DoD SBIR FY02.2 - SOLICITATION SELECTIONS w/ ABSTRACTS

DoD SBIR FY02.2 - SOLICITATION SELECTIONS w/ ABSTRACTS
Army - Navy - DARPA - MDA - OSD - SOCOM

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

354 Phase I Selections from the 02.2 Solicitation

(In Topic Number Order)

ADVANCED CERAMETRICS, INC. P.O. Box 128, 245 North Main Street Lambertville, NJ 08530
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(609) 397-2900 Dr. Farhad Mohammadi ARMY 02-001 Selected for Award
Title:	Innovative Energy Generation
Abstract:	Advanced Cerametrics, Inc. (ACI) has developed a technology to produce flexible and robust piezoelectric fiber composite transducers, which can be used to recover energy from various motions, including vibration, compression, and flexure, and then convert it into electric power. ACI proposes to design and develop a lightweight, low cost, piezoelectric fiber-based composite transducer energy recovery system that can be used as a power source for charging batteries. The energy harvesting transducers are durable (>20MM cycles with no degradation in properties), conformable, and can be fit and placed in various locations around the launch system area or even in a small caliber gun. The system converts mechanical energy that is available in the form of structural vibrations, originating from shocks, setback forces, gun launch, or transportation, into electrical energy, which is then stored in a capacitor. These piezoelectric fiber composites can convert up to 65% of the waste mechanical energy to electrical energy. Research will be conducted to determine location and magnitude of available sources of gun launch mechanical energy. A vibration table will be constructed that represents vibrational scenarios during gun launch and the output voltage will be measured and evaluated for the transducer design refinement for maximum output power efficiency. Harvesting of waste energy makes it possible to replace batteries or prolong the operation of battery-operated devices. Self-powered and lightweight energy sources will have a great impact in electronic device operations for extended period of time far beyond the battery's life span. This system represents a new fundamental technology platform where self-powered systems can perform functions, indefinitely, using waste energy, independent of outside control or power source. The devices will be maintenance free for many years and, therefore, will have broad application.

BIPOLAR TECHNOLOGIES 4724 Brentwood Circle Provo, UT 84604
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(801) 225-1974 Dr. Rodney M. LaFollette ARMY 02-001 Selected for Award
Title:	Miniature Hybrid Power Supplies for Enclosed Spaces
Abstract:	The US Army needs hybrid power supplies to allow autonomous operation of electronic devices, that can extract energy from its environment in a variety of forms, store it temporarily , and then release it as needed. The power supply must have longevity, operate in a wide temperature range, and withstand high shear rates and pressure. It also must be adaptable to different electrical requirements, and be inexpensive. The purpose of this work is to develop an integrated hybrid power supply to meet this need. It will consist of (single or multiple) energy scavengers and microscopic batteries developed by Bipolar Technologies. A fuzzy-logic based controller will interface the energy scavenger(s) and battery. The controller will monitor battery state and transmit data to a remote host. It will detect energy availability through its energy harvester(s), and either supply that energy directly, or use it to charge the battery. This work leveraged from considerable experience by Bipolar Technologies and its affiliates, in micro power supplies and miniature energy storage. During Phase I, prototype power supplies will be built and demonstrated with several energy scavenger types. During Phase II, more mature, optimized devices will be built, with greater degree of integration and intelligence. Miniature Hybrid Power Supplies will be a significant enabler to numerous wireless technologies, particularly autonomous sensors. The potential market is hundreds of millions of dollars per year.

OMNITEK PARTNERS, LLC Conklin Hall, SUNY Farmingdale, Melville Road Farmingdale, NY 11735
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(631) 752-1559 Mr. Alex Treyger ARMY 02-002 Selected for Award
Title:	An innovative optical based wireless communications technology for smart munitions
Abstract:	The objective of this SBIR project is to study the feasibility of a novel wireless, optical based communications concept for data transmission between sensors, actuators, processors and communications devices within munitions housing. The concept being proposed is an alternative to Radio Frequency (RF) wireless transmissions, and will provide a noise free and high bandwidth communication interconnect between major munitions elements, as well as close proximity sister munitions. The communications technology to be developed under this project is capable of withstanding the harsh environment of gun launched munitions, such as the high temperatures and pressures of firing and very high accelerations of sometimes in excess of 100,000 g's. The developed interconnect technology would also not emit energy, so that intelligence could not be monitored by external means. The proposed data communication networks also provide the possibility of being integrated into the structure of munitions, thereby occupying minimal added volume and greatly simplifying the problems related to wiring and their survivability, as well as high g hardening and survivability in the harsh firing environment Secure wireless optical based communications technologies that provide noise free and high bandwidth communication interconnect between various components of a device have numerous other military and commercial applications. Such communications links are ideal for use in different types of missiles and rockets, in satellites and in different types of commercial handheld electronic devices.

FOSTER-MILLER, INC. 350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 684-4170 Dr. Nese Orbey ARMY 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Cost-Effective and Safe Methods of Recovering Nitrocellulose from Gun Propellant Formulations
Abstract:	The military is disposing of large quantities of obsolete, unserviceable, and excess gun propellant by incineration processes. Such disposal is no longer considered environmentally acceptable and wastes potentially valuable resources. In keeping with the impetus toward resource recovery and reuse (R3), the Army is seeking means of extracting components from the propellant wastes for reprocessing. To meet this need, an innovative process, suitable for recovering the main ingredients of triple-base formulations, is proposed for development. Key features of the process are safety and environmental compatibility. Processing costs are reduced by the use of common, inexpensive industrial solvents, and are expected to be offset by the value of the recovered products and byproducts. Costs associated with conventional disposal of explosive wastes and the long-term maintenance and liability associated with hazardous waste sites will be eliminated. The main objectives of the proposed Phase-I program are to evaluate the feasibility of the process and to generate sufficient data for estimating process costs. (P-020521) In addition to processing other military wastes containing nitrocellulose and amine components, the proposed process will find application in the food, pharmaceutical and coatings industries.

STELLAR PHOTONICS, LLC. 13910 SE 23rd Street Bellevue, WA 98005
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(425) 746-9647 Mr. Igor Nemtsev ARMY 02-004 Selected for Award
Title:	Man-portable Integrated Laser Assault Riffle
Abstract:	The Synchronized Photo-pulse Detonation method is based on Dr. Igor Nebtsev's research and development efforts with Yuri Raizer. The experiments proved Yuri Raizer's, idea of a double laser pulse, where the force or shock wave generated from the laser plasma can be used as an energy projectile. The SPD method uses 2 synchronized laser pulses to create a Laser Supported Detonation Wave (LSDW) in a mixture of target vapors and atmospheric air. The first pulse creates an ignition plasma spark (in a mixture of air and target vapors), while the second (higher powered) pulse serves to create and support a shock wave from the heated plasma. This shock wave heats the surrounding air layer (mixture of air and target vapors) so that it begins to absorb the laser beam and to create from itself the next plasma layer with the formation of a new shock wave. NOTE: SPD can be accomplished not only with chemical lasers but also by any other pulse lasers: for example, solid-state YAG-Nd lasers, CO2 and etc. Stellar Photonics propose two innovative Compact Laser Cannons (Solid State & Chemical); bringing the power of Star Wars technology to the field, providing the needed heavy punch capability to the SOF at a relative low cost. These systems would be portable and lightweight; the battery operated solid state laser system would be comparable in size to the Armbrust and Dragon anti-tank systems, while the chemical laser system would be smaller, comparable in size to the FN - F2000 or the ATK/HK - OICW (Objective Individual Combat Weapon) System. The man-portable SPD LSDW weapons system is expected to be lethal in the range of 1-5 miles, due to the fact that no sharp focusing of the laser beam is required. Therefore, it is capable of engaging both short and long ranged targets of any kind, greatly increasing the engagement area of current assault riffles. NOTE: The same system can also be used in non-lethal area denial to personnel applications. A pulse laser force field (shock wave) can be initiated instantaneously to prevent personnel from restricted areas. The strength of the pulse can be controlled pending these 5 variables: Power level, cartridge type, time delay, accelerator strength, and beam diameter. Past experiments with chemical lasers has shown that more than 5,000+ Joules of energy can be generated during a 1 microsecond pulse by using only 0.04m3 active volume of HF. So in order to achieve pulse energy ranging from 100 Joules to 1000 Joules, only 0.08cm3 to 0.08mm3 active volume of HF will be needed. Successful completion of Phase I will involve production of the following assets: . Materials and components research and development that is consistent with the current miniaturization efforts. . Reliable data describing the effectiveness and strength of different battery and charging systems for use with solid state lasers. This would give the charging time per shot, duration of pulses, energy lost, and pulses per battery. . Efficiency data on different solid state laser rods and flash lamp systems. This would be data on various, Ruby, YAG, Neodymium Glass and other solid state laser systems. . Research analysis on optical control and focusing systems to be used in both solid state and chemical laser weapon systems. . Research on chemical mix and flow forming technologies, along with nozzle material & unit shielding requirements. . Reliable data describing the effectiveness and difference between that of Laser Supported Detonation Wave (LSDW) verses Laser Supported Combustion Wave (LSCW). . A highly effective pulse timing algorithm for the Synchronized Photo-pulse Detonation (SPD) method with respect to target distance, velocity, size and force generation. . An optimal laser shock wave algorithm for the laser Supported Detonation Wave (LSDW) with respect to bean diameter, projected distance, and force of shock wave. . A proprietary, highly effective and efficient formula (ratios) of HF chemical mixture to be used as fuel for the chemical laser weapon system. . The preliminary designs of a small power solid state and chemical laser weapon system that can be eventually mass produced. . Preliminary designs of a compact chemical cartridge that over comes the time delay in the discharge and refill of mixtures in the laser cavity in between initiations and the handling (manufacturing, shipping, and storage) of the volatile chemical mixture.

MATERIALS & ELECTROCHEMICAL RESEARCH (MER) CORP. 7960 S. Kolb Rd. Tucson, AZ 85706
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(520) 574-1980 Dr. James C. Withers ARMY 02-005 Selected for Award
Title:	The Development of Gradient/Reinforced Materials for Reducing Weight in Weapon Systems
Abstract:	It is necessary to reduce the weight of weapon systems carried by the individual solder to achieve maximum effectiveness. This includes new weapon systems under development such as the Objective Individual Combat Weapon (OICW) which initially is overweight. The development and utilization of advanced engineered materials for components, such as the housing and barrels of the OICW, have the potential to not only reduce weight, but also enhance performance. Functionally graded composites are a concept in materials composition that can exhibit exemplary properties that can be translated to reducing weight for the OICW. MER has demonstrated processing to produce functionally graded plastic composites as well as refractory materials graded into both metals and metal composites which will be produced, characterized, cost analysis performed for producing, and trade off analysis performed with the OICW prime contractor. These results will be translated into refining and optimizing processing, scale-up and producing components for OICW evaluation in Phase II as well as defining other applications for the developed graded/reinforced materials. Grade/reinforced composites have extensive applications in weapon systems for all military services as well as generally in aerospace, energy conversion including all engine types, general industry and sport equipment.

FOSTER-MILLER, INC. 350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 684-4105 Dr. David Ofer ARMY 02-006 Selected for Award
Title:	Electrolytic Ultracapacitors Based on Single-Wall Nanotubes
Abstract:	Foster-Miller proposes to exploit exciting properties of single wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) to develop electrolytic ultracapacitors having a 300 percent performance improvement over current versions. We will utilize SWNTs processed as cohesive, highly dispersed felts to replace conventional carbon black electrodes. SWNTs possess a remarkable structure that gives them a distinctive combination of electrical, physical and mechanical properties; enabling SWNT electrodes to have higher surface area, electrical conductivity, and thermal conductivity. In addition, SWNT electrodes require no polymer binder, thus further enhancing their energy storage capability. Ultracapacitors have been demonstrated as a superb electrical power buffer for several demanding applications; however, their success in high power output applications is limited by their smaller energy storage density compared to batteries. Ultracapacitor applications would be vastly expanded by the 300 percent increase in energy and power delivery capabilities that SWNT electrodes would provide. With partners Maxwell Technologies and Carbon Nanotechnologies, Inc, the Foster-Miller team is poised to take this product from the development stage through scale-up to manufacture. In this Phase I program Foster-Miller will make and characterize highly dispersed SWNT electrodes, utilizing processing techniques under development at Foster-Miller and CNI, incorporate them into ultracapacitor test cells, and characterize their performance. (P-020563) Ultracapacitors utilizing novel electrode structures based on carbon nanotube technology have the potential to increase the energy storage density of ultracpacitors by three times. This will make ultracapacitors the best devices to efficiently deliver power for kinetic and directed energy weapons and provide the increase in performance required to make ultracapacitors the ideal power caches for electric vehicles.

CHAN & ASSOC. 23520 Telo Avenue, #4 Torrance, CA 90505
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 408-3225 Dr. William S. Chan ARMY 02-007 Selected for Award
Title:	Uncooled, LWIR FPA for Hyper-spectral Imaging
Abstract:	We propose to develop a long wave infrared (LWIR) focal plane array (FPA) capable of multi-spectral imaging over the entire LWIR spectrum, ideal for target acquisition, tracking and discrimination. The FPA, micromachined entirely out of Silicon using the so-called MEMS (micro electro-optical mechanical system) technology, consists of a 256x256 array of micro Fabry-Perot tunable filters (MFPTF) integrated with a same-size array of micro bolometers, so that each bolometer pixel is aligned with the correspondng MFPTF pixel. Thus, each bolometer may be tuned, by the MFPTF pixel, to respond to a different wavelength from another pixel, or each frame of the FPA may be tuned to a different wavelength from another frame. This tunability will provide an extraordinary capability for the FPA to discriminate target from clutter, background and decoys without using extensive data processing H/W and S/W assets. Each array will contain on-chip readout and control circuits. Phase 1 will define the FPA system mission and requirements, delineates it processes for fabrication and fabricate and test a small sample array to validate its concept and performance. Target acquisition, medical imaging, gas sensing, environmental monitoring and law enforcement applications.

SOLID STATE SCIENTIFIC CORP. 27-2 Wright Road Hollis, NH 03049
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(603) 465-5686 Dr. Richard J. Nelson ARMY 02-007 Selected for Award
Title:	Micro-lens Array Hyperspectral 3-D Sensor
Abstract:	We propose to design and model a unique spectral imaging sensor that will be capable of simultaneously imaging sixteen color bands at video rates. The approach will utilize recent developments in micro-optics to create a sixteen-channel spectral imager based on a single focal plane array. The resulting spectral imager will operate in the visible band, incorporate a 4x4 micro-lens array, and use a 512'512 staring imager to capture one 128'128'16 spectral data cube during each integration time. The new sensor will have no moving parts and a small physical form factor. The design and development of this sensor represents a unique opportunity in hyperspectral sensing and imaging. This effort will benefit the development of algorithms for exploiting time-evolving spectral signatures. This spectral imager will be able to sample the data at rates in excess of 200 hyperspectral cubes per second with moderate spectral sampling. The sensor can be configured so that the spectral resolution varies independently of the sampling, allowing the sensitivity of the sensor to be optimized around phenomenologically important spectral regions. The proposed sensor combines staring imaging technology with recent developments in micro-lens technology from telecommunications to advance the state of the art in hyperspectral imaging. The ability of the new sensor concept to rapidly acquire hyperspectral data cubes should provide an unprecedented opportunity to investigate algorithms for dynamic event classification based on temporal spectral signatures, countering CC&D, and evaluating surfaces. In addition, the small physical size of the sensor will demonstrate the possibility of portable hyperspectral imaging. Potential applications for defense purposes include buried mine detection, real-time bomb damage assessment, target tracking, and missile threat warning. In addition, we anticipate possible applications in medical diagnostics and medical imaging.

SUMMIT IMAGING, INC. 5025 Boardwalk, Suite 200 Colorado Springs, CO 80919
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(719) 598-6006 Mr. David W. Gardner ARMY 02-007 Selected for Award
Title:	Hyperspectral 3-D Detector
Abstract:	Many DoD applications require hyperspectral imagery where several spectral bands are simultaneously captured to enhance targeting ability or to verify success of experimental tests. Information gathered over multiple spectral bands may provide critical information related to combustion efficiency, camouflaged weapons, target discrimination or missile launch detection. Regardless of the specific applications, a common characteristic in most tactical applications and tests is that the object being observed varies rapidly with time. Because of the high speed nature of these events, any attempt to capture spectral data in a time-sequential manner will result in undesirable artifact. It is therefore critical that the spatial and spectral data be captured simultaneously. Under this SBIR development, Summit Imaging proposes to analyze the feasibilty of developing a hyperspectral imager which can capture sixteen spectral bands over the range of 350nm to 860nm - each with a nominal bandwidth of around 35nm. The proposed imaging system would allow simultaneous capture of 512x512 images in each of sixteen unique spectral bands at up to 30 frames per second. Phase I will combine a theoretical feasibility study along with a proof-of-concept prototype test to demonstrate the techniques proposed using small, in-house test structures. A hyperspectral imager capable of providing simultaneous capture of both 2-D image data and spectral resolution would have tremendous commercial potential in such areas as thin film and combustion analysis, laser induced breakdown spectroscopy and earth resource management.

SURFACE OPTICS CORP. 11555 Rancho Bernardo Road San Diego, CA 92127
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 675-7404 Mr. Mark S. Dombrowski ARMY 02-007 Selected for Award
Title:	Hyperspectral 3-D Detector
Abstract:	A program to develop an advanced 3-D hyperspectral imaging sensor capable of operating in the NUV/VIS/NIR bands or MWIR/LWIR bands is proposed. The proposed system builds upon Surface Optics' real-time hyperspectral imaging activities, transforming the current line scanning Multiband Identification and Discrimination Imaging Spectroradiometer (MIDIS) system to a Full-Cube Imager (FC-Imager), simultaneously sampling at least 16 spectral bands over a full 2-D field, with an eye towards transitioning it to use in a tactical environment. Based upon requirements for simultaneous acquisition of all hyperspectral bands at each pixel in a full 2-D field, SOC will conduct a preliminary design of the Full-Cube Imager, which will include a compact, rugged, relatively inexpensive 3-D imager plus the real-time hyperspectral (HS) data processor. The proposed effort represents the culmination of three SBIRs aimed at developing MWIR/LWIR imagers and miniaturization (through ASIC development) of SOC's patented real-time hyperspectral image processor for inclusion in a highly portable sensor capable of real-time hyperspectral discrimination. By building on Surface Optics Corporation's and Rockwell Scientific's combined decades of experience in hyperspectral imaging system development, sensor development, and algorithm development, the proposed program will produce a new FC-Imager of unsurpassed capability, with varied military and commercial applications. By making hyperspectral sensors more portable, more rugged, and less costly, development of the Full-Cube Imaging sensor will dramatically enhance the military's capability to extract information from a scene that is unavailable to current tactical imaging sensors. Further commercialization will vastly improve the warfighter's ability to detect highly camouflaged threats. Potential non-threat sensing applications include remote sensing, surveillance, pollution monitoring, plume analysis, medical diagnostics, industrial production control, and land mine detection.

DYNAMIC STRUCTURE & MATERIALS, LLC 205 Williamson Square Franklin, TN 37064
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(615) 595-6665 Dr. Jeffrey Paine ARMY 02-008 Selected for Award
Title:	Precision Robotic Tomography System
Abstract:	The military and its munitions suppliers require an effective means for quality inspection of various types of munitions during production. The use of standard computer tomography scanning (CT scanning) methods, which the military has in place, requires munitions to be manually handled and controlled to prevent damage from mishandling and accidental discharge. Carrying munitions through the CT scanning process requires a combination of high force capacity, delicate handling capability, and very accurate positioning resolution. Robotic arms available for handling the heavy loads (up to 200 lb) have difficulty making careful moves and achieving the required accuracy. DSM proposes a unique combination of accurate robotics, vision-based control, and novel parts-handling concepts to automate the munitions inspection process. DSM's method will enable the careful, rapid and accurate inspection of all types of munitions. Servo-controlled robotics with micron level accuracy and safety concepts for components coming in direct contact with the munitions will be used. A part flow-through functionality plan will be developed. A scaled version of the critical carrier interface components and a feasibility concept for components of the generic precision robotics systems will be developed in Phase I. Precision robotic systems offer the advantage of automating processes that humans are often required to perform. Robotic munitions handling will speed up the munitions production process and reduce the cost to military users. Munitions and other highly energetic materials will be more safely processed and require less human intervention in the inspection process which also increases human safety issues. Finally, this process will enable other CT scanning inspection processes to be done more cheaply and effectively.

MIDE TECHNOLOGY CORP. 200 Boston Avenue Suite 1000 Medford, MA 02155
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 306-0609 Dr. Marthinus C. van Schoor ARMY 02-009 Selected for Award
Title:	Innovative Flash-bang Using Piezoelectric Transformers
Abstract:	Commonly known to the military and law enforcement personnel, flash-bangs are grenade-like devices that produce a bright flash of light combined with a loud acoustic wave which is meant to momentarily incapacitate (startle) an enemy. The flash and bang are traditionally generated by a single explosion using pyrotechnics contained within the device. While effective at temporarily disabling the opponent, these devices do have some drawbacks. First, the explosion creates a lot of smoke, which can obscure the situation from the soldier as well, and delay situational control. Second, the flame used to initiate the detonation poses an unneeded risk of fire and injury to soldiers and non-combatants.Mid� is proposing an innovative flash-bang device that utilizes the high voltage energy conversion capability of piezoelectric transformers, rather than pyrotechnics or explosives. These transformers output high voltage electricity that can be harnessed to provide appropriate flash and bang events by powering discrete visual and auditory devices, or by creating repeated plasma arcing (sparks). By leveraging the repeating and programmable nature of this electrical device, next-generation flash-bangs will provide similar disabling effects, while eliminating the drawbacks of conventional munitions. This novel flash-bang device will be a vital tool for momentarily incapacitating an enemy allowing the user to gain control of a situation. Advantages over conventional devices include the elimination of smoke and fire which delay situational authority and pose health risk to friendly personnel, repeatability in producing multiple events over a period of several seconds, flexibility for the user to select optimal operating parameters (event frequency, duration, intensity), and recoverability since the device will not destroy itself during operation. Several government agencies could directly benefit from the device, including law enforcement, the Department of Corrections, and many branches of the military.

INTELLIGENT OPTICAL SYSTEMS, INC. 2520 W. 237th Street Torrance, CA 90505
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 530-7130 Dr. Vladimir Rubtsov ARMY 02-010 Selected for Award
Title:	High Intensity Laser with Fiber Optic Multidirectional Strobe
Abstract:	Intelligent Optical Systems, Inc. proposes to develop a portable, non-lethal, green or blue-green laser for military and law enforcement applications. A novel scanner will be incorporated into the device to provide a strobe effect. The scanner will be comprised of a fiber optic cartridge whose fibers will be arranged in an array that will sequentially produce laser flashes in multiple directions. The direction, duration, and repeatability of the laser bursts can be predefined and adjusted in real time, allowing the operator to maintain control over the subject. The fiber cartridge will be a few millimeters in diameter, and 5-7 centimeters long, and will be operated by a low power consumption micromotor. Unlike current unidirectional devices, the proposed multidirectional strobe laser will allow the security device to be used on groups and moving targets. However, the proposed laser will have the same laser power efficiency as devices without a fiber optic strobe. Commercial applications include civilian law enforcement agencies, perimeter and interior facility security, and biomedical applications for DNA sequencing and forensic sciences. Potential commercialization applications of the multidirectional laser include uses as: baton stun lasers for the law enforcement community, non-lethal weapons for air crews, or devices that can be incorporated into aircraft cockpit doors. Security officers at airport checkpoints could also be armed with such a device. The multidirectional dazzling laser can also be used to disperse violent crowds. Such a device could be used in addition to facility perimeter security cameras to prevent intrusions. The multidirectional laser also has applications in biomedical research. The device could be utilized in confocal microscopes as a spatial scanner, in DNA sequencing, and as a marker finder in the sorting of the objects. The multidirectional scanning cartridge can be used in CW lasers and in pulsed lasers for modulating and redirecting laser beams.

