NAVY - 307 Phase I Selections from the 03.1 Solicitation

---------- NAVY ----------

307 Phase I Selections from the 03.1 Solicitation

(In Topic Number Order)

ANALYTICAL MANAGEMENT LABORATORIES, INC. 15130 South Keeler Rd. Olathe, KS 66062
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(913) 829-0101 Dr. Tenkasi S. Viswanathan NAVY 03-001 Selected for Award
Title:	Field Chemical Analysis Tool
Abstract:	An effective field chemical analysis tool (FCAT) that meets criteria for portability, selectivity, and sensitivity is described. The FCAT consists of a solid phase microextraction (SPME) needle trap for sample collection and preparation, flash chromatography for compound separation, and mass spectrometry for definitive identification. The FCAT will incorporate state of the art fuel cell technology for portable power, geographic positioning systems for the identification of the sampling locations and satellite-based wireless devices for data transmission. Options for sample collection for various media such as air, soil, and water are discussed along with specific applications, which will include toxic compounds, industrial chemicals, and chemical warfare agents. The tool that will be developed will have a variety of civil and military applications ranging from environmental site assessment, industrial hygiene testing, screening at mass transportation interfaces and in homeland security monitoring.

CAVITON 702 Scottswood, Suite 200 Urbana, IL 61802
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(217) 328-0481 Dr. Cy Herring NAVY 03-001 Selected for Award
Title:	Field Chemical Analysis Tool
Abstract:	Emission spectroscopy based microdischarge sensors will be adapted to a gas chromatography system for the rapid detection of chemical agents in the field. These systems will be tested to determine optimum column length for seperation and integration time. Microdischarge detectors are rapid, real-time sensors, capable of sub-parts per billion detection of a wide range of atomic and molecular species. They are ideal as gas chromatography detectors due to their small size and low flow requirements, a potetial shortcoming of other available technologies. Additionally, these detectors provide a wealth of spectroscopic data, providing for accurate determination of chemicals present in air, with little chance of false alarms. The entire detection system will be self contained, battery operated, and robust enough for field deployment in its final form. Portable chemical analysis in a hand-held, rugged package will provide a safe effective source of chemical agent detection for protection of the warfighter. A portable, hand held, hazardous chemical sensor will also be applicable for hazmat and fire department use, as well as for the screening of mail, luggage, and security monitoring of buildings. Additionally, the technology developed with this project will be applicable to any situation where size and portability requrements are placed on a chemical analysis tool, suchas in environmental survey applications.

CONSTELLATION TECHNOLOGY CORP. 7887 Bryan Dairy Rd., Suite 100 Largo, FL 33777
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(727) 547-0600 Mr. Jay Sheffer NAVY 03-001 Selected for Award
Title:	Field Portable GC-MS
Abstract:	The instrument of choice for identifying low-level amounts of CW agents and other volatile, highly toxic substances is gas chromatography - mass spectrometry (GC-MS). This analytical tool has the sensitivity required for performing such low-level analyses, and the ability to provide irrefutable confirmation of the identity of a volatile or semi-volatile substance, including CW agents. However, commercially available GC-MS instruments that are rugged enough to withstand the extreme conditions of outdoor environments and are able to provide results in a timely manner cannot also provide analytical results of laboratory quality. However, emerging technological improvements in gas chromatography (i.e. "Fast" GC) have greatly reduced analysis time from tens of minutes to 1 or 2 minutes. These improvements include redesign of the oven heaters and the vacuum system. By utilizing both of these new technologies in combination with reliable, commercially available mass spectrometers, it is now possible to construct a portable GC-MS capable of being transported by one person, performing analyses in a matter of minutes, and providing reliable analytical results of laboratory quality. Constellation Technology Corporation (Constellation) proposes the incorporation of these technologies into an already existing portable GC-MS produced and sold exclusively by Constellation as a commercial instrument (CT-1128 Portable GC-MS). The existing Constellation field-portable CT-1128 GC-MS unit weighs 75 pounds and provides reliable data of laboratory quality in approximately 17 minutes. The unit is fully capable of detecting a wide variety of volatile and semi-volatile compounds including, but not limited to, CW agents and their surrogates, controlled substances (i.e. illicit drugs), explosives, and industry-related solvents and chemicals. In addition, the CT-1128 GC-MS is fully compatible with SPME syringes. This research will reduce the weight by 25% and the analysis time by 80%. This will make the field portable GC-MS truly useful for performing on-site analyses for various law enforcement agencies, National Guard, first responders, and the military.

CYTERRA CORP. 85 First Avenue Waltham, MA 02451
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 697-2550 Dr. Freeman (Bud) Fraim NAVY 03-001 Selected for Award
Title:	Field Chemical Analysis Tool
Abstract:	CyTerra Corporation proposes the development of a new Field Chemical Analysis Tool (FCAT) to meet the increasing chemical analysis needs of a sophisticated and mobile US military force. The key Phase I task will be the development of a re-circulating air oven that will provide temperature programming for GC columns in an oven fabricated from commodity items for low cost. Any commercially available GC column up to a 30-meters in length will be accommodated by the proposed oven design. The overall system is expected to consume 750 watts, weigh 35 lbs and occupy 0.15-m3 volume. The anticipated analysis time is less than 90 seconds, and the overall analytical cycle time (i.e., analysis time + cool-down time) will be less than 10 minutes. This novel low thermal mass heating technology provides the basis for a modular approach to field chemical analysis. In Phase I, a Re-Circ heating oven breadboard will be interfaced to existing SPME and MS detection equipment to validate the FCAT design concept. It is anticipated that FCAT will capable of providing laboratory quality chemical analyses in the field. The overall goal of the proposed project is to develop a modular FCAT with configurable sample introduction and detection modules. Taking advantage of years of experience developing field instruments based on fast gas chromatography (GC), CyTerra Corporation proposes the development of a modular FCAT. The anticipated benefits include meeting the field industrial hygiene analysis needs of a mobile military with a sophisticated chemical analysis tool that has configurable interfaces for both sample introduction and detection. The immediate benefits are providing a compact, low power, high performance chemical analyzer in a package suitable to a mobile, fast-deployed military force. A modular instrument design will be the cornerstone of the FCAT such that field operation is simple, field maintenance is infrequent, and set-up time of 15 minutes. Since the low thermal mass oven design is universal for all commercial GC columns and the instrument design is modular, there is the potential to meet many environmental, industrial hygiene and national security chemical analysis needs such as water and air quality, explosives, drugs of abuse or chemical warfare agents. Additionally, since the oven will be fabricated from existing commodity products, the manufacturing cost will be low. The FCAT system controller will be based on existing powerful computer technology making it a versatile standalone tool.

GRIFFIN ANALYTICAL TECHNOLOGIES, INC. Suite E1-300, 3000 Kent Avenue West Lafayette, IN 47906
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(765) 775-1701 Dr. Garth Patterson NAVY 03-001 Selected for Award
Title:	Field Chemical Analysis Tool
Abstract:	The purpose of this Phase I effort is to demonstrate the feasibility of using an integrated field portable instrument for field chemical analysis. Currently, no fieldable chemical analysis technology is available that can provide real-time monitoring of hazardous compounds in complex samples such as ambient air. The proposed field-portable integrated SPME sampling, flash GC, miniature mass spectrometer (MMS) will meet this operational need. The performance and capabilities of the MMS instrument will be best in class by providing a level of selectivity that is unmatched by current fieldable mass spectrometers or ion mobility spectrometers. Development of this system will transform traditional sample-to-lab analysis to lab-to-sample analysis. This concept will provide high-end chemical analysis in the field with the potential to save lives and provide a competitive advantage to U.S. armed forces. The performance specifications of this instrument will be demonstrated in Phase I and a full prototype will be developed during Phase II. The instrument that will be developed as part of this Phase I effort will be able to detect chemical warfare agents in the field, but will also find use in Homeland Security, customs monitoring, airport screening, and environmental protection.

IMPLANT SCIENCES CORP. 107 Audubon Road, #5 Wakefield, MA 01880
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 246-0700 Dr. Daniel E. Jonsen NAVY 03-001 Selected for Award
Title:	Field Portable Flash Collection Flash SPME-Flash GC-IMS
Abstract:	Implant Sciences Corporation (ISC) proposes to create a Field Portable Flash Collection Flash SPME-Flash GC-IMS unit for the detection of trace chemicals in samples or the environment. The unit will incorporate a cyclonic gas collection nozzle with an integrated high-intensity flash lamp, which will allow for the sampling of volatiles and semi-volatiles from as far as 5 inches away from the surface of interest without significant loss of analytes to the surrounding air. The gases collected by the cyclone nozzle will pass over a standard SPME fiber for a predetermined length of time, after which the fiber will be flash desorbed into a flash GC column. The chemical species exiting the flash GC will be detected by a modified, portable IMS unit developed at ISC which has high resolution, unusually high sensitivity, and has a demonstrated capability of detecting ambient explosive vapors at parts-per-trillion concentration levels. Detection of a wide variety of trace chemicals of interest in the areas of national defense; environmental assessment; water quality management; airline, postal, shipping and general security; and the prevention of, or quick response to, terrorist attacks involving the use of chemical and biological weapons or poisons.

SYAGEN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 1411 Warner Avenue, Suites D Tustin, CA 92780
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(714) 258-4400 Dr. Jack A. Syage NAVY 03-001 Selected for Award
Title:	GC/TOFMS Field Chemical Analyzer
Abstract:	In this SBIR Phase I project we will demonstrate a field-portable chemical analyzer based on a SPME interface to a compact GC/MS system. Syagen has pioneered photoionization mass spectrometry (PI MS) and will use its field-portable PI/QitTof MS as the baseline detector. This system will be modified to meet the requirements of this topic in the following ways: (1) redesigning inlet to accommodate SPME samples, (2) integrating and optimizing a flash GC subassembly, (3) constructing and implementing a dual PI/EI source, (4) developing SPME and direct sampling strategies. The end result of this research will be a feasibility demonstration and definition of a system that will significantly outperform competitive systems with regard to multiple compound detection, sensitivity, speed, and accuracy. Automated field portable detection systems with benchtop performance will have numerous applications, particularly if it combines chemical weapons, drugs, and other illicit chemical detection capabilities. Specific applications include: (1) rapid response alarm monitor for terrorist acts, (2) force protection, (3) preventive medicine, (4) treaty compliance monitoring, (5) general environmental monitoring.

ECHO TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 5250 Cherokee Avenue Alexandria, VA 22313
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 443-0066 Dr. Mary Beth Tabacco NAVY 03-002 Selected for Award
Title:	Extending the Life of Biosensors with Dendrimers
Abstract:	Echo Technologies, Inc. (ETI) is developing optical biosensors for detection and discrimination of biological warfare agents. The sensors incorporate molecular recognition and fluorescent reporter molecules that are chosen to uniquely detect classes of biological material. Degradation of the fluorescent reporter molecules is one of the important parameters affecting sensor stability and lifetime. Dendrimers are highly branched polymers containing well-defined internal cavities that can therefore function as "host" molecules for one or more "guest" molecules. Preliminary studies suggest that dendrimers could be incorporated to improve sensor properties such as operational or storage lifetime. Echo Technologies proposes to utilize the unique dendrimer characteristics to greatly improve the stability, and operational and storage lifetime of bacterial biosensors. In Phase I the protocols will be developed to incorporate dendrimers of different size and bearing different functional groups into the sensor membrane. The sensors will be tested using aerosolized and waterborne bacterial challenges to demonstrate enhanced performance. In Phase I ETI will team with Michigan Molecular Institute (MMI), a recognized leader in the development and characterization of new dendrimer materials. In Phase II the dendrimer-enhanced biosensors will be more fully characterized and the approach will be extended to biosensors for other Biological Warfare Agents. The proposed use of new dendrimer materials to improve the performance of sensors to detect BWA's will greatly broaden the potential applications for these sensors. The resulting sensors systems will be easier to use, lower cost, and will minimize need for user intervention and logistics requirements. Equally significant is that the proposed approach could be a more generally applicable enabling technology for other optical sensors that contain fluorescent reagents or chromophores. This would include sensors based on antibody/antigen recognition or DNA probes on substrates as diverse as fiber optics to disposable colorimetric "tickets".

LUNA INNOVATIONS, INC. 2851 Commerce Street Blacksburg, VA 24060
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(540) 953-4262 Mr. Charles Pennington NAVY 03-002 Selected for Award
Title:	Dendrimer Coated Long-Period-Grating (LPG) Biosensor
Abstract:	The detection of Biological Warfare agents (BW) is typically conducted using antibody-based techniques. DNA aptomer-based Long Period Grating (LPG) sensors provide the specificity to accurately distinguish the target from potential interference that would produce false positive results. Stability is always a main concern for a sensor-based detection platform. Methods to improve sensor stability have focused on using detergents, salts, protein, and pH. Luna proposes to use dendrimer coating based biosensors to improve stability of BW detectors. This new class of highly branched dendritic macromolecules (dendrimers) has gained attention and is being used to increase the solubility of drugs, produce DNA biosensors, and deliver oligonucleotides to cells. Advantages of dendrimers include structural homogeneity, internal porosity, controllable composition, and multiple homogeneous chain ends. The goal of the proposed program is to enhance the aptomer sensor performance by utilizing dendrimers. Through corporate partnerships and government programs, Luna has successfully demonstrated the detection of protein-protein, DNA-DNA, and DNA-protein interactions with the LPG technology. Improvements in biosensor stability will result in systems that will meet requirements that currently are lacking in BW biosensors.

SENSERA, INC. 200 Turnpike Road Chelmsford, MA 01824
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 606-2600 Dr. Senerath Palamakumbura NAVY 03-002 Selected for Award
Title:	Enhancing Biosensor Life Using Dendrimers
Abstract:	Sensera, Inc. proposes to develop novel biological warfare agent optical sensors based on dendrimers and reporter fluorescent dyes. These generic sensors do not have a biological receptor component and are convenient and cheap to assemble. The long lifetime of the proposed sensors will make them ideal for stand alone detection. During Phase 1, Sensera will develop proof-of-concept bacterial and endospore sensors, which will lay the foundation for a small point detector in Phase 2. During Phase 2, we will also construct actual prototype sensor arrays based on the individual sensors developed in Phase 1. Point detectors consisting of these sensor arrays will monitor both air and water for the presence of bacteria and endospores. Sensera's generic optical sensors will have broad potential markets in homeland defense and environmental monitoring. Due to their low cost and long lifetimes, they will be well suited as continuous monitoring devices and for first responder applications in private and public establishments.

ISOTRON CORP. 1300 N. Northlake Way Seattle, WA 98103
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(206) 632-0713 Mr. Henry Lomasney NAVY 03-003 Awarded: 07/01/03
Title:	Single Component, Zero Volatile Organic Compound, Chemical Agent Resistant Coating
Abstract:	This Small Business Innovative Research Phase 1 Project provides a novel approach to the development of a single pack and zero-VOC Topcoat for the Marine Corps' land based equipment. The technical approach involves a comparison of two polymer concepts. One utilizes a water borne acrylic, the other a Moisture Cured Urethane (MCU). These coatings represent the latest in the state of the art materials to meet the durability, performance and application demands that are envisioned by the military for the foreseeable future. The resin synthesis will show the feasibility of combining cost effective polymer processing concepts with the use of an inorganic pore filing media. These features represent significant advances in the science of high performance chemical agent resistant coatings. The work will show the feasibility of supplementing the barrier properties with a mechanism to detoxify any CWA agent that comes into contact with the coating's filler material. Such a feature compliments the polymer's cross-linking, as a means to mitigate chemical agent transport through the film. These formulations will be tested using a screening protocol that will identify the polymer and processing approach. This innovative approach to the design of high performance industrial coatings will have a profound impact on a global market that exceeds 5 billion dollars in annual revenues. There is a keen interest in materials that will meet and/or exceed the EPA requirements. This scientific advance will serve the environmental needs of the planet without a compromise in performance properties. Isotron Corporation is in a unique position to advance this science into a viable coating system and is prepared to make these materials available to the world.

POLYCOMP TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 13963 Recuerdo Drive Del Mar, CA 92014
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 530-2151 Dr. Chuk Leung NAVY 03-003 Awarded: 07/08/03
Title:	Single Component, Zero Volatile Organic Compound, Chemical Agent Resistant Coating
Abstract:	Current DOD chemical agent resistant coating (CARC) topcoats are required to provide protection to the substrate from the harsh natural/service-imposed operational environments. Current coating systems are solvent-borne two components that require accurate metering of the components. PolyComp Technologies proposes to develop novel one component, zero VOC, ambient curing CARC topcoats that can be applied by conventional methods. Based on polyurethane building blocks, the coating will develop novel morphology upon cure, creating a water impermeable surface that is stable towards CB decontamination fluids, as well as satisfying the requirements as drop-in replacement for current polyurethane coatings The novel coating system can be used as dorp-in replacements for current topcoats in USMC as well as assets in other Services. The coating can also be used in commercial chemical resistant applications such as chemical plants, and protection for Homeland Defense equipments

SPECTRUM COATINGS LABORATORIES, INC. 217 Chapman Street Providence, RI 02905
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(401) 781-4847 Mr. Earl T. Faria Jr. NAVY 03-003 Awarded: 07/08/03
Title:	Development of a Single Component, Zero Volatile Organic Compound, Chemical Agent Resistant Coating
Abstract:	Spectrum Coating Laboratories, Inc. proposes to develop a single component, zero VOC topcoat using moisture cured resins and diluents and evaluate the feasibility of these materials for use in chemical agent resistant coatings. Spectrum will synthesize the resins and diluents, conduct a pigment compatibility study and characterize the resultant formulations. The proposed materials and formulations are based on Spectrum's chemical agent resistant topcoats currently in use by the USMC. This approach is expected to reduce the cost of development, and expedite the commercialization of this technology. The coating requires no specialized equipment and allows for rapid change of color in the field. This material can be transitioned into Spectrum's Commercial/Industrial coatings and Maintenance/Architectural coatings to produce single component, zero VOC materials. The result is a series of environmentally friendly coatings for use in a wide variety of applications. These coatings will allow both the federal Government and private industries to meet current and future regulations regarding VOC levels for coating facilities.

TDA RESEARCH, INC. 12345 W. 52nd Ave. Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 940-2355 Dr. William L. Bell NAVY 03-003 Awarded: 07/08/03
Title:	Single Component, Zero Volatile Organic Compound, Chemical Agent Resistant Coating
Abstract:	Topcoats on military vehicles must satisfy stringent requirements, including durability in harsh environments. Chemical agent resistant (CARC) coatings must also meet a requirement for low permeation of chemical agents into the coating. Topcoats for these applications were originally two-component (2K) solvent-based polyurethanes, and more recently single-component (1K) solvent-based and 2K waterborne polyurethanes. Single-component coatings have a distinct advantage in ease of use, and in avoiding mixing errors during application that can lead to unacceptable performance in the field. CARC coatings must also meet state and local limits on emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The ideal CARC topcoat would be a single-component coating with zero VOCs. Unfortunately, no such coating is now available. TDA Research, Inc. (TDA) proposes to develop such a zero-VOC 1K CARC topcoat. In Phase I TDA will modify the resin system to achieve satisfactory viscosity for application by spray, brush or roller. We will test film formation and coating performance, and assess formulation stability through accelerated testing. We will evaluate coating resistance to solvents, DS2 decontamination solution, and in the CARC test against live agent. In Phase II we will complete development and testing of the coating, including field tests and long-term durability studies. Single-component polyurethane coatings offer simple application and reliable performance. As environmental standards for VOC emissions on coatings tighten with improvements in technology, zero-VOC systems become more desirable. The system we propose to develop will be used not only by the U.S. military, but will also find wide use in architectural, industrial maintenance and transportation coatings where high chemical and weathering resistance is required, and where application with standard equipment and ambient curing is desired.

CORNERSTONE RESEARCH GROUP, INC. 2750 Indian Ripple Road Dayton, OH 45440
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 320-1877 Ms. Chrysa Theodore NAVY 03-004 Awarded: 07/22/03
Title:	Integrated System for AAAV Seals
Abstract:	Cornerstone Research Group Inc. (CRG) proposes to design and evaluate the components of an integrated seal design. Advanced Amphibious Assault Vehicles (AAAV) have multiple armor and hatch seals. The primary function of these seals is to ensure watertight integrity and EMI protection. The current sealing system design uses two independent seals to simultaneously achieve the necessary level of EMI protection and watertight integrity. Integration these the two seals into one seal would simplify the seal installation and removal procedure while improving critical physical and materials properties. In addition to the materials and geometric design of the integrated seal, other components of the sealing system should be evaluated. By designing and evaluating the system as a whole, rather than improving each component individually, a new system design can exceed the performance of system that was designed as individual components. The integrated seal system that will be designed and evaluated in this program offers improved EMI protection and watertight integrity in one integrated sealing system. The components of this system, which individually and collectively must meet these stringent properties, will exhibit increased electrical conductivity and increased resistance to environmental exposure. The development of materials with these improved properties, could lead to commercialization of the both the seal system as a whole, or to the commercialization of each component independently.

METSS CORP. 300 Westdale Avenue Westerville, OH 43082
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(614) 797-2200 Dr. Donald M. Bigg NAVY 03-004 Awarded: 07/23/03
Title:	Lightweight, inexpensive, corrosion inhibiting integral and/or multi-component ElectroMagnetic Interference (EMI) and environmental seals for Advanced
Abstract:	The Navy seeks a sealing system that provides air and water tight sealing for egress/ingress sites and other hatches and access panels on the Advanced Amphibious Assault Vehicle. This sealing system must also provide corrosion resistance and the maintenance of EMI shielding between sealed interfaces. METSS proposes to develop an elastomer based sealing system that provides durable air and water tightness by virtue of the compressive properties and chemical resistance of the elastomer seal. EMI shielding will result from making the elastomer suitably conductive to electrically bridge the gap being sealed. Corrosion resistance will come from a combination of the chemical resistance and electrical conductivity of the elastomer. METSS will provide the Navy with design information related to constructing and applying the seal to pertinent interfaces, as well as critical information related to the degree of compressibility required to maintain an air- and water-tight seal. The key element in this proposal is the approach taken to induce electrical conductivity. The proposed approach minimizes the amount conductive additive required to support EMI performance such that the chemical and mechanical resilience properties of the seal material are maintained. A wide variety of commercial and industrial applications require corrosion resistant, air- and water-tight seals. Among these applications are boats and land vehicles. Moreover, EMI shielding seals are required in aircraft, computer housings, and vehicle control systems. Almost all machinery can benefit from improved seals. The combination need for EMI shielding in seals and gaskets is growing as the use of electronically controlled equipment accelerates.

TRITON SYSTEMS, INC. 200 TURNPIKE ROAD Chelmsford, MA 01824
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 856-4120 Mr. Jacob Alexander NAVY 03-004 Awarded: 07/22/03
Title:	Integrated Multi-Functional Seals for AAAV
Abstract:	Triton Systems proposes to develop an integrated multi-functional seal (TIMS) that is lightweight, corrosion resistant, electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielded, chem-bio protective, and environmentally stable for the Advanced Amphibious Assault Vehicle (AAAV). This will be accomplished by combining innovative additives in an elastomeric base (EPDM/Neoprene or like), using Triton's extensive experience in the field of EMI shielding, corrosion protection and nano-technology. For this effort, Triton will adapt its InstaShiel(tm) conductive polymer technology to elastomeric seals for EMI shielding. A metal oxide-conductive polymer (MO-CP) approach will be included for corrosion resistance. Triton's ORMLAS(tm)(Organically Modified Layered Alumino Silicate) nano-technology will be used for chem-bio and barrier protection of the proposed multi-functional seal. In traditional silver and nickel filled silicone gaskets, the metal fillers oxidize over time and demonstrate significant degradation in conducting and EM shielding capabilities. Triton's innovative approach will yield a gasket material that is stable chemically and physically both on the land and sea and offers sustained EM shielding performance. Along with AAAV applications, the proposed technology can be applied to tactical composite shelters. Other opportunities for these EMI shielding gasket materials exist in such applications as shelter systems for military command/control/communications electronics, ground based mobile missile control centers, new and future generation aircraft electronic enclosures, surface and air launched missiles and weapons systems, and ground, sea and air stealth systems.

UNITECH, LLC PO Box 1679 Wake Forest, NC 27588
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(757) 723-3880 Mr. Robert C. Boyd NAVY 03-004 Selected for Award
Title:	Multi-component seals for AAAV vehicle
Abstract:	Because the AAAV operates within a particularly harsh environment, EMI seals must perform to an exceptional degree of efficiency. The access ports of the AAAV must contain the highest level of EMI protection while demonstrating outstanding sealing and anti-corrosive capabilities. Seal durability and chemical/steam resistance is an important consideration for any material selection in this program. The design concepts Unitech will explore and develop in Phase I and II of this program will continually address these important issues. Corrosion testing and EMI shielding, as well as, seal integrity will be central to all design formats. Although cost and attachment will also be important considerations in Phase I, primary emphases will center on designing the most efficient possible. Phase I efforts will also include a spray system of fabrication that has proved successful in ongoing aerospace program production. This allows layering of materials to tailor the seal's cross-section for optimal performance. Unitech will select several matrix candidates in three material categories noted for their sealing ability and strength. A silicon (RTV) currently approved and used in the F22 program will be specifically examined due to its unique properties demonstrated in 3 year R&D program. It is available commercially and can be post treated to achieve much higher levels of performance than initially advertised. UniShield fill materials (used in commercially available coatings) are already established as some of the highest performance EMI shielding materials ever tested. Listed in the National Security Agency (NSA) databases and currently used by Department of Defense (DOD) for several ongoing applications. We will also investigate several other fill materials that are highly regarded for shielding effectiveness and compatibility. We are confident an exceptional EMI seal system will result in combining these material formulations. It is expected the principle immediate usage for this type technology would be within the Department of Defense. Initial effects would concentrate on making it available for DOD's internal use, with sales to the private sector of secondary importance. Private sector use is anticipated eventually because of the continuing emphases being placed on protection of financial data and propriety industrial trade secrets. Current EMI gasket materials may not provide all the necessary environmental protection in efforts to contain data and protect equipment.

