magnitude less expensive than the separate compressor/expander systems currently used in compressed air energy storage systems. | |
| BTech Acoustics LLC
17 Surrey Rd., Barrington, RI 02806 (401) 261-9318 PI: Corey Bachand (401) 261-9318 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0292 |
University of Massachusetts
Advanced Tech. and Mfgr. Ctr, 151 Martine Street Fall River, MA 02723 (508) 910-9829 ID#: N11A-026-0064 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T026 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Low cost acoustic transmitter | |
| Abstract: We propose the development of a low cost compact low frequency transducer with associated electronics using a novel method. | |
| CFD Research Corporation
215 Wynn Dr., 5th Floor, Huntsville, AL 35805 (256) 726-4884 PI: Xianlian Zhou (256) 726-4849 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0286 |
The Johns Hopkins University
Applied Physics Laboratory, 11100 Johns Hopkins Road Laurel, MD 20723 (240) 228-4832 ID#: N11A-019-0018 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T019 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Integrated Warfighter-Centric Simulation Tools for Protective Equipment Design | |
| Abstract: The overall objective of this work is to develop and integrate comprehensive modeling tools for virtual warfighters and personal protective equipment(PPE) to improve PPE designs. The integrated tools enable assessment of the impact of PPE on the mobility and survivability of warfighters. The focus of the Phase I work is to (a) develop various modeling components including anthropometry models, whole-body dynamics models, and armor-coupled finite element models of human torso, and (b) demonstrate the feasibility of integrating these components into a single software suite. The core capabilities of this integrated software are simulations of warfighter motions with PPE load and prediction of behind armor injury risk under ballistic, blunt and blast impacts. With these capabilities, the fit, form, and function of the PPE can be assessed. In Phase II, various modeling components will be further developed and integrated in one software framework. The software will provide an easy-to-use graphical interface for users to conduct both motion and impact analyses for improved PPE designs with better protection efficacy but less mobility restriction. The models and software will be validated with published literature data and experiments conducted during this project. | |
| CFD Research Corporation
215 Wynn Dr., 5th Floor, Huntsville, AL 35805 (256) 726-4884 PI: Shawn Ericson (256) 726-4821 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0283 |
University of Alabama
National Space Science & Tech., 320 Sparkman Drive Huntsville, AL 35899 (256) 961-7909 ID#: N11A-036-0029 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T036 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Design Requirements and Mission Planning for Hypersonic Munitions in Weather Environments | |
| Abstract: CFDRC proposes the development of methodologies and tools for the integration of weather with multiple components of the hypersonic munitions life cycle process. The impact of weather on high speed projectiles is a complex multidisciplinary problem that can only be accurately estimated in operations with the presence of design specification and validation. Under previous contracts, CFDRC developed weather specification and requirement analysis technologies used on the Electromagnetic Rail Gun Program, and currently being integrated into the SM-3 Block IIA/IIB design process. The following proposal presents a holistic approach to weather interaction with high speed munitions systems through the development of analogous methods in design and operations. The successful implementation of these methodologies will be a dual-use application which improves design requirements analysis while simultaneously providing flight risk assessment in adverse weather conditions. Phase I will seek to complete the temporal scope of weather integration with high speed projectiles supporting past (design), present (real-time), and future (mission planning). The Phase I study will also examine the full spatial scope of weather for operations from global, to theater, to campaign coverage. In Phase II, the methodologies will be implemented in a unified software framework for design reliability estimation and mission risk assessment. | |
| Charles River Analytics Inc.
625 Mount Auburn Street, Cambridge, MA 02138 (617) 491-3474 PI: Curt Wu (617) 491-3474 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0281 |
Boston University
Office of Sponsored Programs, 25 Buick Street Boston, MA 02215 (617) 353-4365 ID#: N11A-023-0125 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T023 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Artificially Diverse Operating System (ADOS) | |
| Abstract: Artificial diversity attempts to eliminate the security risks of the IT monoculture. The goal of artificial diversity is to minimize the number of common vulnerabilities across a set of systems by intentionally introducing variations to the structure and process of functionally-equivalent software. Ideally, these variations are invisible to the legitimate user but pose a challenge to the malicious user attempting to find and exploit vulnerabilities. To provide security in computing systems through artificial diversity while maximizing performance, we propose an Artificially Diverse Operating System (ADOS). In this operating system-based approach to diversity, we will apply different diversity techniques within the operating system (OS), so that a network contains a diverse set of systems and individual systems exhibit diversity over time. Because these diversity techniques will be applied within the core OS (i.e., kernel) and are not application-specific, they support any user applications and complement other artificial diversity techniques applied at the application level. To selectively and dynamically apply the diversity techniques, we will design a lightweight reasoning module that optimizes the tradeoff between performance and security. | |
| Charles River Analytics Inc.
625 Mount Auburn Street, Cambridge, MA 02138 (617) 491-3474 PI: Wayne Thornton (617) 491-3474 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0297 |
The Ohio State University
Office of Sponsored Programs, 224 Bolz Hall, 2036 Neil Ave. Columbus, OH 43210 (614) 247-6080 ID#: N11A-031-0126 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T031 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Resilient Environment for Teams of Agents Making Decisions (RE-TEAM) | |
| Abstract: Submarine commanders must make rapid decisions to carry out increasingly complex missions, while sifting through ever larger masses of information. The scope and complexity of submarine missions has grown such that submarines are now expected to fully participate in net-centric environments and support asymmetric warfare. Concurrently, the rate of information delivery has outpaced the capacity of command and control (C2) systems to prioritize and filter it. It also exceeds the abilities of human decision makers to determine whether they have the information they need-or to make sense of the information they have. Given that advances in remote sensors, networking, communications, and computing are generating even greater information flows, naval C2 systems must provide three key capabilities: (1) enabling distributed planning and execution of missions-as well as specific tasks to accomplish the missions; (2) supporting efficient collaboration between teams onboard and off-board naval platforms; and (3) analyzing trade-offs and generate alternative courses of action (COAs). To address these needs, we propose to design and demonstrate a Resilient Environment for Teams of Agents Making Decisions (RE-TEAM). RE-TEAM will provide an adaptive, agent-based solution for supporting team decision making built on a resilient, multidimensional model of the interaction and task dynamics of relevant teams. | |
| Charles River Analytics Inc.
625 Mount Auburn Street, Cambridge, MA 02138 (617) 491-3474 PI: Peter Weyhrauch (617) 491-3474 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0342 |
Pennsylvania State University
Office of Research, 321C Info Sciences & Tech Bldg University Park, PA 16802 (814) 865-5579 ID#: N11A-032-0124 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T032 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Intelligent Tutoring Systems Made Easy (ITS-Easy) | |
| Abstract: While intelligent tutoring systems (ITS) have been shown to improve learning outcomes, Navy training programs have not fully adopted this promising technology because of the costs involved in developing and maintaining them. The key technical contributions of this effort are a set of tools backed by a high-level language designed specifically to develop ITS models, including expert, trainee, and instructional models for complex, dynamic domains. Tools are designed for instructors and educators rather than highly technical personnel, reducing the time and money required to build models and the reliance on cognitive scientists and programmers. | |
| Chemat Technology, Inc.
9036 Winnetka Avenue, Northridge, CA 91324 (818) 727-9786 PI: Haxing Zheng (818) 727-9786 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0313 |
The University of Texas at Austin
1 University Station C2200, Austin, TX 78712 (512) 471-7349 ID#: N11A-035-0134 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T035 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Low Cost and Safe Li2MSiO4 Cathode Materials for Pulsed Power Applications | |
| Abstract: EM Railgun project in Navy demands safe, high energy and long cycle life Li-ion batteries. In this Phase I research, we will demonstrate the feasibility of Li2MSiO4 cathode materials for this application. Special thin coatings will be self- assembled on the nanosize particles to significantly improve the performance to achieve high capacity (> 200 mAh/g) at > 4V with extended cycle life. The sol-gel chemistry, process will be developed and a Li-ion cell will be fabricated. The results generated in the Phase I will be used to optimize the process in Phase II. | |
| Coherent Navigation, Inc.
643 D Street, SE, Washington, DC 20003 (202) 546-8618 PI: Brent Ledvina (650) 425-7119 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0423 |
University of Texas at Austin
Aerospace Engineering & Engine, WRW 411C, MC C0600 Austin, TX 78712 (512) 471-4489 ID#: N11A-012-0281 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T012 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: EMitter LOCcator (EMLOC) System For Emitter Detection and Localization | |
| Abstract: An emitter detection and localization (EML) technique has been researched and developed that utilizes long-coherent integration. This technique enables EML over a broad range of emitter frequencies and signal types. The EML system is composed of sensor nodes and a processing center that carries out the bulk of the signal processing. Adaptive network bandwidth utilization is applied to make the system practical. | |
| CoolCAD Electronics
5000 College Avenue, Suite 2103 College Park, MD 20740 (301) 405-3363 PI: Akin Akturk (301) 405-3363 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0451 |
University of Maryland
ECE Department, A V Williams Building College Park, MD 20742 (301) 405-3684 ID#: N11A-003-0365 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T003 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: Plasmonic Enhanced Infrared Rectennas: Energy Harvesting, Terahertz Detection and Thermal Imaging | |
| Abstract: The overall goal at the end of this multi-phase program is to develop an energy harvester composed of rectenna arrays that are connected in parallel that harness significant amounts of infrared electromagnetic energy. The ultimate systems will be capable of harvesting watts, kilowatts of energy using these structures fabricated in parallel on a large scale, or for smaller scale application specific powering needs. In Phase I we will fabricate enhanced micro-antenna arrays along with their rectifying diodes and prototype simple arrays of infrared rectenna pixels. We will continue to improve the design through modeling and testing. In Phase II we will finalize initial design and focus on applying large-scale manufacturing techniques such as nano-imprinting to produce the energy harvesters for military and commercial implementation. We will focus this product largely on IR of wavelengths corresponding to approximately 10microns. However, many of the techniques developed will be applicable to other parts of the spectrum. | |
| Creare Inc.