IROBOT CORP. 22 McGrath Hwy, Suite 6 Somerville, MA 02143
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 629-0055 Dr. Brian Yamauchi ARMY 02-011 Selected for Award
Title:	Griffon: A Small Scale Unmanned Air/Ground Vehicle
Abstract:	We propose to develop Griffon, a man-portable UAV/UGV that is capable of delivering lethal and non-lethal payloads. Griffon will combine the speed and range of a UAV with the precise ground mobility of a UGV. Griffon will be based the rugged, all-terrain iRobot PackBot UGV. Griffon will add an Air Mobility System (AMS) to the PackBot consisting of a powered parafoil that attaches to the PackBot chassis. The powered parafoil provides a compact, lightweight means of adding flight capability to the PackBot. Griffon will fly autonomously to operator-specified waypoints using an onboard GPS receiver and a three-axis orientation sensor. Semi-autonomous launch and landing software will assist the operator in transitioning from ground to air modes and back. During Phase I of this project, we will develop a complete hardware and software design for Griffon. The hardware design task will include the development of a radio-controlled powered parafoil demonstrator to determine the power and control requirements for the AMS. The software design will include all of the Griffon software components and the system architecture for integrating these components. During the Phase I Option, we will integrate a gasoline-powered engine with a PackBot and develop the AMS engine control software. UAVs provide an operator with the ability to rapidly arrive at a site of interest, reconnoiter the area from above, and (in the case of the armed Predator) deliver a lethal payload to any exposed target. However, UAVs lack the ability to observe or attack targets that are concealed inside structures, such as caves or buildings. In contrast, UGVs have the capability to enter structures, search for targets, and examine these targets at close range (using video transmission). However, UGVs are much slower than UAVs, have limited range, and have less capability to cross very rough terrain. In many situations, what is needed is an unmanned vehicle that combines the strengths of UAVs and UGVs. We propose to develop Griffon, a man-portable UAV/UGV hybrid capable of performing reconnaissance, surveillance, and delivery of a lethal payload. Griffon will be based on the iRobot Corporation PackBot platform, a rugged, all-weather, all-terrain robot developed for DARPA's Tactical Mobile Robotics Program. PackBot is currently being tested by the U.S. Army in Afghanistan on missions to search cave complexes and suspected al Qaeda compounds. PackBot will be available as a commercial product in the fall of 2002. The extensive use of airstrikes in Afghanistan has been successful at limiting U.S. casualties due to enemy action. However, the limitations of airpower are evident when intelligence about ground targets is incomplete or suspect, both in terms of civilian casualties and the difficulty in precisely targeting enemy forces under concealment. Weapons like Griffon will enable the Objective Force to strike accurately at enemies in caves, buildings, and other structures - hitting the desired targets, minimizing collateral damage, and providing real-time assessment of the attack's effectiveness. Griffon will also have commercial applications in civilian search and rescue in rough terrain. Griffon's flight capability will enable it to fly over lakes, mountains, and other potential obstacles to ground movement. When Griffon finds a victim, it will be able to land, deliver medical aid, and allow the victim to communicate with rescuers.

THORPE SEEOP 320 S. Nina Suite #14 Mesa, AZ 85210
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(480) 969-2021 Mr. S.W. Stagg ARMY 02-011 Selected for Award
Title:	Small Scale Unmanned Air Vehicle (UAV) Platform
Abstract:	Trade study and conceptual design is proposed optimizing UAV/UGV Transforming Vehicles that land transforming into UGVs capable of inspecting caves and/or buildings to find people. A survey will be done and candidate vehicles including Spinwing as either a transforming UAV/UGV, or as a UAV transport for several UGVs. Also included will be fixed-wing UAVs that can transform into or transport UGVs. Employing a Small Scale UAV/UGV (SSUAV/UGV) would allow the warfighter to search and locate large numbers of caves and buildings from a forward position without risk to individual personnel. Employing numerous SSUAV/UGVs to explore caves and or buildings would allow the warfighter to explore places of concealment, without exposing themselves to a high-risk environment. This combination would have significant benefit to commercial aviation users and law enforcement, search and rescue, and resource managers would benefit from this technology

SOPHIA WIRELESS, INC. 14225-C Sullyfield Circle Chantilly, VA 20151
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 961-9573 Dr. Steven Marazita ARMY 02-012 Selected for Award
Title:	High frequency Solid State Transceivers in an Ultra-Compact Volume
Abstract:	State of the art high power and low noise technology is proposed to build a high frequency solid state transceiver in an ultra-compact volume. The unit takes advantage of rapid advances in the ever-evolving wireless technology base to lower costs and improve manufacturability. Transceiver architecture studies will be initiated to optimize the unit's performance for wide bandwidth needs in both government and commercial applications. High frequency RF technology is constantly evolving into new areas and applications as the technology base progresses. Digital communication radios, wideband optoelectronic systems, and military radars all benefit from improvements in power output and noise figure as new innovations come about. Progress also brings reduction in component volume which allows higher packing density and reduced weight requirements for systems.

CENTER FOR REMOTE SENSING, INC. 11350 Random Hills Rd., Suite 710 Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 385-7717 Dr. Dr. Suman Ganguly ARMY 02-013 Selected for Award
Title:	GPS Reconstitution
Abstract: Abstract not available...

LIQUIDMETAL TECHNOLOGIES 25800 Commercentre Drive, Suite 100 Lake Forest, CA 92630
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(949) 206-8090 Mr. Theodore Waniuk ARMY 02-014 Selected for Award
Title:	Enhanced Alternative Kinetic Energy Penetrators
Abstract:	Liquidmetal Technologies proposes a novel tungsten (W) reinforced Bulk Metallic Glass (BMG) composite penetrator that meets or exceeds current Depleted Uranium performance against current or future threat targets. The objective of this proposal is to develop the processes to produce an in-situ W reinforced BMG composite that exhibits self-sharpening penetrator characteristics. The in-situ W reinforcement would be produced by dendritic precipitation in the BMG. With controlled cooling of a desired composition, it will be possible to grow filaments of W dendrites directly from this melt with its longitudinal axis (called the <100> direction) aligned with the longitudinal axis of the penetrator rod. Because the <001> direction of the dendrites are aligned with the longitudinal axis of the penetrator rod, then deformation of the dendrites along the slip direction (known as the <011> direction) coincides with the 45' angle for self sharpening. Thus, the localized shear bands in the BMG matrix is anticipated to induce the <011> deformation in the tungsten dendrites; hence producing a composite rod with self-sharpening behavior. Liquidmetal Technologies has developed a family of Liquidmetalr BMG alloys and composites for use in a range of metallic based products. Over the past 5 years, Liquidmetal Technologies has been awarded 5 DoD research contracts (completed 2 and 3 in-progress) to develop Liquidmetal BMG for Kinetic Energy Penetrator (KEP) applications. Liquidmetal Technologies (LMT) mission is to research, develop and commercialize LMT patented amorphous metal for a wide range of applications. Target focus areas include defense, aerospace, consumer electronics, medical, automotive, light industrial products, sports and leisure and more. Certain aspects of the core technology developed under this proposed SBIR program will benefit the focus area applications listed above.

NANOPOWDER ENTERPRISES, INC. Suite 106, 120 Centennial Ave., Piscataway, NJ 08854
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(732) 885-1088 Dr. Ganesh Skandan ARMY 02-014 Selected for Award
Title:	Ultrafine grained tungsten heavy alloy kinetic energy penetrators
Abstract:	For quite some time, a suitable replacement for the environmentally harmful depleted uranium (DU) for use as long rod penetrators has remained elusive. Tungsten based heavy alloys, commonly termed WHAs, with a tungsten grain size in the several tens of microns, come close to the performance of DU for kinetic energy (KE) penetrators in general, but fall short when the L/D ratio is > ~ 10. Recent studies have shown that when the grain size is reduced by more than an order of magnitude, the mechanical behavior under dynamic loading conditions can be very different. Since the dynamic mechanical behavior is directly related to the performance of armor piercing penetrators, new processing technologies are required to develop WHAs with an ultrafine grained structure. In this program, we propose to develop a new generation of ultrafine grained KE penetrators using recent innovations (i) in the synthesis of nanocrystalline powders of tungsten alloys, and (ii) in powder consolidation using microwave energy. In Phase I, processing parameters will be developed and samples will be produced for structural characterization and testing of mechanical properties. In Phase II, the consolidation technology will be scaled to L/D > 12 with D = ~ 10 mm, or as desired by the Army. Samples produced under optimized conditions will be provided to the Army for testing in the field. The principles employed in powder synthesis and powder consolidation are generic, and will apply to materials that are generally difficult to process. For example, tantalum has several functional and structural applications, but is difficult to be processed. Therefore, we expect our program to have wide ranging implications in a number of application areas, although this specific program is geared toward a specific DoD need.

FOSTER-MILLER, INC. 350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 684-4099 Dr. Jonathan Arata ARMY 02-015 Selected for Award
Title:	An Innovative Method for the Prediction of Hydrogen Embrittlement in Steel
Abstract:	Hydrogen embrittlement is among the more common forms of environmentally assisted cracking found in failed components made from high-strength steel alloys. There are numerous ways that hydrogen can enter the steel lattice and, under load, cause embrittlement. This embrittlement can lead to subcritical crack growth, a possible cause of premature catastrophic failure of the component. Traditional numerical analysis techniques do no account for such a complex phenomena. We propose a finite element-based method for the prediction of hydrogen embrittlement in steels, and the calculation of critical stress intensity factors based on such embrittlement. We propose a multi-scale modeling approach, with the lowest level of modeling being at the level of the microconstituents, including the embrittled steel region. The cohesive surface finite element method is used to predict the actual stress intensity factor for the onset of critical crack growth. This approach accounts for the thermo-micromechanical and chemical states of the steel over time, including the diffusion of hydrogen through the steel. (P-020588) Steel is among the most, if not the most, common of engineering materials. Hydrogen embrittlement is a significant problem for designers that employ steel in environments where hydrogen may be present. As such, a user-friendly computationally efficient method for prediction of hydrogen embrittlement in steels would have broad application across a wide range of industries, military and commercial. Any industry that utilizes steel machines and devices, and particularly those who design and manufacture them, would be interested in utilizing this tool as a design, maintenance, and prognostics device. Thus, this program could find wide audience in the commercial automotive, aviation, space and power industries, to name just a few, as well as having broad application potentially across the entire military spectrum.

DCS CORP. 1330 Braddock Place Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 683-8430 Mr. Andrew Struckhoff ARMY 02-016 Selected for Award
Title:	Driver Assist Smart Alignment System
Abstract:	DCS Corporation proposes to develop an accurate Driver Assist Smart Alignment System to replace the on-the-ground spotters required for guiding the PLS and HEMTT vehicles to their "targets" during CROP loading operations. The "targets" are aircraft with logistical rail systems and MILVAN containers. The system will provide real-time data, to include range to the target and misalignment (angular and linear) between the vehicle and the target, to the driver on an easy to interpret, screen display. The system will also warn the driver of any obstacles in the path of the vehicle. The system will be a new application of machine vision technology and will utilize commercial-off-the-shelf components. During Phase I of this effort, DCS Corporation will design the electro-optical subsystem, the electrical subsystem, the ruggedized system packaging, and the system software. We will conduct experiments to demonstrate the feasibility of the core concepts and image processing algorithms, using our existing equipment. Our Phase I Option will be to create a breadboard system for more integrated testing prior to the Phase II prototype development. The proposed device will provide a simple and intuitive interface to allow PLS / HEMTT drivers to accurately align the vehicle to the target platform. By assisting the alignment process, the system will help reduce loading time, will reduce the chances for collateral damage to the vehicle, the CROP, the MILVAN, or the aircraft. The system will increase soldier safety by removing on the ground spotters from between the vehicle and the target. When used on commercial vehicles, the proposed device will provide increased situational awareness for vehicle manipulation in confined areas.

SYSTEMS & PROCESSES ENGINEERING CORP.(SPEC) 101 West Sixth Street, Suite 200 Austin, TX 78701
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(512) 479-7732 Dr. Bernie Penrose ARMY 02-016 Selected for Award
Title:	LADAR Sensor & Vehicle Alignment System (LSVAS)
Abstract:	SPEC proposes an innovative, eyesafe LADAR Sensor & Vehicle Alignment System (LSVAS) concept, based on missile LADAR technology, which fully meets cargo alignment requirements during loading/ unloading operations and for safety in sensing personnel in blind areas. For cargo alignment/loading/unloading, thumb-sized LSVAS sensors precisely locate the transport structure for the guidance system (with no on-the-ground spotter) which interacts with the operator to quickly and safely align and insert payloads to within 1 mm without the fear of binding on long palletized loads, even when the operator cannot physically view these areas. LSVAS will be easy to maintain, to learn, operate and interface to by a single operator. It will also be able to operate in varying lighting and adverse weather conditions while performing loading/unloading operations on any container/palletized cargo platform configurations. LSVAS can also provide a wide area protection LADAR safety grid for loading vehicle collision protection, detecting and locating personnel and ground equipment in the immediate area of operation. FCS combat mobility and sustainability is improved, along with operational responsiveness, by the quick and efficient transport of supplies that are vital to the successful implementation of FCS doctrine of agile, rapid force projection deployment. The ability to accurately sense range is key to providing precise feedback to assist in payload alignment and sensing personnel in blind areas. This would drastically reduce current cargo movement timelines thus improving aircraft turnaround time, greatly decrease or eliminate damage to vehicles, payloads and transport platforms during loading/unloading operations, along with increased safety during low light and adverse weather conditions and by eliminating driver blind spots where personnel or other objects may go unnoticed. Overall cargo related operating and support costs will be reduced by improved cargo handling times and increased safety by greatly reducing or eliminating damaged cargo and/or transport platform mishaps. These same devices can be used in other areas, such as backup collision indicators on personal and commercial vehicles, and for triggering front and side airbags on vehicles, to lower the inflation rates so as not to cause injury to small passengers. The airbag triggers would make use of the precise range, deriving range rate from range vs. time, and the amplitude, thresholding the size of object needed to cause a trigger.

ANHOLT TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 440 Church Road Avondale, PA 19311
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(610) 268-2758 Mr. Daniel D. Coppens ARMY 02-017 Selected for Award
Title:	Innovative Lightweight Hybrid Ammunition Container
Abstract:	Anholt proposes to combine a composite lightweight body with metallic endcaps and stacking flanges to reduce the weight and provide venting for Insensitive Munitions (IM). This marries the enhanced Cook-Off performance and lightweight benefits of composites with the damage tolerance and sealability of metallic ends. In addition, it uses both materials in their most cost efficient forms. Pultruded composite tubing fabricated from low FST resins promises to provide high performance at the lowest possible cost. In addition to steel, lightweight metals and metal foams will also be investigated for the metallic components. The concept applies to various size, cylindrical and rectangular containers. Anholt will base its design on the 2.75-inch Rocket container. High-speed production volume composite-to-metal joining technologies will be investigated so that the Hybrid Container system can be produced in an economically viable manner. The Hybrid system will be designed to meet the 3 psi seal requirements of MIL-STD-1904 and improved Fast Cook-Off performance of MIL-STD-2105B. Anholt is confident that at least a 25% weight reduction will be achieved. The technology will be applicable to all FASTPACK containers as well as other cylindrical and rectangular containers. A Technology Demonstrators will be produced incorporating the preferred Hybrid solution. This effort will result in Hybrid metal/composite technology applicable to a variety of ammunition container shapes and sizes across the entire DoD inventory. This type of rugged, reusable shipping container can be suitable for commercial products whenever they are shipped under adverse conditions. Sensitive machine components, electronics (which will also benefit from the container's static dissipation and EMI resistance), medical equipment and supplies are all potential cargo.

KAZAK COMPOSITES, INC. 32 Cummings Park Woburn, MA 01801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 932-5667 Dr. Jerome P. Fanucci ARMY 02-017 Selected for Award
Title:	Pultrusion-Based Production of Next-Generation Composite Ammunition Containers
Abstract:	KaZaK Composites proposes to investigate composite and metal/composite hybrid ammunition containers optimized for minimum cost production using highly automated pultrusion processing for the main structural tube and perhaps other components of the container. Pultrusion, the composite processing equivalent of aluminum extrusion, is capable of continuously making constant cross section parts with very little labor content at the rate of several feet per minute. Other conceivable composite processing methods are more costly because they make tubes one at a time. In addition to conventional composite designs, KCI will investigate a unique macro-composite structural concept that we have used with success in the past to produce 3.5-inch diameter military aircraft carrier stanchions with an unusual combination of high stiffness, strength, and extremely high impact damage resistance. These same properties are desirable in a composite ammunition container. In Phase I KCI will develop a number of candidate design concepts, then after appropriate analysis, trade study and discussion with the Army, select one or two for further investigation. Composite hardware samples of key structural components will be fabricated and subjected to bending and impact testing. A concept for a thermal fuse to prevent container overpressure in a fire will also be evaluated. There are many applications for low cost, damage resistant structural tubing. KCI is actively involved with the development of pultruded composite stanchions for Naval applications, as well as pultruded composite energy absorbing utility poles. Both these programs will directly benefit from the new design and processing concepts conceived and put into practice during the proposed program. In addition to the 2.75" rocket round package that will be developed in Phase I and II, military applications include packaging for a large variety of ammunition. Similar packaging can also be used commercially for shipping and storage of high value hardware.

ALPHATECH, INC. 50 Mall Road Burlington, MA 01803
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 273-3388 Mr. Robert Hyland ARMY 02-018 Selected for Award
Title:	Cooperative Planning and Control of Future Combat Systems Resupply Operations: A Component-Based Approach
Abstract:	ALPHATECH proposes a component-based software architecture and algorithms approach for multi-vehicle intelligent planning and control to support Future Combat Systems (FCS) resupply operations. The proposed system will enable a small number of human operators to rapidly develop, execute, and continuously update resupply plans that coordinate the activities of multiple materials-handling equipment (conventional, robotic, and/or fully autonomous) to meet tight deadlines and minimize idle time. Our three-level architecture integrates recent advances in constraint-based reasoning with state-of-the-art algorithms for hierarchical control. The top level implements a logistics-planning assistant that helps human operators develop and maintain feasible multi-vehicle plans and schedules. This level casts logistics planning as a constraint satisfaction problem providing a powerful means to translate complicated resupply plans into feasible control directives. A mid-level mission coordination module oversees plan execution, in turn employing vehicle-level controllers to manage the movement of individual vehicles. This research will provide a solid foundation for later work under Phase 2, which will harden and integrate our system into ARDEC's Smart Crane test bed, extend the approach to handle increasingly complex multi-vehicle resupply operations, and harmonize our approach with FCS's emerging sustainment CONOPS. This technology will help the FCS logistics officer prepare and execute efficient logistics plans with reduced personnel. Operations managers benefit from cooperative multi-vehicle schedules that automatically resolve contention and satisfy deadlines. Material Handling Equipment (MHE) operators are provided with prioritized task lists and increased logistical awareness. The proposed research addresses a critical problem faced by automated material handling, warehouse, and the seaport container handling industries.

APPLIED SYSTEMS INTELLIGENCE, INC. 11660 Alpharetta Highway, Suite 720 Roswell, GA 30076
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(770) 518-4228 Dr. Brock Stitts ARMY 02-018 Selected for Award
Title:	Adaptable/ Reusable Hardware/Software Architectures and Components for Future Combat System Automated Resupply
Abstract:	A goal of the Future Combat System (FCS) is to perform resupply functions under combat conditions without exposing friendly personnel. With the demonstrated success of autonomous vehicles in the Army Research Laboratory's DEMO III Semi-Autonomous Off Road Mobility program this goal is now achievable. Autonomous vehicles become "mules," eliminating the need for resupply by humans. What remains to be shown is how these vehicles can be effectively managed in a combat situation. Applied Systems Intelligence, Inc. (ASI) proposes to apply its proven associate system technology in the design of a real-time, distributed mission control system that will improve the collaborative and distributive decision-making of logistics officers with the goal of reducing their error rate and increasing their efficiency. In the FCS, associate systems can improve the logisticians' situational awareness, manage their display information, provide cognitive decision-aiding, monitor their actions for errors, help evenly distribute their workload, and help them collaborate effectively. ASI's knowledge-based application development experience, proven associate system technology, and strong knowledge engineering processes have vastly reduced the time and expense required to create large specialized applications, resulting in a 10x reduction in time and a 10x reduction in cost when compared to competing approaches on similar projects. The FCS will operate in a very fast-paced, dynamic environment. Associate systems are able to quickly react to changes in the dynamic environment. Decision-aiding reduces the operator's cognitive workload and it also enables operators to work as effectively in normal conditions as they do at more critical times. Additionally, it enables novice operators to work as effectively as experts, even in the most critical conditions.

ARCHITECTURE TECHNOLOGY CORP. 9971 Valley View Road Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(952) 829-5864 Dr. John R. Budenske ARMY 02-018 Selected for Award
Title:	Intelligent Multi-Agent System for Coordinating Multiple FCS Platforms
Abstract:	Battlefields of the future will consist of highly mobile, light forces that are supported by intelligent software, autonomous systems, and robotic platforms. The Future Combat Systems (FCS) concept embraces the use of tele-operated, semi-autonomous, and autonomous systems that will be coordinated together to provide both battle support as well as logistics capabilities. Coordination of multiple FCS platforms will require not only intelligent software for planning and scheduling, but also infrastructure support for autonomously executing tasks and allowing tele-operation when necessary across wireless battlefield networks. This Phase I research addresses the challenging problem of executing resupply, logistics, and other material handling missions upon distributed FCS platforms, and across wired/wireless networks. The approach includes a layered infrastructure of wired/wireless networking services, proxy and distributed processing, agent-based behaviors, remote tele-operative services, and mixed-initiative planning and scheduling technologies that will support the planning, control, coordination, and reconfiguration across multiple FCS platforms. The proposed design aims at maximizing commonality, reuse, and adaptability across platform type and configurations (for both legacy and next generation FCS platforms). Also, the design includes approaches for controlling platforms within tele-operational, semi-autonomous/ supervisory, and fully autonomous modes. Thus, providing the FCS operator with maximum control and flexibility over multiple platforms. This research will support critical DOD Future Combat Systems applications as well as other distributed control applications in autonomous unmanned vehicles, sensor networks, intelligent minefields, 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.

REAL-TIME INNOVATIONS 155A Moffet Park Drive, Suite 111 Sunnyvale, CA 94089
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(408) 734-4200 Dr. Hung Pham ARMY 02-018 Selected for Award
Title:	Robust, Component-Based Vision Software Architecture For Future Combat Systems
Abstract:	While machine vision is a critical enabler for Intelligent Automation, technology innovation has been slowed by custom development and high integration costs. This proposal addresses these issues by advancing a modular, component-based design that allows vision integrators to customize applications from prefabricated, interchangeable parts. The component-based approach provides end-user flexibility, while affording large economies through software reuse. In particular, the project will define a Reference Architecture for component-based vision systems. This definition includes application specifications, as well as functional and syntax requirements for all components and interfaces within the domain. The proof of concept is demonstrated by applying the proposed Reference Architecture design to a visual servo application. Specifically, visual servoing provides visual feedback cues for servo-level control. The primary benefit being that vision is used directly in the control loop, which provides greater automation capabilities and better overall performance. The vision system will be integrated into the Smart Crane Ammunition Transfer System (SCATS) to allow operator control of the pallet loading/unloading process from inside the cabin. The subsequent follow-on effort will demonstrate software reuse by reconfiguring the vision system for different hardware platforms and for different missions. The success of this project will directly impact both developers and end-users of vision systems. From the development perspective, the component and interface specifications will remove the proprietary barriers that many developers erect in an attempt to protect intellectual property. This will encourage greater competition and foster innovation at a greater level of granularity. To the vision integrator, component-based standards will provide the flexibility to choose the best implementation of a subsystem for his/her particular needs. Additionally, componentization will bring down the overall price of vision systems, making it more practical and accessible to a wider range of audiences.

ROBOTICS RESEARCH CORP. 101 Landy Lane Cincinnati, OH 45215
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(859) 525-4064 Mr. Paul H. Eismann ARMY 02-018 Selected for Award
Title:	Adaptable/ Reusable Hardware/Software Architectures and Components for Future Combat System Automated Resupply
Abstract:	The US Army has a mandate to advance the materiel handling, re-supply and logistics automation technology to support Future Combat System (FCS) applications. There is an immediate need to reduce the workload and manpower requirements, and expedite the distribution of ammunition shipments through the in-theater storage areas to combat end users. To support this initiative, this program will develop and implement the enabling component technologies required for highly-autonomous, configured load building. By extending the autonomy of robotic field material handling equipment through the integration of sensor driven, intelligent controls, the efficiency and expedition of forward supply operations will be significantly increased. RRC established in a previous program that through the application of sensor technologies and advanced robotic control, an existing manual material handling system could be modified to perform many tasks autonomously. RRC incorporated new hardware and software controls to the Smart Crane Ammunition Transfer System to demonstrate this capability. The Smart Crane represents an integrated set of core component technologies, which are reusable and adaptable for widespread deployment throughout the military's material handling domain. The Smart Crane uses a shared control approach, whereby an operator has the option to either perform selected tasks via manual teleoperation or invoke several autonomous strategies for crane control operation. The greatest impact to increasing operational efficiency and throughput in material handling operations will be achieved by advancing the autonomy of the system, thereby promoting the operator to a supervisory role. The objectives of Phase I are the specification and development of components that advance the automation of three requisite material handling activities that are the most time consuming and require the highest level of operator involvement; munitions payload acquisition, payload release, and configured load building. This program builds on technology previously developed for the Army by RRC and others and will provide the Army with a suite of reusable and adaptable hardware and software components that can be applied to a broad range of existing field material handling systems. In addition to the material handling applications within the military complex, the development of generic sensor technologies and intelligent controls has significant government and commercial market potential in any application demanding robotic manipulation in unstructured and/or hazardous environments, such as assembly, welding, cutting, stripping, cleaning and coating operations. Target sectors include the environmental remediation industry; civil infrastructure and commercial construction and manufacturing industries; and the shipbuilding and aircraft industries.

INTELLIGENT AUTOMATION, INC. 7519 Standish Place, Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20855
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 294-5200 Dr. Eric van Doorn ARMY 02-019 Selected for Award
Title:	UWB Intelligent Ammunition Monitoring System
Abstract:	This proposal details an innovative ammunition monitoring system based on Ultra Wide Band (UWB) technology. Our approach is to seamlessly integrate sensitive detection of intruders, communications with friendly forces, and tracking of ammunition units. Sophisticated algorithms for the analysis of radio and radar scans show great potential to limit false alarm rates due to small animals, etc. Due to the nature of UWB, the proposed system will be low power, low probability of intercept/detection, and able to both operate in cluttered multi-path environments, and under adverse weather conditions. Preliminary experiments confirm the feasibility of our approach. Apart from the direct military applications, robust monitoring systems will have increased market potential due to recent emphasis on homeland security, and the protection of government institutions, national borders, and critical infrastructure.