MISSISSIPPI POLYMER TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 13233 Webre Road Bay Saint Louis, MS 39520
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(228) 533-0825 Mr. Nick Malkovich NAVY 03-005 Selected for Award
Title:	Polymer-Cased Ammunition for Small Arms and Cannon Ammunition
Abstract:	Mississippi Polymer Technologies Inc. (MPT) proposes to develop a new generation of polymeric lightweight ammunition for the use by the services. Previous efforts to develop polymer cased ammunition have failed primarily because of problems associated with choice of case materials. During Phase I, MPT will execute a thorough survey of the available polymers and processing techniques, followed by the development of a comprehensive and rational development plan for implementation during Phase II. During Phase I, in addition to its core material science expertise, MPT will utilize a first Finite Element Analysis (FEA) material model of the cartridge case, developed exclusively for MPT, as well as its exclusive access to its proprietary, revolutionary Parmaxr Self Reinforced Polymers. At the conclusion of Phase I effort, MPT will deliver, in addition to the comprehensive ammunition development plan, three (3) prototypes in specified materials for the Navy testing. MPT was incorporated in January, 2000, its first employees started in June, 2000, and MPT moved into its R&D/Pilot Plant facilities in March, 2002. Since that time MPT has executed projects for the Air Force (high performance structural foams), the Army (lightweight ammunition), the NSF (rapid prototyping), and the Navy (lightweight scuttles and hatches for shipboard use). MPT has received two (2) Phase I SBIR contracts, but no Phase II contracts. Accordingly, there has been little basis for commercializing the results of previous SBIR awards. Nonetheless, MPT is making good progress in commercializing its Parmaxr Self-Reinforced Polymer technology. As one result of its R&D, MPT already has entered into a licensing deal regarding the use of Parmaxr SRPs for coating applications, a deal that included substantial up-front payments to MPT. MPT has grown to twenty-five (25) employees, developed a full pilot plant for Parmaxr SRP resins, and is engaged in advanced process development in preparation for full-scale production of Parmaxr SRP resins for commercial sales. Success in the proposed effort will be instrumental in creating commercialization opportunities for Parmaxr SRP resins. With the anticipated availability of sufficient Parmaxr SRP resin production capacity, MPT will be well poised to provide the materials needed for a wide range of commercial, value-added, Parmaxr SRP applications, including as proposed herein.

VERITAY TECHNOLOGY, INC. 4845 Millersport Highway, P.O. Box 305 East Amherst, NY 14051
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(716) 689-0177 Mr. Todd J. Cloutier NAVY 03-005 Selected for Award
Title:	Polymer-Cased Ammunition for Small Arms and Cannon Ammunition
Abstract:	Replacement of gun ammunition cartridge cases made of brass with cases made of an advanced polymer material would alleviate a portion of the weight burden for Marines and air vehicles caused by the need to carry additional gear and high-tech equipment. The replacement of brass with a high-performance plastic will be investigated for the 0.50 caliber system initially, and if successful, the technology may be transferred to 7.62-mm and 5.56-mm ammunition. 0.50 caliber guns are normally used as armament for helicopters, the Marine V-22 air vehicle, some land vehicles, and the standard Marine rifle platoon, which also has smaller caliber guns in their complement of weapons. The use of plastic cases in all of these weapons can provide a significant weight reduction benefit throughout the logistics train and especially to the end user, the Marines. The proposed program will develop and investigate the feasibility of a polymer case design(s) based on structural, mechanical, thermal and interior ballistic analyses and simulations, properties of candidate high-performance polymers, and manufacturing processes required to produce polymer cases. A search and evaluation study will be performed to identify candidate polymers; subsequently, at least one polymer and case design will be selected for Phase II experimental development, evaluation and demonstration. The successful development of plastic-cased ammunition should result in a weight reduction benefit throughout the logistics train and to the Marine and Army end users. Successful implementation into the U.S. military forces should create opportunities for foreign sales and, if the cost is suitable, for commercial sales in the civilian market.

ISOTRON CORP. 1300 N. Northlake Way Seattle, WA 98103
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(206) 632-0713 Mr. Henry Lomasney NAVY 03-006 Awarded: 07/01/03
Title:	Single Component, Zero Volatile Organic Compound, Chemical Agent Resistant Primer
Abstract:	This Small Business Innovative Research Phase 1 Project provides a novel approach to the development of a single pack and zero-VOC primer for the Marine Corps' land based equipment. The technical approach to this primer involves comparison of three polymer concepts (i.e. water borne acrylic, epoxy-ketamine, and moisture cured urethane (MCU). All will utilize VOC exempt solvents. The formulations may incorporate a nanotechnology based filler system. These coatings incorporate state of the art materials to meet the durability, performance and application demands envisioned by the military for the foreseeable future. Functionalized inorganic metal oxide nanoparticles provide a means to enhance the film's barrier properties and to detoxify any CWA agent that comes into contact with the nano-filler material. This feature reduces the demand for cross-linking as a means to mitigate chemical agent transport through the film. The development will consider the synthesis techniques that provide the best overall life cycle cost. These formulations will be tested using a simplified screening protocol that will quickly identify the candidate that has the best prospect for delivering the requisite performance. This innovative approach to the design of high performance industrial coatings will have a profound impact on a global market that exceeds 5 billion dollars in annual revenues. There is a keen interest in materials that will meet and/or exceed the EPA requirements. This scientific advance will serve the environmental needs of the planet without a compromise in performance properties. Isotron Corporation is in a unique position to advance this science into a viable coating system and is prepared to make these materials available to the world.

SPECTRUM COATINGS LABORATORIES, INC. 217 Chapman Street Providence, RI 02905
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(401) 781-4847 Mr. Earl T. Faria Jr. NAVY 03-006 Awarded: 07/08/03
Title:	Development of a Single Component, Zero Volatile Organic Compound, Chemical Agent Resistant Primer
Abstract:	Spectrum Coating Laboratories, Inc. proposes to develop a single component, zero VOC primer using moisture cured resins and diluents and evaluate the feasibility of these materials for use as primers chemical agent resistant coatings systems. Spectrum will synthesize the resins and diluents, conduct a pigment compatibility study and characterize the resultant formulations. The proposed materials and formulations are based on Spectrum's chemical agent resistant primers currently in use by the USMC. This approach is expected to reduce the cost of development, and expedite the commercialization of this technology. The primer requires no specialized equipment and allows for rapid change of color in the field This material can be transitioned into Spectrum's Commercial/Industrial coatings and Maintenance/Architectural coatings to produce single component, zero VOC materials. The result is a series of environmentally friendly coatings for use in a wide variety of applications. These coatings will allow both the federal Government and private industries to meet current and future regulations regarding VOC levels for coating facilities.

TDA RESEARCH, INC. 12345 W. 52nd Ave. Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 940-2380 Dr. Jeannine Elliott NAVY 03-006 Awarded: 07/08/03
Title:	Single Component, Zero Volatile Organic Compound, Chemical Agent Resistant Primer
Abstract:	Current chemical and corrosion resistant primers for land and amphibious military vehicles are two component solvent or waterborne epoxy coatings. Unfortunately, problems with component mixing and concentration errors with these multi-component paints often compromise coating performance in the field. Therefore, TDA Research, Inc. (TDA) proposes to develop a zero volatile organic compound, waterborne, single component, chemical agent resistant (1K Z-VOC) primer that will eliminate the need for mixing to ensure consistent coating performance and have no impact on air quality. In Phase I TDA will develop the resin system, which achieves satisfactory viscosity for application by spray, brush or roller. We will make clear coats to demonstrate the curing chemistry and we will test film formation and coating performance. In Phase II we complete development and testing of the coating, including field test and long-term durability studies. Single-component coatings offer simple application and reliable performance. They offer ease of use and eliminate the problem of mixing errors during application that can compromise performance in the field. Additionally, as environmental standards for VOC emissions on coating become increasing more stringent, zero-VOC systems become more desirable. The single-component zero-VOC epoxy system we propose to develop will be used not only by the U.S. military, but will also find wide use in architectural, industrial maintenance and transportation coatings where high chemical and weathering resistance is required, and where application with standard equipment and ambient curing is desired.

UTILITY DEVELOPMENT CORP. 112 Naylon Avenue Livingston, NJ 07039
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(973) 994-4334 Mr. Harry S. Katz NAVY 03-006 Awarded: 07/01/03
Title:	Single Component, Zero Volatile Organic Compound, Chemical Agent Resistant Primer
Abstract:	Our main objective will be to develop a single component chemical agent resistant primer which has performance suitable for U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) land based equipment as a drop-in replacement for the current exterior primers while having zero volatile organic compounds (VOCs). UDC will formulate environmentally friendly, chemical agent resistant latex with coupling agents. This material will be compatible with brush and conventional air-atomized spray application methods. Full cured performance of the final primer formulation will be obtainable at ambient room temperature conditions within 2 to 3 days. These primers will be applied on aluminum 2024T3 and steel 1010 substrates for lab testing. The primed substrates will be tested for chemical agent resistance, bond strength, corrosion protection and abrasion resistance. At the end of Phase I, we will provide a report with results and conclusions Phase II plan and cost estimate. This program will provide a single component environmentally friendly chemical agent resistant primer. This technology will be utilized by the architectural, industrial maintenance, and transportation industries for the painting of equipment requiring high chemical and weathering resistance, particularly where ambient curing and the use of standard application equipment is desired.

SUPER INDUSTRIES & SONS, INC. 492 Broadneck Road Annapolis, MD 21401
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(410) 757-8010 Mr. Michael J Superczynski NAVY 03-007 Awarded: 06/20/03
Title:	Improved Propeller De-Icing Systems
Abstract:	The de-icing systems for propellers on Navy aircraft can be improved by using electrical sliding fiber contacts and an integrated electrical contact ring assembly. The electrical sliding contacts proposed will be fiber brushes rather than solid monolithic contacts. These contacts have demonstrated the ability to carry large currents at high speed in contaminated environments of oil and dirt. The brush will be designed along with its holder to minimize losses, reduce wear, improve reliability and simplify maintenance. The fiber diameter and length will be determined to meet design goals as well as selecting the fiber material itself and its fabrication process. The slip ring electrical contact assembly will be designed using filament winding techniques to produce an integrated assembly capable of with standing expected temperature gradients, vibration and electrical heating without performance degradation of assembly failure. The best metal surface treatment of the slip rings will be determined to minimize wear and extend life. The feasibility of using an inductively coupled heater, which eliminates the sliding contracts, will be determined including its ability to meet Navy EMI requirements. The Phase I option program will fabricate a sample brush and holder designed in the base program to show feasibility. A sub scale slip ring assembly will also be constructed with one copper slip ring to demonstrate fabrication techniques. A test apparatus will be designed to simulate operating conditions for the complete de-icing systems in preparation for laboratory testing in Phase II. The proposed electrical sliding contacts and slip ring assembly will eliminate assembly failure by using advanced composite design and fabrication techniques. The use of fiber brushes will reduce wear and electrical losses while having the ability to function in adverse environments and oil contaminations. Maintenance will be a minimum with the expected time intervals of much more than 1000 hrs.

AVISYS, INC. 8801 Wall Street, Bldg. 8-800 Austin, TX 78754
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(512) 339-0031 Dr. Stanley D. Young NAVY 03-008 Selected for Award
Title:	Passive Rocket Motor Identification
Abstract:	We are proposing to develop unique and innovative Passive Missile Warning signature processing algorithms to meet threat identification needs and optimize IRCM protection for today''s military and civilian aircraft from the early generation AND today''s advanced IR missile threats. Our missile identification algorithm concepts concentrate on real time situational awareness processing of rocket motor radiated emissions, flight profiles kinematic characteristics and aircraft flight computer data to downsize the potential threat list to smaller more manageable lists for optimized tactical IRCM initiation. As the IR threat technologies advance, they also become more difficult to defeat from an IRCM perspective. It would be invaluable to know the type of missile being launched in terms of being able to narrow down the list of countermeasure techniques needed to be implemented to achieve the required aircraft protection levels. Commercialization of the rocket motor identification technology will involve product development, marketing and distribution of the associated MWS upgrades for both military and commercial IRCM applications. Primary candidates for commercialization of our MWS upgrade technology is for commercial aircraft, executive jets and Head of State IRCM applications.

SOLID STATE SCIENTIFIC CORP. 27-2 Wright Road Hollis, NH 03049
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(603) 465-5686 Dr. Richard J. Nelson NAVY 03-008 Awarded: 05/27/03
Title:	A Spectral-Temporal Sensor for Rocket Motor ID
Abstract:	We propose to design a unique sensor that will be capable of providing detection and real-time classification of rocket-propelled and explosive projectile threats from airborne platforms. The approach will take advantage of the simultaneous temporal and spectral signature data already acquired using an existing chromotomographic hyperspectral imaging sensor to identify and exploit relevant spectral-temporal discriminants for real-time rocket motor identification. The new sensor will be designed to unambiguously acquire the spectral-temporal signature of rocket motors for use as the input to current classification algorithms, and be configured for optimal spectral resolution around the phenomenologically important spectral regions identified during the analysis of existing data. The sensor will also be able to passively locate and track the projectile threat throughout its flight from launch inception. 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 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 optimization in phenomenologically rich spectral bands. In addition to tactical defense against explosive projectile threats to aircraft, this technology will lead to advancements in 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 further investigate algorithms for dynamic event classification based on spectral-temporal 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, thus providing tactical missile tail warning for both military and commercial aircraft. It is further anticipated that the new sensor will find utility in bomb damage assessment and situational awareness of battlespace dynamic events.

CERAMATEC, INC. 2425 South 900 West Salt Lake City, UT 84119
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(801) 956-1032 Mr. Akash Akash NAVY 03-009 Awarded: 07/01/03
Title:	Ultrapure, Spherical, Monodisperse, Unagglomerated Nanopowders for Infrared Window Materials
Abstract:	The objective of this Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project is to develop a novel process for fabricating nanocrystalline ceramic powders for infrared windows. Nano-grained ceramic materials are expected to have sufficient mechanical properties to operate efficiently under the harsh operational environments experienced by infrared window materials on aircraft and missiles. In our proposed work, we will use an innovative method to fabricate nanocrystalline yttria powders for infrared window materials. High quality nano-yttria powder will be synthesized using a chemical precipitation route. The precipitate will undergo a series of agglomerate-reduction steps to yield a high purity, monodisperse, agglomerate-free powder. A very low temperature crystallization process is proposed instead of a conventional solid-state calcination step. This low temperature step is the key to obtaining agglomerate-free powder with final particle size of less than 25 nm. A narrow particle size distribution and high purity are some of the other benefits of the proposed process. Successful completion of Phases I and II of the proposed project will result in an alternate synthesis method for manufacturing nano-powders for infrared windows and other advanced ceramic applications. The market for nano-ceramic powders is projected to reach $156 million by 2003. When this exploding market opportunity is coupled with the defense (industry and government) and commercial market needs for more durable infrared materials, a significant commercial opportunity for these products is expected to develop in the near future. There are three distinct components to our commercialization strategy: (1) fabrication of nano-powders for Government agencies, (2) fabrication of nano-powders for captive use and for sale to other manufacturers, and (3) fabrication of near net shape end products using nano-powders.

METAMATERIA PARTNERS LLC 1275 Kinnear Rd. Columbus, OH 43212
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(614) 340-1690 Dr. Ramachandra Revur NAVY 03-009 Awarded: 07/01/03
Title:	Ultrapure, Spherical, Monodisperse, Unagglomerated Nanopowders for Infrared Window Materials
Abstract:	The proposed program will demonstrate the feasibility of a novel process to synthesize ultrapure, spherical, monodispersed, unagglomerated yttrium oxide nanopowders. These nanopowders will facilitate the fabrication of fully dense infrared windows. Yttrium oxide nanopowders will be made by sonochemical method. The starting materials to be used are pure yttrium nitrate or yttrium chloride or yttrium acetate, suitable solvent and surfactant to keep the particles separated. The effect of various solvents and surfactants will be studied as well as different parameters for sonication such as sonication time and frequency that will be optimized to make monodispersed, unagglomerated nanopowders with diameters less than 25 nanometers. These nanopowders will be characterized for their phase purity, particle size distribution and chemical composition. This process is scalable for larger and more economical quantities of powder. Novel process for making dispersed nanometer particles that can be made into a nanograin ceramic window by casting or other consolidation method.

NANOPOWDER ENTERPRISES, INC. Suite 106, 120 Centennial Ave., Piscataway, NJ 08854
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(732) 885-1088 Dr. Mohit Jain NAVY 03-009 Awarded: 07/01/03
Title:	An economical and environmentally acceptable process for high quality nanopowders of Magnesium Fluoride (and related fluorides)
Abstract:	Building upon our newly developed chemical synthesis process, which is now being used to produce oxide nanopowders with exceptional particle characteristics, we propose to develop an economical and environmentally acceptable process for producing high quality sinterable nanopowders of fluoride compounds (e.g. MgF2 and CaF2) that can be consolidated into fully dense and transparent infrared transparent windows and domes. The impetus for nanopowders as starting material is that the potential exists for consolidating them into ultrafine grained components with mechanical properties far superior to their coarse grained counterparts, and possibly sapphire, which is the benchmark material. In keeping with this objective, we will demonstrate the feasibility of producing nanopowders of MgF2. As synthesized powders will be characterized by an array of analytical techniques, and test quantities of nanopowders will be provided to the Navy by the end of the Phase I program for further testing. Additionally, the sinterability of the nanopowders will be demonstrated. The synthesis process will be optimized and scaled in Phase II, and nanopowders will be provided to manufacturers of IR windows and domes. We anticipate the nanopowders developed in this program to become one of our growing product lines beginning toward the end of Phase II and into Phase III. MgF2 and related compounds fall into a category of materials generally referred to as specialty materials, as opposed to commodity powders such as silica, alumina, and titania. The number of suppliers as well as users of specialty powders is restricted to a few companies. For a variety of reasons, for certain materials, there is either only one, or in some cases, no US manufacturer. This creates a commercial opportunity for a small US based company such as ours. The market size for specialty materials, even if relatively small, is still in the several hundreds of millions of dollars.

PHYSICAL SCIENCES, INC. 20 New England Business Center Andover, MA 01810
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 689-0003 Mr. Edward J. Salley NAVY 03-009 Awarded: 07/01/03
Title:	Ultrapure, Spherical, Monodisperse, Unagglomerated Nanopowders for Infrared Window Materials
Abstract:	Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) proposes to fabricate high quality ceramic nanoparticles using an electrostatically controlled spray process. Although the commercial production of nanoparticles has steadily increased over the last several years, the use of nanoparticles for optical ceramic fabrication has been limited. Theoretical expectations have not been met with existing methods due to particle impurities, broad size distributions, and shape anomalies. In the proposed process, cost-effective ultra-high purity reagents and streamlined handling methods will be used to synthesize the materials. The integration of electrostatic control during the formation, transportation, and collection of the particles will be used to assure high quality and efficiency is maintained. At the point of particle formation the development of a multi-element array will increase product throughput to reach suggested manufacturing levels. Successful completion of the Phase 1 program will demonstrate the production of monodisperse, sub-25 nm, high-purity ceramic nanoparticles meeting the need for improved ceramic materials. The total world market for nanoparticulate materials reached $492.5 million in 2000 and is expected to grow at an average annual rate of 12.8% over the next 5 years. Consumers include both commercial and military companies. A partial list of applications for ceramic nanomaterials currently includes uses as abrasives, phosphors, fuel cells, cosmetics, and hard coatings. Success of the proposed technology will allow the nanopowders produced to gain immediate acceptance into existing markets. Additionally, new markets within the areas of structural ceramics and optics will be formed.

ERS CO. 727 Alvina Ct. Los Altos, CA 94024
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(650) 969-1530 Dr. Ephraim Suhir NAVY 03-011 Awarded: 05/22/03
Title:	Non-Polymer Optical Fiber Coatings
Abstract:	The objective of the project is to evaluate and to apply a newly developed nano-particale material (NPM) as an attractive substitute for polymer coatings of optical glass fibers. The NPM is both hermetic and low modulus and possesses several additional marits: immunity to corrosion, good adhesion to the adjacent materials,hydrophobicity, practically infinite lifetime, "self-healing" ability, etc. The NPM application will enable one to reduce considerably the outer diameter of the coated fiber and to make the fiber highly mecanically reliable, environmentally duarable and extremely cost effective. The preliminary test data are very encouraging. The new coating design will be very attractive to both leading (large) optical fiber manufacturers, as well as to small companies. No significant changes in the existing drawing equipment are necessary. The application of the proposed design will result in higher quality and lower cost of the photonics products employing silica opticalc fibers.

HYBRID GLASS TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 19 Taft Court Princeton, NJ 08540
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(732) 445-4524 Dr. Anna Wojcik NAVY 03-011 Awarded: 05/22/03
Title:	Dual Hybrid Glass Non-Polymer Coatings for Optical Fibers
Abstract:	Hybrid Glass Technologies Inc.(HGT) proposes to develop novel, hybrid glass based protective coatings for optical fibers. These dual layer coatings not swellable by water or organic solvents will possess the hermetic properties that eliminate water corrosion of the fiber, provide mechanical protection, significantly reduce the diameter of the coated fiber and substantially improve the fiber lifetime and reliability performance. The hybrid glass formulation is either heat or UV-curable and will be fully compatible with current coating techniques and systems. Due to the hybrid material viscoelastic properties and its ability to form strong chemical bonds with the glass surface, the novel coatings will eliminate the problems with fiber terminations and splicing and reduce microbending losses of the fiber. The coating components will be synthesized by a well controlled, cost effective, environmentally benign modified sol-gel process. The formulations for the hybrid glass coatings will be low viscosity, solvent free clear liquids, stabilized to achieve a long shelf life. They will be able to cure rapidly and therefore be applied on-line during fiber drawing. The planned process will produce a class of inorganic-organic hybrid glass formulations yielding superadherent, hermetic coatings with tailored hardness and of excellent mechanical, chemical and environmental stability. While the most immediate applications of the non-polymer hybrid coatings being developed under this phase I SBIR project, are targeted to optical fibers in adverse military environment, all of today's commercial telecom fibers as well as photonic components can potentially be impacted by the proposed HGT effort. More than 99% of all current optical fibers employ UV-cured polymer coatings that make them vulnerable to significant strength reduction and eventual failure in the field. This is clearly a dual use materials technology that is being proposed. Major fiber manufacturers such as Corning Incorporated, OFS-Fitel and Alcatel are potential licensees of a next generation optical fiber coatings. In addition, low cost hermetic packaging technology for electronic and optoelectronic circuity might also benefit from this R&D effort. Emerging civilian markets for next generation optical fibers will include a diversity of applications including fiber to home(FTTH), intelligent infrastracture, environmental monitoring, biomedical imaging, automative sensing and smart packaging.

MATERIALS MODIFICATION, INC. 2721-D Merrilee Drive Fairfax, VA 22031
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 560-1371 Dr. R. Radhakrishnan NAVY 03-011 Awarded: 05/22/03
Title:	Nanocomposite Coatings for Optical Fibers
Abstract:	Fiber-optic technology is finding increasing importance in a wide range of applications within the navy, such as in structural health monitoring of warships, high-resolution image transmission, guided weapons, gyros and optical motherboards for computers. Optical fibers are typically enclosed in a hermetic layer over the cladding that protects the core and the cladding from mechanical, thermal and chemical damage. Various polymeric materials are applied on the surface of the glass fiber to protect it from the harsh environment. Polymers, however, absorb moisture; as a result, long-term mechanical reliability of polymer-coated fibers might be not as high as necessary. An alternative effective coating material that possesses the merits of organic polymers and carbon/metallic hermetic coating, without the drawbacks of these materials, is proposed in this phase I proposal. Apart from use in the navy for fabrication of high-security, high-performance communication networks, the optical fibers developed will also find use in a plethora of civilian applications that involve optical communication.

