DoD SBIR FY03.1 - SOLICITATION SELECTIONS w/ ABSTRACTS

DoD SBIR FY03.1 - SOLICITATION SELECTIONS w/ ABSTRACTS
Air Force - Navy - DARPA - MDA - DTRA - CBD - OSD - SOCOM - NIMA

---------- AF ----------

449 Phase I Selections from the 03.1 Solicitation

(In Topic Number Order)

OPTRON SYSTEMS, INC. 3 Preston Court Bedford, MA 01730
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 275-3100 Dr. Xingtao Wu AF 03-001 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Monolithic Deformable Membrane Mirror for High Energy Laser Applications
Abstract:	To address the high-speed, low-cost, low-weight, and compact requirements of space- and air-borne high-energy-laser adaptive optical systems, this Phase I program will design test and fabricate a monolithic, high-resolution, deformable, thin-film MEMS-actuator-driven phase-only spatial light modulator mirror. The modulators will be built atop a VLSI driver chip, and in the Phase II program a six-inch wafer will provide four modulators with 512x512 pixels on 10-micron centers. In particular, the Phase I will focus on the problems of electrostatic MEMS actuator design and fabrication, high-voltage VLSI-MEMS driver chip design and fabrication, and prototype modulator assembly and testing to establish feasibility. The proposed modulator design offers: large phase dynamic range (large stroke), low-voltage and low power operation, low weight, scalability to millions of actuators, fast rise time (10 microseconds), electrically-independent actuators, excellent surface figure, high laser power damage threshold, compatibility with system architectures that reduce the computations necessary to compensate wavefront distortion, and low manufacturing cost. Anticipated Benefits Because of its unique design, the modulator is a nearly ideal phase corrector element. We expect the modulator to: offer at least 4d radians of phase correction (2d radians of displacement) at near-infrared wavelengths, operate at electronics-limited framing rates on the order of 4 kHz, offer more accurate phase correction at potentially higher rates than other modulators because of its 100% fill factor, be ultra-compact and extremely lightweight enough to be mounted into telescopes, airframes, missiles, satellites, and medical equipment without significant modification, be scalable to larger wafer sizes without any performance degradation due to the massively parallel nature of the feeding signals, and to yield low system cost because wafer-scale fabrication is being used. Potential Commercial Applications Commercial applications of the proposed MEMS phase modulator and its intensity counterpart include (1) large-screen projection displays, (2) low-cost wavefront correctors (such as retinal imagers and supernormal human vision systems) for the commercial and amateur astronomy markets, (3) low-cost mirror shutters for general-purpose use, and for applications in laser radar and printing, and (4) spatial light modulators for optical signal processing applications.

FIBERTEK, INC. 510 Herndon Parkway Herndon, VA 20170
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 471-7671 Mr. Richard Utano AF 03-002 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	High Power, High Efficiency Optical Power Amplifiers
Abstract:	Develop new techniques to design and build a fiber optical amplifier capable of >10W with wall plug efficiencies of >30% for space based commmunications applications. Fibertek proposes a Phase I program that includes a comprehensive trade analysis on fiber laser technology, modeling of a baseline architecture followed by design verification experiments. This development is anticipated to supply the building blocks for free space communications systems for future high bandwidth satellite communications and military air to air and air to ground communications requirements.

OPTICAL HORIZONS 12340 Santa Monica Blvd, Suite 251 Los Angeles, CA 90025
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 979-3342 Dr. Fritz Strohkendl AF 03-002 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	High Power, High Efficiency Optical Power Amplifiers
Abstract:	Free space optical communications is rapidly becoming the technology of choice for intersatellite links (ISLs). Typical systems utilize high speed laser sources coupled with high power optical amplifiers. We propose the development of a high efficiency, high average power (22W), low noise, optical fiber amplifier for free-space satellite communications. The amplifier supports variable output pulse energies ranging from 2.2nanoJ at 10GHz up to 120microJ at 180kHz repetition rate when seeded with 10 pJ/bit. The amplifier has a 25 GHz bandwidth that can be tuned to match the transmitter/receiver, allowing large signal-to-noise improvement. The predicted signal to noise at the amplifier output is 48 dB in a 25 GHz bandwidth. We will further optimize our design through (1) match of gain media and pump lasers, (2) study of various pump geometries. The communications satellite market is rapidly expanding. For communication between satellites the new method of choice is optical data links, as they are more compact, lighter, and more energy efficient than RF based links. The increased power of our amplifier will enable high transmission rates, up to 100 Gbs. Its variable pulse energy feature will significantly facilitate initial emitter-receiver alignment and enable operation in high back-ground noise environments.

METROLASER, INC. 2572 White Road Irvine, CA 92614
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(949) 553-0688 Dr. Vladimir Markov AF 03-003 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	High Gain Threshold-less Laser System based on Optical Phase Conjugation
Abstract:	In this Phase I proposal, we outline a plan to develop a novel ultra sensitive and high-gain laser system. Its operation is based on a high-gain thresholdless optical phase-conjugate mirror (OPCM). Such a laser system will be capable of tracking remote objects. A stimulated Brillouin scattering effect is used in the proposed approach for development of a high-gain pulsed laser system in an intra-cavity four-wave mixing architecture. In this proposal, we outline the operational principles of the system and show how the high-gain conditions (up to 108) can be achieved for a minimal intensity level of a signal of 10 14J. During Phase I, we will perform an extensive theoretical analysis, design a laboratory system, and demonstrate the key components of the system and its operation. During Phase II we will scale the technology for field demonstration. The proposed thresholdless approach for a high-gain laser system can significantly enhance the amplification of a very low intensity optical signal and in this way improve precision and accuracy with remote laser tracking, discriminating and imaging of a small objects. Because of increased accuracy, the control of satellites can be performed less frequently and with fewer tracking stations, thus saving on operational costs. In the government sector the proposed system could find applications in the Air Force and MDA for tracking and engaging missiles, especially during their mid-course phase. Small size, less system complexity and consequently system mobility are its operational benefits. Commercial applications include, but are not limited to, commercial aircraft, satellite tracking, and high-speed wireless communication. In addition, the proposed techniques can be used for improving the performance characteristics of lasers when a high-energy pulse with a required beam shape on a target surface is of interest.

ACULIGHT CORP. 11805 North Creek Parkway S., Suite 113 Bothell, WA 98011
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(425) 482-1100 Dr. Eric Honea AF 03-004 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Space Qualified One Micron Lasers
Abstract:	We propose a Yb:SFAP laser system, using a novel resonator scheme, that will provide over 1 J per pulse output at 100 Hz at high efficiency, in a package far more compact, lower mass and efficient that conventional systems. The high-pulse-energy power oscillator architecture is especially suited to space platforms where weight, volume, cooling and efficiency are particularly important. The proposed system will enable a 1 J/pulse 100 Hz system with efficiency and compactness far exceeding conventional systems. The efficiency and cost advantages of the Yb:SFAP system together are anticipated to break through the present cost barriers to diode-pumped solid-state lasers in commercial materials processing systems .

FIBERTEK, INC. 510 Herndon Parkway Herndon, VA 20170
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 471-7671 Dr. Floyd E. Hovis AF 03-004 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	High Energy, Diode-Pumped, Nd:YAG Laser for Space-Based Lidar
Abstract:	Lidar systems are powerful tools for a wide range of remote sensing applications. These include precision distance measurements, target detection, designation, and imaging, and the mapping of chemical species concentrations. The transition of lidar technology into space will provide a powerful tool for defense and commercial applications. For space-based measurements, lasers with a near diffraction limited beam quality and pulse energies on the order of 1 J are often required. Higher repetition rates increase the data acquisition rate. We are proposing to investigate 1 �m laser designs that can provide 1 J/pulse at 100 Hz in a robust and compact package suitable for space. Our approach is based on an oscillator/amplifier design. The design incorporates diode-pumped, conductively cooled zigzag slabs as the gain media. The oscillator is an innovative application of polarization output coupling to a ring resonator to achieve a high beam quality with pulse energies on the order of 250 mJ. By starting with higher energy oscillator pulses we can achieve a more compact overall system. Proof of principle resonator measurements and scaling analysis will be performed in Phase I. The addition of amplifiers to achieve the final 0.5 -1 J output would occur in Phase II. There is commercial, DOD, and NASA interest in the development of state of the art, diode-pumped lasers to use in a variety of space-based lidar systems. The purpose of these lidar systems include tracking, imaging, and identification of objects near earth, in deep space, on land, and under water. There is also a growing interest, for both environmental monitoring and national security reasons, in the application of lidar systems to the sensing of trace levels of chemical and biological materials. Another active area of both commercial and NASA interest is lidar based wind measurements. Because of the large distances involved, large laser pulse energies are frequently required to achieve an adequate signal-to-noise from the lidar system. The class of laser of interest is in the 1 J, 100 Hz range. The higher repetition rates allow the opportunity for faster data acquisition for rapidly changing scenes of interest. Diode-pumped, 1 �m solid-state lasers are a relatively mature technology and are good candidates for use as the primary laser or as the pump source for generating other wavelengths at the required pulse energies. In order to minimize the output and receiver optics, as would be needed for a space-based system, it is also desirable that the output from the laser be near diffraction limited. Although diode-pumped 1�m lasers with the properties described above have been demonstrated for commercial and R&D applications, considerable development is still required to build the robust systems that would be needed for space-based and other field-based systems. Our SBIR proposal is intended to develop a high pulse energy Nd:YAG laser that can meet the needs of such lidar systems.

IRVINE SENSORS CORP. 3001 Redhill Avenue, Building #3 Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(714) 444-8730 Mr. David Ludwig AF 03-005 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Active Optical Remote Sensing System for Ground Contamination Detection
Abstract:	This effort is to develop/demonstrate an active optical contamination technique for airborne platform. ISC concept is an active system that transmits spectral energy to the target area, and uses the spectral return to identify ground contaminants. The detection mechanism to be considered is DISC. ISC has conducted an analysis using DC 200 with a one-micron film thickness. Active LWIR showed superior performance when analyzing both active and passive concepts. ISC will utilize a SOA OSC, which accounts for background sources, atmospheric transmission, and uses measured material HDR, MR and BRDF to determine the differential radiance when SF96 is placed on surfaces. ISC, with Mundkowsky Consulting, can fulfill the objectives of the SBIR. We plan to confer with Dr. G. Louis Powell of Y-12 Complex, Oak Ridge, TN, on his contamination research. A system approach is mandatory to ensure that the components to be developed meet the requirements and can be field-tested with GFE in Phase II. For Phase I, ISC will conduct the tasks in Section 2.0. Completion of these tasks will satisfy objectives of Phase I. The program will provide background to develop the airborne contamination detection system heretofore unavailable, benefiting the Air Force and industry. The active sensor system developed under this topic could be applied to a range of planned commercial active remote sensing systems for both commercial, homeland defense and military applications. Potential commercial applications include remote sensing for various surface contamination, agricultural chemical coverage and mineral exploration purposes.

ALAMEDA APPLIED SCIENCES CORP. 2235 Polvorosa Avenue, Suite 230 San Leandro, CA 94577
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(510) 483-4156 Dr. Michael McFarland AF 03-006 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	High-Energy Laser Coatings for Large, Lightweight, and Compliant Deployable Space Optics
Abstract:	Alameda Applied Sciences Corporation proposes to use its Filtered Cathodic Arc Plasma Deposition (FCAPD) process to apply reflective high-energy laser coatings to complaint polyamide substrates for space-based mirrors. FCAPD coatings have better adhesion and are denser and more stable than coatings deposited using other methods, such as, sputtering or evaporation. In addition, the internal stress of FCAPD films can be controlled, allowing the curvature of compliant mirror surfaces to be fine-tuned during deposition. It is anticipated that the FCAPD optical coatings will permit the use of large, collapsible, space-based mirrors for defense applications. In addition, FCAPD coatings will find commercial applications in energy efficient coatings for home windows, anti-reflective coatings for automotive and aircraft windows, wavelength division multiplexers, and heads-up displays for aircraft helmet visors.

MICROCHEM CORP. 1254 Chestnut St. Newton, MA 02464
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 965-5511 Dr. William Weber AF 03-006 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	High-Energy Laser Coatings for Large, Lightweight, and Compliant Deployable Space Optics
Abstract:	Material and process innovations for high-energy laser coatings on compliant polymer substrates are needed to improve the adhesion and survivability of space-based optical membranes. These reflective membranes consist of a dielectric coating stack of neobium pentoxide (Nb2O5) and silicon dioxide (SiO2 ) laminated to a fluorinated polyimide membrane. Two prevalent limitations of these coated membrane structures are the lack of adhesion of the dielectric coatings to the polyimide film and the space survivability. Adhesion loss can be caused by a mismatch of the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of the dielectric coating and the polyimide or the inability of the polyimide to withstand oxygen plasmas. MicroChem Corp. is proposing two new stable polymer membranes, which are compatible with current, dielectric coating technology and provide greater than 99.99% reflectance at a wavelength of 1.315um. The first polymer, OPI-N2005, is a new fluorinated polyimide, which is transparent at 1.315um and has a low, negative CTE, which practically eliminates the compressive stress created by dielectric coatings. The second polymer, SU-8, is an epoxy-novolak which has more than twice the resistance to degradation by radio frequency (RF) generated oxygen plasma as compared to polyimdes, which has been shown to accurately predict in-space durability. This technology has already been demonstrated to be a low cost alternative to wafer fabricated quartz in the production of band-pass filters for telecommunication waveguides and fiber optic connections. These dielectrically coated polyimide filters have survived stress tests which simulate the rigors of buried underground cables. Both the high-energy COIL [laser] and fiber optic telecommunications operate at the same wavelength of 1.315 um, which means that the same dielectric stack and production techniques can be applied. Reflective optics for space-based and tactical applications are commonly used in both Newtonian style telescope designs and for collimating coherent light sources. Lightweight and compliant, deployable space optics are often limited to coherent light sources because their structural support does not produce the needed wave front accuracy. However, it has been shown that membrane optics are capable of producing near-diffraction limited images. This means that compliant optics can penetrate both commercial and military markets that were previously reliant upon heavy, costly and slow-to-produce monolithic designs. This could allow compliant optics to be used for satellite imagery and other space-based communications applications. Many of the polymers to be tested in this Phase I research proposal have been originally designed for use in the telecommunications and electronics industries. It is therefore, reasonable to assume that improvements in the materials and processes for space-based applications can also be used in the same applications. Many of the polyimides and other polymers in these applications are not photoactive or photo-imageable, i.e., the coated optical membrane must be mechanically separated into many small elements for use. Converting these polymers into photo-crosslinakable polymers, like SU-8 would allow the use of light to pattern the filters and obviate the need for mechanical separation, such as dicing or other forms of cutting. Therefore, it is easy to re-incorporate the findings of this Phase I research directly back into the products for commercialization in their current applications.

SURFACE OPTICS CORP. 11555 Rancho Bernardo Road San Diego, CA 92127
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 675-7404 Mr. David Sheikh AF 03-006 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Dual Band Mirror System on Flexible Membrane for High Energy Laser Applications
Abstract:	Emerging laser systems require defect-free coatings applied to flexible membrane optics in excess of 1-meter in diameter. Multilayer dielectric coatings have been developed to provide high reflectivity and very low absorption for high power laser beams. Surface Optics Corporation (SOC), in conjunction with SRS Technologies, propose to demonstrate a dual band mirror system applied to a CP1 polymeric membrane. The proposed innovation consists of an ultra-high reflectivity, narrow band, dielectric mirror on the front surface of the CP1 film and a wide band dielectric mirror on the backside of the substrate. The first surface mirror is designed to efficiently reflect the high energy laser (HEL), while the second surface mirror provides imaging capability in the visible or near IR band and high transmission at the HEL wavelength of interest. This design takes advantage of the fact that the two mirror systems do not interfere with each other when the substrate film thickness is significantly greater than the imaging wavelength. This innovation utilizes Surface Optics' ion-assisted deposition techniques and SRS Technologies' membrane casting technology. This technology will allow the creation of HEL coatings on large compliant substrates for many commercial and government applications. These applications include relay mirrors, space based laser systems, and large aperture telescopes.

FARR RESEARCH, INC. 614 Paseo Del Mar NE Albuquerque, NM 87123
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 293-3886 Dr. Everett G. Farr AF 03-007 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	A High-Voltage UWB Coupled-Line Directional Coupler
Abstract:	Ultra-Wideband (UWB) radar systems will be useful for remote target identification, especially when looking through foliage, rain, or soil. The current state of the art, however, requires two separate antennas, one each for transmit and receive. Because the space available for antennas is limited, it would be highly convenient to use a single antenna. We investigate here a number of technologies that, when combined, allow a single antenna to be used. The most immediate requirement is for a broadband, high-voltage directional coupler. A new class of directional coupler is proposed that is fabricated from two coupled parallel transmission lines. These couplers operate over two decades of bandwidth, and they can be designed to withstand very high voltages. Because directional couplers have a finite directivity, there is some signal leakage from the high-voltage source directly into the digitizer. This leakage can easily burn out the digitizer, so we propose using a combination of signal conditioning and limiters to reduce the spurious signal. Signal conditioning involves using a portion of the source signal to cancel out the spurious signal. Limiters may be based on either spark gaps or solid state devices. We will investigate the usefulness of both signal conditioners and limiters. This research will lead to a new high-voltage Ultra-Wideband directional coupler that will allow a single antenna to be used for both transmit and receive. A prototype design will be built and tested during Phase I. This research will also develop methods for reducing or limiting the spurious response in the receive channel using signal conditioning or limiters.

PRO-TECH 11 C Orchard Court Alamo, CA 94507
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(925) 552-0510 Dr. David V. Giri AF 03-007 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	High Power Short Pulse Transmit/Receive Isolation Device
Abstract:	Transient radars for target detection and identification have the requirement of the equivalent of a T/R switch used in conventional narrowband radars. The requirements for mono and bi-static radars are somewhat different. We have identified 4-port directional coupler comprising of coupled TEM transmission lines and a protective switch as necessary and adequate hardware for both bi and mono-static systems. The proposed Phase-I effort will accomplish the required electromagnetic analysis for the directional coupler and the design, fabrication and preliminary testing of a prototype protective switch. As part of the protective switch development in Phase-I, we plan to have the ability in our experiments to investigate the performance of different gasses, electrode materials and shapes. The switch recovery times become a critical parameter and will be the subject of our study in Phase-I. The development of the directional coupler will be the subject of Phase-II effort. The hardware developed in this effort will be designed for pulse parameters of (100 kV to 500 kV), (100 ps to 250 ps) and (2 ns to 6 ns duration). This hardware can also be easily adapted for lower voltage (~ 10 kV) applications. Such hardware makes mono-static transient radar systems possible which are assured of many industrial (e.g., detection of buried pipes etc)) and law-enforcement (e.g., seeing through walls) applications.

Q PEAK, INC. 135 South Road Bedford, MA 01730
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 275-9535 Dr. Kevin Wall AF 03-008 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	High-Beam-Quality, High-Average-Power Yb:YAG Lasers
Abstract:	Precision tracking of airborne targets, atmospheric sensing, and active imaging require high-average-power, high-beam-quality laser sources. We propose to address these requirements through the use of a side-pumped Yb:YAG laser where high beam quality is achieved by multi-passing the fundamental mode of the laser resonator several times through the gain region to effi-ciently extract the stored energy. The pump sources will be coupled to the Yb:YAG crystal using multimode fibers. This allows for flexibility in design and for the laser output power to be scaled to hundreds of watts by increasing the number of fibers pumping the crystal or the pump power in each fiber. In our proposed design, heat is removed from the laser crystal by direct contact to heat sinks; flowing liquid contacting the crystal is not required as it is in many high-average-power laser schemes, allowing the use of a variety of cooling schemes. Thermal lensing, which can cause aberration of the output beam, is kept low by spreading the heat load over a large area and minimizing the distance between the heat load and heat sinks. The use of Yb:YAG will also contribute to reduced thermal lensing due to its low quantum defect and high thermal conductivity. We anticipate that the lasers to be developed under this program would have wide applicability in laser machining and material processing. Specifically marking, drilling, cutting, welding, scribing, and ablation applications would benefit. Also, because of the high beam quality, harmonic conversion to other wavelengths for tailored laser machining applications would be very efficient. Military applications, where high beam quality illuminators are needed, would also be pursued.

SCIENCE & ENGINEERING SERVICES, INC. 4032 Blackburn Lane Burtonsville, MD 20866
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 989-1896 Dr. Viktor Fromzel AF 03-008 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	High Average Power Q-switched Diode-Pumped Yb:YAG Laser
Abstract:	We propose to develop a compact, high-average-power, high-repetition-rate, Q-switched diode-pumped Yb:YAG laser for applications such as target illumination from airborne and ground based mobile platforms. An innovative double TIR laser-head design will be utilized to provide >150W of average power at high repetition rates (2 to 10 kHz), and TEM00 mode operation in all regimes. Strong, broad absorption bands of the Yb:YAG crystals allow pumping by efficient, robust, commercial, InGaAs laser diodes. The thermal load on the crystal is very low because of the small quantum deficit between the pump wavelength (940nm) and the laser output (1030nm). Diffraction limited laser beam (TEM00 mode), and stable Q-switched pulses of > 80mJ/pulse will be produced at 2kHz pulse repetition frequency (PRF) with a conversion efficiency of > 10%. At 10kHz PRF ~15mJ/pulse is expected with the same beam quality. The simple and compact configuration of the laser head along with high conversion efficiency and low thermal load will result in a small laser system suitable for airborne and mobile applications. In Phase I, a comprehensive design of the laser will be performed, and a bread-board high PRF Yb:YAG laser will be demonstrated. In Phase II a full scale prototype laser system will be developed. In addition to the military applications other anticipated commercial applications are for materials processing, lidar, remote sensing and detection, a high- average power source for efficient frequency conversion.

BOSTON MICROMACHINES COPORATION 108 Water Street Watertown, MA 02472
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 926-8796 Mr. Paul A. Bierden AF 03-009 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Reflective spatial light modulator for high-dynamic-range wavefront control
Abstract:	Optical MEMS arrays have begun to transform the field of adaptive optics for astronomy, vision science, and laser communication. They are faster, more compact, less expensive, and more power efficient than alternative technologies. The principal technical objective of this Phase I project will be to build and demonstrate a 150 x 150 element micromachined spatial light modulator (�SLM) that can achieve high dynamic range, unprecedented frame rates, and precise wavefront-fitting. The device will be integrated directly on a CMOS driver chip, and will be controllable digitally through a personal computer. Fabricated using metal micromachining processes developed at Boston Micromachines Corporation, the �SLM will allow up to 1�m physical throw (2�m optical path difference) for each of the 22,500 mirror pixels at 4 kHz frame rate. Challenges associated with design, process development, fabrication and testing will be addressed in Phase I research. In Phase II, megapixel devices (~200 mm diameter) will be produced using the same device architecture. If successful, the Phase I research project will yield a high-speed, reflective spatial light modulator with 22,500 independent pixels, 4-bit phase resolution, and 4 kHz frame rate. It will be usable over a range of wavelengths from 400 nm to 2 �m. If controlled using modulo-lambda phase wrapping, this device will be capable of correcting tens of waves of optical path difference across its 15 mm aperture. The device architecture will be fully scalable, taking advantage of sequentially processed, vertically integrated arrays of CMOS electronics, MEMS electromechanical actuators, and optical-quality MEMS micromirrors. This architecture will enable a generation of new devices for phase and amplitude modulation. Moreover, the fabrication technology developed ? low temperature metal MEMS surface micromachining to optical tolerances ? will provide a foundation upon which other active optical components could be developed. Boston Micromachines Corporation has commercialized the world?s highest quality deformable mirror devices, and has established strategic partnerships with several leading developers of adaptive optics technology in the application areas of vision science, astronomy, and laser communication. The �SLM takes advantage of key drivers for successful MEMS commerce, leveraging our existing products with a timely and important complementary product in the field of optical wavefront control.

INTELLITE 1717 Louisiana, NE Suite 202 Albuquerque, NM 87110
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 268-4742 Mr. Dennis Mansell AF 03-009 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Spatially Modulated Reflective Membranes for High-Dynamic-Range Wavefront Control
Abstract:	Diffractive wavefront control has been demonstrated as a viable technique for high-dynamic-range laser wavefront control. Unfortunately, most conventional programmable diffractive elements, like liquid crystals and segmented mirror arrays, are damaged when illuminated with high-power laser light. The proposed work would investigate approaches for scaling membrane deformable mirrors to provide high-energy laser wavefront control with a large number of actuators. Success in developing this technology will provide the foundation to develop and market simpler, cheaper deformable mirrors for a variety of military and commercial applications. Government agencies that could utilize this technology include not only the DOD programs, but also NASA, the new Department of Homeland Security, and the NRO. Commercial applications in the fields of medical instruments, astronomy, photography, and optical equipment can also be expected.

