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DoD SBIR FY00.2 - SOLICITATION SELECTIONS w/ ABSTRACTS Army - Navy - DARPA - OSD - SOCOM |
| ARCHITECTURE TECHNOLOGY CORP.
9971 Valley View Road Eden Prairie, MN 55344 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(952) 829-5864
Jordan C. Bonney ARMY 00- |
| Title: | Determination of Distributed Modeling System Interoperability |
| Abstract: | This proposal suggests an approach for determining interoperability between disparate distributed modeling and simulation software. The approach is based on the network-level analysis of the information sent between the constituent hosts of the distributed simulation and modeling systems, developer-provided descriptions of data format, and research into an information ontology that can help define the commonality between the disparate systems. Software that can successfully ascertain the interoperability between simulation systems can be used to dramatically reduce the time required to integrate disparate systems. The integration time is reduced because the system integrators can quickly determine what data can be interchanged, the format of the interchanged data, and data timing. Beyond simulation systems, such a tool can be used to assess the interoperability of any disparate distributed systems. Automating system interoperability is a powerful tool for system integrators. |
| ELO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
2443 208th St. Unit E4 Torrance, CA 90501 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 782-8314
Luan Vo ARMY 00- |
| Title: | Epitaxial Liftoff for Laser Integration onto Silicon |
| Abstract: | The Epitaxial Liftoff (ELO) Packaging Process for integration of optoelectronic devices onto silicon-based circuitry allows for optimized device performance of dissimilar materials, such as CMOS and III-V laser systems, since the liftoff optoelectronic device structure is grown on its native substrate. In comparison, other proposed techniques, such as wafer bonding and direct grown of crystalline epitaxial multilayers on a dissimilar lattice constant substrate, have very challenging problems with large dislocation densities and thermal stresses. The liftoff optoelectronic and the silicon electronic devices can be processed separately prior to bonding, in a fashion not constrained by the presence of the other. This technique is particularly attractive for low cost, high yield, high reliability, and high performance integrated optical interconnects. Integrating the ELO laser structures on top of CMOS integrated circuits will enable cost-effective and space saving packaging optical interconnection for high data rate communication. The optical interconnects will reduce planar metal interconnects and input/output bottlenecks, thereby, increasing overall processing speed and reducing packaging dimensions significantly. In addition, optical interconnects also reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) due to conventional metal interconnect and wire bonds. Integrating the ELO laser structures on top of CMOS integrated circuits will enable cost-effective and space saving packaging optical interconnection for high data rate communication. |
| CAE SOLUTIONS CORP.
40935 Camero Place Fremont, CA 94539 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(510) 226-6021
Mr. Douglas Stillman ARMY 00-001 |
| Title: | Software System for Advanced Warhead Computer Aided Engineering (CAE)/Computer Aided Design (CAD) |
| Abstract: | Advanced EFP warheads provide a number of modeling challenges that must be handled well to make designs feasible, but are very difficult to accomplish with current state of the art general purpose solver technology. A new modular, object oriented hydrocode system including graphical interfaces and optimizers has been developed using the Java programming language. Testing indicates that its performance is similar to existing packages, but the object oriented design of the coding permits it to be adapted and extended at rates that are more than an order of magnitude faster than traditional hydrocode systems. The Java based graphical interfaces are also easily adapted to provide exactly what is needed for a particular design problem, thus, providing enormous benefits to users in terms of faster learning and much less time spent on the warhead design process. Additional modules will be developed in this effort to provide support for advanced EFP designs. The past decade has seen a rapid increase in the usage of non-linear finite elements and hydrocodes for many different kinds of design activities. Much of this increase in use has been the result of rapidly decreasing in computing costs. Over the past two years, however, the computing costs have dropped to a level that is less than the cost of a specialized engineer to run these systems. Thus, the emphasis in mechanical simulation technology must necessarily be shifted from the traditional one of high performance computing oriented products to one of more user friendly and intelligent systems. A separate problem is that non-linear finite element software simply cannot address all of the problems presented by engineering. Thus, today's software is both too complex and frequently inadequate for a given systems' unique needs. Another complication is that the time necessary to train an engineer to properly use the general purpose software systems if frequently greater than the average time he is likely to stay at a company. The software system developed under this contract is being done using the Java programming language which represents a major change from the traditional usage of Fortran. A modern object oriented programming structure for the system is used which allows numerical methods that are ideally suited to mechanical design problems to be implemented along with appropriate graphical user interfaces. Testing has shown that newer releases of Java are only slightly slower than Fortran for scientific programming. Most specific problem classes, however, have properties that can be exploited to make the Java based simulations even faster than the general purpose Fortran systems. With an object oriented modeling system, it is possible to produce better and faster simulations and designs at lower overall cost, including the customization of the software system. A final benefit of the system is that the Java language provides immediate access to standardized interfaces for a variety of technologies which are taken for granted in consumer software, but largely absent from mechanical engineering software. The most important of these are internet technologies, database interfaces and multimedia. A proper exploitation of these capabilities will provide productivity improvements to engineers for a long time to come. |
| NOVA R&D, INC.
1525 Third St., Suite C Riverside, CA 92507 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(909) 781-7332
Dr. Martin Clajus ARMY 00-002 |
| Title: | Development of Polarization Free CdZnTe Detector Arrays for Ultra-Fast Hyperspectral X-Ray Imaging |
| Abstract: | X-ray imaging has become an essential tool in various medical, industrial, and military applications. In its most advanced form, this method combines the shape information obtained in the imaging process with spectral information obtained by measuring the attenuation of the x-rays at different energies. Immediate discernment of material composition defects and anomalies at production rates in all kinds of products requires fast imaging. Therefore, ultra-fast hyperspectral imaging will be an important next step in this field. CdZnTe is the detector of choice at present for hyperspectral imaging because it works at room temperature with excellent energy resolution and it has a large atomic number (Z), which is essential for high sensitivity detection of x-rays. However, polarization in these detectors at high x-ray rates is hampering the application of CdZnTe to hyperspectral imaging. We propose to study this effect in CdZnTe detector arrays and develop polarization free detector arrays for room temperature ultra-fast hyperspectral x-ray imaging. Commercial Applications: The first application we propose is for automatic baggage inspection for contraband such as explosives, agricultural products, drugs and currency. Today, baggage inspection is limited to transmission/absorption image reconstruction. To detect, identify, characterize and quantify the various items, the system must also be able to detect and quantify the energies of the characteristic x-rays that are produced by the items in the bag, box or container. Federal Government Use: High-quality, CZT-based, detection systems can be used by both government and industry. Baggage inspection is a prime example of government use. Other applications, such as the medical and industrial imaging, are also of major interest to federal, state, and local government agencies. Therefore, the government sector can be a major market for the proposed detector system. |
| RADIATION MONITORING DEVICES, INC.
44 Hunt Street Watertown, MA 02472 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(617) 926-1167
Dr. Gerald Entine ARMY 00-002 |
| Title: | CZT Arrays for Ultra-fast X-ray Imaging |
| Abstract: | Cadmium zinc telluride (CZT) is the room temperature x-ray detector of choice for non-destructive imaging applications. Monolithic arrays with high count rate capability (> 1 x 106 counts/pixel) are required for ultra-fast hyperspectral x-ray imaging. Presently, the yield of CZT arrays which can perform hyperspectral imaging in milliseconds, is very low. Most monolithic arrays suffer from "polarization" when exposed to high flux levels (> 106 photons/sec-mm2) which are required for rapid imaging. Polarization is manifest as a leveling off or reduction in count rate when incident flux is increased beyond a certain level. The goal of this Phase I program is to identify the underlying cause(s) of polarization in monolithic CZT arrays at high count rates and determine means to prevent polarization within the arrays. To achieve this goal we will experimentally explore the dependence of high count rate induced polarization on (1) CZT crystallinity, (2) CZT crystal orientation, (3) monolithic array geometry, and (4) electrodes and surface treatment. Additionally, a new source of CZT will be evaluated to determine if polarization can be eliminated through improved crystal growth. Monolithic CZT arrays with high count rate capability would enhance imaging systems which require detector arrays with energy resolution and high throughput for fast, accurate imaging. Benefits realized in the medical field would include bone densitometer systems and combined emission/transmission computed tomography (ET/CT) systems with increased throughput. This would enable the benefits of such imaging systems, namely, the acquisition of information vital for medical diagnostic purposes, to be available to more people. In industrial inspection system applications, such arrays would enable rapid and accurate identification of objects hidden from sight. Potential commercial applications of CZT arrays with high count rate capability include baggage scanner systems in airports, bone densitometer systems in hospitals, and high speed imaging systems in research hospitals. |
| ORINCON CORP.
9363 Towne Centre Drive San Diego, CA 92121 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 351-4440
Dr. Larry L. Burton ARMY 00-003 |
| Title: | Innovative Acoustic Sensor(s) for Multiple Acquisition |
| Abstract: | Current Army acoustic ground sensors are able to detect, track, and classify single vehicles but have great difficulty in performing these functions when multiple closely spaced vehicles are involved. However, it is precisely this capability that is of greatest interest to field commanders, who want to know the numerical size of an enemy mechanized force. To meet this need, ORINCON proposes to develop acoustic algorithms capable of identifying and counting all vehicles within a 1000m square grid. During Phase I, we will define operational scenarios, evaluate alternative sensor configurations, analyze data from acoustic ground sensors, and develop and validate the required acoustic algorithms. This effort will build on previous ORINCON experience in acoustic detection and classification for the Army, Navy, and DARPA; adaptive beamforming for the Navy; and tracking and data fusion for a number of DoD customers. During Phase II, we will implement the recommended sensor configuration, fine tune the algorithms for real-time operation, and conduct a proof-of-principle demonstration in a target-rich field environment. Success during Phase II will allow for transition of these algorithms to other military battlefield surveillance and perimeter monitoring applications. Commercial applications also exist for airport and industrial security and highway traffic monitoring and control. The detection, classification, and counting algorithms for acoustic ground sensors developed for this SBIR will provide a significant enhancement to US Army battlefield awareness capabilities by providing field commanders with information necessary for decisions about fire missions. Our commercialization strategy involves multiple components, including transitioning of these algorithms to other military applications, such as perimeter monitoring, and potential inclusion of this software as a special option feature of our RIPPENr software package that we sell commercially. We also plan to investigate the civilian application, through license agreements, of these acoustic algorithms to airport and industrial security and highway traffic monitoring and control. |
| SCIENTIFIC APPLICATIONS & RESEARCH
15261 Connector Lane Huntington Beach, CA 92649 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(714) 903-1000
Mr. John Spadaro ARMY 00-003 |
| Title: | Innovative Acoustic Sensor(s) for Multiple Target Acquisition |
| Abstract: | Current acoustic unattended ground sensor systems have the capability of detecting, characterizing and localizing vehicle targets with relatively large surveillance areas. One of the major shortfalls of these systems is their inability to perform effectively in multi-target clutter environments. Specifically, the system ability to estimate the number and types of targets when groups of targets are present such as convoys with closely spaced vehicles is limited. The proposed effort presents a multi-target counting (MTC) algorithm based on beam steering and a fuzzy logic volume of noise estimate to attack this problem. One of the keys to the proposed solution is a simulation embedded in the algorithm which allows for iterative estimates of the types and number of targets to in a surveillance area. The algorithm will be tested using simulation techniques previously developed for use with the US Army Scout UAV program, LOSAS (currently a successful Phase II program at SARA). SARA brings over 40 years of combined acoustics experience to bear on the problem leveraging their familiarity with target signatures, sensor technologies, advanced algorithm development and acoustic sensor system architecture. Potential applications will come from organizations requiring acoustic information from remote locations for the performance of their responsibilities. These would include US Army and US Marine special ops, infantry, artillery forward observers, and intelligence; and an assortment of government/private agencies responsible for law enforcement, border surveillance (alien and drug interdiction), remote search and rescue, airport noise monitoring, and environmental assessment. |
| CREARE, INC.
P.O. Box 71 Hanover, NH 03755 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(603) 643-3800
Mr. W. Dodd Stacy ARMY 00-004 |
| Title: | Human Amplification System |
| Abstract: | Creare proposes to develop an intelligent, powered load handling system adapted to the rapid transport of artillery rounds between a support vehicle and a firing platform, or between vehicles. The semi-autonomous system mounts to the support vehicle and transfers loads directly between one crew member working in the bed of the vehicle and one crew member stationed near the weapon's breech. The Phase I effort will produce an engineering design package and a dynamic CAD simulation of the system in operation. The Phase II program will develop and demonstrate a prototype system and conduct extended testing over the full spectrum of applicable platforms, vehicles, and ammunition packaging configurations. The proposed system will reduce injury, reduce labor costs, speed the delivery of goods and materials, and improve the productivity of transportation assets. Commercial applications span the entire trucking and delivery spectrum, especially where product is packaged in manageable but heavy units, such as 80 lb sacks, and unloaded by hand. Transfers involving elevation change will be eased substantially. |
| CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC.
725 Concord Avenue Cambridge, MA 02138 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(617) 491-3474
Paul G. Gonsalves ARMY 00-005 |
| Title: | Integrated Software Environment for Battlespace Digital Mapping and Target Range Acquisition |
| Abstract: | The explosive growth in information technology provides a tremendous opportunity for enhancing US warfighting capabilities. The associated digitization of the battlespace, in tandem with deployment of highly capable sensor systems, provides a tremendous opportunity to enhance battlespace operations. Additionally, the use and proliferation of Geographic Information Systems (GISs) and digital mapping can further enhance military situation awareness and visualization. These advances have substantial application for the development of improved tactical fire control support systems for target-rich multi-shooter environments. Here we propose an Integrated Software Environment (ISE) for Battlespace Digital Mapping and Target Range Acquisition. Our novel system integrates: an in-house battlefield simulation and visualization software environment with an embedded COTS-based GIS processing for digital mapping support and target range acquisition; and a geometric approach for target location prediction augmented with conventional estimation algorithms. We see considerable potential for this approach in enhancing fire control support systems and addressing information dominated battlespace requirements. Our Phase I effort will: 1) identify system requirements and scope; 2) formulate and design a limited-scope prototype ISE ; 3) develop a working concept prototype; 4) demonstrate its use and assess overall feasibility in a selected scenario; and 5) develop requirements for follow-on development and commercialization. We see several potential applications of the developed technology. Direct application of the developed ISE exists to DoD C2 and fire control support systems. Generalization of the developed GIS processing and visualization system to other domains, in particular, law enforcement and search and rescue is also apparent. Additionally, we see opportunities for enhancement of our Intelligent Agent Toolkit (IAT) product via the incorporation of the software development environment and visualization components of the proposed ISE. |
| NAVSYS CORP.
14960 Woodcarver Road Colorado Springs, CO 80921 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(719) 481-4877
Mr. David Lee ARMY 00-006 |
| Title: | Digital Wideband Antijam Technology for Global Positioning System (GPS) Protection |
| Abstract: | The proliferation of inexpensive low-power GPS jammers is an increasing concern. These battery-powered jammers are a menacing problem because they can deployed by the hundreds the air by tethered ballons, for example, or concealed on the ground. These low-power jammers operate for several days on a battery pack. Small jammers may be difficult to find and individually are considered low-value targets. Wideband low-power jammers often modulate high-speed CW swept or Chirp interference in order to appear like noise in the frequency spectra. Most spectral analyzers use Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) methods to estimate spectral energy of RF signals. Real time frequency domain filtering using the FFT and inverse FFT has been demonstrated to extract frequency-stable narrow band CW interference in GPS bands. However, Fourier techniques are not effective against frequency-agile sources of interference, which are rapidly being aggressively marketed. In order to address the frequency-agile interference problem, modern spectral analysis techniques such as wavelet analysis are better suited. The singular advantage of wavelets is the multi-resolution time-frequency signal analysis property.(i) Wavelet sub-band coding and filter banks is a promising new signal processing algorithm has been demonstrated to be an effective means gaining of 20-30 dB J/S for spread-spectrum receivers. Wavelet sub-band filters was performed by introducing frequency-agile interference (high-speed swept and chirp) on C/A band of GPS down converted and post-processed. Although the results are promising, the work was not advanced to a wideband (P-code) GPS real-time implementation. (ii) The wavelet sub-band filter technique has been demonstrated to add 20-30 dB of J/S in direct sequence spread spectrum receivers against a catalog of frequency agile jammers. In order for this work to yield practical benefits for tactical system, the algorithm needs transition real-time over a 20 MHz band. This technique can be implemented without high latency. Spectral interference rejection by digital signal processing does not require a special antenna. In addition, it does not assume constantly radiating interference. These issues affect spatially interference rejection (CRPA) approaches. The inherent processing latency is fixed unlike the null steering antennas, which do not converge upon best performance when platform dyamics and interference transmission cycles on and off. Spectral filtering has been demonstrated to be affective against multiple jammers simultaneously, while spatial filters performance degrades substantially with each additional null and has a hard limit of (N-1) jammers. As a result, DSP using wavelet filter banks may be used stand alone or complementary anti-jam technique within a layered approach. |
| SOFTWARE TECHNOLOGY & SYSTEMS
5220 Pacific Concourse Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90045 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 643-1315
Mr. Stephen F. Rounds ARMY 00-006 |
| Title: | Low Cost GPS Anti-Jam Processor for Wideband Antijam Protection |
| Abstract: | STS will demonstrate the feasibility of a low cost, GPS Anti-jam Processor (GAP), utilizing Space Time Adaptive Processing techniques to cancel wideband noise jamming of GPS signals (L1 & L2) and provide 60 dB of jamming protection. The GAP is a pre-correlation spatial and spectral jammer canceller, with a scaleable architecture. As a low power silicon device, the GAP is immune to changes in performance due to shock, and therefore especially suitable for volume restricted, precision guided weapons, such as gun launched projectiles. Detailed simulations of the GAP chip were conducted under a DARPA/NCCOSC program entitled "Anti-Jam Enhancements to Direct Y Fast Acquisition." In Phase 1, STS will review the detailed simulations from the DARPA program and study the benefits/risks of implementing the GAP in Phase 2 as an FPGA or as an ASIC. In Phase 1 STS will also define the requirements for a Phase 2 discrete RF section, GPS core software and test plan. Phase 2 will produce an FPGA/ASIC implementation of the GAP and demonstrate its anti-jam performance with a SAASM GPS receiver. The ultimate goal is to produce GAP chips that will cheaply and effectively protect GPS receivers, in precision guided munitions, from wideband jamming. STS's proposed demonstration will prove the feasibility of a low cost, low power, single chip anti-jam processor capable of providing over 60 dB of wideband jamming protection. The performance, size and flexibility of the digital GAP chip surpasses any RF or antenna based anti-jamming process, especially for low cost, small size, high production rate applications such as gun launched projectiles. STS studies show that the use of temporal processing not only equalizes the channel to reject wideband jamming, but also compensates for channel mismatches. Null depths of 50dB are shown to be readily achievable with a small number of temporal taps. The GAP chip is also very useful in commercial applications where protection from unintentional interference from other RF sources is needed or in cases such as commercial aviation where protection from terrorist jamming may be necessary. |
| 21ST CENTURY SYSTEMS, INC.
427 South 166th Street Omaha, NE 68118 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(402) 333-2992
Mr. Richard A. Flanagan ARMY 00-007 |
| Title: | Shoot & Scoot Assistant |
| Abstract: | A military combat unit must "see" the battlefield better than the enemy, decide sooner than the enemy to what to do, "move" to see the enemy and fight effectively and "shoot" to destroy the enemy. As the US Army moves toward weapons systems for the digital battlefield, newer, lighter weight and more capable hardware is emerging. These digital data sources may not realize better "seeing", that is, situational awareness. Cognitive task load will be overwhelming if the crew is to interpret and distill the data, deciding what to do fast. Well-informed troops will outstrip a rogue enemy in a combat environment. It's all about whom gets into firing position, first. We propose to first integrate the incoming data to assist the crew in reducing the great amount of incoming data into a timely, relevant, situational awareness picture (the "see" task) and secondly, provide the crew an corresponding, real-time course-of-action aiding based upon the awareness and the crew's mission objectives. Together, these two opportunities form the "Shoot & Scoot Assistant". We will define an agent architecture that supports reuse, all mission phases and conforms to the Technical Architecture. Non-military applications of the agent-based decision aid are the category of where high personal risk needs a "battle-drill" decision aid. Examples include a very wide range of adaptable aids. For example: (1) highway patrolman using a police car aid with digital links during a chase reduces lethal consequences to the patrolman or public, (2) a plant operator's console aid at an industrial production line where fast-acting decisions during automated assembly when equipment malfunctions reduce product waste and increases employee safety and (3) airline flight crew warning, caution & advisory systems reduces crew workload during moments of high stress. |
| AMERICAN GNC CORP.
888 Easy Street Simi Valley, CA 93065 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(805) 582-0582
Dr. Ching-Fang Lin ARMY 00-007 |
| Title: | Intelligent Software Agents for Battlefield |
| Abstract: | Autonomy technologies are key and revolutionary technologies that are needed to fulfill weapon crew operations on the future digital battlefield. This project develops the intelligent software agents consisting of automation in multi levels, knowledge base, inference mechanism, and communication. The proposed intelligent software agents for battlefield not only takes advantage of innovative techniques of individual decision and control methodologies but also, more significantly, emphasizes the synergism among all subsystems to assure the overall system performance. In this project, design issues involved in the choice of a hierarchical intelligent control and health monitoring system architecture, and methods for interfacing elements of the resulting hybrid system are investigated. Efficient and adaptive computational schemes are developed by integrating planning and decision, soft computation, autonomous control, and discrete event control techniques to enhance accommodation of environmental and operational changes. A modeling, design, analysis, and simulation environment is established to implement the system architecture, and environment recognition and adaptation. The performance of the intelligent software agents will be demonstrated and evaluated for battlefield applications. The techniques and systems developed in this project provide technology that can be exploited in various military and commercial applications, such as manufacturing, precision machine tools, process control, smart highway systems, smart weapons, robotics, defense manufacturing and command and control. |
| CHI SYSTEMS, INC.
Gwynedd Office Park Lower Gwynedd, PA 19002 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(858) 618-1064
Mr. Ken Graves ARMY 00-007 |
| Title: | Adaptable Cognitive Decision Aids For Embedded Weapon Applications |
| Abstract: | The reduction of crew sizes in new Army systems such as Future Combat System (FCS) is threatening to overload the cognitive abilities of the remaining operators. Since past technology advances have already served to automate many of the rote procedural tasks contributing to crew workload, much of the remaining improvement must come through application of automation and aiding for the more complex cognitive tasks, such as interpretation of trends and patterns. A need exists for developing cognitive decision aiding capabilities that reduce cognitive workload of combat systems crews. Proposed effort will develop a cognitive decision aid for FCS addressing the function of tactical trends and patterns analysis for prediction of enemy actions based on current states. Cognitive modeling techniques will be employed first to understand user requirements, then to create a suitable decision aid design and to implement the aid using the iGENT cognitive modeling tool. It will be scaleable and reusable in accordance with ARDEC's component-based reference architecture concepts and will conform to Joint Technical Architecture-Army (JTAA), Appendix F. The Phase I prototype will include an executable cognitive model of the trends and patterns analysis process, implemented as a "plug and play" component suitable for use in other systems. This decision aid will fill a need for development of decision aids to reduce cognitive workload on combat systems operators. The reusable cognitive model developed for this program will reduce the costs of software development for other cognitive decision aids to be used on these systems. The concepts and implementations will serve as a technical base for technology insertion into a number of Army Science and Technology Objective (STO) programs under consideration for Initial Brigade Combat Team operations. The cognitive model can also be applied to civilian domains such as stock quoting, logistics management, and police operations. |
| TECHNICAL SOLUTIONS, INC.
P.O. Box 4233 Anthony, TX 79821 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(915) 886-2478
Dr. Alton Gilbert ARMY 00-007 |
| Title: | Adaptable Cognitive Decision Aids For Embedded Weapon Applications |
| Abstract: | A heavy mortar platoon providing immediate indirect fire (IF) support to an Infantry or Armor Battalion (BN) generates and processes many time-critical and mission-critical events. The effectiveness of the platoon is directly related to its ability to deliver On Order missions and Final Protective Fires accurately and on-time, while exploiting terrain features providing cover and concealment for survivability. Recent advances in battlefield communications, the quality and availability of digital cartography, weapon systems technical architectures and intelligent aiding tools for coordinated tactical activity have created new opportunities for information exploitation to increase the operational tempo and combat effectiveness of the heavy mortar platoon as will be required for Future Combat System (FCS) and Force XXI operations. Intelligent aiding of mortar planning including target area coverage, movement, fire-point selection including generation of hasty fire-points while on the move, and the conduct of On-Order and Final Protective Fire missions is proposed. The resulting decision aiding subsystem will be created by using a combination of analytical and cognitive decision processes implemented in reusable software components conforming to Appendix F of the JTA-A, and implemented so as to be installed on the Mortar Fire Control System. Application Programmer Interfaces will be provided for crew interaction using voice, and other non-contact I/O methods. This effort is a novel decision aid approach for tactical systems, in that it attempts to reason across multiple decision factors by applying decision rules and cognitive processes. Such decision processes have been applied to some extent in data mining, but the approach taken here is more adaptive, in that it monitors for conditions requiring reassessment. This approach is broadly applicable to commercial and military decision making situations. |
| TANNER RESEARCH, INC.
