| ALLCOMP, INC.
209 Puente Ave. City of Industry, CA 91746 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(626) 369-1273
Dr. Mike Wang MDA 03-001 Selected for Award |
| Title: | A Light Weight High Flux Cooling Module |
| Abstract: | Recent advancement in both commercial and military electronic devices, such as radar T/R modules, solid state motor drivers, RF power amplifiers, advanced microprocessor among others demands for advanced thermal management systems to maintain their high operation performance. A light weight high heat flux cooling module is proposed for current and future thermal management of instruments and devices in aerospace, defense and other fields. Its feasibility will identified and related important technical issues will be explored and solved, a cooling module prototype will be fabricated for thermal management of radar systems and other high power electronic devices and its cooling capability will be verified by prototype testing during Phase I. A successful demonstration of the proposed technology will further improve the performance and reliability of current and next generation high power electronic components and devices. The proposed technology has significant commercial values in fields of power electronics, optics, military electronics, computer and telecommunication. The accomplishment of the proposed research and development will efficiently improve performance and reliability of current and next generation semiconductor devices in electronics, optics, computer and communication. It will benefit to improvement and miniaturization of radar and communication systems among others. The developed technology has high commercial potentials in fields of power electronics, solid state lasers, military electronics, computer and communication. The proposed cooling module and its derivatives maybe used in both DoD related and many advanced commercial applications where high power density, weight and volume are mainly concerned. In addition, the proposed concept may also be used in nuclear related applications. |
| ATEC, INC.
387 Technology Drive College Park, MD 20742 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 403-1744
Dr. John Lawler MDA 03-001 Selected for Award |
| Title: | T/R Module Board Cooled With Thin-Film Evaporators |
| Abstract: | We propose to develop a superior thermal management system for high-power radar T/R modules at the Lower Replaceable Unit or LRU board level. We will incorporate evaporators into a new LRU board such that an evaporator is adjacent to each T/R module. Our unique and proprietary thin-film evaporators remove large amounts of heat via ultra thin-film evaporation of a working fluid. After evaporation, the fluid's vapors are channeled to the edge of the board, where the vapor is cooled and condensed back to a liquid and returned to an evaporator. The temperature drop across our LRU board should be about 10øC, as opposed to the approximately 40øC temperature drops across standard T/R module boards. The lower thermal resistance of our T/R module board will reduce the operating temperatures of future higher-power MMIC's, which will increase the reliability of the radar system. Our proposed design has many advantages. The cooling mechanism is ideal for the limited space available inside a T/R module board. The thin-film evaporators will be able to remove heat at rates of up to 200 W/cm2, which is comparable to spray cooling methods but with lower power and space requirements and fewer ancillary components. Our thin-film evaporators incorporated into a T/R module board will reduce the thermal gradient across these boards and allow the operation of the radar system at high power densities and frequencies. Similar in-board active cooling systems could be designed for other high-heat flux electronic devices, such as solid-state lasers, electronic power modules, computer network servers, and computer workstations with multiple processors. ATEC is currently working on developing a potentially high volume electronic cooling product utilizing our thin-film evaporator technology. |
| BELTRAN, INC.
1133 EAST 35TH STREET BROOKLYN, NY 11210 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(718) 377-0227
Dr. Lev Reznikov MDA 03-001 Selected for Award |
| Title: | ACTIVE RADAR SYSTEM THERMAL MANAGEMENT |
| Abstract: | Beltran proposes an innovative thermal management system for high power solid-state lasers based on the Complex of Innovative Cooling Enhancement Technologies (CICET). CICET provides the highest reliability, flexibility of the thermal management with doubling of the sources of refrigeration, selectable for operational regimes: - Semi open cooling circuits.provide optional opportunities for full recirculating of the coolant or to blow out a fraction of the vapor of the coolant to cover peak demands of the refrigeration. - Ultra low frequency heat accumulation with Phase Changing Materials (PCM) for continuous operation of power radar system. - Planar microregenerators with PCM for the suppression of high frequency thermal pulsations. - Electrical intensification of coolant circulations, phase separation, boiling and condensation. - Ionization of the coolant for uniformity of its distribution. The expected combined increased cooling capacity will be in excess of 1000 Watt/cm2. Analysis of the experimental tests will be utilized for optimization and simulation of the intensified heat transfer for the Phase II design of the proof-of-principle hardware. Innovative cooling technique for high power radars will suppress overheating and excessive thermal cycling of space based high power electronic components. Application of the Cooling Enhancement technology will improve thermal management of powerful space- and ground-based computers, of microwave generators, space-based laser (SBL) and space-based radar (SBR). Experimental data and theoretical models and approximations will be utilized for the design and research of commercial, research and military products. |
| JW COMPOSITES, LC
420 South 500 West Salt Lake City, UT 84101 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(801) 355-7424
Mr. Joseph Weeks MDA 03-001 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Composite Heat Pipe Baseplates for Thermal Management of T/R Modules |
| Abstract: | Thermal managment of T/R modules requires new materials to reduce the thermal resistance between the high frequency amplifiers and the module cooling system. We are proposing to construct a heat pipe evaporator as the baseplate of a T/R module using a new composite material with low CTE and high thermal conductivity. Aligned fibers both within the composite material as well as within the heat pipe wick will substantially increase the effective surface area for heat transfer. Advanced materials such as GaAs and GaN produce power densities beyond the capabilities of current materials. Our approach will enable these and similar devices with very high heat flux to be cooled. This technology can be adapted to cooling cell phone amplifiers, personal computers, and power electronic modules. |
| MAINSTREAM ENGINEERING CORP.
200 Yellow Place, Pines Industrial Center Rockledge, FL 32955 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(321) 631-3550
Dr. Robert P. Scaringe MDA 03-001 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Demonstration of a High Thermal Conductivity Cold Plate Material Using Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes |
| Abstract: | This proposal will demonstrate the development of a composite material containing aligned carbon nanotubes with thermal conductivity far in excess of traditional copper or aluminum. A unique process for fabricating the aligned carbon nanotubes will be demonstrated in Phase I. Limited thermal conductivity experiments will be performed to demonstrate the conductivity improvement. The aligned Carbon Nanotube Composite (CNC) will also be fabricated into a cold plate in Phase I and demonstrated. In addition to the potential for a thermal conductivity that approaches graphite (6600 W/mK, compared to 390 W/mK for copper), the CNC heat pipe is ideal for direct chemical bonding to solid-state electronic devices, thereby eliminating interfacial thermal resistance. This extremely high thermal conductivity material is ideal as a heat-spreading device, which can ultimately be fabricated into heat sinks (including microchannel heat sinks or heat pipes). Phase I will demonstrate a high thermal conductivity composite composed of aligned carbon nanotubes with enhanced thermal conductivity. Phase I will include manufacturing techniques, design specifications, experimental data and cost analysis. This effort will experimentally demonstrate the performance of a thermally conductive material that can be fabricated into cold plates, heat pipes, and related thermal devices and provide a heat flux capability that far exceeds traditional copper or aluminum materials. The proposed material would be applicable to all types of cold plates and heat pipes. In addition to the MDA applications, other potential applications include satellite thermal control, hardened radiator systems, and commercial or military electronics cooling (high-power electronics, supercomputers, electronic switchgear, and avionics). Mainstream has performed a commercialization study and the commercial potential is tremendous. A commercialization partner has been secured as well as Phase II matching funds. |
| METAL MATRIX CAST COMPOSITES, INC.
101 Clematis Avenue, Unit #1 Waltham, MA 02453 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 893-4449
Dr. James A. Cornie MDA 03-001 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Super High Thermal Conductivity CTE Matched Power Amplifier Packaging: Hybridized Graphite Fiber Reinforced Al and Cu Alloys |
| Abstract: | An order of magnitude increase in heat flux of multi-die passive heat sink materials is proposed. High performance graphite fiber reinforced aluminum and copper alloys are precisely CTE matched to diverse substrates such as CVD diamond, SiC, Si, GaN, GaAs, alumina and beryllia, by varying the volume loading of planar-isotropic graphite fiber preforms prior to infiltration with molten matrix alloy. By strategically locating oriented thermal pyrolytic graphite (TPG) inserts within the preform, through-plane conductivity is increased more than a factor ten (1300 W/mK). In-plane conductivity to the system sink is increased by a factor of >5 to 1100 W/mK while maintaining CTE matching to the die or substrate. In a second approach, an array of highly conductive K1100 graphite fibers formed into stiff wires are inserted into a planar-isotropic graphite preform below the die mounting location prior to metal infiltration. A small volume fraction of K-1100 "Z" inserted wires will increase the through-plane conductivity to ~400 W/mK in Cu matrix systems. In this option, "Z" conductivity is enhanced while CTE matching is maintained. Since reinforcement is selectively applied only to die-mount locations, heat transport is increased by a factor of two while additional materials costs are minimal. Expensive active thermal management systems are eliminated in advanced radar systems. A 10 fold increase in heat transport capacity increases the possible number of dies in a package by a factor of 10. This translates to a tenfold decrease in cost. Current troubled designs with hot spots can be cured by selective application of option B. This technology enables WBG materials insertion into advanced radar systems. Lightweight aluminum versions of the hybridized solutions will enable lower launch weights and lower system weights in airborne or lighter-than-air-borne applications. |
| THERMAL MANAGEMENT & MATERIALS TECHNOLOGY
4664 Vista de la Tierra Del Mar, CA 92014 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(619) 665-2348
Dr. Daniel L. Vrable MDA 03-001 Selected for Award |
| Title: | ACTIVE RADAR SYSTEM THERMAL MANAGEMENT |
| Abstract: | Major obstacles to TMD and NMD active radar system implementation are the current limitation of thermal management cooling technologies. An innovative thermal management concept providing high thermal capability with enhanced energy storage, thermal transport and heat dissipation is proposed. The concept relies on both innovative thermal design and advanced materials. The concept is directly applicable to cooling the T/R modules used extensively in the large active antenna systems. The cooling capability is increased significantly by improvements in the internal heat transfer, enhanced surface area for heat transfer and reduced thermal contact resistances. The improved thermal system provides higher heat flux capability, yet maintains the junction temperature of the critical electronic components. Devices such as T/R modules, laser diodes and high power electronic components can utilize this innovative thermal system design to significantly improve performance. The thermal concept provides enhanced thermal capability for a broad range military systems as well as commercial components and provides a robust and highly effective thermal management approach to address critical technology needs. The thermal system will have immediate application for ballistic missile systems, ground and space-based radar systems and high-energy laser directed energy weapon systems. System payoffs include higher power operation, lower temperatures, reduced component mass and improved packaging and structural integrity of the components. The technology can be applied to other high heat flux applications including: commercial power devices, advanced avionics, electric vehicles and high performance super computers. |
| IRVINE SENSORS CORP.
3001 Redhill Avenue, Building #3 Costa Mesa, CA 92626 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(714) 444-8846
Dr. Suresh Subramanian MDA 03-002 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Dual Mode Active/Passive LADAR |
| Abstract: | Irvine Sensors Corporation (ISC) proposes to design and fabricate a dual mode ROIC that simultaneously performs the function of an active time of flight (TOF) LADAR as well as a passive NIR imager thereby eliminating the need for having multiple sensors, alignment issues, and external data fusion. A large staring LADAR ROIC will be demonstrated using this concept. The approach leverages two key technologies developed at ISC - TOF 3D-Imaging ROIC and 3D ROIC stacking. Our approach simplifies the system level sensor design, reduces overall package size, and renders it more robust for insertion into missile interceptor platforms. The proposed innovation will find use in unmanned robotic ground, air, and space vehicles for ATR, threat detection, and terminal guidance applications. It can also be used for commercial 3D surveying and mapping. |
| VOXTEL, INC.
2640 SW Georgian Place Portland, OR 97201 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(503) 243-4633
Mr. George Williams MDA 03-002 Selected for Award |
| Title: | 3-D LADAR Polarimeter |
| Abstract: | Polarization will increasingly be an important tool in ballistic missile defense. However, in practice, implementing a robust polarimetric system necessitates addressing a number of complex issues and challenges. Furthermore, polarimetric systems, traditionally have relied on spatial or sequential scanning mechanisms to record the multi-dimensional datacube. Due to spatial and/or temporal aliasing, as well as the need for moving parts, these solutions are unacceptable for MDA applications. With this understanding, we will design and optimize a Stokes LADAR polarimeter that is powerful in performance, yet simple in its design, requires no moving parts, leverages the most current subwavelength photolithography processes, and is based on proven diffractive optics techniques and technologies. The innovation offers robust, reliable, easily configurable, and cost effective active LADAR polarimetry over a wide variety of mission scenarios, targets, and environmental conditions. The deliverable output of the Phase I program will be an optimized system design, detailed manufacturing methods, an end-to-end system performance model, and a comprehensive Phase II development plan. The active polarimeter technologies will benefit a broad range of applications including: surface and sub-surface cancer detection, imaging in scattering media - including medical, atmospheric, and underwater remote sensing, machine vision, autonomous guidance, and ellipsometry. Sensitive polarimetric systems are currently being investigated for glucose detection, optical fiber communication systems, and other optical measurement devices. |
| CG2, INC.
1525 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 325 Huntsville, AL 35806 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(256) 217-2703
Mr. Mark Bowden MDA 03-003 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced Scene Generation Techniques |
| Abstract: | The growth in capabilities of Personal Computers over the past decade has been extraordinary. Until recently, large computational resource dictated the use of specialized hardware. With the phenomenal growth of capabilities of workstation grade personal computer systems, the range of potential applications that can be addressed with consumer off the shelf computational systems has expanded significantly. The hardware-in-the-loop (HWIL) application space is no exception. The scene generation and facility control/dynamic simulation HWIL mission areas may benefit specifically from recent advances in the commercial computational systems. Leveraging the significant technology advances that are occurring in the commercial market will lower the costs of populating and operating HWIL test facilities, but more importantly, will shorten the facility upgrade cycle and lower the life cycle cost of facility computer support equipment. The successful completion of the Phase I goals defined in this proposal will set the stage for advancing the development and deployment of a common scene generation system. This technology would provide a common, proven test application to be used by both customer and development contractor to facilitate correctness and reduce the risk of comparing non-like results, thus reducing the cost of deployment and development of a system. The PC scene generator will have many places of use in today's booming high-speed graphics oriented industry. One of the main impacts on the commercial industry will be the testing of single and multi-mode sensors. This technology can also be used for medical imaging, police surveillance, fir prevention/detection, auto collision avoidance systems as well as intrusion detection systems. However, the main goal is to perfect all techniques involved in the study, design, and development of the PC scene generator. This way the feasibility of potential commercial products can be properly accessed with respect to their impacts on today's society. |
| KINETICS, INC.
PO Box 1262, 100 SE Cascade Ave Stevenson, WA 98648 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(509) 427-3649
Mr. Dennis Crow MDA 03-003 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced Scene Generation Techniques |
| Abstract: | This effort extends the Fast Line-of-sight Imagery for Target and Exhaust Signatures (FLITES) scene generation program to include transient events that occur during the boost phase of ballistic missiles. The nominal transient events of interest include missile staging, shroud ejection, countermeasures, thrust termination, and solid propellant chuffing. Our approach is to develop a generalized formulism that will allow a wide variety of transient events to be considered and efficiently modeled as functions of time. Transient event models are important to include with the baseline signature computations since they could adversely influence targeting algorithms. The Missile Defense Agency is sponsoring many programs to develop acquisition, tracking, classification, and discrimination algorithms to target missiles while in flight. Physics-based signature models play a critical role for these algorithm development activities by producing realistic imagery of the missile as it progresses along its flight path. Increasing realism of the scene attributes by including time-dependent transient events will greatly assist algorithm designers to create stable and robust solutions. This project will have wide appeal throughout the DoD since synthetic digital simulations are increasingly being utilized to test, evaluate, or derive new guided-munitions targeting algorithms. We anticipate this program has the potential to become a standard within the DoD industry when it is inserted into the FLITES scene generation code. The ability of missile defense organization to generate physically correct signatures of threat missiles that includes transient event phenomenology would benefit the DoD by supporting: 1) algorithm development research, 2) hardware-in-the-loop testing to thoroughly examine the functionality of various flight hardware that includes hit-to-kill seeker systems, 3) and measurement and signature intelligence applications to determine specific system characteristics. Kinetics, Inc. has considerable knowledge and experience with the ballistic missile treat and the industry requirements necessary to support efforts to neutralize these threats. We are committed to providing the industry with high-fidelity signature generation tools and will continue to advance their capabilities as new research is conducted. |
| AEROMET, INC.
112 Beechcraft Drive Tulsa, OK 74132 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(918) 477-6524
Mr. William Patrick Kennedy MDA 03-004 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Early Launch Detection, Tracking and Typing of Missile Boosters Using Quad-Cell Detectors |
| Abstract: | Quadrant (quad-) cell detectors based on pin diodes are simple yet powerful sensors with a number of desirable characteristics including high quantum efficiency and excellent sensitivity, very-high time resolution, very-large dynamic range, and even a modicum of position resolution. F5ISR plans to exploit these characteristics, as well as some remarkable phenomenological findings by scientists at the Air Force Research Laboratory, in developing an airborne "fly's eye"-type all-sky sensor capable of early launch detection, tracking (ELDT), and even the identification of missiles. Each element of the array is capable of detecting a missile at launch or during boost and determining the direction of the target relative to the aircraft. Besides cueing, each sensor element can also gather hyper-temporal signature data allowing typing of the missile as well as other transient events that may occur in the theater of operation. Hence, we have named the sensor "BOLD" - Battlefield Ordnance and Launch Detection. Our Phase 1 development plan includes the design, fabrication, assembly and characterization of a single element of the array - a lens, a narrow-band filter, and quad-cell mated with a control and data acquisition computer. It is also planned to collect data on at least one missile launch to demonstrate capability. BOLD is designed to have specific application as a cueing sensor for airborne surveillance platforms based on Heimdall-IR and follow-on technology. Such aircraft include the MDA's High Altitude Observatory (HALO)-II aircraft as well as other proposed high-fliers like Global Hawk and Stratospheric Airship. In Phase II, we plan to design and fabricate two hemispherical arrays and install them on HALO-II giving it an important new capability that will enhance its capabilities as prototype Airborne Infrared Surveillance (AIRS) aircraft. However, because BOLD will be small, lightweight, low-cost, reliable, and intelligent and capable of operating autonomously, it could be the basis for widely-deployable missile-warning and/or Battlefield Ordnance Awareness (BOA) sensors. In Phase III we will take lessons learned in Phase II, redesign the BOLD sensor and processor, if necessary, and ready them for manufacturing and installation on all manner of military and commercial aircraft. |
| COMPUTATIONAL SENSORS CORP.
201 N. Calle Ceasar Chavez, Suite 203 Santa Barbara, CA 93103 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(805) 962-1175
Dr. John Langan MDA 03-004 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Spatio-Temporal Filtering and Dynamic Programming for Early Launch Detection and Tracking of Boosting Targets |
| Abstract: | During Phase I, Computational Sensors Corporation (CSC) will develop a spatio-temporal (S-T) filtering approach, preliminary system architecture and an analysis algorithm for motion based early launch detection and tracking of boosting targets. Boost-phase intercepts have an extremely compressed time line requiring fire control commit to be determined within the first minute following launch for an endo-atmospheric or low exo-atmospheric intercept. A spatio-temporal motion based approach performs data association over multiple frames without relying on absolute detection in any given frame, and therefore has utility in boost-phase intercept engagements when the target has a low signal-to-noise-ratio (SNR) due to atmospheric attenuation or is only intermittently observable. Systems relying on exceedance thresholding will have higher false alarm rates, and be less robust to changing atmospheric conditions than systems performing multi-frame data association. A motion based approach to early launch detection leverages the natural ability of massively parallel analog hardware to perform computationally intensive image processing tasks in real-time. Target analysis capabilities using nonlinear motion analysis image processing techniques integrated in analog image processors are ideally suited for compact, low power, military imaging applications. Dramatic improvements in early detection of low and/or intermittently observable targets are available through track-before-detect implementations using spatial and temporal filtering in combination with target tracking algorithms. The Company's primary goal is to move this core technology into the military market with products using this technology initially being sold for missile defense applications. Analog image processing technology may also be applicable in many other commercial areas including automatic inspection, biometric identification, security, surveillance, and other machine vision applications. To date, non-linear motion energy image processing technology using Tin Film Analog Image Processor (TAIP) chip technology developed under Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) contract in conjunction with temporal filtering capability developed under ARMY Space & Missile Defense Command (ARMY-SMDC) contract has demonstrated significant utility in detection, track-before-detect capability when coupled with dynamic programming, and discrimination of low flying missile targets in moving background clutter. CSC is fulfilling current DARPA and ARMY-SMDC sponsored contracts while aggressively pursuing potential commercial opportunities for analog VLSI image processing applications. The unique and powerful capability to perform massive convolution functions in real-time, in a small package and with low power requirements will enable a new generation of intelligent systems not previously considered vi-able by system and product designers systems for performing sophisticated imaging tasks including automatic target recognition, target tracking, feature extraction, 3D reconstruction, image classification, and image understanding are critical for the building of compact, low powered deployable missile defense systems. |
| ENIG ASSOC., INC.
12501 Prosperity Drive, Suite 340 Silver Spring, MD 20904 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 680-8600
Dr. D. John Pastine MDA 03-004 Selected for Award |
| Title: | A Unique Model of RF Radiation for Detecting and Characterizing a Missile Ground Launch |
| Abstract: | A new, unique, and innovative theoretical model is proposed to provide the MDA with the ability to detect and interpret the RF signature resulting from the interaction of the initial, unsteady rocket plume formation with the surrounding air and launch pad during the initial launch phase. Preliminary calculations indicate that the signature created at the launch site should be detectable several hundred kilometers away. Physical model can be used to detect and characterize missile ground launch; to identify location of a surface or underground explosion of chemical explosives; to identify location of launch tube from muzzle blast after projectile exit; to identify source of weapons fire, building demolition, land clearance, and mining operations, pyroclastic flows, and underground magma. |
| INDIGO SYSTEMS CORP.
50 Castilian Drive Goleta, CA 93117 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(805) 964-9797
Dr. Eric Beuville MDA 03-004 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Early Launch Detection, and Tracking Sensor Concepts |
| Abstract: | Infrared sensor technology has proven to be a key component in the development of advanced systems for target acquisition, tracking, interception, and destruction. These systems require advanced infrared sensors with 640 by 512 or greater spatial resolution, with simultaneous integration, and readout rates of 400 frames per second or greater. Sensors of this type are not currently commercially available. Innovations in high-speed multiplexing and low power design are essential to realize these devices. Two key subcomponents are proposed to be developed for the high-speed infrared focal plane array (HS-FPA); these are the readout integrated circuit (ROIC), and the infrared detector (InSb or InGaAs). Indigo Systems Corporation proposes to extend its family of high performance focal plane arrays by developing a large format, high speed, multiple output, sensor. During the Phase I Indigo will perform a trade study to establish the specification, architecture, and demonstrate feasibility and performance of the HS-FPA. The Phase II is divided into nine major tasks: preliminary design, critical design, ROIC fabrication, ROIC characterization, wafer test, detector material, detector processing, hybridization, and HS-FPA testing. High-performance and high-resolution infrared focal plane arrays (IR-FPAs) with 640x512 or greater spatial resolution, with simultaneous integration, and readout rates of 400 frames per second or greater are not currently commercially available for early launch detection and tracking (ELDT). Indigo Systems Corporation proposes to develop large format sensor implementing innovative high-speed multiplexing architecture with low power design and multiple outputs for high-speed IR-FPA system applications. |
| INDIGO SYSTEMS CORP.
50 Castilian Drive Goleta, CA 93117 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(805) 964-9797
Dr. Eric Beuville MDA 03-004 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Early Launch Detection, and Tracking Sensor Concepts |
| Abstract: | Infrared sensor technology has proven to be a key component in the development of advanced systems for boost phase interception and tracking. These systems require sensors with both high-performance and high-resolution capabilities. One of the important long wavelength capable detection materials developed recently is the quantum well infrared photodetector (QWIP). The next generation for the QWIP FPAs will be formats of 1kx1k, 2kx2k, and 4kx4k. These arrays will allow greater resolution and instantaneous field of view capability for a number of different infrared sensor based systems. Indigo Systems Corporation proposes to develop and commercialize a family of Large Format QWIP FPA ROICs. These arrays would be made available as Commercial-off-the Shelf-Technology to the developers of advanced large format QWIP detector focal plane arrays and systems. In the Phase I of the L-FPA development, Indigo will perform the tasks necessary to advance the ROIC design through the trade study phase. This effort will establish the specification, architecture, and demonstrate feasibility for all high-risk aspects of the array design. Phase II is divided into five major tasks including preliminary design, critical design, fabrication, characterization, and wafer test. Large Format QWIP FPA ROICs, developed under this program would be made available as Commercial-off-the Shelf-Technology (COTS) to the developers of advanced QWIP detector arrays and systems, enabling rapid deployment of low-cost infrared-based systems into commercial and military markets. Indigo proposes to develop L-FPA through the incorporation of a sub-micron CMOS stitching process. Stitched reticles are capable of producing multiple array configurations. Thus a single reticle set can be used to produce 1kx1k, 2kx2k and 4kx4k ROICs at reduced costs. |
| PHOTON RESEARCH ASSOC., INC.