OPTRON SYSTEMS, INC. 3 Preston Court, Suite 130 Bedford, MA 01730
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 275-3100 Dr. Xingtao Wu AF 03-009 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Large-Area High Dynamic Range Monolithic Membrane Mirror Technology
Abstract:	Applications in laser communication and high-power laser weapons could benefit significantly from the availability of a high dynamic range, large-area wavefront corrector. Deformable mirrors are often the key and performance-limiting components in such systems. High-speed, low-cost, low-weight, and compactness are also requirements for space- and air-borne systems. This Phase I program will design fabricate and test technologies and concepts that could lead to a large area, high-dynamic range, monolithic, deformable, thin-film MEMS-actuator-driven spatial light modulating mirror. The modulator will be built atop a tiled array of VLSI driver chips. The Phase I will investigate the fabrication of tileable chips with corrector elements on a 1 mm pitch and a monolithic mirror reflector over the actuators. Electrical addressing of a tiled array will be a major focus of the Phase I study. The Phase I will also focus on designs that will lead to large stroke (~10d radians at near infrared wavelengths), high speed (100 �s pixel response speed) and on developing suitable electrostatic MEMS actuators and high-voltage VLSI driver chips. In the Phase II program a 28.7cm x 28.7 cm device will be fabricated by tiling four 5.6-inch square devices to demonstrate scalability of the concept. The proposed modulator is expected to offer large phase dynamic range (large stroke), low-voltage and low power operation, low weight, scalability to millions of actuators, fast rise time (100 microseconds), electrically-independent actuators, excellent surface figure, high laser power damage threshold, and low manufacturing cost. Commercial applications of the resulting MEMS phase modulator and its intensity counterpart include (1) large-screen projection displays, (2) low-cost wavefront correctors (such as retinal imagers and supernormal human vision systems) for the commercial and amateur astronomy markets, (3) low-cost mirror shutters for general-purpose use, and for applications in laser radar and printing, and (4) spatial light modulators for optical signal processing applications.

FIRST RF CORP. 1200 28th Street, Suite 302 Boulder, CO 80303
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 449-5211 Mr. Farzin Lalezari AF 03-010 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Narrow Band High Power Antennas for Airborne Platforms
Abstract:	A novel approach is proposed that satisfies all critical system requirements. The design is based on modification of a waveguide radiating element using high dielectric strength materials. The radiating element design is compatible with a range of high dielectric strength materials. The element exhibits very high overall aperture efficiency (in excess of 98%) with minimal dissipative losses in the order of .1 dB. It will be shown that the design is compatible with several high strength dielectric materials. A robust plan to manufacture the antenna is presented that takes into account manufacturing of the final article that needs to conform to the host vehicle. Based on the past success and studies done in support of preparation for this proposal we believe the overall approach is sound and the risk is reasonable for execution of the program and carrying through to phase 2 and ultimately an implemented production program is low. Broadband, conformal, high power antennas have direct application to EW platforms and electronic attack missions. The technology will directly support a number of ongoing DOD acquisition programs, including weapons and manned/unmanned aircraft. On the civilian side the need for broadband high power communications exists and the technology will resolve key issues. Commercial benefits include high data rate transfer from mobile platforms, both air and ground.

SCIENTIFIC APPLICATIONS & RESEARCH ASSOC., INC. 15261 Connector Lane Huntington Beach, CA 92649
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(714) 903-1000 Dr. Robert Koslover AF 03-010 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Twistreflector Antennas for Airborne HPM Applications
Abstract:	Throughout the last half-century, microwave antennas employing various combinations of polarization-dependent and polarization-transforming elements have been conceived, designed, patented, characterized, manufactured, sold, and praised for their compactness, beam-steerability, and other desirable features. However, these versatile antennas have only recently received attention within the HPM community. These aptly-named "transreflectors" and "twistreflectors" are actually well-suited to HPM directed energy applications. Leveraging this technology since late 1999, under Phase I and II SBIR sponsorship by the US Army/ARL, SARA has designed, validated, patented, and is now completing construction of a truck-mountable, rapidly and widely-steerable, high-gain (~30dB), L-band HPM antenna, for delivery to ARL in mid 2003. This is the first ever HPM antenna to support dynamic engagements of arbitrarily moving targets. No equivalent capability exists anywhere else. SARA's completed design is already adaptable, with modest scaling, to a large piloted aircraft, such as a B-1. However, for UCAVs and other small aircraft, additional R&D is needed to achieve shallower-depth, yet still widely-steerable antennas. Interestingly, flatter non-steerable varieties of twistreflectors show promise for application to omni-azimuthal radiating, HPM-based munitions. We propose here several specific new advances in combining twistreflector, transreflector, and HPM power routing technologies to help bring airborne HPM applications to reality. The proposed technology is intended primarily for military applications of airborne HPM-based directed energy weapons. However, commercial/law enforcement use as an airborne, non-lethal, vehicle-stopper is also anticipated.

VOSS SCIENTIFIC 418 Washington St., S.E. Albuquerque, NM 87108
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 255-4201 Dr. Clifton Courtney AF 03-010 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Narrow Band High Power Antennas for Airborne Platforms
Abstract:	For two decades the US AFRL, and predecessors, have vigorously pursued development of High Power Microwave (HPM) generators. Less effort has been expended to develop compatible high power-capable antennas, though the recent DE-ATAC study identified antennas as a top priority in HPM DE research. We propose a concentrated study to validate and develop four Voss Scientific HPM antenna concepts for air platforms; two concepts are applicable to fundamental mode rectangular waveguide, and two are compatible with TM01 mode driven circular waveguide. The concepts for fundamental mode waveguide are: (1) the extremely large-slot, slotted waveguide array antenna, and (2) the split-guide, waveguide antenna. The concepts for circular waveguide are: (3) the Coaxial Beam-Rotating Lens antenna for circular apertures, and (4) the hybrid Vlasov-terminated / large-slot, traveling wave array antenna. In Phase I we will conduct first-order designs and rigorous FDTD simulations of each concept. Also, using estimated field emission thresholds, surface flashover, and air break downscaling factors, we will estimate the power capacity of each concept to show high power viability. Finally, working with our program partner, Boeing Corporation, we will show that the proposed concepts are compatible with specific air platforms. This effort will culminate in the development of high power-capable antenna(s), with an ultimate demonstration of radiated fields from a 1-GW HPM source. In addition, these antenna technologies, and associated HPM system components, will show feasibility with an air platform. Also, the antenna(s) developed for this effort can be used for HPM effects testing experiments at GW power levels, with polarization diversity. Commercial applications for HPM antennas include their use in space to beam converted solar to RF energy back to earth for commercial power consumption, as part of HPM systems for commercial aircraft self defense, and systems currently being studied to stop vehicles in a non-lethal manner.

ACULIGHT CORP. 11805 North Creek Parkway S., Suite 113 Bothell, WA 98011
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(425) 482-1100 Mr. Chuck Miyake AF 03-011 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	High Power Mid-Infrared (2-10 Micron) Diode Laser Development
Abstract:	Advanced IRCM lasers and systems, currently in development, require mid-infrared semiconductor lasers with very non-standard design parameters. The proposed effort will investigate the performance of commercially grown GaSb based materials and optimize their performance for use in unique laser transmitter designs, which will be directly traceable to future IRCM systems. The proposed mid-infrared laser technology has potential applications in spectroscopic gas sensing systems for environmental monitoring, explosive detection and industrial process monitoring sensors.

RJM SEMICONDUCTOR, L.L.C. 10 Summit Ave., Building 3 Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(908) 790-9000 Dr. Roger J. Malik AF 03-011 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	High Power Mid-Infrared Quantum Cascade Lasers
Abstract:	RJM Semiconductor with subcontract support from University of Connecticut proposes to develop tunable high power mid-infrared Quantum Cascade Lasers (QCLs) over the 2-10mm wavelength range. These QCL sources have important applications in spectroscopic sensing of chemical weapons and explosives and also can be used in secure free-space optical communications links and infrared countermeasures. We plan to utilize an innovative active region design which uses double-phonon resonance for better high temperature continuous wave (CW) performance and an integrated thermoelectric controller and multi-section architecture in order to fabricate lasers with continuous tunability. This combined with a new distributed feedback laser design would enable us to achieve tunable lasers with narrow linewidths. The Phase I tasks include: (1) modeling of the band structure and tuning characteristics of QCLs, (2) Molecular Beam Epitaxy (MBE) growth and materials characterization of AlInAs/InGaAs/InP laser structures, (3) fabrication and measurements of the optical spectra and tunability of QCLs, and (4) design of tunable high power QCLs based upon Bragg gratings and integrated thermo-electric heaters. For Phase II, tunable high power QCLs would be developed and characterized as deliverables. Improvements in emission power, laser operating temperatures, tuning range, and modulation speed would be achieved in Phase II using novel laser design, improved heat-sink packaging, and power combining methods for laser arrays. There exists an urgent need to develop trace gas sensors for detection of chemical weapons and explosives for military and homeland security applications. Infrared Absorption Spectroscopy at specific wavelengths in the 2-10mm range has been demonstrated to provide sensitive (parts per billion) detection of chemical molecules in the atmosphere. The development of high sensitivity, low-cost QCL chemical sensors would have wide ranging applications for military and homeland security forces. The QCL-based chemical weapons sensors could be used by ground troops in hostile environments and for airborne surveillance of the battlefield. Police forces could use these chemical weapons sensors to monitor potential terrorist targets. Airport security agents could use these chemical sensors for passenger and luggage screening. Customs agents could use these chemical sensors at ports-of-entry to detect explosives and narcotics. Also large potential commercial markets exist for environmental/industrial chemical sensing of power plant and automotive emissions and chemical waste effluent from factories. The total potential markets for QCL-based chemical sensors are estimated to exceed $100M annually by 2007.

BODKIN DESIGN & ENGINEERING P.O. Box 81176 Wellesley, MA 02481
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 235-6351 Mr. Andrew Bodkin AF 03-015 Awarded: 7/2/2003
Title:	Innovative Measurement Techniques for Space-Based Remote Sensing/Standoff Detection
Abstract:	Hyperspectral imaging has been recognized as an important tool for remote reconnaissance. It can identify targets by their pixel spectral content in addition to their spatial characteristic. This is important when the targets are too small to be spatially resolved, or are partially obscured by vegetation, or the targets can only be identified by their spectral signature, such as poison gas clouds. We propose to build an innovative hyperspectral camera suitable for use in satellite born instrumentation. Unlike other approaches this device captures both the spectral information and the spatial information in one simultaneous frame. (In contrast, a spectrograph-based imager would capture the full spectrum of a single spatial line of data at a time and a Fabry-Perot based device would capture a 2D image in a single spectral band at a time). The resulting instrument will have no moving parts and provide high resolution spectra in a compact, ruggedized, packaged. High resolution hyperspectral imagery is a key element in the developing fields of autonomous military target identification, countering camouflage concealment and deception, friend or foe determination, chemical warfare defense and homeland security. Additionally, it finds application in geologic mapping, biological research, medical imaging, cancer scanning and in clinical instrumentation. Our highly sensitive approach, will make hyperspectral imaging available for all these application, in a simple, low-cost, robust package.

TECHNICAL RESEARCH ASSOC., INC. 760 Las Posas Rd., Suite A-4 Camarillo, CA 93010
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(805) 987-1972 Dr. Edwin M. Winter AF 03-015 Awarded: 7/3/2003
Title:	Innovative Measurement Techniques for Space-Based Remote Sensing/Standoff Detection
Abstract:	The resolution of hyperspectral sensors is typically much less than that achieved by panchromatic and multi-spectral sensors due to fundamental noise limitations. The proposed work will demonstrate a new and innovative technique based on linear unmixing, called Color Sharpening, which combines a set of high-resolution multi-spectral images with a lower spatial resolution hyperspectral image to produce a product that has the spectral properties of the hyperspectral image at a spatial resolution approaching that of the high resolution data. With the Color Sharpening approach, there is the potential for a new dual multi-spectral/hyperspectral data collection system for cost-effective space based spectral sensing Under Phase I, the algorithm will be developed further to improve the target detection performance and improve its computer implementation. A series of analyses will compare the candidate approach to current conventional panchromatic sharpening and to unsharpened data. To accomplish this, high resolution multi-spectral data will be combined with lower hyperspectral data using high quality registration. The new approach will be assessed in terms of object-to-background contrast enhancement and/or clutter suppression, classification accuracy as well as for accuracy and speed. Potential methods to apply the new technology to military and commercial applications will be investigated. Hyperspectral imaging systems are assuming a greater importance for a wide variety of commercial and military systems. The reason for this increased interest is the fact that a hyperspectral sensor of a given spatial resolution or pixel size will reveal information on the scene that can not be obtained by single band or multi-spectral sensors. For commercial geological remote sensing, the spectral properties of the surface will tell the existence of minerals of potential commercial value. For military surveillance systems, a hyperspectral system can often be used to detect and identify a military target, even though the target may occupy less than a single pixel. The ability of the hyperspectral sensor to behave as a sensor with higher spatial resolution does not mean that there is not a place for high-resolution imagery. In fact, many operational and planned hyperspectral sensors are coupled with a high-resolution instrument. There are many applications for a technology that can optimally combine the data from these two types of sensors. An existing procedure often called ?sharpening? combines the output of the analysis of the hyperspectral data with the high-resolution image. The proposed procedure allows the combination of multi-spectral with lower hyperspectral data using a physical model to optimally combine the data . There are two military applications: target detection and scene classification. Target detection requires high spatial resolution, which is difficult to achieve from space. This approach offers a possible solution for a satellite based sensor. For the scene classification application, which is used for terrain trafficability, crop assessment, damage assessment, detection of non-isolated ?target? materials, as well as intelligence, the development of image products with the properties of both sensors will aid the work of the Image Analyst. There are multiple potential uses for this technology in the commercial domain. Satellite hyperspectral remote sensing products are limited in spatial resolution by the constraints of a space-based optical system and the great range to the scene. TRA is already talking to the commercial companies involved in the Hyperion and NEMO satellite systems. The processing requirement is very important here and our program plan includes determining hardware and software solutions to the processing problem. The market timing for this effort is ideal because candidate hyperspectral satellite sensors are currently being studied for classification and detection uses by the military and intelligence communities. This proposed program represents a key opportunity to develop a new technology with high likelihood potential for commercial success that also has high promise for the United States military.

ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH TECHNOLOGIES 1320 Pearl Street, Suite 108 Boulder, CO 80302
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 449-4129 Dr. Boris Khattatov AF 03-016 Awarded: 7/3/2003
Title:	Long-term Ionospheric Forecasting System
Abstract:	The objective of the proposed effort is to investigate the feasibility of an end-to-end global long-term ionospheric forecast model based on a fusion of several diverse technologies and to develop the related probability density function evolution formalism to characterize the forecast quality. In order to meet the stated goal of a 3-day forecast one has to address the complete chain of events starting from highly unpredictable changes in solar conditions to changes in the ionosphere. Ideally, the system would consist of several physics-based models, a sufficient number of observational data streams and a data assimilation system that provides for computing error covariance evolution. Presently, an end-to-end first-principles based assimilative system is impossible. We propose a practical system based on a synthesis of several different technologies: (1) an artificial intelligence algorithm known as Support Vector Machines for predicting changes in solar wind from time sequences of solar images; (2) an empirical model of the high-latitude electric field potentials; and (3) a physics-based ionospheric model coupled with efficient Kalman filter for forecasting the final ionospheric parameters of interest. Additionally, we propose a prototype error propagation scheme for computing evolution of forecast probability density functions starting from errors of representativeness in the synoptic solar images to uncertainties in the final forecast. Improvements in space weather modeling and forecasting will be of immediate use for a number of practical military and civilian applications, particularly in satellite-based communications and navigation. Our commercialization strategy is based on the fact that contemporary space weather models are not capable of generating precise forecasts for use by those industries where solar and Ionospheric affects disrupt operations in a costly manner. At the same time, given our reliance and dependency on satellite and wireless communications such forecasts are of considerable interest to the private sector and the military to allow for operational planning instead of emergency reaction. In the private sector potential clients include: companies in satellite-based navigation (GPS industry); satellite-based communications, including high band width requirements and mission critical applications; cellular communications companies; power distribution concerns; and research institutions. Development of a physics-based ionospheric forecast system will address these needs and open up radically new commercial and military applications. To further substantiate commercial application of this technology we have established relationships in the commercial sector with major GPS service companies, confirmed by the enclosed letters of interest.

SPACE ENVIRONMENT TECHNOLOGIES 1676 Palisades Dr. Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 573-4185 Dr. W. Kent Tobiska AF 03-016 Awarded: 6/27/2003
Title:	An Operational Ionospheric Forecast System
Abstract:	This project will provide a prototype operational ionospheric forecast system based on the GAIM data assimilation ionospheric model and driven by the best operational models currently available. This system is the type envisioned by the National Space Weather Program. Its development represents a major advance in space weather operational systems for ionospheric forecasting. The system architecture combines physics-based and empirical models specifying the 4-D global conditions to provide global-to-local characterizations, at all latitudes, longitudes, and altitudes, with recent history, current epoch, and forecast out to 72 hours, of ionospheric and neutral density profiles, total electron content, plasma drifts, neutral winds, and temperatures. The prototype will be demonstrated at 10-minutely cadences for communications, GPS navigation, radar surveillance, and geolocation users. The system architecture is designed for operational reliability and robustness with quantifiable uncertainties. There are two modes of operation: a modified turn-key system with a central server at one geographical location and a distributed network system consisting of a database server that exchanges files between models running asynchronously on separate servers. Testing of the Phase II prototype will document ionospheric parameters' accuracy, precision, and error with established metrics, comparative data, and exercised under operational conditions with quality control. The team behind this proposal intends to commercialize this operational ionospheric forecast system. A plan for commercialization includes industry and market analysis, competitor analysis, product analysis, customer modification planning, partnership agreements, and system/product deliveries. The system will be a foundation for servicing ground, aeronautical, and space systems via coupled models. Capabilities that will be improved through use of this operational ionospheric forecast system include aircraft deployment and logistics. The system can substantially strengthen force projection at any given time with rapid ingress to any global location, e.g., a navigation and HF communication capability made possible by significantly improved ionospheric specification. It will enable new classes of missions, particularly those that require either shorter travel times from the continental U.S. to other hemisphere locations or higher accuracy single frequency GPS location knowledge. It will provide the technical knowledge to deny situational awareness to parties who may be using GPS single frequency devices. This proposed system will permit expanded UAV flight regimes capabilities in polar, mid-, and low-latitudes. It will also provide a platform for seamless integration of SBIRS Low TEC occultation data as well as C/NOFS ionospheric irregularities and scintillation data.

ENVIRONMENTAL AEROSCIENCE CORP. 7290 SW 42 Street Miami, FL 33155
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(305) 267-7588 Ms. Debbie Sifford AF 03-018 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	The Mu-LV Small Vehicle Launch Vehicle
Abstract:	The Mu-LV Small Launch Vehicle employs hybrid propulsion technology to create a cost effective and operationally responsive system. During the proposed effort a refined system design will be completed and extensively analyzed and traded to optimize the overall vehicle. The project ends with a static firing of a hybrid booster to demonstrate the feasibility of the technical concept. The benefits the will result from the Mu-LV Small Launch Vehicle technology project include lower launch costs and a highly responsive operational spacelift vehicle. It is expected that the technology will be commercialized in the civilian sector.

GARVEY SPACECRAFT CORP. 15641 Product Lane, Unit A5 Huntington Beach, CA 92649
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(714) 903-6086 Mr. John M. Garvey AF 03-018 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	An Incremental Approach to Small Launch Vehicle Technology Development
Abstract:	The implementation of small satellite architectures and satellite micro-miniaturization technologies has been inhibited due to the lack of responsive, cost-effective, user-friendly Spacelift solutions that specifically address this market. New technologies, including some of those being developed for small satellites, and modern business practices now make it possible to develop a commercially-viable Small Launch Vehicle (SLV). A key technical step is introduction and validation of these new technologies and services, many of which are intended to achieve cost reduction as opposed to vehicle performance enhancements. On the business side, an incremental approach based on a series of sustainable market niches is critical to overcoming the large up-front R&D investment that is characteristic of traditional launch vehicle development programs. The proposed Phase I study will refine a previously-defined path for developing a prototype suborbital test vehicle that takes advantage of an on-going SLV project that has already achieved several important milestones in this area. The ability to conduct frequent flight tests, with short, responsive lead times and for very low cost, is already attracting members of the small satellite and SLV communities who seek to get their hardware out of the lab and into flight. The same technology risk mitigation capability can play an important role in providing near-term opportunities for evaluating promising launch vehicle technologies identified during the Phase I study. Upon validation, such technologies would enable even further improvements in responsiveness, cost and vehicle performance. One specific project objective is an enhanced suborbital vehicle that can routinely reach altitudes exceeding 100 km. This system, which would be at least partially reusable, would represent a magnitude increase in performance over the existing vehicle design that is now serving the domestic academic market. A fundamental goal is to achieve such improvements while retaining existing costs and operational practices.

NANOSONIC, INC. P.O. Box 618 Christiansburg, VA 24068
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(540) 953-1785 Mr. Kevin Farinholt AF 03-018 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Active-Passive Acoustic Absorber for the Scorpius Launch Vehicle
Abstract:	We propose to build and test an active-passive acoustic absorber for the Scorpius(TM) launch vehicle. The absorber is designed to couple into the first few acoustic modes of the payload fairing cavity. Mechanical designs are tuned to the lowest frequency mode and the higher-frequency modes are attenuated with feedback control. Suppression of the first few acoustic modes will reduce the sound pressure level inside the fairing cavity and reduce the vibroacoustic loading on the payload. Previous work by the proposing firm and their subcontractor (Boeing-SVS of Albuquerque, NM) has shown that a 4 db to 8 dB reduction in overall sound pressure level below 300 Hz can be achieved with dissipative feedback. The acoustic dissipation is maximized through an automated tuning algorithm that identified the resonant modes of the cavity and automatically tunes the control parameters to maximize damping. Tasks associated with this work are (1) mechanical design of the absorber housed in the Scorpius (TM) launch vehicle, (2) design of control and power electronics, and (3) system integration and delivery for acceptance testing. Although this Phase I schedule is aggressive, the chance of demonstrating feasibility is maximized by using a previous design as the baseline forth Scorpius(TM) absorber. Opportunities in the commercialization of active-passive absorber technology exist in the small, medium, and large launch vehicle market. Feasibility demonstration in Phase I will lead to the development of a modular absorber system that can be incorporated as an add-on into future Scorpius and Minotaur platforms. We will pursue agreements with Orbital Science Corporation (the integrator of Minotaur) for the Phase II development. Applications to larger launch vehicle platforms will be pursued in collaboration with Boeing through our partnership with Boeing-SVS.

ORBITAL TECHNOLOGIES CORP.(ORBITEC) Space Center, 1212 Fourier Drive Madison, WI 53717
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(608) 827-5000 Dr. Martin J. Chiaverini AF 03-018 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Advanced Vortex Hybrid Propulsion System (AVHPS)
Abstract:	ORBITEC proposes to develop an Advanced Vortex Hybrid Propulsion System (AVHPS) to meet the demands of highly-reliable, low-cost propulsion systems for small launch vehicles. The benefits of the AVHPS result from the combination of ORBITEC's patented vortex injection technique and high-regression rate solid fuels. The AVHPS will provide for high volumetric loading and energy density, high combustion efficiency, reliable system performance, safe storage and deployment, and low cost. The Phase I work includes launch vehicle conceptual designs and trade studies, modifications to an existing thrust chamber assembly, fuel burning characterization under the vortex combustion scheme, throttling and mixture ratio control tests, empirical regression rate and combustion efficiency correlation development, technical risk identification and management, and Phase II thrust chamber design and test plan. This technology aims to improve propulsion system performance, reliability, and reduce costs associated with small launch vehicle propulsion systems. The end product of the overall research and development program will also have application to sounding rockets, reusable and expendable launch vehicles, and upper stage propulsion systems for orbit-insertion. Near-term military applications include: boost-phase interceptors, high-speed and/or high altitude target drones, cruise missile propulsion, and forward observation craft propulsion. Military orbit transfer propulsion systems and satellite maneuvering propulsion systems can also benefit from this technology. This technology is closely related to ORBITEC's vortex combustion cold-wall (VCCW) chamber technology for liquid bi-propellant applications, and has the potential to dramatically improve liquid rocket and RBCC lifetime, reusability, and thrust-to-weight ratio. Future generation launch vehicles can benefit from these technologies. In addition to these applications, this new type of vortex combustion may have significant industrial benefits. For example, many classes of air-fired combustors can use the vortex combustion technology for improved combustion efficiency and potentially reduced emissions.

SPACEDEV 13855 Stowe Drive Poway, CA 92064
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 375-2060 Mr. Frank L. Macklin, P.E. AF 03-018 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Small Vehicle Launch Technology
Abstract:	The objective of this proposal is to develop innovative Small Launch Vehicle (SLV) technologies that provide responsive, cost effective solutions for Small Satellites. SpaceDev has identified several emergent technologies that have the potential to produce significant advancements in SLV responsiveness, cost, performance and safety. SpaceDev proposes to develop a baseline SLV vehicle concept that uses both hybrid and Lox/RP1 propulsion systems to their best advantage. Because of hybrid propulsion's inherent low cost, technologies to increase its mass fraction and performance without sacrificing low system cost are proposed. Our concept is based on multiple incremental improvements resulting in a low risk approach that has a high payoff. It leads to scalable, affordable propulsion systems that have many potential applications beyond a new SLV. We intend to leverage Schafer/AFRL's investment in Lox/RP1 engine manufacturing technology to both hybrid and Lox/RP1 propulsion. The SpaceDev Phase I project will define a baseline SLV to identify innovative solutions and enable trade-offs of performance versus cost. We will also define hardware technologies for reducing vehicle flight-control-systems cost. SpaceDev will prepare an improved conceptual design of its sub-orbital rocket to incorporate the new baseline SLV high-payoff technologies, and a Phase II plan for cost-risk mitigation testing. This project will define propulsion technologies and systems technologies that will enable the rapid and inexpensive development of an affordable, dependable small satellite launch system. This rocket technology has numerous commercial and military applications including launch-vehicle main stages, strap-ons, and upper stages to place small payloads into Low Earth Orbit (LEO); providing safe, low-cost reusable rocket engines for sub-orbital manned space planes, air launched rocket vehicles, the new proposed Orbital Space Plane, commercial and government sounding rockets; replacing current two-stage solid rockets used to transfer payloads from one orbit to another; and providing first stage propulsion for a future two-stage to orbit fully reusable launch vehicle to replace the Space Shuttle. The aim of this project is to develop a rocket motor with performance to take up to 1000 lbs to LEO, while delivering high responsiveness, lower cost, high reliability, and greater safety relative to existing options.