2650 East Foothill Boulevard Pasadena, CA 91107 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(626) 792-3000
Dr. Patrick B. Chu ARMY 00-008 |
| Title: | MEMS-based Low Cost Mortar Fuze with Integrated Safe and Arm Mechanisms |
| Abstract: | Existing miniature fuzes tend to be costly, inaccurate, difficult to use, and insufficiently small or sophisticated for advanced munition applications. In alliance with fuze manufacturing experts, Tanner Research proposes to develop a novel mortar fuze with integrated safe and arm (S&A), and fuzing mechanisms based on micro electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) technology. Our innovation is to incorporate a smart, programmable MEMS S&A device in the mortar fuze that minimizes size and weight, increases reliability and safety, improves timing accuracy, and reduces component and system cost. Due to its small mass and mechanical nature, our S&A device will be insensitive to electro-magnetic radiation and able to survive high-g accelerations, while minimizing collateral damage. Tanner Research has demonstrated expertise in the designs of MEMS, integrated circuits, electronics systems, and packaging. During an Air Force Phase I SBIR, we have already developed several designs of MEMS fuze systems and performed feasibility tests with spot charges. Our device will be fabricated using commonly available fabrication equipment to ensure low-cost production and ease of manufacturing and technology transfer. Our S&A design will enable the integration of sensors and electronics with a fuzing device in a compact volume (fraction of a cubic inch). Explosives are commonly used by expert operators in mining, construction, and demolition, rescue/emergency operations, and the entertainment industry. Novel, low-cost, and reliable S&A devices can improve the safety and cost of all electronically-controlled explosive systems, protecting both expert and novice users. |
| KARNATECH, INC.
2046 La Fremontia South Pasadena, CA 91030 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(323) 254-9232
Dr. Karna J. Wahlstrand ARMY 00-009 |
| Title: | Modeling & Simulation of Directed Energy Weapon Systems for Combined Target Effects |
| Abstract: | The modern battlefield will increasingly make use of directed energy weapons, and a simulation of their effectiveness and utility on the battlefield will be needed to guide their development and operational implementation. We propose the first complete validated source-to-target energy transfer computer simulation of the deployment of millimeter/microwave, acoustic, and laser weapons against personnel and materiel targets, including both theoretical models and experimental data. We also consider energy propagation under weather and other environmental effects, with the eventual incorporation of conventional weapons and a simplified two-party war game in Phase II. The combined effects of these weapons interacting at the single target level will be treated with original theories which will demonstrate the resultant nonlinearly enhanced coupling to the target. Our software approach is graphical user interface (GUI)-based and object-oriented, with modular calculation functions and operated standalone on a personal computer. A relational database of kill and incapacitation probabilities and percent degradations will be generated at the completion of Phase II for use in separate force-on-force codes for further weapons system evaluation. Potential commercial applications of this type of directed energy weapons simulation (with appropriate customization to the relevant markets) include PC-based training simulations for prisons and incorporation into more visually sophisticated law enforcement training simulations, both domestically and internationally, and in aiding the development of directed energy weapon technologies in the larger commercial aerospace companies and other military government customers. |
| PHYSICAL SCIENCES, INC.
20 New England Business Center Andover, MA 01810 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 689-0003
Dr. Hartmut H. Legner ARMY 00-009 |
| Title: | Modeling & Simulation for Combined Target Effects |
| Abstract: | Directed energy weapon (DEW) systems can potentially become an important part of war fighting for the Army. Although much is known about the effects of millimeter/microwaves (HPMs), acoustics, and laser/white light on materials and entire systems, no general purpose computational tool exists to evaluate the lethality of individual DEWs. There is even less information available on the combined effects of two or more DEWs on military targets. Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) proposes to remedy this situation by developing a Personal Computer Code for Combined Directed Energy Weapon Assessment (CDEWA Code). This new computer simulation model is envisioned to evaluate the target effects of DEWs by utilizing detailed geometric and material target models that have evolved over the years for detailed conventional and/or nuclear weapon effectiveness. The leveraging of these resources makes the task of creating CDEWA focus on developing the appropriate physical effects models. The complete CDEWA architecture would be developed for the entire set of DEWs and target scenarios in Phase I. The complete CDEWA would be designed, developed, implemented, tested and validated in Phase II. The Combined Directed Energy Weapons Assement (CDEWA) Code would have direct applications in government and industry for evaluating lethal on non-lethal DEW effectiveness. The DEWs include laser, high-power microwaves, acoustic and white light weapons. The CDEWA Code would be marketed as a software product applicable to industry and law-enforcement agencies. |
| KNOWLEDGE ANALYSIS TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
4001 Discovery Drive Suite 390 Boulder, CO 80303 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 545-9092
Dr. Thomas Landauer ARMY 00-010 |
| Title: | Latent Semantic Analysis-based tutorial and assessment tools for ADL |
| Abstract: | In today's rapidly changing global operations environments, teams often must be assembled and individuals re-trained quickly for new force requirements, new systems, and changing missions. The goal of this research is to produce innovative computer software for individual assessment and team selection, for adaptive learning, and for cognitive performance support environments that exploit the power, economy, and customization enabled by ADL. A suite of recently developed and proposed cognitive tools based on Latent Semantic Analysis (LSA) can contribute importantly to this goal. LSA is a machine-learning system that can build assessment, tutorial, and knowledge-mining agents automatically from existing instructional and archival text in almost any domain. These intelligent agents are constructed in far less time and expense, and with much less need for rare specialists as has previously been possible. In the combined Phase I and II effort, we will create a prototype of an integrated system, called Military Knowledge Forum (MKF). In Phase I we will plan the system, and perfect or develop several critical LSA-based components that also stand alone as useful ADL/cognitive readiness tools. In Phase II, we will create or perfect additional tools and join them into a total distributed group learning and cognitive support environment. Almost every present-day industry or business has a need to train widely distributed personnel frequently in new operating procedures and group problem-solving methods. They must be able to select, re-train and support adaptable individuals and teams. The individuals and teams must be possess and be capable of verbally communicating all necessary task-relevant knowledge. No integratable set of adaptive automatic assessment, tutorial, knowledge resource, and cooperative problem-solving support capabilities, such as those that would be developed for the envisaged Military Knowledge Forum system described herein, exists. The development of technology of this kind would help government and private-sector organizations meet the needs of rapidly changing markets, technologies, and labor forces in a timely, effective and economical manner. In Phase I, features and functionalities suitable for use either in the envisioned integrated system or in other ADL systems will be demonstrated as stand-alone web-based applications. Some, such as the automatic free-response assessment tool, will be of immediate utility in marketed or marketable commercial and military training systems. Component LSA-based adaptive assessment and tutorial tools from this project, even without combining into an integrated system, will be of significant commercial value for development of ADL and private-sector cognitive readiness and distance-education systems. KAT would embed some of these new capabilities in its own current and future Internet-based educational testing and tutorial services, and offer both piece-part components and appropriate versions of integrated learning environments for purchase or licensing by military, corporate, and other training and assessment organizations. |
| KINETIC RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT, INC.
1143 Tower Rd. Schaumburg, IL 60173 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(847) 884-0662
Mr. Michael Boruta ARMY 00-011 |
| Title: | Advanced, Small, Internal Combustion Engine |
| Abstract: | We propose the development of a small novel internal combustion engine that can burn heavy diesel fuel, with a disk nutating around the rotating shaft (ref.~1). The uniquely novel arrangement of this engine permits the displaced volume of the engine to be used twice per engine revolution, corresponding to what in piston engines would be considered one power stroke per engine revolution. This feature enables the engine to produce the power/volume and power/weight in small power ranges as required in this solicitation, while the external combustion chamber permits burning diesel fuel as in small gas turbines. The potential of the new technology is high, the risk is manageable, and the probability of success high. The engine can exceed the power/weigh and power/volume constraints of the proposal in engines of under 10 kW power while burning diesel fuel. The engine is inherently balanced, with few and small components, enhancing dynamic durability. Scaling issues of the nutating engine have already been examined in previous publications from 2 kW to 500 kW. This engine when developed has very high potential for commercial applications ranging from engines for aircraft to power generation to land vehicles. Its power density can be utilizd to save fuel due to saving weight in the powertrain of land vehicles as well as in aircraft. Lower manufacturing cost is also a plus that would ensure market success. |
| LOCUST, USA, INC.
8324 N.W. 74 Ave. Miami, FL 33166 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(561) 691-9585
Mr. Robert R. Sellers ARMY 00-011 |
| Title: | Microturbine Feasibility Demonstration |
| Abstract: | A program is proposed to evaluate the feasibility of using low-cost microturbines to meet the U.S. Army future requirements for small, lightweight engines (less than 10 kW power) that operate on heavy fuel and achieve very high power per cubic foot of engine volume. The program will accomplish this evaluation in two tasks; the basic program using today's technology, and an option that will evaluate innovative technology advances. In the basic program today's state-of-the-art microturbine capability will be demonstrated through both analysis and test. A very simple, low-cost turbojet developed for the model aircraft industry will be modified into a shaft engine and tested to determine it's capabilities, including it's power density. Along with the test evaluation, analysis will be conducted to provide an engineering understanding of the engine demonstration. Analysis will include performance, thermal and stress analysis, sealing/leakage evaluation, dynamic behavior, and life projections. In the program option a microturbine in the power range of interest will be conceptually designed using advanced technology features and innovative component arrangements to maximize the volumetric power density. This program will provide the U.S. Army with an engineering evaluation of the suitability of an important class of engines (microturbines less than 10 kW) for use in air/ground unmanned vehicles and to supply power needs for the Army footsoldier. Commercially, this will provide a heavy-fuel, lightweight alternative to small gasoline engines for smooth and safe aero, marine, business, or home application. |
| MATERIALS SYSTEMS, INC.
521 Great Road Littleton, MA 01460 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 486-0404
Mr. Patrick McGuire ARMY 00-012 |
| Title: | Low Cost Optical Finishing of Transparent Ceramics |
| Abstract: | Glass and polymer coatings applied to sapphire or other hard transparent ceramics offer several very low-cost approaches for optical finishing. In Phase I, MSI will investigate (A) polishing the applied coatings, (B) bonding of polished glass faceplates, (C) replicating optically smooth surfaces using polished mandrels, and (D) very thin coatings as applied. The resulting windows will be characterized with the objectives to achieve high in-line transmittance, low haze, and angular image resolution quality of less than 1 milliradian. All processes developed will be compatible with the PVB bonding/autoclaving used for assembling transparent armor systems. In the Phase I Option, the most promising approaches will be further optimized and preliminary production cost estimates will be made. In Phase II, MSI will scale-up the most successful low-cost optical finishing processes to 12 x 14 inch windows while the optical quality is increased to at least 80% in-line transmission and less than 5% haze. Commercialization of this technology will be facilitated through MSI's on-going business relationship with Raytheon Optical Systems, Inc. This program will provide new low-cost methods for achieving optically transparent hard ceramic windows by eliminating the expensive and time consuming polishing of the sapphire or ALON itself. As a result, transparent armor will be available at substantially reduced costs, thereby opening up new markets for these products. By so expanding the range of applications, the cost of light-weight, large-area transparent armor panels for military land vehicles and aircraft will be further reduced. Commercial personnel security vehicles will also benefit from the technology developed in this program. The sapphire and/or ALON transparent armor will offer protection against small caliber armor piercing projectiles at substantially reduced weight and thickness. |
| TRITON SYSTEMS, INC.
200 TURNPIKE ROAD Chelmsford, MA 01824 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 250-4200
Mr. Jon Nebo ARMY 00-012 |
| Title: | Durable, Index Matching, Coatings for Low Cost AlON Finishing |
| Abstract: | Triton Systems proposes a nanoparticle-enhanced polymer coatings approach to significantly reduce the costs associated with polishing and finishing of large area AlON windows. We will develop novel, high refractive index (RI) coatings that will match the refractive indices of aluminum oxynitride (AlON), spinel, and other transparent armor ceramics. This solution-based coating will be able to fill/level the surface imperfections of unfinished or partially finished AlON and provide an optically smooth surface in a single coating step. This will significantly reduce the time, number of steps, and the cost of finishing these high hardness ceramics. We will use Triton's low viscosity solution-based NanotufT abrasion-resistant coating as the platform, and then incorporate surface-compatibilized nanoparticles to tailor the specific optical and other properties of the coating system. We will achieve index-matching by controlling the index and concentration of the nanoparticles, and will thus design coating systems with indices ranging from 1.46 to ~1.9. This range of indices will be used to form graded index and other coating systems with anti-reflection properties. The mechanical properties of the coatings will also be tailored by using this approach. Our approach will make these materials economically viable for a variety of military and civilian applications. Reduced cost, large area AlON windows will see application in variety of military, law enforcement, safety and other civilian applications. The variable index coatings developed here will be useful for a wide range of optical coatings and high index materials may be of use in electro-optic devices. |
| RADIOMETRICS CORP.
2840 Wilderness Place, Unit G Boulder, CO 80301 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 449-9192
Dr. Randolph Ware ARMY 00-013 |
| Title: | Wind Radar, Microwave Profiler, and GPS Data Fusion for Mesoscale Modeling |
| Abstract: | New developments in atmospheric sensing and modeling present the opportunity for significant advancements in local weather modeling and forecasting. New sensors include wind radar, microwave profiler and GPS networks. These sensors provide continuous wind, temperature and humidity measurements. We propose in Phase I to demonstrate the assimilation of these data into high-resolution weather models and to evaluate the potential of the resulting weather forecasts for military and commercial applications. If the results are promising, we will propose in Phase II to develop a turnkey system using these new data types for local weather modeling and forecasting. Turnkey systems for local weather modeling can be used to improve artillery and rocket accuracy, to predict atmospheric dispersion of chemical, biological and nuclear materials, and for battlefield visibility and weather forecasting. Similarly, commercial and civil applications include local weather forecasting for efficient and safe management of sporting and other outdoor events, construction projects, airports, space ports, and ground transportation. |
| AZZAZY TECHNOLOGY, INC.
27111 Aliso Creek Road Aliso Viejo, CA 92656 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(949) 448-7840
Dr. Medhat Azzazy ARMY 00-014 |
| Title: | Non-Intrusive Gas Turbine Combustor Measurement Techniques |
| Abstract: Abstract not available... | |
| MEGAWATT LASERS
PO Box 24190 Hilton Head Islan, SC 29925 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(843) 342-7221
Mr. Scott J. Hamlin ARMY 00-015 |
| Title: | Compact Laser Igniter for Medium Caliber Cannon |
| Abstract: | Medium caliber cannons, such as the Army's M230 chain gun, currently utilize a high current electrical pulse to initiate the propellant. While electrical ignition is reliable, electrical based primers are susceptible to premature ignition from EMI, EMP, or other stray or directed electromagnetic sources. In the event of a weapon jam, electrically initiated primers are potentially dangerous as the potential for a static electrical discharge results in a risky task to safely unload and free the jammed mechanism. Furthermore, current electrical based primers contain lead styphnate, which is considered an environmentally hazardous material. The proposed effort will research the design characteristics of a laser igniter, suitable for replacement of existing electrical ignition systems, as used in small and medium caliber cannons. In addition to being inherently electromagnetically safe, laser ignition systems provide the possibility of utilizing `Green' or environmentally friendly propellants, primers, and boosters, thereby eliminating hazardous materials used in conventional primers and possibly reducing ammunition costs. As the intended application is for rotorcraft, particular attention will be directed to minimizing size, weight and power consumption while maintaining the structural integrity to withstand high shock/vibration levels. In addition to providing a safer, more environmentally friendly ignition systems for medium caliber cannons, the proposed research effort will benefit other laser ignited armament systems as well as provide potential commercial and military applications for miniature laser technology. Applications for the technology developed under this effort include remote sensing, such as ranging, chemical/biological sensing, laser induced breakdown spectroscopy, as well as medical applications including dermatology, dentistry, and surgery. |
| BIOCRYSTAL, LTD.
575 McCorkle Boulevard Westerville, OH 43082 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(614) 818-1170
Dr. Emilio Barbera-Guillem ARMY 00-016 |
| Title: | Synthesis and Functionalization of Quantum Dots for Bio Agent Detection |
| Abstract: | A new class of fluorescent nanocrystals offers the prospect of replacing organic dyes for many fluorescence detection and analysis schemes commercially in use. BioCrystal has developed a family of proprietary fluorescence-based detection reagents which utilize a semiconductor nanocrystal core(CdSe) encased in a semiconductor(ZnS)shell and one or more organic layers which confer water solubility, as well as reactive sites which may be used to bind molecules such as affinity ligands to the functionalized nanocrystal. They are monodisperse and resist photobleaching. The Phase I work effort will demonstrate the feasibility of the following:(1)the use of a continuous flow production technique to produce monodisperse CdSe nanocrystals (CdSeNC) of uniform size in different colors to industrial proportions;(2)the industrial scale production of water-soluble, functionalized CdSeNC, including the production and purification of avidin-labeled CdSeNC;(3)the conjugation of functionalized CdSeNC to bioreceptors, and their use for detection by FRET or aggregation testing. This work will preface the Phase II objective of developing a procedure for the detection of bio-contaminants using functionalized CdSe nanocrystals, and, in parallel, to produce a miniaturized, autonomous sensor device to perform this procedure under continuous use, or during desired periods of time. Multiplexing, constant emission, particulate structure and energy transfer are inherent characteristics which afford fluorescent CdSe nanocrystals a number of advantages over fluorochromes for use in detecting multiple bio-contaminants in sensor devices, and for a number of other commercial uses: as DNA/RNA probes in qualitative disease detection; viral genotyping; automated biological assays for high throughput screening (HTS) applications in drug discovery; fluorescence-based histological studies, including the identification of cancerous tissue, and as encoded beads in multi-dimensional micro-assay formats. |
| USA ARMORING
5816 E. Shields Avenue, Suite Fresno, CA 93727 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(559) 292-3185
Mr. Murray Neal ARMY 00-017 |
| Title: | Flexible-Modular Body Armor For Armor Piercing Protection |
| Abstract: | The overall objective of this proposal is to develop body armor capable of defeating high power rifle threats that are designed as armor piercing; in a flexible manner, that is thinner, lighter, multiple threat resistant, and capable of sustained multiple repeat hits. This armor will also be configured in two formats: conceallable and overt tactical. This armor will be substantially superior to current utilized plate technology with its limited capabilities. Potential post military applications would be flexible and rigid varieties of the same armor, designed for attachment to vehicular, vessel and aircraft upgrade armor applications. This has exceptionally mid to long term enhancements for the U.S. military. This leads to the recapitalization requirement the U.S. Army has to ensure that its equipment remains safe to operate and to provide soldiers with reliable and effective systems to go to war. This new felxible high power armor piercing rifle protection system can be easily integrated into current body armor systems that currently employ a plate component; that is either damaged, missing or ballistically inferior to the current deployment requirement. This makes recapitilization for body armo and hard armor upgrades economically feasible, as it can be interfaced through replacement, extended service programs, pre-planned product improvements, and technology insertion. Potential commercial applications would be all fields of law enforcement such as federal, state and local jurisdictions, to coperate high-risk security concerns. Both of these would also have international markets. Military concerns such as overmatching, could be ensured by offering a lower threat defeating material substrate composite. The post applications are very diverse, but well within current and future demand. |
| AMBERWAVE SYSTEMS CORP.
7 Camelot Road Windham, NH 03087 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(603) 425-1965
Dr. Mayank Bulsara ARMY 00-018 |
| Title: | Photonic Devices on Si Using SiGe Interlayer Technology |
| Abstract: | AmberWave Systems Corporation (ASC) proposes to implement its proprietary SiGe interlayer technology to demonstrate lasers on Si with emission in the visible spectrum. The technology employs ASC's proprietary SiGe interlayer processes to accommodate the lattice-mismatch and thermal expansion differences between GaAs and Si. In conjunction, ASC has established expertise in the growth of antiphase-domain-free GaAs on Ge. The final result is GaAs (and other III-V compound semiconductors) on Si of unprecedented material quality. ASC will demonstrate the fundamental technology to develop III-V compound lasers on Si and then commercialize the technology in high-speed computation and optical communications systems. The advantages of such systems will be the combination of the high-performance capabilities of III-V compounds with the low cost and very large scale integration capability of Si manufacturing methods. In Phase I, ASC proposes to epitaxially grow, fabricate, and test a laser on Si that emits in the visible spectrum. AmberWave Systems Corporation (ASC) can produce monolithically integrated III-V compound optoelectronic devices on Si of world-record quality. In Phase I, ASC will validate ASC's state-of-the art materials integration technology by fabricating an efficient and reliable visible laser on Si. The commercial application of such devices include high-speed computing via optical interconnects on Si and integrated optical communications systems on Si. |
| BEAM ENGINEERING FOR ADVANCED MEASURE
686 Formosa Avenue Winter Park, FL 32789 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(407) 629-1282
Dr. Nelson V. Tabirian ARMY 00-019 |
| Title: | Supra-nonlinear Nano-particulate Liquid-crystalline Opto-electronics |
| Abstract: | The main objective of the Phase 1 of the present proposal will be demonstration of feasibility of multi-functional highly nonlinear materials for photonics and opto-electronics that possess high sensitivity and allow multiple control opportunities of their responses to electromagnetic influences (such as laser beams, electric and magnetic fields). As prime candidate for such materials we will study liquid crystals (LC) that incorporate internal structure made of nanoparticulate networks. We will use proprietary LC with photo-excitation enhanced record high optical nonlinearity as host material, and nanoparticles of various origins such as dielectric, electroconductive, semiconductive, and magnetic for building reconfigurable networks inside LC. The opto-electronic properties of such a material system will be characterized by spatial distribution and dynamics of LC orientation, by the geometry and the dynamics of the structure of the internal network, and inter-coupling between the network and the LC. Such combination will result in the highest number of both control and behavior parameters among all known opto-electronic materials. Coupling and interaction between the network and the LC will ensure sensitivity of the material to a variety of electromagnetic influences and the capability of electronically and optically switchable reconfiguration of the orientation pattern of the LC. Highly nonlinear LC with reconfigurable internal structure will advance opto-electronics beyond their present boundaries of laser beam and optical information control and display. The most versatile multifunctional optical components with strongest light modulating capability will enhance operation of commercial and defense optical systems. |
| FOSTER-MILLER, INC.
350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 684-4186
Dr. Bindu Nair ARMY 00-019 |
| Title: | Highly Nonlinear Optical Nano-Networks |
| Abstract: | The objective of this Phase I proposal is to synthesize and characterize supra-nonlinear optical materials in conjunction with nanoparticle networks containing dispersions of highly non-linear optical (NLO) materials. Nematic liquid crystals (LC) doped with methyl red, a photoconducting dye, have shown some of the highest NLO responses recorded to date. Nano-dispersing this dye-doped LC should result in faster NLO responses. Furthermore, nano-dispersed NLO materials can be activated with lower power sources than their bulk counterparts. Fast, low power NLO materials are necessary to develop the next generation of spatial light modulators that are needed for the high mobility applications envisioned by the DoD. Foster-Miller proposes to meet this objective by developing an innovative, low cost, chemically-based method for nano-encapsulating NLO moieties in a reconfigurable matrix. In Phase I, Foster Miller will select the matrix material, produce films using NLO chromophores dispersed at the nanoscale, characterize the material, and test the composite material system for NLO properties and switching speed. Details on the approach and work plan are contained within this proposal. (P-00876) Fast-responding, low-power non-linear optical materials show special promise as optical sensors, and image processing devices. Important applications include protection of sensors and eyes against low energy lasers, advanced (IFF)/Combat ID sensors, image-scene processing for battlefield situational awareness, and countermeasure and protective devices. Other applications include optical computing and image processing. |
| ATMOSPHERIC GLOW TECHNOLOGIES
2340 Stock Creek Blvd Rockford, TN 37853 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(865) 583-0985
Dr. Kimberly Kelly-Wintenberg ARMY 00-020 |
| Title: | Decontamination using a One Atmosphere Uniform Glow Discharge Cold Plasma |
| Abstract: | Atmospheric Glow Technologies proposes to develop an innovative Mobile Atmospheric Glow Decontamination (MAGDEC) system based upon the patented One Atmosphere Uniform Glow Discharge Plasma (OAUGDP) technology. This advanced system will be a deployable military protection system that will decontaminate highly toxic chemicals and microorganisms on sensitive equipment, personnel protective equipment, and aircraft, vehicle, and shelter interiors. Phase I efforts will focus on neutralization of chemicals while Phase II efforts will extend studies to biological warfare agents including spores, building upon the proven efficacy of the OAUGDP against a wide range of microorganisms. Phase II work will conclude with testing additional simulants and, where possible, CBW agents themselves in collaboration with researchers at Aberdeen Proving Ground. The completion of this Phase I effort will result in the design of the MAGDEC system for the decontamination of chemical warfare agents. The success of the Phase I and Phase II projects will provide the military with a singular means to achieve biological and chemical decontamination of equipment ranging from robust vehicles to sensitive electronic equipment within minutes with no significant production of harmful by-products. An additional arena of use for our design could include domestic Hazardous Materials Management Teams charged with decontaminating buildings or industrial sites following spills or terrorist events. |
| VIRGINIA DIODES, INC.
