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DoD SBIR FY01.2 - SOLICITATION SELECTIONS w/ ABSTRACTS Army - Navy - DARPA - OSD - SOCOM |
| MECHANICAL SOLUTIONS, INC.
1719 Rt. 10 East, Suite 205 Parsippany, NJ 07054 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(973) 326-9920
Mr. William J. Kelly ARMY 01-001 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Cased Telescoped Ammunition Smart Seal Development |
| Abstract: | Cased Telescoped Ammunition (CTA) has the potential to allow use of lighter ammunition-feed swing chambers, and more efficient ammunition storage, which will move the Army toward the lighter vehicles required by the Future Combat Systems (FCS) program. Technical obstacles have blocked the widespread application of CTA, particularly the sealing of propellant gases at the fore and aft of the cartridge during firing. MSI will extrapolate its experience in bioengineering applications with Nitinol shape memory alloys and other smart materials, and in design of seals for turbomachinery including aircraft gas turbine engines, using advanced computer-aided design analytical tools. In order to provide a tool for designing rings or sleeves which result in enhanced and reliable sealing, the coupled engineering problem will be attacked calculating the turbulent viscous leakage flow, acoustics, transient heat transfer, contact elasticity, and hyper-elastic (in the case of Nitinol) response. Physical properties required for the selected material (e.g. strain rate sensitivity of elastic modulus) will be verified by special testing by the material supplier. Three different conceptual prototypes will be manufactured to confirm their ability to take on conforming shapes, under elastic and/ or thermal loading, to enforce forward and aft sealing in a prototype 105 mm cartridge. Smart materials, particularly shape memory alloys, are applicable in many military and civilian applications involving sealing, gripping, deployment of large volume/ weight devices from initially compact storage containers, and actuation. Few applications have been attempted involving the sudden temperature changes or sonic rates of strain experienced by gun cartridges. The knowledge base accumulated to succeed in the CTA application will allow MSI to offer designs for other applications in aerospace, automotive, and industrial actuation and sealing in situations where temperature, pressure, or loading are extreme or may rapidly change, such as in plastic injection molding, and in gas turbines. |
| ORBITAL RESEARCH, INC.
673G, Alpha Drive Cleveland, OH 44143 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(440) 449-5785
Mr. Troy Prince ARMY 01-002 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Enhanced Range Using Adaptive Flow Control Structures For FCS Multi-Role Armament Munitions |
| Abstract: | To meet the goals of the Objective Force, the Army has initiated the development of Multi-Role Armament Munitions for Future Combat System (FCS). Current smart cargo projectiles and hit-to-kill munitions use conventional control surfaces like fins and canards for stability and control, which limit their range and maneuverability. Also, the volume required by the current control actuation system (CAS) limits the munitions payload capacity and the overall mission performance. Orbital Research proposes to develop an Aerodynamic Flight Control System (AFCS) based on two adaptive flow control structures: (1) Deployable Conformable Wings (DCWs) and (2) MEMS based Deployable Flow Effectors (DFEs). The control structures will be used in conjunction with an intelligent controller to provide a cost, power, and volume efficient flight control and lift enhancement system which can be readily integrated into any Army's FCS multi-role armament munitions. The AFCS will be able to maximize body parameters like lift for enhanced range, withstand harsh launch and environmental conditions (high pressure and temperatures, shocks, acoustic noise, etc.), and provide high maneuverability and control for least amount of power consumed from the vehicle. Additionally, the overall costs of flight control system per round will be kept to a minimum level. The proposed Aerodynamic Flight Control System (AFCS) will provide extended range and enhanced control and maneuverability to increase the lethality and accuracy of hit-to-kill and/or shoot-to-kill munitions. Military benefits will include providing Future Combat System (FCS) with a cost, power, and volume efficient control system that will enable rapid lethal response capability against a wide spectrum of threats. |
| OMNITEK PARTNERS, LLC
585 Farmdale Road Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(201) 310-7666
Mr. Ernest A. Elgin ARMY 01-003 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Innovative Conformal Power Sources for Advanced Smart Munitions |
| Abstract: | The objective of this project is to study the feasibility of a number of novel methods and concepts for conformable power sources that can be integrated into the structure of the projectile with minimal or no loss of the intended functionality of the structure. The structurally integrated power sources are load bearing. As the result, all or a significant portion of the space required to house the power source and the aforementioned components can be saved. In addition, the power sources and their related components are better protected against high acceleration loads, vibration, impact loading, repeated loading and acceleration and deceleration cycles that can be experienced during transportation and loading operations, i.e., are highly survivable. Such power sources are also safer, have longer shelf life, and are more reliable. The conformal and structurally integrated power sources have numerous other military and commercial applications. Such power sources are ideal for use in different types of missiles and rockets, in satellites and in all different types of commercial disposable electronic devices such as flash lights, cameras, and the like. |
| KNOWLEDGE BASED SYSTEMS, INC.
1408 University Drive East College Station, TX 77840 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(979) 260-5274
Dr. Ajay Verma ARMY 01-004 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Active Projectile Course Correction System (APCC) |
| Abstract: | The main goal of this Phase I project is to demonstrate the feasibility of an Active Projectile Course Correction System (APCC) for a Light Fighter Lethality (LFL) Seeker High Explosive Projectile. An APCC system consists of a control and guidance algorithm for a projectile seeking an identified target through an infrared seeker. For the success of this project, there are three major areas where focus is required. First, there is a need for development of a reliable trajectory estimation algorithm based on sensed data. Second, there is a need to develop an on-board reliable feedback mechanism for course correction of the projectile. Third, there is need for development of a real time discrete control system for trajectory course correction. In this proposal, the key innovation is the control and guidance of a projectile trajectory for tracking a moving target using an on-board seeker. Some of the expected outcome of this project would be as follows. Real time ballistic projectile trajectory estimation using Data Fusion and Kalman Filtering. Synchronization of the image seeking activity using a flagging system with proper projectile orientation. Optimal desired trajectory computation using inverse dynamics. Target tracking using discrete controls for navigation and guidance. PACC will result in the development of some generic algorithms such as data fusion and Kalman filtering for enhancing the reliability of sensor data., discrete control algorithm for navigation and guidance of dynamic systems, trajectory estimation and optimization of dynamic systems. Some of these algorithms will be reusable in various other engineering applications. The technology developed under this project can utilized for other weapon systems of different sizes. For example, the results of this effort can be applied to the Medium Cannon Caliber Guided Projectile Program, the Objective Crew Served Weapon and the Objective Individual Combat Weapon. Immediate beneficiaries of PACC technology will be DOD. This technology can be applied to bomblets and sub-munitions for other services weapon systems. In the commercial area some of the technology developed for PACC can be used to build safety device for mid-air collision prevention of small aircraft. |
| SCIENTIFIC SYSTEMS CO., INC.
500 West Cummings Park, Suite 3000 Woburn, MA 01801 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 933-5355
Dr. Raman K. Mehra/Ravi K. Prasanth ARMY 01-004 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Miniaturizable INS/GPS/IR Sensor-based Navigation System for Small Caliber Projectiles |
| Abstract: | The Light Fighter Lethality (LFL) seeker projectile is a small caliber weapon with INS and imaging sensor. Its size, weight and short flight time places restrictions on guidance and control of a different dimension than normally seen in guided weapons. This project aims at developing navigation filter architectures, guidance laws and integration concepts that would enable LFL seeker projectile hardware development. Loosely coupled INS, GPS and IR sensor-based systems are proposed to maximize use of existing miniaturization technology. The main Phase I tasks are to (1) obtain LFL projectile simulation models, (2) develop INS/GPS/IR-sensor based navigation and control systems, and (3) evaluate system performance. Several control laws including classical proportional navigation and modern robust control will be investigated. Phase I option period will be used to identify hardware issues and promising technologies that may permit a prototype demonstration in Phase II. Scientific Systems Company, Inc will be supported by Draper Laboratory in all phases of the project. Integration of GPS, INS, and passive imaging sensors is essential for intelligent autonomy. The proposed work has direct applications in formation flying, distributed spacecraft, telerobotics, intelligent automobiles, rendezvous and docking operations, cinematography. |
| COHERENT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
655 Aspen Ridge Drive Lafayette, CO 80026 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 604-2000
Dr. Iain T. McKinnie ARMY 01-005 Selected for Award |
| Title: | High Brightness Beam-Coupler for High Power Diode Lasers |
| Abstract: | High brightness lasers have been identified as a means of producing acceptably short and reliable munition ignition times in large caliber guns. For practical purposes, these lasers must be compact, low-cost, efficient and robust to withstand the harsh shock environment. High power multiple emitter diode bars can meet these criteria, but poor beam quality (typical M2>1000 from a single 50W bar) and low spatial coherence are incompatible with the high brightness requirement for ignition. CTI proposes a novel, compact and efficient active beam-combining architecture, capable of dramatically enhancing the combined brightness of multiple diode bars to generate near diffraction-limited output. The beam-coupler has excellent heat dissipation, and a proprietary architecture that virtually eliminates thermo-optic beam distortions. In one possible configuration, up to twelve 50W diode bars are butt-coupled into, and combined in, a single 70mm long lightweight module. Modeling, anchored by our recent proof-of-concept demonstrations indicates a brightness enhancement of more than 300x with respect to the direct diode output. Modules may be stacked to scale power to multi-kW levels, as required, without loss of brightness. CTI's proven ability to design and engineer rugged and compact electro-optic systems for demanding environments will ensure a successful overall development program. Anticipated applications include (1) ignition systems for munitions and explosives, (2) high power laser for aerospace-platform missile defense, (3) low cost, active LADAR sensors for industrial and military markets (4) cost-effective laser sources for materials processing, printing, and medical applications. Waveguide amplifiers have the potential commercial appeal in the high power laser market that fiber lasers have in the low power market. |
| PC PHOTONICS
64 Windward Way Waterford, CT 06385 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(860) 443-4356
Dr. Peter K. Cheo ARMY 01-005 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Innovative High Energy Laser |
| Abstract: | Very high power can be obtained by combining a large number of diode laser bars, but unfortunately the combined output consists of a very low-brightness beam with very large beam divergence, therefore, it is unsuitable for igniting large caliber guns. PC Photonics is proposing a diode-pumped multicore fiber laser array, which is capable of delivering very high power in a high-brightness beam emitting from an aperture of ~30 microns, in which the power density is sufficient to ignite large caliber guns. By phase-locking 7 Yb-doped single-mode fiber lasers in a common cladding, PC Photonics has obtained a high-brightness laser beam by clad-pumping this fiber laser array with a multimode diode laser. The optical to optical conversion efficiency is 87 %. Under Phase I, PC Photonics will use the highest professional standard to design a high energy laser, which will meet Army Crusader's requirements with a great deal of confidence. Under Phase I-Option, preliminary experiments will be performed to demonstrate a unique technique for efficient pumping of the double-clad fiber at very high power level. High power diode-pumped multicore fiber lasers can be very competitive in the market place as compared to high power diode-pumped solid-state lasers and CO2 lasers presently employed by automobile, aerospace and heavy manufacturing industries for precision welding, cutting and drilling of metallic and composite materials. Other applications include laser printing, bar coding, inspection, dental and medical surgery. |
| ADVANCED CERAMICS RESEARCH, INC.
3292 E. Hemisphere Loop Tucson, AZ 85706 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(520) 573-6300
Mr. Micheal Fulcher ARMY 01-006 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Low Cost Composite Peizoelectric Spring for Acoustic Applications |
| Abstract: | This program proposes to develop a power source capable of producing a high-output directional transmission of acoustic energy, using piezoelectric spring-shaped drivers produced using ACR's Fibrous Monolith (FM) technology. These "springs" will consist of a piezo-electric core surrounded by a conductive metal outer layer, and will be configured to provide the desired acoustic output signal while giving consideration to device size, weight and cost. The use of FM processing technology will make it possible to rapidly provide any one of a virtually infinite number of final spring configurations. This design will also provide a method to "pole" the piezoelectric using the outer metal shell to provide both the necessary heat and electric field. The springs can be fabricated from a variety of materials, including those that provide significant high temperature resistance (i.e. >1000 C). In addition to the above-mentioned acoustic application, these springs also have potential application as load sensors and piezoelectric actuators, especially where resistance to harsh environments is critical. This has a verity of commercial applications including load sensors, actuators and acoustic sources for stereo speakers. |
| LUNA INNOVATIONS, INC.
2851 Commerce Street Blacksburg, VA 24060 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(540) 961-4516
Mr. Robert Harman ARMY 01-007 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Power Generation/Recovery Systems |
| Abstract: | Modern soldiers are increasingly burdened with state-of-the-art electronic components that require batteries for operation. The added weight of these systems can exceed 80 pounds, excluding provisions required for prolonged equipment operation. Currently, sustained field operations require personnel to carry additional batteries or for logistic planners to ensure remote drops. Without this replenishment, even the most technologically advanced gadget becomes worthless and a mere nuisance for the soldier in the field. Replenishment becomes a non-issue for scenarios where motorized vehicles are accessible but for remote and /or small teams, guaranteeing a steady supply of batteries for these devices becomes a serious logistics problem. Luna Innovations proposes to ease this logistics problem with the development of a power generation device that captures the excess energy from small caliber gunfire. This device will utilize a very small portion of the excess kinetic energy generated during the firing of the weapon, will have no significant impact on the mechanical reliability or performance and will integrate easily into host platforms. The proposed device to be developed and integrated is a miniature linear alternator. The linear alternator approach provides the highest possible energy producing capability for a given size and can be integrated into existing sub-assemblies. The technologies and methods developed in this program can be applied to numerous military weapon platforms. In addition, research and development from this program will aid in the finding new ways of satisfying the increasing power demands for today's electronic world. Luna's previous success has resulted in two spin-off companies dedicated to the production of state-of-the-art sensing systems. |
| TOXSOR, INC.
PO Box 1174 St. Charles, MO 63302 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(636) 949-2664
Mr. Stanley Wilson ARMY 01-008 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Reconfigurable RF/Wireless Full-Duplex Syntonic Data Communication System |
| Abstract: | Next generation of advanced weapon systems and platforms, such as the Future Combat System Multi-role Cannon and Munitions Suite require low-cost embedded wireless sensors and actuators with data communication / command capabilities. With the growing need of sensors the powering and communication with them becomes a critical factor. Applications often require such devices to be completely embedded with no physical connection to the outside world. It is proposed that a wireless sensor system be developed that is a highly integrated data communication system design that combines embedded MEMS sensor technology with low power signal processing microwave RF MEMS techniques. The undertaking is focused on the development of the required system components. The expected result is an affordable flexible and complete power-aware data communications design that may be embedded within wireless munitions sensors. The DoD requirement for small form factor embedded wireless sensors for long term diagonostic testing and data loggging is highly supplemented by comparable applications in the commercial marketplace. |
| FBS, INC.
141 West Beaver Avenue, Suite 13 State College, PA 16801 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(814) 863-8026
Dr. Joseph L. Rose ARMY 01-009 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Real-Time Gun Barrel Condition Monitoring for the Future Combat System |
| Abstract: | FBS, Inc. proposes to demonstrate the feasibility of a real time gun barrel condition monitoring system using ultrasonic guided wave technology. Guided wave technology is especially suited to the cylindrical and plated (layered) geometry of a gun barrel. Under user control, guided waves can be channeled to specific portions of a gun barrel's volume and used to detect defects in those volume portions. This capability is key as crack arrays, occurring in gun barrels cause serious decreases in barrel fatigue and/or erosion life. Barrel impacts with external objects such as trees, rocks, and etc. can also manifest their damage in these volumes. FBS, Inc. will use its guided wave modeling capability and field experience knowledge base to isolate those aspects of guided wave technology most appropriate to gun barrel condition monitoring. FBS, Inc. will design a gun barrel condition monitoring system, build a prototype system, and demonstrate it to the U.S. Army. The research conducted here will advance inspection technology in many areas including tubes, plates, composite and multi-layered structures, etc. This project's use of modeling concepts, transducer design, signal processing, system construction, and control software will move the technology forward. Utilization of real time monitoring for tubular structures is highly desired throughout many industries (e.g., gas and oil, chemical, electric power generation, etc.). The steps taken here will advance the state of the art in guided wave inspection significantly. |
| NASCENT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, LLC
P. O. Box 1470 Yorktown, VA 23692 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(757) 224-0687
Dr. Joseph S. Heyman ARMY 01-009 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Real-Time Gun Barrel Condition Monitoring for the Future Combat System |
| Abstract: | Recent advances in ultrasonic array technology and the analysis of the associated waves for plate-wave propagation have enabled novel practical applications. In this Phase I SBIR proposal, we will demonstrate that helical ultrasound tomography (HUT) can be applied to assess gun barrel health for large weapons systems. Two transducer array belts wrapped around the gun barrel will launch and receive the complex wave modes that propagate in the gun barrel. Since ultrasonic waves are sensitive to cracks, thinning and distortion, it is anticipated that the information in the waves will enable a health assessment of the gun barrel itself. The measurement can be done in near real-time, and a portable device for field use is feasible. The Phase I effort will investigate the wave propagation and model the array design needed to extract diagnostic information associated with gun barrel damage. Tests will be conducted on representative samples and waveform analysis will be explored to correctly model the propagation parameters. Increasingly realistic samples will be tested to advance the model development and array design. The Phase I effort will provide sufficient information to achieve a preliminary design for an array system for real gun barrels. The application of this technology to gun barrels will also further the potential commercialization of the technique to monitor high-pressure manufacturing process pipes, power plant pipes and other valued advances in the commercial sector. |
| AMERICAN GNC CORP.
888 Easy Street Simi Valley, CA 93065 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(805) 582-0582
Dr. Ching-Fang Lin ARMY 01-010 Selected for Award |
| Title: | MEMS INS for Pointing and Aiming Control of Large Caliber Indirect Fire Artillery |
| Abstract: | The objective of this Phase I project is to design a MEMS based Inertial Navigation System (INS) for pointing and aiming control of large caliber indirect fire artillery using the AGNC-developed microelectromechanical system (MEMS) IMU. In Phase I, first, the hardware and software design of the MEMS based Inertial Navigation System is proposed and investigated. Then, the multiple IMU placement and processing algorithms are designed and investigated. Next, an AGNC-developed MEMS testing and calibration system is used for design evaluation. Through system modeling and simulation, we investigate the feasibility and performance of the MEMS based Inertial Navigation System. Finally, an accuracy evaluation of the MEMS based Inertial Navigation System is performed by way of a hardware-in-the-loop simulation. The proposed navigation system can provide attitude and heading (azimuth), angular rate of attitude and heading of the artillery barrel for the control and aiming system. Integrated with the data from a GPS receiver it provides an accurate position of the artillery. DSP and ASIC based system hardware design makes it easy to provide military standard electrical interfaces (such as MIL-STD-1553B) to the command and control system. Because of its small size, low cost, and light weight, the MEMS based Inertial Navigation System has wide applications in navigation, control, and guidance. Examples of application areas include: land vehicle navigators, airborne vehicles, microrovers, micro tracking mechanisms, space robots, , micro UAVs, and miniature underwater vehicles. |
| ARTECH ASSOC.
1341 Hamburg Turnpike Wayne, NJ 07470 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(973) 628-7888
Mr. Edward G. Luxford ARMY 01-010 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Innovative Inertial Navigation System for Large Caliber Indirect Fire Artillery |
| Abstract: | The proposed research effort is to complete a (concept) design for a durable, lightweight, compact, MEMS inertial measurement unit (IMU) for use with mortars and lightweight artillery. The systems in use at this time are too heavy and too large, which makes them very difficult to adapt to this (extremely high) shock environment (potentially > 15000 G's). The proposed design will not only use this breakthgrough in component technology (i.e. MEMS gyros/accelerometers), but through an innovative redundancy management approach, will provide unequalled performance with this type of hardware. The proposed system will provide pointing accuracy better than 1 mil-radian in bearing, and better than 0.25 mil-radian in elevation, over the full military environment, and the full range of requirements for latitude initialization (i.e. <5 minutes up to 65 degrees). The system design will use MEMS gyros that are expected to be in production in less than a year, and therefore this systems approach requires MEMS gyros with bias stability no better than 1 degree/hour. In order to insure that the concept is sound and that a successful prototype fabrication can be completed in Phase 2, the design concept will be proven through computer simulations in Phase 1. The benefit of the design/development of this system is the increased durability/reliability of the aiming and pointing systems for mortar/light artillery. Another benefit is that through the use of MEMS sensors, an extremely lightweight/compact inertial measurement unit (IMU) will be developed. This IMU will also provide unequalled accuracy, and because of its size has potential for application as a navigator for the dismounted soldier The commercial applications for compact, low-cost inertial systems are quite extensive and include supplementing GPS data for General Aviation, railroads, and cars and trucks. In all cases, providing more releable position information will improve transportation safety. |
| PHYSICAL OPTICS CORP.
Information Technologies Div., 20600 Gramercy Plac Torrance, CA 90501 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 320-3088
Dr. Stephen Kupiec ARMY 01-010 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Artillery Orientation via Distributed MEMS Inertial Sensing |
| Abstract: | Determining the precise position, bearing and inclination of field artillery is essential for accurate fire. The rapid pace of modern warfare and the increasing efficiency of modern counterbattery methods dictates regular movement of artillery, obviating conventional survey techniques and placing increasing emphasis on the use of internal inertial navigation systems (INS) and of GPS. Present INS systems are vulnerable to shock, and are bulky and limited in accuracy. Physical Optics Corporation proposes to develop a novel distributed reference inertial artillery direction (DRIAD) system consisting of a distributed redundant network of MEMS inertial sensors coupled with carrier differential GPS receivers, which sense the movement and rotation of the artillery. This information is processed with data from existing sources to optimally estimate the position, bearing, and orientation of the artillery. A combination of Kalman and spatial operator algebra methods are employed for optimal fusion and tracking of the artillery. An optional detached inertial sensor will enable the system to recover rapidly from recoil transients. In Phase I, MEMS components will be selected and integrated into a preliminary sensor node design with COTS Carrier Differential GPS modules, and evaluated with preliminary data fusion algorithms. DRIADs in Army vehicles and UGVs will provide extremely precise information on the position and more importantly the orientation of vehicles and pointing devices, a particular boon to forward observers. The combination of rugged construction, precision, and greatly improved GPS reception in marginal areas will prove equally desirable to the automobile industry. |
| NOVA R&D, INC.
1525 Third Street, Suite C Riverside, CA 92507 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(909) 781-7332
Dr. Martin Clajus ARMY 01-011 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Two-dimensional detector arrays for hyperspectral x-ray imaging |
| Abstract: | Direct-conversion, position-sensitive x-ray detectors are needed in many important technologies such as medical and industrial imaging, nondestructive inspection (NDI) and evaluation (NDE), munitions monitoring, and baggage scanning. Advanced x-ray imaging techniques can register both shape and spectral information by measuring the attenuation of multi-energetic x-rays through the imaged specimen. The density and composition data thus acquired can enable machine recognition of materials, a capability that would be useful for several military and industrial applications. Cadmium Zinc Telluride (CZT) has emerged as the detector material of choice for hyperspectral imaging because it works at room temperature with excellent energy resolution and has a large atomic number (Z), which is essential for high-sensitivity detection of x-rays. High count rate uniformity and maxima of two million or more counts per pixel per second have recently been achieved in CZT using a new linear array design and a custom readout system for ultra-fast hyperspectral line scanning. Further innovation building upon these developments would be desirable, in particular by designing and fabricating a high-throughput hyperspectral imaging system operating in the alternative staring-array imaging mode which would be useful in static as well as conveyor-belt type inspection applications. A very concrete need presently exists for such a system in the manufacture of munitions, specifically in inspection and process control operations which cannot be adequately monitored using current technologies. In response to this, we propose to develop a new x-ray radiographic system consisting of a monolithic two-dimensional, submillimeter resolution pixilated array CZT detector and the corresponding custom readout ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) and support electronics, which would have multiple x-ray energy imaging and high counting rate capability. The result of the proposed work will be a large, pixilated high-throughput, high-accuracy room-temperature and polarization free hyperspectral 2D x-ray imaging detector system with a custom made monolithic readout electronics chip to handle large amounts of data in real time. It will be able to perform hyperspectral, staring-array imaging in milliseconds using high flux output x-ray generators. This detector has many application capabilities for both the military and commercial sectors, such as immediate discernment of material composition for defects and anomalies at production rates in all kinds of products including propellants and explosives, as well as identifying material in security screening applications and medical imaging such as fast response bone densitometry. DoD applications include all standard x-ray and gamma ray inspection techniques at high speeds with hyperspectral imaging capability which is just evolving. For example, some of the applications are: NDI of munitions, Compton detectors for detection and monitoring of radioactive material, inspection of containers, and contraband detection. CdZnTe detector can be especially useful in battlefields due to their compact nature and room temperature operation especially for radioactivity detection and imaging. Non-DoD applications are even more extensive given the wider variety of objects requiring inspection in many different types of industrial situations. Our work will give special attention to the munitions inspection application which has specific and critical process control needs. |
| MORGAN RESEARCH CORP.