ORINCON 4770 Eastgate Mall San Diego, CA 92121
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 351-4440 Dr. Kevin Heaney NAVY 03-014 Awarded: 06/02/03
Title:	Air Antisubmarine Warfare Environmental Characterization Using Existing Tactical Sensors
Abstract:	Air ASW search rates are critically dependent upon source-receiver separations, which are in turn driven by acoustic propagation and noise characteristics. To optimize the search rate, an accurate environmental assessment must be performed. The current techniques of using monostatic reverberation to invert for scattering strength and geo-acoustic parameters is fundamentally limited by the fact that all reverberant energy must propagate from the source to the bottom and then back to the receiver. A technique is proposed to simultaneously invert monostatic reverberation and direct blast propagation recordings using existing sources and sonobuoys. A physically consistent sediment model is used to permit extrapolation of acoustic predictions in frequency or source/receiver depths. ORINCON proposes to couple this environmental characterization with the development of a search-update algorithm to permit the optimization of air ASW search rates via the incorporation of tactical acoustic data taken while conducting the search, rather than during a preflight environmental characterization. In Phase I of this research, the self-consistent inversion approach, using tactical data and the search-update rule set, will be developed. These will be incorporated into the Geo-Acoustic Inversion Toolbox (GAIT) program of SPAWAR PMW-155 during Phase II and demonstrated at-sea, in real time, using existing tactical sensors. Optimal deployment of current Navy air-deployed ASW systems in the littoral is limited by the sensitivity of acoustic propagation to environmental parameters. A hybrid approach is presented which utilizes acoustic information taken during a submarine search to update the search pattern and therefore optimize search rates. Within the Navy, there is a wide base of customers with interest in technology that can characterize an environment concurrent with the conduct of an active acoustic ASW search. The technique proposed can be extended to other active acoustic environmental applications, such as oil exploration, marine mammal mitigation studies, and ocean acoustic tomography.

RDA, INC. P.O. Box 49 Doylestown, PA 18901
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(540) 349-8083 Mr. Jon E. Dionne NAVY 03-014 Awarded: 06/02/03
Title:	Air Antisubmarine Warfare (ASW) Environmental Characterization using Existing Tactical Sensors
Abstract:	New ways are sought to improve air ASW search performance by estimating acoustic environmental parameters using existing Fleet assets. Successful ASW missions require characterization of the environment that is accurate, current, and local. Current techniques include pre-mission planning efforts using historical databases, and in-situ mission updates using BT and future TAM buoys. Using existing Fleet assets to accurately estimate environmental parameters provides real opportunities to augment these efforts, increase ASW search rate performance, and improve mission effectiveness. RDA proposes using tactical sensors to characterize the environment continuously and in real-time. Robust methods to measure ambient noise and reverberation levels are outlined using standard air Navy sensors including DIFAR and ADAR receiver buoys. Using solutions outlined for saturation and clipping effects, the transmission loss can also be measured. Bottom-loss and bottom-scattering strength are estimated using an iterative technique based on genetic algorithms and simulated annealing. RDA provides broad experience in air Navy ASW operations including design and development of source and receiver buoys, in-buoy signal processing, RF links, digital signal processing, and real-time systems. A number of benefits are expected from the work and efforts of this SBIR. First is the ability to provide to the Navy operator an accurate, real-time characterization of the operating environment during the mission search phase. Second is immediate feedback of mission performance, with direction to improve the performance. Third is an improved ASW search rate. Additional benefits include an inexpensive yet effective method for environmental characterization that finds broad application in military, coast guard, weather watch, environment monitoring, and wildlife protection efforts.

SIGNAL SYSTEMS CORP. P.O. Box 787 Severna Park, MD 21146
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(410) 431-7148 Dr. Laurence Riddle NAVY 03-014 Awarded: 06/10/03
Title:	Environmental Characterization using Tactical Sensors
Abstract:	Environmental information is critical to successful littoral Air ASW multistatic search operations. Environmental information is used to optimize buoy field spacing, frequency band selection, and classifier parameters in systems such as Improved Extended Echo Ranging (IEER) and Distant Thunder. In littoral ASW, tactically important environmental parameters are local, time-varying and require `in-situ' measurements. Signal Systems Corporations, with its teammate The University of Washington - Applied Physics Laboratory, will examine alternatives to developing a new tactical acoustic measurement buoy. We will focus on using existing fleet assets with small modifications to buoys and aircraft. Our concepts come from developments in the Beartrap Environmental Characterization, and Non-Traditional Acoustic Processing programs. Environmental Characterization using Tactical Sensors (ECTS) can utilize a ping-while-drop deployment to obtain environmental information during the search operation itself. Because of the difficulties in saturation effects, we will examine the use of extended dynamic range buoys to provide bottom parameter extraction results, and to estimate ambient noise levels. Existing sonobuoys would be used for sound speed profile estimation. In Phase I, we will examine bottom parameter and ambient noise estimation using extended dynamic range ADAR sonobuoys. We will also develop a concept of operations that merges tactical search and ECTS. If this innovative approach shows feasibility, the resulting ECTS capability offers lower cost and reduced logistics demands for in-situ enviornmental characterization. Reduced time to an operational capability is also anticipated.

MICHIGAN AEROSPACE CORP. 1777 Highland Drive, Suite B Ann Arbor, MI 48108
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(734) 975-8777 Mr. Peter Tchoryk, Jr NAVY 03-015 Awarded: 06/24/03
Title:	Low-Cost Optical Air Data System for Weapon Applications
Abstract:	Abstract: Currently, there is a lack of proven sensors that can provide winds and density ahead of a weapon system, while still meeting the requirements of low observability/size/weight/power/cost and high reliability. Guidance of a weapon system would benefit greatly with air data knowledge, particularly during the terminal phase when sub-munitions are released. Michigan Aerospace Corporation proposes to investigate the application of its Molecular Optical Air Data System (MOADS) technology for use on a glide weapon system. Preliminary requirements indicate the need for an instrument that will measure wind speed and density ahead of the weapon during its release, glide and terminal phases. Michigan Aerospace has been developing LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) and air data system technology that can potentially meet these needs. Based on recent technical and cost studies, Michigan Aerospace determined that a low-cost instrument based on MOADS will meet most of the threshold requirements and many of the objective requirements of a glide weapon system. This proposed Phase I effort will include improvements to the concept design, laboratory testing of the concept and refinement of the production cost estimates A low-cost air data system has significant commercial potential for the intended application, glide weapon systems, especially in light of current events. It also has application to a number of other government and civilian program areas, including stealth aircraft air data systems, turbulence detection, UAV-based wind measurement, ground-based Doppler LIDAR, and space-based LIDAR systems.

OPTICAL AIR DATA SYSTEMS L.P. 10531 Terminal Road Manassas, VA 20110
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 393-0754 Mr. Philip Rogers NAVY 03-015 Awarded: 05/07/03
Title:	On-Board Wind Vector and Air Density Sensing for Weapon Applications
Abstract:	Optical Air Data Systems, L.P. (OADS, L.P.) proposes a design for a weapon mounted, low-cost, compact, reliable, lightweight wind sensor system to remotely and accurately measure the weapon air data parameters such as airspeed as well as wind profile between the weapon and the target. The proposed system would provide a substantial improvement over competing optical systems as well as traditional Pitot-static systems in terms of size, reliability and functionality. The sensor involves a fully fiber-optic LIDAR (laser radar) design, which allows the system to be lightweight, compact and rugged. The technology developed in this project will have applications well beyond the scope of this specific project, and will apply to both the military and commercial markets. Specific techniques developed in this effort will further advance the state-of-the-art in both the atmospheric sensing and fiber-optic disciplines, and greatly enhance the current knowledge of optical and remote sensing.

SCIENTIFIC SYSTEMS CO., INC. 500 West Cummings Park - Ste 3000 Woburn, MA 01801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 933-5355 Dr. B. Ravichandran NAVY 03-016 Awarded: 06/06/03
Title:	Intelligent Object Oriented Software Testing Technology
Abstract:	The objective of this SBIR project is to develop an Intelligent Object Oriented Software Testing Scheme for conducting software tests, with emphasis on integration and regression testing of complex systems such as the Tactical Tomahawk Weapons Control System (TTWCS). SSCI and our partners (Boeing Mission Planning Systems and Prof. Daniel Jackson at MIT) propose to develop this novel scheme using object-oriented testcase design, machine readable XML technology, data-mining of test results, iterative software testing methodology, and specification and requirement analysis. The proposed scheme will significantly automate the software testing process, as well as the analysis of test results, and lead to higher software reliability and lower testing cost. The Phase I effort will produce a software library in an object-oriented language, which allows test engineers to conduct iterative testing of complex, distributed and data driven software systems in an efficient manner, and a tool to compare and manage the log files. Phase II will focus on developing test result analysis tools using XML and data-mining technologies, as well as a simple, intuitive user interface for the test analysts with the ability to make complex queries of the test data. Boeing MPS has extensive experience in the development, testing, and integration of the Tomahawk Mission Planning System, and will partner as a subcontractor to SSCI in the development of various components in the proposed testing scheme. Professor Jackson from MIT will provide consulting support in the areas of software specification analysis and testing methods. Though our proposed software testing scheme is focused on integration testing of TTWCS, it is general enough for testing a wide variety of software systems, such as commercial vehicle control systems, financial software, and medical diagnostic systems. Given the ubiquitous nature of software systems in this technology-intensive age, and the increasing demand for higher reliability of such systems, the proposed scheme has enormous commercial potential, in both public and private sectors.

SEA CORP. 62 Johnny Cake Hill, Aquidneck Corporate Park Middletown, RI 02842
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(401) 847-2260 Mr. David Cadorette NAVY 03-016 Awarded: 06/06/03
Title:	Intelligent Test Data Analysis Technology (IT-DAT)
Abstract:	Modern weapon and aircraft control systems are software intensive, containing many complex internal and external interfaces. Accurate testing is vital to ensure that the system is functioning properly and will meet all operational requirements. For the most part, current testing focuses on components and subsystems; it is labor intensive and relies heavily on the subjective judgment of expert personnel for an overall system perspective. There are few automated systems to aid in the collection and interpretation of software data, and the few systems that do exist still rely on the interpretation of data by system experts. This project will develop a more-thorough test and evaluation process, which will also be more efficient. The project will utilize the latest in artificial intelligence techniques to automatically analyze data collected during testing, thereby reducing reliance on error-prone manual data analysis. The project will incorporate a database archiving all test related data and system artifacts, providing a query capability for data analysts to review system requirements, identify trends in data, and compare test collected data against historical data. The project will use proven technologies in the collection and archiving of data, leveraging existing tools such as the SEA CORP SEAHAWK, TOWERS, and ADCAS tools. Intelligent Test Data Analysis Technology will improve the fidelity of the testing of complex systems. Through increased automation, this technology will also reduce manpower requirements and shorten the time required for testing resulting in savings and improved operational turnaround times. Concentrating first on complex weapon and aircraft control systems, the application of this technology has great spillover potential in the commercial market. As the reliance on software and external and internal interface becomes more pervasive in manufacturing, engineering, financial and other sectors, the demand for expert system test methods will increase as well.

DISCOVERY MACHINE, INC. 454 Pine Street Williamsport, PA 17701
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(570) 329-0251 Dr. Todd Griffith NAVY 03-017 Awarded: 05/13/03
Title:	Automated Generation of Usability Prototypes and Tactical Software
Abstract:	Currently available rapid prototyping tools provide limited support in developing well designed interactive, software. The objective of this proposal is to build a user interface design environment for user interface designers in The Discovery MachineT with the following features: � Link all phases and products of the design process through common representational formalisms, � Automate user interface evaluation through the use of design critics, � Modify visual and functional aspects of the design quickly and graphically while still creating a functional prototype, � Expedite the generation of a user interface satisfying requirements through more efficient and productive design, test, re-design cycles, and, � Automate the generation of object models and software interfaces to be accessed by application software components. Here we propose a user interface design environment which involves building on existing knowledge capture and problem solving tool called The Discovery Machine. The Discovery Machine provides design experts with a way to describe an interface that is natural and does not require detailed knowledge of abstract cognitive concepts or complicated programming syntax. The user interface design environment we propose will establish the framework for end-to-end user interface design without writing code. The most significant development within the target business sector is the explosion in amount and complexity of data and the subsequent need for computational power to utilize this data. Programmers, SMEs, and Decision Makers all need more effective tools for communicating to each other and for leveraging this information. The Discovery Machine provides both a vehicle for developing software for communicating, modeling, and analyzing complex processes and the information and objects flowing through that processes. The commercial market opportunity for more effective utilization of data and the scientists, researchers, and analysts who interpret and use that data is extraordinary, particularly given the explosion in data collection and warehousing and the scarcity of skilled experts who can make use of that data. The key target market for Discovery Machine is data-intensive segments in the defense and systems engineering/design sectors. They have a particular need for more effective formalized software development tools, and this has already been validated by over 50 interviews with potential customers and partners.

HARMONIA, INC. 1700 Kraft Drive, Suite 1100 Blacksburg, VA 24060
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(540) 951-5910 Mr. Jonathan E. Shuster NAVY 03-017 Awarded: 04/29/03
Title:	Using UIML to Automate Generation of Usability Prototypes and Tactical Software
Abstract:	Harmonia proposes a novel approach to automatically generating tactical human/computer interface (HCI) code and object design data from the user interface design developed through usability prototyping. This approach uses the User Interface Markup Language (UIML), an open specification language being standardized by OASIS, as a user interface design language that can be rendered to usability prototypes, tactical HCI code, and object model representations. The proposed approach centers on defining an enhanced, UIML-based user interface design process, and then defining tool support needs for this process. The intent is to span the gap between usability and object-oriented software engineering by supporting rapid prototyping of user interfaces for usability engineering, while providing the ability to generate object design data for the overall system's object model and tactical HCI code for deployment. UIML and its associated tools form a bridge between the user interface designer and the application modeler, allowing early and frequent integration of the user interface design process and the application development life cycle. Bridging the gap between usability and software engineering is expected to save considerable effort by eliminating the manual work currently required to move from usability prototype to tactical HCI software. Potential commercial applications are with any software development activity that includes a human/computer interface.

IMPERIUM, INC. 1738 Elton Rd., Suite 218 Silver Spring, MD 20903
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 431-2911 Dr. Marvin E. Lasser NAVY 03-018 Selected for Award
Title:	Real Time, Handheld Ultrasound Camera For Inspecting Inner Pipe and Tubing Surfaces
Abstract:	Piping and tubing represent a particularly difficult inspection challenge in industry. With access limited to the outside surface of a target, conventional A-scan ultrasonics is usually the inspection technique of choice. However, this A-scan technology is very tedious and difficult to interpret. We propose developing a real time high resolution ultrasound camera for this problem. The ultrasound camera represents an approach whereby an inspector could place a probe up to a tube, such as an aircraft tail hook, and get instant imagery of subsurface faults. The lens based system is analogous to conventional camcorders which are sensitive to visible light. The basis of the technology is a two-dimensional array of pixels, each element being sensitive to ultrasound. This technology can be pervasive over a wide range of industrial and medical applications. Piping and tubing is a very large industry which could greatly benefit from a real time ultrasound camera system. The chemical and petrochemical industries are among the many users of such a device. The low cost (under $10,000) production unit price will allow a high level of market penetration. This same production system could be adapted for the aerospace, medical, and food and beverage industries.

RADIATION MONITORING DEVICES, INC. 44 Hunt Street Watertown, MA 02472
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 926-1167 Mr. Timothy C. Tiernan NAVY 03-018 Awarded: 05/22/03
Title:	Portable, Hand-Held Inspection System for Aircraft Components
Abstract:	New technology is needed for the nondestructive detection and characterization of defects in aerospace structures, particularly those with complex shapes, that are used in high stress environments that accelerate degradation. Existing nondestructive evaluation (NDE) techniques, based on ultrasonics, eddy-currents, and x-radiography do not have the capabilities needed for real-time defect detection and imaging using highly portable instrumentation. RMD proposes an NDE instrument based on an array of magnetoresistive (MR) sensor elements used to produce real-time images of induced magnetic fields within tubular structures. Recent advances indicate that both linear and 2-D MR sensor arrays can be fabricated with sensor dimensions less than 1 mil. A sensor array containing minute sensor elements could provide high spatial resolution images of induced magnetic fields that are perturbed by small defects. Correlating the magnetic field properties at many points, with the positions where the measurements are made, allows the generation of real-time, 3-D images of defects. The sensitivity of a coil is limited to approximately 2.50 x 10-4 T/?Hz while MR sensors have achieved sensitivity of approximately 1.0 x 10-11 T/?Hz. MR sensors have bandwidth greater than 1 GHz, they can withstand forces of 100,000g, and temperatures over 2000C. The PI and his collaborators have been able to develop MR sensor systems for recovering data on obsolete or damaged magnetic tapes, and for detecting cracks and corrosion in sheet metal. Recent advances in sensor design and addressing suggest that a linear array for imaging defects in metals should now be feasible. The new inspection and imaging technology will find a number of markets in nondestructive evaluation (NDE) including the aircraft, electronics, automotive, chemical, and power industries. It will be give inspectors a major new technology for ensuring the condition and safety of aircraft, pipelines, transportation vehicles, and power plants.

IMPERIUM, INC. 1738 Elton Rd., Suite 218 Silver Spring, MD 20903
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 431-2911 Dr. Marvin Lasser NAVY 03-019 Awarded: 04/29/03
Title:	Real-Time Ultrasound Camera Inspection of Fasteners in Aerospace Structures
Abstract:	While ultrasound is the benchmark technique for inspecting flaws in aging aerospace structures, it is a slow and difficult technique to utilize. To address this need, Imperium proposes to utilize a novel ultrasound camera to instantly inspect cracks and corrosion under fasteners. The system will provide a real time, subsurface view of faults in structures while generating a live video output to an inspector. For example, this handheld ultrasound camera can replace complex gantry squirter systems and scanning systems. The intituitive imagery requires less training than conventional ultrasound systems. While this topic is focused on finding faults around fasteners, a variety of additional applications can be address with this technology with little modifications. Corrosion, delaminations, voids and other faults can also be immediately imaged and quantified. This Phase I program will investigate the feasibility of adapting the ultrasound camera for the real time inspection of fasteners through different shear wave and longitudinal implementations of the system. Commercial, small, lightweight easily used ultrasound cameras could find wide application in both military and commercial sectors. Their use could extend from the inspection of aging military and commercial aircraft to a variety of other applications such as looking at cracks in welds. Furthermore, this same type of camera could be used in a medical application to inspect beneath a person's skin for soft tissue conditions such as cancerous tumors.

JENTEK SENSORS, INC. 110-1 Clematis Avenue Waltham, MA 02453
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 642-9666 Dr. Neil Goldfine NAVY 03-019 Selected for Award
Title:	Field Portable System for Electromagnetic Imaging of Damage Under Fasteners
Abstract:	The proposed effort addresses the need for a hand-held field portable system, including a "shoulder-mounted" instrument, for rapid inspection under fastener heads for corrosion and cracks. The focus is on detection of small corner cracks and corrosion under ferrous and nonferrous fasteners with inspection time well under 30 seconds for real-time decision support. This effort is complementary to JENTEK's ongoing efforts to deliver eddy current array sensor and system solutions to the Navy for field, depot, and production use. Successful completion of this program will meet the need from JENTEK's DoD and non-government customers for a portable low-cost system for field inspections and enhanced capabilities for detection of cracks under fasteners. In Phase I, JENTEK will evaluate performance tradeoffs resulting from miniaturization, design a small portable unit for detecting cracks and corrosion under fasteners for specific NAVAIR applications, adapt our 7-channel probe and calibration and measurement procedures for detection of cracks under both aluminum and steel fastener heads in aluminum skins, and demonstrate capability on representative specimens. In Phase II, JENTEK will "optimize" the system for portability, fabricate a portable instrument prototype, run depot tests, and work with NAVAIR to accommodate form and function requests for final commercial systems. Successful completion of the Phase I and Phase II effort will provide the Navy with a real-time portable inspection system solution for detection of cracks under fasteners. This system will provide rapid inspection of fasteners with a low level of false indications and a high POD for detection of small corner cracks under fasteners. Furthermore, it will support detection and imaging of corrosion under fasteners. The availability of a low cost portable MWM-Array system that supports both scanning and embedded MWM-Array sensors should provide the Navy with a substantial improvement in field inspection capability with a high return on investment. The addition of a low cost portable MWM-Array system is also a key component of JENTEK's long term commercialization strategy.

TPL, INC. 3921 Academy Parkway North, NE Albuquerque, NM 87109
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 342-4485 Mr. Stephen Summers NAVY 03-019 Awarded: 05/19/03
Title:	Real-Time Inspection of Fasteners in Aerospace Structures
Abstract:	As military aircraft limits are continuously extended, there is an equivalent need to develop improved and more effective non-destructive evaluation (NDE) techniques for detection of flaws. This especially applies to the development of NDE techniques, which are capable of rapidly detect and visualize flaws, defects and discontinuities in aircraft fasteners. TPL has been developing a new NDE technology based on giant magnetoresistive (GMR) sensors. Such sensors are ultrasensitive to magnetic fields and are highly effective in locating defects and quantifying their magnitude. Sensor arrays can be established on handheld devices for a rapid and accurate detection and visualization of hidden flaws in fasteners. In Phase I a prototype GMR based NDE imaging system will be developed. To prove the feasibility of the system, it will be used to scan a sample surface with irregularities (steps), mimicking the aircraft fastener-skin interface. The resolution and the scanning time will be assessed and compared with the ones prescribed by the Navy. TPL is a leader in the development of GMR-NDE technology. The principal investigator has extensive experience in magnetic field sensors. The major commercial benefit of the GMR based NDE imaging system proposed will be the development of a technology for rapid detection of flaws in conductive materials with non-uniform surfaces. This applies especially to commercial aircraft NDE techniques for non-destructive detection and imaging of flaws, defects and discontinuities in fasteners and similar parts and surfaces. This technology could also be successfully used for flaws detection and imaging of various industrial equipment containing flanges. Such an example would be industrial reaction vessels under pressure.

FOSTER-MILLER, INC. 350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 684-4151 Mr. Boris Rozenoyer NAVY 03-020 Selected for Award
Title:	Localized Reinforcement of Navy Helicopter Transmission Housings
Abstract:	A magnesium alloy is used for many Navy helicopter gearbox and main transmission housings. There are two durability related concerns for these components: 1) housing service life is currently limited due to fretting fatigue and corrosion problems; and 2) several heavily loaded points in the housing (e.g., linkage/actuator attachment) will experience even more severe damage. Foster-Miller's approach to resolve this problem is to selectively reinforce the highly loaded regions of the magnesium casting with a unique metal matrix composite (MMC) insert. Foster-Miller has already demonstrated the use of high strength MMC inserts as localized reinforcement of large aluminum gravity castings. The mechanical performance and environmental resistance of potential MMC insert materials will be studied. The selective reinforcement concept will be demonstrated at a specimen level during the Phase I Base Effort. The Phase II program will involve sub-scale components fabrication and testing. Foster-Miller will work closely with a major military helicopter prime contractor and its foundry suppliers in order to develop a technology with near-term implementation potential. (P-030173) The project will incrementally demonstrate full-scale, production capable technology to produce high durability magnesium alloy castings selectively reinforced with MMC inserts. A clear path to implementation of the technology on Navy helicopters has already been established. The proposed technology has broader applications in replacing certain cast iron, steel, or titanium castings with less expensive and lightweight aluminum/magnesium castings through use of strategically placed MMC inserts. Thus, the technology addresses the overall metal casting industry which is a $29 billion per year industry. Foster-Miller MMC materials could be an attractive alternative for a broad structural (as a light weigh replacement for steels and inexpensive replacement for exotic materials) applications and for specific application where MMCs complex of mechanical, themophysical, and service properties would enable implementation of the materials with unique properties, low cost and versatile fabrication technology.

TEXAS RESEARCH INSTITUTE AUSTIN, INC. 9063 Bee Caves Road Austin, TX 78733
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(512) 263-2101 Mr. Brian Muskopf NAVY 03-020 Selected for Award
Title:	Novel Main Transmission Design Concepts
Abstract:	Rotary aircraft such as the V-22 tilt-rotor and H-53 helicopter use a transmission system to transfer power from the engines to the rotor system. Modern rotary-wing aircraft transmission systems can comprise up to 11% of an aircraft's empty weight. The transmission system gearboxes and rotor brake components are fabricated from relatively heavy metals that are subject to corrosion damage due to the harsh salt-water spray environment experienced by Navy aircraft. These metal housings are also expensive to manufacture due to the nature of the metals used and the fabrication processes required to form the complexly shaped parts. Texas Research Institute Austin, Inc. proposes to develop cost effective, lightweight, damage tolerant polymer composite transmission system component designs to replace currently used metallic components in the V-22 tilt-rotor aircraft. The use of composite materials will reduce the cost and weight of the transmission system while providing a reliable, corrosion free service life with little or no maintenance costs. The use of lighter weight, polymer composite transmission components will increase the power-to-weight ratio of the aircraft and allow for increased aircraft performance or payload. The proposed composite materials will consist of high performance resin systems reinforced with high strength glass and/or carbon fibers. Successful development of lighter weight materials and designs for rotary-wing aircraft transmission systems components that can increase an aircraft's power-to-weight ratio and reduce maintenance costs by eliminating corrosion damage, while increasing durability and reliability, will have immediate military applications in the V-22 tilt-rotor and H-53 helicopter programs. Additional commercial applications can be found in the commercial rotary-wing aircraft and automotive industries where lightweight, low cost, corrosion free transmission components would be desirable.