P.O. Box 71, Hanover, NH 03755 (603) 643-3800 PI: Jeffrey Breedlove (603) 643-3800 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0429 |
Dartmouth College
Thayer School of Engineering, 8000 Cummings Hall Hanover, NH 03755 (603) 646-2851 ID#: N11A-009-0410 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T009 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: Axial-Flux Permanent-Magnet Generator for Advanced Aircraft Platforms | |
| Abstract: Mobile production of electric power requires generators that are compact, lightweight, efficient, and reliable. Although standard generator approaches that use radial magnetic fields are very mature, they are also larger and heavier than desired. In response, we propose to develop an axial-flux permanent-magnet generator for advanced applications with demanding requirements. The resulting device will be extremely compact, lightweight, efficient, and reliable. Creare is an ideal candidate for this project because we have focused intense effort on the development of advanced high-speed turbomachines, alternators, motors, and power conversion electronics for challenging aerospace and terrestrial applications. During Phase I, we will optimize design trades, complete a preliminary design, and estimate production costs for our generator system. We will then fabricate and test a high-fidelity prototype generator system during Phase II. | |
| CRYE ASSOCIATES LLC
63 FLUSHING AVENUE UNIT 252, BROOKLYN, NY 11205 (718) 246-1515 PI: Stefan Rublowsky (718) 246-1515 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0287 |
University of Iowa
2 Gilmore Hall, Iowa City, IA 52242 (319) 335-2123 ID#: N11A-019-0485 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T019 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: High Fidelity Digital Human Models for Protective Equipment Design | |
| Abstract: Today the evaluation methods employed in the development and assessment of soldier borne Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) system designs are often extremely slow, expensive, and complex, resulting in significant delays and expense in the fielding of improved designs. Recent rapid advancements in digital human modeling now allow the development of a multi-scale, comprehensive PPE evaluation tool, which will provide operational, performance, and injury assessments, and will facilitate design development and optimization. We propose utilizing the Santos digital human model as the foundation for this tool, and believe it will allow for a tremendous improvement in the speed and efficiency of PPE development and fielding. Program objectives are to create the integration framework and protocols allowing multiple third-party simulation and modeling components to work seamlessly within the Santos platform, and to execute the integration of several of the most important of these components, including soft armor models, casualty prediction capabilities, and design capabilities. In Phase I we will develop a proposed architecture for the integration framework including a systems engineering strategy; explore new armor-system design capabilities; assess the feasibility of proposed levels of potential component integration; and demonstrate component integration using the CPAT ballistic effectiveness assessment tool. | |
| CSquared Innovations LLC
23164 Commerce Dr, Farmington Hills, MI 48335 (313) 593-4927 PI: Nicholas Moroz (248) 345-8417 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0453 |
University of Michigan Dearborn
4901 Evergreen Rd, Dearborn, MI 48128 (313) 593-5241 ID#: N11A-006-0383 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T006 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: Solid State Thin-Film Batteries for Conformal, Ultralight, and High Temp Applications | |
| Abstract: CSquared Innovations LLC has developed a novel plasma/laser manufacturing process for solid state thin-film Li-ion batteries which consolidates conventional material synthesis and deposition onto a single platform. This revolutionary technique can produce a fully solid state thin-film Li-ion cell in atmosphere with the ability to conformally apply the battery to nearly any surface. The equipment can produce the anode, solid state electrolyte, and cathode without pause and without changing hardware. Further, a larger variety of chemical precursors can be utilized to create the active materials compared to sputtering and vapor deposition techniques, allowing for independence from foreign sources of lithium and other rare earth materials. This layer-by-layer process can also retrofit thin-film Li-ion batteries to existing equipment (e.g. a UAV wing) or incorporate them into previously manufactured devices; no other process offers this feature. The overall objective of this proposal is to demonstrate that our novel plasma/laser manufacturing process can effectively create a solid state thin-film Li-ion cell which can meet capacity, internal leakage, shelf life, and cycle life specifications for pairing with energy harvesting applications. | |
| D-2 Incorporated
19 Commerce Park Raod, Pocasset, MA 02559 (508) 329-2046 PI: Alan Fougere (508) 329-2046 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0311 |
University of Rhode Island
Deaprtment of Ocean Engineerin, Sheets Building Kingston, RI 02881 (401) 874-6879 ID#: N11A-025-0209 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T025 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Low-Power Arctic environmental sensors for UUVs | |
| Abstract: UUV's have become increasingly important tools in the collection of environmental data. Their unique ability to operate independent of surface vessel conditions allows artic measures when traditional means is not possible. It is now well agreed that artic regions are critical to man's understanding of the environment. Historically sensor packages for UUV's have been based on "adaptions' of ship deployed equipment. This is particularly true in the case of CTD and oxygen sensors resulting in sensor packages which are "cobbled" together, so they are not well fit for purpose. We proposed to provide a CTD/Oxygen measurement package that has been develop from the onset for use on AUV's. In combination with this program we will be integrating the new AUV based sonar products for integration with the physical property sensors such that a "comprehensive" systems engineering approach is applied to optimizing all aspects of the combined sensor package for AUV use, with particularly attention to the requirements of deployment in harsh arctic environs. The Physical sensor work will be combined with a commercial sonar system provided by BlueView. The sonar will have advance ice mapping/avoidance and ice thickness imaging software developed by the University of Rhode Island. The team includes three groups with demonstrated ability to deliver innovation solutions to both acoustic and physical property measurements. Combined with a leading academic institution that has already been demonstrated its ability to develop advanced sonar imaging algorithms. | |
| dBmCorp, Inc
32A Spruce Street, Oakland, NJ 07436 (201) 677-0008 PI: Dale Sydnor (201) 677-0008 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0325 |
Rutgers University
671 Route 1 South, North Brunswick, NJ 08902 (732) 932-6857 ID#: N11A-038-0316 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T038 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Scenario Based Tactical Radio Channel Simulator | |
| Abstract: dBm Corp in consortium with Rutgers University and XPRT propose to develop an NxN RF Emulator Matrix (N2REM) that is based on 1 to N channel implementation rather than 1 to 1 to enable the implementation of complex scenarios. This will allow a given node to have an independent RF relationship with every other node in the matrix. It is proposed to develop an architecture using N2REM as its core, leveraging the current Tier 2 Simulator capabilities developed by XPRT on the AMF program to generate scenario definitions. RF modeling expertise in terrestrial, airborne and urban propagation at Rutgers University will be utilized to convert scenario definitions in the form of terrain, positioning in the form of locations, speed and waypoints, and any desired propagation anomalies, either natural or artificial (for testing purposes), into scripts that can be used to control the N2REM in real time. Finally it is proposed to design a run time interface that allows real-time visualization and real-time control of N2REM as well as an SNMP-based interface to the radio units under test, and a data collection post-analysis capability. | |
| DECISIVE ANALYTICS Corporation
1235 South Clark Street, Suite 400 Arlington, VA 22202 (703) 414-5024 PI: Mike Colony (703) 414-5106 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0289 |
CUBRC
4455 Genesee Street, Buffalo, NY 14225 (716) 204-5100 ID#: N11A-018-0261 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T018 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Fusing and Integrating Hard and Soft Engines (FISHE) for ASW Situational Understanding | |
| Abstract: Previous efforts to improve Anti-Submarine Warfare situational understanding have focused on developing fusion techniques for improving the tactical picture. These fusion processes primarily operate on "hard" sensor data that is amenable to software implementation. The Navy now seeks to develop tools to improve the ASW operator's understanding of higher level tactical situations, thereby improving Detection-to-Engagement timelines. Developing tools to support situational understanding, however, is a difficult challenge because it requires the inclusion of "soft" text-base data in the fusion process. Perhaps the most important, and overlooked, "soft" information source is the knowledge and experience that operators use to interpret the events associated with each evolving ASW situation. Their actions are actually indicators of the cognitive processes they use to fuse hard and soft information with their own knowledge, in order to reason about the meaning of the events. This "soft fusion" process is a key element of situational understanding.The DECISIVE ANALYTICS/CUBRC team proposes a combination of novel machine learning and fusion technologies that are designed to leverage this soft fusion process by capturing the relationships between operator actions and both hard and soft data sources in the fusion process to provide an information fusion framework for ASW situational understanding. | |
| Deep Springs Technology
4750 W. Bancroft St., Suite 5, Toledo, OH 43615 (419) 536-5741 PI: Todd Osborn (419) 536-5741 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0277 |
Georgia Institute of Technology
505 10th Street, Atlanta, GA 30332 (404) 894-6929 ID#: N11A-029-0188 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T029 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Affordable High Strength Mo-Si-B Alloys for High Temperature Applications | |
| Abstract: Under this STTR, Deep Springs Technology (DST) in cooperation with Georgia Tech will demonstrate the feasibility of producing affordable high strength Mo-Si-B extrusions based on the Georgia Tech method of ultrasonic spray drying Mo, Si3N4, BN powders, reaction/sintering of the granules at high temperatures to MoSiB composites, and reduction extruding granules at high temperature into dense composite rods. As detailed below, the GT Reaction Sintered (GTRS) process has been demonstrated to provide low interstitial impurities (O, C, N) and to produce both microstructures, oxidation resistance, and high temperature, high strength, ductility competitive with MoSiB composites from other processes. However, high temperature extrusion or similar deformation which imparts substantial mechanical work is believed to be required for MoSiB composites to produce defect free, structural material on an industrial scale with the necessary reliability required for high safety margin applications such as aircraft engines. If successful, developments under this STTR will increase high temperature strength, extent ductility to lower temperatures, maintain reasonable oxidation resistance and low interstitial impurity concentration. These advances would open a range of applications above 1100oC because no reasonable cost metal is available in this arena. | |
| Defense Photonics Group, Inc.
126 Corporate Blvd., Suites A&B, South Plainfield, NJ 07080 (908) 821-9010 PI: Jason Stark (908) 821-9010 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0457 |
Pennsylvania State University EOC
222 Northpointe Blvd., Freeport, PA 16229 (724) 295-7000 ID#: N11A-008-0489 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T008 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: Modeling Tools for the Development of Innovative Wavelength Division Multiplexed (WDM) Local Area Networks (LAN) | |
| Abstract: Analysis of optical network performance provides key insights and enables comparison of technology and architecture alternatives beings considered for implementation of WDM LAN-based optical backbone networks within on-board aircraft platforms. Additional development of the models and algorithms used in commercial simulation and optimization tools is needed to characterize the complex interactions among various optical components and optical systems operating within a backbone network. The simulation and modeling tools defined in the proposed project will enable characterization of performance within a WDM LAN fiber-optic network infrastructure that is expected to be retained for the life of the aircraft. This Phase 1 proposal describes a project focused on an impartial assessment of simulation and modeling requirements and the ability of existing tools to be augmented to implement the needed simulations. Our team will recommend specific modeling tool enhancements and a strategy (including future partnering with simulation or modeling tool suppliers) for introducing the needed models and simulation capabilities whether through modifications and additions to existing products, or if needed, as part of new modeling tools. (Cost Proposal to be found on the last page of the Technical Proposal document.) | |
| Deformation Control Technology, Inc.
7261 Engle Road, Suite 105, Cleveland, OH 44130 (440) 234-8477 PI: Blake Ferguson (440) 234-8477 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0420 |
University of Akron
ASEC 106C, Akron, OH 44325 (330) 972-6196 ID#: N11A-007-0168 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T007 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: Modeling to Quantify Improved Durability of Superfinish Gear Processing | |
| Abstract: The objective of the proposed project is to develop physics based models which include the effects of surface condition, i.e. surface roughness in combination with residual stress state, on fatigue life. The final objective is the development of an engineering fatigue model to assess the benefits of various surface treatments on gear fatigue life so that performance of rotorcraft powertrains can be improved. Many efforts have sought to improve helicopter gear performance, but a main obstacle has been the lack of a software tool to accurately predict fatigue life to shorten the necessary endurance testing of transmissions and other critical powertrain assemblies.A quantitative materials engineering approach is proposed, using an internal state variable mechanical model that will capture the complicated mechanical behavior associated with residual stress formation, as well as the cumulative strain hardening/softening associated with cyclic fatigue loading. A set of related micro- and macro- models will be developed to model surface and microstructural interactions that result in cyclic softening or hardening. In addition, the use of simplified coupon geometries to represent complex part geometries and service stress states will be achieved through judicious application of finite element based models and statistical methods such as the response surface. | |
| DMS Technology, Inc.
2905 Westcorp Blvd., Suite # 220 Huntsville, AL 35805 (256) 536-4346 PI: Sarat Praharaj (256) 536-4346 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0282 |
The University of Alabama in Huntsv
301 Sparkman Drive, Huntsville, AL 35899 (267) 824-2657 ID#: N11A-036-0362 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T036 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Weather and Environmental Software Tool for System Requirements Investigation | |
| Abstract: DMS Technology in association with the researchers at the University of Alabama in Huntsville will develop a validated software package that can be used as a system requirement estimation tool to aid the aviation and missile development community in establishing real-world probabilities of encounter of various weather-related events. Phase I would develop the overall philosophy of the software hierarchy as to what methodology, codes, techniques and weather databases would be used to produce a weather assessment and optimization software. The elements of the software will include trajectory simulation, a library of events, probability of encounter based on large weather database information, assessment of worst-case launch points/flight paths, flexible input/output capability to interface with other codes, and useful output plotting routines. Phase II would extend the above capability to include accurate definitions of weather and be checked against measured storm and event data in order to produce validated software. | |
| EOS Photonics
44 Cogswell Ave., 2F Cambridge, MA 02140 (617) 501-3482 PI: Laurent Diehl (617) 501-3482 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0431 |
MIT Lincoln Laboratory
Laser Technology and Applicati, Lexington, MA 02420 (781) 981-0596 ID#: N11A-011-0089 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T011 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: Monolithic Beam-Combined Mid-Infrared Laser Array | |
| Abstract: EOS Photonics proposes to develop, together with MIT- Lincoln Laboratories, the next generation of high power quantum cascade laser (QCL) source with output power exceeding 15 Watts at a wavelength of 4.6 microns. The proposed subsystem will include a DFB QCL array integrated monolithically with power amplifiers, low-loss passive waveguides and optical elements aimed at realizing on-chip wavelength beam combining. The design parameters will be explored to maximize output power and wall plug efficiency while minimizing the number of integrated elements necessary. Paths to reach power levels exceeding 50 Watts will be explored, as well as methods to manufacture the laser systems with high production yield. | |
| FIRST RF CORPORATION
5340 Airport Blvd., Boulder, CO 80301 (303) 449-5211 PI: Ian Rumsey (303) 449-5211 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0407 |
University of Florida
PO Box 116550, 339 Wiel Hall Gainesville, FL 32611 (352) 392-9447 ID#: N11A-002-0005 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T002 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: Compact Radar Technology For Over the Horizon Small-Boat and Semi-Submersible Detection and Tracking | |
| Abstract: As with all service branches within the Department of Defense (DoD), the mission objectives of the Navy are expanding to encompass not only major combat operations, but also asymmetric warfare scenarios. This expanding role requires the Navy to increasingly operate in littoral waters where effective identification of small craft and semi-submersibles is a critical capability for both fleet protection and counter illicit trafficking operations. The solicitation addresses the need for an effective, affordable radar solution to accomplish detection and tracking of small targets at extended range in the complex maritime environment. To meet the requirements of compact size, high resolution, exceptional clutter rejection, and affordability FIRST RF and the University of Florida propose to develop and demonstrate a Ka-band MIMO radar system using commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components. Traditional phased array radars, while powerful assets on high-performance platforms, have remained unaffordable for widespread use throughout DoD. The combination of breakthrough research in MIMO signal processing by UF and innovative low-cost array manufacturing architectures developed by FIRST RF promises to deliver the performance required by next-generation systems at a small fraction of the cost of traditional systems. | |
| FlexEl, LLC
387 Technology Dr, #2104, College Park, MD 20742 (301) 314-1004 PI: Daniel Lowy (301) 405-3601 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0448 |
University of Maryland
Department of Electrical, and Computer Engineering College Park, MD 20742 (301) 405-3684 ID#: N11A-006-0440 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T006 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: Advanced Thin-film Battery Development | |
| Abstract: A zinc-water battery system for use in underwater environments is proposed, with an expected energy density significantly higher than lithium-ion batteries and slightly less than zinc-air batteries. The research proposed utilizes a concentrated electrolyte, which when combined with an outside water supply on a catalytic electrode surface acts as cathode of the zinc-water cell. The technology is low cost, completely flexible, thin, and scalable to any size and form factor. This proposal aims to demonstrate this system, and show that it can be used to free up payload capacity in unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) by utilizing the skin, dorsal fins, and tail of UUVs for high-capacity, flexible energy storage. The batteries are also useful for powering underwater sensors, as they are inherently environmentally friendly, and can be deployed in marine environments without risk of contamination. | |
| Freeform Wave Technologies, LLC
872 S. Westgate Ave, Unit 3 Los Angeles, CA 90049 (480) 302-0326 PI: Abbas Abbaspour-Tamijani (480) 302-0326 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0303 |
University of California, San Diego
9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla, CA 92093 (858) 534-7833 ID#: N11A-016-0097 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T016 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Wideband Tunable Bandstop Filters Based on High Reliability MEMS Varactors | |
| Abstract: Co-site interference is a common source of jamming aboard naval vessels where several high power systems such as radars and electronic warfare equipment are co-located on same mast or in close vicinity of communication systems. High power transmissions from these systems act as local source of jamming and can be disruptive to the function of the communication radios also operating in the same environment. A hardware approach for mitigating the effects of co- site interference is to equip the nearby receivers with bandstop filters that are capable of suppressing these jammers. Due to the wide frequency range and dynamic nature of the interference, these bandstop filters must be tunable in a wide frequency range and have an adjustable bandwidth and attenuation. Furthermore, they must be highly linear and capable of withstanding large levels of RF power. Existing tunable filter technologies are generally lacking in both respects. The objective of this STTR project is to develop a wideband fully tunable bandpass filter solution to address this need. Freeform Wave Technology, LLC, and University of California, San Diego, have teamed up to develop a new generation of MEMS based bandstop filters that are expected to reach unprecedented levels of RF performance, tunability, and power handling. High reliability MEMS varactors developed by UCSD will be the key enabling technology in these filters. | |
| Hybrid Plastics
55 W. L. Runnels Industrial Dr., Hattiesburg, MS 39401 (601) 544-3466 PI: Joseph Lichtenhan (601) 544-3466 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0330 |
University of Southern Mississippi
Polymer Science Bldg, Room 212, 118 College Drive #10076 Hattiesburg, MS 39406 (601) 266-4869 ID#: N11A-014-0127 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T014 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: POSS TCP Resin System for Carbon Fiber Reinforced Composite Shipboard Applications | |
| Abstract: The proposed effort will utilize lithiated POSS in synergistic combination with commercial phosphates to achieve comparable processing characteristics and superior flame retardancy, smoke and toxicity to that of Derakane® 510A. The POSS-phosphate synergist package will be formulated into a Hydrex® nonhalogenated vinylester resin and superior mechanical properties (interlaminar shear strength and carbon fiber adhesion) will be demonstrated. An analysis of material and manufacturing cost is presented and will be validated during the effort. | |
| HYPRES. Inc.