8 Deepwater Point Palmyra, VA 22963 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(804) 923-0542
Dr. David W. Porterfield ARMY 00-021 |
| Title: | Integrated Terahertz Transmit/Receive Modules |
| Abstract: | The Terahertz frequency band, from roughly 300 GHz through 10 THz, is often sited as the most scientifically rich, yet unexplored region of the electromagnetic spectrum. The major problem that continues to forestall the full exploitation of the terahertz band is the lack of compact, reliable and cost efficient terahertz sources and receivers. Previous research has shown that GaAs diode technology can be used for terahertz frequency transmit/receive modules, but the cost is prohibitive, the reliability is poor and the frequency agility is limited. This SBIR proposal promises a radically improved T/R architecture based on the integration of GaAs mesas and the associated embedding circuitry on low-loss dielectric substrates. Such integration is the key to improving electrical performance and greatly increasing power handling, while also creating a compact, highly reliable, and manufacturable technology. Phase I will end with a clear demonstration of the potential of this technology. A successful Phase II program will culminate in the demonstration of militarily practical T/R modules in the terahertz frequency band. The integration of terahertz technology is the key to opening this region of the electromagnetic spectrum to military and commercial applications. Successful completion of this SBIR research program will lead to militarily practical Teraherz components. These will find immediate application in laboratories throughout the US and Europe that strive to investigate and develop terahertz science, technology and applications. The military applications of this technology will include communications systems (ultra-secure, ultra-broadband, satellite), bio/chem threat detection, collision avoidance radars that penetrate smoke and fog, space communications, compact range radars, fuses for smart munitions and medical diagnostics. |
| MATERIALS & ELECTROCHEMICAL RESEARCH
7960 S. Kolb Rd. Tucson, AZ 85706 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(520) 574-1980
Dr. W Kowbel ARMY 00-022 |
| Title: | Multifunctional Carbon, SiC and Polymer Textile Fibers Reinforced with Nanotubes for Enhanced Performance |
| Abstract: | Due to poor nanotube-matrix interactions, the exemplary properties of carbon nanotubes have yet to be realized in composite applications. Fiber architectures offer promise for allowing integration and alignment of the nanotube into the matrix, yielding a composite fiber that fully realizes the extraordinary mechanical, thermal and electrical properties of the nanotube reinforcement. High purity single wall nanotubes (SWNT), double wall nanotubes (DWNT) and multiwall nanotubes (MWNTS), relatively free of contaminating byproducts, can be synthesized and functionalized with a variety of adducts that permits easy dispersion and chemical incorporation of the nanotubes into the surrounding fiber matrix. In a team effort between MER and the University of Kentucky (UK), as-grown and functionalized nanotubes with adducts to interact with the fiber matrices will be investigated to produce carbon, SiC, polyolefin, polyester and polyamide fibers. Both MER and UK have incorporated nanotubes in carbon, SiC, and polymer fibers with very promising results of increasing fiber strength, modulus and electrical conductivity over the base fiber. This collaborative, ongoing effort regarding nanotube fibers, utilizing the resources of the world's largest producer of nanotubes of all types and an institution leading the development of nanotube composite materials, assures that this program will demonstrate carbon nanotube reinforced fibers with significantly enhanced properties. There is an extensive market in textile and carbon/graphite fibers that would be expanded and/or replaced with nanotube fibers exhibiting enhanced properties and specialty textile fibers with electrical conductivity, increased stiffness and strength. Fiber applications include ballistic applications for military and law enforcement, conductive housings such as telephone and a plethora of electronic devices, photovoltaics and even power transmission. |
| REYTECH CORP.
742 SE Glenwood Dr Bend, OR 97702 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(541) 617-1556
Dr. Thomas A. Reynolds ARMY 00-022 |
| Title: | Ultra-High-Performance Carbon Nanotube-Based Fibers |
| Abstract: | Development of carbon nanotube-based composites offers a promising pathway toward the realization of novel materials for a broad range of military/civilian applications. This SBIR project is focused upon developing multifunctional, ultra-high-performance fibers containing carbon nanotubes (CNT's) that will meet Army requirements in applications requiring fibers that are superior to those based on conventional carbon, polymer, ceramic, and composite technology. The goal is to produce the next generation of fiber technology-paving the way for major improvements in existing fiber-based applications and allowing for new technologies to be tested and implemented. The specific Phase I goal is to establish the feasibility of developing two types of fibers containing CNT's that demonstrate favorable adhesion and orientation within the fiber matrix. ReyTech Corporation proposes to prepare and evaluate composite fibers based on a combination of CNT's and high-performance, robust polymers based on proprietary techniques developed during previous work at ReyTech. Successful demonstration of feasibility will set the stage for initial prototype development under the Phase I Option and for a follow-on, full-scale Phase II prototype development and demonstration project. Success in this multi-phase project will result in a broad range of important military and civilian applications, including the following: high-strength and lightweight composites for armor; structural, electronic, and thermo-mechanical components; protective clothing for chemical and biological warfare; chemical and electromagnetic sensors; electromagnetic shields; and advanced device applications. It is likely that fibers containing carbon nanotubes can be formed to serve multiple, concurrent functions-e.g., as a lightweight structural member that also shields against electromagnetic interference (EMI) or that senses strain, radiation, or chemical agents. |
| IPITEK PHOTONIC TECHNOLOGY
2451 Impala Drive Carlsbad, CA 92008 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(760) 930-2220
Dr. Araz Yacoubian ARMY 00-023 |
| Title: | Heterogenous Integration of MEMS and GHz Electro-Optic Polymer Modulators for RF Communications |
| Abstract: | Heterogeneous integration of micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) with polymer based electro-optic modulators is proposed, to produce compact and deployable modulators for RF photonics applications. Current technology allows fabrication of compact and light-weight modulators, but these interferometric devices are still not truly deployable, because they require control and feedback electronics for balancing and stabilization. Here we proposed to integrated GHz Mach-Zehnder modulators with KHz-MHz MEMS based oscillator and feedback electronics to balance the modulator at quadrature, thus eliminating the need for bulky and power dissipating external oscillators and lock-in amplifiers. The method takes advantage of two state of the art technologies that have reached certain degree of maturity. Polymer modulators have been shown to work at frequencies over 100 GHz with drive voltages of less than 1V, whereas MEMS based oscillators and high Q filters have been successfully fabricated in the KHz-MHz frequencies. Integration will be carried out on Si substrates, where polymer waveguides will be grown and processed on top of MEMS circuitry. Combining feedback electronics will allow 2 to 3 orders of magnitude reduction in size, mass and power consumption over current methods, and will enable mass production and low cost fabrication of high-frequency modulators. The proposed integration approach allows for fabrication of low power consumption, compact, lightweight and deployable modulators to be used for high-speed communication systems. In the commercial industry, markets include telecommunication industries for voice, video and data transmission. Military markets include RF photonics and phased-array radar applications. Both MEMS and polymer electro-optics use the same lithographic processing step on Si substrates, therefore heterogeneous integration has the potential for low cost mass production. |
| BOULDER NONLINEAR SYSTEMS, INC.
450 Courtney Way, Unit 107 Lafayette, CO 80026 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 604-0077
Mr. Steve Serati ARMY 00-024 |
| Title: | Wavefront Control and Sensing System based on an Opto-Silicon-Integrated Phase-Contrast Technique |
| Abstract: | This proposal describes the design and development of a high-speed, high-resolution wavefront sensing and control system. The system will couple high-resolution analog liquid crystal spatial light modulators with an innovative subtractive imaging sensor. The resulting system will acheive vast improvements in resolution, size, weight and cost over currently available systems. The system will be capable of sensing and correcting strong disturbances in the atmosphere, resulting in a device suitable for astronomy, military imaging, fluid flow measurement and point-to-point laser communications. |
| EMAG TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
3055 Plymouth Road, Suite 205 Ann Arbor, MI 48105 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(734) 747-6646
Dr. Kazem F. Sabet ARMY 00-025 |
| Title: | Enhanced Computer Analysis and Computer Aided Design (CAD) of Active Radio Frequency Antenna Arrays |
| Abstract: | The objective of this Small Business Innovation Research project is to lay the foundation of a CAD software tool for the design of large-scale active radio frequency antenna arrays. A circuit-based global modeling strategy is proposed that can integrate the analyses of spatially distributed electromagnetic structures, linear passive networks and nonlinear active circuits within a unified framework that can even incorporate thermal analysis self-consistently. The proposed strategy can be utilized in both frequency and time domains. In the Phase I feasibility study, we will interface a general-purpose planar structure simulator based on the method of moments with a general-purpose linear/nonlinear circuit simulator that uses a harmonic balance technique. The Phase I effort will be confined to the frequency domain and the time domain development for transient analysis is relegated to Phase II of the project. The object-oriented software architecture of emPiCASSO, our commercial antenna CAD tool, will be used as the foundation of the proposed software. Active antenna arrays are finding growing applications in radar and guidance systems and wireless communications. The proposed active antenna CAD tool will drastically facilitate the design of such sophisticated systems. It can also be used for global modeling and design of any active microwave circuit. |
| ETECH, INC.
1310 E. Boston St. Altadena, CA 91001 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 540-1623
Dr. David M. Owen ARMY 00-026 |
| Title: | Blast Resistant Glass Facades for Structural Applications |
| Abstract: | Glass panels are the weakest element in the fa‡ade of any structure. Under blast loading due to accidental or intentional explosion, standard plate glass shatters into dangerous, high speed shards that are often the cause of a significant fraction of serious injuries. Although tempering and lamination with plastics can improve both the strength and failure behavior of glass, they are typically relatively thick and heavy and significantly more expensive. This project is undertaken to develop new design methodologies for light-weight, cost-effective blast-resistant glass. The fundamental design concept involves the multi-dimensional tailoring of the failure behavior through the manipulation and variation of material properties through the thickness and in-the-plane. The approach involves a unified experimental / computational effort. The experiments feature high-speed diagnostics to obtain real-time, detailed quantitative information regarding the response of glass to blast overpressures. The computations feature cohesive elements which enable to the simulation of the complex failure patterns associated with the failure of glass under blast loading. It is anticipated that this approach will lead to the development of a design tools and rules that will lead to the fabrication of inexpensive, light-weight blast-resistant glass panel systems. Through a unified experimental / computational approach tools and rules for the design of blast resistant glass will be developed. In this manner, plate glass having optimized cost, failure characteristics and/or weight can be fabricated. Plate glass having high strength combined with controlled failure behavior in the face of blast overpressures will have use in architecture, automotive and even consumer products - anywhere the shattering of glass poses a significant threat to safety. |
| INTREPID, INC.
2533 N. Carson Street Carson City, NV 89706 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(831) 622-0240
Mr. Tom Wollny ARMY 00-027 |
| Title: | Broadband Focused Radar at Ground Penetrating Frequencies for Detecting Mines, Unexploded Ordnance, or Mobility Related Surface Layers |
| Abstract: | The above ground penetrating radar systems for close-up surveying of terrain are inadequate for the detection of frozen or thawed soil layers (which is important for mobility determination) and for locating near surface buried objects such as pipes, waste containers, mines, or unexploded ordnance. Current antenna systems are not capable of providing a small spot size at a useful frequency. Antennas that can provide a small spot size operate at too high a frequency to adequately penetrate wet soil. The current low frequency antennas are not suitable for coherent signal processing and accurate ranging due to the non-planar wave fronts at short ranges. We propose a novel antenna approach to cover the frequency band from 10 MHz to 1000 MHz which provides a small footprint on the soil surface A convincing demonstration of a cost effective Broadband Focused Radar at Ground Penetrating Frequencies for Detecting Mines, Unexploded Ordnance, or Mobility Related Surface Layers design would provide the Government an opportunity to provide this equipment to the military forces operating to clear mines, UXO or when operating on frozen terrain. This technique if successful can make a significant contribution to the use of Ground Penetrating Radar at frequencies that really do penetrate the ground. The Military and Commercial demand for this type of instrument is expected to be significant. |
| ROCKY MOUNTAIN RESOURCE LABS, INC.
801 N. Lincoln Jerome, ID 83338 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(208) 324-7522
Dr. Bruce J. Bradley ARMY 00-028 |
| Title: | Wet-Vacuum Sampler For Surface Biocontamination Detection |
| Abstract: | In response to possible biological warfare (BW) attack, accurate sample acquisition and rapid detection of point microbial contamination on military equipment, housing and supplies is required for personnel safety and early response strategies. A novel hand-held, wet-vacuum sampling unit (VSU) is proposed, which will allow application of sterile rinse solutions onto diverse material surfaces or textures to promote detachment and recovery of biological agents (BA). Dried material of interest may be pre-hydrated without vacuum as needed to improve microbial detachment. Liquid-suspended BA's are collected and filtered onto a 47mm disc filter within the VSU in a single operation. Liquid transport or resuscitation media may be added. Simple removal of the VSU's final filter will accommodate conventional or rapid detection method (RDM) processing. The feasibility of utilizing Solid Phase Laser Cytometry for rapid detection of microbes directly on the VSU's filter is also proposed. In future R&D, procedure development is anticipated to back-flush microbes off the VSU's filter for PCR, ELISA and other RDM or further processing in liquid. This unique system is projected to offer a more reliable sample acquisition alternative to military and civilian environmental and health safety officers to counter acts of bioterrorism or hostile BW attacks. The proposed microbial sampling system will provide improved health and safety potential for military and civilian personnel by allowing more rapid and accurate sample acquisition and monitoring of contamination from biological warfare and terrorist threats or attacks. Other government and civilian agencies involved in food safety issues resulting from pathogenic contamination of food or food-preparation surfaces and environments will also benefit from the commercial availability of this improved microbial sampling and detection system. |
| FIBERTEK, INC.
510 Herndon Parkway Herndon, VA 20170 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 471-7671
Dr. Ti Chuang ARMY 00-029 |
| Title: | Man-Portable LIFDAR System for the Remote Detection of Clandestine Laboratories |
| Abstract: | The proliferation of clandestine laboratories for illegal drug manufacturing has escalated throughout the years. National total of methamphetamine laboratories seizures has grown from 43 in 1973 to a 2025 in 1999. Last year it registered an increment of 24% compared to the previous year. These statistics only reflects the number of sites that were detected and seized. It is recognized, however, that many more labs are operating than those that are discovered. Detection of clandestine labs is accomplished by a number of intelligence gathering procedures, including reporting of activity by suspecting neighbors. There is a need to insert more advanced techniques to acquire evidence of illegal drug manufacturing activities at a suspected location. The proposed effort will begin with the selection of volatile compounds that will be considered the targets of interest (TOIs) for the duration of the project. An analysis of the fluorescence properties of these TOIs will be performed using 266 nm excitation. A system architecture and performance model for a laser-induced fluorescence LIDAR (LIFDAR) system will be defined. The Phase I effort will end with the development of a preliminary design for this system. Phase II will cover the production of a fieldable system for customer evaluation. The man-portable LIFDAR to be developed under the proposed SBIR program has significant potential for application in military sensing, environmental remediation and biological agent detection. In addition, a market exists for advanced sensors, primarily for airborne biological agent detection. The cost of the proposed system should be low enough in production that sensors based on this technology could be acquired by virtually every single law enforcement unit dedicated to the detection and seizure of clandestine laboratories. We have estimated potential business in excess of >$130 M based on the proposed technology. Not all of this would be realized by a single company, but the business and potential saving clearly justifies investment in this technology by government and industry. |
| PACIFIC ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY
P.O. Box 359 Santa Ynez, CA 93460 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(805) 688-2088
Ms. Michele Hinnrichs ARMY 00-029 |
| Title: | Remote Detection of Hazardous Chemicals |
| Abstract: | Clandestine laboratories produce illegal drugs through the chemical synthesis of precursors, reagents and solvents. These laboratories are not only illegal in their operations, but these processes are extremely dangerous because of the hazardous chemicals used for the extraction of the product, as well as the by-products and residues produced. This produces a hazard in operations due to the explosive and safety nature of these materials, and these facilities pose a safety hazard for the government investigative agencies, particularly policing agencies that must enter these facilities. Pacific Advanced Technology (PAT) has developed a field portable infrared imaging spectrometer technology (Image Multi-spectral Sensing or IMSS) for defense related applications such as the detection, analysis and warning of numerous targets from missile plumes to chemical warfare agents. PAT proposes to utilize this new IMSS technology and apply it to hazardous chemical vapor detection and analysis. This technology can provide a small, hand held camera that can detect and analyze gases and determine their chemical species. PAT proposes to analyze and test the IMSS technology during the Phase I effort and fabricate a chemical detection camera during the Phase II program. An inexpensive, small, lightweight, portable, hand held "instrument" that could remotely detect and classify hazardous chemicals and vapors would be a tremendous asset to law enforcement agencies in the detection and enforcement actions against clandestine drug labs. Such a camera would also be a significant improvement in chemical detection for the petrochemical industry where fugitive gas leaks are a problem due to both the environmental impacts and lost product costs. |
| APPLIED THIN FILMS, INC.
1801 Maple Avenue, Suite 5316 Evanston, IL 60201 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(847) 467-5282
Dr. Sankar Sambasivan ARMY 00-030 |
| Title: | Low Conductivity for Thermal Barrier Coatings (TBCs) |
| Abstract: | Higher inlet operational temperatures for turbine engines is expected to provide significant benefits in fuel efficiency and performance for both military and commercial air vehicles. To accomplish this goal, new generation of thermal barrier coatings with superior reliability and durability will be needed. While the currently-used zirconia-based thermal barrier coatings provide excellent thermal protection, they suffer from thermomechanical degradation during exposure at elevated temperatures. In this Phase I effort, a crystal chemistry approach is being explored to examine a new family of layered perovskites. Key properties of these highly anisotropic materials include low thermal conductivity (0.7 W/M.K @ 13000C), tailorable CTE to match substrate, and inherent toughness/compliance primarily imparted through weak bonding between interbasal planes. In Phase I, coatings will be developed by plasma spray techniques with subsequent characterization of microstructure, texture, and thermal conductivity. The objective is to induce microstructurally designed features via texture and porosity to further lower thermal conductivity and to improve mechanical properties. The multifunctional nature of these materials will allow for their use in a broad range of applications. Potential commercial applications include TBC coatings for helicopter engines, diesel engine components for low wear and friction, and coatings for MEMS and microturbines. |
| ULTRAMET
12173 Montague Street Pacoima, CA 91331 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(818) 899-0236
Mr. David J. Scott ARMY 00-030 |
| Title: | Low-Cost, High-Performance Nanostructured Thermal Barrier Coatings for Turbine Engine Applications |
| Abstract: | Brayton and combined-cycle (turbine) engines are widely used for a variety of applications, including aeropropulsion and power generation. The performance of turbine engines is limited by the allowable use temperature of their hot-section components. Due to increasingly complex cooling passages and greater turbine temperature and life requirements, current protective coating compositions and deposition/application technologies are inadequate for future turbine engines. In this project, Ultramet will develop a low-cost, low temperature wet chemical synthesis and application technique to produce a superior thermal barrier coating (TBC) system consisting of high melting point, low thermal conductivity, low oxygen permeability oxides. The low oxygen permeability and improved thermal insulation properties, particularly at higher temperatures, of this TBC system will be demonstrated through cyclic oxidation verification testing. This new TBC system for high temperature turbine engines will allow operation at higher temperatures (>=2800øF) while increasing the life and reducing the cost of such systems. Not only will the new coating system allow turbine engines to operate more economically, but it will also reduce coating cost relative to existing state-of-the-art systems. The next-generation TBC system to be developed in this project will have improved thermal performance, longer life, and greater quality comparable to current coatings, with the potential for an 80-90% reduction in cost. Improved TBCs will have wide application to military and commercial propulsion and power generation systems, including turbine and reciprocating engines. |
| CHI SYSTEMS, INC.
Gwynedd Office Park Lower Gwynedd, PA 19002 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(215) 542-1400
Dr. James Eilbert ARMY 00-031 |
| Title: | Comanche Tactics and Survivability Expert Planner |
| Abstract: | There is a great need for innovative tools to support training, mission planning and cognitive decision aiding for tactics and survivability of advanced rotorcraft systems like Comanche and Apache Longbow. As the Rotorcraft Pilots Associate (RPA) program is demonstrating, recognizing human cognitive limitations and capabilities enables development of cognitive technologies for dramatically aiding aviators to overcome these limitations and take maximal advantage of their cognitive capabilities. The proposed research will identify and characterize advanced mathematical modeling techniques supporting identification of aircraft vulnerabilities, learning, and selection of courses of action (COA). The key innovation proposed, however, is the integration and development of a context-sensitive cognitive agent capable of representing, reasoning about, and deciding in real-time when and how to apply expertise. In this case, expertise includes that required for selection and use of these mathematical techniques, and the expertise in tactics and survivability necessary to enable real-time context-sensitive COA generation and selection. Such a cognitive agent, iCTEP, is inherently compatible with RPA's cognitive decision aiding processes, and utilizes one of the most advanced executable cognitive architectures currently available in a COTS IDE: the COGNET architecture as implemented in the iGENTM cognitive agent software toolkit and integrated development environment (IDE). The iCTEP will be applicable for commericial avaiation and military aviation trainng systems such as the Commanche and Longbow. By the end of Phase II, a desktop planning system is expected to be integrated into a stimulator which will determine which technique (Baysian, etc.) will be optimal for the situation at hand. |
| FRONTIER TECHNOLOGY, INC.
6785 Hollister Avenue Goleta, CA 93117 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 671-0508
Mr. G. Ed Crowder ARMY 00-031 |
| Title: | Comanche Tactics and Survivability Expert Planner |
| Abstract: | U.S. Army attack helicopters are arguably among the most lethal, responsive and flexible components of U.S. armed forces today, and the Comanche weapon system will see that they remain so for the foreseeable future. To live up to its potential, however, the Comanche must also be survivable on the modern battlefield, which in turn demands fast and accurate organic tactical decision making processes and supporting information technologies/tools/systems. An automated Comanche survivability and tactics expert planner (C-STEP) is needed to recognize battlefield situations, support identification of routes and tactics that reduces/minimizes detection by threats, increases survivability, and maximizes target detection and Comanche lethality. An easy-to-use, intuitive automated tool that could aid the Comanche pilot in either pre-planned or real-time selection and evaluation of alternative routes/tactics according to user-selected criteria will be tremendously valuable to Comanche pilots. A tool that could also automatically find and display optimal routes and tactics according to user-selectable criteria will be even more valuable, with the potential to increase the probability of success of any Comanche mission where survivability is an issue. This research will research and prove the concept of such a C-STEP tool. Commercial applications of automated real-time adaptive decision support include transportation applications analogous to the Comanche expert planner problem and financial industry applications where complexity and time-sensitivity make human performance problematic. |
| THORPE SEEOP
320 S. Nina Suite #14 Mesa, AZ 85210 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(480) 969-2021
Mr. Douglas T. Thorpe ARMY 00-032 |
| Title: | Wing-Store Unmanned Aerial Vehicle |
| Abstract: | A wing-store unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is presented deployed from widely fielded existing weapons launchers. Computational simulation and modeling of the UAV as it is launched from a helicopter in hover, forward and sideward (crosswind condition) flight is considered. Comparison of simulation with data from a company 100% scale model test flown previously demonstrates accurate results of simulation. The present effort is directed at the preliminary design of the wing-store UAV for use as a "Bird Dog" off aircraft sensor provider. The pre-design UAV will be modeled and a computer simulation of the launch envelope with a helicopter downwash flow field will be conducted. A "Concept Demonstrator" UAV will be built and test flown from a test stand and from an aircraft during the proposed effort. Off aircraft sensor providers such as a "Bird Dog" UAV would have significant benefits to warfighter and commercial aviation users. Law enforcement, search and rescue, and resource managers would benefit from the application of this technology. |
| TOYON RESEARCH CORP.
75 Aero Camino, Suite A Goleta, CA 93117 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(805) 968-6787
Dr. Thomas L. Larry ARMY 00-033 |
| Title: | Retrofit Anti-Jam CRPA for Handheld GPS Receivers |
| Abstract: | Toyon Research Corporation proposes to design a low-cost, jammer resistant antenna element suitable for legacy handheld GPS receivers. The design will mechanically and electronically interface with the handheld unit and require no change to the receiver. This active antenna device will provide 35 to 40 dB of improvement in the J/S (jammer to signal) ratio. The design itself will use Toyon's innovative electronically reconfigurable antenna (ERA) techniques. Such antennas make use of active control load devices in the antenna aperture. These devices enable the antenna characteristics to adapt to the signal environment. Toyon has considerable experience in ERA design and the design and fabrication of the associated control devices and processes. For this Army handheld application, we have taken Toyon's innovative anti-jam GPS antenna design approach and developed new innovative control techniques that allow it to retrofit the existing PLGR (AN/PSN-11) receiver. The jammer resistant GPS antenna proposed for this handheld unit will fit in a package that is 4-inches long and one inch in diameter. At the end of Phase I a proof-of-concept breadboard version of the antenna will have been designed, fabricated, and tested for its suitability as a GPS CRPA with anti-jam capabilities. Applications range from military applications, including the obvious handheld Army GPS antennas to commercial GPS applications. This electronically reconfigurable antenna concept is applicable for any commercial application of GPS, which is subjected to electromagnetic interference such as business aircraft or helicopters flying in and out of populated areas. |
| WANG ELECTRO-OPTO CORP.
2140 Newmarket Parkway Marietta, GA 30067 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(770) 955-9311
Dr. Johnson J. H. Wang ARMY 00-033 |
| Title: | Retrofit Antijam Applique for Handheld GPS Receivers |
| Abstract: Abstract not available... | |
| ATLANTIC CONSULTING SERVICES, INC.
167 Avenue at the Common Shrewsbury, NJ 07702 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(732) 460-9416
Mr. Mark R. Lambert ARMY 00-034 |
| Title: | Interoperability between Modeling and Simulation Applications and Army Command and Control (C2) Systems for Planning/Decision Support |
| Abstract: | The utilization of Modeling and Simulation (M&S) technology to support the life cycle development, fielding, training and sustainment of military systems has demonstrated tremendous benefit as M&S applications have matured. The benefits of interoperability between M&S applications and Command and Control (C2) systems are becoming increasingly more evident as successful implementations are developed and used in Army experiments and exercises. As M&S technology improves, more successful use has been applied across domains and the benefit of interoperability, particularly in time, cost and effectiveness, has been demonstrated. The purpose of the Phase I effort is to investigate approaches for defining interoperability standards between M&S applications and Army C2 systems for planning and decision support. This will focus on Army C2 systems and constructive force-on-force simulation systems that are used for analysis, training, and as scenario drivers (e.g., OneSAF, Janus, Eagle, WARSIM 2000). This will be accomplished by developing an object model that captures the common data representation requirements to promote better interoperability between M&S applications and C2 systems. ACS will use an innovative approach for this problem through specification of the C2 representation from a purely data perspective that is independent of a particular simulation interoperability architecture. Will leverage significant investment in simulation technology to provide capabilities as part of Future Combat Systems (FCS) that will allow warfighters to "train as they fight." |
| PHYSICAL OPTICS CORP.