FOSTER-MILLER, INC. 350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 684-4379 Mr. Arnis Mangolds ARMY 02-020 Selected for Award
Title:	Smart Munition Area Denial System (SMADS)
Abstract:	The Small Mobile Area Denial Systems (SMADS) is a wheeled/tracked mobility platform that conforms to the NSD-A 6-Shooter anti-personnel land mine. The SMADS is plug compatible with the 6-Shooter and can share power, comms and control, freeing up space and weight for additional sensors for enhanced breaching detection systems. The real advantage of the SMADS is the ability to move the mine system. A number of tactics can be envisioned, including distributed mine distributions, the ability to allow safe passage of friendly forces and the capability to set up ambushes. into place, or out of and to aim close. The agility of the system and its ability to operate in snow and mud, to turn and bring other miniature grenade launchers to bear, and to self level for predictable ballistic trajectories provides a higher kill probability and more efficient operation. SMADS compliments wide area and off route anti-tank systems and can be adapted to carry AT mines. The SMADS format enhances safety, flexibility and introduces the possibility of new tactics as a significant force multiplier for the Objective Force. (P-030006) The proposed SMADS system is a low profile, system that enhances the kill probability and utility of the next generation Non Self Destruct-Alternative antipersonnel land mine. The SMADS approach can be a 6x force multiplier over static systems, and offer greater friendly force protection by remote operation and removal of the mine from the field. The SMADS operates with planned of the shelf systems and does not require the addition of new munition development yet remains highly adaptable to product improvements, particularly in sensor, communications and control.

SCHAPPELL AUTOMATION CORP., INC. 12363 West Belleview Avenue Littleton, CO 80127
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 979-5001 Mr. Roger T. Schappell ARMY 02-021 Selected for Award
Title:	The Metal Storm Crowd Control System (MSCC)
Abstract:	This project will result in the design and demonstration of a totally unique and versatile "Crowd Control System" that essentially inhibits fatalities while still neutralizing the individual(s) due to its ability to compensate for major range variations and target characteristics in terms of crowd density, motion and composition. These attributes are possible due to the re-configurable multi-barrel, Metal Storm system. The Metal Storm concept has been demonstrated and tested both in a human portable and hard mounted configuration. For the first time, the user will have an extremely rapid fire sequential and/or concurrent capability, instantaneously selectable munitions types, and accuracy, as a function of range. Other attributes are reduced weight due to the composite barrels, electric non-mechanical firing, no moving parts, computer control, and the Metal Storm "pod" that can provide varied calibers and types of munitions in one weapon, handheld or vehicle mounted. The proposed concept will provide the required accuracy regardless of range and will require minimum training for its employment. Other benefits are its versatility to accommodate a variety of non-lethal munitions, its ease of target selection, a wide range of dispersion patterns at a high rate of fire, if required. Metal Storm technology provides for a system whereby the following characteristics advantageous to crowd control can be exhibited by a single weapon: - Munitions can be delivered with a KE or Muzzle Velocity (MV) automatically selected using real-time range to target information. - One compact weapon can house various calibers and types of munitions, whether the system is handheld or vehicle mounted. - Munitions can be delivered singularly (one at a time from any particular barrel when required) or over a large area in a single firing instance. Area-effect munitions can be deployed extremely precisely, in a pre-determined pattern and over a pre-determined area. - For the first time, a user can choose from a variety of instantaneously selectable munitions and deliver these munitions at a user defined rate, continuously variable from a single shot to an extremely rapid rate of fire, sequentially and/or concurrently. - The system is modular and can be `lego' pieced together to match the requirements of each individual mission. - The system can be easily integrated into vehicles, robots, and other platforms. - Inherent attributes of the Metal Storm system include electric non-mechanical firing, no moving parts and computer control (a single `chip' can control the entire system). - The system can be built with significantly reduced weight (on top of the already drastically reduced weight compared to a regular gun) by the use of composite barrels (1/5 the weight of steel). - A more general advantage is that the system is very inexpensive when compared to the other options that would be required to achieve the same result. The potential commercial and military applications are significant when considering the number of at-risk police forces, SWAT teams, and National Guard units. Whether the crowd control system is used for riot control, prison uprisings, out of control sports events, border patrol or even suicidal individuals, the less than lethal capability is highly desirable.

BEAMTEK, INC. 3149 S. Chrysler Ave., Tucson, AZ 85713
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(520) 790-0200 Dr. Philip Lam ARMY 02-022 Selected for Award
Title:	Low Cost Molded Optics for Small Caliber Projectiles
Abstract:	This SBIR Phase I project proposes to develop a manufacturing method of molded glass optical ogive for the Light Fighter Lethality Projectile, a small caliber-maneuvering projectile. Low cost chalcogenide glasses will be used, which exhibit an excellent transmission in the 7 to 14 mm wavelength region and suitable thermal and mechanical properties for direct molding lens fabrication. Molded optics provides the required target transmission characteristics and the manufacturing cost savings not possible with conventional grinding process. Lens with diffractive structure will be employed to compensate the chromatic aberration of chalcogenide glasses. Support structure of the optical components will be designed based upon the tolerance analysis of installing and aligning of the optical system. In Phase I program a chalcogenide glass meniscus lens will be molded. The surface quality and the size of the lens will be characterized in order to correlate the relationship between the resulted lens quality and the molding parameters. In Phase II we will also develop new materials, which exhibit superior performance to currently available materials, to improve their mechanical properties and resistance to thermal-shock. This low cost, molded optic infrared lens is applicable to both military and non-military optical systems. This low-cost manufacturing method can dramatically reduce the cost of high quality infrared lenses, which are needed for military and civil infrared imaging systems.

CDM OPTICS, INC. 4001 Discovery Drive, Suite 2110 Boulder, CO 80303
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 449-5593 Dr. Alan E. Baron ARMY 02-022 Selected for Award
Title:	Low Cost Molded Optics for Small Caliber Projectiles
Abstract:	CDM Optics proposes to develop a low-cost IR imaging system for use in high lethality Fire and Forget projectiles. The system is intended for incorporation into the Autonomous Seeker Projectile of the Army's Light Fighter Lethality STO under the Joint Service Small Arms Program. CDM Optics will design a low-cost optical system using two innovative technologies, Wavefront Coded optics and a moldable IR optical material. Using these innovations, the proposed design consists of single moldable lens that not only outperforms conventional multi-lens systems, but will be cheaper to manufacture and assemble, and weigh considerably less than conventional optics. This translates to increased lethality and greater deployability across IR seeker type weapons platforms. In Phase I, a moldable single lens will be designed specifically for a proprietary molding process. Specifications for the optical system, support structure and molding plan will be delivered. The Phase I Option effort will fabricate a test lens and design a test fixture. In Phase II, CDM Optics will develop prototype IR seeker systems complete with signal processing for Wavefront Coding, target acquisition and tracking. CDM Optics will partner with a leading IR optics producer to develop molded lens components in Phase II. The Phase I/II effort will speed integration of Wavefront Coding technology into two large market segments, miniature digital cameras and machine vision/inspection applications. Miniature digital cameras have been integrated into a variety of consumer products including automobiles, laptop and desktop computers, PDAs, cell phones, toys, security and video cameras and digital still cameras. This extremely price sensitive market can incorporate Wavefront Coding to reduce costs while maintaining imaging performance. Machine vision systems are used for material inspection, barcode and text imaging, automated assembly, product metrology and quality control. Wavefront Coding benefits these applications by increasing depth of field without reducing resolution or requiring increased illumination.

21ST CENTURY TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 11675 Jollyville Road, Suite 300 Austin, TX 78759
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(512) 342-0010 Dr. Sherry Marcus ARMY 02-023 Selected for Award
Title:	Future Theater Distribution System (FTDS)
Abstract:	The Future Combat System is drawing from the Operation and Organization Plan and Operational Requirements Document a concept of having a 72 combat pulse, with rotation of the combat elements back to the MSS for resupply and rest before rotating back into another 72 pulse. During the combat pulse, there would three periods of intense activity, separated by lulls. These lulls, called maintenance pulses, allow repair/replace of minor Line Replenishment Units by crews of combat repair teams and other minor replenishment at the SRS. These pulses are intense, and the lulls are short. Therefore, one needs to be able to bring every platform back up to full stock and readiness status in a brief period. Everything must be exactly prestaged and coordinated. In order to accomplish this, all the distribution elements supporting the SRS and MSS must be integrated into that fluid and dynamic process. 21st Century Technologies Inc. and Cougaar Software, Inc. will demonstrate real-time consumption feeds (Class V for Phase I) for flow back from the forward edge maneuver units to the SRS, MSS and distribution system allowing the dynamic generation of a very tight plan for precision resupply during the SRS maintenance pulse and MSS resupply periods. This will directly support the TACOM Smart Distribution Program and will provide the basis of a joint collaboration between TACOM and the Future Combat Systems program.

CHI SYSTEMS, INC. Gwynedd Office Park, 716 N Bethlehem Pike, Ste 300 Lower Gwynedd, PA 19002
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 618-1060 Mr. Ken Graves ARMY 02-023 Selected for Award
Title:	Intermediate Staging Base Decision Aid
Abstract:	As Objective Force systems such as Future Combat System (FCS) and Objective Force Warrior (OFW) are fielded, the battlespace will feature increased lethality, reduced numbers of combat systems, reduced decision making cycles, and a shift from traditional logistics planning/ execution to logistics distribution closely paralleling the Just-In-Time (JIT) logistics used in the commercial workplace. High expenditures of precision munitions in the Objective Force environment, coupled with relatively low inventories of the munitions will make FCS logistics a critical component of mission success. The ISB decision aid will be an answer to the problem of gaining and maintaining the logistics flexibility required for the Objective Force. It will provide top to bottom logistics visibility for the Objective Force logistics structure, alerting and prediction of logistics problems, planning/replanning for logistics nodes and routes, and interact with other logistics and operations/planning systems for full mission integration of logistics. ISB-DA is designed to dramatically increase throughput at all logistics nodes by decreasing uncertainties associated with logistics decision making due to incomplete information. ISB-DA will be designed as a component which can fit easily into the ARDEC decision aiding reference architecture, and which will be compliant with the Joint Technical Architecture-Army (JTAA). ISB-DA (Intermediate Staging Base Decision Aid) is an answer to the problem of limited visibility of logistics assets at all levels of the force structure. Complete implementation of ISB-DA during Phase I and II of the proposed effort will take place within the context of the ARDEC Combat Decision Aiding System (CDAS) 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 Objective Force operations. The decision aid component can also be applied to civilian domains such as transportation, logistics management, and emergency management.

INFORMATION IN PLACE, INC. 501 North Morton Street, Suite 206 Bloomington, IN 47404
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(812) 856-4202 Mr. Eugene H. Kirkley, Jr. ARMY 02-024 Awarded: 06JAN03
Title:	Embedded Training for Objective Force Warrior
Abstract:	This proposal outlines a comprehensive plan to research, develop and test embedded training, performance measurement, and review methodologies for use in training proficient operation and tactical use of Objective Force Warrior (OFW) soldier equipment. The resulting instructional and methodology assessment systems will use these methodologies to help instructional designers, trainers and soldiers design training for use in mixed reality (virtual and augmented) training environments. The proposing organization, Information in Place, Inc. is uniquely qualified to perform this project because of its strengths in instructional design, mixed reality software development, human factors engineering, and Army subject matter expertise. The proposal describes the underlying technical infrastructure for supporting the deployment of embedded training in a mixed reality environment, a system known as MARCETE: Mobile Augmented Reality Contextual Embedded Training and EPSS (Electronic Performance Support System). This system will be used as the platform for prototyping and testing the instructional development methodology and resulting training scenarios in simulated MOUT sites using virtual reality and in a real MOUT environment using augmented reality in Phase 2. The resulting technology will enable the development of powerful new embedded training methodologies for use with OFW. This will help ensure the US Army maintains training superiority as it fields its next generation soldier system. These methodologies should empower individual soldiers and unit trainers to have more control over their training while maintaining high standards. This will result in enhanced situational understanding, reduced training costs, and better trained personnel. We anticipate dual use applications across other defense markets as well as commercial sectors including: Defense ; Emergency, public safety, and security services; Marine/boating; Mobile medical imaging; Field equipment maintenance; Field training/on-site/just-in-time/just-in-place training situations; Modeling and simulation; Computer-assisted design and engineering (CAD/CAE); and Computer gaming

MICRO ANALYSIS & DESIGN, INC. 4949 Pearl East Circle, Suite 300 Boulder, CO 80301
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(407) 482-6404 Mr. Tim Bowden ARMY 02-025 Selected for Award
Title:	Identifying and Assessing Interaction Knowledges, Skills, and Aptitudes for Objective Force Soldiers
Abstract:	The focus of this Phase I SBIR effort will be twofold. First, we will use primarily existing resources (literature review and applied research) to identify the interaction/interpersonal knowledge, skills, and aptitudes (KSAs) required by the Army's Objective Force soldiers. This work will be aimed at specifying the KSAs that are determinants of the critical OFS performance components that have been identified in previous ARI work (NCO21, Select21). Having identified the target KSAs, the next step will be to formulate a plan for their assessment. This assessment plan will include a combination of relatively traditional measurement methods, some that may be adapted for computer administration, and more experimental techniques that take more extensive advantage of advances in computer technology. Key to the success of this effort will be the ability to create psychometrically sound assessment tools that are easy to use and meet the needs of the intended application(s) in the U.S. Army. The assessment package will be designed to support selection of soldiers (e.g., for MOS requiring particularly high levels of these KSAs), but will also be useful as a diagnostic tool for identifying KSAs that may require remedial training. A comprehensive assessment battery covering interpersonal KSAs could be applied to a wide variety of military and industrial settings. The proposed tool will measure an individual's ability to interact effectively with team members, customers, and colleagues in a wide variety of settings. The tool will provide both the ability to assess candidates on a wide variety of KSAs that are required for successful interpersonal interactions and the capability of identifying areas for remediation. The tool will be useful in military teams as well as non-military settings such customer service oriented occupations (e.g. call centers).

ANACAPA SCIENCES, INC. 301 East Carrillo Street 2FL Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(805) 966-6157 Dr. Alan Spiker ARMY 02-026 Awarded: 06JAN03
Title:	Development of a Shared Mental Model Management Tool
Abstract:	This SBIR will establish the conceptual foundation for and functional requirements of a computer-based tool to facilitate management of shared mental models (SMMs) within an Army command & control team. A mental model is an internal representation of a complex situation. Research has shown that teams having a greater overlap in their respective mental models perform better, particularly under high workload. Unfortunately, the Army's hierarchical order/report system is not always conducive to this sharing. There are principles, however, from fields such as organizational learning, negotiation, argumentation, and transactive memory that describe techniques for information sharing, reflection, inquiry, and other skill areas. Our tool will provide scenario-based instruction in these techniques, and will include an advanced cognitive methodology for measuring SMM overlap. In Phase II, we will develop hypertext application software that will operate the scenarios, display SMM principles, and measure MM overlap. A formal evaluation of user acceptance and tool effectiveness will be conducted. The techniques, skills, and principles contained in the tool can be made applicable beyond the Army setting via development of more generic scenarios requiring collaborative planning, distributed decision-making, and time-constrained problem solving. The tool will be marketed as a business strategy game or team training method. We anticipate a number of benefits from the eventual development of a shared mental model management (SM3) tool. Improved sharing should positively impact a variety of team processes, including coordination, communication, and situation awareness. This, in turn, should enhance team effectiveness, as reflected in better plans (i.e., more robust, flexible, detailed plans), better decisions (i.e., more choices considered, more timely), and greater success in solving problems. A more successful organization should result, as indicated by greater mission success, higher team morale, and increased team effectiveness. As the Army moves toward its Objective Force, with a faster tempo and greater distributed decision making, access to a SM3 tool should help ensure that commanders can successfully share their vision and intent with their staff and subordinate commanders. The SM3 tool can be made commercially viable by revising its scenarios into non-tactical planning, decision-making, and problem-solving exercises. Regardless of the scenarios used, the underlying principles involving negotiation, discussion, reflection, inquiry and the like will still apply. The tool can be readily transformed into a business strategy game by awarding points to the team achieving the highest overlap in their MMs. As well, the SM3 tool can be distributed as a team training aid, thereby entering the lucrative government/industry training market (in excess of $25B annually).

APTIMA, INC. 12 Gill Street, Suite 1400 Woburn, MA 01801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(202) 842-1548 Dr. Jared Freeman ARMY 02-027 Awarded: 06JAN03
Title:	Training Rapid Decision-Making Processes Required by the Dismounted Objective Force Leader
Abstract:	Objective Force Warriors will use new technologies that provide them with information in unprecedented volume. To use these assets well, leaders of small units will need strong problem-solving and decision-making skills. Current Army training may address some of these skills, but not all. The challenge is to discern what training is needed to prepare Objective Force leaders, to reuse relevant training, and design and validate new training. To meet this challenge, we propose an innovative, hybrid method for analyzing future decision requirements, allowing us to "look ahead' into the electronic battlefield. In addition, we will design a rapidly reconfigurable testbed that can be used to test hypotheses concerning decision requirements, deliver training, and evaluate it. This solution positions ARI to conduct rigorous experimental research to develop and refine training as the technologies and missions of the Objective Force evolve. When completed (Phases I and II), the proposed research will produce a method of analyzing decision requirements for future technology environments, an analysis of Army training with respect to those requirements, new training content that addresses new (future) decision requirements, and a testbed that enables the research community to continuously test hypotheses concerning future decision requirements, and allows the training community to deliver and evaluate training in decision skills. The Phase I effort demonstrates the feasibility of this ambitious effort by analyzing decision requirements for warriors using one current technology suite and one future technology suite in a single scenario. It defines initial training requirements and maps these to extant Army training. It produces samples of training content for OFW soldiers, and designs for a testbed on which to validate decision requirements, and deliver and evaluate training. Finally, it develops designs for experimental validation. Option tasks include an initial, face validity test of these products and a revision of the testbed design.

KLEIN ASSOC., INC. 1750 Commerce Center Blvd. North Fairborn, OH 45324
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 873-8166 Dr. Gary Klein ARMY 02-027 Awarded: 06JAN03
Title:	MINDPRINT: Defining the cognitive requirements for small unit leader training in the context of Objective Force Warrior
Abstract:	The Army, along with many other organizations, is investing heavily in advanced technology, including information technology, expecting to revolutionize operations. The MINDPRINT program is designed as a front-end analysis tool to identify the cognitive training requirements for operating the technology, and, even more important, for operating "with" the technology. This proposal is to demonstrate and pilot test the core components of the MINDPRINT program: a method for documenting the impact of information technology on decision strategy, a model and a template for estimating the cognitive requirements that emerge upon the introduction of advanced technology, and a platform for achieving computer-based training keyed to lessons learned from the field. The MINDPRINT program will be developed in conjunction with Objective Force Warrior (OFW). In this way, the MINDPRINT components will be tailored to the specific needs of OFW. Further, the MINDPRINT program will be strengthened by directing it at the critical challenges of one of the most ambitious technology-based re-engineering efforts currently being pursued. The MINDPRINT program will provide a technology for cognitive training in settings such as the Army, the DoD, or commercial aviation, where advanced technology, including information technology, is being introduced. The program can be the difference between effective implementation and either a failed or an ineffective implementation of the technology.

MICRO ANALYSIS & DESIGN, INC. 4949 Pearl East Circle, Suite 300 Boulder, CO 80301
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 442-6947 Mr. Rick Archer ARMY 02-027 Selected for Award
Title:	Training Rapid Decision-Making Processes Required by the Dismounted Objective Force Leader
Abstract:	The Army is transforming to an objective force. This transformation will be revolutionary. More than a change of equipment, Objective Force represents an overarching change in organization and doctrine with associated impacts on leadership development, logistics concepts, selection and training. Objective Force Warrior (OFW) is one component of the Objective Force that encompasses a system of equipment and capabilities for the individual warfighter. OFW is scheduled for fielding in 2008 and is composed of an integrated electronic capability suite to help the soldier see first, understand first, and act decisively. The transition to the Objective Force will place new training demands on the warfighter as he learns to integrate information from the conventional and electronic battlefield. This proposal describes an opportunity to train the analytical skills the OFW will need to make sense of the variety of information he will receive electronically together with the recognitional skills he'll need to use his electronic systems effectively. We describe below how this training can take place independently of "knobology" that will necessarily follow when the OFW systems are fielded, and we discuss how this training will reflect a more general method for identifying the particular analytical skills needed to synthesize information. A methodology to develop training for new electronic and conventional equipment and systems as the equipment and systems are themselves under development would provide a means for spiral development. Successfully applying this concept will result in the training and the system development to influence each other. This will allow the Army to be ready to respond to modern threats around the world on short notice.

FEDERAL MANAGEMENT PARTNERS, INC. 1500 North Beauregard Street, Suite 320 Alexandria, VA 22311
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 671-6600 Ms. Tara Carpenter ARMY 02-028 Selected for Award
Title:	Defining and Developing Interpersonal Performance for Objective Force Soldiers
Abstract:	With the end of the Cold War, the U.S. Army began facing the challenge of defending the United States in a radically altered world. This new world requires soldiers to possess an expanded skill set including the ability to manage and leverage social relationships, use personal and institutional influence in productive ways, and form cooperative relationships that maximize benefits for the Army and United States. Clearly, social skills are important for the Army's success. Helping soldiers develop the social skills necessary for successful job performance represents a unique challenge for the Army. Effective social skill assessment and training procedures largely do not exist in the Army. When a soldier is deficient in social skills, no tools exist to identify the specific interpersonal skills in which a soldier is deficient, to assess the level of deficiency, to provide targeted training, or to assess the success of training and the proficiency of soldiers trained in the use of social skills. Phase I will develop an interpersonal performance assessment system by identifying those aspects of interpersonal performance which are necessary for successful performance for a target MOS, developing a system and standards for assessing interpersonal performance, and evaluating the interpersonal assessment system. The ability to interact effectively with others and use one's social environment to meet organizational goals is important for almost all jobs. The procedures developed in this SBIR for assessing and training interpersonal performance will be widely applicable across the military, as well as within other public and private sector organizations.

JOB PERFORMANCE SYSTEMS, INC. 1240 N. Pitt St,, Suite 100 Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 799-3652 Dr. Douglas Rosenthal ARMY 02-029 Selected for Award
Title:	Cost-Effective, Realistic Measures of Job Performance
Abstract:	The Army is seeking effective and affordable tests of MOS performance. To the extent possible, the Army would like to assess performance in a manner that realistically captures the complexities and demands incumbents face in doing their jobs. JPS proposes to create a methodology linking MOS clusters to a set of best bet test types. The methodology will produce a decision model that identifies which test type is most appropriate from among options such as high and medium fidelity simulations, simulated walk throughs, and proceduralized multiple choice tests. Once a test type is determined, then the methodology specifies a two stage job analysis process to support test design and development. The methodology assumes computer administration of all tests and internet data transfer. The methodology also includes a process improvement system to track, evaluate, and make continual improvements in achieving affordability and high realism goals. The successful development and implementation of this methodology will enable the Army to objectively assess job performance of personnel working in upwards of 200 MOS. It will also make high quality, objective performance tests more affordable for commercial firms with jobs similar to those in the Army.

BEVAN INDUSTRIES 168 Peachtree Circle Atlanta, GA 30309
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(404) 872-5381 Dr. Thomas Bevan ARMY 02-030 Selected for Award
Title:	Developing New Predictors of Stress Resilience for the Objective Force
Abstract:	This proposal advances a model that provides a stress resilience index (SRI) that will be useful for personnel selection, proficiency in stress resilience training, and assessment and construction of training courses for stress resilience. The model will be based on objective predictive measures that will predict the impact of stress on performance in combat-related tasks. Examples of such predictors might include physiological measurements such as cardiovascular recovery rate, pupil dilation or evoked potentials to stressful stimuli, or psychological predictors such as paper-and-pencil scales for personality variables or knowledge of stress reduction techniques. Quantification of the effects of these predictive measures on performance will be accomplished by conducting experimentation in conjunction with stressful military training exercises that will involve pre-exercise and post-exercise measurement of military significant tasks such as weapons proficiency. The proposed model treats psychological stress and physical stress as contributors to the negative physiological consequences of stressful battlefield events and military life. These negative physiological consequences cause degraded performance until the body, through the normal physiological processes of homeostasis, returns to physiological balance and health. The time to recover depends on the severity and duration of the insult. Resilience to stress refers to the degree to which an individual can resist the negative consequences of stressful events through psychological and physical readiness, and therefore minimize the physiological insult and the time to recovery. Resilience to physical and psychological stress should also reduce long-term, delayed effects wherein recall of stressful events causes negative physiological consequences because the events will be recalled as less stressful. The form of the quantified model will be a metric, or equation, that relates stress resilience index (SRI) to predictive measurements. Predictive measurements will have theoretical validity because they will be identified in Phase I from existing theoretical constructs and measurements in the literature that have been advanced as constructs for stress resilience. In Phase I, the model will be constructed which identifies potential predictive measurements and representative military tasks. A Phase I Option is proposed to develop paper-and-pencil instruments in preparation for Phase II. Experimentation will be performed in Phase II to correlate predictive measurements with changes in performance on representative military tasks due to simulated military stress in training exercises. Weights will be assigned to each measurement based on Phase II experimentation through multiple regression techniques. The metric equation will add up each of the selected weighted measurements to provide a stress resilience indicator. The resulting model will operationalize a battery of tests that will provide the predictive measurements. The principal investigator, Dr. Thomas Bevan has particular expertise to conduct the proposed research and development. Dr. Bevan received training in physiological psychology at Princeton University and served in the US Army as a Physiologist and Psychologist. He has particular expertise in development of performance metrics, having contributed to the development of image quality equations that relate military image intepreter performance to human and system variables. Dr. Bevan has developed expertise with a wide range of psychological and physiological measurement techniques. More recently, Dr. Bevan has studied civilian first responders to identify requirements for development of technology and training through a center he developed at the Georgia Institute of Technology and is thus in position to apply models of military stress resilience to first responders (e.g. firemen, police, emergency managers). As part of this center, Dr. Bevan is developing physiological measurement instrumentation for use by the US Marine Corps, specifically in areas contaminated by chemical, biological, nuclear, radiological releases. Dr. Bevan has successfully managed research and development programs for DARPA, USAF and the US Marine Corps. The research and development activities proposed provide a unique opportunity to develop a model that can be applied to stressful job functions in both military and civilian life. It can be used to assess and improve military readiness, reduce negative consequences from military operations and provide military leadership with clear scientific information on how to prepare military personnel for stresses of the battlefield and military life. In the civilian world, the model developed for military use, can be adapted to deal with stressful job functions. The model also has implications for the general population as it deals with the psychological stress of terrorism. The research and development activities proposed provide a unique opportunity to develop a model that can be applied to stressful job functions in both military and civilian life. It can be used to assess and improve military readiness, reduce negative consequences from military operations and provide military leadership with clear scientific information on how to prepare military personnel for stresses of the battlefield and military life. In the civilian world, the model developed for military use, can be adapted to deal with stressful job functions. The model also has implications for the general population as it deals with the psychological stress of terrorism. The commercial application of the model proposed is to develop a package of hardware and software to implement a test battery that can be run on a personal computer in order to predict stress resilience. Such a package might include physiological and psychological measurements, depending on the outcome of the proposed research and development effort.

