MDA - 382 Phase I Selections from the 02.1 Solicitation

---------- MDA ----------

382 Phase I Selections from the 02.1 Solicitation

(In Topic Number Order)

ADELPHI TECHNOLOGY, INC. 2181 Park Blvd. Palo Alto, CA 94306
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(650) 328-7337 Dr. Melvin A. Piestrup MDA 02-001 Selected for Award
Title:	Large Area X-ray Lenses for Directed-Energy, Sensing, and Imaging Applications
Abstract:	This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will develop large-area refractive x-ray lenses for medical, industrial, scientific, and directed-energy applications. In prior research and development, Adelphi Technology Inc. has developed compound refractive lenses (CRLs) that can focus and collimate hard x-rays. These lenses have very small apertures (< 1 mm) and are, therefore, limited in many applications. We propose to develop inexpensive lenses with unlimited aperture sizes capable of operating at x-ray wavelengths where medical and industrial applications abound. These lenses will have advantages of larger collection area, higher gain, and better resolution than previous compound refractive lenses. They will permit the imaging of layers at selected depths in objects unlike conventional radiography, which only produces only a shadow of the complete object. The proposed technology relies on well-documented techniques used in visible optics and, thus, has a high likelihood of success. The geometry, methods of fabrication and lens materials will be explored. A prototype lens system will be designed, fabricated, and tested. The development of x-ray lenses capable of focusing sources and imaging large objects will revolutionize military, medical, industrial and biological imaging, materials research, and nondestructive testing. Large x-ray apertures permit long range focusing and collection of x-rays for directed-energy and sensing applications.

ADVANCED ENERGY SYSTEMS, INC. 27 Industrial Blvd., Unit E Medford, NY 11763
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(609) 514-0315 Dr. Hans Bluem MDA 02-001 Selected for Award
Title:	Compact, High Power Microwave Amplifier
Abstract:	High power microwave (HPM) sources have important potential application in a variety of military and non-military areas. One of the key stepping stones to reaching many of these applications is the development of a source capable of gigawatt level power output in a microsecond long pulse at a reasonable repetition rate. In addition, it would be highly desirable if this source were reasonably compact. A fast-wave amplifier such as the ubitron is the best choice for ultra-high-power applications. We propose to investigate a variation of the ubitron amplifier coupled with a compact Marx generator that holds promise for satisfying all of the above stated criteria. The discriminating attributes of a ubitron is its potential for a relatively wide instantaneous bandwidth, its wide-band tunability, and its potential for very high power operation. Significant military high power microwave (HPM) directed energy weapon and countermeasure applications exist at various pulse energy levels and frequencies, which will benefit from the proposed SBIR project. Non-DoD/commercial applications that could make use of such a source include material processing, pipeline cleaning, future TeV particle accelerators, and plasma heating of fusion energy devices.

ADVR INC. 910 Technology Blvd, Suite K Bozeman, MT 59718
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(406) 522-0388 Dr. Philip Battle MDA 02-001 Selected for Award
Title:	Periodically poled stoichiometric lithium tantalate:A new approach for a new material
Abstract:	This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will investigate a promising new technique for fabricating periodic domain gratings in stoichiometric lithium tantalate(SLT). The key innovation in this SBIR effort is the use of externally mounted micro-electrodes to electrically pole the material. This poling technique, made possible because of the low coercive field found in SLT, will significantly reduce the complexity of the poling setup and thus result in lower fabrication costs and higher output yields than has previously been possible. In addition, this technique should make it possible to periodically pole SLT wafers up to 5 mm thick. Periodically poled stoichiometric lithium tantalate, because of its increased ultra-violet(uv) transparency and high resistance to optical and photorefractive damage, will enable highly efficient, quasi-phase matched, nonlinear optical frequency conversion of high power continuous wave and pulsed laser radiation. The anticipated results of the Phase I effort include a demonstration of periodic poling using the micro-electrode technology and a preliminary assessment of the effect different sample thicknesses have on the quality of the grating period. In the Phase II effort, the poling technology will be refined and grating structures suitable for MDA specifc applications will be fabricated. The ability to engineer customized domain gratings in thick wafers of SLT will greatly expand its functionality and enable a broad range of new applications for both military and commercial purposes. For example, sequential gratings fabricated in single SLT wafers could be used to double and then triple a Nd:YAG laser or to combine quasi-phase matched optical parametric generation and difference frequency mixing for enhanced idler generation. Up-conversion to the uv will have applications in medicine, materials processing and optical lithography, while down-conversion to the mid-infrared will find applications in IR countermeasures, guidance and communications

APPLIED PHYSICAL ELECTRONICS, L.C. PO Box 341149 Austin, TX 78734
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(512) 264-1804 Dr. Jon R. Mayes MDA 02-001 Selected for Award
Title:	A Gatling Marx Generator System for Directed Energy Defense and Radar Detection of Cruise and Ballistic Missiles
Abstract: Abstract not available...

ARKLIGHT, INC. 1540 Nettleship Street, Suite 14 Fayetteville, AR 72701
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(501) 521-3934 Dr. Wei Shi MDA 02-001 Selected for Award
Title:	A new THz-to-millimeter-wave source
Abstract:	This SBIR Phase I project focuses on the implementation of a new THz module that can emit coherent and tunable THz waves. Recently, coherent THz radiation was generated at room temperature by PI, with a tuning range of 56.8-1618 æm (5.27 - 0.18 THz), in GaSe based on difference-frequency generation. The peak THz power can be as high as 69.4 W at 196 æm. The corresponding photon conversion efficiency reaches 3.3%. The objectives for Phase I include optimized design and detailed testing of the THz module. This module consists of all the optics, opto-mechanical components with knobs for adjustments, a mounted GaSe crystal, and a GaAs etalon for THz wavelength measurements. This module can be initially pumped by two laser beams, e.g., Nd:YAG laser and MOPO system. Presently, electro-optic sampling becomes a widely-accepted technique in the THz domain. However, for some applications such as the identifications of substances by the absorption of THz waves, there is a critical need for the development of a coherent quasi-CW THz source. To be usable for this application, the THz radiation should have high coherence, a narrow linewidth, a high power, and a low divergence angle. Such a type of the instrument can be eventually used for target acquisition as well as tracking and pointing. It also has applications in pollution monitoring, identifying toxic chemicals, remote sensing, molecular spectroscopy, bio-medical imaging, and security screening. It is expected that the proposed THz source will have applications in target acquisition as well as tracking and pointing. It can dramatically impact molecular spectroscopy. Such a type of the instrument can be eventually used to study pollution and toxic chemicals, for remote sensing, bio-medical imaging, and security screening. Moreover, such a THz source can be used to characterize optical phonons for solid state materials.

COMPOSITE TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT, INC. 1505 Coal Creek Drive Lafayette, CO 80026
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 664-0394 Dr. Mark Lake MDA 02-001 Selected for Award
Title:	Shockless, Thermally Actuated Release Nut
Abstract:	Spacecraft require a variety of separation and release devices to accomplish mission-related functions. Composite Technology Development, Inc. and Starsys Research Corporation propose to develop and demonstrate an innovative, non-pyrotechnic, shockless retention and release device called the Shockless Thermally Actuated Release Nut (STAR Nut). Reducing shock-induced release and separation loads dramatically lowers the overall cost of spacecraft design, testing, and operation. The proposed device will have broad applicability to military, scientific and commercial spacecraft.

CU AEROSPACE 2004 S. Wright St. Extended Urbana, IL 61802
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(217) 333-8274 Dr. David Carroll MDA 02-001 Selected for Award
Title:	Closed-Cycle ElectriCOIL Technology
Abstract:	The primary objective of CU AerospaceOs Phase I work will be to develop all-gas-phase closed-cycle electrically assisted COIL (ElectriCOIL) technology. CU Aerospace (CUA) and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) believe that this challenge can be surmounted with changes to gain generator research including 1) radically new O2(1D) generator subsystems which are amenable to closed-cycle operation; and 2) the total elimination of massive liquid phase laser fuel and pressure recovery systems by use of closed-cycle operations. Many technologies will merge to lead to a successful demonstration of the ElectriCOIL concept. These include discharge and injection techniques, further work with the properties of oxygen discharges, as well as materials research. Our experienced team of investigators represents disciplines in Aerospace Engineering and Electrical Engineering that provide the necessary broad base and the combined background to be successful in this challenging research effort in a relatively short period of time. Our teamOs depth of research experience with DOD lasers gives us a very good probability of success and the payoff for success in this multi-disciplinary endeavor is unusually high. The resulting closed-cycle chemical iodine laser has two primary markets D military and commercial. From a military standpoint, there will be a significant weight savings for BMDO Directed Energy programs as the massive quantities of liquid chemicals for classic COIL will be completely eliminated from the device operation, as well as a reduction in cost per kilowatt. The utility of commercial systems will be greatly enhanced by the development of closed-cycle ElectriCOIL technology.

DIRECTED ENERGY SOLUTIONS 14125 Candlewood Ct. Colorado Springs, CO 80921
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(719) 333-9029 Dr. Thomas L. Henshaw MDA 02-001 Selected for Award
Title:	A Scalable, All Gas Singlet Oxygen Generator for the Chemical Oxygen Iodine Laser
Abstract:	A novel, electric/optical hybrid generator of singlet delta oxygen will be developed and analyzed. Singlet delta oxygen is the power source for the chemical oxygen iodine laser. This approach eliminates the use of toxic and explosive chemicals in the laser. In this concept for a gas-solid flow reactor, organic photosensitizers are immobilized on high surface area substrates. These photosensitizers are optically excited to metastable states by well-developed diode sources. Oxygen wall collisions in the flow reactor result in a transfer of energy and significant production of singlet delta. Fabrication of a gas-flow reactor and generation of flows of singlet oxygen will demonstrate concept feasibility. The combination of experimental testing and system modeling will culminate in a detailed design for a multi-kilowatt singlet oxygen generator. If proven successful, the generator will eliminate the technical problems of the aqueous peroxide-based COIL generators and provide an efficient all gas-phase, singlet oxygen generator for a wide assortment of laser applications in SBL, ABL and tactical missions. Additionally, the gas-flow rector will enable a commercial version of an oxygen iodine laser for high power material processing applications. The generator concepts examined in this proposal have the potential to impact high energy laser programs of the future. The knowledge gained in this effort will provide the basis for which to design, test and demonstrate more efficient COIL devices. The research performed under this contract will demonstrate a device that will minimize, if not eliminate, complications and inefficiencies present in the O2(singlet delta) and aqueous based singlet oxygen generators. A photosensitizer based singlet delta generator implemented in a next generation oxygen iodine laser would have significant applications in material processing. For years the chemical oxygen iodine laser has been considered an ideal source for materials processing because of its high average power and near perfect beam quality. However, the constraints imposed by the chemical operation have precluded its use in an industrial setting. At the kilowatt level of operation, its narrow line operation and superb beam quality would make it the best materials processing tool in the world. It would be used for welding, cutting, laser surface treatment, and micro machining. Since its wavelength of operation is compatible with fiber propagation, it can be distributed through fiber optics from a centrally located, high power device to a series of individual workstations in a material processing plant. Its narrow linewidth enhances frequency conversion efficiencies allowing for development of a short wavelength, high power source. This will be important for micro machining and photolithography applications.

DIRECTED ENERGY SOLUTIONS 14125 Candlewood Ct. Colorado Springs, CO 80921
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(719) 333-9029 Dr. Thomas L. Henshaw MDA 02-001 Selected for Award
Title:	A High-Flux NCl3 Generator for the All Gas Iodine Laser
Abstract:	The All Gas Iodine Laser (AGIL) has been proposed as the next generation chemical laser for weapons applications. It has a strong heritage to the two current weapons grade chemical lasers, the Hydrogen Fluoride (HF) Laser and Chemical Oxygen Iodine Laser (COIL). AGIL uses an HF combustor for operation and the same lasing species and a similar energy transfer mechanism as COIL. AGIL is powered by excited NCl(a1Ÿ') metastables through the reaction of Cl atoms with hydrogen azide (HN3), a highly explosive and unstable species. We propose to develop and deliver a device that uses NCl3 chemistry as an alternative source for NCl(a1Ÿ') production, eliminating the risks inherent in the use of HN3. Fabrication of an efficient NCl3 gas-flow generator and storage of high concentrations of NCl3 will demonstrate concept feasibility. The combination of experimental testing and system modeling will culminate in a detailed design for an NCl3 generator sized to power a multi-kilowatt AGIL. If proven successful, the generator will eliminate the technical problems of the hydrogen azide-based AGIL and support the use of AGIL in a wide range of laser applications. These include SBL, ABL, and tactical missions in addition to various commercial high-power materials processing applications. The generator concepts examined in this proposal have the potential to impact high energy laser programs of the future. The knowledge gained in this effort will provide the basis for which to design, test and demonstrate more efficient AGIL devices. The research performed under this contract will demonstrate a device that will minimize, if not eliminate, complications and inefficiencies present in the hydrogen azide-based AGIL. Provided the NCl3 generator and AGIL can scale to significant power levels, it is anticipated the AGIL system could readily impact critical national directed energy missions. This is especially true with respect to AGIL insertion into the SBL and ABL HEL programs, where significant cost savings, increased reliability, improved logistics, and substantial risk reduction are possible. The NCl3 generator concept proposed in Phase I would have significant applications in material processing. For years, a chemical pumped iodine laser (COIL or AGIL) has been considered an ideal source for materials processing because of its high average power and near perfect beam quality. However, the constraints imposed by using highly unstable materials (BHP and HN3) have precluded its use in an industrial setting. In contrast, NCl3, which has a demonstrated industrial utility for over 50 years, is a viable replacement for the deleterious chemistry that has limited COIL and AGIL implementation in industrial applications. At the kilowatt level of operation, the narrow line operation and superb beam quality would make it the best materials processing tool in the world. It would be used for welding, cutting, laser surface treatment, and micro machining. Since its wavelength of operation is compatible with fiber propagation, it can be distributed through fiber optics from a centrally located, high power device to a series of individual workstations in a material processing plant. Compared to its two main competitors, CO2 and diode pumped solid-state, it has much better coupling efficiency and much better beam quality at high power. Its narrow linewidth enhances frequency conversion efficiencies allowing for development of a short wavelength, high power source. This will be important for micro machining and photolithography applications.

DIRECTED ENERGY SOLUTIONS 14125 Candlewood Ct. Colorado Springs, CO 80921
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(719) 481-9802 Dr. Tom Henshaw MDA 02-001 Selected for Award
Title:	Broadly Tunable Optical Source for Strategic Defense Applications
Abstract:	The development of a novel, highly efficient, broadly tunable source of visible and near infrared light is proposed. The device is expected to have a usable emission bandwidth from 450 nm to 1000 nm making it the most broadly tunable device ever. Alternative dopants may extend the gain bandwidth far into the infrared. The demonstrated broad ultraviolet to visible absorption band of the material couples exceptionally well to broadband optical sources, such as high-efficiency Xe lamps and laser sources including frequency doubled, diode pumped Nd:YAG. The laser will have broad applications in defense and commercial markets. Defense applications include a laser source for high power HF device diagnostics and alignment (third harmonic of 2.6-2.9 microns), femtosecond ultrafast lasers, a high power optically pumped oxygen iodine laser, and electro-optical countermeasures across the visible/near infrared. Frequency doubling could provide a compact, tunable source of ultraviolet radiation for covert communications and biological agent detection. Commercial applications include a 10 W source for the projection industry, as well as application in medical photodynamic therapy and imaging. Frequency doubling could provide a compact, tunable source of ultraviolet radiation for information storage applications. Commercial applications include a 10 W source for the projection industry, as well as application in medical photodynamic therapy and imaging. Frequency doubling could provide a compact, tunable source of ultraviolet radiation for information storage applications.

FARR RESEARCH, INC. 614 Paseo Del Mar NE Albuquerque, NM 87123
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 293-3886 Dr. Everett G. Farr MDA 02-001 Selected for Award
Title:	An Integrated Portable High-Voltage Ultra-Wideband Transmitter
Abstract:	High-voltage Ultra-Wideband transmitters are a key component in a wide variety of systems involving directed energy weapons, UWB radar, and secure communications. These applications require a UWB transmitter that combines a portable high-gain antenna with a fast-risetime high-voltage triggered source that is battery powered. Until recently, both the antennas and sources were too large and heavy to be practical for portable operation. New technologies are now available in both UWB sources and antennas that, when combined, would allow one to build a lightweight transmitter. Such a device would integrate a compact triggered wave-erection Marx generator into the center support of a Collapsible Impulse Radiating Antenna (CIRA). CIRAs with a four-foot diameter have already demonstrated outstanding performance in transmitting low-voltage signals, and these antennas could be enhanced for higher voltages. In addition, compact versions of a wave erection Marx generator have already been demonstrated with 300 kV peak voltage and 200 ps risetime. To achieve a compact UWB transmitter, we propose to integrate a compact Marx generator into the center support rod of a CIRA. The size of the resulting transmitter when collapsed would be about four inches in diameter, 2.5 feet in length, and would weigh about 15 pounds. During Phase I we will build both a prototype CIRA and a wave-erection Marx generator, which could be combined to form an integrated UWB transmitter. The CIRA will have a center support that will allow the Marx generator to fit within it. The Marx generator will be designed to operate at 300 kV peak voltage and 200 ps risetime. The pulser will operate at a repetition rate of 100 Hz, and it will drive a 200-ohm load. We will also design and test a zipper transition between the source and antenna. This research will lead to a new design for a compact integrated UWB transmitter, including triggered source and antenna. This device will be suitable for use as a portable directed energy weapon, or as a component of an Ultra-Wideband radar or secure communication system. A prototype antenna and source will be built and tested during Phase I, and the system will be integrated in Phase II.

JAYCOR, INC. 3394 Carmel Mountain Road San Diego, CA 92121
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 344-7455 Dr. Carl F Bloemker MDA 02-001 Selected for Award
Title:	Phase Array Microwave System (PAMS)
Abstract:	The Phase Array Microwave System (PAMS) concept will significantly reduce the risk and development time to field a practical HPM source for Theater Missile Defense system applications. PAMS is a novel approach which uses a phased array of microwave sources to leapfrog current technology limitations in order to field a microwave system in the near term. The PAMS concept is based on the principle of pattern multiplication. The Effective Radiating Power (ERP) has the potential to be increased by N^2, where N is the number of antennas. In a PAMS configuration all the transmit antennas can form one powerful beam to engage a distant threat. The transmitters can be sectioned into groups to attack medium range tactical threats. In close, the individual transmitters can operate independently to simultaneously engage close in threats. In addition, a PAMS system offers the opportunity to deny the use of space assets above the PAMS system. The PAMS system can be used to increase the capabilities of commercial aircraft tracking and location.

LIGHT PROCESSING & TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 4028 Laurel Branch Ln Orlando, FL 32817
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(407) 823-6983 Dr. Leon Glebov MDA 02-001 Selected for Award
Title:	Holographic filters with adjustable transmittance for high power lasers
Abstract:	The overall objective of the proposal is to develop the technology of production of robust filters with adjustable transmittance based on the phase Bragg gratings in photo-thermo-refractive (PTR) glass. This glass is a very promising photosensitive medium for volume holograms because it has excellent response at any spatial frequencies up to ~10000 mm-1, large spectral window from 300 to 4000 nm, and perfect thermal, optical and mechanical stability. The adjustable filters should enable to vary the transmitted power of laser beam including high power laser radiation at least 100 times for selected wavelength in the indicated region. Total losses of beam power should not exceed (5-10)%. The important features of these filters will be an attenuation just of selected wavelength, large working area and homogeneously variable transmittance, high laser-induced damage threshold, and a stability of parameters over a long period of work. Such holographic mirrors can be the key components for different optical systems developed for task BMDO/02-001 which utilize laser beams including high power radiation. The target is the adjustable filters in photosensitive silicate glass. They are absent now on the market, though the stability of filters in silicate glasses is higher than normal filters and they can be favorable priced. Moreover, they are very promising for using in large-aperture high power laser systems because they have relatively small constructive overall dimensions and high laser-induced damage threshold. These adjustable filters should find very wide application anywhere from civil to military market and from low power laser to large-scale laser systems.

LITEWEAVER TECHNOLOGIES, INC. DBA LightMatrix Technologies,, 204 East Park Drive Mount Laurel, NJ 08054
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(856) 722-0001 Dr. Anirudha Sumant MDA 02-001 Selected for Award
Title:	High Performance Diamond MEMS based RF Devices
Abstract:	Over the last several years, Argonne National Laboratory has developed ultra-smooth diamond thin films that can be used in many applications. In this phase I project, we propose to develop the processes to fabricate high performance, harsh environment, low noise, RF-MEMS switches, based on this ultrananocrystalline diamond (UNCD) technology. In phase I, we will demonstrate the core technology by fabricating small prototypes of UNCD based RF-MEMS switches and evaluating their electrical and switching characteristics and as well as mechanical properties. In phase II, we will focus on integration and evaluation of many RF-MEMS switches to develop a new class of high performance, mechanically robust RF-MEMS switch which can be used for space and defense applications. Applications of the proposed technology include novel RF MEMS devices, optical switches for telecommunication, biomedical sensors, field emission devices, hard coatings and vacuum microelectronic devices.