4811A Bradford Drive Huntsville, AL 35805 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(256) 533-3233
Mr. Michael Kranz ARMY 01-012 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Single Chip RRAPDS Compatible Sensor Suite |
| Abstract: | Morgan Research proposes a Phase I SBIR effort to develop an integrated MEMS sensor suite suitable for munition and missile health monitoring systems. This suite will include a three-axis accelerometer, a three-axis no-power shock sensor, a humidity sensor, and a temperature sensor. These sensors will be fabricated in a robust silicon-on-insulator (SOI)-based fabrication technology, and be modifications of devices already in existence. The Phase I effort is designed to perform all of the analysis and design required to being fabrication. A successful Phase I will lead to a Phase II in which prototype devices are fabricated and characterized in harsh environments. The proposed integrated sensor suite has application to a wide variety of military systems, including THAAD, Patriot, TOW, and rotary- and fixed-wing aircraft. There are also applications in the commercial sector health monitoring and general environmental sensing in automobiles, boats, and other expensive assets that require periodic maintenance. Furthermore, the device, if small enough, could find potential markets in the transport of food and other items sensitive to environmental conditions. |
| SPORIAN MICROSYSTEMS, INC.
4699 Nautilus Court, Suite 201 Boulder, CO 80301 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 516-9075
Dr. Kevin Harsh ARMY 01-012 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Single Chip Micro Electrical Mechanical Systems (MEMS) Environmental Sensor Suite |
| Abstract: | The objective of this SBIR proposal is to design and develop a low cost, micro- electromechanical systems (MEMS), multi-sensor "suite" consisting of 3-axis shock, temperature and humidity sensors, all operating on a single microchip. The desired performance characteristics being: temperature: -50 to 165 degrees F, humidity: 10-95% RH (+/- 6%), 3-axis shock: +/- 500 g's (+/-5%). Work will concentrate on trying to answer the questions of: what are the optimum designs for each sensor type with an emphasis on device integration, and what packaging solutions/configuration will best allow for integration and sensor function while minimizing final unit power and cost. Specifically, one system configuration has been proposed that uses combined optical and mechanical MEMS sensing techniques, which allows for the associated packaging to satisfy each sensor type's unique packaging requirements. Work tasks will include studying design, packaging, power minimization, relative merits of various fabrication processes, and analytical and numerical modeling. The work will be performed through a partnership between Sporian Microsystems and LMTS-Eagan that will take advantage of the two companies combined considerable knowledge base in MEMS design, fabrication, integration, subsystem design, and packaging. To date, the Army has not had a low cost device that could track the complete environmental exposure history of the munitions. Therefore one of the drivers for developing this technology is the need to know the environmental conditions associated with storage, transportation, and field deployment. This is a critical precursor to determining overall munition "health" status. But in addition to this application a low cost, low power environmental sensing/monitoring device would be highly useful in a wider range of commercial applications involving long and short term storage of sensitive equipment, manufacturing process control, status monitoring in automotive applications, food/perishables health monitoring, or HVAC systems. |
| WILCOXON RESEARCH, INC.
21 Firstfield Road Gaithersburg, MD 20878 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 216-3017
Mr. Kan Deng ARMY 01-012 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Single Chip, Three Parameter MEMS Sensor Suite |
| Abstract: | An innovative silicon-based MEMS multi-parameter sensing device is proposed for detection of environmental conditions encountered during weapons storage. The device has the capability to monitor up to 500 g shock in each of three axes, temperature -50 to +165 F (-46C to +74C), and humidity from 10% to 95%. The entire device could be contained in a standard surface mount package, cost less than $6.00 in quantity, and consume approximately 10 microWatt of power in typical applications. The entire suite of sensor structures can be fabricated with conventional MEMS processing technology now available at foundries. Device characteristics are entirely dependent on the thickness and geometries of thin films. This makes the sensor suite easily tailored to a wide variety of applications other than DoD's needs. Wilcoxon Research, as one of the nation's leading accelerometer manufacturers, has the capability to design and test the finished device and commercialize prototypes to provide volume production and thus minimize the cost to the government. Wilcoxon Research intends to explore applications for the sensor suite in a wide variety of uses. We envision such low-cost sensors being used for the protection of foodstuffs and medical supplies during the handling and transportation (especially, moisture and temperature), the monitoring of moving high-value and/or delicate shipments, as a way to determine if environmental limits of warranty has been exceeded, and in automotive and building control sensors. |
| ASTRON ANTENNA CO.
22560 Glenn Drive, Suite 114 Sterling, VA 20164 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 450-5517
Mr. Joseph R.Jahoda ARMY 01-013 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Reduce Diameter Hi-Power RF-Antenna |
| Abstract: | The program objective is the development of a high powered (over 200 megawatt) three dimensional, minimum aperture sized antenna that is protable and can be deployed in urban environments. It will be capable of delivering very high RF power over wide fields of view. This technology is directly applicable to radars and communications systems. The results of Phase II will provide more efficient, higher powered, and smaller antennas for radar and communications systems than presently available. |
| 21ST CENTURY TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
8716 North Mopac Expressway, Suite 310 Austin, TX 78759 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(512) 342-0010
Dr. Sherry Marcus ARMY 01-014 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Enhancements to SAAS-MOD for Increased ASP Productivity |
| Abstract: | We propose two key enhancements to the SAAS-MOD system that encompasses the major Phase I objectives. The first enhancement to SAAS-MOD proposed is the optimization of the UCL for maximally efficient collection of those items at the ASP. The added value of this optimization will be a physical" route" in which ASP personnel can physically collect items of a UCL. Once these supplies have been gathered, the second enhancement proposed is to provide software and visualization capabilities that can optimize the packing of these supplies onto a pallet or flattrack to ensure a maximum payload. ASP's will be streamlined in operational capability. Personnel will be able to more efficiently traverse the ASP and to pack materials into vehicles for movement. |
| AMERICAN GNC CORP.
888 Easy Street Simi Valley, CA 93065 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(805) 582-0582
Dr. Gabriel Udomkesmalee ARMY 01-015 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Distributed Battlespace Management Systems |
| Abstract: | The military battlespace is a complex, dynamic, and open multiagent system requiring timely and distributed information fusion and decision making. The objective of this project is to develop a distributed battlspace management system using the advanced multiple target tracking, the recursive modeling method, the dynamic programming, and Bayesian learning techniques. The innovations of this project include: 1) application of a Markov Chain Monte Carlo data association approach for solving complicated multitarget-multisensor tracking problems using inexact inputs received from diverse sensors; 2) development of a fuzzy Bayesian network to create a situation modeling structure and computational architecture for uncertain inference; 3) development of a recursive modeling method for enabling an agent to select its action and to coordinate with other agents by modeling their decision making in a multiagent domains; 4) application of a dynamic programming technique for solving the optimization problem for autonomous agents; 5) application of Bayesian learning for updating the agent's belief about the other agents by revising the probability concerned with the other agent's model based on their observed behavior; and 6) testing, demonstration and evaluation of the performance of the multiagent battlespace decision making system using a standard battlespace scenario in an intelligent virtual simulation environment. The research results of this SBIR program will lead to the following commercialized product: Distributed Battlespace Management Systems. The applications of this technology arise in all areas of the intelligent digital battlefield, manufacturing systems, intelligent vehicle highway systems, industrial processes, and command, control, communications, and intelligence (C3I) systems. |
| ARCHITECTURE TECHNOLOGY CORP.
9971 Valley View Road Eden Prairie, MN 55344 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(952) 829-5864
Dr. John R. Budenske ARMY 01-015 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Intelligent Multi-Agent Hybrid Systems Control Technology |
| Abstract: | Superior information over one's adversary allows control of the battlespace, and ultimately provides opportunities to take advantage of the adversary's vulnerability. C2 planning is critical to shape and control the pace and phasing of battlespace engagements, and requires direct access to battlespace information in order to utilize it effectively. Effective C2 requires the ability to seek out relevant information sources; connect them where their information flow contributes; monitor the information flow to determine changes to the battlespace; and reacting to those changes. Because the battlespace is dynamic, attempting to utilize standard scheduling techniques will fail. In Phase I, an Intelligent Multi-Agent Architecture will be designed that provides dynamic, distributed, and adaptive decision-making, planning and execution across C2 systems. In our approach intelligent agents are assigned to represent all available weapon-platforms in the battlespace. Other agents are used to set up data-flow paths of intelligence and targeting information through the C2 battlespace systems. When targets are identified within the C2 systems, an agent is assigned to them and that agent negotiates with the weapon-platform agents for assignment. Such market-based negotiation strategies have shown to be superior over standard scheduling approaches when the domain is as tremendously dynamic as military battlespaces. This research will support critical DOD C2 and C4I applications as well as other distributed decision making applications in autonomous unmanned vehicles and battlefield robotics. Commercial applications include: intelligent highway and air traffic control; work-cell manufacturing; industrial inspection; job-shop scheduling; intelligent robotics; personal assistants (softbots); and mobility aids for the handicapped. |
| CHI SYSTEMS, INC.
Gwynedd Office Park, 716 N. Bethlehem Pike, Ste 30 Lower Gwynedd, PA 19002 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(858) 618-1064
Mr. Ken Graves ARMY 01-015 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Intelligent Multi-Agent Hybrid Systems Control Technology |
| Abstract: | As Objective Force weapon systems such as Future Combat System (FCS), Multi-Role Armament System (MRAAS), and robotic missile, gun, sensor and reconnaissance systems approach fielding, humans who must control these systems are faced with an extremely difficult span of control and cognitive awareness problem in controlling these systems. This was amply demonstrated in a recent Future Combat Command and Control (FCC2) experiment at the Mounted Maneuver Battlespace Lab (MMBL). To establish effective human control over robotic systems, we must consider the development of one or more layers of autonomous agent control of the robotic systems. This could be considered as development of robotic squad and section leaders. These agents would control between 5 and 10 subordinate systems, such as sensors or guns, with minimal guidance from human controllers. CHI Systems will develop the technology required to perform robotic command and control for the FCS UOA. This technology will be derived from ongoing research for computer generated forces, which is aimed at developing autonomous commanders for simulation purposes. The technology will be embodied within a decision aiding component designed for use with the MRAAS Fires application architecture, and will be scaleable from the individual vehicle to Unit of Action echelons. Full implementation of FCS UOA Robotic Control with other systems in the netted fires and FCS environment will provide a seamless simulation and experimentation environment for development of robotic system command and control doctrine. The technology to be developed is a critical technology which has immediate commercial applications in the hazardous waste management, firefighting, and bomb disposal domains, all of which require command and control of robotic systems. |
| ORBITAL RESEARCH, INC.
673G, Alpha Drive Cleveland, OH 44143 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(440) 449-5785
Dr. Ravi Vaidyanathan ARMY 01-015 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Decentralized Hybrid Control Strategies for Autonomous Multi-Agent Swarms |
| Abstract: | The effective coordination of large groups, or "swarms" of autonomous vehicles working collaboratively demands the development of control architectures that emerge collective intelligence among groups of individuals. Nature, through evolution and natural selection, has optimized this behavior. Insect societies, in particular, demonstrate an organized "swarm intelligence" beyond the capacity of any individual within their troupe to understand. Although possession of similar capabilities is vital to synergize the performance of multi-agent teams for military missions, swarm behaviors cannot be predicted, only observed; resources are needed to evaluate interactions between the entities found in such force structures. In past work, our research group has generated swarm intelligence algorithms mirroring the capacity of societal insects to emerge collective intelligence. Furthermore, they have been successfully interfaced to fabricate a flexible, software system, and a globally optimal multi-agent task assignment algorithm. Orbital Research proposes extending this work to develop sets of control algorithms that may be configured to direct any swarm of autonomous agents. Phase I work will: 1) create a multi-agent simulation environment, 2) develop dynamic (recursive) control structures for on-line reconfiguration, 3) develop control structures to enable optimal prioritization for agents within swarms, 4) simulate the developed strategies for a candidate military mission(s), and 5) implement multi-agent hardware demonstrations of military relevance using the developed control strategies. In addition to filling an available niche in autonomous vehicle control, this system is anticipated to have very lucrative markets in both military and civilian arenas. Potential commercial opportunities encompass virtually any situation where multi-unit coordination is necessary such as control and simulation of microsatellite swarms, conventional and micro-robots, intelligent highway systems (ITS), and manufacturing lines where automated units must interact without human supervision. |
| CYBERNET SYSTEMS CORP.
727 Airport Boulevard Ann Arbor, MI 48108 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(734) 668-2567
Mr. Glenn Beach ARMY 01-016 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Moir Interferometry Measurement Device |
| Abstract: | The Army is continually assessing materiel condition in the field through a process that involves manual gaging of components. This process tends to be slow and prone to operator error. Cybernet proposes to implement a reliable rapid non-contact 3D surface shape data acquisition system to facilitate this gage measurement. Cybernet proposes the use of a Moir interferometry optical ranging sensor and supporting software for the described application. The Moir interferometry technique suggested for this effort uses simple visible light illumination, a fixed field-of-view with no moving parts (save for simple focusing adjustments which are performed once during setup), and has a very fine depth resolution. Cybernet Systems has developed a Moir interferometry sensor that has performance capabilities exceeding 1/1000 of an inch. Cybernet's Moir interferometry sensor also has a large field of view for rapid scans of large objects. Furthermore, we will leverage our extensive networking experience to create a complete system capable of retrieving data from specification databases and remotely updating inventories. The technology developed will be used to inspect manufactured parts for problems as they come off the assembly line. This should allow manufacturers to improve quality and decrease cost. |
| DCS CORP.
1330 Braddock Place Alexandria, VA 22314 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 683-8430
Mr. Edwin S. Gaynor ARMY 01-016 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Multi-Purpose Portable Measurement Device |
| Abstract: | We propose to develop a simple and accurate field-portable optical device for obtaining critical dimensions for ammunition of size 5.5 mm - 8". Laser-triangulation-based inspections will be performed by passing the munition by-hand through a doughnut-shaped aperture, or in some cases, by passing a probe by-hand near the shell. Inspection results, to consist of dimensional quantities or dimension differences relative to a reference, will be delivered to a local or remote gage database. The 3DGage will be a new application of existing nascent surface profiling technology at DCS Corporation. The existing technology has been shown to be feasible but not commercially viable for anatomical surface profiling. However, armament inspection, where the surface is relatively smooth and predictable, represents a perfect fit for the DCS technology, which can obtain up to 50,000 point measurements simultaneously over a surface patch. DCS will design the 3DGage hardware and software and a database in Depot Surveillance Record (DSR) format. Experiments to demonstrate feasibility of the core concepts will be performed using existing hardware. System design testing will be performed using simulations of the surfaces and the algorithms. The Phase I Option will prepare for Phase II by obtaining a key component of the prototype 3DGage. The proposed device will be useful in many military surface profiling applications where the object is rigid and smooth. Other markets are industrial manufacturing, medical, toy manufacturing and automotive (e.g. tire inspection), where a 3D representation or dimensions of smooth, rigid objects are required. The research will also be useful to improved design of arbitrary-surface measurement devices, and could re-energize DCS' pursuit of the oncology patient positioning market. |
| CHI SYSTEMS, INC.
Gwynedd Office Park, 716 N. Bethlehem Pike, Ste 30 Lower Gwynedd, PA 19002 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(858) 618-1064
Mr. Ken Graves ARMY 01-017 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Reusable, Adaptable and Scalable Decision Aids Components for Future Combat Weapon System Applications |
| Abstract: | A key technology hurdle for advanced weapon technology is that of Battle Damage Assessment and Retargeting (BDAR). In a recent experiment involving precision guided missiles, missiles could not distinguish between destroyed targets, and targets still presenting a threat. Typically, 6 missiles launched at 5 vehicles all hit the same target, leaving 4 undamaged vehicles. This led to shortages of missiles, and blue force casualties. BDAR will prevent this scenario. BDAR performs real time sensor fusion, battle damage assessment, and retargeting of in-flight precision munitions. In the BDAR concept, sensors provide initial targeting data. This feeds an effects control network, which targets precision weapons to defeat a target array. Initial targeting will distribute precision munitions appropriately by assigning the right number of munitions to the array. After launch, the munitions will begin to impact the target array, and sensors begin determining battle damage assessment. As the sensors determine that a target is destroyed, they will communicate this data to the effects control network to cause retargeting of in-flight munitions, or directly communicate with, and retarget, in-flight munitions. The decision aid will be a component of the MRAAS Fires architecture, and will be compliant with Appendix F, to the JTAA. The BDAR decision aid will be an answer to the current problem of expending scarce munitions on unprofitable targets. Complete implementation of the decision aid during Phase I and II of the proposed effort is intended to take place within the context of the MRAAS Fires program. 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 and Objective Force operations. The decision aid component can also be applied to civilian domains such as stock quoting, logistics management, and police operations. |
| NANOPOWDER ENTERPRISES, INC.
Suite 106, 120 Centennial Ave. Piscataway, NJ 08854 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(732) 885-1088
Dr. Ganesh Skandan ARMY 01-018 Selected for Award |
| Title: | A New High Rate Process for Nanoparticle Separation |
| Abstract: | We propose to develop a new high rate process for sorting nanoparticles in the gas phase. The process also overcomes the fundamental limitation of the existing differential mobility analyzer, thereby allowing an output that is conducive to industrial use. The nanoparticle separator can be used either as a stand-alone system, or in conjunction with a nanoparticle generating reactor, such as a plasma system. The nanoparticle separator is conceptually novel since it involves strategic utilization of electrostatic forces in synergistic aerodynamic configurations, which exploits the inertia-based and/or size-mobility of nanoparticles, thereby allowing for effective size-based sorting. In Phase I, the nanoparticle separator will be experimentally demonstrated, combined with computer simulation to refine the process and scale-up to deliver an output in excess of 1 kg/hour. A scaled system will be constructed in Phase II, and integrated with a nanoparticle generating reactor in Phase II, either in-house or at the Army facility. There are several nanopowder synthesis processes, the plasma process being one of them, which yield nanoparticles with a wide size distribution. While the process is intrinsically inexpensive and scalable, the particles need to be separated based on the size in order to be effectively used in any application. Our program addresses this critical need. |
| AMERICAN GNC CORP.
888 Easy Street Simi Valley, CA 93065 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(805) 582-0582
Dr. Gabriel Udomkesmalee ARMY 01-019 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Intelligent Cargo Handling Systems Using MEMS IMU/GPS and EO Sensor |
| Abstract: | This project is aimed at developing a novel motion planning and control system to increase the autonomy and dexterity of cargo handling systems. In Phase I, system architecture, processing/control methodology, component specifications, and performance analysis will be carried out. AGNC's miniaturized MEMS IMU/GPS navigation and a selected EO sensor will be employed to accurately provide both inertial and target-relative guidance signals needed to perform automated tele-operation maneuvers such as the cargo handling system's real-time motion planning/control with collision avoidance. A fuzzy logic approach will be explored and incorporated into the guidance algorithm and controller design of the cargo handling system to accommodate parameter and payload uncertainties. In addition, development of integrated software environment design and simulation package is planned, which provides user-friendly evaluation and demonstration tools for the proposed design approach. The deliverable product is a final report documenting design approaches, requirements, and modeling/simulation results. This project will lead to a generic guidance/navigation/control system with great commercial potential. Possible applications include automobiles, spacecraft, aircraft, and autonomous vehicles. |
| REAL-TIME INNOVATIONS
155A Moffet Park Drive, Suite Sunnyvale, CA 94089 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(408) 734-4200
Mr. Gordon Hunt ARMY 01-019 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Adaptable/ Reusable Hardware/Software Architectures and Components for Future Combat System (FCS) Automated Resupply |
| Abstract: | Progress in the area of intelligent automation is impeded by the lack of standardized architectures that promote software reuse. Conventional design methodologies require tailored software solutions that are expensive to implement and difficult to modify. This proposal addresses the need for flexibility and reusability with a scalable architecture that supports a component-based programming paradigm. Phase I will demonstrate the feasibility of the offered approach - in the context of demanding real-time intelligent automation applications - with a suite of interchangeable hardware/software components. The robustness of components and supporting architecture will be tested in simulations. Metrics that quantify costs savings and percentage of software reuse will be used to assess potential impact of the component-based methodology. Phase II will culminate in a prototype demonstration of two different material handling platforms sharing common components. The proposed solution will provide a component-based approach for software design and implementation for a wide variety of automated material handling machines. This will enable the Army to lower development time and cost of these machines while leveraging previous work. These software components can provide equal benefit to the commercial sector by providing a software development standard for machine automation. |
| ROBOTICS RESEARCH CORP.
101 Landy Lane Cincinnati, OH 45215 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(513) 733-5500
Mr. James D. Farrell ARMY 01-019 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Adaptable/ Reusable Hardware/Software Architectures and Components for Future Combat System (FCS) Automated Resupply |
| Abstract: | The goal of this research program is to demonstrate that a distributed component software architecture (DCSA) affords an exceptionally reusable, adaptable, modular, maintainable, extensible and scalable (RAMMES) platform for the implementation of the upper layers of robotic controllers for quasi real-time control of demanding field materiel handling, re-supply and logistics automation for Future Combat System (FCS) applications. This program will accomplish the following tasks: 1- Evaluate, select and implement an established distributed component protocol that complies with the Joint Technical Architecture(JTA)specifications. 2- Convert Robotics Research's R2 Controller legacy materiel handling control software into distributed components. 3- Specify an R2 enterprise controller network based on network-centric computing technologies for the sub-domain framework of material handling vehicles. 4- Evaluate emerging distributed computing technologies such as interface agents, transaction servers, Java Jini, ActiveX, DNA, XML, SOAP, etc. for employment in the next generation of network-centric controllers to support FCS tasks. The DCSA will facilitate rapid deployment via "plug and play" of advanced sensor control techniques, operator interfaces, etc. It will enable the system integrator to optimize system performance and resources by adjusting component residencies and network topologies, and provide the infrastructure to support a network centric control platform. Portable DCSA technology is vital to the global effort to "industrialize" software development, in which standard components can be assembled to build complex distributed systems. A repository of proven, distributed, and portable software components will reduce development, maintenance and over all life cycle costs. Presently, commercial DCSA software packages are now offered on the Internet as high-level distributed and scalable components that address the areas of database transactions, system load monitoring, security safeguards, etc. This Internet paradigm will prove to be equally applicable to large-scale controller networks. DCSA technology encourages RAMMES software development and will be instrumental in the next evolutionary step of Internet "plug and play" devices. Moreover, DCSA serves as the foundation for Distributed Component Object Modeling (DCOM) wrapping techniques, which allow legacy code to be integrated into present and future computing environments. |
| COPRIME
P.O. Box 2010 Pawtucket, RI 02861 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(508) 229-3390
Dr. Jose E. Lopez ARMY 01-020 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Learning-Based Source Separation Methodologies Applicable to the Multiple Target Problem |
| Abstract: | Coprime proposes to investigate the applicability of learning-based source separation methodologies to the problem of multiple targets in a complex acoustic environment. The Phase I effort will focus on identifying viable learning-based source separation algorithms specifically tuned to the multiple combat vehicle scenario. A prototype architecture will be developed and numerical software rapidly developed in order to test the performance of the learning-based algorithms developed on multiple combat vehicle data sets. Coprime proprietary Vehicle Signal Analysis Environment and Vehicle Monitor Simulation Environment will be employed to assist in evaluating the performance of the learning-based source separation algorithms developed under this Phase I. Anticipated benefits include robust, low cost, software-based, modular algorithms that can be rapidly integrated into a wide variety of passive, acoustic monitors used in sophisticated surveillance systems. |
| INFORMATION SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
5412 Hilldale Court Fort Collins, CO 80526 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(970) 226-6706
Dr. M. R. Azimi-Sadjadi ARMY 01-020 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Detection, Tracking and Classification of Multiple Targets using Advanced Beamforming and Classification Methods |
| Abstract: | The problem of detection, classification and tracking of multiple vehicles in battlefield situations is the focus of this Phase I research. Typically, multiple unattended sparse passive acoustic arrays are exploited to monitor, track and identify the potential targets. Although, the present technology is capable of successfully detecting, tracking and classifying single targets, extension to multiple targets especially when they are closely spaced pose many technical difficulties. As a result, new schemes are needed to provide fast and accurate detection and identification of different types of targets from passive arrays of acoustic sensors. To address this problem, we propose to study and develop dedicated methods for multiple target detection/classification and tracking. One primary criterion is to develop fast algorithms that don't make any a priori assumption about the number of targets, target's dynamical information and initial conditions, and background interference and clutter. We will develop a subband-based direction of arrival (DOA) estimation method for better differentiation of different tonal features of the signatures and a sequential Bayes method for target (vehicle) classification. The algorithms will be tested on several multiple target cases that involve various target scenarios, high density of clutter and correlated interference, and collected in different environmental conditions. In battlefield situations the ability to make rapid and yet very reliable decisions becomes of utmost importance in order to identify, localize and destroy the targets. This is critical to the survival of lives and material. The potential of this study for broad-based technology transfer is immense. There are several Government agencies and companies in the U.S. that involve with the development of various automatic target detection, classification and tracking systems for different active and passive sensor platforms. The algorithms developed in this research are general and can be applicable to a multitude of similar problems. Thus, the results of this research could lead to the development of many other acoustic signature analysis systems in a wide market encompassing military, environmental, and commercial areas. |
| TECHNOLOGY ENGINEERING RESEARCH, INC.
