| DYNAMICS TECHNOLOGY, INC.
1555 Wilson Blvd., Suite 320 Arlington, VA 22209 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 841-0990
Ralph Chatham DARPA 98-001 |
| Title: | Synthetic Aperture Sonar on Bottom Crawling Platforms for Littoral Warfare Mine Hunting and Mapping |
| Abstract: | Dynamics Technology, Inc. and our hardware/vehicle partner, Foster-Miller, Inc., propose to explore the potential for synthetic aperture sonar (SAS) mounted on small bottom-crawling vehicles (SAS Snoops) to map mines and obstacles covertly in shallow water and surf-zones. We considered other sensor and platform approaches and find them unlikely to yield a comprehensive solution to the operational/technical problems. In Phase I, we propose to measure motion characteristics of bottom crawlers in several environments. We will estimate the acoustic and medium stability properties of these environments from existing databases and use this with the motion information to emulate sensor performance of a SAS system. We will assess the broad trade space available to SAS and determine what additional data must be collected to verify the feasibility of a SAS Snoop system. We will develop a conceptual design for a SAS Snoop to measure this data and to demonstrate operational potential. In Phase II, we would fabricate the prototype SAS Snoop. We would conduct critical surf tests, develop operational concepts and system designs in cooperation with the mine warfare community and commercial/academic organizations who require precise bottom maps in shallow water. |
| THE KILDARE CORP.
One Spar Yard Rd, New London, CT 06320 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(860) 443-7768
Robert Bulmer DARPA 98-001 |
| Title: | A Towed Parametric Sonar for Littoral Warfare, Mine Hunting, and Mapping |
| Abstract: | The conceptual design is presented of a Remote Operating Minehunting Parametric Sonar (ROMPS), for use with the existing Perry technologies RMV as an unmanned tow-vehicle. The ROMPS has three separate sonar systems, viz. (1) a forward-looking sonar, (2)) a side-looking sonar, and (3) a conventional fathometer. Both the forward-looking sonar and the side-looking sonar can operate at their primary frequencies and at much lower parametric frequencies. The forward-looking and side-looking sytems, both the primary and parametric modes, cover different but adjoining frequency bands. Thus, the separate systems can operate simultaneously, or in rapid sequence without target confusion. The ROMPS electronic system would be fully digital, utilizing the latest integrated circuitry and microprocessors. Preliminary calculations indicate that, because of the low-frequency, narrow beams that are free of side-lobes, parametric operation can detect mines and obstacles in the very-shallow-water and surface-zone regions atstand-off distances of approximately 5000 yards. |
| GASL, INC.
77 Raynor Ave, Ronkonkoma, NY 11779 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(516) 737-6100
Robert Bakos DARPA 98-002 |
| Title: | Low Cost Free-Flight Scramjet Test Technique |
| Abstract: | Development of a low-cost, near term approach to flight testing a hypersonic, storable fuel, scramjet engine using ballistic range technology is proposed. Flight-testing is easily the most expensive component of the triad of computational fluid dynamics (CFD), ground-testing and flight-testing needed to develop and demonstrate sustained and accelerating airbreathing flight at hypersonic speeds. Cost reduction by a factor of 100 to 200 relative to rocket launching a full-scale engine is sought. The proposed approach will leverage off GASL's low-cost, rapid prototyping capabilities for scramjet engines for wind tunnels and for NASA's Hyper-X flight test program, Boeing's prior experience in launching a scramjet from the SHARP gun at LLNL, and prior Army Research Lab personnel in data telemetry from gun-launched munitions. Essential aspects of the proposed approach are use of closely coordinated CFD and ground-testing to maximize the flight data yield and minimize the risk and cost, and use of a controlled flight environment to permit proper simulation of flight dynamic pressure. Flight speeds from Mach 6 to 12 are considered within existing ballistic range capabilities. Mach 8 is the proposed test point since it supports the goals of the HyTech and ARRMD programs. |
| AET, INC.
P.O. Box 33071, Indialantic, FL 32903 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(407) 727-7587
Glenn Hess DARPA 98-003 |
| Title: | Engineering Decision Support Tool for Complex Electro-Mechanical Products |
| Abstract: | DARPA has identified a need for Engineering Decision Support computer tools for multi-disciplinary design teams involved in the specification, design and development of complex electro-mechanical products. During the product specification process, key decisions are made which define the product evolution and ultimately determine the product's acceptance by the customer. Current design systems have limited capabilities for supporting multi-disciplinary teams, Quality Function Deployment methods and Design of Experiments (DOE) methodology. AET has embodied DOE methods in a software technology called STADIUM, which is currently being incorporated in several product development efforts. STADIUM was developed by Florida Institute of Technology under funding from SEMATECH. This proposal by AET, Inc., directly addresses this DARPA challenge with a vision for creating a dynamic, multi-user Engineering Decision Support information system. This system could be used to facilitate the capture and communication of product requirements, specifications and design and rationale as well as provide database two-way interfaces to engineering tools used to establish design rationale. AET intends to encapsulate its STADIUM software and TD Technologies SLATE software with new methodology and software to produce a new web-based Engineering Decision Support tool. |
| CAMAS, INC.