175 Clearbrook Road, Elmsford, NY 10523 (914) 592-1190 PI: Deepnarayan Gupta (914) 592-1190 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0333 |
University of Massachusetts
Research Administration Buildi, 70 Butterfield Terrace Amherst, MA 01003 (413) 545-0698 ID#: N11A-022-0407 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T022 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Hybrid Tempertaure Heterogeneous Technology Energy-Efficient Digital Data Link | |
| Abstract: HYPRES, in collaboration University of Massachusetts, proposes an energy-efficient hybrid-temperature- heterogeneous-technology (HTHT) digital data link for interfacing 4K superconductor electronics with room- temperature electronics. Comprising several stages of cryogenic SiGe amplifiers at different temperatures, followed by equalization techniques, this data link will be designed to minimize the energy/bit figure-of-merit while exceeding the solicited specifications of 10^-12 bit-error rate (BER) at 30Gbps. Based on preliminary simulations, we believe that the design will extend to a 10^-15 BER at 50Gbps, and the power consumption per link will be 0.2mW on the 4K stage. Building on HYPRES' hybrid Josephson junction and transistor modeling infrastructure, we propose to complete the first set of IC designs in Phase I itself and release for fabrication. Upon testing these designs in Phase I option, we plan a second design iteration during the option period. This will be followed by a full implementation and demonstration with representative superconductor ICs and one of the ADR prototype systems in Phase II. During Phase I, we will also analyze the need for digital equalization, clock-data recovery and deserialization. We will also explore the design of an optical data link after SiGe amplifiers to get the data out of the cryostat without electromagnetic interference. | |
| Image Acoustics, Inc.
97 Elm Street, Cohasset, MA 02025 (781) 383-2002 PI: John Butler (781) 383-2002 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0293 |
University of Rhode Island
Ocean Engineering, Sheets Building, Bay Campus Narragansett, RI 02882 (401) 874-1000 ID#: N11A-026-0250 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T026 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Low cost acoustic transmitter | |
| Abstract: This STTR Proposal addresses the need for a "Low cost acoustic transmitter" that combines an integrated power source, power amplifier, control-circuitry along within an innovative transducer assembly. Our approach is to use a transducer which becomes part of the housing and encloses the electronics and, moreover, uses a minimum energy to provide a sizable source level. This transducer assembly is configured to be used as a single element or as part of an array. The low cost design is scalable and can cover a multitude of sonar applications. A program is presented for further analysis and improvements during a Phase I effort. | |
| Indiana Microelectronics LLC
3000 Kent Avenue, West Lafayette, IN 47906 (765) 430-9269 PI: Eric Hoppenjans (765) 430-9269 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0305 |
Purdue University
465 Northwestern Ave, West Lafayette, IN 47907 (765) 494-6225 ID#: N11A-016-0616 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T016 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Tunable Bandstop Filters for Suppression of Co-site Interference and Jamming Sources | |
| Abstract: This proposal seeks to develop novel, widely tunable bandstop filters for the suppression of co-site interference in next generation phased array radar and electronic warfare systems. The filters are based upon highly loaded evanescent mode cavity resonators that are integrated into standard printed circuit board substrates. This integration and design strategy yields high resonator Q performance in a compact form factor with the additional benefit of low cost manufacturing. The resonator technology will be applied to produce a novel bandstop filter design capable of tunable bandstop performance from 1 to 20 GHz. Preliminary simulations shown rejection levels as high as 60dB in the stopband can be achieved with as little as four series connected resonators. Additionally, by intelligent tuning of the filter resonators, a variable stopband bandwidth can be achieved that is capable of adjusting the bandwidth from 10's of MHz to 100's of MHz. The project will also integrate feedback and control sensors for automatic filter tuning and control via an external microcontroller. | |
| Infoscitex Corporation
303 Bear Hill Road, Waltham, MA 02451 (937) 429-9008 PI: Nicholas Vitale (781) 890-1338 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0434 |
Rensaellaer Polytechnic Institute
West Hall, 110 Eighth Street Troy, NY 12180 (518) 276-6282 ID#: N11A-009-0073 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T009 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: High Density, High Efficiency Electrical Power Generation System for UAS Applications | |
| Abstract: Electric motors and generators have a long history of development, from the first halting steps to the intensive development in the 20th and 21st century. Consequently, motors and generators have become mature technologies that only see incremental improvements in performance. To achieve more than just incremental improvements in such parameters as power density and efficiency, a radical departure from the present technology base is needed. In response to this current need, Infoscitex (IST) in collaboration with Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), propose to develop a novel generator technology based on permanent magnet double Halbach arrays. It is anticipated that this approach will have significantly higher power density and efficiency compared to baseline systems. In the Phase I, IST and RPI will conduct a tradeoff study and perform preliminary testing on prototype components. | |
| Infoscitex Corporation
303 Bear Hill Road, Waltham, MA 02451 (937) 429-9008 PI: Michael Cushman (781) 890-1338 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0350 |
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Dep. of Chemical Engineering, 100 Institute Road Worcester, MA 01609 (508) 831-6036 ID#: N11A-028-0078 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T028 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Supported Molten Salt Electrolyte (SMSE) Unitized Regenerative Fuel Cell (URFC) for Distributed Power Grids | |
| Abstract: The DOD has enacted an energy strategy that calls for both smarter energy usage and employment of alternative energy sources such that foreign oil reliance can be reduced and an increase in overall operational efficiency can be achieved. Localized generation presents an exciting opportunity for energy users in general, and the DOD specifically, to increase usage efficiency and exploit alternative energy sources. This proposal aims to provide the US Navy with an affordable energy generation/storage solution that will enable microgrid development and increase grid security/reliability. Infoscitex Corporation (IST) and Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) propose the development of a Supported Molten Salt Electrolyte (SMSE) Unitized Regenerative Fuel Cell (URFC) that addresses the deficiencies of the conventional URFCs. | |
| Innovative Power Solutions, LLC
373 South Street, Eatontown, NJ 07724 (732) 544-1075 PI: Vince Caroppo (732) 544-1075 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0433 |
University of Virginia
School of Engineering and Appl, Thorton Hall Charlottesville, VA 22903 (434) 924-6209 ID#: N11A-009-0441 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T009 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: High Density, High Efficiency Electrical Power Generation System for UAS Applications | |
| Abstract: UAVs are carrying out missions which were once reserved to manned aircraft only. These missions require that the UAV carries more and more sophisticated equipment which consumes large amount of electric power. The power requirement vary, and sometime consist of both AC power with a fixed frequency, and high voltage DC power. As power requirement grow the need for an electrical power system which is efficient, light weight, with high power density becomes critical.In response to this STTR topic, IPS is proposing an electric power generation system which consists of the following equipment:• 160 kVA, 6 Phase, Permanent Magnet Generator (PMG)• 160kVA Converter with 270 VDC output• 30 kVA, 6 Phase, 115 VAC, Variable Frequency Generator• 30 kVA Variable Speed Constant FrequencyThe proposed PMG based system will be significantly lighter and more efficient due to the elimination of all electrical rotor losses.IPS is proposing to partner with the Electrical engineering Department of the University of Virginia. Professor Zongli Lin and his staff, have extensive experience in designing, simulating and analyzing electromagnetic designs, using both wound and PM rotor technologies, through their involvement with UVA's ROMAC (Rotating Machines) lab, developing magnetic bearings. | |
| Integrated Adaptive Applications, Inc
2681 SW 103rd Street, Gainesville, FL 32608 (352) 222-5929 PI: Chris Gianelli (310) 344-4754 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0408 |
University of Florida
Dept. of Elec. & Comp. Eng., P.O. Box 116130 Gainesville, FL 32611 (352) 392-0990 ID#: N11A-002-0310 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T002 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: Exploitation of the Maritime Evaporation Duct Utilizing MIMO Radar | |
| Abstract: The security of the United States' naval ships, ports, and waters are of tantamount importance. These crucial assets are vulnerable to attack from small, nimble adversaries that can hide within the near-constant evaporation duct present over large bodies of water. This scenario can be quite trying for conventional radar systems, which were not designed to detect and track such small vessels and objects so close to the surface of the ocean. We propose to engage this difficult scenario in two ways. First, we will develop a comprehensive electromagnetic model for radar signal propagation within the evaporation duct. We also propose to utilize the flexibility of MIMO radar systems to fully capitalize on the benefits of ducted propagation. We plan to accomplish this by developing cognitive methods to optimally adapt our transmitted waveforms and receive filters to take advantage of the evaporation duct. We propose to evaluate the performance of these methods using modeling and simulation to obtain an accurate portrait of the advantages and disadvantages of the developed methods. Finally, we plan to collect experimental data using a MIMO radar system in order to aid our understanding and refine our electromagnetic model. | |
| Intelligent Automation, Inc.