MIDE TECHNOLOGY CORP. 200 Boston Avenue Suite 1000 Medford, MA 02155
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 306-0609 Dr. Marthinus C. van Schoor NAVY 03-021 Selected for Award
Title:	Rotary Live
Abstract:	A rotary amplified liquid proof-mass-damper is proposed. The proposed innovation is based on Bell Helicopter's LIVE, Liquid Inertial Vibration Isolator (LIVE). LIVE is currently installed on the Bell 427 helicopter. The proposed rotary version, thus have legacy and support of a rotary wing aircraft manufacturer. The low-weight, low-cost proposed damper will reduce drive-shaft deflections. In Phase I, Mid� will work with Bell Helicopter to ensure that the solution can be installed on legacy aircraft. Active modification of the isolation frequency will also be investigated to allow the solution to be used in non-constant speed shaft applications. This work will build on Bell Helicopter and Mid�'s Dynamically Tuned Airframe Structures (DTAS) Program. This program was funded by the US Army. In Phase I, Mid� will develop and evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed damper to minimize drive-shaft deflections. In addition to the reduction in shaft deflection, Mid� will also consider weight, cost, minimal aircraft modifications for installation, and maintainability/repairability. Phase I will also assess the effectiveness of the design on both in-use shafting and supercritical shafting. In Phase II, Mid� will develop a prototype and evaluate broadest range of drive-shaft design applications to demonstrate the flexibility of the proposed system. Tests will be used to quantify the effectiveness of damping systems and to improve the damper design. Benefits: A low-cost, low-weight rotary damper will reduce maintenance costs, increase equipment availability, increase safety and reduce structural and human fatigue. Commercial Applications: There is a current and significant interest in the automotive and power transmission industry to reduce vibrations induced by rotary components.

PRESCOTT PRODUCTS P.O. Box 461101 San Antonio, TX 78246
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(210) 698-7980 Mr. Tom Prescott NAVY 03-021 Awarded: 05/30/03
Title:	Reduction of Rotary-wing Aircraft Driveshaft Deflection via Damping
Abstract:	Prescott Products, as an application for its Composite Building Material CBM(Trademark), is proposing to manufacture composite inserts for rotational tubes that will provide vibration damping and deflection reduction. The development plan is to manufacture cored composite tubes from crosslinked, closed-cell, polyolefin foam. The tube insert will be spiral cut which will allow it to expand and press firmly against the inside wall of a rotating shaft. The thickness, foam charateristics, and carbon/fiberglass/epoxy matrix can be tailored to provide desired levels of vibration and deflection reduction. The development of cored composite tubes has broad military and significant commercial applications. Most every rotary-wing aircraft has hollow rotating shafts. Reduction in vibratory loads and component deflection provides a reduction in required maintenance, improved passenger comfort, and extended life for replacement parts. Development aircraft such as the V-22 Ospray would benefit from CCT technology. Other commercial and military applications could include any hollow rotating shaft.

BMH ASSOC., INC. 5365 Robin Hood Road, Suite 100 Norfolk, VA 23513
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(757) 857-5670 Mr. Gary Kollmorgen NAVY 03-022 Selected for Award
Title:	Automated Interoperability Testing System
Abstract:	This proposal intends to show an innovative and iterative approach to solving the large scale federation interoperability problem. Currently large resources including both time and people (and subsequently, dollars), are required to bring a group of disparate federates (models and simulations) together in a joined/interoperable federation. High Level Architecture (HLA) and other standards have helped in making the sum greater than the individual pieces but there are no tools to insure that the rules of HLA as well as data structure are followed. The process is a manual (document) agreement of federation rules that each federate in turn is required to follow. Only when the federation is brought together are these rules "checked". The automated interoperability test tool in this proposal will aid in capturing these rules in an understandable and databased format. The rules will then be used to execute a test federate using COTS and GOTS products that will allow for automated checking of a proposed federate, one that proposes to join the ultimate federation, against the rules and provide reporting on the proposed federates compliance with those rules. The tool will be scalable to include any federation rules that comply with HLA standards. It is anticipated that this effort will allow for a reduction in resources (efficiency and cost savings) necessary for developing and testing large scale federations. The initial beneficiary will be the Department of Defense but the tool will be applicable to any large scale federation whether HLA or not. Transportation models (such as those used for traffic control, aviation or automobile) need large scale distributed simulations that will lend itself to this tool. Models or simulations of manufacturing can also benefit by allowing new plant additions (models) to be tested before being federated with existing simulations.

MAK TECHNOLOGIES 185 Alewife Brook Parkway Cambridge, MA 02318
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 876-8085 Mr. Felix Rodriquez NAVY 03-022 Selected for Award
Title:	Automated Interoperability Testing System
Abstract:	The advent of the High Level Architecture (HLA) increased the complexity, time, and expense of performing simulation network integration as compared to the previous DIS standard. While DIS was a simple, fixed data protocol running on top of IP/UDP, HLA has many additional complexities, including the Runtime Infrastructure (RTI) and API, unlimited Federation Object Model (FOM) structures, and indeterminate low-level networking configurations. All these new variables have provided additional flexibility in the range of simulation types that HLA can be applied to, however, it has drastically increased the opportunity for network configuration errors, RTI compatibility errors, FOM construction errors, data definition errors, and interaction logic errors. This has drastically increased the amount of time and effort it takes to correctly integrate a new federate into an HLA federation. The need for robust, commercial HLA testing tools is critical. MA,K is proposing a two-prong approach to providing commercial products for HLA testing. MA,K will develop the FOMspy federation analysis tool, and will augment the commercially selling RTIspy product with additional required RTI debugging features. Prototypes will be developed in Phase I for evaluation, and complete implementation of the FOMspy will take place in Phase II. We propose the development of the FOMspy product based on the visual programming paradigm and existing VR-Forces GUI infrastructure. FOMspy would read in the Object Model Template (OMT) file, and the most logical tests would be automatically constructed based on the OMT entries. The user would be provided with two mechanisms for adding custom tests: visual programming through the GUI, and custom programming via a C++ developer�_Ts toolkit for any new state variables, test conditions, etc. The benefits of the FOMspy are (1) HLA developers would be provided with a great deal of sensible testing capability right out of the box, with the automatic OMT test construction, (2) developers would be able to generate new tests with the GUI programming environment, which can reduce programming errors, (3) the developer�_Ts API toolkit can provide unlimited extensibility for new tests not represented in the GUI, and (4) by outputting the results to a standard statistical analysis package, all the power of those commercially available tools can be applied to processing the data.

VIRTUAL TECHNOLOGY CORP. 5510 Cherokee Ave, Suite 350 Alexandria, VA 22312
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 658-7050 Mr. Paul Perkinson NAVY 03-022 Selected for Award
Title:	Automated Interoperability Testing System
Abstract:	Standardized protocols and technical advances, such as the High Level Architecture (HLA), have made simulation a powerful tool for maintaining military readiness through mission planning and rehearsal, force structure analysis, weapon system acquisition, system testing and evaluation, and training. The HLA provides a standard distributed simulation operating environment that, with federation development and execution expertise, can be used to achieve interoperability among simulations. Key factors for interoperability, such as data model semantics and model behavior are, by design, entirely unaddressed by the HLA standards, so it is necessary to capture them in separate federation agreements. Despite the criticality of federation interoperability to achieving simulation objectives, interoperability testing remains a largely manual and even ad hoc process, and there is no systematic method for capturing and ensuring compliance with federation agreements. Under this SBIR effort Virtual Technology Corporation (VTC) will develop the software architecture, process, and support tools to provide automated testing and verification of candidate federates for acceptance into HLA-based federations. This will enable significantly greater utility from simulation, significantly reduce the time and effort needed for federation integration and testing, and greatly facilitate reuse and composability of simulation elements, benefiting all programs that use distributed simulation. Development of automated interoperability testing tools and technologies will provide a number of benefits for DoD simulation users. This research will significantly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of interoperability testing for simulations, reducing the time and effort (or cost) associated with integration. This will in turn yield greater interoperability and integration of simulations into cohesive federations and will allow greater efforts to be applied toward running the simulations and gaining the desired results from the simulations. This research will also enhance interoperability for simulation components, and thereby increase reuse and composability. Ultimately this will increase the utility of simulation to support DoD requirements for training, analysis, acquisition support, and other applications. This technology can provide significant benefits and return on investment for programs such as Joint Strike Fighter and Navy Aviation Simulation Master Plan that rely heavily on simulation to achieve program objectives.

LSA 1215 Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite 1300 Arlington, VA 22202
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(610) 363-5808 Mr. Alvin B. Cabato NAVY 03-024 Selected for Award
Title:	Wide Field-of-View, Head-Mounted, Visor Optics
Abstract:	The Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program requires industry to design and construct lightweight, head-mounted visor optics to display high-resolution color imagery and symbology for situational awareness and targeting. LSA proposes the AdVOS (Advanced Visor Optic System) to deliver high-resolution, wide field-of-view (FOV) images to immerse the user in a realistic virtual environment while addressing the deficiencies of prior HMDs. The AdVOS minimizes weight and bulkiness, optimizes the display's center-of-gravity, and incorporates flexible optics with curved surface visor display materials that can be integrated into a flight helmet with wide FOV projected out-the-window (OTW) imagery. Our optical system design is revolutionary, focusing the visual information onto the operator's retinas so that relaxed out-the-window viewing is possible. Unlike other head-mounted systems, our system does not require bulky objective and ocular lenses in front of the user's eyes. Our system is more like providing the operators with their own personal wide-screen theater. The AdVOS concept has the added advantage of providing some depth perception by introducing optical parallax to the system. The commercial potential of the AdVOS and its subsystem components is very high. Effective training is significant concern for military operations, so selling to this market will be the first avenue. As the technology matures, it will gain wider acceptance and fuel development of a broad range of new applications in both military and commercial systems. The components of the AdVOS can be used to strengthen and provide enhanced capabilities for all aspects of visual display and virtual reality systems. The system has application in any area that large field-of-view displays could offer significant advantages to the overall experience. Virtual reality technologies such as this will bring major breakthroughs in training, education, entertainment, and many other fields. Entertainment systems, computer, gaming, education, and medicine can all find benefits from incorporation of this technology.

OPTICS 1, INC. 3050 E Hillcrest Drive, Suite 100 Westlake Village, CA 91362
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(603) 296-0469 Mr. John M. Hall NAVY 03-024 Selected for Award
Title:	Wide FOV Head-Mounted Displays
Abstract:	The goal of the program is to achieve eye-limited resolution in a head-mounted display with as wide a field of view as possible, a minimized overall weight, and a balanced center of gravity. The optical solutions proposed include options for maximizing performance using current flat panel display device formats, as well as options for future expected flat panel formats. All options will address specifications critical to military helmet display system performance, and will demonstrate dramatic improvements over currently fielded hardware. This phase of the program will develop candidate designs and demonstrate feasibility through analyses. Preliminary mechanical package volume and mass properties will also be estimated. The primary beneficiary of this effort will initially be the government/military sector, including customers involved in training simulation as well as actual military platform users. However, due to the unique low-cost, modular approach offered, there is a substantial potential to breach commercial markets interested in virtual reality equipment.

PHYSICAL OPTICS CORP. Electro-Optics & Holography Division, 20600 Gramer Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 320-3088 Dr. Tin Aye NAVY 03-024 Selected for Award
Title:	Compact Waveguide Hologram Projection HMD Visor Optics
Abstract:	Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new compact, lightweight wide-field-of-view visor optics for head (and helmet) mounted displays (HMDs) based on POC's demonstrated aberration-compensated holographic optical element (MAC-HOE) technology. Taking advantage of the flexibility of holography, the HMD optics can be made compact using see-through waveguide image projection conformal to the curved visor substrate, filling a wide field of view (FOV) without bulky optical components. This waveguide projection optics approach would be particularly useful for applications that require see-through capability such as for the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF). Using narrowband red-green-blue MAC-HOEs can significantly reduce the chromatic and geometric aberration introduced by conventional HOEs and refractive optics. This proposal takes on the new challenge of extending the MAC-HOE concept of a full RGB color curved-substrate system combined with unique waveguide image projection for see-through capability. In Phase I, POC will demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed HMD visor optics by computer design and analysis, and by fabricating and demonstrating the key components. The proposed compact, lightweight HMD visor optics will significantly advance head mounted display technology. Applications include virtual environment training, avionics, medicine, education, CAD/CAM, video conferencing, entertainment, and video games.

CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. 625 Mount Auburn Street Cambridge, MA 02138
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 491-3474 Dr. Mark R. Stevens NAVY 03-025 Awarded: 05/27/03
Title:	Motion Imagery Navigation Using Terrain Estimates
Abstract:	Air vehicles rely heavily on inertial and satellite sensor feedback for navigation. Sensors such as gyroscopes and global positioning systems can provide accurate vehicle state information, but in many real world situations, these sensors can drift or be jammed, leading to navigation errors that can be especially problematic when operating near terrain features. In this proposal, we present a navigation system capable of estimating a 6-degree of freedom state vector purely from optical sensor input. The system, Motion Imagery Navigation Using Terrain Estimates (MINUTE), is capable of estimating the state (position and orientation) of an unmanned air vehicle (UAV) given a (optional) initial state estimate, an existing terrain elevation map, and an image sequence generated by an onboard sensor. This system first reconstructs a relative terrain map from pairs of images taken by a single camera on the UAV as it flies over terrain. The reconstructed terrain map is then matched against existing elevation data to produce an accurate, geo-referenced estimate of the state of the vehicle. In Phase I, we will design a working MINUTE prototype, study algorithm sensitivity using an existing synthetic data generation package, and address the real-time system requirements. Optical-based navigation state estimation is relevant to any autonomous system moving through a complicated environment. The technology developed could be used for Unmanned Ground Vehicles, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (e.g., LOCAAS), or observer systems where a human is in the loop controlling the vehicle.

SCIENTIFIC SYSTEMS CO., INC. 500 West Cummings Park - Ste 3000 Woburn, MA 01801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 933-5355 R.K.Mehra/B.Ravichandran NAVY 03-025 Awarded: 05/28/03
Title:	A Robust Image Based Navigation System for an Air Vehicle
Abstract:	The objectives of this project (Phase I and II) are to develop an automated, robust, and reliable image based navigation system for an air vehicle. Phase I will (1) develop a mathematical foundation for motion image navigation, (2) formulate the mathematical basis for processing a series of sensed frames to generate the terrain profile and correlating the profile to a pre-defined reference map to provide a positional update (assume robust navigational estimates) (3) formulate the mathematical basis for processing a series of sensed frames to provide a velocity update (assume noisy navigational estimates) (4) define critical camera parameters, air speed, and altitude limitations, (5) estimate navigation accuracy and robustness under varying conditions, and (6) estimate required computing resources to implement this approach in real-time. Phase II will develop and demonstrate a prototype motion image navigator. This demonstration will include a flight test on a Boeing test platform. Phase III will integrate of the motion image navigation technique into an air vehicle. Commercial applications of the approach will also be investigated by SSCI and its subcontractor Boeing during the Phase II and fully developed during the Phase III. The project team consists of Scientific Systems Company Inc. (SSCI) and Boeing Mission Planning System (Boeing MPS). SSCI brings a wealth of expertise in image analysis, computer vision, and guidance, navigation, and controls (GNC) systems. Boeing MPS has expert domain knowledge of the Tomahawk system. Mr. Angelo Corrubia, an expert in Photogrammetry, will support this team as a consultant. The development of the image aided navigation will serve as a foundation for Phase III commercialization. These technologies have a direct market in both military and civilian markets that include unmanned air vehicles.

AMERICAN GNC CORP. 888 Easy Street Simi Valley, CA 93065
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(805) 582-0582 Dr. Ching-Fang Lin NAVY 03-026 Selected for Award
Title:	Imagery Automatic Extraction and Placement System
Abstract:	The objective of this project is to develop an imagery automatic extraction and placement system to retrieve and accurately position cultural features on geo-specific terrain. Feature extraction includes noise edge elimination by Gabor filter, edge extraction, polygon simplification by the Hough Transform, and corner extraction. The innovative approach is to utilize Memetic algorithms to group the separate features from stereo pairs in order to recognize and measure cultural feature dimensions and place cultural feature of correct dimensions and texture in terrain databases. Current high-speed digital signal processing (DSP) provides the opportunity for complex image processing and algorithm implementation. The Memetic algorithm presents the statistical confidence of the results. The image-processing tool can be applied to medical diagnosis, automatic image-to map-registration, geodesy and environment monitoring.

VEXCEL CORP. 4909 Nautilus Court Boulder, CO 80301
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 583-0204 Dr. Bob Wilson NAVY 03-026 Selected for Award
Title:	Imagery Automatic Extraction/Precision Placement of Cultural Features
Abstract:	We propose to design an automated cultural feature extraction and placement system by adding plug-in extensions to an existing COTS package like Imagine, or PCI Geomatica. This system will use sophisticated statistical quality assurance to iteratively refine feature detection and feature extraction. This process will be self adapting to variances in feature properties based on geographic location or time of the year. As an option a fully functional demonstration prototype based on COTS and Vexcel technology will be implemented. This work will to a high degree leverage Vexcel's existing technology for automated 3D mapping and expertise in design and implementation of mapping systems for DOD customers. The proposed automated system would significantly lower the cost speed up production of textured feature databases for government and commercial cliens. Since the system will also support commercial satellite images, it will become possible to create feature databases for international locations, where aerial photography is not available today. With the proposed system in place, Vexcel will be in an excellent position to capture much of this business.

PHYSICAL ACOUSTICS CORP. 195 Clarksville Road Princeton Jct., NJ 08550
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(609) 716-4085 Dr. Min-Chung Jon NAVY 03-029 Awarded: 06/25/03
Title:	Acoustic Emission Monitor for Drive System Coupling Crack Detection
Abstract:	The objective of this Phase I proposal is to present Physical Acoustics Corporation's (PAC) ability to design and develop a reliable, "near" real time monitoring methodology for early detection of cracks in diaphragm-type couplings used in aircraft and engine drive systems. The "near" real time Acoustic Emission (AE) crack detection system is intended to demonstrate the feasibility of using an on-line AE crack detection system to provide suitable advance warning to indicate the presence of cracks and to preclude catastrophic failure. The proposed methodology will tailor PAC's state-of-the-art AE sensing, data acquisition, and Pattern Recognition technique for the development of an on-line AE monitor for drive system coupling crack detection. The development work for Phase I will consist of developing and demonstrating an autonomous adaptive procedure to recognize and classify crack-like AE signals which will simulate cracking in a coupling in the presence of mechanical noise. During the Phase I Option period, the software for Pattern Recognition will be modified to include the calculation for the displacement and velocity metrics that will allow the evaluation of crack growth in the drive system coupling. It is anticipated that the results of this program will lead to the development of a real time AE-based Neural Network Classifier for early detection of cracks in diaphragm-type couplings used in aircraft and engine drive systems. Since the real time crack detection system will provide suitable advance warning to preclude catastrophic failure, it will have applications for many industries beyond the military and could be applied to a broad range of military and commercial aircraft applications.

DYNAMIC RESEARCH, INC. 355 Van Ness Avenue, Suite 200 Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 212-5211 Mr. Terrance A. Smith NAVY 03-030 Awarded: 05/28/03
Title:	Increased Impact Protection of the Navy's Aviator Helmets
Abstract:	The overall objective of this proposed effort is to develop new energy absorbing liners for Navy aviator helmets providing improved energy absorption properties, equivalent or improved weight, comfort and health characteristics, and that can be manufactured and installed at an acceptable cost. Toward this goal, Dynamic Research, Inc. proposes to collaborate with Brock USA, a manufacturer of innovative energy absorbing materials. A comprehensive analysis of the technical merit of alternative energy absorbing materials would be conducted and candidate materials thus identified. These new materials would be evaluated by physical tests and optimized through the implementation of dynamic finite element models of aviator helmet protective components, and predictive simulation and subsequent verification of ANSI Z90.1 impact tests. Phase I deliverables include a report documenting the results of the material analysis, the test and simulation results of the candidate materials and a preliminary design for new EA liners for the large size helmet. Phase II includes manufacturing and testing a small quantity of prototype liners, additional simulation, and more extensive testing to refine the design as needed. Phase III includes manufacturing a large quantity of EA liners to prove manufacturability, demonstrate durability and ease of replacement, and perform final qualification tests. The primary anticipated outcome of this proposed effort would be a design for improved energy absorbing liners for Navy aviator helmets. This would make it possible for the Navy to upgrade the protective capabilities of its existing HGU-68/P and HGU-84/P aviator helmet inventory at a cost that is less than replacement of complete helmets. Similar liners could have application in other aviator helmets. A second outcome of the proposed effort would be development of a sound technical methodology for designing and evaluating improved head protection equipment using innovative materials. This design methodology could have commercial applications in all areas where improved head protection is required in both the public and private sectors. Design and consultation services and related energy absorbing products could be provided to manufacturers and evaluators of head protection gear. In the private sector this would include manufacturers of recreational helmets intended for use with bicycles, skateboards, inline skates, skiing, climbing, skydiving, motorcycles, and motorsports. Additional manufacturers of head protection related to public and industrial safety (e.g., police, fire, construction) would also benefit from this approach. In the government and military sectors this could also include helmets for, numerous types of aircraft, tanks and other armored vehicles, police riot equipment and other applications.

SKYDEX TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 12503 E. Euclid Drive, Suite 60 Englewood, CO 80111
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 790-4003 Mr. Mark Massmann NAVY 03-030 Awarded: 05/28/03
Title:	Increased Impact Protection of the Navy's Aviator Helmets
Abstract:	This is a proposal to demonstrate the feasibility of improving impact protection for Navy aviator helmets using SKYDEX patented technology. SKYDEX material absorbs impact through compression of opposed hemispheres formed from durable elastic polymers. Products are custom engineered to meet a customer's specific requirement for shock absorption. SKYDEX technology offers more effective impact protection in less space than traditional cushioning materials like foam or rubber. SKYDEX is involved with several helmet projects. A SKYDEX nape pad for the back of the PASGT infantry helmet was developed for the US Army. In lab testing done at the US Army Aeromedical Research Laboratory at Ft. Rucker, Alabama, the SKYDEX nape pad outperformed the existing nape pad, reducing Peak G scores by over 40%. Field-testing is about to begin. Lab testing done both at Snell Labs in California and BioKinetics in Toronto, Canada also showed SKYDEX materials significantly outperforming current cushioning products. By developing a custom geometry, performing impact testing with different polymers in an aviator helmet, and then refining the geometry and polymer choice based on initial results, we are confident that SKYDEX technology can offer significantly improved impact protection over current Styrofoam liners. SKYDEX technology can improve upon the impact attenuation, heat management and durability offered by current helmet liners. Advances made through this SBIR for aviator helmets can be modified to work with other military helmets as well as products requiring greater impact attenuation. SKYDEX is currently studying "nape" pads for use in paratrooper helmets, boat decking, ejection seat cushions, and padding for the transportation of sensitive military equipment. Helmet linings for cycling, motor sports, football, skiing, skateboarding, hockey, lacrosse etc. could be developed as a result of the knowledge gained from this SBIR. SKYDEX technology has been commercialized to solve problems of impact attenuation in footwear, playground surfaces, and boat decking panels. Several active sports companies (Airwalk skateboard shoes and Burton snowboard boots) are using SKYDEX technology in their midsoles to offer greater protection for landings from high jumps. SKYDEX is selling a safety panel to go under playground surfaces that that offers far greater impact protection than what is currently available. A SKYDEX boat-decking panel is available for both commercial and military boats, which shows great promise for reducing injury to personnel in high-speed, rough water situations. SKYDEX has significant experience in moving products from design, through prototyping to production. Once a final prototype is developed, a production tool can be designed and built in about 3 months. Twin sheet thermoforming production is very efficient and thousands of parts can be produced in a matter of days.

TEAM WENDY, LLC 12819 Coit Road Cleveland, OH 44047
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(216) 249-4488 Mr. Jason R. Brand NAVY 03-030 Awarded: 06/06/03
Title:	Increased Impact Protection of the Navy's Aviator Helmets
Abstract:	Injuries resulting from impacts to the human body, more specifically impacts to the head are a major concern for our society. Up to 2% of the U.S. population lives with disabilities resulting from impacts to the head. A key component in reducing these injuries is managing the momentum exchange between the head and the surface of impact. In this proposal we will determine the feasibility of using a formulation of Team Wendy's ZorbiumTM foam as an improved energy management system for the Navy's HGU-68/P (ejection aircraft) and HGU-84/P (rotary wing aircraft) aviator helmets. Commercially, this technology will be applied to all areas of protective headgear, including action sport headgear, motorcycle helmets, and team sport headgear. It is estimated that information gathered from successful completion of this Phase I proposal may increase sales figures for Team Wendy's current products by up to 30%. Further development using the gathered information will allow Team Wendy to increase its product offerings and engage in private branding and licensing to other protective headgear and body padding manufacturers. Manufacturing and processing issues will be investigated in a subsequent Phase II proposal.

NAVMAR APPLIED SCIENCES CORP. 65 West Street Road, Suite B-104 Warminster, PA 18974
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 863-7980 Mr. Lawrence Coar NAVY 03-032 Selected for Award
Title:	Sonobuoy Launcher
Abstract:	The MH-60R multi-mission helicopter as a combat extension of the surface combatant conducts defensive and/or offensive operations in support of the battle group. Time on station is an important factor in successful completion of the helicopter's mission. Reducing the weight of the MH-60R increases it available time on station. The stores launchers onboard are critical mission components that today are separate and add significant weight and volume to the helicopter. A single launcher that can deploy sonobuoys, decoys and chaff would significantly reduce weight and improve stores deployment. Developing a new launcher will also permit new technologies to be added which will provide improved ejection, structural performance, remote function selection and the ability to launch various sized stores. The launcher we propose will be modular in design thus providing a very flexible mission load. The launcher will also be reconfigurable and use state-of-the-art materials that can be molded and sized for the mission load. Innovative mechanisms for the firing devices and launch tubes will be investigated. Reliability, producability and cost are primary drivers in developing the new launcher system. Using a combination of an improved lightweight launcher and lighter sonobuoys, weight savings of up to 500 pounds are projected. Developing a new lightweight, modular, reconfigurable launcher system will greatly enhance the time on station, and thus the operational performance, of the MH-60R helicopter. Use of modern materials such as composites coupled with novel production techniques such as molded tubes will not only significantly reduce cost but also greatly ease the logistics requirements. Eliminating the pneumatic ejection mechanism will enhance the reliability by reducing complexity and safety. In addition to the MH-60R the new launcher will have application with the Coast Guard for drug interdiction, ship acoustic signature collection and smoke marker deployment. Use aboard commercial helicopters will enable oceanographic studies of seismic activities, whale and marine mammal surveys and tracking, and atmospheric and ocean environment sampling. Also, successful development of this launcher will allow for new launcher initiatives in time for incorporation in the Multi-Mission Aircraft (MMA), which would allow for the carriage and launch of a multitude of future sensors and form factors.