1947 NW Garryanna St, Corvallis, OR 97330 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(541) 758-5088
David Ullman DARPA 98-003 |
| Title: | ConsensusBuilder: Collaborative Engineering Decision Support for Distributed Design of Complex Electro-Mechanical Products |
| Abstract: | The goal of this project is to develop ConsensusBuilder, a collaborative working environment which supports distributed team argumentation, negotiation, and consensus building through decision support. Based on a natural model of team decision making, this system enables the capture of the design rationale in value-added activities. Team support is provided for ad-hoc activities, those based on engineering best practices, and for methods that integrate evaluation results. The architecture of ConsensusBuilder allows for the future expansion to other design processes. The Phase I proposal is focused on developing a design for ConsensusBuilder using current software development best practice as a strategy for applying ConsensusBuilder to its own design. In other words, the ConsensusBuilder model developed in earlier research will be refined toward implementation using the current model on paper to support key decisions. ConsensusBuilder is the result of over 12 years of studying and modeling design engineers by the PIs, and the integration of research results from the fields of negotiation and argumentation modeling, design rationale capture, decision theoretics, and engineering best practices. The model underlying this proposal forms a basis for capturing design rationale by integrating best practices (current and new) and by providing tools to support team decision making. |
| KNOWLEDGE BASED SYSTEMS, INC.
One KBSI Place, 1408 University Drive East College Station, TX 77840 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(409) 260-5274
Perakath Benjamin DARPA 98-003 |
| Title: | Integrated Framework for Engineering Decision Support (I-FEDS) |
| Abstract: | The goal of this project is to develop and demonstrate an innovative process-driven approach for information integrated management of the Product Realization Process (PRP). The product of this research, the Integrated Framework for Engineering Decision Support (I-FEDS) will support multi-disciplinary, distributed design teams through the collaborative PRP decision making process. The Phase I project objectives are 1) establish I-FEDS requirements, 2) develop design rationale management mechanisms, 3) design I-FEDS architecture, 4) develop I-FEDS demonstration prototype, and 5) develop Phase II plan. The Phase I activities will focus on the development of a design rationale management tool with automated support for design rationale recovery from workflow process execution status data. Anticipated I-FEDS end-users include i) PRP and product design process managers, and ii) product designers and engineers working in distributed collaborative teams. The innovations from this research will be rapidly transitioned to the DoD and industry in Phase I and Phase II. I-FEDS benefits i) reduced product/system life cycle costs, ii) reduced design and product realization times, and iii) higher quality designs because of superior design rationale management support. |
| NANODELIVERY, INC.
1032 Elmshade Lane, Nashville, TN 37211 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(615) 832-0060
Ales Prokop DARPA 98-004 |
| Title: | Three-Dimensional Vascularized Structure for Bioartificial Pancreas |
| Abstract: | The proposed project will improve the existing methodologies to protect non-human pancreatic islets from the immunologically-different host. Encapsulating the living islets in a protective membrane would allow insulin to be secreted, yet prevent the immune system from rejecting the islet. The lack of success of such transplanted islets inside the peritoneal cavity is now considered to be due to poor vascularization of the implant. The absence of fibrotic growth, leading to a necrotic zone within the islets. The objective of this proposal is to test a hypothesis that vascularization and angiogenesis can be induces by means of addition of proper angiogenic factors embedded within a polymeric bead or a polymeric coating. The angiogenesis would be sustained over a longer period of time, depending on the release characteristics of the polymer matrix. A biocompatible mesh or perforated tubular material will be applied as a resident material for microcapsules eventually bearing islets. It is anticipated that blood capillaries will be generated outside the capsules and will penetrate through the implant openings and ingrow into the vicinity of capsules/islets. The extent of angiogenesis will be determined via histology and immunochemistry. |
| PACIFIC-SIERRA RESEARCH CORP.