21ST CENTURY TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 11675 Jollyville Road, Suite 300 Austin, TX 78759
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(512) 342-0010 Dr. Sherry Marcus ARMY 02-031 Selected for Award
Title:	Graph Matching Intrusion Detection for the Insider Threat
Abstract:	We propose the Graph Matching Intrusion Detection (GMID) system, a novel approach to detecting insider and coordinated insider-outsider threats based on our algorithms for solving the subgraph isomorphism (graph matching) problem. GMID performs data fusion on information from dense sensor networks inside and outside the secured system to build a graph representation of network topology, user activity, and network state. Threat patterns are represented as graphs, and our graph matching algorithms quickly identify suspicious activity within the sensed network state. The GMID approach provides new capabilities for "putting all the pieces together" to detect distributed and coordinated attacks perpetrated by insiders and/or outsiders - a single user need not act out the entire threat pattern for it to be detected. False alarms are avoided because threats are expressed in a rich representation that describes multiple coordinated actions, not just simple packet filters. Previously unseen threat variations can be detected by our capability for inexact matching. The GMID approach provides new capabilities and does not suffer the limitations of current graph-based intrusion detection systems. The research described in this proposal will yield a novel and more powerful approach to the intrusion detection (ID) problem. It will exceed current techniques' abilities in the detection of insider and insider-outsider threats by using dense sensor networks within the border of the secured system, and because of the unique capabilities of the GMID approach. Sensors within the secured system will collect the pieces of evidence left by insider attacks. The GMID approach will put these pieces together to detect the entire threat picture and alert the sysadmin. GMID surpasses the data fusion and pattern matching capabilities of current commercial and research ID systems. In addition, it does not suffer from the limitations of other graph based ID systems under research. The result will be an ID system that is much more capable of detecting insider attacks and generates fewer false alarms. These same algorithms can potentially be applied to predicting securities fraud and identifying product design defaults from individual failure reports.

ADVANCED SCIENCE & NOVEL TECHNOLOGY 28119 Ridgefern Court Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 377-6029 Dr. Alexander Tartakovsky ARMY 02-031 Selected for Award
Title:	An Efficient Distributed Scalable Intrusion Detection System for Rapid Detection of Insider Attacks
Abstract:	The critical criteria for intrusion detection systems (IDS) are the speed of detection, the false alarm rate, and the number of types of attacks that can be detected. Unlike external attacks, insider attacks are not well understood today. Advanced Science and Novel Technology (ADSANTEC) proposes key technological advancements in the area of insider IDS based on its revolutionary adaptive change-point detection algorithms with the following major benefits: (1) Efficient local IDS algorithms for rapid detection of insider attacks (2) Multi-sensor distributed detection technology with multi-level false alarm filtering (3) Fusion center for data and decisions identifying insider attack trends and patterns During Phase I, ADSANTEC will identify most informative observables, demonstrate the flexibility of the approach, and evaluate the advantages of our detection system compared to existing ones. As an illustration, we will apply this methodology for detection of unauthorized access and misuse of resources. Existing solutions for detection of these intrusions do not employ statistical methods and suffer from uncontrollable false alarm rates and scalability problems in large distributed networks. The ADSANTEC's approach addresses both of these crucial issues. Active probing and service quality monitoring when combined with the ADSANTEC's change-point detection methods will allow us to achieve two important improvements as compared to the existing IDS: an increase of the probability of detection of unknown, stealthy attacks and a decrease of the false alarm rate. We also anticipate that the distributed, scalable IDS configuration will allow us to improve the overall performance of the system in terms of detection capabilities and lowering false detections. Phase I architectural and algorithmic design along with the results of preliminary simulations will constitute a basis for the development, training, and testing in Phase II where the proposed detection methods will be extensively trained and experimentally tested in the available testbeds. The successful completion of this program will result in commercialization of the most advanced algorithm for rapid detection and mitigation of insider attacks in military, homeland defense and industrial networks.

WISE WEB SOFTWARE 7905 Rodger Rd Elkins Park, PA 19027
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(215) 635-0705 Dr. David Goldstein ARMY 02-031 Selected for Award
Title:	Security and Integrity Learning Expert System
Abstract:	Military information systems are force multipliers; systems reliability is more critical than ever. Wise Web softWare proposed to leverage its expertise in network security, intrusion detection, fraud detection, expert systems, data mining, and adaptive interfaces for the Security and Integrity Learning Expert System (SILES) to monitor and analyze threats to systems. SILES will not only consider aspects of the problem discussed in the topic, such as target and attacker profiling, system-wide security data fusion, feature extraction/classification, data mining, and run-time system monitoring of users/systems, but also the following critical items. 1. A probability-based engine to easily and intuitive describe the significance of threats that affect information systems. 2. A semantic analysis tool to automatically categorize documents for appropriate dissemination. SILES will categorize, intercept, deceive, and alert administrators on inappropriate attempts to access sensitive materials. 3. An intuitive interface personalized to individual users for specifying knowledge about equipment, security software, operating systems, applications, etc. 4. An effective interface for readily interpreting security threat data. Threats must be readily prioritized, understood and (sometimes automatically) compensated to be more useful. The final objective (i.e., Phase II prototype) will be a collection of agents for monitoring the appropriate usage of resources (including specific types of documents) on networks. SILES will also include interfaces, controlling software, and software for discovering / adding new elements to agent's knowledge. SILES will add several crucial capabilities that dramatically improve upon the state-of-the-art in fraud detection, employee monitoring, and intrusion detection systems. Wise Web softWare develops and sells software tools, applications and training in web-based artificial intelligence solutions. Our software has already been leveraged under the Army ACT II program and is being sold both in the U.S. and abroad. The most immediate marketplace is, obviously, with the topic's program office (e.g., High Performance Computing Modernization) through invitations of the topic authors to the office. Other obvious government customers include Army CECOM, USAF Information Technology Branch, the Office of Naval Research, and Defense Information Systems Agency - for the technology - and security personnel for the system itself. Significant civilian government and private sector customers also exist. Our marketing personnel will use our contacts in the health care industry to penetrate these markets; hospitals are rapidly transitioning to wireless networks, even at costs of tens of millions of dollars per facility, and are legally obligated to privacy concerns (through HIPAA). Another market that we are currently assessing is the employee monitoring domain. We are also assessing the value of marketing our tool in the Knowledge Management and Categorization software domains.

REACTIVE NANOTECHNOLOGIES, INC. 2400 Boston St., Suite 300 Baltimore, MD 21224
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(410) 516-4071 Dr. Timothy P. Weihs ARMY 02-032 Selected for Award
Title:	Reactive Multilayer Joining of SiC and Ti
Abstract:	This SBIR Phase I project introduces a new technology for joining components exhibiting large mismatch in coefficients of thermal expansion. The proposed technology is a reactive joining process that uses reactive multilayer foils as local heat sources for melting brazes or solders. The foils are a new class of nano-engineered materials, in which self-propagating exothermic reactions can be ignited at room temperature with a spark. By inserting a multilayer foil between two braze (or solder) layers and two components, heat generated by the reaction in the foil melts the braze and consequently bonds the components. This new method of joining eliminates the need for a furnace and, with very localized heating, avoids thermal damage to the components. The reactive bonding process is more rapid than competing technologies, and results in strong and cost-effective joints. Phase I effort will: (1) establish the feasibility and effectiveness of this joining method to produce large-area, 4 in. x 4 in., joints between plates of Ti-6-4 and SiC, (2) develop and validate a design model for predicting heat transport and braze melting during the reactive joining process, and (3) demonstrate that the strength of the resulting joints are two times higher than best epoxy joints. Successful development of reactive multilayer joining, and its adaptation to the joining of SiC and Ti-6-4 will not only enhance the performance of advanced ceramics in armor applications, but it will also open new opportunities for industrial joining, mounting and assembly applications.

TECHNOLOGY INTERNATIONAL, INC. 2103 River Falls Drive Kingwood, TX 77339
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(281) 359-8520 Mr. Robert P. Radtke ARMY 02-032 Selected for Award
Title:	Joining Metals and Ceramics that Exhibit a Large Mismatch in Coefficient of Thermal Expansion
Abstract:	This proposal for the U.S. Army addresses the challenges of brazing dissimilar materials, initially silicon carbide to titanium alloy Ti-6A1-4V, while achieving the minimum attachment shear strength of 2x (76MPa, 11,000psi) that of epoxy glues. Technology International, Inc. (TII) recently developed novel microwave and combustion synthesis methods for brazing polycrystalline diamond and tungsten carbide for commercial abrasive applications. These brazing techniques were developed by TII, Colorado School of Mines (CSM), and NASA JPL, with financial support from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Institute, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), and the Gas Technology Institute (GTI). The joining of dissimilar material pairs for lightweight armor usage, with coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) ratios similar to that of diamond and tungsten carbide, can be applied with confidence using similar scientific methods and brazing techniques. TII has demonstrated the ability to control residual thermal stress while achieving attachment shear strength in excess of 345 MPa (50,000 psi). TII respectfully submits a proposal for a six-month Phase I and four-month Phase I Option project as follows: Task 1 - Materials and Processing Task 2 - Microwave Brazing Task 3 - Visual, Ultrasonic, Impact and Shear Testing Task 4 - Reports and Presentations 1.2. Anticipated Benefits and Potential Commercial Applications High-strength bonding of dissimilar materials, particularly with high-performance ceramics to low and high-density metals, has commercial appeal and application in many industries. Obviously, the primary purpose of this proposal is to increase protection of U.S. Army military hardware and personnel. Broader applications are numerous, including power turbines, heat exchangers, nozzles, commercial aircraft, automobiles, mining, and earth moving equipment, metal refining, oil refining, chemical processing facilities, petroleum drilling and production, medical devices, and abrasives. Some of these private sector applications will require higher temperature metal substrates, such as steel, molybdenum and tungsten carbide, a modest extension of the scope of this proposal. Once technically successful, the economics for the market place must be addressed. For military hardware, superior ballistic performance is paramount. The tactical importance of superior lightweight armor is under the national security umbrella and outweighs industrial commercial considerations. For military purposes, field fabrication and servicing units are well within expectations. Nevertheless, the proposed development of equipment and processes to join dissimilar materials for lightweight armor, does not entail huge capital investment or unwieldy production components. Power requirements for this technology are less than 5 KW and the system can be designed to become modular for deployment. For private-sector applications, new product cycles and scalability are consistent with the natural flow of microwave brazing process development. Interest in licensing the process and equipment for diamond- abrasive applications has already been expressed. The initial size of the commercial market for an advanced method for dissimilar brazing would be 50 - 100 millions of dollars. Capital investment would be substantial in meeting what is perceived as accelerating double-digit demand and would most likely be accomplished employing some or all of the following: cash flow from operations, interim financing, venture capital, partnerships, and licensing arrangements. Peripheral growth in the manufacture and servicing of processing equipment would follow. Furthermore, no hazardous by-products are created, exploitation of resources is low, and other environmental impacts are negligible or non-existent. Because of TII's prior work and experience in this area, the likelihood for new discovery during a Phase I project is high and success likely. After consulting with Resource Marketing International, Inc., a Houston market research company, the conservatively estimated initial market components are shown below. For new, practical, cost effective technology where demand already exists, annual revenue growth rates are typically 20 - 30%. Estimated Annual World-wide Market Potential Commercial Aircraft & Stationary Power Turbines $15,000,000 Nozzles, valves, abrasives, slurries handling $10,000,000 Oilfield and mining drilling and downhole tools $ 5,000,000 Tar Sand and Oil Shell Production (synthetic oils) $ 2,000,000 Earth moving and ore handling $1 0,000,000 Automobiles, brakes, wear surfaces $ 1,000,000 Heat treating, heat exchangers $ 2,000,000 Wear components in automated processes $ 5,000,000 Military applications $50,000,000

ARMORWORKS, INC. 7306 S. Harl Avenue Tempe, AZ 85283
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(480) 517-1150 Dr. Ken An-Lou ARMY 02-033 Selected for Award
Title:	Low-Cost, Mine-Blast-Resistant Crew Seat for Interim Armored Vehicle (IAV) and Future Combat System (FCS) Ground Vehicles of the Objective Force
Abstract:	The objective of this Phase I proposal is to demonstrate specific mine-blast-resistant crew seat design concepts that can attenuate or absorb the high G loading, with lowest weight and cost possible. A computer simulation will be presented to identify the required shock absorber characteristics. Various shock absorber devices will be evaluated and selected for mine-blast-resistant crew seat applications. Two mine-blast-resistant crew seat design concepts using a generic floor-mounted vehicle seat will be demonstrated along with a system weight and cost budgets. Mine blast shock absorber system applicable to all military and civilian vehicles exposed to landmine threats. Improved vehicle protection technologies and improved analysis and design tools for vehicle acceleration events such as mine blasts. Lightweight and low-cost shock absorber devices for military and civilian vehicle industries.

FOSTER-MILLER, INC. 350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 684-4376 Mr. Kash Kasturi ARMY 02-033 Selected for Award
Title:	Mine Blast Resistant Energy Absorbing Crew Seat for Ground Armored Vehicles
Abstract:	An innovative approach for tank seats for Interim Army Vehicle (IAV) and Future Combat System (FCS) Ground Vehicles is proposed. The innovation consists of using metal foam that can be easily retrofitted to existing and future army vehicles. Two seat designs for a driver's seat and a crew seat are proposed. The goal is to reduce occupant injuries through reduction in vertical dynamic loads at the seat level of 20 g's during a duration of no more than 7 ms due to a blast loading condition of 1840 g's over 0.32 ms on the seat floor. Using advanced finite element modeling of the seat/occupant system under crash impulse loads, the seat design will be optimized and preliminary designs will be developed for improved occupant safety. Two different designs will be released to Army. (P-020578) The energy absorbing elements of the proposed seat design has the potential for widespread use in both government and commercial vehicles. While the Army will be the immediate beneficiary of this work, manufacturers of commercial vehicles such as HUMVEE's can incorporate the energy absorbing elements into their seat design.

ARETE ASSOC. P.O. Box 6024 Sherman Oaks, CA 91413
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 213-9048 Mr. David M. Kane ARMY 02-034 Selected for Award
Title:	MEMS Beam Steering (MBS) Reconnaissance, Surveillance, and Target Acquisition (RSTA) Module for a Small Robotic Platform
Abstract:	The objective of this program is to develop a novel Reconnaissance, Surveillance and Target Acquisition (RSTA) architecture & design approach that leverages the MEMS Beam Steering (MBS) sensor miniaturization technology currently being developed by Aret� Associates. The MEMS Beam Steering (MBS) architecture was initially developed as a solution for addressing the 2p sr 3D imaging requirement for MK 80 class bomb in our ongoing Streak Tube Imaging LIDAR Aim Point Selection (STILAPS) program. The MBS RSTA concept could be a major support element of the Land Warrior or Future Combat Systems architecture, providing a modular mission re-configurable information gathering capability. The MBS architecture provides significant benefits to the RSTA concept. First, it eliminates the requirement for gimbals or external scan mechanisms to address large sensor fields of regard. This results in lower volume, lower mass, less power (MEMS consume mW's), higher reliability with no moving parts exposed to the environment and higher Line of Sight pointing accuracy with no need for rotational encoders or resolvers. Due to MEMS scan mirror's small size, extremely high scan rates are possible. In the STILAPS application, the MBS scans 4000o/s, covering 2000 sr/s.

ANTHROTRONIX, INC. 387 Technology Drive College Park, MD 20742
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 405-0156 Dr. Corinna Lathan ARMY 02-035 Selected for Award
Title:	Development of a Human/Robot Control Interface
Abstract:	The ability of remote robotic vehicles to achieve their tasks depends on how well they can be controlled. An effective human/robot interface would minimize the limitations of the human and robot and prioritize the level of human/robot interaction. The interface must provide a range of robotic control, across the semi-autonomous to fully manually-controlled spectrum. Communication needs across this spectrum vary between the human receiving a Situation Report to directly controlling and receiving live information from the robot. Due to possible failures in hardware and software, purely autonomous robots in dynamic, hazardous environments are not feasible. The human operator has the adaptability needed in these environments. However, situations in a combat/hazardous environment test the operator's physical and cognitive limits. We propose an efficient, intuitive, unobtrusive, and intelligent human/robot interface with multiple modalities of input for robotic control (proportional-tactile, speech) and multiple modalities of feedback information from the robot (video, graphical display, audio). The interface will prioritize information flow, based on the human's and robot's situations. Objectives are: 1. Identify and test input and output hardware and modalities. 2. Evaluate the Land Warrior system for available resources. Existing Land Warrior hardware will be used whenever possible to minimize weight, size, and complexity. By facilitating successful operation of mobile robots, the human/robot interface will reduce the risk to dismounted infantry during combat operations. Urban search and rescue is the most obvious dual-use application for this technology. Fire and rescue personnel, police, and other agents could use a robust and reliable human/robot control interface, to control small robotic platforms in collapsed building environments, sniper situations, fires, and chemical contamination environments.

LASEN, INC. 300 North Telshor Blvd., Suite 600 Las Cruces, NM 88011
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 522-5110 Mr. Allen R. Geiger ARMY 02-036 Selected for Award
Title:	Active Infrared Multi-Spectral Sensor
Abstract:	The objective of this research is to construct an ultra-compact and lightweight mid-infrared differential absorption lidar (DIAL) sensor capable of operating from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and similar platforms. The sensor will operate in the 3.2--3.6-um spectral region, the fingerprint absorption region for many fuels and paints, as well as some known chemical and biological threats. Compared to the presently used near-infrared laser systems, the sensor will be less affected by common battlefield obscurants. The use of a nonlinear frequency converter in the receiver will allow the system to attain unparalleled sub-meter level of spatial resolution in the mid-infrared spectral range. This feature, combined with a frequency-agile, solid-state-tunable laser transmitter will enable the sensor to rapidly interrogate targets both spatially and spectrally with high resolution. The resulting technology will offer a superior means of target location and identification in a cluttered battlefield environment. Military applications: the success of the Phase I/II SBIR program will accelerate the development of mid-infrared Aided Target Recognition (ATR) and tracking systems with enhanced resilience against battlefield obscurants, combined with superior capabilities of target identification. Commercial applications: the same technology will provide an airborne chemical sensor platform that will offer a rapid and economic means for pipeline inspections and environmental monitoring.

ADA TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 8100 Shaffer Parkway, Suite #130 Littleton, CO 80127
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 792-5615 Dr. John Lovell ARMY 02-037 Selected for Award
Title:	Enhanced Buried Explosive Detection System
Abstract:	The goal of this multi-phase project is to develop a trace explosives detection system to reliably locate land mines from a vehicle traveling at walking pace. Under the Phase I program ADA Technologies will apply advanced geochemical techniques, which have previously been used to detect oil and gas and base metal mineralization lying beneath tens to thousands of meters of overburden, to the problem of locating buried explosives. The Phase I program will demonstrate a novel and elegant approach to enhance the detectability of traces of TNT, RDX, 2,4, DNT and two of the common degradation products of TNT, 2A-DNT (2-amino-4,6-dinitrotoluene) and 4A-DNT (4-amino-2,6-dinitrotoluene). The Phase I program will use atmospheric pressure chemical ionization/tandem mass spectrometry (ACPI/MS/MS) as the analytical system to define the best operating parameters of the proposed approach. The Phase I Option program will include a demonstration of the approach with field samples known to be contaminated with explosives from buried explosives. Candidate analytical devices for Phase II will investigated. In Phase II, ADA will build a prototype fieldable unit. A successful demonstration of the proposed concept will accelerate the detection and destruction of the more than 100 million land mines that are dispersed throughout the world and which injure, or kill over 20,000 men, women and children annually. The proposed approach also has a potential commercial application for screening cargo containers, luggage, airline passengers and vehicles for traces of contraband explosives and terrorist devices.

COGNISCENT, INC. 410 Concord Rd. Weston, MA 02493
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(508) 863-0069 Dr. Joel White ARMY 02-037 Selected for Award
Title:	An Explosive Detection System Based on Biological Principles
Abstract:	There are currently no established hand-held methods for accurately detecting bulk explosives. Explosives and related compounds, however, exhibit a range of volatilities, suggesting that the best, and perhaps only, method for rapidly detecting them is by detecting their molecules released into the air. Typical analytical chemistry instruments are not appropriate for this task due to their size and weight, as well as lack of rapid, real-time response. We have developed a new portable sensor array device for rapidly detecting and identifying volatile compounds in the environment. It actively samples ambient air through sniffing, identifies odorants in near real-time, and can be trained to recognize a range of target odorants. The device is sensitive to the TNT precursor dinitrotoluene (a compound associated with TNT landmines) in the air at concentrations below 500 parts per trillion. Field tests indicate that the device can detect, and discriminate from complex backgrounds, the vapor signature of buried landmines. The objectives of the research proposed here are to test the ability of the device to detect additional explosive-related compounds alone and in various backgrounds, to field test the device to demonstrate explosives detection in situ, and to design a small, light-weight hand-held version of the device. Funding from this SBIR will be used to finalize designs for a small, light and relatively low cost hand-held explosive detection device. The device will be initially marketed to the armed forces for mine detection and also later offered to humanitarian organizations concerned with land mine removal. An obvious and early additional application will be for remediation of other UXO at military bases. Also, the device will have application for screening personnel and baggage, both for military and domestic security.

APPLIED MEDIA ANALYSIS, LLC 7814 Rockburn Drive Ellicott City, MD 21043
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(410) 493-9041 Dr. Huiping Li ARMY 02-038 Selected for Award
Title:	MATES: Multilingual Automatic Translation Engine for Signs
Abstract:	When the United States military commits to operations in foreign territories, it is important for soldiers to have the ability to understand signs accurately and in a timely manner. We propose the development of a sign understanding and translation system called MATES (Multilingual Automatic Translation Engine for Signs) that can be operated by a novice user to obtain and interpret signs in foreign languages. The system will be comprised of a hand-held Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) and camera along with a dynamically reconfigurable embedded component architecture and software developed for text detection, recognition and translation, and a configuration and visualization interface to aid personnel deployed in foreign countries. Our text detection and recognition approach builds upon our previous R&D to provide a lightweight, trainable, and robust solution which can be easily adapted to different foreign languages. The perspective distortion is detected and rectified to further improve the performance. Our novelty lies on the use of context for both recognition and translation/transliteration. In order to deal with uncertainty in OCR and in the translation of sign content, we will rely heavily on contextual information and optional feedback provided by the user of the system, combined with robust techniques for indexing and incorporating domain information. The general philosophy will be to provide a system where additional context and resources will be supported by dynamic reconfiguration. The component architecture supports a view such that different resources and software components can be loaded on demand. In addition to military applications the development of an autonomous sign translation system has tremendous commercial potential. For example: � Assisting visitors to foreign countries that are unable to read the local language for help with reading transportation schedules, or menus or while shopping. � The sign detection module and recognition modules can be integrated into systems for the visually impaired. � The sign recognition module can be used in numerous applications including automated mapping, robot navigation, autonomous vehicle navigation and driver support systems

POLAR RAIN, INC. 425 Costa Mesa Ter #H Sunnyvale, CA 94085
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(408) 735-1054 Mrs. Esin Darici Haritaoglu ARMY 02-038 Selected for Award
Title:	Scene Text Extraction and Translation for Handheld and Mobile Devices
Abstract:	We propose novel solution to implement a full automatic text detection and identification system for road sign translation which will run on a commercially off the shelf Personal digital Assistants (PDA). The system consists of a PDA, a digital camera attached to a PDA, and a storage device which can be attached compact flash II ports of the PDA. The fast and memory efficient system consists 4 modules for road sign translation: (a) low-level image processing techniques to enhance to image better text detection and extraction, segmentation (b) feature extraction modules where the text identified, and skew and orientation distortion are corrected (c) a shape histogram based method for latin and non-latin character recognition (d) a limited dictionary-context based machin translation module translates the recognized text in to desired language. The translated text is augmented on to same location where the original foreign text was, so user will sees the road sign/text in their language. As the system is full automatic text detection interaction between user and program will be minimal and simple. User need only point the device to road sign and press a button. In the Phase-I effort, we will implement a prototype system to evaluate the feasibility of the methods. System will support a language pair in the phase-I effort, and it will include multiple language support as a Phase-II effort. First commercial applications of our proposed image processing technology will be in the areas of navigation aids for people in foreign country. People will get the software in their mobile devices and use them whenever they need a short translation, such as, time-table in metro station at Tokyo, a Chinese menu in Beijing, shopping in market place at Dubai. The other initial private sector applications we will focus on will address the needs of vision-impaired people to function comfortably and independently. Our applications will help them use the public transportation system by announcing the number and destination of an arriving bus, navigational signs in the metro system, identify street signs, and name of stores in shopping malls. Population of senior citizens has been increasing steadily in developed countries, and along with that the number of vision impaired people who can benefit from such a product. In recent study shows that there are 5.5 Million visually impaired people in US only who may not read the sign and text even they are very close the signboard.