16 Wildhedge Lane Holmdel, NJ 07733 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(732) 946-7231
Mr. Benjamin Tirabassi ARMY 01-020 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Battlefield Acoustic Signature Analysis |
| Abstract: | The use of advanced signal processing techniques such as signal recovery, adaptive beamforming and beam optimization solutions are explored to realize the potential for networked acoustic sensors to detect, track and classify target vehicles. The ability to determine the number and types of vehicles, when closely spaced, is a particularly challenging motivation. A reasonable cost effective solution is sought using acoustic arrays less than four (4) feet across and containing less then eight (8) microphones. Our approach addresses the development of algorithm enhancements, which are additive to the total solution. Unique to this approach is the application of Technology Engineering Research Inc (TERI) previously conducted research in the use of beamforming methods to detect and track human speakers in a crowded environment for the purpose of speech recognition and speaker identification. These novel techniques use blind source separation, deconvolution, and maximization algorithms that can determine and extract the multiple target signatures within the beam to enhance existing classification algorithms and diminish background environmental effects. Phase I will be used to review presently employed classification and beamforming techniques and how the proposed new algorithms will build and enhance these existing solutions. Improvements in blind separation of targets and advanced adaptive algorithms are being developed by TERI for use in speech recognition applications. The outcome of this effort will be to provide a combination of improved beamforming methods with blind separation technologies, leading to applications, which will enable improvements in the ability to provide detailed surveillance of individual targets in a cluttered multi-target environment. The algorithmic approach will ultimately become a module as part of a top level algorithm with the purpose of identifying the location of a tactically significant target formation, through the use of various counting, tracking, and classification sub-algorithms. TERI will submit MatLab algorithm and simulation of multiple target classification improvements to the Government. Improved blind separation algorithms will be integrated as part of the Government acoustic data acquisition and algorithm development environment, then tested in the field for enhanced multiple target identification and tracking during Phase II. Applications for this technology exist for extended range and enhanced detection accuracy and effectiveness wherever intelligent acoustic sensors are employed under variable environmental conditions. Use for tracking acoustic signatures can be applied to speaking participants during a tele-conference to detect and "focus" on comments, for mobile phones, for use in tele-medicine under noisy conditions and for unmanned aerial surveillance vehicles. |
| CYBERNET SYSTEMS CORP.
727 Airport Boulevard Ann Arbor, MI 48108 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(734) 668-2567
Mr. Glenn Beach ARMY 01-021 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Optical Projectile Identification and Inventory System |
| Abstract: | As armaments are loaded into a magazine, a pair of cameras sits silently by, allowing a computer to dutifully record what type of round-including fuze type and charge setting-goes into each location. An automated armament system now has enough information to call upon the magazine, index to the required projectile, extract it, and load it into the gun to complete a fire mission. In this Phase I project, we propose to leverage our existing technology and experience in machine vision to design a system capable of identifying and tracking rounds based on physical characteristics such as size, shape, color, and standard markings and recording their position in a magazine during loading. Given CAD files of the types of rounds that could be loaded, the computer would compare the images from the cameras to the three-dimensional representations and markings database and return the type and position of the round found. The system will be able to quickly and accurately assemble the exact location and type of each round available. In addition to the military benefits of an optical recognition and inventory system, commercial interests include picker robots, assembly line robots, and warehousing systems. |
| TPL, INC.
3921 Academy Parkway North, NE Albuquerque, NM 87109 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(505) 342-4431
Dr. Randal A. Johnson ARMY 01-022 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Ultrasonic Fragmentation of Cast Energetic Materials |
| Abstract: Abstract not available... | |
| PROCESS TECHNOLOGY OPTIMIZATION, INC.
4246 Ridge Lea Road, Suite 42 Amherst, NY 14226 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(716) 836-7233
Dr. Paul J. Orosz ARMY 01-023 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Innovative Catalytic Reactor to Eliminate Red Water Pollution |
| Abstract: | A laboratory scale, batch process has recently been developed that selectively nitrates toluene to the para-nitrotoluene isomer while eliminating the meta-nitrotoluene isomer. The meta isomer is the source of "red water" pollution in TNT production. This proposal describes a plan to demonstrate the feasibility of the technology in a laboratory scale, continuous reactor. Although a source for the preferred catalyst has been identified, additional catalyst studies have been incorporated in the program to insure availability and to address potential particle issues associated with a continuous reactor. A commercial nitrator has been identified and has expressed a keen desire to be part of the commercialization effort. The anticipated benefits of this technology would be the elimination of the "red water" pollution associated with TNT production. Although the potential market for mononitrotoluene could reach 800 MM lbs/yr, a more realistic target would be to focus on 15-25 MM lb/yr of mononitrotoluene, with sales of $5-10 MM/yr. |
| TDA RESEARCH, INC.
12345 W. 52nd Ave. Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 940-2321
Dr. Girish Srinivas ARMY 01-023 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Reactor System for Toluene Nitration |
| Abstract: | The nitration of aromatic hydrocarbons is used to generate a wide variety of chemical intermediates. The nitration of toluene produces the three isomers, ortho-, meta-, and para- mononitrotoluene. The meta-mononitrotoluene is the source of Red Water pollution during TNT production. Research into the production of mononitrotoluene (MNT) is focused on the production of the para and the ortho isomers, without the formation of the meta-isomer. The Army has developed a solid-acid catalyzed method for the nitration of toluene that produces high yields of para-mononitrotoluene. In Phase I, TDA will design, operate and obtain data on a continuous flow reactor that will help us design a complete toluene nitration process based on the Army's new solid acid catalyst. TDA will design and operate a continuous flow reactor in our laboratory and will perform experiments to determine the rate of reaction and the mass transfer coefficients. In the Phase I option, we will begin the scale up for Phase II using the kinetic and mass transfer data obtained in Phase I. Our commercial partner is one of the leading producers of dinitrotoluene, producing 1.5 billion pounds of the chemical per year totaling over $0.5 billion/year, mainly for use in the polyurethane industry. The successful development of a reactor and a process for shape selective nitration has a significant commercial impact on the chemical industry as evidenced by the revenue streams for toluene nitration compounds. |
| SOAR TECHNOLOGY, INC.
3600 Green Court, Suite 600 Ann Arbor, MI 48105 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(734) 327-8000
Dr. Scott Wood ARMY 01-024 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Command and Control Training in Future Combat Systems (FCS) Units with Manned and Robotic Elements |
| Abstract: | The FCS vision of future armored and mechanized military structure includes use of mixed teams of human and robotic forces on a dynamic, rapidly changing battlefield. This will require an overall force reduction with multiple entities controlled by individual team leaders and multiple teams to be lead by higher-echelon commanders. To accomplish this, systems will have to be designed to require less human interaction and greater robotic autonomy. Successful implementation of this shift will require autonomous and semi-autonomous robotic forces and a command and control infrastructure that will allow both human and robotic-teams to be controlled quickly and easily. Key to this will be the degree to which teams and individual robots are autonomous, and whether the commander's human-machine interface is designed so the commander has superior control & awareness of the situation. The initial phase of this effort will determine whether an agent framework built around the three specified agent types (Tasking, Coordinating, Monitoring) can be constructed to add an intelligent abstraction layer between human military commanders and robotic battlefield entities. The focus will be to identify the human-interface issues, design potential solutions and create software that supports the commander's tasks and mitigates human performance limitations. The technical and theoretical accomplishments produced by this project will be crucial for successfully implementing the FCS force transformation vision because it will provide the multiplier effects necessary for optimal control of robotic teams. Other FCS command and control programs will thus be the primary commercial opportunity. In addition, the interface agent system developed for this project has applications in other domains with similar command and control requirements. Crisis management, for situations such as natural disasters, riot control, event or personal security, and terrorist attacks, where tight coordination of multiple cooperating teams is crucial, is a key domain in which Cooperative Interface Agents for Networked Command, Control and Communication (CIANC3) technology can provide enhanced performance. Other domains include factory control and automation, mass transit management, and emergency room management. |
| KNOWLEDGE ANALYSIS TECHNOLOGIES, LLC.
4940 Pearl East Circle, Suite 200 Boulder, CO 80301 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 545-9092
Lynn Streeter, Ph.D. ARMY 01-025 Selected for Award |
| Title: | A Critical Incident Network for Computer Supported Collaborative Leadership Learning |
| Abstract: | Increasingly frequent and diverse coalition contingency missions demand broader strategic leadership skills in senior officers. The knowledge to deal with such critical incidents is largely tacit, based on voluminous experience, and demands up-to-date understanding of the myriad political, cultural, economic, and operational factors involved. An emerging technology for improving such leadership skills can be provided by discussion and sharing of knowledge and experiences in a computer-supported cooperative learning environment that embeds an intelligent text-understanding software agent based on Latent Semantic Analysis. In Phase I a prototype web-based system will be built that (a) helps to identify critical incidents and vignettes, (b) presents vignettes in a distributed cooperative learning environment, (c) monitors and enhances their discussion by connecting relevant comments to each other and to archival information, and (d) continually assesses and tutors the strategic thinking of individual participants and the group as a whole. Phase 1 will establish online data sources and collection paths needed for the project, automatically poll these sources for relevant material, and download it to a database accessible to the intelligent software agent. Friendly user testing by the target senior officer population will address the prototype's usefulness and usability. When perfected and operational, an electronic distributed cooperative learning environment will increase opportunities for practicing strategic leadership skills on relevant critical incidents. The envisioned tools provide instant access to timely information and situational updates forming the basis of decisions. They also increase the representation of the team to any legitimate member with internet access, making it possible to form ad-hoc discussion groups on a need-to-know basis. In addition to supporting synchronous or asynchronous team problem solving discussions, such a system could be a powerful teaching tool in a distance learning environment. While the initial environment targets relatively high level officers, such an environment is useful for lower ranking officers as well. In the private sector, such an electronic distributed cooperative learning environment could be used to in supporting strategic thinking skills in diverse fields, such as law, medicine, and business management. All such fields have critical incidents and conflicts which tax relevant experience and leadership skills. In educational applications it would offer opportunities for the enormous amounts of practice needed to acquire leadership skills in any domain. The benefits of a largely automatically developed computer based system would be synergistic with those of ADL and the Internet. |
| APTIMA, INC.
12 Gill Street, Suite 1400 Woburn, MA 01801 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 496-2419
Dr. Kathleen Hess ARMY 01-026 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Revolutionary Selection Procedures for High Technology, Communication-intensive Environments |
| Abstract: | The Army is in the process of transforming itself from the Legacy Force of today to the Objective Force of the future. The Objective Force will have a new organization, new training techniques, new combat systems, and new ways of conducting warfare. Therefore new selection criteria and procedures will be required to identify recruits who can succeed in the Army of the future. In Phase I we will identify the knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) that will be critical for success in the Army of the future, develop an understanding of how cutting-edge scenario-based simulation can be used as an integral part of a selection battery, and develop a proof-of-concept selection test battery that incorporates cutting-edge, scenario-based computer-simulations to measure some of the KSAs needed for successful performance in the Objective Force. In Phase II we will develop a fully functional, innovative selection battery for selecting entry-level Army recruits that is tested and validated. The Aptima-Visual Purple project team is especially well suited to perform the proposed work because of its unique inter-disciplinary combination of expertise in cognitive and organizational psychology, advanced simulation development, and simulation-based performance measurement, as well as its extensive experience in military command and control. The proposed work will allow the Army to more effectively select recruits for the Army of the Future. The innovative, simulation-based selection procedures that are developed for this program can be applied to selection of recruits for other military services and to other civilian and commercial domains that are revolutionizing their ways of doing business and therefore require different and innovative procedures for selecting new employees. Simulation-based environments are advantageous for measuring potential job performance because they are flexible and can test different aspects of job performance using differing combinations of task demands. A simulation-based selection testbed will provide personnel managers with a strategic method for both selection and job placement. Accurate selection methodologies will be beneficial to any organization because they allow the organization to expend its training resources on individuals who have the qualities necessary to succeed in the organization. |
| CHI SYSTEMS, INC.
Gwynedd Office Park, 716 N. Bethlehem Pike, Ste 30 Lower Gwynedd, PA 19002 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(215) 542-1400
Mr. William Weiland ARMY 01-027 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Virtual Simulation Tools for Cultural Familiarization |
| Abstract: | In the coming decade, the U.S. military will become increasingly engaged in a variety of activities unlike the conventional military engagements of the past. Such "Operations Other Than War" (OOTW) depend on the ability of U.S. troops to understand and negotiate a complex of societal and cultural structures that may be entirely different from their own. The limited, textbook-form cultural familiarization that currently exists is not made available to the majority of armed forces members who may potentially engage in OOTW. New training technologies, including virtual environments and synthetic actors based on agents, offer the potential to provide experiential, scenario-based training that is effective, rapid, and widely available. The proposed research effort, VECTOR (Virtual Environment Cultural Training for Operational Readiness), will pursue development of agent, interaction, and virtual environment technologies for developing training systems across a range of deployable and training-center-based configurations. In addition to broad cultural familiarization (place, language, and customs), mission-specific training (procedures, tactics, techniques, and rules of engagement) can be supported. The Phase I effort will result in a proof-of-concept demonstration, an architecture and plan for Phase II implementation of a working, single-scenario prototype system, as well as a plan for commercialization and transition. VECTOR will provide cultural familiarization through immersion, which we believe will result in more rapid and effective training. In addition to imparting information about cultural background and specific mission characteristics, the approach may serve to reduce cross-cultural friction that prevents cooperation and increases risk. Such a training capability has extraordinary potential for improving the outcomes of non-conventional military engagements. Apart from use across the range of U.S. Armed Forces, such training is also applicable to foreign military organizations for preparation in joint operations. The technologies could be adapted for use by the State Department, and has widespread utility for multinational corporations with far-flung operations and a requirement to maintain good communications. At a reduced scale (i.e., in a desktop configuration, or distributed via the Web), such training systems are also useful to foreign-language students and travelers. The underlying technologies for simulating and portraying human affect and behavior have significant spin-off potential to the entertainment industry (for games and movies). Finally, these technologies could also be used to construct interactive customer service and help systems for the Web and telephone. |
| APPLIED EM, INC.
24 Research Drive Hampton, VA 23666 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(757) 224-2035
Dr. C. J. Reddy ARMY 01-028 Awarded: 21DEC01 |
| Title: | Radar Signature Prediction |
| Abstract: | With the availability of fast and powerful computational facilities, we are now able to characterize full-scale vehicles. However, recent developments in fast methods and the availability of new hybrid methods that combine integral, differential and high frequency methods, have yet to be exploited for full-scale radar signature prediction of modern structures that may incorporate composites and radar absorbing materials at various frequency bands. Applied EM proposes to develop a hybrid approach to include fast integral equation solvers coupled with a variety of hybrid methods. We also propose the application of reduced-order models for frequency and angle sweep extrapolation leading for a fast construction of ISAR images. The developed computational tools will be applicable to both radar signature calculations as well as antenna performance predictions. These tools can also be used in commercial aviation, transportation and for industrial security. Increasingly new applications are also found in the medical imaging area. |
| COMPUTATIONAL PHYSICS, INC.
8001 Braddock Road Springfield, VA 22151 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 764-7501
Mr. Terry L. Krohn ARMY 01-028 Awarded: 20DEC01 |
| Title: | Radar Signature Prediction |
| Abstract: | Design of next-generation vehicles for the Army must include an analysis of their detectability over a wide range of electromagnetic (EM) frequencies. Of particular interest is the frequency range of 50 to 200 GHz. At these small wavelengths, ground and air vehicles comprise millions of square wavelengths of surface area. The surrounding foliage, as well as earth surface terrains complicates the analysis. It is simply not possible with even the most sophisticated super computers to model these problems with exact solution techniques (Method of Moments, Finite Element Methods,.). Even most existing high frequency techniques become CPU preclusive for these problems. This work will implement an innovative and proven high frequency technique which will solve this RCS scattering problem in a very CPU efficient manner. The Technique centers around the ability to analyze doubly curved patches directly. A clever foliage model will also be implemented. Terrain modeling will be accomplished in the Phase I option. Thus, this Phase I (and option) will result in a functional next-generation Advanced Army RCS Code (AARC). The Phase II work will include the additions of sophisticated imaging techniques and a state-of-the-art graphical interface. Phase II hybrid development will be driven by the results of Phase I. This work will support the next-generation design of Army air and ground vehicles. This applicability extends to other DoD components. Commercial applications include "smart" car sensing of their environment, efficient placement of cell site amplifiers for the mobile phone industry and imaging in the medical industry. |
| HYPERCOMP, INC.
31255 Cedar Valley Drive, Suite 327 Westlake Village, CA 91362 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(818) 865-3713
Dr. Vijaya Shankar ARMY 01-028 Selected for Award |
| Title: | High Performance Computing in Hybrid Time-Domain CEM |
| Abstract: | HyPerComp, Inc., a premiere developer of innovative and highly scalable parallel computational environments for time-domain electromagnetics, is teaming with SAIC-DEMACO in proposing to develop and demonstrate under Phase I, a hybrid capability that combines the virtues of TEMPUS, a time-domain CEM environment for low- to mid- frequency full wave solutions with the widely used high frequency code Xpatch, developed by SAIC-DEMACO. Such a hybrid technology will significantly extend the range of cost-effective and accurate simulations of large-scale problems in CEM dealing with complex targets with small features such as cracks, cavities, and microstrip patch antennas on their surfaces, as well as modeling targets in the presence of foliage and ground effects. The time-domain CEM while serving the US defense interests in RCS and ATR applications, has numerous commercial applications. Some of them are 1) patient-specific bioEM studies of hyperthermia treatment of cancer using microwave radiation and study of cellular phone EM effects on humans, 2) EMC/EMI studies of high power electronic circuits, and 3) applications to waveguides and weather radars. Also, many of the pre- and postprocessing technologies developed for CEM, such as CAD modeling, grid generation, and numerical algorithms, apply to a number of other disciplines (e.g., CFD and Computational Manufacturing). |
| MONOPOLE RESEARCH
739 Calle Sequoia Thousand Oaks, CA 91360 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(805) 375-0318
Dr. Marek Bleszynski ARMY 01-028 Awarded: 20DEC01 |
| Title: | Radar Signature Prediction |
| Abstract: | Our technical objective is to investigate the feasibility of a general framework for solving high-frequency scattering and radiation problems, based on combined rigorous high-frequency and low-frequency methods, and to develop a new electromagnetic simulation code based on that framework. We envisage a computational scheme encompassing three main elements: (1) geometrical optics method based alternatively on ray tracing or wavefront evolution methods, (2) rigorous asymptotic high frequency expansion for the integral equations for surface currents, (3) rigorous low-frequency numerical fast solution methods, also for surface current integral equations. A novel feature of our approach is a mutual coupling of these elements, forming a consistent and rigorous high-frequency asymptotic expansion scheme, without any arbitrary approximations introducing uncontrollable errors. During Phase I, we shall develop a self contained software prototype which will demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed solution scheme. Significant improvement over the capabilities of the existing high frequency algorithms which are of interest to DoD and industry will be achieved. In particular, accurate simulation of electromagnetically large, realistic targets with subwavelength details will be possible at dramatically reduced memory and computational time requirements. |
| ELTRON RESEARCH, INC.
4600 Nautilus Court South Boulder, CO 80301 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 530-0263
Dr. Wayne E. Buschmann ARMY 01-029 Selected for Award |
| Title: | New Polyamide Interfacial Composite Membrane for Reverse Osmosis |
| Abstract: | The proposed program targets the development of a new polyamide interfacial composite membrane for reverse osmosis applications, specifically in the Army's reverse osmosis water purification units. The membranes are to be improved in their resistance to biofouling, chlorine degradation, and delamination as well as increasing water flux. These issues will be addressed by incorporating unique polymer crosslinking agents, additives, and adsorption enhancers during the interfacial polymerization process used to make the membranes. Microporous polysulfone is a standard composite membrane substrate/support in commercial use and will be incorporated as the support layer onto which the polyamide films are deposited. Fabricated model membranes (swatches) will be evaluated according to polymer composition and processing conditions. A planar membrane module will be used to evaluate swatches for their reverse osmosis performance. Membrane selectivity and flux is evaluated by comparing permeate flow and salt concentrations using a standardized feed stream at a fixed hydrostatic pressure. The mechanical integrity is evaluated by the rate of film delamination and failure under reverse-flow pressurization. Resistance to chlorine degradation will be evaluated on preferred membranes exhibiting the best selectivity, flux, and mechanical integrity. Superior membrane candidates will be evaluated for competitiveness compared to existing commercial membranes. Water purification, desalination, nanofiltration, ultra pure water treatment. |
| SEPARATION SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY, INC.
4901 Morena Blvd., Suite 809 San Diego, CA 92117 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(858) 581-3765
Mr. Robert L. Riley ARMY 01-029 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Development of a New Chlorine and Biofouling Resistant Polyamide Membrane |
| Abstract: | Mobile reverse osmosis water purification units (ROWPU) have been used by the U.S. military with polyamide spiral-wound membrane elements for over a decade to produce potable water for field applications. Although advances have greatly enhanced performance, improvement of the stability of present membranes to oxidizing agents such as chlorine to reduce fouling, increase membrane life and reduce operating costs is required. Recently, a new polyamide membrane, based on the reaction of the cis,trans,cis,trans isomer of 1,2,3,4-cyclopentanetetracarboxylic acid chloride with m-phenylenediamine has demonstrated the ability to withstand high concentrations of chlorine in immersion tests without detrimental effects. The contact time was 30,000 mg/L-hr, (~6.8 years) of exposure at the 0.5 mg/L level. However, in field testing, the polyamide barrier showed a tendency to detach from the support membrane with plant shutdowns. The acid chloride, with its six sterioisomers, was synthesized and the ctct-isomer isolated at >99.5% purity to develop the membrane; the yield was only ~20%. To make the process commercially viable, the purification process will be improved to increase the yield to >90%. Membrane delamination and increased hydrophobicity of the surface of the membrane by a post-treatment step to reduce membrane fouling are also addressed in this proposed program. The total worldwide market for ROWPU-type RO spiral-wound elements, for both military and the private sector, is in excess of $200 million/year. Approximately 75% of this total is produced by U.S. companies. Since most membrane manufacturers are U.S. based companies, any product improvement will further strengthen their position in both domestic and overseas markets. The potential use of the proposed membrane improvements by the Federal Government should provide considerable cost savings in element replacement as well as provide increased efficiency in system operation due to minimized fouling and less frequent need for cleaning. Since ROWPU membrane elements are purchased in large quantities, detrimental effects of long term storage also will be minimized. U.S. membrane companies will benefit in the same manner as the Federal Government, although possibly to a greater extent since the largest part of their market is in the private sector. |
| FULFILL AMERICA, INC.
8748 E. Valley Bl., Suite L Rosemead, CA 91770 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(562) 225-0671
Mr. Ben H Wu ARMY 01-030 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Selectively Permeable Elastomeric Membranes for Protective Clothing |
| Abstract: | This proposal is to demonstrate the feasibility of our invented selective permeable elastomeric membranes of 1-4 mil thick for (1) impermeable to chemical and biological agents and (2) breathable to moisture vapor and (3) durable to field usage under flexing, abrasion and POL contamination. The proposed work involves with sound molecular level modeling as well as state-of-art polymerization technique for making our invented novel materials. The invented ionomers could also be used in low cost, high power density fuel cell membarnes. Our invented ionomers have been positioned to the fuel cell membarne market as "the lowest cost and highest power density ionomer membranes". Our invented ionomers will also be positioned into waterproof breathable protective clothing market. The success of current SBIR solicitation could certainly expand our market effort to chemical and biological agent protection market. Nevertheless, our current market effort for fuel cell application and general protective breathable outerwear market of our invented ionomers is going forward without the bonus of the SBIR solicitation. |
| TRITON SYSTEMS, INC.
200 TURNPIKE ROAD Chelmsford, MA 01824 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 250-4200
Dr. Bryan Koene ARMY 01-030 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Selectively Permeable Membranes for Breathable Chemical Resistant Clothing |
| Abstract: | Triton Systems responds to the Army need to produce new and unique selectively permeable membranes for breathable chemical and biological warfare (CBW) agent protection. Our technology is based upon a cylindrical microdomain block copolymer nanocomposite with interpenetrating channels These channels are comprised of a hydrophilic polymer, which allows the absorption of small polar molecules such as water, but block non-polar molecules. Besides this, fine control of the film processing conditions result in nanoscale channels, yielding shape selectivity. Triton's innovation involves the inclusion of chemically reactive nanoparticles within these channels providing a further benefit due to an active barrier besides the existing passive physical barrier. The combination of these effects will permit the permeation of water vapor, but prevent the passage of harmful CBW agents. The Phase I will demonstrate the proof of principle through the synthesis and evaluation of these block copolymer nanocomposites with respect to their water and chemical agent penetration. For Phase II we will optimize these properties, and scale up the synthesis to field test large-scale prototypes. This successful program will develop an enabling technology that will benefit many areas where chemical resistance in a protective clothing application is required such as firefighter or first response personnel. Other applications for selectively permeable membranes include fuel cells, catalysis, and gas separation devices. |
| XANTHON, INC.