SEA CORP. 62 Johnny Cake Hill, Aquidneck Corporate Park Middletown, RI 02842
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(401) 847-2260 Mr. David A. Lussier NAVY 03-032 Awarded: 06/19/03
Title:	AGILE Sonobuoy Launcher
Abstract:	Current helicopter sonobuoy launchers are complex, heavy and will not meet future requirements for mission versatility. Because of the complexity of the launcher and its pneumatic subsystem, the launcher has many points of potential failure; its reliability is poor. Further, as in other pneumatic systems involving stored compressed air, the system is subject to vagaries of pressure which can result in uneven or incomplete expulsion of stores. This project will examine the feasibility of an "AGILE" (Airborne Gas Inflator Lightweight Ejector) launcher which will use COTS automotive airbag inflators as a source of sonobuoy ejection energy, a lightweight, modular structure and intelligent controls. The individual AGILE launcher cells are independent of external energy sources. This permits the consideration of innovative concepts for launcher design and operation. The use of inflators also imparts many other advantages. The AGILE Launcher eliminates virtually all moving parts, thus reducing failures and simplifying logistics and maintenance. The proposed launcher will be extremely reliable, lightweight, versatile and safe, with a lower total ownership cost achieved through reduced maintenance, repair and logistics support requirements. Because of SEA CORP's resident experience with this concept, it will be possible to build and test a single-cell launcher in Phase I. The employment of automotive airbag inflators for launch energy has already been shown to present many advantages for lightweight torpedo launchers on surface ships. There are a number of parallels between surface vessel torpedo tubes and sonobuoy launchers: both comprise tubes as launch containers; both have complex breech mechanisms relying on HP air; both launch a cylindrical body from a platform through the air into the water. The mass, velocity and acceleration merely have to be scaled to the airborne application. Among the benefits of the AGILE-type launcher are reduced maintenance and repair (net reduction in required manpower), improved safety, better operational performance and lower total ownership cost. Further, the versatility offered by the self-contained launch tube allows innovative concepts such as modular, all-up-rounds or clips containing several rounds. Placement of the launcher is also more versatile, since the launcher is not dependent on an HP air source. The inflators themselves have a solid record of reliability and safety based on over thirty years of experience with millions in use. This project is an extension of the concept already shown to have commercial potential as witnessed by the Navy's investment of over $5 million in the torpedo launcher development program. Other potential applications include shipboard countermeasures and decoys.

NAVMAR APPLIED SCIENCES CORP. 65 West Street Road, Suite B-104 Warminster, PA 18974
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(215) 675-4900 Mr. Roger Holler NAVY 03-033 Selected for Award
Title:	Mid-Frequency Sonobuoy
Abstract:	Active multistatic sonar systems have become the preferred solution for shallow water undersea warfare missions. Most airborne active multistatic systems operate in the low frequency range to provide increased range and reverberation resistance. This works well for large area search and localization missions. However, tactical follow up and target tracking are better accomplished by using higher frequencies, which provide high range resolution and speed computation. Tactical platforms such as the MH-60R multi-mission helicopter conduct tactical defensive and offensive operations in support of the battle group. They operate in a multistatic mode with the high power bow sonar source onboard the surface combatant and with their own onboard variable depth ALFS sonar by deploying sonobuoys to receive and transmit the echoes to the helicopter. These systems operate at a higher frequency than where the current receiving sonobuoys operate. Therefore, to optimally operate in a multistatic mode with these higher frequency sources, a new receiver is required which operates in the mid-frequency range of the ship sonars and ALFS. This new receiver will be compatible with existing digital RF links and employ in-buoy beamforming. This new receiver will be capable of significant increase in weapon system operational performance over today's receivers. Developing a new sonobuoy with substantial noise discrimination capability and high gain at higher frequencies than previously achieved leads to smaller and lighter systems. This type of system capability is of interest to the undersea mapping, exploration, seismology and weather communities. Government agencies such as the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric (NOAA) and the Department of Commerce continually upgrade their measurement and data collection capability. These sensors would fulfill a need to provide in-situ measurements at frequencies not ordinarily measured. Also, their role in bottom mapping makes use of similar sensors that are much larger and costly. By developing reliable, low cost sensor components, we can offer them much more capability and performance.

RDA, INC. P.O. Box 49 Doylestown, PA 18901
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(540) 349-8083 Mr. Ronald H. Buratti NAVY 03-033 Selected for Award
Title:	Mid-Frequency Sonobuoy
Abstract:	The Navy requires a new Mid-Frequency acoustic receive array to serve as a multistatic receiver intended for use with the SQS-53C Bow Sonar and the ALFS Dipping Sonar. The SBIR solicitation is very specific in terms of the required array gain, digital uplink format/precision, and dynamic range for the new sensor. While this proposed sensor represents a very strong candidate for meeting the Navy's bistatic active receiver requirements, other sensors or combinations of sensors could potentially meet this need as well. RDA believes the Navy should evaluate a spectrum candidate sensors including one that meets the requirements outlined in this solicitation before committing to a single design. In this SBIR, RDA will not only address the sensor requirements called out in the solicitation but also propose and evaluate some additional innovative sensor designs. Each candidate sensor shall be evaluated in terms of mission effectiveness, cost, deployment weight, logistics and technical feasibility. Our Phase I approach is to first perform an analysis of the candidate sensors identified in this proposal. Next, we plan to perform a performance analysis of a number of innovative array geometries. Finally, we plan to conduct a packaging and feasibility analysis for the leading candidate array configurations. The newly developed search sensor will provide the SQS-53C and ALFS systems with an off-board active receive capability thereby increasing the probability of making aspect-dependent target detections. This capability will not only enhance the search capability of those systems but also provide additional self-defense capability for the battle-group. The goal of this effort is to merge the technology developed in Phases I and II into an SQS-53C or ALFS system planned product improvement program in Phase III. In terms of non-military potential, the proposed sensor could be used for monitoring the migration paths of marine mammals. The new sensor could also be of value to the Coast Guard in both its homeland defense and drug interdiction missions.

ADVANCED ROTORCRAFT TECHNOLOGY, INC. 1685 Plymouth Street, Suite 250 Mountain View, CA 94043
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(650) 968-1464 Dr. Chengjian He NAVY 03-034 Awarded: 06/06/03
Title:	Advanced Multi-Aircraft Shipboard Landing Model
Abstract:	Progress has been made in modeling and simulation of the shipboard operation cases to support analysis of the single aircraft landing task. However, limitations exist where the analysis does not include the interference arising from simultaneous operation of multiple aircraft on the same ship. To improve all aspects, especially flight safety, of shipboard operations with multiple aircraft, the interaction between the ship and the aircraft, as well as between multiple aircraft, must be addressed. We propose to (1) construct and integrate with FLIGHTLAB a prescribed tip vortex model with vortex decay effect to provide an efficient multi-aircraft wake hazard assessment tool and to support parametric study of the effects of upwind aircraft wake on shipboard aircraft landing. (2) enhance Peters/He's finite state dynamic wake model with a far field wake evolution model including wake distortion and decay to support both real-time and non-real-time multi-aircraft operation modeling and analysis. (3) enhance and fully integrate with FLIGHTLAB the time-accurate free vortex wake model by Bhagwat and Leishman for shipboard multi-aircraft interaction analysis. The enhancement will include a high fidelity vortex evolution model to address the vortex core growth and vortex strength variation due to the vorticity diffusion and dissipation. (4) develop and integrate into FLIGHTLAB a unified formulation to couple the ship motion, ship airwake/turbulence, and multi-aircraft interference models and render an advanced ship/aircraft dynamic interface model. (5) extend the development to commercial applications for air traffic control and terminal area operations. This SBIR could potentially result in various commercial products and create strong interest among ship and aircraft designers, researchers, and manufacturers, the military, the FAA, and commercial airline operators. The multi-aircraft interference model developed will benefit aircraft shipboard operations and support the process of design, training, and planning. It will also benefit commercial airlines for take-off and landing safety and improvement of terminal area operation efficiency.

CONTINUUM DYNAMICS, INC. 34 Lexington Avenue Ewing, NJ 08618
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(609) 538-0444 Dr. Robert M. McKillip, Jr. NAVY 03-034 Awarded: 05/20/03
Title:	A Fully Coupled Multi-Aircraft DI Simulation Model
Abstract:	Attempts to simulate the dynamic interface (DI) environment of landing aircraft onto Navy ships typically incorporate extensive approximations in both the component aerodynamic models and their interaction. These lower fidelity models are employed in order to achieve real-time throughput speeds required in manned simulation, or may simply result from lack of data or sufficient analytical tools in the models themselves. A novel fully-coupled aerodynamic simulation that includes multiple aircraft simultaneously operating from a ship is proposed for development, that will represent time-accurate couplings between aircraft wakes, ship superstructure, and ship airwake emanating from a moving platform. Various modeling simplifications will then be applied to this simulation and their effects evaluated in order to quantify the level of detail necessary to use this software as a DI testing predictive tool. These simplifications should also enable the development of a networked version of this simulation environment that may ultimately achieve real-time throughput speeds through parallel computation. Extensive use will be made of past and current efforts at CDI in real-time aircraft wake simulation, bluff-body aerodynamic analysis, and hybrid CFD approaches that all address the DI aerodynamic environment. The software end product resulting from Phase I/Phase II research would provide a tool for pre-test prediction of the operational environment anticipated for flight near maritime or ground structures subject to external disturbances and prevailing wind effects. These conditions include landing and launching aircraft from ships, operations from off-shore oil platforms, and use of heliports on top of and adjacent to large buildings. An additional benefit of the software would be an enhanced representation of flight operations in structure-generated turbulence to facilitate pilot training.

CONPROCO CORP. 17 Production Drive Dover, NH 03280
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(603) 743-5800 Dr. Alexander Vaysburd NAVY 03-035 Selected for Award
Title:	Development of a Crack Resistant Durable concrete Repair Material for Navy Concrete Structures
Abstract:	A large number of existing Navy concrete structures are in a state of deterioration/distress. It must also be recognized that many repaired concrete structures are severely deteriorated only after a few years having been repaired. How to halt the decay of the Navy's physical infrastructure? The durability of concrete repair must be ensured on a basis of daily practice, from the research, design, material selection through construction practices and quality control. Every means of rendering concrete repair technology more reliable has an enormous engineering and economic signficance. The SBIR Phase I project focuses on one of the critical route-cases of preliminary failure of concrete repairs - cracking of repair materials due to the restrained volume changes. The ultimate goal of the project is to develop durable crack-resistant repair material. The key deliverables under the scope of work in Phase I will be: (1) identification fo short-term material criteria for crack-resistant performance; (2) develop candidate mateiral mixture(s) for compliance with the performance criteria; (3) testing the candidate mixture(s) for compliance with the performance criteria; (4) report. The toll paid for loss of service and annoying repair of repairs amounts for enormous amount of money. The present situation with repaired concrete structures sometimes jeopardizes Naval activities. The low crack-resistance of presently avialable on the market cement-based repair materials is one of the causes of unsatisfactory performance of repair structures. Therefore, the research and development project directed on developing repair material(s) with high crack-resistance characteristics will make a substantial contribution not only for U.S. Navy but fro the entire industry.

BECK ENGINEERING 3319 21st Ave NW Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(253) 853-1703 Dr. Douglas S. Beck NAVY 03-036 Selected for Award
Title:	Free Piston Pump for Microturbines
Abstract:	The Navy needs long-life fuel pumps for Microturbines. We propose to apply our patented Free Piston Pump (FPP) technology to develop a long-life fuel pump for Microturbines to meet the needs of the Navy. We have developed our FPP to meet long-life requirements and stringent cost requirements for high-pressure (for example, 3000 psi) cryogenic LNG systems on heavy vehicles. Our FPP has a long life because it has few moving parts and long-life seals. Our FPP has a low cost because it has a low part count of inexpensive parts. In Phase I, we will design, build, and test a prototype Free Piston fuel Pump (FPP) for Microturbines, and we will determine the economic feasibility of large-scale production of our fuel pump. In Phase II, we will: (1) optimize our FPP to maximize life and minimize costs; (2) build and test the optimized design; (3) use the optimized pump to generate performance maps (data); and (4) develop a fuel-pump package (including performance data) suitable for commercial sale in Phase III. In Phase III, we will enter large-scale production of our pump, and we will mass-market our Free Piston Fuel Pump for Microturbines throughout the Navy and the Commercial Sector. Our Free Piston Pump (FPP) is attractive for many applications that require a long-life, low-cost, high-pressure pump. Some promising commercial applications of our FPP are: fuel pumps for Microturbines; fuel pumps for LNG systems on heavy vehicles (trucks); feedpumps for nuclear powered submarines; pumps for desuperheating water injection for steam power plants; and feedpumps for power generation and cogeneration.

AVINEON, INC. 4825 Mark Center Drive, Suite #700 Alexandria, VA 22311
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(630) 986-9834 Mr. Kasu Sista NAVY 03-037 Selected for Award
Title:	Data Model for Battle Force Interoperability Certification
Abstract:	Avineon proposes to develop a model for acquiring, organizing, storing, distributing, and analyzing the combat systems data resulting from interoperability tests, corrective actions, upgrades and modifications, during the D-30 process. The analyses will: (1) assist in the determination of readiness, (2) plan modifications and (3) assigning the plans priorities, based upon available budget and criticality. Avineon will develop the System architecture to implement this model. Object oriented analysis and design methods will be used, following the Rational Unified Process (RUP). Requirements, object models and their interactions will be described using UML and Rose visual models. The primary objective is to develop the architectural components of the system. As part of this process, hardware, network, and COTS product components will be evaluated and selected to develop a recommended architecture for a working system with the required functionality. Heterogeneous data sources have traditionally posed problems for mission critical analysis of combat data, thereby reducing the effectiveness of collecting such data. Since data resides on several disparate systems, real time access to and aggregation of that data is difficult. Traditional Data warehousing solutions are by nature static and inflexible. Avineon's proposed Dimensional Object Model is dynamic and flexible and can evolve with advances in processes, methods, and technology. With the recent advances in technologies such as secure P2P, commercially available publish and subscribe models as well as security advances make it possible to access, aggregate and analyze heterogeneous data repositories quickly and efficiently. Applying this technology to combat data will enable battle readiness assessment in mission critical situations. Since the competitive environments in which most corporations operate also require prompt integration and analysis of data from multiple sources, the research proposed herein also has strong potential for successful commercial application.

DATA PROCESS TECHNOLOGIES 3863 Centerview Drive, Suite 150 Chantilly, VA 20151
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 726-8273 Dr. J. Frederick Sencindiver NAVY 03-037 Selected for Award
Title:	Data Model for Battle Force Interoperability Certification
Abstract:	The objective of work during Phase I is to develop a prototype to show that a representative sample of source data maintained on a commercial relational database management system can be acquired, objectified, and furnished to a client application for use. Phase I will also demonstrate that the data transfer can occur over a secured data network. Data Process Technologies proposes to develop a system to acquire, store, organize, analyze and distribute Battle Force Interoperability Test (BFIT) data collected during the D-30 process. The goal is to assist in determining readiness, making and prioritizing modifications based on criticality and budget. A systems architecture will be developed including database and application design, with Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) software and hardware (including server, client and network) selected and specified based on evaluation and prototyping. The system will include archival information for analysis of historical data. A working prototype will be constructed and demonstrated using the proposed architecture. The problem of determining the readiness and interoperability extends from Naval task forces to multi-service and multi-country forces engaged in joint and combined operations. The system that is developed under this project is expected to be of interest to The US Joint Chiefs of Staff and NATO. The technologies used in this project such as XML and OLAP, although still considered emerging technologies, are not new to the military or to industry. However, the integration of the disparate parts of the proposed system into a well-defined process has vast commercial potential.

TRIDENT SYSTEMS, INC. 10201 Lee Highway, Suite 300 Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 691-7762 Mr. David Lewis NAVY 03-037 Selected for Award
Title:	Data Model for Battle Force Interoperability Certification
Abstract:	Given the events of the past few years, interoperability between elements of large battle forces or joint operations has become even more vital for risk reduction and mission accomplishment. The ability to determine the degree to which such forces are interoperable prior to deployment is therefore critical as part of the overall readiness assessment. Current interoperability testing and analysis involves the use of multiple legacy data sources operating in a standalone mode. The inefficiencies introduced by such an architecture coupled with the inability to `see' all of the data combine to make the process of interoperability certification difficult at best. Trident Systems proposes to build a comprehensive interoperability data model and system architecture, leveraging on-going work in other areas to mitigate risk. Trident has considerable experience in the area of large data model development and integration with legacy sources. In addition, Trident has developed similar prototype and commercially available architectures for data model deployment and thus has considerable experience in the design, build and deployment of such systems. The proposed Interoperability Certification Data Model (ICeDaM) system will enable a new level of battle force interoperability readiness certification, and will positively impact the mission success of large battle forces. The major anticipated benefit is the ability to more quickly and accurately determine battle force, multi-service force and multi-country battle force interoperability readiness. With the initial focus being naval battle forces, the proposed product of this SBIR will provide a promising foundation for use within other services and joint operations (such as NATO). In addition, the complete system will be applicable to law enforcement and emergency response agencies in multi-jurisdictional environments.

ARETE ASSOC. P.O. Box 6024 Sherman Oaks, CA 91413
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(520) 571-8660 Mr. Asher Gelbart NAVY 03-038 Selected for Award
Title:	Automatic Real-time Computer Aided IDentification (ARCAID)
Abstract:	The AQS-20(A) towed minehunting system incorporates an electro-optic imaging lidar sensor that provides high fidelity 3D imagery crucial for identification of mines. While a real-time algorithm to automatically detect, classify, and identify targets from the image outputs of the EO system is entirely feasible, the current AQS-20(A) system support only a rudimentary Automatic Target Detection (ATD) algorithm that has limited capability to differentiate mine-like objects (MLOs) from clutter. Aret� proposes development of an Automatic Real-time Computer Aided IDentification (ARCAID) system that would replace the current ATD and greatly expedite target identification and false alarm rejection during AQS-20(A) missions. The ARCAID system will greatly reduce the amount of post-mission analysis required to positively identify mines and discriminate them from mine-like clutter because the real-time algorithm will provide a high level of identification and clutter discrimination on the fly. Additionally, the ARCAID system will incorporate a 3D data visualization tool for man in-the-loop verification of mine identifications. The tool will enable the operator to optimally exploit the 3D data captured by the system by interactively comparing multiple 3D perspective views of mine-like objects (MLOs) identified by the algorithm with identically scaled models of the suspected mines. Aret� sees the ARCAID system as a necessary and integral part of the AQS-20(A) EOID system. Because Aret� already has experience developing a baseline algorithm for the ARCAID system, Aret� believes that it would be a grave mistake to omit such a capability in the fleet-deployment of the AQS-20(A) system. The ARCAID system will greatly enhance the efficiency and accuracy of the AQS-20 mine-hunting mission, which will provide a huge asset to national defense and to the efficacy of our naval warfare.

SEXTANT CONSULTING 40 Agostino Street Irvine, CA 92614
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(949) 509-2623 Dr. Steve White NAVY 03-038 Selected for Award
Title:	Ellipsoidal Basis Functions for Computer Aided Identification of Mines
Abstract:	The objective of this proposal is to explore and develop a candidate identification algorithm, the Ellipsoidal Basis Functions method and demonstrate capability for computer-aided mine identification with specific exploitation of 3-D information. Currently, mine identification systems rely on post mission processing to complete mining hunting operations. Real-time computer aided detection and computer aided classification (CAD/CAC) is just now being pursued by many researchers in order to reduce operator workloads. We propose to develop the EBF method, utilizing AQS20(A) and other acoustic and or magnetic sensor data to provide an enhanced target discrimination capability as compared to the standard Bayesian Estimation, Correlation/Matched-Filter, or Energy Classifier methods. We note that a significant feature of the EBF method is that it seamlessly lends itself to fusing data from multiple sensors as discussed below and that the EBF method is a fully data-driven method. The method does not require any physical or environmental models or parameters of the observer system. These can be incorporated in the pre-processor if a prior information is available. Also, the EBF method can readily exploit 3-D data since the data is represented as feature vectors, the dimensionality of the data can be arbitrary. The proposed investigation will provide valuable tools and validation for applications of the Ellipsoidal Basis Functions method to areas other than mine-hunting also such as missile and homeland defense as well as object and face recognition technologies. There currently exist various face recognition technologies that have made way into some applications (e.g. Connecticut DMV, West Virginia Child ID programs). The deployed software is still being tested and refined. Most of the techniques currently use a principal components analysis (PCA) followed by extraction of "eigen-faces." We believe the EBF method will provide improved capability to the commercial face recognition technologies. Also, the EBF method has potential applications to current autonomous target recognition programs such as potentially, The Boeing Company''''s SLAM-ER.

LIFE CYCLE ENGINEERING, INC. 4360 Corporate Road, Suite 100 North Charleston, SC 29405
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 892-8585 Mr. Andre C. Hargreaves NAVY 03-039 Selected for Award
Title:	Alternative System for Hangar Bay Access Doors
Abstract:	The Hangar Bay Deck Edge and Division doors, on aircraft carriers are in need of modification, in order to minimize maintenance and increase reliability. In both current applications, guide rails are recessed into the deck and collect debris, non-skid grit, and oily dirt. Additionally, the wire rope system for operating the doors jams, sometimes causing the rope to part, resulting in significant down time. The LCE/Curtiss-Wright/Burke team proposes changing the door operation system to include electro magnetic levitation (MAGLEV) to raise the door panels a minimum height to release friction. Two independent magnetic lift systems will be utilized for primary and secondary operation systems. The door will be modified to eliminate the blast guide, which slides in the recessed deck trough. The deck guide trough will be eliminated and replaced with 1-2 inch "speed bump" on which the door will travel, that will be recessed into the bottom of the door panels, providing horizontal structure support. The wire rope system will be replaced with worm gear type linear actuators. A secondary pneumatic actuator will be utilized as the secondary means to operate the doors. A control system will provide operation, alarm signals, system status and self-diagnostics. The development of a reliable, quick acting, easy to maintain fire/blast door system, that is scalable to any application, would be highly valuable to Navy ship design managers charged with designing warships that are more capable, while requiring less manpower. Throughout the modern era the US Navy has realized, on numerous occasions, the benefits of superior damage control and firefighting capabilities. Unfortunately, most of the current capabilities in use today, are manpower intensive, which is a luxury the Navy of today cannot afford. The proposed drive system, will maintain the DC and firefighting capability currently employed in CVN design and operation, while increasing the reliability of this system, decreasing required operation and maintenance manpower and simplifying operations.

SATCON TECHNOLOGY CORP. 161 First Street Cambridge, MA 02142
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 349-0814 Dr. Edward Lovelace NAVY 03-039 Selected for Award
Title:	A High Reliability, Electric Drive System for Carrier Deck Edge Doors
Abstract:	The present deck edge door drive system for aircraft carriers is a complex system of sheaves, wire ropes, and associated equipment that has low reliability and high maintenance cost. The main system attributes that result in this situation are the indirect actuation of the door panels, and the use of a heavily loaded track in the hangar deck floor. SatCon is proposing a development program that will address these two issues, replacing the present system with one that uses direct actuation of the door panels and unloads, and potentially eliminates, the deck track. The SatCon solution will make use of electromagnetic lift mechanisms and linear electric machinery drawing on our experience from programs such as the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS), and collaborating with established naval equipment manufacturers. The system will be significantly more simple to operate and maintain, and have the potential for significant reductions in the total ownership cost for a hangar door actuation system. This initial development, which is targeted for the carrier deck edge doors, is directly applicable to the interior hanger bay division doors. Similar design elements can also likely be applied to other naval linear electric machinery opportunities such as elevator lifts and munitions/missile/torpedo loading mechanisms. Furthermore, similar technology can be applied to markets in the commercial sector for anything from low load, high precision semiconductor manufacturing equipment to large maglev transportation systems.