LUTRONICS 28 Ruthellen Rd. Chelmsford, MA 01824
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 821-8448 Dr. Yalin Lu MDA 02-001 Selected for Award
Title:	Novel Nonlinear Optical Crystal--Large Aperture and High Nonlinearity
Abstract:	Stoichiometric Lithium Tantalate crystal (SLT: 50/50) was found to be overwhelmingly superior over its congruent counterpart (CLT: 48.75/51.25) in nonlinear optical, electro-optical (EO), UV transparency, and domain reversion. Third harmonic generation via periodically poled structure inside this SLT crystal is expected to be more efficient, and to be more realistic for fabricating novel compact UV lasers. However, many fundamental material properties related to the crystal are unidentified even till today. This project will thoroughly examine the crystal optical and electrical poling characteristics to identify those properties such as the maximum poling depth, minimum poling period, dispersion, and material absorption, via using Lutronics extensive experience in nonlinear optic materials and the development of the related devices. Successes in this Phase I effort related to the study of poling dynamics and optical properties of SLT crystal will identify the promise of this developed process for further UV or IR laser development. The military and civilian applications are diverse, including information storage, laser countermeasure, and laser sensing.

MATERIALS MODIFICATION INC 2721-D Merrilee Drive Fairfax, VA 22031
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 560-1371 Mr. Raffi Sahul MDA 02-001 Selected for Award
Title:	Free-form Optics Polishing by Magnetorheological Approach
Abstract:	Free-form optics such as mirrors for surveillance, UV lenses for lithography, X-ray mirrors for X-ray lithography, conformal optics (spherical and aspherical), laser rods and windows are some of the important defense and commercial applications of optic materials. The demand on optical performance of these materials is increasing significantly. To achieve high optical performance, ultraprecision polishing is required for these optical surfaces. Conventional methods cannot achieve high surface finish and are time-consuming and labor intensive. Materials Modification Inc proposes to polish such free-form optics with a novel magnetorheological approach. The Phase I efforts will evaluate the proposed approach by polishing samples of silicon carbide mirrors and sapphire flats. ú The proposed technique can be used to polish large area tracking and scanning lightweight mirrors ú Other potential defense applications include solar collectors and concentrators, X-ray and vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) mirrors ú Commercial applications include high-precision polishing of mirrors and aspheric lenses

MS TECHNOLOGY 7922 Avenida Kirjah La Jolla, CA 92037
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 558-6363 Dr. Saeid Ghamaty MDA 02-001 Selected for Award
Title:	Heat Removal Device for Munition
Abstract:	Advanced Future Munition (FM) as well as chip and board level space or munition electronics or optoelectronics will require innovative heat removal solutions to enable them to meet size, weight, power, high reliability, and low cost. Commonly, these approaches are based on efficient 2-D and 3-D arrangements of electronics, often involving "multi-chip modules" (MCMs). As chips are brought closer together, the area/volume power densities and, therefore, heat increases. MS Technology (MST) proposes a new type of heat removal modular device, which could solve space or munition electronic packaging problems of the FM and large scale electronic and optoelectronics systems. This new approach removes the generated heat by first converting it to electricity which could be dissipated in a shunt resistor far from the device or supplement the main system power supply. This supplementary power source further increases reliability, reduces cost and weight of the entire system. MST will evaluate and develop conceptual designs for this new device that should provide significant thermal management improvements compared to the thermal management techniques used in heat removal approaches now. MST will conduct proof of concept demonstrations to indicate the practicality of such techniques for use in device electronic systems. A low cost high performance heat removal modular device, will find commercial application in projects of interest to government, industry and academia, especially with respect to commercial applications. It is also possible in certain circumstances to find applications in other domains, where large amounts of dense circuitry can be confined with limited air flow boundary conditions. In view of general smaller satellite requirements (for cooling more high-power, more dense electronics with less costly, lighter weight, and more reliable systems) the potential market for a successful thermal management system is quite large for both the military (DoD), civilian (NASA) and commercial satellite industries. Potential commercial applications of the thermal management component(s)/system and associated technologies developed by this effort include communications and weather satellites and terrestrial thermal management systems, including co-generation applications, and residential, commercial and industrial heating and air conditioning.

ONYX OPTICS, INC. 6551 Sierra Lane Dublin, CA 94568
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(925) 833-1969 Dr. Helmuth Meissner MDA 02-001 Selected for Award
Title:	Nd:GGG Adhesive-Free Bonding to enable 100kW Heat Capacity Laser for Ground and Air Based Missile Defense Systems
Abstract:	Onyx Optics herein seeks SBIR funding to further its efforts related to GGG Adhesive-Free Bonding (AFB) for the 100kW Heat Capacity Laser program. To date efforts have focused on AFB of parasitic absorbing Cr4+:GGG claddings onto a central Nd:GGG slab. The work being proposed here also would evaluate edge-bonding of Nd:GGG to itself to facilitate larger size crystals than currently able to be grown by crystal growth techniques, in order to satisfy the slab size requirements for the Heat Capacity Laser program. Bonding interface behavior for GGG is not yet fully understood and not reproducible for large (6" x 2") cross sections. Some of the AFB interfaces produced to date have been acceptable for cladding architectures, but not for edge-bonding of Nd:GGG to make crystals larger than currently can be grown. The principal objective is to meet the requirements of the Heat Capacity Laser program for final-sized clad composite amplifier plates. Onyx AFB is expected to enable the most compact possible Heat Capacity Laser design, in order that such a system may be deployed in airborne missile defense systems such as ABL and UAV, as well as ground-based systems. Completion of a Phase I & II SBIR on this subject would enable a reliable supply of AFB GGG slab components of sufficient size and quality, to satisfy the design requirements of the Heat Capacity Laser program.

PHYSICS, MATERIALS & APPLIED MATH RESEARCH, L.L.C. 1333 N. Tyndall Ave. suite 212 Tucson, AZ 85719
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(520) 882-7349 Dr. Kevin Kremeyer MDA 02-001 Selected for Award
Title:	Enhanced Lethality Using Self-Channeling Short-Pulse Lasers.
Abstract:	Laser radiation suffers from two fundamental problems in Directed Energy applications: diffraction and turbulence. Our research has demonstrated the potential of directing the energy of a pulse along 100 micron diameter self-ionizing channels or "filaments". Preliminary estimates indicate that these filaments can contain up to 1 Joule of energy each, propagate over kilometers, and keep their integrity despite turbulence. Current systems, with no turbulence and perfect optics, would require lens/mirror diameters on the order of 25 meters to acieve a comparable "focus". In contrast, our system is constructed using optical elements of only a few centimeters to form the 100 micron filaments which are only vulnerable to ~100 micron turbulence (which is not of concern in the atmostphere). Our team consists of physicist and optics/materials faculty, and our preliminary results have been obtained in the world-class ultrafast laser laboratories at the Universtiy of New Mexico. We propose that these self-focusing "waveguides" be used individulally to riddle a target with small holes, or in bundles to deliver more energy simultaneously. Commercial applications for individual filaments are micromachining/processing, medical/surgical use, and imaging/remote sensing. It is anticipated that the system will allow accurate and consistent delivery, over kilometers, of laser energy constrained to travel along self-generated, ionized paths on the order of 100 microns in diameter. This sharp concentration of energy will be afforded despite the very small/deployable optical elements we will use. The result of these attributes are anticipated to be Directed Energy systems which are much more compact and energy efficient. The gain in efficiency will allow the use of solid state lasers, which will be much more robust and deployable. The UV filamentation depends only on intensity, allowing the energy to be scaled up by using longer pulses. Nanosecond pulses can be used for delivering very narrowly-focussed Joule-level deposition, useful in directed energy applications, whereas femtosecond/picosecond pulses can be used to deliver much smaller amounts of energy (micro-to milli-Joules) for micromachining and surgical/medical applications. Another benefit of using such high power-densities is that any material encountered by the filament/pulse is instantly vaporized, including countermeasure reflective coatings. In addition to the military applications, this systems can be commercially applied to micromachining, because of its ability to drill 100 micron wide holes (or less), to an effectively unlimited depth, with no taper. Consistent holes of this size, with "infinite" apsect ratio are currently not achievable, and would be of great use in microfluidics applications. We also intend to explore medical applications. The much smaller markets of remote sensing (currently performed using LIDAR techniques) and guidestar generation can be strongly impacted by this technology, but the initial entry into the market must presumably be led by military applications. The adaptive mirror we will implement to remove the aberrations from our gas amplifier stages will also prove beneficial in general military and commercial laser applications.

PROMETHEUS II, LTD. P.O. Box 1037 College Park, MD 20741
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 445-1075 Paul M. Koloc MDA 02-001 Selected for Award
Title:	PHASER: Phased Hyper-Acceleration for Shock, EMP, and Radiation
Abstract:	The objective of this funds-restricted SBIR Phase I proposal is to demonstrate the merit of the core concept by physically forming the stable and highly rugged magnetoplasmoid (PMK) of ~25 cm diameter and one to five second lifetime in STP atmospheric air, and thus physically produce the PMK at weapon size. The proposed work is a direct extension of previous laboratory results that were marginal for acceleration studies and weapons application, because the initial work used lower energy and shorter current signature inputs. The Phase I physical demonstration will confirm scalability of the formation process and achieve formation of the "Encapsulated EMP Bullet" that will be compressed and accelerated during Phase II to hyperkinetic velocities from 50 to 200 kilometers/sec. Since the PMK is stable, a range of plasmoid energies and velocities are possible; consequently, the target goals for BMDO can be expanded. PLASMAKT technology has exciting potential for a PHASER weapon that launches hyperkinetic encapsulated EMP bullets directed at remote targets. It can be used for a range of purposes from stunning personnel to destroying the functionality of electronically operated devices, smaller rockets, vehicles, and packages that represent an immediate threat to the United States. This dialable PHASER weapon can be set on "Stun" or dialed down, selecting a non-lethal level for persons needed for later interrogation. The Phaser weapon resulting from Phase III commercial development will be made available to Defense, law enforcement, and intelligence organizations such as U.S. Army, Special Forces, Southern Command, DEA, the FBI, CIA, and numerous other groups that will benefit from their use. One mundane application for law enforcement would be the disruption of the engine electronics to stop vehicles that would otherwise be the target of a high-speed chase. Dialable versions of the PHASER will be available for use in civilian encounters. A number of manufacturers and specialty tool shops will be selected to produce components that Prometheus II, Ltd. will use to assemble and calibrate Phaser weapons for commercial distribution. For security purposes, each component will be produced by one or two different manufacturers. All manufacturers will be unrelated and will be chosen according to good project engineering physics and business management practices. BMDO will need advanced ultrakinetic projectiles that are launched at fractional lightspeed. In turn future high pulse power machines generating massive driver energy per pulse will be required. These are currently beyond the scope of this preliminary endeavor. Basic PLASMAKT technology will become the solution to this next problem within an additional time frame and at an appropriate funding level.

THE CORE GROUP, INC. PO Box 11247 Albuquerque, NM 87192
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 258-9256 Mr. Kevin Probst MDA 02-001 Selected for Award
Title:	Enhanced Target Identification (ETID) for Strategic HEL Systems Using Bayesian-Topological Fusion Classification.
Abstract:	This proposal addresses the development of an enhanced target identification (ETID) method of classifying and identifying boost phase threat objects for targeting by a strategic HEL weapon such as a Space Based Laser (SBL), a Ground Based Laser (GBL) or an Airborne Laser (ABL) weapon. The work to be accomplished builds on past work on Target Identification (TID) algorithms accomplished for the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Information Fusion (IF) Directorate. Under previous work, a concept for an ETID algorithm was formulated and preliminary design work was accomplished. However, due to funding reductions from BMDO, the actual full design, implementation, and testing of the ETID algorithm was not accomplished. We propose to finish the work on the ETID algorithm by completing the full algorithm design, developing the full algorithm for the current HEL weapon systems designs and missions, and testing the full algorithm using simulated and real threat data as available. The outputs of the Phase I program will be a prototype Enhanced Target Identification Algorithm, a detailed performance assessment of the ETID algorithm, and a plan for Phase II development of an operational algorithm. The proposed program would take a significant step toward solving one of the most difficult problems for SBL sensor, tracking, and weapon systems, that of identifying targets during an engagement. The resulting ETID algorithm technology could be applied to many other missile defense needs such as the ABL, GBL, and SBIRS programs, as well as non-BMD target tracking and engagement systems.

V CORP TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 7042 Nighthawk Court Carlsbad, CA 92009
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(760) 931-1011 Dr. Scott R. Velazquez MDA 02-001 Selected for Award
Title:	ADC with Adaptive Parallel Combining for Improved SNR and SFDR
Abstract:	This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project demonstrates a very high-resolution Analog-to-Digital Converter with Adaptive Parallel Combining (called Stacked ADC) which uses a parallel stack of high-speed, high-resolution analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) with adaptive signal combining to dramatically improve resolution (both Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) and Spurious Free Dynamic Range (SFDR) ) while maintaining very high sample rate (wide bandwidth). Proprietary adaptive processing is used to optimally combine the parallel ADC outputs to maximize the SNR and SFDR. Proprietary digital FIR filtering is used to insure the parallel array of ADCs are extremely well-matched in gain and phase; when the parallel ADC signals are combined, these gain and phase mismatches would otherwise introduce errors in the ADC that significantly limit the dynamic range of the system. The Stacked ADC architecture will always exceed state-of-the-art because it can easily be upgraded as new, more powerful ADC products become available. For example, this technology is currently capable of using four 12-bit, 210 MHz sample rate ADCs in parallel to improve the SNR and SFDR by 26 dB over a wide range of input power levels and while maintaining the full 210 MHz sample rate. A stack of parallel ADCs and the efficient digital signal processing can be packaged in a compact, low-power multi-chip module (MCM) for use in the next generation of high-performance radar systems and RF receivers. The architecture is also applicable to dramatically improving the SNR and SFDR of digital-to-analog conversion for radar and RF transmission systems. Because the Stacked ADC approach maximizes the SNR and SFDR over a wide range of input signal levels, it significantly reduces (or eliminates) the need for additional automatic gain control (AGC) with feedback circuitry and variable gain amplifiers. V-Corp is currently working with Analog Devices, Inc. and their multi-chip products division on developing and packaging various high-performance multi-converter technologies, including the Stacked ADC. During Phase I, V-Corp will demonstrate the architecture via hardware breadboarding and using proprietary digital signal processing routines to improve the SNR and SFDR of the converter system. A real-time hardware implementation of the digital signal processing in the architecture will be designed in a Phase I Option. During Phase II, a compact real-time implementation of the Stacked ADC system will be implemented and integrated in a target system (e.g., advanced digital radar). The Stacked ADC approach overcomes the critical A/D conversion bottleneck which limits performance of state-of-the-art radio frequency transceiver systems. Virtually any high-performance modern electronic system will benefit from the technique. Significant applications include enhancement of radar systems, wideband universal RF transceivers, specialized test equipment, and medical imaging systems.

XINETICS INC. 2 Buena Vista Devens, MA 01432
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 772-0352 Dr. Thomas Price MDA 02-001 Selected for Award
Title:	High Gain Bandwidth Deformable Mirror for High Energy Lasers
Abstract:	Compensation of thermal blooming and high scintillation affects requires simultaneous large amplitude and large bandwidth operation or high gain bandwidth. Present deformable mirror technology, provides 3 to 4 microns stroke with a full amplitude bandwidth approaching 500-Hz. It has been a design criteria that as the bandwidth increased, the amplitude decreased specific to a power spectral density profile set forth for the application. Recent test results have shown that present mirrors are limited by the ability of the actuators to withstand the high peak current loads required for the high gain bandwidth operational mode. Recent test results have also shown that present deformable mirror driver electronics do not source enough peak current to drive the actuator capacitive load to stable, high gain bandwidth products. The high gain and bandwidth deformable mirror will allow many compact laser propagation systems to overcome significantly more turbulent propagation paths than is currently possible. Laser communications, high energy beam weapon systems, tactical targeting systems and others would directly benefit from the development of the proposed Deformable mirror system.

ADVANCED CERAMICS RESEARCH, INC. 3292 E. Hemisphere Loop Tucson, AZ 85706
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(520) 573-6300 Mr. Michael Fulcher MDA 02-002 Selected for Award
Title:	Innovative Guidance Algorithm to Increase Hit-to-Kill Intercept Accuracy
Abstract:	The high accuracies required by hit-to-kill interception places severe demands on interceptor maneuverability and flight control time response when engaging targets that are maneuvering either intentionally or unintentionally. A well-known guidance law for use against a maneuvering target is augmented proportional navigation (APN). It has been recently demonstrated that the limitations of APN can be overcome through the use of a new non-linear guidance (NLG) algorithm. The maneuver advantage requirement is much less, and it is effective with time constants that would otherwise degrade the performance of APN. Results are based on a two dimensional non-linear model with the target performing a weave maneuver. The new algorithm can achieve increased intercept accuracy under minimal maneuver advantage requirements over a wide range of initial conditions with reasonable levels of angle noise and target maneuver estimation error. Minimum maneuver advantage is essential in minimizing interceptor divert, and thus, minimizing weight and size. It is proposed that research be performed to refine the current NGL algorithm formulation and initiate the transition to executable code, with focus on implementing the algorithm on a 3-degree of freedom simulation with real word limitations on the availability, fidelity, and accuracy of measurement information. This research promises to contribute to future performance enhancements of those kill vehicles engaging maneuvering targets in the terminal and boost phases. If future countermeasures in the mid-course phase employ maneuvers, the NGL algorithms can play a role in mitigating the effects.

AEP TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 13110 NE 177th PL #234 Woodinville, WA 98072
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(425) 672-1755 Mr. Randel Hoskins MDA 02-002 Selected for Award
Title:	Low Shock, Shroud Separation System
Abstract:	One of the key ballistic missile defense system approaches is the use of hit-to-kill vehicles. Shrouds are used to protect the kill vehicle's IR homing seekers. These protective shrouds need to be tightly held to the kill vehicle during flyout and then upon command, quickly released to expose the seeker. The shrouds have to be released with sufficient energy to prevent them from recontacting the kill vehicle. Conventional shroud release/ejection systems typically rely on explosive bolts, linear shaped charge, or explosively driven X-Cord to release the shroud haves. The pyrotechnic shocks imparted to the kill vehicle by the shroud removal system can create design and performance problems. The shroud separation pyroshocks can damage/misalign the relatively fragile seeker head of the kill vehicle and/or cause problems with the kill vehicle's IMU sensors. Efforts to make the seeker and IMU strong enough to withstand these shocks add kill vehicle weight and complexity while reducing kill vehicle performance. AEP Technologies is proposing a shroud separation system that would greatly reduce the shroud separation induced shocks. The low shock shroud separation technology proposed by AEP is applicable to a wide range of military and commercial missiles deploying shrouds. Operation of current technology, shroud separation systems induce large shocks into the kill-vehicles. These shocks create design and operational problems for the kill-vehicle's seeker and IMUs. These shocks can damage or misalign the seeker creating targeting problems. Similarly, these shocks can overwhelm IMU sensors (accelerometers, rate sensors, etc.) creating control problems and requiring more robust (and accordingly less sensitive) sensors. Efforts to minimize the problems caused by the shroud separation shocks increase kill vehicle weight, increase system complexity, reduces system performance and can reduce targeting and control accuracies. The Low Shock, Shroud Separation System (LSSS) reduces/eliminates these issues by greatly reducing shroud separation shocks imparted to the kill vehicle. The LSSS system is also applicable to protective shrouds of commercial missile launch vehicles. Induced pyroshocks associated with shroud removal are key design drivers for both commercial launch vehicles and their payloads. The LSSS shroud separator reduces launch system parasitic weights (i.e., allows larger/heavier payloads to be carried) and reduces launch stresses (increased payload reliability).