ASPEN AEROGELS, INC. 184 CEDAR HILL STREET MARLBOROUGH, MA 01752
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(508) 481-5058 Dr. George Gould AF 03-019 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Aerogels For Common Aero Vehicle Payload and Avionics Isolation
Abstract:	Aspen Aerogels, Inc proposes to develop and demonstrate a revolutionary aerogel-based thermally insulating, shock and vibration isolation material intended for use in aerospace payload and avionics applications. The launch weight of the Common Aero Vehicle (CAV) will be reduced and its operational reliability increased by using flexible aerogel composites optimized for mechanical resilience under vibrational, acoustic, and shock loads common to a maneuvering re-entry profile to protect payload and avionics packages. The aerogel-augmented avionics and payload isolation systems could also find use in future Air Force reusable launch vehicles (RLV's) such as the Space Operations Vehicle (SOV) or Space Maneuvering Vehicle (SMV). The advantages of the proposed core material over other available vibration, acoustic, and shock dampening materials are: � 2-3 fold (or higher) improvement in thermal performance per unit thickness � Density less than 6 pounds per cubic foot � Multifunctional characteristics - thermal insulation, blast protection, shock mitigation In this Phase I program Aspen Aerogels will establish key vibrational, thermal, acoustic and shock properties of various flexible aerogel composite blanket materials and identify potential stack-ups of materials. In the Phase II, the payload and avionics isolation systems will be designed, optimized and encapsulated prototypes tested. The benefits and commercialization opportunities of this Phase I proposal include: demonstration of a higher thermal performance, lighter weight, multi-functional insulation product translating to launch weight savings and improved operational reliability for the CAV. The proposed technology will be applied to a broad range of military aerospace platforms as well as commercial shipping containers and avionics protection structures.

FIBER MATERIALS, INC. 5 Morin Street Biddeford, ME 04005
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(207) 282-5911 Mr. Brock Gilbertson AF 03-019 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Common Aero Vehicle Payload and Avionics Isolation
Abstract:	FMI proposes to develop an enabling technology for the Air Force's Common Aero Vehicle. This is comprised of an improved thermal insulation system for the exterior of the vehicle based on the goals of performance, cost, and weight. FMI will integrate the results of recent and ongoing Air Force contracts to develop CAV insulation and an aeroshell for this proposed effort. This proposed effort will result in a Thermal Protection System stackup that will be constructed and thermo-mechanically tested at elevated temperature. The Phase II effort will include detailed characterization of the materials of choice for the TPS for mechanical, thermal, and physical properties, including variation between production lots. A pre-production TPS design could be established, manufactured, and qualified in government furnished arc-jet testing. Future hypersonic vehicles will also benefit from this TPS effort.

OCELLUS, INC. 448 Lindbergh Avenue Livermore, CA 94551
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(925) 447-0798 Dr. Michael Droege AF 03-019 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Thermal/Shock Isolation System and Materials for CAV Paylaod
Abstract:	CAV is a concept for a maneuvering reentry vehicle that brings a payload through the atmosphere from (sub)orbital trajectory. CAV uses an aero shell to protect payload and avionics from reentry heating. While the aero shell is the primary shield, a key CAV technical need is an insulation system for the interior of the aero shell, protecting control electronics and payload. Besides thermal protection, the insulation should isolate from shock, vibration, and acoustic loads. Ocellus proposes an exceptional new composite material that will meet or exceed requirements for the CAV application. This material, named BRIA, consists of a novel low-density ceramic fiber matrix filled with heat-resistant aluminum oxide foam. It is lightweight, mechanically strong, easily fashioned into shapes, an excellent thermal insulator, stable to 2600�F, and should exhibit extraordinary energy dissipation characteristics. Our approach is to engineer BRIA to meet CAV needs for interior insulation. In a preliminary design, the BRIA insulation system is attached directly to the inner surface of the aero shell, providing more payload space and critical protection should the aero shell be damaged. Phase I work includes characterization of BRIA, model development for BRIA trade study, and preliminary design for BRIA in CAV. Immediate benefits from this Phase I activity would be the identification of an insulation system for the CAV that would offer value-added benefits such as, designs allowing insulation in contact with aero shell to provide more payload space and protection to payload should aero shell be damaged. Longer term benefits stem from further development of BRIA and its use in other aerospace applications and, ultimately, commercial products. Besides CAV, an initial aerospace market strategy is to develop BRIA as a Thermal Protection System (TPS) for Space Vehicles, such as Reusable Launch Vehicles, expendable launch and reentry vehicles, and the current Shuttle fleet. These applications would be enabled by an insulation material that provides excellent high temperature insulation, and possesses sufficient thermal tolerance and mechanical strength to withstand multiple atmospheric reentry cycles. The development of this large market would allow manufacturing scale-up and manufacturing efficencies. The secondary market, commercial products, feeds off of the systems and experience developed in the military/space market. This market would initially focus on niche applications such as flight data recorders and specialty high temperature furnaces.

AGILTRON CORP. 13 Henshaw Street Woburn, MA 01801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 933-0513 Dr. Jing Zhao AF 03-020 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Phase Gradient Fine Steering Mirrors for Free Space Optical Communication Systems
Abstract:	Lasercomm offers attractive benefits of energy efficient, small size and weight, as well as resistant to detection and jam. However, lasercomm requires high accuracy pointing systems due to the much narrower beam divergence compared to conventional RF technology. Although mechanical beam steering mirrors provide the basic performance requirements, there is an increased need for high frequency beam steering device to overcome platform vibration and jitter. In this program Agiltron Inc. propose an alternative optical phase gradient based non-mechanical approach. Our innovative design overcomes the wavefront distortion deficiency that has traditionally hampered the application of phased array based device due to discontinuity and stair-step phase-delay profile. Our technology offers significantly reduction in size and power of fast beam steering systems as well as intrinsic precision control capability. In Phase I we will fabricate a prototype device to demonstrate feasibility. We anticipate that state-of-the-art performance in several key specifications can be achieved in Phase I of the program. Applications for optical scanning products are very broad. They include low-mass, low-power-consumption space terminals for future DoD, NASA and commercial space-to-ground and inter-satellite optical communications links. Other application includes lasercomm, displays, laser imaging, medicine, printing, industrial laser- based material processing and optical communications.

DISPLAYTECH, INC. 2602 Clover Basin Drive Longmont, CO 80503
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 774-2272 Dr. Mike O'Callaghan AF 03-020 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Beam steering using a new class of fast, high-polarization ferroelectric liquid crystals
Abstract:	It has long been known that optical phased array (OPA) beam steering can be performed by liquid crystal devices, yet available liquid crystals are either too slow for many applications (1 ms - 100's of milliseconds) or they are incapable of producing the necessary range of analog phase modulation. Developments in a new class of ferroelectric liquid crystals (FLCs) during the last couple of years have the potential to overcome these limitations, enabling OPA beam steering devices with speeds in excess of 5 kHz. OPAs consist of two-dimensional arrays of individual FLC phase modulators, they can be made by placing a layer of liquid crystal on the top surface of a specially designed VLSI circuit. The VLSI surface is divided into an array of individual electrodes, one per modulator. However, optimal drive voltages for the new FLC far exceed the capabilities of normal CMOS VLSI circuitry. We have devised a charge-controlled drive scheme to overcome this problem, allowing the new FLCs to be driven by CMOS-compatible voltages. Using the new FLCs and drive scheme, we propose to develop OPA fine steering mirrors capable of the speed and accuracy required for free space optical communications systems. Successful development of the proposed technology will benefit commercial users by enabling higher bandwidth free-space communications between points lacking optical fiber links, by improving the quality of information that can be obtained from LADAR systems, and by making available a novel programmable optics component technology that should be of use in diverse applications such as optical disk drives, holographic data storage, and optical switching. If it can be made cheaply enough, it could also offer a flexible alternative to scanners currently used for warehouse inventory control and supermarket scanners which use conventional opto-mechanical mechanisms.

CREARE, INC. P.O. Box 71 Hanover, NH 03755
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(603) 643-3800 Dr. Robert Kline-Schoder AF 03-021 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Optical Sensor for Precision Fast Steering Mirror Control
Abstract:	The overall goal of this project is to design, fabricate, test, and deliver a high bandwidth, large dynamic range optical sensor for precision fast steering mirror (FSM) control. FSMs are used in laser-based communications systems to enable the required high accuracy pointing systems that are needed because of their narrow beam divergence characteristics and vibration and jitter suppression. Relatively large diameter FSMs used in laser communications present a particularly challenging set of specifications. The mirror must be controlled with a positioning accuracy on the order of nanometers and must be capable of large angular slews requiring total displacements greater than 0.1 mm (or 100,000 nanometers). Further, the system must have very high bandwidth (up to 5 kHz) and be radiation tolerant. These requirements necessitate the development of new sensing technologies for use in feedback systems to meet the demanding specifications. Creare's Optical Sensor for Precision Fast Steering Mirror Control is a unique non-contact sensor, that can measure with: nanometer resolution; a dynamic range in excess of 100,000; a bandwidth up to 5 kHz; and radiation tolerance. During Phase I, we will demonstrate the feasibility of our approach with a bench-top experiment. This technology would be useful for a number of space-based and airborne systems including military and commercial laser-based communications systems and military and NASA imaging satellites. Additional commercial applications include high precision manufacturing processes, such as photolithography and other chip-making operations.

SSG, INC. 65 Jonspin Road Wilmington, MA 01887
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 694-9991 Dr. Holger Luther AF 03-021 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Technologies for Fine Steering Mirror Systems in Free Space Optical Communication Systems
Abstract:	Future Free-Space Optical Communication / Lasercomm architectures have identified beam steering devices as critical path technology. Conventional Fine Steering Mirror mechanisms are a lower risk, near term solution. Typical performance requirements include: up to an 8 cm aperture, ,b1,a FOR, <1 microradian pointing repeatability and 5kHz BW. SSG proposes the incremental development of three key technologies to achieve these requirements. These efforts include refinements to SSG��s proprietary Optical Position Sensor and central flexure concepts as well as improvements to the design of its voice coil motors. SSG feels that these key technologies are the ideal, low risk solution to achieving these FSM performance goals in the near future. In their present level of development, SSG is able to produce a FSM with 3.7 cm aperture capable of ,b0.57,a FOR, <1 microradian pointing repeatability and 2kHz BW. SSG also anticipates that wave front error correction will be a necessary function of FSMs in future Lasercomm systems. To this end, SSG is developing a Deformable Fast Steering Mirror as part of the Tera Hertz Operational Reachback (THOR) program. The work described in this proposal complements SSG��s DFSM effort as well as the anticipated architectures of future Lasercomm programs such as THOR Advances in Fine Steering Mirror (FSM) technologies is necessary for future airborne and space Lasercomm architectures to accomplish their mission. There is a potential for commercial space Lasercomm networks to evolve from a hundred optical nodes to thousands of optical nodes and terminals where each subsystem employs one or multiple FSM units. Other airborne and space based beam steering applications include fine tracking mechanisms in remote sensing and targeting systems as well as high energy laser delivery systems for NASA and DoD. However, as the technology matures and becomes less costly, these capabilities will also improve the performance of commercial ground based free-space optical communication systems. As an added opportunity to these commercial potentials, SSG anticipates that wave-front correction will be an added requirement for these applications and is developing a combined Deformable Mirror and Fast Steering Mirror (DFSM).

INTERNATIONAL PHOTONICS CONSULTANTS, INC. 30 Tierra Monte NE Albuquerque,, NM 87122
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 797-4799 Mr. Edward W Taylor AF 03-022 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Polymer Based Photonics for Space Environment Applications
Abstract:	Polymer Based Photonics for Space Environment Applications Economical and efficient polymer based photonic (PBP) components such as high bandwidth electro-optic (EO) modulators are required for implementation in next generation high performance sateliites, including small-nano satellites. Satellite systems such as sensors, fiber optic data buses, intra satellite links, navigation, tracking and targeting will benefit from using hardened integrated polymer circuits. This Phase I proposal will demonstrate a feasibility concept using electrostatic self-assembly (ESA) to fabricate intrinsically poled and stable EO polymer modulators that can survive in space environments. The Phase I results will be transitioned into a Phase II effort to fabricate unique and advanced radiation resistant, multi-component, integrated optic polymer circuitry demonstating high bandwidths, low V-pi, low power requirements,low scattering and propagation losses and stability under elevated temperatures. Intrinsically poled NLO polymer materials fabricated by ESA avoids degradation that can be introduced via electric field poled-high temperature processing of polymers. The ESA approach constrains processing complexity and cost while facilitating simple large scale component integration of photonic circuits.

IPITEK 2330 Faraday Avenue Carlsbad, CA 92008
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(760) 438-1010 Mr. James H. Bechtel AF 03-022 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Low Voltage, Low Insertion Loss Microwave/Photonic Electro-Optic Modulator
Abstract:	IPITEK proposes a novel low-voltage, low-loss wideband (>20 GHz) electro-optic modulator based on nonlinear optical (NLO) polymer materials. Our proposed approach will be based on IPITEK's experimental success in achieving 0.8 V halfwave voltage in a novel Mach-Zehnder modulator design. Optical push-pull will be used to reduce the half-wave voltage to less than 1 volt. The application of our unique nonlinear cladding layer technology can, in itself, reduce the half-wave voltage by thirty percent. IPITEK will also investigate the use of photonic bandgap structures for additional reduction in the modulator half-wave voltage. Also, our three-dimensional adiabatic tapered waveguide transitions together with cylindrical lensed fiber will result in low optical interface loss. Initial radiation testing will be completed during Phase I to determine the applicability of these devices for space environments. The potential for commercial applications is excellent, and high optical power throughput with low losses, small size, and low cost will satisfy both military and commercial requirements. These novel modulators will provide both high bit rates for digital signals and high dynamic range for RF distribution, and they fit IPITEK's present and continuing marketing and sales agenda. A range of diverse applications can be accommodated, such as high-speed digital signal distribution, the remoting of antennas for cellular and micro-cellular RF radio systems used in military and commercial applications, the distribution of analog cable television video signals, and even signal processing for phased array antenna beam forming.

SARASWATI ASSOC. 2015 St Julien Ct Mountain View, CA 94043
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(650) 390-9250 Mr. Mark Volden AF 03-023 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Optical Network Devices and Protocols for Space
Abstract:	The next generation architecture must become more protocol independent and bit rate independent. Numerous sensors and other sources will contribute to the traffic on a laser communications backbone platform. They will vary in rate (kilobits/s to gigabits/s) and in protocol. We will assess, then propose to construct a 160 Gb/s spaced based data switch for the backbone which will have unprecedented advantages in versatility, size and power. In addition we will assess, then propose to construct the modules which will interface, in native format, with an on board fiber optic bus, and a sample payload such as GBS. These modules will allow traffic from legacy payloads to enter the lasercom backbone. The proposed network will seemlessly integrate with the public switched telecommunications network (PSTN) managed by the commercial telecommunications service providers. The envisioned backbone topology, protocol, and onboard processor will allow growth of the space based backbone to 160 Gb/s and beyond with an order of magnitude reduction in size and power compared to present techniques. This will enable the cost effective deployment of a laser comm backbone for both DOD and commercial applications.

SPACE PHOTONICS, INC. 700 Research Center Blvd. Fayetteville, AR 72701
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(321) 951-3983 Mr. Fred J Orlando AF 03-023 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Intelligent Free Space Optical Communications Node
Abstract:	The Intelligent Free Space Optical Communications Node is an autonomous, free space optical, inter-satellite communications node that can intelligently locate, establish a link, and communicate with any other satellite in the network using adaptive protocol and gateway technologies. Innovations include Intelligent Adaptive Protocol Engines to accommodate multiple link and network protocols, Intelligent Adaptive Gateway Engines to translate between the inter-satellite and intra-satellite network protocols, Hit-less Switch technology to eliminate data loss during link handoff, and Autonomous Link Acquisition, Tracking and Anti-Jamming capabilities. The candidate protocols that will be evaluated for Phase II prototype development and demonstration include IP over Optical, IP over Sonet, and IEEE 1393 for inter-satellite applications; and, IP over IEEE 1394 and IEEE 1393 for intra-satellite applications. All protocol, gateway and autonomous control functions are uplink programmable to accommodate future changes, additions and improvements. Leveraging our Principle Investigator's experience as one of the Nation's leading aerospace network inventors and developers (MIL-STD-1553, AS 1773, IEEE 1393), SPI is in a unique position to successfully develop the Free Space Optical Communications Node. Previous development efforts will also be leveraged including the first Rad-Tolerant gigabit IEEE 1393 network developed in 1999 at SPI. This innovation is key to the realization of both DoD's Transformational Communications Architecture and NASA's Space Internet Architecture visions. With numerous government and commercial organizations attempting to define the operational and interface standards for their next generation communication architectures two facts are clear. First, standards development is an on going process that is not going to end any time soon. Second, the adoption of a single network protocol by either the government or the commercial sectors is never going to happen. Given this, aerospace developers must implement inter-satellite and intra-satellite networks today that will inter-operate with these multiple, constantly evolving protocols for the next 10 to 20 years. This innovation is one of the key enabling technologies. Potential Commercial Applications: This innovation is key to the implementation and operation of ?the internet in space? and multiple satellite communications networks like Teledesic.

AGILITY COMMUNICATIONS, INC. 600 Pine Ave. Santa Barbara, CA 93117
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(805) 690-1718 Dr. Clint Schow AF 03-024 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Low-Noise, Wide-Bandwidth, Large-Area APDs for Free-Space Optical Links
Abstract:	For future satellite to ground optical links, large-area high-performance photodetectors are a key component. The APD is a natural choice, owing to its inherent sensitivity advantage compared to photodetectors that do not provide internal gain. The output of Phase I of this program is an APD design that achieves 3 GHz of bandwidth, a quantum efficiency greater than 50%, and noise performance comparable to silicon APDs, with a light sensitive diameter of 200 mm. In order to achieve these performance targets, Impact Ionization Engineering (I2E) will be used to incorporate an optimized InAlAs multiplication structure within a large area device. APDs designed for telecommunications applications incorporating these I2E InAlAs multiplication layers have achieved the lowest noise and highest gain-bandwidth product ever reported for any APD technology. Agility has an exclusive license to these low-noise structures and is therefore uniquely positioned to both successfully complete Phase I with a viable design and to implement the design by building APDs in Phase II that meet the program performance goals. Successfully designing a large area APD that meets the objectives of this SBIR will yield a device that not only facilitates space to ground communication, but also will find wide commercial applications in instrumentation as well as other space, avionics, and terrestrial free-space optical communications where large-area wide-bandwidth detector technologies currently do not exist.

INPHOT, INC. 13, Blossom Hill Drive Plainsboro, NJ 08536
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(609) 750-0992 Dr. Krishna Linga AF 03-024 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Infra-red Avalanche Photodiode Detectors (APD) for Laser Communications
Abstract:	InPhot Inc proposes to develop the enabling material and device technology for the realization of low noise, large area, high quantum efficiency infrared Avalanche Photodiode Detectors (APD) sensitive in the 1064 nm to 1550 nm spectral region for laser communication. We will achieve this by performing device designs to determine suitable material structures, epitaxial growth and device fabrication processes. The primary goal of this proposed Phase I effort is to demonstrate the feasibility of low noise, large area, high quantum efficiency infrared avalanche photodiode detectors sensitive in the 1064 nm to 1550 nm spectral region by developing techniques to lower the impact ionization co-efficient, lower dark current that would prevent the edge break down and develop strategies for high quantum efficiency and high speed operation. In addition the Phase I effort projects the detector performance that can be realized from the proposed detectors through material and device designs. In Phase II, we will further optimize the material structures and design and fabricate infrared avalanche photodetectors and segmented or multi-element detectors based on them. This project will result in two products: infrared large area avalanche photodetectors in the 1064 nm - 1550 nm spectral band and the avalanche photodetector arrays. This project will result in two products: infrared large area avalanche photodetectors in the 1064 nm - 1550 nm spectral band and the avalanche photodetector arrays. The photodetectors will be applicable in missile seekers, battlefield target identification and recognition systems, and eyesafe LADAR. Civilian applications include fiberoptic telecommunications, remote sensing and laser spectroscopy.

BOULDER NONLINEAR SYSTEMS, INC. 450 Courtney Way, Unit 107 Lafayette, CO 80026
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 604-0077 Dr. Jay Stockley AF 03-025 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Multibeam Optical Head for Satellite Laser Communications
Abstract:	Boulder Nonlinear Systems, Inc. (BNS) proposes to use its expertise in liquid crystal optical phased arrays (OPAs) and spatial light modulators (SLMs) to investigate a novel optical head for space-based multibeam laser communications. The primary focus of the proposed effort will be to establish the feasibility of using a liquid crystal beam steering device in place of a gimbaled mirror to produce multiple beams for satellite communication links. The principle question regarding the feasibility of a satellite-based liquid crystal multibeam optical head is whether the liquid crystal modulator can withstand the radiation levels that satellite-borne devices are subjected to. During the proposed Phase I feasibility study we will investigate the radiation survivability of a liquid crystal spatial light modulator The technology proposed here offers the potential for improvements in the performance of free space optical communications links. The ability to address multiple nodes provides redundancy to ensure transmission and provides the broadcast advantage of multiple coverage with less likelihood of interference or intercept than RF. Possible commercial applications include the use of this technology for civilian satellite laser communications and free space optical links in general.

BREAULT RESEARCH ORGANIZATION 6400 E. Grant Road, Suite 350 Tucson, AZ 85715
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(520) 721-0500 Mr. Mark Fink AF 03-025 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Multibeam Optical Communications Transmitter/Receiver
Abstract:	Future high bandwidth satellite communications will utilize free-space lasers, which provide high bandwidth, low probability of intercept and jam resistant communication between satellites and ground assets. A current network uses a satellite with a separate transmitter and receiver for each communication link. Current world events demonstrated that there are applications for multiple communication links between close proximity assets. However, multiple transmitters on a single satellite increases satellite complexity, weight, system cost and launch cost. A wide field-of-view transmitter/receiver system could mitigate those challenges. Further advantages would be gained by leveraging from existing telecommunication technology. Breault Research Organization (BRO) proposes to determine the feasibility of leveraging existing telecommunication components and other assets into a satellite's communication system in order to allow one transceiver to communicate to multiple targets within the field-of-view of the transceiver. With the increased dynamic nature of the modern battlefield, communication with multiple assets is critical to mission success. The technology described in this proposal leverages existing technology, which reduces cost and development time to a fielded unit. Though this system is designed for a military application, transition to commercial satellites would help reduce their deployment and other long-term costs. One wide field-of-view geostationary satellite acting as a node, directing and switching multiple communication channels could replace several satellites performing the same function. This would greatly benefit the satellite industry.

KENT OPTRONICS, INC. 275 Martinel Dr., Suite W Kent, OH 44240
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(845) 897-0138 Dr. Le Li AF 03-025 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Multibeam Optical Communications Transmitter/Receiver
Abstract:	This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) proposal introduces a stationary gimbal-less multiple beam optical transceiver for future high bandwidth free-space laser communication. With a near 4p field of regards (FOR), the transceiver surpasses the shortcomings of a gimbal based device in terms of bulkiness, slow slew rate, heavy weight, power hungry, and difficult in achieving accurate and multiple beam pointing. The core component is a planar structured wave-guide (WG) optical transmitter [also termed as beam steering device (BSD)] integrated with an optical receiver. Other features include compact and motionless package (4 inches and 2 inches in length), random, accurate, and multiple beam pointing with a fast speed in sub-millisecond range, high efficiency, wide receiving angle, and broad spectral bandwidth. Finally, the device is rigid, lightweight, low power consumption, and low cost, meeting the requirements as demanded in the broadband optical reachback for free space laser communication in military, space, and commercial industry. In Phase I, a feasibility study on the WG transmitter will be carried out to address the concept. In Phase II, prototype transceiver will be developed and tested, followed by Phase III for commercialization not only for military but also for telecom, medical and entertainment. The proposed transceiver primarily suits military application purposes. In addition, the transceiver can find broad applications in commercial fields such as optical wireless communication, display, medical, entertainment, to name a few.

HITTITE MICROWAVE CORP. 12 Elizabeth Drive Chelmsford, MA 01824
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 250-3343 Mr. Mitch Shifrin AF 03-026 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Millimeter Wave, Low Noise Amplifier
Abstract:	To meet the growing demands to transfer data for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), Air Force is working on a project to expand MILSATCOM bands with new up-link bands allocated near 51 and 86 GHz. Hittite Microwave Corporation has been involved in development of millimeter wave (MMW) MMICs for many years and introduced novel products for amplifiers, converters, and sources using GaAs PHEMT technology. Recent advances in the semiconductor technology have brought the indium-phosphide (InP) MHEMT (metamorphic high electron mobility transistor) technology to the forefront as the promising technology for the next generation of MMW MMICs. A recent survey of technologies available for MMW low-noise amplifiers (LNA), for example, showed that LNAs made of MHEMT process have lower noise figure and consume a fraction of the prime power compared to GaAs devices. The reduced power consumption is a critical factor in space-borne platforms with limited prime power resources. This proposal addresses the prospect of expanding capabilities of LNAs to cover the full range of millimeter wave frequency bands for the projected MILSATCOM applications. LNAs operating over a wide band would provide the flexibility of multi-band operation of future communication links. The proposed program will lead to development of MMW LNAs operating at satellite up-link frequencies of 30 GHz, 44 GHz, 51 GHz, and ultimately at 86 GHz. As an example a 49-52 GHz 2-stage LNA design presented in this proposal exhibits a gain of 12 dB, a noise figure of 1.8 dB, a return loss of 10 dB achieved with only 6 mW of DC power dissipation. These LNAs offer significant advantages over the current industry standards and will impact the market for LNAs in both military and commercial communications terminals. The MHEMT technology is the most promising technology for millimeter wave RF LNAs. The low-noise and low-power capabilities of MHEMT will have an impact of replacing GaAs devices in all MMW systems that include commercial radios, satellite receivers, and sensors. The LNAs will have applications in commercial VSAT/USAT receivers operating in the frequency bands between 30 and 100 GHz.