Engineering & Products Div. Torrance, CA 90501 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 320-3088
Dr. Tin M. Aye ARMY 00-035 |
| Title: | Spectral Camouflage Holographic Coating for Photovoltaic Solar Panel |
| Abstract: | Physical Optics Corporation (POC) will camouflage solar panels by modifying the reflective properties of the photovoltaic (PV) silicon cells. In current solar panels, multilayer thin film antireflective coatings and cut-off filters reject some visible wavelengths (mostly blue-green) transmit near-IR, giving them a highly reflective, specular blue-green spectral signature. POC proposes to develop a new holographic coating technology, multiplexing subtractive and additive reflection holographic structures. This can produce solar cells in any color (including black) by combining (multiplexing) three narrowbands primary color holographic coatings, which are flexible environmentally stable, rugged, nonspecular (diffuse), and exhibit no color shift with changes in incidence angle or temperature. The proposed holographic coating is commercially attractive because of its low-cost material and fabrication and compatibility with state-of-the-art solar cell technology. In Phase I, POC will investigate the proposed concept by theoretical analysis and computer simulation, and by experimentally fabricating solar cell coatings in at least four colors: black, green, brown, and tan, and will demonstrate the feasibility of the approach. The proposed spectral camouflage holographic coating will be a new generation of camouflage material, which can be applied to many kinds military equipment, vehicles, command posts, and field stations. The technology developed for camouflaging solar panels will also make solar panels that are integral to buildings aesthetically appealing. |
| EAST WEST ENTERPRISES, INC.
524 JORDAN LANE HUNTSVILLE, AL 35805 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(256) 534-4782
Dr. RAMARAO INGUVA ARMY 00-037 |
| Title: | ADAPTIVE INFORMATION AND AUTOMATED DECISION AIDS FOR THE WARFIGHTER |
| Abstract: | East West Enterprises Inc. (EWE) proposes a novel method to integrate individual personal profiles of the decision maker into the overall decision making process and human system interface to achieve improved battlefield situational awareness for the command post. Through a technically sound survey and interviews with decision makers personal profiles will be generated. This will involve collection of verbal, non-verbal and neurophysical cues. Using the Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) tool, a model for the decision process in terms of audio (A), visual (V) and kinesthetic (K) responses will then be developed. Using this unique tool, the amount of information displayed as well as the information display system (graphical user interface) will be completely redesigned. EWE expects performance enhancements of several orders of magnitude in the decision making process as measured through more timely and accurate decisions because of improved situational awareness. Not only will this NLP approach improve the decision making process it will help alleviate the problem of information overload in a information rich time critical environment. This new architecture will have many applications in the government and industry. Defense and commercial applications include improved Battlespace Management Communication, Command, and Control (BMC3) human interface systems, improved decision/display aids for pilots, increased safety in the nuclear industry, and applications in the security industry. The new technology would greatly benefit all DOD agencies wherever human systems interface is involved and other agencies such as Department of Energy for safeguards and security of nuclear material, airport security,airline pilots,NASA and pilot decision making and learning strategies. |
| JONA GROUP LTD.
140 Marine Street Farmingdale, NY 11735 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(631) 420-1271
Dr. Ronald Rothchild ARMY 00-038 |
| Title: | Integrated Computer Mouse (ICM) For On-The-Move Operations |
| Abstract: | Increased use of computers on military vehicles requires operator interface with a mouse or mouse-equivalent, regularly or continuously. The interface is susceptible to influence by vehicle random motion; the differential motion between the mouse platform and the operator's hand, induced by bumps and vibration appears as a random component of on-screen cursor motion that can degrade operator effectiveness. There is a need for a practical mouse-equivalent that eliminates the effects of vehicle-induced differential motion between it's platform and it's control element. Jona proposes to address this need with a combination of hardware and signal processing. The hardware will reduce actual differential motion to a very low level. The signal processing will eliminate the effects of unintended motion that still remains. Objectives of Phase I are: 1. Develop a controller configuration that can significantly reduce vehicle-induced differential acceleration. 2. Design a package geometry that will allow precise use with minimum physiological stress and maximum long-term comfort. 3. Develop signal-processing means to remove unintended signals from the controller output. 4. Demonstrate the rejection of unintended signals by simulation. 5. Prepare a preliminary package design and formulate a test plan for prototypes to be built in Phase II. The proposed Integrated Computer Mouse (ICM) will have immunity to inertial effects up to a generous threshold, and a superior combination of high operator effectiveness with low fatigue, in a low-cost device including adaptive self-optimizing signal processing. |
| CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC.
725 Concord Avenue Cambridge, MA 02138 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(617) 491-3474
Dr. Subrata Das ARMY 00-039 |
| Title: | Network-Based Truth Maintenance System for Tactical Situation Assessment |
| Abstract: | The growing digitization of the battlefield gives the intelligence analyst a unique opportunity to access large amounts of information collected over time across a variety of sensors to achieve an unparalleled level of tactical situation awareness. However, before using this array of dynamically changing tactical information, the data must be correlated and fused, and, most of all, managed in a truth maintenance system (TMS) ensuring logical data consistency. Rather than adopting a highly inefficient logic-based theorem-proving approach to maintain consistency across the entire database, we propose a Bayesian belief network (BN) approach that focuses truth maintenance only on the portions of the fused data relevant to the current assessment task. Each BN is constructed to assess a specific high-level situation in the form of the commander's priority intelligence requirement (PIR). Before posting incoming evidence at a BN node, a truth maintenance procedure is invoked to detect information inconsistency between the node's current state and the state of the evidence to be posted. In the case of inconsistency, the truth maintenance procedure isolates only relevant inconsistent nodes based on the causal dependency of the network. The proposed network-based TMS thus incrementally maintains only consistent BN states to ensure trustworthy situation assessment. Commercial applications of the proposed approach to truth maintenance in situation assessment incorporating Bayesian belief network technology exist in many areas including operation centers for complex process control (e.g., nuclear power plants), financial services, credit verification, loan approval, and rail and air traffic management centers. A belief network based situation assessment procedure that focuses only on the relevant data can also solve the information overload problem in high-value complex operational environments. |
| NAVSYS CORP.
14960 Woodcarver Road Colorado Springs, CO 80921 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(719) 481-4877
Dr. Alison Brown ARMY 00-040 |
| Title: | Geolocations with Distributed Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) Sensors |
| Abstract: | Under this proposed SBIR effort, NAVSYS will develop a design for a networked SIGINT sensor architecture use Software Radio signal processing, GPS geolocation, and data fusion techniques to detect and geolocate interference sources. To achieve this propose to leverage the inherent signal processing capabilities available in the next generation of Software Radios being purchased by the US Army to allow them to act as SIGINT sensors in this Software-Radio Networked SIGINT (SRN-SIGINT) architecture. In Phase I we propose to develop the SRN-SIGINT architecture and produce a design for a Software Radio with embedded SIGINT capability to be built under the Phase II project. Our plan is to develop a design that is compatible with the Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS). The operation of the SRN-SIGINT capability will be demonstrated using simulation data to show the capability to fuse TDOA, FDOA and AOA SIGINT information from multiple Software Radios. We are also proposing to demonstrate the SRN-SIGINT concept with in-house software radios and a data fusion workstation developed on another contract for GPS jammer location. Under Phase II, we propose to partner with the JTRS prime contractors to enable the SRN-SIGINT capability to transition into this operational program. The SRN-SIGINT capability integrated into the multi-spectral JTRS will provide a powerful yet inexpensive mechanism for collecting SIGINT data and distributing it to a SRN-SIGINT workstation for analysis, using a networked architecture. Commercial applications exist for this capability, embedded into personal communication systems, for geolocation of both interference sources and also personal geolocation in support of mobile E-9-1-1 applications. NAVSYS' commercial partners have applications for this capability for emergency medical response, personal safety and convict tracking operations. |
| SIGNATRON TECHNOLOGY CORP.
29 Domino Drive Concord, MA 01742 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 371-0550
Dr. Steen A. Parl ARMY 00-040 |
| Title: | Geolocations with Distributed Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) Sensors |
| Abstract: | The proposed research will address issues of locating an emitter with unknown waveform, and will assess the potential for improved performance through channel multipath estimation and through the synchronized diversity effect of multiple sensors. The proposed approach embodies a new algorithm that determines the location of an emitter with enhanced accuracy by combining the data from multiple SIGINT sensors in a synchronized network. The approach generalizes AOA and TDOA, normally used in triangulation methods, and combines them into an algorithm estimating location directly. The resulting location can be distributed for digital map display over a wireless virtual private network. Sensor platforms of different capabilities and sizes are automatically combined. Sensors may include random arrays and space-time processing of varying complexity. The approach is based on a new distributed signal-combining method developed by the proposing firm for geolocation of tags. Experiments with this system for known waveforms have successfully demonstrated improved location accuracy. In Phase I the performance with unknown waveforms will be studied through analysis and simulation. Performance improvements will be investigated and compared with other techniques of comparable complexity. A prototype design will be developed for a Phase II implementation planned to be demonstrated in a JTRS-type radio. The primary application is the location and tracking of potential emitters in military operations. The proposed geolocation technique also has many law enforcement and emergency applications for locating target radios. It can be used for the location of callers using cellular handsets or wireless PDAs. In addition, the technology can be used for other emitter location and tracking problems such as locating special tags to find lost children, patients, and pets, as well as tracking parolees, cargo and vehicles. |
| STATISTICAL SIGNAL PROCESSING, INC.
1909 Jefferson St. Napa, CA 94559 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(707) 226-9933
Dr. Chris W. Reed ARMY 00-040 |
| Title: | Geolocations with Distributed Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) Sensors |
| Abstract: | SSPI proposes to develop a SIGINT tool that would produce high-accuracy emitter position estimates for a large class of measurement types including propagation time (PT), time difference of arrival (TDOA), frequency difference of arrival (FDOA), and angle of arrival (AOA). If the source is known to be near the surface of the earth and a digitized terrain map is provided, this information can be used to enhance the quality of the estimate. The robustness and general applicability of the proposed Maximum Likelihood approach make it ideally suited for high-accuracy geolocation through the combining of multiple geo-observables from distinct types of SIGINT sensors. The proposed general-purpose geolocation technique can be used for law enforcement and emergency services to locate a transmitter. The technique is also applicable for FCC to locate unauthorized transmitters. Another potentional application is to locate malfunctioning or modified radios in a cellular or PCS communications system. |
| CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC.
725 Concord Avenue Cambridge, MA 02138 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(617) 491-3474
Dr. Greg L. Zacharias ARMY 00-041 |
| Title: | Information Operations Decision-Aid for Rapid Response Individual Vulnerability Assessment |
| Abstract: | Information Operations (IO) preparation typically takes advantage of large staffs and years of planning, with much of the effort focused on well-researched threat decision-makers. The situation is different now, with a rapidly changing focus towards unpredictable "hot spots" on the globe, and with unconventional Operations Other Than War (OOTW) missions. We propose to address this problem by prototyping a decision-aid that compensates for small staffs, short response times, and, most critically, a lack of knowledge concerning the individual decision-makers targeted by a PSYOPS operation. The approach is based on the following: 1) we have available a long-term knowledge store on potential threat groups and their associated key psychosocial/behavioral attributes; 2) we have only limited knowledge of threat individual decision makers, possibly only their group affiliations; 3) we can combine known group attributes with known individual affiliations, to infer likely psychosocial/behavioral attributes of that individual; 4) we can combine key situation characteristics with the inferred individual psychosocial/behavioral attributes, to make reliable estimates of expected behavior in a given OOTW situation. We propose to evaluate different approaches to researching and prototyping this type of decision-aiding function by combining behavioral and organizational knowledge within a hybrid architecture of complementary artificial intelligence inferencing techniques. We see considerable potential for application of the behavior prediction, decision-aiding, and visualization prototype in the commercial area, specifically in high volume, time critical financial transactions. These include the commodities futures market, local and national stock exchanges, and international currency markets where much, if not all, of the market movements are governed by psychological and organizational factors, well beyond the ken of conventional financial and economic analysis. The focused application of a PSYOPS-oriented tool in these arenas could have a significant impact on the perceptions of other players in the market and could translate to significant increases in profit margin for active traders in these markets. |
| CHI SYSTEMS, INC.
Gwynedd Office Park Lower Gwynedd, PA 19002 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(215) 542-1400
Mr. Fred Reed ARMY 00-042 |
| Title: | Data Sonification |
| Abstract: | A Semiotic Design Methodology for Data Sonification Display of complex information through sound, or Data Sonification (DS), is a promising technology that remains relatively unexploited in both military and non-military information systems. The primary reason for this deficit is the lack of satisfactory design knowledge, methods, and process for economically and reliably deploying DS applications. We propose to demonstrate the feasibility of a novel, unified design methodology for Data Sonification (DS) based on a fundamental theory of sign systems, or "semiotics". Using semiotic theory as a framework, CHI proposes to integrate and extend DS-relevant research and practices into a comprehensive, systematic, end-to-end process for deploying DS applications. This effort will enhance development of DS applications through: maximum use of existing design knowledge, greater synergy of all design phases based on a common theoretical foundation, reduced time and cost to deploy DS applications, and better integration of DS in multi-modal workstation design. This enhanced development capability would open up new opportunities for commercialization of DS technology in a broad range of applications, including data mining, process control, simulation and modeling, software engineering, education and training, and games. In addition, DS has broad applicability anywhere the user is visually disabled or in reduced-visibility environments. |
| SYSTEMS & PROCESSES ENGINEERING CORP.
101 West Sixth Street Austin, TX 78701 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(512) 479-7732
Dr. N.B. Penrose, P.E. ARMY 00-043 |
| Title: | Electronic Warfare Environment Simulator System (EWESS) |
| Abstract: | SPEC proposes to develop an Electronic Warfare Environment Simulator System (EWESS) based on the latest digital synthesis modulation techniques. The hardware-in-the-loop simulator system will be based on SPEC's state-of-the-art Advanced Digital RF Memory (DRFM) Kernel architecture based on its proprietary direct digital synthesis (DDS) coherent modulation core. The Advanced DRFM Kernel architecture's inherent characteristics will provide the EWESS the ability to simulate any radar or communications system in its frequency range, including those with complex emitter characteristics such as stagger, agile, jitter, pulse Doppler, and other scan types. It will be capable of creating scenarios where many different emitters separated by frequency, time and other parameters can be simulated. The system will retain the major beneficial operating characteristics of the synthesizer; low cost, sub-microsecond response time, phase coherence, low phase noise and spurious content, high reliability, small size and weight for airborne or man-portable applications. In the Phase I program, SPEC will work with potential customers to determine required parameters and system performance specifications. Following this, SPEC will determine the key software and hardware components that will interface with the Advanced DRFM Kernel to produce the EWESS. In Phase II, SPEC will build and demonstrate a prototype EWESS. The development of the EWESS will provide the Government with the state-of-the-art in EW hardware-in-the-loop simulation capabilities. This capability is critical for the next generation warfighter. The EWESS technology has immediate application to the digital wideband communications market. |
| SENSORS UNLIMITED, INC.
3490 U.S. Route 1 Princeton, NJ 08540 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(609) 520-0610
Dr. Robert M. Brubaker ARMY 00-044 |
| Title: | A 640x512 Short Wave Infrared Mini-Camera for Low Light Level and Range-Gated Imaging |
| Abstract: | Sensors Unlimited Inc. will deliver a 640x512 pixel miniaturized camera utilizing a new Indium Gallium Arsenide focal plane array. The array will be sensitive to the 0.9 æm to 1.7 æm short wave infrared wavelength band. The final camera will include system noise less than 20 electrons for night vision imaging, no image lag at video display speeds, and snapshot-mode exposures less than 5 æs for range-gated imaging. During Phase I, we will design and simulate CMOS readout integrated circuit architectures. The 32 best candidates will be combined in a 128x128 pixel array. The final layout, ready for fabrication, will be delivered at the end of the program. We will also improve the InGaAs photodiode array using a novel buffer structure. The new array will be hybridized to an existing readout to characterize the material. The focal plane array will be delivered at the end of the program. During Phase II, we will submit the readout design to a foundry for fabrication. The readout will be hybridized to an InGaAs array and evaluated. The results will be used to select the best design for fabrication in a 640x512 pixel format. The final FPA will then be characterized and delivered in the final miniaturized camera. The output of this program will be the next generation FPA, with a lower noise readout and improved InGaAs material. Generally, this will allow use of cameras at lower light levels and higher temperatures, which will extend their use and decrease costs associated with cooling. Commercially, a high resolution, low noise device is desired for applications such as night surveillance by civilian police departments, and ice detection for aircraft, bridges and roadways. |
| INTEGRATED SENSORS, INC.
502 Court St. Utica, NY 13502 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(315) 798-1377
Dr. Charles Ferrara ARMY 00-045 |
| Title: | Real-Time Image Restoration for Generation 3 Forward Looking Infrared Systems |
| Abstract: | Integrated Sensors, Incorporated (ISI) proposes to evaluate a variety of image restoration algorithms for a compact, real-time, high-resolution FLIR implementation. The target hardware solution is a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) multiprocessor architecture. These provide the speed of a hardware implementation, while offering the reprogramming flexibility of a general-purpose processor. Algorithms such as adaptive Wiener filters and recursive maximum likelihood / entropy optimizations are among those under consideration. All of these require precise models of the system MTF (Modulation Transfer Function). The Wiener approach is nonrecursive and would be the simplest to implement, while the recursive approaches tend to perform better under nongaussian conditions. A major challenge is to improve the convergence time of the recursive approaches. Innovation is also required to structure these algorithms for an efficient, real-time solution. The algorithms will be evaluated using restoration performance and computational requirements as key discriminants. The performance will be evaluated subjectively on real images and quantified using minimum resolvable temperature difference (MRTD) measurements on simulated data. A hardware solution will be customized to support the most promising algorithm. ISI will include this technology as part of its ImageExpressT commercial motion analysis system, to enhance measurement accuracy. Commercial applications include the enhancement of ISI's ImageExpressT product line and marketing the technology to vendors of high resolution FLIR and consumer video systems. |
| INTELLIGENT OPTICAL SYSTEMS, INC.
2520 W. 237th Street Torrance, CA 90505 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 530-7130
Dr. Emile Fiesler ARMY 00-045 |
| Title: | Real-Time Image Restoration for Image Enhancement and an Increased Target Acquisition Range |
| Abstract: | The U.S. Army has expressed a need for improved real-time target acquisition capabilities of strategic systems for tactical applications such as battlefield data collection, reconnaissance, and search and rescue operations. To address this need, Intelligent Optical Systems (IOS) proposes to develop a super-resolution processor module that will greatly improve the imagery of third-generation, forward-looking infrared (FLIR) sensor systems. The IOS Super-Resolution (SuRe) processor will be a digital signal processor (DSP) chip that will implement a state-of-the-art restoration and super-resolution algorithm in real time. The processor will significantly extend the range of third-generation FLIR sensors, significantly increasing their capabilities for target surveillance and tracking. An image restoration algorithm capable of processing the output of a staring, focal-plane array with a time delay of less than two frames will be demonstrated during Phase I. During the project, IOS will conduct market analysis and identify financial and other support to ensure the successful commercialization of the SuRe processor. The ability of the SuRe processor to function in real time and its significant benefits in size, weight, and cost will make it extremely competitive in many areas where the enhancement of acquired imagery data is desired. In addition to greatly enhancing the target surveillance and tracking capabilities of military sensors, the SuRe processor will be beneficial in non-military applications such as: air traffic control (landing aids and runaway monitoring); improved video cameras for surveillance and security applications; enhanced imagery devices for industrial product inspections and quality control; and numerous civilian airborne-surveillance tasks such as crop and forest monitoring, and the monitoring of land-use. |
| OBSERVERA, INC.
4451 Brookfield Corp. Dr. Chantilly, VA 20151 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(800) 444-6905
Mr. Todd Jamison ARMY 00-045 |
| Title: | Real-Time Image Restoration for Generation 3 Forward Looking Infrared Systems |
| Abstract: | Observera, Inc. has teamed with the Sarnoff Corporation to research, design and prototype a real-time image restoration system for large format, low noise IR focal plane arrays (FPA). Phase I will identify and prototype an image restoration algorithm that is capable of increasing the target acquisition range of third generation FLIR systems by 50%. The Phase I "option effort" will look at multiple image restoration techniques as a means of improving image quality. A real-time image restoration system will also be designed that meets the latency requirements with less than 2 frame delay between input of image and output of restored image. The Phase II effort will be characterized by rapid prototyping methodologies, spiral development, and real-time processing objectives. The Observera/Sarnoff Team has a strong record of past performance and proven capability in commercializing advanced imaging and video technologies. Our extensive experience in algorithm/hardware evaluation, real-time video exploitation, advanced image processing, and high-performance computing hardware technology make our team uniquely qualified for this task. Super resolution technology will be incorporated into our commercial video processing hardware and software. This effort will allow high-resolution displays for low-resolution video and digital cameras and allow aerial video images to be more fully utilized for intelligence, targeting, damage assessment and battlespace awareness. Civilian applications for our products include land-use management, utility and transportation corridor monitoring, surveillance, and environmental protection. |
| EE SOLUTIONS, LLC
219 West Main Street Newark, DE 19711 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(302) 831-8170
Dr. Dennis W. Prather ARMY 00-046 |
| Title: | Electromagnetic-Based Computer Aided Design (CAD) for Wavelength Scale Optics |
| Abstract: | In this effort we proposed to develop an integrated software environment for the rigorous electromagnetic analysis and design of diffractive optical elements (DOEs). To this end, we will develop a user-friendly graphical user interface (GUI) specifically geared towards DOEs; we will refine, expand and integrate our suite of electromagnetic analysis tools based on the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method; and we will incorporate both discrete and continuous optimized design methods. The need for such a tool arises from the rapid miniaturization in modern technologies. Manufacturers are pushing for linewidths of 0.1 um and less in mass production. Thus, optical and electro-optical devices fabricated with subwavelength features will go from state-of-the-art to ubiquitous. As the components within these systems reduce to a scale comparable to their operational wavelengths, traditional methods used to analyze their performance become inaccurate. Therefore we propose to overcome this limitation through the development of a computer aided design (CAD) and analysis package that is based on an exact 3D electromagnetic model. The software will be designed specifically for a PC platform and incorporate an intuitive graphical user interface. To create and enabling tool for the burgeoning field of diffractive optical elements and micro-optical devices. |
| INDIGO SYSTEMS CORP.
5385 Hollister Ave #103 Santa Barbara, CA 93111 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(805) 690-6640
Mr. William Terre ARMY 00-047 |
| Title: | Micro Air Vehicle and Weapon Sight Infrared (IR) Camera |
| Abstract: | While the advantages of a thermal weapon sight are well-recognized, the disadvantages of all current IR sights include excessive weapon-borne weight (>5 lb), awkward size (>>100 in3), and high power consumption (>5 W). These drawbacks significantly detract from the utility of a weapon sight, making it a burden rather than a battlefield aid. Recent advances in the development of very low-powered miniature IR cameras (i.e. the UL3 camera developed by Indigo Systems) offer tremendous opportunity to eliminate these drawbacks. UL3 stands for Ultra-Low Size, Ultra-Low Weight, and Ultra-Low Power. The UL3 family of uncooled microbolometer cameras has unleashed exciting new opportunities for the application of infrared technology in important commercial applications such as fire-fighting, security/surveillance, and predictive maintenance. UL3 also provides critical new technology to substantially advance the effectiveness of man-portable military systems and micro-sensors. Indigo Systems, in conjunction with Insight Technology, propose to develop a weapon sight based on the UL3 family of miniature IR cameras. During Phase I, a conceptual design of a ruggedized, wireless sight employing a 320x240 microbolometer array will be developed. In parallel, the detailed design of a demonstration sight built around Indigo's ALPHA„ camera will be completed. Miniaturized electronics will be designed to generate reticle patterns and menu overlays on the IR imagery. User controls and a battery compartment will be developed with a strong focus on ergonomics, location, and ease of use. To optimize the design around these and other MANPRINT considerations, Indigo will enlist the considerable experience of Insight Technology. A prototype of the ALPHA„-based demonstration sight will be fabricated as a Phase I Option. The proposed development will result in a configuration of an IR micro-camera featuring an integral battery compartment, user controls, on-screen symbology, and a wireless video link. In addition to its military utility, this complete stand-alone system serves a broad range of man-portable sensing applications, such as firefighter vision systems, law enforcement, environmental and industrial imaging. |
| IRVINE SENSORS CORP.
3001 Redhill Avenue Costa Mesa, CA 92626 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(714) 444-8833
Mr. Charles S Kaufman ARMY 00-047 |
| Title: | Micro Air Vehicle and Weapon Sight Infrared (IR) Camera |
| Abstract: | Irvine Sensors Corporation (ISC) will develop a modular miniaturized uncooled thermal imaging system. The system's camera head will be based on a miniaturized microbolometer sensor head currently under development at ISC. This camera head can then either be integrate with a miniaturized wireless data link or an image stabilization module. When configure with the wireless data link this system is a mini-thermal imaging targeting system for handheld weapons. This configuration will include the camera that will display imagery on a GFE HMD via a short range covert wireless link. The output to the HMD will include an aim sight that will overlay the camera's image. The input to the HMD will be a standard video format that will be compatible with COTS HMD as well as integrate Helmet/HMD currently under development for the US Army. The other configuration will replace the short range wireless link with a miniaturized image stabilization module, and is intended for a Micro Unmanned Air Vehicle application. The technical innovations that will be addressed include the development of a short range covert wireless link between the weapon/weapon sight and a HMD, and the low power miniaturized image stabilization function. The anticipate benefit of this project is the development of a imaging sighting system for handheld weapons and UAV applications. The potential commercial applications include both local and federal law enforcement agencies. A simple derivative of the system (without the HMD and wireless link) |
| ARCHITECTURE TECHNOLOGY CORP.