AEP TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 13110 NE 177th PL #234 Woodinville, WA 90872
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(425) 672-1755 Mr. Randel Hoskins MDA 02-002 Selected for Award
Title:	MKV Dispenser
Abstract:	The MKV ballistic missile interceptor system use large numbers of small MKV interceptors launched using a single booster. The MKV interceptors are deployed from the carrier vehicle to intercept and destroy multiple objects in the midcourse phase of a ballistics missile's trajectory. The MKV system provides a means to address countermeasures through multiple intercepts of all non-discriminated objects within a threat cluster. A critical aspect of MKV system concept is release of the individual MKVs from the carrier/launch vehicle. To avoid performance degradation or damage, the MKVs must be dispensed on controlled velocity vectors without inducing significant pitch, roll and yaw motions into the MKVs. AEP is proposing the development of an MKV dispenser. The dispenser would be capable of simultaneously dispensing a single tier of MKVs. The dispenser uses a pyrotechnically inflated metallic bag. The bag would be installed as a flattened toroid between the MKVs and the carrier vehicle. The location and geometry of the bag and the rate of bag inflation are used to dispense the MKVs on controlled vectors without imposing pitch, roll or yaw motions to the MKVs. A metallic bag is used to avoid any bag leakage or storage life concerns. This program will lead to the design and development of a lightweight, MKV (Miniature Kill Vehicle) carriage and dispensing system based upon inflatable metallic bags. The MKV dispenser would allow individual rings (tiers) of MKVs to be dispensed with very tightly controlled dispense velocities and radial directions. This same inflatable, metallic bag dispenser technology could be used for DoD submunition dispensing applications where precise dispensing control and no dispense bag leakage is required.

APPLIED PHYSICAL ELECTRONICS, L.C. PO Box 341149 Austin, TX 78734
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(512) 264-1804 Dr. Jon R. Mayes MDA 02-002 Selected for Award
Title:	A Pulsed Microwave Radar Source For Seeker Missile Systems
Abstract:	Kinetic Kill systems, such as Seeker missiles, rely on Continuous Wave (CW) microwave signals or Infrared (IR) technologies for tracking entry vehicles. These systems are coupled with a volume/range tradeoff and have not proven to be a reliable means of tracking missile threats. Common reasons include their susceptibility to countermeasures and their long processing time of information. Both systems typically deliver long pulses of energy. CW radar systems tend to be large, complex and with a delivery of a low powered signal. Likewise, IR systems require a long pulse for a low signal-to-noise ratio. The net result is that reflected information from the target must be processed in the frequency domain and converted to the time domain. This proposal offers a novel impulse source that is extremely compact, delivers a high powered, short pulse and may be operated at repetition rates high enough to maintain accurate tracking. The proposed circuit is a "credit card" sized and has shown the promise of delivering peak power levels in the megawatt range using common electronic components and moderate source voltages. The compact impulse generator is well suited for Pockels cell drivers in electro-optics applications, and is also well suited for driving laser diode stacks for injection lasers. The same generator may also be used as a beacon source for stranded vehicles (marine, aircraft, or land-based). The compact Marx could serve as a source for recent advances in cancer research, which are requiring nanosecond, high voltage impulses with performance characteristics that are similar to the Marx. Its use as a hand-held, portable defibrillator may also be possible.

APPLIED TECHNOLOGY ASSOCIATES 1300 Britt SE Albuquerque, NM 87123
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 767-1205 Dr. Demos Kyrazis MDA 02-002 Selected for Award
Title:	Active Laser Tracker for KKV
Abstract:	Ballistic missile defense requires the ability to find, track and intercept a threat missile before it can reach its target. The kinetic kill vehicle (KKV) is a fundamental means to intercept and destroy the threat. To be successful, the KKV must be able to acquire and track the target autonomously while steering itself on an intercept course. It must do this within a very small Circular Error Probable (CEP) against a target of one meter diameter or less, that may employ countermeasures. To be effective the interceptor must hit the threat warhead, not the threat booster tank. One measure of the interceptor's effectiveness is its "probability of kill" (P kill). ATA's Active Laser Tracker for the KKV program is based on an innovative application of active laser target acquisition and tracking technology, on the interceptor, to increase Pkill. Our solution works either during exoatmospheric powered flight or coast. It offers advantages over alternate approaches including: 1)earlier target acquisition, 2) higher sensor resolution and 3)lack of sensor saturation during terminal intercept, and better target discrimination. The performance advantages offered by ATA's Active Laser Tracker (ALT) system poise it to be the "acquisition and tracking system of choice" for future Ballastic Missile Defense (BMD) KKV, and other DoD missile interceptor programs. It also provides a means to increase the performance of current interceptors through upgrade programs. These applications are restricted to government driven programs. However, ATA is separately pursuing the commercialization of ALT's core technology for demanding robotic manufacturing applications in the microelectronics, aerospace, and vehicle manufacturing industries. The development of ALT for a BMD application will accelerate and enhance the commercial product development and add new capabilities to these products in the future. This will directly benefit the industries mentioned, as well as provide indirect benefit to future government organizations / programs using tracker technology.

ARCHANGEL SYSTEMS, INC. 1500 Pumphrey Ave. Auburn, AL 36832
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(334) 826-8008 Mr. Victor Trent MDA 02-002 Selected for Award
Title:	MEMS Annular Rotating Sensor (MARS)
Abstract:	A MEMS rotating Annular Sensor (MARS) is proposed, which senses rotation velocities and accelerations in one discrete time sensor. The sensor system is sensitive to accelerations in all three local directions x, y, and z and rotational velocities in two axes. Differential capacitance measured at various points about the annulus permit a single MARS to measure accelerations in 3 degrees of freedom and rotational velocities in two, missing only the angular velocity about the local z axis. Two MARS systems can be used for full three axis inertial measurements and provide redundancy in all three accelerations and two rotational velocity measures. With built-in processing capability, the MARS system results in an extremely small, low-cost yet robust inertial measurement system. Output of the MARS system will be in various digital serial formats. The MARS system has been designed to have four modes of operation: Storage, Start-up, Nominal operation and Shut-down. To enable reliable use, each mode is operated in a controlled operation enabling the device to handle very large g loads without failure. Sensing rotational rates up to 500 degrees per second and accelerations up to 100 g are anticipated with the device. Existing inertial sensors require three rotational sensors and three acceleration sensors to obtain the information required for inertial sensing and control. By using the MARS system, these requirements are reduced to two MARS, thereby lowering cost as well as reducing the size of the inertial sensing package. The reduction in size of the inertial package will allow its incorporation into the MMKV as well as allow application in existing inertial sensing products.

COMPUTATIONAL SENSORS CORPORATION 714 Bond Ave. Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(805) 898-1060 Dr. John Langan MDA 02-002 Selected for Award
Title:	Spatio-Temporal Interceptor Image Filtering for Threat Cloud RV/Chaff Discrimination
Abstract:	During Phase I, CSC will explore the applicability of non-linear analog VLSI spatio-temporal filtering (STF) of interceptor sensor imagery to threat-cloud RV/decoy and chaff discrimination. Our approach will develop new STF analysis techniques to achieve robust RV micro-dynamics signature discrimination against accurately simulated threat-cloud chaff. Previous work, based on a cross-correlation analysis of the STF motion-energy exchange between pixels sampling distant targets in image sensor noise, has indicated potential for RV/decoy discrimination based on target micro-dynamics and has direct applicability to RV/chaff discrimination. Furthermore, significant interceptor 2-D spatial aspect target-target discrimination and target-clutter discrimination achieving track-before-detect (TBD) capability of intermittently resolved targets in heavy terrestrial terrain clutter has been demonstrated using spatial-temporal filtering coupled with dynamic programming. Our novel approach leverages the natural ability of massively parallel analog circuitry to perform computationally intensive image processing tasks in real-time, and centers on chaff effectively behaving as a clutter background, during a significant portion of the mid-course engagement time-line, surrounding lethal RV target(s) and/or decoys to IR or Visible seeker sensor systems. Hardware-in-the-loop testing and analysis using the existing spatial convolution engine in conjunction with our temporal image processing chips will proceed throughout Phase I to validate our simulated results. Early target identification capabilities using non linear motion energy image processing techniques integrated in analog image processors are ideally suited for compact, low power, military imaging applications. Analog image processing technology may also be applicable in many other commercial areas including automatic inspection, biometric identification, security, surveillance, and other machine vision applications. To date, non-linear motion energy image processing technology using TAIP chip technology developed under DARPA contract in conjunction with temporal filtering capability developed under ARMY-SMDC contract has demonstrated significant utility in detection, track-before-detect capability when coupled with dynamic programming, and discrimination of low flying missile targets in moving background clutter. CSC is fulfilling current DARPA and AIT sponsored contracts while aggressively pursuing potential commercial opportunities for analog VLSI image processing applications. The unique and powerful capability to perform massive convolution functions in real-time, in a small package and with low power requirements will enable a new generation of intelligent systems not previously considered viable by system and product designers systems for performing sophisticated imaging tasks including automatic target recognition, target tracking, feature extraction, 3D reconstruction, image classification, and image understanding are critical for the building of compact, low powered deployable missile defense systems.

DAVIDSON TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 689 Discovery Drive, Suite 200 Huntsville, AL 35806
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(256) 327-3122 Mr. Don Tingle MDA 02-002 Selected for Award
Title:	Concept Development and Assessment of a Multi-Mode Seeker for the National Missile Defense Exotmospheric Kill Vehicle
Abstract:	Demonstrate the feasibility of using an RF Multi-Mode seeker on the NMD Exoatmospheric Kill Vehicle to defeat countermeasures deployments on threat intercontinental ballistic missiles. Development of alternative seeker technologies is critical to the long term viability of kinetic hit-to-kill missile defense. Rapid proliferation of phenomenology, analysis capability and technologies provides opportunities for potential hostile nations to rapidly build and deploy countermeansures previously only attributable to Russial or China. Application to tactical missiles, including precision munitions.

DYNAMIC CONTROLS, INC. Bldg. 145, Room 273, Area B Wright-Patterson AFB, OH 45433
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 254-2529 Dr. Gavin D. Jenney MDA 02-002 Selected for Award
Title:	MultiMotor ElectroMechanical Actuator
Abstract:	This proposal presents an approach to achieving faster response and increased reliability for electromechanical actuators, while reducing overall weight and providing improved distribution of the thermal load. 1. reduction in weight 2. improved reliability 3. improved thermal properties

FIBER MATERIALS, INC. 5 Morin Street Biddeford, ME 04005
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(207) 282-5911 Dr. Raph Langensiepen MDA 02-002 Selected for Award
Title:	Lightweight C/SiC Lined Carbon Foam Kick Motor Nozzle for Kill Vehicle Application
Abstract:	FMI proposes to examine the potential of a C/SiC composite low erosion throat/exit cone that makes use of carbon foam as a support and insulation structure. This basic concept has been forwarded by Opeka and by Buesking et al., where a strong, low conductivity carbon foam insulator supports a high temperature thin ceramic liner. FMI has recently demonstrated that light weight, potentially low cost carbon fiber reinforced silicon carbide ceramic matrix composites can survive simulated DACS environments under 3700F propellant testing. Bulk C/SiC test materials were shown to survive 4000F propellant conditions. As a class of materials, only fiber reinforced ceramic matrix composites are likely to withstand the thermal shock and operational vibration loading present in DACS and axial boost applications in advanced kill vehicles. Densified and coated liners will be surrounded by a foamed-in-place carbon foam substructure to provide mechanical support and attachment, and a means to control thermal environment of the liner. A Phase I optimized integral liner/support structure nozzle test article will be made available for testing as a C/SiC CMC lined Carbon Foam backed kick motor throat/nozzle for enhanced kill vehicle application. Current high performance rocket throat/nozzles can be costly and/or fabricated with high density refractory metals or massive carbon/graphite components. A weight reduction through the use of ceramic composites and structural foam would allow for enhanced intercept capabilites in a kill vehicle, with minimized payload costs. The concept if successful may provide a means of reducing launch costs of commercial payloads by reducing total motor weight and nozzle costs in non-military launch systems.

FIBERTEK, INC. 510 Herndon Parkway Herndon, VA 20170
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 471-7671 Mr. Francis Fitzpatrick MDA 02-002 Selected for Award
Title:	Ultra-Compact Laser Radar
Abstract:	This program will develop a new approach for laser transmitters for ultra-compact space-based ladar systems. The technology proposed has the potential for reducing the size, weight and cost of the laser transmitter by an order of magnitude over existing devices with the same average power. The laser design incorporates a novel multi-pass diode-pumped solid-state gain module that is optimized for efficiency and thermal management. This laser will find application as the transmitter for both short-pulse direct-detection and coherent ladar systems. The novel solid-state laser technology to be developed will decrease the size, weight and cost of high-power diode-pumped lasers. These reductions will make affordable new applications including materials processing and large area displays.

MATERIALS & ELECTROCHEMICAL RESEARCH (MER) CORP. 7960 S. Kolb Rd. Tucson, AZ 85706
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(520) 574-1980 Dr. Ching-Fong Chen MDA 02-002 Selected for Award
Title:	Nano-Particle Size Sintering Aids for High Stength and High Performance AlON Missle Domes
Abstract:	AlON is a covalent bond material, which requires a sintering aid for liquid phase sintering. To minimize the IR scattering, the sintering aid has to be minimized. In order to overcome the very little amount of sintering aid, the sintering time and sintering temperature have to be increased so that the final sintered part can reach full density. The high temperature and long sintering time increase the cost of the products. In this program, a lower cost AlON missile dome will be developed through innovative sintering aids, which will reduce the processing cost by reducing the sintering temperature and time. Moreover, a high strength/high hardness AlON can be achieved with smaller grain size. Anticipated improvements in cost reduction of transparent AlON will be of immediate use where high strength, abrasion resistance, and high transparency are required. Several examples include transparent armor, sodium lamp envelop, bar code scanner, optical lens, etc.

MATERIALS MODIFICATION INC 2721-D Merrilee Drive Fairfax, VA 22031
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 560-1371 Dr. R. Radhakrishnan MDA 02-002 Selected for Award
Title:	Low-Cost Processing of Ceramic Composites for Non-Eroding Nozzles
Abstract:	Missile Defense Weapons currently under development (THAAD, NMD, Standard Missile 3, or SM3) employ a hit-to-kill strategy to destroy enemy missiles at all stages of their trajectories. To achieve precise and repeatable divert thrust for the kill vehicle. Corrosion-resistant propulsion materials and components are required. New corrosion-resistant materials are required to enable digital propulsion to be cost-effective. Ceramic composites that possess high corrosion resistance will be fabricated using a low cost processing route. The proposed program will develop the processing methodology for these high payoff propulsion materials. High Temperature ceramic composites have potential applications in both the aerospace and military industry, and are expected to have significant impact on various sectors of the economy if successful. The military/aerospace applications will include rocket nozzles, re-entry surfaces, aerobrakes, and rocket engines for future spacecraft, supersonic vehicles, lunar and planetary missions. Industrial applications could include components for aircraft or stationary gas turbines and for nuclear reactors, crucibles for high temperature melting and containers for high temperature metallization.

MATERIALS MODIFICATION INC 2721-D Merrilee Drive Fairfax, VA 22031
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 560-1371 Dr. T.S. Sudarshan MDA 02-002 Selected for Award
Title:	Low-Cost Processing of Liners for Zero-Eroding Nozzles
Abstract:	After September 11, 2001, Missile Defense has taken on a significantly higher national priority for the protection of the US homeland and territories of allies, as well as other important national assets. Missiles currently in development such as the THAAD, NMD, Standard Missile 3, or SM3, are multiple stage missiles designed to achieve the required range concurrent with the ability to impart the velocity (or kinetic energy) needed to destroy the target with a hit-to-kill strategy. Current booster motor (or "axial" boost propulsion) nozzles use costly carbon-carbon (C-C) composites or expensive and complex, multi-part (3-D) nozzles with forged tungsten inserts to achieve the high booster motor performance required. Development of a zero-erosion nozzle liner would enable significantly lower nozzle cost concomitant with a significant reduction in the cost of the propulsion system. MMI proposes a low-cost synthesis technique in conjunction with a fast processing technique for the fabrication of high payoff, lower cost nozzle liner materials. The development of the methodology suggested in this proposal will significantly increase the options for the boost propulsion designer and will minimize or eliminate the use of costly C-C and expensive multi-part forged tungsten based nozzles. commercial applications include: ú Scramjet and ramjet turbine component ú Reusable heat shields for reentry vehicle nosecones ú Flame nozzles ú Water jet nozzles

MICROSAT SYSTEMS 8130 Shaffer Parkway Littleton, CO 80127
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 285-1821 Mr. James D. Christensen MDA 02-002 Selected for Award
Title:	Micro Mass-Memory Storage Module (MMSM) for Space-Based Missile Defense Platforms
Abstract:	MSI is proposing to design and build a Micro Mass Storage Module (MMSM) that demonstrates the feasibility of using hard disk drives in space. The increasing fidelity of satellite imagery along with the increased capability for on-board data processing is driving an increased need for on-board data storage. The development of a low cost, lightweight, modular on-board data storage system using commercial hard drives will meet the future storage needs of all government and commercial satellites. The use of hard disk drives in space holds great promise as it eliminates the need for continuous power, data densities are huge, and magnetic media are relatively immune to space radiation. In the past, mass and power requirements during operation have made this option undesirable. In recent years however, hard drives have become smaller, more rugged, and power consumption has been drastically reduced (all results of the commercial drive to smaller, laptop and handheld computing devices). Even though there have been substantial improvements in technology in recent years, disk drives still cannot withstand the rigors of space missions without special engineering packaging to both contain the atmosphere and control the environments. The MMSM provides the packaging necessary to meet space mission requirements. MSI's Micro Mass Storage Module will reduce the mass and cost of spacecraft on-board data storage up to fifty percent. The MMSM storage system is readily applicable to the on-board data storage needs of space-based sensor and interceptor platforms currently envisioned by the Boost Phase Intercept Missile Defense Team at BMDO. The MMSM can also be used in terrestrial applications that require a hermetic seal and isolation from extreme vibration and temperature environments.

MIDE TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION 200 Boston Avenue Suite 2500 Medford, MA 02155
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 306-0609 Dr. Brett Masters MDA 02-002 Selected for Award
Title:	Kinetic Energy Kill Vehicles and Components
Abstract:	Hypervelocity missiles are currently dependent on the deflection of aerodynamic surfaces for flight control. These deflections and surfaces contribute significantly to the drag of the missile. By eliminating these surfaces it is estimated that an increase of up to 30 % in speed of kinetic energy penetrators can be achieved. Mid‚ proposes to investigate the use of precisely controlled, fast acting shape memory alloy actuators in combination with novel robotic techniques to control the center of gravity of a missile in respect to its center of pressure and obtain flight control. The concept of a Mass Moment Missile is not new and has been under investigation by the Navy for some time. The benefit of superior power density smart materials, combined with precision robotics will enable the lightweight, simple and cost effective control of the center of gravity of a hypervelocity missile. This will eliminate all the drag producing control surfaces that are currently in use. The following benefits can be listed for the shape memory alloy control system: ú No external aerodynamic control surfaces. This reduces drag dramatically and can increase speed up to 30%. ú The material with the highest power density is used as an actuator. This means that the actuator is the lightest and uses the smallest volume while generating the required force. ú A simple, proven robotic system translates the single plane linear motion of the actuators to the three plane and three dimension motion required for flight control of the missile. ú Simplification of control algorithms. ú Combination of proven technologies. ú Lighter, faster and more lethal penetrators.

MISSILE SYSTEMS & TECHNOLOGIES, INC P.O. Box 5010 Huntsville, AL 35814
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(972) 423-8607 Mr. Harvey J. Gratt MDA 02-002 Selected for Award
Title:	Advanced Guidance, Estimation and Control Algorithms for Future and Current Interceptors
Abstract:	The objective of the proposalis to develop and extend the algorithmic state of the art for the guidance, target state and estimation, and control of current and advanced missile interceptors. Three potential areas have been identified which can benefit from the new and extended developments proposed. Most importantly, these three developments can be integrated with one another to provide a more complete algorithmic package which can be utilized on both future and current airframes. Reduce the biases and random errors associated with current target state estimation which will therefore allow more accurate and potentially mission enabling tracking and interception.

POWDERMET INC. 9960 Glenoaks Blvd, Unit A Sun Valley, CA 91352
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(818) 768-6420 Mr. Dean Baker MDA 02-002 Selected for Award
Title:	Light Weigth Materials For EKV Components
Abstract:	Replacement of Be components is high on every BMDO contractors agenda. Not only will replacing Be reduce liability, it will also reduce component cost and quite possibly weight. In this Phase I SBIR Powdermet will investigate light weight composite materials to replace Be. Phase II of the program will involve optimizing the process and control of the composite replacement and final componeent fabrication for the EKV program. New class of light weight materials for various applications. One of the leading areas will be lightly loaded structure and electronic components currently fabricated with Be.

QUINTESSENCE PHOTONICS CORPORATION 15632 Roxford St. Sylmar, CA 91342
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(818) 833-4664 Dr. Jeffrey E. Ungar MDA 02-002 Selected for Award
Title:	Ultra Compact, Low Cost High Power Lasers for LADAR
Abstract:	We propose to develop very high power pulsed laser diode sources for use in LADAR. These laser diode based sources promise peak powers two orders of magnitude greater than conventional laser diodes, but without compromising compactness, economy and reliability. These source lasers will be very attractive for use in kinetic kill applications. These high power laser sources will offer compelling advantages over conventional technology for free space communications and for LIDAR.