Q-DOT, INC. 1069 Elkton Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80907
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(719) 590-1112 Mr. Christopher E. Hay AF 03-026 Selected for Award
Title:	V-Band LNA for Satellite Communications(9625)
Abstract:	Q-DOT proposes to develop a monolithic, V-band, low noise amplifier (LNA) for satellite communications in IBM's advanced SiGe technology. The primary design goals include 1.5 dB maximum noise figure with a small signal gain of 30 plus/minus 0.3 dB over a 49 - 52 GHz operating bandwidth. IBM's 8HP process, which is currently being developed around its demonstrated 210 GHz HBTs, and planned 9HP process, with a goal of 300 GHz HBTs, will be evaluated for realization of the LNA. These SiGe BiCMOS technologies provide the potential for future integration of the LNA with other receiver components on a single silicon chip at low cost and with low power consumption. In Phase I, a preliminary LNA design will be developed and simulated to estimate performance. In Phase II, the detailed design of the LNA will be performed, and a prototype LNA will be realized in the 8HP technology. To achieve the ultimate goal of 1.5 dB noise figure, the LNA will be migrated to the 9HP technology as soon as it becomes available, in either a Phase II Enhancement or Phase III. The V-Band LNA will provide a key component in satellite-to-satellite communications, as well as in short-range, wireless communications for data networks, security systems, and other local communications that seek to take advantage of the 60-GHz atmospheric absorption band.

TLC PRECISION WAFER TECHNOLOGY, INC. 1411 West River Road North Minneapolis, MN 55411
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(612) 341-2795 Mr. Sasidhar Vajha AF 03-026 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	A Radiation Hard Self Bias Low Noise Amplifier
Abstract:	Current military and commercial communication systems at lower frequencies experience spectrum crowding, and does not have wide bandwidths needed for high data rates. Broadband Low Noise Amplifiers (LNA) are crucial components in any receiver system. Although a wide variety of LNAs are currently available in the frequency bands below 50 GHz, little development has occurred in the 49 to 52 GHz range. Future satellite communication systems are in need of radiation hard, reliable LNAs in this frequency range. The TLC proposed wide band LNA takes advantages of the patented substrate engineering technologies, design, and microfabrication capabilities to develop a radiation hard amplifier capable of providing a flat gain, for temperatures of -40� C to +80� C, using InP PHEMT technology. This proposed project results in a wide band high gain, low noise figure, Low Noise Amplifier, which is needed in the present and future communication receivers. Applications include several military systems such as SATCOM (satellite communiation) systems. This LNA is also very useful in the transceivers of missile seeker, collusion avoidance radars, etc.

FOSTER-MILLER, INC. 350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 684-4118 Mr. Thomas Tiano AF 03-028 Awarded: 7/15/2003
Title:	Single Wall Nanotube Based Sensor for Particle Sensing in the Space Environment
Abstract:	Foster-Miller proposes to develop a sensor to detect and count thermal and energetic particles in the space environment that can be deployed on micro- and nano-satellites. The novel device will exploit unique electrical properties of single wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) as the active sensing elements. Fabrication of this sensor will be performed using standard lithographic and processing techniques developed for preparation of SWNT devices by Foster-Miller and its partners. These assembly routes are in stark contrast to fabrication methods used today in research laboratories, where nanotubes/molecules are grown between lithographically fashioned leads or placed there by single molecule manipulation (such as STM or AFM). The use of nanoscale circuitry will enable development of devices that are much smaller and lighter than those presently available. In this program, the Foster-Miller SWNT assembly technology will be extended to prepare sensors on standard microcircuits in which the active elements will be SWNT electronics that respond to particle impact. Phase I concept demonstration will include constructing SWNT circuits, demonstrating their response to particle impact and calibrating this response. This will lead to development of a full scale working prototype during Phase II and technology transfer to Foster-Miller's satellite manufacturing partner in Phase III. (P-030262) Utilizing single wall nanotube electronics to develop a sensor for detecting energetic particles on micro- and nano-satellite systems will enable the preparation of smaller, lighter and more sensitive particle sensing devices. This allows deployment of lighter satellite systems that will require less expense to launch and operate, and obtain more accurate data. The technology developed during this research will also assist in the development of nanoscale electronics based on SWNTs for a variety of commercial electronic systems, such as computer memory systems, helping to enable the continuing revolution of nanoelectronics.

AEROASTRO, INC. 20145 Ashbrook Place Ashburn, VA 20147
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 723-9800 Mr. Glen Cameron AF 03-029 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Flexible and Extensible Bus for Small Satellites (FEBSS)
Abstract:	Numerous organization in the US space community have expressed interest in using small satellites to perform space experiments, technology demonstrations, testing of prototype hardware and software, and the fielding of revolutionary systems such as satellite constellations. Unfortunately, the lack of a standardized, low-cost, small satellite bus architecture has and will limit our ability to advance the state of the art in space systems and components. To solve this problem AeroAstro proposes to develop FEBSS (Flexible and Extensible Bus for Small Satellites) a complete, low-cost, modular, bus architecture for small satellites (e.g., 10kg class University Nanosatellite). FEBSS modularity will allow the satellite developer to select only those components necessary to meet the mission requirements. It will provide an ''auto-sense plug-and-play'' connectivity both between the payload and the bus and between each bus subsystem. The FEBSS subsystems will be couched in a modular, standardized, open architecture framework that will significantly reduce overall development time, technical risk, and total cost. It is anticipated that the non-proprietary open architecture concept will benefit satellite developers because it provides them with choices when it comes to specific subsystem module selection - modules will be available from different manufactures with differing levels of performance and price. The FEBSS concept will significantly reduce the cost, complexity, and development time required to assemble a small satellite bus to meet a satellite developer's mission requirements. It is anticipated that individuals and organizations across the US space community will benefit from FEBSS because it will facilitate getting to space more quickly, easily, and economically. Microspace has been and will continue to grow for the foreseeable future. AeroAstro believes that FEBSS has tremendous commercial potential and intends to actively pursue all opportunities.

CSA ENGINEERING, INC. 2565 Leghorn Street Mountain View, CA 94043
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 323-4900 Mr. Jim Goodding AF 03-029 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	A Plug and Play Smart Instrumentation Approach for On-Orbit System Identification
Abstract:	This research will develop a "plug and play" instrumentation bus incorporating smart sensors with an initial application for gossamer spacecraft experiments. These smart sensors incorporate embedded transducer information that can be automatically downloaded, to the data acquisition system. Benefits of these smart sensors include elimination of human documentation errors, automatic gain setting to maximize digitizer resolution, immediate recognition when a sensor is swapped out and built-in transducer health checks. An instrumentation wiring harness study will further processing techniques with the goal to demonstrate an embedded harness for gossamer space structures. A model designed and fabricated under this research effort will be used to demonstrate the capability of the plug and play instrumentation bus with smart sensors for structural system identification. The technology developed under this SBIR Phase I will be directed towards current space flight experiments in lightweight, flexible space structures. Such experiments will benefit from an integrated system of sensors, instrumentation, data acquisition and actuators. In particular, the PowerSail program will be used as the first application to further the state of the art in the integrated instrumentation system field. Additional commercial applications include sensors and instrumentation for structural dynamics measurements of spacecraft, aircraft, and high performance ground based structures.

MEVICON, INC. 2534 W. Middlefield Rd Mountain View, CA 94043
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(650) 969-2675 Mr. Eric M. Flint AF 03-029 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Photogammetry System to Enable `Large' Structure Demonstration With Small Satellite Buses
Abstract:	Mevicon Inc. is pleased to propose the development of space qualified structural photogammetry systems that enables non-contactive structural deployment, shape, and dynamics characterization of the behavior of large flexible structures deployed from small satellite buses. Such systems will enable AFRL and other organization to confidently baseline close-range photogammetry as the instrumentation package of choice when developing flight demonstration programs that involve deployable and large flexible structures. This in turn enables more convincing flight experiments, thereby accelerating the insertion of new large deployable structure technology into operational missions. This yields satellites with larger solar arrays, antennas, and apertures which enable missions which with enhanced ground track resolution, and/or increased stand-off distances, etc. In Phase I we will develop mission driven requirements, derive performance and environmental survival metrics, perform system level and component analysis and trade studies, initiate autonomous data reduction algorithm development, and experimentally demonstrate feasibility, all leading towards flight experiment point designs. The feasibility established by these Phase I activities will pave the way for detailed analysis and testing in Phase II and lead to Phase III flight demonstration operations in conjunction with a representative deployable structure technology experiment. The advantage to the AFRL and other space technology development organizations will be an off-the-shelf flight proven standardized deployment, load response, and structural dynamic characterization hardware and software package that enables them to confidently baseline close-range photogammetry as the structures instrumentation package of choice when developing new flight demonstration programs that involve deployable and large flexible structures. This in turn will enable better data to be collected from flight experiments, thereby accelerating the insertion of new enabling technology into operational missions. This will yield satellites with larger solar arrays, antennas, and apertures where these subsystems enable missions which require greater power, enhanced ground track resolution and/or increased stand-off distances. Primary end customers are expected to be components of the US government who are interested in qualifying the behavior of their structures in space. In addition to the USAF and other DoD components who procure space components the MDA, NASA, DOE, NRO etc. would be potential customers. Most work in this arena though would be through these organizations contractor base such as Northrup Grumman (TRW), Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Spectrum Astro, Ball, etc. Developers of satellites for commercial communication systems such as Boeing Space Systems and Loral might also be customers interested in flying the space photogammetry systems when new versions of deployed hardware such as new solar arrays, antennas, booms, etc. are being demonstrated for the first time. Specialized packages for remote inspection satellites such as currently being developed at DARPA and elsewhere could also make use photogammetric systems to make 3d maps of the target satellites features or to inspect potentially damaged satellites for insurance claim purposes. Potential transition of the technology to other `demanding' environments such as in-flight aerodynamic characterization and parabolic microgravity flight with stringent design requirements are also possible.

PLANNING SYSTEMS, INC. 12030 Sunrise Valley Drive, Suite 400, Reston Plaz Reston, VA 20191
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(321) 768-6500 Mr. Lawrence D. Davis AF 03-029 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Modular, Self-Contained Data Acquisition & Control System for Flight Payloads
Abstract:	The increasing emphasis on the use of smaller satellites for space experiments and operational systems by the DoD and NASA has given rise to increasing standardization of small-sat systems, resulting in reduced costs and acquisition time. However, because of inevitable trades between resources and capability, there remains a strong need for a standardized architecture for implementing experiments (e.g., active control experiments) requiring high computational and data acquisition throughput. Further, modularization of an experiment allows the experiment team to develop and operate with much less impact on the satellite than would be the case otherwise. One key component of such a modularized architecture is the payload computer and data acquisition/control system. We propose to define the architecture for a self-contained system based on commercial off-the-shelf components that greatly simplifies payload development by providing a simple, scalable interface and easy to use software to perform payload data acquisition and control. To assess feasibility, we will specialize the design to AFRL's PowerSail flight experiment, which has particularly challenging requirements for data acquisition and control. The result of Phase I is a detailed architecture definition including vendor selections for COTS items, and a detailed cost and schedule estimate for production of a prototype. Our proposed architecture has significant benefits for experiment payload development programs: � Potential reduction in power consumption by retaining a simpler, low-power flight computer while using a separate payload computer for computationally intensive experiment tasks: the experiment computer may be turned off when not in use. � Reduction of cost and risk associated with the specification and implementation of data acquisition and control by the experiment developer, instead of the system integrator. � Much more thorough testing of integrated software, electronics, and experiment due to earlier integration at the experiment contractor. � Reduction of cost of development due to the prior engineering of low-level software and electronic elements of the payload control system, including qualification testing and documentation. � Increased responsiveness to and exploitation of evolving space electronics technology due to modularity and standardization of interfaces within the controller, both hardware and software. � Reduced costs of acquisition for experiment payload due to simpler, cleaner interfaces between the payload and the host spacecraft.

PLANNING SYSTEMS, INC. 12030 Sunrise Valley Drive, Suite 400, Reston Plaz Reston, VA 20191
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(321) 768-6500 Mr. Lawrence D. Davis AF 03-029 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	A Redundant Deployment Controller for Small Satellite Experiments
Abstract:	The prominence of launch costs in the implementation of space flight experiments has fueled the development of small-, mini-, and micro-sats that are tasked with hosting experiment capabilities of increasing complexity. As the deployed size of experimental space payloads grows, while holding stowed volume constant, the complexity of the mechanical stowage and deployment schemes increase correspondingly. Traditionally, control of deployment is the responsibility, not of the payload developer, but of the small-sat spacecraft integrator who has responsibility for the space electronics and software that are used to implement the deployment control scheme. As the complexity of deployable payloads increases, however, this traditional division of labor becomes increasingly problematic. We propose to develop a highly reliable, modular, COTS-based architecture for complex deployment control that can be purchased and integrated by the developer of the deployable payload, thus enabling the developer to assume complete responsibility for implementation of successful deployment, and simplifying the interface between the deployable structure and its host satellite. Further, by providing a thoroughly engineered deployment control architecture, including key flight electronics hardware components, much time and money can be saved in the development and validation of the deployment scheme over the traditional, ad hoc approach. Our proposed deployment control architecture realizes substantial benefits for deployable space experiments: � Reduction of cost and schedule risk associated with the specification and implementation of correct deployment by the payload developer, instead of the spacecraft integrator. � Much more thorough testing of integrated software, electronics, and structure due to earlier integration at the payload contractor. � Reduction of cost of development due to the prior engineering of low-level software and electronic elements of deployment control, including qualification testing and documentation. � Increased responsiveness to and exploitation of evolving space electronic technology due to modularity and standardization of interfaces within the controller, both hardware and software. � Reduced costs of acquisition for deployed structure due to simpler, cleaner interfaces between the structure and the host payload or spacecraft. � Clear demonstration during experiments of all necessary systems for deployment, including electronics and software, paving the way for acceptance of experimental hardware in operational systems. In Phase I we propose to demonstrate the feasibility of a network-based, decentralized deployment control system by demonstrating the functionality of the core decentralized components using COTS hardware that is traceable to space, using the PowerSail experiment as a first application.

SPACEDEV 13855 Stowe Drive Poway, CA 92064
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 375-2042 Mr. Jeffrey Janicik AF 03-029 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Small Satellite Bus Technologies
Abstract:	Today satellites are large, expensive, power-hungry, slow to assemble, test, and integrate, and generally unique to each payload. This traditional way of doing things is not optimal for the testing, demonstration and fielding of new, smaller, higher performance experiments and payloads. By innovatively applying the "microcomputer" hardware and software way of thinking to this project, we will develop and identify new small satellite subsystem technologies that easily mate with an improved plug-n-play modular satellite bus. In addition, we will focus on aggressively miniaturizing those subsystems which offer the greatest opportunity to maximize payload mass fraction, while optimizing power consumption and computing power of the entire system. SpaceDev proposes to leverage previously performed work for our modular system block diagram, which remains the same from mission to mission. Using Intrasatellite Network connectivity and commercial standard interfaces and protocols, it is flexible enough to accept any payload interface, data protocol, throughput, or encryption requirement. Furthermore, the implementation of an Intrasatellite Network allows for standard bus-wide connectivity and plug-n-play capability for new component and/or payload technology. Our efforts will culminate in defining a systems engineering and integration approach for a flight qualifyable small satellite bus architecture that utilizes this modular approach. Overall, we see multiple benefits to our approach. By further miniaturizing our electronics modules, the demand for power is reduced, further contributing to either a reduction in the overall system size or freeing up more power for the payload. A fixed bus and its "reusable" block diagram architecture drastically reduces cost and delivery time for each mission and mission payload from mission to mission. Payload interfacing is simplified, and combined with a rapid launch capability, our micro-satellite approach ultimately provides the optimum rapid mission deployment for the user. Under the Phase I SBIR and subsequent Phase II follow-on, this work will produce two results: Off-the-shelf, modular satellite sub-systems and sub-system products that can also be used by other satellite manufacturers. SpaceDev believes we can further reduce the cost of micro-satellites significantly, which will open up more market opportunities for innovative and afforable space products.

MICROASSEMBLY TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 3065 Richmond Parkway, Suite 109 Richmond, CA 94806
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(510) 758-2600 Dr. Michael B. Cohn AF 03-030 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Space Qualification of RF MEMS
Abstract:	Packaging is critical for reliability, and constitutes ~80% of the cost of a MEMS product. Low-cost packaging is thus seen as the gateway to consumer markets. Proposed Phase I work will evaluate and optimize micropackaging under different thermal cycling, radiation and hermeticity/vacuum conditions, as well as for high frequency (upto 40 GHz) performance. MicroAssembly's microbump technology eliminates the need for lossy bond wires, and our ability to make fine-pitch connections within the package would enable hybrid, multi-chip systems with the performance of monolithic devices RF MEMS is projected to exceed $1 billion by 2007 . MEMS packaging costs, up to 80% of production costs, is a key advantage for MicroAssembly.

MICROWAVE BONDING INSTRUMENTS 2400 N. Lincoln Ave. Altadena, CA 91001
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(626) 296-6484 Dr. John Mai AF 03-030 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Integrated MEMS Switch Packages for Space Systems and Communications Architectures
Abstract:	Microwave Bonding Instruments (MBI) proposes its patented novel bonding technology to package radio frequency MEMS (RF-MEMS) devices subjected to harsh environments. With this technology MBI addresses two important problems, the reliability of "zero-level" dies and the cost of such device. In Phase I of this proposal, MBI will test various proprietary packaging schemes to encapsulate a mercury drop-based, switch currently being designed by a MEMS micromachining group at UCLA for a NASA project. In addition, MBI will also acquire bare die from various commercial RF companies to validate rapid commercial integration of our packaging scheme developed under this proposal. The Phase I deliverables are candidate packaging schemes that are compatible with mass production and hermetic sealing of both the UCLA and commercial devices as well as prototype samples of the packaged devices. The eventual goal of MBI is to scale our existing process to wafer size, from its current 45 mm diameter size. This goal entails forming first-level interconnections on the chips before the wafer is diced. By moving the first-level interconnection process out of the back-end of the assembly line, several advantages can be realized. First, handling of an individual die is delayed until the end of the assembly process when the wafer is diced into completed packages. This eliminates the die attach process required for FBGA packages and �BGAr packages. Second, the sequential bonding using traditional wire bonding methods to individual bond pads is not required. This eliminates a large number of the wire bonders usually found on the assembly floor, and thus reduces capital equipment cost and associated overhead expenses. Chip power requirements are also reduced due to shorter I/O path lengths and widths. This also minimizes heating effects and associated cooling requirements. The shorter I/O path lengths also mean lead inductance effects can be minimized in high performance microprocessors. One of the main reasons that RF MEMS devices are not as widely adopted today as they could be is the packaging cost. The packaging solution that MBI will study as the result of this proposal will minimize packaging cost tremendously while maintaining, if not improving, technical reliability. As the result of a successful study after Phase II, MBI will be able to expand from its existing IR and IC market penetration, to target wireless chip vendors in both the commercial and military market with its durable, low cost RF MEMS packages.

AERODYNE RESEARCH, INC. 45 Manning Road Billerica, MA 01821
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 663-9500 Mr. John A. Conant AF 03-031 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Predictive Polarimetry Atmospherics Closure System (PPACS)
Abstract:	AFRL/VSSS is the lead Air Force group for providing the DoD community with physics-based predictive models critical to assessing the utility of optical spectro-polarimetric sensing (SPS) for aerospace reconnaissance and target cueing. AFRL/VSSS is presently upgrading the government-standard MODTRAN atmospheric radiance code to properly handle polarization. However, there is currently no means of deducing the model inputs to properly represent aerosol composition variability, which has strong impact on target polarized signatures . Even for identical optical haze (thickness) levels, the unknown aerosol type can vary the sky degree-of-polarization by a factor of 2. The absence of a facility to gauge in-field aerosol properties to enable model comparisons to field measurements consequently threatens to obstruct development and maturation of spectro-polarimetric predictive models. To remedy this situation, Aerodyne Research, Inc (ARI) proposes a multi-firm team (ATA, SSI, Professor Aragon/SFSU) to design, implement, test, and deliver the Predictive Polarimetry Atmospherics Closure System, or PPACS, a facility which includes both the means of gauging the aerosol conditions during field measurements, and of rendering this information into suitable form for MODTRAN4-P. The Predictive Polarimetry Atmospherics Closure System, or PPACS, will serve a need that will grow in scope and recognition as MODTRAN4-P and spectropolarimetric sensing are increasingly employed across the remote sensing and reconnaissance communities. The target market consists of government defense (e.g. DoD) and civilian (e.g. NASA) test ranges, EO/IR system test contractors, and research institutions engaged in spectropolarimetric field measurements and modeling.

PHOTON RESEARCH ASSOC., INC. 5720 Oberlin Drive San Diego, CA 92121
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(256) 536-2428 Chang-Hyuk An AF 03-031 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Development of a Polarization Scattering and Emission Model and a Simulation Software Based on the Physical Optics Approach
Abstract:	Current simulations (such as AFRL's) of optical polarization scattering and emission for remote sensing applications employ geometric optics. The approach is mathematically simple but lacks soundness of physics as it relies upon artificial adjustment of polarized specular and unpolarized diffuse components in the scattered radiation to match experiments. To significantly enhance AFRL's capability for polarization modeling and simulation, we propose to develop, during the Phase I and Phase II, a vector Kirchhoff diffraction integral model for polarization scattering and emission and to develop a full simulation code for target polarization modeling which includes atmospheric and environmental backgrounds. The vector Kirchhoff diffraction model will simulate a main lobe and a diffraction pattern for each rough surface facet of a material. Predicted measured polarization states will be result through calculating the diffraction lobes of different facet orientations. The Kirchhoff approach will produce specular and diffuse components solely depending on surface characteristics and incident/scattering angles. The primary Phase I objective is development of rough surface polarization scattering and emission models using the physical optics approach. A prototype simulation code for generating the scattering and emission polarization signatures for various target surface materials will be written and results compared to available experimental results. The result of this effort will enable us to understand the basic physics of the interaction between the incident (and emitted) radiation and the rough surface and will significantly enhance the current AFRL capability for polarization modeling and simulation. It will provide a theoretical framework for efficient lab measurements of Mueller matrices of various target and environmental surface materials. This will provide an essential part in simulation of the polarization of targets and backgrounds. The successful result of this work will also provide a systems engineering tool for developing polarimetric sensors and for the detailed optimization of data collection planning. This proposed work is directly applicable to the development of multispectral and hyperspectral imaging polarimeters. As these polarimeters come on line for military and commercial remote sensing, there is an increasing need for a capability to model target and background spectral polarization signatures. There is therefore a growing commercial market for a robust modeling capability.

SY TECHNOLOGY, INC. 5170 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Suite 240 Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(256) 704-9756 Dr. David Chenault AF 03-031 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Phenomenology Studies using a Handheld Polarimeter
Abstract:	Polarimetric detection is gaining interest as a means to complement the information obtained through radiometric and multispectral detection. Understanding polarization phenomenology is key to exploiting polarimetry; however, the dependence of polarization on a significant number of parameters is not well understood and polarimetric BRDF data is limited. Many polarimeters have been developed for phenomenology studies. However, results from various sensors tend to conflict with each other rather than bolster phenomenology understanding. SY Technology is proposing to develop a non-imaging spectro-polarimeter capable of highly calibrated phenomenology measurements in the lab and field. The enhanced sensitivity will be achieved primarily through the use of highly linear, high dynamic range (through nine orders of magnitude) large-area detectors. The highly portable, inexpensive system is to acquire multispectral, full-Stokes data simultaneously with either a personal data assistant (PDA) or laptop computer. Small spectro-polarimeter tubes will be developed from the visible to the LWIR and may be combined in various configurations. Phase I of this SBIR will focus on developing a visible dual-waveband prototype with laptop acquisition, proper characterization and calibration procedures, and a feasibility study for integrating a suite of modular spectro-polarimeter devices (from the visible to the LWIR) with a PDA and/or laptop computer. This device will collect highly calibrated field measurements against which the calibration of more complex imaging polarimeters can be verified. Additionally, the device can be used as the detector assembly in a laboratory polarized BRDF instrument and then taken to the field to provide a correlation between laboratory and field measurements. The device may also be used in unattended, diurnal monitoring of polarimetric signatures of the sky, backgrounds, and targets of interest, providing a correlation between observed polarization phenomenology and weather conditions. The portability and low cost of the device makes it a prime candidate for use in the research and development of commercial applications of polarimetry including medical diagnostics, surface quality and defects analysis in manufacturing assembly lines, crop monitoring, drug detection, environmental monitoring, and ice detection.