9971 Valley View Road Eden Prairie, MN 55344 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(952) 829-5864
Dr. Maher N. Kaddoura ARMY 00-048 |
| Title: | Adapting IP QoS Provisioning Techniques to Wireless Networks |
| Abstract: Abstract not available... | |
| SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH CORP.
2300 Windy Ridge Parkway Atlanta, GA 30339 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(770) 989-9551
Dr. Peter Sholander ARMY 00-048 |
| Title: | Adaptable Packet-Switched, Battle Command Information |
| Abstract: | True end-to-end Quality of Service (QoS) support for DoD applications requires the integrated use of various protocols and services. Some of the necessary tools include policy management that distributes QoS policy to the network links/nodes, policy enforcement methods, QoS-aware routing for mobile ad-hoc networks, traffic classification, and resource reservation techniques (e.g. signalling support) so that applications can request their desired QoS from a network. Systems that address policy management and policy enforcement are commercially available and gaining acceptance. As such, this Phase 1 SBIR effort will focus on the traffic classification, resource reservation, and QoS-based routing problems, with an emphasis on retrofitting technically and economically viable solutions onto legacy end systems such as Windows workstations and PCs. In particular, SRC will develop an architecture which may use one signalling technique (such as RSVP) between the user and the first network element, and different techniques (such as Diffserv) within the network core. SRC has already developed software technology (IP Overdrive) for the Windows platform that classifies important network traffic, and hence enables QoS in the both Local Area Networks and the network core. Enhancing the existing IP Overdrive software to provide support for resource-reservation signaling will successfully address both the traffic classification and resource reservation problems. Finally, SRC can leverage its existing work on the Zone Routing Protocol (ZRP) to address QoS-aware routing for the mobile ad-hoc networks (MANETs) prevalent in DoD tactical applications. |
| TRLOKOM, INC.
124 Vista Circle Dr. Sierra Madre, CA 91024 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(626) 836-5545
Dr. Jayant Shukla ARMY 00-048 |
| Title: | Security and QoS in Packet-Switched Networks |
| Abstract: | IP is today's dominant networking protocol. Newer version of this protocol is expected to be used in the next generation wire and wireless networks. However, the lack of quality of Service (QoS) and data security are the two major shortcomings of the IP protocol. Unauthorized data or resource access on IP networks has been facilitated by the lack of these services. Trlokom proposes to develop a system that integrates data security and QoS. Our system will use dedicated hardware to improve the cryptographic data processing to the wirespeed. Strong authentication of the data packets transmitted over the network will form a natural defense against the network based attacks, such as the DoS attacks. The APIs for RSVP and Differentiated Services (DS) will be used to provide QoS for the applications. The QoS and security support in our system will ensure proper functioning of the applications even when the network is under an attack. Our proposed system can also be used for building interactive video applications, virtual private networks (VPNs), and multi-level security systems at a low cost. At the end of Phase I, we will deliver an architecture to provide security and QoS to the applications in the IP networks. A security system with QoS and hardware crypto accelerator can be used for various applications, such as virtual private networks, multi-level security system, multi-media multicast etc. This system will provide end-to-end security and QoS that is easy to use at a reduced cost. |
| FOSTER-MILLER, INC.
350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 684-4171
Dr. Patricia Wilson ARMY 00-049 |
| Title: | Embedded Antenna Loops for the VHF-UHF |
| Abstract: | The next generation Warrior systems pose a number of challenging problems for communications. In particular, the fast-growing amount of information the individual soldier is required to receive and transmit requires radio and communication systems with increased performance. This need is complicated by current antennas which impede the mobility of the soldier by protruding from the soldier system. In addition, the high loads carried by the soldier put pressure on system designers to seek technology which can reduce weight. What is needed is an antenna system which is conformal to the body and which can be embedded into the soldier system to optimize performance and mobility. Foster-Miller and its partner, BAE Systems, plan to design and evaluate such an embedded antenna system as part of the proposed program. (P-00860) The proposed development of a wearable antenna system for the dismounted soldier will provide a major improvement in communication performance, operational logistics and soldier safety. Body borne, loop antenna technology, which eliminates the need for antennas that protrude from the body, has high market potential in applications such as the following: law enforcement, large system maintenance, wearable computers, and special operations and disaster relief. |
| LUNA INNOVATIONS, INC.
2851 Commerce Street Blacksburg, VA 24060 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(540) 953-4266
Mr. Scott Meller ARMY 00-050 |
| Title: | Bluetooth RF Solutions for Short Range Military Applications |
| Abstract: | Wireless communications are becoming a preferred method of sending information anywhere in the world. Wireless systems have gone beyond radio, telephones, and television, to include computer networks, merchandising services, data systems, and personal communications devices. Advances in technology are making wireless communications easier, safer, of higher quality, and less expensive every month. This rapid development of wireless technology is creating new opportunities and challenges for communications users and suppliers. Recent Army battlefield experiments have identified the need for more effective wireless communications. The military needs RF systems with the ability to self-assemble in ad-hoc networks when brought in close proximity to one another. Short range wireless systems are needed both for dismounted soldiers voice/data communications and for quick network assembly of computer equipment in Command Posts. The opportunity now exists to leverage new short range RF devices developed by the computer and communications industries to military applications at significantly reduced cost. Luna Innovations and the Center for Wireless Telecommunications at Virginia Tech propose to develop a miniature, robust, telemetry system for military applications based on the emerging Bluetooth technology, standard for short range RF communications championed by the major companies in the computer and communications industries. Luna Innovations anticipates large non-defense related markets in industrial preventive maintenance systems and diagnostic instrumentation. Specific applications include spacecraft and aircraft monitoring and control, nuclear/conventional power plant health monitoring, transportation vehicle design and testing, and industrial rotating machine monitoring. |
| TRIDENT SYSTEMS, INC.
10201 Lee Highway Fairfax, VA 22030 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 691-7780
Mr. Dan Bindbeutel ARMY 00-050 |
| Title: | Single Chip, Low Cost, Very Short Range Radio Frequency (RF) Systems for Military Applications |
| Abstract: | Recent advancements in integrated circuit miniaturization and network topologies in the communications industry have given rise to the development of products providing short range (less than ten meters) wireless connectivity for both voice and data communications. Several industry initiatives, among them Bluetooth and HomeRF, have created de facto standards for RF systems that operate using spread spectrum modes in the industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) bands of frequencies, at very low power levels. One promising application for this emerging technology is in the area of wireless personal area networks (WPANs). Trident proposes exploiting this technology to provide secure wireless voice and data links between soldier-borne systems such as combat net radios, personal GPS units (PLGR), and digital message transfer devices (DMTDs), as well as tetherless intercom connections for vehicle crews and associated dismounted personnel. These links will enhance operational efficiency by eliminating cabled connections and providing dynamically self-configuring personal voice and data network connectivity on the battlefield. Trident will exploit its background in portable SA/C2 systems to develop a solution that integrates readily into the Army's battlefield digitization effort. The successful completion of this project will provide the Army with a flexible, practical solution for short-range wireless voice and data connectivity. This capability will reduce task complexity and enhance operational efficiency associated with tactical communications for both mounted and dismounted personnel. The resulting system would be immediately applicable for use by other military services (USMC, SOCOM), and has direct applications for a variety of commercial markets, from wireless industrial control systems to personal voice and data connectivity for mobile internet and intranet users. |
| INTELLIGENT AUTOMATION, INC.
2 Research Place Rockville, MD 20850 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 590-3155
Dr. Leonard Haynes ARMY 00-052 |
| Title: | Survivable Networks Based on Mobile Agents |
| Abstract: | The innovations herein described are specific methods to use active networks hosting mobile agents to achieve efficient, flexible, survivable wireless communication networks. The methods proposed use mobile agents interacting using a contract net paradigm to maintain dynamic knowledge of the network connectivity, to select near optimal routes, and to provide bandwidth and latency control for a wide range of instantaneous user requirements. A specific method which we have used very successfully in other domains is also detailed to provide in-network data mining for certain classes of data anomalies. This capability will allow the network to detect situations requiring increased priority and possibly modifications to packet destinations. Lastly, this proposal describes a fundamental problem with fully decentralized networks, gives data to support its occurrence, and proposes a specific method to reduce the occurrence and mitigate the impact of this problem. During the proposed Phase 1 work, these innovations will be investigated using proprietary tools designed specifically to build mobile agent systems. These tools will simplify the development of a network simulation, and will also simplify the development of the agent code that will form the basis of the active network. IAI has investigated one small application for robust wireless networks for wireless interconnection of hospital equipment, and for high value inventory tracking within hospitals. Even this tiny domain is estimated to be in the several billion dollar range. |
| APS MATERIALS, INC.
4011 Riverside Drive Dayton, OH 45405 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(937) 278-6547
Mr. Philip H. Chitty ARMY 00-054 |
| Title: | Advance Anode Materials for Electro-Osmotic-Pulse Technology to Control Water Intrusion in Porous Structures |
| Abstract: | There is a need for research and development of new and cost effective anode materials and processes to facilitate the already successful Electro-Osmotic-Pulse (EOP) Technology for controlling moisture in existing concrete structures. The new anode technology will extend use of EOP to a broader range of construction materials to include masonry block, brick and stone structures. There is also a need for the innovative anode technology to be integrated with these building materials during new construction. Moisture control can be accomplished by the onsite thermal spray deposition of suitable EOP anode materials. This involves the possibility of several different thermal spray processes including but not limited to two-wire arc and plasma spray. In addition, further enhancement of existing anode technology for new and existing building structures using various precious metal catalytic coating processes in conjunction with a greater variety of titanium substrate configurations also provide the opportunity for significant EOP Technology advancement. For Phase I, CerAnode Technologies Division of APS Materials, Inc., will investigate at the laboratory scale the practical options available for eventual use in the field during phases II & III. The availability of the new cost-effective anode technologies tailored for the construction market described will create many new applications in both commercial and military sectors. The successful control of moisture intrusion into building facilities will increase the quality of life in terms of health and comfort as well as greatly reduce the traditional costs associated with providing moisture free storage and warehousing. Consequently, the innovative anode technology will find immediate interest in the overall construction market. Reliable state-of-the-art anode materials for 20 to 50-year life are expected. APS Materials, Inc. has 25 years of experience and has applied well over 2000 different material systems using a variety of thermal spray processes in the laboratory, in our production facility and in the field. It will therefore be in a position to commercialize the anode technology in phases II & III. |
| ADVANCED FUEL RESEARCH, INC.
87 Church Street East Hartford, CT 06108 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(860) 528-9806
Dr. Stuart Farquharson ARMY 00-055 |
| Title: | Combinatorial Synthesis and Screening of Sensing Nanomaterial for Warfare Agents |
| Abstract: | The overall goal of the proposed program is to provide military personnel with a hand-held analyzer capable of detecting chemical and biological agents, as well as toxic industrial chemicals. This will be accomplished through the use of a new nanocomposite material (metal-doped sol-gel) that enhances analyte specific Raman signals sufficiently to allow identifying and quantifying agents at relevant concentrations (microgram/liter, part-per-billion). Phase I will employ combinatorial chemistry to synthesize four medium sized libraries of sol-gel coated sample vials varying in composition and properties (e.g. polar, non-polar, positive charge, negative charge) and screen their surface-enhanced Raman (SER) activity towards chemical simulants and potential biological agent signatures. Baseline performance will be established using a high resolution, high sensitivity, hand-held Raman spectrometer. Phase II will automate the combinatorial synthesis and screening process to allow the generation of large sol-gel nanomaterial libraries to determine the chemical compositions that maximize detection of each chemical agent, bioagent signature chemical, and toxic industrial chemical by SER spectroscopy. Screening with actual agents will be performed at U.S. Army facilities. Finally, the sol-gel nanomaterial will be designed into sampling systems for discrete or continuous monitoring of air or water by a hand-held Raman analyzer capable of wireless data transmission. In addition to military personnel, the proposed technology would have immediate use in monitoring domestic water supplies (drinking and recreational) and detecting release of toxic chemicals at industrial plants. It would also be applicable to environmental analysis of groundwater (e.g. leaking agent storage facilities or pesticides from agricultural). The proposed SER active medium represents an enabling technology and is broadly applicable to pharmaceutical, biologic, medical, and chemical research. |
| TRITON SYSTEMS, INC.
200 TURNPIKE ROAD Chelmsford, MA 01824 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 250-4200
Dr. Huaibing Liu ARMY 00-056 |
| Title: | Novel Integrated Materials for Plastic Encapsulated Microcircuits |
| Abstract: | The use of plastic-encapsulated microcircuits (PEM's) is one of the new major thrust areas in military electronic component packaging. PEM will potentially replace hermetically-sealed ceramic and metal devices presently used to achieve and maintain high reliability in military use environments. On the proposed Phase I effort, Triton Systems will apply its broad experience in polymeric materials design, nanomaterial engineering and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding to create integrated polymeric materials that will have the potential of significantly advancing the current state-of-the-art in encapsulation material performance for non-hermetic integrated circuits. The materials will be designed to have a microporous percolating structure for rapid escape of moisture during thermal assembly to eliminate popcorning effect. Inorganic fillers will be incorporated in the formulations to lower the coefficient of thermal expansion and to enhance the thermal conductivity. Incorporation of rubber particles into the matrix will also be evaluated as a way to lower the modulus. During the Phase I option, the selected formulations will be further enhanced to provide integral EMI shielding without comprising electrical resistivity. In Phase II, we will optimize the material formulations and carry out a component-level demonstration by applying the selected materials to the integrated circuit package frames. There is an immediate need of plastic-encapsulated microcircuits with improved high reliability in military electronics packaging. Materials optimized for better thermal and mechanical characteristics will lead to increased operational cycles before failure and lowering replacement costs. The integral EMI shielding and increased thermal conductivity will allow further integration, higher density integrated circuits, reduced volume and increased functionality. |
| UTILITY DEVELOPMENT CORP.
112 Naylon Avenue Livingston, NJ 07039 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(973) 994-4334
Mr. Harry S. Katz ARMY 00-056 |
| Title: | Non-Hermetic Electronic Encapsulant Materials |
| Abstract: | Our main objective will be to investigate and develop an affordable, high performance organic material formulation and application/molding process that will significantly advance the state-of-the-art in current encapsulation material performance for non-hermetic integrated circuits (ICs). The new encapsulants will be permeable to moisture and have controlled coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) and modulus of elasticity properties that minimize stress between the printed circuit board (PCB) substrate and integrated circuit. Fillers will be used to improve thermal conductivity and reduce the thermal expansion coefficient. Additives will be used to improve the adhesion and fire retardance. The developed encapsulants will be tested by the encapsulation of small parts by UDC and testing by end users. At the end of Phase I, we will provide a report with results and conclusions, and a Phase II plan, schedule and cost estimate. This program will provide a high performance non-hermetic electronic encapsulants. These encapsulants will improve the performance, lower the cost, and improve reliability of nearly all electronic components used in weapon systems. Encapsulants for microcircuits are urgently needed throughout the commercial sector as well as in defense. Examples include computers, cell phones, and all devices with microcircuits. This technology will provide lower cost and higher performance in all of these applications. |
| COMBUSTION RESEARCH & FLOW TECHNOLOGY
174 North Main Street Dublin, PA 18917 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(215) 249-9780
Dr. Sanford M. Dash ARMY 00-057 |
| Title: | Transient Jet-Interaction Combustion Modeling |
| Abstract: | Interceptor missiles achieve high maneuverability in final phases of their mission via the use of divert/attitude control jets. Jet firings are of relatively short duration (10-40ms) and the aerodynamic interaction process is highly transient, characterized by large regions of jet-induced separation. The interactive process is strongly dependent on afterburning of jet exhaust constituents and on particulate interactions for heavily metalized DACS motors. Concerns of combustion products reaching seeker windows and related particle obscuration/radiative heating issues also need to be addressed. Present abilities to support missile design are limited by computer resources with high-fidelity simulations for a fraction of the transient event requiring use of 64 or more processors and taking months to complete. This proposal addresses present limitations by advances in numerics and parallel code architecture, as well as in inclusion of pertinent physics and thermochemistry. Key elements of work proposed address: new zonal, multi-time step parallel architecture strategies to make the solution process more efficient, and, inclusion of advanced dynamic turbulent transitional models and pdf-based turbulent combustion models which have a first-order effect on jet interactions at higher altitudes (h>30km). An optional task to examine use of unstructured numerics with specialized dynamic grid adaption is also proposed. The research proposed is of obvious benefit to the interceptor missile community and we have supported both DoD and prime contractors (Lockheed, Raytheon, .) for many years in design-related issues pertinent to divert/attitude control jet interactions. This effort will clearly enhance our commercial relationships with both DoD and prime contractors. In addition, transient jet interactions are of interest to the automotive and spray coating communities and we have been working with industry (Ford Motor Co., Sulzer Metco, .) in supporting advanced design work. Lastly, pulsatile spray injection is being investigated to enhance mixing in next generation airbreathing missile systems and this work has great relevance to the design of next generation combustors. |
| CONTINUUM DYNAMICS, INC.
34 Lexington Avenue Ewing, NJ 08618 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(609) 538-0444
Dr. Alexander H. Boschitsch ARMY 00-058 |
| Title: | A Revolution in Heat Conduction Software |
| Abstract: | This research will revolutionize commercial software for heat conduction by using non-Fourier conduction to predict transient temperatures in solids. Here "non-Fourier" refers to applications where the standard model of Fourier's law fails to provide accurate predictions. Using non-Fourier conduction is revolutionary because commercial software currently uses Fourier's law despite the growing number of applications that can be correctly simulated only with non-Fourier conduction. Incorporating non-Fourier conduction into these simulations can improve the accuracy of predictions that rely on temperature, including thermal stress, solid-phase reactions, and phase changes. Also, the effects of non-Fourier conduction can be exploited to devise new materials and processes not obvious with Fourier conduction. The key objectives for Phase I are to: (i) Provide an analytical expression for determining the relative importance of non-Fourier and Fourier conduction, (ii) Demonstrate a technique for numerically solving non-Fourier problems as a precursor to software development in Phase II, (iii) Determine the conditions for which non-Fourier conduction is important to help identify experiments needed in Phase II to validate non-Fourier software. The non-Fourier software resulting from this research will have an impact across an enormous range of applications, such as improving the performance of rocket nozzles and heat shields constructed of composite materials, optimizing the ignition of granular propellants in rocket motors, advancing the laser-fabrication and repair of micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) and microchips, designing better clothing to protect against thermal burns, and guiding laser surgery. |
| COHERENT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
655 Aspen Ridge Drive Lafayette, CO 80026 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 604-2000
Dr. Philip Gatt ARMY 00-059 |
| Title: | Agile-Pulse Dual-Mode High-Power Eyesafe Doppler Lidar |
| Abstract: | CTI has demonstrated helicopter signature detection using both long and short pulse lidars. A long-pulse lidar is optimal for sensing increases in spectral width, however this signature is susceptible to wind turbulence and shear clutter. Short pulse lidars are optimal for inflow-signature detection, however they require much longer update times. To satisfy these two competing effects, CTI proposes to develop a novel agile-pulse dual-mode coherent lidar. In the turbulence-detection mode, the scan rate of this compact 5 W lidar will exceed 90 degrees in 15 sec, while providing 5 m cross range resolution at 5 km. CTI will leverage its experience in the field of wake-vortex detection and tracking to develop advanced algorithms for the reduction of clutter-induced false alarms. Inflow-signature detection will be accomplished using a short-pulse. Here, update rates less than 10 seconds per LOS are expected. In both modes, a velocity precision better than 20 cm/s at ranges in excess of 5 km is expected. In Phase I CTI will develop, test and refine advanced clutter rejection algorithms utilizing previously and newly acquired data sets and develop a preliminary lidar design. In Phase II CTI will develop, test, and demonstrate the prototype sensor and implement the advanced clutter-rejection algorithms in CTI's real-time signal processor. The proposed Phase I/II program will result in the development of a compact, agile-pulse, efficient, high power eyesafe coherent lidar. This technology will have application in many military as well as commercial settings. Potential commercial applications include clear-air-turbulence detection, general aviation wind shear detection, airport wind surveillance, and environmental monitoring. Military applications include helicopter signature detection and correction for precision airdrop and ballistics weapon systems. |
| LITE CYCLES, INC.
2301 N. Forbes Blvd. Tucson, AZ 85745 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(520) 798-0652
Dr. James T. Murray ARMY 00-059 |
| Title: | Portable High Resolution Doppler Lidar |
| Abstract: | The Phase I effort will define an optimized, portable, rugged, incoherent, eye-safe Doppler lidar system for use in detecting wind velocity above helicopters at ranges greater than 5 km. Initial system design and component specifications will be completed in this effort. Lite Cycles, Inc. intends to commercialize this technology within both the DoD and the private sector. There are three primary private sector markets that have applications for this technology: (1) Wind shear detection at high altitudes for Clear Air Turbulence (CAT) for commercial airlines; (2) Wake vortex detection lidar systems on major airport runways to space incoming landings safely; and (3) Wind sensing for weather prediction. The Clear Air Turbulence requirement is a result of passenger and crew injuries and death on commercial flights when encountering CAT during a flight. The CAT risk is higher when flying over certain mountain ranges. Airlines are interested in an affordable solution to early warning instruments that will allow either flight course changes or a seat belt buckle advisory for passengers. Coherent lidar systems have limited use at 30,000 ft altitude and above because they depend on aerosol scattering for the return signal. Direct detection can use the return from molecular scattering, so it is not dependent on the availability of aerosols to provide the return. Incoherent Doppler lidar is less complex than coherent systems and will be more robust, compact, and less expensive. CAT instruments could potentially be installed on most commercial aircraft worldwide. This is a large number of systems and constitutes a large enough market to justify development of a system both for incorporation into new aircraft and for retrofitting existing aircraft. The wake vortex detection instrument is used to determine the wake vortex trailing large aircraft during landings at airports. Current airport regulations for time between aircraft landings are based on experience. An instrument to measure and report wake vortex data for each aircraft would allow far safer and considerably higher landing rates at busy airports. The market is worldwide, and airports with high traffic rates would be targeted for installation of these systems. Larger airports may require several systems to cover multiple runways. |
| PHYSICAL OPTICS CORP.
20600 Gramercy Place Torrance, CA 90501 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 530-1416
Dr. Paul Shnitser ARMY 00-059 |
| Title: | High-Precision Eye-Safe Doppler Wind LIDAR |
| Abstract: | In response to the Army's request for a compact eye-safe light detection and ranging (LIDAR) device for high-precision, remote measurement of atmospheric turbulence caused by air vehicles or natural phenomena, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a frequency modulation (FM) LIDAR based on a powerful continuous wave (CW) laser diode. Utilizing the possibility of direct modulation of the laser diode emission with a high frequency, such a system can provide both a high-range resolution and a high accuracy of Doppler shift measurement. Simplification of the signal processing electronics will be achieved by employing a voltage-modulated optical detector for range measurement. The Phase I project will include a comprehensive system analysis and design of its major components. In Phase II, the LIDAR prototype will be built and delivered for testing and performance evaluation. During both Phases I and II, POC will conduct market analysis and identification of financial and other resources that will ensure successful commercialization of the new technology in Phase III. In addition to its specific military application for the detection airborne targets by their turbulence signatures, the proposed compact, eye-safe LIDAR can be widely used at military and civilian airports for detection of wind shear and other strong atmospheric vortexes. Such vortexes can be generated by large aircraft and can exist in the atmosphere for a long time after a large aircraft lands. They are extremely dangerous for smaller aircraft. Wind shear, microbursts, and other clear-air disturbances are dangerous for both large and small aircraft. The proposed LIDAR will enhance air traffic safety. |
| COMBUSTION RESEARCH & FLOW TECHNOLOGY
174 North Main Street Dublin, PA 18917 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(215) 249-9780
Dr. Sanford M. Dash ARMY 00-060 |
| Title: | Missile Aero-Acoustic Response Modeling |
| Abstract: | Large dynamic pressure loads occur on missile airframes produced by aerodynamic interactions associated with lateral/divert jet firings and from varied separation events (stage, shroud, submunitions dispense). The accurate prediction of such loads is a critical element of missile design since mission failures have been directly related to vibration problems (e.g. guidance component failure) stemming from such interactions. No first-principles-based simulation methodology is available to support design, and present engineering methods have proven to be inadequate. The Phase I effort initiates the path towards development of an advanced modeling framework. Key elements include: (1) the formulation of a hybrid LES/RANS CFD framework to predict rigid body dynamic pressure loads associated with divert jet firing interactions; (2) the validation of this framework using new PIV data with detailed turbulent statistics; (3) the inclusion of rudimentary structural response capabilities into the CFD code which will primarily attenuate the dynamic loads on the missile surface. An optional task is proposed to investigate the dynamic loads on a seeker window associated with the shroud separation event. The partially open shroud has resonant characteristics of a forward facing cavity and there are very strong bow shock oscillations and resultant large dynamic loads on the seeker window. There are no existing high-fidelity techniques to predict hypersonic flow structural aero-acoustic response associated with events producing surface vibrations. In addition to providing major benefits to the entire missile community, this research has direct applicability to the design of reusable launch vehicles and to space planes which must perform multiple missions and thus have more stringent structural requirements. It is also directly applicable to the design of missile launchers and to scramjet combustors where plume/fuel jet aerodynamic interactions produce large dynamic pressure loads. Discussions with NASA and prime contractors have indicated significant commercial potential for this modeling to support space/launch vehicle design. |
| OPTICAL INSIGHTS, LLC
1807 Second Street, #28 Santa Fe, NM 87505 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(505) 955-1585
Dr. Mark Hopkins ARMY 00-061 |
| Title: | Polarization Laser Detection and Ranging (LADAR) |
| Abstract: | Optical Insights (OI) proposes to successfully marry its polarization imaging technology with LADAR imaging technology to create an integrated imaging system. The introduction, by OI, of its multi-channel imaging technology makes simultaneous acquisition of two-dimensional polarization images possible using a low-cost, portable, lightweight, and rugged optical system. OI will team with LADAR system manufacturer, Schwartz Electro-Optics, Inc. (SEO), to create the integrated system. The Phase I effort will significantly contribute to the state-of-the-art by (a) quantitatively defining the requirements for coupling polarization and LADAR imaging into a single imaging system using existing technologies and products and (b) developing a conceptual design, based on the defined requirements, to marry two separate, but complementary, technologies for improving target detection and discrimination. While most Phase I efforts attempt to establish the feasibility of design ideas via modeling or simple breadboard experiments, this Phase I effort will accomplish a more thorough and convincing feasibility study by leveraging products that have already been developed for these purposes. OI and SEO propose using their existing base of products to carry out the initial feasibility assessment. With minor modifications, both products can work side-by-side to acquire both polarization and LADAR images of the same scene. There are a variety of applications that could benefit greatly from a portable polarization LADAR imaging system. Aside from the target identification and discrimination applications in the defense industry, polarization LADAR imaging systems can be useful in meteorological applications such as identification of the constituents of cloud formation for determining storm development. The aviation sector as well as the department for transportation (DOT) represents two other markets that can use polarization LADAR sensing. In both cases it can be used to identify ice formation (on wings, runways and roads) and fog for collision and crash avoidance. Additionally, polarization LADAR imaging can have significant utility in crop inspection applications. Recent research has suggested that polarized laser remote-sensing measurements can be correlated to crop yield, the NDVI, and the leaf area index. |
| ANVIK CORP.