JERED INDUSTRIES, INC. 1608 Newcastle St., P.O. Box 904 Brunswick, GA 31521
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(912) 262-2000 Mr. Roy D. Stoyer NAVY 03-040 Selected for Award
Title:	Alternative Drive System For Deck Edge Elevator
Abstract:	The program is to investigate a new drive system for the Deck Edge Elevators for the Next Generation Aircraft Carrier. This drive system is to be electrical in nature and is to replace the current hydraulic engine and hydraulic system. Jered Industries is in a unique position to conduct this investigation due to the vast experience gained with Deck Edge Elevators. Jered Industries has designed and manufactured most of the Deck Edge Elevators currently in service in the US Navy. In addition, Jered Industries was the prime contractor for the Aircraft Elevators for both the Spanish and French Navies. For this study, Jered Industries has teamed with Power Superconductor Applications, Corp.(PSA). PSA has significant experience in linear electric motor technology that we believe will hold the most promising solution for the alternative drive. By eliminating the hydraulic system the following benefits are to be realized: 1. Reduced maintenance cost 2. Reduced maintenance man-hours 3. Reduced operating personnel 4. Reduced overall weight 5. Lower Life Cycle Cost 6. Overall safety improvement 7. Reduced noise level around equipment 8. Cleaner operating environment around equipment

LIFE CYCLE ENGINEERING, INC. 4360 Corporate Road, Suite 100 North Charleston, SC 29405
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 892-8585 Mr. Andre C. Hargreaves NAVY 03-040 Selected for Award
Title:	Alternative Drive System For Deck Edge Elevator
Abstract:	The deck edge aircraft elevator (ACE), now in use on all active CVs and CVNs, is based on the system design principles established over 40 years ago. This system, while remaining one of the most reliable in the fleet, can be improved upon by employing new technology in the areas of drive mechanism, automated control, and self-diagnostic maintenance assessments. In addition to the improvements available through technology application, the development of an electro-magnetic drive mechanism would allow for the replacement of the current hydraulic engine, thus removing yet another maintenance intensive hydraulic system from the ship, while dovetailing with the Navy's current efforts to maximize electrical system application. The baseline approach, proposed under this SBIR, will be to utilize the existing roller design and implementation of the elevator, but incorporate the linear motors into the structure to provide the needed lifting forces. The major components of this system will be linear motors, power electronic motor controllers, and a supervisory control system that features intelligent controls and a graphical user interface (GUI) for operation and diagnostic entries to the system. The development of an electro-magnetic drive system for heavy lift elevators can be highly valuable to the US Navy and any commercial entities tasked with moving heavy loads through a vertical lift. Currently, the common method of moving heavy lifts is by the use of large hydraulic engines, which require large amounts of hydraulic fluid and require high-pressure pumps. These systems are used in moving cargo onto and out of cargo ships, within port authorities for storing and transferring, in industrial warehouses for loading/unloading flatbed trucks, in shipyards for the movement of structural modules, and for drawbridge applications. An electromagnetic drive mechanism would allow for greater control of these lifts, thus impacting personnel safety and equipment wear and tear. Additional benefits would include a reduction in the need for hazardous material (hydraulic fluid), and a reduction in the preventive maintenance required to maintain the pumps, reservoirs and cylinders associated with large, high-pressure hydraulic systems. Concurrently, an electromagnetic option could be lighter than the current hydraulic motor and lifting cables, thus assisting in on-going weight reduction efforts for the next generation aircraft carrier. Finally, utilizing the technology being developed under the Electro-Magnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS), commonality in maintenance/operation/training of control systems, linear motors and power electronics will reduce the overall ownership cost.

ARETE ASSOC. P.O. Box 6024 Sherman Oaks, CA 91413
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(520) 571-8660 Dr. Gregory J. Fetzer NAVY 03-041 Selected for Award
Title:	Acoustic and Electro-Optic Data Fusion
Abstract:	Historically acoustical sensors have performed the bulk of Mine Countermeasures for the Navy. Electro-Optic Identification (EOID) has recently proven itself as an important technology in the identification of mines. With the AN/AQS-20A adaptation program now providing EOIDs to the fleet, the EOID sensor works simultaneously with four sonars (the EOID replaces the Volume Search Sonar for this configuration). To fully exploit the combined capabilities, sonar and EOID data need to be fused into a larger feature description of the target. Arete will create simulated EO images that correspond to existing AQS20 sonar targets and provide a combined acoustical / EO feature set (expected to be greater that 41 raw features). From this set, an algorithm will be developed to describe the target. The existing acoustical CAD/CAC algorithm will be used to measure the added performance attributable to the fusion process. Phase I will quantify the benefit of the fusion process and pave the way for a Phase II. The following phase will analyze the simultaneous data to be acquired during CT / DTOT testing and the releasing of the algorithm for integration into the the AQS20 system. It is fully intentioned that this work will result in a "fusion CAD/CAC" capability for the AQS20 program by linking with CSS's mine feature database. From a broader sense, this work has application for "n" number of fused sensors, whether they are acoustical, IR, visible, polarimetry, spectral, etc. This will help meet the need for difficult target discrimination suing multiple sensors.

SEXTANT CONSULTING 40 Agostino Street Irvine, CA 92614
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(949) 509-6523 Mr. Michael J. Twardos NAVY 03-041 Awarded: 07/28/03
Title:	Ellipsoidal Basis Functions for Acoustic and Electro-Optic Data Fusion
Abstract:	The objective of this proposal is to correlate and fuse data from electro-optic and AQS20(A) acoustic sensor data and provide a single computer-aided mine identification system thus significantly increasing mine identification capability by utilizing the complementary strengths of both types of sensors. The approach will use 2 levels of fusion. The first level (Lower level fusion) will fuse feature vectors, using the ellipsoidal basis functions (EBF) method, obtained from the two sensor types and provide a single identification, thus utilizing greater information afforded by two sensors as opposed to using single sensor data. The second level (Higher level fusion) will consider the fusion of a candidate complementary algorithm in addition to the EBF method. The idea here, discussed in the literature, is that each algorithm has its strengths in suppression of specific false alarms and thus a fusion of complementary algorithms will provide optimal performance. The proposed investigation will provide valuable tools and validation for applications of the Ellipsoidal Basis Functions method to areas other than mine-hunting also such as missile and homeland defense as well as object and face recognition technologies. There currently exist various face recognition technologies that have made way into some applications (e.g. Connecticut DMV, West Virginia Child ID programs). The deployed software is still being tested and refined. Most of the techniques currently use a principal components analysis (PCA) followed by extraction of "eigen-faces." We believe the EBF method will provide improved capability to the commercial face recognition technologies. Also, the EBF method has potential applications to current autonomous target recognition programs such as potentially, The Boeing Company''''s SLAM-ER.

WAVEBAND CORP. 375 Van Ness Ave, Suite 1105 Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 212-7808 Dr. Lawrence Klein NAVY 03-041 Selected for Award
Title:	Underwater Mine Detection Using Acoustic Gap Filler and Electro-optic Sensor Data
Abstract:	Feature-based target detection and identification data fusion algorithms have been shown to be effective in classifying land mines and other objects. Several of these algorithms, namely Dempster-Shafer inference, voting logic fusion, and Bayesian inference, may be particularly applicable to the detection of underwater mines. WaveBand will utilize its extensive experience in applying these techniques for selecting and/or developing data fusion methods that are optimal for the underwater mine detection problem using acoustic gap filler and electro-optic sensor data. Our ability to understand the strengths and limitations of data fusion algorithms and the information required as inputs to the algorithms makes WaveBand the ideal candidate to address this challenge for the Navy. The algorithms cited require expert knowledge or information that is frequently obtained from the results of "offline" experiments. WaveBand has extensive experience in conducting these experiments and analyzing and applying the resulting data to data fusion processing. This project will enable WaveBand to enhance its capability to build and market MMW sensors, which incorporate data fusion processing utilizing other sensor data when they are available. The enhanced images or object classification information achievable with the multi-sensor system will improve upon the state of the art in that objects that may be hidden or have degraded signatures in one sensor's signature domain but may not be hidden in another. Many sensor systems currently under development, which frequently suffer from degraded imagery or target classification ability under limited visibility conditions, can be upgraded using the results of the proposed project.

NEKTON RESEARCH LLC 4625 Industry Lane Durham, NC 27713
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(919) 405-3993 Dr. Rick Vosburgh NAVY 03-042 Selected for Award
Title:	High Efficiency Mission Performance for Underwater Expendable Countermeasure Devices Commonality Applications
Abstract:	Integrated electronics, control, and navigation/propulsion modifications will be investigated to provide 40% improved efficiency for ADC Mk II operations. Leveraging its UUV-development expertise, Nekton will focus on: 1) design of a linear navigational control system to replace existing solenoids, 2) design deployable, recessed, mid-body fins for lift enabling efficient high speed level navigation, and 3) design of FPGA/DSP-based electronics to significantly reduce electronics power and space requirements, which will free-up space for a shallow recess in the outer hull surface to accommodate deployable fins. Phase II will yield a prototype for field tests. ANTICIPATIED BENEFITS: The proposed effort will significantly improve the range and velocity of the Mk II, initial estimates exceed 40%, while also improving its control and eliminating the characteristic (detectable) swimming pattern now employed to accommodate negative buoyancy and lack of lift. Following the Phase I specification and initial design, Phase II will complete design and yield a prototype incorporating the specified enhancements. In addition to providing a low cost reliable solution to the identified deficiency of the Mk II, the proposed effort also addresses technology issues in anticipation of Next Generation Countermeasures development. COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS: The components developed under this effort are optimized for the military mission but the subassemblies clearly are applicable in UUVs for environmental monitoring or research, as well as tactical oceanography, mine countermeasures, and plume mapping or other toxicant detection missions.

CHESAPEAKE SCIENCES CORP. 1127B Benfield Blvd. Millersville, MD 21108
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(860) 535-1646 Mr. Robert O. Hauptmann NAVY 03-043 Selected for Award
Title:	High sensitivity, pressure compensated optical hydrophone
Abstract:	Fiber optic sensor systems are a key element in the Navy's plan for meeting cost, reliability and performance objectives for future towed and fixed arrays. A cost effective optical hydrophone that provides performance over the full operating environment is needed to meet future requirements and mitigate technical risk in several ongoing development programs. Multiple candidate designs are presented that overcome limitations in current optical hydrophones with a minimal increase in overall complexity. Additionally, pressure compensated solutions are described which maintain compatibility with thin line towed array design constraints. These candidate implementations will be fully evaluated during phase 1 efforts. Engineering evaluation includes modeling, analysis, prototype fabrication and in water tests to quantify trade offs early in development. Consideration of application specific derived requirements including sensor interrogation methods, optical noise floor performance, durability during handling, insensitivity to vibration and compatibility with automated array manufacturing techniques are also critical to ensure a successful integration into current development projects such as the fiber optic TB-29 thin-line towed array. The range of alternatives identified provides increased sensitivity over the entire range of operating environments resulting in suppression of other noise mechanisms inherent in optical sensor systems. The primary benefit is improved sensor sensitivity resulting in suppression of noise mechanisms that may limit fiber optic sensor performance. This performance benefit is achieved while maintaining compatibility with physical packaging constraints and production cost objectives. The higher sensitivity hydrophone will make all optical interrogation systems more practical and will have application in both towed and fixed arrays used by the Navy and the seismic industry.

ART ANDERSON ASSOC. 202 Pacific Avenue Bremerton, WA 98337
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(360) 479-5600 Mr. Eric Snyder NAVY 03-044 Selected for Award
Title:	Develop and Evaluate Alternative Hullform Technology for the 11 Meter Ridgid Inflatable Boat
Abstract:	In consideration of the operational requirements of the US Navy VSW/MCM forces to transport marine mammals, this investigation evaluates alternative hullform and innovative technologies to reduce shock transmission to occupants and mammals. Specifically, this investigation evaluates and compares the vertical accelerations, boat signature, and hull resistance of the air lubricated/supported STOLKRAFT hull to the Naval Special Forces 11 Meter Rigid Inflatable Boat. Improved seakeeping and ride quality have become increasingly important to developers and owners of high speed craft. In adddition, to US Navy applications in the Special Forces arena, certain enterpriese have begun to develop platform, manned and unmanned, to carry personnel and electronic sensors at high speeds and into rough seas. Many of the sophisticated electronics in production and under development have strict requirements on the limitation of vertical accelerations. In addition, civilian commercial applications such as waterborne ambulances and fisheries transport craft have similar requirements to the transport of marine mammals. With the identification of requirements in Phase I, the team will obtain a thorough foundation for the assessment of the Stolkraft as the hullform that will significantly improve performance, reduce vertical accelerations, and minimize slamming loads. The investigation will provide validated data that will be directly useable in the design of vessels for the safe and comfortable transport of marine mammals.

CONTINENTAL CONTROLS & DESIGN, INC. 1921 N. Gaffey Suite J San Pedro, CA 90731
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 831-8669 Mr. James P. Hynes NAVY 03-044 Selected for Award
Title:	Develop and Evaluate Alternative Hullform Technology for the 11 Meter Ridgid Inflatable Boat
Abstract:	This topic was written to improve the ride quality, wake and efficiency of high speed water craft through optimized hullforms. This quest has continued worldwide for almost a century, but nothing has supplanted the deep vee hull for rough water use. Instead of new fiberglass hull shapes, we investigate an `add on' fix, active stabilization with fast moving control surfaces, made practical by new developments in inertial sensing and motion control systems. Ride control systems are common on large fast ferries and military aircraft, but are not currently available for small planing craft. In Phase 1 offshore demonstrations we will quantitatively demonstrate signature, range, and ride quality improvements using transom flaps and more sophisticated submerged foil systems. Long-term potential payoff to the US Navy could include fielding a faster, more efficient and effective combatant craft.

LITTORAL RESEARCH GROUP L.L.C. 3517 Page St. Metairie, LA 70003
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(504) 914-8934 Mr. Larry DeCan NAVY 03-044 Selected for Award
Title:	Develop and Evaluate Alternative Hullform Technology for the 11 Meter Ridgid Inflatable Boat
Abstract:	Littoral Research Group L.L.C. (LRG) of New Orleans, Louisiana proposes the development of a high-speed, high-lift planing hull form that significantly reduces the environmental signature and shock imparted on the vessel and its occupants. Moreover, they offer the practical implementation of new concepts and design methodologies that focus on hull-form technology for the exploitation of the hydrodynamic/aerodynamic properties as shock mitigation tools. LRG will analyze the 11-meter RIB to establish the analysis benchmark for the sea-keeping characteristics at static, loiter, semi-planing, and planing speed. They will identify and analyze alternative hull forms that hold the potential to improve special operations capabilities, including Mammal and Diver Insertion/Extraction operations of the Very Shallow Water Mine Counter Measures forces (VSW MCM). LRG is prepared to integrate into the new design lift/drag ratio enhancing and shock mitigating devices. The lift/drag ratio enhancing devices could be a set of low profile retractable semi-lift hydrofoils. Because the craft envisioned would be highly focused in design, the larger commercial potential is in high speed personnel transport, like commuting to offshore rigs, a comfortable crossing from Miami to Bimini, or a ferry trip from Seattle to Victoria B.C. Littoral Research Group L.L.C. (LRG) anticipates extending the design developments of the 11-meter RIB's hull geometry to the commercial market segment. Because the craft envisioned would be highly focused in design, the larger commercial potential is in high speed personnel transport to the offshore rigs, a comfortable crossing from Miami to Bimini, or a ferry trip from Seattle to Victoria B.C. Currently the Navy is developing a fleet of Unmanned Surface Vessels (USV) in the support of the Future Naval Capabilities (FNC) mandate. This fleet is being developed from the 7-meter and 11-meter RIB platforms because they have shown the capability to support such operations as mine countermeasures, amphibious warfare support,communi- cation relay with UUVs, and a significant number of other functions. LRG views the research, development, and deployment of the 11-meter RIB as a large step toward a fully autonomous fleet capable of patrol, mine counter measures, communications, and amphibious warfare support. Beginning in the year 2006, marine diesel engines over 37-kW will be required to meet new clean air standards. Recreational marine engines contribute to ozone formation and high PM (particulate matter) levels, especially in marinas, which are often located in areas with air-quality problems. The use of the new hull design technology to assist in meeting the new standards will have a profound positive effect on the air quality in our marinas and National Parks.

AVINEON, INC. 4825 Mark Center Drive, Suite #700 Alexandria, VA 22311
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(630) 986-9834 Mr. Kasu Sista NAVY 03-045 Selected for Award
Title:	Knowledge Gathering Network for BFMIS
Abstract:	Avineon proposes to develop an intelligence gathering system to identify and monitor the knowledge gained from the integration of system interoperability management data (Risk analysis, BF Comparisons, Metrics, DMSAR, Program TRs, BF CM data, BF ECM analysis) with mission analysis, system models, requirements, network models, and functional analyses. This effort will also document knowledge management processes that exist or are required for effective utilization of knowledge resulting from a combination of multiple BF systems. Avineon will define a generalized knowledge architecture including the structure of the data warehouse, interfaces to data sources, operational processes, affected user groups, and responsible organizational entities which can be developed into an XML-based data warehouse to serve as the foundation of a knowledge-based system architecture that captures system configuration, certification, operational, and test data along with a description of the organizational groups and processes that utilize this information and data. Object oriented analysis and design methods will be used, following the Rational Unified Process (RUP). Requirements, object models and their interactions will be described using UML and Rose visual models. As part of the process, hardware, network, and COTS product components will be evaluated and selected to suggest a working system representing the selected architecture. The results of this research will enable the BF community to define how the information gained from improved interoperability can be easily and quickly analyzed to provide knowledge that enables decision makers to decide where and how improvements can be made and to determine how the new knowledge can be created or gained in a systematic fashion. Moreover, heterogeneous data sources have traditionally posed problems for mission critical analysis of combat data, thereby reducing the effectiveness of collecting such data. Since data resides on several disparate systems, real time access, and aggregation of that data is difficult. Results of the proposed work will enable the development of knowledge systems with the ability to analyze data and information, pose questions regarding performance and requirements improvements, and recommend where and how efforts can be made to improve overall performance. Applying this technology to combat data will enable battle readiness assessment in mission critical situations. Since the competitive environments in which most corporations operate also require prompt integration and analysis of data from multiple sources, the research proposed herein also has strong potential for successful commercial application.

DATA PROCESS TECHNOLOGIES 3863 Centerview Drive, Suite 150 Chantilly, VA 20151
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 742-6744 Dr. J. Frederick Sencindiver NAVY 03-045 Selected for Award
Title:	Knowledge Gathering Network for BFMIS
Abstract:	Data Process Technologies proposes to use process modeling, value chain analysis and risk management procedures to help define, manage and develop aircraft carrier battle group (CVBG) interoperability testing processes. This work will provide certification team members with best practices and lessons learned guidance to enhance the CVBG certification process and streamline process activities used to reach critical decision points. Results will be standardized and promulgated using a centralized application, the Rational Unified Process (RUP). A software tool will be developed to help managers navigate the shoals of the certification process. In this manner, the combined knowledge can be used as a tool for risk assessment and mitigation, and to share the knowledge with others. In other words, the goal is to help managers define and share the activities that add value to their process, regardless of the role they play in battle group certification. Improved definition of activities will ensure that deployment critical interoperability milestones are met, while those activities adding little value can be deleted from the certification process. For those activities that have borderline value, risk management techniques can be applied to ensure the best bang for the certification "buck." This will help managers improve their understanding of risk from the holistic view of deploying a carrier battle group. The sharing of knowledge will help standardize the certification process. The net result will be faster, more reliable and complete certification methodologies. There are many opportunities to provide a complete process modeling, analysis, reengineering, risk management and knowledge management solution in the Navy, DoD, in Federal and state government and in the private sector. This need is anticipated to result in additional contracting opportunities for Data Process Technologies. Examples of Navy scenarios where this type of solution may prove beneficial include Administrative Material Inspections (ADMAT), Operational Readiness Evaluations (ORE), Operational Readiness Inspections (ORI), Operational Propulsion Plant Examinations (OPPE), Planned Maintenance System (PMS), Fast Cruises/Dock Trials; i.e. essentially any scenario where complex processes exist. Literature and anecdotal evidence suggest that highly complex tasks lead to an inability to perform them successfully.

ORINCON 4770 Eastgate Mall San Diego, CA 92121
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 351-4440 Mr. Terrence Wilson NAVY 03-045 Selected for Award
Title:	Knowledge Gathering Network Assistant (KGNA) for the Navy's BFIMS
Abstract:	Battle Force communities face increasingly complex data sources and information overload in their interoperability engineering process. Therefore, interoperable Battle Forces require information support systems with superior knowledge creation, documentation and dissemination features. Improved search, knowledge management, data mining and learning techniques of a new Knowledge Gathering Network Assistant (KGNA) can help create actionable knowledge to improve that Battle Force Interoperability Management System (BFIMS) process. The KGNA can enhance the BF community's: 1) deep discovery of relevant knowledge from external sources; 2) decision-making with timely critical insight for specific tasks, 3) pattern detection from both structured and unstructured sources, and 4) exposure of critical relationships to better measure and improve BFIMS performance. Phase I efforts for KGNA development will help build the foundation for a knowledge system that manages BFIMS interfaces, collects required data and selects proper data mining and decision support tools to embody knowledge creation, documentation, and dissemination with modern associative learning methods. In Phase II and Phase III efforts, a KGNA module will be constructed and tested that can interface with existing computing and network facilities of the BFIMS. Knowledge management via associative learning will help the BF community grasp, solve, formalize, and measure effectiveness of interoperability solutions. Knowledge management processes of the armed services and commercial enterprises can benefit from superior data mining and deep discovery that the KGNA offers. Business intelligence derived from data mining of warehoused information can sustain the competitive advantage for knowledge-centered organizations.

QUANTUM INTELLIGENCE, INC. 10610 Morengo Drive Cupertino, CA 95014
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(408) 252-7746 Dr. Ying Zhao NAVY 03-045 Selected for Award
Title:	Knowledge Gathering Network for BFMIS
Abstract:	The objective of this project is to develop and apply Quantum Intelligence System (QIS) and demonstrate its technical innovation and explore its commercial applications for Intelligent Knowledge Gathering for BFIMS. QIS integrates a collection of advanced knowledge discovery and optimization technologies. QIS first employs the best practices in database and data warehousing area to gather and integrate diversified knowledge resources, and then employs innovative data/text mining techniques to discover the signatures of historical knowledge application scenarios and identify the process and critical factors of knowledge acquisition and dissemination of using interoperable components of Battle Force Interoperability Management System (BFIMS). A success of this technology will greatly enhance the capability and overall performance of systematic intelligent knowledge gathering and application through interoperable networks. QIS integrates a collection of knowledge discovery algorithms into a single unified framework that can handle data and text information simultaneously. QIS is an innovative knowledge gathering, discovery and application framework that fits especially well for the needs of this project: � Learning: QIS is an adaptive and learning framework to discover patterns, rules and signatures from historical knowledge application scenarios. The knowledge can be represented as a collection of rules, patterns or mathematical models. � Evaluation: The system systematically and periodically evaluates the up-to-date performance of a sequence of knowledge application decisions to achieve the best overall performance. � Optimize: The system is iteratively to apply knowledge to future scenarios. During the application, it searches for the best possible solutions in real-time. It goes through a large number of "what if" hypotheses, and select a sequence of knowledge application decisions for the best performance. Other Military Applications: Analyze terrorists' behavior, discover potential terror threats; automatically allocate operation workload for undersea warfare; data fusion and sensor management for adaptive flight control. Supply Chain: Inventory management, production planning and control, resource allocation, reliability, maintenance, material handling, logistics, distribution of a supply chain. Manufacturing: Parsing existing work-stream data for chip production flow and optimizing the microchips' yield while minimizing costs. Health Care: Discover clinical activity patterns for automatic early detection, prevention and best practice.

INTELLIGENT SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY, INC. 2800 28th Street, Suite 306 Santa Monica, CA 90405
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 581-5442 Dr. Azad M. Madni NAVY 03-046 Selected for Award
Title:	ALSSYST: Multimedia-enabled Advanced Logistics Support System for Shipboard Use
Abstract:	The operational nature of submarines causes personnel to heavily rely on the available training and technical documentation for shipboard equipment. These technical documents are currently being converted from paper to a structured publishable data format (XML/SGML) and then loaded in object-oriented databases and the Navy's Content Management System (i.e., Evolution from Outstart). The traditional approach of separating technical documentation and training products is impractical for the COTS based electronics systems being procured today because frequent (annual) system design changes are being introduced to implement performance improvements. What is needed is an integrated technical documentation and training product that is capable of providing interactive system operation requirements and just in time operation and maintenance training for complex COTS based electronic systems. This SBIR will create an advanced logistics support system that exploits state-of-the-art multimedia technologies in support of training and maintenance costs. Rapid cost-effective, training and maintenance of complex equipment through integrated technical instruction and training framework. ALSSYS can be repackaged as a computer-based equipment operation and training product in vertical commercial markets.

PROGENY SYSTEMS CORP. 8809 Sudley Road, Suite 101 Manassas, VA 20110
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 368-6107 Mr. Gary J. Sikora NAVY 03-046 Selected for Award
Title:	Logistics Support Systems using Advanced Multimedia Technologies
Abstract:	This SBIR Phase I effort will use advanced multimedia technology to create logistics assistance for submarine crewmembers. This technology, including standards and methods currently in development, will be applied to a database of technical data to create training tutorials, maintenance mentors and logistics assistance for portable client processors. The methods and applications being developed by this SBIR effort are applicable to corporations with work forces engaged in daily maintenance activities. The concept of a universally accessible database of technical data that will support training and improvement of maintenance actions will provide significant cost savings in training and plant maintenance budgets.