QUOIN INTERNATIONAL INC. 1331 N. Inyo Ridgecrest, CA 93555
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(760) 446-4052 Mr. Michael D. Jacobson MDA 02-002 Selected for Award
Title:	Composite Flywheels for Kinetic Vehicle Attitude Control
Abstract:	As BMDO strives to advance capabilities, one goal is to develop interceptor technologies that enable low mass, highly efficient, extremely agile interceptors to defend against current and projected BMDO threats. Specifically, they have identified a need for components that reduce size and mass, improve control, reduce on-board power consumption, increase accuracy of guidance and control, and increase divert capability. Recent advances in the flywheel attitude control systems are leading the way to fully functional, non-saturating KV control systems. These devices utilize a Quoin-developed concept defined as an integrating module to insure that the flywheels maintain a near zero average displacement. Expanding this concept to manufacture the flywheels from composite materials (such as T-1000 carbon fibers) offer the potential for vastly increased operating speeds. For the flywheel ACS, doubling the operating speed can reduce the flywheel weight by 50% or the diameter by 25%. This technology will provide improved performance and substantially lower program cost for the National Missile Defense Program.

QUOIN INTERNATIONAL INC. 1331 N. Inyo Ridgecrest, CA 93555
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(760) 446-4052 Mr. Michael D. Jacobson MDA 02-002 Selected for Award
Title:	Micro-Flywheel Attitude Control for Multiple Warhead Kinetic Energy Vehicles
Abstract:	In considering evolving threats, BMDO recognizes the need to intercept weapons with multiple warheads and/or multiple decoys. This requires the development of miniature interceptor technologies that provide the basis for systems capable of deploying autonomous multiple vehicles to counter these threats. They have identified the need for specific enabling technologies including miniature interceptor components that reduce size and mass, improve control, reduce on-board power consumption, increase accuracy of guidance and control, and increase divert capability. They are also actively seeking onboard power sources for future interceptors to improve reliability, safety and energy density. Quoin is currently developing a flywheel-based attitude control and power generation system for current 35 Kg kill vehicles that is 90% lighter and 80% cheaper than conventional stabilizing technology. The ACS uses the theory of gyroscopic force to induce torque to the missile. This torque can be applied in the X,Y or Z axes (depending on the location of the missile's target) to control pitch, yaw and roll. In this effort Quoin will miniaturize their flywheel ACS for micro-KV applications. Quoin will demonstrate functionality of the micro KV through analysis and simulation and build and test a single axis integrating module to demonstrate miniaturization concepts. This technology will provide improved performance, less weight and substantially lower program cost for the National Missile Defense Program.

RRR TECH LLC P.O. Box 305 Louisville, CO 80027
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(720) 890-8141 Dr. Robert Buchl MDA 02-002 Selected for Award
Title:	EFP Study of Elliptical Munition and Explosive Al Nano-powder Cloud Formation
Abstract:	Two different EFP munition designs are presented both of which have an elliptical liner shape. One device consists of a high explosive, a elliptical metallic liner, casing and few other components. The liner is explosively driven to form into a central projectile with a variable radial cross-section dependent on the material, thickness and eccentricity of the liner. To our knowledge, no similar munition geometry has been designed for producing a high velocity self-forming projectile. Using the hydrocodes CTH and EPIC 2001, it is shown that the projectile velocity attained is may be slightly higher than that of other explosively formed kinetic energy penetrators. The cross section density and outer surface geometry of the projectile is compared with other EFPs. Predictions for oblique plate penetration by the central and lateral projectiles are discussed in the proposal, along with the feasibility for optimization of parameters to obtain a high-speed projectile. The proposal also discusses options for the weaponization of the munition. The other elliptical munition is designed to produce an explosive Al nano-powder cloud after target penetration to enhance the lethality in addition to the behind target debris effect. It is proposed that the effectiveness of the munitions can be increased with further design studies using hydrocode computer modeling methodology. A high velocity projectile may be used to penetrate hard targets and defeat certain structures, including reactive applique armor and biological/chemical submunitions within incoming ballistic missiles. The munitions can be carried within and directed from a variety of alternative airframes based on selected target geometries. It will have commercial applications if the mining and demolition arenas. Computational methods using spherical hydrodynamics could possibly benefit through the development of this unique munition geometry.

SAGE SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 1018 West Ninth Avenue, Suite 202 King of Prussia, PA 19406
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(610) 354-9100 Mr. Michael Wilson MDA 02-002 Selected for Award
Title:	Diffractively Structured Multi-Spectral GaAs EO Seeker Windows for Kill Vehicles
Abstract:	Strategic missile defense will benefit directly by increasing the operational IR bandwidth from the mid-wavelength to a multi-bandwidth capability. Increasing bandwidth performance will allow on-board processing (target acquisition and discrimination) to improve range performance, tracking, and hit-to-kill. Increasing bandwidth to include the near IR to the long wavelength IR also allows for incorporation of active sensing (LADAR) in addition to passive sensing. Sub-wavelength diffractive structures etched onto gallium arsenide (GaAs) present tremendous performance enhancement potential for missile applications. Employing gray scale lithography to etch the sub-wavelength diffractive structures onto both surfaces of the GaAs eliminates the need for anti-reflective coatings and allows for discreet sub-bandwidths of operation over a broadband operational window with very high performance, improved field-of-regard, and increased fracture toughness. Employing GaAs as the bulk IR window opens the bandwidth from the mid-wavelength region (sapphire) to include the near IR to the far long wavelength IR. It also provides a cutoff temperature of nearly 460øC. GaAs and the sub-wavelength diffractive structures present a significant opportunity to improve spectral performance of the THAAD system or any kill vehicle utilizing the IR part of the spectrum. It is anticipated that GaAs as an IR window material which incorporates the sub-wavelength diffractive structures in place of conventional anti-reflection coatings will significantly reduce the cost of IR windows for tactical, strategic, and commercial systems, by as much as a factor 4. Additionally, using GaAs with the sub-wavelength diffractive structures will increase the available field-of-regard of the optical system since the IR window will no longer be restricted to a relatively narrow field-of-view due to the physics of the planar coating.

TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT & TRANSFER, INC. 133 Defense Highway, Suite 212 Annapolis, MD 21401
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(410) 224-3710 Dr. Mark Patterson MDA 02-002 Selected for Award
Title:	Low Cost Fabrication of IR Windows for Hypervelocity Interceptors
Abstract:	There are presently three materials (sapphire, ALON and spinel) which are considered suitable for IR windows in severe hypervelocity environments. Of these materials spinel is presently the least developed, but offers optical performance advantages and a significantly lower fabrication cost than either sapphire or ALON. In the proposed development effort, the hot pressing process presently utilized will be optimized for producing large plates of thick sectioned spinel in a single step. Additional cost reduction approaches in the finishing operations will be investigated and their effect on the optical and mechanical performance of spinel quantified. Optical quality spinel will be fabricated with a variety of grain sizes and the optical, and thermal shock performance will be established. The fabrication approach will be developed for 11' diameter parts and the optical properties determined at both room temperature and 500øC. This work will establish spinel as a low cost, high performance optical material. Development of this spinel plates will provide an alternative material to sapphire with improved optical properties and at considerably reduced cost. These spinel components are presently being developed and tested as lenses, IR windows, domes, hypersonic windows and as armor for a number of defense applications. Commercial applications such as security windows, IR lenses, fuses and IR windows are also being pursued.

VISIDYNE,INC. 10 Corporate Place, South Bedford Street Burlington, MA 01803
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 273-2820 Mr. Christian Trowbridge MDA 02-002 Selected for Award
Title:	Compact 3-D Intercept LADAR
Abstract:	Visidyne proposes to demonstrate that through an innovative mix of electro-optical and photonic technologies, an imaging, scannerless LADAR (or 3-D imager) can be designed and built that is a viable sensor for the terminal phase of guided kinetic energy weapons. Key elements in the mix are; a small, high power laser source, time coded for range, a unique focal plane array (FPA) that decodes the laser returns and fast pixel rate signal processing to recover simultaneous range and intensity images. This combination promises to provide a cost-effective imaging LADAR sensor that can detect passive targets at relatively long range and over a wide field-of-regard. Bearing and range to the target as well as target aspect relative to the interceptor will be calculated. The proposed LADAR would satisfy the needs of BMDO for an advanced terminal phase kinetic-energy interceptor targeting-sensor. Other DoD/NASA/DARPA applications are automated rendezvous and docking of satellites and inspection of orbiting vehicles. Commercial industrial applications include high frame rate 3-D imagery for the purpose of inspection, for example, establishing pose of an object during machining or assembly processes.

ADELPHI TECHNOLOGY, INC. 2181 Park Blvd. Palo Alto, CA 94306
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(650) 328-7337 Dr. Jay Theodore Cremer MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	An Inexpensive, Material-Specific, Gamma-Ray Detector
Abstract:	The objective of this proposed research is to develop a gamma-ray detector capable of detecting specific atomic species (e.g. N and O) of composite materials such as explosives, nuclear materials and drugs. The detector will detect nuclear resonance fluorescence (NFR) characteristic lines from specific atoms without using time-consuming pulse-height analysis. The resonance detectors will be sufficiently inexpensive to permit their incorporation into either linear or large-area arrays for detection and imaging. The research will proceed by the design, fabrication, and testing of a prototype detector capable of detecting a specific atomic species (e.g. nitrogen) from composite materials. A major goal will be to achieve a large area, sensitive detector capable of rapid identification. The detector will be made of materials that can be scaled to increase the deviceÝs collection aperture and sensitivity. The potential for successful development of the detector is high because of the simplicity of the design and prior research. A manufacturer of accelerators has expressed interest in the detectors for integration into existing Ÿx-radiographic imaging systems. The proposed device is capable of integration with existing gamma-radiographic systems, which are currently being used for imaging large containers, trucks, and cargo. Sensitive, large aperture detectors can be airborne and, thus, can be useful for identification of materials emitting gamma-radiation. Thus, such a device would improve current techniques for home security and drug law enforcement.

ANVIK CORPORATION 6 Skyline Drive Hawthorne, NY 10532
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(914) 345-2442 Dr. Marc Klosner MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	CURVED FOCAL PLANE ARRAYS (FPAs) FOR VERY-WIDE FIELD-OF-VIEW STARING INFRARED DETECTION SYSTEMS
Abstract:	The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and the ballistic and cruise missiles that could deliver them pose a direct and immediate threat to the security of U.S. The capability to defend against an attacking missile in the boost, midcourse, and descent phase increases the chances that the missile and its payload will be destroyed. Given the prominent heat signature of ballistic missiles, infrared detection systems play an important role in high resolution imaging of missiles, and are thus critical for all phases of missile defense. In this program we will specify a lithography process for high-volume production of curved focal plane arrays operating at infrared wavelengths, and we will experimentally investigate several key elements of the fabrication process. These investigations will lead toward the development of wide-field-of-view infrared detection systems, and will therefore enhance the capability of the United States military to detect, classify, track, and destroy enemy missiles. The processes that we will experimentally investigate are based upon a proprietary lithography technology that has been developed by Anvik Corporation. This unique technology enables high-resolution lithography to be performed on curved surfaces, and can therefore be used for the fabrication of focal plane arrays on spherical substrates. Anvik's curved surface lithography technology will lead to the development of curved focal plane arrays for image detection. These curved FPAs will have numerous applications in the military and consumer sectors. In the military, they will be used for missile defense and other applications where targets must be identified and tracked. In the civilian sector the will be used integrated into infrared imaging systems that are used by law-enforcement agencies and search and recover units to enhance the public safety and public welfare.

ARETE ASSOCIATES P.O. Box 6024 Sherman Oaks, CA 91413
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(520) 571-8660 Dr. Andrew J. Griffis MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	High Speed Electro-Optic Sensor System for 3-D Imaging
Abstract:	Arete proposes to develop a compact (<1000cm3) flash imaging LIDAR receiver system in which a three-dimensional image is produced with each laser pulse. The proposed sensor combines commercially available semiconductor components from diverse applications well suited to the problem at hand. This merger of technologies obviates the need for moving parts, high-voltage or high-speed digitization electronics and results in a compact, low power system without sacrificing high temporal (i.e., range <10cm) and angular resolution. The system will be able to operate at different wavelengths for different applications (e.g., UV to 12um). Furthermore, its compact packaging will be used in missile targeting and seeker systems, UAV applications, and ground based reconnaissance or targeting systems. In addition to military applications, the small size of the system and relatively low cost provides the possibility of penetrating commercial markets such as obstacle avoidance and situational awareness in automated production, aviation, heavy equipment and automotive industries. Phase 1 will focus on characterizing a single pixel sensor element that demonstrates utility for an NxN three-dimensional flash LIDAR. Phase 2 will mature this into a tested array, and Phase 3 will incorporate the technology into high resolution 3-D imaging systems for both military and commercial customers. The proposed technology will introduce a new means of generating 3D lidar imagery with lower technical risk and improved performance over existing solid state approaches. It will also provide a means of directly upgrading existing streak tube lidar systems.

ASI TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION 980 American Pacific Dr, #111 Henderson, NV 89014
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(702) 734-1888 Dr. Theodore R. Anderson MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Radar & MMW-Tunable Plasma Frequency Selective Surfaces for Shielding Radar Systems
Abstract:	The performance of any radar, antenna, or electronic system depends on its ability to project and defend itself against various forms of electromagnetic interference including frequencies in the S and X band. Our proposal is to design a plasma barrier and tunable frequency selective surfaces that can be turned on and off on demand to shield antennas, radar, or electronic equipment. Metallic frequency selective surfaces (FSS) have been used as filters for electromagnetic energy. The problem with metal on dielectric frequency selective surfaces is that the filtering is fixed and cannot be made to appear or disappear on demand. In our proposed research on plasma frequency selective surfaces, we are replacing the metal in FSS by plasma elements. Plasma offers the possibility of improved shielding and the advantages of reconfigurability and stealth. We will research and design tunable filtering of electromagnetic waves which will pass the desired signals and reflect or absorb the undesired signals with the flexibility of performing in a variety of military environments. Tunable plasma barriers and tunable plasma frequency selective surfaces have wide application in commercial applications. Ultra wide band technology and communications technology has to satisfy strict standards set down by the FCC on interference issues. Often times it is difficult for a technology to satisfy FCC standards and become marketable. With tunable plasma barriers and tunable frequency selective surfaces we have a technology which can filter out unwanted electromagnetic interference and control power levels set by the FCC. With the development of this technology, many more powerful devices could satisfy FCC requirements and become marketable.

AVYD DEVICES, INC. 2925 College Avenue, Unit A-1 COSTA MESA, CA 92626
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(714) 751-8553 Dr. HONNAVALLI R VYDYANATH MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	AlGaN Photodiodes for UV Detection
Abstract:	Phase I effort will focus on demonstrating the feasibility of our approach to significantly improve the quantum efficiency of the back illuminated AlGaN photodiodes. Specific Phase I objective entails demonstration of high conductivity n type AlGaN with 60% AlN. Phase II work aims to demonstrate Quantum efficiency of 80% and Photodiode R0A figure of merit in excess of 1010 ohm-cm2 in 45% AlN containing AlGaN detector arrays in a 256x256 array format hybridized to silicon Read out Integration Chips (ROIC's) Applications include missile plume detection for military use, environmental monitoring, automobile engine combustion sensing, remote sensing of earth resources, solar astronomy and burner monitoring in gas turbines for commercial use.

BOSTON MICROSYSTEMS, INC. 30-H, Sixth Road Woburn, MA 01801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 933-5100 Dr. Dharanipal Doppalapudi MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	GaN substrates for Superior GaN based Devices
Abstract:	There is a need for a cost-effective technology for producing III-nitride substrates for fabrication of high efficiency and high power radar transmit/receive modules, as well as opto-electronic devices. The problems with the current technology of fabricating III-nitride based devices on thin films grown on foreign substrates, such as sapphire or SiC, are the plethora of defects associated with the lattice and thermal mismatch between substrate and film, which put an upper limit on the performance, efficiency and stability of these devices. To date, efforts in the developments of GaN substrates by solution techniques, sublimation-recondensation methods, and deposition of thick GaN films by the Hydride Vapor Phase Epitaxy (HVPE) method (followed by removal of the substrate after the growth) have suffered from a combination of residual thermal stresses, poor yield, and high cost. Boston MicroSystems and Boston University propose to develop stress-free GaN substrates by growing thick GaN films using the high growth-rate HVPE method on to novel sacrificial (111) silicon substrates. The low-cost Si(111) substrates are made compliant by an innovative micromachining method. Currently, III-nitride based LEDs and other devices are grown on sapphire or SiC substrates, due to the lack of native substrates. These substrates are expensive and limited to sizes below 100mm. Furthermore, the lattice and thermal mismatch between the film and substrates result in a high defect density, which limit the device efficiency and stability. Some of these defects may also act as leakage path, compromising the device quality. The proposed GaN substrates will alleviate many of these problems, by enabling high quality homoepitaxial growth. These GaN substrates will be made by HVPE method, which is relatively simple and inexpensive, on large area compliant silicon templates. GaN substrates, once developed can be used for fabricating GaN based devices such as bipolar transistors, field-effect transistors, LEDs (blue, green, yellow and white), laser diodes (blue, green and UV) and solar-blind detectors. The development of such devices is expected to affect a number of technologies include information storage, full color displays, true color copying, local area networks, underwater communications, space-to-space communication, high temperature, and RF power electronics, as well as microwave electronics and sensors.

CERMET, INC. 1019 Collier Road, Suite C1 Atlanta, GA 30318
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(404) 351-0005 Dr. Vicente Munne MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	ZnO Based UV Detector
Abstract:	The goal of this project is to demonstrate the feasibility of growing solar blind UV photodetectors made of zinc oxide. The primary goal of Phase I will be to demonstrate the growth of high quality homoepitaxial thin films of pure and alloyed ZnO using Cermet's MOCVD reactor and in-house fabricated ZnO substrates. Films will be analyzed using x-ray diffraction, PL, and electrical measurements. BMDO will benefit from this program by having a source of light and compact UV detectors unlike the present Si based detectors that require bulky band filters. This technology will produce homoepitaxially grown ZnO-based solar blind UV photodetectors, which can be used for misssile plume detection, solar astronomy, intersatellite communications, and combustion engineering.

COHERENT TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 655 Aspen Ridge Drive Lafayette, CO 80026
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 604-2000 Mr. Charles Bjork MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Sensors and Surveillance: Adaptive Waveform Coherent Ladar for Long Range Tracking, Discrimination, and Kill Assessment
Abstract:	BMDO desires effective ways to acquire and track ballistic missiles/payloads, improve intercept prospects, and assess results of intercepts. Current approaches may have insufficient range or discrimination capability, require more platforms/interceptors and more expensive defense than desired, or have unacceptable target leakage/false alarm rates. Passive systems, even with projected technology, lose too much discrimination performance and battlespace to evolving threats. Currently conceived ladar systems either have insufficient range and discrimination performance, or may include immature technologies which threaten reasonable deployment timeframes. CTI proposes a novel coherent ladar/processing/tracking system, which makes acquisition in the boost phase, and discrimination in the post-boost phase possible?before effective deployment of decoys and other countermeasures. Precision updates after initial discrimination facilitates tracking and target/decoy track separation during heavily-countermeasured midcourse. This is made possible by a very efficient ladar, with near-term technology, many-pulse averaging and long-range sensing/processing of angle-angle-range-Doppler signatures. Initial assessments indicate reduction in constellation size over passive-only constellations, for fixed discrimination capability. This approach achieves resilience against threat growth, and discrimination capabilities otherwise unreachable. Finally, with its adaptivity and discrimination potential, diverse velocity and target volume regions of interest (ROIs) are measurable, permitting measurement of intercept volumes for kill assessment support. The proposed Phase I/II demonstrates the utility of a ladar/waveform/tracking system design for highly efficient laser radars, applied to some of the most challenging sensor applications, and estimates the cost and schedule for development. The system is eminently scalable to smaller, shorter-range systems, to cover a wide range of tracking/discrimination problems, including commercial air transport, space monitoring and surveillance, and AFRL?s Airborne Laser program.