LIGHTSPIN TECHNOLOGIES, INC. P.O. Box 30198 Bethesda, MD 20824
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(508) 528-8562 Dr. Eric S. Harmon AF 03-032 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	High Specific Power Polycrystalline Solar Arrays
Abstract:	The physical principles enabling a new class of polycrystalline thin film solar cells will be proven experimentally. The materials and device structure promise efficiency approaching that of single crystal material, even with grain sizes as small as 5 um. The new material's exceptional defect tolerance, ruggedness, and low growth temperature will enable fabrication on lightweight, flexible substrates of metal foil or polymer, giving extremely low system weight and cost. The gravimetric specific power of single junction cells should approach 1.8 kW/kg, with high thermal conductivity and excellent radiation hardness. We expect to achieve 10% direct AM0 conversion efficiency in a single junction cell in Phase I, and 20% in Phase II. Analysis of multi-junction polycrystalline solar cell models predicts 30% direct AM0 conversion efficiency, competitive with expensive single crystal cells, and 2.7 kW/kg. The polycrystalline solar cell arrays enabled by this project promise to benefit many areas of solar power generation, and will supplant battery use in some applications. The bare gravimetric specific power of 1.8 - 2.7 kW/kg (AM0) can reduce launch weight or increase available payload for planes and orbiting vehicles, both civilian and military. The mechanical flexibility and defect tolerance may support 30 W of solar power per square foot terrestrially (AM1.5), deployed on foil, polymer or even fabric. Eventual compatibility with $1 per square inch manufacturing methods from the LCD industry and even cheaper roll-to-roll manufacturing methods entails 100-fold reductions in cost per Watt compared to today's best solar cells.

NANOMATERIALS & NANOFABRICATION LABORATORIES 3468 W. Yale St. Fayetteville, AR 72704
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(479) 799-3368 Dr. Yunjun Wang AF 03-032 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Highly Crystalline Semiconductor Substrates for High Specific Power Solar Cells Fabricated by Nanocrystal Precursors
Abstract:	The SBIR proposal is to develop ultra-thin highly crystalline semiconductor substrates that can be used for the fabrication of high power solar arrays from nanocrystals precursors. The as-prepared semiconductor substrates can be used as either the optical window or base substrates for the solar cells. The quality of semiconductor substrates will be improved by the use of high quality--precisely controlled size, narrow size distribution, different shapes, high crystallinity, various composition, and new surface ligands coated, semiconductor nanocrystals as precursor. Lattice match between these substrates and high performance solar cells is an important criterion for choosing the materials. These substrates will be fabricated on metal foils or polymer supports by the use of high quality semiconductor nanocrystals as precursors. The production of such nanocrystals is discussed in detail. A new strategy for fabricating highly crystalline semiconductor substrates on desired supports are proposed. Solar cells are essential and ultimate energy sources for many military and civilian space missions. Satellites, for instance, are being powered by solar cells no matter they are for civilian or military uses. Commercial market opportunities exist for low-cost and high power solar cell fabricated using nanocrystals as precursor.

UNITED SOLAR SYSTEMS CORP. 1100 W. Maple Road Troy, MI 48084
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(248) 362-4170 Dr. Arindam Banerjee AF 03-032 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	High Specific Power Solar Array Using Multijunction Amorphous Silicon Alloy Solar Cells
Abstract:	The proposed program will test the feasibility and key concepts towards the fabrication of a full-scale flexible thin film film photovoltaic blanket. In Phase I, the full size blanket will not be built. That will be undertaken in Phase II. Phase I will focus on the development and validity testing of the module coupon design, and the integration of the module coupons to fabricate a subscale photovoltaic blanket. The thin film structure that will be used is the multijunction amorphous silicon alloy solar cell. The work encompasses (1) defining system requirements, (2) module design and development, (3) fabrication of module coupons, (4) performing validation tests of the module coupons, (5) integration of the module coupons to fabricate a subscale blanket, and (6) performing validation tests of the subscale blanket. United Solar Systems Corp. will be the prime contractor and will be responsible for work related to the fabrication of the cells and module coupons. AEC-Able Engineering will be a subcontractor and will be responsible for the subscale blanket fabrication and various validation tests. Historically, this effort represents a milestone by bringing thin film photovoltaics of any type close to actual space application. Success of the program will help in meeting the needs of future high power spacecraft using a flexible thin film photovoltaic blanket. One example is the PowerSail. The program will enable United Solar Systems to enter the space power business for the first time. AEC-Able Engineering will establish greater market share in the space power market. A new breed of deployable space structures product line will open up new markets for both companies.

MEVICON, INC. 2534 W. Middlefield Rd Mountain View, CA 94043
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(650) 969-2675 Mr. Eric M. Flint AF 03-033 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	High Efficiency SOTV Concentrator Systems Based on Asymmetric Inherently Stiff Single Surface Membrane Shells
Abstract:	Mevicon Inc. is pleased to propose the development of single surface thin film membrane asymmetric shell structures for use as on-orbit solar concentrators. The proposed inherently stiff membrane (ISM) technology shows strong promise to enable advanced concentrator structures that provide means for foldless stowage, deterministic self deployment, and self rigidization. Elimination of the transmisive canopy, enabled by removing the need to retain pressure to maintain shape, significantly improves concentration efficiency (25% over SOA) while simultaneously greatly reducing/eliminating other concentrator sub-system mass contributers, such as the canopy, torus reaction structure, and pressurization systems. Based on initial estimates, system level performance could be increased by 50% and made independent of mission life. To better quantify these advantages, in Phase 1 we will establish feasibility of the key aspects of the concept by concentrating on refining understanding of the structural behavior of asymmetric single surface membrane shells, establish the feasibility of packaging, deployment, and rigidization approaches, and investigate manufacturing paths for concentrators of the required mission driven sizes. In Phase 2 we plan to refine designs, demonstrate manufacturing of larger scale concentrators with an appropriate partner, and begin efforts that would lead to flight demonstration under Phase III activities. The proposed effort is directly relevant to Solar Orbital Transfer Vehicles (SOTVs) as it offers a technology development path towards significantly improving concentrator subsystem efficiency and lifetime while simultaneously decreasing areal density and system complexity. The proposed effort will also lead to potential improvements in other space application areas where larger, lighter apertures are desirable such as, concentrators for solar power generation, radiowave antennas, laser-comm and LIDAR "light buckets", directed energy applications, and possibly someday optical wavelength imaging. These application areas are of interest to a broad range of government (AF, MDA, NRO, DoE National Labs, NASA, etc.) and commercial organizations (Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Spectrum Astro, Northrup Grumman (TRW), etc.).

PHYSICAL SCIENCES, INC. 2110 Omega Road, Suite D San Ramon, CA 94583
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(925) 743-1110 Dr. Takashi Nakamura AF 03-033 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Solar Thermal Technologies for Orbit Transfer Vehicles and Space Mobility
Abstract:	Physical Sciences Inc. proposes to develop an innovative solar thermal propulsion system for application to orbit change and mobility for small spacecrafts. In the proposed system solar radiation is collected by the concentrator which transfers the concentrated solar radiation to the optical waveguide transmission line consisting of low-loss optical fibers. The optical waveguide cable transmits the high intensity solar radiation to the thermal receiver for efficient, high performance thrust generation. Part of the solar radiation can be switched to attitude control thruster as necessary. The features of the proposed system are: 1) highly concentrated solar radiation can be transmitted via flexible optical waveguide transmission line to the thruster's absorber cavity; 2) the flexible optical waveguide linkage de-couples the thruster from the concentrator to provide freedom from the constraints of previous solar propulsion system designs; 3) the configuration of the solar receiver can be optimized for efficient heat transfer with minimal re-radiation loss; 4) aiming and tracking for the concentrator become significantly easier by moving the termination of the optical fiber cable to follow the focal point of the concentrator; and 5) high intensity solar radiation can be switched to different receivers to deploy several thermal thrusters as necessary. The product of the proposed research is a unique propulsion system for small spacecrafts. The proposed solar propulsion system will provide the specific impulse, Isp, and thrust levels between the chemical and ion thrusters. When developed to technical maturity, the solar thermal propulsion system will fill the need (Isp = 300-800 seconds; Thrust = 0.1-1N) for orbit change, mobility and attitude control for spacecrafts. Its high solar utilization efficiency (about ten times more efficient than that for electric propulsion systems) will make the proposed system highly competitive against the electrothermal thrusters such as arcjet and resistojet.

SIERRA LOBO, INC. 426 Croghan Street Fremont, OH 43420
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(419) 499-9653 Mr. Mark S. Haberbusch AF 03-033 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Solar Powered Thermoacoustic Stirling Heat Engine Pulse Tube Cryocooler
Abstract:	A highly efficient and reliable solar powered Thermoacoustic Stirling Heat Engine (TASHE) driven pulse tube cryocooler for the active cooling and long-term on-orbit storage of cryogenic propellants is proposed to be developed. The Solar Thermal Cryocooler (STC), which consists of a solar concentrator, Thermoacoustic Stirling Heat Engine driver, and a pulse tube cryocooler, efficiently uses solar energy for refrigeration. The STC directly converts thermal energy into acoustic energy, which is then used by the pulse tube cryocooler for active cooling of cryogenic propellants and boil-off elimination. The STC has no moving parts or rotational machinery and is truly a long-life cryocooler suitable for space applications. The STC has the unique advantage of using a solar orbit transfer vehicle's concentrator to maintain the cryogenic propellant for long periods of time while in a parking orbit. In addition, the STC is fully compatible with Sierra Lobo's in-space densified cryogenic propellant storage system technologies already under development for the Missile Defense Agency and NASA. Sierra Lobo therefore proposes to develop the STC and create a system simulation model that will be integrated with Sierra Lobo's Cryogenic System Design Tool (CSDT). The CSDT will be used to determine the feasibility of the STC technology for orbit transfer vehicles. The research and development of the proposed technology will have the greatest impact on the design of future space transportation systems. The ability to store cryogenic fluids for long periods of time on orbit, in deep space, or on planetary bodies in an efficient and reliable manner has a direct effect on the mission design, operation, and cost. Space systems that can use the STC include orbit transfer vehicles, storage depots, Mars and Lunar transfer vehicles, space stations, deep space probes, and Mars in-situ propellant liquefaction. Terrestrial applications of the STC include refrigeration in remote locations where power is not available, freezers for the storage of medicine and perishable food stables, cryogenic compressed gas liquefiers, and pollution free refrigeration.

TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS, INC. 5445 Conestoga Court, #2A Boulder, CO 80301
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 443-2262 Mr. Steve Nieczkoski AF 03-033 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Long-Term Cryogen Storage Technologies for Orbit Transfer Vehicle
Abstract:	The simplicity of a solar thermal propulsion system offers promise of very low cost compared to advanced cryogenic stages for earth orbit missions. Integrated solar thermal propulsion and power technology has evolved significantly over the past two decades through the combined efforts of government agencies and the aerospace industry. During the past two years, TAI has been developing new insulation and installation techniques, has evaluated aerospace cryocoolers for a long-duration military space application, and has delivered a cryocooler interface system that can be easily adapted for distributive cooling of storage vessel walls. The main technical objective of this feasibility study is to determine the most cost-effective, reliable, and mass-efficient approach to store cryogenic hydrogen in space for up to ten years. The study will be focused in three key technology areas related to preserving cryogen during long-duration standby modes in LEO or GEO space environments. These areas are: (1) liquid hydrogen storage tank insulation materials and techniques; (2) long-life, high-reliability cryocoolers that have capacity to intercept a large portion of the parasitic heat leak to eliminate boil off; and (3) cryocooler integration issues that include approaches to interfacing the cryocooler(s) with the insulation system and storage vessel. Benefits are methods of zero boil-off feasibility of the insulation system and cryocooler technologies to meet the objectives for on-orbit storage of cryogenic hydrogen for periods of up to ten years. Potential missions include on-orbit servicing (i.e., refuel, repair, resupply, and upgrade on-orbit assets); reposition space assets; remove orbital debris; assemble large space structures; protect friendly space assets; survey potentially threatening assets; and disable hostile space assets. Commercial and government space assets that are operational but in useless orbits can be rescued and placed in their intended locations.

ALPHATECH, INC. 6 New England Executive Park Burlington, MA 01803
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 284-8438 Dr. J. Kaye Mullen AF 03-037 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Rapid Attack Discrimination & Response (RADR) Testbed
Abstract:	The long-term objective of this SBIR is to establish a robust, flexible distributed fusion and resource management testbed with capability to ingest payload, state-of-health, warning sensor, and off-board data. The testbed will support implementation and evaluation of alternative distributed data fusion concepts, as well as quantifying and comparing the contribution of alternative AFRL sensors to overall situational awareness and the effectiveness of alternative response concepts. During Phase I, ALPHATECH proposes to develop a Dual Node Network (DNN) Distributed Fusion and Resource Management (DF&RM) architecture that addresses defensive counterspace mission distributed fusion needs. ALPHATECH will recommend the best alternatives for fusion algorithms to work within the DNN DF&RM architecture. ALPHATECH will also develop an architecture for the testbed needed to evaluate DNN DF&RM fusion and resource management nodes, and conduct two proof-of-concept demonstrations. The first will explore how satellites can be dynamically selected to participate in a cluster to defend against a potential threat. The second will show how Satellite as Sensor (SAS) data can be used to provide useful source data to the fusion nodes. Based on Phase I results, ALPHATECH will be positioned to build the Rapid Attack Discrimination & Response (RADR) Testbed during Phase II. Anticipated benefits of this research include: . Design of the best available technology to address the distributed fusion across a satellite cluster problem . Evaluation of alternative distributed fusion cluster approaches using the RADR Testbed resulting in selection of the best approaches prior to deployment . Commercial satellite abnormality detection and classification . Extensions into Homeland Security specifically for municipality disaster assessment and response. ALPHATECH sees great potential in commercialization of a testbed capable of evaluating space-based commercial and military applications prior to their actual deployment.

AXIA SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY 2 Clock Tower Place, Suite #245 Maynard, MA 01754
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 897-9035 Ms. Baheya Shenouda AF 03-037 Selected for Award
Title:	Autonomous Satellite Cluster Data Fusion
Abstract:	The concept of using clusters of microsatellites to replace large monolithic satellites is a relatively new idea. With this new concept, comes many new challenges to develop technologies that allow secure, intelligent information sharing between the microsatellites, the uplink/downlink communication with ground and external data sources. The overall system becomes more complex with the addition of multiple, input/output heterogeneous data sources that must receive, analyze and react efficiently and effectively to the analysis results. This results in massive amounts of information sharing with, as of yet, very little automation in handling, analysis, inter-intra communication and provide decision-making. The specific aims of this proposal are to: 1) design and describe a system architecture that will perform automated data fusion in an intelligent manner, 2) to have this architecture work for independent satellite units being expandable to multiple clusters of satellites, and 3) demonstrate its functionality to include health and status related anomaly. The future expandability of this type of system can have astounding effects in multiple disciplines including other military agencies, government organizations, as well as many other commercial domains, medical research, information technology and financial institutions.

CLEVERSET, INC. 800 NW Starker Ave., Suite 3 Corvallis, OR 97330
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(541) 758-6375 Dr. Bruce D'Ambrosio AF 03-037 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Bayesian Variable Resolution Modeling for Autonomous Satellite Cluster Data Fusion
Abstract:	The micro-satellite cluster is a revolutionary technology with potential to transform the way we view and deploy space-based applications. Tightly-coupled, highly autonomous satellite clusters promise enhanced mission capabilities and marked reductions in operational costs. However, ground-based data-processing and control present obstacles to the full realization of this technology. CleverSet proposes to apply its expertise in Bayesian methods for modeling and distributed data fusion, with support from Boeing Space Systems, to design, prototype, and evaluate a coherent distributed architecture for variable-resolution model-based data fusion for autonomous satellite clusters. The prototype system will efficiently predict, detect, and monitor ongoing processes and events, both internal (e.g. health status) and external (e.g. objects to be detected and/or classified). CleverSet's will apply variable resolution modeling using distributed relational Bayesian networks. Variable-resolution modeling provides the proven effectiveness of Bayesian data fusion in an efficient, scalable, distributed architecture. CleverSet proposes to exploit a recent breakthrough, relational Bayesian networks - a modular form of Bayesian networks ideally suited for dynamic tasks such as diagnosis, situation assessment, and distributed target identification. The results of the proposed work will be a concrete architecture for scalable, distributed data fusion, together with a near-flyable prototype instantiation of the architecture and a set of studies evaluating its performance. Distributed Bayesian inference will support scalable, distributed data-fusion with algorithms that provide real-time global data-fusion. Adaptive, model-based compression will provide efficient utilization of limited bandwidth by exploiting knowledge about the structure of communications for distributed Bayesian data fusion to produce superior data compression performance. Model-based decision-theoretic control will provide efficient use of processor and communication bandwidth resources. The work performed in the Phase I effort will allow extension of CleverSet's enterprise system monitoring software to widely-distributed systems and systems of systems.

TIAX LLC Acorn Park Cambridge, MA 02140
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 498-6437 Ms. Linda Selecman AF 03-041 Awarded: 6/11/2003
Title:	Integrated Aircrew Ensemble
Abstract:	Today's advanced tactical aircraft have steadily evolved since the advent of winged flight, but the protective clothing worn by crewmembers has not. Current equipment does not offer adequate protection from the stresses imposed by increasingly high altitudes and acceleration. This complex problem is exacerbated by the need to protect crewmembers from an ever-widening range of threats. Compounding these issues is the lack of systems integration associated with the current aircrew clothing and equipment. For the most part, protective capabilities have been added to an original set of equipment in response to new threats, resulting in a piecemeal set of clothing and equipment that is bulky, cumbersome, and causes heat stress. Unless the protection afforded by life support equipment is enhanced, it will not be possible for future aircraft to be used to their full potential. Advanced technologies have been emerging and maturing rapidly over the last 20 years. The most favorable approach to utilizing these advanced technologies to their best advantage is to build the system from the ground up, combining functions where it makes sense. This proposal addresses both identification of new and emerging technologies and use of a systems approach to optimize human and system effectiveness. Phase I will result in a conceptual solution for an Integrated Aircrew Ensemble that reduces the physiological demands placed on aircrew members to allow optimum mission performance. The Phase I work will also provide information directly applicable to solutions for any worker requiring personal protection, e.g., firefighters, first responders, law enforcement personnel, hazmat workers, as well as members of other military services.

OPTICS 1, INC. 3050 E Hillcrest Drive, Suite 100 Westlake Village, CA 91362
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(603) 296-0469 Mr. John M. Hall AF 03-042 Awarded: 6/5/2003
Title:	Improved Low-Cost Helmet-Mounted Display for Mission Simulations
Abstract:	The goal of the program is conduct research and trade studies using Cost as an Independent Variable (CAIV) to determine optimum solutions for a military helmet-mounted display device which offers performance superior to that which is already commercially available. The trade study will include analysis of various flat panel technologies (LCD, LCoS, OLED, etc.), varieties of optical configurations (see-through, panoramic, visor, etc.), performance specification evaluation (field of view, resolution, eye relief, etc.), and a survey of head-tracker technology. The intent is to choose a best low-cost approach for prototyping in a later phase of the program. The primary beneficiary of this effort will initially be the government/military sector, including customers involved in training simulation as well as actual military platform users. However, due to the universal demand for performance improvement and the emphasis on low-cost approaches, there is a substantial potential to breach commercial markets interested in virtual reality equipment.

INTELLIGENT OPTICAL SYSTEMS, INC. 2520 W. 237th Street Torrance, CA 90505
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 530-7130 Dr. Igor Ternovskiy AF 03-043 Awarded: 6/11/2003
Title:	Photometrically Compensated Hyperstereopsis System
Abstract:	Intelligent Optical Systems proposes to develop a hyperstereopsis-based techniques for ground target identification. Under hyperstereoscopic viewing conditions, the separation of the two camera viewpoints is exaggerated and disparity can provide more than simple depth perception; many studies have demonstrated advantages of stereoscopic displays over conventional monoscopic displays for detection of barely distinguishable targets. In the same time psychophysical studies stated that alteration of the stereopsis negatively affects overall judgment of the image content. The IOS algorithm will be based on simultaneously psycho-physiological and photogrammetric corrections to the hyperstereopsis obtained from the digital video images provided by the TV and infrared (IR) systems on board the aircraft. The proposed technique will use all available knowledge about image acquisition conditions including the physics and geometry of the image acquisition transformation in conjunction with psycho-physiological peculiarities of the human visual system to assure geometrically correct and steady in time hyperstereopsis. In Phase I, we will deliver the prototype software for creating the hyperstereopsis effect using the optimal control parameters. In Phase II, we will improve the processing steps to achieve near real time performance and provide a suitable interface for the 3D experience. Faster and more accurate 3D visualization of video and camera images will improve detection and detection range of military targets and will also have commercial applications in robotics, automated vehicle navigation, and military and civil damage assessment. Applications in search and rescue, aircraft simulators, machine vision, flight tests, and flight training will also be explored.

ASPEN SYSTEMS, INC. 184 Cedar Hill Street Marlborough, MA 01752
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(508) 481-5058 Mr. Glenn Deming AF 03-044 Awarded: 6/11/2003
Title:	Personal Heat Pump
Abstract:	Aspen Systems proposes to develop a small portable vapor compression-based personal heat pump system that may be used by Air Force flight line and aircrew personnel to reduce heat stress and cold weather exposure. Aspen Systems is uniquely qualified since we have successfully designed, fabricated, tested and licensed a small rotary compressor that literally fits in the palm of your hand. Our compressor weighs just over one pound and measures about 2" in diameter and 3" in length. It is capable of providing 300 Watts of cooling in a 120F ambient environment. We have just started production of a small coling system for pilots and we are currently developing systems for US Special Forces and the DOE. Additionally, we have just completed the development of a combustion-based personal heating product. A personal heat pump will allow military personnel as well as civilian workers to efficiently perform their missions in extreme environmental conditions. A single device that can provide both heating and cooling would reduce the cost and logistical requirements of personal microclimate conditioning. The product developed through this effort will find many commercial applications in hazardous waste clean-up and disposal, mining, metal processing, power plants, law enforcement, the racing industry, firefighting, motorcycling, construction and utility linemen.

CHI SYSTEMS, INC. Gwynedd Office Park, 716 N. Bethlehem Pike, Ste 30 Lower Gwynedd, PA 19002
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(215) 542-1400 Dr. Benjamin Bell AF 03-045 Awarded: 7/8/2003
Title:	Conversational Agents in a Pattern Oriented Training Environment (CAPOTE)
Abstract:	Initial pilot training programs such as Undergraduate Pilot Training (UPT) presents students with an array of complex skills to acquire and integrate in a dynamic, time-sensitive performance context. Since most of a student's hours in UPT are spent on the ground, training could be fundamentally improved if students had on-demand access to flight training devices that were sophisticated enough to provide automated instruction in complex, highly interactive flight regimes. Moreover, training skills that rely exclusively on time in aircraft or in dedicated, high-fidelity simulators is put at risk given the limited time window UPT programs afford. A solution to this problem is to address two needs at the same time, providing (1) greater access to operational flight trainers; and (2) an automated intelligent tutor that reduces reliance on human instructor pilots. We propose Conversational Agents in a Pattern Oriented Training Environment (CAPOTE), a framework that offers important, high-payoff extensions to COTS simulation. CAPOTE employs intelligent tutoring to provide effective, instructor-less training opportunities, and synthetic agents that can assume key roles within training scenarios and interact in spoken language with the trainee. Our deep experience in training systems and speech-enabled cognitive agents provides mitigation against the risks presented by these complex technologies. Technology and intellectual property arising from this research and development program are expected to have substantial commercialization potential in both the public and private sectors. The specific technologies discussed here are simulation-based training coupled with intelligent tutoring, and speech-enabled synthetic agents. In the public sector, simulation-based training is a growing concern in both military and non-military agencies. The need to effectively train military and non-military personnel is especially relevant for cross-agency collaborations such as homeland security, counter-narcotics, disaster relief, and emergency services. In such instances, the need for training teams can be met with the use of synthetic, speech-enabled agents to stand in for missing team members or to role-play other participants in a training scenario. In the private sector, large and fast-growing market segments to which this technology applies include operator training and distributed learning. Widespread use in industry and education of internet and telecommunication technologies are increasing demand for delivering remote training and for aggregating teams of geographically distributed collaborators. Tailoring instruction and assessing performance of participants in remote team training will hinge centrally on a capability to provide sophisticated automated tutors, and on the availability of synthetic agents to populate scenarios.

PATHFINDER SYSTEMS, INC. 200 Union Blvd., Suite 300 Lakewood, CO 80228
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 763-8660 Dr. Mark Terry AF 03-045 Awarded: 7/8/2003
Title:	Personal Computer (PC)-Based Aircraft Training System and Visualization Tool
Abstract:	A PC-based training system will provide a low-cost alternative to the use of full-capability flight simulators and actual aircraft in aiding student pilots in Undergraduate Pilot Training to acquire critical pattern and radio procedure skills. The system will simulate the characteristics of the JPATS T-6A aircraft. This low-cost training system will be compatible with desktop or laptop personal computers, either with single or multiple displays. It will operate in multiple modes. It can be used as a desktop flight simulator and procedures trainer. It can also operate in a tutorial mode. In the flight simulator mode it will be able to use not only multiple displays by a single computer, but also side-by-side networked laptop computers, each providing a portion of a panoramic view. It will be implemented as an add-on to an existing desktop flight simulator. It will provide speech understanding by an emulated control tower to aid the student in practicing radio skills. Improves efficiency of UPT training while simultaneously reducing training costs.