15400 Calhoun Drive, Suite 400 Rockville, MD 20855 (301) 294-5221 PI: Devendra Tolani (301) 294-4630 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0347 |
University of Michigan
Department of Electrical Engin, 1301 Beal Ave., 2417C EECS Ann Arbor, MI 48109 (734) 615-8783 ID#: N11A-021-0558 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T021 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Cognitive Ultra-low Power Sensor System (CUPSS) | |
| Abstract: On the network centric battlefield, threat detection and identification remain crucial capabilities to the warfighter. For tactically relevant applications, the endurance and performance tradeoff remain the limiting factors in determining how long sensing and analytic capabilities can remain operative while unattended. In this proposal, Intelligent Automatic Inc. (IAI http://i-a-i.com) in collaboration with University of Michigan, propose a novel sensing system called Cognitive Ultra-low Power Sensor System (CUPSS). CUPPS has the following features and innovations: 1) Ultra low power ( | |
| Intraband LLC
200 N. Prospect Ave., Madison, WI 53726 (608) 239-3296 PI: Luke Mawst (608) 332-2520 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0432 |
University of Wisconsin-Madison
1415 Engineering Drive, Madison, WI 53706 (608) 262-3822 ID#: N11A-011-0235 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T011 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: Monolithic Scalable Mid-Infrared Phase-Locked Laser Array | |
| Abstract: The technical objectives of this proposal are: 1) the design of 3.8-4.2 micron-emitting, active-photonic-crystal (APC) quantum-cascade (QC) lasers by using passive phase-locking in a monolithic structure in order to achieve multiwatt- range, diffraction-limited powers; and 2) the development of the key crystal- growth processes for realizing the proposed APC QC laser: the growth and characterization of QC active- region materials (i.e., InGaAs/AlInAs strained-layer superlattices) on virtual substrates. Novel deep-well (DW) QC lasers will be designed to suppress carrier leakage out of active regions, resulting in electro-optic characteristics with low temperature sensitivity. For achieving high coherent power at the chip level, a novel type of APC-type structure is proposed whose elements are DW-QC lasers emitting in the 3.8-4.2 micron region. The design will be for APC devices of built-in index step an order of magnitude higher than for conventional APC-QC devices, as to achieve stable-beam operation in CW operation to high coherent powers. For 3.8-4.2 micron-emitting devices the design will be for usable CW powers larger than 7 W delivered in diffraction-limited beams. A plan for monolithically scaling coherent power to the 50-100 W range and the economical fabrication of the proposed APC devices with high production yield will be developed. | |
| JEMA SCIENCE, INC
1530 Grand Ave, Piedmont, CA 94611 (510) 333-1626 PI: Yuegang Zhang (510) 486-5282 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0352 |
Lawrence Berkeley National Laborato
1 Cyclotron Road, MS 66R0200, Berkeley, CA 94720 (510) 486-4714 ID#: N11A-028-0373 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T028 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Carbon Nanofiber Supercapacitors for Grid Scale Energy Storage | |
| Abstract: Jema Science Inc teams up with Dr. Yuegang Zhang's group at Molecular Foundray of Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) to propose an electrochemical capacitor (supercapacitor) energy storage concept based on low- cost electrospun carbon nanofibers. We take advantage of extremely low-cost of electrospinning technology coupled with our research on metal oxide nanomaterials to produce state-of-the-artsupercapacitors. To realize such a breakthrough concept, developments at three levels are needed including materials, processing and devices. Highly conductive carbon nanofibers will be fabricated by anelectrospinning technology using multicomponent polymer precursors and a carbonization process. Surface area and pore size will be characterized. We will further develop a process to co-electrospin metal salts in polymer precursors and a post annealing process that can carbonize the nanofibers and convert the metal salts into metal oxides. We will assembly supercapacitor devices and study the electrochemical performance, including impedance, cycling, self-discharge, power and energy density analysis under different current density and optimization. In the later stage of this project, we will study device scaling and perform cost and safety analysis. | |
| KCF Technologies, Inc
336 West Fraser Street, State College, PA 16801 (814) 867-4097 PI: Michael Grissom (814) 867-4097 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0275 |
Stevens Institute of Technology
Dept of Mechanical Engineering, 1 Castle Point on the Hudson Hoboken, NJ 07030 (201) 216-5072 ID#: N11A-037-0336 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T037 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Manufacturing Adaptive Energy Harvesting Materials with Micro-robot Swarms | |
| Abstract: KCF Technologies in partnership with Stevens Institute of Technology proposes a desktop manufacturing, micro-robot unit to perform advanced adaptive energy harvesting material fabrication and assembly. The primary solution is based on Professor David Cappelleri's micro-robot/micro-manipulation research at Stevens and KCF Technologies micro assembly needs in support of their Navy sponsored energy harvesting technology development. This particular application responds to the Navy need for miniature energy harvesting to enable ubiquitous and low cost wireless sensing (for condition-based maintenance, status indicators, electro-magnetic field measurement, persistent surveillance, etc.) in surface ships (PMS 500), submarines (PMS 450), and rotorcraft (PMA 261 and PMA 299). | |
| Liquid Metal Battery Corporation
243 Bent Street Apt 2, Cambridge, MA 02141 (702) 523-1291 PI: Luis Ortiz (702) 523-1291 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0351 |
MIT
77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139 (617) 253-3906 ID#: N11A-028-0177 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T028 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: New Affordable Energy Storage Technologies for Power Grids and Micro-Grids | |
| Abstract: Liquid Metal Battery (LMB) technology has the ability to produce very low cost electrical energy storage products with multiple hours of discharge for grid balancing and surety applications. The project aims to explore the ability to construct LMB cells at the 10 kWh scale in standard manufacturing environment. | |
| Luna Innovations Incorporated
1 Riverside Circle, Suite 400 Roanoke, VA 24016 (434) 483-4254 PI: Mateja Putic (434) 220-9445 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0346 |
The University of Virginia
Office of Sponsored Programs, P.O. Box 400195 Charlottesville, VA 22904 (434) 924-4270 ID#: N11A-021-0210 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T021 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Providence: Ultralow Power ISR Sensors for Situational Awareness Monitoring | |
| Abstract: With the rise in global terrorism over the last decade, the nature of hostile threats has broadened, requiring increased visibility into critical systems and infrastructure. Despite the vital role that technology has played in enhancing the military's ability to obtain intelligence to identify, track, and neutralize threats, the promise of automated collection and analysis of situational awareness parameters for actionable intelligence is yet unrealized. VigilNet, an integrated sensor network system developed at the University of Virginia specifically for energy efficient surveillance applications, has been used by military agencies for large-scale target detection and classification. In collaboration VigilNet developer Dr. John Stankovic of the University of Virginia, Luna's proposed effort will use a comprehensive low power design approach, employing ultralow power hardware elements, ultralow power circuit design, and optimized firmware enabling significant power saving capabilities. Robust subsystems will support power efficient cognitive sensor analysis algorithms for threat detection, classification, and tracking, enhanced by computational and signal processing capabilities provided by modernized sensor hardware. A visual palette of service discovery and cognitive analysis modules based on the Ozone Widget Framework will enable user-friendly configuration for specific security applications and intuitive dashboard display for access to actionable intelligence. | |
| Lynntech, Inc.
2501 Earl Rudder Freeway South, College Station, TX 77845 (979) 764-2200 PI: Alan Cisar (979) 764-2200 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0340 |
Southwest Research Institute
6220 Culebra Road, San Antonio, TX 78238 (210) 552-2081 ID#: N11A-013-0041 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T013 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Mitigation of Fuel Tank Explosion and Fires Using a Hybrid Electrochemical Oxygen Extraction and Explosion Suppression Foam system | |
| Abstract: Explosion of military vehicle fuel tanks upon encountering an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) causes significant damage to both military personnel and equipment. The fuel tank explosion is caused by explosive buildup and combustion of fuel vapor within the tank headspace. Further damage is also caused by projectile penetration of the fuel tank, resulting in spraying of the superheated fuel onto the vehicle environment. Lynntech, along with Southwest Research Institute proposes a hybrid explosion mitigation system can be easily integrated to existing military vehicles due to low weight and volume. The hybrid system will consist of a Lynntech developed Electrochemical Oxygen Extraction (EOE) system which will inert the fuel tank headspace as well as an Explosion Suppression foam system applied along the outer surface of the fuel tank. Compared to the current fuel tank inerting technologies, Lynntech's EOE system can reach safe fuel tank inertization levels faster without the need of any bleed air or external plumbing requirements. In Phase I, Explicit numerical modeling will be conducted to better understand fuel vaporization and flashing under IED blast conditions. Beyond Phase I, the proposed technology will be further developed and tested at the Southwest Research Institute ballistic department. | |
| Makai Ocean Engineering, Inc.
P.O. Box 1206, Kailua, HI 96734 (808) 259-8871 PI: Jose Andres (808) 259-8871 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0306 |
University of Hawaii at Manoa
2450 Dole St.,, Holmes Hall 302 Honolulu, HI 96822 (808) 956-7597 ID#: N11A-017-0129 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T017 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Underwater Sensor System Autonomous Burial and Operation | |
| Abstract: In coordination with the SPAWAR Systems Center, San Diego, Makai Ocean Engineering, Inc. proposes to develop an autonomous Array Burial Vehicle (ABV) to install U.S. surveillance arrays. The proposed work focuses on: (a) developing an overall vehicle concept for an autonomous vehicle that will install and bury an underwater sensor array to protect it against fishing threats, (b) performing analytical and experimental analysis of critical elements of the installation and burial system to characterize the physical limits and trade-offs of the system proposed, and (c) providing convincing support of the feasibility of the proposed conceptual design, integration techniques, installation method and approximate cost.Makai's innovative use of water jetting technology in the ABV substantially decreases the power requirements when compared to conventional plowing techniques. The jetting components, which are small in size and consume low amounts of power, will be incorporated into a light weight "torpedo shape" vehicle. The light weight ABV will help minimize the propulsion requirements, further decreasing component sizes and overall cost. The ABV will be more manageable and easily deployed from a variety of platforms, allowing the Navy to deploy arrays in softer soils and steeper slopes than those that can be achieved with conventional plows. | |
| Marport Stout, Inc
1924 Bickford Ave, Suite 103 Snohomish, WA 98290 (360) 568-5270 PI: Andy Meecham (401) 924-3712 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0337 |
Johns Hopkins University - APL
JHU Applied Physics Laboratory, 11100 Johns Hopkins Road Laurel, MD 20723 (443) 778-2271 ID#: N11A-027-0454 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T027 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Compact, Light Weight, Low Cost, Precision, Non-inertial Underwater Navigation Sensor | |
| Abstract: Doppler velocity logs (DVLs) are an essential component of any integrated autonomous underwater navigation system but the size, weight and cost is not compatible with the small AUVs foreseen for riverine and coastal surveys. The research objective is to develop a small wideband DVL (WB-DVL) which offers a step change in functionality and performance over current acoustic navigation systems and which has a size and weight suited for small AUV applications. This transformation will be obtained by leveraging Marport's Software Defined Sonar (SDS) technology platform combined with the use of novel space-time signal processing techniques to reduce single ping standard deviation of speed over bottom to 0.4 mm/s. For Phase I of this award, Marport has described a comprehensive study to validate these techniques and additional features that allow simultaneous estimation of speed over bottom and height over bottom as well as speed over water by software modifications only. | |
| MATERIALS TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
57 MARYANNE DRIVE, MONROE, CT 06468 (203) 874-3100 PI: Serkan Ozbay (203) 874-3100 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0419 |
Georgia Institute of Technology
270 Ferst Drive, Atlanta, GA 30332 (404) 894-8201 ID#: N11A-010-0367 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T010 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: High Fidelity Helicopter Lag Damper Model for Comprehensive Rotor Analysis | |
| Abstract: Helicopters with articulated rotor blades are subject to the well-known ground resonance where the rotor lag mode interacts, in an unstable fashion, with fuselage roll. To eliminate this ground resonance, both lag dampers and fuselage roll dampers are required. The Sikorsky UH-60 helicopter platform, which comprises the vast majority of utility rotorcraft used by the US Army and the Navy, relies upon a set of four hydraulic dampers for safe operation. The current comprehensive rotorcraft analysis tools however lack accurate modeling capabilities to predict the force, displacement, and dissipative nature of lag dampers. The methodologies used in these current comprehensive tools usually oversimplify the complexity of the dampers and incorporate significant assumptions about the operational environments and system parameters. To address the NAVAIR need for designing fluidic lag dampers, Materials Technologies Corporation (MTC) and its team members, Georgia Tech and Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, propose creating a robust fully nonlinear modeling approach that inherently employs first principles of mechanics. Once developed, our tool will be coupled with a comprehensive rotorcraft simulation code enabling a quick, versatile and accurate construction of the fluid based (hydraulic and fluid-elastomeric) dampers for rotorcraft analysis. | |
| Maxion Technologies, Inc.
20 New England Business Center, Andover, MA 01810 (978) 689-0003 PI: John Bruno (301) 405-6447 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0430 |
Univ. of Maryland, Baltimore County
1000 Hilltop Circle, Baltimore, MD 21250 (410) 455-3636 ID#: N11A-011-0530 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T011 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: Monolithic Beam-Combined Mid-Infrared Laser Array | |
| Abstract: Maxion will develop a monolithic, beam combined array of phase-locked, buried heterostructure (BH) quantum cascade lasers (QCLs). The laser array will be designed to emit a low divergence optical beam in a direction normal to the array surface at a wavelength centered at 4.6 microns. The monolithic laser's cw output power will exceed 15 Watts. Each ridge waveguide in the array of will contain a second order, buried grating etched close to its optical mode along its length, which will serve to out-couple the laser radiation in a direction normal to the array. The ends of the ridges will be highly reflecting - one end will be HR coated, and the other will have a distributed Bragg reflector (DBR), so that threshold currents are kept low. BH QCL laser radiation that is transmitted through the DBR will propagate in a special planar waveguide region located between the DBRs and a parallel, HR coated end facet separated from the DBR plane by a Talbot distance. This planar waveguide region will be specially designed to efficiently phase lock the QCLs in the array by coupling their radiation through the DBR reflectors. | |
| McQ Inc.
1551 Forbes St., Fredericksburg, VA 22405 (540) 373-2374 PI: James Morrison (540) 373-2374 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0348 |
George Mason University
4400 University Drive, MS 1G5 Fairfax, VA 22030 (703) 993-1592 ID#: N11A-021-0340 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T021 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Low Power Smart ISR Sensors | |
| Abstract: As the application of unattended ground sensors (UGS) expands with larger numbers of units being deployed around the world, the servicing needs and amount of data generated begin to become overwhelming for an organization. To alleviate the demands of this growing challenge we propose to develop a multilayered information based sensor management (IBSM) system in conjunction with designs for lower power sensor systems. The goal of the cognitive sensor manager will be to optimize the sensor field for a 10 year lifetime and ensure reliable detection of targets. For this STTR, McQ is teaming with George Mason University (Mason) in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and the Center of Excellence in C4I. The combination of McQ's considerable expertise in extremely long life network sensors with Mason's expertise in information based sensor management produces a team that is capable of addressing the requirements of a cognitive sensor management system optimized for long operational lifetime. Both organizations have previously performed sensor and sensor management R&D for ONR, experience which will be brought together to develop the information based sensor management system with a 10 year life expectancy. | |
| MetroLaser, Inc.
8 Chrysler, Irvine, CA 92618 (949) 553-0688 PI: Thomas Jenkins (949) 553-0688 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0435 |
Georgia Institute of Technology
Office of Sponsored Research, 505 Tenth Street, NW Atlanta, GA 30332 (404) 894-6929 ID#: N11A-004-0265 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T004 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: Planar Doppler Velocimetry for Aircraft Exhausts | |
| Abstract: A diagnostic is proposed for aircraft engine exhausts that provides three velocity components at each point in an image of a slice through the plume. The method measures the Doppler shift of laser light scattered from soot particles naturally present in the exhaust, and may also be useful for measuring non-combustion flows outside the exhaust using naturally occurring environmental aerosols. An image processing filter that employs iodine vapor absorption transforms frequency variations in the scattered light to variations in image intensity. The technique can provide two-dimensional instantaneous velocity profiles over an area large enough to cover the cross-section of a typical aircraft engine exhaust. A laser system that is insensitive to vibration effects makes it suitable for field measurements on a full-scale aircraft. Velocity uncertainties are dependent on signal level, and thus on the level of soot particles present in the flow. However, the method should be capable of operating over a large range of particle loading levels and is capable of measuring supersonic as well as subsonic velocities. | |
| METSS Corporation
300 Westdale Avenue, Westerville, OH 43082 (614) 797-2200 PI: Kenneth Heater (614) 797-2200 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0339 |
University of Dayton Research Insti
300 College Park, Dayton, OH 45469 (937) 229-2263 ID#: N11A-013-0408 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T013 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Mitigation of Fuel Tank Explosions and Fires from IED Blasts | |
| Abstract: On any vehicle, one of the most vulnerable system components during an attack is the fuel tank, as fuel can serve as a fire/explosion hazard, creating an immediate threat to personnel. Loss of fuel from a damaged fuel tank can also prevent personnel from taking necessary evasive or offensive actions, thus putting them at additional risk in a potentially survivable attack. With the increased threat of attack from improvised explosive devices (IEDs), fuel tank protection has become increasingly critical in military operations. The objective of this STTR topic is to develop and demonstrate strategies for mitigating fuel tank explosions from IED blasts. Specifically, this proposal emphasizes the integration of lightweight, self-sealing, ballistic tolerant fuel tank technologies to develop an IED-resistant fuel tank that can be used on a broad base of military vehicles. The resultant tank design will absorb the IED blast impact and fragmentation in manner that contains the fuel so the fire/explosion hazard is eliminated. | |
| Modus Operandi, Inc.