104 Alexander Drive, Bldg #21, P.O. Box 12296 RTP, NC 27709 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(919) 572-0707
Dr. Carole Golden ARMY 01-032 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Portable Electrochemical DNA Biosensor Unit |
| Abstract: | An electrochemical DNA biosensor is proposed to simultaneously detect and identify multiple nucleic acid determinants of a variety of pathogens using a combination of electronic hybridization, fluidics, and electrochemical detection. The biosensor would consist of a sample lysis and electronic hybridization/release chamber fluidically connected to an electrochemical flow cell for detection, and would incorporate Xanthon's patented platform technology of electrochemical detection of nucleic acids. With this method, specific target nucleic acid species captured by oligo capture probes are directly detected by the electrochemical oxidation of guanine, an endogenous component of the nucleic acid targets. This provides a method of rapid, highly sensitive, and specific DNA detection without the need for complicated sample purification procedures, exogenous labels, labile reagents, or expensive, heavy, power-hungry instrumentation. Upon successful demonstration of the feasibility of the basic components, plans for further miniaturization and integration of the components will proceed toward development of a rugged, easy-to-use handheld unit that will take further advantage of the power and simplicity of direct electrochemical detection, in addition to the economy of time, space, and reagents made possible by microfluidics and electronic hybridization. In addition to military applications, development of such devices would provide prompt detection of potential bio-terrorist attacks, and find wide application for the detection of pathogens in medical diagnostics, point-of-care clinical settings, food production, environmental monitoring, agriculture, and various industrial settings. |
| FOSTER-MILLER, INC.
350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 622-5504
Mr. Thomas Campbell ARMY 01-033 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Airless Composite Tire System with Active Traction Control |
| Abstract: | The proposed approach will develop an innovative lightweight non-pneumatic tire that can be used in the aggressive environment anticipated by the Army for Objective Force. This tire system will combine durable, tough thermoplastic materials with modified tread concepts to offer a ballistically tolerant tire with active traction control. The Phase I program will begin the development of the tire system. Materials and processes will be selected appropriate for production. The design and analysis will be conducted for selected maneuvers and a scaled tire will be fabricated. The Option program will test that tire both statically and in fatigue, while monitoring temperatures and strains. The tests will be correlated to analysis and will form the basis of a Phase II program. The Phase II program will emphasize producibility and durability through extensive testing, both in the laboratory and in the field. (P-010767) The proposed system will develop a unique tire system that is nearly impervious to the typical road damage found by commercial vehicles. The development for a rigorous Army application will enable a rapid transition to the commercial market for the next generation of tire technology. |
| ROD MILLEN SPECIAL VEHICLES
7575 Reynolds Circle Huntington Beach, CA 92647 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(714) 847-2111
Dr. Eric Anderfaas ARMY 01-033 Awarded: 10JAN02 |
| Title: | Airless Wheel for Future Tactical and Combat Vehicles |
| Abstract: | Breakthrough airless tire technology offers significant advantages to the mobility of vehicles currently dependent on the integrity of a pneumatic bladder to carry out their function. The application of non-traditional advanced composite filament and matrix materials such as carbon, Kevlar, and Spectra to an airless wheel design allows for a light weight, high-mobility performance wheel that would not be subject to the same mission-jeopardizing effects of debris or small arms fire as a traditional tire. In addition, derivative designs using these materials have the potential to be adaptable, providing an opportunity for enhanced mobility by mimicking the performance of a current central tire inflation system (CTIS). This proposal will show that Rod Millen Special Vehicles (RMSV), in conjunction with subject matter experts Sandia National Labs and Michelin, has the expertise, test equipment, and facilities to develop an airless wheel concept for current and future combat vehicles in a timely, cost effective manner. The potential market for an airless wheel meeting the necessary criteria would extend not only into existing and future DoD wheeled vehicles but also for more conventional commercial markets. Potential end uses of such a product would be any vehicle market environment where there is a significant chance of puncturing a pneumatic tire and any "costs" (i.e., downtime, high value of replacements, and logistical burden of transporting replacements) associated with changing the flat couldn't be tolerated. These would include Border Patrol, off-highway vehicles (construction, mining), sportsmen/hunters, all terrain recreational vehicles, and auto (on and off-road) racing. |
| INTELLIGENT AUTOMATION, INC.
7519 Standish Place, Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20855 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 222-0444
Dr. Leonard Haynes ARMY 01-034 Awarded: 26DEC01 |
| Title: | PCA-based Network Intrusion Detection and Health Monitoring |
| Abstract: | The basic innovation herein proposed exploits Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to reduce the dimensionality of trace data, and to represent the data in a reduced dimensional feature space. From previous work, we believe that normal and abnormal battlespace network activities will form clusters in that space which we can identify. Furthermore, we expect that the trajectory of the computing activity through the feature space will allow comparison with normal trajectories to further identify anomalies. Our approach will enable a much larger variety of values which represent ongoing activities in an information system to be used for intrusion detection than have been used by other researchers. While it is relatively obvious that using more data to represent the ongoing activities of a computer is probably better than less data from the point of view of detecting intruders, using more data also causes problems in determining how to draw conclusions, especially for data which is often not numeric. Also, to be maximally effective in protecting information, intrusion and other anomaly detection should be near real-time, and using more data suggests that the resulting intrusion detection will become slower and require off-line processing. Our approach solves both these problems. Our approach to commercializing the results of this work will be to make the code available through an Open Source license. While this will give the code away, it will be an ideal way to obtain consulting contracts to help optimize the code for specific customers, and once there is a significant user base, we can then sell modules offering new capabilities which are compatible with the base system. |
| SCIENTIFIC SYSTEMS CO., INC.
500 West Cummings Park, Suite 3000 Woburn, MA 01801 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 933-5355
Dr. Joao B.D. Cabrera ARMY 01-034 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Real Time Intrusion Detection in High-Speed Data Streams |
| Abstract: | We propose to investigate a methodology for designing hybrid (network-based and host-based) Intrusion Detection Systems (IDSs) for operation at the OC-12 range and above. The scheme is centered on the application of Statistical Pattern Recognition methods for producing computationally cheap, yet effective detection rules to be programmed in dedicated co-processors. The effort addresses the challenges in the development of network-based IDSs posed by the unabated increase in network capacity, and the arise of multi-stage attacks involving host infiltration followed by network scanning and automated packet-flooding. Current schemes for coping with increasing link speed rely on packet subsampling and/or reduction of the signature set, resulting on substantial reduction in accuracy. In contrast, our method offers a flexible alternative with no reduction of detection rate, that can also be easily reprogrammed for new attacks. The inclusion of host-based features allows the detection of multi-stage attacks. The statistical nature of the approach is compatible with IPSEC, as packet encryption preserves the features used for rule construction. Aprisma Inc. (manufacturer of SPECTRUM) will provide consulting in network management and security. Design and evaluation of algorithms will utilize an extensive data set collected by MCNC on a Gigabit Ethernet. MCNC group will also provide consulting in advanced hardware. Prof. Wenke Lee from Georgia Tech will serve as a consultant in Computer Security and Data Mining. Protecting institutional networks from attacks accounts for about 25 billion US dollars each year. It is estimated that 95 percent of the DoD communications pass through the National Information Infrastructure (NII) at some point. The proposed technology has the potential to provide the NII with a robust, real time defense line against general classes of security violations against its backbone and high-speed links. |
| MISSION RESEARCH CORP.
Post Office Drawer 719, 735 State Street Santa Barbara, CA 93101 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(949) 465-8939
Dr. Robert D. Eisler ARMY 01-036 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Automated Dummy for Crewstation Analysis |
| Abstract: | This project will develop a minimum set of manikins that represents the anthropometric diversity of Army personnel, can perform a limited series of dynamic activities emulating crew members in US Army vehicles, and can collect data that enables assessment of factors affecting crew member performance. In Phase I the following fundamental questions will be addressed: 1) for the range of crew stations to be analyzed, what are the suites of functional movements and operations to be considered? 2) what data needs to be collected and how should it be reduced? 3) to what degree can we mix and match manikin body parts without severely distorting anthropometry, body kinematics, and biasing crew station analysis? 5) in what 3D axis system will the geometry be specified? Once these questions have been answered, the Phase I effort will determine how to automate and instrument the manikin and what software architecture is required to support manikin functions. In the design of work and recreational spaces, accommodation and comfort are now tested using software models and human subjects. A standard set of manikins designed for this purpose could be used to develop standards for workspaces that would be comparable across different products and manufacturers. That is, cubicle furniture sets could be evaluated for accommodation and comfort based on their performance in standardized tests utilizing these manikins. |
| VISUAL SCIENCES, INC.
PO Box 90335 Raleigh, NC 27675 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(919) 782-3030
Dr. Anand D. Kasbekar ARMY 01-037 Awarded: 17DEC01 |
| Title: | Modeling Integrated Helmets for Aviation |
| Abstract: | Computational speed and hardware costs are no longer significant barriers to running complex simulations. Recent advances in non-linear finite element analysis (FEA) make it feasible to study complex interactions between protective equipment and the human body. VSI has devoted several years to developing realistic computer models of human heads for studying the contact interface between the face and protective masks like the M40. This effort has proven to be successful and has resulted in the ability to evaluate fit both visually and quantitatively in terms of contact pressures, deflections, and stresses. Similar to protective masks, understanding the interface between helmets and the human head is necessary to ensure proper fit with regard to Comfort, Protection, Performance and Compatibility (CPPC). These fit related issues are critical to current and future helmet designs. VSI proposes to leverage its prior research experience in developing FEA models of headforms and protective masks to develop an innovative system for studying how various helmet features and design parameters effect CPPC in aviator and other integrated helmet systems. The proposed research will utilize existing 3-dimensional human databases such as CAESAR to develop a large individual headform population and a few boundary figure headforms for simulated helmet testing. Optimal fit and protection of commercial helmet systems are essential in order to promote use and to minimize injury. Manufacturers of bicycle, motorcycle, football, hockey, skiing, aviation and a multitude of other type of protective helmets devote extensive amounts of time and money attempting to improve fit and performance of their helmets. The majority of this development is done by trial and error. The proposed research will result in a powerful simulation tool that can be used to evaluate and optimize new and existing helmet designs without the need for costly prototyping and experimental testing. |
| ECHO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
5250 Cherokee Avenue Alexandria, VA 22313 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(617) 443-0066
Dr. Mary Beth Tabacco ARMY 01-038 Awarded: 14DEC01 |
| Title: | Dendrimer-assisted Signal Amplification for High Sensitivity DNA Detection |
| Abstract: | Direct detection of DNA for identification of BW agents and other pathogens would provide both detect-to-warn and detect-to-treat capability. Although many small transducers have been demonstrated in the laboratory for detection of DNA high sensitivity detection generally requires amplification of the target using a method such as PCR. A detector that combines molecular recognition with signal amplification would dramatically minimize or eliminate sample preparation, reduce analysis time, and lower cost and logistical burden. Equally important the risk of sample contamination is reduced by minimizing sample handling. ETI proposes a Phase I program to demonstrate optical signal amplification using gold nanoparticles combined with dendrimer materials. Gold nanoparticles have been demonstrated for selective, colorimetric detection of polynucleotides. Dendrimers have been used for templating and stabilization of small metal colloids. The proposed approach represents a potentially powerful integration of two technologies that show promise for DNA detection and signal amplification. The use of dendrimers as carrier/linker molecules maintains high oligonucleotide loading, yet mitigates the problems of stability and assay response time. Dendrimer-assisted nanoparticles will make the detection method more robust and commercially viable. In Phase II an integrated, multi-channel BW Detection System will be designed, fabricated and evaluated in the laboratory and field. Direct detection of DNA without the need for lengthy laboratory preparation would provide a sophisticated field tool for identifying pathogenic organisms of many types in air, water, food and soil. Military use includes rapid identification allowing protection and decontamination measures to be initiated in a more timely manner. There is also a stated need to assure the safety of source waters as required by the Joint Service Agent Water Monitor program. Specific civilian and commercial applications include the identification of enterotoxin producing bacteria in potable and recreational water supplies, respiratory pathogens such as Legionella in cooling towers, and food pathogens such as E. coli, Listeria, and Salmonella in juices and other beverages. |
| FOSTER-MILLER, INC.
350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 684-4125
Mr. Uday Kashalikar ARMY 01-039 Awarded: 17DEC01 |
| Title: | Affordable High Performance Composite Armor Encapsulation Technology |
| Abstract: | Foster-Miller will demonstrate an innovative method to improve ballistic performance of ceramic armor tiles via its encapsulation with a high strength metal matrix (MMC) composite material. On account of thermal expansion and moduli differential between the MMC encapsulant and the ceramic armor tile, coupled with our ability to tailor an overall composite armor architecture, a substantial predetermined residual stresses will be generated in the ceramic tile. These residual stresses are expected to improve ballistic performance and damage tolerance of the ceramic tile. Foster-Miller's innovative ceramic materials encapsulation material/fabrication concept is enabled by the proven attributes of our MMC technology: proprietary composite material, flexible and inexpensive one-step fabrication process, which allow fabrication of the large flat and nonplanar armor components to near net shape. Foster-Miller ceramic armor encapsulation concept enables a flexible, affordable, and scalable fabrication of high performance composite armor materials for both military and commercial platforms. Our Phase I team includes a major military ground platforms developer, high performance ceramics materials suppliers, and large and complex ceramic and composite components manufacturing partners to facilitate the proposed material concept and fabrication process a scale-up and industrial implementation. (P-010791) In addition to a wide range of military ballistic and structural applications, these material and fabrication technology are applicable to numerous commercial and industrial applications where simple and affordable local reinforcement of various structural and application-specific components will lead to their cost effective performance improvements. |
| CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC.
725 Concord Avenue Cambridge, MA 02138 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(617) 491-3474
Mr. Magns Snorrason ARMY 01-040 Awarded: 02JAN02 |
| Title: | Autonomous Intelligent Document Analyzer (AIDA) |
| Abstract: | Optical Character Recognition (OCR) is a major component of the document management workflow in both Army and civilian scenarios. It is also one of its weakest links, having no turnkey or standardized solution. The performance of OCR software is further stressed by the need to automatically parse volumes of "legacy" documents captured with old technology or being multi-generation copies of the originals. Even modern document imaging systems still produce various artifacts, such as curved baselines, uneven illumination, low contrast, etc. We propose to design and prototype an Autonomous Intelligent Document Analysis system (AIDA). The system operates on document images (bitmaps) and is capable of different levels of autonomy depending on the usage scenario (field vs. headquarters). The system will consist of a set of document image quality metrics, each detecting a specific defect (artifact) type, and a suite of image enhancement algorithms. Application of the algorithms will be controlled by the AIDA agent which will fuse information provided by the quality metrics and context information (if available). AIDA will then execute the optimal correction steps and select the best OCR engine and its parameter settings to process the page. Techniques derived from this effort will have immediate applicability to increase OCR accuracy and readability of document images in the domain of financial services, medical records, litigation support, and record archiving for corporations, universities, and government. Envisioned product packaging include stand-alone software (possibly bundled in with scanners, etc.) and software plug-ins for existing OCR systems. |
| HIGHLAND TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
1835 Alexander Bell Drive, Suite 400 Reston, VA 20191 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 306-8200
Mr. Mark Turner ARMY 01-040 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Document Image Enhancement |
| Abstract: | We will develop a framework for associating measurements of document image characteristics with image transformation techniques and evaluating the utility of both using a supervised machine learning component of the framework. From a training set of images described in terms of their characteristic values, each with its best transformation method, this component will learn a function that maps combinations of feature values to single best image transformation methods. This research extends the ideas in work by McNamara, Casey, Smith, and Bradburn (1996) and by Cannon, Hochberg, and Kelly (1999). In Phase I, we will develop an application that includes components for: calculating image feature values or quality measures, applying image transformation methods, training the system to associate profiles of image characteristics with image transformation methods, selecting image transformation methods on the basis of this training, evaluating OCR results against available ground truth, and evaluating human readability. Because this phase is centered on development of a complete framework, the initial set of characteristics will have a single measure, and likewise the initial set of transformation techniques will include one method (other than keeping the original image). In the Phase I Option, we will add an additional image characteristic and transformation technique. Anticipated benefits of this research and development will be realized in commercial, non-profit, and public sector markets where there is a requirement for evaluation, capture, and/or retrieval of document contents by any combination of automatic (OCR and full-text indexing) and manual (review, manual indexing, redaction, and retrieval) methods. Applications include high-volume processing of business documents - invoices, proof-of-delivery documents, time sheets etc. - found in virtually every commercial, non-profit, and government organization; archiving and retrieval of historical material; processing of large collections for FOIA and Executive Order declassification; and evaluation of documents acquired during intelligence gathering. In each case, enhanced document images leads directly to increased productivity and accuracy of business processes and higher competitive value to end users who are evaluating, retrieving, and using document images and the content extracted from them. |
| KITWARE
469 Clifton Corporate Parkway Clifton Park, NY 12065 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(518) 371-3971
Dr. C. Charles Law ARMY 01-042 Awarded: 13DEC01 |
| Title: | Web-based Techniques for Remote Scientific Visualization |
| Abstract: | The objective of this Phase I proposal is to design and prototype a web-based visualization system to aid in the analysis of High Performance Computing (HPC) simulations. HPC simulations are widely used in the design of new materials and weapons systems. However, the amount of data they generate is large, limiting the analysis of the HPC results to a few high-powered computers. In this proposal we introduce the notion of a visualization server, much like a traditional web server, that would support the analysis and exploration of HPC simulations from a wide range of clients. The visualization server and clients would be built upon the Visualization ToolKit (VTK), a widely used, comprehensive, portable, open-source visualization library. The system uses secure methods of data transmission requiring only basic functionality from a standard Web browser. Because the system takes advantage of VTK's parallel streaming pipeline, large amounts of data (a petabyte has been documented) can be processed and rendered in parallel. The system will be developed by Kitware, Inc., a small business providing commercial support for VTK, and whose employees are the original creators and maintainers of VTK. The proposed project will significantly improve the use and accessibility of HPC clusters in many military and commercial fields. HPC is already used for ballistics, ablation, impact analysis, weather prediction, new weapon systems, communications coverage, tracking systems, logistics, nuclear testing, environmental analysis, and computational fluid dynamics. The web-based client application will provide an easy to use interface to a powerful visualization server. This allows analysts with the proper authentication to quickly and easily access HPC results from their desktop or palmtop computer. The visualization server will make using HPC resources less labor intensive and more powerful by providing a flexible scalable tool that can process data sets of virtually any size on any cluster architecture. The proposed tools will be invaluable post-processing and run-time resources for analyzing and debugging large simulations. Specific benefits will include faster analysis cycles with less wasted runs, and easier generation of animations for communicating simulation results. |
| APTIMA, INC.
12 Gill Street, Suite 1400 Woburn, MA 01801 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 496-2412
Dr. Jean MacMillan ARMY 01-043 Awarded: 12DEC01 |
| Title: | Tool for VISualization of Threats and Attacks (VISTA) in Urban Environments |
| Abstract: | Traditionally, the military intelligence analyst has been able to focus on a known enemy within situations that are relatively comprehensible. Uniforms, military equipment, and communication patterns, to name a few, could identify the enemy. However, increasingly the United States Army faces a new battlefield and a non-traditional enemy. The need exists for a tool that intelligence analysts can use to examine the sudden, non-linear, emergent events that characterize operations in urban settings. In this project, we will create a VISualization of Threats and Attacks (VISTA) tool. We will begin by identifying a constellation of variables that seem to describe critical aspects of urban operations. This work will explore how these variables interact and how they change over time. We will then develop predictive equations and models that are based on these variables and that capture the occurrence of non-linear events, drawing on innovative modeling techniques from the emerging field of complex systems. By combining operational knowledge and research with predictive equations and models, VISTA will be capable of giving the analyst the vision required to produce enhanced intelligence estimates and predictions. The outcome of this program of development will be a tool that assists military intelligence analysts in detecting emerging patterns in urban operations. This tool will greatly aid analysts in predicting areas of disruption, for currently there is no system capable of handling the complex analysis of urban strife. Beyond military intelligence, this tool will have application across a broad spectrum of uses including law enforcement, network security, and virus propagation. |
| SOPHIA INTERCONNECT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
14225-C Sullyfield Circle Chantilly, VA 20151 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 961-9573
Dr. Philip Koh ARMY 01-044 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Compact solid state high-power amplifier with full waveguide bandwidth |
| Abstract: | An innovative compact amplifier design has been developed based on power combining of MMIC amplifiers. This amplifier will provide 10-20W power output with the reliability and compactness inherent in solid-state-based devices. Higher output power amplifiers are needed to extend the range and increase link margin of point-to-point, point-to-multipoint, and satellite communications links in Ka-Band. Solid state amplifiers are uniquely suited to meeting the challenging reliability and cost requirements of these applications. |
| CERADYNE, INC.
3169 Redhill Avenue Costa Mesa, CA 92626 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(714) 549-0421
Mr. Munjal Chheda ARMY 01-045 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Hardened and Toughened Silicon Carbide Composite |
| Abstract: | A program is proposed to develop a low-cost silicon carbide-based multiphase composite with high hardness and high fracture toughness using a powder-based processing. High hardness is achieved through composition design and high fracture toughness is accomplished by microstructure tailoring. The reinforcing phases will be identified and selected, based on hardness, thermal expansion coefficient, compatibility with silicon carbide, melting point, density and stiffness. Silicon carbide polytypes and sintering aid families will be studied to achieve high hardness and high fracture toughness. Taguchi partial factorial approach will be employed to examine the composition and processing parameters. Standard ceramic processing will be used to fabricate 100 mm X 100 mm X 7 mm tiles for charactrization, and a quick screening test will be developed for the fracture toughness and hardness measurements. A preliminary database will be established for use in designing a Phase II program to scale up and optimize the materials and manufacturing processes for the hardened and toughened silicon carbide composite. The program is based on Ceradyne's extensive experience in material development. With the strong background in ceramic manufacturing and marketing, Ceradyne will commercialize the hardened/toughened silicon carbide composite for advanced armor, industrial wear and electronic applications. Silicon carbide has been considered as the most appropriate ceramic component for vehicle armor for military, law enforcement and protective service industry. The hardened and toughened silicon carbide composite could benefit both public and private armored vehicles used for humanitarian demining and unexploded ordnance cleanup. The resulting silicon carbide composite can be used in high temperature and/or corrosive industrial processing applications as a wear-resistant material. |
| CERAMATEC, INC.
2425 South 900 West Salt Lake City, UT 84119 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(801) 978-2126
Dr. Raymond A. Cutler ARMY 01-045 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Enhanced Toughness SiC with High Hardness for Advanced Armor |
| Abstract: | Recent efforts at engineering the microstructures of SiC have resulted in fracture toughness values that are 2-3 times that of conventionally sintered SiC. However, these methods of toughening have resulted in decreased hardness, a property that is critical for armor applications. The proposed research attempts to toughen SiC without sacrificing hardness. The Phase I effort is based on toughening using two secondary phases. The first is a sintering aid that results in elongated SiC grains, which toughen by crack bridging and crack branching. The second, added at a much higher volume fraction, allows microcrack toughening to enhance the toughness of the composite material without sacrificing hardness. A Taguchi designed experiment is proposed to look at interactions between the secondary phases, as well as other key variables. A 25 mm x 200 mm x 200 mm SiC composite tile having the target toughness and hardness will be delivered at the end of the Phase I research. Lightweight SiC with enhanced toughness will allow improved protection for the Army, as well as law-enforcement agencies and private armored vehicles. This same material is expected to perform well in non-corrosive environments, such as nozzles for oil well drilling and water-jet cutting. |
| KTECH CORP.
2201 Buena Vista SE, Suite 400 Albuquerque, NM 87106 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(505) 998-5830
Mr. Rick Blose ARMY 01-046 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Wear Resistant Coating for Tank Gun Barrel Applications |
| Abstract: | Development of a low cost technology for applying wear and corrosion resistant coatings onto the internal surface of tank gun barrels is of great importance for high performance and extending the operational lifetime of modern artillery. Currently, a chrome plating method is used. However, this technology has several serious limitations including environmental hazards associated with the handling and disposal of the chemicals required for the chrome plating process. This proposal presents a new technology that is still under development that appears promising for applying wear and corrosion resistant coatings inside gun barrels. This technology has significant advantages when compared to with the current plating process and conventional thermal spray methods. A brief summary of the problems associated with chrome plating technology is presented; a new concept of spraying high quality coatings based on using the Cold Spray process is described. There is a great demand in industry for a cost effective technology to apply dense coatings inside tubes, pipes, and cylinders to enhance the wear resistance of components in contact with each other, and corrosion resistance to protect the pipe material from attack by the material flowing through it. Industries that would benefit from this technology include the military, chemical refineries, oil and gas, piping and tubing, automotive, and aerospace. Additionally, a market to sell Cold Spray equipment to coat the inside of cylindrical geometries would emerge to compete with other coating technologies stimulating the economy. |
| EIC LABORATORIES, INC.
111 Downey Street Norwood, MA 02062 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 769-9450
Dr. Steven H. Pullins ARMY 01-047 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Theoretical Prediction, Synthesis and Characterization of RSA Materials |
| Abstract: | We propose to synthesize and characterize by time resolved spectroscopy RSA compounds that have been structurally modified to maximize the ratio of excited state to ground state absorption cross sections over a broad visible range. The structural modifications will be made based on ab initio and semiempirical quantum mechanical predictions of excited state energetics and absorption intensities. The theoretical models will be developed by the Mark Ratner group at Northwestern, based on our prior collaborations resulting in accurate prediction of triplet-triplet absorption energies in over 100 organic chromophores, in effect allowing a priori predictions of wavelength-dependent optical limiting curves in hypothetical molecules. Phase I will entail synthesis of several derivatives of a promising RSA porphyrin, the experimental mapping of their energy levels and triplet state absorption spectra, and the use of the results to verify theoretical prediction of the substituent effects on these properties. Phase Ia and II will entail further refinements to the theory and its application to prediction of intersystem crossing rates to provide a package generally useful to Army researchers. This will permit us to design an optimized RSA compound which will be synthesized, characterized and implemented into solid state filter designs with acceptable optical damage thresholds. The general materials approach will enable rapid development of new optical limiting materials for the full range of threat wavelengths. The materials have government markets for sensor and eye protection and commercial markets as laser safety eyewear and as protection for cameras and optical instruments. |
| PHYSICAL SCIENCES, INC.