DCS CORP. 1330 Braddock Place Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 683-8430 Dr. John Ruffner AF 03-046 Awarded: 6/19/2003
Title:	A New Display Paradigm for Air Traffic Control Management
Abstract:	DCS Corporation is teaming with NVIS, Inc. to propose an out-the-window solution for the problem of air traffic control (ATC) personnel seeing and recognizing aircraft, surface vehicles, and unpredictable airport incursions in sufficient time to direct mishap avoidance or accident response measures, particularly during times of limited visibility. This project provides the opportunity to characterize the tasks of US Air Force traffic controllers in the tower environment, develop an out-the-window concept of operation, analyze hardware requirements and components to achieve device effectiveness, develop and demonstrate the feasibility of a display concept prototype system, and integrate the hardware solution with tasks that enhance situation awareness and safety for controllers. To adequately address the low visibility conditions frequently experienced by ATC tower personnel, our system concept includes a see-through, head-mounted device and an infrared, scene-augmented, hand-held device. This concept incorporates supplementary visual information on a near-to-eye display that meets such form factor requirements as comfort, lightweight, and unobtrusiveness. The intent is to improve a controller's ability to see and recognize ground hazards, while utilizing the complimentary strengths of head-mounted see-through display and hand-held display technology. The principal investigator leading this project is experienced in air traffic control issues and display technology. There is significant commercialization potential for an Air Traffic Controller (ATC) head-mounted and hand-held displays (HMD/HHD). In addition to the target Air Force ATC application that is the subject of this SBIR, there are potential users in all branches of the military services that have aviation assets and ATC responsibilities. A significant potential government customer is the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and its corresponding agencies in foreign countries. There is also potential utility for this concept for law enforcement personnel, firefighters, and special operations forces in non-aviation applications.

EVIDENCE BASED RESEARCH, INC. 1595 Spring Hill Road, Suite 250 Vienna, VA 22182
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(512) 869-1658 Dr. Dennis K. Leedom AF 03-047 Awarded: 6/26/2003
Title:	An Expanded Toolkit for Modeling Sensemaking, Knowledge Creation, Knowledge Management, and Decision Making in Military C2 Teams and Organizations
Abstract:	An expanded modeling toolkit will be developed for explicitly representing the sensemaking, knowledge creation, knowledge management, and decision making processes of military C2 teams and organizations within the joint synthetic battlespace. this toolkit will offer three unique advantages over existing modeling tools: - The toolkit extends the cognitive systems engineering and modeling state-of-the art to the team and organizational level where most higher-level C2 decision making occurs, - The toolkit captures the non-linear/emergent aspects of collaborative sensemaking that shapes the decision making process ina complex and evolving operational environment, and - The toolkit provides for the explicit modeling of knowledge as a contextually- valued commodity that is created and managed within the military C2 process. To accomplish this, a multidisciplinary research team from EBR will (1) synthesize relevant theories and constructs from five prominent social science frameworks into a high-level description of the sensemaking, knowledge creation, knowledge management, and decision making processes of a C2 team/organization; (2) extend existing congnitive systems engineering and modeling paradigms to provide a knowledge-centric framework for modeling these processes; (3) expand existing cognitive task analysis methods to support this modeling framework; and (4) demonstrate the resulting tools in an operational Air Force setting. The expanded modeling toolkit will provide the Department of Defense with a unique capability for modeling decision making teams and organizations within the synthetic battlespace environment. Specifically, this toolkit translates relevant cognitive and social/organizational research theory into practical C2 modeling tools that can be used in support of the Air Force's Joint Synthetic Battlespace (JSB), the Army's Joint Virtual Battlespace (JVB), and the Joint Forces command's Joint Simulation System (JSIMS). Using this toolkit, modelers can build synthetic C2 representations that are more capable or yeilding explicit insight as to how information technology, training, and organizational design influence the quality, timeliness, and reliability of knowledge management and decision making in a complex, evolving operational environment. Subsequest adaptation of this modeling toolkit to the civilian sector is envisioned to provide state and local governments with the simulation modeling tools needed to refine their C2 concepts ofr coordinating counter-terrorism and consequence management operations among multiple agencies and departments.

THE DESIGN KNOWLEDGE CO. 1909 Bartley Road Dayton, OH 45414
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 602-8340 Dr. James R. McCracken AF 03-047 Awarded: 6/19/2003
Title:	Application of XTM and XFML to Individual and Organizational Modeling (AXIOM)
Abstract:	The Design Knowledge Company, Inc (TDKC) and Sytronics, Inc. presents a unique and commercially viable solution to the problem, our Application of XTM and XFML to Individual and Organizational Modeling (AXIOM). AXIOM applies several innovative technologies to provide a standards-based approach to cognitive modeling. Specifically, we propose to develop and apply methods of knowledge acquisition to create standards-based knowledge representations (XTM, XFML) and demonstrate the use of these representations to populate a modeling and simulation framework based on the functional requirements of Simulation Based Acquisition (SBA). Further, we will evaluate existing tools for the manipulation of XTM and XFML for use in developing intelligent models at multiple levels of abstraction. AXIOM will reduce the effort and increase the reusability of cognitive models for the Synthetic Battlespace. This approach contrasts with existing approaches and delivers a new approach to producing cognitive models for use in simulation, including the development of a toolkit to significantly reduce effort, while affording flexibility and adaptability. Potential applications include content development for the Semantic Web, training systems, intelligence and homeland security, and gaming applications.

INTELLIGENT AUTOMATION, INC. 7519 Standish Place, Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20855
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 294-5236 Dr. Chujen Lin AF 03-049 Awarded: 6/26/2003
Title:	Wireless Link for Helmet Mounted Display/Tracker
Abstract:	We propose to develop a high-speed wireless link between a fighter/bomber pilot's helmet mounted display/tracker (HMD) system and its host aircraft. Communication between HMD and aircraft is done through a complex and costly cable currently. This cable may hamper the movement of pilots and cause safety issues. It is desirable to use a wireless link to replace this cable. Conventional radio's carrier frequency poses a "security hole" in fighter/bomber's stealthy as enemies can easily detect the carrier frequency. We recommend using Time-Modulated Ultra-Wide Band (TM-UWB) for implementing the wireless link between the HMD and aircraft for the following reasons. The pulses transmitted by the TM-UWB technology essentially transmit at all frequencies within this range simultaneously. Hence, its energy is spread over several Giga Hertz and the power level at any frequency is below the noise level. There is no carrier frequency for enemies to jam, intercept, or detect. Furthermore, with TM-UWB radio, pulses are generated in a pseudo-random sequence, so a receiver without the proper pseudo random code will not be able to lock on to the signal. During Phase I, we will demonstrate the feasibility of developing the proposed system through analysis, high-level design, simulation, and experiments. In February of 2002, FCC approved commercial use of UWB. TM-UWB offers the promise of fusing the various RF networks in an indoor environment, because of its combined in-building penetration and ranging capability. One of the commercial markets for the TM-UWB technology are residential houses with multimedia PCs with interactive gaming options or a television/monitor equipped with Home Theatre features (set-top box), Internet access or a video gaming console. Residential homes with, or desiring, higher bandwidth services are increasingly looking or a wireless component to additional value. The Small Office/Home Office (SOHO) Market is also expected to find use for TM-UWB products for networking, controlling multimedia presentations, video-conferencing, and automation or control functions.

JXT APPLICATIONS, INC. 2673 Commons Blvd, Suite 20 Dayton, OH 45431
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 306-5003 Mr. Robert L. Baltzer AF 03-050 Awarded: 7/9/2003
Title:	Displaying Tailored Real-time Information in Multi-Crew Cockpits
Abstract:	The effort proposed in this Phase I SBIR focuses on the need to improve the ability of the warfighter in the cockpit to find, identify, and attack mobile and concealed targets in all weather conditions. This will be accomplished through the integration of advanced operator-vehicle interface (OVI) technologies to enable aircrew in multi-crew cockpits to better manage and integrate Real-time in the Cockpit (RTIC) and off-board data to achieve mission objectives. JXT will investigate the feasibility of developing a Dynamic Information Filter to assist crewmembers in rapidly obtaining the most mission and aircraft system information, and coordinating and sharing it in the most effective manner to improve crew situation awareness, achieve increased mission effectiveness and reduce crew workload. The proposed Dynamic Information Filter will assist crewmembers in rapidly identifying and sharing the information that is most essential to ensure safe system operation and successful performance of the assigned mission. It will be especially useful where changes in mission assignment and/or on-board system status drive the necessity to rapidly make decisions based on critical information that must be coordinated between crewmembers before execution. It will also better manage information priority and delivery and help to relieve crewmembers of the detrimental effects of the "information overload" phenomena experienced through information rich on-board systems.

NANOSONIC, INC. P.O. Box 618 Christiansburg, VA 24068
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(540) 953-1785 Mr. Ben Lepene AF 03-051 Awarded: 6/5/2003
Title:	Self-Assembled Variable Transmittance Helmet Mounted Display Visors
Abstract:	This Air Force Phase I SBIR program will develop and transition to application molecular self-assembly processing techniques for the manufacturing of photo-initiated electrochromic variable transmittance coatings for helmet mounted display visors. The room temperature and pressure molecular self-assembly process consists of alternate absorption of either noble metal, metal oxide nanoparticles, ligands, polymers, or biomolecules. Molecular self-assembled films can be dipped or sprayed under ambient conditions to conformally coat surfaces of virtually any size or shape, without the need of vacuum chamber confinement. NanoSonic proposes to utilize a layer-by-layer molecular self-assembly manufacturing approach to conformally deposit transparent electrodes, electrochromic materials, and anti-reflective coatings on optical grade polycarbonate visors. This project includes the integration and development of electrochromic materials, conductive coatings, hard coatings, photovoltaic, as well as antireflective optical filters. NanoSonic's self-assembly cost effective technology offers graded multifunctional polymer conformal coatings. These conformal light sensitive multicolored electrochromic coatings exhibit excellent contrast reserved for more costly conventional fabrication techniques, which are only suitable for flat surfaces. Coatings fabricated using self-assembly would also allow visors to be customized and trimmed to meet the demand of each pilot without affecting the performance and long-term durability. Primary commercial applications for variable transmittance coatings to be developed through this program include helmet mounted visors for the Air Force and Navy. On a larger scale, these coatings could be transitioned toward use on windows for light control for industrial, office, home and automobile use.

MICRO ANALYSIS & DESIGN, INC. 4949 Pearl East Circle, Suite 300 Boulder, CO 80301
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(517) 347-6117 Dr. Thomas Carolan AF 03-052 Awarded: 7/22/2003
Title:	Intelligent Scenario Generation Tools for Training and Rehearsal
Abstract:	Micro Analysis & Design, Inc. (MA&D) and the University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI) Human Factors Group have teamed to conduct innovative research and development aimed at demonstrating methods for diagnosing student competencies and training needs, and adapting the sequence and content of scenarios to target identified weaknesses. Cognitive task analysis methods will be used to identify the diagnostic strategies used by expert pilot instructors for relating observed performance to competencies and to training solutions. Human performance modeling and probabilistic methods will be applied to develop proof-of concept demonstrations of tools to support the pilot instructor in (1) assessing trainee performance and diagnosing deficient skills or competencies, and (2) adapting training scenarios to target identified skill or competency deficiencies. Adaptive scenario generation tools to will enhance the effectiveness and reduce costs of training for military simulation training systems. Automated performance measurement and diagnosis will be an essential component for creating deficiency-targeted simulation training scenarios for simulation-based training environments developed for government and commercial applications.

APTIMA, INC. 12 Gill Street, Suite 1400 Woburn, MA 01801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 496-2412 Dr. Jean MacMillan AF 03-053 Awarded: 7/14/2003
Title:	STRIKE-TCT: Simulation-based Training and Rehearsal Integrated Knowledge-acquisition Environment for Time Critical Targeting
Abstract:	As new capabilities are designed and developed for the Joint Strike Fighter, it is essential that effective time critical targeting (TCT) training capabilities be designed, developed and tested for ultimate integration into future JSF training. We propose to develop STRIKE-TCT-a PC-based training and rehearsal system that allows JSF crews to experience the key aspects of TCT decision making. STRIKE-TCT will allow an aircrew to "fly" a simulated mission, detect and analyze a target based on a realistic simulation, and make decisions regarding the prosecution of that target, all within the realistic time constraints of a JSF TCT mission. The system will provide coaching and feedback during the training session as well as a systematic after-action performance assessment and debriefing after the session is completed. STRIKE-TCT will integrate simulation, visualization, performance assessment, and intelligent coaching capabilities to effectively train the competencies required for TCT. Because of the strong prior experience and technology capabilities of the Aptima/SDS team, we will provide a prototype of the STRIKE-TCT system-not just design specifications-in Phase I. In Phase II we will fully develop the system and evaluate its effectiveness in increasing the analysis and decision making skills that are critical to TCT. The STRIKE-TCT product will offer a unique combination of advanced simulation technology with advanced training design and learner evaluation methods. The immediate benefit is to measurably improve the quality of Air Force TCT training. Eventual markets include other military strike training systems and the burgeoning simulation-based training market including corporate training, public safety content and service training, financial and medical continuing education, and healthcare and science education.

MAK TECHNOLOGIES 185 Alewife Brook Parkway Cambridge, MA 02318
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(913) 758-1956 Mr. Jim Lunsford AF 03-053 Awarded: 7/15/2003
Title:	Time Critical Targeting Training and Rehearsal Environment
Abstract:	In today�_Ts fast-paced, dynamic environment there is a need for target acquisition and strike to take place �_oin minutes, not hours.�__ In the words of Gen. Jumper, �_oFrom sensor�_�to strike�_�in single digit minutes.�__ This new world of time critical targeting (TCT) represents a new way of thinking within the Air Force. To support this concept, there needs to be a mechanism that can support training within this dynamic environment as well as allow for analysis of how the Air Forces�_T current and future (i.e Joint Strike Fighter) assets can be used to support TCT. To solve this problem, MA,K Technologies will work with the Air Force to design (Phase I) and develop (Phase II) a realistic, fast-paced TCT simulation environment to support tactical team training, mission rehearsal, and JSF TCT operational evaluations. This environment will emulate the TCT Functionality System about to be fielded to six AOCs, reflecting the different components and interactions associated with TCT. The environment will support interaction within the DMT as well as stand-alone operation. MA,K will leverage its TCT subcontractor expertise (Zel Technologies) and our current COTS product line as well as our commercialization experience to develop a deployable interactive TCT simulation environment. At the end of Phase I, MA,K will have a design roadmap for our proposed TCT training, rehearsal, and evaluation simulation environment. This roadmap will be used to develop a commercial-grade system during Phase II. MA,K is able to accomplish this by leveraging its COTS products and experience in creating low-cost PC-based tactical trainers for the military. By working closely with the customer and making our trainer HLA compliant, MA,K will produce a TCT synthetic environment that is ideal to support training and mission rehearsal as well as JSF operational evaluations related to TCT. MA,K intends to develop this TCT �_oIntermediate Desktop Simulation�__ trainer under its SIMinterNET product line ensuring quick commercialization. The trainer will be marketed to various agencies within the Air Force as well as other military services as a training and evaluation tool.

COMPUTER GRAPHICS SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT CORP. 2483 Old Middlefield Way #140 Mountain View, CA 94043
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(650) 903-4922 Mr. Roy Latham AF 03-054 Awarded: 6/26/2003
Title:	Body Worn Graphic Image Generator for Simulator Based Training
Abstract:	Size, cost, and potential obsolescence are the key concerns in this design for a deployable body-worn image generator for driving a twenty megapixel head mounted display. To minimize the size and cost, a parallel architecture is adopted with modules at the chip level rather than at the PC level. The design effort focuses on the development of a bus architecture that minimizes the design time needed to produce a module from the latest COTS graphics accellerator chip. Further substantial cost and size is possible from using a digitally inset high-resolution-area of interest. This approach takes advantage of the human eye actually having high resolution in a small area centered on the direction of view. Digitally insetting the high resolution area overcomes the lag problems associated with past systems that depended upon mechanical servomechanisms. Feasibility of adapting an eye-tracker to a wide field-of-view HMD is an object of the Phase I research. Developing a parallel chip architecture design is expected to save two-thirds of the cost and size of a parallel PC approach. Developing a bus design suitable for single-chip modules may allow advancement of as much as two six-month cycles of COTS graphics accelerator chips. The development of an area-of-interest approach, however, would yield a full factor of ten savings in the required capacity of the visual system while still providing eye-limited resolution to the user. The smaller and less expensive the visual system, the greater its potential ability to be deployed in both military and commercial training applications.

BEVILACQUA RESEARCH CORP. 4040 South Memorial Parkway, Suite B2 Huntsville, AL 35802
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(520) 455-5403 Mr. Keith Martin AF 03-055 Awarded: 6/27/2003
Title:	Deployment Survivability for Mobile Ground Stations
Abstract:	The goal of this program will be to investigate the issues associated with the development of a cognitive nuclear, biological and chemical threat data correlation and munitions effects analysis support system that is capable of supporting both training and operational deployments. BRC is a major support contractor for the Army Corps of Engineers Engineer Research & Development Center (ERDC). In this role we support munitions maintenance, development, integration and analysis using several validated computer models including the COBRA, Anti-Terrorist Planner and PENCURV models, which are used to accomplish vulnerability analysis of infrastructure assets using physical modeling. We also support the Army Threat Systems Management Office in the development of tools for cognitive reasoning, battle damage assessment and vulnerability assessment. Our proposal leverages work being accomplished at these agencies by integrating our current work in vulnerability assessment with work in cognitive (knowledge) processing to produce a data correlation architecture that produces a cognitive nuclear, biological, and chemical munitions effects analysis toolkit that facilitates the rapid assessment of multiple variables to produce a graphic depiction of potential munitions effects and create the standardized alerts necessary to support rapid decision-making and dissemination. If successful, the Phase I program will lay the groundwork for full-scale development and demonstration of a cognitive nuclear, biological, and chemical munitions effects analysis toolkit that facilitates the rapid assessment of multiple variables to produce a graphic depiction of potential munitions effects and create the standardized alerts necessary to support rapid decision-making and dissemination. The Phase II program will fully develop and test the individual components and resolve key technical issues before going on to Phase III.

SYTRONICS, INC. 4433 Dayton-Xenia Road, Building 1 Dayton, OH 45432
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 431-6110 Mr. Timothy J. Choate AF 03-056 Awarded: 6/17/2003
Title:	Robust Exercise & Training Operational Environment (RETROE)
Abstract:	As the complexity of exercises and training events continues to increase, the complexity of the supporting synthetic environment likewise increases. A contributing factor to this is the ad hoc compilation of simulation resources that themselves have dynamic implementations over their life cycles. This means that pre-engineered simulation solutions known to work that one can "pull off the shelf" to is harder to accomplish. To overcome this challenge, RETROE will use a low-bandwidth, higher-level simulation of the simulation resources themselves. The simulation engineer may visually configure the virtual synthetic environment and, in conjunction with intelligent software agent assistance, analyze the system before intervening into the operational environment to send inter-component test messages over a physical network. The intended user of this system would be those operations centers responsible for orchestrating distributed simulation environments for exercise or training support. This system will be able to compile the virtual synthetic environment at a single facility, or via low bandwidth communication with similar simulation engineer terminals at remote locations. This capability will allow a network of simulation engineers to collaborate to ensure correct system operation without the overhead of setting up the long haul simulation networks to achieve the same results. Anticipated benefits include the ability for simulation engineers to quickly compile and orchestrate software building blocks to achieve virtual applications, and analyze these entities before implementation begins. Potential commercial results include specialized software development kits for business, air traffic control, or finance decision support systems that rely on multi-component simulations to fuse and analyze dynamic data.

PRINCETON SATELLITE SYSTEMS 33 Witherspoon Street Princeton, NJ 08542
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(609) 279-9606 Mr. Michael Paluszek AF 03-057 Awarded: 6/26/2003
Title:	Attitude Control System Simulation
Abstract:	This proposal is for an innovative attitude control simulation with attitude control system visualization to support both spacecraft operations and operator training. The simulation uses the actual flight software running on an engineering model of the flight processor for the highest fidelity in operations support and training. The simulation includes a TCP/IP interface that allows it to be connected to other computers and processors to facilitate training and use during missions. For example, the spacecraft models run on one computer while the actual flight software runs on a board that is the equivalent of the flight board on the satellite. The simulation can be connected to the flight operations consoles for realistic training or use during operations and also can be connected to a separate training computer with graphics displays which allow the trainee to visualize the spacecraft in any operational mode. The training console applications would include other visualization tools that would clarify the operation of the ACS, reduce operator errors and speed training. This project is applicable to commercial spacecraft operations and training of spacecraft operators. It could also be adapted to other systems such as power plants and manufacturiing systems.

STAR TECHNOLOGIES CORPORTATION 10303 Galpin Court Great Falls, VA 22066
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 759-2933 Mr. Robert Strunce AF 03-057 Awarded: 6/23/2003
Title:	COM Attitude Control System Simulation/Trainer
Abstract:	Current and future Air Force missions cover a diverse set of spacecraft requirements from LEO (SIBRS Low, DMSP, Space Base Laser) to MEO (GPS) to GEO (SBIRS High, DSCS, DSP, Milstar). The specific missions cover communications, earth surveillance, weather, and navigation. New and innovative approaches to earth surveillance include constellations of earth observing spacecraft "Flying in Formation". Each spacecraft will have unique design specifications on actuators, sensors, dynamics, control functions and flight software. Traditionally, these spacecraft simulations have been divided into files, modules or classes which are compiled and linked to form a monolithic simulation application. This static approach requires re-compilation or re-linking for each different spacecraft and typically has "limited-to-none" capability to provide visual 3D dynamic displays of the spacecraft dynamic motion. Star Technologies Corporation (STC) proposes to apply the latest software architecture, Component Object Model, or COM software technology to the development of a "COM Attitude Control System Simulation/Trainer". This COM software architecture will enable the User to build COM objects that can be assembled without re-compiling or re-linking. In essence, COM provides a software "Plug-N-Play" capability which can dynamically plug/unplug objects into/from the application such as environments, sensors, actuators, dynamics, control functions, 3D images and displays. The "COM Attitude Control System Simulation/Trainer" architecture will provide a methodology for the rapid prototyping of various spacecraft (or any vehicle) attitude control simulations by assimilation of COM objects at run time. The addition of new COM components or the replacement of existing COM components will enable spacecraft simulations to evolve over time as well as support current operational spacecraft. Various 3D Visualization COM objects can be made available as well to present the actual spacecraft dynamic motion. Previously, development of a spacecraft attitude control system would apply 80% of the effort toward the development of a detailed spacecraft simulation while 20% went to the actual control system design and analysis. This "COM Attitude Control System Simulation/Trainer" architecture will reduce the cost and time-to-develop sophisticated spacecraft simulations to less than 20% of the effort, leaving the remainder of the effort for control system design and analysis. The COM simulation architecture will enable component manufacturers to provide sensor or actuator models as COM components thereby protecting any proprietary information while making their specific sensor or actuator model available as a plug-in. Star Technologies Corporation has contacted such manufacturers as Barnes Engineering who are in agreement with the providing such a COM plug-in component. The COM simulation architecture has the potential of supporting a variety of commercial as well as government spacecraft and launch vehicle simulation developments.

CHI SYSTEMS, INC. Gwynedd Office Park, 716 N. Bethlehem Pike, Ste 30 Lower Gwynedd, PA 19002
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(407) 277-9288 Dr. Kelly Neville AF 03-058 Awarded: 6/26/2003
Title:	Satellite Technician Advanced Training System (STATS)
Abstract:	It is very difficult to develop complex diagnostic skills in the absence of a tangible and concrete system context. Air Force space system operators are required to develop diagnostic expertise for spacecraft they have never and will never see. This problem has been recognized by training cadre at Vandenberg AFB. A significant need exists for models of satellites which can used to reinforce classroom instruction. In order to meet this need we propose to develop the Satellite Technician Advanced Training System (STATS). STATS will provide a state-of-the-art 3D visualization display, which can be used to examine spacecraft models. STATS will provide 3D navigation functionality, ability for remove outer skins, and selection/highlighting of sub-systems. Visualization will be coupled with a system simulation model used to generate realistic anomaly conditions. Anomaly parameters will be displayed in several formats designed to promote analytical diagnostic thinking. Both the visual model and the indicators will be linked to the actual IETMs for the given spacecraft. The IETMs will be converted to XML to provide a complex linkage and cross-referencing between the 3D display, indicators, and IETM. Intelligent agent technology will be employed to monitor and accelerated the diagnostic learning process. STATS represents an important training device for satellite operators across Department of Defense (DoD) services and agencies. It is similarly valuable to training commercial satellite operators. American business depends on over 150 commercially owned communications and imaging satellites, and the DoD manages and uses significant numbers as well. The war in the Balkans reportedly made use of four dozen satellites from nearly two dozen countries. Clearly, there is a demand for satellite operators, and the rapidly growing role of space in both military and commercial applications means that these operators will be increasingly challenged. Accordingly, high quality and thorough training will become increasingly important for satellite operators. STAT represents a set of key components of that training - 3D satellite visualization, diagnostic simulation, and integrated IETM support. Training will be facilitated by the use of intelligent agents to maximize training effectiveness and potentially reduce training costs.