709 South Harbor City Blvd., Suite 400, Melbourne, FL 32901 (321) 473-1444 PI: Kent Bimson (321) 473-1446 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0290 |
University of New Mexico
1700 Lomas Blvd. NE, Suite 220, Alburquerque, NM 87131 (505) 277-6126 ID#: N11A-018-0162 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T018 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: ASW Find-To-Forecast | |
| Abstract: As stated in the topic, "The decision environment in which the Anti-Submarine Warfare Commander must operate during threat prosecution is characterized by severe time pressure, complex, multi-component decision tasks, and rapidly evolving and changing information and situational state." There is therefore an increasing need to extend ASW decision support capabilities with the ability to help operators more rapidly find, filter, format and fuse mission-specific information from both traditional "hard" data sources and non-traditional "soft" data sources to support focused decision making and intelligent forecasting. Modus Operandi and the University of New Mexico propose to develop an Anti- Submarine Warfare Find-to-Forecast (ASW F2F) methodology, architecture and prototype that use mission-specific ontologies, vocabularies, grammars and reasoning capabilities to help ASW operators find and exploit mission-critical information from multi-modal sources, thereby increasing their situational understanding and decreasing their detect- to-engage timelines. ASW F2F will be designed to help operators: find available ASW information sources, both hard and soft; filter out irrelevant information quickly; format relevant information as a standardized knowledge representation; fuse normalized intelligence based on an ASW mission ontology; focus operator attention on fused information related to his AOR; and forecast potential courses of action based on advanced, hybrid reasoning techniques. | |
| Nanohmics, Inc
6201 East Oltorf St., Suite 400 Austin, TX 78741 (512) 389-9990 PI: Andrew Milder (512) 389-9990 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0452 |
The University of Texas at Austin
Office of Sponsored Projects, 101 N. 27th Street, Suite 400 Austin, TX 78712 (512) 471-7371 ID#: N11A-003-0509 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T003 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: Plasmonic Enhancement of Receiver Circuits for Energy Harvesting | |
| Abstract: Nanohmics and Professor Gennady Shvets at the University of Texas at Austin propose to develop a Multi-Spectral RectennaTM (MSR) composed of a large area flexible sheet of plasmonic absorber structures coupled to an advanced scintered nanoparticle diode junction material. The resulting film would generate rectified current vertically, from the plasmonic strips to the underlying mirror layer, enabling larger active area development, low-cost, truly scaleable fabrication, and high conversion efficiency. The plasmonic elements are fabricated using nanoimprint lithography and serve as active transducers for visible, near-IR and SWIR energy conversion via a novel field-enhanced charge accumulation pathway. The integrated devices interface directly to the underlying metal electrode. This method will enable high efficiency conversion in a large area, low-cost, scalable processing method. | |
| NanoSonic, Inc.
158 Wheatland Drive, Pembroke, VA 24136 (540) 626-6266 PI: Michael Bortner (540) 626-6266 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0338 |
Virginia Tech
142 B Randolph Hall, Blacksburg, VA 24061 (540) 231-5998 ID#: N11A-013-0206 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T013 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Lightweight, HybridSil™ Nanocomposites for Ballistic, Blast and Flame Protection to MTVR Fuel Tanks and Engine Components | |
| Abstract: The objective of this Phase I STTR program is to develop and qualify innovative lightweight, high temperature composite materials that provide ballistic, blast and flame protection to MTVR fuel tanks and engine compartment structures. NanoSonic will work closely with Virginia Tech to simulate the conditions encountered during an IED blast and implement this information for Phase I material development and demonstration. Phase I composites will be tailored to maintain operational utility under severe conditions observed during IED blasts and concurrently mitigate potential subsequent fires following the blast event. NanoSonic will build on its successful demonstration of highly flame retardant, kinetic energy absorbing blast mitigation HybridSil™ materials that have been designed for Navy ship protection. These innovative materials have 1) demonstrated buried landmine protection to steel alloys with substantial up to 40% reduction in plate deflection and substantial reductions in sonic response during the blast impulse, V50 values > 4,000 ft/s (MIL-STD-662F), 2) multiple shot protection from 0.50 cal rounds and 3) exceptional flame resistance (time to ignition > 300 seconds, zero flame spread and low toxicity smoke). Of particular interest, these innovative materials have recently passed the ISO 9705 room corner burn test and ASTM E84 surface flammability test and obtained classification as "fire restricting materials" per the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Additionally, they have demonstrated continuous operational utility at temperatures well in excess of 800 oF. | |
| NanoSonic, Inc.
158 Wheatland Drive, Pembroke, VA 24136 (540) 626-6266 PI: Vince Baranauskas (540) 626-6266 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0331 |
Virginia Tech
142 B Randolph Hall, Blacksburg, VA 24061 (540) 231-3297 ID#: N11A-014-0215 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T014 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Flame Resistant HybridSil™ Matrices for Affordable, Next Generation Shipboard Carbon Fiber Composites | |
| Abstract: The objective of this Phase I STTR is to design and qualify affordable, flame resistant HybridSil™ copolymers that may be integrated within carbon fiber reinforced composites in place of brominated vinyl esters for improved fire resistance, negligible smoke toxicity, and enhanced mechanical properties. Equally important, down-selected copolymer matrices will provide tailorable room and low temperature rheological and curing properties compatible within VARTM processing. To that end, NanoSonic and the polymer and composite processing group of Virginia Tech's Macromolecular Science and Engineering Program will work to augment NanoSonic's Fire and Blast protective HybridSil™ materials for use as flame resistant matrices for carbon fiber composites. This innovative material technology has undergone extensive fire evaluation (ASTM E-1354, ASTM E-1321, ASTM E-84) and has passed the full scale ISO 9705 room corner burn test for qualification as a "fire restrictive material" per the IMO. HybridSil™ has also demonstrated blast protective properties through 0.50 cal FSP V50 (MIL-STD-662F) and buried C4 landmine testing with SwRI. Based on a current production capacity of 8,000 lbs/ day, HybridSil™ has a cost estimate of ~ $9 - 10 / lb, and the molecular modifications for transitioning this technology will not elevate this threshold. | |
| Navmar Applied Sciences Corporation
65 West Street Road, Building C Warminster, PA 18974 (856) 767-4524 PI: Peter Ulrich (215) 441-0449 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0294 |
Applied Research Laboratory/
Pennsylvania State University, P.O. Box 30 State College, PA 16804 (814) 865-1370 ID#: N11A-026-0496 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T026 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Low cost acoustic transmitter | |
| Abstract: A variety of ASW-related applications require an underwater sonar active transducer to deliver a required acoustic performance in a compact size package at a low cost. State-of-the-art technology is limited when applied to future needs. An innovative approach to identify and develop a new low cost transduction mechanism is needed. This would represent a new class of underwater sonar transmitter that can be used for a range of future acoustic sources.To demonstrate performance of the new low cost transduction mechanism, a notional system of a sonobuoy sized package producing a 500 ping-second tone with an acoustic output in excess of 50 watts in the band of 500 to 1000 Hz will be used. The primary focus would be on the development of a new low cost transduction technology that can be manufactured at a cost at least 50% less than existing technology.The thrust of the Navmar effort in the Phase I of this effort will be to identify. analyze, and develop a design for a new, affordable transducer that can meet the ASW power, frequency, size, and depth requirements and to select the design for fabrication and testing in Phase II. | |
| NextGen Aeronautics
2780 Skypark Drive, Suite 400 Torrance, CA 90505 (310) 626-8384 PI: Jan Petrich (310) 626-8661 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0336 |
Virginia Tech
1880 Pratt Drive, Suite 2006 (, Blacksburg, VA 24060 (540) 231-5281 ID#: N11A-027-0092 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T027 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Compact, Light Weight, Low Cost, Precision, Non-inertial Underwater Navigation Sensor | |
| Abstract: Significant resources are required to ensure proper self-localization of submersibles without available reference signals such as GPS or LBL. This is compounded, when the vehicle remains submerged for extended periods of time which is often required for reconnaissance missions. In the case of a miniature autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV), the self-localization challenge extends well beyond INS filtering. Although, position and velocity sensor systems (DVLs) have been successfully designed for large and medium scale submarines, the miniaturization of those sensor components still poses a significant challenge. To close this technological gap, the NextGen team proposes the development of a sonar-based miniature odometer for underwater applications that aims to challenge the weight, size, cost as well as performance specifications outlined in the solicitation. The proposed solution will combine advanced sonar technology with software modules capable of deducing the vehicle kinematics, i.e. position and velocity, in real time. The NextGen, Lockheed Martin and Virginia Tech team combines year-long expertise in i) sensor calibration and underwater navigation, ii) system integration, and iii) image processing and state estimation. Sensor performance will be demonstrated by the end of Phase I. In Phase II, the team plans to integrate the sensor into Lockheed Martin's Marlin AUV. | |
| nGimat, LLC
2436 Over Drive, Suite B, Lexington, KY 40511 (404) 734-3050 PI: Ganesh Venugopal (770) 789-9966 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0314 |
Oak Ridge National Laboratory
PO Box 2008, 1 Bethel Valley Road Oak Ridge, TN 37831 (865) 241-8361 ID#: N11A-035-0229 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T035 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Safe High Voltage Cathode Materials for Pulsed Power Applications | |
| Abstract: nGimat & Oak Ridge National Labs jointly propose to develop safe high-voltage cathode materials for pulsed power applications in the military and commercial sectors. nGimat's versatile NanoSpray Combustion ™ process will be utilized to tailor the bulk & surface composition of the cathode materials as well as the particle size & morphology to meet the demanding energy, power and safety requirements of emerging battery applications. During the Phase I effort, nGimat will develop structurally stable, surface coated, sub-micron-sized high-voltage battery cathode materials that will have optimized energy-density, power-density and thermal-stability. The electrochemical performance of the cathode materials will be demonstrated in small lab-scale electrochemical cells. Calorimetric analysis will also be performed to determine the thermal stability of the cells. In Phase II, we will partner with a leading battery manufacturing R&D center to develop large commercial-scale cells and modules to validate capacity, cycle life and thermal stability under various conditions. In addition collaborations will be forged with a leading developer of high-voltage electrolytes to ensure success in the program. In the long run, by using low-cost, environmentally-friendly precursors we will develop an inherently scalable & energy-efficient process that will allow cost-effective production of high-performance battery materials. | |
| NP Photonics, Inc.
UA Science and Technology Park, 9030 S. Rita Road, Suite #120 Tucson, AZ 85747 (520) 799-7424 PI: Dan Nguyen (520) 799-7419 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0415 |
University of Arizona
PO BOX 3308, 888 N. Euclid Ave., Ste 510 Tucson, AZ 85722 (520) 626-6000 ID#: N11A-005-0102 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T005 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: Modeling of pulse propagation in a four level atomic medium for gyroscopic measurements | |
| Abstract: We propose to develop numerical methodologies that can be used as alternatives to standard finite-difference time- domain algorithms, and that will offer substantial reductions in numerical complexity (notably CPU-time requirements) without the need to trade-off flexibility for overall robustness. In the initial phase, we propose a two-pronged approach, in which we evaluate two alternatives: (i) a time-dependent transfer matrix (TDTM) approach; and (ii) a slowly-varying envelope function (SVE) approach. In Phase I, we will develop both methodologies, assess their performance characteristics, and choose the best for continued development. Comparative evaluations will be done by numerically solving the relevant equations and comparing performance with currently existing Navy codes. Both proposed methods (TDTM and SVE) are suitable for dealing with co- and counter-propagating beams, and for including the full nonlinear interaction between light fields and four-level N-scheme atomic systems. Hence, both schemes are suitable for simulating ring-resonator gyroscopes with Sagnac phase enhancements due to EIT-like quantum coherences. In Phase II, we would develop a full-scale numerical model, and, if requested, fabricate a prototype fiber-optic gyroscope based on NP Photonics' specialty fiber, and fiber laser capabilities. | |
| Orbital Technologies Corporation (ORBITEC)
Space Center, 1212 Fourier Drive, Madison, WI 53717 (608) 229-2730 PI: Millicent Coil (608) 229-2812 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0284 |
SRI International
333 Ravenswood Ave., Menlo Park, CA 94025 (650) 859-2000 ID#: N11A-034-0069 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T034 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Synthesis of New, Insensitive Energetic Materials | |
| Abstract: Advanced ordnance and propulsion systems of the modern era still utilize vintage energetic materials. These old generation materials, such as RDX and HMX, cannot meet today's more stringent safety and environmental requirements. Unfortunately, in newer compounds created to replace them, the performance falls with the sensitivity. The ORBITEC team proposes the development of new energetic materials that will be both high performance and insensitive. The Phase I work will include synthesis of new compounds, analysis of the structures, and estimation and comparison of their performance. The design strategies will focus not only on the inclusion of energetic groups but also on the creation of stable compounds. A host of chemical analytical techniques will verify these structures and reveal their properties. Thermochemical calculations will estimate their performance as explosives and as propellant ingredients. The subsequent Phase II work will accelerate the TRL of the most promising compounds through scale-up of synthesis, more extensive materials testing, and performance testing. | |
| Pacific Science & Engineering Group, Inc.