5720 Oberlin Drive San Diego, CA 92121 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 243-6613
Mr. James McGraw MDA 03-004 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Space-Borne Passive Bistatic (Multistatic) GMTI Radar Using SIGINT Assets |
| Abstract: | Observation of the earth by space-borne radar is an essential feature of present and future surveillance and reconnaissance. The ability to provide continuous observation over extended time periods and large overland areas, as well as detection and tracking of Time Critical ground moving targets (TCTs) such as a mobile Scud transporter erector launcher (TEL) plays a predominant role in this context. Current space-borne SIGINT assets are involved in the remote sensing and processing of data from foreign radars, communication signals and other RF and microwave sensors in order to obtain information about the capabilities of these sensors. Important features of these systems are the use of sensitive receivers and other devices that record data for later analysis. Combining the concept of space-borne Moving Target Indication functions (MTI) with SIGINT assets can provide for improved strategic or tactical situation assessment and thus reduce the uncertainty and ambiguity of the threat assessment product. PRA proposes a unique and innovative concept to extend the present capabilities of SIGINT assets to assist in MTI functions. Projected future reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition needs call for a space system able to provide support for near-continuous, all-weather wide area surveillance, attack operations, indications and warning, and assessment missions. One Concept of Operations (CONOPS) describes the military utility of a space based Moving Target Indicator (SBMTI). This envisions a constellation of space based radar satellites gathering moving target indicator (MTI) and synthetic aperture (SAR) imagery. SBMTI advantages include coverage over denied and high-threat territory, keeping U.S., and allied personnel out of harm's way, coverage for blind spots and screened areas, supplementing theater assets to greatly extend viewing ranges, and providing rapid access to cover TCTs such as Scud TEL tracks. Spaced based concepts have been explored, such as Starlite and TechSat 21, which consisted of either a large constellation of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites or clusters of micro-satellites flying in formation and operating cooperatively to perform the function of much larger, complex, and expensive single satellites, respectively. Affordability constraints have limited demonstration of these concepts and thus delayed an opportunity to access such rich sources of information that could possibly allow U.S. decision makers to be able to direct action that would significantly shorten a conflict and/or eliminate its impact on civilian populations. The value of this project is to leverage existing space-based SIGINT platforms to provide for a SBMTI capability that doesn't exist today. |
| SPECTRAL SCIENCES, INC.
99 South Bedford Street, Suite 7 Burlington, MA 01803 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 273-4770
Dr. Steven Richtsmeier MDA 03-004 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Field and Modeling Test Bed for Plume Detection through Sunlit Clouds |
| Abstract: | Early Launch Detection and Tracking (ELDT) is emerging as a key component of US ballistic missile defense strategy. The complications of sunlit cloud cover and long slant path viewing make the problem extremely challenging and have thus far hindered the validation of proposed approaches. Spectral Sciences, Inc. (SSI), in collaboration with Northrop Grumman Space Systems (NGSS), proposes to develop a validated simulation and field test bed for rigorous evaluation of ELDT algorithm and sensor concepts. We also propose a novel VIS-SWIR multispectral, real-time algorithm and sensor concept for detecting missiles under sunlit clouds. In Phase I, a missile-plume-under-cloud capability will be added to SSI's MCScene first-principles scene simulation code and feasibility calculations performed for evaluating our new ELDT detection concept. In Phase II, MCScene will be integrated and validated with the NGSS Surveillance and Reconnaissance Testbed (SART) facility at Mt. Wilson, CA, and a sensor breadboard field demonstration of the proposed and other promising ELDT concepts will be conducted. It is anticipated that the new MCScene module developed under this program will be made available for use in MDA's Battlespace Environment Signature Toolkit (BEST). Both the detection concept and test bed will address outstanding problems in ballistic and theater missile defense for the US government. In addition, the developed image simulation and analysis software and SART facility enhancements would be valuable in a variety of government and commercial hyperspectral and multispectral imagery applications, which include surveillance, target detection and identification, technical intelligence, environmental characterization, oceanography, precision agriculture, forestry, geology, and pollutant and fugitive emission monitoring. |
| COHERENT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
135 S. Taylor Avenue Louisville, CO 80027 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 604-2000
Mr. Charles Bjork MDA 03-005 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced Autonomous Target Acquisition (ATA) and Track Algorithms |
| Abstract: | CTI proposes an algorithm suite/design approach to improve speed, accuracy, and reliability of missile hardbody acquisition, track maintenance, and classification/identification efficiency. Various multiband passive IR, visible, and UV approaches, and now, visible and IR ladar approaches, are being considered for Forward Based sensors for boost-phase missile defense. The algorithm suite/hardware proposed by CTI is applicable to all types of sensors being considered, e.g., UV, passive/active visible and IR. Conventional plume tracking is used in each waveband to estimate important features and actual hardbody location. However, additional proprietary spatial processing uses radiance-data to further minimize hardbody uncertainty volumes. Image anisotropy corrections then further improve estimation, i.e., reducing deleterious impact of enhancement regions. These estimates are supplied to a batch-initialized, multiple hypothesis extended kalman tracking filter, for temporal processing. If more than one sensor is present in the suite, multiple results are fused in the multiple hypothesis stage of track filtering, The processing will be designed for speed, and is intrinsically parallel.. It will be demonstrated with a MATLAB thread containing the spatial component of the hardbody algorithm, and the enhancement correction. It therefore facilitates testing over necessarily diverse geometries, and numerous backgrounds and viewing conditions, using synthetic plume signatures. These signatures will be generated by GFE Radiation models from launch to burnout. Hardbody signatures must be generated by CTI's standardized signature codes to accommodate fully coherent ladars. : Sensors imaging through obscuring media, having features caused by embedded radiation/disturbance sources, e.g., harsh environment diagnostic testing, ship tracking via wakes, aircraft tracking via exhaust effluent plumes/contrails, with or without clouds at long ranges. |
| MTL SYSTEMS, INC.
3481 Dayton-Xenia Rd. Dayton, OH 45432 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(937) 426-3111
Mr. R.K. Hill MDA 03-005 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced Autonomous Target Acquisition (ATA) and Track Algorithms |
| Abstract: | MTL Systems, Inc. (MTL) presents a unique and commercially viable solution to the problem of developing Advanced Autonomous Target Acquisition (ATA) and Track Algorithms for visible, ultraviolet (UV), infrared (IR), and laser radar (Ladar) sensor systems viewing a missile in the boost phase. Our proposed "Advanced Imaging Missile Tracker (AIMIT) technique combines proven technology for static image recognition (based on image complexity) with a natural extension to dynamic image recognition. Through this combination, AIMIT exploits both static features (single-frame) and dynamic features (image changes from frame-to-frame) to provide a highly optimized, fast, and effective missile identification and tracking capability, across a broad range of sensor types and sensor locations, involved in acquiring and tracking a missile throughout its boost phase. In Phase I, MTL will perform (1) a prototype development, (2) experimental and analytical feasibility assessments which address existing system integration feasibility as well as functional/performance feasibility, (3) a prototype demonstration, (4) a preliminary system design to carry forward into Phase II, and (5) an initial assessment of commercialization potential. As such, the Phase I program will provide an experimentally-validated, feasibility-demonstrated approach and design to use in a Phase II proof-of-concept program, and to ultimately achieve technology transition (commercialization). The AIMIT commercialization opportunity is within the proliferation of image-based applications across the breadth of government, industry, and commerce. Reliable, robust video ATR systems would find use in defense and commercial video monitoring and surveillance applications in force protection, physical infrastructure security, counter-terrorism, law enforcement, and special operations. The AIMIT process is much more cost-effective for commercial and military operations than current products, since it operates faster, and requires less data storage space (for images or models) than other techniques. AIMIT can replace slow and user interaction-demanding systems with a low-cost, automated alternative. Commercial developers and marketers of video-based security systems comprise a ready and waiting marketplace for AIMIT. |
| PHOTON RESEARCH ASSOC., INC.
5720 Oberlin Drive San Diego, CA 92121 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(631) 331-6322
Dr. C. Ralph Waters MDA 03-005 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Boost Phase Tracking Employing Plume/Hardbody Physics Models Embedded In An Extended Kalman Estimator |
| Abstract: | A critical aspect of Boost Phase Intercept concepts is the discrimination of the hardbody in the presence of the extended intensity image provided by the missile's radiant plume. PRA proposes developing a real-time tracking algorithm that utilizes a physics based model of the plume/hardbody intensity pattern. This model is embedded within an extended Kalman filter structure to estimate both the dynamic plume shape and the position of the hardbody. The immediate benefit is an enhanced solution to the Boost Phase aimpoint selection problem for both DEW concepts such as ABL (Aim Based Laser) as well as Boost Phase Interceptors. It offers the commercial potential of developing a programmable logic array that would be a key product in a low cost interceptor system. |
| ACUMEN CONSULTING
6238 Covington Way Goleta, CA 93117 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(805) 708-5084
Dr. Steven L. Solomon MDA 03-006 Selected for Award |
| Title: | High Dynamic Range Infrared Scene Projector for Boost Phase Intercept |
| Abstract: | The existing generation of high performance dynamic IR scene projectors is incapable of simulating high temperature sources such as hot engine exhausts, rocket plumes or infrared countermeasures. The materials used in fabricating the current generation of devices are not stable at the high temperatures required (~2500 K or higher) - the pixel will melt well before reaching these temperatures. Resistive heating technology is the most mature of the myriad IR scene projection technologies available today, and hence the most appropriate springboard for the development of high dynamic range IR scene projectors. Attaining the temperatures required will involve numerous development tasks, the most challenging of which is selecting the materials of which the emitter pixels are fabricated. These new materials must 1) be stable (i.e. repeatable) over the temperature range 300 K - 3000 K, 2) possess thermo-physical properties suitable to the apparent temperature and speed specifications and 3) be compatible with thin-film processing requirements. This proposal will, via research, identify candidate materials for fabricating the next generation of high temperature emitters. Methods for measuring the relevant thermo-physical properties of these materials will be researched, and a list of vendors capable of depositing, patterning and etching these materials will be generated. The primary result of the proposed work will be a list of materials that are suitable for the fabrication of emitter pixels capable of attaining MWIR apparent temperatures in excess of 2000 K, thereby substantially reducing the risk associated with development of the next device generation. The high temperature materials developed under this effort will provide substantial benefits to the existing generation of low temperature devices as well in the form of improved stability, thus the potential market includes the entire IR scene projection community. The entire hardware in the loop test community will benefit directly from the development work proposed here, as will programs that rely on using infrared sensors to detect high contrast targets. Commercial products designed for fire fighting or search and rescue could use this product for developmental testing or training as well. |
| ION OPTICS, INC.
411 Waverley Oaks Road, Suite 144 Waltham, MA 02452 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 788-8777
Dr. James Daly MDA 03-006 Selected for Award |
| Title: | High Temperature SiC MEMS Infrared Emitters |
| Abstract: | There is a need for infrared scene generators with much larger dynamic range and apparent temperature than currently available to accurately simulate high end targets like jet engine exhaust, missile plumes during boost phase, fuel explosions and infrared countermeasures (flares). Current scene generators based on silicon resistor arrays are limited to about 650,aC. We are proposing a 2-part solution to achieve higher apparent target temperatures (up to 2500,aC). We propose to demonstrate high temperature emitters (up to 1200,aC) based on SiC rather than silicon. Further, we will adapt our expertise in photonic crystal technology to control infrared emissivity as a function of wavelength in order to increase the apparent radiometric temperature of the emitters to ~2500,aC. Ion Optics is the emerging technology and product leader in infrared MEMS gas sensors. We have developed patented optical platform technology for controlling (tuning) the infrared emission and absorption wavelengths of a silicon surface. We have used this technology to create small, accurate, reliable, low power, and low-cost infrared gas sensors to detect toxic and combustible gases in homes, automobiles, public buildings and the work environment. In phase 1, we will use this SensorChip,. technology to demonstrate emissivity-controlled, apparently high temperature (>2000,aC) emission from SiC test structures. In phase 2, we will demonstrate SiC emitter arrays suitable for use in high dynamic range scene projectors. The military benefits of IR scene generators with improved dynamic range include: permits more realistic evaluation of advanced (complex) infrared automatic target recognition (ATR) algorithms and signal processing concepts; enables more realistic simulations of IR countermeasures to help develop more robust tracking algorithms; and it enables more realistic simulation of aerothermal heating of seeker windows. As importantly, the ability to more realistically represent IR scenes will improve reliability of seeker calibration and reduce testing costs by reducing the need for flight tests. |
| ALPHATECH, INC.
6 New England Executive Park Burlington, MA 01803 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(858) 812-2994
Mr. Dale Klamer MDA 03-007 Selected for Award |
| Title: | An Efficient Computational Approach to Target Discrimination |
| Abstract: | Target discrimination is one of the critical components of the midcourse phase processing in providing effective missile defense. Currently, detailed models that use an elaborate discrete Bayesian network predict the sensor phenomenology for each possible target type and sensor. The predicted sensor phenomenology is compared to the observed phenomenology, and the target type estimate is updated. The complex relationships modeled in the Bayesian network is extremely computationally expensive and cannot keep up with real time. We propose to use a Gaussian sum approximation technique to model the continuous variate probability density functions (PDFs) that occur in the Bayesian network used in target discrimination. Gaussian sum approximations have the potential of increasing the accuracy of estimating the continuous valued PDFs that are currently modeled by picewise linear discrete functions. We will address both the accuracy of the Bayesian network and, perhaps more importantly, the computational efficiency of the Gaussian sum approach in updating the node PDF when new sensor information is received-only eight computations are needed to update a term in the Gaussian sum. In summary, we will develop and evaluate the computational efficiency of Gaussian sums to model continuous components used in the Bayesian network for target discrimination modeling. The significance of developing a real-time updating of the Bayesian network used for target discrimination is increased performance in the midcourse phase. This increase in the performance of discriminating between warheads and decoys significantly increases the likelihood that warhead threats will be killed by space-based interceptors, as well as increasing the accuracy of the target-clutter map used in the handoff to ground-based interceptors in the terminal phase. Potential commercial applications of computationally efficient Bayesian network models include modeling complex financial networks that provide buy and sell signals for stocks, in addition to supplying real-time models used to detect and select automated responses to sophisticated attacks on computer network systems. |
| INFORMATION EXTRACTION & TRANSPORT, INC.
1911 N. Ft. Myer Drive, Suite 600 Arlington, VA 22209 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(408) 725-1112
Dr. Shozo Mori MDA 03-007 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Data Fusion for Missile Defense |
| Abstract: | Information Extraction & Transport (IET), Inc., proposes an innovative yet practical approach to Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) Midcourse Defense Segment (MDS) object tracking and discrimination. The proposed approach is to integrate multiple-sensor MDS object tracking and discrimination capabilities, making the best use of the MDS interception opportunities utilizing all the available information provided by a diverse set of MDS ground-, sea-, and space-based sensors. Reliable object discrimination may be obtained by only a selective set of sensors (such as XBR) at a relatively short range. However, to relay the accurate discrimination information to in-flight MDS interceptor elements, the entire MDS tracking system must perform optimal or near-optimal real-time multiple-object tracking. For that purpose, we propose to model the feature signals by stationary Gauss-Markov stochastic processes, particularly for narrow-band radar and infrared/electro-optical (IR/EO) sensor feature signals, to enhance track-to-measurement association performance to obtain higher track purity, which is essential for any object discrimination algorithm to make correct decisions. IET also proposes to use multiple-sensor-invariant feature parameters to enhance track-to-track association (including Target Object Map) performance, so that all the essential object discrimination information accumulated by all the MDS sensor assets can be used in the MDS intercept opportunities. IET expects the successful implementation of the algorithms detailed in this proposal to enhance both track-to-measurement and track-to-track association performance thereby improving multiple-sensor midcourse object discrimination capability, and, ultimately, the ability of the midcourse interceptor to correctly identify and kill lethal objects in a shorter time. Beyond the BMD applications, our feature-aided tracking approach can be applied to a wide range of target tracking, surveillance, monitoring, and target recognition and identification problems. The potential applications include military, law-enforcement, and facility and home security systems, using a wide range of distributed sensors. |
| ORINCON
ORINCON Hawaii, Inc., 970 North Kalaheo Avenue, Su Kailua, HI 96734 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(808) 254-1532
Dr. R. David Dikeman MDA 03-007 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Physics-Based Boost and Midcourse Phase Discrimination and Tracking |
| Abstract: | In this Phase I SBIR effort, ORINCON, together with Boeing, proposes to develop physics-based discrimination algorithms that allow for the multihypothesis tracking (MHT) of low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) objects to create an unambiguous target object map (TOM) in both the boost and midcourse phases. By coupling a center-of-mass discrimination analysis, together with the MHT, it will become possible to a) identify low-SNR targets via momentum coupling, b) create better matching of ground-based tracking target object maps (TOMs) with kill vehicle TOMs, and c) more easily register the kill vehicle TOM by tracking the center of mass of the cloud of targets associated with the missile. Tying discrimination and tracking together is a fairly novel approach made possible in the missile defense problem by the fact that objects to be tracked are amenable to a physics-based analysis due to their calculable dynamics (unlike typical tracked objects, which are steered). Overall, by fusing the tracking analysis with the physics-based discrimination, we will provide a more robust tracking and discrimination solution. To achieve this capability, ORINCON proposes developing signal processing techniques and an expert system engine that will couple to our MHT tracker system. Boeing will assist with data, sensor, and architecture parameterization. The proposed approach will provide the Government with a unified approach for solving many closely related problems within the MDA launch-to-impact cycle. The combined multiple-hypothesis tracking and data fusion capability that ORINCON Defense provides will result in improved localization and discrimination of enemy warheads and decoys, thus improving the overall performance of a missile defense system. This technology is being leveraged from ongoing efforts for the Air Force to guide an in-flight missile (using updated target locations) in prosecuting a moving ground target. The effort under this SBIR will be tightly coupled with other ongoing work by ORINCON Defense for the MDA. |
| SENSIS CORP.
5793 Widewaters Parkway DeWitt, NY 13214 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(315) 445-5724
Mr. Kevin McEntee MDA 03-007 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Data Fusion for Missile Defense |
| Abstract: | In a Ballistic Missile Defense scenario, sensors will be faced with trying to identify and track targets in a scenario composed of decoys, Electronic Counter Measures, and associated missile fragments. The objective of this is to develop algorithms, concepts and techniques that utilize ground, high-altitude, or satellite sensor data together with onboard missile/kill-vehicle sensors to provide an enhanced target discrimination capability. Sensis proposes Multi-Sensor Track (MST) algorithm modified to a Multi-Hypothesis Multi-Sensor Data Fusion System (MH-MS-DF) to fuse data derived from ground, high-altitude or satellite sensor data. The association algorithm of the MH-MS-DF will have the capability to adjust for time mis-alignment of data sources, missed detections, false alarms, incorrect sensor ID information, dynamic data association gates, and sensor registration limits. During Phase I, Sensis shall develop concepts and techniques for a Multi-Hypothesis Multi-Sensor Data Fusion System derived by extending the capabilities of a Sensis developed Multi-Sensor Track algorithm. During Phase II, Sensis will develop software algorithms to implement and demonstrate the MH-MS-DF algorithms derived in Phase I. During Phase III, Sensis will promote dual use application of the MH-MS-DF to civilian problems such as Drug Interdiction, Air Traffic Control, Medical Applications, and Homeland Defense Initiatives. Defense related Applications include: Automatic Surveillance Minimization of Friendly Fire Casualties Target Tracking, Location and Identification Commercial Applications Transportation Systems (Location of trucks, railway cars, ships, and aircraft) Drug Enforcement Agency (aerial drug interdiction) DOD Homeland Security (detect and track aircraft where the transponder replies are not being received) Intelligent Vehicle Highway Systems (IVHS) (traffic control) |
| CARDINAL SYSTEMS & ANALYSIS, INC.
4000 Cathedral Ave, NW, Suite 121B Washington, DC 20016 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(202) 257-0690
Dr. C. Tucker Battle MDA 03-008 Selected for Award |
| Title: | An Optimization Algorithm for Missile Defense Planning |
| Abstract: | Planning for theater missile defense (TMD) is complicated because defense coverage is, in general, dependent upon the location of the attacker's launch sites and not all attackers can cover all targets. In addition, there may be considerable uncertainty associated with launch-site locations and stockpiles. An attacker synthesis problem is formulated in which the attacker, with knowledge of the defense deployment, distributes its attackers among its launch sites to maximize damage. The formulation assumes that the attacker must exhaust the interceptor stockpiles covering a given target before it can cause any damage and that the defense uses a subtractive firing doctrine. An algorithm based on the use of Lagrange-multiplier and branch-and-bound techniques is proposed for the solution of this problem. An important by-product of the solution is a set of constraints on the distribution of attackers to launch sites. These constraints can be used as the basis of an analytical framework for developing joint TMD/attack operations (AO) plans and allocating intelligence resources associated with the intelligence preparation of the battlefield (IPB). The objectives of Phase I are to develop the algorithm and demonstrate its utility in these two problem areas, It is anticipated that a new analyical framework will be developed to support planning in the areas of joint BMDS/AO operations and intelligence preparation of the battlefield. This framework could be the basis for developing new planning modules for the GCCS. |
| GCAS, INC.
1531 Grand Avenue, Suite A San Marcos, CA 92069 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(760) 591-4227
Mr. Maurizio Borsotto MDA 03-008 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Decision Theory Research and Development |
| Abstract: | Many difficult problems in detection, tracking and intelligence use a Bayesian Network approach to determine produce a hypothesized result. A difficulty with this approach is the interpretation of the belief or likelihood value used to define the uncertainty associated with the final hypothesis. Higher confidence could be achieved if likelihood ranges were associated with the various data "evidence" and internal "rules" used in the network. These ranges would propagate through the network to the end hypothesis, thereby establishing a likelihood range for this final conclusion. Ranges in likelihood require the introduction of second-order probabilities, also called "precision", in the specification of the external data and internal rules used in the network. This proposal describes a new approach for treating uncertainty in Bayesian Networks that allow second-order uncertainty to be formulated and propagated through the network, thereby increasing the confidence in the hypothesized belief presented by the network. The method is based on research formulated and tested by the author using Polytrees with outstanding success. This proposal extends that work to Directed Acyclic Graphs of the form commonly found in Bayesian Net structures, including Precision Backtracking (PB). PB gives us the ability to discover which precision ranges in the rules and evidences are principally responsible for the precision range of a given Belief. We also will extend precision handling techniques to Probabilistic Relational Models (PRMs), which merges BNs with relational and object-oriented modeling. PRMs allow the construction of complex, structured and reusable probabilistic models starting from building blocks (classes) that can be extended and refined independently as needed, and combined at will. This generalization is therefore applicable to complex domains and vast models that are intractable with many other approaches Efficient algorithms for capturing and propagating likelihood ranges (second-order uncertainty) in Bayesian Networks represent a significant enhancement towards improved interpretation of the results produced by a network. The proposed techniques and software will be leveraged in the thousands of applications currently using Bayesian Network techniques. These applications include target tracking, medical diagnosis, military operations, terrorist movement analysis, Course of Action and other intelligence issues, oil and mineral exploration, robotic controls, financial forecasting, and many more. In the future it is expected that there will be a significant increase in the number of such applications as Artificial Intelligence methods gain general acceptance. |
| INFORMATION EXTRACTION & TRANSPORT, INC.
1911 N. Ft. Myer Drive, Suite 600 Arlington, VA 22209 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(541) 752-7473
Dr. Masami Takikawa MDA 03-008 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Decision Theory Research and Development |
| Abstract: | In this Phase I effort, Information Extraction and Transport, Inc. (IET) proposes to develop new representation formalism and inference algorithms for Partially Dynamic Decision Networks (PDDNs), which are a decision-theoretic extension of Partially Dynamic Bayesian Networks (PDBNs) that have been developed by IET for the Ballistic Missile Defense Decision Architecture (BMD DA) and are extensively used by BMD DA developers. A PDBN extends a BN by introducing dynamic nodes whose values change over time so that the models can include both static and dynamic nodes. PDBN solution algorithms exploit this additional structure in order to effectively compute the values of the joint probability distribution of the random variables in the PDBN based on dynamically observed evidence, such as sensor reports. By adding decision making capability to PDBNs, PDDNs will enable large-scale modeling of missile defense decision problems that involve dynamics (e.g., dynamically changing re-entry vehicle locations) and uncertainties (e.g., sensor noise) to build missile defense systems that use the developed models to make optimal decisions that maximize the expected current and future benefit by utilizing all information available through real-time streaming inputs from multiple sensors. Information Extraction and Transport, Inc. (IET) anticipates that the benefits of this Phase I effort will include: 1) a formalization of Partially Dynamic Decision Networks (PDDNs), a novel framework for dynamic decision making under uncertainty, and theoretical results regarding the correctness and computational complexity of inference algorithms, 2) a prototype implementation of a PDDN solution algorithm, and 3) a prototype PDDN compiler that compiles a PDDN specification to generate procedural code that can be embedded in a real-time environment. IET anticipates that the Phase II implementation of these algorithms will support large-scale BMD PDDN modeling (for sensor management, RV/object discrimination and tracking, for example) and real-time decision making with streaming sensor inputs. Beyond the BMD applications, our framework is applicable to a wide range of complex control problems. The potential applications include military, medical, and financial decision making, which all involve a complex model of the domain, making decisions in real-time in response to streaming inputs. |
| IPEAKSDATA CORP.