QED TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 1040 University Ave. Rochester, NY 14607
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(585) 256-6540 Dr. William Kordonski ARMY 02-039 Selected for Award
Title:	Production of Non-Traditional Optical Surfaces for Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Guidance
Abstract:	The objective of the proposed work is to demonstrate the feasibility of polishing 3.0 inch diameter ogive-shaped optical domes (fineness ratio 1.0-1.5) using a magnetorheological (MR) jet polishing process. The MR jet process utilizes an MR fluid mixture comprised of magnetic particles and nonmagnetic abrasives, a delivery system capable of supplying a fluid jet with a velocity > 10 m/s, and an MR fluid jet shaper used to stabilize the shape of the jet. Interferometric characterization of the removal function and control of the positioning of the jet impingement on the optic surface by a computer numerically controlled (CNC) system will allow polishing with the required precision. An understanding of the effects of MR fluid characteristics, jet impingement angle, standoff distance and jet speed on the removal rate of a variety of materials will enable this process to be used to polish complex, conformal shapes. Developing a process to manufacture precision polished conformal shapes is important for many applications. Ogive domes and other conformal shapes are immediately needed by the Department of Defense for surveillance, target acquisition and guidance systems. Additional applications include commercial optics and a variety of other components.

TIAX LLC 15 Acorn Park Cambridge, MA 02140
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 498-6488 Mr. Boyd Bucher ARMY 02-040 Selected for Award
Title:	Complex Obstacle Traversing Suspension System for Wheeled Ground Vehicles
Abstract:	Future military wheeled vehicles will inevitably require equal or superior mobility and a greater ability to traverse complex obstacles in comparison with current tracked and wheeled vehicles. Ideally, no complex obstacle found in either a rural or urban settings should impede a vehicle's ability to maintain it's operational tempo. This proposal demonstrates the feasibility of a complex user controlled multi-link suspension system for use on future four-wheeled vehicles. The proposed system will be verified by analytically testing its ability to traverse a specified set of complex obstacles. These obstacles are much greater in size and complexity than what current wheeled vehicles with a traditional suspension design are able to traverse. This proposal responds specifically to the United States Army's request for a complex suspension design that will be tested on the Mongrel test vehicle. This design will work in conjunction with the vehicle's electric motor-driven wheels, and will be an independent suspension design that can be used at each wheel, regardless of location. The vehicle will be able to traverse the proposed obstacles as well as be capable of traveling on typical roads and through parking lots at typical speeds. The resulting Phase I design can be used as a tool to initiate conversation between potential partners/buyers/manufactures of the proposed design. TIAX is predominantly a fee-for-service technology development and management firm and does not have the internal resources to undertake the production and management of a suspension product line at this time. However, TIAX has a long history of working with industrial clients and partners in the development and production of new products and would be pleased to seek such a partner for the final development and production of the new suspension system. The main objective in any post Phase I discussions with outside sources would be to assess interest in investing in or supporting the manufacturing efforts of the Phase II effort. Upon completion of Phase II, a more complex market study can be done to determine end use and target markets for the resulting technology. Uses might include search and rescue vehicles, logging vehicles, mining vehicles, construction vehicles, and forest fire-fighting vehicles. These markets might include major automobile manufacturers, OEM's, aftermarket suppliers, off-road vehicle specialty shops, military specific vehicle manufacturers, aftermarket military specific vehicle shops, and agricultural equipment manufacturers. Application of this technology to commercial use will help strengthen it's application to the military. Depending on the target markets, and the position of TIAX relative to each of them, an investigation can be completed into the potential licensing of the design to any interested parties. For this to happen, TIAX will have to investigate patenting the resulting phase II design, putting them in a position to licensee the rights of the design to any interested parties. TIAX's employees have a long history of commercializing new technologies while part of Arthur D. Little's Technology and Innovation Business. Commercialization has taken place in the form of licensing technologies, marketing products directly to customers, and creating spin-off companies.

LSP TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 6145 Scherers Place Dublin, OH 43016
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(614) 718-3000 Mr. Richard D. Tenaglia ARMY 02-041 Selected for Award
Title:	Laser Peening for Army Vehicle Life Extension
Abstract:	Laser peening significantly increases the fatigue life of components by the introduction of deep compressive residual stresses. The U.S. Army utilizes numerous fatigue-critical components, which potentially could take advantage of the improvements offered by laser peening. Such parts include gears, which are used in a variety of aircraft, vehicles, and support equipment. Helicopter gears are of particular interest because these gears are prone to fatigue failures, which lead to high inspection and maintenance costs. Limited attempts to match the demonstrated fatigue life benefits achieved with laser peening for titanium-alloy engine parts in hardened steel gears have fallen short of expectations. This result is believed to be related to the presence of a hardened surface layer and the rather complex gear geometry. A program is proposed to characterize the interaction of the shock wave with the microstructural features and gear tooth geometry. This information is needed to develop improved laser peening methods for fatigue-resistant, steel gears. The need within the military and private sectors for increased gear life is important and urgent. The development of affordable laser peening processing for gears will have a tremendous economic impact through enabling more reliable, fuel efficient vehicles along with reduced maintenance, repair and gear replacement costs. The benefit of this program will be to provide a laser peen processing method that increases the fatigue life of gear components for the Army. The new processing methods can be applied to all components beyond the Army needs. These applications include, for example, the lift fan gears that are to be used in the Joint Strike Fighter for the Navy/Marines. Other low cost parts, such as gears and shafts for automotive applications, will be able to take advantage of the LaserPeenT process developed in this program.

NOVA ENGINEERING, INC. 5 Circle Freeway Drive Cincinnati, OH 45246
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(513) 642-3000 Mr. Mike Geile ARMY 02-042 Awarded: 19DEC02
Title:	Position and Orientation for Distributed Sensors (PODIS)
Abstract:	The success of remote sensing using a network of distributed sensors depends on knowing the position and orientation of each sensor. However, in many sensor deployments, accurate knowledge of sensor locations and orientations is unavailable. We propose to develop and demonstrate an innovative and robust technique for self-locating and self-orienting of the sensors that meets the cost, size, and weight requirements of sensor nodes. The techniques will use acoustic and/or RF signals to determine relative range and bearing of signals, and this information is fused to compute the locations and orientations of all sensors. Significantly, the source signals may be at unknown locations, and need not be co-located with sensors. Both relative sensor calibration (with respect to one another) and absolute calibration techniques (with respect to an absolute frame of reference) will be developed. In addition, accuracy bounds for calibration performance will be found. We will develop a clear understanding of the advantages and limitations of both RF-based and acoustic-based self-calibration methods. We will also develop an innovative algorithm suite for robust self-calibration and demonstrate, via software simulation, the ability to robustly self-calibrate sensors separated by 30-500 meters using these techniques. Finally, we will identify critical algorithmic and system implementation issues that need to be addressed to improve robustness of the self-calibration system in a Phase II design. The self-calibration techniques will be developed for Phase II implementation as part of a sensor network system. A robust, self-contained system for localization and orientation is critical for providing accurate tracking and targeting information to the warfighter in areas where other sensing assets are blind or denied. Commercial applications in sensor networks have application for locating people in burning buildings or forests, providing distributed sensing of large public areas for homeland security, and developing smart houses.

LS TECHNOLOGIES 33288 Jamie circle Fremont, CA 94555
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(510) 825-0581 Dr. J-Q Liu ARMY 02-043 Selected for Award
Title:	Novel Display Devices
Abstract:	We strive to develop a low weight, bright, high resolution, and practical 3D display technology that will generate true volumetric images utilizing a crossed-beam laser volume addressing technique. Rather than using the existing 3D display media - a solid block of upconversion fluoride glass doped with rare earths, which is heavy, expensive, and faint with very low fluorescent upconversion efficiency, we will focus on developing a new nonlinear optical media for 3D display using much lighter and more efficient fluorescent molecules, which selectively absorb only the sum frequency of two IR photons of different wavelengths from two lasers and emit visible light covering RGB band for full color 3D display. By rastering the crossing point of the two laser beams in a 3D container filled with such fluorescent media, a real 3D image can be created. We expect a dramatic improvement of the 3D display brightness at much less weigh with the crossbeam 3D imaging technique using the new fluorescent media. With the successful development of a new fluorescent media in Phase I, we will deliver a true 3D emissive display with cross laser volume addressing that is portable, bright, and commercially viable at the conclusion of this SBIR program. We live in a 3-D world and naturally interact with 3D objects, therefore, development and commercialization of affordable and high quality 3-D display will significantly impact our society and should lead to many major applications in military, medical, commercial imaging and potential 3-D video displays. Differing from the pseudo-3D displays, such as the stereo display technique, which requires special glasses to separate right and left eye images, or the swept volume technique, where 2D image is used to sweep out a volume of space cyclically at a frequency higher than the eye can resolve, the proposed cross-beam 3-D display technology directly create a real 3-D image in the space, without any unwanted physiological side effects for the viewers. Multiple viewers can view these 3-D displays from almost any direction simultaneously, without the need for glasses or headgear, thereby providing real depth perception to users. With the successful development of a new fluorescent media in Phase I, we will deliver a true 3D emissive display with cross laser volume addressing that is portable, affordable, bright, and commercially viable in this SBIR program.

PHYSICAL OPTICS CORP. Electro & Holography, 20600 Gramercy Place Bldg100 Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 320-3088 Dr. Tin M. Aye ARMY 02-043 Selected for Award
Title:	Collaborative Multiperspective Environment True Three Dimensional Display
Abstract:	Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new collaborative multi-perspective environment true 3-D display visualization technology that will enable battle field commanders and controllers to view and analyze all activity on the battle ground simultaneously and rapidly. The proposed true 3-D display will be automultiscopic: a series of narrow view perspective images of a 3-D scene or object are optically projected in a high-speed sequence, through the use of a high speed high resolution video projectors onto an in-plane spinning holographic optical element on a thin film screen. This display will be in the form of a large tabletop workbench, and will present multiple perspective views around it, forming integrated virtual volumetric 3-D images, overcoming the shortcomings of conventional stereoscopic 3-D displays. In Phase I, POC will design a laboratory prototype and demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed method by integrating a high speed projector with holographic optical element fabricated for the demonstration. When fully developed, the proposed collaborative multi-perspective environment true 3-D display will be able to show distortion free, high resolution, very bright, full color, gray scale virtual volumetric 3-D images at a standard video rate encompassing very high volume of information. Commercial applications of the collaborative multi-perspective environment 3-D display will be in training and simulation, air traffic control, CAD/CAM, surveillance photogrammetry, molecular modeling, medical imaging and video games.

SANTEC SYSTEMS, INC. 716 South Milwaukee Avenue Wheeling, IL 60090
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(847) 215-8884 Dr. Jaswinder S. Sandhu ARMY 02-044 Selected for Award
Title:	Development of a Field Portable Acousto-Optical Ultrasonic Evaluation System
Abstract:	Novel acousto-optic (AO) sensors that overcome the limitations of current AO sensor will be developed. These sensors will be used to demonstrate feasibility of an ultrasonic evaluation system to provide simple, fast and low-cost method for NDE of fielded structures. The proposed approach will circumvent the need for cumbersome, multi axes mechanical scanning equipment required in conventional ultrasonic scanning. The operator skill requirements are expected to be relatively low, since data is provided in image form as opposed to an electronic signal. There is a significant potential for the proposed work to address the health monitoring needs of the Dept. of Defense aviation and other structures.

MOHAWK INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY, INC. 1037 Watervliet-Shaker Road Albany, NY 12205
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(518) 862-4290 Dr. Hooshang Heshmat ARMY 02-045 Selected for Award
Title:	Oil-Free Thrust Bearings for Army Turboshaft Engines
Abstract:	The Army's need to identify suitable high performance gas turbine engine oil-free thrust bearings is to be met in this program through a thorough evaluation of at least five different classes for oil-free thrust bearing concepts. Detailed parametric evaluations of each component design will be completed and used in assessing critical technical barriers. This data will then be used to assess the benefits to the identified classes of gas turbine engines. Preliminary thrust bearing testing of at least one concept will be completed using one of MiTi's several oil-free thrust bearing development rigs. The optional tasks will include test rig modifications needed for Phase II and will establish preliminary bearing designs for Phase II. Oil free gas turbine engines using the developed bearings will be suitable for both military and commercial applications. Military applications include both air and ground manned and unmanned vehicles. Commercial applications include general aviation bizjets, microturbine generators, gas pipeline compressors, motor driven compressors, cryogenic turboexpanders and the like.

EIC LABORATORIES, INC. 111 Downey Street Norwood, MA 02062
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 769-9450 Dr. Gerhard Holleck ARMY 02-046 Awarded: 19DEC02
Title:	Lithium-Air Polymer Battery
Abstract:	The Li-Air polymer cells offer the potential of an extremely high energy density system with a specific energy in the 500-1000 Wh/kg range and an energy density of ~1000 Wh/l. Cell performance is determined mainly by the cathode, which controls the capacity and to a large degree also cell polarization. Therefore, the development and characterization of improved, efficient cathode structures is proposed. The performance of the new components will be demonstrated in complete thin layer pouch cells.

MAXPOWER, INC. 220 Stahl Road Harleysville, PA 19438
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(215) 513-4230 Dr. Mark SALOMON ARMY 02-046 Selected for Award
Title:	High Rate Li-Ion Batteries with Gelled Electrolyte
Abstract:	MaxPower, Inc. is proposing an SBIR project responding to the Army's need for improved Li-ion chemistries. The Phase I and Option Phase parts of the program will focus on new gel electrolytes with improved conductivities and stability. The proposed program on gelled electrolytes is designed to eliminate the commonly used salt LiPF6 while maintaining high conductivities (0.1 to 10�10-3 S cm-1) over the extended temperature range of -40�C to 70�C. Gelled electrolytes were selected for advanced R&D because they have much lower vapor pressures than liquid electrolytes which is an important safety consideration. Due to high vapor pressures of liquid electrolytes, for safety reasons Li-ion cells based on these liquid electrolytes must be hermetically sealed in metal containers and/or cans. Since gelled electrolytes have no "free flowing" electrolyte, Li-ions cells based on gelled electrolytes are easily and economically packaged in thin, lightweight plastic pouches. The studies on improved anode and cathode materials focus on rate and capacity optimization over the required temperature range. Specific areas of importance here relate to high rate charging (1C rate or higher) with improved capacity retention upon cycling and storage. Nanotechnology will greatly input to these studies. Successful introduction of high rate and high energy density rechargeable lithium-ion batteries is expected to have significance in commercial markets as well as for military and aerospace markets. The key features in MaxPower's proposed SBIR battery R&D program are high energy density, high rate, long cycle life, and an operational range over an extremely wide temperature range. Uses in commercial markets include power tools, mobile computing (e.g. notebook PCs with energy and power demanding disk drives), implantable medical devices such as cardiac pacemakers and defibrillators, and the high power battery required for hybrid electric vehicles, e.g. in combination with a low power very high energy density fuel cell.

MAXPOWER, INC. 220 Stahl Road Harleysville, PA 19438
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(215) 513-4230 Dr. David Chua ARMY 02-046 Awarded: 18DEC02
Title:	New Approaches for Ambient Temperature Li-Based Reserve Batteries
Abstract:	This SBIR Phase I program presents a significant opportunity to look at new generation of friendlier chemistries which have equivalent electrochemical capability to the oxyhalides, and at the same time offer a reserve battery technology that can lend itself to miniturization and/or mass production. Thus, a viable reserve technology must cover 1) chemistry, 2) reservoir design, and 3) activation method. The use of an organic-based electrolyte solution(s) coupled to two innovative high-voltage cathode systems is the basic foundation of this proposal. The battery technology in recent years has seen a significant progress in advancing the material science of cathode materials. Available to the battery field are materials possessing improved energy and rate. These materials exist as bulk and as nano-scale forms. This progress provides a great opportunity to re-look and re-strategize the military need for R/T Lithium Primary Reserve Batteries. During Phase I, the selections of the components will be guided by the critical strategic need for shelf life, reliability of activation, and ability to perform at broad-based temperature. The focus will be at cathode materials, electrolyte solutions, and corrosion behavior of the typically used materials-of-constructions. A reservoir/activation method will also be designed during this option period. The ENVIRONMENTALLY reserve battery addressed in this SBIR topic, to a large extent, uniquely belonged to the military. It is also recognized as a critical component for any of the mines, missile, and Sonobouy applications. For "homeland security", it is conceivable that there is a place for reserve battery to provide more reliable emergency power of longer duration. Another break-through commercial market, although traditional in application, would be for emergency lighting for home, institutions, and offices which, to-date, is predominantly using the Pb-acid batteries.

YARDNEY TECHNICAL PRODUCTS, INC. 82 Mechanic Street Pawcatuck, CT 06379
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(860) 599-1100 Dr. Boris Ravdel ARMY 02-046 Selected for Award
Title:	Advanced High Energy Batteries
Abstract:	Lithium-ion batteries containing organic solvent have been reported to combust and explode. To reduce the flammability of the electrolyte, one uses flame retardant (FR) components as additives the to solution. Among the others, the FR-additives containing phosphorus and nitrogen were found as very effective. The research seeks to investigate new P-N containing flame retarding additives. The proposed studies will include the synthesis of these additives, determination of the electrochemical properties of lithium-ion battery electrolytes containing them, studies of flame retardant properties of the additives, and testing the batteries with the electrolytes. Lithium-ion batteries combine high energy and power with the potential for extended cycle life needed for many applications. However, in order to make them a practical reality, especially for high-capacity batteries, a safety issue is of great importance. The proposed program is aimed at achieving this by the decreasing of the combustion danger of lithium-ion batteries.

MILLITECH LLC 29 Industrial Drive East Northampton, MA 01060
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(413) 582-9620 Mr. Philip Langlois ARMY 02-047 Selected for Award
Title:	Antenna Array Architectures that Accommodate Polarization Diversity and Beam-Spoiling Architecture
Abstract:	Millitech will investigate the tradeoffs between required design parameters of an electronically scanned antenna (ESA) operating in upper Ka-Band (35 - 40 GHz), and constructed as a planar aperture. The main thrust of this research will be to generate a design that has fast switching between vertical, horizontal, right circular and left circular polarizations with minimal feedline losses. Other parameters for optimization include scanning angle range, beamwidths, beam spoiling capability, and polarization purity. This design will be created with CAD tools, and simulated with a computer models to demonstrate conformance to required specifications. At the end of Phase I, Millitech will be ready to proceed with the fabrication of subarray prototypes of the ESA design. A lightweight, loww loss ESA would have several applications, among which include vehicular radar, wetaher radar, and mobile satellite communications.

QUANTUM APPLIED SCIENCE & RESEARCH, INC. 6730 Mesa Ridge Road, Suite A San Diego, CA 92121
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 373-0832 Dr. Robert Matthews ARMY 02-048 Selected for Award
Title:	Compact, Man Portable, Lightning Warning and Localization System
Abstract:	We propose to apply a new and significant advance in compact electromagnetic sensing instrumentation to provide warning of imminent lightning strike, and localization of lightning discharges, with a single compact man-portable system suitable for tactical situations. In an initial test with the new sensors, charge redistribution effects associated with lightning strikes were clearly visible at 50 km, suggesting a detection range for prediction of an imminent lightning strike hazard of a comparable distance. Furthermore, standard results and calculations show that it should be possible to localize a lightning strike using a single sensor unit comprised of current technology at ranges well over 100 km. In Phase I we will collect data on approximately 100 lightning strikes in order to evaluate the system capabilities under practical outdoor conditions. Using these results, we will consider the benefits of adding information from other sensors, and a design for a Phase II prototype system will be drawn up. The proposed system offers truly new capabilities in lightning detection in a package that is already suitable for man portability in a tactical situation. Other government applications include all cases in which lightning monitoring and lightning hazard warnings are needed. Comparable commercial opportunities exist in general weather monitoring, and for specific cases in which a group of people or sensitive equipment is at risk if a lightning strike occurs. Secondary markets exist in research instrumentation for studying lightning and atmospheric physics.

WEATHER DECISION TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 1818 W. Lindsey, Building D, Suite 232 Norman, OK 73069
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(405) 579-7675 Mr. Michael D. Eilts ARMY 02-048 Selected for Award
Title:	Development of a Battlefield Deployable Lightning Decision Support System
Abstract:	Weather Decision Technologies, Inc. (WDT) proposes exploratory development of a design for an integrated lightning hazard decision support system for tactical applications. The design addresses the needs articulated in solicitation topic #A02-048 for means of detection, location, imminent prediction, and mitigation of lightning-strike hazards in tactical, battlefield situations. WDT is ideally positioned to address this topic effectively. WDT has developed a Lightning Prediction Information System (LPIS) that employs Doppler radar data, lightning ground-strike location data, and model forecast information to predict 30 minutes in advance the area that has a lightning threat. WDT has deployed this algorithm over the continental United States. WDT's customers are provided very accurate predictions of lightning hazard, including specific information for a given point of the Estimated Time of Arrival and the Estimated Time of Departure of the threat. WDT has also begun to address the need stated by many of our customers to know when the threat of a lightning ground strike at a specific location is great enough to justify cessation of outdoor operations and when the threat has dissipated sufficiently that operations may resume. Recognizing that knowledge of the electric field at the surface beneath growing storm clouds is the essential component of such a system, WDT is exploring options for inclusion of data from electric-field sensors located at the site of interest. The objective of the work proposed herein is to design a lightning hazard decision support system that includes 1) electric-field-meters and local lightning detection sensors suitable for battlefield deployment 2) appropriate means for data ingest and analysis, 3) a decision-support product that integrates the localized hazard warning decision product into the LPIS, and 4) expanding the LPIS to include alternative data sources that are likely to be available for any location (e.g., satellite data). A combination of a model-based prediction system based on large-scale meteorological data, such as the LPIS, with localized information on the electrical state of clouds overhead and recent lightning detection data, is likely to provide the best decision support under battlefield conditions. The proposed SBIR development will increase the applicability of a new class of electric-field meter in a wide range of situations for which there is currently no economically feasible solution to the problem of lightning hazard assessment and warning. The resulting instrumentation and techniques will augment the efficacy of, and commercial potential for, lightning hazard warning systems that will facilitate decreases in deaths, injuries, and property damage caused by lightning. WDT presently has Airline ramp operations, golf courses, amusement parks, and other outdoor operations as customers. We will market this system to that customer base as well as expand further into those industries.

CREARE, INC. P.O. Box 71 Hanover, NH 03755
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(603) 643-3800 Dr. Michael G. Izenson ARMY 02-049 Selected for Award
Title:	Methanol Concentration Control for Direct Methanol Fuel Cells
Abstract:	Direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) can provide a very lightweight and compact source of electric power for individual soldiers if they can be fueled with pure methanol. Used as a charger for rechargeable Li-ion batteries, they promise an attractive hybrid power source for future soldier systems. A key technology that will enable concentrated methanol fuel is a system to control the concentration of methanol in the small volume of dilute solution that flows through the fuel cell stack. We propose an innovative methanol concentration control system that will enable a DMFC to use pure methanol fuel. The system responds twenty times more quickly than conventional techniques and is lightweight, compact, low-power, and reliable. In Phase I we will prove the feasibility of the system by: (1) assembling a proof-of-concept methanol concentration control system, (2) proving the operation of the system using a direct methanol fuel cell, and (3) using the results of the Phase I development and testing to design a prototype system for Phase II. In Phase II we will demonstrate the operation of a complete, self-contained, 15 W DMFC that is powered by highly concentrated methanol. The methanol concentration control system can enable an order-of-magnitude improvement in the energy density available from a DMFC system compared to fueling with dilute solution. Our concept for methanol concentration control is simple, compact, lightweight, and straightforward to integrate with a DMFC stack. Commercial applications include portable power sources for laptop computers, recreational equipment, and portable medical devices.