NATIONAL WIRELESS, INC. 221 Pine Street Florence, MA 01062
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(413) 486-5111 Mr. Jim Ussailis NAVY 03-047 Selected for Award
Title:	Low Cost Submarine UAV Communications and Sensor Data Link
Abstract:	The Navy requires a long distance data link between a UAV and a submarine, which supports transfer of both high bandwidth surveillance data, and command /control messages. This data link must employ a highly secure, covert, and cost-effective design. Initial analysis contained in the proposal shows that the central issue in such a design is the balance between surveillance image quality (which requires significant bandwidth), obtainable UAV prime power, and UAV antenna characteristics. Both power and antenna configuration are constrained by other aspects of the UAV design. It is proposed to develop a spread-sheet based tool which will support trade-off analysis among various choices of frequencies, modulation / compression schemes, power requirements and antennas. Using this tool, appropriate parameters values will be selected, major components chosen, and a sample design presented at a block diagram level. Cost, size, weight and power requirements will be estimated for this design. In addition to meeting Navy requirements, the data link which is designed using this tool will have commercial value for UAV-based surveillance by other government agencies, highway traffic observation, for patrolling assets such as high voltage transmission lines and oil pipe lines, and for private security services. The design will comprise a significant improvement over previous systems, in terms of range and image quality vs. cost. At the same time, by limiting power requirements and antenna size, it will be possible to use inexpensive UAVs derived from model airplane practice.

ROSS-HIME DESIGNS, INC. 1313 5th Street South East Minneapolis, MN 55414
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(651) 699-5610 Mr. Mark Elling Rosheim NAVY 03-047 Selected for Award
Title:	Low Cost Submarine UAV Communications and Sensor Data Link
Abstract:	We propose to design and conduct feasibility trade studies for a low-cost communication system and data link for a disposable Unmanned Aerial Vehicle in response to FY2003 SBIR topic N03-047. The key aspect of our approach will be to reduce the lifecycle cost of an airborne line-of-sight TCDL data-link and increase the range of the data link to be limited only by the UAV altitude, up to a distance of 200 miles. The project will accomplish this goal by utilizing a Communication System Pointer based on Ross-Hime Designs, Inc. Omni-Wrist III, a low-cost, lightweight, compact, high dexterity pointing device and a state-of-the-art high gain directional Ku band antenna. The Omni-Wrist III offers hemispherical 2 pi steradians of singularity-free precision movement, low manufacturing costs, and a simple design. The Omni-Wrist III also reduces the complexity of a typical Ku band directional antenna by allowing the RF feed and pointer to be virtually maintenance-free. Ross-Hime Designs, Inc. (RHD) of Minneapolis, Minnesota has over 16 U.S. Patents on robot joints. Lockheed Martin Tactical Systems (LMTS) of Eagan, Minnesota is a prime item integrator for the USN with domain knowledge in C4SI systems development. Benefits expected to arise from the proposed work include: high capacity multimedia data exchange; jam-resistance communication; small transmit/receive aperture; low-power and weight; and resistance to EMI and co-site interference. Potential commercial applications include: high-bandwidth video transmission; long-distance communication links; and remote sensing.

CHESAPEAKE SCIENCES CORP. 1127B Benfield Blvd. Millersville, MD 21108
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(410) 923-1300 Mr. Paul T. Shultz NAVY 03-048 Selected for Award
Title:	High Bandwidth, Hull Mounted Array Telemetry and Display System
Abstract:	Driven by the need to operate in acoustically challenging littoral environments, the need for high-channel count, large aperture hull mounted arrays have created a demand for low cost telemetry electronics and operator processing/display aids that are suitable for large sonar arrays. The proposed telemetry approach leverages the existing TAIPT and Total Ship Monitoring telemetry systems to provide low cost electronics suitable for large sonar arrays. This approach continues to use a two-level telemetry architecture that combines a scaleable COTS ATM/SONET network with a simple, high-speed bit serial sensor telemetry. This telemetry approach has demonstrated the ability to synchronize thousands of distributed platform sensors over the same network used to transfer data. This standard network interface simplifies the connection to platform processing resources. The signal and information processing impacts of these voluminous sensors are unavoidable because large number of sensors translates to a large natural beam set (thousands) to form a large search space. While computer resources have increased, operator resources have remained the same. The processing and display system makes best use of computational power, automation technology, and display concepts to achieve desired sensor system performance with available system manning. The high bandwidth, low cost, hull mounted array telemetry developed under this SBIR has direct applications to future submarine sonars including upper, medium and low frequency bow conformal arrays, mine hunting and collision avoidance sonars. Since the proposed telemetry is scaleable over frequency and provides a full duplex uplink and downlink it has the ability to transfer complex shipboard generated waveforms to transducers for transmit and receive arrays. This type of telemetry is directly applicable to seismic survey and reservoir monitoring activities for both land and marine applications. Survey crews typically install a grid of velocity sensors (geophones) in large prearranged fields. A typical field may contain as many as 100,000 channels whose signals are multiplexed together and sent to a recording station via an optical or electrical signal path. The processing and display architecture work under this SBIR is directly applicable to future work in submarine combat systems. The Large Hull Array (LHA) sensor, or similar new concepts are certainly candidates for Advanced Processor Builds (APB) in the medium term. It is expected to use the developed architecture, design and integration concepts for the basis of future functional additions. The tasks under this SBIR have wide applicability to new sensor system like the Navy's DD(X) next generation surface ship, which is expected to include more extensive sonar sensor concepts.

ORINCON 4770 Eastgate Mall San Diego, CA 92121
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 351-4440 Dr. Henry Cox NAVY 03-048 Selected for Award
Title:	Innovative Display Concepts for Interacting with Large Dimensional Acoustic Arrays
Abstract:	To counter the ever-growing trend in submarine quieting, the complexity of detection systems has increased to the point where thousands of display surfaces of raw data would be required if today's method of presenting information to an operator were followed. These new sensors, coming on-line soon, are capable of providing information to an operator not previously available that needs to be exploited to its full extent. Concepts to present the information gathered from these complex sensors must provide the information required by the decision maker without generating an overburdening workload on the analyst. New display formats must be designed and built to provide the analyst with access to the new measurements, and the information must be combined so that an operator need only search a reasonable number of display surfaces. Inherent in all of the combination schemes tried to date, there has been a loss of signal processing gain that the complex sensor was designed to achieve. ORINCON proposes to develop new techniques that use ORINCON's expertise in understanding the total picture (underlying physics, automation, automatic signal detection, identification, correlation and tracking) to assemble a view that contains only the detected signals. An automated drill-down capability would be included to expose the hidden dimensions. ORINCON's concepts will permit analysts to rapidly scan the outputs of the new larger dimensional arrays to gain a rapid grasp of the new features available with less loss of weak signals from the new complex sensors. This would allow human analysts to take maximum advantage of the new capabilities to detect weak signals as if they were searching through a vastly larger number of display surfaces.

RYDAL RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT, INC. 1523 Noble Road Rydal, PA 19046
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(215) 886-5678 Dr. Warren A. Rosen NAVY 03-048 Selected for Award
Title:	A Low cost High-performance Data Network for Large Acoustic Arrays
Abstract:	Rydal Research proposes to research and demonstrate the feasibility of developing a low cost high-performance data network that will support the size and speed requirements of the next generation of large hull-mounted acoustic arrays. The network will be based on a number of novel low cost high-speed electrical and optical networking components and an efficient low-latency open protocol standard. The network will provide data rates in the 10 Gb/s range with latencies in the range of a few hundred nanoseconds. The network will also be used to implement a high performance real-time distributed processing system. Feasibility will be demonstrated by modeling and simulation and demonstration of small network prototype in Phase I. The development of this technology will benefit the Navy in a number of ways. It will dramatically reduce the cost and improve the performance, reliability, and insertion time of large acoustic arrays. The processing system based on these components will provide more than an order of magnitude improvement in processing throughput. Since the same protocol will be used for both data distribution and processing, the resulting flat architecture and simplified programming model will further contribute to lower cost. Finally, the development of low-cost components enabling economical high-performance computing and signal processing will spur commercial and academic research and development in operating systems, algorithms, and software development tools based on them. This research and development will further reduce the cost and improve performance of future Navy systems.

FOSTER-MILLER, INC. 350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 684-4382 Mr. Stephen Chen NAVY 03-049 Selected for Award
Title:	Autonomous Damage Controls of Submarine HM&E Systems
Abstract:	Achieving reduced manning and lower O&M cost for the Virginia class submarine depends upon successful automation of labor intensive functions. Previous attempts have not produced the desired reduction because potential manning reductions achieved through automation were negated by battle damage control manning needs. Successful manning reduction requires automation of previously manual damage control functions and is achievable through autonomous distributed HM&E operational controls. Foster-Miller has developed a component-level distributed control system (CLIDICS) for the control of shipboard electrical power grids (under Navy Project N00014- 98-C-0229). The system model developed identifies system faults by a reasoning process that detects abnormal operation and determines the root cause. It also reacts faster than humans and identifies the optimum work-around reconfiguration. Applying the underlying design process, component level specifications can be developed for any of the HM&E systems for autonomous battle damage detection and system reconfiguration as well as performing normal system function verification. The Trim and Drain System was selected for the proposed development of damage detection and reconfiguration algorithms, and selection of suitable COTS hardware for the shipboard system. The CLIDICS based autonomous control system design specification will have sufficient detail to allow building a prototype system in Phase II. (P-030192) American industry's need to improve productivity and reduce the labor content of products has been dictated by the pressures of global competition. Although process automation has made progress, it has been ultimately limited by the realities of process machinery faults and required maintenance manning. The lack of reliable early machinery fault detection, prognosis and good autonomous process reconfiguration has reduced the effectiveness of process automation in much the same way that the battle damage manning issue has affected the Navy's attempts to reduce manning. The success of this current project can have a very positive effect on American industry's success in meeting the current and future challenges of global competition. The dual use technology insertion from this project will provide industry with the technology and design process needed to enhance the economic performance of previously introduced process automation. In addition, component-level control functions and devices developed under this project could be used in applications where short reaction time and high survivability are required such as commercial ship HM&E systems, passenger aircraft, and nuclear power plants.

PROGENY SYSTEMS CORP. 8809 Sudley Road, Suite 101 Manassas, VA 20110
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 368-6107 Mr. Michael P. MacKay NAVY 03-049 Selected for Award
Title:	System Automation That Will Support Reduced Manning On Submarines (Component-Level Distributed Control System Technology)
Abstract:	An engineering focus on alternative approaches to the unique aspects of shipboard damage control and maintenance that require significantly higher levels of manning. The ideal solution for low cost wireless shipboard automation is comprised of: current wireless Local Area Network (LAN) technology; handheld or wearable personal computers; networked IEEE 1451 "plug and play" sensors; and accessibility to current application software coupled to Human-Machine Cognition features. Protecting an investment in this arena means making use of well-established industry standards for wireless computing, connectivity, and alliances with proven vendors. The proposed approach is to develop technology solutions from near term products and technologies to provide the Submarine Force with the tools it needs to increase productivity while reducing manning The thrust of this effort is the embodiment of the concept of "pervasive computing", which by its nature makes the computer invisible to human interaction. Pervasive computing implies the computer has the capability to obtain the information from the environment in which it is embedded and utilize it to dynamically build models of computing. The process is reciprocal: the environment can and should also become "intelligent" in that it also has a capability to detect other computing devices entering it. To provide the needed data input a distributed, "embedded plug and play" networked sensor system is incorporated into the concept to achieve and more complete solution. The development of this set of interconnected technologies would have the same effect, reduced staffing with increased operational efficiency and effectiveness. This set of technologies could be applied to almost any complex industrial or commercial process witht the same positive impact on the bottom line, reduced costs through personnel cost reductions.

TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT & TRANSFER, INC. 133 Defense Highway, Suite 212 Annapolis, MD 21401
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(410) 224-3710 Mr. Walter Zimbeck NAVY 03-050 Selected for Award
Title:	Spot Cooling Mini-Loop Heat Pipes
Abstract:	TA&T, in collaboration with Swales Aerospace, proposes to develop a novel modular, spot-cooling (two-phase) miniature loop heat pipe (mini-LHP) thermal transport system consisting of distributed flat-plate ceramic evaporator modules tied to a central condenser system. The use of a two-phase mini-LHP thermal transport system represents a zero-noise/zero power thermal solution for cooling COTS electronic components/computers in a high temperature environment. The modular approach will allow flexible expansion or contraction of the system capacity without significant system redesign. This approach will allow retrofitting of existing electronics with the compact ceramic evaporators with only minor modification to the component housing. For new electronic components, the approach will allow integration of the evaporator modules during printed circuit board assembly for the optimum packaging efficiency. The Phase I effort will assess the electronic systems in need of cooling and design a loop heat pipe system based on the thermal requirements of those components. The feasibility of fabricating the novel ceramic evaporators will also be demonstrated and testing will be performed to verify performance. This work will serve as the basis for Phase II in which a complete prototype system will be fabricated and tested. The proposed approach will have high applicability to a variety of DOD, NASA and consumer electronics where compact, reliable, zero-power cooling is required. Primary consumer applications will be in laptop as well as desktop computers.

ANALYTICAL & COMPUTATIONAL ENGINEERING, INC. 13 Canterview San Antonio, TX 78254
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(210) 681-1482 Mr. Michael Stahl NAVY 03-051 Selected for Award
Title:	Low Cost Non-Explosive Shock Qualification Testing
Abstract:	We propose to development of a relatively low cost, flexible, and environmentally sensitive means for shock qualification testing major shipboard systems using a non-explosive energetic source to generate the dynamic time-history environment representative of UNDEX situations. The key aspects of this system are 1) elimination of the use of energetic sources with a DoD Hazard/Classification 1.1, 1.2 or 1.3 materials that require handling by qualified EOD personnel plus storage under Quantity Distance (Q-D) requirements; 2) Portability to a variety of locations/environments; and 3) causes a minimizes the impact on the environment.The proposed method utilizes combustible gases (e. g., acetylene) under high pressure conditions and forced to detonate by a "hard" ignition source. In addition, geometric shields are configured to direct shock and tailor resulting cavitations and late-time bubble formation to be representative of known UNDEX consequences.Phase I will be conducted using a proven approach combining CFD modeling with table-top scale experiments to show the feasibility of the proposed system. The system to be developed here will have immediate application in various commercial industries. Qualification of ships and shipboard systems under a variety of extreme environmental conditions (storm generated waves, vessel impact, etc.) is an immediate application. Further, the system can be modified to address other offshore and dockside facilities such as petroleum rigs, floating production and refining ships, nuclear plant facilities, and sub-sea pipelines.

DYNAFLOW, INC. 10621-J Iron Bridge Rd. Jessup, MD 20794
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 604-3688 Dr. Georges L. Chahine NAVY 03-051 Selected for Award
Title:	Development of a Non-Explosive Ship Shock Testing System
Abstract:	Presently, at-sea ship shock tests subject the vessel to high-pressure pulses created by detonating large explosive charges in the open ocean. The process is highly disturbing to the environment and subject to a variety of operational restrictions. The results are severe costs and scheduling constraints. Legal challenges due to increasing environmental concerns are driving costs upward and may potentially prevent the Navy from performing this vital testing. DYNAFLOW INC., teamed with APTI and Anteon Corporation proposes to leverage previous research efforts to develop a completely non-explosive technology that will enable `in-situ' shock testing in an enclosed facility such as a dry-dock or wet slip. This technology can also be applied to an open water near shore environment through the use of appropriate pressure mitigation techniques. The concept, "DockShock", involves employing an array of proprietary electrically initiated pressure sources that produce pressure pulses sufficient for full ship shock testing. Because these pulses are directed, only a small fraction of the open ocean energy is necessary to deliver the equivalent shock impulse. Consequently, an enclosed facility can be modified with protective measures to insure that the dock or surrounding structures are not damaged. The benefits include: � Environmental - eliminates unnecessary damage to ocean wildlife. � Cost - substantial savings achieved by eliminating at sea costs and time. � Flexibility - testing schedule no longer driven by weather and seasons.

WEIDLINGER ASSOC., INC. 375 Hudson St FL 12 New York, NY 10014
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(212) 367-3094 Dr. Raymond P. Daddazio NAVY 03-051 Selected for Award
Title:	Low Cost Non-Explosive Shock Qualification Testing
Abstract:	The non-explosive shock testing of naval vessels and shipboard equipment project rapidly integrates a COTS technology currently used in commercial oil exploration, tailors the technology to meet Navy's LFT&E technical and environmental challenges, and provides the resulting package to the US Navy. The project provides a process and system by which the US Navy can avoid the severe environmental problems that have plagued naval shock testing in recent years. The process is safer and environmental benefits are significant compared to testing naval vessels and shipboard equipment with shocks generated by explosives. Seabed disturbance is minimal, fish kill is virtually eradicated, there are no chemical by-products and no residues are left at the test location. The absence of explosives means that shock testing can be carried out in virtually any location. This saves time occupying a warship on transit to a range. It also means testing is no longer dependent on range availability and a faster turnaround time between tests means better use of test dollars. The resulting capability will support the US Navy by providing a low cost, environmentally benign approach to developing necessary test data insuring reliability shipboard systems subjected to underwater shock loads. The Navy currently lacks a cost effective, environmentally sound approach to generate test data for qualification of ships, submarines and shipboard equipment for shock, vibration and LFT&E requirements. The resulting capability will support the US Navy by providing a low cost, environmentally benign approach to developing necessary test data insuring reliability shipboard systems subjected to underwater shock loads. The proposed system will also be useful in crew training scenarios as it can provide multiple underwater shock loadings to ships during training exercises. This is especially important in reduced manning environments that are responsible for much of the cost savings in naval surface combatants of the future.

BLAZETECH CORP. 24 Thorndike St. Cambridge, MA 02141
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 661-0700 Dr. Erik Andrews NAVY 03-052 Selected for Award
Title:	Failure Mode Maps for Marine Composite Structures Subjected to Blast and Ballistic Impact
Abstract:	A methodology for determining the failure mode and failure conditions of marine composite structures subjected to blast and ballistic impact will be developed. Analytical expressions characterizing the various failure modes will be derived. These expressions will include the effects of ballistic damage. Using these expressions failure mode maps will be generated. These maps will allow Navy ship designers to quickly and easily assess the failure modes and failure conditions of marine composite structures subjected to blast and ballistic impact. This research and the resulting analysis tool will expedite the implementation of composite structures in Navy ships by allowing the blast and ballistic resistance of these structures to be quickly and easily assessed. It also provides a framework for development of cost-effective test programs and interpretation of the test results.

KAZAK COMPOSITES, INC. 32 Cummings Park Woburn, MA 01801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 932-5667 Dr. Jerome Fanucci NAVY 03-052 Selected for Award
Title:	Blast and Ballistic Response of Advanced Composite Structures
Abstract:	KCI will develop a dynamic, nonlinear FEA methodology for evaluation and/or optimization of marine composite structures subjected to conventional weapon external and internal blast and ballistic threats. LS-DYNA3D will be extended via user defined material models. Phase I will concentrate on sandwich panel structures, stiffened sandwich panels, and joining sandwich panels. The KCI team has years of experience in design, optimization, and construction of stiffened composite sandwich panel structures for use in blast-hardened military C3I shelters. Important aspects of the analysis methodology are the elements and material models used for accurately and efficiently representing deformation and damage in composite face sheets, core, and structural connections. Practical models used must employ parameters whose values are readily available or easily measured. A test program for supplying these parameters will be proposed. Initial development of FEA methodology will use prototypical blast and impact validation problems, designed to exhibit significant damage modes, such as face sheet tensile, compressive, or wrinkling failures, core shear/compression failure, delamination, panel buckling, and failure of structural connections. A set of guidelines for accurate and efficient analysis of marine composite sandwich structures will be developed. Key to this effort is an understanding of the needs of the designer. In addition to serving the specific needs expressed in the solicitation, KCI anticipates that the developed finite element analysis methodology will be applicable to the design and optimization of a wide variety of other military and civilian systems. For example, terrorist threats have provided motivation to evaluate new and existing structures for their ability to withstand blast and/or ballistic impact loading. The modeling methods developed and demonstrated in the proposed software development and demonstration will allow designers to more accurately and efficiently capture the failure mechanisms that are unique to composite sandwich structure.

MATERIALS SCIENCES CORP. 500 Office Center Drive, Suite 250 Fort Washington, PA 19034
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(215) 542-8400 Dr. Chian-Fong Yen NAVY 03-052 Selected for Award
Title:	Air Blast & Ballistic Impact Damage Evaluation of Marine Composite Structures (MSC P1T11-303)
Abstract:	The objective of the Phase I work is to develop simple analytical material/structural element models that characterize the deformation and damage of Naval vessel composite structures subjected to conventional weapon effects. This includes external and internal blast and ballistic loading. This tool will have direct applicability in the design of marine composite structures with enhanced survivability under blast/ballistic threats. Previous research work performed at Materials Sciences Corporation (MSC) has successfully demonstrated the integration of advanced composite progressive failure models into LS-DYNA for accurate prediction of deformation and failure of various composite structures subjected to ballistic and blast impacts. The approach proposed herein will leverage this simulation data as a foundation to guide the development of robust material/structural element models for assessing the blast/ballistic performance of marine composite structural components. Simple ballistic and blast structural element models will be developed to efficiently capture composite structural failure modes and dynamic damage propagation for composite structures subjected to fragment impact and blast loading. The developed material models will be critically evaluated and calibrated by correlating with simulation results as well test data provided by the Navy. This program will develop a design tool that has direct insertion potential for all Defense contractors (Navy, Army, and aerospace) for survivability design of various composite structures. Application will include both military and civil markets such as aircraft, armored vehicles, surface marine craft and submarines and blast resistant structures.

ATEC, INC. 387 Technology Drive College Park, MD 20742
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 403-1744 Dr. John Lawler NAVY 03-053 Selected for Award
Title:	Thermo-Electric-Powered Thin Film Evaporators For Cooling Power Electronics
Abstract:	We propose developing "spot cooling" devices for the high heat flux electronic components in the Navy's shipboard electronic cabinets. Our spot cooling devices will incorporate a combination of thin film evaporators and thermo-electric power generators. Our thin film evaporators are expected to achieve the high heat removal capacities that will be required for new Integrated Power Systems (IPS), electromagnetic weapons (EMW), and high power radar electronics. The thermo-electric power generators will be used to power locally the thin film evaporators and the micropumps that may be required to return the thermal fluid to the evaporators. This local utilization of the power from a thermo-electric device maximizes the advantage of incorporating such devices in a thermal management system. Our complete cooling system will drastically reduce the waste heat that is entering the air-space of the cabinets, remove heat at a sufficient temperature to allow its removal from the working fluid via compact cooling water heat exchangers mounted on the outside of the cabinets, and maintain the electronic components at a reduced temperature despite their high heat fluxes, which will increase their reliability. Our thin-film evaporators will be able to remove a large amount of heat from high power electronics, so these electronic components (power modules, radar T/R modules, and solid-state lasers) will operate at a reduced temperature, which will increase their reliability. Our use of a two-phase working fluid system will allow the efficient removal of this heat from the electronic cabinets that house these components. One of the benefits of our thin film evaporator technology is that it reduces the size of the overall cooling system, since it requires only a fraction of the amount of fluid used in spray or jet cooling systems and fewer ancillary components. Analogous cabinet cooling systems with "spot cooling" thin film evaporators mounted on the major high-heat flux components could be designed for commercial electronic equipment, such as rack-mounted network servers in data centers. ATEC is currently working on developing a potentially high volume electronic cooling product utilizing our thin-film evaporator technology.

BECK ENGINEERING 3319 21st Ave NW Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(253) 853-1703 Dr. Douglas S. Beck NAVY 03-053 Selected for Award
Title:	Chiller for Direct Conversion of Waste Heat to Cooling for Power Electronics
Abstract:	The Navy needs Advanced Thermal Management technologies to remove high heat fluxes from power electronics, and Waste Heat Conversion technologies to use the removed heat for space cooling on Navy ships. We propose to develop a system that converts the waste heat into space cooling directly (our system requires no intermediate conversion of heat into electricity). We propose to develop: (1) an Impingement Evaporator, which will remove high heat fluxes from power electronics; and (2) an Absorption Chiller, which will directly use the removed heat for space cooling. This proposal focuses on development of the Absorption Chiller. In Phase I, we will design, build, and test a breadboard Absorption Chiller that converts 3kW of heat from vapor below 125 C into chilling power. The Phase I work will involve selecting non-hazardous fluids that can be used in an absorption chiller driven by vapor below 125 C. We will also analyze costs for fleet insertion. In Phase II, we will: (1) optimize the design of our Absorption Chiller (consistent with Navy performance standards); (2) build the optimized Absorption Chiller; and (3) test the Absorption Chiller with a 250 kW prototype power module that generates approximately 3 kW of waste heat. In Phase III, we will build and sell our Absorption Chiller for many Navy ship-based and land-based applications, as well as private-sector applications. Our Advanced Thermal Management + Waste Heat Conversion system (which includes our Absorption Chiller) will benefit a wide range of applications in the federal government and the private sector. Promising markets include power electronics; computers (ranging in size from mainframes to laptop PCs); cogeneration systems; and simultaneous cooling of high-heat-flux components and cabin cooling or heating in automobiles and commercial aircraft.