6 Skyline Drive Hawthorne, NY 10532 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(914) 345-2442
Mr. Marc Zemel ARMY 00-062 |
| Title: | Maskless Lithography System for Generation of High Density DNA Microarrays |
| Abstract: | Recent developments in DNA microarray generation technology have made entirely new methods of gene analysis feasible. The DNA microarray can greatly facilitate research in the areas of drug and vaccine discovery, disease screening, and toxicology, among others. Therefore, the importance of a low-cost, high-resolution, high-throughput DNA microarray generation system cannot be understated. Current DNA microarray generation techniques suffer from severe limitations. The development of a new DNA mircoarray generation technique that has the high resolution of photolithography with the low cost of operation of mechanical deposition would significantly accelerate the pace of gene research. In this proposal, we present a method to generate DNA microarrays using a maskless lithography system. The maskless lithography system incorporates a large-array spatial light modulator to serve as a programmable mask. The spatial light modulator technology is integrated with Anvik's patented seamless scanning technology to produce a breakthrough in lithography system development that allows rapid, high-density DNA microarray generation at low cost. In the Phase I program, we will optimize the design the lithography system and develop the process specifically for DNA microarray generation. In a follow-on Phase II program, we will optimize the process and construct a fully functional DNA microarray generation system. The proposed system will enable the generation of DNA microarrays at higher densities, higher throughputs and lower costs than possible with current manufacturing techniques. These advances will benefit numerous military and commercial researchers in the areas of drug and vaccine discovery, disease screening, toxicology, and biological warfare agent detection. |
| FOSTER-MILLER, INC.
350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 684-4174
Dr. Vladimir Guilmanov ARMY 00-063 |
| Title: | Design and Characterization of a Two-Bag Blood Products Lyophilization System |
| Abstract: | Storage blood bags become vulnerable when they are defrosted. In particular, the U.S. Army has reported many instances of significant loss of blood products from storage bag breakage. Freeze drying of blood products may be considered to be an alternative to the current practice of cryopreservation. In general this technique is well established and is widely used for the preservation and long term storage of protein drugs and microbial cells. The lyophilization of platelets and red blood cells has recently been demonstrated. This proposal addresses the problem of lyophilizatoin of the blood products in a collection and storage bag. The general design and experimental strategy for the program involves the design of a two-bag, blood products lyophilization system, the selection and characterization of the inner and outer bag materials, and lyophilization of the test product. In particular, the water vapor transmission rates of commercially available polymer membrane materials will be experimentally determined. The optimization conditions for lyophilization of bovine serum albumin and various blood products will be determined. A Phase I Option task will extend the test program to include modification to the polymers to obtain optimum water vapor permeation and to carry out extensive blood product testing. (P-00886) This system provides the desired simplicity of collection, preservation, storage, reconstitution and dispensation of the blood product in one device. The primary use of the technology will be for improving the availability of blood products in the field under emergency situations for the Department of Defense. Commercial applications would include use in rural and disaster care situation where freezer facilities are not available. |
| MINI MITTER CO., INC.
20300 Empire Avenue Bend, OR 97701 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(541) 322-7272
Dr. Jack E. McKenzie ARMY 00-064 |
| Title: | General Purpose Miniature Thermometer for Remote Monitoring of Soldiers |
| Abstract: | Mini Mitter Co., Inc. will design a body temperature telemetry system that will provide the US Army with an innovative and cost-effective method for monitoring body core temperature and skin temperature of soldiers in the field. We will demonstrate the feasibility of a system supporting ingestible pill thermometers as well as multiple skin patch thermometers with on-board transmitters. The precision thermometer sensors and the thermometer packaging will be derived from Mini Mitter's proprietary temperature transmitters. A body-worn receiver will identify individual thermometers and automatically calibrate each sensor. Periodic radio-frequency transmission techniques will multiplex thermometers and eliminate cross talk between their transmitters. Microelectronic assembly techniques with simplified manufacturing processes will meet the US Army's price objectives of $10 - $20 per thermometer. Mini Mitter's solution will apply directly to the US Army's Warfighter Physiological Status Monitoring program. Phase I objectives are: (1) verify that our existing technologies can support the performance requirements, (2) determine a method of data transmission, and (3) compose a high-level engineering plan for system development in Phase II. Mini Mitter's unique combination of experienced physiologists and strong engineering staff creates an optimal environment for success, providing the scientific and technical expertise to design this system. Mini-Mitter has identified several market segments that will benefit from the development of a General Purpose Miniature Thermometer for Remote Monitoring. These segments include Military Operations, Medical Clinical Research, Hospitals, and Industrial Heat Stress monitoring. The most important and most immediate are the military applications. Key military operational applications include (1) scientific research to evaluate the effects of thermal stress on physical performance; (2) improving the guidelines for troop training regimens; and (3) monitoring of the soldier's physiological data for evaluating the combat efficiency, mission readiness, and safety of troops. |
| INTELLIGENT OPTICAL SYSTEMS, INC.
2520 W. 237th Street Torrance, CA 90505 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 530-7130
Dr. Allan Wang ARMY 00-065 |
| Title: | Imaging Modality to Identify Angiogenesis |
| Abstract: | The goal of this project is to develop intelligent imaging software for the automated identification and analysis of angiogenesis. The project will demonstrate the feasibility of using this innovative technique for clinical angiography. The formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) is a critical component in a variety of physiological and pathological processes, such as in the healing of wounds, bone fractures, and ulcers and other angiogensis related diseases. There is, however, no software specifically designed for analyzing angiogenesis. Intelligent Optical Systems, Inc. (IOS) proposes to develop a user-friendly innovative method for the automatic, reliable, rapid, sensitive, and accurate identification and analysis of angiographies acquired from Magnetic Resonance Imaging, computerized tomography, or Doppler ultrasound. This method will use neural network assisted imaging analysis software to identify and analyze the angiogenesis. This software will be useful in the diagnosis of angiogenesis in bone fractures, ulcers, cancer growth and metastasis, diabetes-induced retinal pathy, rheumatoid arthritis, and coronary disease. In addition, the timely analysis of angiogenesis may help soldiers avoid unnecessary surgical interventions and reduce injury morbidity and mortality resulting from complications. Over 1000 research laboratories and 200 companies are engaged in angiogenesis research and development. These studies will potentially benefit over 65 million surgical patients, 10 million eye patients, 7 million heart patients, and over 9 million cancer patients in the U.S. IOS will demonstrate the feasibility of this new technology by using innovative imaging analysis to meet the requirements for the specific, rapid, and accurate diognosis of clinical angiography. |
| ANTEX BIOLOGOCIS, INC.
300 Professional Drive Gaithersburg, MD 20879 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 590-0129
Dr. Richard Walker ARMY 00-066 |
| Title: | Development of a Microbead Whole Cell Delivery System for Oral Immunization against traveler's diarrhea |
| Abstract: | Antex biologics is developing inactivated whole cell vaccines for oral delivery to prevent infections by bacteria causing traveler's diarrhea. A new, possibly breakthrough, microbead formulation technology is being developed which should be evaluated for its potential to enhance these inactivated whole cell vaccines. These beads should improve the safety, stability and immunogenicity as well as ease of administration of the whole cell vaccine. In this Phase I SBIR, Campylobacter jejuni, a major cause of diarrhea, will be prepared as a dry formulation by spray-coating the inactivated bacterial cells onto a sugar/starch microbead core and then covering the antigen-coated core with a methacrylic acid copolymer. The microbeads will be insoluble at gastric pH, but will be readily soluble at higher (intestinal) pH. This formulation will be tested for its oral immunogenicity and efficacy in a mouse model Antex has developed. This effort should provide a means to better achieve immunoprotection against enteric infections, for which no vaccines are now available. It may also establish an approach for more effective oral vaccines against a broad range of infections. Potential populations for use of such a product include deployed military personnel, international travelers, and global and national public health and child immunization programs. |
| LYNNTECH, INC.
7610 Eastmark Drive College Station, TX 77840 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(979) 693-0017
Dr. Duncan Hitchens ARMY 00-067 |
| Title: | A New Soluble Powder for the Sterilization of Medical/Dental Instruments |
| Abstract: | The objective of this project is to develop a new disinfectant/sterilization system that can be easily deployed to support troops in the field. The standard method of sterilizing medical instruments, by high temperature steam autoclave, is impractical for many field uses due to size, weight, and power constraints. Liquid sterilization methods can be used to sterilize medical equipment when autoclaving is impractical. However, existing liquid sterilants have a number of limitations. Many liquid sterilants are unstable, contain ingredients that are potentially harmful to personnel, or are difficult and costly to transport. Thus, there is a continuing need for a new practical, safe, sterilants for medical instruments in challenging environments. This project concerns development of a novel cold sterilant formulation consisting of a stable dry powder. Large volumes of liquid sterilant can be prepared from potable water, thereby minimizing logistic demands. The proposed formulation is stable at room temperature and is effective against a broad spectrum of microorganisms, including bacterial spores. Preliminary testing of the formulation indicates a high potential for sterilization of medical equipment in 30 minutes at room temperature. The prospects for regulatory acceptance are high because the ingredients have little potential to impact on human health. The proposed research will demonstrate the feasibility of this approach, focusing on sterilization verification and stability testing protocols. A powdered sterilization formulation has significant dual use applications in medical situations in an austere environment. In addition to military uses, the resulting technology has numerous uses in the private sector including, industrial hygiene, food safety, hospital infection control, hazardous spill cleanup, and emergency response management. Lynntech's management team is experienced in obtaining private sector funding for technology commercialization through strategic partnerships with companies serving the infection control market. |
| SRICO, INC.
2724 SAWBURY BOULEVARD COLUMBUS, OH 43235 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(614) 799-0664
Dr. Stuart A. Kingsley ARMY 00-068 |
| Title: | High Frequency Optrode System for Ambulatory EEG Monitoring and Wireless Signal Transmission |
| Abstract: | There is a need for small, lightweight, low-power sensors for real time, unobtrusive monitoring of the physiologic status of individuals in military and civilian environments. Studies show that sleep deprivation can dramatically reduce performance. For example, monitoring the electroencephalogram (EEG) of military personnel can indicate a soldier's level of alertness and sleep/wake status. Such monitoring would enable field commanders to assess and predict the overall group performance level and take appropriate action. This study will design and demonstrate the technical feasibility of a high frequency (1 kHz) optical electrode (optrode) system for acquisition, transmission, and analysis of EEG signals for real time determination of alertness state. The optrode sensors will meet real world needs for insensitivity to motion effects and electromagnetic interference. Also the sensors should be comfortable enough to be "wear and forget". Only in this totally non-intrusive format will the sensors provide for monitoring of physiologic parameters in a realistic, free-ranging scenario. Further, the sensors will be compatible with the standards set for the soldier's wireless personal area network (pLAN) to allow for transmission of the physiologic information to military command and medical personnel. Benefits are all-optical, insensitivity to electromagnetic interference and motion, no adhesives or gels, timesaving, cost saving, non-intrusive. The EEG optrode technology can also be used in civilian settings to evaluate alertness levels of operators of heavy machinery, truck drivers, aviators, and others working in around-the-clock occupations that demand high levels of performance. Other commercial applications include anesthesia awareness monitoring, sleep study research, and mobile medical monitoring for space flight, commercial aviation, emergency patient care, and routine diagnostic assessment. |
| SOLUS BIODEFENSE
700 New Hampshire Ave NW Washington, DC 20037 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(202) 215-9373
Dr. Roger von Hanwehr ARMY 00-069 |
| Title: | Synthesis of Combinatorial Chemical Libraries Containing Potential Inhibitors of Botulinum Neurotoxin Protease Activity |
| Abstract: Abstract not available... | |
| PHYSICAL OPTICS CORP.
Engineering & Products Div. Torrance, CA 90501 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 320-3088
Dr. Andrew Kostrzewski ARMY 00-070 |
| Title: | Virtual Medical Training System |
| Abstract: | Physical Optics Corporation proposes to develop a high resolution, high quality image generator and display for combat trauma surgery training. The Virtual Medical Training (VMT) system, based on our patented 3-D display technology, includes a 3-D display (horizontal geometry without headwear) for the trainee and instructor linked to a virtual human database with an injury generator and a haptic feedback device. The Holographic Horizontal (H2) screen and 3-D projection display 3-D objects floating over the screen surface where each viewer can see the same object from his or her own perspective. The 3-D effect is achieved by projecting slightly different views of the object in front of each viewer at a high refresh rate. The viewer can move freely within the volumetric 3-D zone that extends out from the edge of the screen. The essence of the system is a special type of screen that converges the light into a narrow beam slice of about 1 degree (2 mm wide) representing a single view of the object that is time multiplexed (shifted in front of the viewer), producing a multiplicity of views. The narrow beam position is synchronized with the rendering of the corresponding view, producing a true 3-D effect. The major benefits are efficient training of medical personnel. The system can also be used in television, robotics, and teleoperation. Additional applications include video games and CAD/CAM simulation. |
| MATTEK CORP.
200 Homer Ave Ashland, MA 01721 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(508) 881-6771
Dr. Seyoum Ayehunie ARMY 00-071 |
| Title: | Development of a Vaccine for the Treatment and/or Prevention of Cancer |
| Abstract: | Prostate cancer is the most common non-skin malignancy in the United States. With the exception of lung cancer, it is the leading cause of death in men in the country. By age 80, the risk of developing prostate cancer is estimated to be 1 in 7. Despite increased public awareness, regular check-ups, and improved therapeutic interventions, greater than 31,000 American men will die from prostate cancer during calendar year 2000. The current proposal seeks to develop a new form of immunotherapy using dendritic cell based DNA vaccines to combat this serious disease. During Phase I, in vitro studies will be performed to lay the groundwork for an improved DNA vaccine against prostate cancer. This vaccine will result in increased antigen presentation by utilizing dendritic cells (DC) to administer a combination of prostate cancer, immuno-stimulatory cytokines, and chemokine receptor genes. The transformed DC will be more efficient at presenting antigen to T cells resulting in enhanced killing of prostate cancer tumor cells by cytolytic T-lymphocytes. The proposed vaccine offers a therapy for advanced prostate cancer for which currently no cure is available. The proof of concept in vitro studies in this proposal will form the basis for Phase I and Phase II human clinical trials. In addition to providing a means of combating this serious, often-fatal disease, the proposed vaccine strategy will find applications in other fields of cancer, including breast and ovarian cancer, as well as in fighting infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS. |
| MEGAWAVE CORP.
PO Box 614 Boylston, MA 01505 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(508) 869-2700
Mr. Marshall Cross ARMY 00-072 |
| Title: | Innovative Soldier Conformal Antenna Suite |
| Abstract: | This proposal describes our approach for establishing the technical feasibility of developing an innovative, body conformal VHF/UHF antenna suite capable of being integrated into the MLLE and providing mixed polarization coverage regardless of the soldier's position (prone-to-standing) and orientation. We will investigate three advanced techniques: use of Tesla's series connected bifilar-wound ribbons of metal sputtered upon Kapton film around small diameter flexible ferrite-in-rubber tubes forming a loop around the back of a soldier's waist; feeding COTS "T" and grounded-line "postage-stamp" PCS/ISM elements against artificial dielectric groundplanes to improve performance and decrease SAR and switching these elements using miniature gravity-actuated liquid, ball or moving magnet/reed RF switches to select the element, from sets of elements located at various positions on the MLLE, that best provides the required radiation pattern as a function of soldier position. Our proposed work is divided into mostly analytical during Phase I followed by laboratory evaluation of several key and enabling technologies during the Phase I Option period. Body conformal VHF/UHF antenna systems that can be incorporated into military or civilian worn equipment items and clothing will eliminate the need for protruding whips or "rubber-ducks," reducing size and weight. When used with artificial dielectric groundplanes, "postage-stamp" sized wireless antennas will have increased efficiency and decreased SAR. |
| STAR-H CORP.
51 Spring Dell Rd. Lancaster, PA 17601 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(717) 394-1981
Mr. G. Yale Eastman ARMY 00-072 |
| Title: | Soldier Conformal Antenna Suite |
| Abstract: | The team of STAR-H Corporation and the Electrical Engineering Department of The Pennsylvania State University propose to develop for the Army a high performance, wide band, VHF/UHF receiving and transmitting antenna, or suite of antennas, that can cover an unusually broad range of frequencies and be worn by a soldier in the field. It will be light in weight, weatherproof, launderable, efficient and as nearly omni-directionable as possible. The enabling technology originated in a totally different field, thermal radiators for NASA lunar and Martian power plants, and lends itself well to this new purpose. The proposed technical approach is inherently low in cost, readily adaptable to quantity production and compliant. Preliminary models of the new antenna have been designed, fabricated and tested over a ten kilometer range at power levels from 1 to 35 watts in the UHF portion of the spectrum, meeting several of the Army's goals in advance. The proposed antenna has potential beyond its military significance. It is expected to be adaptable for use for relaying cell phone and data communications inside buildings and tunnels. |
| STIRLING TECHNOLOGY CO.
4208 West Clearwater Ave Kennewick, WA 99336 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(509) 735-4700
Mr. Raymond M. Erbeznik ARMY 00-073 |
| Title: | Feasibility Study of a Diesel-Fueled Micro-Cogeneration System Integrated with Military Experimental Mobile Kitchens |
| Abstract: | Stirling Technology Company proposes to perform a feasibility study of a Micro-Cogeneration System based on a proven free-piston Stirling engine to provide quiet, efficient and reliable electricity and thermal energy for advanced military field kitchens that use Centralized Thermal Fluid Heater technology. Diesel fuel will be combusted in a radiant matrix burner to provide heat for the Stirling engine. Waste heat from the engine will be used to heat water while the burner exhaust provides heat for the thermal fluid heater. The system will provide up to 3 kW of electricity and 100 kW of heat at efficiencies well above 75%. The design of the system will incorporate an existing Stirling cycle engine and leverage heavily from natural gas fired cogeneration and boiler systems already developed for European homes. A conceptual design will be developed to address any foreseeable integration issues, and the feasibility of a diesel-fired radiant matrix burner will be demonstrated in the Phase I project. Introducing the Stirling Micro-Cogeneration System (SMCS) into the Rapid Deployment Kitchen will have several benefits. First, the SMCS will eliminate the need for noisy, dirty, high-maintenance and inefficient internal combustion (IC) generators to supply electricity for the field kitchen. The SMCS can be integrated directly into the kitchen's Central Thermal Fluid Heater System (CTFH) to provide electricity and thermal energy internally. The SMCS will also dramatically improve the efficiency of the kitchen by reducing the wasted heat from 27.5 kW to less than 15 kW. The reduction in waste heat provides a more safe and comfortable working environment for the kitchen staff. With the cooling fan as the loudest component, the Stirling cycle generator operates in virtual silence so the introduction of the SMCS will not add any audible noise to the normal operation of the kitchen Without the need for lubricating oil or periodic maintenance of any kind, the RG-3000 is very clean and easy to operate once installed, with no harmful or unsanitary fluids to dispose of. The maintenance-free, useful life of a Stirling generator typically far exceeds the total operating life of even a well-maintained IC engine. The inherent long life of the Stirling cycle generator, combined with superior fuel efficiency makes the Stirling more cost effective to operate than an IC generator. The RG-3000 is clearly preferable to IC engine generators for providing heat and power cogeneration in, not only kitchens and laundries, but in many types of field logistical equipment. Following development for military applications, this technology will be viable for use in commercial mobile kitchens, laundries and for use in rural and off-grid homes. |
| PHYSICAL SCIENCES, INC.
20 New England Business Center Andover, MA 01810 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 689-0003
Richard Barnard ARMY 00-074 |
| Title: | Flame/Thermal Protective Fabric Test Apparatus |
| Abstract: | In this Phase I program, Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) proposes to develop a prototype testing apparatus to evaluate protective clothing fabrics for military procurement approval and test the protective performance of commercial fabrics. PSI's design includes an IR radiant heat source, skin temperature measurement, a skin-simulant material, an adjustable sample platform, sensors measuring incident heat fluxes and thermophysical properties of the fabric sample, and relevant burn injury calculations. The system components will be integrated into an automated system that is capable of running multiple test scenarios and analyzing the data directly from the user interface. Phase I will demonstrate that an innovative system design utilizing the latest technologies is feasible for meeting the specified technical objectives. During the proposed program, PSI will evaluate a series of design concepts and develop a prototype to demonstrate concept feasibility. A detailed design and additional testing of the prototype is included as a Phase I Option task. The successful completion of this program will provide the Army with a new and quantitative capability for the evaluation and procurement approval of protective fabrics. The proposed development will benefit government agencies in effectively evaluating protective fabrics in flame/thermal testing. The Army will obtain an improved capability in testing commercial fabrics for military procurement purposes. The apparatus will also be applied to commercial companies and organizations that produce and test fabrics for industry use. These industries include factories, power plants, car racing, airlines, and others involving fire hazardous environments. |
| CLEVER FELLOWS INNOVATION CONSORTIUM
302 10th St. Troy, NY 12180 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(518) 272-3565
Mr. John A. Corey ARMY 00-075 |
| Title: | Thermoacoustic Refrigeration of Large Food Storage Containers |
| Abstract: | Operational demonstration of a CFC-free, electrically-powered thermoacoustic refrigeration unit is proposed, enabled by cost-shared availability of proposer's patented STAR resonant drivers. STARs (developed in part through previous SBIR work and already used in acoustic cryocoolers) uniquely resolve the primary performance problem demonstrated in all previous thermoacoustic refrigerators: the efficiency and power limitations of conventional drivers. STARs exhibit high electro-acoustic efficiency, intrinsic capacity modulation, and compact power delivery. The proposer's extensive experience with Stirling and thermoacoustic machine development assures similarly effective results in analysis, design, and production of specialized heat exchangers and other components proposed for this integrated thermoacoustic system. The work statement includes analysis, design, construction, and a proof test. There is a configuration study with cycle analyses to compare mechanical arrangement options in simulation (using DeltaE and Sage modeling codes). This is expected to show (for the optimal configuration) an average energy efficiency greater than existing vapor-compression equipment. Construction of a proof unit is included, using an existing STAR motor drive from the proposer's cryocooler products. Testing of the proof unit against a laboratory load will be done, to demonstrate electrically-driven thermoacoustic cooling power sufficient to serve the Army's 40 cubic foot field kitchen refrigerator (650 Btu/hr). STAR-powered, modulating, thermoacoustic refrigeration can significantly improve the logistical impact of food storage on Army field operations. Commercialization of this technology depends on early demonstration of superior energy efficiency and operational flexibility. The proposed Phase 1 project enables both military and commercial gains. For the Army's use, the anticipated results of this project provide a food storage cooling system that consumes less energy overall and exhibits significantly lower peak power, noise, and maintenance demand. Total field-use energy consumption includes not just steady-state operation, but transportation and support logistics. STAR-thermoacoustic cooling, lower peak power draws (through modulation) and lower maintenance demand (of simpler, long-life non-lubricated components) can reduce the size of field generators and the spare parts inventory essential to fielded readiness. Less to haul means more energy savings and enhanced operational flexibility. Smaller generators and higher efficiency mean less fuel carried and lower thermal signatures, too. The absence of conventional refrigerant in the proposed equipment also furthers the Army's mission to minimize adverse environmental impact in its operations. For commercial use, the proposed development of a military refrigerator is a necessary catalyst and a proving ground for advanced equipment that can address a huge number of civilian applications. The STAR-thermoacoustic cooling system is expected to offer overall performance superior to conventional vapor-compression systems, at comparable cost and size, in most cases where the cooling is delivered directly adjacent to the refrigeration machinery. These include: household and commercial refrigerators and freezers, grocery storage and display cases, vending machines, hotel room air conditioning/heat pumps, window and rooftop air conditioners, industrial cabinet and electronics cooling, and truck trailer and railcar cargo coolers. Only split system uses, like household central air conditioning, are not now practical to address. The proposers have identified a $16 billion/year addressable US market for these target applications. Present technologies use refrigerants that retain significant ozone-depletion or global-warming potentials and must be phased out soon. Other identified alternatives (e.g., absorption, thermoelectrics) have severe penalties in size, complexity, or efficiency. Adoption of the STAR-thermoacoustic technology proposed for this project in even a small fraction of these applications can eliminate the environmental threat while reducing the enormous electric energy consumption applied to such cooling, without major changes to the packaging or production of most products and at a reasonable cost. 1) 1.9 Trillion kWhr/yr, $73Billion/yr for US Household 1997& commercial buildings 1995. This represents about 1/4 of total electric consumption for these sectors. |
| ACCURATE AUTOMATION CORP.