GINER ELECTROCHEMICAL SYSTEMS, LLC 89 Rumford Avenue Newton, MA 02466
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 529-0506 Ms. Cecelia Cropley ARMY 02-049 Selected for Award
Title:	Direct Methanol Fuel Cell Utilizing Concentrated Methanol
Abstract:	The Army requires a compact lightweight fuel cell-battery hybrid power source to power the electronic and other equipment carried by individual soldiers. The power source is required to deliver an average of 15 W for missions of greater than 72 hours. Hybrid power sources based on a Li-Ion battery recharged as necessary by a direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) are promising candidates for this application. However, reductions in weight, volume and cost of the DMFC stack and system are required. To meet this need, Giner Electrochemical Systems, LLC proposes to develop a DMFC battery charger featuring a lightweight DMFC stack having minimal methanol crossover, allowing operation on methanol concentrations as high as 10M, compared to maximum methanol concentrations of 1M for state-of-the-art stacks. The decreased crossover and use of more concentrated fuel will significantly reduce the amount of fuel and diluent water that must be carried. The proposed stack will also result in a simpler, lighter-weight system through reduction in the size and number of components required to treat the cathode effluent. The proposed compact lightweight DMFC system is an attractive power source for portable electronics for both military and commercial applications due to the potentially high specific energy and energy density of the proposed system A DMFC-Li-Ion battery hybrid will provide uninterrupted operation for an extended duration. DMFCs are expected to have long shelf and operating lives and will be easily refueled. Methanol fuel cells use an inexpensive, easily transported and stored fuel. Environmental concerns with DMFCs are significantly lower than for primary Li batteries. These benefits apply equally to civilian markets for power supplies for electronic devices. The primary military customers would be the U.S. Army and the Marine Corps. The primary commercial customers would be manufacturers of portable electronic devices, such as laptop computers, cellular phones, electronic notebooks, global positioning devices, and a myriad of other consumer electronics.

MESOSCOPIC DEVICES, LLC 510 Compton Street, Suite 106 Broomfield, CO 80020
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 466-6968 Dr. Jerry L. Martin ARMY 02-049 Selected for Award
Title:	DMFC/Battery Hybrid with optimized components
Abstract:	Mesoscopic Devices proposes to develop an advanced direct methanol fuel cell battery charger that will operate on concentrated methanol. Our design is based on a system-level optimization approach that minimizes the size and power draw of the auxiliary components while maximizing the stack output. In Phase I, we will prove the feasibility of two key components to meet the system requirements by demonstrating a compact, lower power-draw methanol concentration sensor and a unique microchannel water condenser. The proposed concentration sensor is smaller, lighter, and has a faster response than current generation sensors, allowing minimum solution volume and fast response. The water condenser is optimized for low pressure drop and high thermal effectiveness, and will allow the system to operate in high ambient temperatures while maintaining water balance. A DMFC battery charger, combined with rechargeable lithium batteries would be a near-term fieldable system for powering electronics for the individual soldier. A single DMFC/battery hybrid could replace multiple batteries, with weight savings of up to 50 pounds per soldier for longer missions. The availability of lightweight, quiet systems for recharging batteries in the field will enhance our warfighting capability, particularly for reconnaissance missions. Civilian variants of the DMFC system are in great demand for powering portable computers, cellular telephones, and remote equipment.

MATERIALS & ELECTROCHEMICAL RESEARCH (MER) CORP. 7960 S. Kolb Rd. Tucson, AZ 85706
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(520) 574-1980 Dr. J.C. Withers ARMY 02-050 Selected for Award
Title:	A Low Cost Electrolytic Process to Produce Titanium Alloy From Ti02-MxOy
Abstract:	The production of titanium is by the Kroll process, which is mature, yet expensive, limiting titanium?s usages. Titanium alloys are produced by mixing the alloying elements with Kroll pure titanium and performing several vacuum remelts to reduce interstitial contaminants. Electrolysis to produce titanium has significant potential but has not been perfected to produce acceptable purity and low cost from any titanium precursor compound. A unique electrolytic process of utilizing a composite Ti02 electrode has been demonstrated to produce high purity titanium, as well as co-reduce other oxide compounds to their elemental form, thus electrolytically producing titanium alloys directly. The electrolytically produced titanium alloy powder can be melt-free consolidated to billets for forming into titanium products at only a few dollars per pound. This program will demonstrate producing titanium alloy powder by unique electrolysis from Ti02-Mx0y composite electrodes. The titanium alloy powder will be melt-free transformed to Grade 5 Ti-6A1-4V for well under $9.00/lb. finished part. Electrolytically producing high purity titanium alloy powder directly from Ti02/rutile at only a few dollars per pound constitutes a breakthrough, which has the potential to expand the market for titanium by several orders of magnitude. Expanded markets include armor, automotive, aerospace, chemical process/corrosion resistance, etc.

CREARE, INC. P.O. Box 71 Hanover, NH 03755
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(603) 643-3800 Dr. Robert J. Kline-Schoder ARMY 02-051 Selected for Award
Title:	Electronic Communication and Dosimetry System for High Noise Environments
Abstract:	Creare proposes to design, fabricate, and test a system that will simultaneously enable full duplex voice communication while monitoring sound exposure to the ear for soldiers working in high noise environments. Current Army artillery crews are forced to work in close proximity to cannons that produce in excess of 180 dB of impulsive noise, which can result in noise-induced hearing loss after brief exposures without sufficient hearing protection. These ground crews also have a need to communicate with other personnel. However, no existing hearing protection system offers sufficient noise reduction for these crews to work safely in extreme noise environments while simultaneously enhancing the communication signal and monitoring sound exposure to the ear. Creare's Electronic Communication and Dosimetry System for High Noise Environments is based on advanced audio signal processing and state-of-the-art acoustic hardware. During the Phase I project, we will fabricate and test a bench-top prototype system. During the Phase II project, we will fabricate and test optimized prototype systems for enhanced communications and dosimetry in high noise environments. The Creare system for electronic communications and dosimetry in high noise environments will reduce the harmful effects of long duration exposure to extremely high noise levels, will facilitate speech intelligibility, and will monitor individuals for sound exposure. The system can be used by tank crews, flight crews, flight deck personnel, mechanized infantry, and commercial operators of noisy equipment.

KNOWLEDGE BASED SYSTEMS, INC. 1408 University Drive East College Station, TX 77840
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(979) 260-5274 Mr. Michael Painter ARMY 02-052 Awarded: 17DEC02
Title:	ATLAS: A Generalized Maintenance Modeling and Simulation Tool Suite
Abstract:	The objective of the proposed effort is to develop an ATLAS (Army Transformation in Logistics And Sustainment) environment that provides a unified modeling and experimentation framework for assessing current and future combat systems maintenance concepts, maintenance manpower and capacity planning and soldier load / effectiveness with simulation, tradeoff analysis, data-mining analytics and optimization capabilities. We call this system ATLAS as the effectiveness of the current and future Army rests on the shoulders of its maintenance; standing on its logistics footprint. Furthermore, with this technology, the Army's goals of a 90% Ao (Operation Availability) and a 20% TOCR (Total Ownership Cost Reduction) for existing weapon systems can be pursued in a rigorous fashion and will provide the basis for establishing realistic sustainment specifications for performance based logistics support. The proposed effort involves an accelerated development approach to produce a mature, robust, and proven technology developed through proven technology reuse; extending KBSI's model library for wheeled vehicles, tracked vehicles, and aircraft maintenance process simulation; and in situ technology demonstration and field testing at Ft. Hood, Ft. Campbell Texas, Anniston Army Depot, and Corpus Christi Army Depot. The proposed effort will help the Army make substantial reductions in total ownership costs while improving operational availability. Making these improvements requires understanding what drives three parameters that directly affect these metrics: 1) maintenance event rates (MER), 2) down time per maintenance event (DTME), and 3) cost per maintenance event ($ME). Understanding the drivers for these three parameters requires accurate models of the tasks performed both at the weapon system level and in the supporting logistics infrastructure. This will be made possible by providing users with a technology that provides altogether new levels of maintenance organization asset and capacity visibility and that helps users analyze and simulate unit performance based on observed or anticipated conditions. This technology will provide a unified modeling and experimentation framework for assessing current and future combat systems maintenance concepts, maintenance manpower and capacity planning and soldier load / effectiveness with simulation, tradeoff analysis, data-mining analytics and optimization capabilities. Using this technology, decision-makers within each maintenance organization can pursue the Army's of a 90% AO (Operation Availability) and a 20% TOCR (Total Ownership Cost Reduction) for existing weapon systems and directly pursue performance based logistics goals in a rigorous fashion.

DESE RESEARCH, INC. 315 Wynn Drive, Suite 2 Huntsville, AL 35805
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(913) 758-0050 Mr. Leon Stine ARMY 02-053 Selected for Award
Title:	Decision Support for Rapid Deployment Planning at Air Ports of Embarkation
Abstract:	Using Popkin? System Architect 2000 (SA2000), our primary C4ISR compliant modeling tool used in the design and implementation of enterprise-wide information systems, we will demonstrate the feasibility of determining hindrances to deployment. DESE enhancements to SA2000 allow us to complete the C4ISR framework while providing additional diagrams and reports to help clients understand their enterprise more completely. Graphics will be customized to represent the objects throughout the enterprise, in this case the unit, it's equipment, cargo, and facilities. Interim products of this process include an Operational Activity Model and Node Tree utilizing the IDEF0 modeling convention and an Operational Event/Trace Model utilizing Unified Modeling Language (UML) notation. In addition, process variables and metrics will be determined in order to realistically recreate the real time operating conditions of rapid deployment air cargo operations. This will establish accurate estimates of the real time operating conditions used to complete an Operational Rules Model using IDEF3 notation. This model integrates with the Operational Activity Model providing a basic simulation capability that uses the process variables and their metrics. When coupled with DESE's Digital Glue Concept, provides the nexus for creation of the Decision Support Tool for Rapid Deployment at APOE. The Decision Support Tool developed during the SBIR process has applicability to many venues as a result of the increased security posture of all sectors of the United States. Proposed commercial application would enable faster passenger and cargo loading operations at air, sea, and land terminals.

MS TECHNOLOGY 7922 Avenida Kirjah La Jolla, CA 92037
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 558-6363 Dr. Saeid Ghamaty ARMY 02-054 Awarded: 17DEC02
Title:	A New Heat Removal Device for Future Army Systems
Abstract:	Advanced Future Army Systems (FAS) include chip and board level electronics or optoelectronics which will require innovative heat removal solutions to enable them to meet size, weight, power, high reliability, and low cost. Commonly, these approaches are based on efficient 2-D and 3-D arrangements of electronics, often involving "multi-chip modules" (MCMs). As chips are brought closer together, the area/volume power densities and, therefore, heat increases. MS Technology (MST) proposes a new type of heat removal modular device, which could solve electronic packaging problems of the FAS and large scale electronic and optoelectronics systems. This new approach removes the generated heat by first converting it to electricity which could be dissipated in a shunt resistor far from the device or supplement the main system power supply. This supplementary power source further increases reliability, reduces cost and weight of the entire system. MST will evaluate and develop conceptual designs for this new device that should provide significant thermal management improvements compared to the thermal management techniques used in heat removal approaches now. MST will conduct proof of concept demonstrations to indicate the practicality of such techniques for use in device electronic systems. A low cost high performance heat removal modular device, will find commercial application in projects of interest to government, industry and academia, especially with respect to commercial applications. It is also possible in certain circumstances to find applications in other domains, where large amounts of dense circuitry can be confined with limited air flow boundary conditions. In view of general smaller satellite requirements (for cooling more high-power, more dense electronics with less costly, lighter weight, and more reliable systems) the potential market for a successful thermal management system is quite large for both the military (DoD), civilian (NASA) and commercial satellite industries. Potential commercial applications of the thermal management component(s)/system and associated technologies developed by this effort include communications and weather satellites and terrestrial thermal management systems, including co-generation applications, and residential, commercial and industrial heating and air conditioning.

ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY, INC. 3275 Progress Drive, Suite D Orlando, FL 32826
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(407) 281-1948 Mr. Daniel J. Hartman ARMY 02-055 Awarded: 06JAN03
Title:	Software Driven Virtual Minefield
Abstract:	The proposed research builds upon the basic research results from Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) and Duke University. The proposed team will conduct the research and development work that is necessary for the creation of a new detector research and training capability for land mine detection. This new simulation capability will provide to the operator of handheld landmine detection systems a virtual experience for training that combines a minefield with realistic sensor signals corresponding to actual target signatures in various realistic soil and environmental conditions. The system would provide feedback to the operator for performance enhancement and would support operator training and reorientation to a new environment, as well as experimentation with operator cueing formats. The system uses real-time video tracking technology and realistic audio-visual feedback. Engineering Technology, Inc. (ETI) has implemented the real-time video tracker into the deployable Sweep Monitoring System (SMS). When the operator is using the virtual minefield, the simulated detector generates a realistic audio response as if it were a true working detector operating in an environment with real buried mines. This program brings together a team of university researchers at CMU and Duke University and Engineering Technology, Inc. (ETI), a defense contractor, to insure success from laboratory development through technology transition and commercialization. Since the software driven minefield will be able to emulate any common sensor response, it will transition rapidly to the commercial market because it be highly effective in training the demining personnel on current land mine sensor technologies and will significantly enhance their performance. This commercial market is expected to be an order of magnitude larger than the military market, resulting in a significant dual use capability.

MESOSYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY, INC. 415 N Quay St. Blge A, Suite 5 Kennewick, AL 99336
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(509) 222-2002 Mr. Mike Powell ARMY 02-056 Awarded: 02JAN03
Title:	Safe Packaging of Ammonia for Compact Hydrogen Sources
Abstract:	The U.S. Army has funded development of compact hydrogen generators that extract hydrogen from anhydrous ammonia. However, use of these ammonia-based hydrogen generators will likely be restricted unless the ammonia can be stored such that the potential for a dangerous ammonia release is minimal. We have studied a variety of approaches for safe storage of ammonia and reached the conclusion that monolithic, closed-cell foam materials offer the desired characteristics of compact and lightweight ammonia storage with relatively little safety risk. Lightweight, closed-cell foam materials will be used to fill the ammonia-storage tank and thereby reduce the rate of ammonia release in the event of tank failure. Scoping tests demonstrate that closed-cell foam materials offer a promising method for improving the safety of ammonia storage. We propose development of an ammonia-storage tank filled with closed-cell foam monolith. Based on scoping tests, we predict our storage tank will have an ammonia capacity of 500 g (1.5 kWhe), an overall volume of 1.2 liters, and a total mass of less than 950 g (including 500 g ammonia). The maximum ammonia release rate will be low enough to minimize safety concerns yet high enough to supply the ammonia-based hydrogen generators. Development of a compact, lightweight, and safe means for storing anhydrous ammonia will eliminate the principal drawback of ammonia-based hydrogen sources for fuel-cell-based power supplies. Once an appropriate ammonia-storage system is available, the existing ammonia-based hydrogen generators can rapidly move toward deployment in the U.S. Military for compact power supplies. Many commercial, compact-power applications will also become feasible once safe ammonia storage is available. In addition, these ammonia-storage foams may find application for safe storage of other toxic and flammable chemicals, such as propane.

PHYSICAL SCIENCES, INC. 20 New England Business Center Andover, MA 01810
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 689-0003 Dr. John D. Lennhoff ARMY 02-056 Awarded: 06JAN03
Title:	Safe Packaging of Ammonia for Compact Hydrogen Sources
Abstract:	Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) proposes to demonstrate the utility of using Metal Organic Framework (MOF) materials for the safe, low pressure storage of ammonia. MOF's are self assembled organic inorganic hybrid materials that are low density, nanoporous crystalline solids. The exact structure of these materials can be tailored for unit cell size and therefore pore diameter. These materials are expected to provide similar room temperature hydrogen atom densities as 3000 psi hydrogen gas storage at two orders of magnitude lower pressure by utilizing the MOF nanopore structure. The polar nature of the ammonia molecule provides pore condensation enhancement through functionalization of the organic edge of the MOF to retain the ammonia. During the Phase I program PSI will optimize the MOF pore structure and chemistry to maximize the ammonia storage and delivery parameters. PSI has assembled a Phase I team that includes: Prof. Omar Yaghi of the University of Michigan who designed the MOF materials, and Prof. Doug Way of the Colorado School of Mines who has developed a membrane reactor for the conversion of ammonia to hydrogen and modeled their operation. On a Phase I Option PSI will fine tune the functionalization of the MOF and expand the isotherm measurement range. The major benefits of the proposed energy storage design are higher power and specific energy densities than are attainable using batteries. Successful development of this energy storage system will find widespread use for power generation in portable tools, communication equipment, and remote and emergency power applications.

ROCKY RESEARCH 1598 Foothill Dr, PO Box 61800 Boulder City, NV 89006
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(702) 293-0851 Mr. Paul Sarkisian ARMY 02-056 Awarded: 02JAN03
Title:	Ammonia Storage as Complex Compounds for a Safe and Compact Hydrogen Source
Abstract:	Ammonia is an attractive media for storing hydrogen for fuel cells because it exceeds 17% hydrogen by weight and leaves only nitrogen after decomposition and hydrogen removal. Safety questions related to the relatively high vapor pressure of ammonia can be alleviated if ammonia is stored on an absorbent. Complex compounds are the best absorbents for ammonia, in that they have extremely high storage density, can release the full ammonia charge at constant pressure, and are available with different degrees of vapor pressure suppression. Rocky Research has been developing thermal equipment utilizing ammonia absorption on complex compounds since 1985, and we have solved historical problems of salt migration while increasing reaction rates dramatically. Proposed in Phase I are measurement of vapor pressure and ammonia uptake of compounds which were not previously characterized since they were not suitable for refrigeration cycles. Following experimental characterization of new compounds, selection of optimal compound(s) will be made from our entire database. A demonstration storage system will be built with one of the selected compound(s), and tested in Phase I. Based on the demonstration system in Phase I, ammonia storage vessels will be fully optimized for minimum weight in Phase II. Potential commercial applications for an ammonia storage & fuel cell system are extremely numerous and include remote power sources for campers and rescue workers, and power packs for computers and other electronics. They would be used for any application where regenerable electric power storage for more than a few watt-hours is required. Replaceable ammonia storage vessels could give the power source unlimited life. The proposed R&D will result in the lightest reduced-pressure ammonia storage vessels possible. Development of ultra light weight ammonia storage vessels will contribute to successful development of small-scale complex compound refrigeration systems as well as the target fuel cell application.

SORPTION TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 239 Goldfinch Turn Newark, DE 19711
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(302) 369-6166 Dr. XiaoChun Lu ARMY 02-056 Awarded: 02JAN03
Title:	High Density Ambient Condition Ammonia Storage Materials
Abstract:	In this Phase I program, a unique carbon material is proposed as high density, ambient condition ammonia vapor storage media. Ammonia is a potential solution of hydrogen supply for fuel cell systems; it has high hydrogen content and cracking ammonia generates COx-free hydrogen gas. The preferred ammonia storage system is the one that based on vapor adsorption system at near ambient conditions to avoid high pressure and potential liquid ammonia leakage. The proposed porous carbon materials adsorb and desorb large amounts of ammonia vapor at near ambient conditions. The overall storage capacities are up to 68% ammonia vapor per carbon weight, which corresponds to practical energy density of 2.36kWhe per kilogram carbon material. The ammonia vapor adsorption-desorption cycles operate between vapor pressure of 1 to 3 atmospheres; therefore, no high pressure or vacuum is required. The materials are synthesized from a low cost precursor with simple processes. During this Phase I study, the feasibility of using this carbon material for high capacity ambient condition ammonia storage applications will be established. That is, the carbon samples will be synthesized; their micropore structure and chemical properties will be modified; their ammonia vapor adsorption/desorption properties will be evaluated; and their ammonia vapor charging-discharging recyclability will be tested. The proposed system, if successful, will provide a high density, low cost, and ambient condition ammonia storage system. The proposed system will be ideal as person-portable power source for combat field soldiers. It will also have potential to be used as on-board fuel storage for fuel cell powered vehicles.

BLACK RIVER SYSTEMS CO., INC. 162 Genesee Street Utica, NY 13502
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(315) 732-7385 Mr. Alan George ARMY 02-057 Awarded: 06JAN03
Title:	Hybridized Full Wave ? Asymptotic Electromagnetic (EM) Computational Engine for Antenna Computer Aided Design (CAD)
Abstract:	Black River Systems (with consultant Dr. Tapan Sarkar, and Stiefvater Consultants inc.) proposes to develop a hybrid electromagnetic modeling compute engine. This hybrid engine will model the small features of antenna/vehicle structure simultaneously with the large environmental features, executing on both parallel processor and single CPU computers. Traditional computational electromagnetic analysis is performed exclusively in either the frequency or time domain. Extrapolation in either domain is sometimes numerically unstable, thus affecting accuracy. When both small and large features are modeled, the impedance and excitation matrices need to be simultaneously and accurately computed. Errors from using an approximate asymptotic method to characterize large structures can cause small features in the solution to be completely masked. We avoid this obstacle by applying a hybrid approach and in estimating the characteristics of the solution. This hybrid approach utilizes the strengths of both frequency domain and time domain methodologies and minimizes the weaknesses of each by using the frequency domain for low frequency response and time domain for the high, greatly reducing the required processing. We believe that this approach of hybridizing time and frequency domain solutions to analyze structures has advantages over an asymptotic approach while still retaining the processing gains. The technology developed will become instrumental in developing RF antennas for future DoD and commercial applications. These applications include uses such as surveillance, track, SAR and multifunction radar, as well as antennas used communication. This modeling technology is also well suited for signal processing algorithm development for these applications.

EMAG TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 1340 Eisenhower Place Ann Arbor, MI 48108
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(734) 973-6600 Dr. Kin Sze ARMY 02-057 Awarded: 06JAN03
Title:	Hybridized Full Wave ? Asymptotic Electromagnetic (EM) Computational Engine for Antenna Computer Aided Design (CAD)
Abstract:	The objective of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) project is to develop accurate and computationally efficient scalable algorithms that can be used to characterize the performance of antennas and array systems built on complex vehicle platforms. By accurate modeling of antenna-platform interactions, these effects can be taken into account during the antenna design process. Such virtual prototyping can save time and cost during the design cycle. For the Phase I feasibility study, it is proposed to interface a full-wave finite element simulator with high frequency asymptotic techniques such the shooting and bouncing rays (SBR) method. The resulting code will be validated with results from a complete full-wave solution run on high performance computing (HPC) platforms. A visual software environment with design utilities will be developed to facilitate the usage of the code. The CAD tool resulting from this SBIR project will be able to save time and cost for military and commercial antenna designers. It will help achieve better antenna designs by taking the platform effects into account.

BIOTRACES, INC. 13455 Sunrise Valley Drive, Suite 200 Herndon, VA 20171
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 793-0907 Dr. Andrzej K. Drukier ARMY 02-058 Awarded: 02JAN03
Title:	Towards understanding germination of B. anthracis spores
Abstract:	The potency of anthrax as a BW agent is due to the ability of the anthrax spores to survive in a dormant state even under extreme conditions. Unfortunately, the molecular signals controlling Bacillus spore germination are not well known. Identifying the germination mechanism will permit the discovery of new classes of germinants. The elucidation of receptors responsible for germination is especially important, because it will permit the design of new classes of potent germinants acting in vivo, i.e. supplementing antibiotic based therapies. Multi Photon Detection (MPD) methods are applicable to the full spectrum of BW agents, including viruses and bacteria, and biotoxins. In this proposal we describe the applications of MPD to the understanding of the germination of B. anthracis. The methods of proteomics, especially MPD enhanced differential display of proteins will be used to understand the difference in phenotype of the spores which easily and with difficulty induced to germinate. Initially, we will apply the methods of MPD enhanced proteomics to understand the spores proteome. The Phase I effort will separate the proteins which are correlated with the initiation of the germination process. The difference in proteome between the "early germinators" and "late germinators " will be elucidated. We expect that the supersensitive, universal detection of BW agents will be a large, profitable market in which MPD based methods have technical advantages. BW agent detection is actually much more difficult than many life science applications. Because of the extreme toxicity of BW agents, many orders of magnitude higher sensitivity is required. Because of the need for early detection and immediate treatment, the time from sample acquisition to results has to be very short. We initiated a series of strategic ventures with both the smaller companies already active in the field of BW detection, and with very large companies, either active in diagnostic industry or large military contractors who would like to move into homeland security applications.

OMNISITE BIODIAGNOSTICS, INC. 101 West Sixth Street, Suite 200 Austin, TX 78701
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(512) 479-7732 Dr. John G. Bruno ARMY 02-058 Awarded: 06JAN03
Title:	DNA Aptamer Induction of Anthrax Germination
Abstract:	OmniSite BioDiagnostics Inc. proposes to determine the feasibility of using DNA Aptamers to bind key germinant receptors on nonpathogenic Sterne strain anthrax spores to induce synchronous germination, hence leading to more effective antibiotic treatment of inhalation anthrax. DNA Aptamers are short oligonucleotides that act like antibodies by binding any target against which they are raised with very high affinity and specificity. Aptamers are generated by a process called SELEX (Systematic Evolution of Ligands by EXponential enrichment) consisting of alternating iterations of affinity selection (from a random DNA library allowed to interact with the immobilized target), washing and PCR amplification of selected DNA sequences that bind the target. Dr. Bruno (proposed PI and CTO of OmniSite) is well versed and published in the area of Aptamer generation and assay development. In fact, Dr. Bruno made and published on the first anthrax spore binding DNA Aptamers (Bruno & Kiel, Biosensors & Bioelectronics 1999). OmniSite proposes separation and characterization of inner and outer cortex proteins (by PAGE followed by Coomassie and silver staining) from anthrax spores with generation of aptamers to each identified protein. Then OmniSite will test the aptamers generated for their ability to enhance or inhibit spore germination by colony counts. This proposed project has several major scientific benefits in that, if successful, it may uncover previously unknown spore receptors that turn on germination and it will increase scientific understanding of the germination process. In a business sense, the project may lead to new therapeutic Aptamers capable of enhancing spore germination so that ciprofloxacin and other antibiotics can be more effective at killing the vegetative form of B. anthracis. In a broader sense too, technology gained by performance of the project may lead to new Aptamer-based ways to kill or inhibit pathogenic bacteria.