9180 Brown Deer Road, San Diego, CA 92121 (858) 535-1661 PI: Maia Cook (858) 535-1661 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0295 |
Old Dominion University
ODU Research Foundation, 4111 Monarch Way Suite 204 Norfolk, VA 23508 (757) 683-4293 ID#: N11A-031-0049 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T031 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Multi-Perspective Decision Making in a Networked Environment | |
| Abstract: Unmanned vehicles (UVs) are transforming the submarineÍs collection and communication capabilities. However, the user tasks needed to employ UVs are not seamlessly integrated into existing submarine tasks and personnel assignments. Further, submarines will have to flexibly coordinate UV employment with multiple partners. These complex missions will need support for multi-participant, multi-perspective decision-making. The objective of this proposal is to take a user-centered design and systems engineering approach, bringing domain expertise and relevant scientific concepts to develop a decision aid called MASTS (Multi-perspective ASsessments and Tasking for Submarines). MASTS consists of three integrated elements: a CONOPS for sub-UV task integration, a task allocation model, and a collaborative workspace to coordinate multiple perspectives. These elements seamlessly weave UV tasking onto subs, reduce knowledge fragmentation and support team situation awareness, and structure and coordinate multi-perspective decision-making. Together, these elements are anticipated to improve command decision making. The proposal team is well-positioned with relevant expertise, related sub-UV CONOPS work, domain familiarity and access to experts, extensive operational evaluation experience, and access to multiple promising transition avenues. With this approach, a solution will be developed that is scientifically principled, grounded in the real needs of operational users, and aligned with the transition process and timeline. | |
| Physical Sciences Inc.
20 New England Business Center, Andover, MA 01810 (978) 689-0003 PI: Dorin Preda (978) 689-0003 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0285 |
Lawrence Livermore National
7000 East Avenue, Chemical Sciences Division Livermore, CA 94550 (925) 423-0747 ID#: N11A-034-0328 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T034 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: High Density, Insensitive Oxidizer with RDX Performance | |
| Abstract: RDX and HMX are energetic oxidizers with high energy density, but have moderate sensitivity to accidental detonation. The Navy requires new energetic oxidizers with performance comparable to or better than HMX and RDX, but with low sensitivity. Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI), and its partner, propose to synthesize and characterize a new triazine based energetic oxidizer with high energy and low sensitivity. PSI has teamed with Lawrence Livermore National Lab, Energetic Materials Center on the proposed program. The targeted triazine properties include; standard enthalpy of formation (48 kcal/mol), density (2.2 g/cc), oxygen content (31%), C/O=1 and decomposition point (>250° C). The new oxidizer is expected to be synthesized using a two step process, with only the final step providing HD1.1 material. The proposed team has developed a synthetic scheme to produce the molecule in two synthetic steps, one of which is directly from the literature. PSI and LLNL will work in parallel to demonstrate the synthesis of this high energy oxidizer using different strategies. LLNL will provide characterization of this promising ingredient. On a potential Phase II program, PSI, LLNL and Copperhead Chemical will investigate scale-up paths and provide hundreds of grams of the target for enhanced testing, formulation and characterization. | |
| Princeton Scientific Instruments, Inc.
7 Deer Park Drive,, Suite C Monmouth Junction, NJ 08852 (732) 274-0774 PI: John Lowrance (732) 274-0774 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0437 |
Princeton University
D-414 Engineering Quadrangle, Olden Street Princeton, NJ 08544 (609) 258-5131 ID#: N11A-004-0143 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T004 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: High Resolution Measurement of the Flow Velocity Field in a Supersonic Jet Plume | |
| Abstract: Modern supersonic jet aircraft engines produce a high amplitude noise field with complicated characteristics due to turbulent behaviors of the hot jet. Researchers need better understanding of the turbulent structures in the jet plume to develop treatments to engines that might reduce the noise emissions. A significant obstacle to making these simulations practical and realistic for engine design purposes is the lack of methodology to measure the velocity field of the jet plume for purposes of correlating computational results. High quality measurements of the velocity field at and ahead of the exhaust nozzle exit plane would improve the upstream boundary condition. A further need for this technology is for imaging the supersonic and subsonic turbulent flow field around a STOVL aircraft to understand the safety and other impacts of the flow field on support personnel and equipment. The proposed instrumental solution works without the addition of imaging particles or fluids to the jet engine intake or exhaust and also works with flows that are not combustion byproducts. This measurement method affords sufficient time resolution to track the advection of both large and small scale turbulent structures in a supersonic jet plume and will also work in the subsonic case. | |
| Progeny Systems Corporation
9500 Innovation Drive, Manassas, VA 20110 (703) 368-6107 PI: John Thornton (858) 653-0177 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0307 |
University of California-San Diego
Marine Physical Lab, SIO, 9500 Gilman Dirve, Dept 0210 La Jolla, CA 92093 (858) 534-5517 ID#: N11A-017-0196 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T017 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Deployable Autonomous Undersea Burial System | |
| Abstract: Bottom mounted undersea surveillance systems are required by the Navy to Detect, Classify and Localize (DCL) underwater threats during operations and intelligence gathering. To meet the needs of future naval operations they must be easily deployable from a number of platforms and autonomously perform the DCL mission and autonomously report. The primary risks to these bottom mounted surveillance systems is survivability against fishing threat and the ability to power the system for months of duration. Burial is performed for commercial bottom mounted cabled systems by large sled-type vehicles towed from a mother ship. This approach is neither rapid nor clandestine enough to meet the needs of the Navy. A "fire and forget" approach to deployment is required. Progeny Systems Corporation teamed with the University of California San Diego, Scripps Institution of Oceanography will research and design THETIS a deployable vehicle which will autonomously install the undersea surveillance array and protect it by burying it in the seafloor. This will be accomplished by packaging the array into a deployable canister that includes a plow share and feedpath mechanism. The cable and array would be fed through this device as the autonomous vehicle pulls it along and thereby bury and protect the cable. | |
| Pulsar Informatics Inc.
3401 Market Street, Suite 318 Philadelphia, PA 19104 (215) 220-4250 PI: Daniel Mollicone (215) 520-2630 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0319 |
Washington State University
PO Box 1495, Spokane, WA 99210 (509) 358-7576 ID#: N11A-033-0107 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T033 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Unobtrusive, wearable sensor array to collect actigraphy, ship motion, vibration, noise and temperature | |
| Abstract: This project will achieve an unobtrusive, wearable sensor array to collect environmental, physiological, and subjective measures associated with physical and cognitive fatigue. The proposed innovation, called the Warfighter Fatigue Data Acquisition System (WFDAS), will be an unobtrusive, modular sensor array to capture, synchronize, and download data related to: (1) actigraphy; (2) ship motion; (3) vibration levels; (4) noise levels; (5) ambient temperature; (6) light levels; and (7) subjective measures related to fatigue. Data will automatically download via open source wireless communication protocols (e.g., Bluetooth) to a networked laptop or smart phone where it can be exported for analysis or integrated with secondary applications (e.g., HSI "experiment in a box" toolkit). This tool will streamline operational data acquisition and reduce the burden for study participants. The software may also be configured to enable study participants to "self-administer" performance measures for use when experimenters are not able to be present (e.g., live fire testing). This project is directly responsive to the stated ONR goal to enable development and validation of performance shaping algorithms to predict the impact of environmental stressors including temperature, vibration, motion, noise, light and fatigue on warfighter readiness. | |
| QUASAR Federal Systems, Inc.
5754 Pacific Center Blvd., Suite 203 San Diego, CA 92121 (858) 412-1800 PI: Robert Dickey (858) 228-1704 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0426 |
San Diego State University
5250 Campanile Drive, SDSU Research Foundation San Diego, CA 92182 (619) 594-4424 ID#: N11A-012-0326 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T012 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: Compact, Broadband Geolocation Systems | |
| Abstract: Existing technologies for geolocation of RF emitters have significant size and weight limitations, restricting their use on small UAV platforms. Quasar Federal Systems (QFS) has developed a method of geolocation using very small antennas; this method is based on measurement of the Poynting vector. The QFS antenna is isotropic, compact, and accurate in its direction finding performance. However, due to its small size, the QFS antenna is less sensitive than larger antenna arrays. This is particularly true for the antenna elements that measure the magnetic field components, which are in essence induction sensors. Dr. Antonio Palacios of San Diego State University has explored a novel configuration of sensor arrays and a new method of signal detection, known as Residence Time Detection (RTD), which together could lead to dramatic improvements in the sensitivity of induction sensors. This method has already been applied to other types of magnetic field sensors, including SQUIDs and fluxgates. In the case of fluxgates, prototype sensors have demonstrated sensitivity improvements of 2 orders of magnitude relative to conventional methods. In this proposal, QFS proposes to team with Dr. Palacios to investigate the application of the RTD method to induction sensors, and to quantify the associated geolocation performance. | |
| RAM Photonics
4901 Morena Blvd. Suite 128, San Diego, CA 92117 (585) 771-7311 PI: John Marciante (585) 771-7311 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0416 |
Rochester Institute of Technology
One Lomb Memorial Drive, Rochester, NY 14623 (585) 475-6853 ID#: N11A-008-0609 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T008 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: Modeling Tools for the Development of Innovative Wavelength Division Multiplexed (WDM) Local Area Networks (LAN) | |
| Abstract: Wavelength-division multiplexing has been employed to great success in long-haul transmission systems to increase capacity and provide a new means (wavelength) of routing. Their application to local-area networks (LANs) on aircraft is promising due to the light weight and narrow cross section of optical fiber, as well as fiber's immunity to EMI. However, the dominant transmission impairments for aircraft LANs are different than long-haul transmission systems and therefore require a different development tool. Of primary concern to aircraft LANs are high loss, multipath interference (MPI), and signal degeneration through multiple WDM components. We propose a potentially fast and efficient model for WDM LAN development, based on transfer matrices (TMs). TMs have the general advantage of representing entire systems by only a single or small number of matrices and have been used successfully to model photonic components in series. This program seeks to extend transfer-matrix modeling beyond systems in series to systems in ring and mesh topologies that have a multitude of input and output lightpaths. Successful completion of this program will prove out the efficiency and scalability of a transfer-matrix approach to a network of WDM components. | |
| Robotic Research LLC
555 Quince Orchard Road, Suite 300 Gaithersburg, MD 20878 (240) 631-0008 PI: Karl Kluge (240) 631-0008 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0320 |
Jet Propulsion Laboratory
4800 Oak Grove Drive, Pasadena, CA 91109 (818) 393-3458 ID#: N11A-020-0327 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T020 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: SCAFLE - Self Calibrating, Adaptive, Fused LIDAR/EO Sensor | |
| Abstract: The ability to fuse electro-optical (EO) imagery with range data enhancesthe robustness of unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) autonomy by allowingdiscrimination between types of terrain that cannot be distinguished onthe basis of geometry alone (non-traversable mud vs. dry soil,non-traversable rocks vs. traversable brush, etc.). Performing this fusionrequires knowing both the intrinsic (optical center, focal length, etc.)and extrinsic (relative offset and orientation) calibration parameters ofthe sensors. These can vary over time as sensors are replaced due todamage, the system is jolted during use, etc. In order to be practical forwarfighter use, such a fused sensor system needs to be able toself-calibrate using features of the environment, and to adaptively updatethat calibration as shock or other sources of variation cause it tochange. Such adaptive self-calibration avoids the need to trainwarfighters in calibration procedures, and eliminates the need foradditional equipment. We propose designing a compact, low-cost Self-Calibrating (Adaptive) Fusion of LADAR and EO imagery (SCAFLE) sensorthat will provide fused visible multi- spectral EO and LADAR range datacovering a full 360 degree field of regard to support perceptioncapabilities such as terrain classification and visual odometry. | |
| Rochester Optical Manufacturing Company
1260 Lyell Avenue, Rochester, NY 14606 (585) 254-0022 PI: Wai Clifford (585) 254-0022 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0417 |
University of Rochester
The Institute of Optics, 308 Wilmot, 275 Hutchison Rd. Rochester, NY 14627 (585) 275-2322 ID#: N11A-005-0077 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T005 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: Modeling of pulse propagation in a four level atomic medium for gyroscopic measurements | |
| Abstract: A detail computational model is important in the construction and optimization of a slow-light gyroscope. Such a model needs to take into account many physical conditions such as Doppler broadening and cavity boundary conditions. As a result, the computational cost and resources for a full model can become very demanding even for today's powerful computing capabilities. The proposed effort develops an efficient and reconfigurable computation algorithm for modeling the pulse propagation in an atomic medium on a desktop platform that performs 100 times or better than the convention method. | |
| Rochester Scientific, LLC
2041 Tapscott Avenue, El Cerrito, CA 94530 (510) 541-5500 PI: Simon Rochester (510) 206-6586 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0428 |
College of William and Mary
College of William and Mary, P.O. Box 8795 Williamsburg, VA 23187 (757) 221-3969 ID#: N11A-005-0308 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T005 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: Modeling of pulse propagation in a four level atomic medium for gyroscopic measurements | |
| Abstract: Precise rotation sensors are critical components for stabilization, navigation, and targeting applications. The most sensitive commercial devices are fiber optic gyroscopes based on the Sagnac effect. There is the potential to enhance the performance of these gyroscopes using media with large positive (``slow light') or negative (``fast light') dispersion. In order to facilitate the creation and optimization of next-generation gyroscope designs, comprehensive, flexible, and efficient modeling software is needed. We propose to model the propagation of light pulses through a atomic medium in a cavityusing the Maxwell-Bloch density-matrix formalism. Using algorithms tuned for a particular system and operating regime will allow efficient computation of the response. | |