1400 Key Boulevard, Suite 700 Arlington, VA 22209 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(804) 923-3673
Charles Daitch DARPA 98-004 |
| Title: | Three-Dimensional Matrices for Cellular and Multicellular Biointerfaces |
| Abstract: | Biological macromolecules are highly efficient at recognizing specific analytes or catalyzing reactions in aqueous biological media; however, their natural liquid environment limits military practicality. Any delineation from the preferred buffered aqueous environment results in partial or total loss of reactivity. It would be advantageous to immobilize biological macromolecules in alternative environments that stabilize them and preserve their reactivities. The proposed effort introduces a revolutionary matrix called aerogel to immobilize cells resulting in a biologically active solid matrix. Sof-gel chemistry will be utilized to immobilize the cells in the silica matrix. The silica matrix has an extremely large internal surface area, low density, high porosity, and adjustable pore size, which together render a highly efficient, lightweight matrix for cell immobilization. Also, the silica matrix provides a protective environment for cells, thus increasing shelf life and reactivity. |
| SYMBIOTECH, INC.
8 Fairfield Blvd., Wallingford, CT 06492 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(203) 949-2766
Robert Greenfield DARPA 98-004 |
| Title: | Three Dimensional Matrices for Culturing Cells |
| Abstract: | This Phase I Small Business Innovation Research Grant proposal will develop three-dimensional matrices for in vitro culturing of cells. Three-dimensional matrices will be developed using molecular imprinting polymer (MIP) technology. MIPs in combination with various biological extracellular matrix proteins will be utilized to form different three-dimensional matrices. The biocompatibility and physical properties of the matrices will be evaluated under various conditions. The ability of the different three-dimensional matrices to support the growth and differentiation of PC-12 pheochromacytoma cells will also be evaluated. |
| COMPUTER DEPARTMENT, LTD., THE
202 Washington Blvd., Half Moon Bay, CA 94019 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(415) 726-9433
Michael Brown DARPA 98-005 |
| Title: | Lifting Vehicle for Forward Deployed Combat Units |
| Abstract: | The Computer Department Limited (CDL) proposes to develop a portable, rotary wing platform for use as a universal lifting body for small payloads. This system will use a novel lifting system to operate with a wide range of payloads under a wide spectrum of environmental conditions. The key elements of this system is a light weight collapsable structure, electric propulsion, rotary wing design for vertical take-off and landing, computer based control system, RF unit, global positioning system, battery and a laptop computer based ground station. The system's user friendly computer operation, automatic station keeping feature, simple design and low maintenance permits unskilled personnel to assemble, test and operate it with highly reliable results. The system uses many off the shelf components and user friendly software to reduce error and make the system more attractive to the commercial market. Off the shelf components reduce development cost and time and provide alternate suppliers for replacement parts. The proposed Phase I effort will define hardware and software system requirements, identify high risk technologies and identify emerging technologies capable of enhancing performance and field use. This Phase I engineering effort will result in a Prototype design, System Analysis and Specification and Scientific Technical Report. |
| D-STAR ENGINEERING
4 Armstrong Rd, Shelton, CT 06484 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(203) 925-7630
S. Dev DARPA 98-005 |
| Title: | D' HovRobot: Sensor Elevating System Capable of Tethered Hover and Free Flight |
| Abstract: | D'HovRobot is a rotor-less V/STOL UAV to meet the needs for tactical sensor elevation. It can operate on a tether, using cabled electrical power, or as a free-flyer, using an engine. It have a VTOL version for close-range operation, and a STOVL version for longer-range / helicopter-escort missions. The rotorless UAV can fly safely close to trees, wires and buildings. D'HovRobot is designed for carriage within, and deployment from, one HMMMV. It has a swappable power module with dual electric motors when tethered, or with lightweight D-STAR Diesel engine for free flight. The tethered hovering UAV can have empty fuel tanks, but can then support the weight of 300 feet of tether cable. Phase I scope of work includes design of a prototype vehicle and its transportation, deployment and stowage systems, definition of subsystems, projection of performance envelope, evaluation and selection of enabling technologies, evaluation of system feasibility, and definition of plans for fabrication and testing of a prototype. The team includes Teledyne Ryan, AAI Corp., Electronic Power Conversion, and Mechanical Power Conversion, as subcontractors. They are expected to play more significant roles in Phase II, and may play lead roles in Phase III. |
| PERCEPTRONICS, INC.