20 New England Business Center Andover, MA 01810 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 689-0003
Mitchell R. Zakin ARMY 01-047 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Nonlinear Transmission of Laser Radiation for Eye and Sensor Protection |
| Abstract: | Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) proposes to develop improved solid-state optical-limiting devices incorporating reverse saturable absorber (RSA) materials. Optical limiting (OL) occurs when the optical transmission of a material decreases with increasing laser fluence. OL materials can thus strongly attenuate intense optical beams while keeping high transmittance at low-intensity ambient light levels (providing "passive" protection). OL materials are desirable for protecting optical sensors or human eyes from the high fluence output of pulsed lasers. In this proposal, we detail the synthetic methods that will be used to produce improved composite optical limiting materials and devices incorporating RSA molecules, and describe the methods that will be used to characterize the optical limiting performance of these devices. The proposed optical limiting devices will provide protection from eye and sensor damage from pulsed lasers in military applications. These devices will also have application in the medical, manufacturing, laser research, and entertainment industries where pulsed lasers present an eye-safety hazard. |
| SAN DIEGO RESEARCH CENTER, INC.
12162 SE 14th Street Bellevue, WA 98005 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 442-9057
Harry B. Lee ARMY 01-048 Awarded: 19DEC01 |
| Title: | Burst Mode, High Data Rate Communication Links with Narrow Beam Directional Antennas |
| Abstract: | The availability of wide bandwidth, and narrow-beam electronically steered arrays (ESAs) at Ka Band creates an extraordinary opportunity for military communications systems. Specifically orders of magnitude improvements appear to be achievable in terms of data rates, Low Probability of Detection (LPD), and Anti-Jam (AJ) performance. Additionally, the enabling technology can support advanced radar functions. For example, the envisioned Future Combat System (FCS) requires such advanced capabilities. The work proposed herein will deliver a highly innovative, practical modulation/demodulation (modem) architecture capable of Supporting high-rate, LPD/AJ communications, and also Radar functionality. The work will demonstrate that the critical net join problem can be solved through the use of creative hand shaking protocols, and specific innovative high-processing gain (PG) waveforms. The work also will identify a preferred modem architecture which incorporates spectrally-efficient, higher-order modulations, channel mitigation, LPD and AJ waveforms, and also supports radar functionality. The modem architecture will be selected to facilitate migration into a real KA Band demonstration radio. The Phase 1 work will demonstrate the practicality of a military Ka Band modem with the following advanced capabilities: 1) Robust, fast net join, re-join protocols for use with narrow-beam antennas 2) Supporting High PG net join waveforms 3) High data-rate communication waveform 4) Advanced Featureless LPD waveform 5) AJ waveform 6) Channel Mitigation 7) Waveforms supportive of high-resolution radar ranging. To date, none of these features have been demonstrated in an operating Ka Band radio. |
| ADAPTIVE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
1700 Kraft Drive, Suite 2350 Blacksburg, VA 24060 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(540) 951-1284
Dr. Michael A. Vaudrey ARMY 01-049 Awarded: 21DEC01 |
| Title: | A Real-Time Audio Telepresence Device for Remote Acoustic Monitoring |
| Abstract: | The design, development and testing of a real-time audio telepresence device for remote acoustic monitoring is proposed. The primary goal of the Phase I effort is to deliver a fully functional wired binaural prototype microphone capable of delivering the most realistic hearing capabilities to a remotely located soldier. The technical objectives and work tasks focus on building and testing the proof-of-concept prototype by dividing the project into three design elements including: i) creating highly accurate remote audio signals for wired delivery via a machine-to-soldier digital audio interface ii) head position measurement and remote system control for real-time sound source localization via a soldier-to-machine data interface, and iii) investigation of advanced hearing capabilities and refined system accuracy. The multi-disciplinary approach required by the proposed design is facilitated by a strong technical team and the use of commercially available, high-tech hardware designed to accomplish specific design goals. Custom designed software, in conjunction with COTS hardware, will allow for seamless OEM relationships planned for the development of the Phase II manufacturable prototype. The team assembled for Phase I, and anticipated for Phase II, includes experts in human perception of audio, mechatronics, digital audio design, controls, digital signal processing systems, head-tracking, and wireless technology. The proposed Phase I program will provide the Army with a fully functional wired binaural microphone for remote acoustic monitoring. The advanced design resulting from the Phase I development ensures a successful Phase II manufacturable system. The resulting product will offer new opportunities for hearing research, remote, real-time listening of live audio entertainment, remote audio intelligence, surveillance, and rescue, as well as applications in Future Combat Systems employing autonomously deployed vehicles. |
| METROLASER, INC.
18010 Skypark Circle, Suite 100 Irvine, CA 92614 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(949) 553-0688
Dr. Bauke Heeg ARMY 01-050 Selected for Award |
| Title: | A Fiber-Optic Evanescent Wave Absorption Organophosphorus Biosensor |
| Abstract: | Organophosphorous compounds (OPC's) have strongly adverse effects on human health and ecosystems, and reliable monitoring of these compounds is of utmost importance. MetroLaser proposes to develop a fiber-optic evanescent wave mid-IR absorption biosensor for the detection of OPC's with Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) as the sensing material. The proposed sensor is expected to have superior sensitivity, selectivity, and responsivity. To this end, a porous matrix of ordered multi-layers of AChE-coated nano-particles (Quantum Dots, QD's) provide the sensing region. The controlled formation of a thick porous sensing region containing high surface-to-volume ratio QD's ensures minimal sensor-to-sensor variation, maximum responsivity, as well as enhanced mid-IR absorption, and therefore, a substantial increase in sensitivity. It is estimated that the detection limit of the sensor can be made to be in the pM range. Mid-IR "fingerprint" spectroscopic techniques enable specific molecular recognition of OPC's because of spectral features unique to the AChE-OPC complex, and therefore, provide the desired specificity that will reduce the false alarm rate. Development of a compact, portable, ultra-sensitive biosensor can be accomplished using novel quantum cascade lasers to provide a reliable field-deployable instrument with rapid response. The evanescent wave fiber-optic biosensor will have an extremely broad range of applications. The proposed method will produce a mid-IR fiber-optic biosensor that can easily be adapted to include different enzymes and proteins with different specificity. The high surface-to-volume sensing region combined with the far-probing evanescent waves ensures ultra-high sensitivity that may surpass many other sensor performances. Further, the sensor can be made very compact, and therefore portable, with relatively cheap components. There is a broad range of potential applications, including simultaneous trace gas detection of a wide variety of atmospheric pollutants, hazardous gaseous species, explosive decomposition products, and biological agents. |
| INFORMATION EXTRACTION & TRANSPORT, INC.
1911 N. Ft. Myer Drive, Suite 600 Arlington, VA 22209 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(541) 728-7434
Dr. Francis Fung ARMY 01-051 Awarded: 20DEC01 |
| Title: | Enhancement of Biometrics with Advanced Pattern Recognition Techniques for Information Systems Applications |
| Abstract: | The Army is currently working to create effective biometric systems for positive identification of users under tactical conditions including poor capture conditions, quick response time requirements, narrow bandwidth. For instance, a soldier will need to use his weapon reliably even if the fingerprint image he supplies is rotated, smeared, occluded, or damaged. Many advances in pattern recognition have been made in other areas (computer vision, automatic target recognition) that can be applied to biometric measurement recognition. One such advance, the theory of quasi-invariants, studies features that are "slowly varying" with respect to change of viewpoint. We will apply this theory by considering a captured biometric signature and a reference signature as two views of the same object, and matching quasi-invariants computed on them. Quasi-invariants have predictable probabilistic behavior, which allows us to apply Bayesian inference to utilize available evidence effectively, and to make robust and accurate matching decisions with tunable thresholds. The technology that we will develop under this SBIR has clear commercial potential for wide deployment because it will allow the deployment of biometric sensors in a wider class of environments where such technologies were previously unable to function due to excessively harsh capture conditions. IBG is a world leader in evaluation and integration of biometric technology solutions. We plan to leverage their expertise and market position to identify commercial biometric capture products and matching algorithms into which we can integrate our new technology effectively. Identification of the Military Market The U.S. Army's Future Combat System will rely heavily on direct and indirect fire robotic systems. Such weapons could be captured and used against U.S. forces unless they are adequately safeguarded with biometric authentication systems. This situation applies equally to unmanned air and naval systems that will be entering the U.S. force structure over the next decade. Non-lethal weaponry employed in peacekeeping and nation-building missions should also be safe guarded from unauthorized use via biometrics. In short, it is difficult to envision tactical weapons, vehicles, or information systems that would not significantly enhance mission effectiveness and force protection if they were safeguarded by robust, accurate, and real-time biometric authentication technology. Identification of the Commercial Market Handgun control and automobile security are two commercial market areas that clearly can benefit from robust biometric matching advances developed for DoD. More generally these system developments can be applied to any biometric application where rapid, robust signature capture and robust unauthorized user rejection are required. Target industries include financial services, telecommunications, Internet development and law enforcement. IBG is the world's leading organization for identification of emergent COTs biometric capabilities. They will lead the investigation of commercialization opportunities by accessing their broad network of COTS vendors and clients on behalf of this SBIR opportunity. |
| ULTRA-SCAN CORP.
4240 Ridge Lea Rd Amherst, NY 14226 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(716) 832-6269
Dr. John K. Schneider ARMY 01-051 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Investigation into a Military Grade, Field Deployable Biometric Identification System |
| Abstract: | This proposal focuses on the analysis, requirements definition, and methodology for quantitative measurements and testing of a tactical grade, field deployable biometric sensor and identification system. A thorough compilation of the various factors that affect overall performance of a field deployable biometric system will be conducted. This will include effects of environmental factors, situational factors, technology factors and user considerations pertaining to the biometric sensor. In addition, several system architectures will be developed that are applicable to the deployment of biometric devices in a variety of different field situations and address issues such as methods of storage, encryption and distribution of templates. The results will serve as a requirements specification for the design and development of the next generation of biometric devices that will have both tunable performance accuracies and confidence factors, with False Acceptance and False Rejection error rates of less than one in a million. Finally, a brief investigation of a multi-biometric solution, based on using ultrasonic imaging, will be performed. This investigation will attempt to collect preliminary data supporting the ability to develop a superior biometric sensor, that meets the established performance requirements of a tactical grade, field deployable system, utilizing ultrasonic imaging techniques. The successful outcomes from the work proposed will result in a requirements document that can be used as a design guide by many researchers and product developers of biometric systems in their effort to create the next generation of biometric devices that have an order of magnitude increase in accuracy over existing solutions available today. The development of a superior performing biometric for information systems would quickly be adopted for all types of biometric identification applications. The applications are virtually endless and include time and attendance, access control, patient identification, prisoner tracking systems, and many more. The biometric market is forecasted by market analyst experts such as Frost and Sullivan to be a multi-billion dollar market over the next several years. Much work is needed however by the scientific community to advance the performance and reliability of these systems prior to this market reaching its full potential. A case in point, the FBI has been working for many years on an initiative referred to as NCIC 2000, which requires a fingerprint scanner placed in every police car for the purposes of field identification. This program has suffered significant delays because no fingerprint vendor has been able to provide a scanner that can perform adequately in the field environment experienced by the police officer, and at the price points needed for this industry. The work done as part of this proposal could be applied to similar analysis for the NCIC 2000 program. |
| ADVANCED SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS, INC.
2020 Alameda Padre Serra, Suite 123 Santa Barbara, CA 93103 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(805) 966-3331
Dr. Roger Stettner ARMY 01-052 Awarded: 18DEC01 |
| Title: | Opto-Silicon-Integrated System for High-Resolution Real-Time Image Quality Analysis |
| Abstract: | There is a continuing need for high frame rate cameras with a large number of pixels in the image. These are desirable for targeting on high-speed aircraft, autonomous systems, smart missiles and a variety of high-speed vehicle applications and testing applications. The proposed High Speed Vision System (HSVS) is a breakthrough FPA-based technology for these applications; it combines very-high-speed data output from the focal plane and very powerful image processing, outputting only the objects and numbers of interest. HSVS has very high commercial potential in the machine-vision field. High-speed machine vision, orders-of-magnitude faster than current systems, at low cost, and with minimum volume and weight penalties, is clearly a quantum leap forward. HSVS will make a whole new generation of high-speed manufacturing machines possible. |
| SCIENTIFIC APPLICATIONS & RESEARCH ASSOC
15261 Connector Lane Huntington Beach, CA 92649 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(714) 903-1000
Mr. Jay Cleckler ARMY 01-053 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Self-Aligning Windscreen for UGV Flow Noise Reduction |
| Abstract: | Flow noise currently limits the applicability of acoustic detection/tracking arrays on mobile platforms. Reduction of this noise is necessary for the acoustical detection of targets at tactically significant ranges, in conditions of high winds and/or high vehicle velocities. The most direct and effective way to reduce the effects of flow noise is to keep it from being generated in and around the microphone detection elements. SARA Inc. proposes a novel flow self-alignment microphone windscreen to minimize the effects of aeroacoustic noise on array elements. This concept is based on SARA's proprietary windscreen designs, which have provided in excess of 15dB of noise reduction for analogous applications. SARA offers its aeroacoustic design expertise to minimize vehicle flow noise by small modifications to the vehicles aerodynamics. For second order flow noise reduction SARA offers one of two powerful signal-processing techniques capable of improving detection confidence in noisy conditions. Reduction of flow noise would greatly extend the range for acoustic detection benefiting the following applications: Un-manned ground vehicles (UGV), Un-manned air vehicles (UAV), manned ground and air vehicles, and unattended ground sensors. Advanced windscreens may also benefit professional film production and the monitoring of environmental noise. |
| INNOVATEK, INC.
350 Hills Street, Suite 104 Richland, WA 99352 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(509) 375-1093
Dr. Qimin (Quentin) Ming ARMY 01-054 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced Catalyst For Microchannel Fuel Reformer |
| Abstract: | InnovaTek proposes to further develop a robust sulfur-tolerant steam reforming catalyst based on a proprietary formulation. As a component of an advanced fuel processor, this catalyst will be capable of reforming various hydrocarbons, including readily available fuels such as gasoline, diesel, and natural gas. The research will also include determination of the optimal operating conditions such as temperature, space velocity, steam/C ratio, pressure, etc. where the catalyst has high activity and selectivity and also maintains stable and durable performance. At such conditions, carbon formation (coking) on the catalyst and catalyst support shall be minimized. The effect of various parameters on the performance of the catalyst will also be investigated. These include catalyst composition, total loading amount, the effect of different promoters and additives, and preparation method. Performance of the catalyst will be tested in a microchannel reactor that is designed to produce enough hydrogen to power a 100-watt fuel cell. Fuel cells are clean power generators with high-energy efficiency, and are projected to be a significant portion of total energy produced in the next three decades. Due to their high power density, quick dynamic response to power demand, and low operating temperature, polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cells are envisioned to be useful in a wide range of power applications, such as vehicular (50-200 kW), residential (5-10 kW), portable (10-1000 W), and stationary (MW). The projected commercialization of PEM fuel cells requires the availability of economical pure hydrogen. Reforming of various hydrocarbons, such as methanol, natural gas, gasoline, and diesel for the production of hydrogen, is being considered for both stationary and mobile applications because it offers higher hydrogen density (for example, 12.7% for gasoline) than metal hydride (1.7%), carbon nano-tube (5.8%) and other technologies of hydrogen carriers. Due to the existing distribution and supply infrastructure, gasoline and diesel are attractive choices as primary fuels to generate hydrogen for use by fuel cells. Gasoline has sulfur concentrations in the range of 50 to 300 ppm, and the concentration of sulfur in diesel is higher than that of gasoline. For small and portable power applications it is unlikely that adding a desulfurization unit to the reformer is practical because of size and weight constraints. Therefore, catalysts with improved sulfur and coke resistance for steam reforming of readily available hydrocarbons, such as gasoline and diesel would be highly desirable. Such catalysts must also have high activity, selectivity, and durability. |
| PRECISION COMBUSTION, INC.
410 Sackett Point Road North Haven, CT 06473 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(203) 287-3700
Dr. Maxim Lyubovsky ARMY 01-054 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Methanol Micro Reformer |
| Abstract: | Precision Combustion, Inc. (PCI) proposes to develop a compact methanol reformer based on this Microlith, catalytic reactor technology, capable of delivering 20 V 400 cc/sec of high purity hydrogen for use in Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cells operating at 15 V 300 W range. The size of the catalytic reactor required to supply a 300 W PEM fuel cell, is expected to be extremely small. The proposed reformer will have near silent operation, low capital and maintenance costs, will be rugged and durable with near instantaneous startup and transient response. Development of a compact Microlithr-based methanol reformer system capable of high rates of hydrogen production would be a significant benefit for fuel cells or other hydrogen based energy conversion systems. The size of the catalytic reactor required to supply a 300 W PEM fuel cell, would be approximately that of a standard AA battery. The technology is also readily scalable to larger sizes, with the same low volume benefit as compared to other hydrogen generation systems. Because the CO production is expected to be less than 1% a water gas shift reactor may be eliminated along with the cost and associated weight. Coupling the methanol reformer with either a downstream preferential CO oxidation reactor (PROX) or a membrane separator for isolating hydrogen are possible approaches to obtaining high purity hydrogen. These characteristics are beneficial to the needs of a small, light, 15-300 W power supply for use in powering cellular phones, laptop computers, camcorders, and other small devices for individual soldier power for extended missions as well as for civilian use. |
| T/J TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
3850 Research Park Drive, P.O. Box 2150 Ann Arbor, MI 48106 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(734) 213-1637
Dr. Hanwei Lei ARMY 01-054 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Microchannel based fuel processor |
| Abstract: | This project addresses the critical need for portable hydrogen generators for small proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells. Phase I will demonstrate the feasibility of using microchannel based fuel processors. Microchannel reactor designs offer attractive advantages of miniaturization, integration, and heat management. The phase I feasibility demonstration will focus on developing a microchannel reactor and improved catalyst for the water gas shift (WGS) reaction. The WGS reactor is a critical component, constituting the largest portion of the volume, mass, and cost of the fuel processor system. T/J Technologies will collaborate with the University of Michigan (UM), combining the Company's expertise in supported catalysts and portable power supply development with leading edge UM technology in fuel processor and microchannel reactor systems. Methods will be devised to produce catalysts and integrate them into microchannel reactors. It is anticipated that microchannel reactors with improved WGS catalysts will lead to improved hydrogen generation performance with reduced volume, mass and cost compared to conventional fuel processors. In phase II, the microchannel reactor concept will be extended to the additional fuel processor stages including the steam reformer and preferential oxidizer. A laboratory prototype of an integrated microchannel fuel processor will be constructed and demonstrated. Improved compact fuel processors will facilitate the production of portable 15 - 300 W power sources to support individual soldiers on extended missions. Private sector applications include use in auxiliary power units for hybrid vehicles, tractor-trailers, boats, RV's, etc. It is likely that the technology will also scale to smaller 1 - 10 W power units which have immense market potential for portable electronic devices such as cell phones and palm/laptop computers. |
| ENSOLVE BIOSYSTEMS, INC.
3209 Gresham Lake Road, Suite 147 Raleigh, NC 27615 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(919) 954-6196
Dr. Jason Caplan ARMY 01-055 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Biofilm Remediation for Restoration of Contaminated Army Sites |
| Abstract: | A number of U.S. Army sites are contaminated with recalcitrant chemicals such as trichloroethylene (TCE), perchloroethylene (PCE), vinyl chloride, and various explosives (i.e., TNT). Bioremediation is the use of microorganisms to eliminate or reduce the concentrations of hazardous materials from air, water, or soil. Over the past 20 years, this technique has been utilized in the successful cleanup of thousands of contaminated sites with more labile chemicals such as petroleum hydrocarbons, non-chlorinated solvents, and soluble organic wastes. However, very little research has been conducted on the contributions of individual species in the complex and unique roles involved in the degradation of the above-referenced recalcitrant compounds. EnSolve has developed a patented fixed-film bioreactor that is successful in reducing high concentrations of labile organic chemicals such as those mentioned earlier. It has not yet been employed in the degradation of recalcitrant molecules. EnSolve proposes to develop a TCE-degrading biofilm using a unique co-substrate "pulsing" technique. Attempts will be made to develop biofilms composed of bacteria only, fungus only, and mixed cultures (i.e., both bacteria and fungus). TCE degradation rates and electron microscopic techniques will be utilized to follow the growth and development of each biofilm type. A fixed-film system that could degrade recalcitrant molecules would have tremendous benefits to the DOD, DOE, and private industry. In addition to being more environmentally friendly, the successful biotreatment system would save customers money by minimizing excavation, digging and hauling of hazardous wastes to landfills or incinerators. Such a system could be employed on over 3,000 DOD and DOE sites within the next 10 years thereby generating high paying employment opportunities for over 400 people. |
| FOSTER-MILLER, INC.
350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 684-4181
Dr. Vladimir Guilmanov ARMY 01-055 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Biofilm Remediation for Restoration of Contaminated Army Sites |
| Abstract: | Free-phase pollutants are persistent environmental contaminants. Present in situ remediation involving biological/chemical oxidation of trichloroehylene (TCE), perchloroethylene (PCE) and explosives [2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX)] is limited to diluted plumes. Physical and mechanical removal of free-phase pollutants results in the generation of air pollutants and contaminant spreading. An enhanced process of in situ free-phase pollutant removal by indigenous micro-organisms that are pre-adapted for metabolizing the pollutants on the pollutant free-phase surface is proposed. The micro-organisms will have a high affinity to the pollutant free-phase because of their increased hydrophobicity. This will drive the degrading micro-organisms towards the sites where the free-phase pollutants are localized, fix them to the sites, thereby assuring the long-term stability of the formed biofilms. The contaminants will be continuously degraded by the biofilm. When formed, the biofilm will also prevent further mobilization of pollutants in the environment. An advanced continuous selection process will achieve the desired hydrophobicity of the microbial surface. Selective pressures for this system are the availability of pollutants, as the phase separated carbon source, and an antibiotic, causing desired changes in cell hydrophobicity. The pre-adapted microorganisms will be returned to their native environments and form/participate in the pollutant-degrading biofilms. Additional nutrients will be required. (P-010749) In situ biological remediation is preferred to ex situ treatment because of lower energy and capital investment costs, it is more efficient due to immediate localization of the polluted area, and the aquifers can be completely restored. This development, if successful, will provide a unique opportunity for removing the source of extensive environmental contamination, namely pools of chlorinated solvents and solid residues of explosives. This process can be used not only by the US Department of Defense, but also by commercial firms both in the United States and abroad. |
| COHERENT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
655 Aspen Ridge Drive Lafayette, CO 80026 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 604-2000
Dr. Narasimha Prasad ARMY 01-057 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Wideband Acousto-optic Tunable Filter and Retarder for Spectropolarimetric Imagers |
| Abstract: | It is critical to extract maximum information from IR images for target detection, identification and classification purposes. Besides acquiring intensity variations, rapid collection of corresponding polarization signatures at desired wavelengths with an imaging spectropolarimeter could enhance the information content of an IR scene. Present spectropolarimeters operate over a narrow spectral band. Furthermore, they are heavy, slow due to moving mechanical parts, and operationally complex. Coherent Technologies Inc. (CTI) is proposing to design and develop two key components namely, an acousto-optic tunable filter (AOTF) and a matched active retarder required for a spectropolarimetric imager to operate over the 2-12 micron spectral band. These components will enable the imager to simultaneously measure the spectral intensity and polarization content of an image in real time. These components are anticipated to guide the development of a versatile spectropolarimetric imager that will be broadband, wavelength agile, electronically tunable, all-solid-state, compact, field-deployable, and rugged. In Phase I, detailed designs, including material trade-off study and performance evaluation, of an AOTF and active retarder for a broadband spectra-polarimeter will be generated. An active retarder will be fabricated and tested. In Phase II, a portable, field-deployable, brassboard components operating over 2-12 micron spectral band will be developed and delivered. The proposed components have wide applications in sensitive target detection, identification, and discrimination systems, active and passive remote chemical sensing systems, imaging lidars, IR spectroscopy, terrestrial and space surveillance systems, machine vision systems, etc. |
| CLIFTON LABS, INC.
3678 Fawnrun Dr. Cincinnati, OH 45241 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(513) 563-4731
Mr. Dale E. Martin ARMY 01-058 Selected for Award |
| Title: | PHOCI: Photonic Communications Imager |
| Abstract: | Clifton Labs, Inc. proposes to develop a fully functional optical imaging system that is suitable for both image capture and reception of optical communications data. The proposed system, called PHOCI (for Photonic Communications Imager) includes a novel image/data capture chip that imbeds high-speed optical data communications receiver technology into the image capture array of a digital video camera system. In addition to the development of a new image/data capture chip, the proposed project includes the design of a hardware interface that allows the PHOCI system to pass both image and optical communication data through a USB (or similar communications port) to a COTS portable computer. Finally, the project includes the development of system software that will run on the portable computer. In addition to providing the device drivers necessary to communicate with the PHOCI hardware, the system software provides the data structures and graphical user interface (GUI) that allow a system operator to see the camera image along with the location and recent movement vector for communication sources in the image. Additionally, the GUI provides a point-and-click environment for viewing the most recent communication data or a communication history from any communication source identified in the imager field of view. The Phase I products (including VLSI layouts, interface circuit designs, system software and a final technical report) will clearly identify the technological barriers associated with the implementation of an optical communications imager. With the Phase I products it will be possible to implement a fully functional prototype PHOCI system. |
| ELECTRODYNAMICS ASSOC., INC.