7001 Shallowford Road Chattanooga, TN 37421 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(423) 894-4646
Dr. John Mankowski ARMY 00-076 |
| Title: | Development of Radio Frequency Mitigation Technologies for Missile Defense Electronics |
| Abstract: | Accurate Automation Corporation is proposing the development of a plasma limiter for the protection of sensing electronic equipment from high power EM radiation. The Limiter is essentially a self-breaking, fine-point, electrode placed within the receiving transmission line. In Phase I, AAC will begin development and testing of the concept in an S-band resonant ring located at Texas Tech University. The testing matrix will include breakdown for several gases at a range of pressures, various point diameters, and gap distances observing primarily breakdown development time and reflection and transmission characteristics. This work will lay the foundation for future Phase II development and research into an X-band system. The commercialization of this product will apply to a variety of sensing technologies. The potential market is tremendously broad and includes radar systems, telecommunication systems (mobile phones), and DSTV. Additionally, this technology applies to both ground based and spaced based systems. |
| GOMEZ RESEARCH ASSOC., INC.
2707 Artie Street Huntsville, AL 35805 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(256) 551-0431
Mr. Michael Madewell ARMY 00-076 |
| Title: | Development of Radio Frequency Mitigation Technologies for Missile Defense Electronics |
| Abstract: | Increased demands on the reliability of solid state electronics operating in an enriched electromagnetic environment necessitates the development of protection devices that cover a broad frequency band and that protect against high powers and pulses with very short rise times. Current limiters have not been able to provide this wide range of protection. The objective of this proposal is to demonstrate a Fractal Limiter Device (FLD) that will protect sensitive electronic systems from various forms of high power Electromagnetic Interference (EMI). The physical realization of such a device is accomplished by exploiting the fundamental properties of fractal antennas and signals (i.e., their geometrical similarity). In this proposal, it will be shown that the geometrical self-similarity of radiation patterns emitted by fractal antennas allows one to construct transmit and receive fractal antenna elements that function as a receiver protection device (i.e., limiter). The FLD offers substantial advantages over traditional limiters in that it will exhibit faster response times (picoseconds) and will provide reliable protection from a wider variety of high power external signal interference. The objective of Phase I is to prove, through assembly and test, that a FLD can be produced that will mitigate the effects of various forms of high power electromagnetic pulses on electronics. The need for cost effective limiter devices exhibiting fast response times and high power handling capabilities is continually growing in both commercial and defense electronics markets. Specific FLD applications include protection of communication receivers, computer networks, radio and television receivers, and medical diagnostic equipment. |
| FARR RESEARCH, INC.
614 Paseo Del Mar NE Albuquerque, NM 87123 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(505) 293-3886
Dr. Everett G. Farr ARMY 00-077 |
| Title: | An Ultra-Wideband Antenna Built Into a Parachute |
| Abstract: | While explosive munitions are quite effective at causing damage due to blast and fragments, their radius of damage is somewhat limited. We seek here to introduce a method of increasing the damage radius by adding an RF weapon system to the munition, consisting of an impulse source and a broadband antenna. By this technique, additional damage will be created in the area by upsetting computers and communications systems in the vicinity of the attack. A key part of the RF weapon system is the antenna. We propose incorporating an antenna into the parachute of a munition as it approaches its target. Such a device would be similar in form to a collapsible impulse radiating antenna (CIRA) that is currently manufactured and sold by Farr Research. The parachute would be fabricated in part from a conducting ripstop nylon that would simulate a parabolic reflector. We call the combination of parachute and IRA the Para-IRA. During Phase I we will build a prototype antenna on a small scale. We will test the device at our time domain test facility, and we will provide a preliminary design for a larger-scale design. We will talk with parachute manufacturers to investigate the challenges of incorporating an antenna into a standard parachute design. This research will lead to a new design for an ultra-wideband antenna embedded into a parachute. This device will be one part of a hybrid system that combines an UWB RF weapon with a high explosive munition. Such a weapon extends the damage radius beyond that of a simple explosive munition. |
| ENGINEERING MATTERS, INC.
23 Farwell St. Newton, MA 02460 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(617) 965-8974
Dr. David Cope ARMY 00-079 |
| Title: | Large-Scale Common-Mode Current Rejection |
| Abstract: | There is a demonstrated need to protect power lines from disruptions to the Earth's magnetic field which can induce currents in the electrical conductors of such communications systems and pipelines. These disruptions can be caused by high altitude detonation of nuclear weapons or by solar activity. These geomagnetically-induced currents (GICs) cause saturation of the transformers, resulting in increased heating, generation of harmonics, and reactive power demand, each of which can lead to problems with system operation and dramatically increased corrosion rates of metallic pipelines. During the Baseline program, Engineering Matters will develop protective system designs for transformers and transmission lines in conjunction with our commercial utility teammate. We will then demonstrate the success of these designs in tests using sub-scale systems. During the Optional Task, we will design an additional technique to protect rotating synchronous generators. Electric system infrastructure preservation and reliable delivery of high quality electric power will be aided by the development of GIC mitigation techniques. |
| TECHNOLOGIES & DEVICES INTERNATIONAL
8660 Dakota Dr. Gaithersburg, MD 20877 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 208-8342
Dr. Alexander Syrkin ARMY 00-080 |
| Title: | High-Temperature High-Power Silicon Carbide Power Device for Hybrid Vehicles |
| Abstract: | TDI proposes to develop high-power silicon carbide normally off junction field effect transistor (JFET) for military and commercial applications. Recently TDI has reported silicon carbide pn structures grown by sublimation and liquid phase epitaxy and demonstrated building blocks for SiC power devices including low resistivity Ohmic contacts to p-SiC, highly doped p+-4H-SiC layers, 4H-SiC pn diode chips with breakdown field > 2MV/cm and low leakage current. 6H-SiC diode chips with stable electric breakdown at 50 kW/cm2 dissipating power were demonstrated. These results open the opportunity to fabricate robust high-power high-current SiC devices. JFET is known as most reliable and rugged device with excellent current sharing capabilities having much better high-temperature reliability than Schottky diodes, MESFETs or MOSFETs. The goal of the Phase I is to prove the concept, design, demonstrate and test 4H-SiC normally off JFET. Detail device modeling will be performed to optimize high-power/high-current device performance. Modeling and experimental results will be compared with published data. In the Phase II, we will focus on the fabrication and characterization of SiC power JFETs scaled to 1500 V and 2000 A level. High performance SiC power devices for electric power conversion and traction motor control will find a host of applications in military vehicles, air platforms, space platforms, in commercial components like industrial motor drives, power converters and power supplies. |
| UNITED SILICON CARBIDE, INC.
100 Jersey Ave. Building D New Brunswick, NJ 08901 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(732) 565-9500
Mr. Peter Alexandrov ARMY 00-080 |
| Title: | Design and Fabrication of a Novel SiC Power Device |
| Abstract: | We propose to design, fabricate, and commercialize a novel SiC power device for high temperature and high power applications. The proposed device does not reply on a future solution to the problem of gate dielectric reliability at high temperature and electric field. Successful demonstration of the proposed device would rapidly accelerate the development and pratical applications of SiC power devices in harsh environment. In Phase I, we plan to carry out a detailed computer modeling and experimental study (i) to show the expected performance advantages of the proposed SiC power switch over the existing SiC devices, (ii) to simulate both DC and AC performances at temperatures up to 250 C, (iii) to quantify a structure for experimental demonstration, (iv) to experimentally fabricate the proposed power switch, and (v) to fully characterize the device performance. In Phase II, we will further develop the required processing technologies to fabricate improved versions of the proposed device based on improved design and modeling. We will reduce the ON-state voltage drop, increase the blocking voltage, substantially improve the current capability, and clear show the advantages of the proposed SiC power switch over the existing SiC switches. High temperature SiC power switches for ground and sea vehicles, for actuator controllers and power supplies in air platforms, space platforms and weapons systems with extensive commercial applications in traction drives in electric and hybrid electric vehicles, industrial motor drives, power converters, power supplies and appliances. |
| FOSTER-MILLER, INC.
350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 684-4283
Mr. Robert Lee Cardenas ARMY 00-081 |
| Title: | Bridge Anchorage Systems |
| Abstract: | Anchor systems are used to keep military support bridging in place and to withstand the water currents flowing in the wet gap they span. Current anchorage systems use kedge anchors, which are dropped from individual pontoons of the floating bridge to the streambed, and a combination of overhead lines connected to towers at each shore and guy lines. Experiences at the Sava River at Zupania, Croatia, demonstrated several specific shortcomings in the present anchorage system. The systems are time consuming to emplace, cumbersome to transport, prohibit periodic opening of the waterway for river traffic or to clear debris buildup on the upstream face of the bridge, and in the case of the poor river bottom conditions in Croatia just didn't work. By developing a system that is operationally more flexible and effective than current equipment, is easily maintained by operational units and is based on widely available commercial and industrial components, we can both increase the operational effectiveness of US Army bridging units and reduce the overall costs of the Bridge Companies. The new system may incorporate a system of lightweight, rapidly deployed anchors which can provide reliable anchorage for dry (access/egress situations) and submerged conditions. (P-00808) A successful development program will result in a logistically efficient system that will support the future Ribbon Bridge installations. Rapidly deployed and lightweight anchor systems have application in the maritime support, construction and forestry industries and will find utility in Emergency Response situations. |
| CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC.
725 Concord Avenue Cambridge, MA 02138 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(617) 491-3474
Magnus Snorrason ARMY 00-082 |
| Title: | Scene Estimation & Situational Awareness Mapping Engine (SESAME) |
| Abstract: | Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs) must have self-localization capabilities, not just in abstract units like longitude & latitude, but with reference to real terrain. The ideal solution uses both onboard sensing (for real-time local scene information) and preloaded digital maps (for a global perspective). We propose to develop a Scene Estimation & Situational Awareness Mapping Engine (SESAME) to accomplish this goal for UGVs such as Utah State University/TARDEC's T3. Our design will use mature commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) stereo cameras and computer vision processors, enabling us to deliver a robust, fully-functional system at the end of Phase II that does not rely on exotic, high-cost hardware. In Phase I, we will specify hardware requirements (and optionally evaluate available COTS stereo camera vision systems & acquire one), design the overall system architecture and all algorithms, and implement & evaluate software prototypes for key algorithms. Our mapping engine will generate local high-resolution digital elevation maps (DEMs) in real-time from stereo input and integrate with preloaded low-resolution DEMs. Our scene understanding algorithms will use color and shape to classify objects by material class (grass/foliage vs. rock/concrete, etc.) and category (tree vs. road, etc.). Situational awareness is then derived from correlating detected objects with known locations. SESAME has direct commercial potential to numerous DoD, DoE, and private industry UGV projects as a situational awareness module designed for low-cost COTS stereo cameras. The developed situational awareness algorithms also have excellent commercial potential as a spin-off product for the computer game industry: a software development kit that enables game developers to easily add sophisticated path planning capabilities to their games' built-in artificially intelligent opponent. |
| SCIENTIFIC SYSTEMS CO., INC.
500 West Cummings Park Woburn, MA 01801 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 933-5355
Dr. B. Ravichandran ARMY 00-082 |
| Title: | Navigation, Scene Understanding, and Situational Awareness for an Unmanned Ground Vehicle |
| Abstract: | The objective of this project is to design and implement a system to provide accurate position and situational awareness for an unmanned ground vehicle (UGV). These tasks will be accomplished by a modular system where each module will accomplish the functions of (1) navigation (2) scene understanding and (3) situational awareness. In order to accomplish these functions, we will design and develop three modules. The Positioning Sensor Module (PSM) will address navigation, Local-scene Sensor Module (LSM) will address scene understanding and the Internal Representation Module (IRM) will address situational awareness. The focus of Phase I will be on: (1) demonstrating the capability of the scene understanding tasks (the Local-scene Sensor Module) and (2) the design of an architecture for the three modules (PSM for navigation, LSM for scene understanding, and IRM for situational awareness). Phase II will focus on all the modules and demonstrate their capabilities via field tests using on a UGV. The project team is composed of Scientific Systems Company Inc (SSCI), The Sarnoff Corporation and the Center for Self-Organizing and Intelligent Systems (CSOIS) at Utah State University. This SBIR project will complement these ongoing efforts between CSOIS and TACOM and focus on developing the position sensing and situational awareness system. During the course of this project the CSOIS UGVs will serve as a platform for the basis of our design and demonstrations. The development of the above core technologies in position sensing and situational awareness for a UGV will serve as a foundation for Phase III commercialization. Commercial application of this technology exist in several areas such as: remote sensing, road and bridge inspection, buried and/or hazardous waste detection, unmanned space exploration, and counter terrorism. |
| TURING ASSOC., INC.
1392 Honey Run Drive Ann Arbor, MI 48103 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(734) 665-4818
Mr. Gary Witus ARMY 00-082 |
| Title: | Position Sensing and Situational Awareness for Robotic Vehicles |
| Abstract: | The proposal is to develop low-cost technologies for enhanced perception and terrain understanding for robotic ground vehicle navigation. We propose to combine structured lighting with stereo vision, using innovative image processing based on shape-from-shading and shadow processing. This will provide robust ability to detect and segment negative obstacles (e.g., down steps), to estimate upcoming terrain slope, to improve object detection and segmentation (including porous obstacles such as fences), and improve texture characterization. We propose to use internal self-status sensors (e.g., inertial navigation sensors, current meters, load sensors) to collect data to characterize terrain trafficability (e.g., roughness, slope, ground resistance, traction limits, slip) for path planning. The mobile robot will exectute stylized maneuvers to measure terrain trafficability characteristics. We propose to use frequency analysis feature extraction and machine learning to classify terrain based on its trafficability (supporting landmark recognition and map region localization). We propose to train machine leaning systems to predict trafficability characteristics from structured lighting/stereo vision image texture metrics and segmented-region shape features. Preliminary experiments have demonstrated the feasiblity of key elements of the proposed approach. The research products will be applicable to DoD unmanned ground vehicle programs including the Future Combat Systems (FCS) vehicles, security robots, mine clearing and unexploded ordnance removal robots. The products will have potential applicability in commercial automotive intelligent vehicle development. |
| NANONEX CORP.
7 FOULET DRIVE PRINCETON, NJ 08540 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(609) 683-3973
Dr. Jian Jim Wang ARMY 00-083 |
| Title: | High Performance Nano-Wire-Grid Wide-angle Broadband Polarizing Beamsplitters |
| Abstract: | This small business innovation research phase-I project will provide the design and the proof-of-principle demonstration of high-performance wide-angle, broadband (over the visible spectrum) polarizing beam-splitters. The proposed polarizing beam-splitters (PBSs) use nano-wire-grid as the polarization element, and hence is coined nano-wire-grid PBS (NWG-PBS). The proposed research will optimize the design of the geometry (size, pitch and shape) of the metal wire girds and supporting dielectric materials, as well as the selection of these materials, to achieve the desired extinction ratio, splitting efficiency, and transmittance in the wavelength range from near-infrared down to 400 nm. The designs will be first tested using simulation tools, then will be fabricated and characterized experimentally. The key tool of the fabrication is nanoimprint lithography, which can allow low-cost, high throughput patterning of sub-10 nm features over a large area- one of the expertise of Nanonex Corporation. The proposed NWG-PBS has many superior performances over existing PBSs, including (1) high polarization efficiency (> 99%) and high extinction ratio (> 100:1) for both s- and p- polarizations throughout the visible spectrum; (2) high transmission and reflection efficiencies (both > 95%); (3) large working incident angle range (0øñ45ø) and acceptance angle throughout the visible spectrum; (4) large clear working aperture (up to 5 inches in diameter); (5) ultra-thin active layer (< 0.5 micron); and (6) capability of integration with other devices. The proposed NWG-PBSs have many significant applications, which include projection TVs, liquid crystal displays & projectors, color copies/color printers, communications and computing components and vision systems. This proposed device, if successfully developed, would revolutionize the optics industry by significantly improving the performance of numerous optical & electro-optical products for both civilian and military applications. |
| NMI
53 Plymouth St Cambridge, MA 02141 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(617) 492-3984
Mr. Timothy A. Savas ARMY 00-083 |
| Title: | Wide-Angle Broadband Polarizing Beamsplitter |
| Abstract: | The objective of this proposal is to demonstrate the feasibility of fabricating polarizing beamsplitters that are broadband and have a wide field of view. We propose to use lithographic techniques to fabricate a polarizing beamsplitter that has acceptance angles up to +- 55 degrees and extinction ratios greater than 50:1 throughout the visible spectrum. Various materials and processing techniques will be investigated. In addition, we propose to fabricate small prototype polarizing beamsplitters and measure their polarization properties. The efficiency and extinction ratios for both S and P beams will be measured as a function of incident angle and wavelength. This beamsplitter device, if successfully developed, may not only find use in advanced imaging for military and medical systems, but may also prove indispensable for consumer applications such as projection displays. |
| PHOTERA TECNOLOGIES
12777 High Bluff Drive San Diego, CA 92130 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(858) 755-8855
Dr. Maurice Pessot ARMY 00-083 |
| Title: | Polarizers for High Angular, Spectral, and Efficiency Requirements (PHASER) |
| Abstract: | Polarizing beamsplitters are critical to optical systems which range from head-mounted displays (HMDs) to electronic cinema; their efficiency often dictating the size, weight and cost of such systems. Hence, nominal improvements in polarizer performance have far-reaching implications. Relative to a figure of merit which assigns equal weights to polarizer efficiency, field of view and spectral coverage, we show that the performance of beamsplitting polarizers can be greatly enhanced. Innovative refinements of age-old technology can yield a two-fold improvement, while the successful application of new technologies could offer a revolutionary four-fold improvement. Moreover, three of the newer technologies lead to beamsplitting polarizers which operate at normal incidence; thereby opening up a host of new system geometries. Our proposed Phase I program involves the experiments and analyses necessary to establish the viability of several different approaches. It also involves the gathering of information concerning the availability, size limitations and cost of all materials and processes required to produce full-scale versions of each polarizer type. Hence, at the conclusion of the Phase I effort, not only will we be in a position to assess technical viability, but also to assess the cost effectiveness of each approach. Successful development of any one of the proposed polarizers will have a profound effect upon the performance, size, weight and cost of numerous military and commercial optical systems. Relative to pancake-window-based HMDs, for example, such a development would enable an order of magnitude improvement in performance. |
| PRECISION MAGNETIC BEARING SYSTEMS,
36 Green Mountain Drive Cohoes, NY 12047 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(518) 783-4343
Dr. Dantam K. Rao ARMY 00-084 |
| Title: | Compact All-Silicon Carbide Inverter Development |
| Abstract: | We propose to develop an Inverter Test Facility to evaluate the performance of Silicon vs. Silicon Carbide power devices. In Phase-I, we will use this Test Facility to measure the performance of a baseline Silicon-based 5 HP inverter; in Phase-II, we will use this data as bench mark to evaluate the superiority of Silicon Carbide devices. The intent is to demonstrate key benefits of high temperature capability, small-size or higher efficiency of SiC devices over existing Si devices. In Phase-I, we will (i) develop an Inverter Test Facility that can accept either Si or SiC devices or modules and (ii) develop a high speed CAN-based DSP controller card that drives the test bed (iii) develop DSP software to control a 5 HP 3-phase motor, (iv) develop a dyno test rig to measure its performance and (v) test the full-power performance of the Si inverter, including the effect of temperature on efficiency. We will also review the advances in SiC power device development and identify leading suppliers or developers. In addition, in Phase-I Option, we will continue the preliminary design of the All-SiC inverter and will finalize the procurement or engineering sample development strategies for the All-SiC devices and modules. With SiC devices inverters can operate at higher temperatures than those possible by the current technology Si inverters. They also reduce size or increase efficiency. Applications include military vehicles, mining industry motors, More Electric Aircraft , Navy and Pulse Power as well as numerous commercial markets. |
| PZ TECHNOLOGY, INC.
1209 Gulley Road Neptune, NJ 07753 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(732) 599-5837
Mr. Bill Wright ARMY 00-084 |
| Title: | High-Speed High-Temperature Silicon Carbide Motor Drive Inverter for Hybrid Vehicles |
| Abstract: | We propose to develop a SiC inverter for controlling a three-phase AC induction motor of at least 6 HP. In Phase I, we shall concentrate on (i) building a Si-based inverter with DSP for real time control by using high speed Si devices for over 30 KHz operation, (ii) building a hybrid SiC-diode/Si-IGBT based inverter and evaluating its performance, (iii) preliminary design of a SiC-based inverter, (iv) survey of state-fo-the-art in SiC device development and identifying the type of SiC devices for Phase II SiC inverter development, and (v) drafting a test plan for the SiC inverter. In Phase I, inverter characterization will be concentrated on switching losses vs. temperature, inverter efficiency at different temperatures, and the highest possible operating frequency and temperature. We shall also, in Phase I, characterize state-of-the-art SiC diode as well as its performance in the hybrid inverter circuit. In Phase II, SiC devices will be procured to build SiC inverters for motor control up to at least 6 HP. Improved SiC inverter design will be identified and used to guide the commercial development in Phase III. High performance SiC inverters for motor control in Army vehicles such as HMMWV and for commercial hybrid and all electric vehicles as well as for numerous commercial power electronic systems. |
| SATCON TECHNOLOGY CORP.
161 First Street Cambridge, MA 02142 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(410) 694-8054
Mr. William Hall ARMY 00-084 |
| Title: | High-Speed High-Temperature Silicon Carbide Motor Drive Inverter for Hybrid Vehicles |
| Abstract: | Silicon carbide has long held the promise of founding a new generation of higher-density power electronics and its beneficial characteristics of higher temperature and higher frequency operation have been demonstrated. The question of how to package and apply SiC devices to take best advantage of these beneficial characteristics is largely unanswered. With the recent availability of prototype power devices, however, it is now possible to build a practical power-electronics circuit using SiC devices and explore its operational bounds in an attempt to provide these answers. A hybrid-electric vehicle motor drive, which potentially has widespread future use in both military and commercial vehicles, has been identified as a suitable application for this research. The construction and evaluation of a SiC based inverter driving a hybrid-vehicle induction motor is proposed. A significant increase in power density of power electronics would be of great benefit in reducing size and cost. Power-density improvement is presently limited by silicon device operating temperature and heat removal technology, both of which are receiving research attention. Silicon carbide with its higher operating temperature offers the hope for a step increase in power density. This project will be one of the first efforts to bring silicon carbide out of the research laboratory and into a practical realm and will benefit others in industry seeking higher power density or extended temperature range operation. |
| SCIENTIFIC SYSTEMS CO., INC.
500 West Cummings Park Woburn, MA 01801 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 933-5355
Dr. Raman Mehra/Sanjeev Seereeram ARMY 00-085 |
| Title: | Intelligent Classification and Clustering Techniques for Text Data Mining |
| Abstract: | For Federal agencies' management programs, there exists a specific need for an integrated software analysis suite which can: (1) process online information relevant to their needs, (2) provide pattern and trend identification, and (3) link solicitations and requirements documents to open-source suppliers, research and development capabilities. Automated information retrieval and document classification has become one of the most important technologies for web-based applications. Integration of data mining algorithms with textual analysis systems, termed Text Data Mining (TDM), represents a promising approach to such a knowledge management problem. The objective of this Phase I research is to design an overall system architecture for an Information Intelligence-based Program Management System, and investigate classification and clustering techniques to analyze document collections, classify incoming documents and identify trends within the subject areas. In particular, we will investigate the use of selected statistical, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Neural Networks (NN) techniques for improving the classification and clustering performance of TDM systems. Profesors Daniella Rus (Dartmouth College) and Joydeep Ghosh (University of Texas) will provide consulting support for this Phase I. The Phase I base will investigate the feasibility of the proposed approaches for TDM. The Phase I option will create a detailed design specification for a prototype IIPMS. Commercial applications of the proposed technology include all private sector companies, federal and state agencies with either technology requirements, or products and services for sale. It will appeal to high-technology businesses, prime contractors, small/medium companies, individual consultants, innovators, university and federal research institutions as a cost-effective alternative to traditional (in-house) sales and marketing. Federal, state and local agencies, prime contractors and other businesses are increasingly in favor of acquisition and licensing of technology items instead of in-house engineering (buy vs. build). The total potential market for the company's products and services is estimated to be over one million subscribers worldwide. |
| SEARCH TECHNOLOGY, INC.
4960 Peachtree Industrial Blvd Norcross, GA 30071 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(770) 441-1458
Mr. Paul R. Frey ARMY 00-085 |
| Title: | An Integrated Suite of Text and Data Mining Tools for Program Managers |
| Abstract: | This proposal describes an effort to build an integrated suite of tools for R&D Program Managers, incorporating text mining and data mining tools for information extraction and knowledge discovery from requirement sources and bibliographic databases of R&D literature. Successful program management depends in part on identifying and understanding requirements, discerning linkages among requirements (e.g., commonality, dependency, priority, etc.), and recognizing correspondence between program requirements and the capabilities of available resources. Requirements take several forms, but of particular interest are large written documents, such as Strategic Plans and R&D Master Plans. Requirements may originate from databases of operating experience and maintenance information. In either the database form or the resulting documents, mastery of these information sources presents a daunting challenge. The technologies of text and data mining have great potential for assisting Program Managers in their task of defining or understanding requirements from these very large data sources by identifying relationships among requirements and discovering connections between the requirements and other R&D activities reported in bibliographic databases. In Phase I, we will 1) analyze requirements sources, 2) prepare a report on text and data mining techniques, 3) develop a software specification, and 4) demonstrate the feasibility by developing a demonstration prototype. Successful completion of all three phases of this program will result in a powerful suite of tools for text mining. Program Managers in large organizations (government and commercial) will be able to use these tools to extract knowledge from databases of operational and maintenance experience. This knowledge will assist the Program Manager in defining, articulating, and defending programmatic requirements. The suite of tools will also allow the manager to mine clusters of requirements from free text documents such as Requirements Documents, Science and Technology Master Plans, and Strategic Plans. These requirements clusters can then be used to mine open literature S&T bibliographic databases to identify centers of excellence and assess the qualifications of individuals and organizations submitting proposals. By cross-mining requirements documents and S&T literature, the manager can also find new relationships among technologies and applications that may provide leverage points for investment of R&D resources. By mining internal research plans against patent databases, managers can enhance their protection of an organization's intellectual property by assessing how their research agenda and product development plans compare with their competitor's patent strategy. |
| STOTTLER HENKE ASSOC., INC.