2530 Woodstock Place Boulder, CO 80305 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 494-2053
Mr. Robert L Welch MDA 03-008 Selected for Award |
| Title: | The Need-to-Know Filter for Approximate Inference |
| Abstract: | Bayesian Agents and Object Oriented Bayesian networks (OOBN) and Dynamic Bayesian Networks (DBN) are new Bayesian Network (BN) representations enabling on-the-fly BN construction that is especially useful in the situational awareness of high-level sensor fusion and for missile defense systems that detect, identify and assess anomalies and threats. Yet a large BN can be computation-ally difficult to solve using exact solution techniques. Human organizations use approximation in integrating large quantities of information. In sensor fusion, and in intelligence organizations filters limit the number of contacts that get through to analysts. Without such filters the analyst is often overloaded at critical moments. Only reports for which there is a need-to-know (NTK) are included in the fusion analysis. In this SBIR project a similar NTK filter is applied to propagation algorithms used for Bayesian networks and systems of Bayesian agents. The project develops a new approximation algorithm: Information flows across an interface only if the message contains novel information that is of value to the receiver. One measure of novelty is the relative entropy measure of change in the distributions of the in-terface prior and posterior to the flow. Several variants of the NTK filter are ex-plored including bidding for bandwidth needed to transmit a message. Agents consult potential information servers to determine the novelty of information that could be available if the server were incorporated into the situational awareness. The winning bid identifies the next best piece of information. The feasibility, performance and usefulness of the filter are demonstrated with an example from remote sensor fusion. Bayesian Networks and Agent Systems constitute a technology that is especially in tune with high-level fusion, where diverse information sources, both sensors and human intelligence, must be reconciled, and lead to threat assessment. In the sensor tracking market, Bayesian methods have a lengthy history. The net-work representation brings considerable capability in learning, modeling, and reasoning in large complex systems, but the representation power is far ahead the ability to obtain solutions in large networks. This SBIR R&D, if successful, will provide tools and products of use to the MDA and the greater remote sens-ing, surveillance, and intelligence communities in both government and commer-cial markets. |
| SYNERGIA LLC
2400 Broadway, Suite 203 Redwood City, CA 94063 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(650) 569-4999
Dr. Gregg Courand MDA 03-008 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Decision Theory Research and Development -- Risk-Advised Prediction |
| Abstract: | We propose to design a very powerful technology to support actor modeling and behavior prediction of arbitrary individual and social actors, all guided by risk analysis calculations. Users without formal background in psychology, social theory, or decision theory will be able to develop actor models relevant to contemplated risks, and form predictions about actor behavior. Predictions serve to validate the models and, once accepted, to inform the development of indications and warnings. The actor modeling technology will enable users to summarize observations about human activity (individual, social) in the form of generative practices: computations that reproduce the observations if handed the right conditions, and that predict how behavior is produced and adapted in related situations. Practices enable prediction of actor behavior for situations that have not been observed; we have proven the viability of our modeling approach in other work. This technology rests on Synergia?s Event and Activity Capture technology, used to encode observations about human activity using a representation we have invented: hierarchical event-behavior graphs. Predictions are delivered to Bayesian networks or decision graphs. In the latter case Synergia has invented diagnostic calculations that legislate which parts of the decision structure (not just parametric structure!) are rational to improve. Defense, public-sector, and private-sector activities are becoming more complex, and more inter-dependent in their execution. Risks and opportunity management are extremely sensitive to timely decision-making and action. Prediction of the activities of others is essential in modern threat environments, and equally, in the private sector. We will create a new technology to support risk-advised modeling and prediction of the likely capabilities and intentions of arbitrary individuals and social actors (e.g., organizations, culture). The technology will enable modeling and prediction based on psychological, cultural, ideological, and institutional factors, rather than doctrine or ''company policy''. |
| DECISIVE ANALYTICS CORP.
1235 Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite 400 Arlington, VA 22202 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 414-5139
Mr. Mark Frymire MDA 03-009 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Distributed Battle Management Techniques |
| Abstract: | In the future Ballistic Missile Defense system, it will be necessary to coordinate the operations of many geographically dispersed system components to create an architecture with the best chance for defeating the threat. Though challenging, it is desired that this architecture be implemented in a distributed manner to avoid the need for a centralized controller to which all sensors transmit all of their information for processing and decision-making. In the research effort proposed here, the Decisive Analytics Corporation Team will implement a distributed C2BMC inference architecture using a framework called Multiply-Sectioned Bayesian Networks. Using this approach, which is based on recent advances in the artificial intelligence literature, it is possible to decompose a unified Bayesian Network into subcomponents that operate at different locations, while exchanging data to maintain global consistency. Our implementation will employ the actual system models under development for Project Hercules, and we will assess computational performance with respect to various implementations of these cases. This background research will result in the development of a distributed multi-source fusion engine for inference. Potential application includes use in military command and control systems, and other decision support systems that involve time-critical decision-making under uncertainty, including crisis monitoring, and medical applications. |
| INFORMATION EXTRACTION & TRANSPORT, INC.
1911 N. Ft. Myer Drive, Suite 600 Arlington, VA 22209 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 841-3500
Dr. Suzanne Mahoney MDA 03-009 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Distributed Battle Management Techniques |
| Abstract: | Many technical issues need to be addressed before a distributed BM/C2 architecture can be designed and implemented. Specific issues include: what should each BM/C2 node know in terms of models, sensor data, and overall system goals? What algorithm is used by each node? How do the BM/C2 nodes coordinate their processing in order to avoid conflicts and achieve high performance? What happens if there is latency in communication? In this Phase I effort, Information Extraction and Transport, Inc. (IET) proposes to support the Ballistic Missile Defense-Decision Architecture (BMD-DA) efforts to build a generic BM/C2 decision architecture by developing algorithms that allow multiple cooperating BM/C2 nodes (agents) to coordinate their decisions to achieve near-optimal performance in a distributed BM/C2 architecture. These algorithms are designed to estimate and communicate the impact of evidence on object classification using learned Bayesian network factoring of posterior joint likelihood distributions. We will also develop algorithms that estimate the performance of learned Bayesian network factorings these posterior joint likelihoods. The result will be an experimental harness where we will demonstrate the feasibility and utility of using learned Bayesian network factorings of posterior joint likelihoods to support efficient distributed situation assessment and dissemination. Information Extraction and Transport, Inc. (IET) anticipates that benefits from Phase I of the proposed SBIR effort include: 1) a methodology for learning a set of Bayesian networks that represent the posterior joint likelihood over a set of variables that are shared by BMDS elements; 2) measures for the impact of evidence on a BMDS' system model and for estimating the resources and bandwidth requirements given a particular Bayesian network for the posterior joint likelihood; 3) a strategy for choosing the best learned network structure given the evidence, available resources, and impact; 4) an approach for updating the system model at a remote BMDS element given the selected Bayesian network for the posterior joint likelihood; and 5) an experimental harness to support the evaluation of this approach. The technology proposed has significant commercial application. The market for battlespace sensor control and processing software will be significant within the DOD and Intelligence Community. Critical mission areas that could be supported include force protection, facility monitoring, and mobile target tracking. Commercial sensor markets could benefit as well including applications using microsatellites, terrestrial and extraterrestrial robotics, and unmanned vehicles (e.g., UAVs and UUVs). |
| INTELLIGENT AUTOMATION, INC.
7519 Standish Place, Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20855 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 294-5250
Dr. Leonard Haynes MDA 03-009 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Agent-based Generic Battle Manager |
| Abstract: | The innovation of this proposal is use of negotiating software autonomous agents to allow creation of a generic battle management engine that can be customized to a particular application. Our generic battle management 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 battle plans and schedules are 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 battle management 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. |
| SYTRONICS, INC.
4433 Dayton-Xenia Road, Building 1 Dayton, OH 45432 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(937) 431-6110
Mr. John E. Friskie MDA 03-009 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced Distributed Optimal Battle Management Environment (ADOBE) |
| Abstract: | SYTRONICS and BALL are uniquely qualified to develop an Advanced, Distributed, Optimal, Battle Management Environment (ADOBE)--a phased solution to the problem of providing an effective infrastructure to support distributed, next generation battle management command and control (BMC2). Running an effective BMC2 operation takes more than merely knowing to "press button X on console C when message M arrives," for example. It requires a thorough understanding of why console C is even important given the context relayed in the message. This higher-level comprehension is needed to allow the BMC2 to collectively make superior decisions despite the time-compressed intensity of modern missile defense missions, where information uncertainty leaves even powerful knowledge-based BMC2 decision-aiding applications needing human input to overcome the knowledge gaps. To attain this effective, distributed, collaborative capability, our system contains key concepts and disciplines. This innovative combination of distributed workflow management, distributed simulation concepts, and supporting cognitive technology will provide a complete and effective solution, producing a feasibility demonstration of a prototype web-based BMC2 distributed battle management system and a thorough Phase I Final Report to include a high-level Phase II system design and preliminary commercialization analysis. The process of acquiring information and using it to make decisions for the good of an organization (the US military, a Fortune 500 corporation, or medical diagnostics center) is similar, and an investment in developing a BMC2 operations environment can be commercialized into a similar scenario-based decision-support environment for executives and their staff. |
| AKOS ZARANDY EUTECUS, INC.
c/o Hughes & Luce, LLP,, 111 Congress Ave. Suite 9 Austin, TX 78701 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(512) 482-6816
Mr. Csaba Rekeczky MDA 03-010 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Image Processing Algorithms for Target Discrimination |
| Abstract: | A cellular neural network (CNN) technology based adaptive multi-target track-ing and discrimination system with compact cellular visual microprocessor is pro-posed. Methodology: The primary motivation of the present proposal is to offer a to-pographic microprocessor architecture for multi-target discrimination with embedded sensors capable of operating in a process real-time manner. The performance of multi-target tracking (MTT) and discrimination systems can be significantly increased with stored program adaptive cellular array sensors. In the ongoing experiments the input data flow of array sensors is processed on an adaptive CNN-UM architecture consist-ing of both cellular nonlinear network (CNN) and digital signal processing (DSP) mi-croprocessors. The algorithms designed for this combined hardware platform use adaptive multi-channel CNN solutions for instantaneous position estimation and mor-phological characterization of all targets and the DSP environment for distance calcu-lation, gating, data association, track maintenance and dynamic target motion predic-tion. A special feature of the proposed architecture is that it allows an interactive communication between the sensor and the digital environment. The multi-channel adaptive target tracking system implemented on the CNN visual microprocessor makes possible to develop a robust and very fast target discrimination system. Deliverables: The hardware and software framework for these experiments is under development as an extended adaptive CNN architecture and as a prototyping system within the PC104+ industrial framework (Phase I). After theoretical foundation and set up the algorithmic framework for the discrimination, the system will be capa-ble of processing in a laboratory environment (Phase II). The compact version of this system - COMPACT CVM- (not exceeding 1 kg in weight) is currently under design and can be completed for a demonstration during Phase II. Full integration of the en-tire system will be completed in Phase III resulting in a module weighing less than 200 g. Technical content of the proposal: This proposal provides an overview of the core technology and a methodology used, describes the main architecture and the re-lated feasibility studies to be completed in Phase I-II, gives a detailed task description for Phase I, and concludes with an overview of the key tasks to be performed in Phase II-III. Within MDA/DoD: AnaLogic is already working on projects with the DoD through EAORD. We will use our presence in the United States through EUTECUS and the work that we will be doing under Phase 1 of this project to further the relationship. Phase 1 will investigate and decide the most effective way to utilize the CNN technology for the purpose of Target Discrimination and because it is an airborne application will benefit from the miniaturization and weight reduction - this will probably mean that we will take a further step toward a "system on a chip" approach. As well it is the aim of the project to find/suggest ways to enhance contrasts and sharpen details. If, during this phase, it is shown that the step towards placing more of the intelligent functions on the chip, then this new feature will be promoted throughout the DoD/MDA by both word of mouth and through giving presentations. AnaLogic, our associate company has worked on the early stages of a missile defense project through the EAORD. Through this we had occasion to make a presentation on the CNN technology to personnel at MDA on August 23rd. The meeting was chaired by Paul Koskey, Program Director for MDA Technology Transfer. Prior to that, in July, Messrs. Koskey and Richard Hu visited the AnaLogic lab in Budapest where Dr Csaba Rekeczky the CTO of the EUTECUS/AnaLogic and his team presented a paper called "Multi-Target Tracking with Adaptive Stored Program CMM-UM". In the commercial world the work undertaken in this project will aid law enforcement agencies to identify people by their features and pick them out of large crowds. Since 9/11 this has become an extremely important technology. The Bio nature of the CNN technology and the speed of information processing makes the CVM uniquely suited for this application. If the over-all security market is $4billion dollars then it is not unrealistic to think that the unique feature of the CVM based camera - the Bi-i could be sold for this purpose as long as the price/benefit ratio is realistic. If the quantity is going to be large enough for the price to be low then the Bi-i could be used for facial recognition in many security situations - recognition of user of a computer etc.. Digital video systems have the difficult task of retaining information selectively . This necessitates fast image processing with the CVM based Bi-i does processing in real time so there is no redundant information in the system's memory. This market is very competitive and at the lower end very price sensitive. It is likely that this market will be addressed by specialized distributors whose know-how and specialty is the security industry. At this point we must be very careful as the quantities can be rather great and CVM chips will not be available in such large quantities until 2004. |
| COMPUTATIONAL SENSORS CORP.
201 N. Calle Cesar Chavez, Suite 203 Santa Barbara, CA 93103 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(805) 962-1175
Dr. John Langan MDA 03-010 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Analog Image Processing Algorithms for Target Discrimination |
| Abstract: | During Phase I, Computational Sensors Corporation (CSC) will develop improved methods for discriminating among targets using an optimal wavelet filter bank architecture. Specifically, CSC will evaluate best basis search methods for choosing the optimal wavelet filters for target discrimination. Discrimination relies upon the ability to compute multiple useful target features based upon known target characteristics. To improve the discrimination results, the temptation is to calculate ever more specific features that rely heavily on a priori target knowledge. In this project, CSC proposes an evaluation of a more general, complete set of features derived directly from the outputs of a large wavelet filter bank. In previous work, CSC has developed an analog, massively parallel, real-time video processing system capable of bulk spatio-temporal filtering. The enabling device uses analog silicon retinas in multi-chip architectures for complex, agile, spatial-frequency filtering enabling the implementation of a wavelet-based filter bank. A good wavelet basis forms a filter bank that is a compromise between a completely specific, matched filter bank and a generic basis. In Phase I, methods for finding bases optimal for discrimination will be investigated. In Phase II, CSC will implement the most promising algorithms in hard-ware for hardware-in-the-loop testing. The spatio-temporal motion energy system previously developed by CSC has the potential to provide sophisticated wavelet discrimination of subtle target characteristics both spatially and temporally with an extremely large computational capability. Target analysis capabilities using non-linear motion energy image processing techniques integrated in analog VLSI image proces-sors are ideally suited for compact, low power, military applications ranging from remote sens-ing platforms to micro-unmanned aerial vehicles. The spatio-temporal motion flow processor being developed is enabling to Missile Defense Agency (MDA) program algorithms that flow down to major missile defense systems. The company's primary goal is to move this core tech-nology into the military market with products using this technology marketed to military labora-tories and aerospace corporations for missile defense applications. |
| DYMAS RESEARCH, INC.
2910 Fox Run Dr. Plainsboro, NJ 08536 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(609) 799-6297
Dr. Wei Hu MDA 03-010 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Polarization Imaging and Algorithm |
| Abstract: | Polarization imaging system has been explored as a method to improve target detection capabilities in remote sensing and other applications. Polarization imaging can improve target contrast, reduce clutter, aid in the defeat of intervening scatterers, and provide orientation information about various target features. The feasibility of polarization technology application in separation of a boost or bus from the associated plume, target discrimination etc. has been demonstrated theoretically and experimentally. Dymas Research proposes an innovative polarization imaging system using electro-optic material and an imaging processing algorithm designed specifically for our polarization imaging system. Our proposed polarization imaging system does not have moving parts, works very fast, and eliminates the misregistration issue. The algorithms proposed can enhance image contrast. We are confident that this unique polarization imaging system and algorithm will provide a promising solution for target discrimination. Success in the Phase I effort will lead to the fabrication of an advanced polarization imaging system. This unique polarization system has many critical advantages in terms of solid-state operation, speed, weight, and flexibility. The success of development of this polarimetric sensor will have great impacts on military, space, industrial, and biomedical sectors. |
| SAGE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
1601 N Sepulveda Blvd, PMB 501 Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(425) 455-0665
Dr. Keith Norsworthy MDA 03-010 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Image Processing Algorithms for Target Discrimination |
| Abstract: | This program defines, and evaluates, new and improved infrared-sensor image processing algorithms for assisting in ballistic missile target/decoy discrimination. The sensor uses a fast-sampled large-mosaic detector array to allow long image integration times that attenuate the rms value of sensor electronic noise. Other sensor and system noise components (e.g. FPA non-uniformities, and intra-frame and inter-frame pointing angle jitter) become dominant and are attenuated by novel image processing concepts developed jointly by Sage Technologies and its subcontractor, Boeing. Circuit transients and spatially distributed countermeasure effects are suppressed by a combination of novel Rank Order filtering algorithms and time dependent Change Detection algorithms. The sensor FPA is divided into two regions, one for wideband spectral measurements and the other for (narrow) hyperspectral measurements. In operation, the wideband spectral measurements are used to detect potential Targets and the hyperspectral measurements are used to help in discriminating between true Targets and cloud induced false detections. The proposed work includes the evaluation of new methods for characterizing closely spaced objects (CSOs), and for estimating the temperature differences between spatially unresolved CSO pairs. Image processing for Improved Discrimination between threat Re-entry Vehicles and Decoys despite optical countermeasures (chaff). Development and Commercialization of a Hyperspectral infrared digital Camera. |
| TEC MASTERS, INC.
1500 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 215 Huntsville, AL 35806 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(256) 830-4000
Dr. Holger Jaenisch MDA 03-010 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Data Modeling Enabled Real Time Image Processing For Target Discrimination |
| Abstract: | Image processing algorithms potentially contribute information that is not currently extracted from missile passive IR sensors measurements. These algorithms must be fast running and robust to work within current computation and memory constraints of missile guidance sensors. Textbook image processing methods as published cannot be performed within these limited computational and memory constraints. Data Modeling attempts to address this limitation by generating equation based models of complex image processing algorithms for real time use. This will enable real-time image processing for target discrimination on a missile. Phase 1 of this task will determine the suitability of applying this image segmentation and image enhancement scheme to images that are representative of the size and type that would me measured in a missile defense application. In addition, the computational complexity and memory resources necessary to implement each approach will be documented. This proposal demonstrates a novel approach to image enhancement and segmentation. Applications include commercial image processing software packages for X-Ray, mammography, MRI, astronomical imaging, and surveillance photography. |
| BARRON ASSOC., INC.
1160 Pepsi Place, Suite 300 Charlottesville, VA 22901 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(434) 973-1215
Dr. Mamu Sharma MDA 03-011 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Integrated Guidance, Control, and Estimation for Hit-To-Kill Interceptors |
| Abstract: | Barron Associates, Inc. (BAI) proposes an aggressive Phase I effort to develop novel adaptive, integrated guidance, control, and estimation algorithms for ballistic-missile interceptors with stringent hit-to-kill requirements. The approach combines recent advances in nonlinear control (backstepping) and estimation methods, and leverages on-line neural network technology for rapid adaptation and robustness to parametric uncertainty. Integration is accomplished using (1) a backstepping formulation to provide seamless integration and construction of guidance and control commands and (2) a unified Lyapunov analysis to derive update rules for the guidance, control, and estimation loops that guarantee the stability of the overall, integrated, design. In Phase I, medium-fidelity simulations will demonstrate that the proposed integrated design method provides improved hit-to-kill performance against maneuvering ballistic missiles. Furthermore, it is expected that the method will enable shorter design times and more efficient designs by leveraging the on-line adaptation to eliminate a need for an iterative integration process. In Phase II, BAI will explore alternative integrated design methods, and perform a comprehensive performance analysis of the selected design. The main benefits of this work are development of an integrated guidance, control, and estimation system for (1) improved hit-to-kill interception performance for ballistic missile defense, and (2) improved design turn-around time. Phase II and III efforts will further develop and demonstrate the components of the integrated system, culminating in hardware-in-the-loop demonstrations and Phase III flight tests. Commercialization will consist of (a) providing expertise and consulting to industry in the area of integrated missile guidance, control and estimate, (b) developing software toolkits for an integrated guidance/control/estimation design method that benefits the MDA and other aerospace programs, and (c) applying the technology to other areas, including precision industrial controls. |
| ORINCON
4770 Eastgate Mall San Diego, CA 92121 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(858) 795-1254
Dr. Stephen Stubberud MDA 03-011 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Neural Estimation Approach for Integrated Guidance and Control of Kinematic Missile Interceptor |
| Abstract: | Kinetic missile interceptors can benefit from an integrated guidance and control law. Even with these benefits, however, variations in the missile dynamics and the ability of a missile to maneuver can still result in failure for this critical mission, even in midcourse interception. ORINCON proposes to develop a control law that employs a novel adaptive estimation routine that improves the internal mathematical model of the missile and trajectory of the target missile. Using the same measurements that are currently available, this approach will improve the a priori model. This reduces the uncertainty in the control law, which in turn can be used to improve performance in flight and improve the accuracy of the intercepting missile approach to ballistic missile defense. The control law we propose to use is based on ORINCON's novel Kalman filter development and proven control technology. Improved performance on-line of the control system will clearly benefit the program of the missile defense concept. However, improved control methodology can go well beyond missile systems. Autonomous systems such as UAVs and UUVs could also benefit. Satellites that can reconfigure on-line for variations in performance will save commercial enterprises and the government millions of dollars annually. |
| MAYFLOWER COMMUNICATIONS CO., INC.
23 Fourth Avenue Burlington, MA 01803 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 359-9500
Dr. Triveni N. Upadhyay MDA 03-012 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Intercepting Boosting Missile Threats With Maneuver Capability |
| Abstract: | This Phase I study proposes to address the objective of improving interceptor missile performance against boosting missile threats by improving the guidance law. This improvement in performance will be sought by applying a new concept for interceptor guidance specifically tailored to interception of ballistic missiles in their boost phase. This concept incorporates a booster classification function which provides access to a priori information about the fly-out characteristics of the booster types which are likely to be used in a given theater of operations. To this nominal fly-out data is added a general-purpose Markov model to represent maneuvers about the nominal which the booster may be exercising. The performance of the resulting interceptor guidance system is evaluated against non-maneuvering threats as a baseline, and against boosters performing both arbitrary jinking maneuvers and maneuvers which have been optimized against the steering law used by the interceptor guidance system. There is a clear national need for an effective approach to defense against ballistic missile attack. This program will study an innovative concept for guiding hit-to-kill interceptors against missiles in boost phase. The possibility of boosters performing maneuvers to evade interception will be specifically accounted for in the proposed intercept guidance system. We anticipate improved intercept performance as a result of this work. |
| TECHNOLOGY SERVICE CORP.
1900 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Suite 300 Los Angeles, CA 90025 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 576-2321
Mr. Warren J. Boord MDA 03-012 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Intercepting Boosting Missile Threats |
| Abstract: | TSC will assess the improved engagement performance opportunities against maneuvering boosting ballistic missile threats by improving the interceptor guidance laws. Both intentional and unintentional boost phase threat ballistic missile maneuvers will be estimated and characterized. Interceptor guidance law candidates will be selected from existing guidance laws and a new class of guidance laws developed at TSC. Candidate guidance laws offering the highest performance improvement opportunities will be chosen from among the candidates using engagement simulation evaluations and specific performance criteria. The results of this selection will provide the basis for developing optimal maneuver characterizations against the selected guidance laws for further evaluations. One of the most stressing and effective countermeasures employed by offensive missiles for defense penetration is the maneuver. Assessing, such as is proposed in this SBIR, guidance laws to counter this defense penetration technique will require a systems approach. Accordingly, during a Phase II effort TSC will develop a prototype generic BMD Interceptor Technology Test-Bed architecture and simulation environment aimed at countering the maneuvering missile threat. The test-bed will be capable of supporting a wide range of further studies in various Air Force and Navy programs for ballistic and cruise missile defense applications. This approach will provide the best opportunity to attract a wide scope of potential customers. We anticipate three approaches to commercialization. The first is using the Test-Bed study results from this SBIR to select guidance algorithms to be used in the U.S. Missile Defense program. This approach could result in revenue from the Missile Defense prime contractors or directly from the Government program. We expect that at the conclusion of a successful Phase II, a Phase III award will lead to guidance algorithm testing in an operational mission simulation. The second approach will involve marketing the Air Force and Navy to use this test-bed and our expertise to develop interceptor guidance technology to defeat the maneuvering antiship and land attack cruise missile threat. The third approach will involve the marketing of the simulation test-bed itself to potential prime contractors across the services. |
| LIGHTSPIN TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
P.O. Box 30198 Bethesda, MD 20824 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(508) 528-8562
Dr. Eric S. Harmon MDA 03-013 Selected for Award |
| Title: | 1.5 um SPAD for Ladar Detection |
| Abstract: | A solid state photodetector will be developed for efficient detection of 1.5 um photons with single photon sensitivity, notably offering operation above 200 K without needing gating. The photodetector will be an avalanche photodiode operated in Geiger mode and fabricated using novel materials and a novel structure that blocks nearly all of the thermally generated noise in absorption region from reaching the gain region and multiplying. Computational simulations of the materials and structure predict thousand-fold greater sensitivity than heretofore possible. Phase I will design, build and test parts of an initial device to prove that the physics underlying the devices will support ladar applications. Phase II will extend the device to an 8 x 8 array format suitable for eye-safe ladar applications. The ultimate sensitivity detection of 1.5 um photons may be important to future LADAR needing to maintain eye safety at multi-Watt laser power, and to a number of commercial applications needing low cost, low power, high speed, and small size, without needing liquid nitrogen temperatures or time-gated operation. Commercial opportunities exist in passive plume imaging, atmospheric particulate sensing, telecommunications instrumentation, quantum communications systems exchanging single photons securely at high duty cycle, telescope adaptive optics, and tracking of space vehicle position. |
| VOXTEL, INC.
2640 SW Georgian Place Portland, OR 97201 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(503) 243-4633
Mr. George Williams MDA 03-013 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Radiation Hard, Stacked LADAR Circuits |
| Abstract: | To engender future developments in space-based ladar systems, innovative approaches to realizing high-density, radiation-hard readout integration circuits (ROIC) are required. The object of this proposed effort is to support space-based ladar sensing systems by developing a radiation hard, high-performance, ladar ROIC based on wafer-stacked, rad-hard, SOI CMOS integrated circuits that achieve high-density, mixed-signal processing circuitry in a reduced footprint such as required of interceptor LADAR receiver circuits with superior range resolution, range accuracy, dynamic range. The proposed stacked readout structure consists of two layers of silicon-on-insulator (SOI) semiconductor circuits that are bonded together and interconnected. The structure of SOI, which consists of a thin epitaxial layer on top of a buried oxide and handle substrate, makes it ideally suited for incorporation into stacked and interconnected structures. As the SOI stacked layers are less than 1-mm thick, alignment and via interconnection is straightforward. In addition to low capacitance, radiation hardness, and high transistor density, the isolation afforded by SOI materials allows high speed, mixed signal circuits to be implemented in a single circuit. In Phase I, we will develop the stacked circuit architecture, design and simulate the ROIC circuitry, detail the manufacturing processes, develop LADAR seeker performance estimates, and deliver a comprehensive Phase II development plan. The proposed innovation is an enabling technology that will engender the development of high performance LADAR systems for a wide range of military, autonomous navigation, electronic aviation landing systems, three-dimensional modeling, land surveying, atmospheric measurements, space docking systems, automotive safety systems, among others. |
| CRYSTAL RESEARCH, INC.