409 Eastbridge Drive Oviedo, FL 32765 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(407) 977-1825
Mr. Jay Vaidya ARMY 01-060 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Integral Starter/Generator Technology for Oil-Free Turbine Engines |
| Abstract: | With increased use of electric power on Army air and ground vehicles, compact, lightweight integrated turbo-generator sets with electric start capability are needed. Foil air bearings for high temperature oil free gas turbines are now feasible. Other barriers include electrical insulation and structurally sound components for applicable generator technologies. Electrodynamics Associates, Inc. has developed expertise in high-speed starter generators that will be applicable. In addition, we have teamed with Williams International and R&D Dynamics to address the issues relating to integration with the high-speed turbine using foil air bearings. During Phase I, we propose to select high power density generator and controls technology for high-speed,high temperature environment, create preliminary designs addressing electromagnetic, control system, as well as structural, thermal, dry bearing, and rotor dynamics issues. During Phase I Option, we will produce generator design layout, test electrical insulation scheme for high temperature, and simulate the start mode and generate mode operation using Matlab/Simulink software. This will prepare us for fabrication, test, and demonstration of a high-speed starter generator unit, in high temperature environment during potential Phase II. Compact light weight and cost effective integral starter generators will find use on military and commercial vehicles, and also as UPS for emergency power requirements in industry and businesses including department stores, hospitals and others. |
| EIC LABORATORIES, INC.
111 Downey Street Norwood, MA 02062 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 769-9450
Dr. James A. Janni ARMY 01-061 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Ultra-Sensitive Raman Detector:A SERS Spectrometer |
| Abstract: | Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) for handheld, field analysis of biological health and safety threats requires the development of an advanced, compact Raman spectrometer tailored to SERS. Our proposed efforts will decrease spectrometer size, lower its power consumption, expand the Raman spectral range and develop an optical interface that improves excitation and collection efficiency when compared to current portable Raman systems. A novel spectrometer design based solely on fiber optics technology will be built in a fraction of the volume possible with dispersive instruments as a means of achieving the goal of handheld operation. This spectrometer will be coupled to our highly sensitive SERS sensors through specially designed and tested optical interfaces that account for the angular and spatial dependence of the excitation phenomenon. Analyte will be delivered to the substrate through sample collection mechanisms that account for the aerodynamics and thermodynamics that dictate SERS substrate/analyte interactions. The design features of the proposed SERS spectrometer based biological sensor will be thoroughly tested in a research program organized around understanding optimal SERS excitation, collection, and substrate analyte interactions. The research will also be directed at increasing excitation efficiency through the use of microcavities. Small and inexpensive Raman instrumentation will bring new commercial applications of the method, including quality control analysis, process controllers, forensic instruments for identifying illegal substances, and air and water monitors. |
| TPL, INC.
3921 Academy Parkway North, NE Albuquerque, NM 87109 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(505) 342-4438
Mr. Tom Schilling ARMY 01-062 Awarded: 14DEC01 |
| Title: | Material Technology for Thermal Management of Gun Barrels |
| Abstract: Abstract not available... | |
| TRITON SYSTEMS, INC.
200 TURNPIKE ROAD Chelmsford, MA 01824 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 250-4200
Mr. James Burnett ARMY 01-062 Awarded: 14DEC01 |
| Title: | Lightweight Advanced Composite Mortar Barrels |
| Abstract: | Triton Systems Inc. proposes to design, develop the fabrication processes, and to test a full-bore subscale prototype composite 81-mm type M252 mortar barrel, to demonstrate a 30% weight reduction and advantageous thermal management in a full-sized Mortar barrel. The Army's mission for this lightweight high thermal performance mortar is based on the company level requirement of high firepower, extended range and un-mounted infantry transport. The barrel section will be fabricated using either an aluminum matrix composite (AMC) structural jacket with a steel liner or a proprietary functionally graded metal ceramic matrix composite (MCMC) structure with a fully dense ceramic matrix composite liner. In either case, the structural jacket will be fabricated from fiber-reinforced aluminum that has demonstrated excellent fatigue resistance at elevated temperature, a high tensile strength of 200 ksi, and a low density of 3.4 g/cc. At the conclusion of the proposed SBIR Phase I program the feasibility of using these high specific strength composite materials to achieve the required weight reduction and thermal management under the high firing rates in an 81-mm mortar will completed. The Advanced Composite Mortar proposed for development on this program is expected to have a direct impact on the M252 mortar by reducing the overall weight and barrel soak temperature. Additional near term Army applications include the M224 mortar and other gun systems requiring light weight and high thermal energy dissipation. Future systems applications include hydraulic actuators and pressure vessels for aerospace and commercial aircraft. Additional applications include bicycle frames and related components, automobile components such as drive shafts and propeller hub assemblies and airframe components of all kinds. |
| APPLIED SYSTEMS ENGINEERING, INC.
2009 Huntcliff Drive Gambrills, MD 21054 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(443) 306-7855
Mr. Stephen J. Fujikawa ARMY 01-063 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Autonomous Obstacle Avoidance for A Miniature Rotary Wing UAV |
| Abstract: | Research issues pertaining to the development of an obstacle avoidance system for a highly autonomous miniature rotary wing Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) performing the urban battlefield reconnaissance mission are proposed. The research objective is to develop the obstacle avoidance technologies, including the overall system architecture, sensors and sensor data processing algorithms, obstacle avoidance rules, logic and computational algorithms, and autopilot structure including control laws and interfaces with sensors and actuators. The research is facilitated by building on the results of extensive previous development in guidance systems for Nap-of-the-Earth (NOE) terrain following helicopters and our earlier efforts in autonomous flights of fixed wing and rotary wing UAVs. NOE helicopters share the same requirements for detecting obstacles and planning and executing avoidance routes using a high agility autopilot. Options for sensors, sensor data processing, avoidance route planning, and autopilot algorithms are outlined. The result of this project will be candidate obstacle avoidance rule sets, autopilot algorithms, and sensor data characterizations to be evaluated in follow-on simulation effort with eventual implementation on a small helicopter during the Phase II of this SBIR effort. This research will facilitate the development of low cost man-portable UAVs for operation in cluttered urban environments, which can perform the reconnaissance mission with more speed and reduced personal risk versus sending a human reconnaissance team. Commercial applications may include mapping of hazardous or unreachable areas and police reconnaissance. |
| MICRO ANALYSIS & DESIGN, INC.
4900 Pearl East Circle, Suite 201E Boulder, CO 80301 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 442-6947
Mr. David Dahn ARMY 01-064 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Control of Multiple Unmanned Systems |
| Abstract: | The Army is at the beginning of a major force update that will use distributed unmanned vehicles as an integrated force element. Initial developments have been completed that allow a single Soldier to control as many as 4 unmanned vehicles. However, there are no technologies available to assess future designs of a one on many control system to predict a Soldier's ability to effectively control n number of unmanned vehicles in varying terrain, climate, and combat stressed conditions. This proposal describes a specific process that capitalizes on previous work performed in the human factors industry and combines this work to provide an innovative and uniquely powerful soldier performance assessment tool. This soldier performance assessment tool will utilize proven modeling and simulation techniques, coupled with operator workload and situational awareness measurement techniques to help understand the relationships between soldier performance and system parameters that ultimately affect how many unmanned systems a single soldier or group of soldiers can control. This project will establish the state of the art in assessing workload associated with control of multiple unmanned vehicles by a single controller or team of controllers. The tool developed for this effort will provide the ability to assess the workload and situational awareness demands imposed on a Soldier while performing multiple control of heterogeneous unmanned vehicles with potentially different modalities (modes of control) that may be encountered in varying terrain or partial failure conditions of the automatons. Principal benefits will be to provide the Army with a method to reduce Operating and Support Cost by allowing studies of Soldier capacity in controlling multiple unmanned vehicles and other command and control operations simultaneously on the battlefield. This assessment capability can ultimately lead to a reduction in the number of soldiers required to man the future force including the Future Combat System (FCS). |
| 3D-IC, INC.
11 Ward Street, Suite 400 Somerville, MA 02143 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(617) 661-2905
Dr. Lisa McIlrath ARMY 01-065 Selected for Award |
| Title: | A High Resolution, Ultra High Frame Rate Visible Light Imager for High Speed Digital Photography |
| Abstract: | 3D-IC proposes to develop design specifications for a 12 megapixel 1000 frame / second digital output imager. The proposed design will be based on using a monolithic substrate for the photosensor array that is engineered to achieve high quantum efficiency and good spectral response in visible light. The company proposes to investigate adaptation of its proprietary pixel-parallel processor core architecture to enable the required high bandwidth data read out in this Phase I study. It will also investigate requirements for the interface camera and propose a suitable camera system architecture. High speed photographic systems are used for many purposes, including ballistics testing, industrial inspection, security, law enforcement, and medical applications. Market research in the domain of high-end imaging applications shows that the demand for these products will exceed $200M/year by 2004 in unit sensor costs. Digital imaging techniques, will significantly improve the quality of high speed photography. They will allow faster, more automated analysis of the available information, and will eliminate the cost and time needed to process film. |
| AMAIN ELECTRONICS CO., INC.
5301 Longley Lane, Unit 122 Reno, NV 89511 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(775) 825-6001
Mr. William Mandl ARMY 01-065 Selected for Award |
| Title: | All Digital High Speed Visible Imaging Array |
| Abstract: | Amain proposes to develop a large staring array monolithic visible light camera with extremely low power analog to digital conversion, A/D, at each pixel. The approach is based on oversample A/D techniques developed for audio applications, generally known in the industry as delta sigma A/D. Each pixel of the focal plane array will contain a patented converter named MOSAD, Multiplexed OverSample A/D. The study will focus on requirements for building a 4096X3072 array of pixel photo sensors with MOSAD converters. Ultimately the array will be designed to work at 1,000 frame/second sample rate. Data volume issues will be addressed in the initial study phase. In addition, a systolic array processor approach will be developed as a high speed parallel processor for image data rate reduction. Large focal plane arrays operating at high sample rates present a problem for conventional readout techniques due to the wide noise bandwidth and the power consumption. The MOSAD approach reduces noise bandwidth at the pixel to data bandwidth. It also allows substantial power savings because of the lower noise amplitude and thus lower signal switching voltages. Applications for cost effective large array cameras exist in the consumer, commercial and military sectors. Broadcast HDTV cameras, electronic 35 millimeter cameras in the consumer area represent a substantial market potential. Surveillance, mapping and resource monitoring are a few of the applications for the military and industrial markets. |
| APPLIED PIXELS, LLC
492 Chase Street Sonoma, CA 95476 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(707) 938-2106
Mr. Christopher Clark ARMY 01-065 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Ultra High Resolution/High Speed Visible Imagers |
| Abstract: | We propose that the technologies used in advanced telecommunication circuits be applied to the development of a novel active pixel image sensor capable of exceeding the bandwidth-resolution product of present image sensors by a factor of 10x. We will use a bipolar-CMOS (BiCMOS) process to combine the high performance pixels available in CMOS technologies with the high-speed signal processing circuits made possible by utilizing bipolar transistors. BiCMOS has found wide usage in high-speed telecommunication circuits and has proven itself as an economical and reliable process. We intend to use this technology to develop a 1000 frames per second, 12Megapixel, 12-bit image sensor. To support such a sensor, an equally high-performance data acquisition system is required. A critical element in this system is a compression chip (ASIC) that can interface with the pre-compression input/output (I/O) circuitry on the image sensor on one side, and with high-speed network transceivers on the other. We are proposing a detailed study of and solution to the issues related to achieving "lossless" data compression at a ratio of 15:1 or better. Finally, we will create a preliminary design of a full data acquisition system capable of supporting a 12Megapixel, 12-bit, image sensor operating at 1000 fps. We believe the sensor and data acquisition system we are proposing will have a direct benefit to the US Military in their efforts to characterize weapon systems performance. Further, we believe the products of this SBIR effort, both image sensors and data acquisition systems, represent viable products of great interest to several different imaging markets. These commercial markets include machine vision, motion analysis, cinematography and markets that use elements derived from the overall image sensor technology we are proposing. The results of this SBIR can be directly turned into commercial value as marketable products. |
| GRIFFIN ANALYTICAL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
Suite E1-300, 3000 Kent Avenue West Lafayette, IN 47909 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(765) 426-9586
Mr. Garth Patterson ARMY 01-066 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Mini-Mass Spectrometer for Point Detection |
| Abstract: | There is a critical need by the U.S. Army to have at their disposal a highly functional, low-cost, chemical warfare detection instrument. An effective instrument must provide selectivity for chemical targets relative to background, fast response times, and a low incidence of false positives and virtually no false negatives. GAT will deliver a fieldable mass spectrometer that will serve as the centerpiece of a high performance chemical warfare detection system. The proposed instrument will use proprietary technology developed at Purdue University (patent pending) that centers on the miniaturization of a quadrupole ion trap (QIT) mass spectrometer. Mass Spectrometers provide quantitative and qualitative information in the same analytical scan. To date, high performance mass spectrometers have been confined to the pristine laboratory environment. However, the innovation realized at Purdue will allow for a high performance instrument that will be uniquely suited for field deployable point detection. Therefore, the laboratory can be brought to the sample instead of the current time consuming methods of taking the sample to the laboratory. The objectives of Phase 1 are to determine the feasibility of development and commercialization of a portable chemical warfare detection system, including, on-line sampling, mini-mass spectrometer detection, and networked data handling. The proposed instrument will provide many markets with affordable, reliable, functional chemical detection in a field portable package. This instrumentation represents a platform technology that can be used in many research and development applications. Therefore, the MMS will expand current mass spectrometry markets and most excitingly, open new markets. Specifically, this type of instrument could be used in process monitoring, environmental testing, for water and air purity, and may be used as a medical monitoring instrument. |
| TESLA TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
P.O. Box 31378 Knoxville, TN 37930 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(865) 531-9150
Dr. W.R. Lawrence ARMY 01-066 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Chemical Sensor Based on Micromechanical Systems |
| Abstract: | We propose to develop a novel type of miniature chemical sensor utilizing very recent developments in microcantilevers. Sensors based on this technology will be up to 100 times smaller, considerably more sensitive, and less expensive than currently available chemical sensors. Microcantilevers that are 50-200 m long, 10-40 m wide, and 0.3-4 m thick and possessing resonance frequencies in the range 10-300 kHz, have recently been used in scanning force microscopy to detect extremely small changes in force in the range of 10-12-10-9 N. The resonance frequency and bending of the microcantilever varies reproducibly and sensitively due to adsorption of molecules on the cantilever surfaces making it an ideal chemical sensor with picogram sensitivity and parts per billion detection. Preliminary detection studies, have demonstrated detection of ppb of chemicals, Simultaneous bending measurements resulted in a sensitivity of 0.6 pg/mV. The recyclability of the chemical sensor will be demonstrated by removing the adsorbed chemical by heating of the sensor element. We also plan to demonstrate that the sensor can be vibrated in liquid environments with a good Q-factors, allowing it to be used to detect the presence of chemicals in liquid environments. Parasitic interferences can be accounted for by using reference microcantilevers, arrays of differentially coated sensors, thermal desorption rates and/or filters. Additionally, due to the extremely small size of the sensor, the development of a personal monitor that is highly sensitive may be possible. The proposed work will provide a highly significant advance in microcantilever sensor technology with possibilities of developing new sensors for many chemicals. Commercial applications of chemical sensors are numerous since these detectors will be extremely sensitive, miniaturized, and could be mass produced. Applications include industrial hygiene, air and water pollution control, mining industry, submarines, air quality monitoring, etc |
| N&R ENGINEERING
6659 Pearl Road, Suite 400 Parma Heights, OH 44130 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(440) 845-7020
Dr. Vinod K. Nagpal ARMY 01-067 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Probabilistic Design Tool for Small Turbine Engine High Cycle Fatigue (HCF) Life |
| Abstract: | This project will significantly improve the accuracy of small turbine engine high cycle fatigue (HCF) life predictions by including the phenomenon of bladed disk mistuning in the structural analysis modeling. This will be done by developing reduced-order models and integrating them into a probabilistic structural analysis computer code. The reduced-order modeling technique enables a sufficiently accurate representation of the underlying physics while avoiding the prohibitively long computational times required by direct simulations involving random variables. The Phase I Option will develop models and methodologies to predict the redistribution of residual stresses induced by surface enhancement processes (SEP) under thermal and probabilistic HCF loading conditions and use these models to modify the HCF life prediction tool. Phase II would develop the probabilistic model into a robust computational tool and perform verification testing with real data from a limited number of existing turboshaft/turboprop engine bladed disk assemblies. Phase III would generalize the methodology and computer code to a wide variety of gas turbine engine components and applications. The traditional life prediction methodologies used in current small turbine engine design processes are seriously compromised by their inability to capture the inherently random behavior characteristics of bladed disk assemblies due to mistuning. Consequently, either the compressor designs are overly conservative (with concomitant loss in efficiency and weight penalties) or excessive failures occur during operational use. The prediction of mistuning effects in bladed disk assemblies is therefore of fundamental importance in achieving a robust HCF-resistant design for small gas turbine engines. The development and validation of an advanced and economical tool for the probabilistic assessment of random mistuning effects is key to effectively accounting for these important effects during the design process, thereby producing more robust, HCF-free high performance engine components. The application of such an advanced life prediction tool will result in higher performance engines as well as fewer operational component failures due to manufacturing and material property variances. Both military and commercial small engine applications will benefit from the exploitation of this advanced technology. This proposal was recommended by Honeywell Engines & Systems who intend to apply the analysis tool to assist them in the their "Probabilistics for Small Engines" program. (See attachment A, a letter from Honeywell to the Army supporting this proposal). |
| CFD RESEARCH CORP.
215 Wynn Dr., 5th Floor Huntsville, AL 35805 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(256) 726-4800
Mr. Robert W. Tramel ARMY 01-068 Selected for Award |
| Title: | An Integrated Framework for High-Fidelity Multi-Disciplinary Analysis of Rotorcraft |
| Abstract: | An integrated framework is proposed for high-fidelity multi-disciplinary analysis of rotorcraft and tail surface aerodynamic and aeroelastic interactions. A novel multi-resolution technique is proposed for efficient capturing of the rotor wakes. A wavelet compression is used to store the flowfield as a multi-level representation in physical space. The primary solution progresses using a very coarse grid. Ideas borrowed from vorticity confinement are used to identify regions of concentrated vorticity. These regions are selectively solved recursively in the finer grid-levels and accurate information is injected into the coarse grids to correctly represent all vorticity. In Phase I, the novel wavelet compression algorithm will be developed as a stand-alone module. An innovative Runge-Kutta temporal update will be used to advance all grid levels independently. The feasibility of the wavelet compression module will be assessed using 1-D moving wave and extensive 2-D vortex-in-box simulations. The Phase I option will focus on developing efficient data structures to store and update the multi-resolution data. The proposed method is expected to provide orders-of-magnitude leap over existing conventional wake capturing techniques. In Phase II, the wavelet compression methodology will be integrated with OVERFLOW into the Multi-Disciplinary Computing Environment (MDICE). The MDICE framework will enable the coupled codes to capture the aerodynamic and aeroelastic interactions of rotorcraft and analysis of rotorcraft vibrations, buffet, and fatigue problems. The proposed framework will provide an order-of-magnitude reduction in computational time for wake capturing and multi-disciplinary analysis of wake/tail interaction induced buffeting using the multi-level resolution and parallel execution. The framework will be directly applicable to multi-disciplinary rotorcraft analysis. With some modifications, the framework could be used for other commercial applications such as flutter and buffet analysis of fighter aircraft, nonlinear lift systems, and wing-trailing vortex dynamics of large civil aircraft. |
| BROADATA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
2545 W. 237th Street, Suite K Torrance, CA 90505 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 530-1416
Dr. Freddie Lin ARMY 01-069 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Video Coding System for Sensor Data Transmission Over Rotorcraft Tactical Radios |
| Abstract: | Broadata Communications, Inc. (BCI), proposes to develop a rate adaptable video compression/decompression system (RAVS) in conjunction with current or future generation tactical radio equipment to address Army's need to distribute video sensor data off-platform for use in teaming operations. The RAVS uses a new generation wavelet video coder, which can compress video data in a highly adaptive approach to accommodate a wide variety of radio channel specifications, while maintaining the optimal performance of video compression quality. This enables decoding of video data with variable bit rates and different image sizes, depending on the application and condition of the tactical radio channel. In addition, a unique bit rate allocation algorithm is also applied to the system to increase the systems performance against channel noises and ensure a constant bit-rate compressed video transmission. The proposed system will compress video data in real time and with a high compression ratio. Because of its low complexity and high performance design, the RAVS will be compact and light enough for use onboard aircraft, including unmanned aerial vehicles and rotorcraft, as well as by mobile ground personnel. The resulting system will be able to provide video information that can be transmitted across low bandwidth communication systems. Applications include video-telephones, video security surveillance, teleconferencing, medical imaging, and emergency video broadcasting. |
| PHYSICAL OPTICS CORP.
Information Technologies Div., 20600 Gramercy Plac Torrance, CA 90501 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 320-3088
Dr. Wenjian Wang ARMY 01-069 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Mobile Advanced Data Compression Adaptive Technology |
| Abstract: | Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Mobile Advanced Data Compression Adaptive Technology (MADCAT) communication system to transmit EIA-170 and EIA-343A streaming video over current tactical radios. MADCAT applies POC's novel soft computing and soft communication fuzzy logic algorithm and supercomputer-class Processing and Ultra-Memory Access IC hardware to achieve 4000:1 video hypercompression. MADCAT video hyercompression removes redundancy mostly by eliminating unnecessary I-frames, without sacrificing video quality. MADCAT hardware physical layer transparency makes it compatible with any type of Army rotorcraft tactical radio, including SINCGARS and AN/PRC-117F. In Phase I, POC will demonstrate a preliminary MADCAT prototype (both software and hardware) that includes video/audio compression, a physical layer, a novel sensor-specific communication interface, and bit-selective error resilient channel coding. In Phase II, POC will develop and demonstrate the full-scale MADCAT prototype model in a realistic environment, transmitting for example, EIA-343A video from rotorcraft to a ground station over Army rotorcraft tactical radios. The final MADCAT prototype will be fully compliant with ROSA RTA. The MADCAT technology addresses a wide range of large and diverse video communication markets. Video conferencing and cellular videophones are two key rapidly growing sectors. It is expected that the video conferencing market will reach $35 billion by 2002 and the cellular videophone market will be $100 billion in 2003. Other commercial sectors include broadcast TV and streaming IP video. |
| ADVANCED ROTORCRAFT TECHNOLOGY, INC.
1685 Plymouth Street, Suite 250 Mountain View, CA 94043 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(650) 968-1464
Dr. Chengjian He ARMY 01-070 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Generation of Consistent Rotorcraft Dynamics Models for Life Cycle Simulation Support |
| Abstract: | Simulation models of rotorcraft are used in a wide variety of Army applications. Conceptual Design applications use models of the sensitivity of performance to design parameters. Preliminary and detailed design applications use physical models to add detail and predict stability and loads. Test and evaluation applications use stability and load predictions to select maneuvers, instrumentation, and test conditions. Training applications use real time models to drive instrument displays, visual displays and motion platforms. Simulation Based Acquisition combines manufacturing, operational, and economic models to predict life-cycle costs. In order to assure consistency between the models used to support these diverse applications it is desired to derive these specialized models from a "Primary" comprehensive model. This will provide traceability and facilitate Verification, Validation and Accreditation (VV&A) for these models. ART has developed FLIGHTLAB, a simulation productivity tool that supports comprehensive modeling and analysis, selective fidelity modeling, and code-generation to separate a model from the development environment and link it to a user's application. In this SBIR, ART proposes to demonstrate the feasibility of using FLIGHTLAB to derive a broad range of specialized rotorcraft models from FLIGHTLAB comprehensive models to support Army applications. The Phase I activity will focus on the development and testing of a rotor performance model to support conceptual design with the Army's conceptual design program, RC. Under Phase II, performance models of additional rotorcraft subsystems will be developed and combined with the rotor performance model to support conceptual design. An additional application will be addressed in Phase II to demonstrate this capability, such as generating a real time model for training applications and establishing VV&A standards for models used in pilot training. The emphasis will be on establishing the VV&A methodology for each specialized model to provide standardization and traceability. Rotorcraft dynamics models are used to support rotorcraft design, analysis, testing, flight training, manufacturing and procurement. Deriving these models from a common comprehensive model that has been validated against experimental testing will reduce the cost of model development and testing and increase synergism between the diverse activities using these models. Commercial applications include the sale of custom models produced from FLIGHTLAB to support specialized Army activities, the sale of FLIGHTLAB development systems to generate and test these models, and the sale of ART training simulators that use FLIGHTLAB models certified by the VV&A procedures derived in this SBIR. The approach can be extended to the fixed wing and automotive industries using FLIGHTLAB's capabilities to support these areas. |
| ALPHATECH, INC.