21010 Erwin Street, Woodland Hills, CA 91367 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(818) 884-7470
Tom Lubaczewski DARPA 98-005 |
| Title: | Development of the Commander's Observation Vehicle for Elevated Reconnaissance (COVER) |
| Abstract: | Perceptronics and its team members Moller International and Flyer Group will design a complete elevated sensing system for forward-deployed combat units. The system, called COVER (Commander's Observation Vehicle for Elevated Reconnaissance), features an existing compact, electrically-tethered, ducted-fan lifting vehicle (Aerobot) mated to an existing highly-mobile, transportable vehicle (Flyer II ) that is representative of future scout and reconnaissance vehicles. The Phase I Design Study includes: 1) Review of mission applications, focusing on those currently identified for the RST-V and similar advanced vehicles; 2) Design of COVER system architecture and constituent COVER sub-systems, focusing on ease of deployment and use and on the identification of commercial off-the-shelf components that can meet immediate mission needs; 3) Analysis of key technical and tactical problem areas potentially impacting system effectiveness, such as detectability, stability, FOV, maneuverability, etc., including evaluation of their severity and direction for solution. The output for the Phase I Design Study will provide: 1) The technical and tactical basis for immediate Phase II production of the prototype COVER system; and 2) A guide to general application of the COVER concept for other DoD organizations and commercial users, including contractors participating in the RST-V and related advanced vehicle programs. |
| GORCA TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
300 West Route 38, Moorestown, NJ 08057 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(609) 273-8200
Hesham Attia DARPA 98-006 |
| Title: | A Lightweight Radar for Detecting Low Altitude Airborne Targets from an Aerostat |
| Abstract: | A lightweight, low-cost radar for detecting low-altitude airborne targets from a lighter-than-air airborne platform is proposed. The sensor offers an all-weather, all-visibility-conditions MTI and tracking capability for situation awareness and the possible activation and guidance of counter measures. A special proprietary microstrip phased array antenna concept coupled with a novel radar configuration, both of them made possible by GT's self-calibration and motion compensation techniques, results in the lightweight, low-cost practical construction. Depending on system parameters, the proposed sensor suite is expected to have a detection range of about 50 km, weigh between 50 and 150 lb, and consume less than 500 watts of prime power. Phase I will consist of requirements analysis, concept development, trade-off analysis, performance evaluation, and designing a prototype sensor suite with separable modules for radar, data up/down link, signal processor, displays and controls. Phase II will consist of developing and integrating a prototype sensor with GFE lifting body and ground mobility platform for a live demonstration program. |
| INFRAMETRICS, INC.
16 Esquire Road, North Billerica, MA 01862 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 670-5555
Richard McMorrow DARPA 98-006 |
| Title: | Lightweight Imaging Sensor System |
| Abstract: | This program will produce a design for a cost effective sensor suite suitable for mid to long range surveillance, integrated into a small, mobile, lifting body. In Phase I, tradeoffs of the two most expensive components, the camera sensor and the platform stabilizer, will be examined. InSb and the newer uncooled microbolometer detectors will be compared taking into account system performance (driven primarily by the detector and optics selection) and costs involved. Platform stabilization addressing gyro stabilized gimbals and lower cost pan and tilts will be examined and compared for an aerostat platform with a goal of deriving a lower cost pan and tilt with adequate performance. Findings will be reviewed with the customer to determine the optimal low cost airborne surveillance system. Preliminary costing estimates indicate system cost could be substantially reduced. After the sensor selection is made, a system prototype design will determine the instrumentation suite, which includes the sensors, position control, platform stabilization, communication, receiving console, monitors and control for a stationary aerostat platform. Phase I will also provide detailed information on the production power, weight, cost, and performance, worked in tandem with the design. In Phase II, Inframetrics will draw on this information to build and demonstrate a prototype sensor suite, designed in Phase I. IR system modules and technology from former development efforts will be leveraged for prototype construction and test. |
| SONOMA DESIGN GROUP, LLC
400 Breezewood Drive, Geyserville, CA 95441 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(707) 857-2010
John Speicher DARPA 98-006 |
| Title: | Lightweight, Low Cost Imaging Sensor System |
| Abstract: | Sonoma Design Group LLC (SDG) will design an ultra-lightweight low-cost long stand-off reconnaissance system for use on a small aerostat. The system includes the hand control, monitor, recorder, airborne data link, gimbal, IR imager and Daylight TV. Airborne weight is 25 lbs. The system will identify men from 15 km and trucks from 45 km. The gimbal will have 360 deg continuous azimuth rotation capability and will stabilize the sensors to 5 microrad RMS. The system will operate on <300 w and be easy to apply to any low speed airborne vehicle. SDG will work to a cost goal of $150k in low rate production. SDG has formed a team of capable companies to carry the effort from design to production. During Phase I and II, SDG will do the initial system and gimbal design and fabrication, other members of our team will supply proven standard imagers, gimbal sub-components, and data link technology. Upon completion of Phase II, our team will carry the reconnaissance system into production. |