COMBUSTION RESEARCH AND FLOW TECHNOLOGY, INC. 174 North Main Street, P.O. Box 1150 Dublin, PA 18917
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(215) 249-9780 Mr. Neeraj Sinha MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Plume Modulation IR Signature For Boost-Phase/Staging Detection And Threat Discrimination (BMDO/00-003E - IR>0.9 microns)
Abstract:	The time-varying plume infra-red (IR) signature modulation provides a marker that allows a plume signal to be discriminated, in frequency space, from a cluttered background. From the perspective of Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD), it provides a novel opportunity for boost phase detection of targets. The temporal plume IR spectra contain characteristic tones, which can be exploited for missile typing algorithms and rocket motor identification. For BMD-related development of guidance sensors for interceptors, the modulation character in a spatially resolved plume acquires increased significance The plume-to-hardbody handoff problem becomes tractable since the plume contains temporal modulation while the hardbody emission does not. Absence of plume modulation models, detailed database of temporal signature & a validated plume simulator source for duplicating plume signatures have hindered exploitation of this distinctive signature for Boost Phase Intercept (BPI). CRAFT Tech proposes development of: 1) a high-fidelity model for plume signature temporal modulation, and, 2) a field IR plume simulator source hardware, both capable of simulating missile plumes in spectral and temporal domains. Unsteady flowfield simulations will provide temporal IR spectra by employing advanced turbulence modeling, including Large Eddy Simulation (LES). Lower frequency IR tones will be obtained using a novel acoustic decomposition technique. The modeling proposed is directly applicable to aircraft plumes. Civil/military aviation can utilize plume modulation signature for air traffic control. Potentially catastrophic wake turbulence from an earlier aircraft can be detected since the intensity of plume/wake interactions is indicated by magnitude of tones, present in the aircraft plume IR spectra

CRYSTAL RESEARCH, INC. 45275 Northport Court, Suite B Fremont, CA 94538
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(510) 445-0833 Dr. Suning Tang MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	A High-Speed Polarization-Independent Wavelength Tunable Narrow-Band Filter Based on Novel Photonic Polymers
Abstract: Abstract not available...

CRYSTAL RESEARCH, INC. 45275 Northport Court, Suite B Fremont, CA 94538
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(510) 445-0833 Dr. Suning Tang MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Integrated Electro-optic Switched True-Time-Delay Modules for Wideband Phased Array Antennas
Abstract:	It has been realized that the lack of enabling technology of beam forming and steering devices significantly slow down the process in implementing wideband phased array antenna systems. Crystal Research, Inc. proposes an integrated electro-optic switched true-time-delay module for wideband phased array antennas. The unique feature of this proposed approach is that both the true-time-delay waveguide circuit and electro-optic switching elements are made by using a single polymeric waveguide system and are monolithically integrated in a single substrate. As a result, it significantly reduces the device size while eliminating the most difficult packaging problem associated with the delicate interfaces between optical fibers and optical switches. Such a monolithic approach offers great precision for the RF phase control than the fiber-delay-lines due to the sub-micrometer accuracy of lithography-defined polymeric waveguides. More important, the proposed optical switched true-time-delay network requires very low electrical power consumption due to the low power consumption of electrically-switchable electro-optic waveguide gratings. Furthermore, the electrically-switchable electro-optic waveguide gratings have a very fast switching speed (<50 us) that is at least 100 time faster than any existing commercial optical switches. The proposed integrated electro-optic switched true-time-delay module represents a crucial technology for advanced photonic radar systems that are highly desired for capturing ballistic missiles in the boost phase, midcourse, and even terminal phase. The core technology of Electrically-switchable electro-optic waveguide gratings also can find wide applications in fiber-optic communication industry.

CYBERRND, INC. 10705 Cranks Road Culver City, CA 90230
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 838-5300 Dr. Oliver E. Drummond MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Early BMD Fusion of Radar and IR Data from Mobile Platforms (BMDO/00-003B, E, and G)
Abstract:	The object of this proposed three-phase SBIR project is to develop the capability to track and discriminate the objects proliferated by ballistic missile launches. This surveillance system will be mobile and deployed early relative to the more extensive missile defense system being developed by MDA. Being mobile also permits location of the sensor platforms (ships and aircraft) so that each missile threat can be tracked early in its trajectory to facilitate shoot-look-shoot. The system uses existing sensors whose data complement each other and thus enhance tracking and discrimination performance. It will undergo field-tests starting September 2004 and be deployed soon thereafter. A major challenge is development and integration of processing methods to fuse data from distributed, disparate sensors. Current sensor data fusion processing methods are inadequate to handle phenomena that distributed sensors exhibit, such as, sensor registration biases, resolution differences, and different detection characteristics. Adequate fusion processing that combines data for each target from well located and well chosen multiple sensors can greatly improve tracking and discrimination performance. We have identified the most critical shortcomings of current fusion processing methods. Then proprietary and potentially patentable methods were devised that are designed to overcome those shortcomings. Provide field-tested algorithms and processing methods that overcome the current limitations in sensor data fusion processing methods. They will efficiently combine data from distributed sensors to provide the improved performance in terms of accuracy and timeliness required for implementation of effective surveillance systems. This will permit the early deployment of a mobile missile surveillance system. In addition, the field testing of this system will provide valuable information for use in the design of the more extensive MDA missile defense system and will also provide a laboratory for testing new sensors and fusion processing methods developed for that missile defense system.

EAST WEST ENTERPRISES INC., 524 JORDAN LANE HUNTSVILLE, AL 35805
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(256) 534-4782 Dr. Dr Ramarao Inguva MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	3-D TARGET OBJECT MAP (TOM) ALGORITHM DEVELOPMENT FOR ENHANCED THREAT IDENTIFICATION
Abstract:	East West Enterprises Inc., (EWE) proposes to develop a Target Object Map (TOM ) algorithm development environment with new and advanced concept TOM algorithms . The environment will be an intelligent TOM processor based upon an open architecture design to allow for performing existing weapon system trade/feasibility studies and objective system implemention evaluations. Two advanced concepts are investigated which will enhance the current two dimensional TOM process. The first advanced concept will include the use of an on-board Ladar in existing sensor systems for missile defense applications to allow for a three dimensional mapping utilizing the range data from the Ladar and the Radar. The second advanced concept will utilize the combination of the probability of lethality from the TOM process (hand over from the Radar discrimination process) with the probability of lethality from the radiometric seeker discrimination data to enhance the lethal target designation process. Currently, work done in this field has utilized a correlation process of extracted feature data from both the seeker and radar, but not a combined probability likelyhood resultant from the TOM process with the IR discrimination process, which is proposed here. Performance improvements resulting from the TOM advanced concept algorithms will be quantified. The Proposed system will have numerous Missile Defense Applications for systems/programs such as Hercules, BPI, GBI,NTW,SBIRS,THAAD and NMD

EAST WEST ENTERPRISES INC., 524 JORDAN LANE HUNTSVILLE, AL 35805
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(256) 534-4782 Dr. Hugh Wolfe Jr MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	VIRTUAL PHASED ARRAY RADAR FOR TACTICAL MISSILE AND CRUISE MISSILE DEFENSE APPLICATIONS
Abstract:	We propose the design of a virtual phased array radar for ballistic missile defense applications. Virtual Phased array radar (VPAR) is a radical radar, a multi-mission radar (MMR) with roots in the missile defense community that, can provide better performance with much lighter weight and cube than current radars, at a much lower cost. We believe VPAR can provide a critical element of the future tactical missile (and air) defense systems, providing the surveillance and fire control sensor solution for tactical missile defense mission against ballistic missiles and cruise missiles, including successors to CORPS SAM, JLENS, STINGER/Avenger, and the Army's current surveillance radar, the MPQ-64 Sentinel. The radar will, serve the collateral, but technically simpler areas of air defense surveillance and fire direction. Will be an invaluable sensor for various missile defense applications. Other agencies such as FAA will also benefit from the proposed technology

ECOPULSE PO Box 528, zip 22150, 7844 Vervain Ct Springfield, VA 22152
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 644-8419 Dr. Nino R. Pereira MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	X-ray sensors for intense pulses
Abstract:	Advanced types of x-ray sensors are usually developed first to measure the energy of single photons, but the new materials are only rarely applied to high intensity radiation pulses as occur in nuclear explosions, or in radiation simulators. We will first determine the properties that make single-photon sensors suitable for measuring high intensity x-ray pulses, and test the most promising materials on radiation simulators to verify the predictions. Later on we will use the new detectors in radiation simulator diagnostics. Increased selection for nuclear explosion monitors on satellites, and options for diagnosing the x-ray pulse from radiation simulators used in testing the hardness of BMDO assets.

EMITECH, INC 476 Locust St., suit 5 Fall River, MA 02720
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(508) 324-0758 Dr. I. A. Levitsky MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Uncooled Infrared Detectors Based on Carbon Nanotubes, BMDO/ 02-003E
Abstract:	Emitech, Inc. proposes an innovative approach aimed at the development of carbon nanotube infrared detectors capable of operating at room temperatures in the wavelength range of 1.5-14 mm. This new concept is based on the effect of reduced electron-phonon coupling in quasi one-dimensional carbon nanotubes (CNTs), which considerably suppress the thermal noise and enables higher detector operational temperatures. Semiconducting CNTs are known to exhibit the inverse proportional dependence of band gap on the nanotube diameter. Thus, the variation of the CNT diameter allows to control the detector operation range. The ability to move the position of CNT Fermi level through varying the voltage applied to the gate electrode (field effect) gives us an opportunity to control the dark photocurrent through the pinning of Fermi level to the CNT charge neutrality point. Photodetectors based on CNTs are anticipated to gain an advantage over commonly used at room temperature ternary and multinary II-VI group compound semiconductors follows: Enhanced chemical stability; Simple and robust fabrication technique; Suppressed thermal noise; Improved spatial resolution approaching the fundamental limit; Ability to simply control the detector operation range and signal level. The current multi-billion dollar market for the IR detectors stands up for their numerous applications in military and consumer electronics, medicine, and space industry. The advanced features inherent to CNT-based detectors are believed to make them elemental devices to build up a new generation of IR electronics beneficial to the whole field of emerging technologies.

EPIR, LTD 590 Territorial Drive, Suite B Bolingbrook, IL 60440
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(630) 771-0203 Mr. Paul Boieriu MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	BMDO02-003E-IR(>0.9 microns) CdTeSe composite substrates lattice-matched with HgCdTe for advanced LWIR sensing focal plane arrays
Abstract:	High-performance HgCdTe focal plane arrays (FPAs) sensing in the long-wavelength (LWIR) and very long wavelength (VLWIR) infrared spectral ranges are highly desirable for various applications supporting missile defense capabilities. Advanced sensor structures based on dual or multi-color HgCdTe IRFPAs will enhance early missile threat detection while providing mid-course tracking capabilities and discrimination data. An extremely high quality photon detector material becomes imperative in order to meet these requirements. As the research and development efforts are advancing, it has become obvious that substrate limitations are impeding the progress of LWIR HgCdTe FPAs. During the proposed Phase I effort, we intend to address the feasibility of epitaxially grown CdTeSe buffer layers on silicon. We plan to develop this novel type of lattice-matched substrate for the growth of HgCdTe (0.2 < x < 0.3). Growth of CdTeSe on silicon is expected to be a better alternative than epitaxial CdZnTe/Si for the growth of extremely high quality LWIR HgCdTe on large areas. Distinct features like low segregation coefficient, diffusion constants and specific atomic/elemental properties recommend CdTeSe/Si as a successful substrate candidate for the epitaxial growth of Hg0.8Cd0.2Te. EPIR Ltd. is poised to make composite epitaxial substrates commercially available to a strong U.S. IR manufacturing industry while continuing to focus its resources on the development of inexpensive, high performance future generations of IRFPAs. If this project proves to be successful, it will enable the commercialization of MBE-grown HgCdTe heterojunctions sensing at LWIR region for various BMDO applications. Advanced heterostructures, possibly fabricated in a single MBE run, will significantly improve the performance of LWIR HgCdTe IRFPAs, and therefore, improve BMDO's surveillance, tracking and threat warning capabilities. The understanding and control of MBE grown CdTeSe/Si substrates form a key step in developing future generation HgCdTe IRFPAs. The availability of low cost, large area substrates will facilitate not only the production of mega-pixel focal plane arrays but will also offer the possibility of increasing the yield factor in a large scale production environment. Growth of high quality HgCdTe on lattice matched CdTeSe/Si is paving the way for the development of very large scale (above mega-pixel) advanced HgCdTe IRFPAs with long-term thermal stability.

FERMIONICS CORPORATION 4555 Runway St Simi Valley, CA 93063
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(805) 582-0155 Dr. Muren Chu MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Large Format, 1280x1024 Longwave HgCdTe Focal Plane Arrays
Abstract:	This Small Business Innovation Research project develops large format (1280x1024), longwave infrared (LWIR) HgCdTe focal plane array (FPA) cameras. The LWIR HgCdTe arrays will be fabricated by ion implantation. In Phase I, two types of implantations will be conducted to fabricate 320x256 LWIR arrays. The first is using boron implantation to produce n-on-p type diodes, and the second is to use arsenic implantation to produce p-on-n type diodes. The superior technique between these two will be used to fabricate 1280x1024 LWIR HgCdTe arrays in Phase II. Readout circuits matching the arrays will also be designed and manufactures. After hybridizing the HgCdTe arrays to the readout chips, imaging pictures will be taken by the LWIR cameras. In Phase III, the technology and products will be commercialized. High performance, large format HgCdTe infrared focal plane array cameras have a large variety of military and civilian applications. Military uses include target detection, surveillance, searching and tracking, and material property analysis. Civilian uses include spectroscopy, medical imaging, firefighting, searching and rescue, crop surveys, law enforcement, and environmental monitoring.

FIBERTEK, INC. 510 Herndon Parkway Herndon, VA 20170
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 471-7671 Mr. Guy Beaghler MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Single Photon Counting 3D Lidar Receiver
Abstract:	This proposal addresses the need for a high-resolution 3-D imaging receiver subsystem, part of a direct detection laser radar (Ladar) used for BMD target discrimination and tracking. Currently, implementation of active Ladar sensors on exo-atmospheric kinetic energy kill vehicles (EKVs) and spaceborne/aircraft precision deployment phase and midcourse observation platforms are impeded in part by the large size, weight and cost of the Ladar components. The proposed Ladar receiver electronics form a part of a high repetition-rate Ladar system that will provide a significant (up to an order-of-magnitude) saving in cost, volume, mass and power consumption when compared to currently proposed BMDO Ladar systems. When combined with a high repetition-rate laser transmitter, this new receiver will enable deployment of Ladar sensors on miniature hit-to-kill interceptors and spaceborne/aircraft precision deployment phase and midcourse observation platforms. The high-resolution 3-D imaging receiver subsystem to be developed under the proposed SBIR program has tremendous potential application in military sensing systems. The single photon detection based receiver can replace existing eyesafe laser target imaging systems on vehicles in all three services.

I TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS 2663 Wayside Dr. Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(734) 761-3174 Dr. Robert E Sampson MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Midwave Infrared Imaging Spectro-Polarimeter
Abstract:	This proposal is for the development of a fast imaging spectro-polarimeter for the measurement of spatial, spectral, and polarization signatures of both targets and backgrounds for improved target recognition and discrimination. The proposed innovative snapshot imaging sensor provides spatial, spectral and polarization information on each pixel in the midwave infrared wavelength band at each frame time. This unique approach elimanates scanning through the spectrum as required by conventional approaches and provides for rapid construction of spatial, spectral, and polarization data sets including all four Stokes vectors. The proposed instrument design is field portable with no moving parts. The proposed project builds on developments at the University of Arizona's Optical Detection Laboratory and provides the most comprehensive and versatile sensor developed to date. Commercial applications of this sensor are numerous because of the potential of providing spatial, spectral, and polarization information simultaneously in a low cost field portable instrument. Applications include security, mineral and material identification, fire detection, medical applications, and landmine and military target detection and identification.

INFORMATION SYSTEMS LABORATORIES, INC. 6370 Nancy Ridge Drive, Suite 101 San Diego, CA 92121
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 448-1116 Dr. Katsumi Ohnishi MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Space-Time Adaptive Processing for TBM Detection by Ship-Based Phased Array Radars
Abstract:	Detecting tactical ballistic missiles (TBMs) in boost phase presents a significant technical challenge for a Navy ship-based radar operating in a littoral environment. In addition to mitigating land clutter, the radar will have to cope with terrain scattered interference or hot clutter generated by jamming signals. Traditional sidelobe blankers and sidelobe cancellation techniques provide some immunity to sidelobe jammers; however, they are ineffective against mainlobe interference. Since hot clutter can potentially provide mainlobe interference over a wide range of angles, alternate techniques are needed to address this question. Space-time adaptive processing (STAP) offers a high potential to mitigate both cold and hot clutter; however more efforts are needed to implement practical STAP in a Navy ship-based radar. The objective of this program is to develop a practical STAP algorithms for a Navy ship-based radar operating in littoral environment to detect TBMs in boost phase by combining the high potential of STAP algorithms in mitigating cold and hot clutter, and the efficiency and computational simplicity of traditional algorithms. The approach and attendant algorithms/software developed under this SBIR have obvious application to U.S. Navy ship-based electronically steered radars in environments of significant interference due to clutter/jamming. ISL?s initial commercialization strategy will be to obtain BMDO/Navy sponsorship for the production and retrofit into existing Navy ship-based radars such as the AEGIS SPY-1 family of radars, with later implementation into future Navy radars as applicable.

INTERSCIENCE, INC. 105 Jordan Road Troy, NY 12180
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(518) 283-7500 Mrs. Olga Gutin MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Uncooled IR/FPA with YBaCuO Thermal Sensor
Abstract:	The oxygen deficient, semiconductor phases of YbaCuO (YBCO) thin films have been shown to be a promising material for IR without cryogenics sensing because of its high sensitivity and relative ease of preparation that make the deposition process compatible with CMOS integration. Therefore, the material offers the prospect for the realization of high performance, uncooled IR/FPAs that can be massively produced at low cost. However, the optical and electrical properties of the material are very sensitive to the preparation process. As a result, no useful IR imaging arrays based on YBCO have been successfully demonstrated to date. A comprehensive effort to develop the application of this material that can lead to low-cost uncooled IR/FPAs by using MEMS technology is proposed. The Phase I effort will focus on the development of YBaCuO semiconducting materials for IR imaging together with a CMOS-compatible integration scheme. The results of Phase I can advance basic understanding of novel applications of YBaCuO thin film materials, as well as their integration scheme with the mature MEMS technology. Successful outcome of the proposed effort would lead to dramatically improved performance and sensitivity of uncooled microbolometers with significantly lower cost and low power requirement for high performance IR sensors, thereby develop broader and more affordable applications of these devices by the military and the civilian sector.

ITN ENERGY SYSTEMS, INC. 8130 Shaffer Pkwy Littleton, CO 80127
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 285-5131 Dr. Bruce Lanning MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Next Generation IR Focal Plane Array Using High Speed Tunneling Diodes (SubTopic 003E)
Abstract:	ITN Energy Systems, Inc. believes that significant improvements in IR sensor performance could be achieved by replacing state-of-the-art detector technologies, such as bolometers and photodiodes, with ITN's proposed direct conversion device (DCD). An advanced planar metal-insulator-metal (MIM) tunneling diode is the cornerstone of ITN's DCD, which employs an antenna aperture to efficiently couple to free space electromagnetic (EM) radiation and the MIM diode to rectify the resultant AC field. ITN's DCD will serve as the detector in a focal plane array that, when combined with existing signal processing and readout technologies, will enable imaging applications from standard scene definition to hyperspectral imaging with a single sensor technology. Compared to state-of-the-art detectors, ITN's DCD offers IR Imaging with 1) Greater bandwidth: A single device for short wave IR to long wave IR (and even longer wavelengths), 2) Hyperspectral imaging: Signature identification and target tracking heterodyne detection-spectroscopic scanning of key IR bands, 3) Increased sensitivity: Detection of weak, clandestine signals, and 4) Reduced Cost: Fabrication technology compatible with large area silicon processing. With ITN's proposed processing approach to formation of a stable and reproducible MIM tunneling barrier, monolithically integrated DCD's can be produced with the proposed properties herein. Due to the inherent scalability of ITN's antenna derived direct converstion device (DCD), the technology is expected to have applications throughout the electromagnetic spectrum (from RF to optical). A natural application for ITN's DCD next generation uncooled IR focal plane arrays where the DCD will serve as the detector to replace existing uncooled photodiode and microbolometer technologies. Compared to the state-of-the-art detectors, ITN's DCD is expected to provide detectors with greater bandwidth, increased sensitivity, decreased cost, and the ability to track targets with hyperspectral imaging. Current applications are both government and commercial sensors including surveillance, night vision, mobile targeting, and direction finding. As sensors become cheaper we expect the applications to expand into additional areas such as low-cost surveillance networks or integrated navigation and safety systems on automobiles.