CALL/RECALL, INC. 6160 Lusk Blvd., Suite C206 San Diego, CA 92121
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 550-0596 Dr. Edwin Walker ARMY 02-059 Selected for Award
Title:	High Density Optical Data Storage
Abstract:	The objective of this effort will be to demonstrate the feasibility of producing at low cost, a removable write-once random access near-field multi-layer optical digital storage system that is capable of very high capacity (~TByte per removable media), while achieving very high data densities (> 1Tb/sq.in.). These figures make the proposed near-field multi-layer based system ideally suited for security and reconnaissance systems supporting high-speed data filtering, and content as well as index based data searching algorithms. The proposed near-field photochromic multi-layer optical data storage approach presents opportunity to launch a series of new products targeted for security and reconnaissance systems by the second half of this decade, providing revolutionary performance critically needed for these applications.

TIAX LLC Acorn Park Cambridge, MA 02140
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 498-5070 Dr. Mehmet Rona ARMY 02-059 Selected for Award
Title:	High Density Optical Data Storage
Abstract:	TIAX (formerly Arthur D. Little's Technology Division), in partnership with Harvard University, proposes to develop a revolutionary data storage technology with the potential to provide data densities of > 2 Terabits/in2 and data access rates that are 3 orders of magnitude faster than the current optical technology. Such dramatic advances over the state-of-the-art will not only enable entirely new data storage products critical for next-generation warfare, but will also create exceptional opportunities in the commercial arena that will transform the multi-billion dollar data storage industry. Our proposed effort is based on the recent discoveries at Harvard University that provide us with a powerful technique to go beyond the limits set on the data density of conventional optical storage technologies by the Rayleigh criterion. Our technique enables us to create spots of light with diameters that are well below the wavelength of the light, and is the basis of our approach to high-density optical data storage. The proposed effort will develop a technology that will ultimately enable accessibility to a much richer data set in the field in vehicles, aircraft and by the soldier - an ability of vital importance in next-generation warfare. It will be uniquely suited for applications where large amounts of data are required for use in extreme environments, where mobility is required, and when communications are limited either by security or bandwidth. The potential commercial applications of this technology are very diverse and include large corporate, government, and Internet data centers, numerous desktop applications, wireless and handheld devices as well as consumer products like digital cameras, audio players, DVD players and camcorders etc.

TRITON SYSTEMS, INC. 200 TURNPIKE ROAD Chelmsford, MA 01824
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 250-4200 Dr. Lawino Kagumba ARMY 02-059 Awarded: 06JAN03
Title:	Two Photon "WORM" Optical Data Storage
Abstract:	Triton Systems, Inc. and it's team members proposes to develop a novel method to increase the capability of current state of the technology in optical data storage to achieve or exceed one terabit/in2 with improved data access rates. Triton's team will use its proprietary multilayer fluorescence technology to expand data storage to three dimensions. The proposed technology utilizes sub-Rayleigh spot sizes without the need for near field optics. In the digitized battlefield of the future, the Land Warrior will require the ability to carry higher quantities of information; this requires higher data storage density in a small package. In the proposed Phase I program, Triton's team will create a proof of principle device that will demonstrate the ability to write once read many (WORM) to an optical medium. Triton views this proposed development program as a superb opportunity to transition its polycarbonate and multilayer fluorescence technology into the optical data storage marketplace. Because of the exploding use of DVD's and CD's, the consumption of polycarbonate is expected to double within five years to reach 770,000 tons in 2005. Currently roughly 4% of the polycarbonate goes to DVD's; this is expected to increase to 23% by the year 2005. To meet the increased demand, Bayer has launched a series of expansions, starting in 1999 and valued at $860 Million, which should double the company's current capacity to almost 1.3 million tons by 2005.

PICOTRONIX, INC. 2925 Boardwalk Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(734) 864-5639 Dr. David Zimdars ARMY 02-061 Awarded: 06JAN03
Title:	Terahertz Interferometric Imaging Systems (TIIS) for Detection of Weapons and Explosives
Abstract:	We propose to develop a continuous wave terahertz interferometric imaging spectrometer tunable from 0.2 to 3 THz in order to remotely detect, monitor and identify concealed explosives such as C4 and RDX as well as metal weapons. The fully realized system will consist of a high brightness THz source illuminating the region of interest and detected by a tunable THz interferometric imaging array. The array will consist of a multiple spaced THz semiconductor heterodyne photomixers driven by a common fiber optic coupled frequency stabilized tunable optical heterodyne source. In phase I, a wide field of view and high spatial resolution THz imaging array will be designed. A proof of principle array will be constructed using modified commercial THz photomixing modules driven by a diode laser optical heterodyne source. Initial tests will be made using homodyne photomixing detection. The geometrical array parameters, type of antennas within the array, antenna optics, and optimum high power source will be evaluated to best image at short-range target objects concealed within transparent dielectrics. Photomixing devices will serve both as source and detectors in Phase I. A database of required THz-frequency spectral signatures for target explosives will be developed using existing time-domain THz spectroscopy equipment. A successful Phase II will result in a compact tunable THz remote detection system for concealed explosives and weapons. No such interferometric imaging THz spectrometer is currently commercially available. The proposed system will be useful not only in defense applications as a stationary perimeter defense system and outward looking remote surveillance system, but for civilian security applications as well, such as airport screening for explosives, biological agents, and other contraband. In addition, the components designed will have commercial applications manufacturing, process control, medical, and environmental diagnostics.

AERODYNE RESEARCH, INC. 45 Manning Road Billerica, MA 01821
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 663-9500 Dr. Joda C. Wormhoudt ARMY 02-062 Awarded: 02JAN03
Title:	Portable Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) Sensor for Detection of Biological Agents
Abstract:	Detection and identification of biological agents are challenging tasks, requiring the assessment of a variety of sophisticated analysis techniques. This proposal addresses what is agreed to be the most dangerous threat, agent delivery in aerosol form. Our goal is to develop a field-portable laser diagnostic instrument capable of analyzing a large fraction of the total particles in a sample flow. This sampling efficiency is accomplished by combining an aerodynamic lens and a high repetition rate microchip laser. The analysis technique will be broadband laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), capable of performing a complete elemental analysis in real time. The critical task of demonstrating discrimination against background particles based on LIBS spectra and particle size information will be carried out in collaboration with researchers at the University of Florida. Their current work on biological agent detection using conventional lasers will be extended to microchip lasers. We have shown that these lasers have several unique characteristics for LIBS applications, including substantial advantages. The resulting instrument will be useful both as a warning device and for surface sampling. In addition to biological agent detection, a compact, sensitive aerosol sampling LIBS instrument would find important applications in environmental sampling, such as monitoring toxic metals emissions in exhaust streams. This device should be a good complement to our existing line of commercial aerosol analysis instruments.

EMAG TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 1340 Eisenhower Place Ann Arbor, MI 48108
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(734) 973-6600 Dr. Kazem F. Sabet ARMY 02-063 Awarded: 02JAN03
Title:	Packaging for Radio Frequency Microelectronic (MEMS) Devices Subjected to Harsh Environments
Abstract:	The objective of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) project is to investigate the development of durable, low-cost, Level 1 packaging schemes for RF MEMS devices so that they can withstand extreme loading (mechanical/thermal) conditions and the harsh environment of the battlefield. Our approach will incorporate design and fabrication of three-dimensional interconnects for low-loss and excellent RF performance along with a hermetic on-wafer packaging architecture utilizing Si micromachining and thermo-compression gold bonding. Such a packaging technique offers the optimal approach to highly integrated multifunctional RF systems. In the Phase I feasibility study, we will conduct a research and development program in order to identify materials and technologies for the design of RF MEMS packaging and interconnects such that they will withstand extreme conditions. The research during Phase I will include a theoretical analysis to predict deformation, fracture and failure of both the devices and the packaging seal as well as experimental verification of some of the concepts proposed. One the major problems with the commercial application of RF MEMS devices is their packaging. The outcome of this SBIR project will herald reliable packaging schemes for RF MEMS systems for both military and commercial communication and sensing systems.

MICROASSEMBLY TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 3065 Richmond Parkway, Suite 109 Richmond, CA 94806
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(510) 758-2600 Dr. Michael Cohn ARMY 02-063 Awarded: 06JAN03
Title:	Metal-Metal Sealing Process for Robust Low-Cost MEMS Packaging
Abstract:	Wafer scale hermetic metal-metal sealing process provides robust packaging for MEMS and other components. Low bonding temperatures enable CMOS compatibility. This packaging process has been implemented in multiple MEMS applications, including high-g accelerometers for munitions, automotive accelerometers, and for vacuum packaging high-Q resonators. Military applications include radar and communications applications. Commercial wireless applications include cellphone, WLAN and anticollision radar systems. Low bonding temperatures (down to room temperature) provide CMOS compatibility.

XCOM WIRELESS, INC. 1718 E. Ocean Blvd #4 Long Beach, CA 90802
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(562) 495-6090 Dr. Daniel Hyman ARMY 02-063 Awarded: 02JAN03
Title:	RF MEMS Packaging for Severe Environments
Abstract:	XCom Wireless is a developer of RF MEMS relays, high-performance components that have been identified as a critical technology for the next generation of defense and commercial electronics. The XCom Wireless process for developing RF MEMS provides a direct alternative to solid-state devices so communications and radar equipment manufacturers can easily upgrade to this technology, saving weight, space, power, and money. The proposed program is to test the ruggedness of the present RF MEMS package design under severe battlefield conditions of physical and thermal shock, acceleration, and corrosion. Causes of device failure will be examined through microscopy, with a plan developed for Phase II material and process studies. The goal of this research and development effort will be to forward the state of the art of RF MEMS packaging with a flexible, modular, rugged hermetic seal offering the capability for operation under severe environments. A general suitability of this work towards other RF MEMS device efforts may be possible, but specific advantages of the temperature-tolerant XCom Wireless relays will be employed. The development of relay prototypes is performed in a complementary DARPA-sponsored RF MEMS packaging program, with the testing of severe conditions and failure analysis of these packages supported by this proposed effort. Hybrid assembly of RF MEMS promises low-cost and rapid manufacturing potential for specialized, high-performance defense needs, and access to robust encapsulation techniques allows packaging options with improved survivability and operability under extreme battlefield conditions. The direct benefits to the Department of Defense from supporting this effort include the analysis and extension of a novel packaging scheme for RF MEMS relays and other micromachined components. The leveraging of XCom Wireless expertise with a DARPA package design program allows for the low-cost development of fully-ruggedized versions of compact, highly functional MEMS technologies already in development for multiple government agencies and commercial product programs. The package technologies to be analyzed and modified in this program are well-suited to the needs of high-performance RF front-end subsystems, and the individual relays to be packaged are specifically designed to meet military and satellite specifications requirements. The benefit to the critical civilian radio industry is significant, in that the markets for high performance RF components and subsystems is large and growing at 35% yearly. The test and instrumentation community, the aerospace communications and radar community, and defense wireless system developers have been identified as the first adopters of RF MEMS technology, with relevant MEMS-enabled sales expected to grow to over $200 million in 2005. Consumer markets for RF MEMS include fixed broadband equipment, wireless LAN hardware, and civilian handsets, and are projected to reach $1.5 billion in 2005.

CHA CORP. 372 West Lyon Laramie, WY 82072
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(307) 742-2829 Dr. Chang Yul Cha ARMY 02-064 Awarded: 02JAN03
Title:	Microwave Catalytic Oxidation of Hydrocarbons In Aqueous Solutions
Abstract:	Successful development of this proposal will result in the destruction of hydrocarbons and other chemical agents in water contaminated through front line washing of military vehicles. This washing creates contaminated water that poses serious risks to the health and safety of military personnel. Currently, no effective means exists for the destruction of these contaminants. The proposed technology offers an effective portable treatment system for this critical problem. The proposed microwave technology will treat a wide range of chemical and biological material, and eliminate its threat to human health in a manner that does not pose significant risks to human or environmental health and safety. Initial research indicates that the combination of microwaves and activated carbon provide the best available catalysis for this problem. Preliminary experimental results show destruction rates of up to 99.8%. The activated carbon in water, combined with microwave energy, acts as an oxidation catalyst for the destruction of hydrocarbons and other chemical agents. Furthermore, microwave energy is an effective means of sterilization. The Phase I proposed project would demonstrate the feasibility of microwave energy combined with the activated carbon as an oxidation catalyst to destroy chemical and biological agents in water while reducing the environmental impact. The primary benefit/commercial application that may result from this research is a portable microwave system that is capable of treating waste water produced from the washing of combat vehicles. A secondary benefit could also be a portable microwave unit capable of providing clean drinking water for army personnel in a combat zone. Furthermore, this unit will provide a basis for the recycling of water used in washing civilian vehicles.

NASCENT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, LLC P. O. Box 1470 Yorktown, VA 23692
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(757) 224-0687 Dr. Joseph S. Heyman ARMY 02-066 Awarded: 02JAN03
Title:	Non-invasive Device for Diagnosis of Compartment Syndrome
Abstract:	Nascent will adapt recent work at the Mayo Clinic in vibro-acoustics to make a non-invasive, portable sensor for the diagnosis of compartment syndrome-a condition in which high pressure within a closed fascial space (muscle compartment) reduces capillary blood perfusion below the level necessary for tissue viability. Vibro-acoustics is a form of elasticity imaging in which a focused ultrasound beam is used to apply a localized pressure field to a tissue. This pressure produces an acoustic response proportional to the size, shape and viscoelastic properties of the tissue. In a recent laboratory test, this acoustic response was highly correlated with the internal pressure of a latex tube filled with water. In the Phase 1, Nascent proposes a series of phantom studies to test the ability of vibro-acoustics to measure intramuscular pressure. In addition, Nascent will design and test low-cost, portable instrumentation suitable for field studies of the vibro-acoustic sensor. A series of human cadaver tests will be conducted to provide final validation of this instrumentation for compartment syndrome diagnosis. This sensor will provide a portable, non-invasive method for diagnosing compartment syndrome for both military and civilian uses. A portable, low-cost vibro-acoustic sensor may also have other uses in medical diagnostics and nondestructive evaluation of materials.

SPECTRA RESEARCH, INC. 3085 Woodman Drive, Suite 200 Dayton, OH 45420
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 299-5999 Dr. Gordon R. Little, PhD. ARMY 02-066 Awarded: 02JAN03
Title:	Non-invasive Device for Diagnosis of Compartment Syndrome
Abstract:	Spectra Research, Inc. (SR) proposes to leverage its current development efforts to investigate a novel method for identifying compartment syndrome in medical trauma cases. The proposed method is based on SR's Non-Invasive Field Triage Device (NFTD) that uses electromagnetic waves in the X-band frequency range and special signal processing algorithms to detect the presence of various internal injuries. In the proposed Phase I program, SR will employ its patented RF interrogator and software algorithms to the clinical condition of compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome is defined as the clinical condition in which high pressure within a closed fascial space (muscle compartment) reduces capillary blood perfusion below the level necessary for tissue viability. In previous studies, the SR technology has been able to detect changes in the dielectric signature from various medium including fluid accumulation in the cranium, collapse lung (pneumothorax), and hemorrhagic stroke. Independent third-party studies have also suggested that this technology can detect as little as 2cc or greater of fluid in an injured limb. Spectra Research, Inc. (SR) is developing an ambitious plan to take the NFTD technology from the laboratory to the military and civilian first responder markets. This plan has been presented to various Federal, state, and local agenices, including the U.S. Army; and the interest in such a device is quite high. SR recognizes that development of the NFTD will require expertise in the design and packaging of medical equipment, as well as knowledge of the relevant radio frequency (RF) parameters associated with the system. S*R plans to retain the services of medical instrumentation personnel, phycisians, and other experts as a consultant base. Initial discussions have also begun with major RF equipment manufacturers for assistance in the development of the NFTD. Prior efforts have produced initial market estimates that indicate a significant opportunity exists.

RAVEN RESEARCH CORP. 1950 Mountain View Road Lenoir City, TN 37771
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(865) 986-1166 Dr. John V. Draper ARMY 02-067 Selected for Award
Title:	Achievability Control Theory for Supervisory Computer-Human Systems
Abstract:	The objective of the proposed project is the development of technology for more efficient and effective human-computer supervision of complex systems. Systems that combine humans and automation in a synergistic or cooperative manner may be termed hybrid systems. Hybrid systems offer advantages over both purely automated systems and purely manual systems in many circumstances. However, future hybrid systems will be even more complex than contemporary ones. This gives rise to a serious need to develop methods for integrating humans more closely-and more efficiently-than is possible now within hybrid systems. We will achieve this by developing Achievability Control Theory (ACT), an innovative extension of Supervisory Control Theory. The ACT approach has potential to enhance both the efficiency and flexibility of hybrid systems. During Phase I we will provide a proof of concept by developing the formalized control theory necessary to integrate achievability within a supervisory control framework. Specifically, we will consider the special case when a human participates in a hybrid system. Successful completion of the proposed research will (1) enhance the flexibility and efficiency of future hybrid systems (including battlefield robots), in turn enhancing the mission success rate, robustness, and survivability; (2) support optimal integration of humans and computer supervisors in future missions; (3) enhance mission planning for hybrid systems, and (4) guide other research and development by identifying problematic areas within particular missions and by identifying problematic functions for hybrid systems generally.

SSG, INC. 65 Jonspin Road Wilmington, MA 01887
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 694-9991 Mr. Holger Luther ARMY 02-068 Awarded: 16DEC02
Title:	Mobile Multi-spectral Beam Steering Device
Abstract:	A method of scene projection is required to test turret-mounted sensors without the need for direct hardware interface with the sensor under test (SUT). SSG proposes the application of multiple high resolution gimbal systems to project a target scene from a MIRSP or IRSS source to the SUT via one or more scan mirrors. Non-invasive measurement of the SUT position is accomplished through any one of several technologies proposed and which mount co-boresighted or in parallax to the scene projector. The proposed system is able to project over a large range (360 degrees) with a scalable system configuration using modular components. This SBIR builds upon SSGPO's extensive experience with high resolution and high accuracy (sub-microradian) scanning and pointing mirror systems for ground based, airborne and space based optical systems. In Phase I, a system architecture and a technology for remote sensing of the turret position will be selected. Phase II will provide a prototype for each of the two types of gimbal systems proposed. SSGPO has similar experience as a supplier for the Navy's Advanced Telescope Optical Sub-System (ATOSS) and a developer of a low-cost alternative to the EOTADS optical system, a component of the EOSS on the RAH-66 Comanche. Development of a MMBSD will provide a testing solution and training interface for a wide variety of optical sensors that are turret and gimbal mounted. Such systems are used extensively in the military and in commercial remote sensing applications. Remote position sensing techniques used by the MMBSD would also be useful for machine vision and manufacturing inspection applications.

LSA 1215 Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite 1300 Arlington, VA 22202
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(610) 363-5808 Mr. David A. Warner ARMY 02-069 Awarded: 06JAN03
Title:	Precision Metric Zoom Lens
Abstract:	Current weapons system testing frequently requires optical data collection under adverse conditions. In the case of missile testing, the extreme range of target-to-instrument distance stresses current test operation instrumentation. A single imaging instrument that can automatically zoom and focus during a missile test can overcome loss of critical data that occurs during the switching of instrumentation. We propose to assess the feasibility of developing a metric zoom lens that has a continuous zoom capability over the varying mission range and incorporates automatic focus and iris control. We envision that the metric zoom system would be compatible with existing 35mm camera film and 20mm digital image formats and would have a remote communication link for control and diagnostics. There are many applications and benefits to the proposed technology outside of the primary application of missile trajectory monitoring during flight. The zoom lens devices and technology developed through this effort may offer a solution to numerous problems encountered in industry. The tracking precision developed in this technology may be applicable to assisting assembly line and other types of robots. Another commercial potential application area is adapting the design to tracking photography and broadband communications, and space applications as well as earthbound applications such as using the track and positioning signals to provide a low cost automotive guidance system, which could lead to collision avoidance applications. It could also apply to boating and aviation uses. The television and motion picture industries could also use the zoom technology to track sporting events or other variable range imaging situations such as tracking golf ball trajectories. Also, law enforcement and surveillance could benefit.

SPECIAL OPTICS 315 Richard Mine Road Wharton, NJ 07885
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(973) 366-7289 Dr. J. Michael Finlan ARMY 02-069 Awarded: 06JAN03
Title:	Precision Metric Zoom Lens
Abstract:	We propose to design a zoom lens with a focal length that is continuously variable from 20 inches to 150 inches. The lens will be designed to be color corrected from 400 nm to 700 nm with a resolution of 100 line pairs per millimeter. In Phase I, we will also fabricate and deliver a scaled version of the zoom lens. A zoom lens will provide the ability to image distant targets at various ranges without the need to maintain an inventory of multiple lenses with fixed focal lengths.

FOSTER-MILLER, INC. 350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 622-5532 Dr. Margaret Roylance ARMY 02-070 Awarded: 16DEC02
Title:	Composite Aircraft Structures with Embedded Strain and Damage Detection
Abstract:	Foster-Miller proposes an aircraft structural health monitoring system based on the intrinsic properties of the carbon fiber reinforced composite fuselage materials. The electrical resistance of a multifiber carbon tow is known to vary as a function of both elastic strain and fiber breakage. The basis for our proposed approach rests on the ability to monitor the resistivity of carbon tows in the structural laminate. Applied loads and/or impact damage would create measurable current fluctuations. Hence the "sensor" is made from the very structure in which it is embedded and can be positioned anywhere within the laminate. Structural loads or damage strains due to foreign object damage (FOD), stiffener disbonds or delaminations are reflected as local changes in resistivity in the "sensor" fabric. An acceptable signal-to-noise ratio will be achieved via an innovative circuit design. The Phase I program will make extensive use of instrumented tensile testing to determine the relationship between the electrical resistance of a laminate, applied strain and induced damage. A major military helicopter company will place the data into context with strain and damage events of interest in a real airframe. (P-020587) By teaming with a helicopter company, the proposed technology has a potential outlet to legacy helicopter systems and Future Transport Rotorcraft. Furthermore, embedded sensor technology is considered an "enabling technology" in the large ongoing Army (AATD) program entitled "Survivable, Affordable, Repairable Airframe Program" (SARAP). Embedded structural health monitoring would also have application in the fixed wing and space vehicle communities.

GLOBAL CONTOUR, INC. 1145 Ridge Road West Rockwall, TX 75087
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(214) 514-4085 Dr. Jaycee Chung ARMY 02-070 Selected for Award
Title:	Embedded Sensing Capability for Composite Structures
Abstract:	This Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) project is an in-situ, real-time and on-board composite structural damage detection and structural health monitoring (SHM) system/technique development using graphite fiber composite materials' multifunctional properties the way they are designed and manufactured, by measuring electrical conductivity changes. Unlike embedded or surface-mounted sensor applications using piezoelectric, acoustic emission, fiber-optic and MEMS sensors, this proposed composite structural health monitoring system/technique is applicable to already fielded (in-service) weapon system composite structures as well as new composite structures to be designed and manufactured. The embedded senseor installation presents sensor impregnation/curing process difficulties, material (fatigue) property degradation due to foreign object material insertion, sensor repair-ability and reability problems, etc. Surface-mounted sensor installation also presents other unique problems. Such sensor applications also require a number of sensors/interface-connectors (I/O) that make the technology application impractical to composite structures. The proposed composite self-sensing system/technique overcomes the limitations of the above embedded and surface-mounted sensor applications. This proposed project presents an innovative and unique graphite composite structural self-sensing technology, and provides in-situ, real-time and on-board composite SHM means for diagnosis and prognosis of in-service composite structures used in military weapon systems as well as those used for commercial aviation and civil infrastructures. This SBIR will result in development of in-situ, real-time and on-board composite structural damage detection and structural health monitoring (SHM) system/technique for military composite weapon systems as well as commercial aviation and civil infrastructures. The proposed self-sensing system/technique can be used to insure the structural integrity of composite weapon systems, and the sensing results can be used to predict the remaining useful life (RUL) of the composite weapon systems (diagnosis/prognosis).

MIDE TECHNOLOGY CORP. 200 Boston Avenue Suite 1000 Medford, MA 02155
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 306-0609 Dr. Marthinus C. van Schoor ARMY 02-070 Selected for Award
Title:	Novel method for sensing Structural Health of Composites
Abstract:	A novel method that uses the measured electrical resistances of a composite structure only along the edges of the structure is proposed to monitor its health. The major advantage of the proposed innovation is that it is practical, it minimizes wiring/cabling and it does not require any additional sensors to be embedded within the composite. Not embedding sensors in the composite maintains the strength and integrity of the structure and reduces cost. In Phase I Mid� will refine its patent pending algorithm that estimates the internal resistances of a grid-like network for this application. The method will be laboratory demonstrated on simple composite plates and a test article that will be used to demonstrate the technology in Phase II will be identified or designed in Phase II. In Phase II feasibility will be demonstrated on more complex composite structures and on existing pr fielded systems. Phase II will also design, fabricate and package the required electronics. The ability to detect the health of composite structures in situ or during maintenance with a method that does not require any significant modifications to the composite will enable the ability to cheaply monitor the structural health of composites. The research will lead to two new products. The first being a suite of instrumentation products to be used by composite manufacturers and the second being the diagnostic hardware/ software that will be sold to maintenance facilities.