44531 Kadi Court Fremont, CA 94539 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(510) 445-0833
Dr. Xiao Wang MDA 03-014 Selected for Award |
| Title: | A Miniaturized High Power Solid-State Laser System Using a Novel Laser Crystal |
| Abstract: | Solid-state lasers present the most promising approach to achieve high power laser beams with high efficiency, high reliability, and great beam quality, which would be critical for many defense applications including airborne and space borne ladars, lidasr, and weapon guidance systems. In this Phase I program, Crystal Research, Inc. (CRI) proposes a miniaturized high power all-solid-state laser that uses a novel laser crystal and efficient laser resonator. This laser crystal has shown a very large stimulated emission cross section and also a very strong and broad absorption band around 880nm to facilitate direct pumping, which is not effective in conventional laser crystals Nd:YAG and Nd:YVO4. Unlike high-gain laser crystal Nd:YVO4, the thermal conductivity of our novel crystal is about 3 times as high and comparable to that of Nd:YAG. The proposed laser would present a breakthrough in practical airborne laser applications for its high efficiency, high reliability, low thermal management requirement and compactness. The proposed laser output power can be scaled to 200W without using any water-cooling system. We will deliver a working prototype laser to the funding agency by the end of Phase I for proof of concept demonstration. Lasers are used for a wide variety of applications from basic scientific research to industrial processes. Miniaturized, high efficiency, high power solid state lasers have direct applicability to MDA laser programs. |
| MATERIALS MODIFICATION, INC.
2721-D Merrilee Drive Fairfax, VA 22031 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 560-1371
Dr. R. Radhakrishnan MDA 03-014 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Nanocrystalline Nd-YAG for Laser Generators |
| Abstract: | Neodymium-doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet (Nd-YAG) is being increasingly used for laser applications both within the realm of National Defense Organizations and civilian technologies. Currently only single crystals of this material are used which are difficult to prepare and do not fully meet the extreme service requirements in many critical applications. Compacted polycrystals of Nd-YAG have not been prepared cost-effectively although they have been demonstrated in lab-scale to perform better than single crystal forms. In this SBIR Phase I research, Materials Modification Inc. (MMI) proposes to develop a novel scaleable procedure to prepare nanocrystals of Nd-YAG that will be sintered to full density using MMI's proprietary compaction process. Additionally, MMI will also prove that the nanostructured dense compacts that are prepared are qualitatively superior and can replace single crystal Nd-YAG in laser applications. Within the defense domains, polycrystalline Nd-YAG will find application in diode pumped solid state lasers used in sensors, weapons and missile guidance systems. They will also find applications such as range finders and target designators. Within the civilian domains the low-cost laser systems based on this material will find a plethora of applications notably in personal computers, CD-ROMs with laser diodes, laser printers, modems, 3D optical surface mapping, micro-machining, laser Doppler anemometers and imaging systems |
| HITTITE MICROWAVE CORP.
12 Elizabeth Drive Chelmsford, MA 01824 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 250-3343
Mr. Michael Koechlin MDA 03-015 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Low Phase Noise Signal Generation |
| Abstract: | A new generation of radars with distributed signal processing is being developed. A critical need in these new radars is for a low phase noise exciter that is significantly smaller than the exciters currently in use in existing radars. The exciters need to be small so that they can be distributed into the array. A novel method of low phase noise frequency synthesis is presented which yields very high performance in only a fraction of the volume of the current solution. Hittite Microwave Corporation has been developing low phase noise frequency generation products for several years and has developed many of the necessary building blocks to make this proposed synthesizer possible. Most notably, Hittite has developed a ultra low noise phase-frequency detector with phase noise floor performance that is 10 to 15 dB better than its nearest competition. In addition to being a key building block for many military radar and communication applications, the outcome of this research will be directly applicable to the point-to-point radio VSAT markets where ever higher modulation complexities have led to very demanding phase noise requirements on the LOs used. |
| OEWAVES, INC.
1010 East Union Street, Suite 101 Pasadena, CA 91106 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(626) 449-5000
Dr. Danny Eliyahu MDA 03-015 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Radar-Optimized Opto-Electronic Oscillator for Missile Defense and Multi-Function Radar |
| Abstract: | OEwaves, Inc. proposes to develop a novel radar-optimized opto-electronic oscillator (ROEO) that will generate reference signals in the X-band and at higher frequencies with extremely low phase noise. The ROEO will deliver the same performance as the best existing high-end laboratory oscillators-which are large, expensive, and fragile rack-mounted instruments-but in a robust module the size of a 9V battery that is inexpensive and consumes little power. At the end of Phase II, we expect a prototype ROEO to achieve phase noise of -150 dBc/Hz measured at a 10 kHz offset from the center of an 8-12 GHz oscillator. The ROEO's small size, power consumption, and cost will make it suitable for parallel deployment in every row of transmitter/receiver modules of a phased array radar. This distributed oscillator architecture can suppress the equivalent aggregate system phase noise to below -170 dBc/Hz (at 10 kHz offset). The need for oscillators with improved phase noise performance in smaller, less expensive packages extends beyond phased array radar to civilian aerospace radar, satellite communications, point-to-point ground-based microwave communications nodes, local multi-point distribution services (LMDS), mobile phone base stations, and scientific instrumentation and test equipment. |
| PIEZO TECHNOLOGY, INC.
2525 Shader Road Orlando, FL 32804 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(407) 298-2000
Mr. David Symonds MDA 03-015 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Low Phase Noise Signal Generation |
| Abstract: | At the present state of the art it is not feasible to generate a signal directly at the microwave operating frequency having the required short-term or long-term stability The best is a high-performance crystal oscillator, usually realized as an ovenized crystal oscillator (OCXO). The OCXO forms the master oscillator for the system; from it, all required system frequencies are derived coherently by a combination of frequency multipliers, phase-locked oscillators, mixers, filters, and frequency synthesizers. If these components and subsystems are properly designed, both the short-term and long-term stability limitation is due to the master crystal oscillator. This proposal deals with methods for improving the master crystal oscillator. Two types of phase noise must be distinguished from one another: quiescent phase noise, arising from the various components of the system when stationary, and vibration-induced phase noise In a well-designed oscillator, the acceleration sensitivity is almost entirely due to the resonator(s). This proposal deals with improvements to the master crystal oscillator. Crystal oscillator phase noise can be improved by 1) resonator improvements, 2) use of multiple resonators, or 3) use of multiple oscillators. In addition, 4) oscillator phase noise might be reduced by phase noise negative feedback. The products resulting from this topic will make available low noise reference oscillators for use in radar exciters and other systems that require a frequency source with low phase noise under both static and vibratory environments. |
| IRVINE SENSORS CORP.
3001 Redhill Avenue, Building #3 Costa Mesa, CA 92626 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(714) 444-8730
Mr. David Ludwig MDA 03-016 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Novel Sensor Technology for Booster Typing |
| Abstract: | The objective of the SBIR effort is to develop sensor technology that facilitates precise typing of threat boosters as early as possible in the flight timeline. With the increased emphasis on engaging threat missiles early in the flight timeline, early determination of the threat characteristics such as booster type is critical. ISC proposal provides innovative approaches to sensor technology to provide early detection and booster type based upon decades of experience gained by the ISC team on various Air Force programs. The ISC team has conducted an initial investigation of the early booster typing and launch detection problems with initial positive results provided in Section 3.0. Achieving such a fast start by the ISC team on the proposed effort is due to prior funded feasibility work. ISC, with Mundkowsky Consulting, provide a unique history of contract experience to successfully fulfill the objectives of the MDA project. To satisfy the objective of Phase I, the ISC team will conduct the SOW tasks presented in Section 2.0. Successful completion of these tasks will satisfy the objective of Phase I, "Design and conduct analysis and/or experiments to provide proof of principle for improved performance of the sensor technology in the booster typing role." Technology developed under this program could be applied to other DoD programs such as SBIRs High and Low, and utilized in civil commercial systems for NASA. |
| NOVA RESEARCH, INC.
Nova Research, Inc. DBA Nova Biomimetics, 320 Alis Solvang, CA 93463 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(805) 693-9600
Mr. Mark A. Massie MDA 03-016 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Long-Range Booster Typing Using Foveal Sensors and High-Speed Detection of Temporally Modulated Infrared Energy |
| Abstract: | Nova Biomimetics has recently developed a family of novel two-dimensional imaging chips whose designs are based on properties exhibited by biological retinas. The "Variable Acuity" imager permits the user to program a unique spatial arrangement of "superpixels" that may be updated in real time. In effect, any spatial configuration of pixels in the imager may be realized by programming the device in a way that permits pixels to share their individually-collected photocharge with any or all of their neighbors. Single and multiple "foveal" configurations are possible, and these high spatial resolution regions may be "flown" around the FPA at the will of the controlling processor. Variable Acuity Superpixel Imaging (VASI) technology enables the implementation of future long-range boost-phase missile identification and typing systems that will make more effective use of available target information than is possible using conventional sensor techniques. This proposal outlines an engineering analysis and hardware demonstration/implementation effort that will seek to determine the means by which VASI technology may be most effectively applied to the problem of long-range booster typing through the atmosphere and in space. As demonstrated through this proposal, Nova's credible approach is based on the significant successes of existing, operational devices and systems. Dynamically configurable spatial features of VASI FPA devices will enable more capable, smaller and cheaper agile sensor systems to be developed for missile warning and long-range identification/detection applications for missile defense. |
| OMNICORDER TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
12 Technology Drive, Suite 8 East Setauket, NY 11733 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(631) 689-3781
Mr. Mark A. Fauci MDA 03-016 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Novel Sensor Technology for Booster Typing |
| Abstract: | Design, development and testing of a high resolution (1024x1024) four band IRFPA detector. Infrared focal plane array (IRFPA) technology has been identified as a critically important component of ballistic missile defense (BMD) (M.Z. Tidrow, W.R. Dyer ? Infrared sensors for ballistic missile defense ? Infrared Physics & Technology 42 (2001) 333-336). Specifically, analysis of the boosters thermal characteristics, discrimination from decoys and debris, and enhanced detection and tracking through booster burnout are some of the significant benefits a high resolution multiband detector can provide. Quantum well infrared photodetector (QWIP) technology offers a unique combination of characteristics including excellent sensitivity, uniformity, high operability, high uniformity and relative low cost. We propose to construct a four color 1024x1024 QWIP FPA with a pitch of 20um. Four adjacent pixels will each be tuned to a specific midwave or longwave spectral band. This configuration will provide an effective final resolution of 512 x 512 four color array. The ultimate goal of this entire project (Phase I, II and III) is to develop an integrated, portable IR camera system which will meet MDA?s mission needs and provide the next generation of commercial infrared medical imaging technology We believe that this detector will provide MDA with unique, reliable, cost effect means of detecting and analyzing ballistic threats. With regard to commercial applications, the applicant company is the leading developer of commercial, IRFPA, medical imaging applications. We have identified a number of unique characteristics of QWIP IRFPA's that make them uniquely suitable as medical imaging system for the detection and management of cancer and vascular disease. We have published the results of our clinical IR imaging research and development in leading medical venues and journals and have begun to market our FDA approved device. All of our work to date has been based upon a 256 x 256 single band (8-9um) QWIP FPA. We believe that a higher resolution multi-band detector will represent a major stride forward in the capability of our commercial product's capability and will further open a potential medical imaging market valued in excess of $20 billion. |
| SOLID STATE SCIENTIFIC CORP.
27-2 Wright Road Hollis, NH 03049 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(603) 465-5686
Dr. James Murguia MDA 03-016 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Novel Sensor Technology for Booster Typing |
| Abstract: | We propose to design and model a unique spectral-temporal sensor that will be capable of providing early detection of vehicle launch and early identification of booster type. The approach will utilize the unusually complementary dispersion characteristics of zinc sulfide (ZnS), Sapphire and calcium fluoride (CaF2) to create a sensor capable of unambiguously acquiring the spectral-temporal signature of boost-phase vehicles. The sensor will also be able to locate and track the vehicle throughout the boost phase. This sensor will operate in both the visible and MWIR bands, where the boost-phase signature is most pronounced. It will have no moving parts and a small physical form factor. The design and development of this sensor represents a unique opportunity in spectral-temporal sensing. This effort will benefit the development of compact sensors for exploiting time-evolving spectral signatures of point-like events. This spectral imager will be able to sample the data at rates in excess of 200 spectral signatures per second for un-cued events within a wide field of view. The sensor can be configured so that the spectral resolution is tailored to achieve optimal sensitivity of the sensor around phenomenologically important spectral regions. The proposed sensor will be capable of extracting the spectral-temporal signatures for a wide range of dynamic events due to the simple opto-mechanical design and the phenomenologically rich spectral band. This technology will lead to advancements in tactical and strategic missile threat warning, directed energy detection and warning, bomb damage assessment, and automatic location and identification of artillery and small-arms fire. The ability of the new sensor concept to rapidly acquire spectral signatures should provide an unprecedented opportunity to investigate algorithms for dynamic event classification based on temporal spectral signatures. In addition, the small physical size of the sensor will demonstrate the possibility of placing an advanced spectral-temporal sensing capability in unconventional vehicles and locations, and provide tactical missile launch warning for both military and commercial aircraft. It may also find utility in bomb damage assessment and battlefield awareness of dynamic events. |
| GALILEO SYSTEMS
10905 West Ohio Dr Lakewood, CO 80226 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(720) 333-2248
Mr. K. Mark Caviezel MDA 03-017 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Low Cost, High Altitude, Unmanned Sensor Platform |
| Abstract: | In response to the MDA requirement for low cost high altitude platform, Galileo Systems (GS) proposes to develop low cost zero pressure floating balloon systems capable of imaging missile launches and flights. Additionally, GS will develop systems for theatre deployable, tactically responsive balloon launching systems for very rapid launch and near-all-weather balloon launch capability. Significant experience with high performance balloon technology is already possesed by GS personnel. Balloon operations are hindered by surface weather. Proposed development aims to mitigate those hinderences. The high altitude platform has significant commerical potential for applications currently being served by conventional aerial photography and space based imaging. The extreme altitude possible with the balloon-based high altitude platform makes it more similar to space-based than airplane-based observations. The high altitude platform could be utilized by users of commercial space based imaging as a competitive source, and/or as a 'gap filler' in the event that a user has a requirement to image a specific geographic area on a time and frequency not served by the limited about of LEO imaging satellites. Additionally, the loitering high altitude platform make a perfect platform for low power VHF/UHF and higher frequency radio communications with an effective operational radius of over 400 miles. Additionally, in the event that an adversary develops technology to blind or disrupt LEO observation satellites, a region could be flooded with dozens long loiter time, observation balloons. |
| WORLDWIDE AEROS CORP.
8411 Canoga Avenue Canoga Park, CA 91304 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(818) 993-5533
Mr. Igor Pasternak MDA 03-017 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Low Cost, High Altitude, Unmanned Sensor Platform |
| Abstract: | Worldwide Aeros Corp. will utilize the SBIR Phase I funding to complete a preliminary design for a reusable, low cost high altitude (up to 80,000 feet) unmanned airship sensor platform with a long operational life cycle based on Aeros' established airship technologies. The phase I preliminary design will demonstrate that COTS airship components and technology can be utilized to develop a cost effective platform contemplated for Phase II development with a manufacturing cost not exceeding $1,900,000. The proposal will identify suitable sensor payloads that can be integrated to the platform to fulfill the MDA's primary mission objective of observing and recording boost phase ballistic missile launches. Such missions will further the understanding of boost phase launches, enabling the design of detection and intercept methods that will directly contribute to the defense of the United States, its troops and allies. Phase I will be accomplished in house, utilizing design tools and tests that have been proven through Aeros' previous projects including the FAA certification of its Aeros 40B airship, and prototype stratospheric airship production. The Phase II prototype platform will demonstrate the performance and mission operational expectancy of the airship. Aeros has the facilities, equipment and human resources to accomplish the development with the highest degree of confidence for success at meeting MDA's mandate for this SBIR program. Beyond the immediate benefits of boost phase missile observance, it is anticipated that the unmanned sensor platform will have implication in other areas of military and para-military services. Any application that calls for high altitude, over the horizon surveillance will be an applicable candidate for the unmanned sensor platform. The platform payload will be versatile enough to allow it to carry communication, reconnaissance mission equipment, or air monitoring packages that could give an early warning against chemical, nuclear and biological releases by an enemy; as well as any other payloads in the weight range. The future civilian and non military government markets can be exploited as the platform is proven and the FAA sets the rules that will govern future UAVs. |
| CASE ENGINEERING, INC.
5925 Imperial Pkwy, Suite 226 Mulberry, FL 33860 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(863) 701-2822
Mr. John Shanahan MDA 03-018 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Air-transportable, Caustic Production System |
| Abstract: | This proposal presents a general system concept for a rapidly deployable, air-transportable system capable of producing a mixed alkali hydroxide solution at any suitable location in the world. Using available dry lithium, potassium and sodium hydroxides and potable water, the system will be capable of mass flow rates at or above 2,204.6 lb/hr (1000 kg/hr). Using industrial mixing technologies, the best available instrumentation and controls technology and novel design concepts, the system will possess both batch and continuous mixing alternatives. After establishing feasibility of the mixing modules and considering the technical requirements set forth by the project monitor, the mixing method will be finalized during an interim review. The system will handle thermal loads and produce de-ionized water using potable water typically available at bases throughout the world. Control systems will allow for automated recipe selections and allow for any order of component addition. The phase I design will allow for detailed engineering, fabrication and prototype testing in phase II proposals. Applications include providing mixed caustic for MHP production supporting the chemical oxygen-iodine laser. It also may have application in industrial pilot testing facilities for specialty chemical production and neutralization / decontamination processes. Sub-system that can augment ground based units designed to make mixed base peroxide for the air-borne chemical oxygen-iodine laser. Transportable unit that can be used to pilot test various chemical mixtures enhancing battery performance or specialty chemical synthesis. Transportable unit that can be used for on-site decontamination / demilitarization applications Transportable unit that can be used for wastewater neutralization. |
| FOSTER-MILLER, INC.
350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 684-4181
Dr. Harris Gold MDA 03-018 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Development of an Air Transportable, Mixed Caustic Production System |
| Abstract: | The Missile Defense Agency of the Department of Defense needs to develop a system for the production of mixed-base (MOH) solutions from solid caustics. The MOH will be used to produce mixed-base hydrogen peroxide (MHP), a key reagent in chemical oxygen iodine laser (COIL) systems. Solutions of the three MOH components(LiOH, NaOH, and KOH), are to be prepared in separate solution tanks and then stored either separately or mixed as MOH. The production system must be air-transportable, configured for rapid setup on site, and produce MOH at 1000 kg/hr. In addition, the heat evolved on dissolving the solids must be dissipated. Challenges include provision of easily addressable automatic controls to produce solutions of any desired concentration, deliver them to the MOH tank in any desired sequence, and to achieve an accuracy of 0.5% of the specified formulation. Other challenges are to prevent the dry feedstock from absorbing moisture during storage and transfer, prevent caking while dissolving, and minimize acid gas absorption. Finally, the caustics are hazardous, so particular attention must be paid to dust control, the selection of materials of construction, explosion-proof electromechanicals, redundant key equipment, and emergency facilities. (P-030154) The ability to generate concentrated caustic solutions at remote sites will eliminate the need to transport hazardous liquid caustic. Applications exist in the process industry (oil-fields, superfund sites, waste disposal sites) and military (chemical and biological decontamination). |
| TDA RESEARCH, INC.
12345 W. 52nd Ave. Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 940-2331
Dr. Bryan M. Smith MDA 03-018 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Portable, Modular System for Mixed Caustic Production |
| Abstract: | The chemical oxygen-iodine laser (COIL) is a promising new weapon system with potential to rapidly vaporize missile casings in flight. Advanced testing of the system requires relatively large quantities of the oxygen source, a mixed-base hydrogen peroxide (MHP). Unfortunately, the MHP is unstable at ambient temperatures and must therefore be prepared on site at the COIL test facilities and, ultimately, at points of COIL deployment. To minimize the logistics burden, the various caustic solutions that are blended with the peroxide must also be prepared on site from locally purified water and solid hydroxides. Since the target mixtures are near phase boundaries, the concentrations of the various components must be accurately controlled to avoid precipitation. TDA Research, Inc. (TDA) therefore proposes to design a fully automated, versatile, robust, modular, and portable facility for the production of accurate and precise concentrations of both individual and mixed caustics that are needed for the onsite production of MHP. The preliminary design incorporates redundant mixing capacity, allows for the accurate preparation of an infinite range of mixed caustic compositions, and allows continued operation even in the event of failure of or damage to any main component. At the end of the Phase I project, we propose to have a design ready for prototype construction in Phase II. COIL systems may also be used industrially for rapid cutting of large sheets of construction materials in, for example, shipbuilding and large aircraft manufacture. These applications will also require on-site production of MHP, and the same modular, portable caustic production facilities developed under this project would be ideal. |
| VITOK ENGINEERS, INC.
10720 PLANTSIDE DRIVE LOUISVILLE, KY 40299 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(502) 426-7770
Mr. Phil N. Hambrick MDA 03-018 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Air-transportable, Caustic Production System |
| Abstract: | Mixed Base Hydrogen Peroxide (MHP) has been utilized and well documented in its application to Chemical Oxygen-Iodine Laser (COIL) and Airborne Laser (ABL) systems. There is, however, a need to vary recipes of a variety of solid caustics with H2O and mix these in a system that is portable. Design of a small scale, air transportable unit, capable of mixing/blending a variety of solid caustic recipes will be completed in Phase I. This unit will be unique in its design in that the components, including instrumentation and controls, are sized/located in a novel manner to assure air transportability with simple and quick assembly/disassembly. Vitok has significant experience (35 years) in development of chemical processes, and incorporating these process designs with equipment selection to assure conformance to predetermined size constraints. Vitok has outlined a comprehensive Phase I plan for development of process and design of process system equipment to achieve good blending and mixing as well as air transportability. This system has the capability to easily be increased in size from 3000 kg per three (3) hours (Phase I parameters) to well over twenty (20) times this volume, which would apply to commercial production and applications. The development of a simple and quick setup, deployable crystalline solid caustic processing system will establish a system capable of being utilized at almost any location. The initial small-scale air transportable unit developed primarily for the military will be extremely useful and beneficial to commercial companies who desire to obtain a pilot (test) facility. This facility can be set up on companies' premises to test the concept of solid caustic production and allow for long-term evaluation of the system and its products(s) to determine applicability for each commercial application. Based on the initial design and success in prototype testing, commercial scale systems can be designed and developed. This system may be skid mounted (modularized) or, more likely, scaled up to much larger sizes, which would require larger scale, and permanently mounted components. While the government applications related to COIL and ABL and propulsion are well known, it is likely that the final products could achieve a wide variety of commercial uses in areas such as textile, polymers, foods, dairies, minerals, petrochemicals, waste water applications, and the like. |
| SURMET CORP.
33 B Street Burlington, MA 01803 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 272-3969
Dr. Lee Goldman MDA 03-019 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Athermal Smart Windows for Laser Optics |
| Abstract: | Bulkhead windows used in the airborne laser (ABL) system, besides being mechanically strong with very low absorption and scatter characteristics at the laser wavelengths (0.8-3.2 mm), should exhibit minimum thermo-optical distortion caused by temperature variation within the material. Fused silica is considered as one of the candidate materials for ABL bulkhead windows because of its favorable properties. However, the material suffers from positive thermo-optic coefficient, dn/dT, which contributes to optical path distortion as a result of laser heating. Combining the window with an adaptive optical element to compensate for the distortions seems to be a viable approach to overcome this problem. In the proposed research program, Surmet Corporation seeks to develop an innovative "smart window" to reduce thermo-optical distortion caused by the laser induced heating of the window. Fused silica, which is a well known, and extensively characterized material available in the required sizes, will be used rather than exploring an alternative window material. The thermo-optical distortion in the fused silica window will be compensated using a combination of "smart window" and the appropriate adaptive optics element so that the combination of the two remains optically flat during the operation of ABL system. In Phase I, a conceptual model for the `smart window' with adaptive optic combination will be demonstrated. A bench top demonstration of a subscale "smart window" will also be presented at the conclusion of phase I. The development of a fused silica based "smart window" in combination with appropriate adaptive optics will be of significant technological value in ABL systems being developed by the US Air Force (USAF) and the Missile Defense Agency (MDA). The proposed "smart window" is a radically different approach with potential to change an intractable materials problem into a solvable engineering problem. Once developed, the smart window/adaptive optic approach will find use in other areas such as high-speed missile windows, where optical distortion may be a problem. The proposed research will guide the way for future Phase II R&D work to further refine the "smart window" concept and to the commercialization of this technology. |
| UES, INC.