ASCENSION TECHNOLOGY CORP. 107 Catamount Drive Milton, VT 05468
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(802) 893-6657 Mr. Don Odell AF 03-059 Awarded: 7/14/2003
Title:	Through Screen Optical Head Tracker
Abstract:	Ascension Technology proposes to develop a fast, new six degrees-of-freedom tracker, phasorBIRDTM, immune to cockpit and helmet scatterers of magnetic/electrical field energy. It will integrate seamlessly with training simulators, aircraft, tanks, and combat air operations centers (CAOCs). Design features will enable it to exceed static accuracy and repeatability of the best magnetic trackers while eliminating the need for elaborate alignment and mapping hardware that significantly impacts logistical costs. Development will be based on a research model now returning accuracy of 0.2 mm/0.2� RMS. In this project, we will demonstrate scalability and capability in simulators with tiled rear-screen projections as well as feasibility in helmet-mounted NVG systems. We will first develop and test small, operational camera prototypes and second demonstrate that emitter modules can be made compatible with rear-projection screens. Once fully developed, the tracker will overcome performance and applicability limits caused by bulky, obstructive emitters and lens-based cameras that interfere with human motion, cockpit layout, and ingress/egress. The military will benefit in that the technology can be evolved to high volume commercial (real-time visualization systems, augmented reality systems etc) as well as helmet-display applications -- thus amortizing manufacturing costs over large volumes for increased affordability and lowering life-cycle costs. PhasorBIRD provides a tracker technology that has high potential for head and body tracking in the private sector and DOD. 1. Is capable of high update rates and high dynamic accuracy. 2. Simplifies helmet and cockpit integration design. 3. Is compatible with military training simulators and cockpit environments such as those found in the WST, F/A-22 and JSF. 4. Requires simple and relatively low power electrical interfaces. 5. Can be evolved to high volume manufacturing techniques, and has relatively low maintenance and life-cycle-costs. Private sector Primary commercial markets for next-generation tracker: � Real-time visualization systems employing head/hand tracking to interact with immersive and wide-screen displays (e.g., VR design, prototyping and visualization of large graphical data sets). Such data is displayed interactively on devices ranging from individual headsets to multi-wall projections systems. � Simulation and training system developed by contractors for military and commercial land and air vehicles. Although current magnetic, optical and hybrid trackers are often used in these systems, emerging requirements -- such as AFRL's weapon system trainer with wraparound display -- demand unobtrusive tracking, not hindered by metallic content, close quarters, and/or environmental noise. � Augmented reality (AR) systems. In this emerging market, there is a hard requirement for extremely fast, low latency tracking to overlay virtual instructions on real-world objects. To do this, a user''s head and/or hands must be tracked to provide a real-time registration of the virtual data on the real-world object. AR has not advanced beyond research projects due, in part, to the lack of "fast, highly accurate head and object tracking." Applications stymied by the lack of adequate tracking include: simulation, manufacturing, repair and maintenance, medicine, and military target acquisition and situational awareness systems. One such Amy FCS project is HTSS, currently underway at the Night-Vision Lab at Ft. Belvoir. For a survey of the state of the art in AR and unmet needs, see Azuma R., Baillot Y, Feiner S, "Recent Advances in Augmented Reality," IEEE Computer Graphics and Applications, Nov/Dec 2001, pp 34-47. The authors conclude that before the dream of AR can be realized, trackers need to be "more accurate, cheaper, and less power consuming." The phasorBIRD concept is the only tracker capable of meeting the lofty goals required to make AR a viable new technology. Hard requirements as reported elsewhere in the literature by Azuma et al specify angular accuracy at the "fraction of a degree level and measurement latency of less than 2 milliseconds." DOD In addition to AFRL/HEA, the AFRL/HEC HMST Program, ACC and ASC could be the primary Air Force end users of the technology. The AFRL/HEC HMST proposed Multi-spectral HMD Program is seeking advanced tracker technology for possible integration with new helmet-display concepts. The USAF F-15E, while not slated to get a helmet-cueing system until FY08, will likely opt for the newer and more affordable technology associated with ongoing technology efforts that are relatively mature by FY06. The USAF F/A-22 (DRA-22) office at ACC is actively seeking sources for improved helmet tracker and display technology. The JSF program will likely take serious note of this program if performance test results are positive. Any production programs arising from these efforts are likely to make new tracker technology the material solution of choice because it will have demonstrated its potential with worst-case helmet-mounted cueing systems in the OT&E operational, simulator and maintenance environments.

JXT APPLICATIONS, INC. 2673 Commons Blvd, Suite 20 Dayton, OH 45431
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 306-5003 Mr. Daniel P. Faulkner AF 03-060 Awarded: 7/29/2003
Title:	Command and Control Interfaces for Virtual Teams
Abstract:	The effort proposed in this Phase I SBIR focuses on the need to develop an effective Command and Control Interface for Virtual Teams in order to improve the communication and coordination abilities of the Air Operations Center (AOC) staff and enable them to work more efficiently and effectively in the distributed environment envisioned for the AOC of the Future. While all potentially beneficial methods and technologies will be assessed for applicability, the focus of this proposal is on the gains that can be reasonably and affordably made through improvements in mobile computing, Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs) and video-conferencing capabilities. The payoff through achieving reasonable improvements in these three technology areas alone can account for a substantial improvement in distributed communications at an affordable price. We anticipate that the improvements that can be achieved through the application of state-of-the- art technologies to mobile computing, GUIs and video-conferencing will provide the Command and Control (C2) community near-term benefits that will result in a vast improvement over the capabilities of the communications systems currently in use. These benefits will extend beyond the AOC and into every facet of society as the product of this SBIR is used to enhance the way government, business and individuals increasingly interact with one another in today's electronic society.

US POSITIONING GROUP, LLC Williams Gateway Airport, 5865 S.Sossaman Rd. Mesa, AZ 85212
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(480) 988-1000 Dr. Steven M. Shope AF 03-060 Awarded: 7/28/2003
Title:	Command and Control Interfaces for Predator Squadron Operations Centers (P-SOC)
Abstract:	The goal of this effort is to develop and assess user interface designs including, displays and other collaboration aids, to reduce cognitive load and to improve distributed C2 decision making and overall performance in complex team environments. An ideal test-bed for our approach is the Predator Squadron Operations Center, or P-SOC, initiative now being developed by the Air Force UAV Battle Lab. A de facto P-SOC has emerged in every recent Predator deployment to facilitate Predator operations; however, this entity has never been fully defined, equipped, or standardized. Preliminary P-SOC designs and user interfaces have been proposed by the P-SOC initiative group. What is critically lacking is the methodology to assess these designs. Additionally, when poor designs are encountered guidance is needed for interface improvements. Specifically, the goal of this SBIR project is to develop an assessment and improvement methodology for P-SOC user interfaces. Our proposed effort will evaluate, assess, and recommend improved designs to the current P-SOC operational structure and user interfaces using a cognitive task analysis. In Phase II, the P-SOC operations will be simulated using a synthetic task environment which will serve as a test bed to test and quantify P-SOC performance using various interface designs. Team-based command and control centers play an increasingly critical role in arenas ranging from air traffic control centers to battlefields to nuclear power plants. Teams can be made up of members located in close proximity or they can be distributed across great distances. The growing advances in technology and the resulting complexity of tasks have increased the need for teamwork. At the same time, these demands have increased the cognitive complexity of team tasks. Team members must interpret situations, remember procedures, plan, make decisions, and solve problems as an integrated unit. As a result, effective and efficient team user interfaces, training systems, and team intervention methodologies to maximize team performance will be a well-defined growth market.

MICRO ANALYSIS & DESIGN, INC. 4949 Pearl East Circle, Suite 300 Boulder, CO 80301
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 442-6947 Mr. Ron Small AF 03-061 Awarded: 6/5/2003
Title:	Multisensory Integration for Pilot Spatial Orientation
Abstract:	This proposal describes a layered approach to improving pilot spatial orientation and reducing the negative consequences of spatial disorientation events. Improving current cockpit displays (i.e., head-down, head-up, and helmet-mounted) and incorporating new technologies (e.g., 3D audio, tactile) requires a methodology for integrating and testing all of the salient technologies and techniques to determine which ones are the best at enhancing spatial orientation, preventing spatial disorientation events, and minimizing the impact of any spatial disorientation events that do occur. Phase I will identify and address the most promising displays, tools, and techniques using a model-based approach. The anticipated benefits of the proposed research and development are to help pilots maintain spatial orientation in flight, or, when orientation degrades, to recognize and recover from spatially disorienting situations, thus preventing spatial disorientation's negative consequences. The cost impact of spatial disorientation on the US military is over $300 million per year, not counting lives lost. US civilian losses are comparable. Devising a layered approach to even incrementally improve the situation has a multi-million dollar per year potential benefit.

NTI, INC. 5200 Springfield Pike, Suite 119 Dayton, OH 45431
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(530) 878-3750 Dr. Samuel Moise AF 03-061 Awarded: 6/6/2003
Title:	Multisensory Integration for Pilot Spatial Orientation
Abstract:	Spatial disorientation (SD) contributes up to 30% of all Class A mishaps in the United States Air Force. Type I SD mishaps occur because pilots do not attend to or misread primary flight information from their cockpit displays. The inability of current displays to provide pilots with intuitive and preconscious (ambient) information concerning the aircraft's attitude is believed to be responsible for the attention overload and processing failures that result in Type I SD. Several technologies have been proposed to improve the quality and naturalness of orientation information in the cockpit, including peripheral visual displays, 3-D audio, and tactile cueing. However, very few empirical data exist concerning the efficacy of these technologies in isolation, and none exist concerning their efficacy in combination. A comprehensive methodology is proposed for evaluating each display's controllability, attention demands, ability to overcome motion conflict, and effectiveness in unusual attitude recovery. The basic evaluation algorithms will be developed in Phase I, while the evaluation of candidate displays will be conducted in Phase II. A primary benefit from the Phase I effort will include an evaluation methodology that can be used to assess the effectiveness of multisensory technologies planned for advanced fighter aircraft cockpits. These technologies include helmet-mounted displays, 3-D localized audio, and tactile situation awareness systems. This product may also have commercial applications that include general aviation aircraft. In addition, given the increased use of virtual environments for training purposes, and wearable computers as navigation aids and aids for the handicapped, it is likely that situation awareness and orientation displays can be evaluated for commercial applications, using the same or similar technology. The Phase II effort should result specific recommendations for displays and types of displays that will be particularly effective for each of the above applications.

OCEAN OPTICS, INC. 380 Main Street Dunedin, FL 34698
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(727) 733-2447 Dr. Yvette D. Mattley AF 03-062 Awarded: 6/10/2003
Title:	Portable Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) Bioanalyzer
Abstract:	The search for a fast and reliable field detection system for biological warfare agents continues more than a year after the anthrax scare that accompanied the terrorist attacks of "September 11th". False positives are a significant problem with the current detection systems because the markers used by these systems are not absolutely specific for the biological warfare agents they are trying to detect. The ideal detection system would provide rapid results with a minimum of sample preparation and no false positives. Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) is a revolutionary new sensor technology that is an ideal candidate for this task. LIBS is a real-time detector that can require no sample preparation and can operate in the point sensing mode, as well as being capable of standoff detection. Furthermore, this technology can be developed into a compact, rugged, and relatively low-cost package with unprecedented performance. Ocean Optics, Inc. proposes to determine the uniqueness of LIBS spectra for various complex biochemicals and non-pathogenic microorganisms to determine the limits of sensitivity for detection and identification. Furthermore we propose to generate a library of standard spectra for these samples and perform interrogation on solid surfaces and in liquids and aerosols. The result anticipated from Phase I is the determination of the feasibility of using LIBS to identify BW agents on surfaces and in liquids or aerosols and to delineate them from one another. In addition, it will result in the generation of a valuable database of LIBS spectral data. If Phase II is awarded, the portable LIBS system developed by Ocean Optics will be suitable for both military and civilian use. The commercial applications are immense not only for homeland defense but other environmental detection in the air ducts of hospitals, office buildings, apartment buildings and even homes. LIBS has applications in the metal detection and analysis market, determining the alloys in metals, engine oil analysis to determine engine wear, lead paint analysis and mining exploration. LIBS has the capability of being used in many applications presently being analyzed by MASS spectroscopy, which is costly, requires time consuming sample preparation and is anything but portable. LIBS could be the most exciting analytical tool to hit the analytical instrument industry in the past 10 years.

SPECTRAL IMAGING LABORATORY 7653 Airlie Drive Tujunga, CA 91042
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(818) 352-2213 Dr. Francis Reininger AF 03-062 Awarded: 6/10/2003
Title:	Broadband Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectrometer (LIBS) for bio-agent detection
Abstract:	A broadband laser-induced breakdown spectrometer (LIBS) is proposed for the stand-off detection of bio-agents. The LIBS instrument will use a pulsing, high-powered laser to ablate contaminants and then record the spectral information emitted from the resulting plasma using a flash Fourier transform spectrometer (FFTS). This research will determine the feasibility of using the LIBS technique for bio-agent detection. It will also determine the optimum laser wavelength for ablation, the optimum spectrometer wavelengths for detection, and the appropriate algorithms for bio-agent identification. The FFTS will be capable of measuring the spectrum from 0.2 - 15 microns, if necessary. Key attributes of the instrument include ruggedness, reliability, and high efficiency. Will provide the Air Force with a portable spectrometer capable of detecting bio-agents from a range of a few meters to 20 meters. The instrument would be especially useful to military and emergency responders such as police, firefighters, and medical personnel. Commercial instruments can be used by spectroscopists interested in applying the LIBS technique to the identification of toxic metals in paint and soil, spectroscopic analysis of fire suppressants and refrigerants, and for general gas chromatography. The instrument can be used to analyze the amount of carbon in soils to better understand global warming, and a flight version could be used for planetary exploration to determine elemental, mineralogical, and biological information, especially on Mars. When used in a LIDAR mode it can yield information on atmospheric properties.

FOSTER-MILLER, INC. 350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 684-4154 Ms. Marina Temchenko AF 03-063 Awarded: 6/19/2003
Title:	Automated Individual Real-Time Toxic Exposure Monitoring (AIRTEM) System
Abstract:	Recent conflicts have seen the confrontation of the United States and its allies with a new type of enemy; an enemy relying not only upon traditional means of aggression, but also upon terror. The effects of this new order of attacking American freedoms have been realized by civilians and servicemen alike. While many measures have been taken to heighten securities in American cities, there is a dire need to provide additional layers of defense on the battlefield. In this Phase I program, Foster-Miller proposes to aid in the defense of American servicemen from the untraditional munitions currently under suspicion of use by so-called rogue nations. The proposed effort will entail the development of an automated individual real-time toxic exposure monitoring (AIRTEM) system that will provide an immediate assessment of chemically- and biologically-induced impairment of deployed personnel. (P-030135) The development of a fully automated real-time monitor for the detection of chemically and biologically induced impairment of deployed personnel will provide the U.S. Air Force and other divisions of the DoD with an invaluable tool in the defense of the nation. The device will find commercial applications in sale to civilian police, fire and emergency personnel, as well as the American public, in times of uncertainty.

GENEXPRESS INFORMATICS, INC. PO Box 200759 Austin, TX 78729
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(512) 659-4539 Dr. Robert Chin AF 03-063 Awarded: 6/26/2003
Title:	Preferential Display (PD) based PROTECT system
Abstract:	Exposure of humans to chemical or biological warfare agents has been demonstrate to be detected within hours of contact by measuring gene expression levels (profiles) on a genomic scale using microarray chips. While this technology has been shown to be deployable in the field, the human genomics databases are insufficient to diagnose which chemical or pathogen a person has been exposed to. GeneXpress Informatics, Inc. (GXI) and Dr. J.P.,Chambers of University of Texas at San Antonio propose to develop a differential gene display technology, called Preferential Display (PD), which will provide a simplified, cost-effective and efficient method to identify induced transcripts associated with military personnel exposure to chemical or biological warfare agents. By identifying these chemical/biowarfare agent induced transcripts, GXI intends to provide an unprecedented number of lead sequences for DNA microarray monitoring applications. In Phase I, GXI and Dr. Chambers proposes isolate and identify a preliminary set of gene sequences from a cell line which have been challenged by a chemical or biowarfare agent. The Phase II program will result in a fully automated PROTECT system for use in identifying and isolating biosignataure sequence databases from human test subjects. The PD technology offers a revolutionary technology to isolate and identify gene expression profiles of diseased versus normal tissues for use in developing microarray chips for medical diagnosis and monitoring of infectious diseases. The databases generated will have a wide commercial market as new drugs or drug targets.

INTEGRATED SYSTEMS IMPROVEMENT SERVICES, INC. 2149 Piccadilly Drive Sierra Vista, AZ 85635
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(520) 459-5012 Mr. Ronald L. Walter AF 03-064 Awarded: 7/24/2003
Title:	Simulation and Training Development to Enhance the Tactical Knowledge and Readiness of Information Warfare Teams
Abstract:	The USAF approach to training its Warfighters is well defined for the aviation community but how do you build an Information Warfare Gunnery range? The ISIS IW gunnery range: � Provides training/evaluation in USAF IW tasks and competencies. � Includes methodology for systematically linking USAF tasks/competencies to a training scenario. � Includes a mechanism to measure performance and assess knowledge. � Supports complex scenarios over multiple days. � Uses feedback loops to inject player action into the scenario � Includes rules to ensure smooth game play and consistent scoring. � Lends itself to training small teams with minimal administrative overhead. Our Phase I effort delivers: 1) Definition of USAF IW mission essential competencies/operational domains derived from current USAF and Joint tasks and doctrine. 2) Integration of USAF IW competencies/domains in a functional prototype linking those USAF IW competencies to a training scenario that measures player mastery of those competencies. 3) Game rules to facilitate control of an exercise. 4) Sample data to validate convergence of USAF Competencies, Information Structure, and Game Rules. 5) Specifications for a USAF IW Integrated Training Suite. 6) Cross referencing of USAF Tasks and Competencies to instructional principles and training strategies. �Produces a measurable training system that fully addresses USAF IW knowledge and performance requirements. �Immediately enhances existing USAF IW training �Guides creation of USAF IW training where it does not currently exist. �Uses USAF IW and Information-in-Warfare (IIW) functions to dramatically increase realism and broaden training tool applicability across DoD and other government organizations that share IW tasks but do not share training environments.

STOTTLER HENKE ASSOC., INC. 1660 So. Amphlett Blvd. Ste. 350 San Mateo, CA 94402
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(650) 655-7242 Mr. Richard Stottler AF 03-064 Awarded: 7/24/2003
Title:	An Intelligent Simulation-based Team Training Environment for Information Warfare
Abstract:	Information warfare will play an increasingly crucial role in achieving military superiority. Increased training is needed to develop a force with the required expertise to achieve information superiority. We propose a simulation-based Intelligent Tutoring System (ITS) to train teams of Air Force personnel in critical information warfare skills. Being server-based, the ITS will enable distance learning. The ITS will develop individual skills and team performance skills. Among the proposed innovations is the facility for compositional scenario design using scenario fragments and rules for their selection and assembly. This will enable the generation of scenarios that are fine-tuned to different learning needs among team members in terms of the emphasis and optimal challenge levels. The proposed system will adapt itself to individual teams and its members, and thus minimize the need for human instructional intervention. By providing for distance learning, it will allow the Air Force to train its personnel, at remote locations, thus, cutting down on travel expenses and time. This will help the Air Force maintain a highly trained and prepared crew ready to handle information attacks at any time. Phase I will result in a proof-of-concept prototype that will demonstrate the effectiveness and feasibility of our approach. Several government organizations other than the military deal with sensitive information. For example, intelligence and intelligence analysis is of significant importance to the Law Enforcement Agency, the FBI, and the Drug Enforcement Agency. Network intrusion detection and prevention is of importance both to the government and businesses. The proposed system can be marketed to such organizations.

FIORE INDUSTRIES, INC. 5301 Central Ave., NE, Suite 900 Albuquerque, NM 87108
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 255-9797 Dr. Andrew Motes AF 03-065 Awarded: 7/29/2003
Title:	Destruction of Chemical/Biological Warfare Agents using a Portable Microwave Emitter
Abstract:	Due to current threats against the United States, there is a very real need for an efficient, effective and portable method to neutralize or defeat unknown chemical and biological warfare agents (CBWAs). In the event of toxic agent attack on civilian targets, a rapid and intelligent response by civilian authorities is required to minimize the spread and scope of the attack. It has been suggested that microwave exposure can be used to kill anthrax bacteria when used in conjunction with diazoluminomelanin (DALM) chemical solution. Currently, there is a need for a portable microwave source that provides the required radiation intensity. Fiore Industries Inc has previously designed, built and tested a working portable microwave source that meets the requirements for this process. A Fiore team, that includes Lovelace Respiratory Research Institute proposes to optimize this method and to demonstrate through testing and analysis that Fiore's existing microwave source can be used to kill or neutralize a variety of biological and chemical agents. Due to current threats against the United States, there is a very real need for a generic method of destroying unknown chemical and biological warfare agents. In the event of toxic agent attack on civilian targets, a rapid and intelligent response by civilian authorities is required to minimize the spread and scope of the attack. The ability to respond with one standard protocol in all cases allows for a rapid response. Having a generic way of neutralizing multiple agents also minimizes the consequences of a failure to rapidly and correctly diagnose the agents involved, and further minimizes the risk in a multiple-agent attack. The potential customers for a novel and effective decontamination system include community hospitals, fire departments, city emergency response teams, and countless other entities. The number of Community hospitals in the United States is ~4900, with another ~3000 not-for-profit hospitals and another ~1100 state and local government hospitals. There are over 600 cities in the United States that posted populations greater than 50,000 in the 2000 census. Interest in bio/chemical decontamination is very high right now. At the end of the successful Phase II effort, the Fiore team foresees forming a limited-liability corporation with commercial rights to this technology, whose purpose is to take that technology to market.

PHYSICAL SCIENCES, INC. 44901 Falcon Place, Suite 110 Sterling, VA 20166
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 437-7274 Dr. Michael E. Read AF 03-065 Awarded: 8/15/2003
Title:	Destruction of Chemical/Biological Warfare Agents using a Portable Microwave Emitter
Abstract:	Physical Sciences Inc. proposes a program for the development of a system to generate, transmit and apply pulsed microwaves to biological agents on aircraft surfaces. The system will produce fields up to 100 kV/m over an area of 100 cm^2 at a frequency of 1.35 GHz and deliver the radiation at distances to 3 M. In Phase I, a laboratory system will be assembled, and tested against a biological agent simulant. Those tests will include the use of diazoluminomelanin (DALM) to enhance the effectiveness of the microwaves. Phase I will also include an assessment of the possibility of damage by the microwaves to aircraft electronics. It will conclude with the design of a fieldable prototype system to be fabricated and tested in Phase II. The proposed system would allow for a "dry" decontamination of a variety of surfaces, and would be appropriate for moderate area surfaces such as those of vehicles, tables, isolation hoods, etc. It will address destruction of biological agents on surfaces of interest to all of the armed forces and many civilian agencies. This is in addition to the continuing need by the medical community for fast, clean methods of decontamination of surfaces and instruments.

E-VIZ, INC. 3885 Decatur Blvd, Suite 2010 Las Vegas, NV 89103
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(972) 938-1708 Charles E Crist AF 03-069 Awarded: 6/11/2003
Title:	Featherweight Displays (FWDs):Ultra-bright VCSEL-based, Full-color Microdisplays using Solderless Nanoscale Interconnects
Abstract:	The Feather Weight Display is a novel design and integration of industrially mature technologies including ultra-density silicon circuits with ultra-dense chip-to-chip interconnections, ultra-density VCSEL arrays, nonlinear photonic upconverting color materials, and nonlinear optical elements. To demonstrate its potential is primarily a design process. Design of emissive and virtual retinal devices and the identification of industry processes will be accomplished quickly. There are a full spectrum of users in the personal microdisplay market, each have distinct issues that must be overcome to be able to provide a winning combination of features. The primary need for the military user is all-weather functionality and low power drain. Size is also important, but somewhat secondary to other parameters. Reviewing the conditions within international consumer microdisplay market, one fines two primary issues that collide and prevent market from eruption with acceptable products and services. The first is personal vanity. People want and need to look fashionable if not ''cool''. All current personal displays are too large, bulky, cumbersome, and unstylish to blend into the typical person''s wardrobe, lifestyle, and social image. Secondly Cost. The primary benefit from this is the demonstration of higher integrated, lighter, more capable electronics packages. This is useful for not only for the creation of the Feather Weight Display, but also for many other advanced systems including sensors, transmitters, receivers and more. Demonstrating this process will allow the creation of complex assemblies by utilizing the different venders for each specialized function. This will demonstrate how a broad base of highly specialized single purpose circuits suppliers'' devices can be integrated into a smaller and lighter package.

CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. 625 Mount Auburn Street Cambridge, MA 02138
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 491-3474 Mr. Paul G. Gonsalves AF 03-075 Awarded: 6/17/2003
Title:	Software Toolkit for Optimizing Mission Plans (STOMP) for the Joint Synthetic Battlespace
Abstract:	The engineering analysis and acquisition of command and control (C2) technologies and systems is an extremely time-consuming and expensive endeavor. DoD is addressing these problems by embarking on the use of modeling and simulation techniques, i.e. Simulation Based Acquisition (SBA). The acquisition component of the Air Force's Joint Synthetic Battlespace (JSB) program is seen as a key enabler of SBA via providing a persistent synthetic battlespace infrastructure to support the exploration, design, development, analysis, and testing of new warfighting systems and concepts. To address SBA and the realization of JSB, systems and tools are required to rapidly generate synthetic representations and populate the synthetic components necessary to support assessment and acquisition of C2 systems for Air Operations Centers (AOCs). One of the tasks within an AOC is the development of air campaign mission plans. Here, we propose a Software Toolkit for Optimizing Mission Plans (STOMP) for the Joint Synthetic Battlespace. STOMP integrates an off-line genetic algorithm-based mechanism to rapidly generate, analyze, and visualize mission plans in tandem with a software interoperability bridge to provide the requisite translation and interface with JSB synthetic component databases. Commercial applications of the proposed approach to mission planning exist for a wide variety of domains where a need exists for optimized scheduling, such as transportation systems, supply chain management, and law enforcement resource allocation. In addition, the proposed effort will impact the development and enhancement of our Intelligent Agent Toolkit, via the incorporation of the genetic algorithms-based planning and adaptation and the visualization components of the proposed system developed under this SBIR effort.