KESTREL CORPORATION 3815 Osuna Road NE Albuquerque, NM 87109
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 345-2327 Dr. Leonard John Otten MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	High Efficiency Interferometric Spectral Imaging (BMDO/00-003E-IR)
Abstract:	Under this Phase I SBIR the Kestrel Corporation proposes to demonstrate a new technique that increases the throughput of a Fourier transform hyperspectral interferometric imager by a factor of two while retaining the spectral and spatial resolution of the original instrument. The technique overcomes an existing limitation in virtually all interferometric instruments by recovering the light lost through the beam splitter, thereby providing increased signal to noise, improved optical efficiency, and greatly extended dynamic range. Uses in medical imaging provides a strong base for commercial development beyond the BMDO applications and have generated significant outside support in the form of over $100,000 in cash contributions and the potential for a $1,000,000 investment. The most promising commercial application of the high efficiency interferometric imaging technology is in the area of medical imaging, in imaging of the retina. In retinal imaging the amount of light available for analysis is quite small due to the 2% nominal reflectance of the retina and the limits on the amount of illumination flux the eye can safely be exposed to. Two types of uses are expected; screening for diabetic retinopathy and as a research device for spectral imaging of the retina.

LAKE SHORE CRYOTRONICS, INC. 575 McCorkle Blvd. Westerville, OH 43082
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(614) 891-2243 Dr. Scott Courts MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Short Pass Deep UV Omnidirectional Optical Filter With Ultra Wide Blocking Range
Abstract:	This SBIR Phase I proposal addresses a need for improved UV and deep UV filters for aerospace and defense applications. A new approach to the design and fabrication short pass filters, based on a new photonic material, will allow filters to be made with transmission at wavelengths as short as 130nm or less. Both these properties are unachievable by any other means. In Phase I, it is proposed to demonstrate the feasibility of the method by fabricating small area filters, measuring the transmission and other optical properties and comparing them with the design model. In Phase II, large area filters will be fabricated and the spatial uniformity of their optical properties and their physical properties will be evaluated, as well as the potential for scaling up to production. Phase III will involve product design, fabricating filter structures to meet customers' physical as well as optical needs, and marketing and sales investments. The filters will be used in solar-blind imaging systems or staring arrays for applications such as missile tracking, commercial applications such as automated arc-welding control and analysis, and ozone depletion monitoring, as well as in deep-UV lithography, spectroscopy, and astronomy. The proposed technique for making filters for the deep ultra violet will serve needs in missile tracking and monitoring, space-based missile defense, monitoring of corona and arcing activity of power lines, curing of advanced adhesives and polymers, medical applications, semiconductor photolithography, nanotechnologies, photochemistry and industrial processing, such as flame analysis. It will provide an inexpensive method for manufacturing blocking and short pass filters, not only in the Deep UV but also in the near UV and Far UV.

LEFT HAND DESIGN CORPORATION 7901 Oxford Road Longmont, CO 80503
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 652-2786 Mr. Lawrence M. Germann MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Enhanced-Bandwidth Fine-Steering Mirror, subtopics A, C, D and E
Abstract:	This is an innovative approach to achieving a higher servo control bandwidth with fine-steering mirrors. The primary anticipated result of this SBIR is a control bandwidth of 4000 Hz for a fine-steering mirror for a 15 mm optical beam and a 2800 Hz bandwidth for an FSM for a 35 mm beam. These are currently needed for SMDC's interceptor seeker applications. Achieving this bandwidth in the larger mirror will reduce the number of pointing mechanisms thus potentially reducing the size, mass, complexity and power consumption of the seeker system. These are high-performance fine-steering mirrors in terms of low mass, low surface figure errors and compact volumes. Servo control bandwidth limits the ability of pointing and tracking systems to correct vibrations of the host platform which induce optical jitter causing blur. During Phase I, LHDC will conduct analysis and determine specific design features to enhance bandwidth. Design modifications will be retrofitted to existing inventory units and characterized through test. Successful design features will be incorporated into a Phase I conceptual model to be implemented in Phase II. The primary application is an FSM for 15 to 35 mm optical beams which are currently needed for SMDC's interceptor seeker applications. Other aerospace programs that can use the proposed technology include NRL's interceptor seeker programs, Next Generation Space Telescope (NGST), Earth Observation System (EOS), Space Interferometry Mission (SIM), Space Technology 3 (ST3), Airborn Laser (ABL), Space-Based Laser (SBL) and other applications such as Mars mappers and free-space laser communications. The NASA and DoD agencies involved include JPL, GSFC, LaRC, GRC, MSFC, AFRL, NRL, SMDC and BMDO.

MAGNOLIA OPTICAL TECHNOLOGIES,INC. 52B Cummings Park, Suite 314 Woburn, MA 01801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 376-1505 Mr. Robert A. Bell MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	High Performance AlGaN HEMT Devices Grown on Lattice Matched Substrates
Abstract:	AlGaN-based heterostructures have demonstrated versatility in optical and electronic applications which is practically unmatched by other material systems. The AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) constitute a leading candidate for simultaneously realizing ultra-high frequency low noise amplifiers and power amplifiers. The electron transport properties at the AlGaN/GaN interface along with the high electron saturation velocity and high breakdown fields in GaN are the basis for the superior performance of these devices. AlGaN/GaN HEMTs on SiC, 100 - 150 mm-wide with a record power density of 9.8 W/mm at 8 GHz (about ten times GaAs devices) have been demonstrated with gain of 9.6 dB and power added efficiency of 47%. While these devices and amplifiers were grown using metal-organic chemical vapor deposition, recently AlGaN/GaN HEMTs grown by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) have essentially attained parity. We will study the design, development, and fabrication of HEMT devices using MBE. In the last decade, electronic devices that operate reliably at high temperatures in excess of 300 C and beyond have been under development for a wide variety of new applications. The GaN/AlGaN-based HEMT power transistors have wide commercial markets in radar and range finding, collision avoidance, digital transmission (including HDTV, MMDS and LMDS), satellites, and automobiles and engine sensors. The high temperature and high single transistor power capabilities would make the devices particularly useful for portable and aerospace applications. Existing and emerging high temperature markets, which are largely unfulfilled at present, have been estimated in the billions of dollar range.

MARINE PHYSICS & TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION 365 McDuffie Dr. Athens, GA 30605
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(706) 548-7268 Dr. Charles A. Uzes MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	High Resolution 3d Acoustic Pre-Launch and Boost Phase Detection/Tracking System A-Acoustic and Seismic
Abstract:	The proposed Phase I effort addresses the problem of early pre-launch warning for ballistic missiles and early boost phase missile detection and tracking. Specifically, the effort will evaluate the application of new energy efficient, high resolution, 3d, acoustic linear processing array concepts to the detection and tracking of pre-launch trailer-erector-launchers (TELs) and early boost phase missiles in spectrally competitive and realistic environments. The new linear processing technology obtains natural high resolution by managing arrays with many sensors, distinguishing it from contemporary technologies based upon cross-spectral density/beamforming (or mathematically equivalent) processing. This technology permits noise reduction and multi-target tracking to be accomplished without adaptive processing, the reconstruction of individual signals of resolvable targets for classification purposes, and a significant reduction in array power requirements in comparison to cross-spectral density based processors. The Phase I evaluation will develop sensor time series simulations of data collected for pre-launch TEL/convoy and early boost phase BMDO scenarios and apply to it the proposed optimized array processing technology. The Phase I product will report detection range and resolving power as a function of optimized array operational parameters, providing for future comparison with other acoustic array types. High resolution, 3d, energy efficient linearly processed array systems can be expected to have a broad spectrum of benefits and commercial applications beyond providing remote and unattended pre-launch and boost phase missile tracking and warning and launch confirmation. With use of miniature electronics, low power digital signal processors, and proper selection of sensor type one can envision unattended sensor deployments for passive domestic security and monitoring efforts, including airports, nuclear power plants, factories, marine mammal tracking and locating sources of seismic disturbances and/or sources within dams. Use of MEMS microphone technology would allow operation in difficult environmental conditions. The 3d algorithms will also prove useful for passive tracking and classifying submarines, surface ships, aircraft, and in domestic surveillance and border interdiction. The proposed arrays, deployed with appropriate sensors, could be attached to balloons, submerged on the ocean bottom, attached to walls of buildings, or buried in the ground. They can also be expected to play a significant role in land targeting to support Army, Navy, and Air Force initiatives in Internetted Unattended Ground Sensors. Their high positional accuracy and high resolutuion would also permit location of gunfire source positions in signal competitive environments, an important application for domestic law enforcement.

METROLASER, INC. 2572 White Road Irvine, CA 92614
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(949) 553-0688 Dr. Bauke Heeg MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Solid State Optical Cooling at 35 K
Abstract:	MetroLaser is proposing to perform a feasibility study of solid state optical cooling to very low (35 K) temperatures. Based on previously developed experimental and theoretical techniques, and a combination of a novel laser pumping scheme, recent developments in materials processing, and a rigorous analysis of spectroscopic data at ultra-low temperatures, this study will result in a set of performance characteristics such as cooling efficiency, wall-plug efficiency, operating conditions, weight, size, cost, durability and operability. Using these results, a prototype design will be presented for a Phase II development. This study will focus on the effect of gravity on micro-crystal formation and the resulting optical properties at very low temperatures. However, it will also benefit the development of cooling devices aiming to work at 77 K operating temperature, which is a proven concept technology with benefiting features. These features include no moving parts, no electromagnetic interference, compactness, low weight, long operational lifetime, and relatively inexpensive manufacture. The potential to make inexpensive, efficient cooling devices that are driven by small powerful diode lasers may revolutionize satellite, computer, and high-temperature superconductor electronics industries. Optical solid-state cooling is a truly enabling technology, filling the gap between mechanical and thermo-electric cooling devices.

METRON, INC. 11911 Freedom Drive, Suite 800 Reston, VA 20190
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 787-8700 Dr. Mark Williams MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Clustering for Classification
Abstract: Abstract not available...

MICROCOATING TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 5315 Peachtree Industrial Blvd Atlanta, GA 30341
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(678) 287-2477 Dr. Yongdong Jiang MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Low cost fabrication of pyroelectric thin films and novel structures for IR sensors by combustion CVD
Abstract:	Infrared (IR) sensors are required for military and commercial applications such as human body recognition, non-contact temperature detection, and image sensing. The U.S. infrared market is growing rapidly and the market would benefit greatly with further reduction in cost, size, weight and power consumption. Also, integrated devices and systems compatible with typical semiconductor process are becoming more and more needed. Hence, pyroelectric thin film based infrared sensors are being targeted for development and properties such as high sensitivity, low noise, low power consumption and smaller size. In this Phase I effort, we will utilize the innovative, low-cost, Combustion Chemical Vapor Deposition (CCVD) process to deposit dense, textured pyroelectric thin films including multiplayer structures on single crystal substrates. Deposited coatings will be characterized for their chemical, dielectric, and pyroelectric properties. Successful accomplishment of Phase I will lead to a follow-on Phase II effort where further development and commercialization of sensors will take place. The IR sensor market was estimated to be over $1.3 billion in 2001. Successful development of the CCVD technology will result in cost effective fabrication of integrated IR sensors and fulfill the industry's need of low cost, low power consumption and high performance infrared devices in the very near future. If MicroCoating Technologies triumphs in its product plan, both military and commercial segments would benefit immensely.

MICROCONTINUUM, INC. 57 Smith Place Cambridge, MA 02138
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 354-1092 Dr. W. Dennis Slafer MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Innovative bump bond process for low cost, high pixel count IR sensor arrays
Abstract:	Successful BMD requires improved sensors and sensor sytems. IR sensors with significantly higher pixel counts and smaller pixel sizes would allow improved midcourse characterization ot target, target fragment, and deployed object spectral signatures, as well as spatially resolved radiometry of rocket plumes during launch. Conventional sensor arrays are limited not by detector materials technology but by the technique of bump bonding of the sensor layer output to the readout electronics. MicroContinuum proposes a new process of bonding sensor layers to readout circuits based on a unique combination of high resolution microfabrication techniques and versatile polymer sheet processing technology. Phase I of this program will demonstrate that the MicroContinmuum process approach will enable the production of affordable IR sensors with significantly improved resolution. An analysis of IR sensor layer/readout IC combinations will also be performed in Phase I to lay the necessary groundwork for scalability demonstrations and full-scale sensor layer/ROIC prototyping in Phase II. In addition to helping alleviate the pressing BMD need for high resolution/sensitivity large-format IR sensors, there are a multiplicity of other military, as well as non-military, areas that will be enabled by the results of the proposed program. Scientific optics applications include earth remote sensing, IR astronomy, charting of space debris, and measuring of atmospheric composition/contaminants and density. Potentially significant commercial applications of this technology lie in improved IR sensors for industrial process monitoring and control as well as multi-contact bonding for the new field of optical micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS).

MICROWAVE TECHNOLOGIES INCORPORATED 10386B Democracy Lane Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 293-8910 Dr. Jose E. Velazco MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Terahertz Travelling-Wave Nanotube
Abstract:	We propose the development of a revolutionary terahertz traveling-wave nanotube (TTN) that will provide ultra-short wavelength radiation for numerous military and civilian applications. The proposed TTN concept uses a nanotube in conjunction with an electron beam produced by a single micron-size emitter to produce terahertz electromagnetic radiation. The TTN should be easily fabricated using state-of-the-art solid state technology and will be a pioneering step towards combining vacuum tube technology with solid-state nanotechnology. Some of the applications for these exciting new devices include future high-resolution radar, satellite telecommunications systems, cellular communications, and ultrahigh-speed computers. Detailed numerical, computational and experimental analysis of this concept is proposed during Phase I in order to evaluate key issues such as bandwidth, maximum output power, efficiency and gain. Once successfully developed, the TTN will be the basis for a new generation of infrared sources capable of producing ultrahigh frequency radiation with high efficiency in an amazingly compact and lightweight package. If successful, traveling-wave nanotubes should efficiently provide coherent ultrahigh frequency radiation for many applications. Of particular interest are micrometer-wave sources for airborne radar, satellite communications, wireless television and communications, cellular telephones, and the next generation of the microwave power module.

MISSION RESEARCH CORPORATION 735 State Street Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(805) 963-8761 Dr. Kathryn L. Doughty MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Optimized In-Pixel Mitigation Schemes for Photo-Detectors in Radiation Environments
Abstract:	Current ballistic-missile defense relies upon semiconductor-based photo-detectors, which have inherent difficulties operating in a high-radiation environment, due to false targets and noise induced by the impinging radiation's interaction with the detector material. As environments become more challenging, previous approaches relying on shielding and off-chip processing will no longer be able to compensate. On-chip processing becomes attractive as a way to mitigate radiation effects, and to allow operation through the more difficult missions required by current scenarios. This interest is enhanced by the continuing reduction in circuit feature-size, which allows for per-pixel enactment of many previously discussed, but technologically unavailable, approaches. Real-life production and testing of these mitigation schemes is expensive and time consuming. The choice of mitigation scheme can be very dependent on mission environment. We propose the development of a tool to simulate common schemes and allow for direct evaluation of their efficacy under typical environments. This tool will be used to choose and optimize mitigation schemes for given mission scenarios. The choice will take into account the operational radiation environment, system processing capabilities and characteristics, and current foundry capabilities of circuit production. This tool will be used in the choice and design of mitigation schemes for photosensors in specified radiation environments. The tool will be used to provide mitigation recommendations optimized to the customer's particular environment. This will include customization of the mitigation scheme's parameters to match the output to the capabilities of the customer's processing system. Application of this tool includes commercial space surveillance satellites, environment and weather satellites, NASA assets in particular during high solar activity or due to rogue nation nuclear weapons, in addition to the obvious military applications.

MMCOMM INC 3625 Del Amo Blvd Ste 200 Torrance, CA 90503
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 793-8892 Long Q Bui MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	subtopic B: Digital Beamforming (DBF) Subarray for Radar and Communications Applications
Abstract:	MMCOMM with support from UCLA will design a low mass, low power digital beamforming (DBF) subarray for radar and communications applications. The technology is applicable to any communication or radar band, namely L, S, X or EHF. We will evaluate advanced DDS and D/A digital waveform generation. We will investigate flexible membrane materials such as Kapton and Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP). Tradeoffs will be performed comparing alternate architectures. The baseline approach is a DDS waveform generator feeding a hybrid RF/IF - digital beamformer. The DDS based approach is based upon extending the current MMCOMM developed DDS technology that operates at Ka-band. The digital beamforming technology is based upon that currently under development at UCLA for the commercial wireless market. Thus the utilization of applicable COTS technology is a potential realization for the proposed design. We will leverage the current MMCOMM DDS and microwave / MMW MMIC capability plus the UCLA MMW Lab DBF capability to develop the solution for Phase I. We will investigate the applicability of waveforms such as CDMA and OFDM. For Phase II we will propose building a demo subarray leveraging off the newly developing COTS microwave / MMW technology at MMCOMM and the MMW / digital beamforming technology at UCLA. A digital beamforming subarray having very low mass, and power consumption is an extremely useful component for DBF phased array antennas and DBF array feeds to lens and reflector antennas, for both military and commercial use. Space-based radar/communication/surveillance/reconnaissance systems would benefit greatly from the development of this technology. Military applications include satellite radar and communications systems at S-band thru Extremely High Frequency bands. Commercial applications that would benefit from this technology include satellite-based global communications systems.

NANOMATERIALS RESEARCH CORPORATION 2021 Miller Drive, Suite B Longmont, CO 80501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(720) 652-4001 Dr. Dmitri Routkevitch MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	High Resolution Ceramic Microchannel Plates
Abstract:	National missile defense systems require a wide variety of sensor technologies that span the whole electromagnetic spectrum. Systems under development will need sensors for surveillance, launch detection, target tracking and target discrimination. Microchannel plates (MCP) are integral components of many advanced detectors from X-ray to near IR. Conventional glass-fiber-based MCPs have a number of inherent limitations, and opportunities for increasing their performance are leveling off. This proposal seeks support for the development of novel ceramic microchannel plates with high resolution, high open area ratio, and low noise. The proposed technology is based on the high aspect ratio micromachining of ceramics and atomic layer channel modification, and has a potential to enable detector systems with performance and lifetime unavailable before. During the Phase I project, in collaboration with our partners, we will produce and test MCP prototypes, and develop a clear path for product development efforts in support of advanced "eyes and ears" systems of the missile defense. The proposed technology has the potential to overcome the limitations of glass-fiber MCPs and provide solutions for a new generation of surveillance sensors and image intensifiers for multiple military and commercial use. Beyond the advantages of high resolution and flexible channel modification, our technology could potentially provide mechanical robustness, high temperature capabilities, long operational lifetime, high reproducibility, manufacturability, and substantially lower cost.

NANOSONIC, INC. P.O. Box 618 Christiansburg, VA 24068
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(540) 953-1785 Mr. Keith Huie MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	00-003B-Radar and MMW: Inkjet Print Self-Assembly of Multifunctional Devices on Flexible Nanosat Surfaces
Abstract:	The objective of this Phase I BMDO SBIR program is to demonstrate the feasibility of inkjet print electrostatic self-assembly (ESA) of electronic and photonic devices on flexible nanosat surfaces. ESA processing consists of alternately adsorbing cationic and anionic molecules from water-based solutions onto substrates at room temperature and pressure to form organic/inorganic nanocomposite coatings. Electrical, optical, magnetic, mechanical, thermal and electric field-controlled functional properties of the coatings may be created by incorporation of selected molecular nanoclusters, advanced polymers and other molecules, by processing conditions, and by controlling the order of the multilayer geometry. The inkjet printing of the ESA process solutions onto solid substrates allows the rapid and low-cost prototyping and fabrication of functional devices. During the Phase I program, NanoSonic would work with Virginia Tech to design a prototype nanostructure with multiple layered device functions that could be `printed' onto flexible kapton and upilex surfaces using this process, and used to demonstrate the manufacturing method. During Phase II, NanoSonic will develop methods for upscaling and transitioning the ESA print process to manufacturing in cooperation with a major U.S. aerospace contractor. The inkjet print ESA process may be used to form a variety of high performance materials and devices integrated directly into lightweight polymer structural components. Low-cost ESA processing will allow the manufacturing of cost-competitive and multifunctional aerospace, electronic, optoelectronic, sensor and actuator materials, devices and integrated function structures.

NEW JERSEY MICROSYSTEMS, INC. 240 Martin Luther King Blvd. Newark, NJ 07102
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(973) 297-1450 Dr. Donald E. Booth MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	BMDO/02-003G Proposal SBIR BMDO#02-003G Uncooled, Large Format, Low Noise, Co-registered Single Sensor Simultaneous Visible/MWIR/LWIR Multispectral
Abstract:	Proposal SBIR BMDO#02-003g An Uncooled Large Format, Low Noise, Co-registered Single Sensor Simultaneous Visible,MWIR,LWIR Multispectral Imager. Can image any combination of visible color, SWIR/MWIR and LWIR with a potential NETD of 2 mK and a resolution of 7M/(number simultaneous) bands Provides the most compact, high resolution sensor for simultaneous, co-registered multi-wavelength images.