| RSoft Design Group
400 Executive Boulevard, Suite 100, Ossining, NY 10562 (914) 923-2164 PI: Dwight Richards (718) 982-3469 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0418 |
College of Staten Island--CUNY
2800 Victory Blvd., Department of Eng. Science Staten Island, NY 10314 (718) 982-3469 ID#: N11A-008-0576 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T008 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: Specialized Analysis, Modeling, and Optimization Tools for the Development of Innovative WDM Local Area Networks | |
| Abstract: We proposed to perform innovative research towards the developing of a simulation tool consisting of a comprehensive set of models and including modeling techniques that account for the complex interactions between optical network components in WDM LANs, such as those planned for aerospace platforms. To a large extent, the modeling effort will be guided by the ongoing work of the AS-3 WDM LAN working group, with experimental validation to be conducted later in Phase II through a testbed that is applicable to the development activities of the SAE AS-5659 industry standard open architecture. Specifically, Phase I will specify a technique to model optical return loss (ORL) in a system simulation tool, such as OptSim from RSoft Design Group; determine the nature of the complex interactions in WDM LANs resulting from the interplay of optical amplification, ORL, and transients due to amplifier gain dynamics and channel equalization in a multiwavelength network; specify a flexible set of OptSim simulation options and corresponding software configurations that allow the simulation technique to be based on either wavelength-domain simulation (WDS), full waveform (time-domain) simulation, or a combination of WDS and waveform simulation; specify requirements and software modules for a WDM LAN planning tool based on RSoft's MetroWAND network planning tool; and specify key experiments to validate the modeling techniques during the Phase II effort. | |
| SA Photonics, LLC
130 Knowles Drive, Suite A Los Gatos, CA 95032 (970) 921-3401 PI: Dave Pechner (408) 376-0989 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0409 |
Georgia Tech. Research Institute
400W 10th Street N.W., Atlanta, GA 30332 (404) 407-8267 ID#: N11A-002-0217 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T002 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: Compact Radar Technology For Over the Horizon Small-Boat and Semi-Submersible Detection and Tracking | |
| Abstract: Over-The-Horizon (OTH) radar plays a crucial role in naval situational awareness and the ultimate safety of the naval warfighter and navy assets. Traditionally, OTH detection has been enabled by large land based radars exploiting the interaction of high frequency (HF) radio waves with the ionosphere, but this method is susceptible to instabilities in propagation and the limitations of HF systems. In addition, land based or air/space based target information operate on time scales much slower than required for today’s naval fleet. The utilization of evaporation duct propagation with much higher frequency microwave signals can provide a compact OTH sensor that is small enough to be deployed on surface vessels and provide timely detection, localization, and characterization of small, low-altitude and sea surface targets at ranges that are tactically relevant. Such a system has the potential to revolutionize situational awareness and provide the ability to quickly react to immediate threats. The goal of this Phase I STTR is to investigate and develop a compact Ka band OTH radar for detection of small surface targets. In particular, we will develop and investigate the performance gains of a MIMO framework for OTH SMTI operation utilizing evaporation duct propagation. The result of the Phase I will be a complete concept design for our Halcyon software defined MIMO Radar system. | |
| Scalable Network Technologies Inc
6100 Center Drive #1250, Los Angeles, CA 90045 (310) 338-3318 PI: Jeff Weaver (310) 338-3318 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0324 |
UCLA
UCLA Computer Science Dept, 405 Hilgard Ave Los Angeles, CA 90095 (310) 825-4367 ID#: N11A-038-0094 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T038 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Scalable Real-Time Tactical Radio Channel Simulator | |
| Abstract: There exists a need for a RF channel simulation framework that can aid in the analysis of the next generation of mobile multi-protocol wideband tactical systems such as JTRS operating under challenging channel conditions. To address this need, Scalable Networks and UCLA propose to develop a real-time scenario-based Tactical Radio Channel Simulator (TRCS) capable of incorporating effects due to factors such as vegetation, terrain, seasonal conditions, atmospheric conditions in various environments including urban, forest, open ocean, and deserts. Other factors that will be modeled in TRCS are standard fading profiles, inter-symbol interference; the mobility impacts of hills, valleys, foliage, and vehicle speed; the altitude and speed of aircraft; antenna blockages due to host platform characteristics; and the presence of intentional and unintentional interference. This simulation-based model will output propagation data in a format suitable for driving hardware-based channel emulators. The TRCS will also provide graphical tools to configure the TRCS simulation and analyze its output data. In Phase I of this effort we will determine the feasibility of and develop a conceptual design for a modular RF simulation, prediction, and visualization tool which when connected to hardware channel emulators can apply realistic channel effects to communication between live radios. | |
| Scientic, Inc
555 Sparkman Drive, Suite 214 Huntsville, AL 35816 (256) 319-0858 PI: A. von (256) 319-0872 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0315 |
Vanderbilt University
PMB #407749, 2301 Vanderbilt Place Nashville, TN 37240 (615) 322-3979 ID#: N11A-035-0452 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T035 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Safe High Voltage Cathode Materials for Pulsed Power Applications | |
| Abstract: The mission of this proposed research is to develop a high-voltage, high-capacity, and inexpensive cathode material for lithium-ion batteries (LIB) capable of supporting high transient and pulsed loads while offering enhanced safety and lifecycle performance. Currently LIB is one of the most promising battery technologies that can provide higher energy density than other batteries. It also does not suffer from the memory effect and the loss of charge is relatively slow when not in use. Hence, high-performance LIB remains the preferred technology that would address a much broader range of energy source/storage for both military and civil applications if advanced cathode material with extreme operating capability could be realized.The innovation of this proposed research utilizes multiwall carbon nanotubes (CNT) as nano-architecture current collector array grown directly on a flexible Al (or graphite) foil. The CNT array is then coated with a high-performance active layer of ternary solid solution of orthosilicates Li2MnxFeyCozSiO4 (x + y + z = 1) as the cathode material. This novel approach of using nano-structured vertical-aligned CNT network provides a high surface area of attachment for Li2MnxFeyCozSiO4 nanoparticles and to minimize the contact resistance at the active material/current collector interface, thereby, maximizing the charge efficiency and the energy density of the cathode. Previous research performed at Vanderbilt University using vertical-aligned CNT impregnated with MnO2 nano- particles as electrodes [1] for electrochemical supercapacitor has recently resulted in record-breaking performance of ~1,000 F/cm3. | |
| Scientific Systems Company, Inc
500 West Cummings Park - Ste 3000, Woburn, MA 01801 (781) 933-5355 PI: Eric Wemhoff (781) 933-5355 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0427 |
Ohio State University
ElectroScience Laboratory, 1320 Kinnear Road Columbus, OH 43212 (614) 292-5951 ID#: N11A-012-0510 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T012 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: A Geolocation System With Accuracy Self-Awareness (ASA) to Enable Reduced Size/Cost Antenna Arrays | |
| Abstract: The predominant method used in electronic support measure (ESM) systems to detect and geolocate noncooperative RF signals employs arrays of antennas to estimate signal angle of arrival (AOA). There are several issues that preclude wide installation of these, including very high cost, challenging installation requirements, size and weight, operation that requires highly trained specialists, and processing lag that precludes the timeliness needed in tactical operations.The main effort under this program is to reduce these burdens, and produce a system that can be installed on a much wider variety of platforms, including small and unmanned ones. Primarily, this is achieved through better ways of accounting for the necessarily inaccurate measurements that are obtained from smaller arrays on smaller platforms. We will also develop the antenna and receiver hardware that can take advantage of these improved methods, as well as higher-level operation software that alleviates many of the current operational difficulties. The envisioned product is a self-complete geolocation system, including hardware and software, with low cost and SWAP to enable ubiquitous installation. It can operate on single or multiple vehicles collaboratively, and automatically detect, identify, geolocate, and inform users of the source of signals of interest, including GNSS interferers. | |
| Scientific Systems Company, Inc
500 West Cummings Park - Ste 3000, Woburn, MA 01801 (781) 933-5355 PI: Ssu-Hsin Yu (781) 933-5355 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0300 |
Georgia Institute of Technology
Van Leer Electrical Engr Bldg, 777 Atlantic Drive NW Atlanta, GA 30332 (404) 894-7582 ID#: N11A-015-0513 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T015 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Image Feature Extraction for Improved EW Classification | |
| Abstract: The proliferation of radar and communication devices significantly increases operators' workload. Different platforms carrying similar communication devices further complicate the problem. The onboard imaging sensors, combining with EW sensors, have the ability to disambiguate devices and platforms. Our proposed system consists of three main modules: (1) the data/time synchronization and sharing module, (2) the image processing and feature extraction module, and (3) the Bayesian data fusion/classification module. Our proposed system integrates the tracking function with region of interest segmentation and feature extraction. We propose the use of prior probabilities assigned to feature elements to handle the problem of data synchronization, feature quality and object occlusion in a unified manner. We fuse the prior class probability distribution estimated from previous instances of the same targets with the new classifier output to establish the posterior class probability distribution in a Bayesian framework. The project team consists of Scientific Systems Company, Inc. (SSCI) as the prime contractor and Georgia Institute of Technology as the academic partner. | |
| Sentient Corporation
850 Energy Drive, Suite 307 Idaho Falls, ID 83401 (208) 522-8560 PI: Nathan Bolander (208) 522-8560 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0413 |
The Ohio State University
Dpt. of Mechanical Engin, 201 West 19th Avenue Columbus, OH 43210 (614) 292-4678 ID#: N11A-007-0270 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T007 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: Modeling to Quantify Improved Durability of Superfinish Gear Processing | |
| Abstract: Under this STTR, Sentient Corporation, along with the Ohio State University GearLab as a research partner, will develop a probabilistic physics-based damage modeling tool for the simulation of superfinished gear components. This model will consider critical surface, material, and load parameters for components manufactured from common gear steels. The model will also analyze superfinished as well as traditionally processed gear surfaces. The results will include virtual test data to be validated against actual test results. | |
| Soar Technology, Inc.
3600 Green Court, Suite 600 Ann Arbor, MI 48105 (734) 887-7601 PI: Brian Stensrud (407) 207-2237 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0362 |
University of Southern California
12015 Waterfront Drive, Playa Vista, CA 90094 (310) 448-0355 ID#: N11A-032-0147 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T032 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: High-level tools and languages for faster Intelligent Tutoring System(ITS) model development | |
| Abstract: Intelligent tutoring systems (ITSs) hold the promise of dramatically increasing the cost effectiveness of training. However, one contributor to the per-lesson cost effectiveness of ITSs is the significant effort that goes into creating instructional material. ITSs in many ways shift the costs of giving instruction to the costs of preparing instruction. Preparation costs generally are quite high. In spite of ITSs being generally successful and mature technology, the DoD in general and the US Navy in particular have been hesitant to adopt it. There are three significant properties of the state of the art that contribute to this situation: domain specificity, domain unsuitability, and the high cost of instruction preparation. SoarTech, together with the Institute for Creative Technologies (ICT), will address these issues with the FACITS (Fast Authoring of Content for Intelligent Tutoring Systems) design study to investigate, develop, and evaluate ITS authoring tools that will provide general and reusable authoring abstractions, support dynamic and ill-defined training domains, and significantly reduce the cost of authoring new instructional material. | |
| Space Micro Inc.
10237 Flanders Court, San Diego, CA 92121 (858) 332-0700 PI: Carl Edwards (858) 332-0700 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0316 |
UCSD
9500 Gilman Dr., BLDG EBU 2, Rm 256 La Jolla, CA 92093 (858) 534-4902 ID#: N11A-039-0008 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T039 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: New Process for Space Qualified Electronic Components | |
| Abstract: The Space Micro team is developing a novel material/process set to address the need to a new process for Space Qualified Electronic Components. The work employs existing material sets to reduce risk but implements them through nano technology material preparation and processes, thereby reaping the reliability of existing materials but the physical benefits of using nano scale processing. | |
| Stottler Henke Associates, Inc.
951 Mariner's Island Blvd., STE 360, San Mateo, CA 94404 (650) 931-2700 PI: Randy Jensen (650) 931-2700 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0411 |
University of Central Florida-IST
Office of Research, 12201 Research Pkwy, Suite 501 Orlando, FL 32826 (407) 882-0066 ID#: N11A-001-0302 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T001 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: TRIEPOD – Tool for Real-time Intelligent Evaluation of Physiological and Operational Data | |
| Abstract: We propose to develop a Tool for Real-time Intelligent Evaluation of Physiological and Operational Data (TRIEPOD), consisting of a self-contained sensor suite and assessment model for analyzing human and system performance. By combining intelligent behavioral and cognitive performance assessment methods with physiological state measures, the TRIEPOD system will not only identify instances of sub-optimal task performance, but also provide insight into the proficiency of human operators and the effectiveness of the operational system. The objective is to provide an automated tool that can both inform design decisions in the iterative development cycle for an operational environment, and also be leveraged for training with real-time performance feedback and after action review. TRIEPOD will be developed following a methodology that allows us to integrate the assessment model with existing normative behavior data and augment this by deriving additional data for normative expectations. We have assembled a multi-disciplinary team for the proposed research, combining expertise in the fields of cognitive science for model development, artificial intelligence for automated performance assessment, and augmented cognition for collecting and interpreting physiological data. Phase I will result in a system design and concept demonstration that lay the groundwork for full prototype implementation in Phase II. | |
| Techno-Sciences, Inc.