4401 Dayton-Xenia Road Dayton, OH 45432 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(937) 255-9809
Dr. Triplicane A. Parthasarathy MDA 03-019 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Low Cost Polycrystalline YAG for Low-Distortion, Abrasion-Resistant, High-Strength IR Windows |
| Abstract: | We propose to demonstrate that polycrystalline YAG is an ideal material of choice for High Energy Laser Windows mounted in pressure bulkheads. We will demonstrate that dense polycrystalline YAG can be fabricated at low cost and that this material is fully transparent with very low absorption and scatter characteristics at the laser wavelengths. Further we will demonstrate that dense polycrystalline YAG, which has lensing figure-of-demerit similar to low OPD glasses and fused silica, can be made to have far superior strength and stability with excellent resistance to abrasion, all of which are important for laser window applications. We expect that the low-cost dense polycrystalline YAG we develop will be used in many, if not all, applications that require laser and IR windows with minimal distortion, high abrasion resistance, high mechanical strength and extraordinary environmental stability. If successful, the technology could be transitioned immediately to one or more advanced DE weapon insertions of direct interest to the Air Force. Commercial benefits include improved competitive opportunities for providers of aerospace windows. These window materials would find commercial use in visual and IR transparencies for aircraft and launch vehicles, chemical processing windows, and high energy lighting element holders. This material is also likely to find application in several commercial areas such as in precision laser machining/welding. |
| AOPTIX TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
580 Division St. Campbell, CA 95008 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(408) 583-1143
Mr. J. Elon Graves MDA 03-020 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Development of a Scintillation-Insensitive Curvature Wavefront Sensor |
| Abstract: | Wave-front sensors are key elements of adaptive optics systems that compensate for aberrations encountered by a laser beam as it propagates through the atmosphere. Removing such aberrations are critical for applications such as high energy laser weapons, high bandwidth laser communication systems and precise target designators. AOptix has previously developed a wavefront sensor that directly measures wave-front curvature. Measuring wave-front curvature instead of the traditional practice of measuring wave-front slope offers significant advantages including immunity to scintillation and phase branch points (thus avoiding the need for wavefront reconstructors), absence of calibration and offset problems, higher efficiency and the use of one pixel per subaperture. When combined with a curvature deformable mirror, further benefits can be realized in the overall system performance. The proposed work will develop a novel curvature sensing wave-front sensor that is immune to branch-point errors, requires no reference calibration and will enable adaptive optic systems to operate with closed-loop bandwidth exceeding 1 kHz. The development of high speed wavefront sensors for adaptive optics has numerous potential commercial and military applications. Examples of such applications are: 1) High energy laser beam control for precise cutting, machining, surface heat treatment, marking and surface ablation, both in manufacturing and medical applications. 2) Laser communications through turbulent media. 3) Low energy laser beam control for scanning devices such as large format laser printers and 3D digitizers. 4) Focus and aberration control for confocal scanning microscopes. Applications 1) and 2) benefit from high speed, due to the intrinsic rapidity of processes to be corrected. Applications 3) and 4) benefit from high speed, since it allows for an increase in the scan rate of the devices. Utilization of AO for cutting and machining lasers, would allow more precise control of the tool spot size and shape. In AO-enhanced free space laser communications, quality of correction is currently limited by system speed. Higher correction speed will enable multi-gigabit military laser communications systems, such ground to air, air to air, and ground or air to space, and will enable robust commercial communications systems to work through a wide range of environmental conditions. For scanning applications, AO would allow for more precise beam control in the presence of thermal aberrations, turbulence aberrations, scanner induced aberrations or specimen aberrations. This could allow for a combination of cheaper optics, larger scan ranges, and enhanced resolution in a wide variety of applications. |
| G A TYLER ASSOC., INC.
1341 South Sunkist Street Anaheim, CA 92806 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(714) 772-7668
Mr. Robert H. Dueck MDA 03-020 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Wavefront Sensing for High Scintillation Environments |
| Abstract: | High scintillation environments pose additional sensor burdens on conventional wavefront sensors, mainly; impaired branch cut phase estimation particularly when used in closed loop AO systems. A Self Referencing Interferometer, which measures phase directly, is seen as potentially providing superior performance in these high scintillation discontinuous phase environments. The sensors use a single mode fiber to filter the reference beam, provide four-bin phase retrieval phase shifting, and provides a medium for amplification of the weak reference signal. A very high gain fiber amplifier is initially required before the AO loop is closed to increase the reference signal and improve fringe visibility to an adequate level allowing the loop to finally close. This original concept failed to work as well as hoped because the amplification introduced significant amplified spontaneous emission, high levels of shot noise, and reduced fringe visibility. This proposal presents alternatives to the high gain amplification by integrating a Hartmann sensor in a way that enhances the SRI measurement. This proposed hybrid sensor provides information that can be processed in either way. This Phase I effort proposes to explore the merits of direct phase measurements and study alternatives to further enhance the SRI sensor concept. It is anticipated that the resulting wavefront sensor would have greatly improved closed loop performance in the presence of high scintillation atmospheric environments over conventional systems currently used or recently proposed. |
| COMPOSITE TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT, INC.
2600 Campus Drive, Suite D Lafayette, CO 80026 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 664-0394
Dr. Naseem A. Munshi MDA 03-021 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Lightweight Composite Chemical Storage Tank |
| Abstract: | Composite Technology Development, Inc. (CTD) proposes to develop and demonstrate a novel hybrid composite material for application to lightweight chemical storage tanks for MDA applications. In Phase I, CTD will address the key feasibility issues for the novel hybrid material, including long-term compatibility with chemicals of interest, mechanical robustness sufficient to withstand pressurization, impact, and mission loads, and fabrication process development. If successful, the proposed effort will result in a new type of composite material that is suitable for fabricating lightweight, linerless, microcrack-resistant composite tanks for chemical storage and other applications. This new material technology will enable many commercial applications of lightweight, low cost composite tanks. |
| SORDAL, INC.
12813 Riley Street Holland, MI 49424 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(616) 994-6000
Mr. Dale Danver MDA 03-021 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Lightweight Innovative Composite Tank Concepts |
| Abstract: | Sordal proposes to design and develop a novel composite material composed of polyimide foam filled into a honeycomb core structure. The resultant composite panel would be thermally stable from -300C to over +500C. It is be possible to heat set the panels to a specific radius and thereafter join them in a spherical or cylindical shape or combination thereof for use in tank construction. Fuel tanks for aerospace and space craft, cryogenic gas storage tanks |
| TRITON SYSTEMS, INC.
200 TURNPIKE ROAD Chelmsford, MA 01824 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 856-4159
Dr. Bryan Koene MDA 03-021 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Microcrack Resistant Materials for Composite Tanks |
| Abstract: | In response to Missile Defense Agency need, Triton will develop a new lightweight carbon fiber composite for use for the Airborne Laser (ABL) Program. The replacement of the currently used aluminum tanks with composites for the Chemical Oxygen Iodine Laser (COIL) in particular will result in up to 40% weight saving resulting in both fuel savings for the ABL (greater firing capacity) and jet fuel savings (extended flight range). Despite the cost and weight advantages associated with the use of composite structures for this application, several drawbacks have existed such as laminate microcracking from thermal cycling and infiltration of liquids and gases into the composite structure. Triton's innovative materials and design solutions will alleviate these problems by preventing microcracking. Our solution to the problem is a two prong approach using our nanomaterials: i) Use of thermally stable, low CTE nanomaterial-based resins to lessen the fiber-resin mismatch attributed to microcracking due to thermal cycling; ii) Use of high chemical barrier polymer films inside the composite tank that prevent infiltration of gases or liquids, which cause chemical or physical degradation of the composite structure. We have identified several commercial applications for matrix materials with high thermal stability and resistance to microcracking: Aerospace structures: chemical storage tanks, cryogen storage tanks, booster/orbiter aeroshell, standoff cones; Advanced vehicle concepts - under the hood applications for racing and passenger vehicles. |
| FOSTER-MILLER, INC.
350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 684-4368
Dr. Peter Warren MDA 03-022 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Isogrid Supported Nanolaminate Reflector (SNR) |
| Abstract: | The MDA requires lightweight, stiff and stable mirrors for use in high quality, air-based and space-based optical observation and energy projection systems. The current state-of-the-art uses various types of honeycomb core material with glass and composite face sheets. The honeycomb material, while excellent in compression, does not transfer the bending shear loads efficiently enough for truly lightweight optical systems. Glass and composite face sheets are too thick and heavy to meet the mission needs. The results are structurally inefficient mirror systems that weigh too much and increase the mass of the surrounding systems as well. The proposed program will develop a novel mirror system that uses highly efficient truss structures to provide bending stiffness for a Nanolaminate mirror face sheet. The Isogrid Supported Nanolaminate Reflector (ISNR) uses purely axially oriented, high-modulus fibers to provide an efficient, dimensionally stable support structure. The nanolaminate face sheet further reduces the system mass by reducing the thickness of the reflective surface. Foster-Miller will develop the ISNR system through a careful plan of technology transfer, design, modeling, and prototype manufacture and testing. Complete development of this technology will provide a mirror system that will enable better, lighter, and less expensive optical instruments. (P-030096) In addition to the myriad of Missile Defense Agency and Air Force missions such as ABL, SBL and observation platforms that would take advantage of extremely stiff and lightweight mirrors, many NASA and private observatories would be ready customers of the ISNR mirror technology. Many industries, such as microchip and printed circuit board manufacturing, use large mirrors in their photolithography machines. While these mirrors are not subjected to the same mass restrictions as aerospace instruments, they still need to be extremely stiff so as not to vibrate in the factory environment. Reduction in manufacturing cost would enable the Foster-Miller team access to this highly lucrative market. |
| SCHAFER CORP.
321 Billerica Road Chelmsford, MA 01824 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(505) 242-9992
Dr. William Goodman MDA 03-022 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Lightweight Athermal Silicon Innovative Telescope for Airborne Laser Relay Mirrors |
| Abstract: | The Air Force is interested in lightweight, high-stiffness optical telescopes, capable of operating with geometric stability under varying thermal conditions (-55 to 50oC). NASA MSFC recently vacuum-cryogenic qualified Schafer's SLMS Athermal Technology to a temperature of 27 K and demonstrated figure stability of /60 rms HeNe for an un-mounted f/3 mirror, and /13.6 rms HeNe for the mirror in a prototype mount. Schafer offers to advance the development of athermal high-energy laser telescopes for bifocal relays (ARMS), using a 3 Phase approach that provides high cost leverage to the Government. In Phase I we will design a 50 cm aperture Lightweight Athermal Silicon Innovative Telescope (LASIT) using ARMS specifications. The LASIT primary mirror will be fabricated using Silicon Lightweight Mirrors (SLMS) Athermal Technology produced under Phase II of Air Force SBIR Contract No. F29601-02-C001476 (COTR Dr. Robbie Robertson, AFRL/VSSV). In Phase II, the metering structure and mirror mounts will be fabricated using Vanguard lightweight, carbon fiber reinforced cyanate ester technology (M55J/954-3 is used as the ABL primary mirror reaction structure). The telescope would be integrated during Phase II, and would include interfaces with Brashear gimbals. The LASIT would be qualified in the Boeing SVS ARMS testbed during Phase III. Telescopes and other optical instruments operating in the high-altitude aerospace environment (50-65,000 feet), high-earth orbit (HEO) and geosynchronous orbit experience varying thermal conditions, which can adversely impact the performance of the instrument. Silicon Lightweight Mirrors (SLMS) Athermal Technology provides an athermal, lightweight, low cost solution for instruments used in these environments. Applications include telescopes and scan mirror assemblies for space imaging, weather monitoring, and surveillance satellites, and transmitter, receiver, and beam director telescopes for high-energy laser systems. |
| XINETICS, INC.
115 Jackson Rd. Devens, MA 01432 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 772-0352
Mr. Roland Plante MDA 03-022 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Low-Areal Density Meniscus Telescope Primary |
| Abstract: | The space surveillance community needs lightweight, large aperture optical systems that can be quickly adapted to new or changing requirements - agile response. Large aperture systems require large, very precise, very stable, ground testable optical surfaces. Current State of the Art primary mirror technology is heavy and has limited mirror shape control. Passive, monolithic mirrors such as the Hubble Space Telescope have an areal density of 250-Kg/m2. In order to substantially improve the performance of primary mirrors, an active, thin meniscus mirror can be substituted. The meniscus mirror features a thin facesheet mounted onto an array of actuators directly attached to a stiff reaction structure. This configuration can reduce the areal density to 10-Kg/m2. Mirror design and materials limit areal density and aperture size. Xinetics proposes designing a 30-cm primary mirror that can be used in small, lightweight imaging satellites. This technology provides a very lightweight system with active control of the mirror. The active control can reduce the polishing requirements by correcting for errors. Also, the reaction-bonded silicon carbide fabricated by Xinetics is fabricated with mold technology lending itself easily to mass production techniques. Each year there is a growing need for advanced imaging systems for both defense and spaced-base imaging systems. Programs such as ABL and SBL on the government side will require light, fast, inexpensive components to meet the needs of a large fleet of ABL airplanes or SBL satellites. For either flight system, weight and performance are important parameters in the overall system design. Small, complete, silicon carbide telescopes will serve to provide that type of capability. These techniques could be applied to fabricated somewhat larger monolithic primaries that would be needed for programs such as this. In addition, small tactical imaging systems would benefit greatly. Satellite could be built for a fraction of what an imaging system costs now and be available quickly if tensions around the world increased. This type of technology would also serve space applications. NASA continues to develop orbital imaging systems for astronomical and earth resources applications. Moderate size imaging systems could be used for specific astronomical applications and also for earth resources applications. Again, a system that could readily correct inherent aberrations would offer a greater range of applications and provide significantly improved results over current systems. The systems would be less expensive to fabricate, maintain, and produce superior results. |
| TRS CERAMICS, INC.
2820 East College Avenue State College, PA 16801 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(814) 238-7485
Dr. Paul Rehrig MDA 03-023 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Single Crystal Actuators for Deformable Membrane Mirrors |
| Abstract: | Single crystal piezoelectric actuators are proposed as a means of increasing actuator authority while maintaining strain precision for adaptive optics mirrors used in directed energy applications. These materials exhibit 5 to 10 times the strain of conventional ceramic piezoelectrics with equivalent deliverable force. Therefore, they offer a much broader design space for adaptive optics systems than is currently available with ceramic actuators, electric motors or magnetic devices. For the proposed program TRS Technologies will team with SRS Technologies to develop a variety of single crystal actuators for adaptive optics deformable mirrors. TRS will measure the performance of both stack and low-profile plate-type actuators, and SRS will model the impact of incorporating such actuators into state-of-the-art deformable mirror designs such those incorporating piston-type actuator arrays or edge control. Crystal actuators will offer either greatly improved authority (5X greater displacement at equivalent or greater force than conventional systems) or much smaller size (5X weight reduction) with performance equivalent to electrostrictive PMN ceramic actuator arrays. In addition, single crystals can yield these performance improvements without a loss in precision relative to ceramic PMN, and they are capable of operating over a much broader temperature range. Single crystal piezoelectrics will greatly advance the use of deformable mirrors in a broad variety of military and other government applications including directed energy systems, airborne and space based communications systems, and space based telescopes. In addition membrane mirrors also have applications in such broad range of commercial markets such as laser scanners, de-focus correction, wavefront corrector, precise pellicles, imaging auto-focus optics, technical vision, and ophthalmology. |
| XINETICS, INC.
115 Jackson Rd. Devens, MA 01432 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 772-0568
Dr. Maureen L. Mulvihill MDA 03-023 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Agile Textured Precision High Force Actuators for Mirror Shape Control |
| Abstract: | The directed energy community needs lightweight, low power deformable mirrors that can be quickly adapted to new or changing requirements - agile response. The actuator is the key element to making this happen. Current actuator technology provides these qualities with a highly labor intensive process that requires specialized manufacture. We propose to create a new paradigm in mirror shape control actuators by combing the performance properties of single crystal ferroelectrics with automated textured materials processing. If developed, textured single crystal cofired actuators will remove weight, power, bandwidth, cost and production limitations inherent with current discrete, ceramic stack and discrete, single crystal bonded stack technology. It is our intent during this program to develop an actuator manufacturing process that combines the high strain performance of single crystal materials with the automated production capabilities of cofired multilayer fabrication. Using this production methodology, production quantities of ABL actuators could be made in a few weeks instead of the 6-month long process required now. It is the intent during this program to reduce the mass (deformable mirror and electronics) by an order of magnitude while increasing the gain bandwidth response 10X. This will be accomplished through innovative materials and process engineering at the nanoscale level. The maturity of a Nano-Textured Single Crystals (NANO-TSC) will lead to a new line of cofired devices for high authority applications. In addition, creating a lower cost single crystal option. The NANO-TSC material exhibits a high fraction of single crystal properties, with high compositional uniformity, enhanced mechanical toughness. The proposed Nano-Textured single crystal actuator development for shape control of adaptive optic mirrors in directed energy applications will provide a higher stroke (greater than three times currently achievable) at high spatial frequencies to a host of optical communities who have a direct and current need for such a device. The development of high strain low volume and low mass cofired DM actuators for laser communications systems to realize longer path lengths, beam delivery systems to deliver the required power densities at longer path lengths and the reconnaissance systems to achieve diffraction limited performance from space platforms will be enabled with the NANO-TSC technology. Several possible examples of advanced devices that could be commercialized with the maturity of this technology are as follows: Tip tilt mirrors, High density deformable mirror, Positioning stages, Unique shaped actuators, High strain/high bandwidth DMs, Cryogenic actuators, Ultrasonic imaging devices, Accelerometers and Sonar Devices. |
| QORTEK, INC.
2400 Reach Road, Suite 204 Williamsport, PA 17701 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(570) 322-2700
Dr. Gareth J. Knowles MDA 03-024 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Matrix Switch Electronics Package for Deformable Mirrors |
| Abstract: | The proposal is to design, fabricate and demonstrate a simplified prototype of a new concept that eliminates the complex wiring and most of the electronics of existing atmospheric correction deformable optic drive system. The new technology will not only be capable of replacing existing electronics packages, but will also be amenable to integration with future use of SCMA, MEMS and hybrid optical correction devices. The matrix switch architecture reduces the conventional power electronics and wiring to a single synthetic impedance power source. The result is a very compact and easily installed lightweight design. The unique design will enable increased gain-bandwidth performance and reliability while substantially reducing the need for heat removal. Of importance is the (very) high frequency capability this new technology will impart to adaptive optic devices. The ability simplify the assembly and enable easy installation combined with the dramatically reduction in cost of active deformable optical system (adaptive optics) will enable new widespread commercial viability to many optical and non-optical systems and products. The proposed technology also has immediate application to both portable electronics and electronic power distribution systems. Most immediate is that it finally offers a low cost easily assembled method for transferring adaptive optics technology capability to laboratory, university and institutional ground optical systems as well as future military space and airborne systems. QorTek is teaming with Northrop-Grumman to explore the commercial viability of the proposed technology to both these, commercial aerospace and military aerospace applications. |
| XINETICS, INC.
115 Jackson Rd. Devens, MA 01432 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 772-0352
Mr. Gene Kreda MDA 03-024 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Deformable Mirror (DM) Electronics Miniaturization |
| Abstract: | The next generation of deformable mirror (DM) systems designed for airborne applications must be smaller, lighter and consume less power to be useful. Efforts to increase the flexibility of these systems are focused on redesigning the driver and control electronics. The technology that will permit the design of compact systems will include significant simplification or elimination of cabling and interconnect hardware, the reduction of driver volume by an order of magnitude, and a decrease in quiescent power to effectively minimize power consumption and thermally induced optical errors. Xinetics proposes to create a new paradigm for airborne adaptive optics systems through an innovative driver system designed to address immediate and future needs. This system will utilize an advanced switching technology applied in conjunction to an innovative trickle charging system. Specifically, the implementation of this approach will reduce the power consumption of a 256 actuator DM system from 1 kW to 100 W, the quiescent power from 751 W to 75 W, and the weight from 340 lbs. to 30 lbs. The resulting system will enable the driver system to be located behind the current ABL deformable mirror facesheet, while avoiding thermally induced optical errors due to the extremely low quiescent power. Low noise, high-density multiplexed electroncis are necessary to drive Photonex based Deformable Mirrors having several thousand channels of actuation with Angstrom level precision. Low noise is needed to maintain dimensional stability during long duration exposures. High-density is required for low power, low volume packaging anticipated for both space flight systems and commerical instruments. Mulitplexing is needed to substantially reduce the per channel cost of the dirver system. If selected, the proposed effort will produce a 512 and 1,024 channel driver board that is capable of driving mirror configurations having between 4,096 and 16,384 channels of actuation. It is the intent of this effort to produce a low noise hybrid platform and populate a flight qualifiable board capable in production of addressing a deformable mirror format having actuator spacings of 1 (NASA), 2.5 (Military) and 5 mm (Industry). Xinetics has reviewed the commerical industry in terms of optical precision and available finacial base. It is our belief that commericial opportunities exist in those fields that both need and can affort the high-value of a compact adaptive optics system. These targeted areas include: 1. Medical Imaging Instruments 2. Semiconductor Processing Equipment, and 3. Telecommunications Optical Processing. We anticipate business opportunities in excess of $2.5 million in each of these respective areas. It enables Xinetics to realize 20 to 30% growth per annum while maintaining its commitment to critical components to the Government. |
| METAL MATRIX CAST COMPOSITES, INC.
101 Clematis Avenue, Unit #1 Waltham, MA 02453 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 893-4449
Dr. James A. Cornie MDA 03-025 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Light Weight Thermally Balanced Graphite Reinforced Mg Structural Substrates for Replicated Mirror Membranes |
| Abstract: | Magnesium reinforced with a quasi-isotropic high stiffness graphite preform has the highest combination of specific stiffness (E/r) and thermal stability (thermal conductivity/CTE) of any material other than expensive CVD/SiC. This unique combination of properties coupled with ease of fabrication and machining makes it the most attractive candidate for light weight space and airborne mirrors. Mg/Gr can be CTE tailored to a replicated membrane material, machined to figure and bonded to a low cost membrane. The result will be a high performance, low mass mirror material with short delivery lead time. Polymeric and metallic nanolaminate replicated membranes will be attached to a tailored Mg/Gr structural substrate and examined for print-through and fidelity to the figure and finish of the master optical mandrel. With stiff Mg/Gr mirror substrate planes and planar-isotropic Mg/Gr core, the areal density is projected to be less than 6 kg/m2. The development of high stiffness graphite fiber reinforced Mg and Al would result in the lowest mass and lowest cost mirrors available without sacrificing performance. Lead time for manufacturing would be a few weeks rather than months to years once the master optical mandrel has been installed. A 5-10 kg/m2 areal density rigid space mirror material will become readily available to the space and missile defense community with short lead times. Cost of fabricating mirrors will be a fraction of that of glass, beryllium or other competitive materials. Innovative control of fiber architecture will result in low thermal expansion, high thermal conductivity and high stiffness, and hence, in a highly stable mirror with high vibration dampening capacity. Economic benefits will be measured in launch weight reductions and increased system performance as well as system procurement savings. Immediate applications will be for EKV, CEKV, LEAP, directed energy applications, ABL as well as a number of AF, NRO and NASA applications. Alternative applications in electronic thermal management markets will also benefit from the concurrent development of the preforming technology developed for mirror substrates. |
| QED TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
1040 University Ave. Rochester, NY 14607 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(585) 256-6540
Dr. William Kordonski MDA 03-025 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced Processing of the Optical Surface on Large Lightweight Mirrors |
| Abstract: | Abstract In manufacturing of light-weight optics the most time consuming step is final polishing. This is a slow, iterative, expensive process and is often the pacing element in the program. Much of the problem is that known polishing techniques are slow or non-deterministic. The added complication is that unique mechanical properties of light-weight mirror design require significant attention to the manner in which a polishing load is applied. MRF, featuring determinism, sophisticated polishing algorithms, exceptional system stability, high removal rate and ability to control polishing loads has the potential to reduce manufacturing cost as well as improve optical performance. With typically better than an 80% convergence rate, MRF could save significant time in terms of both fabrication and metrology. Furthermore, MRF is relatively insensitive to z-axis positioning errors, thereby minimizing the appearance of "print through" distortion due to face-sheet deflections under polishing loads, which is a common problem in manufacturing of light-weight optics with honeycomb structure. Current machines are capable of polishing flats, spheres and aspheres to a surface figure accuracy of better than 30 nm peak-to-valley and microroughness better than 1.0 nm rms. The goal of the work proposed here is to evaluate the potential for applying MRF to polishing the optical surfaces in light-weight mirror production. Anticipated Benefits Extending the capability of MRF for use on light-weight optical structures would positively impact several commercial and research and development areas. This versatile, deterministic process, already used for photolithography, telecommunications and general optics applications, would be valuable for efficient fabrication of a wide range of military mirrors and systems, as well as civilian remote sensing applications. Successful implementation of this technique may also enable new light-weight optic designs, the use of thinner face sheets, and minimization of edge effects. Most importantly, it has the potential of dramatically accelerating the slow and expensive processes for manufacturing light-weight mirrors resulting in cost reduction while improving optical performance. |
| UES, INC.
4401 Dayton-Xenia Road Dayton, OH 45432 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(937) 255-9829
Dr. Tai-Il Mah MDA 03-025 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced Processing of the Optical Surface on Large Lightweight Mirrors |
| Abstract: | The primary goal of the Phase I work is to explore two processing routes to produce mirror systems based on the replication technique using master mandrel. One processing route is based on the deposition of nano-laminates of ceramics to provide optical as well as mechanical integrity of the mirror. The other processing involves the construction of mirror system (both mirror and substructure) based on a unique ceramic composite uni-body fabrication technique. These two processing routes involve the replication technique, which is capable of providing fast and low-cost production of the high optical surface finish of the large mirrors. The ceramic nano-laminate mirror deposition will be followed various deposition techniques (Large Area Filtered Arc Deposition/Magnetron Sputtering/EB-PVD ). The composite bonding (between mirror and substructure) materials will be developed utilizing negative CTE nano-powder and geopolymer. The negative CTE nano-powder will be utilized to process ceramic composite uni-body using chemically driven densification (CDD) processing. Successful completion of Phase II will provide a solid technical foundation for fabricating a primary mirror at least one-meter in diameter. It will also provide a list of limitations and difficulties in scaling up to a 3 to 4 meter mirror segment with desired quality/performance. However, the Phase II research will demonstrate the optimum design/methodology for the rapid manufacturing of lightweight, low cost primary imaging and beam converging mirrors, which have a variety of DoD and commercial applications. A successful manufacturing technology for producing large quantities of negative CTE single-phase, nano-sized powder will allow for its use in a variety of applications from structural and electronic, to space materials. Using the composite concept of negative CTE powder with conventional materials will give tremendous opportunities for thermal management of these materials for various applications. The processes to be developed further under this program, geopolymerization and CDD, have much potential to be explored in the field of structural ceramics. |
| POCO GRAPHITE, INC.