NUMERICA, INC. PO Box 271246 Ft. Collins, CO 80527
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(970) 419-8343 Dr. Benjamin Slocumb MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Data Segmentation/Centroid Processing with Tracker Feedback for Tracking Closely Spaced Objects
Abstract:	With wideband phased array radars, objects can be larger than the range resolution in which case multiple detections will occur across adjacent range cells. For conditions with closely-spaced objects (CSOs), a key processing function is the segmentation of detections (called primitive measurements) and the subsequent centroid processing of primitives into object reports for use in data association and track filtering. It is the presence of CSOs and the use of wideband waveforms to resolve CSOs that make effective data segmentation/centroid processing a critical function within radar systems supporting BMD. To address the needs, we propose to develop a new algorithm that includes merged monopulse measurement estimation procedures, clustering methods with segmentation rules, and feedback from local or network-level trackers. Track feedback from multiple networked radars with different resolution volumes (i.e., diverse locations) should allow for improved tracking of splitting objects. Currently, data segmentation/centroid processing for tracking CSOs with wideband phased array radars is an unfunded research area that is critical to the success of future BMD systems. Without effective data segmentation/centroid processing, the track performance for splitting objects will be degraded and will significantly delay the engagement of ballistic missiles. Several new radar systems are being developed to support the missile defense initiative. With high-resolution waveforms, it is intended that these radar systems will have the capability to resolve and identify multiple closely spaced objects (CSOs). However, there is a vital need for new data segmentation/centroid processing techniques to support the high resolving capabilities. Without the development of these new techniques, the tracking performance of these radars could be compromised. The algorithms to be developed in this proposal will address this critical need area. Numerica, Inc. has a very successful record of developing algorithms (specifically in the target tracking area), implementing the algorithms using highly-structured object-oriented software techniques, and licensing the software to defense contractors and the US DoD. Presently, Numerica, Inc. has licensed tracking software to almost all major aerospace companies. Our objective is to formulate new algorithm solutions for the data segmentation/centroid processing problem, develop high-quality software, and offer these solutions to MDA contractors and the MDA.

OCIS TECHNOLOGY 1401 W. Saltsage Drive Phoenix, AZ 85045
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(480) 283-0858 Dr. Michael Tischler MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	AlGaN photodetectors on Improved Substrates
Abstract:	UV (and blue) sensors have a wide range of commercial and Government applications. The III-V nitrides provide an attractive material system for such detectors, with bandgaps ranging from 2.0 to 6.2eV. While III-V nitride devices have made significant advances, especially in the area of LEDs, defects continue to compromise the performance and lifetime of detectors and lasers. The major limiting factors are defects resulting from the differences in the lattice constant and thermal coefficient of expansion (TCE) of the substrate and the AlGaN active layers. This problem gets worse when the Al composition is increased to achieve a particular wavelength or bandgap. This proposal describes a novel approach to eliminate these defects, and make AlGaN wafers of large diameter at commercially acceptable cost which are TCE matched to the device layers and provide high thermal conductivity. The quality of this material will be demonstrated using AlGaN photodetectors. This development will result is a process to make large area AlGaN substrates with improved characteristics at a low cost, permitting widespread use of nitrides in both Government and commercial applications.

OMAN MOMENTS, INC. 16 Whitehall Dr. Huntington, NY 11743
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(631) 366-3100 Dr. Stanley Rudman MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	A Dual-Band Sensor System for Boost-Phase Hard-Body Targeting
Abstract:	A central challenge in Boost-Phase Intercept of a hostile ballistic missile is the targeting of the missile body in the brilliant plume. We propose an IR sensor system that takes advantage of special characteristics of plume radiation to provide two bands that have very different relative sensitivity to the plume and body. We combine these bands with an algorithm that exploits this relationship to make the hard body of the missile stand out in the image of the high altitude plume. In Phase I we will conduct tradeoffs among system parameters within current technology limits. We will set up design reference missions for kinetic and directed energy kill systems, and derive required sensor parameters. Output of Phase I will be a preliminary design for either a direct energy or a kinetic kill vehicle, with performance predictions, and a review of technology and development issues in detailed design, development and production of the sensor system. We will seek the goal of reducing sensor system cost to a small fraction (<5%) of the kill system overall cost. This proposal presents analysis to illustrate the promise of our 2-band approach. Phase II would develop the sensor concept further and conduct risk reduction demonstrations. We expect that this project will point the way to an IR sensor that has unique advantages in acquisition and tracking the vulnerable portions of a missile body while still in the boost phase. Conventional approaches to the clear imaging of the hard body in the presence of a brilliant plume have not yet shown convincing prospects for use in realistic boost-phase scenarios. The features of high altitude plume radiation present an opportunity for a relatively inexpensive way of extracting the hard-body image from the surrounding plume radiation, and we have outlined that methodology in its simplest terms in this proposal. If the analysis of Phase I shows the kind of promise and feasibility that characterizes our results so far, we would greatly expand that work in scope and detail in a Phase II investigation. Phase II would also include a teaming effort, in which we would work with BMDO to attract a partnership with one or more systems and/or sensor contractors to move forward through Phase II with the concept.

OPTO-KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS, INC. (OKSI) 4030 Spencer St, Suite 108 Torrance, CA 90503
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 371-4445 Dr. Nahum Gat MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	A Sensor for Spatial-Spectral-Temporal Missile Signature Characterization and MPR (Spectral Range E)
Abstract:	we propose to design, build and deliver a sensor capable of capturing full spectral signatures, over a 2D spatial extand at a high temporal resolution. The sensor is specifically appropriate for plumes and fast changing events such as intercepts kill assessment, for characterizing target signature, and specifically optimized for monocular passive ranging. We expect to develop and demonstrate the technology to be directly incorporated into various operational platforms. Specific target platforms include BMDO's HALO-II and later on NAIC Cobra Ball; The sensor is also applicable for BSIR architecture and similar space platforms, to UAVs including Global Hawk, and ground platforms such as ISTEF.

ORINCON CORPORATION ORINCON Hawaii, Inc., 970 N. Kalaheo Ave. #C-215 Kailua, HI 96734
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(808) 254-1532 Dr. R. David Dikeman MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Sensors and Surveillance: Fusion-Generated Target Discrimination for BMDO Sensor and Surveillance Systems
Abstract:	Technology is a controlling variable for cost, schedule, and performance design of U.S. ballistic missile defense systems. Target discrimination (the ability to identify or engage any one target when multiple targets are present) during National Missile Defense (NMD) midcourse engagement is a complex technological hurdle. Exoatmospheric kill vehicle (EKV) sensors need to discriminate among warhead(s), decoys and penetration aids in an extremely short detect-to-kill time. Feature differences among decoys, penetration aids, and warheads are not adequate for discrimination by current EKV passive IR sensors and the BMC4I surveillance system. Our Fusion-Generated Discrimination (FGD) approach will generate reliable, accurate Target Object Maps (TOM) to overcome future system hit-to-kill limitations. Using multispectral and active/passive sensor inputs, our FGD Toolkit will combine scene and kinematic processes. The FGD subsystem leverages proven multiple-hypothesis fusion and extended Kalman filter technologies for this EO/IR and radar application. As a result, multiple-wavelength signals and multiple phenomena are fused for improved discrimination and kill. As a future element of the NMD "system of systems," ORINCON's rapid, all-source data fusion enablers will offer the Missile Defense Agency enhanced discrimination capabilities. Adapting multiple-hypothesis fusion of multispectral data offers a means of achieving a substantial target discrimination capability at a reasonable cost and schedule risk. It would enhance BMD sensing capabilities for expanded Capability-1 ballistic threats and beyond, and greatly improve BMD surveillance (BMC4I) capabilities. The multispectral data fusion aspects of the proposed effort could benefit advanced medical imaging systems by providing a more accurate imaging capability.

PEREGRINE SEMICONDUCTOR CORPORATION 6175 Nancy Ridge Drive San Diego, CA 92021
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 455-0660 Dr. Ron Reedy MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	UV & Blue CCD Imager
Abstract:	The objective of this proposal is to develop near UV (NUV) and blue light CCD arrays with high sensitivity, high dynamic range and radiation hardness. A device structure is proposed that is inherently sensitive to short wavelength energy while being inherently insensitive to visible and IR wavelengths. Using a fully depleted UTSir CMOS on sapphire structure which has proven radiation hardness creates the potential for a high sensitivity, high dynamic range CCD device inherently sensitive only to short wavelengths. It is the purpose of this proposal to show that a complete UV/blue sensitive CCD can be developed in a proven radiation hard CMOS on sapphire process. By adding properly designed optical layers to the backside of the sapphire substrate, wavelength selectivity can be tailored to provide desired "solar blindness" which ensures applicability to daytime space-based navigation as well as to high dynamic range focal plane array imagers for space-based remote sensing. By using a commercially established process, manufacturability and time-to-market goals can be met and long term supply is ensured. Such a device would be applicable to space-based celestial navigation as well as blue and UV remote imaging. Commercially, such a device will find applications in biomedical imaging and in deep submicron microscopy.

PHASE IV SYSTEMS, INC. 3405 Triana Boulevard Huntsville, AL 35805
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(256) 535-2100 Mr. Robert H. Fletcher MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	A Low-Cost Anti-Jamming Capability Employing Sequential Nulling and Adaptive Processing (SNAP)
Abstract: Abstract not available...

PHOTON RESEARCH ASSOCIATES, INC. 5720 Oberlin Drive San Diego, CA 92121
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(631) 331-6322 Mr. Anthony Sommese MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Model-Based Feature Extraction for Mid-Course Discrimination
Abstract:	A main objective of BMDO is to reduce the dependency of the optical mid-course discrimination algorithms on a priori information. Existing algorithms use average intensity, modulation, signature trends and frequency content as features, which are very sensitive to both geometry and training assumptions and impose large storage requirements on an operational system. Also features like average intensity may be easily masked using simple countermeasures. PRA is proposing to use a physics model in conjunction with an estimation procedure to extract, in real-time from optical signatures, dynamics-based features such as coning angle, angular momentum vector and precession rate. These features reduce the dependency of discrimination on a priori information, make discrimination less susceptible to countermeasures and also simplify the training process. The estimator will use a physics model to iterate on a set of dynamics-based parameters until the sensor intensity measurements are best matched. In Phase I PRA will develop the models to be used by the real-time estimation algorithm to predict intensity measurements, incorporate the model into the estimator, demonstrate the feasibility of extracting dynamics-based features from infrared sensor measurements and show the performance benefits obtained by using these features in an discrimination example. The immediate benefit will be to make mid-course discrimination algorithms more robust by reducing their dependency on a priori information and their susceptibility to countermeasures. This has direct utility for systems such as SBIRS Low as well as GBI. The model-based estimator developed under this SBIR offers the commercial potential of developing a programmable logic array that would be a key product in a low cost interceptor system.

PIXON LLC 9295 Farnham Street San Diego, CA 92123
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 279-4253 Dr. Richard C. Puetter MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Image Analysis Hardware for High-Speed, Sub-Diffraction MDA Applications (Topic 02-003)
Abstract:	The ability to resolve closely spaced objects, which are separated by angles less than the diffraction limit of the observing platform, greatly facilitates the early discrimination of missile payloads. We demonstrate that our image processing provides accurate source positions and radiometry for sources separated by 0.25-0.5 of the full-width at half maximum (FWHM) of the point-spread function, or a factor of 2-4 closer than a separation of 1 FWHM or more, conventionally thought to be required for accurate detection. Furthermore, we show that this performance is at or near the theoretical limit derived from the signal-to-noise ratio of the data. We propose to design custom image analysis hardware that implements our image processing in a small fraction of a second. This hardware is expected to be relatively compact (a few printed-circuit boards) and require low power, allowing its use aboard spacecrafts. Future ASIC implementation will further reduce size and power. In addition to missile defense, the proposed hardware will find applications in a number of military and commercial markets, such as military intelligence, medical imaging, commercial satellite imaging, and high-end microscopy. Missile Defense, Military Intelligence, Surveillance, Law Enforcement, Commercial Satellite Imaging, Medical Tomography, Rational Drug Design, Microscopy.

PROPAGATION RESEARCH ASSOCIATES 2243 Chimney Swift Circle Marietta, GA 30062
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(770) 804-0392 Dr. J. Clayton Kerce MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Tomographic Correction Techniques For An Enhanced Tropospheric Effects Compensation System
Abstract:	Propagation Research Associates (PRA) introduces two innovative tomographic techniques, based on ground based GPS satellite signal measurements, that significantly improve angle of arrival error correction for radars tracking long range, low elevation targets. These tomographic techniques provide real-time updates to existing 3-D refractivity field data sets over a 360 degree field of view, enabling an order of magnitude reduction in error when compared to existing model based refractivity field estimators. PRA proposes to expand the capabilities of the Enhanced Tropospheric Error Compensation (ETEC) system concept, developed for BMDO by PRA under contract number DASG60-01-P-0042, with the addition of an Enhanced 3-D Refractivity Field measurement system. This system will incorporate Ray Tracing Tomographic Correction and Diffraction Tomographic Correction methods to allow real-time measurements of the tropospheric refractivity field for the mitigation of tropospheric error effects due to large scale bending and turbulence. Phase I will demonstrate the feasibility of the Ray Tracing Tomographic Correction and Diffraction Tomographic Correction technique to estimate bending error and establish a system error budget for integration into the ETEC system. A Phase I Option is proposed that will develop a prototype design that can be integrated into either GMD XBR or NTW HPD-X for real-time operation. The anticipated results from the proposed research will be to establish the feasibility of the Ray Tracing Tomographic Correction and Diffraction Tomographic Correction techniques to mitigate tropospheric effects in the presence of realistic noise and error sources over a 360 degree field of view in near real-time. An error budget will be developed that allocates allowable error to various sub-components of the Ray Tracing Tomographic Correction and Diffraction Tomographic Correction techniques to mitigate tropospheric bending error to within 0.5% of the total bending error for target elevations less than 2ø. The proposed techniques will be integrated into the Enhanced Tropospheric Effects Compensation (ETEC) system concept, developed by PRA, Inc. for BMDO under contract DASG60-01-P-0042. The ETEC System concept has broad applications to improve performance in GPS, radar, sonar, and communications. The immediate application will be to improve target location accuracy and detection for low elevation radar targets. The Ray Tracing Tomographic Correction and Diffraction Tomographic Correction techniques and the ETEC technology can also be used to improve GPS accuracy by allowing GPS satellites to be tracked to low elevations, thereby providing additional satellites that can be used to obtain a GPS solution. There are two technologies derived from ETEC that will improve GPS accuracy - 1) the correction of angle error due to tropospheric bending and 2) the mitigation of multipath error. The ETEC technology has application in other media where signal-bending error is an issue. For example, in sonar and acoustics sound waves are bent due to the difference in water or atmospheric pressure. PRA will pursue applications of ETEC to angle error correction for sonar and acoustics. In addition, the estimation of the spatial and temporal correlation of turbulence using the Ray Tracing Tomographic Correction and Diffraction Tomographic Correction techniques along with existing statistical models will provide a method to discriminate the relative statistics among several objects. By accurately estimating the correlation statistics of turbulence in real-time, an algorithm will be developed that identifies desired targets embedded in multiple undesired objects that will have imaging applications in other propagation media such as medical imaging or seismography.

PROSENSING 107 Sunderland Road Amherst, MA 01002
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(413) 549-4402 Dr. Andrew Pazmany MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Subtopic B Radar and MMW: Mobile mmW Radiotelescope for Detection of Rocket Plumes at Lunch
Abstract:	This Phase I SBIR proposal addresses the use of millimeter-wave radiometry to detect continuum radiation from rocket plumes at launch. Preliminary experiments carried out in a rocket test bed at Stennis AFB, showed that the radiometric signature of a rocket plume can exceed 1000o C at 35, 60 and 95 GHz. These results suggest that rocket plumes can be readily detected using a millimeter-wave radiometer. However, it is critical to carry out measurements of rocket plumes at launch to better understand the spatial and temporal distribution of the millimeter-wave signature. This proposal describes our plan to deploy a mobile 95 GHz radio telescope having sufficient spatial resolution to map the rocket plume signature from a safe launch standoff distance of five miles or more. During Phase I, we will design the radio telescope around an existing 95 GHz radiometer that will be provided to this project by the University of Massachusetts. A field experiment plan will be developed, including launch schedules, boost profiles, and coordination of data fusion with on-site instrumentation. We will also investigate developing a dual use capability for Milstar or other existing millimeter-wave systems to be able to detect rocket launches from ships or aircraft. Successful completion of Phase II research will yield important data on the millimeter-wave signature of rocket plumes. Development of system concepts for dual-use conversion of Milstar or other existing millimeter-wave systems will result in an all-weather capability for missile launch detection.

REDSTONE ENGINEERING CONSULTING INC P. O. Box 340 Carbondale, CO 81623
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(720) 406-7844 Mr. Robert Levenduski MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Multistage Cryocooler With Novel Expanders
Abstract:	Long life cryocoolers are needed to cool doped silicon focal plane arrays to 10 Kelvin. Simultaneous cooling at several higher temperatures is also needed for optical and thermal components that support these focal planes. Development of a multi-stage 10K cryocooler would greatly enhance the total cooling system's reliability and reduce its size, weight, and power consumption. The proposed cryocooler is based on the reverse-Brayton cycle with a major innovation. Redstone has discovered that there is an operating pressure range or a "sweet spot" that leads to an easier and quicker development path. This pressure range eases the requirements for the recuperative heat exchangers, making these smaller and lighter. The required compression ratio is modest, making compressor development easier also. The innovation enabling this cryocooler is a new cryogenic expander that works in the "sweet spot". This expander incorporates many features for long life and robustness against contamination. Redstone's preliminary mechanical and thermodynamic analysis shows that this expander is worthy of further development. This proposal focuses on the development of the 10K multistage cooler and the new expander. Redstone will do this development with assistance from our team member, Swales Aerospace. Supports Air Force, DOD and NASA efforts to develop 10K space cryocoolers. Supports long-wave infrared and hyper spectral imaging sensors. Multistage low temperature cryocoolers could have many commercial ground based scientific and laboratory applications.

SAGE SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 1018 West Ninth Avenue, Suite 202 King of Prussia, PA 19406
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(610) 354-9100 Mr. Michael Wilson MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Active Polarimetric LADAR System
Abstract:	Polarization imaging holds promise for providing significant improvements in contrast for target detection and discrimination. It has been demonstrated that manmade objects have a significantly stronger polarized signal than natural backgrounds. There is also strong promise for improved target-background contrast with active imaging polarimeters, operating similarly to a LADAR system. SAGE proposes to develop a fast (>30 Hz) imaging polarimeter with an active mode capability in the infared. The proposed polarimetric LADAR system will serve as a prototype for a potential KV sensor & weapons system. The active polarimeter design, to be completed for Phase I, will include component specifications, data reduction algorithms, and a thorough performance analysis. The prototype instrument will be designed to be compatible with an active polarimetric sensor architecture, a modular system that will provide for expansion to other wavebands for related military and commercial applications. Additionally, SAGE proposes to incorporate superpixel technology at the detector. The concept will be modeled against microgrid technology for performance and risk. Superpixel technology offers several advantages over microgrids including elimination of scatter and obscuration of the incident light at the focal plane array. It is anticipated that the imaging polarimeter will significantly enhance target detection on a wide variety of military seekers and be directly applicable into the commercial market for search and rescue, security, and nondestructive evaluation of structural materials and protective coatings.

SCIENCE RESEARCH LABORATORY INC 15 WARD STREET SOMERVILLE, MA 02143
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 547-1122 Dr. ALLEN FLUSBERG MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Dual-Band Visible/Long-Wavelength Infrared Imager
Abstract:	Science Research Laboratory (SRL) proposes to develop an affordable, dual-band visible long-wavelength infrared (VLIR) imager. This revolutionary, new instrument can be switched instantaneously between conventional visible imaging and long-wavelength (7-12 microns) infrared(IR) imaging that is sensitive to thermally emitted radiation and can operate in complete darkness. In the visible mode, the image is projected directly onto a CCD/CMOS array. In the IR mode, a novel affordable (<$1000) uncooled thermo-optic focal-plane array (FPA) technology converts the CCD/CMOS visible-light camera into a high-resolution, high-sensitivity infrared camera for surveillance of a scene with no ambient illumination. The revolutionary design of the imager--a single optical train common to all wavelengths--guarantees intrinsic registration of the different-wavelength images. In Phase I a design of the imager will be completed, and a prototype will be fabricated in Phase II. With this new dual-band VLIR technology, a single camera installation (camera, mounting scan system, wiring, video monitor and recording system) will be capable of imaging both bands. Such visible-IR image integration will provide a very robust sensor for BMDO applications, enhancing discrimination between a missile and decoys. This new technology can also be used to retrofit existing visible-camera surveillance systems to provide an affordable dual-band capability: visible for daytime or artificially lit scenes, and IR for nighttime or for smoggy conditions. Under many daytime conditions the correlation of visible and IR images will improve sensitivity and overcome camouflage.The total size of the infrared imaging market is roughly estimated to be $500 million. The interchangeability with and superiority to visible cameras will create a strong demand for cameras based on the new VLIR technology. In addition, variants of the VLIR technology, utilizing affordable IR-to-visible transduction, will be applicable to a wide variety of visible/infrared imaging of commercial interest, including security surveillance cameras for public buildings, businesses and homes.