ISOTHERM TECHNOLOGIES LLC 2313 Fawn Haven Drive Medina, OH 44256
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(330) 273-2868 Mr. Matthew E. Moran NAVY 03-053 Selected for Award
Title:	Gas Cycle Micro Device for Conversion of Waste Heat to Electrical Energy
Abstract:	A micro device designed for low cost mass production and replication for system level applications is proposed for converting waste heat to electricity. The device operation is based on fundamental gas thermodynamics, and leverages MEMS/microsystem fabrication technology to achieve high efficiency conversion in a footprint compatible with electronic packaging. The proposed concept provides both thermal management of electronic systems, and auxiliary power from waste heat. The resulting electrical power can be conditioned and used as a DC power source; or can be used to charge a battery, fuel cell, or similar electrical energy storage device. An efficient technology for achieving the conversion of heat to electric energy for electronic systems will have broad application, ranging from power electronics to a host of other electronic applications in both commercial and military markets. The proposed concept would augment power sources for systems as varied as all-electric military ships and aircraft to portable electronic devices. State-of-the art competing technologies suffer from low efficiency and/or the inability to be effectively integrated at the electronic system level.

ILLUMINEX CORP. 627 Conestoga Blvd. Lancaster, PA 17602
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(603) 585-9252 Dr. John Steinbeck NAVY 03-054 Selected for Award
Title:	Nanowire Heat Pipes for Electronics Thermal Management
Abstract:	A nanostructured materials heat pipe technology is proposed. The high capillary pressure and moderate flow resistance predicted for the proposed nanowire wick material makes it ideally suited for high heat flux (> 300 W/cm2) applications. The nanowire wick is created using cost-effective chemical manufacturing techniques suitable for large-scale manufacture. The process will enable thin profile devices to be built that can be directly incorporated into electronic device packages, eliminating the thermal barrier presented by conventional packaging materials. The Phase I project will determine the suitability of nanowire heat pipe wicks for high heat flux applications by building copper nanowire arrays on copper substrates and testing the ability of the wick to remove heat fluxes up to 1000 W/cm2 using water as a working fluid. The Phase II project will construct complete heat pipe devices and demonstrate effective thermal management of power electronics systems. Successful demonstration of a nanowire wick heat pipe capable of removing high heat fluxes will enable effective thermal management of next generation of high power density microprocessors for portable applications, laser diode arrays in communications systems and power thryistors for power conditioning. The nanowire heat pipes are an enabling technology that can effectively remove heat from within the electronics package and enable system size to shrink while performance continues to increase.

K TECHNOLOGY CORP. 110 Gibraltar Road, Suite 223 Horsham, PA 19044
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(631) 285-6580 Mr. Mark Montesano NAVY 03-054 Selected for Award
Title:	Nanocrystalline Materials to improve Thermoconductivity of Heat Pipes
Abstract:	The solid state power conversion inherent in the Navy's Integrated Power System (IPS) produces heat loads beyond those in today's shipboard electrical distribution systems. The introduction of additional high power systems such as electromagnetic weapons (EMW) and high power radar, together with the heat loads associated with the IPS, will produce heat loads in working spaces approximately 700% greater than those of DDG 51 class ships. In large part, the waste heat is generated in the power semiconductors contained in the power electronics components whose power densities will eventually surpass 1000 W/cm2. Through the development of an advanced coolant with enhanced conductivity and an integrated suspension of phase-change particles, combined with the use of a high performance packaging material, k technology Corporation and Primet Precision MaterialsO propose to develop a solution compatible with current systems and procedures. Through the fabrication and evaluation of a demonstration system, the team will characterize the performance gains. Evaluation materials will also be manufactured and evaluated for thermal conductivity, mass density, and flow characteristics. Heat pipes work on the concept of having a fluid absorb heat through vaporization and then transfer it by condensation to a heat sink. These traditional heat pipes are effective, however they are limited by how much heat the working fluid can carry. Heat pipes using nano-technology phase change fluids combined with the high conductivity composite material k-CoreTM can transport many times the amount of heat as current techniques. In addition, these materials are compatible with current packaging formats. The combined nano-fluid and high conductivity materials represent an enabling technology for high power electronics imperative for the Integrated Power Systems required for emerging naval electric drive systems and electromagnetic launch and recovery systems.

MAINSTREAM ENGINEERING CORP. 200 Yellow Place, Pines Industrial Center Rockledge, FL 32955
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(321) 631-3550 Dr. Robert P. Scaringe NAVY 03-054 Selected for Award
Title:	Fabrication of High Conductivity Heat Pipes 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 easily fabricating the aligned carbon nanotubes will be demonstrated in Phase I. This aligned Carbon Nanotube Composite (CNC) will be fabricated into a heat pipe 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. While existing hardware is limited to cooling heat fluxes of approximately 100 W/cm2, Mainstream has already demonstrated that technology exists to push this capability to 1,000 W/cm2 using microchannels or spray cooling, however heat pipe systems would be clearly simpler and more reliable. This Phase I effort will demonstrate the potential for a high heat flux, heat spreading, heat pipe to transfer waste heat generated in the semiconductor junction to a secondary cooling source such as sea water, while maintaining a low junction temperature. Phase I will demonstrate a high thermal conductivity composite composed of aligned carbon nanotubes with enhanced thermal conductivity. Phase I will demonstrate the capability of this heat pipe to remove heat fluxes in excess of 300 W/cm2. Phase I will include manufacturing techniques, design specifications, experimental data and cost analysis. This effort will experimentally demonstrate the performance of a simple but innovative high performance heat pipe with heat flux capability that far exceeds traditional copper or aluminum heat pipes. The proposed material would be applicable to all types of heat pipes and compatible with essentially all working fluids. In addition to the Navy applications, other potential applications include passive small-satellite thermal control, hardened radiator systems, and commercial or military electronics cooling (high-power electronics, supercomputers, electronic switch gear, and avionics ). Mainstream has performed a commercialization study and the commercial potential is tremendous.

ADVANCED COOLING TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 1030 Lehn Drive Lancaster, PA 17601
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(717) 575-4404 Dr. Jon Zuo NAVY 03-055 Selected for Award
Title:	High Performance Heat Spreaders for High Heat Flux Power Electronic Modules
Abstract:	The proposed Navy SBIR program will develop a high performance heat spreader technology that can be integrated into power semiconductor die packages to acquire and spread high heat fluxes exceeding 1,000W/cm2. The heat spreader will also interface with other parts of the thermal management system to effectively transport and dissipate the large heat loads to maintain the safe operating temperature of the semiconductor. The Phase I objective is to verify the feasibility of integrating the proposed concept in a shipboard environment. Design feasibility studies will be performed to assess the system benefits of the proposed integration schemes and generate feasible component designs for the Phase II prototype demonstration. The Phase I results will bring the proposed concept to the DOD defined Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 3: Characteristic proof of concept. The Phase II program will focus on upgrading the technology to TRL 6 (prototype demonstration in a relevant environment) by integrating and testing a prototype heat spreader in a 250kWe power module. The follow-on Phase III program will further upgrade the technology to TRL 8 (actual system completed and qualified through test and demonstration) through full-scale integration and testing under actual conditions. While the proposal focuses on thermal management of solid state power conversion modules, the proposed heat spreader technology are also applicable to other military high heat flux applications such as solid state diode lasers, a critical technology for Directed Energy Weapons and High Power Radars. In addition to military and aerospace applications, there are numerous commercial applications for the proposed technology, including cooling of high-end workstations and servers, power electronics for electric and hybrid vehicles, and optoelectronics such as laser diodes for telecommunication. These markets are synergistic in that technical development in one aid all, and commercial progress in one will increase the production base and reduce unit costs for all. The technology developed through this Navy SBIR program will provide the market with a higher performance alternative to the existing heat spreading technologies and products (e.g. vapor chamber heat pipes, diamond spreaders, and high-conductivity interface and composite materials).

INNOVATIVE FLUIDICS, INC. 430 10th Street, NW, Suite S-203 Atlanta, GA 30318
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(404) 385-2142 Dr. Samuel Heffington NAVY 03-055 Selected for Award
Title:	Two-Phase, Vibration-Induced Droplet Atomization (VIDA) Thermal Management of High Heat Flux Power Electronic Modules
Abstract:	Vibration-Induced Droplet Atomization, or VIDA, is a thin-film spray cooling technology developed at Georgia Tech with tremendous potential for the thermal management of Power Conversion Modules for Configurable Zonal Systems (CZS). The patented VIDA technique uses a vibrating piezo driver in a self-contained cell to deliver a highly controllable, rapid-response, on-demand aerosol-sized water spray to hot electronic components. Vapor evaporated from the hot surface condenses on a secondary cooling loop, thus enabling efficient heat removal. Results show that a small charge can effectively manage high power densities with an extremely low ratio of power consumed to power removed and with very low flow rates. Through use of a small piezo pump, the system can be made orientation-independent. Cooling rates in excess of 100W/cm2 have been measured while keeping devices below 125C. It is anticipated the technique can be developed to deliver up to 1000 W/cm2 with optimizations described herein. The VIDA technology has the potential for delivering a method of high power-density thermal management in a relatively simple, low-cost configuration, in a low-profile form factor. Applications include cooling of military electronics, including lasers and radar components; high-power rack mount and blade servers and high-temperature "under-the-hood electronics."

MIKROS MANUFACTURING 22 Colonel Ashely Lane Claremont, NH 03743
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(603) 690-2020 Dr. Thomas J. Jasinski NAVY 03-055 Selected for Award
Title:	High Heat Flux Cooling of Power Electronics
Abstract:	This Small Business Innovation Research project addresses the development of high heat flux thermal management technology for cooling solid-state power conversion devices on board Navy ships. It is anticipated that the drive towards smaller electronic components and faster switching speeds will require a cooling technology that can dissipate in excess of 1,000 W/cm2 while maintaining junction temperatures below 125 �C. We propose to develop a liquid cooled heat sink that has the potential to achieve a thermal resistance of 0.03 K/(W/cm2). This heat sink could provide cooling at 1,000 W/cm2 with only a 30 �C approach temperature difference, leaving substantial temperature margin for the internal resistance of the electronic device and the heat transfer to the zonal heat exchanger. We have experimentally demonstrated, to date, a thermal resistance of 0.075 K/(W/cm2) using this heat sink technology. Design calculations indicate that it is feasible to further reduce the thermal resistance by a factor of two or more. In Phase I we will design, fabricate, and test a 1 cm2 heat sink to demonstrate the feasibility and performance potential of the proposed cooling technology. We will also develop, in collaboration with the Navy, a preliminary design of a full-scale prototype to be developed and demonstrated in Phase II. The proposed heat sink technology would have widespread application in the rapidly growing market of high power, solid-state energy conversion systems. In parallel with the Navy's drive towards a more electric ship, the Air Force is also engaged in similar effort. Civilian applications include power conditioning for industrial equipment, electric drives in rail systems, and in hybrid drive automobiles, to name a few. Other applications, such as, solid-state power lasers and high-end microprocessors, would also benefit from improved high heat flux cooling technology.

OMEGA PIEZO TECHNOLOGIES 470 Upper Georges Valley Road Spring Mills, PA 16875
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(814) 861-3055 Dr. David Pickrell NAVY 03-055 Selected for Award
Title:	Development of an Innovative Active Cooling System for High Heat Flux Electronics
Abstract:	Many military electronic applications require cooling that is beyond the capabilities of both passive and active conventional cooling techniques. A need exists for cooling technologies that can reach and exceed 1000 W/cm2. Recently, direct spray cooling has been investigated as a means to remove high heat fluxes from electronic chips. In this approach the coolant, water or dielectric fluid, directly impinges upon the surface of the electronic chips and rapidly vaporizes to remove heat. However, direct spray cooling of a chip has severe disadvantages. In this program we will investigate a novel approach to electronic chip cooling that will allow heat flux removal rates of 1000W/cm2 and beyond, using a system that is easier to implement and less complicated than direct spray cooling of the chip surface. Spray cooling will be accomplished on the backside of an advanced heat spreader in a completely self contained system that is separate from the electronics, which will be relatively simple to attach to an electronic chip. A high performance thermal interface material will be utilized to minimize the interface resistance between the advanced cooling system and heat generating chip. The cooling system concepts developed in this program may be useful for numerous military and commercial packaging applications where devices are thermally constrained, and conventional cooling techniques are inadequate. Potential applications include radar T/R modules, power conditioning electronics, commercial and military hybrid electric vehicles, high power laser diodes, and military pulsed power systems.

KAZAK COMPOSITES, INC. 32 Cummings Park Woburn, MA 01801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 932-5667 Dr. Jerome Fanucci NAVY 03-056 Selected for Award
Title:	Low Cost Composite Reconfigurable Stern Launch/Recovery System
Abstract:	KaZaK Composites will conduct design, materials, manufacturing, and experimental studies supporting the eventual production of a reconfigurable stern ramp that allows a single system to be quickly and automatically adapted to launch and recovery of an extremely wide range of vessels. KCI's composite material design will be optimized for low cost production using pultrusion-based processing technology. Research will extend and apply KCI's work with a unique flexible macro-composites composite laminate architecture and active control of ramp end depth. KCI will work closely with Bath Iron Works to ensure that the system solution evolved during Phase I and II is compatible with demanding and diverse needs associated with Naval operations in Sea State 5. Phase I work falls into five general categories: 1) Development of alternative system design concepts meeting weight, cost and performance requirements, 2) Identification of composite materials compatible with goals for cost, structural requirements and low cost production, 3) Design refinement and verification using 3D CAD and finite element analysis, 4) Fabrication and testing macro-composite samples to measure relative axial and torsional stiffness and demonstrate reconfigurability, and 5) Projection of cost and weight of the proposed RO/RO ramp system. A wide variety of commercial and military vessels launch and recover smaller utility and support craft. Once proven in this SBIR, the technology to be developed here should be generally applicable to a very wide range of situations. Initial sales will probably be to military vessels. However, there will also be a market with commercial fishing and other working vessels, as well as pleasure craft. A rapidly reconfigurable ramp could also serve as a defensive "drawbridge" to help secure buildings and other facilities from terrorist assaults by automatically changing shape of an entrance ramp to prevent vehicle passage, or even trap unapproved vehicles.

PHYSICAL SCIENCES, INC. 20 New England Business Center Andover, MA 01810
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 689-0003 Dr. Fred R. Kern NAVY 03-056 Selected for Award
Title:	Robust Open Systems Architecture Surface and Underwater Vehicles Stern Launch/Recovery System
Abstract:	Conventional Launch and Recovery systems do not function automatically, at high ship speeds and in moderate sea states. The proposed system utilizes a unique concept of a deployable, largely open, flexible, "belt" conveyor ramp that can operate through and below the water surface in the wake of the ship with minimal drag. The open belt will allow both manned and unmanned, surface and subsurface craft to drive onto the moving conveyor with a soft landing and be transported up the sloping conveyor system out of the water and onto the cargo deck. The "belt" material and degree of tension to be utilized will affect the softness of the landing, the automatic centering and the traction for hauling the vehicle from the water. No special adaptations should be required for the various vessel types being launched and recovered. The powered conveyor ramp slope control will allow partially lifting the vehicle once it has landed on the moving surface, reducing the slope of the ramp. Projections from the vehicles, if any, will catch in the belt to provide more positive hauling forces. The hauling process can be readily reversed to launch vehicles of any size within the weight capability of the system. A robust yet simple launch and recovery system will be of great use for the deployment and retrieval of special forces craft in adverse sea states and at higher speeds than now possible, thus increasing safety and mission effectiveness. Additional users of this technology will include research vehicle teams, the off shore industry and salvage operators that have a need to safely deploy and recover surface craft in moderate sea states. The system can also be used to retrieve disabled surface(d) vehicles divers/seals and man overboard-downed pilots by backing the host ship to the vehicle or person and then hauling it/them on the moving conveyor surface. The combination of a "soft landing" and use at moderate ship speeds, in principle to greater than 20 knots, should make this relatively simple concept just what the Navy and marine industry currently need to safely launch and recover a diverse range of vehicles with minimal manning requirements.

INTELLIGENT AUTOMATION, INC. 7519 Standish Place, Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20855
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 294-5235 Mr. Don Myers NAVY 03-057 Selected for Award
Title:	A Hybrid Robotic Vehicle and Mechanized Stowage System for OOVs
Abstract:	Intelligent Auotmation, Inc. (IAI) proposes to design an integrated OOV handling system consisting of robotic transport vehicle and a mechanized stowage system. For the transporter, we will evaluate a design for a Hybrid Hexapod Robotic Vehicle (HHRV) for use as a heavy-lift, stable, reconfigurable, omni directional, transport mechanism. The HHRV is a hybrid vehicle integrating features of both wheeled and legged mechanisms. It offers the ability to lift legs and step over obstacles. The concept proposed offers maneuverability in confined spaces both above and possibly below deck. It also offers lifting and positioning capability to present and retrieve OOVs to the launch and storage systems. The orientation capability also assists with loading and unloading. The OOV could also carry a manipulator arm to perform automated load/unloading. We also propose the use of a mechanized stowage system consisting of horizontal and vertical elevators of custom design to accommodate OOVs of varying size and shape. In Phase I, we will address the issues related to movement of OOVs through the ship, storage of OOVs within ship, and electronic tracking of OOVs. Each of these issues is central to the long-term objective of autonomous launch, retrieval, and storage. Mobile robot sales are expected to soar from $665 million in the year 2001 to more than $17 billion by 2005. The applications in which growth for mobile robots is expected include: space, industrial service, medical and healthcare, transportation (automotive), agricultural, construction, mining, household service, educational, toys and entertainment.

KAZAK COMPOSITES, INC. 32 Cummings Park Woburn, MA 01801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 932-5665 Mr. Stephen Ellis NAVY 03-057 Selected for Award
Title:	Trackless, Vacuum Secured Organic Offboard Vehicle Handling System
Abstract:	The Navy is rapidly committing to widespread use of unmanned vehicles to provide critical functions in support of fleet operations. These offboard organic vehicles (OOV) include air, surface and undersea-unmanned vehicles. Current systems for onboard handling of these vehicles are labor intensive and require disparate pieces of equipment. KCI, working with Bath Iron Works, proposes to design and build a new OOV handling system that provides for movement of OOVs from stowage to launch area, and then automates returning it to stowage upon mission completion. The key to this system is a modular transporter system that is self-guiding and self-securing using vacuum technology. The transporter cart will be made from a combination of stainless steel and pultruded composite structural elements fabricated by KCI. We will draw heavily on experience gained in the design and fabrication of a similar multifunctional computer-vision, vacuum secured system for the Air Force. In Phase I KCI will conceive and iterate various system alternatives, compare them with our baseline, and discuss the best of the alternatives with the Navy. We will also develop test methods, fabricate test specimens and perform experimental studies to validate the performance of key components of the handling system. KCI's proposed solution for an OOV handling system makes use of an autonomous or semi-autonomous modular approach to ensure flexibility in meeting current and future OOV handling requirements at minimal cost, minimal ship impact and significantly reduced program risk. The successful demonstration and acceptance of autonomous vehicles with the capabilities proposed for this Naval SBIR application are generically applicable to a wide range of future military and civilian applications. For example, with the same guidance technology, vehicles could be used to automate the delivery of critical supplies to troops operating in a hostile military environment. Commercial adaptations could be used to move warehoused items, reducing manpower needs associated with shipping and handling.

PHYSICAL OPTICS CORP. Information Technologies Division, 20600 Gramercy Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 320-3088 Dr. Sookwang Ro NAVY 03-057 Selected for Award
Title:	Compact and Intelligent Robotic System
Abstract:	Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop an innovative, affordable compact and intelligent robotic system with an open system architecture for automated shipboard handling and stowage of organic offboard vehicles on DD(X) and other U.S. Navy ships. The proposed Compact and Intelligent Robotic System (CIROS) will minimize damage to ships and injury to crew by bringing the intelligence-programming the robot with planning and operation sequence algorithms, dexterity-dual-arm robotic operation, and performance-optimizing operation sequences to current and future robotics technologies. CIROS offers a major innovation in robotics, fast and efficient inverse kinematics for a high-degree-of-freedom manipulator and collision detection and avoidance for manipulator operation. POC's innovative real-time inverse kinematics, with broad applicability across the field of robotics, will bring the safest and the most flexible robotic operation to a shipboard environment, and our proprietary collision detection and avoidance algorithm for operation of manipulators will bring the safest and the fastest manipulator operations to at-sea operation. The CIROS will be a universal autonomous robot that can handle many types and shapes of objects, and will be reconfigurable for other applications such as weapon handling, manned aircraft handling, and material transfer in addition to organic offboard vehicle handling. POC's proposed CIROS will strongly benefit many commercial operations, including factory automation, hazardous area assessment such as in nuclear power plants and under sea, and robotic surgery. It will also advance shipping and stowing functions performed at shipping companies such as UPS and FedEx, as well as factory automation for operations not normally performed by robots such as safety inspections and flexible assembly line operations.

AIRBEAMS LLC Bldg 6, 2 Watson Place, Saxonville Industrial Park Framingham, MA 01701
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(508) 877-8082 Mr. Keith Stewart NAVY 03-058 Selected for Award
Title:	Advanced Ship/Fixed-wing UAV Recovery Interface
Abstract:	The Leaning Airbeam Shipboard Arrestment System (LASARST) is a radically different type of UAV recovery system for shipboard and unprepared land based operations. Although LASARST can also be used with LPD class vessels and small land based recovery areas, it is designed specifically for those vessels that have too small a deck area to capture the UAV in the `conventional' or current method (i.e. SPARS). Where it differs radically from the present system is that it provides a much greater area of capture with a greatly reduced footprint from the present SPARS and is automatically self deploying. Therefore it can be mounted on much smaller vessels and can yet capture UAVs that at present are not considered possible solutions to Naval and Marine Operations. LASARS can open up UAV operations to vessels such as DDG Class Guided Missile Destroyers (66ft Beam width) and FFG Class Frigates (45ft Beam width) which presently have insufficient beam width at the aft end for SPARS recovery of a 450-500lb UAV landing at speeds up to 70mph. At the completion of Phase I, airBeams LLC will have a preliminary system design and model completed of a conceptual LASARSTM. In Phase II airBeams LLC will refine the design and model to a point where it can be utilized as the basis for a model LASARST for testing. The prime commercialization prospect is the UAV user community (DOD, DEA, INS, Department of Homeland Security, etc.) in particular the US DOD. UAVs are now being used for many civilian applications from photography to seismic soundings for oil companies. Most usually, the latter in particular, operate with small drones from rough territory or from the sea and they do not have the luxury of LPD Class vessels on which to land the UAV. The potential commercial market will expand considerably as the sophistication and reliability of the UAVs is improved because of the military requirements. This will drive down costs, increasing the potential market for LASARST.

FOSTER-MILLER, INC. 350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 684-4283 Mr. Robert Lee Cardenas NAVY 03-058 Selected for Award
Title:	UAV Recovery System
Abstract:	Navy surface combatants will employ more unmanned autonomous vehicles in future operations. In addition future ships (DD(X), CG(X), and LCS) will be designed for reduced manning thus future Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) recovery systems must be unmanned or at least minimally manned. The majority of existing and projected future UAVs are fixed-wing aircraft with no capability for vertical launch and recovery. There are currently no safe and accurate methods for ship board recovery of fixed-wing UAVs. The Navy has the need for a lightweight inexpensive automated system for recovering and securing multiple types of fixed wing UAVs. These devices should require minimal manpower requirements and should be capable of operating in sea states 4 and 5. A phase I program is proposed to develop recovery system which utilizes a Homing system to guide the UAV into a Docking system which will capture the UAV, decelerate the UAV to a stop and then secure the UAV to the deck. A conceptual system design will be developed in Phase I, a prototype developed in phase II and shipboard evaluation will be completed in Phase III. The proposed homing system has could be used to guide any vehicle to the docking station. (P-030217) The successful development of the proposed recovery system will provide the Navy with UAV recovery system that will accommodate a variety of fixed wing aircraft. The system will capture, decelerate and secure the UAV with a minimum of ship's force. Features of the docking station will be adaptable to rotary winged air craft as well. The homing system will be able to guide any UAV, UUV, USV or a manned vehicle to the ship.

GENEVA AEROSPACE, INC. 4318 Sunbelt Dr. Addison, TX 75001
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(214) 420-2376 Mr. Dave Duggan NAVY 03-058 Selected for Award
Title:	An Autonomous Fixed-Wing UAV Shipboard Recovery System
Abstract:	Among the many autonomous guidance and control challenges facing DoD and industry today is the safe, reliable shipboard recovery of fixed wing UAVs. Leveraging our autonomous landing research conducted for the Air Force Research Laboratory, Geneva Aerospace proposes an autonomous shipboard recovery solution using a hybrid control system structure that combines trajectory synthesis guidance with line-of-sight rate guidance to provide precision control to recovery using an integrated GPS aided relative navigation solution. Employing the principals of terminal homing guidance, the design is ideally suited to facilitate recovery on a moving ship deck. The concept will take advantage of the precision positioning offered by the relative navigation solution and precision path regulation offered by the hybrid control system to capture the UAV via a mechanically simple cable arresting system, enabling recovery on very small deck platforms. We will demonstrate that the recent technology advances in miniaturized GPS receivers, micro-electromechanical sensors (MEMS), spread-spectrum communications transceivers, and single-board computers all combine to offer a small, light-weight, robust, and affordable hardware architecture to address the shipboard recovery problem. When integrated with the proposed guidance, navigation, and control software, this hardware architecture will provide an excellent integrated system solution with a very small logistics footprint. According to the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) UAV roadmap, the US DoD will invest over $4 billion in UAVs over the next decade. This will include a substantial investment in autonomous control