50 Mall Road Burlington, MA 01803 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 273-3388
Dr. Paul Gierke ARMY 01-071 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Passive Terrain Following |
| Abstract: | Helicopters of the United States Special Operations Command perform missions that require flight at extremely low altitudes and high speeds in order to avoid detection. Currently MH-60K and MH-47E aircraft use a multi mode radar (MMR) to navigate and avoid ground hazards. Such active systems are detectable by passive observers. Helicopters can avoid the use of active systems through the use of Passive Terrain Following/Terrain Avoidance (Passive TF/TA). This technique also has the potential to lower the overall altitude of such flights and give the pilots considerable situational awareness. The technology now exists to develop such systems. ALPHATECH proposes to develop and demonstrate algorithms for Passive Terrain Following/Terrain Avoidance. The algorithms will be specifically designed to handle the problems of bias and error peculiar to terrain estimation, and will be based on multiresolution statistical models. This approach has several advantages including the versatility to accept data of varying resolutions and irregular sampling geometries, as well as the algorithmic speed, that is linear in the number of grid points. Using this approach, ALPHATECH will evaluate the performance of Passive TF/TA under data of varying resolutions. This study will help determine the data and hardware requirements for an operational Passive TF/TA system. The proposed technology will provide the army with a passive solution for Terrain Following/Terrain Avoidance. In addition, the proposed design will have commercial applicability to any system requiring flight navigation with respect to the ground. This is true not only of manned aircraft, but also of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). |
| FRONTIER TECHNOLOGY, INC.
6785 Hollister Avenue Goleta, CA 93117 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 671-0508
Mr. Jerry Mehlberg ARMY 01-071 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Passive Terrain Following |
| Abstract: | Special Operations Forces (SOF) MH-47E and MH-60K rotorcraft must use the terrain following tactic to minimize their detectability and maximize their survivability when ingressing or egressing on an operational mission. The current terrain following radar for these rotorcraft can be detected by passive detection systems, does not always display obstacles accurately, and adds 300 hundred pounds to rotorcraft weight. The juxtaposition of recent advances in GPS navigation and the accuracy and coverage of Digital Terrain Elevation Data (DTED) offers the possibility of a passive terrain following system for SOF rotorcraft. FTI will conduct a study of the feasibility of a GPS/DTED-based terrain following system and also produce a conceptual design document and preliminary functional architecture for an operational passive terrain following system. The feasibility study will involve both an anlytic portion and a computer simulation and visualization. Phase II will implement the concepts and designs developed in Phase I and develop an operating prototype system. A system that combines GPS with digital terrain data for navigation and terrain avoidance will be attractive to civil and commercial aircraft, enhancing safety, especially in mountainous terrain bad weather. |
| AEROVIRONMENT, INC.
825 S. Myrtle Avenue Monrovia, CA 91016 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(805) 581-2187
Mr. Matthew Keennon ARMY 01-072 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Reliable Actuators for Micro Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) |
| Abstract: | Recent advances and development efforts in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and sensor technologies have resulted in potential for increased capability in small and micro-sized UAVs. While advanced have been made in the capabilities of the vehicles and some subsystems, a lack of emphasis has been placed on actuator technologies. Reduction in the size of the vehicle characteristically increases the vehicle dynamic frequencies. This has created a requirement for very lightweight and reliable miniature actuators with higher bandwidth. This effort will result in a scalable actuator design that fills the current void in suitable actuators UAVs sized from approximately 3 to 12 inches. Actuator requirements for micro UAVs will be investigated including applications for fixed wing, rotorcraft and payloads. Technologies in various fields will be examined to determine what is the current state of the art and evaluate which technologies may be appropriate for micro UAVs. The resulting data will be used to design a robust, high quality and scalable actuator for micro UAV applications. This effort will result in a design for a high quality actuator for micro UAV applications. Significant ongoing efforts in micro UAV development will benefit from a commercially available actuator. This will have the effect of extending micro UAV applications into new markets as the capability and cost improves. In addition small-scale actuators have wide use in a number of fields such as robotics, small actuators on large aircraft, electro-mechanical locks, aeromodeling, antenna steering, automotive accessories, etc. In some markets, mass quantities of lower quality devices may be appropriate and would result in lower cost devices for both defense and commercial applications. |
| ISX CORP.
760 Paseo Camarillo, Suite 401 Camarillo, CA 93010 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 247-7800
Mr. Brian Kettler ARMY 01-073 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Distributed Agent-based Information Dissemination System (DAIDS) |
| Abstract: | Every element of the Army airborne combat team depends on shared situation awareness for and other information they need to act as a coordinated mission-effective team while optimizing their survivability in a way that works in real-world environments. To provide this common understanding, ISX Corporation and Lockheed Martin Advanced Technology Laboratories (ATL) propose DAIDS, the Distributed Agent-based Information Dissemination System, with three key elements: 1) Distributed Information Dissemination Platform to implement a peer-to-peer information fusion architecture, provide for dynamic registration of network nodes, and provide local infrastructure at each network node to enable information fusion and dissemination policies and behaviors; 2) Fusion Management Agents that apply appropriate information fusion support services, enabling maintenance of a coherent Common Tactical Picture (CTP) at each node while integrating track and sensor updates from multiple peer nodes; 3) Information Dissemination Agents that transport tailored fusion-relevant information to other network nodes. This approach will provide distributed information dissemination services for Distributed Data Fusion amongst participating platforms to manage the CTP, including smart DAIDS software agents that coordinate tracks among peers with overlapping responsibilities; recognize task-, mode-, or context-specific information requirements; handle specific peer information requests; and consider survivability issues in setting dissemination priorities. For Army combat environments like HSKT and FCS, the primary benefits of this research will derive from two aspects of our system concept: localization of fusion activities at individual distributed nodes of the network of combat elements, and selective and intelligent peer-to-peer dissemination of information across network nodes. The localized fusion services we provide will focus fusion activities to form a context-tuned view of the Common Tactical Picture. Intelligent dissemination of information will insure that the information communicated between combat elements improves the Common Tactical Picture for that unit by providing the right information at the right time. Limitations on communications bandwidth and processing must be faced in real-world system employment. The ability to employ intelligent prioritization schemes to communicate only situation-relevant information between nodes, means that scarce comms and processing resources will be used more effectively to deliver the right information to the right place at the right time. Further, DAIDS will permit combat teams to operate dynamically, adding and relinquishing team members as needed, and allows Distributed Data Fusion to form the best possible Common Tactical Picture from the current cooperating resources. This means better decisions by each combat element, better coordination of activities in combat situations, and better survivability and mission effectiveness for every team member. Because dynamic team member sensing capabilities registration is not being funded as a part of the AMUST-D program, DAIDS will fill a critical technology enabling and risk reduction role for Distributed Data Fusion as a part of that program. Intelligent information dissemination also applies outside the Army air combat regime. Any large enterprise faces problems of "information awareness," understanding what information in the enterprise could be available to support better decision making, making the analyst or decision maker aware of that information, and delivering it to him at the time (and in a form) that will best support his decision process. Military C2 examples abound, concepts like the Army Tactical Battlespace Infosphere concept and the Joint Battlespace Infosphere. Similar commercial problems exist in any large organization involved in knowledge- and information-based decisions, such as drug development, supply-chain management, investment management, etc. In each case, and in many more examples, the benefit of decision superiority comes from getting the right information to the right person at the right time and in the right form. |
| EIDETICS CORP.
3425 Lomita Blvd. Torrance, CA 90505 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 326-8228
Dr. Michael Kerho ARMY 01-074 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced Rotor Aerodynamics For Dynamic Stall Alleviation Using Robust Flow Control |
| Abstract: | Compliant structures technology, coupled with variable camber leading-edge dynamic stall control, has the potential to significantly improve the performance of modern rotorcraft. The objective of this Phase I proposal is to use compliant structures technology to design a hinge-less, variable camber, semi-span, leading-edge for rotor blade dynamic stall control utilizing compliant monolithic structures. The system will provide a significantly enhanced performance envelope for the rotorcraft in the form of increased speed, maneuverability, payload, and range as compared to traditional designs. The new compliant structures design will alleviate retreating blade stall with a robust and reliable variable camber leading-edge system. The new system will be lightweight, rugged, maintainable, damage tolerant, and have a low radar cross-section, all while providing exceptional maneuverability, performance, and payload capacity. The commercialization potential for advanced, high performance helicopter blade airfoils, designed with a reliable and robust variable camber leading-edge is excellent. It is recognized that future rotorcraft are expected to play an increasingly important role in military operations in the form of long range transport, low altitude deep penetration, and air to air/air-to-ground combat. The rotorcraft industry will be eager to exploit the advantages of the variable camber compliant structure based design. This new design approach will deliver the advantages sought by rotorcraft designers, but with much lower weight, and much lower cost of manufacture while providing a robust and reliable system. Both commercial and military rotorcraft designers will find the technology extremely appealing, allowing significant commercialization potential. |
| MATERIALS & ELECTROCHEMICAL RESEARCH (ME
7960 S. Kolb Rd. Tucson, AZ 85706 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(520) 574-1980
Dr. J.C. Withers ARMY 01-075 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Affordable High Strength Face Gears |
| Abstract: | The materials properties and inability to grind highly hardened steel into face gears as well as their weight, have limited their inherent advantage and application in high power density aerospace and transportation systems. Laser fusion free-form fabrication has demonstrated custom material compositions can be net shaped produced with superior properties to the same material conventionally formed. Laser fusion fabrication is proposed to net shape produce hybrid materials combination face gears such as titanium webs and steel teeth with controlled nanochemistry that enhances properties over a forged and hardened steel. Material combinations will be produced in a functional graduation between the compositions and characterized for face gear application. A down select materials combination will be utilized to demonstrate a net shape face gear can be laser fusion produced with desired surface finish and surface tribology. The commercial applications of high performance, lightweight, low cost face gears are in a plethora of aerospace, defense, and aircraft, automotive and marine vehicle systems. |
| MONTEREY TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
24600 Silver Cloud Court, Suite 103 Monterey, CA 93940 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(408) 970-9119
Mr. Thomas J. Sharkey ARMY 01-076 Selected for Award |
| Title: | An Improved Helicopter Display That Correlates Flight Symbols with Flight Imagery |
| Abstract: | In visually guided flight mediated by a synthetic imaging system, merely depicting the terrain is inadequate to support safe flight of Army helicopters at low altitudes. Superimposed geo-referenced symbology to is predicted provide the information necessary for near-ground safe flight. MTI will design and demonstrate terrain-overlay symbology that will support safe flight and will determine the cost of building a symbology system for flight test. MTI has over fifteen years experience in Army flight simulation and flight symbology development. Nevertheless, MTI's will review literature and interview pilots to identifying information requirements for flight in demanding environments. MTI will then design candidate symbol sets that provide the information needed for safe and sure helicopter flight. The key innovation in MTI's approach will be to design an efficient set of symbology that augments but does not duplicate terrain information sources. After review by pilots and modification, the final symbology set will be rendered in animated form and shown superimposed over dynamic terrain imagery, for a variety of helicopter flight maneuvers. MTI will prepare a plan for both simulation and flight testing of the symbology. MTI will also develop a preliminary hardware and software design and a cost estimate for the flight test version to be built during Phase II. This display will expand the operating environment for other military and civil helicopters. This will be of value to operators who need to fly in adverse conditions, such as MEDEVAC, law enforcement and search and rescue operations. The display will also be useful where judgements of aircraft position are always difficult, e.g., positioning sling loads, power line maintenance. |
| SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY, INC.
13766 S. Hawthorne Blvd. Hawthorne, CA 90250 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 679-2281
Mr. Bimal Aponso ARMY 01-076 Selected for Award |
| Title: | An Improved Helicopter Display That Correlates Flight Symbols with Flight Imagery |
| Abstract: | Innovative pilot cueing display concepts are proposed that will allow helicopter pilots to operate in reduced-visibility environments using a head-down primary flight display. The cueing displays will be based on earth-referenced information obtained by sensing aircraft position and flightpath relative to the earth, and digitized data for terrain and obstacles in the vicinity of the helicopter. The pilot cueing symbology will be superimposed on a computer-generated image of the surrounding terrain and obstacles as well as images of the outside world from imaging sensors such as infra-red and radar. Display concepts are proposed for a complete range of civil and military rotorcraft operations including hover/landing, forward flight and autorotation. Candidate hardware/software architectures for an earth-referenced pilot cueing display will be defined in Phase I based on a limited evaluation of display concepts on a fixed-base simulator. In Phase II, a prototype system will be developed and evaluated using piloted simulation and flight testing. This display will be useful for all civil and military helicopter operators for avoiding collision with terrain and obstacles in impoverished-visibility conditions. Example applications include military night operations, emergency medical evacuation and airborne law enforcement. The concepts can be readily extended for fixed-wing operations as well as for the intelligent transportation initiative for ground vehicles. |
| ENVIROSPACE SOFTWARE RESEARCH, INC.
507 Alhambra Road Venice, FL 34285 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(941) 488-7205
Dr. Stephen R. Gerig ARMY 01-077 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Route-planning on the spheroid gridded by a DTEM |
| Abstract: | Route-planning for vehicles and motion-planning for robots is most effective, and most challeging technically, when it is performed in realtime by on-board computer-processors. The realtime planning allows for responses to changes in the surroundings as the vehicle or robot proceeds towards a goal from a start. En route planning is accomplished by the repeated execution of sophisticated search procedures on the computer-processors to identify the quickest route to the goal from the current location, which route also avoids obstacles and minimizes the exposure to hazards and threats along the way. The present effort is to develop search-procedures not for a plane surface, but for a curved surface, namely the earth modeled as a spheroid. The earth's terrain, that is, the actual surface of the earth as it lies above or below the spheroidal model at each pair of numerical values for longitude and latitude, is modeled by a digital terrain elevation matrix (DTEM.) This DTEM imposes a grid on the spheroid consisting of regularly spaced parallels of latitude and regularly spaced meridians of longitude, a geometry different from the rectilinear gridding on the plane surface, which rectilinear gridding is the geometric basis for conventional search-procedures. The grid imposed on the spheroid by the DTEM will be accomodated by the search-procedures to be developed on the present effort. Realtime, on-board route-planners are already in use, as, for example, on Army aircraft. Thes existing route-planners do not, however, accomodate curved surfaces gridded by DTEMs, but only plane surfaces gridded by straight lines. These Army aircraft, and potentially, robotic, unmanned, military aircraft are existing military markets for the product or service arising as a commercial follow-on to the present effort. A potentially big civilian market exists for motion-planning for mobile robots or the multi-jointed arms of stationary robots. The mobile robots could be either robotic gound-vehicles travelling on or robotic aircraft travelling slightly above the surface of the earth on possibly hazardous missions on or over rugged or inhospitable terrain. The mobile robots could also be specialized vehicles for exploring the surfaces of planetary bodies in the solar system, or service robots on not only a planetary surface, but also the surface of a space station. These route-planners require sensor systems in addition to a DTEM, and for the robots one such sensor system would be the vision system which these robots already possess. An important special use is route-planning to avoid shady country where a mobile robot's solar power collector would not receive sunlight. The multi-jointed arms of stationary robots could benefit from motion-planning constrained to a surface, not necessarily a plane surface, as an efficient alternative to time-consuming motion-planning in three dimensions. The curved surfaces in which the multi-jointed arm could be constrained to move might be identified in realtime by a vision-system mounted on the robot. All of these civilian robotic applications would require significant follow-on effort to become commercial services or products. |
| ACCUMETRICS ASSOC., INC.
409 Front St. Schenectady, NY 12305 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(518) 393-2200
Mr. John M. Reschovsky ARMY 01-078 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Wireless Rotor-Mounted High-Speed Data Acquisition System |
| Abstract: | The objective of Phase I of this project is to evaluate the feasibility of a Wireless Rotor-Mounted High-Speed Data Acquisition System for helicopter research. The system requirements encompass demanding features including capacity to acquire up to 256 rotor-mounted sensors at up to 31,720 samples per second. Programmable sampling strategies, and signal conditioning configurations are required. A Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) interface will transmit this data from the helicopter rotor hub to a ground station up to 1000 feet away at rates of at least 10 Mbit per second. The feasibility of many of the required features of this system has already been demonstrated in commercial rotor telemetry systems manufactured by the proposers. Therefore the research in Phase I will focus on a few key areas that are of concern to determine feasibility. These involve the transmission range of a IEEE 802.11 compliant wireless link from antennas mounted on the rotor hub to the ground station, particularly if the aircraft fuselage produces a shadowing effect. System architecture, implementation strategy and commercial component options will also be investigated, and a preliminary design will be developed. This project could lead to a tool that will help engineers and scientists who study the performance of helicopters to acquire data from large numbers of sensors mounted on rotor blades and other rotating components. Strain gages are most commonly used allowing researchers to determine stresses resulting from in-flight maneuvers. Other sensors such as accelerometers and pressure transducers can provide additional understanding of aerodynamic and vibration characteristics of the aircraft. This technology could also lead to automated track and balance systems that could drastically reduce the vibration environment in both military and commercial helicopters. This project has significance that extends beyond the area of helicopter research. The requirements for the system detail a highly flexible and reconfigurable data acquisition platform combined with wireless network connectivity. One can envision many other applications from the results of this research. Remote monitoring of conventional sensors using rugged data acquisition modules, wireless communications and web enabled tools will open significant new opportunities in both DOD and private sector markets. |
| FOSTER-MILLER, INC.
350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 622-5509
Ms. Sara E. Rosenberg ARMY 01-079 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Novel Brazing Technology for Joining and Sealing of CMC/Monolithic Turbine Vanes |
| Abstract: | Foster-Miller and GE Aircraft Engines (GEAE) have been working together for years on the next generation ceramic matrix composite (CMC) airfoils required to reach the IHPTET performance goals. Smaller turbines, such as in the Joint Turbine Advanced Gas Generator (JTAGG), have particularly demanding performance requirements. One area of critical development is the trailing edge of the JTAGG high pressure turbine vane, which demands a monolithic ceramic knife edge while maintaining the CMC leading edge performance. On the proposed effort, Foster-Miller and GEAE will team to develop a unique brazing technique to overcome a significant thermal mismatch in order join a monolithic Si3N4 trailing edge to a 3D braided SiC/SiC leading edge. The team's extensive CMC airfoil developments, combined with Foster-Miller's long history of braze development for ceramics and other unique materials, will enable the development of a highly reliable joint and seal for this vital component. During Phase I, Foster-Miller will develop the braze materials and geometries, and will verify their effective strength with shear testing. Phase II optimize the braze materials and demonstrate the joining technology of the full size component. (P-020007) The joining technology developed here will enable high temperature performance in highly loaded turbine vanes. The target JTAGG engine, as well as larger IHPTET and VAATE demonstrators, can also benefit from the development of this airfoil fabrication method. Additionally, as CMCs are introduced into other high temperature applications, the braze methods developed here can be used in order to join adjacent components, be it CMC to CMC, CMC to monolithic ceramics, or CMC to metals. |
| THOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
7600 Jefferson NE, Suite 9-115 Albuquerque, NM 87109 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(505) 348-8797
Dr. Stuart T. Schwab ARMY 01-079 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Hybrid Ceramic Composites for Advanced Turbomachinery |
| Abstract: | Continuous fiber-reinforced ceramic composites (CFCCs) are inherently wear and oxidation resistant, retain strength at higher temperatures and have lower specific densities than competing metal systems. The hot sections of gas turbine engines and related devices are exposed to aggressive gaseous species at high temperature. Because of their thermochemical stability and oxidation resistance, CFCCs have been identified as leading material candidates for high temperature applications; however, new processing methods are needed to lower the cost of producing these materials, as well as to produce them in forms that can accommodate thin walled sections and that can be attached readily to supporting metal structures. Thor Technologies, Inc. will team with Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), Materials Research & Design (MR&D), and a turbine engine manufacturer to demonstrate the capability of the innovative polymer infiltration/microwave pyrolysis (PIMP) process to produce hybrid CFCCs for turbine engine applications. These hybrid CFCCs contain integral metal features that enable the use of conventional attachments, such as nuts and bolts. The PI has over fifteen years experience in preceamic polymer science and CFCC processing, and the team has the design, manufacturing and testing expertise to produce turbine engine components at low cost. Lighter weight materials and the reduction in cooling air requirements will lower the overall weight and increase the operating efficiency of turbine engines ranging from aerospace engines to stationary power plants. The availability of low cost CFCCs will enable new industrial applications, such as corrosion-proof piping for chemical processing. |
| SUKRA HELITEK, INC.
3146, Greenwood road Ames, IA 50014 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(515) 292-8918
Dr. Saeid Niazi ARMY 01-080 Selected for Award |
| Title: | A Preliminary Design Tool for Shrouded-Fans |
| Abstract: | Shrouded-fans are an integral part of the U.S. Army's transportation systems. The RAH-66's fan-tail, Sikorsky's Cypher and Micro-Craft's UAV are testimonials to their increasing importance. Shrouded-fans are efficient, but aerodynamically very complex, particularly in non-axial flight conditions such as conversion modes. The viscous characteristics of the flow through the shrouded-fan play an imortant role in the three dimensional moments and forces generated in non-axial flight conditons. This proposal offers to develop an efficient, robust and fast preliminary design tool capable of analyzing the performance and flowfield of shrouded-fans in axial and non-axial flight conditions. The principle parts of the tool are: 1. A viscous solver for shroud conforming grids 2. An efficient rotor model 3. An integral body conforming grid generator In Phase I, viscous flow through a shrouded-fan in non-axial flight conditions, but with fixed shroud orientation, will be computed as proof-of-concept of an efficient design tool. In Phase II, continuous rotation of the shroud about its own axis, such as in conversion modes from hover to forward flight, will be undertaken. The software developed under this initiative will find wide usage in the DOD rotorcraft organizations, rotorcraft industry and NASA. This proposal offers a computational tool that will lay the foundations for true transient wake calculation of a shrouded-fan in axial and non-axial flight conditions. Sukra Helitek's flagship, Rot3DC, is currently used for several flight regimes including vortex ring states. Inclusion of a preliminary design tool for shrouded-fans will further enhance its marketability and usefulness. |
| FAUNCE ENGINEERING
15 Zieglers Lane Hamilton Square, NJ 08690 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(609) 890-7390
Mr. James Faunce ARMY 01-081 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced Lightweight, High Capacity Airborne Cargo Handling Winch System |
| Abstract: | We propose to design an innovative modular heavy lift system readily configured and optimized for aircraft/mission requirements. The dual winch system will be capable of lifting up to 22 ton of cargo at 60 ft/min, and stabilize the load for flight. We will identify all possible configurations and evaluate the risks and tradeoffs of each configuration. We will define a preliminary design for a modular prototype that will allow development of major components in parallel. We will investigate the effects the winch system will have on the aircraft. A high capacity helicopter winch system will allow transport of vehicles and supplies without long lines in flight. It will allow aircraft to pick-up and deliver in terrain and situations where it previously could not. Potential commercial applications include transporting lumber and supplies. Potential civil applications include firefighting, and debris removal (storms and earthquakes). |
| JMSI, INC.
1290 Wall St. West, Third Floor Lyndhurst, NJ 07071 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(201) 460-4700
Mr. David E. Edwards ARMY 01-082 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Next Generation Software for Efficient Remote Parallel Visualization of Large-Scale Time-Dependent CFD Data |
| Abstract: | The objective of this proposal is to develop easy to use, fast and efficient next generation visualization techniques that utilize client-server architecture, parallel processors and domain knowledge for the analysis and post-processing of large-scale, time dependent, rotorcraft, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) data sets. Large-scale, time-dependent 3D simulations of complex configurations using CFD have become increasingly critical in the design of aircraft, rotorcraft, aerospace vehicles and propulsion systems. As the pace of simulation increases, the sheer volume of numerical data makes it increasingly critical that a stable and easy to operate post-processing/visualization methodology be developed. Technology innovations in this proposed work will focus on robust streakline integration, visualization techniques optimized for rotorcraft grids, high-speed access of data on remote computers and development of an Intelligent Graphical Object (IGO) database for the highly interactive 3D display of transient data including streaklines, streamlines, iso-surfaces, cutting planes, boundary surfaces and vortex cores. These visualization techniques, if fully developed, can have a significant impact on government and industry's ability to post-process large-scale time-dependent CFD simulation data. Large-scale, time-dependent 3D simulations of complex configurations using CFD have becoming increasingly critical in the design of aircraft, rotorcraft, aerospace vehicles and propulsion systems. CFD users in the commercial sector (such as Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Ford Motor Company, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, Pratt & Whitney, etc.), the Federal Government (Air Force, Navy, Army and NASA) and the National Laboratories are using this technology. These large organizations that make extensive use of CFD analysis have indicated that large-scale unsteady 3D CFD simulations are almost impossible to post-process without huge investments in computer hardware and staffer's time. As the current state-of-the-art in post-processing large-scale time-dependent CFD data does not provide satisfactory performance for these problems, investment in the next generation of such tools is required. The offeror perceives a need in the marketplace to address these issues in a commercial product offering that provides great benefits in usability, performance and data access. The proposed project will enable the offeror to be responsive to the needs of the CFD community. |
| APPLIED SYSTEMS INTELLIGENCE, INC.