300 Old Greenwood Road Decatur, TX 76234 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(940) 393-4357
Mr. Ronald Plummer MDA 03-026 Selected for Award |
| Title: | SiC Optical Bench and Telescope Assembly for SBIRS Low |
| Abstract: | POCO and Raytheon have teamed up to develop a unique and enabling silicon carbide technology that has broad benefit to large, space-based optical systems. The title of this multi-project effort is Silicon Carbide Afocal Telescope for SBIRS Low (SCATS). The objective of this proposal (as part of SCATS) is to develop and cryogenically test a SiC optical bench assembly and integrate the SiC Mirrors from SBIR MDA 03-022. Ambient temperature and cryogenic performance testing, as well as environmental testing of the integrated telescope will be carried out. The emphasis and innovative engineering is on mounting issues, mechanical assembly and alignment. The focus is on the system as an assembly of components and interfaces. Mounting issues include mechanical stresses and strains, and distortion due to thermal impacts over the operating temperature range. Testing will focus on system level performance. Cryogenic Testing will focus on system level accuracy and will validate that the alignment and integration between component mounts is maintained over the operating temperature range. Poco and Raytheon have identified a number of benefits that will come from this effort. Benefits to SBIRS Low with SiC Optics 1) Reduced Track Sensor Recurring Cost 2) Dramatically Shortened Fabrication Leadtimes 3) Visible Quality Performance While Maintaining LWIR Sensitivity 4) Development of alternate to Be for high performance Optic systems Benefits to Poco Graphite Inc. 1) Accelerates data development on SuperSiC for space applications 2) Provides path for Validation of SuperSiC in a real optical system - the optical bench 3) Increases our probability of success in commercialization 4) Quicker transition of this SiC conversion technology to market for Space applications |
| SSG, INC.
65 Jonspin Road Wilmington, MA 01887 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 694-9991
Mr. Joseph Robichaud MDA 03-026 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Lightweight, Segmented, Deployable Silicon Carbide Optical System |
| Abstract: | SSGPO proposes a segmented, deployable mirror concept that utilizes lightweight, monolithic Silicon Carbide (SiC) mirror segments which can be phased together (tip, tilt, and piston control) to provide a large primary mirror surface. A number of concerns have kept the NGST program from adopting this type of mirror architecture. First, traditional glass optical materials are not stiff enough to support this type of design. Secondly, mirror manufacturing and polishing needs to be very low-cost and deterministic in order to support the large number of matched mirror segments that would be required for such a configuration. The application of SiC materials addresses the first concern. The SiC material has excellent stiffness and thermal stability, allowing the individual mirror segments to be controlled with fewer degrees of freedom than the current NGST mirror designs. The second concern is addressed by the combination of SSG's SiC slip casting forming process and SSG's Tinsley subsidiary's Computer Controlled Optical Surfacing (CCOS) process. These processes allow the fabrication of many matched mirror segments in a rapid, low-cost fashion. The work proposed here is based on some previous technology demonstration work done by SSG. Our technical approach has been strengthened by the addition of a number of deployment/latching schemes developed and demonstrated by TRW. In Phase I, we will develop the concept around an application of interest to MDA (i.e.; SBL) to perform a preliminary technical assessment of the approach and develop a manufacturing/program plan for implementation in Phase II. Our proposal will benefit from cost sharing from TRW in Phase I, with additional funding allocated for the Phase II effort. The lightweight, deployable optical architecture described will have application to a number of space-based remote sensing, atmospheric observing, and directed energy applications. |
| G A TYLER ASSOC., INC.
1341 South Sunkist Street Anaheim, CA 92806 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(714) 772-7668
Dr. Glenn A. Tyler MDA 03-027 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Beam Control for Extended Range |
| Abstract: | A study is proposed to compare conventional beam control approaches utilized in baseline ABL engagements with advanced concepts which utilize laser guide star technology, relay mirror technology and optimal esimator technology. The concepts developed during the proposed activity will be assessed for their feasibility in resolving the issues associated with extending the range and the class of targets addressable with an ABL weapon system. Key to the success of this effort is the wealth of experience and capabilities that have been developed by the Optical Sciences Company in precisely the areas indicated above that are required to advance the state of the art. As an example of our expertise in this area, optimal estimator technology is put into proper perspective to give insight. An analytic two DM system control algorithm is developed which illustrates that two angularly separated paths, one to a finite conjugate laser guide star and one to a distant object, can be compensated simultaneously. This approach may be critical in the utilization of TILL data and laser guide stars with ABL. The extensive experience and capability developed over the past twenty-five years at the Optical Sciences Company in the areas of beam control, adaptive optics technology, laser guide star technology, relay mirror technology and optimal estimator technology will be applied to develop a concept that can be used to extend the range and target set of a conventional ABL system. |
| TREX ENTERPRISES CORP.
10455 Pacific Center Court San Diego, CA 92121 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(858) 646-5479
Dr. Mikhail Belenkii MDA 03-027 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Beam Control for Extended Range |
| Abstract: | Intercepting of fast targets early in their flight at very long range by using laser weapon is important for national missile defense. A direct attack of such targets from the Airborne Laser (ABL) platform places stressing requirements on the adaptive optics system. An engagement of these targets by means of propagation through an intermediate airship-based or space-based Relay Mirror (RM) significantly simplifies the beam control tasks. However, even in this case servo lag, time of flight anisoplanatism, as well as tilt anisoplanatism and beacon anisoplanatism degrade the ABL performance. We propose to develop novel methods for adaptive optics and tracking for propagation over extremely long ranges, which mitigate the impact of servo lag and time of flight anisoplanatism in the ABL to the RM engagement, and tilt anisoplanatism and beacon anisoplanatism in the RM to the target engagement. An implementation of these approaches will extend the operational range of the ABL up to 1500 km. In the Phase I program we will validate the proposed techniques by using a wave-optics code and identify scaled down experiments for implementation of these methods at the MIT/LL Atmospheric Compensation Laboratory and/or at the AFRL North Oscura Peak facility. The novel concepts for adaptive optics and tracking over very long ranges developed under this program will have applications in future ABL like systems. The novel concepts for improved beam control including a method for mitigation of tilt anisoplanatism and beacon anisoplanatism can be used in astronomy, laser communication, laser power beaming and survey. |
| VOXTEL, INC.
2640 SW Georgian Place Portland, OR 97201 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(503) 243-4633
Mr. George M. Williams MDA 03-028 Selected for Award |
| Title: | High Reliability, Radiation Hard, Electron Bombarded SOI CMOS Image Tubes |
| Abstract: | Electron-bombarded sensors have been researched for over thirty years and the general theory of operation has been proven and prototype devices demonstrated. However thus far, they have yet to be manufactured in a cost effective manner with optimized performance characteristics. Furthermore, the state of the art EBCCD device has no proven reliability. In this Phase I program, we propose to develop a high-reliability, high-performance, 128 x 128 element, 10kHz EBCCD design that leverages high volume, commercial semiconductor processes and radiation hardened SOI CMOS processes from which to significantly quantify and manage reliability growth. The design implements a <1-micron electron absorption region formed from fully-depleted, n-type epitaxial silicon. We thus achieve increased resolution, high bandwidth, reduced radiation cross-section, higher gain, and enhanced stability. Significantly, our design dispenses with custom back-thinning operations, which are unreliable and incompatible with CMOS processing. Instead we use the unique properties of SOI to obtain the <1-micron thick back-thinned silicon layer. The high-speed, mixed-signal SOI circuits include anti-blooming, gain modulation, random readout, windowing, and non-destructive readout. The design significantly increases radiation performance, provides better outgassing characteristics, and greatly enhances image tube performance and reliability. EBCCD devices satisfies applications requiring high data rates, high resolution, and low light sensitivity that cannot be satisfied with traditional image intensifiers, silicon CCD, or CMOS imagers. Applications include: ladar/lidar, microscopy, neuroscience, calcium ratio imaging, fluorescence studies, high-energy physics scintillator readout (calorimetry, fibre tracking), Cherenkov light detection. Additionally, the proposed imager without intensification can be used as a radiation hard visible imager for EUV through NIR applications that include solar studies, star tracking, and surveillance. |
| LI CREATIVE TECHNOLOGIES
225 Runnymede Parkway New Providence, NJ 07974 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(908) 508-0239
Dr. Qi (Peter) Li MDA 03-029 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Data Driven Prognostics |
| Abstract: | This proposal is to describe a unique and promising solution for data-driven prognostics called the hidden-Markov-model (HMM) based prognostic (HBP), and to study the feasibility of using the above solution to build products for military and commercial markets. Data-driven prognostics have been studied for many years; however, the performances of existing systems do not meet the requirements of military and commercial applications because of inherent limitations in the approaches. We note that the prognostic is a dynamic-pattern recognition problem, but most existing approaches only use techniques and models developed years ago for steady-pattern recognition, which is not adequate in terms of accuracy and lacks true and full replication of operating machines. From our current and previous research, we know that speech signals have characteristics similar to the signals collected from operating machines or equipment. The HMM techniques developed in automatic speech recognition (ASR) are indeed for dynamic-pattern recognition and have provided a solution for ASR successfully; therefore, the proposed HMM approach has the potential to solve the problem and to develop products for data-driven prognostics for commercial and defense applications. We will develop prognostic products including software and hardware through this research and development. The products will be introduced to DoD first, and then provided to commercial aircraft and engine companies in the private sector market, such as Boeing, GE, and other system manufacturers. The size of the potential market is quite large since virtually every aircraft engine or weapon system needs a prognostic system to predict the failure, fault, or errors, and to ensure the safety of complex aircraft and weapon systems. We expect to sell significant number systems during the first year after finishing Phase II, and also expect a significant increase per year following the first year since we will have new products, such as chips for prognostics, at that time. |
| MANAGEMENT SCIENCES, INC.
6022 Constitution Avenue NE Albuquerque, NM 87110 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(505) 255-8611
Mr. Kenneth Blemel MDA 03-029 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Expert System for Diagnostics and Prognostics |
| Abstract: | While detection of degraded states and failures using dataset signatures would appear straightforward, creating a product solution is problematic. Algorithms for signature analysis and data mining are needed to locate the boundaries between "normal" and "abnormal" conditions. Because the process of monitoring of signals and signatures is inexact, probabilistic separation methods are needed to distinguish emerging problems from normal variations. We will develop and demonstrate a set of Diagnostic and Prognostic (D&P) engines to detect and identify early symptoms leading to faults, failures and other events of complex electro-mechanical systems. These D&P engines will be based upon extensive experience by MSI and its partners in the application of Bayesian logic and related expert systems and artificial intelligence to diagnostics and prognostics. MSI recommends the Digital Data Download (D3), being developed for NAVAIR and the F/A-18 aircraft, as the computational platform for these D&P engines, but the engines can be executed on any appropriate platform as desired. The D3 provides an advantageous platform for execution of these engines as it is a real time data-centric multipurpose box designed specifically for such a purpose. The D&P engines operating on the D3 platform will provide an on-aircraft robust decision support system capable of determining the health status of machines and estimated remaining useful life. These engines will be extensible and adaptive so as to be able to support the system throughout its service life. |
| QUALTECH SYSTEMS, INC.
100 Great Meadow Rd., Suite 501 Wethersfield, CT 06109 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(860) 257-8014
Dr. Somnath Deb MDA 03-029 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Data Driven Prognostic techniques for airborne laser systems. |
| Abstract: | Qualtech Systems, Inc. and HR Textron, Inc., team seeks to provide data-driven prognostic models and techniques for predicting system malfunctioning events prior to their occurrence in airborne lasers. The events of interest include lasing, spectral, tilt, calibration, calorimetric, polarization, and wavefront, range, range rate, and pointing errors, beam jitter/smearing effects, thermal blooming phenomenon, engagement geometry errors, and turbulence effects caused by incipient fault conditions and system disturbances. The end product of the proposed effort is not just a collection of new data-driven prognostic techniques for residual generation, residual evaluation for emerging malfunction detection and isolation (i.e., time and location of faults), fault diagnosis (i.e., nature and cause of faults) and residual life estimation of the airborne laser (ABL) theater missile defense system; it is a complete and generic diagnosis and prognosis solution that utilizes the sensing capabilities that already exist in the system to the greatest extent, while identifying new software capabilities that can be easily added onboard or on support equipment, to achieve maximum system availability within reasonable cost. In most systems, the initial cost of the hardware and software of the monitoring system is easily offset by the savings in support and maintenance costs within a year. The product resulting from Phases I and II of the research proposed herein will be a ready-to-use plug-in module for use in commercial and military condition assessment and health monitoring systems. It will be marketed to the defense industry for applications in missile defense systems (ABL, AAS, THAAD), unmanned combat vehicles (UAVs, UCAVs,USVs), shipboard and aircraft systems, and to commercial industry for use in applications such as commercial aircraft, power, manufacturing, chemical processes, transportation, and industrial machines/equipment |
| IPITEK
2330 Faraday Avenue Carlsbad, CA 92008 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(760) 438-1010
Mr. Steve Braun MDA 03-030 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Ribbon Fiber Optic Bus for Aerospace Applications |
| Abstract: | This proposal presents an approach to reducing mass and volume of aerospace subsystems by using optical fibers and low cost off-the shelf optical components. This leads to reduced launching cost, particular as it applies to microsatellites. Added benefits of fiber optics, in addition to cost and weight reduction are greatly improved performance because of their inherent immunity to ElectroMagnetic Interference (EMI) and ElectroMagnetic Pulses (EMP), radiation tolerance, and a data rate capability several orders of magnitude above that of electric wires. Finally, optical fibers combined with Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) lend themselves to efficient configuring of a bidirectional fiberoptic bus that eliminates costly electronic or electro-optic switches by incorporating all-passive glass nodes for data transmission and health status monitoring. In addition to the military Avionics market, fiberoptic buses as presented in this proposal have wide application in the commercial telecommunication market, specifically, Fiber To The Business (FTTB) and Fiber To The Home (FTTH). |
| ODYSSIAN TECHNOLOGY, L.L.C.
15270 Timber Trail Mishawaka, IN 46545 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(574) 255-6183
Mr. Barton Bennett MDA 03-030 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Multifunctional Structures with Structurally Integrated Circuitry for Use on the Airborne Laser (ABL) |
| Abstract: | Multifunctional structure encompasses a revolutionary level of integration that improves performance and reduces cost. Subsystem functionality is integrated into structural members to eliminate the need for subsystem interconnecting wires, cables, lines, and supporting brackets. Avionics support racks can be eliminated. Large modular structure with embedded subsystem functionality will eliminate the cost and complexity of subsystem interconnects and components found in conventional air and space vehicles. Odyssian Technology proposes to develop multifunctional structure with structurally integrated flex circuitry that supports the Airborne Laser (ABL) vibration and beam control systems. Boeing, the prime contractor on ABL, will participate in this program to provide guidance and input on ABL requirements. A conceptual design study, impact analysis, and proof-of-concept demonstration will occur in phase I to identify the feasibility and benefits of implementing multifunctional structure onto the ABL. During phase II, prototype hardware will be developed and demonstrated. Multifunctional structure with structurally integrated flex circuitry will reduce purchase price or acquisition costs of land, air, and space vehicles by eliminating part count and the cost of protective jackets (i.e., harnesses), support brackets, clips, assembly, and installation In addition, weight and volume is reduced to improve system performance and operating efficiencies. Commercial applications exist in both the military and private sectors. Several emerging military platforms, such as the ABL, Unmanned Combat Air Vehicles (UCAV), have an immediate need to minimize weight, volume, and cost. Private sector applications that are particularly sensitive to weight, volume, and cost include automobiles, recreational vehicle, satellites, and commercial aircraft. |
| WILLIAMS-PYRO, INC.
200 Greenleaf St. Fort Worth, TX 76107 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(817) 872-1500
Mr. Corey Clark MDA 03-030 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Multifunctional Structures for Aerospace Applications |
| Abstract: | This proposal describes the advancement of Multifunctional Structures (MFS) for Aerospace Applications in order to create a more efficient and capable system in terms of payload mass fractions. The proposed system, known as Flexible Electronics and Structure Integration System (FESTIS), continues the expansion of work performed in the MFS area by solving problems not yet overcome by state-of-the-art MFS technology. The basic approach to MFS is to reconfigure the cabling to improve the way they integrate into the aerospace vehicle structure, minimize mass and volume requirements, and to simplify the cabling manufacturing process. This proposal addresses these issues by focusing on the advancement of high density interconnects (EMI and RF considerations) and its application to advanced flexible circuitry. The principal behind WPI's concept is to take the developed technology and overcome problems encountered by detailing a new system. FESTIS will be capable of integrating new solutions and advancing MFS to a full-scale working product that could be used for numerous aerospace vehicle electronic systems. Following technology development, WPI will commercialize the FESTIS using a 5-part process. The first step is to host a product demonstration at WPI's in-house laboratory for the involved DoD agencies. Second, our system will undergo a field test on ABL subsystem with the resulting feedback guiding product improvement. The third step involves the trial production of a small number of the FESTIS for interested DoD agencies. Fourth, WPI's marketing department will investigate alternative product applications. The final commercialization step is full production and product launch. Initially, the primary transition target for our product launch is ABL equipment. However, this technology easily lends itself to future aerospace, aircraft, and ground vehicles. WPI estimates the annual market potential of FESTIS to be $6.5 billion. |
| LOS GATOS RESEARCH
67 East Evelyn Ave., Suite 3 Mountain View, CA 94041 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(650) 965-7874
Dr. Manish Gupta MDA 03-031 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Singlet Oxygen Analyzer for COIL Applications |
| Abstract: | In this SBIR Phase I effort, Los Gatos Research proposes to develop an ultrasensitive gas analyzer to directly measure the concentration of singlet oxygen in COIL applications. This analyzer, which based on our proprietary Off-Axis ICOS technology, will provide unprecedented sensitivity in a compact, robust instrument that can be readily integrated into the COIL platform. In Phase I we will demonstrate technical feasibility by generating singlet oxygen and measuring its absorption spectrum directly at 1.91 microns and 1.505 microns and, in conjunction with high-level theoretical calculations provided by AFRL, accurately deducing its state-specific density. The prototype will be multiplexed to allow for simultaneous measurements of three key COIL species: singlet oxygen, ground state oxygen, and water vapor. We will also evaluate the possibility of adapting the instrument to measure excited state species for AGIL applications (i.e. singlet delta NCl). In Phase II, we will integrate the instrument into the COIL platform and deliver a final, working prototype to the Department of Defense (AFRL). Beyond COIL applications (both military and commercial), the development of a robust, ultrasenstive gas analyzer also has significant commercial application in industrial process control, medical diagnostics, and environmental monitoring. LGR is actively collaborating with several industrial partners, including Dow Chemicals, Metabolic Solutions, and ITT Technologies to transfer our innovation to the marketplace. In Phase III, we project revenue generated by sales of our industrial process control monitor alone to exceed $10M by 2007, with additional revenue generated from our medical and environmental diagnostic instruments. |
| PHYSICAL SCIENCES, INC.
20 New England Business Center Andover, MA 01810 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 689-0003
Mr. William J. Kessler MDA 03-031 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced Chemical Iodine Lasers |
| Abstract: | In this Phase I proposal Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) describes a program to develop and demonstrate a diagnostic for imaging atomic iodine peak absorption/gain and translational temperature for chemically pumped atomic iodine lasers. This diagnostic will provide a unique, sensitive tool for developing advanced iodine lasers. This diagnostic will provide the first multi-point spatially resolved gain and temperature maps that can be directly compared to advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD) calculations. The imaging sensor is based upon PSI's successful IodineScan tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy (TDLAS) diagnostic that has been applied to COIL systems worldwide. During Phase I PSI will demonstrate this new gain imaging capability by making measurements in PSI's discharge flow reactor facility. In the Phase II program PSI will develop a compact, portable system that will be tested at COIL facilities and then delivered to the Air Force Research Laboratory. Later versions of this system developed in Phase II and III programs could readily be extended to HF overtone lasers and non-chemical laser industrial applications. Successful Phase I and Phase II programs will lead to the development of a new class of imaging TDLAS sensors. These sensors will have direct application to Air Force chemical laser development programs (COIL and AGIL) and the ABL and SBL programs. Potential industrial applications include the petrochemical, fine chemical and pharmaceutical industries as well as atmospheric monitoring, natural gas pipeline monitoring and academic research. |
| ENERGY SCIENCE LABORATORIES, INC.
6888 Nancy Ridge Drive San Diego, CA 92121 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(858) 552-2034
Dr. Timothy R. Knowles MDA 03-032 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Lightweight Low Contamination Laser Beam Dump |
| Abstract: | This SBIR proposal is to develop lightweight, compact, and low-contamination laser beam dumps suitable for airborne and space-based high-energy laser (HEL) applications. The concept is based on a novel refractory-fiber radiation absorber that has low reflectivity (<1%) and high ablation threshold (>10 J/cm2 in 1 ns) and is suitable for use with either pulsed solid-state lasers or continuous chemical lasers. The absorber can sustain high temperature (2500K) and can serve as a radiation-cooled high-energy dump. It can also be integrated with high-capacity phase-change heat sink materials to remain cool in environments where the maximum dump temperature is limited and the laser is operated intermittently. Phase 1 will investigate concept feasibility and suitability for tactical HEL environments. Beam dump requirements for current DoD HEL programs will be defined. Novel fiber absorber configurations designed for those requirements will be fabricated and laser tested. The weight, size, and performance of laser beam dumps integrated with candidate thermal control options will be assessed. Recommendations for Phase 2 development will be identified. Phase 2 would further develop the materials and design of a full-scale engineering test unit for characterization at HEL facility. Lightweight compact low-contamination laser beam dumps have military applications in airborne and space-based HEL systems, in inertial fusion research, in laser machining and materials processing, in opto-electronic communications, and in laser surgery. |
| BLAZETECH CORP.
24 Thorndike St. Cambridge, MA 02141 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(617) 661-0700
Dr. N. A. Moussa MDA 03-033 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Ballistic Missile Fuel Tank Ullage Fire/Explosion Modeling |
| Abstract: | We propose to perform a series of scoping calculations to determine the propellant and conditions most likely to lead to lethality enhancement under laser heating. For these conditions, we will develop a model to quantify the pressure rise inside the tank due to chemical reactions. The model will account for key processes such as laser heating, temperature gradient across the tank wall and in the gas phase near the wall, circulation inside the ullage, thermal decomposition, combustion and venting. Comparison of the predicted tank pressure with that found experimentally to produce tank burst will establish whether lethality is enhanced. Parametric calculations over a range of conditions will establish the viability of lethality enhancement by chemical reactions. The proposed model will benefit government agencies involved in laser weapon development and lethality assessment such as MDA, the Army, Air Force and Navy and their defense contractors. It can be used in pre-test design to reduce costs and speed up technology development. It can be used by the warfighters to increase weapon effectiveness by determining optimal strategies in the selection of aimpoints (fuel versus oxidizer tank), laser intensity, heating area and dwell time. |
| CFD RESEARCH CORP.
215 Wynn Dr., 5th Floor Huntsville, AL 35805 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(256) 726-4800
Mr. Alton J. Reich MDA 03-033 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Laser Lethality Assessment via Advanced Multi-Physics Simulation |
| Abstract: | Directed energy weapons are being developed for both short and long term introduction into the U.S. arsenal for boost phase missile defense. A key to understanding the effectiveness of these weapons is a tool to assess modes of missile failure. Fracture mechanics based models exist, but under certain engagement conditions these do not predict clear, catastrophic failure. CFD Research Corporation proposes augmenting existing tools with a missile failure prediction tool that is based on a multi-physics simulation based approach combining fluid flow, heat transfer and combustion analysis. During Phase 1, we will demonstrate the use of our commercial CFD-ACE+ software for modeling the fundamental processes and consequences of laser heating of missile fuel tanks, and the consequences of laser induced venting of a fuel tank. The physical consequences predicted by the model will be assessed to determine if the missile system fails. The focus during Phase 2 will be on adapting the framework provided by the CFD-ACE+ package into a customized tool for failure assessment. The process of running simulations will be automated as much as possible to allow assessment to be performed by users with wide ranging technical backgrounds. The development of directed energy weapons is in its early stages. Within a few years initial programs will bear fruit and result in fielded weapon systems. Additional designs will follow. Each of these programs will need tools for assessing the effectiveness of the weapon system against targets. The product of this project will be one of these tools. It will find a wide market among directed energy weapon system designers, and evaluators. Additional utility may be found among designers of liquid fueled aerospace vehicles for assessing the ability of their designs to withstand an attack by directed energy weapons. |
| BELFORD RESEARCH, INC.
386 Spannish Wells Road, Building B, Suite 3 Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(843) 681-7688
Dr. Rona E Belford MDA 03-034 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Gallium Nitride (GaN) Device Technology Enhancements Leading to Advanced Transmit/Receive (T/R) Modules for Radar Performance Enhancement |
| Abstract: | We propose to increase the mobility of both n- and p-type GaN by applying tensile strain and fixing the strain by bonding to an appropriate heat sink material. Straining in other semiconductor materials is now recognized as a viable route to higher performance. We have demonstrated in these systems how low-level strain (0.05%) can increase mobility by a factor of two. Increases were larger for p-type material than for n-type. In GaN systems p-type mobility is poor due to reduced material quality arising from requisite large doping densities. Enhanced mobility would offset the need for such high doping and give an even greater benefit than that of the strain enhancement alone. The piezoelectric polarization within these systems indicates they would be prime candidates for low-level-uniaxial strain enhancement. A conservative estimate of increased electronic performance using our technology is a factor of 4. This translates directly to circuit/system speed. This will be facilitated in part by the alleviation of the major weakness in GaN systems, i.e. that of poor quality p-type GaN. Our technology could facilitate p-type performance required for bipolar devices as well as complimentary circuits. |
| CRYSTAL IS, INC.