ACELLENT TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 562 Weddell Drive, Suite 4 Sunnyvale, CA 94089
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(408) 745-1188 Dr. Peter X. Qing ARMY 02-071 Awarded: 13DEC02
Title:	A Real-time Active SMART Patch System for monitoring the integrity of bonded repair on aircraft structures
Abstract:	Bonded repair is a preferred technique for repairing localized damage in aircraft structures that can provide an efficient method for restoring the ultimate load capability of the structure. However, the effectiveness of a bonded repair depends heavily upon the integrity of the bonding interface between the repair patch and the host structure. Currently there are few inspection methods available to actively determine the "quality" of the bond and assess its long-term durability. Acellent Technologies proposes to develop a "Real-time Active SMART Patch System" for monitoring of bonded repair on aircrafts through the use of an innovative "health monitoring" approach using sensors placed in or around the repair to monitor (a) the initial quality of repair, (b) long term durability of the repair and (c) location and extent of damage in the repair patch. A SMART patch system for the bonded repair configuration will be developed based on Acellent's patented SMART Layerr technology, utilizing a network of built-in miniature sensors and actuators embedded on a thin flexible film which upon integration with the repair can be used to actively monitor any structural or adhesive property changes within the repair with the help of diagnostic software built-into a remotely connected diagnostic unit. Safety and reliability of aircrafts are of great concern to the manufacturing and maintenance personnel. Current maintenance and inspection techniques for monitoring of bonded repair are labor-intensive and time-consuming. The proposed development provides an innovative alternative that can significantly reduce inspection costs, enhance the reliability of the aircraft structures and improve their efficiency and readiness. Furthermore, once developed, the system can potentially be applied in other major applications such as detection of flaws around fasteners. The technology can be employed to constantly monitor critical areas on in-service structures, equipment and vehicles. Maintenance of a real-time operational database of structural information will permit early warning of degradation, damage and the potential of catastrophic failure while minimizing the need for most NDE procedures and associated time/costs. Potentially, the market for developed technology is large including industries such as aircraft, spacecraft, automobiles and civil infrastructures.

AEGIS TECHNOLOGY 3300 A Westminister Ave. Santa Ana, CA 92703
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(800) 691-1668 Dr. Fei Zhou ARMY 02-072 Awarded: 17DEC02
Title:	Light Weight Material for Ballistic Armor
Abstract:	Weight reduction for present and future armor systems is critical to rapid deployment of military contingencies, and ultra-light weapon platforms will be the cornerstone for dominating the future battlefield. In general, Al-based alloys are the material candidate for structural applications where weight saving is of primary concern. However, the highest tensile strength of commercial Al-based alloys is in the range of 550~600 MPa, and usually does not exceed 700 MPa even by optimizing thermomechanical treatment or by other strengthening approaches. The technology of nanostructured materials is uniquely poised to revolutionize materials for advanced Army systems. We propose to develop and manufacture a novel class of ultra-high hardness and strength, high impact energy, light-weight, nanostructured metal matrix composites (NMMCs) that can be used for future lightweight ballistic armor package systems. The Nanostructured Aluminum Metal Matrix Composites (NMMCs) are intended for lightweight structural materials that will improve the design and fabrication of future armor package systems with unprecedented weight savings (e.g., a decrease in 80% as compared to conventional materials), and for the development of the capability to design, optimize, and manufacture cost-effective armored vehicle transport systems with survivability and performance characteristics that exceed those of current systems.

UTILITY DEVELOPMENT CORP. 112 Naylon Avenue Livingston, NJ 07039
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(973) 994-4334 Mr. Harry S. Katz ARMY 02-072 Awarded: 17DEC02
Title:	Light Weight Material for Ballistic Armor
Abstract: Abstract not available...

LOCUST, USA, INC. 8324 N.W. 74 Ave. Miami, FL 33166
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(203) 877-2426 Mr. Jules Kish ARMY 02-073 Selected for Award
Title:	High Reduction Ratio Drive System for Small Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)
Abstract:	The proposed program will evaluate and compare different drive concepts, and will deliver a preliminary design of the most attractive concept for achieving the high speed reduction ratio required by small UAV turbine engines appropriate for UAV propeller powered,or rotor driven aircraft. Several conventional inline and offset gearbox concepts will be assessed along with unconventional traction, harmonic, and cycloidal drive concepts. The concepts will be compared based on size, weight, transmission efficiency, cost, and predicted reliability. A 25 to 1 gear ratio, efficiency of 98% and input shaft speed of 105,000 rpm will be addressed in this program. A refined preliminary design will be completed, and will provide the basis for a Phase II program in which the drive concept will be detailed, fabricated and tested. This Phase I program will provide the Army with a complete preliminary design of a high reduction ratio drive system suitable for small UAV engines. In Phase II a prototype of this drive system will be built and tested. With the growing interest in UAV aircraft this drive system along with small turbine engines should find numerous applications in the Army and other DOD organizations. In the civilian marketplace, this drive system will be used where light weight, heavy fuel alternatives are needed for aero, marine, business, or home applications.

CRITICAL TECHNOLOGIES, INC. Suite 400 Technology Cntr, 4th Floor 1001 Broad St Utica, NY 13501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(315) 793-0248 Mr. Howard R. Stevenson Jr. ARMY 02-074 Awarded: 13DEC02
Title:	Ultra Wideband Network Datalink
Abstract:	The proposed effort will develop a Ultra Wideband Network Datalink. Properly designed Data Link layers of protocol stacks take into account both the channel characteristics provided by the physical layer (in this case an, Ultra Wideband transciever) and the higher layers and applications above the Data Link layer. Likewise, the design of a Physical layer that reflects the requirements of an upper Data Link layer is a superior design methodology than simply designing them in isolation. The primary product for the Phase 1 effort is a combined design of both an ultra wideband Physical layer and Data Link layer. Formal design documentation will be developed and delivered. All designs specified in the performance of Phase I shall take into account availability of components required to realize a prototype implementation in Phase II. Ultra Wideband is an emerging technology with great promise. The inherent benefits of ultrawide transceivers are well known, and by themselves provide many desirable characteristics for both military and commercial applications. A combined design process that yields a Data Link layer that is optimized to the characteristics of the ultra wideband trascievers can bring the inherent beiefits of ultriwideband technology to wireless networking product.

INTELLIGENT AUTOMATION, INC. 7519 Standish Place, Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20855
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 294-5200 Dr. Eric van Doorn ARMY 02-075 Awarded: 16DEC02
Title:	Wireless zero power torque sensing using SAW-IDT
Abstract:	This proposal details an innovative set of wireless sensors that are small, low cost, accurate, and flexible, and require no local power. They are able to measure strain, cracks, and other parameters. We propose to use a novel implementation of Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) technology in combination with a wireless Transceiver Telemetry System (TTS). The basic sensor technology was developed at the Center for the Engineering of Electronic and Acoustic Materials (CEEAM) at Pennsylvania State University by Dr. V.K. Varadan. Each sensor can be fabricated with a unique identification tag (IDT) which can be read remotely, simultaneous while reading desired data. We refer to the sensor as SAW-IDT. The SAW-IDT sensor is truly wireless and passive (no power at sensor location). Because it requires no wires, no power, is very thin and light, and can be conformally mounted it is ideal for making measurements on curved metal surfaces. The SAW-IDT sensor is a breakthrough in sensing because of the reasons noted above. It has already been used to sense pressure, temperature, wind shear, force, strain, and has been made into gyroscopes, accelerometers, and even chemical sensors. A working system has been built where a car tire valve stem was fitted with a SAW-IDT sensor measuring pressure. A TTS reader measured tire pressure directly from inside the vehicle.

INTERNATIONAL ELECTRONIC MACHINES 60 Fourth Avenue Albany, NY 12202
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(518) 449-5504 Mr. Zack Mian ARMY 02-075 Awarded: 16DEC02
Title:	Non-Contacting Torque Sensor for Helicopter Tail Rotor Drive Systems.
Abstract:	Torque pervades our everyday life, and without even thinking about it, we rotate or use products that rotate hundreds of times a day. The challenge in the present application is to be able to measure transient torque accurately, economically, and in a non-contact manner in a demanding environment. International Electronic Machines Corporation, which is an instrumentation and sensor development company with products in over 15 countries, proposes to perform a feasibility comparison of two innovative approaches which can meet the challenges of the present application and do not suffer from the shortcomings of present approaches. Based on IEM's preliminary calculations, these approaches will be able to provide all of the required performance specifications. In Phase I of this project, IEM will evaluate the two approaches and further develop one of the two approaches. IEM will build a pre-prototype of the selected approach to demonstrate its performance. The output from the torque sensor will be integrated into a fatigue monitoring approach. The potential applications include: transportation market, process control, machine monitoring

CONTINUUM DYNAMICS, INC. 34 Lexington Avenue Ewing, NJ 08618
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(609) 538-0444 Dr. Robert M. McKillip, Jr. ARMY 02-076 Awarded: 13DEC02
Title:	A Scalable Dynamic Rotorcraft Model Test Facility
Abstract:	Acquisition cost reductions for future Army manned rotorcraft and UAVs will require advanced testing tools to support design development prior to flight testing. All too often, rotorcraft suffer from interactional aerodynamic effects that prolong the introduction of new aircraft, while configuration changes are made to address trim and stability/control shortfalls. Continuum Dynamics, Inc. (CDI) proposes the development of a new dynamic model rotorcraft testing facility, which may be scaled to accommodate a variety of wind tunnels and test venues. This system will leverage previous corporate experience in dynamic model rotor testing and a first-principles, time-accurate free wake analysis to design model supports and instrumentation that permits testing of the dynamic response of rotorcraft in a limited degree-of-freedom model experiment. Use of a high-end, scalable rotorcraft model will aid the understanding of the scaling issues and limitations of the test facility. The proposed Phase I program will carry through the conceptual design of this new rotor system testing tool and demonstrate feasibility through a combination of analysis and experimental demonstration of key components. The goal of Phase I will be identification of a candidate test facility for fabrication and evaluation testing in Phase II. Accurate dynamic model testing of rotorcraft would bring substantial reductions in acquisition cost for a wide range of rotorcraft concepts, through the reduction of time-consuming and expensive configuration changes at the prototype stage. Understanding of the various design and operational limitations present in a rotorcraft configuration through dynamic testing would be particularly significant for the coming generation of Army VTOL UAVs. The test facility could help support both military applications and commercial rotorcraft, where the eventual payoff in operational cost reductions would be still more significant.

MCDONNELL HELICOPTER CO. 54 Roan Lane St. Louis, MO 63124
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(314) 994-0244 Mr. William Randall McDonnell ARMY 02-077 Selected for Award
Title:	Active Control Rotor Using No Swashplate
Abstract:	This proposed effort is to develop an approach to eliminate the requirement for hydraulics, swashplates and control rods on conventional helicopters. A servo tab on a servo tab approach is used to provide a two step amplification of power using the energy in the airstream to provide the cyclic, collective and high-frequency control for flight control and vibration reduction of a full size rotor using small electric actuators in the rotating system. The servo tab is on the leading edge of the rotor for reduced trim drag. This technology is applicable to any new or existing commercial or military rotary wing aircraft. Benefits include increased vehicle fatigue life and reliability, reduced acquisition and maintenance costs, reduced vibrations, drag and structural weight

SYSTEMS PLANNING & ANALYSIS, INC. 2000 N. Beauregard St, Suite 400 Alexandria, VA 22311
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 474-1310 Dr. Peter C. Chen ARMY 02-077 Selected for Award
Title:	Active Control Rotor Using No Swashplate
Abstract:	Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) propose to systematically analyze, develop, and test a primary rotor control system based on trailing-edge flaps actuated by Magnetic Shape Memory Alloy (MSMA) materials. A comprehensive design effort will be undertaken based on the University of Maryland Advanced Rotor Code (UMARC) to determine full-scale flap actuation requirements (size, stroke, location, power requirement, etc.) for the Boeing Apache AH-64 helicopter main rotor. Primary and secondary control (vibration suppression) will be investigated by analysis. Full-scale actuator requirements will be determined evaluated with laboratory tests of MSMA materials in Phase I. Candidate flap actuation mechanisms will be built and tested in preparation for model and full-scale prototyping and testing in Phase II. Conventional swashplate-based flight control devices have characteristically been some of the most complex, precise, and flight critical devices on a helicopter. These systems are maintenance intensive, inspection critical, costly, and act as a significant source of drag. The final product of this proposed effort will be a swashplateless rotor control technology that will enable reduced operating costs for the Army. In addition to fiscal benefits, the superior aerodynamic and aeroelastic characteristics of the smat flap rotor will allow the rotorcraft to operate with greater speed and with superior maneuverability, thereby improving the tactical advantage of Army combat helicopters. The smart actuation technology proposed herein is also directly applicable to aircraft and unmanned air vehicles, where reduced radar signature, improved manueuverabilty, and reduced operating costs, are also projected.

DISTRIBUTED SIMULATION TECHNOLOGY, INC. 11315 Corporate Boulevard, Suite 115 Orlando, FL 32817
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(407) 206-3390 Mr. Darren Humphrey ARMY 02-078 Selected for Award
Title:	OpenGL Graphic's for Rotorcraft Displays
Abstract:	The development of a "Flight Authoring Toolkit" for Army aviation platforms needs to standardize on a common graphics language. The toolkit must be capable of creating Operational Flight Code that can run on aircraft embedded systems. During Phase I, DiSTI proposes to investigate the Army's requirements for the generation of symbology for future aviation missions and the use of OpenGL and C++ to meet these requirements. The requirements will be added to GL Studio, a real-time OpenGL/C++ authoring toolkit with an open, modular architecture that could easily be adapted to the Army's specific requirements. DiSTI's effort will focus on learning the sponsor's specific requirements and enhancing and extending GL Studio to support the requirements of Operational Flight Code. DiSTI's approach to extend an existing commercial product will maximize the sponsor's return on investment and minimize risk. DiSTI's experience in developing simulated aircraft displays for multiple branches of the military and for commercial flight simulation ensures that DiSTI will be able to rapidly understand the sponsor's requirements. DiSTI is uniquely qualified to commercialize the extended benefits of this toolkit through its distribution network. DiSTI will actually produce a prototype display running on embedded hardware as part of the Phase I effort. The anticipated benefit of this proposal is to truly innovate the avionics software development life cycle by focusing on the creation of tool that generates reusable software components using object oriented C++. The C++ code created by this tool will be reusable or portable to a variety of platforms including aircraft embedded platforms and standard computer operating systems (e.g Windows, Solaris and Linux). By creating truly reusable software components, this tool will revolutionize the avionics software life cycle and allow for more rapid adoption of new avionics software both onboard aircraft and in related systems ranging from CBT and desktop trainers to full fidelity flight simulators. This tool will initially focus on creating graphics using OpenGL, however the tool will be sufficiently open to support future industry directions (e.g. Direct 3D). The tool will also be compatible with numerous other software development tools through the use of XML to provide an open and extendible interchange format for the authoring tool design files. This will allow the software components generated by the authoring tool to be seamlessly integrated into software generated using other industry standard COTS tools. The newly created software tool will also filter it's way down into commercial aviation sector. DiSTI is already working with several commercial aviation companies to develop "highway in the sky" types of displays.

TECHNOLOGY IN BLACKSBURG, INC. 2901 Prosperity Rd Blacksburg, VA 24060
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(540) 961-4401 Dr. Jonathan Fleming ARMY 02-079 Selected for Award
Title:	Developing an Effective Control System for VTOL UAVs in Adverse Winds
Abstract:	A valuable new resource being developed for today's soldier are ducted fan VTOL UAVs. Although beneficial in many ways, a major operational problem of ducted fan vehicles is disturbance rejection when flying in turbulent or gusty winds. A large sideways momentum drag component is characteristic of any ducted fan vehicle flying in gusts, and methods are sought to for better control when subjected to large unsteady forces. Techsburg, by teaming with AVID, Honeywell Labs, and MLB, proposes an aggressive analytical and experimental work plan to take advantage of current methodologies and testing resources developed as part of large VTOL UAV program. The proposed work plan focuses on selection and aerodynamic modeling of a candidate VTOL UAV control systems. The most promising of these ideas will then be wind tunnel tested by integrating the new control system with an existing VTOL UAV wind tunnel model. These results can then be used as input into an existing control system modeling framework that can be used to predict the vehicle's dynamic response to turbulence. In addition to an improved flight control system, insights into establishing disturbance rejection criteria for VTOL UAVs will be gained, and can be used for future vehicle development efforts. As the military becomes increasingly engaged in unconventional battlefield scenarios, the need for enhanced situational awareness will be filled by small UAVs capable of hovering flight. The control system development proposed here will be licensed or otherwise used as part of a VTOL UAV program, with the goal of providing the military with a very stable yet maneuverable aerial sensor platform. If this is achieved, many vehicle units will be bought by the military and other law enforcement groups. The commercial potential for UAVs in general has been demonstrated by the interest generated recently by the Predator and Global Hawk UAVs operating in the Afgan theatre. If these aircraft can be made reliable, easily controlled, and inexpensive, other markets will open up. These potential customers include local police and fire departments, urban news centers, aerial inspection and surveying services, and real estate firms.

CHI SYSTEMS, INC. Gwynedd Office Park, 716 N Bethlehem Pike, Ste 300 Lower Gwynedd, PA 19002
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(215) 542-1400 Mr. William Weiland ARMY 02-080 Awarded: 13DEC02
Title:	Automated Wingman
Abstract:	Modeling and Simulation (M&S) plays a major role in the development of new technologies for both military and civilian applications. The Army uses M&S to improve effectiveness and efficiency in developing tactics, techniques and procedures (TTPs); development and design; testing and evaluating technology, concepts, and systems; training; and numerous other applications. With the development of the RAH-66 Comanche and the AH-64D Long Bow Apache, new tactics have been developed to optimize the employment of the advanced capabilities of these platforms. These tactics focus on an own-ship and wingman team concept and all but eliminate the concept of single aircraft missions. This change in tactics presents a problem for the R&D community in that the single aircraft representation supported by the current simulations does not represent the new operational environment of the own-ship/wingman team concept. For this Phase I effort, CHI Systems proposes to use iGEN, its proprietary integrated development environment (IDE) for developing intelligent agents, to implement a pilot Synther with capabilities to fly Comanche-type missions. Communication and battlespace infrastructure will be designed to enhance the interoperability of the human pilot and the pilot Synther and to integrate the Synthetic Wingman, or SyWing, simulator within a SAF. SyWing will provide a capability to embed synthetic wingmen within existing and future Army rotorcraft simulators. By eliminating the need to provide facilities to utilize human pilots for this role (requiring moderate- to high-fidelity flight simulators with full displays and controls, as well as radio communications infrastructure), this will reduce the cost and footprint of flight simulation facilities where there is a need to test or evaluate teamwork behaviors in realistic mission contexts. The technology, once developed, has applicability to related domains. In addition to its use in testing contexts, SyWing will be useful for training applications. Owing to the low footprint of iGEN models in general, we expect that SyWing will be highly useful for low-fidelity part-task trainers where teamwork plays a role. Clearly, the concept is extensible to fixed wing flight, and can be used in constructive and virtual simulators across a wide range of DoD applications. Apart from defense applications, SyWing could be extended to civilian aviation (whether rotorcraft or fixed wing), to serve in training and testing roles (such as the FAA's ongoing experimentation with air traffic control displays and concepts). In addition, entertainment and commercial shrink-wrapped flight simulators/desktop trainers are future candidate applications.

SOAR TECHNOLOGY, INC. 3600 Green Court, Suite 600 Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(734) 327-8000 Dr. Randolph Jones ARMY 02-080 Selected for Award
Title:	Automated Wingman
Abstract:	An intelligent, synthetic behavior model that simulates the behavior of Army wingmen has the potential to increase flexibility in training FWA and RWA pilots, while reducing the manpower expense necessary to deliver such training. Soar Technology has extensive experience developing and deploying the types of knowledge-rich intelligent agents that are necessary for such an application, as well as experience deploying such systems as automated wingmen in simulation environments for the US Air Force and US Navy. M�K Technologies has developed a robust architecture for simulating realistic training environments, and populating them with vehicle platforms and computer-generated entities. As a team, we propose to create a new integration of these two technologies to support an automated wingman and simulation environment to train Army FWA and RWA pilots. The resulting system will provide a usable and useful application, as well as a more general, component-oriented framework that will decrease development costs of similar training applications in the future. Soar Technology, Inc. will apply the most current work on human cognition and hierarchical control to the problem of creating automated wingman models to train Army FWA and RWA pilots. Soar Technology, Inc. is uniquely qualified to perform the research required to create autonomous synthetic wingmen because of our expertise in cognitive model development, autonomous control of air vehicles, and simulation interface capability. The benefit to the Army will be team training, force magnification, radio protocol, and coordinated tactics training. The resulting research will be applicable to the immediate military need for interactive training, and also in such commercial tasks as law enforcement, drug traffic control, security, forestry, environmental impact assessment, emergency, and crisis response.

ORMOND, LLC 1505 Central Avenue, South Kent, WA 98032
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(253) 852-1298 Mr. Tom Butler ARMY 02-081 Awarded: 13DEC02
Title:	Cavitation Peening to Enhance Turbine Engine Component High Cycle Fatigue Life
Abstract:	Cavitation peening is a novel method of inducing deep residual compressive stresses in components by sweeping an ultra-high pressure waterjet across the surface. The process is fast, very inexpensive and can be readily applied to a wide variety of geometries, including difficult to access surfaces such as intregrally bladed rotors (Blisks) and gears. It is estimated that this new process will be less than 2% the cost of laser shock peening while achieving identical residual stress profiles. It is also expected to achieve similar fatigue life improvements of 3X and damage tolerance improvement of 15X. The proposed work will demonstrate the ability of cavitation peening to impart residual compressive stresses on titanium and nickel alloys for small engine components. Fatigue benefits will be quantified and an economic analysis conducted to demonstrate benefits over alternate processes. In addition to greatly enhancing fatigue life and damage tolerance of turbine engine components, the process can also be applied to automotive gears, bearing races, engine components, airframes, springs, railroad tracks, and other fatigue critical components. The market is expected to be as least as large as the $200M conventional peening business. Longer fatigue life and greater damage tolerance will result in fewer aircraft lost from engine failure and reduced maintenance costs and longer component life. Because the beneficial induced stresses are ten times deeper than conventional shot peening, the benefits to fatigue life will be dramatically improved. This feasibility of this process has been demonstrated in a nuclear power application and the proposed work will broaden the applications to turbine engines and power train components.

SKY+ LTD. 1098 Jordan Lane Napa, CA 94559
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(707) 265-0300 Dr. M. Eric Schlienger ARMY 02-082 Awarded: 18DEC02
Title:	Advanced Manufacturing Technique for Casting SX/DX Turbine Components
Abstract:	We propose a new method of casting turbine blades to achieve directional solidification (DS) or single crystal solidification (SX) without withdrawl, which is currently the only manufacturing technique in use to make DS or SX castings. This new manufacturing process will significantly improve the throughput from a casting furnace and quality of cast parts, hence reducing the manufacturing costs and improving the quality of cast turbine blades (airfoils) and integrally bladed disks (blisks). The throughput and qualilty will be improved because the new process does not rely on moving the parts through a baffled hot/cold zone to control the temperature gradient in the part during solidification. We anticipate that this technique will also allow complex geometries to be successfully cast in DS or SX orientation, which can significantly extend the life of the cast parts, compared to equiaxed castings.

ULTRAMET 12173 Montague Street Pacoima, CA 91331
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(818) 899-0236 Dr. Jason R. Babcock ARMY 02-082 Awarded: 17DEC02
Title:	Fabrication of Ceramic Matrix Composite Blisks from Near-Net Shape Preforms
Abstract:	No timely and cost-effective methods now exist for the fabrication of continuous fiber-reinforced ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) of complex geometries. Application of such CMCs can potentially enhance the efficiency and performance, reduce the weight, improve the durability, and lower the cost of aerospace propulsion systems, particularly those used in high temperature, high-stress environments. Achieving these benefits requires development of fiber preform production and matrix infiltration techniques capable of efficiently producing net or near-net shape parts to eliminate the need for costly and time-consuming machining in the final production step. The quality of such parts will also depend on implementation of improved fiber/matrix interfaces and interface deposition techniques. For many projected applications, carbon fibers are of particular interest as CMC reinforcements because they are relatively inexpensive, have higher strength and stiffness and lower density than oxide or non-oxide ceramic fibers, and retain their mechanical properties at very high temperatures. The main drawback of carbon fibers, however, is their low oxidation resistance, which has prevented their extensive use in high temperature oxidizing environments. Oxide interfaces can potentially impart sufficient protection, as well as provide other essential interface functions. In previous work, Ultramet demonstrated a unique and innovative process for depositing oxide interfaces, specifically ultraviolet-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (UVCVD). Ultramet has also successfully achieved rapid infiltration of carbide matrices within thin (<0.125") and thick (1") fiber preforms using an innovative melt infiltration process. In this project, Ultramet will combine UVCVD of oxide interface coatings with a modified, innovative variation of the melt infiltration process for the densification of blisk-shaped preforms to demonstrate the feasibility of rapidly and cost-effectively producing near net-shape carbon fiber-reinforced silicon carbide matrix composite blisks suited for selected aerospace applications such as manned and unmanned air vehicle turbomachinery components. The composite materials to be developed in this project co