11750 Beltsville Drive, 3rd Floor Beltsville, MD 20705 (240) 790-0620 PI: Grum Ngatu (240) 790-0708 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0422 |
University of Maryland
3181 Glenn L. Martin Hall, College Park, MD 20742 (301) 405-1927 ID#: N11A-010-0329 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T010 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: High Fidelity Helicopter Lag Damper Model for Comprehensive Rotor Analysis | |
| Abstract: Rotors and their associated dynamic components operate in high-cycle and environmentally harsh conditions. Accurate rotor load predictions are crucial part of rotor analysis and design. Lag damping poses a challenge for rotor load analysis due to the difficulty of incorporating lag damper effects into comprehensive rotor analysis. The key challenge in effectively predicting the lead-lag motions and resulting rotor loads is the lack of a high fidelity lag damper model. A high fidelity lag damper model that can predict damping forces over the operational range of a helicopter will benefit future rotor designs. | |
| Techno-Sciences, Inc.
11750 Beltsville Drive, 3rd Floor Beltsville, MD 20705 (240) 790-0620 PI: Ashish Purekar (240) 790-0582 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0279 |
University of Maryland
Dept. of Aerospace Engineering, 3110b Kim Bldg College Park, MD 20742 (301) 405-1131 ID#: N11A-030-0170 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T030 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Novel Torque Sensing for Condition Based Maintenance | |
| Abstract: Torque sensing poses a challenge for condition based maintenance as information from the rotating component needs to be sent to the fixed frame. Slip rings may be used though implementation and reliability are areas of concern. A non- contact method of torque sensing using magnetostrictive materials can eliminate the need for a slip ring and can provide useful information for component health monitoring. A system with an integrated data acquisition and signal analysis would allow for a small form factor device to determine the health of rotating shafts. | |
| Technova Corporation
3927 Dobie Road, Okemos, MI 48864 (517) 485-9583 PI: Anagi Balchandra (517) 485-9583 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0332 |
Florida Institute of Technology
150 West University Boulevard, Melbourne, FL 32901 (321) 674-7231 ID#: N11A-014-0587 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T014 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Advanced Flame Resistant Resin System for Carbon Fiber Reinforced Composite Shipboard Applications | |
| Abstract: Shipboard structures can benefit from the relatively high performance-to-weight ratio, fatigue life, durability, processability and multi-functionality of polymer composites (versus metals). The fire, smoke and toxicity (FST) performance and the initial economics of composites, however, cannot match those of metals. Efforts to replace metals with composites in shipboard structures have emphasized the use of brominated vinyl esters as fire-retardant polymers in composites. Despite their relatively low cost and ease of fabrication, such halogenated polymers are toxic and potentially carcinogenic, and their compatibility with carbon fiber is less than desirable. There is thus a need for environmentally friendly and affordable polymers which offer desired FST behavior, processability, structural performance and compatibility with carbon fiber. We propose to meet this challenge by developing a tailored polymer chemistry which embodies synergistic and affordable features of organic-inorganic hybrids with nano-scale inorganic constituents and benzoxazines with phosphorus- or silicon-based chemistry. The proposed Phase I project will: (i) synthesize and screen refined epoxy resins incorporating selected elements of the new molecular structure; (ii) thoroughly characterize selected refined epoxies, and identify the system with a preferred balance of performance, cost and sustainability for use in composite topside structures; and (iii) verify the competitive technical, economic and sustainability merits of the refined epoxy system versus brominated vinyl esters and standard phenolic resins. The follow- up Phase I Option will optimize the refined epoxy chemistry embodying organic-inorganic hybrids and phosphorus- /silicon-containing benzoxazines. | |
| Toyon Research Corp.
6800 Cortona Drive, Goleta, CA 93117 (805) 968-6787 PI: Andrew Brown (805) 968-6787 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0321 |
Missouri Univ. of Science & Tech.
1201 N. State St., G5C Campus Supply Facility Rolla, MO 65409 (573) 341-4266 ID#: N11A-020-0553 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T020 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Visible Electro-Optical (EO) System and LIDAR Fusion for Low Cost Perception by Autonomous Ground Vehicles | |
| Abstract: The Toyon Research Corporation and Missouri University of Science and Technology (Toyon-MST) team proposes development of a system which fuses multi-spectral EO and 3D data collected with a low-cost LIDAR to enable improved perception and navigation for unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs). Phase I research and development will include system design based on analysis of sensor and algorithm capabilities using measured EO and LIDAR data, as well as feasibility demonstration of critical algorithm components. The proposed development includes innovative algorithms for fully-automated dense 3D reconstruction from 2D EO images, with accurate representation of intermediate reconstruction ambiguities. This enables near-optimal calibration of the EO and LIDAR sensors, as well as LIDAR sensor tasking and data fusion to obtain high-resolution 3D information using a low-scan-rate/low-cost LIDAR. The proposed development also includes innovative algorithms for fused EO-LIDAR obstacle detection, and leverages the experience of the Toyon-MST team with UGV platform, sensor, and algorithm development. The proposed Phase I work is designed to set the stage for development and demonstration of a complete prototype and real-time processing implementation in Phase II, and for integration of the developed technology in Navy systems. | |
| Toyon Research Corp.
6800 Cortona Drive, Goleta, CA 93117 (805) 968-6787 PI: Patrick Toole (805) 968-6787 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0323 |
University of California, San Diego
OCGA, Mail Code 0934, 9500 Gilman Drive La Jolla, CA 92093 (858) 534-0247 ID#: N11A-038-0583 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T038 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Scenario Based Radio Simulator and Analysis Tool | |
| Abstract: Toyon Research Corporation proposes to develop a scenario-based radio simulator and analysis tool which can be used to simulate, analyze, and test the next generation of mobile multi-protocol tactical systems. The tool will be based upon, and integrated into, Toyon's Geospatial Analysis Planning Support – Communications (GAPS-Comms) Toolbox, a geographic information system (GIS) framework complete with an intuitive graphical user interface, detailed 3-D environment models (terrain, foliage, buildings, and weather), dynamic vehicles, rapid line-of-sight algorithms, widely used communication models, and real-time network analysis. The new tool will compute and output parameters for each RF channel (including multi-path values) as vehicles/radios move about the scenario, automatically selecting the most appropriate models for path loss, delay, Doppler shift, and fading. It will also interface to a channel emulator, providing the capability to evaluate and display live radios operating in-the-loop. In Phase I we will develop the prototype tool, build a relevant operational scenario, and demonstrate the real-time visualization of time varying RF link characteristics. We will also deliver the standalone software application. In Phase II we will improve the automatic extraction of channel parameters from the scenario, connect and test the tool with live radios, and demonstrate the in-the-loop channel characterization capability. | |
| Traclabs, Inc.
100 Northeast Loop 410, Suite 520 San Antonio, TX 78216 (281) 461-7886 PI: Patrick Beeson (281) 461-7886 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0322 |
Southwest Research Institute
P.O. Drawer 28510, San Antonio, TX 78228 (210) 522-6805 ID#: N11A-020-0279 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T020 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Electro-Optical and LIDAR Sensor Fusion for Self-Calibrating, Low-Cost UGV Perception | |
| Abstract: Sensor fusion allows a robot to overcome many of the drawbacks of individual sensors, but such techniques require precise calibration of all sensors. In support of the Navy's requirements to develop low-cost and robust sensors, TRACLabs and SwRI propose to design and demonstrate a combined EO/LIDAR perception system that facilitates improved autonomy for UGVs. We call this system LEOPARD (for Lidar and Electro-Optic Perception with Advanced Recalibration Design). Research and development of the LEOPARD system will focus on integration of the multi- camera/LIDAR hardware and on the software needed for automatic calibration, sensor fusion, and terrain analysis. Calibration is needed for both the intrinsic parameters and extrinsic sensor parameters. Methods exist in both academia and in commercial software for automatic calibration of multi-camera systems. Some of these use calibration targets, while some can calibrate using arbitrary environmental cues; however, none of these methods have been integrated into a robust fieldable system. In addition, calibration between a multi-camera vision system and 3D LIDAR sensors is less well developed. We expect to unify various calibration methods into a single optimization framework, such that a deployed LEOPARD system will automatically detect and correct calibration errors in the field, without intervention by military personnel. | |
| Ultimara
500 Mansion ct., suite 307 Santa Clara,, CA 95054 (858) 663-0081 PI: Salah Khodja (858) 663-0081 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0309 |
Stanford University
476 Lomita Mall, Stanford, CA 94305 (650) 736-2152 ID#: N11A-024-0547 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T024 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Development of an EO/IR Common Aperture Modular Multifunction Sensor | |
| Abstract: The goal of this program is to develop and fabricate an ultra-low Size, Weight, and Power (SWAP) integrated electro- optic beam-steering technology that utilizes ultra-fast electro-optic active plasmonic waveguide arrays to achieve very wide scanning angle with diffraction limited beam quality. We propose a very scalable electro-optic plasmonic waveguides array that provides the electro-optic phase shift in subwavelength waveguide cross-section in the near-field. plasmonics enable sub-diffraction-limit dimension, allows for ultra-high speed, low power consumption, on-chip integration, and low-unit-cost. The innovative scalable plasmonic array design can steer efficiently the optical beam over wide angle range >1700, while being ultrafast, compact and power efficient, with very low loss to the laser beam, the large optical aperture > 1cm allows the device to handle very high laser beam power. Existing beam steering device are bulky, hybrid and can't be integrated on miniature multifunction aperture for EO/IR sensors. The use of novel plasmonic metallic nano-structure waveguide array, with efficient and fast electro-optic material, will enable miniature fast beamsteering devices that have never been done before. The plasmonic beam steering resolution and scalability will be able to generate diffraction limited beam that match the beam quality of steering mirrors. | |
| Ultra Communications Inc
990 Park Center Drive, Suite H, Vista, CA 92081 (760) 652-0007 PI: Charlie Kuznia (760) 652-0007 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0334 |
University of New Mexico
1700 Lomas Blvd. NE, Ste 2200, Albuquerque, NM 87131 (505) 277-7647 ID#: N11A-022-0400 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T022 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Direct Drive Optical Link for High Speed Cryogenic Data Readout | |
| Abstract: We propose the development of a low-power optical link to read-out data at 30 Gbps to 100 Gbps rates from a 4 K environment. Injection-locked lasers with low impedance can be directly driven by superconducting digital logic signals. This would eliminate the energy dissipated in the impedance transformation and amplification required to boost superconductor signals to drive traditional optical modulator structures. The type of laser proposed under this program is a novel whistle-geometry semiconductor ring laser (WRL). The WRL is injection locked by a master laser that could be incorporated inside (monolithically and efficiently coupled with the injection-locked laser) or incorporated outside of the 4 K environment. If incorporated inside, the master laser would allow efficient scaling to multiple channels, thru the ‘on-chip' integration with multiple modulators. We will develop a receiver system (on the 300 K side) that will perform the conversion of the RZ (pulsed) signals into a standard NRZ format. | |
| Ultra Communications Inc
990 Park Center Drive, Suite H, Vista, CA 92081 (760) 652-0007 PI: Charlie Kuznia (760) 652-0007 Contract #: N00014-11-M-0310 |
University of Wisconsin
1415 Engineering Drive, Madison, WI 53706 (608) 263-1705 ID#: N11A-024-0617 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T024 Awarded:6/27/2011 |
| Title: Optical Phase Array Transmitter and Reciever in Flat Panel Format | |
| Abstract: An opportunity exists to integrate phase-locked VCSEL array devices, liquid crystal spatial phase modulators (LCSPM) and an innovative ‘optical-angle sensor' (OAS) into a compact, flat structure that performs optical phase steering. This technology could create transmit and receive optical phase arrays capable of target illumination, surveillance, and data communications in a hermetically-sealed package amenable to conformal mounting on the exterior surfaces of air vehicles. | |
| Wavefront
7 Johnston Circle, BASKING RIDGE, NJ 07920 (609) 933-3543 PI: Jie Yao (609) 558-4806 Contract #: N68335-11-C-0436 |
Western Carolina University
270 Belk, Cullowhee, NC 28723 (828) 227-2693 ID#: N11A-004-0474 Agency: NAVY Topic#: N11A-T004 Awarded:8/15/2011 |
| Title: Micro-Plasma Turbulence Velocimetry (uPTV) | |
| Abstract: Non-invasive methods are required to measure the turbulence in supersonic jet plumes in 3-D with high temporal and spatial resolutions. The turbulent supersonic jet plume changes rapidly both in space and time, and hence any viable approach must acquire the entire 3-D velocity field at even faster speed for comparison with the temporal and spatial velocity field solved in Large Eddy Simulations. Unlike conventional LIDAR scanning techniques, which cannot scan through the entire 3D volume of the jet plume fast enough, and also unlike particle imaging velocimetry, where added invasive "seeds" are required, the proposed Micro-Plasma Turbulence Velocimetry (uPTV) is designed to deliver simultaneous imaging of the entire turbulent of the jet plume without added seeds. A photon-counting imager is concurrently under development for optimal uPTV. During Phase 1, we will setup uPTV system, demonstrate uPTV concept on a limited-scale wind tunnel, and correlate the stereoscopic image data. The prototype is readily deliverable. In Phase 1 Option and Phase 2, we will construct, test and optimize a full-scale fieldable uPTV system for a typical jet plume, in laboratory setting, at the hanger and on the airfield, for delivery to DoD laboratory. | |