25 Cord Dr. Latham, NY 12110 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(518) 276-2593
Dr. Jon Whitlock MDA 03-034 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Feasibility of a-face bulk growth of AlN for fabrication of improved RF devices for Radar Performance Enhancement |
| Abstract: | GaN/AlGaN devices offer outstanding potential for high power, high frequency, and low-noise devices for severe-environment applications. Realization of these benefits for DoD systems is compromised by existing substrate quality and high substrate costs. In addition, the use of polar interfaces is believed to cause a number of reliability and performance problems due to interface states and defects. A better understanding and possible elimination of these problems would be obtained by eliminating interface polarization effects through the use of high-quality a-face bulk-grown aluminum nitride substrates. This effort explores the feasibility of high-rate a-face bulk growth of AlN where growth rates may be 5-10x higher than the 0.5 - 1 mm/hr and < 1000 dislocations per cm^2 already obtained for c-face growth. In addition, AlN substrates offer the possibility of superior epitaxial growth because of the better lattice match and thermal expansion match as well as superior thermal conductivity (>3 W/cm-K). Improved high power, high frequency nitride devices will result from improvements in nitride substrate technology. These improvements will lead to better radar systems for the DOD as well as commercial application in wireless base stations. |
| III-N TECHNOLOGY, INC.
2033 Plymouth Road Manhattan, KS 66503, KS 66503 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(785) 770-7814
Dr. Hongxing Jiang MDA 03-034 Selected for Award |
| Title: | High Power III-Nitride Heterojunction Field-Effect Effect Transistor Development |
| Abstract: | The research proposed here is built on the recent successful fabrication of metal oxide semiconductor heterjunction field effect transistors (MOS-HFETs) based on AlGaN/GaN heterostructures with very high drain-current-driving and gate-control capabilities as well as unprecedented high breakdown voltages by the P.I.s research group at Kansas State University. III-nitride HFETs have great promises in microwave/millimeter-wave electronics applications. However, one of the critical issues in the development of high performance devices is the degradation of the gate that leads to the premature breakdown and hence a deficient device performance with a reduction of output power, the RF efficiency and noise figure. Much improvement in epitaxial materials quality and device structure design is needed. The proposed research targets at the aforementioned issues. The objectives are to ú further optimize AlGaN/GaN HFET material and structural quality by employing innovative approaches such as barrier delta doping to enhance the drain-current-driving and gate-control and hence power/current delivering capabilities, while increase breakdown voltage and reduce leakage current as well as the current collapse effect. ú develop innovative approaches for processing III-nitride HFETs, including e-beam- and deep UV photo-lithography patterning, plasma dry etching, and contact metallization; ú fabricate HFET devices for extensive testing under RF power (~10 GHz - X-band) conditions. The technologies based on GaN high power electronic devices will be extremely important for future DOD technologies, including radar and microwave/millimeterwave communications (terrestrial, airbone, and space-based). In a broad sense, semiconductor electronics play an important role in the overall functioning of national defense and military weapons systems. In the area of civilian applications, modern microelectronic devices based on semiconductor HFETs have a wide range of applications, including communications such as radar links, direct broadcast satellite television, cellular telephone, cable television converters, and data processing applications. The HFETs devices fabricated in other technologies (e.g. AlGaAs) have been in production for many years. However, the modern microelectronic industry is constantly face demands for higher performance as well as lower costs. III-nitrides are emerging as one of the most important electronic materials for these applications due to their very high peak electron velocity, high saturation velocity, high breakdown voltage, low noise, and thermal stability of the system. |
| KYMA TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
8829 Midway West Road Raleigh, NC 27617 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(919) 789-8880
Dr. Drew Hanser MDA 03-034 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Gallium Nitride Devices on Semi-insulating Gallium Nitride Substrates for Advanced T/R Modules |
| Abstract: | Existing T/R modules are based on gallium arsenide (GaAs) transistors and power amplifiers. Current and future XBRs would benefit from improved resolution, enhanced discrimination, and increased power. Significant XBR performance enhancement can be achieved by developing T/R modules that incorporate gallium nitride (GaN) -based power amplifiers. High-performance GaN-based devices, such as HEMTs, have been demonstrated on sapphire and silicon carbide substrates; however, their device performance has been limited due to growth on non-native substrates. The limiting factors in many high performance microelectronic applications based on GaN and GaN-related materials can be attributed directly to material defects in heteroepitaxially grown layers on non-nitride substrates. This program will utilize semi-insulating gallium nitride wafers to produce high-performance GaN microelectronic devices for X-band radar applications. Kyma will develop and demonstrate novel device designs based on semi insulating GaN substrates. Growth on a native GaN substrate will yield lower defects resulting from, improved device design, including features such as gate recess and passivation layers, and device cooling. The main goals of the Phase I program include proof of concept epitaxial growth, device fabrication, and testing. Phase II work will focus on the further development of devices and integrated power amplifier modules. GaN-based FET technology with high device efficiency, stability, and reliability will benefit commercial electronic applications throughout several industries, including wireless communications infrastructure and mobile phones, commercial radar, and satellites. Demonstration of the applicability of GaN substrates in these applications will expand their implementation in other technological areas, such as improving the performance of GaN-based optoelectronic devices. |
| SENSOR ELECTRONIC TECHNOLOGY, INC.
1195 Atlas Road Columbia, SC 29209 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(803) 647-9757
Dr. Xuhong Hu MDA 03-034 Selected for Award |
| Title: | High Power AlGaN/InGaN/AlGaN/GaN Recessed Gate Heterostructure Field Effect Transistor with InGaN as the RIE Etching Stop Layer |
| Abstract: | We propose to a new approach AlGaN/GaN Heterostructure Field Effect Transistors (HFET) technology for reliable, stable, high-power microwave amplifiers using novel recessed gate/active passivation design. Under certain process conditions of BCl3 RIE etching for optimized InGaN films, the In etch product InCl3 will be formed on the surface stopping any further etching. The RIE etching rate of InGaN is much lower than the etching rate of AlGaN or GaN layers. Hence, InGaN can serve as RIE etch stop layers. The thin InGaN film can be wet chemically etched by diluted KOH. The etching rate and etching pattern can be well controlled. The BCB passivation or Si3N4 passivation will be used to prevent AlGaN oxidation. Our approach will be used to improve the breakdown voltage and output power for microwave power amplifiers, which is a key for the Transmit/Receive (T/R) module. |
| SENSOR ELECTRONIC TECHNOLOGY, INC.
1195 Atlas Road Columbia, SC 29209 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(803) 647-9757
Dr. Qhalid Fareed MDA 03-034 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Hybrid Growth of High Quality AlInGaN-based Transistor Wafers on 6H-SiC |
| Abstract: | We will develop and scale-up a hybrid AlGaN/GaN Heterostructure Field Effect Transistor (HFET) wafer growth technology, which combines conventional MOCVD growth with our novel Pulsed Atomic Layer Epitaxy (PALE) deposition technique. In PALE deposition of AlGaN-based heterostructures the metalorganic precursors TMA (Al-source), TMG (Ga-source) and NH3 (N-source) are alternately introduced in the low pressure MOCVD reactor. An ammonia pulse always follows the metalorganic pulses. Our InGaN-based layer from PALE deposition demonstrates the advantages of improved mobility of pre-cursor species on the surface and better incorporation of the atoms into the growing crystal. The semi-insulating GaN buffer will be grown by conventional MOCVD followed by the PALE deposition of the device channel (GaN, InGaN) and AlGaN barrier. The proposed technology would combine the advantages of high temperature and low temperature deposition in a single growth chamber. Our approach will be used to develop commercially viable epitaxial wafer technology for manufacturing of reliable high microwave power transistors and amplifiers for new generation of Transmit/Receive modules. |
| SENSOR ELECTRONIC TECHNOLOGY, INC.
1195 Atlas Road Columbia, SC 29209 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(803) 647-9757
Dr. Xuhong Hu MDA 03-034 Selected for Award |
| Title: | GaN-AlInGaN Induced Base Transistors for High Power Microwave Amplifiers |
| Abstract: | We propose to develop a new majority carrier device, Induced Base Transistor (IBT), which will use a very high density of the two-dimensional electron gas in GaN in order to dramatically reduce the base spreading resistance. We will use selective area growth technique for the deposition of emitter. The devices will be grown on bulk conductive GaN substrates (collector contact). The use of homoepitaxy will yield a much better materials quality (dislocation free) and will greatly enhance collector-emitter breakdown voltage. In an IBT, the polarization induced electric field controls the barrier for the electron injection from the emitter into the base. We will design and optimize the device structure using the strain control by adjusting composition and doping profiles in AlInGaN/GaN material system (Strain Energy Band Engineering Approach). Our approach will be used to increase transistor current density and microwave power level. We expect that IBT devices can become the key component for the MMIC modules. This technology will also have numerous commercial applications in low noise amplifiers for wireless communications. |
| SENSOR ELECTRONIC TECHNOLOGY, INC.
1195 Atlas Road Columbia, SC 29209 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(803) 647-9757
Dr. Qhalid Fareed MDA 03-034 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Growth of thick AlGaN epitaxial layer for High Power Heterostructure Field Effect Transistors On Semi-insulating 6H-SiC Substrates |
| Abstract: | Increasing the GaN and AlGaN thickness is crucial for improved material quality and, thus, increased microwave output and enhanced reliability of high-power devices. We will use our proprietary growth technology and unique buffer layer design to deposit thick GaN and AlGaN templates for quaternary AlInGaN-based Heterostructure Field Effect Transistor (HFET) structures on semi-insulating 6H-SiC substrates supplied by II-VI, Inc. This will allow us to combine the advantages of thick GaN template with superior thermal properties of epilayers grown over 6H-SiC substrates. We will develop a fast growth MOCVD technology and perform detailed material/substrate interaction studies to optimize growth conditions in order to achieve thick high quality material to obtain maximum RF output power along with lowest RF power degradation. The proposed technology would combine the advantages of thick GaN template with superior thermal properties of epilayers grown over 6H-SiC substrates. Our approach will be used to develop commercially viable thick GaN and AlGaN epitaxial wafer technology on semi-insulating 6H-SiC for manufacturing of reliable high microwave power transistors and amplifiers for new generation of radars and wireless communication systems. |
| SVT ASSOC., INC.
7620 Executive Drive Eden Prairie, MN 55344 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(952) 934-2100
Dr. Amir M. Dabiran MDA 03-034 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Novel P-Type Al(In)GaN Superlattice Structures for High-Performance Bipolar Transistors. |
| Abstract: | For ultra-high power, high temperature electronics, III-N wide-bandgap materials offer substantial advantages over other semiconductor material systems. Remarkable power densities have been achieved in AlGaN-based high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) for operation at high frequencies. Even higher power densities, with lower noise and better linearity, have been projected for AlGaN/GaN heterojunction bipolar transistors (HBTs). The main issues preventing the realization of such high-performance HBTs are 1) the problem with the p-type doing of the base region and 2) the emitter to collector current leakage. We are proposing a new HBT design with a novel structure in the base layer, to solve the first problem, in conjunction with growth on substrates with low density of treading dislocations to address the second issue. We will design and fabricate these HBTs by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) for high-frequency operation at high temperatures and very high power densities (>10 W/mm). SVT Associates has already demonstrated high temperature (425 oC) operation of nitride---based heterojunction bipolar transistors (HBTs). The proposed new HBT design would eliminate some of the main problems in the high-power and high-frequency operation of these devices. These HBTs will offer high transistor linearity and low phase noise, inherent in bipolar designs, that are required for economically significant digital transmission applications. The chemically and thermally stable, high-power transistors would have numerous commercial applications in aerospace, automotive, geothermal/oil drilling, portable computation and digital communications industries. |
| TRISTAN TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
6185 Cornerstone Court East, Suite 106 San Diego, CA 92121 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(858) 550-2722
Dr. Tatiana Starr MDA 03-034 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Development of a resonant microwave technique for characterization of the electronic properties of wide bandgap semiconductors used for RF application |
| Abstract: | Electronic properties of wide bandgap semiconductors (SiC and GaN), used for RF microwave/millimeter wave devices, are currently characterized at DC or low frequencies. We propose to develop a novel, non-destructive, non-contact microwave instrument and technique for the characterization of wide bandgap semiconductor substrates and epitaxial layers used in high frequency transistors and amplifiers. The goal of this project is to demonstrate the feasibility of resonant cavity microwave techniques (both confocal Fabry-Perot resonator and near field resonant cavity) for the electromagnetic characterization of SiC substrates and GaN epilayers. The proof-of principle measurements will be performed on an optimized and modified 94 GHz Fabry-Perot resonator. Experimental studies will be combined with 3D electromagnetic simulations to enable quantitative interpretation of the measured physical parameters. To understand the microwave properties of wide bandgap semiconductors and identify the important loss mechanisms, we will cross compare high frequency EM properties of the studied materials with their low frequency and DC electronic properties, and correlate them with the wafer growth/processing parameters. Near field cavity designs will be optimized by numerical simulation. Phase I will result in a conceptual design of a non-contact microwave mapping test system in the X-band with a variable temperature platform (25 to 600øC). Based on systematic studies of loss mechanisms in wide bandgap semiconductors at microwave frequencies, we will provide a feedback from the wafer/epilayer evaluation to the material/device manufacturers, which will be used in the optimization of the wafer, epi and device production processes. Successful implementation of the results and data obtained in Phase I and Phase II will help to improve the quality, long-term stability and reproducibility of GaN/SiC-based devices. It will be beneficial for the development of advanced processing technologies and for the establishment of novel characterization principles for the wide bandgap semiconductors, aimed at high frequency device applications. As a result of the Phase II effort, a standard technique and a prototype instrument for non-contact rapid EM characterization of wide bandgap semiconductors in the microwave frequency range will be developed. This instrument will be useful for the high frequency EM characterization of a wider range of materials. |
| VIATRONIX
40 Amherst Avenue Waltham, MA 02451 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 899-6924
Dr. Phil Lamarre MDA 03-034 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Novel GaN HBT for Advanced T/R Modules for X-band Radar Performance Enhancement |
| Abstract: | This proposal addresses Topic MDA 03-034 under the heading "Gallium Nitride (GaN) Device Technology Enhancements Leading to Advanced Transmit/Receive (T/R) Modules for Radar Performance Enhancement " and describes a novel approach to the objective of developing an X-band High Power Amplifier (HPA) for Radar applications. This new amplifier is an innovative application of advanced materials to improve Radar and RF system capability and reliability. Our proposed technology will deliver fast, high-power solid state amplifiers using a Hetero-Junction Bipolar Transistor approach. Our unique, patent-pending approach will yield amplifiers of superior performance to existing technologies. Viatronix proposes development of a new technology for production of fast, high-power amplifier using a heterojunction bipolar transistor approach. Our unique, patent-pending GaN/AlN approach will yield amplifiers of comparable performance and price to existing technologies, but which will exhibit improved performance today's products. |
| WAVEBAND CORP.
375 Van Ness Ave, Suite 1105 Torrance, CA 90501 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 212-7808
Dr. Vladimir Litvinov MDA 03-034 Selected for Award |
| Title: | AIN-barrier Field Effect Transistor |
| Abstract: | Mobile and space-borne platform applications require high power, compact, light-weight, efficient components. This is particularly true for high-power transistors. Existing technologies do not meet these stringent performance requirements. To solve this problem, WaveBand Corporation proposes to design, grow, characterize, and test high-power GaN-based metal insulator semiconductor field effect transistors (MISFET). High-power transistors are key to simplifying and improving the design and performance of amplifiers. These improvements are achieved by decreasing the number of devices (complexity and weight) that are needed to maintain the specifications (gain) for certain applications. WaveBand's Phase I project is also directly targeted at satisfying the MDA's requirements for high efficiency, GaN power amplifiers, for use in mobile and space-borne applications, particularly, for use in transceiver/receiver (T/R) modules for X-band ballistic missile defense radars. The key feature of the project is optimized growth technology, which will enable the optimal wide bandgap AlN barrier that forms the low-defect density interface and provides improved device performance, in terms of breakdown voltage, speed, power, power added efficiency, and temperature of operation. Phase II's goal is to fabricate, test, and optimize a high-power MISFET based on an AlN/GaN heterostructure. The availability of high electron mobility will bring the MISFET operations beyond the X-band frequency. WaveBand proposes to commercialize the results of the proposed project to meet the needs of both defense and commercial markets. Specifically, High Power Amplifiers (HPA) for X-band Transceiver/Receiver modules and Transmitters for Communication applications. |
| COHERENT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
135 S. Taylor Avenue Louisville, CO 80027 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 604-2000
Dr. Phil Gatt MDA 03-035 Selected for Award |
| Title: | High-Resolution Solid-State Range-Doppler Ladar |
| Abstract: | CTI proposes to develop a novel range-Doppler imaging ladar based upon an efficient, compact, solid-state, 1 um, 25 Watt, ladar technology for Exo-atmospheric Kill Vehicles (EKV). This technology will be capable of unresolved target detection and discrimination at ranges in excess of 300 km. The laser transmitter contains an efficient MOPA architecture, using just one active resonator to increase sensor structural integrity and a frequency offset-locked local oscillator to minimize receiver bandwidth requirements for high velocity engagements. The sensor employs an adaptive coherent array receiver, providing single-pixel diffraction-limited long-range performance. At shorter ranges, where single pixel SNR is large, the transmit beam divergence is increased, enabling additional receiver pixels for a wider field-of-view and precision angular error estimates. This approach, results in the most efficient use of the available laser power for a fixed waveform repetition frequency. A novel high-PRF transmitter waveform, optimized for range-Doppler imagery, has been designed. This waveform extends the waveform range ambiguity interval, beyond cueing target state estimator errors. Multiple-target interference attenuation (i.e., clutter rejection) is accomplished through combinations of pulse-interval modulation and discrete frequency switching. In Phase I CTI will conduct performance analysis trade studies to develop an optimal Phase II brassboard design and demonstrate the first stage of the laser transmitter. The sensor technologies developed here will have dual commercial applications. One key application is detection, characterization and tracking of unresolved space debris. |
| PHYSICAL OPTICS CORP.
Photonic Systems Division, 20600 Gramercy Place Bl Torrance, CA 90501 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 530-7892
Dr. Alfred Goldsmith MDA 03-035 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Incoherent Optical Radar for Simultaneous Range and Velocity Measurements |
| Abstract: | The U.S. Missile Defense Agency is developing an exo-atmospheric interceptor based on a ground based midcourse defense. Once separated from its booster, about 140 miles above the earth, the exo-atmospheric kill vehicle (EKV) will use passive middle-wavelength infrared or long wavelength infrared sensors to acquire and track the target. These sensors, however, cannot supply range and line-of-sight velocity information; range resolved, Doppler laser radar (LADAR), or equivalent is, therefore required to provide three-dimensional imaging for final targeting. Because the EKV uses only its kinetic energy to destroy the incoming missile, its aim must be extremely precise. Therefore, to improve target detection, discrimination, and aimpoint selection, Physical Optics Corporation proposes to develop a novel advanced active seeker based on determination of Range and Velocity by Incoherent Optical Radar (RAVIOR). POC's RAVIOR seeker will have the capability of using high-power, incoherent or quasi-coherent light sources (including but not limited to lasers) to simultaneously yield range and velocity data. In Phase I, POC will demonstrate a proof of concept system. In Phase II, POC will design, fabricate, and demonstrate a proof-of-concept laboratory prototype RAVIOR seeker. In Phase II, POC will develop an engineering prototype RAVIOR seeker and demonstrate its performance in a simulated flight environment. POC's RAVIOR seeker will open the door to the use of high power laser radar (LADAR)-like systems for other military branches, police, and commercial applications. For example, it could be incorporated into ground and air vehicles for collision avoidance. It would be especially useful at airports and runways, especially in areas of heavy traffic. |
| SSG, INC.
65 Jonspin Road Wilmington, MA 01887 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 694-9991
Mr. Kris Kosakowski MDA 03-035 Selected for Award |
| Title: | High Performance Optical Coatings for Advanced Seeker Systems |
| Abstract: | Future advanced seeker systems for endo- and exo-atmospheric applications will utilize not only the passive and invisible infrared signature of ballistic threats but also LADAR based ranging imaging and discrimination information for improved identification, discrimination, and tracking. The present optical instruments for seekers utilize beryllium (Be) optics for lightweight IR performance. The integration of ranging and imaging LADAR and combined passive IR and visible imaging will require two critical changes to the optics in these applications: (1) the use of alternative optical materials to enable visible quality optical performance, and (2) high energy, low stress induced, low absorptive laser coatings with very high reflectance at the LADAR wavelength and additionally acceptable performance for IR and visible wave bands. The high reflectance coatings also need to be survivable to advanced nuclear environment, as well as be very durable to maintain performance over long term storage in a silo. SSGPO is currently working with Raytheon to develop a lightweight silicon carbide (SiC) based advanced seeker optical architecture, which incorporates LADAR, and visible and IR imaging channels with visible image quality. A SiC demonstration mirror is being fabricated as a pathfinder for this effort with bolt together capability. In this Phase I, SSGPO will develop a very low absorption reflective coating design and fabrication approach with optimized performance for the HEL line and visible and IR bands. Phase II will leverage the ongoing SiC mirror demonstration program with Raytheon to produce and test the developed coating on the ADLT SiC primary mirror. Applications for bolt together SiC passive/active systems with performance in the visible and IR include next generation seeker systems critical to missile defense (e.g., ADLT, CEKV, MKV), laser-based defense like the space-based laser (SBL), air-borne last (ABL), and advanced tactical systems using LADAR. Private sector applications include earth resource mapping, law enforcement, disaster relief, optical lithography, and other applications in which the improved situational awareness provided by combined active passive sensors is of value. |
| SSG, INC.
65 Jonspin Road Wilmington, MA 01887 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 694-9991
Dr. Holger Luther MDA 03-036 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Fast Steering Mirror Technologies for Active Exo-Atmospheric Seekers |
| Abstract: | Developing architectures for EKV active seekers call for a number beam steering devices to perform a variety of functions and to be constrained within tight packaging constraints of the EKV vehicle. SSG proposes the incremental development of its Fast Steering Mirror (FSM) technologies to address these beam steering needs and to meet the anticipated requirements of several kHz BW and <10 millisecond settling times over a 2 degree FOR with a 20-30mm aperture while mitigating the challenging EKV environment. The current state of SSGÝs FSM technologies can nearly achieve these requirements. SSG recently developed a FSM for a Lasercomm application with 3.7 cm aperture capable of ,b0.57,a FOR, <1 microradian pointing repeatability and 2kHz BW. Further work in the key technologies of SSGÝs Optical Position Sensor (OPS) and Voice Coil Motors (VCM) to meet EKV active seekers is outlined in this proposal. SSG is working with Raytheon and Boeing SVS, the primary systems integrator and the active channel systems integrator for the Advanced Discriminating LADAR Technology (ADLT) program. The work described in this proposal complements SSGÝs FSM technology development goals and fits well with the anticipated ADLT requirements. Advances in Fast Steering Mirror (FSM) technologies are necessary for meeting the developing architectures of active seeker sensors in EKVs. Programs such as the Advanced Discriminating LADAR Technology (ADLT) program call for at least one and perhaps multiple FSM units of different aperture sizes and capabilities for each system. Other space-based missions have a need for similar beam steering capabilities. These include the large commercial potential of space Lasercomm where there are estimates of hundreds to thousands of network nodes. 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). |
| VOXTEL, INC.