1660 So. Amphlett Blvd. San Mateo, CA 94402 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(206) 545-1478
Ronald Braun ARMY 00-085 |
| Title: | Employing Data Mining to Create an Improved Information Intelligence System |
| Abstract: | We propose an innovative combination of text analysis and data mining techniques in the design of an information intelligence-based program management system. By drawing on our extensive experience, we have devised a novel approach to translating free and field-delineated text into quantitative data suitable for use with a wide range of data mining techniques. In particular, our system (FlexiMiner), will support the application of text preprocessing, term discovery, concept formation, and automated text segmentation techniques in the encoding of text documents. The resulting quantitative data can take on a variety of forms depending on the goals of the analyst and the available computational resources. FlexiMiner will offer an improved capability to explore material needs documents and open source R&D abstracts, as well as discover logical linkages between these two sets of information. Finally, the ability to do cross-field pattern discovery and free-text analysis will offer more flexibility than that offered by the Technology Opportunities Analysis System. Phase I research and development of a proof-of-concept limited prototype will build on our existing data mining toolkit, IKODA, and lay the groundwork for the Phase II implementation of a fully functional common tool suite for both text and quantitative data mining. The US military is not alone in its need for advanced text mining tools. The proposed system would be very valuable to venture capitalists, medical researchers, and engineering design firms. |
| FOSTER-MILLER, INC.
350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 684-4379
Mr. Arnis Mangolds ARMY 00-086 |
| Title: | Mission Payload for Small Urban Robots |
| Abstract: | This proposal will address the payloads and the integration issues associated with small unit UGV robot systems defined as systems that could be disassembled and backpacked or hand carried to a forward position. These robots will support dismounted and mounted infantry and will be particularly useful in urban and dense forest terrain that will not be directly addressed by the larger FCS systems. The focus will be on developing an ability to hotswap payloads in a self configuring plug and play format. The payloads will be automated to the degree possible, as will the Operator control unit. Three payloads will be selected and the physical, electrical and software integration techniques will be demonstrated. (P-00809) Small robotics has the potential of extending the soldier's reach and minimizing his risk. A modular robot that can be reconfigured in the field will greatly expand the utility of the base system. By automating the swap-out configuration, less training and stress will be placed on the solider/operator, resulting in a more reliable system. |
| INDUSTRIAL MEASUREMENT SYSTEMS, INC.
245 West Roosevelt Rd. West Chicago, IL 60185 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(630) 876-8981
Dr. Donald E. Yuhas ARMY 00-088 |
| Title: | An Ultrasonic Tomography System for Imaging Reinforcement Steel in Concrete Bridge Girders |
| Abstract: | Recent studies have indicated the potential of reconstruction methods such as tomography as a modality suitable for finding and imaging steel reinforcement encased in bridges. The objective of the proposed research is to develop and demonstrate an ultrasonic tomography system capable of imaging reinforcement steel in concrete bridge girders. The system will be capable of locating position and size of the reinforcement to less than 1/8". Initial experiments in this Phase I program are directed at establishing baseline resolution data using existing commercially available tomographic reconstruction algorithms as well as existing synthetic aperture code. Next, in order to improve resolution, we formulate and evaluate two diffraction tomographic algorithms. In a series of experiments using concrete test specimens we formulate design rules for optimal tomographic sensors and requirements for automated data collection under field conditions. Finally, using the optimal reconstruction methods we assess image quality in terms of spatial and contrast resolution. Current technology uses magnetic or eddy current based approaches to locate subsurface reinforcement or relies upon large-scale tests to determine load ratings. An ultrasonic approach for verifying steel placement will have several distinct advantages over other available technologies. These include, increased accuracy, ease of operation, ease of interpretion and speed of operation. |
| INNOVATIVE MECHANICS, INC.
265 Coe Road Clarendon Hills, IL 60514 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(630) 887-9020
Dr. Andres Peekna ARMY 00-089 |
| Title: | Measuring Time Dependent Pavement Surface Deflection Profiles Under Rolling Vehicles Using a Portable System |
| Abstract: | Several of the approaches proposed would involve arrays of vertical-sensing sensors plus horizontal-sensing sensors supported by a 4-meter long lightweight beam. End supports could extend out from the roadside, or consist of longitudinal extenders. The vertical-sensing sensors would sense road profile and pavement deflection under load. They could be either contact sensors (linear variable differential transformers) or optical distance sensors. The horizontal-sensing sensors would be low-cost ultrasonic sensors, and would be aimed toward the vehicle's tires. They would record the actual lateral position of the tires during the test. By clearly indicating whether there is a tire next to any of these horizontal-sensing sensors, they would also record the longitudinal position of the vehicle wheels at any instant in time. Representing a different approach, a scanning laser option would also be considered. The Phase I development would center on survey of different technologies and choosing the best candidate design. The Phase I Option would include evaluation of candidate sensors under laboratory conditions and subsequently, completing a final hardware design. Such a system would provide the Army with a portable method for assessing load carrying capacity of roads in widely different world locations, before driving military convoys over them. This would help minimize potential friction with the governments involved. Use in airport runway testing may also be anticipated. In assessing the load carrying capacity of roads in the USA, in view of the low estimated cost per system, interest by county governments as well as state departments of transportation is anticipated. |
| SIMULATION TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
3307 BOB WALLACE AVENUE HUNTSVILLE, AL 35805 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(256) 876-4204
Mr. Jody S. Loyd ARMY 00-090 |
| Title: | Advanced Multispectral Decoy Technologies |
| Abstract: | This proposal shows a comprehensive approach for the development of advanced decoy technologies that answers key issues in fidelity and validation in all the important signature realms. The basis of the SimTech approach is a full "virtual prototyping" environment that utilizes computer modeling, state-of-the-art signature analysis, plus experience in fabrication and design. The SimTech team's abilities in these areas are documented in numerous publications. The proposed products from Phase I are examples of decoy virtual models - complete with signature analysis, and validation approaches - including novel evaluation metrics. Overall, the Phase I approach is shown to lay a foundation upon which a Phase II effort may be built. Several goals of a Phase II effort are discussed, including development of an innovative decoy/target signature testbed. This novel product would be as a logical and much needed spin-off from the decoy world to the target world, and carries the potential for outside investment. This novel product would be as a logical and much needed spin-off from the decoy world to the target world, and carries the potential for outside investment. |
| EFX SYSTEMS, INC.
3900 Collins Road Lansing, MI 48910 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(517) 336-4630
Dr. Robert Hickey ARMY 00-091 |
| Title: | In situ Biological Treatment for Explosives in Ground Water |
| Abstract: | The U.S. Army has 21 ammunition plants in the U.S. along with a large number of Army Depots and Forts. It is estimated that 40 of these installations reqire clean up of explosives such as TNT, RDX and their partai; breakdown products such as TNB. A low cost method for treatment of explosives in-situ for soils and groundwater is needed. Anaerobic reductive transformation appears to be a promising option based on successful use of this technology for treatment of explosives containing wastewaters such as pinkwater. Better information on the factors that will control the rate and extent of explosives treatment in-situ is needed before proceeding to the field. The objectives of this proposed effort is to examine both nitrate reducing and methanogenic anaerobic conditions with a suite of different possible electron donors to determine the best conditions for proceding to field tests in future work. The information and know how developed as a part of this proposed effort will provide the base of information needed to proceed to field testing. This same information will be extremely useful in optimizing and improving on-site treatment of munitions effluents such as pinkwater. This same approach of reductive transformation in-situ will have further application for the treatment of other recalcitrant compounds such as pesticides. |
| MAGNUM TECHNOLOGY, INC.
16 West Spanish Main St. Tampa, FL 33609 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(407) 831-8949
Mr. David Byron ARMY 00-092 |
| Title: | Lightweight Gun Barrel |
| Abstract: | Because of their desirable physical properties, technical ceramics have been investigated for use in gun barrels. When compared to steel, ceramics offer significantly less weight, longer barrel life and the ability to survive higher rates of fire and the use of hotter propellants. Previous attempts by government and industry to use technical ceramics in gun barrels typically have focused on use of ceramic liners or coating in some manner. Typically, these efforts have produced only marginal results due to ceramic failure. Our approach builds actual ceramic barrels that are reinforced to enable their satisfactory use as gun barrels. The basis of our technology is the reinforcement of materials that are extremely hard and brittle so that they may be used for purposes not previously feasible, such as gun barrels. Referred to as Composite Reinforced Ceramic Technology (CRCT), this technology has been privately researched and funded. A proof of principle has been successfully demonstrated with thousands of satisfactory firings in small caliber. The technology is ready for further research and development for military calibers. Lighter weight, longer life and lower cost gun barrels for use in law enforcement and shooting sports. Advanced internal combustion engines with high power to weight ratio. Industrial tubing for transporting corrosive chemicals and super heated steam. |
| TDJ, INC.
192 East 100 North Fayette, UT 84630 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(435) 528-7999
Mr. Richard R. Lyman ARMY 00-092 |
| Title: | Lightweight Gun Barrel |
| Abstract: | Christensen Arms proposes to research and apply existing high temperature materials to expand current lightweight gun barrel technology. Christensen Arms to date, has designed, structurally analyzed and fabricated for the civilian and military market over 1,000 lightweight graphite-epoxy gun barrels (.17 caliber through .50 Caliber). Test specimens have strongly demonstrated significant temperature reductions over standard metal barrels per MIL-S-46047E. The barrel design will take advantage of years of past advanced composite experience by Christensen Arms design and production team. This includes research experience on many DoD composite weapon system designs, including analysis, pre-production fabrication, tooling, first article testing and production-run manufacturing of land, water and aerospace components and assemblies. Current company funded research on high temperature materials for semi and fully automatic weapons will be incorporated. Christensen Arms standard barrels have a thin match grade stainless steel liner and are over-wound with a graphite/epoxy casing in accordance with four patents and two patents pending. The design for this proposal will be based on this proven technology. Existing ultra high temperature resistant metals and/or barrier/wear coatings will be used for the barrel liner. An existing or an in-house high temperature composite matrix will be used for the barrel casing. Christensen Arms is committed to succeeding during the Phase I effort of the lightweight gun barrel program. We sincerely feel that we are closing in on the solution or combination of solutions to this now long standing need. If the program is a success, then it will be a great advancement in gun technology. Our findings show that there are a significant number of small to medium sized commercial entities that are also in various stages of solving this problem. We have aligned ourselves with some of them and intend to achieve further alignments in the near future. The benefits of these many efforts will result in superiority in some extremely critical weapon systems throughout the DoD. Potential Commercial Applications other than weapons include: Pistons and piston housings(combustion engines), High pressure or hot ignition chambers(rocket motors, jet engines, aerospace), Hot gas insulation chambers(Automobile mufflers/catalytic converters), Grating(Blast Furnace), Chimneys/Flues(Coal/Nuclear powered plants), Personal high pressure tanks(Underwater, underground, hazardous conditions, fire fighting), Combustible Transport Tanks(Fuel tanker trucks, trains, aircraft), Explosion proof chambers(Grain silos), High temperature friction surfaces(Aircraft brakes, spacecraft brakes/surfaces, pulleys, bearings, gears) |
| CHI SYSTEMS, INC.
Gwynedd Office Park Lower Gwynedd, PA 19002 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(215) 542-1400
Mr. William Weiland ARMY 00-093 |
| Title: | Innovative Hands-Free Point-and-Click Computer Control Device Within a Moving Vehicle |
| Abstract: | A concept for a Gaze-based Point-And-Click (G-PAC) interface component is proposed as an ideal human-computer interaction technology for operations within moving vehicles. In recent years there has been considerable interest in combat vehicle crew reduction through the incorporation of increased automation. As currently envisioned, these automation systems require the use of mouse or trackball. The need to simultaneously manipulate other manual control devices makes the use of these standard manual computer interface mechanisms impracticable. Beginning with an analysis of hands-free HCI component requirements, in both real-world vehicle contexts and software reference architecture contexts, we propose to develop a multimodal interface based on eye-tracking and speech recognition technologies. G-PAC will allow crewmembers to perform point-and-click operations on graphical interface objects in a manner similar to mouse-based systems, while simultaneously performing manual control operations. G-PAC builds on earlier research performed by the proposed research team which demonstrated the feasibility of building versatile control mechanisms by combining eye-control and voice-control techniques. The G-PAC interface addresses the extension of previous eye-voice interface research into the context of combat vehicle systems and plug-and-play architectures. The proposed Phase I effort will culminate in a proof-of-concept demonstration that will show multimodal interaction in a simulated vehicle context. Where human operators are required to continuously manipulate manual controls while interacting with computer-based systems, the need for hands-free interface technology is clear. G-PAC is an ideal interface technology in these situations. In addition to a wide range of military contexts, potential applications are envisioned for, among others, firefighting and police operations domains. G-PAC also offers the opportunity of opening the computer market up to a large disabled population which cannot function with mouse-based systems. |
| LC TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
9455 Silver King Court Fairfax, VA 22031 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 385-7133
Mr. Dixon Cleveland ARMY 00-093 |
| Title: | Hands-Free Point-and-Click Computer Control Device Within a Moving Vehicle |
| Abstract: | The purpose of this project is to develop an eye and voice-operated system to perform computer point-and-click operations in a moving vehicle. The eye and voice- driven protocols will replace operations currently performed by hand via mouse or trackball, which are unwieldy in a moving vehicle environment where it is difficult to maintain steady hand movements. To point and click an icon, the operator simply looks at the icon and speaks a key command word such as "click." Different command words are used to designate alternative click types, such as left click, right click, double click, and drag-and-drop. Ultimately more advanced speech recognition systems will also replace the keyboard for data and text entry. The combined eyetracker and speech recognition system will permit full and efficient control of a computer console without typing or manually manipulating a mouse or trackball. Human Computer Interaction: Command and Control, Situation Awareness, Office Automation, Usability Analysis, Aid for People with Disabilities. Psychological Research: Fatigue Monitoring, Task/Scan Analysis, Advertisement Analysis. Physiological Analysis: Visual Response Testing, Reading Diagnostics. |
| TECHNOLOGY ENGINEERING RESEARCH, INC.
16 Wildhedge Lane Holmdel, NJ 07733 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(732) 219-0020
Mr. Benjamin Tirabassi ARMY 00-093 |
| Title: | Innovative Hands-Free Point-and-Click Computer Control Device Within a Moving Vehicle |
| Abstract: | Most computer programs require both keyboard data entry and Point-and-Click (PAC) operations with a mouse or trackball device to operate efficiently. In a moving environment such as an airplane, car, bus, or armored vehicle, PAC operations become more difficult. Speech recognition can replace tedious data entry, and with domain specific grammar corrections it can ensure spoken data and dictation are recognized and entered properly. Adding a secondary device to complement speech input, which could perform all the PAC operations efficiently and require no steady hand movements, would permit full use of a computer in moving vehicles. The use of a multiple-controller approach enables the interaction to be tailored to the task and environmental constraints, as well as user preferences. A natural language software-based speech recognizer in combination with eye-tracking, facial gesture, brain wave and neuromuscular sensor technologies are to be configured in a variety of ways to provide the required functionality. Unique to this proposal is the development of an integrated set of human-computer control suite technologies using standard Application Program Interfaces (APIs) in the commercial Windows and Unix environment that are compatible with the Army Technical Architecture for efficient hands-free operation of computer systems. Some PAC needs could be met by using a combination of eye movement, facial muscle, and brain wave bio-potential combined technologies detected at the forehead, to generate computer inputs. Both the frequency bands and electrical signal content levels derived from these sensors have shown progress in the selective mind and voluntary neuromuscular control of a computer display pointer and clicking on a displayed selection. Projective task analysis, driven by a decision support activity scenario, will be conducted for various combinations of interface technologies to derive an effective and feasible PAC conceptual design integrated with natural language. Quantitative performance and qualitative human interaction analysis will be documented and provided with the conceptual design. This research would be helpful for the military in controlling combat simulations and interacting with command and control consoles, it would also make a useful commercial gaming device and afford many handicapped individuals, who cannot efficiently use a mouse, trackball, or keyboard; the opportunity to access the next generation internet. |
| ROBOTICS RESEARCH CORP.
101 Landy Lane Cincinnati, OH 45215 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(606) 525-4064
Mr. Paul H. Eismann ARMY 00-094 |
| Title: | Adaptable and Reusable Hardware/ Software (HW/SW ) Architectures And Components for Automated Materiel Handling |
| Abstract: | The US Army has an immediate need to minimize the manpower required to perform field material handling applications in forward supply operations. Replacing the existing manual equipment is not cost effective. This program aims to provide the Army with a generic, open-architecture, component based control system that can be readily and economically adapted to a broad range of existing field material handling systems. The program builds on technology previously developed for the Army by RRC and others, providing the final components needed for deployment in the field. RRC has demonstrated in a previous program that through the application of robotic control and sensor technology, an existing manual material handling system can be modified to perform many tasks autonomously. However, an operator is still required to teleoperate portions of the tasks and monitor operation to avoid collisions. While the system reduces the manpower required to perform the tasks, several areas of improvement have been identified that will increase an operator's efficiency including; enhancements to the man machine interface and application development environment, implementation of obstacle avoidance and compliance control strategies and knowledge based programming techniques. These advancements complete the technology to enable Army deployment of practical field material handling systems. In addition to the material handling applications within the military complex, the development of a generic open architecture control system with advanced user interface features has significant government and commercial market potential in any application demanding robotic manipulation in unstructured and/or hazardous environments, such as assembly, welding, cutting, stripping, cleaning and coating operations. Target sectors include the environmental remediation industry; civil infrastructure and commercial construction industry; and shipbuilding and aircraft industry. |
| CREARE, INC.
P.O. Box 71 Hanover, NH 03755 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(603) 643-3800
Dr. Nabil A. Elkouh ARMY 00-095 |
| Title: | Large Caliber Gun Tube Erosion Mitigation Coating Technology |
| Abstract: | Creare proposes to develop an innovative thermal-spray coating system to coat the interior of large caliber extended-range gun tubes to extend their service life by ten to twenty times. The coating system is comprised of an innovative thermal spray technique using novel refractory materials. Our combined hardware/materials system holds the promise of forming coatings inside of gun tubes that are capable of withstanding the erosive environment caused by extreme temperatures, chemical release, and charge movement that are the direct result of firing. The hardware is a unique combination of commercially available thermal spray and specialty coating equipment that offers the potential of creating dense, adherent coatings having tight tolerances. The materials systems we propose are unique in character and hold the potential to greatly increase performance. In Phase I, we will prepare sample coupons, which will be subjected to a battery of tests that simulate the erosion and wear in a gun barrel. The results from Phase I will guide the development of an in-bore coating system in Phase II that will be employed to coat the interior of a large caliber gun tube to test coating performance under typical firing conditions. The benefits of the proposed gun tube coating process are expected to be (1) improved erosion performance, (2) reduced life-cycle cost, and (3) excellent coating deposition control. A similar coating system could extend the life of tubes, boilers, turbine blades, and reactors associated with extreme environments encountered in chemical processing industries, power plants, marine environments, aerospace turbines, and foundries. |
| CONTINENTAL CONTROLS & DEVICES, INC.
1921 N. Gaffey Suite J San Pedro, CA 90731 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 831-8669
Mr. James P. Hynes Jr. ARMY 00-096 |
| Title: | Electronic Sight Unit (ESU) |
| Abstract: | We propose to integrate the latest commercial, off the shelf technology to build autonomous fire control systems for mortars. While the technologies are familiar individually (GPS attitude, magnetometers, laser rangefinders, MEMS inertial sensors) we will demonstrate full function indirect and direct fire control solutions with a fraction of the weight and cost of today's equipment. Through dynamic simulation we argue that these new technologies can transform the handheld 60 mm M1 mortar into a precision direct fire weapon. We will also field demonstrate an SPS (Standard Positioning Service) kinematic GPS as a replacement for traditional aiming sticks as azimuth reference. In Phase 2 we will partner with Trimble to demonstrate improved accuracy with a Y code (PPS) version. It's time for a change in mortar firing doctrine. The results of this R&D program have a very high probability of being commercialized within the DoD and industry. This technology can transform the 60mm from an area weapon to an accurate and versatile direct fire gun with first shot kill capability. |
| SCENPRO, INC.
101 W. Renner Rd. Richardson, TX 75082 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(972) 437-5001
Mr. Michael Gately ARMY 00-097 |
| Title: | Assessing Decision-Making Skills in Virtual Environments |
| Abstract: | ScenPro, Inc. proposes to develop the Virtual Soldier Skills Assessor (ViSSA), a set of three components that work together to allow an Urban Soldier trainer to effectively assess soldier and small unit leader decision-making skills. The first component allows the trainer to annotate a virtual urban environment (associated with a specific scenario) with features relevant to decision-making such as optimal routes, decision points, engagement rules, and sub-team formation. The second component is a DIS/HLA compatible software system that monitors the actions of a soldier and assesses their decision-making skills based upon the features previously specified by the trainer. This second component will report this assessment to the trainer. The third component will be a Trainer's Tool that can be used by the trainer to observe the soldier's progress during a training simulation. A viable Virtual Soldier Skills Assessor will be useful to a wide range of government and private sector organizations. There is a clear need for such a tool within the military and civilian training communities that have embraced Dismounted Infantryman technology. In military applications, it is likely that the technology can be transferred to work with other virtual objects such as tanks and aircraft. With minimum modifications, products could be developed to aid in the assessment of tank commanders, tank drivers, tank platoon commanders, pilots, and section leaders. We have held discussions with Raytheon's Systems Analysis and Simulation Center regarding a potential Phase II/III partnership, and Raytheon has expressed interest in participating in the commercialization of this work. In civilian applications, this technology may be of significant benefit in the training of Police/Fire/EMS personnel. There is a clear need for such a tool within this sector which will allow for identification, tracking, and documentation of critical decision points made during the course of training. By identifying decision strengths/weaknesses of the individual during a high-risk training scenario, the trainer will be able to focus in on these issues, which will allow for corrective actions resulting in a more ideal training outcome. This may, in turn, reduce poor decisions made in the field, thereby reducing the frequency of critical errors in rapid decision-making during high-risk urban situations. |
| TEKNOWLEDGE CORP.
1810 Embarcadero Rd Palo Alto, CA 94303 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 352-9300
Dr. Michelle Sams ARMY 00-098 |
| Title: | Training Media to Support Night Operations in Urban Settings |
| Abstract: | This project proposes to leverage a variety of computer-based technologies to improve the training and skill transfer of soldiers in the effective use of night vision devices in urban settings. The intelligent training system will include a database of night imagery, scenarios for skill practice, and instruction adapted to the individual learner. Realistic urban training sites have been built to further the Army's goal to "train as we fight". However, these sites are expensive to build and high demand for time at these sites limits availability to troops. The proposed computer-based training system will provide repeatable, scenario based skill practice that should transfer well to physical training sites and real world operations. In addition, an intelligent training system can reduce the time it takes to learn and increase the knowledge gained within that time frame. |
| AGILE MATERIALS & TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
536 Mills Way Goleta, CA 93117 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(805) 895-2056
Mr. Chris Elsass ARMY 00-099 |
| Title: | True Time Delay and Constant Phase Shift Circuit Elements |
| Abstract: | This program is aimed at the development of low loss (less than 1dB), wide band, true-time-delay phase shifter circuits using thin-film BST (Barium Strontium Titanate, a tunable dielectric). Recent advances in BST deposition technology have led to dramatic improvements in material quality, making BST suitable for millimeter-wave circuit components. First, we will develop physics-based equivalent-circuit models for passive structures on a variety of substrates, and optimize BST varactors for low loss in the Ka-band. In addition, we will model distributed-circuit delay-lines using physics-based equivalent-circuit models for BST and MMIC varactors. This will quantify frequency and temperature-dependence of insertion loss and phase delay in a 50-Ohm environment in terms of device and embedding circuit parameters. Modeling of IMD in distributed-circuit phase shifters to quantify IP3 in terms of fundamental parameters such as tunability, breakdown field, and loss will be performed. Additionally, proposed constant-phase shifting devices will be investigated. The drastic cost reduction of phased array antennas requires a paradigm shift in design strategy. Phase shifters are a critical component of a phased array that enables the antenna to actively steer a beam and is also the cost driver of the array. Phase shifters have significant RF loss and therefore amplification must be provided in front of the phase shifter to compensate for this loss. Theoretically if a phase shifter could be designed with little or no loss up to 80% of the amplifiers could be deleted from a phased array system. This proposed SBIR program is therefore targeting a critical problem and technology barrier that will enable new paradigm shifts in phased-array development, opening up a potentially vast market. |
| M2MEMS
2108 Brockman Ann Arbor, MI 48104 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(734) 647-1793
Dr. Gabriel Rebeiz ARMY 00-099 |
| Title: | True Time Delay and Constant Phase Shift Circuit Elements |
| Abstract: | We propose the development of very low loss multi-throw MEMS switches for DC to mm-wave applications. The novel switches exhibit a loss of 0.1-0.2 dB from 0.1-50 GHz, and are used in true-time delay and constant-phase 2-bit, 3-bit and N-bit phase shifters. We also plan to partner with consultants at Microassembly, Inc., to develop a hermetic packaging technique for MEMS switches and phase shifters. The hermetic package is |