11660 Alpharetta Highway Roswell, GA 30076 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(770) 518-4228
Dr. Richard Dunlap ARMY 01-083 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Use of Crew Intent Inferencing to Augment Control of Multiple Unmanned Aerial Vehicles |
| Abstract: | ASI's technology provides distributed, cognitive decision aiding to increase operational effectiveness at reduced manning and skill levels. This framework enables single-operator / multi-vehicle control; real-time situational awareness, and collaboration between manned and unmanned vehicles whether they operate in the air, on the surface, underwater or in space. For this project, ASI's technology will support single operator - multiple vehicle operations, dynamic RPA planning and operate in a COTS environment. This technology is transferable to a broad range of commercial applications including agriculture, turf maintenance, construction, mining, surveillance, manufacturing, and defense. |
| MONTEREY TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
24600 Silver Cloud Court, Suite 103 Monterey, CA 93940 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(408) 970-9119
Dr. Patricia A. Lakinsmith ARMY 01-083 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Use of Crew Intent Inferencing to Augment Control of Multiple Unmanned Aerial Vehicles |
| Abstract: | Unmanned aerial vehicles are valuable assets to the Army's scout and attack rotorcraft on the digital battlefield. Intent inferencing is critical for these types of mixed-initiative systems designed to carry out the commander's intent without violating mission constraints or overloading their airborne human supervisors. The Monterey Technologies, Inc. (MTI) team has directly applicable experience designing, building, and evaluating intelligent systems for medical diagnosis, tutoring, and military tactical planning. Our approach will use an agile modeling techniques to rapidly design an RPA and Apache Longbow-compatible intent inferencer that accurately and reliably estimates human operator activities and goals based on pilot actions, mission goals and constraints, and aircraft state, and employs state of the art techniques for resolving uncertainty with minimal operator interruption. Our modeling techniques will allow us to rapidly identify, document, and communicate system requirements and implementation constraints, focusing the majority of design time addressing the context model and the challenge of reasoning under uncertainty. MTI will leverage recent technological advances in KBS development approaches such as Bayesian networks, case based reasoning, and hybrid architectures integrating rule and case-based inferencing. The functionality and portability of our final HLA-compliant intent inferencing system design will be demonstrated on the PRISMS simulation system. This technology will be useful to all domains where multiple unmanned entities (e.g. satellites, UAVs, robots, rovers) carry out dangerous work for humans, such as fire fighting, livestock herding, search and rescue, suspect apprehension, and salvage operations. A scalable and portable intent inferencer will have widespread opportunities for use within the DoD's vision of a system of systems modeling and simulation network |
| CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC.
725 Concord Avenue Cambridge, MA 02138 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(617) 491-3474
Mr. Magns Snorrason ARMY 01-084 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Rotorcraft Adaptive Tactical Information Display (RATID) |
| Abstract: | Advances in aircraft and weapon capabilities have led to a dramatic increase in the tempo of tactical situations facing the combat rotorcraft pilot, reducing the pilot's available processing and decision time. Furthermore, technological advances in cockpit displays, sensors, and communications have resulted in an explosion in the quantity and complexity of information available to the pilot. These factors make it increasingly difficult for pilots to effectively use available information; there is too much data and too little time. Poorly designed displays can further exacerbate the problem through excessive labeling, little to no context information, and overcrowding, forcing the pilot to spend additional time on display interpretation. We propose to demonstrate the feasibility of developing a rotorcraft adaptive tactical information display (RATID) for pilots in the digital battlefield. RATID will provide: 1) an automatically generated high-level assessment of the current battlefield and mission situation, based on disparate data sources already available from the helicopter avionics; and 2) a situation-adaptive interface based on this assessment, giving the pilot quick and intuitive access to tactically relevant data. Our approach will support pilot situation awareness (SA) and enhanced performance through intelligent management of tactical display symbology, content, and format. In addition to the system's direct applicability to helicopter avionics (potentially both Army and commercial), the situation awareness, adaptive display, and agent communications algorithms proposed here will enhance a commercial software product currently in development in-house. This product, the Intelligent Agent Toolkit (IAT) will enable developers to specify, design, implement, and validate agent-based systems with a broad range of functionality, and with significantly reduced development resources as compared with home-grown agent-based code development practices now in use. |
| PHYSICAL OPTICS CORP.
Information Technologies Div., 20600 Gramercy Plac Torrance, CA 90501 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 320-3088
Dr. Andrew Kostrzewski ARMY 01-085 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Beyond Line of Sight Video Delivery System |
| Abstract: | Real-time and near-real-time video can dramatically enhance decision making and aid in last minute target confirmation. To accomplish this, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes a new system based on Tunable Data Rate Compression and Communication (TunDRa). This system will for the first time transmit RS-170 and EIA-343A streaming video in full color (10 bits per pixel monochrome or 24 bits per pixel color), full motion (30 frames per second), and high resolution (525 x 700 for EIA-170 and 875 x 1200 for EIA-343A) over 16 to 256 kbps current or emerging tactical communication channels such as AN/PRC-117F and SINCGARS. The proposed system will achieve both high fidelity video compression with minimal artifacts and real-time transmission of video from the platform to the base and control signals from the base to the platform. This technology will include algorithm, software, and hardware development for both encoding and decoding, as well as efficient communication subsystem integration. A key feature of the communication hardware will by dynamic allocation of communication bandwidth based on current channel noise characteristics. Also, we introduce a selectable carrier frequency, tunable within the VHF band from 140 to 350 MHz and in L-band from 800 MHz to 2.4 GHz. The proposed concept can find a wide range of applications in target confirmation, BDI, and BDA. Compact volume and low weight will allow integration of the TDRCC system into munitions and small UAVs and UGVs. |
| SPECTRA RESEARCH, INC.
3085 Woodman Drive, Suite 200 Dayton, OH 45420 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(937) 299-5999
Dr. Ronald G. Riechers, Ph.D. ARMY 01-086 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Computational ElectroMagnetics Analysis Assistant (CEMAA) |
| Abstract: | Simulation and Modeling for Acquisition Requirements and Training (SMART) is the U.S. Army's implementation of the DoD Simulation Based Acquisition (SBA) initiative. SMART's goal is to significantly reduce the time required to develop Future Combat Systems (FCSs) from over 20 years to about 8 years through extensive use of M&S to rapidly analyze design changes. Increasingly, composite materials are replacing metals in the manufacture of FSC vehicle structures. Because composite materials affect the propagation and scattering of electromagnetic energy differently than metals, there is a growing need to rapidly analyze electromagnetic interactions between composite vehicle structures and vehicular mounted antennas. In order to support acquisition objectives, there is a need to improve and integrate Computational Electromagnetic (CEM) M&S tools. Spectra Research, Inc. (S*R) and Riverside Research Institute (RRI) propose to develop an intelligent CEM Analysis Assistant (CEMAA) that integrates/configures CEM codes and guides the user through a CEM analysis. Our approach will leverage the Army's development of a M&S integration architecture, called the Army Research and Development Center (RDEC) Collaborative Biome (CB), to integrate the Army's M&S resources/design analysis. This will make it much easier to integrate new CEM tools developed by DoD and industry into the Army's CEM analysis. Application of the evolving CB technology will integrate Army CEM tools to provide the rapid response required to support DoD goals to reduce the cost and time required to develop future combat systems. As S*R is developing segments of the CB architecture, the CB investment will be leveraged to develop the CEMAA. This effort will also incorporate artificial intelligence capabilities into the CB architecture, which will facilitate application of the CB within the Army and DoD as well as enhance its commercial potential. |
| PREDICTION SYSTEMS, INC.
309 Morris Avenue, Suite G Spring Lake, NJ 07762 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(732) 449-6800
Mr. William C. Cave ARMY 01-087 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Netted Full Spectrum Sensors |
| Abstract: | The overall objective of this proposal is to provide a Netted Full Spectrum Sensor (NFSS) Operations Management System(OMS)that will allow engineering decision- makers to perform tradeoffs in sensor requirements and design parameters, as well as support staff officer decisions in real-time mission planning and execution. To provide full coverage of the MASINT spectrum using and integrated approach, the NSFF system must contain a full suite of state-of-the-art ground based and air delivered multi-intelligence sensors. To ensure that operational sensor taskings and missions are coordinated will require a management system as part of the NFSS. Effective coordination of a fully integrated set of sensors as defined in the solicitation, will require that the NFSS system interact with other planned operational sub- systems, e.g., INTEL, COMM, logistics, etc., as well as the control stations of new and existing sensor systems. PSI has been developing planning and tasking tools to support CINC staff operations, determining information sources, designing system interfaces, and working with the developers of other systems to ensure seamless and timely passage of required information. PSI has developed the embedded simulations that form the heart of these netted tools, and the real-time inputs for operational scenario and other data required to drive the simulations that predict sensor collection outcomes. These simulations are used by the staff officers to determine optimized sets of targets, taskings, and mission plans. These same embedded simulations, and the resulting measures of performance and effectiveness, can be used to produce the design envelopes for the sensors themselves. PSI participates in large commercial projects that can benefit significantly from the capabilities proposed. Specific applicatons include real-time control of large scale information processing and communications systems, operations planning, network planning, dynamic network management and manufacturing processes. |
| SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH CORP.
2300 Windy Ridge Parkway, Suite 400 South Atlanta, GA 30339 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(770) 989-9465
Mr. James Thomson ARMY 01-087 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Netted Full Spectrum Sensors |
| Abstract: | The battlefield of the future will be a "digital battlefield" dominated by unmanned air and ground vehicles, precision guided smart weapons, and networked full-spectrum sensor arrays. Measurement and Signals Intelligence (MASINT) micro-sensors will be the "five senses" of future digital battlefields, detecting and tracking friend and foe alike. Maneuver brigade commanders will deploy distributed arrays of micro-sensors containing a range of sensing elements (e.g., chem-bio, acoustic, seismic, magnetic, electro-optical, RF, etc.) for remote sensing, ground surveillance, Signals Intelligence (SIGINT), and Electronic Attack (EA) missions in urban and non-urban terrains. These micro-sensor arrays will be capable of communicating both real-time and historical information to individual soldiers, small units, and higher echelon C4I assets through self-forming wireless networks. The networked sensor arrays will have a flexible architecture; provide full coverage of the MASINT spectrum; be capable of deployment by various means (e.g., manual, robot, air-drop); and will endure long-term, all-weather, unattended deployments while maintaining high reliability and survivability. For this Phase I effort, Scientific Research Corporation (SRC) will define baseline performance and current state-of-the-art for MASINT micro-sensor system elements and design a flexible, open, networked sensor system architecture that includes critical new capabilities, i.e., self-forming wireless networks and sensor auto-configuration. SRC will also investigate the possibility for simultaneous multi-mission applications using the netted full-spectrum sensor system, e.g., by analyzing multi-path reflections of EA and/or network communications emissions to derive situational awareness information. For Phase II, SRC will demonstrate a prototype netted full-spectrum sensor system for tactics and doctrine development and to address issues related to transitioning to Army operational status (Prophet Block IV). In Phase III, SRC will produce deployable networked full-spectrum sensor systems for the Army Prophet program's fusion of SIGINT and MASINT (Block IV) and for commercial applications, such as perimeter intrusion detection systems for industrial sites and airports. |
| CYTERRA CORP.
85 First Avenue Waltham, MA 02451 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(407) 926-1911
Mr. Herb Duvoisin ARMY 01-088 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Mine Detection |
| Abstract: | The objective of this proposal is to determine whether or not the modeling of buried mines, along with local environment measurements, can ever be used to predict successful IR sensor mine detection. Field experiments have often resulted in outstanding IR imagery of buried mines. Sophisticated detection algorithms have been developed to take advantage of this imagery. What continues to be lacking is a way to predict in-the-field utility so that the IR can be relied on tactically. After a mission it is easy to say one would have done well (or not done well) to use IR. A potential solution problem is the use of thermal models of the buried mine, combined with measurement of the terrain/weather, to predict for a relatively short time (hours or days) when operations should be carried out that rely on or could best benefit from the speed and standoff of IR. Some recent efforts along these lines have shown promise, but no one has yet determined the true feasibility of this approach. Using an instrumented target, terrain, and weather data collection set, this proposal will analyze 5 months of round-the-clock data in an attempt to help answer the IR feasibility question. The global landmine crisis is one of the most pervasive problems facing the world today. It is estimated that there are between 60 and 70 million landmines in the ground in 70 countries. The widespread employment of landmines threatens to neutralize an army's high technical advantages in firepower and mobility; and to degrade humanitarian demining efforts. Landmines maim or kill approximately 26,000 civilians every year, including 10,000 children. The peoples of these largely developing countries that rely on the land for their food and livelihood are affected by the presence of mines in agricultural fields, which renders large tracts of fertile soil unusable. A successful IR sensors approach to mine detection would be applicable across all the platforms proposed for both military and humanitarian demining: airborne, vehicular, and man-portable. In every application the IR could dramatically increase the speed and safety of demining. For man-portable, insertion into the DoD Handheld Standoff Mine Detection System (HSTAMIDS) as part of the scheduled Pre-Planned Product Improvement (P3I) would make thousands of IR sensor units available for buried mine detection to the US Army. The total worldwide IR system sales for demining could approach 60,000 units (as replacements for the extant metal detectors). |
| METROLASER, INC.
18010 Skypark Circle, Suite 100 Irvine, CA 92614 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(949) 553-0688
Dr. Amit Lal ARMY 01-088 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Forward Looking Mine Detection with Laser Doppler Vibrometers |
| Abstract: | The purpose of this work is to develop a system strategy to find buried landmines at distances greater than 5 meters and to demonstrate the feasibility of this system with laboratory experiments. We propose to investigate forward-looking and remote sensing landmine detection techniques based on acoustic and laser Doppler vibrometer (LDV) techniques. During the first half of the Phase I effort we will analyze and evaluate several strategies of probing the ground velocity with the LDV system. During the second half, we will conduct laboratory experiments to substantiate the results of the analyses. The research will provide inspectors with a powerful tool for safely detecting the presence of landmines. These concepts also have wide application in the area of non-destructive inspection for the automotive and aerospace industries |
| BCL COMPUTERS
990 Linden Dr., Suite 203 Santa Clara, CA 95050 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(408) 557-2080
Mr. Hassan Alam ARMY 01-089 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Warrior-Centered Knowledge Management |
| Abstract: | BCL proposes to make any electronic document of any format universally accessible to the Mobile Warrior from any electronic device, including handheld Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) using wireless connections. This forms the backbone of a warrior-centered knowledge management system where a mobile warrior can access any information from either proprietary document repositories or from the World Wide Web (WWW). BCL's proposed scheme uses it's proprietary document conversion techniques to build a unique repository of documents where documents of various formats are not only stored in their original format, they are converted to HTML format as well, keeping the layout and information intact. When accessing these documents using a wireless PDA, the HTML documents are summarized using BCL's proprietary document summarization techniques. This summarization produces a Table of Content (TOC) for each page of the document. Depending on interest and relevancy, additional details about the entries in the TOC can be accessed. So depending on whether the documents are accessed via standard computers or PDAs, the documents are either sent as is, as a HTML document or as a summary. The system can also be used for accessing the WWW directly and in this case, each web page is summarized and the summary sent to the PDA. Commercial Applications: [1] Wireless Carriers can package our solution to offer efficient mobile web browsing. [2] Content Providers can include our system to make the content available on an anywhere, anytime, anyway basis. [3] System Integrators deploy our system as in intermediary stage for web access. They can use the toolkit to adapt an existing site in the best way they chose to represent. The toolkit will provide all the functionalities to produce wirelessly accessible websites using a graphical user-friendly tool set. [4] If BCL decides to host the service; end-users can directly subscribe to our system [5] A mobile workforce has to have adequate access to an information bank (IB). IB might provide price points, maintenance instructions or contact details and boost productivity. [6] The output of our system will be adapted to suit specific needs for specific cases. In this case, BCL will undertake research to produce a toolkit to allow customization. Military Applications: With the proliferation of the mobile warrior, there is need for the battlefield soldier to access information from anywhere in the battle filed. The proposed system will allow such access to documents. |
| SEMANDEX NETWORKS, INC.
201 Washington Road Princeton, NJ 08543 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(609) 720-4913
Dr. Maximilian Ott ARMY 01-089 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Warrior-Centered Knowledge Management |
| Abstract: | Semandex Networks is developing an XML Content Routing System, called XML-CRS, that turns data into information by knowing who can make use of it and delivering it securely in real-time. XML-CRS is a network software platform for rapid deployment of real-time content delivery and semantic information services. Semandex's XML-CRS product consists of overlay semantic routers that serve as the network infrastructure, and related API's and middleware for application development. In this Small Business Innovation Research Phase I program, Semandex proposes to develop a prototype warrior-centric application (content-driven instant messaging, CIM) that will significantly enhance warrior effectiveness in battle. Broader application of the technology for a more complete warrior-centric knowledge management system will be considered in future phases of the program. XML-CRS is a dual-use technology that has immediate applications in both military and commercial sectors. The semantic routing network infrastructure we are developing permits development of a variety of applications in which time-critical data must be delivered to individuals or devices who need that information. There are needs for real-time content delivery in various vertical markets including financial, manufacturing, petroleum and corporate enterprise. In all these segments, there is a mass of data being generated but too little information arrives at the right place at the right time. The XML-CRS system has broad applicability to all the market segments mentioned above (in addition to government and military ones) since the product is architected as a generic platform that can be customized by adding middleware and application modules customized to specific needs. Current applications we are targeting include: - Real-time information services in the financial sector - Supply chain management in the manufacturing sector - Collaboration tools for the services and consulting sector - Sensor networks in remote monitoring and control applications (e.g. energy companies) In the long run, our goal is to make Semandex's XML routing a defacto networking standard which would have a mass horizontal market in the data networks and telecom equipment area. |
| INFRARED COMPONENTS CORP.
2306 Bleecker Street Utica, NY 13501 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(315) 732-5020
Mr. Jonathan Knauth ARMY 01-090 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Thin Film Resistive Bolometer Semiconductor Materials Development for Uncooled Applications |
| Abstract: | Amorphous Silicon Microbolometers show great promise as a low cost, high performance thermal imaging technology. Their commercial effectiveness can be limited by the time required to attain long term resistance stability. This SBIR is intended to develop a better understanding of the effects of processing on resistivity metastability over time. Realization of a low cost, high performance microbolometer based upon amorphous silicon will be an important factor in establishing broad applications for thermal imaging technology in a variety of market applications. Potential commercial applications of the technology include firefighting, commercial vehicle navigation aides, medical sensing, surveillance and avionics markets. |
| ITN ENERGY SYSTEMS, INC.
8130 Shaffer Pkwy Littleton, CO 80127 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 403-9679
Dr. Russell Hollingsworth ARMY 01-090 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Semiconductor Microbolometer Room Temperature Infrared Detectors |
| Abstract: | ITN Energy Systems, Inc. proposes the development of microbolometer room temperature infrared detectors using plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) growth of silicon or silicon germanium alloys. This Phase I contract will see the demonstration of PECVD deposited semiconductors with improved properties for microbolometer applications, especially reduced 1/f noise. Phase I will involve a parametric study of process conditions that yield a wide range of silicon film properties ranging from amorphous to microcrystalline. Additional studies will examine silicon germanium alloys. Silicon micromachining techniques will be used in Phase II to produce sensor elements on an air bridge to enhance the sensitivity. The major goal of the proposed work is the development of room temperature detector arrays for the 3-5 and 8-12 micron wavelength bands. Affordable room temperature infrared detector arrays will have wide applicability in military night vision systems, as well as enabling wide spread civilian applications such as automotive night driving aids, security monitoring, and fire fighting. |
| ATEC, INC.
Myers Building, Suite 4107, 5000 College Avenue College Park, MD 20742 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 403-1744
Dr. John Lawler ARMY 01-091 Selected for Award |
| Title: | An Improved Heat Exchanger and An Oil Separator For CO2 Heat Pumps |
| Abstract: | The U.S. military's Environmental Control Units (ECUs) predominantly operate with halogen-containing refrigerants (CFCs or HCFCs). Since many of these units are nearing the end of their useful lives, an opportunity exits to develop more efficient, cost effective, and easily supportable systems that use natural refrigerants such as CO2. While CO2 systems possess advantages over conventional systems, they also present technical challenges that need to be solved before their wide use in military and commercial applications. Advanced Thermal and Environmental Concepts (ATEC), Inc. in collaboration with ThermaSys Inc. and the University of Maryland propose to develop highly effective oil free heat exchangers that will boost the Coefficient of Performance (COP) of CO2 systems. The proposed effort will consist of two tasks. The first task involves development of a novel, inexpensive, controllable (on-line/on-demand) oil separation unit for separation of oil from CO2. The second task will involve development of innovative micro channel heat exchangers using passive or active heat transfer enhancement techniques. The results of this research will enable the design of cost effective, oil-free heat exchangers that are lighter in weight and smaller in size than the state-of-the-art heat exchangers. Development of high efficiency, oil-free micro channel heat exchangers can substantially boost the Coefficient of Performance (COP) of CO2 systems, increasing its competitive advantage over conventional systems. The results of this research will enable the design of oil-free, cost effective high performance heat exchangers that are lighter in weight and smaller in size than the state-of-the-art heat exchangers. Smaller and lighter-weight heat exchangers not only can benefit the CO2 ECUs substantially, but also are critically needed for various other military and commercial applications, such as the Navy's Advanced Amphibious Assault Vehicle (AAAV), the Army's M1 battle tank, and various commercial thermal management systems including their use in automotive, refrigeration/HVAC, process, and electronic cooling applications. |
| WHITEMOSS, INC.
1912 Greenbrier Ave. West Lafayette, IN 47906 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(217) 390-1859
Dr. Rodney D. Hugelman ARMY 01-091 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Reversible Heat Pump System |
| Abstract: | This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project is to design, model and demonstrate the feasibility of, a reversible CO2 heat pump system, including an advanced compressor design, which meets military requirements for a 3-ton capacity Environmental Control Unit. The CO2 system will utilize state-of-the-art system components and computer modeling plus a novel compressor, capable of both variable displacement and compression ratio, to operate more efficiently and provide a wider range of operating conditions for heating and cooling than possible with existing HCFC systems, with HFC systems of the future or with current experimental CO2 systems. Successful completion of Phase I will permit design, fabrication and testing of working component and system prototypes in Phase II. Commercial partners will be involved in the project from the beginning and have the capability and interest in producing commercial units for the military and adapting the system for consumer and industrial markets. Successful introduction of CO2 refrigerants into commercial heat pumps is expected to increase the range of operating conditions over which heat pumps will operate, greatly reduce life-cycle costs of such units and eliminate the environmental burden associated with synthetic refrigerants. |
| CUSTOM MANUFACTURING & ENGINEERING, INC.
2904 44th Avenue North St. Petersburg, FL 33714 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(727) 548-0522
Mr. Scott Eiler ARMY 01-092 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced Milli-Meter Wave Sensor for Multi-Function Intelligence |
| Abstract: | The purpose of this effort is to develop an unattended man-portable or light-mobile RF sensor system to provide ground forces with the capability to detect, intercept, identify, precision locate, and develop targets of both threat voice and digital communications and non-communications in the millimeter wave frequency radio spectrum. The system will be designed with a wideband scanning capability in frequencies from 20 to 90 GHz. The proliferation of MMW and digital communications and radar systems changes the threats the SIGINT systems must face now and in the future. The rapid development of new technologies requires open systems architecture, adaptable to change. The development of this RF sensor will provide a plug-n-play sensor capability for a MMW SIGINT manpack sensor suitable for SOF via connectivity and compatibility with Silent Warrior/MIRSS. During the Option, CME will develop a system design concept suitable for Prophet Block IV Ground integration and capitalize on electronic mapping, target indicator, GUI situational awareness or other capabilities already developed as part of the lower frequency SIGINT system integration. This MMW SIGINT system will provide the warfighter with a new robust capability to "own the electronic spectrum" and dominate his battle space. Our modular SIGINT system approach will provide Army and SOF with a gapfiller technology for SIGINT/DF in the millimeter wave spectrum. The sensor will significantly enhance the application of electronic warfare support (ES) for intelligence purposes. Commercialization/transition opportunities include Silent Warrior, Prophet Block IV, and FCS technology development. |
| IPITEK
2330 Faraday Avenue Carlsbad, CA 92008 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(760) 930-2220
Dr. David Schaafsma ARMY 01-092 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Fiberoptic/Electro-optic antenna arrays with wide tuning range (PR01-486) |
| Abstract: | We propose to research, design, and develop electric field sensing and signal processing techniques based on our unique all-fiber approach to RF photonics. Previous developments in optical modulator technology (110 GHz, 106 dB electrical SNR, V ~ 8 V) will be applied to making all-fiber receiver antennas and to upgrading our optical millimeter wave synthesis technology (4-60 GHz, 10 ms setting time, 20 Hz linewidth) for use in carrier frequency and signal generation for transmit antennas. Compared with conventional RF photonics using glass or crystalline integrated optic materials, these devices have the potential for much lower excess loss, better optical performance, better power handling, and much lower cost. These systems by themselves already have a large number of commercial and military applications - both in RF photonics and telecommunications. |
| COHERENT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
655 Aspen Ridge Drive Lafayette, CO 80026 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 604-2000
Dr. Narasimha Prasad ARMY 01-093 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Laser Communication System with Spatial Tracking for Moving Platforms |
| Abstract: | Coherent Technologies Inc. (CTI) proposes to develop a laser communication system (LCS) coupled with a high-speed pointing and tracking scheme for greater than 1 Gb/s data rate applications in a battlefield environment. The LCS will provide eyesafe operation with an engagement range up to 5 km between two moving platforms. The pointing and tracking unit will be designed to reduce the probabil |