2640 SW Georgian Place Portland, OR 97201 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(503) 421-4389
Mr. James Gates MDA 03-036 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Multi-Modal LWIR/VLWIR Focal Plane Array |
| Abstract: | We propose to optimize the design of a highly versatile active/passive multi-color focal plane array (FPA). The device integrates, within a single pixel, both avalanche photodiode (APD) and two-color LWIR/VLWIR sensing capabilities. The design is based on well proven HgCdTe heterostructure techniques and manufacturing methods. In Phase I, we will investigate both two-terminal and three-terminal, back-to-back photodiode configurations for sequential-simultaneous active/passive dual-band infrared imaging. Using advanced TCAD tools, we will optimize the design of the active/passive, multi-wavelength infrared HgCdTe semiconductor image sensor to enable high-performance, high-pixel-density focal plane arrays to be manufactured, with high yields, and in a cost effective manner. By using common optics, electronics, and cryo-cooling, monolithically integrating a 3D LADAR imager with a two-color IR imager, in a single focal plane array, offers enhanced target acquisition, discrimination, and aimpoint selection, while reducing EKV mass, volume, and power budgets. The market for non-defense based IR photo-detectors is expected to grow rapidly over the next 10 years. The characteristics that make multi-color IR photo-detectors suitable for defense applications also benefit many industrial and scientific applications. Several applications include: environmental monitoring, ladar, chem./bio. hazard detection, IR spectroscopic applications in medicine and science, dual band tomographic non-destructive test, remote sensing, and thermography. |
| BROADATA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
2545 W. 237th Street, Suite K Torrance, CA 90505 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 530-1416
Dr. Barry Ambrose MDA 03-037 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Robust Adaptiive Coder for Optimizing Error Detection/Correction |
| Abstract: | MDA requires optimized error detection/correction methods that permit highly-robust communication in nuclear or jamming environments. In this proposal, Broadata Communication Inc (BCI) proposes a unique Adaptive Trellis/Turbo Coding with 8-DPSK (Differential Phase Shift Keying), or ATT-D scheme that will significantly outperform the traditional coding schemes in a severe fading channel scheme. The ATT-D is a combined coding and modulation technique that uses signal-set expansion to provide redundancy for coding. The ATT-D can achieve significant coding gain without sacrificing data rate or requiring more bandwidth. To increase the bit error rate performance while maintaining the same bandwidth requirement, the ATT-D further uses adaptive linear prediction. Using the recursive least-square algorithm, the prediction coefficient can be adapted to changing channel condition. By combining the Trellis coding scheme with the Turbo coder, the proposed ATT-D system will have a robust performance in both low SNR (signal to noise ratio) and high fading channels. The superior performance of this system has been demonstrated with preliminary simulation results. A software demonstration will be fully conducted and the results will be demonstrated upon the completion of the Phase I project to show the feasibility and potential of the proposed ATT-D for MDA applications. In addition to MDA's In-Flight Interceptor Communications System (IFICS) application , this technology is also applicable for many military, real-time, sensor data collection/processing operations and mission critical military/government communication network applications. The proposed technology is also applicable to any commercial network applications that can benefit from robust mission critical multimedia networks. Potential applications include, but are not limited to, robust commercial airline communications, collaborative security networks, robust interactive wireless network operations, and remote crisis management networks. |
| EFFICIENT CHANNEL CODING
600 Safeguard Plaza, Suite 100 Brookyln Hts, OH 44131 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(216) 635-1610
Dr. William Thesling MDA 03-037 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced In-Flight Interceptor Communications System (IFICS) Error Detection/Correction |
| Abstract: | The objective of this SBIR to optimize Efficient Channel Coding's (ECC's) advanced and flexible turbo code Forward Error Correction (FEC) solutions to improve the robustness of the In-Flight Interceptor Communications System (IFICS) link performance. This includes the evaluation of a range of turbo code options in the fading channel environments as produced by nuclear weapons effects in the ionosphere. It also includes the customization of ECC's turbo code implementation technology that is suitable for receiver implementation in a Ground Based Interceptor (GBI). Additionally, the turbo codes developed under this SBIR will also find applications in commercial satellite-based and terrestrial communications systems. ECC's turbo codes are advanced and flexible in the sense that the algorithms that are employed for decoding have been designed and implemented to performance within 1 dB of the theoretical limit in reasonable complexity hardware across a range of applications. This allows ECC to customize the turbo code to span from very low data rates to Gbps rates with implementations ranging from software to full-custom semiconductors. As a recognized leader in turbo coding technology and products, Efficient Channel Coding (ECC) has been developing turbo code hardware and software for government and commercial applications since 1996. Our expertise includes selecting the appropriate turbo code approach for the specific type of communications channel from both the hardware and performance. ECC has pioneered the use of turbo codes in satellite communications and has applied turbo codes to approximately 20 different commercial and government communications systems. Turbo Code solutions that are suitable for the IFICS system can be applied to additional markets where low power consumption, small footprints, and excellent performance in fading channels are important. As such, ECC feels that the work completed as part of this SBIR has the potential to open up additional markets, much in the same way that our original implementation turbo codes did. General market areas include consumer satellite communications, corporate satellite communications, government communications, and commercial broadband terrestrial communications. |
| PETANETWORKS
249 Church Street, # 2 New York, NY 10013 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(917) 705-2049
Dr. Vijitha Weerackody MDA 03-037 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced In-Flight Interceptor Communications System (IFICS) Error Detection/Correction |
| Abstract: | This SBIR Phase I project addresses the design of an advanced channel error correction and detection scheme for the In-Flight Interceptor Communication System (IFICS). This proposal improves the performance of the current state-of-the-art system. Extensive research work is currently carried out in the areas of iterative channel coding schemes such as turbo coding and low-density parity-check (LDPC) coding. Recent results show performance gains obtained from these codes to be very close to the optimum limits. In this proposal both turbo codes and LDPC codes are employed in the IFICS link. Specifically, superorthogonal turbo codes which are well-suited for low-rate channel codes and LDPC codes suitable for low-rates are examined. Simulation results are used to determine the optimized codes for the IFICS link in Rayleigh and Rician fading channels. Computer simulations will be given to demonstrate the gains obtained from these proposed codes over the current state-of-the-art system. This research will be useful in low data rate communication systems such as sensor communication networks and telemetry applications. |
| XENOTRAN LLC
898 Airport Park Road, Suite 205 Glen Burnie, MD 21061 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(410) 761-2445
Dr. Kevin J Page MDA 03-037 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced In-Flight Interceptor Communications System (IFICS) Error Detection/Correction |
| Abstract: | Xenotran proposes to develop a forward error correction (FEC) device for use in Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) systems for ensuring survivable and robust communications between the Battle Management, Command, Control, and Communications (BM/C3) elements and an Exo-Atmospheric Kill Vehicle (EKV) during flight. Communications in this channel is known to be subject to Rayleigh and Ricean fading, intentional jamming and the communications deterring effects of nuclear detonations. Several new algorithms based upon iterative decoding have arisen in recent years that closely approach the Shannon limit for communications capacity and allow unparalleled FEC ability in these adverse channels. Yet, practical implementations of these algorithms are lacking. Xenotran anticipates that development of advanced FEC technologies for heavily faded environments will have large commercial applicability both in military space communications and in commercial Terrestrial 3G systems. |
| MARK RESOURCES, INC.
3878 Carson Street, Suite 210 Torrance, CA 90503 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 543-4746
Dr. August W. Rihaczek MDA 03-038 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced Signal/Data Processing Algorithms |
| Abstract: | The proposed SBIR project will demonstrate the feasibility of using ground- based or sea-based radars to detect, track, and discriminate reentry vehicles from decoys, penetration aids, and other clutter. MARK Resources has developed a radar signal processing technology that is broadly applicable to these tasks. This technology has the potential to perform more complete, accurate, and rapid measurements than have been made previously, leading to superior discrimination performance by these radars, which will significantly reduce the demands on terminal missile sensors. The proposed SBIR project will demonstrate that this potential can be reached. Lockheed Martin has joined us in this project, to effectively transition the technology into existing and planned missile defense systems. Although detecting, tracking, and discriminating missile targets is primarily a military application, the basic signal processing technology is applicable in all situations where details about man-made objects are to be obtained remoately by radar, and for discrimination of one type of scatterer from another. |
| SCIENTIFIC SYSTEMS CO., INC.
500 West Cummings Park - Ste 3000 Woburn, MA 01801 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 933-5355
R.K.Mehra/B.Ravichandran MDA 03-038 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Unified Bayesian Detection and Tracking in Hostile Radar Environments |
| Abstract: | Scientific Systems Company, Inc. (SSCI) and its subcontractor Lockheed Martin Tactical Systems (LMTS) propose to develop and demonstrate a concept-feasibility algorithm capable of optimally detecting and tracking air and TBM targets in the presence of a hostile radar sensing environment such as background clutter, jamming, and Electronic Counter-Measures (ECM). We propose to do this by using a novel generalized recursive Bayes nonlinear filter in which single-target detection has been fully, systematically, and rigorously unified with single-target tracking; and in which real-time algorithmic implementation is accomplished using state-of-the-art particle-systems filtering. The proposed work is partially based on basic research in multisensor-multitarget data fusion, detection, tracking, and identification conducted by LMTS and funded over the last six years by the U.S. Army Research Office. This work will also be greatly facilitated by existing development in nonlinear filtering and joint detection, tracking and discrimination being conducted by SSCI and LMTS for agencies such as the Missile Defense Agency and the Air Force Research Laboratory under four different R&D contracts. The major objectives of Phase I will be to: (1) provide a sound Bayesian nonlinear filtering paradigm for the general investigation of joint detection and tracking in hostile sensing environments; (2) develop new Bayes-filter concept-feasibility algorithms which account for target non-existence, clutter, jamming, ECM, etc.; (3) perform simulation, analysis, and limited-complexity proof-of-concept demonstrations using simulated radar data; (4) select one or more of these candidates for further implementation in a potential Phase II effort; and (5) document the results in a Final Report. Phase II will emphasize the development of more sophisticated prototype versions of the integrated data fusion and sensor resource management algorithms developed in Phase I. Commercial applications of the approach will also be investigated by SSCI and LMTS during Phase I and fully developed during Phase II. Detection and tracking are some of the key technologies for global surveillance, precision strike, air superiority and defense, which are three of the seven science and technology thrust areas identified by the Director of Defense Research and Engineering. The current limitations are due to poor understanding of how to model, fuse, and filter data from multiple sources. The proposed R&D addresses all of these problems. |
| ADVANCED DEVICE TECHNOLOGY, INC.
8 Raymond Ave, Suite #4 Salem, NH 03079 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(603) 894-1402
Dr. Peter J. Kannam MDA 03-039 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Multi-spectral VLWIR Focal Plane Arrays for EKV Seekers |
| Abstract: | We propose to develop Multi-Spectral VLWIR Focal Plane Arrays for Exo-atmospheric Kill Vehicle (EKV) Seekers. The innovative features are: 1) Detector structures are grown on Type II Strained Layer Superlattices (SLS) material in a Molecular Beam Epitaxial (MBE) reactor by using Migration Enhanced Epitaxial Technique. 2) Detailed analysis is conducted by using 8- band k.p. model to design SLS structures for Very-Long Wavelength (24um) range. 3) Co-Located SLS Structures are grown for VLWIR1 (10-16um) and VLWIR2 (16-24um) waveband ranges with Al(x)Ga(1-x)As/InAs SLS layers. 4) The readout circuitry and the interconnect scheme are designed to detect the two waveband signals in a simultaneous fashion during each frame. 5) 320 x 256 element Dual Band Detector array is integrated with high speed and low noise ROIC arrays. 6) The ROIC device is designed to operate at 77K, since the SLS technology is capable of producing VLWIR detectors to operate at a comparatively higher operating temperature of 77K. Si-based VLWIR focal plane array, on the other hand, requires extra design features to cool the detector array and to operate the ROIC array at very low temperature level of 20K with the associated cost and design complexities. 7) SLS structures are grown on GaSb substrate and the detectors are fabricated with Silicon-Nitride passivation. These structures are expected to produce higher radiation-hardened devices as compared HgCdTe wafers grown on CdZnTe substrate and fabricated with Silicon Diode passivation. High Performance Al(x)Ga(1-x)Sb/InAs detectors were already fabricated and tested for SWIR(1-3um) waveband. The results showed: Detectivity (cm-Hz (1/2)/W) = 1E12 at 77K, 1.4E11 at 250K, 2E10 at 300K and quantum efficiency (n) = 72% at 300K. During Phase 1, the growth of Al(x)Ga(1-x)Sb/GaSb SLS structures will be optimized and wafers will be grown for VLWIR1 (10-16um) and VLWIR2 (16-24um) wavebands and detector fabrication will be initiated. Also during Phase 1, methods to improve the speed and lower the noise of the ROIC will be investigated. During a potential Phase 2, 4 x 4 element Co-Located Dual Band Detector Arrays will be fabricated and integrated with high speed, low noise ROICs. Also during Phase 2, 320 x 256 element VLWIR focal Plane Arrays will be designed. During a potential Phase 3, IR Camera will be designed and built with Dual Band VLWIR focal plane arrays to operate at 77K temperature levels. ADT is presently working on a Phase 1 SBIR Contract for MDA entitled "Co-located Dual Band (VLWIR1/VLWIR2) Focal Plane Arrays for Space Applications". Under the on-going project, Co-located Dual Band Detector Arrays are being developed on SLS material to cover VLWR1 (10-16 um) and VLWIR2 (16-24 um) wavebands. Under the proposed project, Dual VLWIR detector arrays will be integrated with high speed, low noise ROICs. The proposed approaches will give state-of-the-art Multi-color VLWIR detectors for advanced missile seekers High performance, Multi-spectral VLWIR focal plane arrays on low cost, large area substrates is a basic requirement for several programs in the commercial and military sectors. The growth of SLS structures on GaSb substrates allows the development of FPAs with mature fabrication methods and uniform material properties. The large size of the substrate will allow the development of very large format focal plane arrays. The military applications include: 1) EKV missile seekers, 2) airborne remote sensing 3) the combined threat warning and reconnaissance applications, 4) target discrimination, 5) counter-measure rejection and 6) clutter rejection. The commercial applications include: 1) medical imaging 2) night vision equipment for law enforcement agencies and for navigation, 3) environmental monitoring and 4) process control for manufacturing. |
| AVYD DEVICES, INC.
2925 COLLEGE AVENUE, UNIT A-1 COSTA MESA, CA 92626 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(714) 751-8553
Dr. Honnavalli R Vydyanath MDA 03-039 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Dual Wave Band VLWIR HgCdTe Focal Plane Array Technology |
| Abstract: | In Phase I, we plan to demonstrate the feasibility of our approach to develop a dual wave band VLWIR HgCdTe focal plane array technology via demonstration of dual color VLWIR detectors with minimal crosstalk and high performance ion both the VLWIR colors Applications in geophysics, geology, and remote/environmental IR sensing by NASA and civil airspace users. |
| EPIR, LTD.
590 Territorial Drive, Suite B Bolingbrook, IL 60440 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(630) 771-0203
Ms. Hye Son Jung MDA 03-039 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Multi-color VLWIR Focal Plane Array |
| Abstract: | Infrared focal plane arrays that are capable of simultaneously detecting more than one wavelength are critical for improved clutter rejection, target identification, and range. Future infrared systems applications would greatly benefit from multi-color sensors by replacing the current DoD technology that uses separate focal plane arrays with different cutoff wavelengths. We propose to design and develop a multi-color infrared detector array technology based on HgTe/CdTe superlattices grown by molecular beam technology. Such superlattices offer the flexibility to produce detectors with various combinations of wavelength sensitivity, for example MWIR-LWIR, LWIR-VLWIR or VLWIR1-VLWIR2. The proposed technology overcomes the compositional uniformity problems and excessive dark currents of detectors that employ VLWIR mercury cadmium telluride alloy material. If this project proves to be successful, it will enable the commercialization of multi-color FPAs based on heterostructure HgTe/CdTe superlattices for various space-based earth and atmospheric condition imaging, environmental monitoring and natural resource assessment and management applications. |
| FORUN TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
1 Serina Drive Plainsboro, NJ 08536 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(609) 720-1181
Dr. Chang H. Qiu MDA 03-039 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Multi-color VLWIR Focal Plane Array |
| Abstract: | There is a need for multicolor far infrared detection with increased operating temperatures, resolution, and dynamic range. We are proposing to develop a dual band infrared detector based on transfer-doped multi-quantum wells made of III-V nitride semiconductors. During Phase I, the proposed detector will be designed and fabricated. Dual band far infrared absorption will be demonstrated at low temperatures. In Phase II, the design and the growth conditions will be optimized and prototype multicolor very long wavelength infrared focal plane array will be built. The responsivity in far infrared wavelengths, resolution, dynamic range, and spatial uniformity will be evaluated. Successful completion of the project may provide low-cost sensitive VLWIR focal plane array operating at higher temperatures than prior art. Infrared imaging and space surveillance; Public safety and security; Medical equipment, Search and Rescue. |
| MAUNA KEA INFRARED, LLC
159 Kalanikoa St. Suite 103 Hilo, HI 96720 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(808) 933-1814
Mr. Douglas W Toomey MDA 03-039 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Multi-color VLWIR Focal Plane Array |
| Abstract: | The Spectral Signature Imager(SSI) described in this proposal is a broadband LWIR or VLWIR imager with a quickly changable programmable filter that functions as a multi-sensor seeker for a variety of applications. It is coupled with a high speed processor capable of realtime optimization of sensor parameters to maximize detection sensitivity. The programmable filter camera can simplify seeker design while adding significant improvements in detection and discrimination of targets. This design is suitable for missle seekers and astronomy applications. |
| SVT ASSOC., INC.
7620 Executive Drive Eden Prairie, MN 55344 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(952) 934-2100
Dr. Peter Chow MDA 03-039 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Dual Wavelength Infrared Detector for VLWIR Applications |
| Abstract: | High performance very long wavelength infrared (VLWIR) detectors play a critical role in the early detection of long range missiles. However, a single spectral wavelength (color) detector may be inadequate due to target spectral complexity and background interference. A multi-spectral focal plane array could provide important information that enhances target tracking and discrimination ability of anti-missile systems. The current technologies for detection in this wavelength regime have serious material performance issues or require cyrocoolers that are bulky with limited lifetimes. InAs/GaInSb type II superlattices show great promise as an alternative technology for Very Long Wavelength Infrared (VLWIR) detectors. They have higher operating temperatures and greater detectivity than current technologies. We plan to investigate the development of a dual-color focal plane array (FPA) for detection in the > 15 mm range. The Phase I work will lead to better understanding of the material growth and detector performance. This material system has detection capability from 2-30 um. Within the infrared range various products can be developed including thermal and medical imaging, and pollution monitoring.Dual-color detectors offer greater discrimination. |
| ATEC, INC.
387 Technology Drive College Park, MD 20742 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 403-1744
Dr. John Lawler MDA 03-040 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Innovative Two-Phase Heat Spreader For X-Band T/R Modules |
| Abstract: | We propose to develop a T/R module housing that incorporates two-phase thin-film evaporators adjacent to each T/R module in order to increase greatly the lateral spreading within the housing. Our unique thin-film evaporators remove large amounts of heat via ultra thin-film evaporation of a working fluid. After evaporation, the fluid's vapors pass through a semi-permeable membrane and condense on a surface in contact with the T/R module board. The lower thermal resistance of our T/R module housing will reduce the operating temperatures of future higher-power MMIC's, which will increase the reliability of the radar system. Our proposed design has many advantages. The cooling mechanism is ideal for the limited space available inside a T/R module housing. The thin-film evaporators will be able to remove heat at rates of up to 200 W/cm2, which is comparable to spray cooling methods but with lower power and space requirements and fewer ancillary components. Our thin-film evaporators incorporated into the T/R module housing will reduce the thermal gradient across the housing and allow the operation of the radar system at high power densities and frequencies. Similar active cooling packaging systems could be designed for other high-heat flux electronic devices, such as solid-state lasers, electronic power modules, computer network servers, and computer workstations with multiple processors. ATEC is currently working on developing a potentially high volume electronic cooling product utilizing our thin-film evaporator technology. |
| CERAMATEC, INC.
2425 South 900 West Salt Lake City, UT 84119 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(801) 978-2134
Mr. Merrill Wilson MDA 03-040 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Development of a SiC Micro-Evaporator for Evaporative Cooling of GaN Power Amplifiers |
| Abstract: | This Small Business Innovation Research Phase 1 project will develop novel devices capable of actively cooling high power electronics using ceramic micro-channel evaporatos. Microelectronics with demanding thermal management characteristics are used predominantly as microprocessors and power electronics (HDTV modules, higher power logic and power transmit/receive). The number of microprocessors sold each year now exceeds a billion. These novel cooling devices can be integrated with semiconductor device manufacturers and do multi-cooling tasks. The potential market size exceeds ten million units per month in the US. The miniaturization of active cooling systems allows for high power electronics to be cooled in an efficient manner and minimize thermal gradients within the electronic devices. These ceramic (silicon carbide) materials have been proven to be thermally and mechanically compatible with integrated circuits. Through this Phase 1 effort, micro-coolers will be developed that increase the gas, fluid and heat transport within the system; yielding higher cooling rates. The research will examine and optimize, through fabrication and characterization, a micro-channel based evaporator capable of cooling high power GaN based power amplifiers. The advancement of electronics has progressed to the point where heat dissipation is becoming the limiting factor in design. By utilizing these novel micro-coolers, high power electronics (such as power amplifiers, communication electronics and computing electronics), performance can be increased and new technologies explored. Additionally, where space is a premium as in portable electronics found in transmit and receive modules, notebook computers and cell phones, more efficient cooling leads to smaller packages and more powerful electronics. |
| IJ RESEARCH, INC.
1965 Blair Avenue Santa Ana, CA 92705 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(949) 253-8522
Dr. Rick Yoon MDA 03-040 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Thermal Management of GaN Based Power Amplifiers for X-Band Radars (XBR) |
| Abstract: | Advancements in high heat flux thermal management technology and its successful integration into future GaN-based microwave amplifiers are imperative to meet the long-term requirements of future radar systems. The GaN-based devices will operate with a high heat flux up to 1000W/cm2. However, the currently available technology is limited to around 200 W/cm2. In this project, IJ Research proposes a novel hybrid double side cooling (HDSC) technique. It is based on a unique integration of an innovative microchannel and microjet design along with the use of high thermal conductivity materials and a high latent heat coolant. We also will demonstrate our propriety 3-dimneison network microchannel cooling (3DNMC) and microjet cooling, and compare with this new proposed concept. These thermal management approaches will be able to offer a heat flux capacity of more than 1 kw/cm2 with a junction temperature increase less than 20C, a heat-removal capacity far better than the market-available product. They are also cost-effective and lightweight. This new approach will provide an extremely efficient heat dissipation method, significantly enhancing heat-flux capability to more than 1,000 W /cm2. It is also a low-cost, compact, flexible thermal management solution. Its applications include high power amplifier, advanced radar, power module and motor-control for power conditioning electronics, various power system and hybrid electric drive. Its applications also include laser diodes and solid-state lasers, etc. The potential benefits are not only for the Navy, but also for other DoD agencies and commercial sectors. |
| MAINSTREAM ENGINEERING CORP.
200 Yellow Place, Pines Industrial Center Rockledge, FL 32955 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(321) 631-3550
Dr. Robert P. Scaringe MDA 03-040 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Demonstration of a High Thermal Conductivity Air Cooled Heat Sink using Carbon Nanotube Composite |
| Abstract: | This proposal will demonstrate a composite material containing aligned carbon nanotubes with thermal conductivity far in excess of traditional copper or aluminum. A unique process for fabricating the aligned carbon nanotubes (CNT) into to a very highly loaded CNT porous composite will be demonstrated in Phase I. Limited thermal conductivity and convective heat transfer experiments will be performed to demonstrate the improvements. The aligned Carbon Nanotube Composite (CNC) will be fabricated into an air-cooled heat sink and demonstrated. In addition to the potential for a thermal conductivity that approaches graphite (6600 W/mK, compared to 390 W/mK for copper), the CNC heat sink is ideal for direct chemical bonding to solid-state electronic devices, thereby eliminating interfacial thermal resistance. This extremely high thermal conductivity material is ideal as a heat-spreading device, which can ultimately be fabricated into air-cooled heat sinks and chemically bonded directly to GaN components as well as other high energy density electronics. Phase I will demonstrate a high thermal conductivity composite heat sink composed of aligned carbon nanotubes with enhanced thermal conductivity, enhanced convective heat transfer, and improved interface thermal conductance. Phase I will include manufacturing techniques, design specifications, experimental data and cost analysis. This effort will experimentally demonstrate the performance of a thermally conductive material that can be fabricated into air cooled heat sinks and related thermal devices to provide a heat flux capability that far exceeds traditional copper or aluminum materials. The proposed material would be applicable to all types of air-cooled heat sinks. In addition to the MDA applications, other potential applications include commercial or military electronics cooling (high-power electronics, supercomputers, electronic switchgear, and avionics). Mainstream has performed a commercialization study and the commercial potential is tremendous. A commercialization partner has been secured as well as Phase II matching funds. |
| METAL MATRIX CAST COMPOSITES, INC.
101 Clematis Avenue, Unit #1 Waltham, MA 02453 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 893-4449
Dr. James A. Cornie MDA 03-040 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Super High Thermal Conductivity CTE Matched GaN and SiC Power Amplifier Packaging: Hybridized Graphite Fiber Reinforced Al and Cu Alloys |
| Abstract: | An order of magnitude increase in heat flux of multi-die passive heat sink materials is proposed. High performance graphite fiber reinforced aluminum and copper alloys are precisely CTE matched to diverse substrates such as CVD diamond, SiC, Si, GaN, GaAs, alumina and beryllia, by varying the volume loading of planar-isotropic graphite fiber preforms prior to infiltration with molten matrix alloy. By strategically locating oriented thermal pyrolytic graphite (TPG) inserts within the preform, through-plane conductivity is increased more than a factor ten (1300 W/mK). In-plane conductivity to the system sink is increased by a factor of >5 to 1100 W/mK while maintaining CTE matching to the die or substrate. In a second approach, an array of highly conductive K1100 graphite fibers formed into stiff wires are inserted into a planar-isotropic graphite preform below the die mounting location prior to metal infiltration. A small volume fraction of K-1100 "Z" inserted wires will increase the through-plane conductivity to ~400 W/mK in Cu matrix systems. In this option, "Z" conductivity is enhanced while CTE matching is maintained. Since reinforcement is selectively applied only to die-mount locations, heat transport is increased by a factor of two while additional materials costs are minimal. Expensive active thermal management systems are eliminated in advanced radar systems. A 10 fold increase in heat transport capacity increases the possible number of dies in a package by a factor of 10. This translates to a tenfold decrease in cost. Current troubled designs with hot spots can be cured by selective application of option B. This technology enables WBG materials insertion into advanced radar systems. Lightweight aluminum versions of the hybridized solutions will enable lower launch weights and lower system weights in airborne or lighter-than-air-borne applications. |
| MEZZO SYSTEMS
LBTC, Rm D-104, South Stadium Dr. Baton Rouge, LA 70803 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(225) 334-6394
Mr. Andrew B. McCandless MDA 03-040 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Micro-jet Impingement Boiling Array |
| Abstract: | This is a proposal for developing a novel boiling system to remove heat fluxes of up to 1kW/cm2, using an array of impinging micro-jets. The use of an array of micro-jets with diameters in the range of 200-500 microns, allows for removal of large heat fluxes at coolant flow rates, which can be up to one order of magnitude less than the coolant requirement for conventional-size (diameter of order of 2-5 mm.) impinging jets. Furthermore, each jet is configured to act independently of neighboring jets. Thus, the array size can be made arbitrarily large to match the size of the target area. Very high heat fluxes are generated in applications such as air- and space- based lasers, power generation systems, and high power T/R modules. These heat fluxes must be removed while maintaining the maximum temperature of cooled devices below a critical value. This, in turn, translates to a maximum temperature at the device/heat sink interface. In boiling systems, the temperature at this interface can be controlled by the saturation temperature of the coolant, which can be varied over a wide range through proper selection of the coolant type as well as the operating pressure of the system. Once developed, MIBA will provide low weight, low cost, compact heat exchangers with extremely high heat removal rate per weight and volume. We believe that MIBA will find applications in a wide range of technologies in both the military and commercial sectors such as electronic/photonic cooling and aerospace. Innovations in high-powered electronics/optics result in ever increasing demands on the cooling system. These demands require higher power densities, higher frequencies, increased functionality, improved reliability, lower cost, and are pulled by user demand for higher power rating. The MJCA is able to reverse fit into many existing systems with little modification and will provide the system increased functionality, reduced cost, and improved reliability. In addition |