QUINSTAR TECHNOLOGY, INC. 24085 Garnier Street Torrance, CA 90505
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 320-1111 Mr. Robert S. Ying AF 03-076 Awarded: 6/17/2003
Title:	Millimeter Wave Communications for Force Protection
Abstract:	United States Air Force and other services deploy a variety of covert and non-covert intrusion systems for securing various assets and bases. It is critical that the data generated by these systems be transmitted to various collection sites in a covert fashion to thwart any attempt to compromise the intrusion systems. Millimeter-wave communication links, operating in the oxygen or water vapor band of the electromagnetic spectrum offer an ideal solution to achieve the covertness and integration required for all these systems. The high atmospheric attenuation, coupled with encryptions and coding, provide an ideal secured two-way link between the sensors and the command posts or other remote sites. In addition, the narrow beamwidth achievable with small antennas makes millimeter wave transceivers portable and communication links easy to set up. An extension of the communication link to an all millimeter-wave sensor and link system offers not only total system covertness, but also broadband capability required for advanced high-resolution radar/passive imaging sensors. The low cost communication link design will have other potential applications in LMDS systems and millimeter-wave wireless network systems. In addition, the communications link can be used in secured communications in a battlefield environment.

ALPHATECH, INC. 6 New England Executive Park Burlington, MA 01803
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 273-3388 Dr. Brian T. DeCleene AF 03-077 Awarded: 6/16/2003
Title:	Secure Wireless Distribution of Cryptographic Keys
Abstract:	The goal of this SBIR is to develop a capability to securely transmit cryptographic keys over wireless networking environments. The utilization of affordable commercial wireless technologies is a potential solution for automating the key distribution process to forward-deployed military units. As security properties in commercial wireless technologies may be weak, new solutions are needed that provide strong authentication and strong encryption. Transmission of sensitive in-theater data requires that all transmitters/receivers possess cryptographic devices. Increasing use of wireless technologies greatly increases the number of devices, and places unrealistic management and distribution requirements on the site generating the keys. Additionally, as security breaches are detected, it is paramount that new cryptographic keys be rapidly transmitted to the remaining trusted wireless participants. New approaches that delegate the decision-making process for key distribution are required for a scalable solution. Our approach is to add wireless interfaces to programmable Data Transfer Devices and to develop a scalable key management algorithm, based on the Subset Difference algorithm [NNL01], that provides administratively scoped domains to localize key revocation decisions. The technology developed under this SBIR is anticipated to have broad application permitting DoD and commercial vendors to utilize wireless communications technologies to securely distribute keys. The proliferation of affordable wireless devices is permitting individuals to connect to the Internet anywhere, anytime. New methods of securing sensitive information transmitted on these links must be developed due to a lack of or absence of strong security in commercially available wireless networking components. The research developed as part of this SBIR will provide a capability to securely distribute cryptographic keys to wireless users in a timely fashion, thus minimizing the release of sensitive information.

VISINTUIT 1413 Durness Court, Suite 100 Naperville, IL 60565
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(630) 428-0910 Dr. T. Alan Keahey AF 03-078 Awarded: 6/18/2003
Title:	Commercialization of Software Model Architecture Visualization Tool
Abstract:	A critical problem in the defense and commercial communities is to understand network data in general, and network performance in particular. Over the past decade there has been a huge increase in the amount of networks and traffic, as well as our dependence on their efficient operation. Concurrently with this huge growth in networks, there has also been a massive increase in computer graphics capability, driven largely by the economics of the computer game industry. This increase in graphics processing power has opened up new opportunities for another generation of visualization tools in general, and visual network analysis tools in particular. This research project proposes advanced visualization techniques that leverage modern graphics processing power; moving beyond simple polygons, texture mapping, and 3D to create a new class of network visualization tools aimed at understanding performance in networks. Our ideas exploit immersion, VR, animation, smoothing, blending, adaptive interfaces, and new visual techniques to overcome inherent human perceptual limitations. Although relatively new to network analysis, the approaches have shown great progress in other domains. Taken together, our approach and the vastly more powerful graphics capabilities have great potential for dramatically improving our capability to model, analyze and understand network performance. The resulting visualization technologies will cause a paradigm shift in the way designers and users interact with and understand network models and traffic. The technology shall also apply to many different network analysis tasks, from telephone systems, to dynamic network depictions of organizational and social phenomena. This visualization technology will also serve as a more general purpose tool for modeling and understanding many other types of complex systems that are currently designed using techniques such as colored Petri nets.

EZENIA!, INC. 154 Middlesex Turnpike Burlington, MA 01803
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(719) 570-8867 Mr. Drew Decker AF 03-079 Awarded: 6/20/2003
Title:	Multiple Security Level Collaboration
Abstract:	The objective of this proposal is to present an approach for developing a multiple level secure architecture that will support real-time collaboration access dissimilarly classified networks. This proposal combines the real-time collaboration expertise of Ezenia with the real-time contextual filtering and security screening. The resulting product, the InfoWorkSpace Guard, achieves an effective means of providing a collaborative capability across security levels while ensuring that data crossing these security boundaries is appropriately monitored and filtered. Commercially the multiple level real-time collaboration capability proposed architecture could be utilized to allow employees to interact with colleagues from another company while maintaining the integrity of each company''''s proprietary data.

TRIDENT SYSTEMS, INC. 10201 Lee Highway, Suite 300 Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(919) 847-9123 Mr. Scott Thomas AF 03-079 Awarded: 6/16/2003
Title:	Joint Collaboration Gateway (JCG)
Abstract:	The Intelligence Community (IC) faces an increasingly significant challenge in the timely acquisition, correlation and analysis of information. Information technology advances have resulted in the explosive growth in the volume and rate of data made available to the analyst; this seemingly limitless supply of raw intelligence threatens to overwhelm the human element of the intelligence processing system. Current events, including the War on Terrorism, serve to highlight the need for improved intelligence and collection management. There is a clear requirement for multi-level secure (MLS) collaborative processing with improved search and filtering capabilities. We propose to design and develop a modular Joint Collaboration Gateway (JCG) architecture, based on ISSE Guard, to support MLS multimedia collaboration. Our innovative JCG architecture will incorporate intelligent contextual search and filter engine technology to provide real-time security filtering and facilitate coalition information exchange. In developing the JCG architecture, we will rely on our experience and expertise and build upon our current efforts in which we are developing a MLS text chat capability, as well as support for other media types, including audio, video, and whiteboard using industry standards H.323 and T.120. The Joint Collaboration Gateway will enable IC users to collaborate across dissimilarly classified networks in real-time. The JCG architecture supports Collaborative Targeting, Collaborative Mission Planning, and Collaborative Bomb Damage Assessment between Intelligence Analyst and Command and Control Operators, all using standard collaboration tools. The contextual search and filtering capabilities will significantly improve recall and precision of database and web page queries, and improved automated MLS filtering of collaborative messaging.

INTELLIGENT AUTOMATION, INC. 7519 Standish Place, Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20855
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 294-5250 Dr. Leonard Haynes AF 03-080 Awarded: 6/18/2003
Title:	Agent-based Generic Scheduling Engine Builder
Abstract:	The innovation of this proposal is use of negotiating software autonomous agents to allow creation of a generic scheduling engine that can be customized to a particular application. Our generic scheduling agents have the ability to interact with each other in a contract net paradigm, bidding and negotiating based on generic protocols, independent of the particular application for which a schedule is being created. The agents are particularized to a specific application by defining multi-dimensional value functions and constraints for each agent based on what that agent represents in the specific application problem. IAI has been working in the area of negotiating software autonomous agents for over a decade and we already have foundational software which will allow the above development. In our current agent-based software systems, we routinely have 20,000 software agents executing simultaneously on 10 computers, all cooperatively functioning in a single system. To generate the agent-based system, IAI will also exploit a new Computer Aided Software Engineering (CASE) tool IAI is developing called Diva. Using Diva for this development will help insure that the results are generic and reusable as the system is built. The work will also result in improvements to Diva to better support development of more generic agent-based applications. IAI is currently working on many projects based on the success of its software agent tools and techniques. The proposed work will allow us to create that software in a more generic manner so that the results will be more generic, more reusable, and more easily adjusted as applications change. In addition to our own use of the generic scheduling engine technology, IAI's agent infrastructure, called Cybele, has been acquired by over 350 people/organizations, and each of these is a potential user of the tools and techniques which will result from the proposed work.

KESTREL TECHNOLOGY LLC 3260 Hillview Ave. Palo Alto, CA 94304
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(650) 320-8888 Dr. Douglas Smith AF 03-080 Awarded: 6/17/2003
Title:	Component Generation And Integration For The ESC Scheduler Product Line
Abstract:	Many Air Force systems depend on scheduling components to effectively manage resources for operations, maintenance, crew training, and so on. Each system tends to have unique and complex features in the tasks, resources, constraints, policies, and objectives that arise in its domain. Rather than attempt to build up a library of scheduling code modules, we believe it will be more flexible and economical to have a generator of scheduling components. This project will develop a synthesis system called Planware III that generates high-performance adaptive scheduling software. Planware III will automatically transform a high-level model of the types of activities and resources in a scheduling problem into fast problem-specific code modules, and help link them into their host system. Previous work (Planware II) developed offline schedulers that weren't designed to cope with execution failures due to, say, resource breakdowns or unavailability of a crew member. This proposal focuses on generating schedulers that support (1) the incremental adaptation of plans during execution, (2) the incremental adaptation of the scheduler code, and (3) the computational tradeoff between schedule quality and the time spent searching for a schedule. Planware is a general purpose generator of scheduling applications for domains involving the coordinated utilization of multiple resources subject to complex rules and constraints. Its competitive advantage is the ability to develop, maintain, and evolve highly customized scheduling applications for a fraction of the cost and time required by similar scheduling systems that are currently available commercially. Our commercialization strategy will focus on two areas: (1) Air Force and other DoD systems -- We anticipate teaming on a variety of system procurements to provide high-performance scheduling components covering operations, maintenance, crew training, and other resource management areas. (2) Manufacturing and transportation companies with well established ERP or Supply Chain Management Systems -- We plan to exploit the weaknesses in the planning and scheduling capabilities provided by applications included as part of the suite of tools commercialized by major ERP vendors like SAP, Oracle, I2, Manugistics, and transportation RF tagging vendors such as Savi Technology and Motorola. Our strategy is to generate plug-compatible components for end-users, resulting in new or greatly improved resource management capability.

21ST CENTURY SYSTEMS, INC. 12152 Windsor Hall Way Herndon, VA 20170
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(775) 832-4407 Mr. Richard A Flanagan AF 03-081 Awarded: 6/4/2003
Title:	Milestone Mall
Abstract:	There are major changes in today's business methods. Expensive and time consuming travel for gathering project personnel together will be replaced, in part, by network-centric technology. Management directives of large corporations are increasingly stipulating the use of a collaborative workspace environment for their organizations that are non-collocated. In the defense sector, time-to-market of complex systems is too long and is still increasing. In response to Small Business Innovative Research solicitation AF03-081, 21CSI is pleased to propose the development of a state-of-the-art distributive collaboration tool for major weapon system engineering development, manufacturing, and operations, entitled "The Milestone Mall." The overall objective is to design and to develop an intelligent agent-based distributive collaborative environment with decision aiding to support the development, acquisition, field operations, and logistics of complex systems such as DoD aerospace systems. We define "computer teleconferencing" as a collaborating group of avatars (unique computer representation of humans) in a setting of modular floors and shops. The Milestone Mall provides an environment for geographically dispersed government and civilian personnel to build and support complex systems. Early attention to security issues is necessary due to the reliance on many networks. Beyond the Milestone Mall core product, transition of the collaboration & decision support system (DSS) technology itself also will have very significant potential. DSS agents with advanced visualization have wide potential applicability to just about every industry involving humans in the loop (including the consumer sector). Many commercial applications would benefit strongly from the Milestone Mall concept: commercial satellite companies, NASA, air traffic control, and others. Our first commercial, non-military product incorporating Milestone Mall technology will likely be part of a decision support tool for commercial airline manufacturing. Although the milestone acquisition method is unique to DoD, it still represents a natural system maturation process and can be easily changed to suit product development industries. One area for fast development and production phases is the electronics industry. Time-to-market (TTM) is on the order of months - less than a year for many small systems. Beating out the competitor in Silicon Valley by 3 months makes the difference between profit and loss. The tool could be used both in support of decision-making and for distributed training.

THE SENBAZURU GROUP, LLC 16937 Briardale Road Rockville, MD 20855
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 580-7785 Dr. Kularajah Ratnarajah AF 03-082 Awarded: 6/16/2003
Title:	TCP/IP Addressing Concepts for Deployed Users
Abstract:	This study analyzes and proposes a solution to address TCP performance degradations associated with satellite links. The proposed middleware (proxy-based) solution provides a flexible means for implementing a transport protocol across the satellite network that is tailored to the satellite�_s bandwidth/delay and channel impairment conditions without requiring changes within end client/server devices. The net-centric solution also overcomes the limitations of standard TCP enhancement proxies that are rendered ineffective when network layer security is applied or when diverse routing paths are introduced. The proposed study focuses on the design of a satellite communications network infrastructure that incorporates network and performance proxies that are transparent to the SATCOM infrastructure as well as to end-user devices and network. The proxy-based solution: - provides dynamic traffic management in addition to standard TCP performance enhancement, - supports robust, customer-definable, network layer security, ensuring consistent end-to-end network layer security, - supports flexible network addressing that decouples end-user IP addresses from their location in the network, - introduces multi-homing to allow diverse, redundant routing paths across the satellite network, and - provides multiple routing paths as a means of bandwidth/path management to further enhance the performance of TCP traffic. The proposed development extends standard TCP performance enhancement while ensuring robust, customer-definable network-layer security and allowing TCP operation across diverse, redundant satellite paths. The net-centric design will therefore allow the benefits of TCP performance enhancement to be applied to new, legacy or mixed military or commercial SATCOM terminal environments that require high network reliability and redundancy and robust network security.

SARASWATI ASSOC. 2015 St Julien Ct Mountain View, CA 94043
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(650) 390-9250 Dr. Steve Yee AF 03-083 Awarded: 7/10/2003
Title:	GPS Spaceborne High Efficiency, Jam-resistant Satellite Crosslinks
Abstract:	Applying benefits of huge amount of R&D invested in terrestrial optical communications. One outcome is working fieldable 40gb/s per wavelength optical communcication system Most efficient modulation/coding system practical.

ALPHATECH, INC. 6 New England Executive Park Burlington, MA 01803
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 273-3388 Dr. Allen Waxman AF 03-084 Awarded: 6/16/2003
Title:	Complementary Observation, Long Duration Track Fusion (COLD Track Fusion)
Abstract:	Maintaining continuous track of high-value ground targets in complex environments using only a single sensing modality such as radar, presents a number of challenges for which the use of complementary sensors offers a potential solution. Even with simultaneous radar modalities such as ground moving target indicator (GMTI) and high-resolution range profiles (HRR), there are a number of common scenarios in which the track of a specific target can be lost and subsequent reacquisition of track is difficult. A significant problem is targets moving in and out of hide sites, where track is lost and identification of targets emerging from hide is uncertain. We propose that the fusion of complementary sensing by GMTI/HRR-radar and MSI/HSI spectral sensors have the potential to overcome these limitations and support long-duration tracking and reacquisition of targets emerging from hide. The proposed effort will explore the many synergies between GMTI tracking and HSI learning & recognition of target spectral signatures. Tracking can be aided by HSI & HRR target features, and context extracted using spectral data mining. Target learning can be assisted by tracking (in conjunction with spectral anomaly detection) to localize the target of interest in a small moving area. We will demonstrate the feasibility of such strategies using an existing multi-modality (EO, HSI) 3D site model of Mobile, Alabama, and embedding moving targets (possessing HSI and HRR signatures, and GMTI detections from a simulated radar sensor). We will utilize our existing software for multi-hypothesis tracking together with our neural assisted target learning & recognition (i.e., data mining) system, to demonstrate the potential of fused GMTI/HRR/HSI tracking of targets in and out of hide. We anticipate that this approach to multi-modality fused tracking will enable long duration target tracking and reacquisition of lost tracks as targets emerge from hide. We expect this study will also reveal significant issues in distributed sensor resource management. Success in Phase I with demonstration of feasibility, will lead to a Phase II effort in which a prototype integrated tracking & target learning/search system is developed and applied to data sets of interest. This integrated GMTI/HSI tracker will find use in military battlefield systems, homeland defense systems for monitoring critical transportation infrastructure, traffic monitoring systems, drug interdiction, and vehicle pollution monitoring (ground and maritime).

LSA 1215 Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite 1300 Arlington, VA 22202
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(610) 363-5808 Mr. Dale R. Tyczka AF 03-085 Awarded: 6/23/2003
Title:	Passive Communication Options for Miniature Satellites
Abstract:	Communication with miniature satellites presents a significant challenge, since their small size and limited power generation conflict with the need for long-distance communication links. Today's advanced sensors have driven the bar even higher by requiring increased bandwidths that can only be satisfied by optical communication. Conventional free-space optical (FSO) communication, however, typically requires some form of mechanical beam steering, which is expensive, heavy and bulky, and can also upset the position of an orbiting satellite. We propose to develop a passive optical communication system that eliminates the need for tracking systems on the satellite. To accomplish this, we will make use of our Smart Retroreflector[TM], which can provide passive communication over an extremely wide field of regard. We will examine both conventional and MOEMS versions of this technology and will also investigate the use of optical gain media to amplify the communication signals. Hardware experiments will be performed to evaluate each technique's feasibility, and the most effective technique will be chosen for further development and flight testing in Phase II. Our considerable laboratory experience and proven expertise in FSO communication place us in a unique position to address all relevant issues for this program, from link performance to marketing strategies. In addition to the benefits of enabling low-cost satellites to be flown in great numbers, thereby advancing the state of science for space platforms, low-cost passive communication systems and components can be applied to a great number of applications. Just a few of the more prominent commercial, government, and operational military applications that could benefit from this and subsequent programs include truly high-speed, last-mile internet connectivity, Search and Rescue (SAR), robotic control, automated aircraft landing guidance, and auto-alignment of optical systems. The use of a low-power optical communicator will also enable accurate, covert combat identification to prevent "friendly fire" incidents. It can also be used as a transponder ID system for ships, vehicles, cargo and aircraft that does not contribute to the increasingly problematic "RF clutter" that is present in many areas. Farming and land maintenance will become more automated and self-coordinating. Homeland, harbor and military base security will be improved through enhanced surveillance data transmission capabilities by permitting large numbers of low-power/low-maintenance sensors to be deployed as needed.

LPA SYSTEMS, INC. 290 Woodcliff Drive Fairport, NY 14450
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(585) 419-3900 Dr. Katrina Adams AF 03-086 Awarded: 6/19/2003
Title:	Hyperspectral Visualization & Spectral Exploitation (HyperVISE)
Abstract:	Program objective is to develop an easy to use hyperspectral visualization tool to assist the layman, whether they are the warfighter or first-responder, in quickly identifying anomalies in the area of interest. Historically, hyperspectral processing has been accomplished by imaging research scientists using highly complex procedures and laboratory-derived signature databases to match known signatures of known materials to extracted signatures for ID purposes. Challenges in working with hyperspectral data include the sheer volume of the data, incorporation of spectral libraries, and compensating for the affects of the atmosphere. Currently with only three bands visible at a time, there is a need for more visualization innovation. As the hyperspectral market grows there will be an increasing need for cost-effective simplified hyperspectral tools that work under a range of field conditions (i.e. not just the laboratory). The proposed research will develop a cost effective, easy to use hyperspectral visualization and exploitation tool for the non-scientist and layout a plan for incorporating new visualization and exploitation innovations. This hyperspectral visualization and exploitation technology will save time and money for the government and commercial sectors. Hyperspectral visualization and spectral exploitation of hyperspectral data is a relatively new technology that can extend the capabilities of traditional electro-optical imaging systems by offering improved procedures, algorithms, and accuracy for target detection and material identification. Such improvements would include both military and commercial applications, including detecting the use of camouflage, concealment and deception (CC&D), the development and deployment of nuclear, biological and chemical (NBC) weapons, as well as agricultural, emergency response, environmental monitoring and geological assessments, and homeland security.

PRINCETON MICROWAVE TECHNOLOGY, INC. UNIT C-10, 3 NAMI LANE MERCERVILLE, NJ 08619
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(609) 586-8140 Mr. Sarjit S Bharj AF 03-087 Awarded: 6/17/2003
Title:	Low Loss/Low Cost Phase Shifters
Abstract:	The use of electronically steered array is necessary to meet performance requirements of modern airborne radar and communications systems. Phase shifters are critical components in such arrays and often become the performance limiting component of the system. A substantial reduction of the the DC power consumption for spaceborne, airborne and portable sysytems is a very important consideration. Very low loss phase shifters can result in the elimination of driver amplifiers for very large phase array radars. Depending on the Transmit power, range and the required gain over noise, G/T ratio, the number of modules can also be reduced. Microwave and millimeter wave phase shifters are currently available in ferroelectric, ferrite,pin diode and FET based technologies. PIN diode phase shifters provide low loss but consume moderate power per diode. FET based phase shifters consume no DC power and are readily integrated with other functions on MMICs, thereby reducing costs but introduce substantial front end loss. Ferroelectric phase shifters have high voltage requirements and exhibit very poor temperature performance. Princeton Microwave is proposing the development of an innovative 3-BIT phase shifter that utilises MEMs technology to achieve very low loss performance at 20 GHz and 44 GHZ applications. The proposed approach is anticipated to provide at least 6-8 dB of system improvement in a radar system when compared to ferroelectic, ferrite or FET based phase shifter designs. Phase I will be used to demonstrate the concept practically. The development of the unique low loss 3-BIT phase shifter will improve the phase array radar system performance by a margin of 6-8 dB. This is mainly due to its low loss performance, thereby reducing the RF drive and gain requirements in Transmit chain. The reduced power consumption of the T/R module with the proposed low loss phase shifter will find applications in the portable and airborne systems at 20GHz and 44GHz.

MICROWAVE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 10386B Democracy Lane Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 293-8910 Dr. Jose E. Velazco AF 03-088 Awarded: 6/16/2003
Title:	Miniature High-Efficiency V-band Dielectric Traveling-Wave Tube
Abstract:	This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will involve the prototype development of an efficient V-band dielectric traveling-wave tube (DTWT) that will provide short-wavelength radiation for rf communications applications in future military satellites. The DTWT is based on the novel interaction between a small-diameter electron beam and the electromagnetic fields of a traveling wave inside a very compact dielectric waveguide. The dielectric waveguide is used to slow down the wave and replaces the less efficient helix structures used in conventional traveling-wave tubes. Our initial studies show the DTWT to be twice as efficient as conventional helix traveling-wave tubes and less sensitive to shock and vibration, making the DTWT ideal for space applications. Detailed numerical, computational and experimental analyses of this concept are proposed during Phase I in order to evaluate key issues such as bandwidth, maximum output power, efficiency and gain. Once fully developed, the DTWT should be capable of replacing conventional traveling-wave tubes in telecommunication systems for future space applications by offering substantial improvements in size, weight, and especially efficiency over its counterparts. If successful, the dielectric traveling-wave tube should efficiently provide coherent high-frequency radiation for many applications. Of particular interest are millimeter-wave sources for airborne radar, satellite communications, wireless television and communications, cellular telephones, and the microwave power module.

SYSTRAN FEDERAL CORP. 4027 Colonel Glenn Highway, Suite 210 Dayton, OH 45431
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 429-9008 Dr. V. Nagarajan AF 03-089 Awarded: 6/16/2003
Title:	Wavelet Compression for Improved Synthetic Aperture Radar Quality
Abstract:	Systran Federal Corporation (SFC), the sister-company of Systran Corp., which is a Products Development and Marketing Company specializing in real-time, high-performance networking, and Prof. Yuan Zheng of the Ohio State University (OSU), are proposing to design and develop wavelet algorithm(s) and hardware for compression/decompression of Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) signals. The novelty of the innovation is based on wavelet transforms which will be applied in two ways. The first way is to use wavelets as the transmitting pulse for increasing the resolution, and the second is to use the wavelet transform to treat the sensor data for compressing the volume of information. By using this wavelet approach one will be able to increase the resolution while reducing the amount of data which have to be communicated to the ground command stations. As part of the Phase I Program,. SFC and OSU will demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed innovation by implementing wavelet algorithms on an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Arrays) board. In Phase II, SFC and OSU will design and develop "VLSI chips" for wavelet implementation. Both SFC and OSU have the required expertise to successfully carry out this SBIR program. Development of "innovative" wavelets-based solution for SAR image processing will immensely benefit the DoD. Wavelet implementation will increase efficiency and accuracy, and reduce latency.

DANIEL H. WAGNER, ASSOC., INC. 40 Lloyd Avenue, Suite 200 Malvern, PA 19355
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(757) 727-7700 Dr. W. Reynolds Monach AF 03-090 Awarded: 6/19/2003
Title:	Ground Target Tracking