SMART PIXEL INC 590 Territorial Drive, Suite B Bolingbrook, IL 60440
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(630) 771-0206 Mr. Silviu Velicu MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Active Pixel HgCdTe Detectors with Built-in Dark Current Reduction for Near-Room Temperature Operation
Abstract:	Hot HgCdTe detector that operates at high temperature and large reverse bias exhibits large dark current. The presence of the dark current reduces the sensitivity of High Operating Temperature (HOT) HgCdTe detector. The state-of-the-art technology uses cryogenic cooling of the device to reduce the dark current. However, cryogenic coolers cause reliability problems, increase the weight and power consumption and are consequently bulky and expensive. To overcome these problems, we propose a new generation of HOT HgCdTe detectors with a built-in resistor that is used to reduce the dark current and background photocurrent (dark Current skimming). The integrated resistor-photodiode combination is achieved by multi-layer HgCdTe growth by the cutting-edge Molecular Beam Epitaxy (MBE) technology. Bias is applied to the resistor to cancel the effect of dark current. The development of this new device technology will be of great interest to BMDO. The goals will be achieved by i) using the established flexible manufacturing molecular beam epitaxy technology for device quality HgCdTe materials growth on large area silicon substrates, and ii) incorporating novel device architectures including minority carrier exclusion, extraction to achieve high sensitivity infrared detection at high (TE cooled) temperature. Some of the potential applications that is defense related include proximity fuze, smart bombs, enemy target detection, infrared countermeasure system against the threat of missiles, LIDARs, night visions in the battlefield theater, land mine detection. Medical applications fall into non-invasive thermal imaging for diagnosis of breast cancer and other life threatening diseases. While industrial applications are non-destructive testing, thermal leak detection, process control, remote sensing, free space communication, etc.

SOLID STATE SCIENTIFIC CORPORATION 27-2 Wright Road Hollis, NH 03049
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(603) 465-5686 Mr. William Clark MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	A Heterointegrated InGaAs 40Gb Optoelectronic Cross Bar Receiver E- IR (>0.9 microns)
Abstract:	Advances in EO sensors and fiber optic information distribution systems have simplified the distribution of targeting information among the various systems. The requirements for higher levels of functionality and performance are pushing the levels of integration to a point that can no longer be satisfied by the industry mainstay approach of hybrid assembly. Significant improvements in fiber-optic systems and EO sensors can be gained at the component and packaging levels. Solid State Scientific Corporation (SSSC) has developed an integration technique, Epitaxial Layer Transfer (ELT), which eliminates many limitations of optoelectronic component integration, allowing the direct fabrication of optical devices on foundry-processed semiconductor wafers. SSSC proposes to demonstrate the potential of the ELT process in this Phase I program by integrating arrays of InGaAs photodetectors with foundry processed high-performance transistor amplifiers. This will be the first demonstration of the ELT technology on the high-speed circuits. The goal for Phase 2 is a fully integrated 32-channel Reconfigurable Optoelectronic Cross Bar Receiver operating at 40 Gb/s for next generation WDM optical fiber communications. Industries that will benefit from these technologies include military, telecom/datacom, and automotive. Aside from the communications applications described in this proposal,the military will also be interested in the heterogeneous integration technology for eye-safe range-finding, and low cost LADAR applications. In the telecom/datacom industries there are obvious benefits to using lower cost, high performance receivers and switches. Reconfigurable networks are of great interest as WDM metro area networks become the main area of telecom equipment deployment, and systems companies and service providers begin to offer much greater flexibility in the services that are provided. Another emerging area in the telecom/datacom arena is "free-space" optical communications. Here the optical transmission is carried out through air with no fiber. In these systems there are benefits to using eye-safe wavelengths and low cost PD/TIAs for improved sensitivity. The automotive industry will also be interested in the PD/TIA array technology because it promises to offer low cost high performance LADAR technology for use in automobile collision avoidance systems. Collision avoidance systems are just beginning to be installed in new vehicles.

SOPHIA WIRELESS, INC. 14225-C Sullyfield Circle Chantilly, VA 20151
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 961-9573 Dr. Philip Koh MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	140 GHz Imaging Systems Based on an Innovative, Flexible Architecture
Abstract:	We propose to develop a high resolution, low-cost high frame rate millimeter wave imaging system based on an innovative architechure. Airport security and concealed weapon detection

STIEFVATER CONSULTANTS 10002 Hillside terrace Marcy, NY 13403
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(315) 334-4365 Dr. Vince Vannocla MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Radar and MMW Multistatic Concepts for Accurate Tracking & Dicrimination
Abstract:	The goal of this project is to develop a waveform selection and signal processing approach for multistatic radar systems. The exponential growth in RF hardware and processing hardware/software has made it likely that the technology will exist to support these multistatic concepts. As of now, it is not possible to fully exploit these emerging trends to gain the advantages of multistatic systems while overcoming their disadvantages (grating lobes, high sidelobes). This project will investigate an approach using simultaneous orthogonal waveforms being radiated from the multistatic systems subapertures to overcome these issues and made multistatic systems viable. Our proposed waveform/processing concept will address simultaneous missions/tasks from multiple sensors (SIMMMS). In a multistatic radar the transmit/receive aperture is divided into a number of subapertures that can be placed in various locations relative to each other. These locations can be chosen to optimize the performance of the radar in terms of some specific task. These systems can provide significantly improved tracking because of the large baseline between the various apertures. The resulting angular resolution can be orders of magnitude better than a monolithic system (single large radar). The same angular resolution can provide improved ECCM capability. Multistatic radars have a number of independent sources of information (the various monostatic and bistatic returns from the various subarrays). This data can be employed to provide an improved discrimination capability. Also, the independent sources of information can be combined in different fashions to accomplish different missions at the same time.

SVT ASSOCIATES, INC. 7620 Executive Drive Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(952) 934-2100 Dr. Peter Chow MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	InAs/GaInSb Superlattice Detector Development for > 20-Micron Infrared Focal Plane 02-003E
Abstract:	InAs/GaInSb type II superlattices show great promise for use in Very Very Long Wavelength Infrared (VVLWIR, for wavelength > 20 um) detectors. System analysis indicates early detection of space borne vehicles is more easily achieved in this infrared regime. This III-V compound compares very favorably with the current HgCdTe technology in anticipated performance, manufacturability and operating costs (e.g. cryogenic cooling). Despite significant progress at shorter wavelengths (around 10 um wavelength) high performance detectors have yet to be demonstrated at these extremely long wavelengths, due to challenges posted by the material growth process. We propose to implement several monitoring techniques for tight control of the process parameters. We will also investigate processing steps for device fabrication. The Phase I work will lead to better understanding of the material growth and detector performance. This material system has detection capability from 2-30 um. Within the infrared range various products can be developed including thermal and medical imaging, and pollution monitoring.

TEC MASTERS, INCORPORATED 1500 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 215 Huntsville, AL 35806
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(256) 830-4000 Dr. Holger Jaenisch MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Discrimination Via Phased Derived Range
Abstract:	Discrimination Via Phased Derived Range Discrimination of threat reentry vehicles (RVs) from debris, heavy replicas, and other penetration aids can be achieved by forming a radar image of the target. Phased Derived Range (PDR) signal processing techniques have been shown to be capable of achieving extremely precise range measurements on individual target scatterers from coherent radar tracks. However, in the original formulations of the PDR equations the minor forces acting on the target were ignored. In actuality, the perturbations caused by these forces may provide additional information useful in discriminating threatening targets from non-threatening ones. Phase 1 of this task will be to identify the exoatmospheric forces acting on the target using standard formulations, taken from standard physics, to calculate their magnitude and to estimate their influence on target motions. These include the target dynamics of precession, nutation, and rotation about its axis. Development of the modification terms for the PDR processing equations. As a byproduct of the identification of forces, data taken previous tests that pertain to PDR processing and measurement accuracy will be determined and collected if possible. Platforms and tools for modeling the PDR processing technique in future phases will be determined. Commercialization Strategy There are many military and commercial applications for Phase Derived Range (PDR). The key benefit is the level of range accuracy of individual points on the target that is obtained from this technique. These can be used to form a radar image of the target that would aid in classification and identification. Many industries depend on accurate information to carry out their work. Civilian aircraft and maritime industries use very accurate radar to avoid collisions and to keep track of aircraft and ship positions. Accurate information is also important to meteorologists, who use it to track weather patterns. The PDR technique will significantly improve range resolution and provide the highest accuracy possible There are many military and commercial applications for Phase Derived Range (PDR). The key benefit is the level of range accuracy of individual points on the target that is obtained from this technique. These can be used to form a radar image of the target that would aid in classification and identification. Many industries depend on accurate information to carry out their work. Civilian aircraft and maritime industries use very accurate radar to avoid collisions and to keep track of aircraft and ship positions. Accurate information is also important to meteorologists, who use it to track weather patterns. The PDR technique will significantly improve range resolution and provide the highest accuracy possible.

TOWNSEND SCIENCE & ENGINEERING 1 Oak Hill Road Fitchburg, MA 01420
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 345-9090 Mr. Harry Clark MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Next Generation Imager
Abstract:	Silicon based charged couple devices (CCD) have been the workhorse of solid state imaging technology for use in the visible spectrum. As the need for higher resolution is ever increasing, silicon based systems are being pushed to their limit. Either larger systems, constructed on a single wafer or higher pixel density per square centimeter are called for. In either case, all pixels in a frame must be clocked out in a serial manner. This causes a reduction in frame rates and as importantly data overload. When trying to fabricate large area devices on silicon, two constraints are imposed. The capacitance inherent in the poly-silicon lines, that shuffle the charge to the output register, limits the ability to drive the collected charge in the center pixels. The poly-silicon gates also reduce the quantum efficiency of the device due to the fact that they are place over the pixels and strongly absorb visible light. This has necessitated backside thinning of devices that increase production costs and lower yields. Also, the larger the area that a silicon imaging device covers on a substrate the lower the yield. This is due to defects formed during thermal cycling deposition steps and native defects found in the single silicon substrates. If a higher pixel density is chosen the full well capacity drops and saturation or blooming can occur even at a lower light level. Townsend Science and Engineering (TS&E) will possess the two critical elements for successful commercialization. The first is our unique technical solution to imaging. The second is both TS&E and it's key personnel have already established direct market channels to consumers. A key strategic partner has already been established, with over 100 retail outlets serving as an enviable point of entry for the consumer products produced by this program.

VEXCEL CORPORATION 4909 Nautilus Court, Ste. 133 Boulder, CO 80301
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 583-0284 Mr. Don Coon MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Advanced Techniques for Ballistic Target Detection/Discrimination/Mensuration using Four-Dimensional (4-D) Radar Imaging -- Subtopic BMDO/00-003B - Ra
Abstract:	Vexcel Corporation proposes to define advanced signal processing techniques and methods to provide next-generation ballistic target discrimination and mensuration capabilities for the NMD radar system against emerging Midcourse and Terminal Defense Segment threats. Signal processing techniques previously impractical are now viable due to the recently discovered attributes of using a special method for the high-resolution 3-D imaging of coherent wideband radar data. The formation of a sequence of 3-D images over time provides a unique, 4-D space-time image or "hypercube" that promises to support sophisticated target location/assessment algorithms. Any number of objects may be simultaneously imaged showing spatial relationships. The separation of the target(s) from other objects in the image cube allows detailed 3-axis target position determination and greatly mitigates decoys, chaff, and other penetration aids. Highly precise trajectory and velocity vectors are a readily available product, providing a basis for the accurate determination of higher-order motion parameters for objects having different masses, shapes, etc. A method to realize a large reduction in the data processing requirement (compared to conventional approaches) is an attractive feature. Data collection is performed using a land-based system. Vexcel anticipates that the proposed technology would have direct application to air traffic control systems in areas that experience dense air traffic.

VOXTEL INC. 2640 SW Georgian Place Portland, OR 97201
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(503) 421-4389 Mr. George M. Williams MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	INTELLIGENTSOI CMOS VISION-SYSTEM-ON-A-CHIP (VSOC) FOR SPACE OPERATIONS
Abstract:	In this Phase I SBIR effort, Voxtel Inc. proposes to optimize a high-performance,low power, silicon-on-insulator (SOI) CMOS, intelligent vision-system-on-a-chip (VSOC) that monolithically integrates, without compromising the optimal design and processing of any of its features, nearly ideal high-density,UV to NIR response photodetectors, in-pixel processing, thin film analog spatial/temporal processing, and mixed-signal in-pixel and on-chip circuitry. Imaging will be accomplished by backside thinning and illumination through the bulk substrate, allowing high-density integrated circuits to be integrated over 100% of the epitaxial silicon. In addition to SOI's inherent radiation hardness, it is lower power (<1.2V), by providing isolation allows greater transistor density, readily handle mixed signals, and is thus well suited for realizing a high level of functionality system-on-a-chip. A robust, small sized, low power, and highly functional imager benefits commercial satellite star trackers, autonomous navigation systems, security and surveillance, medical imaging, biometric face identification, remote sensing, night vision, border patrol, search and rescue, microscopy, industrial inspection, and astronomy applications.

VOXTEL INC. 2640 SW Georgian Place Portland, OR 97201
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(503) 421-4389 Mr. James Gates MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	OPTIMIZED UV SOLAR BLIND GaN/AlGaN AVALANCHE PHOTODIODE FPA
Abstract:	High performance ultraviolet solar blind APD arrays are presently unavailable. In this Phase I SBIR, Voxtel Inc proposes to optimize the design of a UV solar blind avalanche photodiode array enabled by: advances in GaN and AlGaN material growth and processing, a novel device architecture, and monolithic integration with high bandwidth, low noise, active/passive quenching, readout integrated circuitry (ROIC). Our Phase I research will perform design trades and 3D simulations of at least two detector architectures suitable for such high sensitivity applications including: 1) a GaN APD with an optimized avalanche layer and 2) a vertical Schottky contact GaN/AlGaN heterostructure APD. Concurrent to detector developments, a high performance ROIC will be designed and optimized for monolithically integration to enabling highly sensitive and high-speed sensor operation. Highly sensitivity, high speed photodetectors operating in the ultraviolet, especially in the solar blind region below 0.4 microns, are needed for both military and commercial applications including lidar, Cherenkov radiation monitoring, particle size and velocity measurements, flame sensing (including hydrogen), biological agent detection, time resolved UV spectroscopy, coronal studies, missile and shellfire detection, and ionosphere studies.

WELD STAR TECHNOLOGY, INC. 610 Jennifer Drive Auburn, AL 36830
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(334) 887-3985 Dr. Clyde Wikle MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Passive Sensor for the Detection of Hydrazine Leaks in Missile Canisters
Abstract:	Hydrazine is a widely used missile propellant that is highly toxic to humans in low exposures. The maximum exposure limit is 10ppb over an 8 hour time period. To insure the readiness of BMDO missiles and the safety of personnel during missile transport and storage, it is desired to monitor the interior of missile storage canisters for hydrazine leakage. Commercially available hydrazine sensors are either to bulky, draw excessive continuous current or have inadequate operational life to meet expected life cycle times of BMDO missiles. The objective of this proposal is to develop a conductive polymer based, passive MEMs sensor that does not draw continuous power, lasts five years, is small in size, and has a hydrazine sensitivity of a few ppb. Hydrazine and its methyl derivatives are used extensively in rocket propulsion (NASA and DOD) and commercially in the electric power industry as an oxygen scavenging anticorrosive agent. Hydrazine is also used in the synthesis of drugs, fertilizers and polymers. A detector with ppb detection levels would greatly improve the safety of workers from accidental hydrazine leaks.

XONTECH, INC. 6862 Hayvenhurst Avenue Van Nuys, CA 91406
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(714) 894-2286 Mr. Lem Pottsepp MDA 02-003 Selected for Award
Title:	Subtopic B - Interactive Discrimination Techniques utilizing Advanced Interceptor Concepts for Ballistic Missile Defense
Abstract:	This SBIR Phase I program will evaluate the feasibility of combining innovative interactive discrimination techniques with advanced interceptor concepts to enhance the robustness of existing and future Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) Systems against countermeasures. Countermeasures are one of the primary concerns of BMD System designers. As such, the real challenge to the defense designer is to be able to provide a capabilities based development approach. This program attempts to combine advanced interceptor concepts with innovative, interactive discrimination techniques to provide an extremely robust capability to defeat most countermeasures. This activity will leverage past BMD discrimination work performed by XonTech to assess the capability of interactive discrimination techniques to measure potentially small imparted motions. The program will also utilize advanced interceptor concepts, postulated by XonTech and others, which might provide additional robustness beyond "standard" hit-to-kill interceptors used on most defense programs today. These generic concepts include multiple kill vehicles per booster, "artificial atmospheres" for interactive discrimination, and sweeper concepts that might actively eliminate a large portion of the threat cloud. The final product will be a feasibility assessment showing, which of the discrimination techniques is suitable for consideration with each of the generic advanced interceptor concepts. The commercialization of this SBIR Phase I Program will likely be limited to Ballistic Missile Defense applications, by any number of different customers including: THAAD, the NMD Program, Project Hercules, SMDC's Joint Center for Technology Integration, SMDC Sensors Directorate, or the Navy Theater Wide Program. If any of the advanced interceptor concepts examined are funded and applied at a system level, this work will be critical to the successful implementation of interactive discrimination. The future commercialization goal of this program is the insertion of interactive discrimination algorithms to complement advanced interceptor concepts in existing or future Defense Programs. Depending upon the program, this commercialization may include future sales to the U.S Defense Department and to foreign allies such as the United Kingdom, Israel, Japan or others. XonTech will work with the sponsor of this program to help identify appropriate programs and applications for future algorithm development and insertion opportunities. XonTech is a recognized leader in the market of discrimination algorithm development and will utilize this experience base to help make commercialization of this Phase I Program a success.

ADVANCED CERAMICS MANUFACTURING 3292 East Hemisphere Loop Tucson, AZ 85706
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(520) 573-6300 Mrs. Marlene Platero-AllRunner MDA 02-004 Selected for Award
Title:	Cost Effective High Temperature Fibrous Monolith Propulsion Components Through Manufacturing Process Development
Abstract:	Advanced Ceramics Manufacturing proposes to investigate the potential cost reduction and production yield of Fibrous Monolith (FM) composite propulsion components through process flow analysis and adjustment. ACM will begin by selecting a developed and tested FM material system (specific for propulsion application). Alliant Tech Systems will assist ACM in selecting a prototype part to fabricate. ACM will conduct process flow and cost analysis. Fabrication techniques will be incorporated or eliminated to reduce production costs, increase productivity and reproducibility thereby classifying FMs as a truly low-cost, robust and environmental friendly material. For carbide-based FMs to be cost effective and easily integrated within TMD and NMD systems, the production of FM components must be within reasonable lead times, cost effective, and of reproducible quality while maintaining mechanical, thermal and physical properties that make these materials advantageous. ACM's primary objective is to develop and implement a manufacturing process that produces carbide-based FM propulsion components at lower costs while producing a high performance propulsion material. In accomplishing the program objective, BMDO and potential commercial customers such as ATK will be able to test and utilize FM advanced materials in propulsion components in a time and cost efficient manner. If successful, this program will have demonstrated that the newly developed carbide-based Fibrous Monolith composites could be a cost competitive advanced material for TMD and NMD propulsion systems. Within this program, ACM would have produced a FM prototype component within reasonable lead times in a cost effective manner for BMDO and potential propulsion customers such as Alliant Tech Systems or Honeywell.

ADVANCED OPTICAL SYSTEMS, INC. 6767 Old Madison Pike, Suite 410 Huntsville, AL 35806
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(256) 971-0036 Mr. Kenneth S. Merwin MDA 02-004 Selected for Award
Title:	Significant Optical Manufacturing Advancement (SOMA) Process Development
Abstract:	Advanced Optical Systems (AOS) offers the Significant Optical Manufacturing Advancement (SOMA) Process Development program. We recognize that new technologies require an appropriate manufacturing process and that affordability is a significant factor of any military system. Prototype systems require an investment in Design For Manufacturability and Assembly (DFMA), but often this funding is only available late in the acquisition cycle. DoD manufacturing thrusts are typically aimed at the component, not the systems level. Two key thrusts are innovative manufacturing technologies and dual-use manufacturing where the government reaps the cost advantages of using a system that is also making commercial products. These processes are well understood by electronic and mechanical system manufactures. Optical system manufacturing processes are absent or are closely held secrets of major consumer companies, generally unavailable to entrepreneurs. If these manufacturing techniques are developed at the system level, MDA will receive significant technological advancements for missile defense. The SOMA Process Development Program will make revolutionary advancements in the manufacturing optical systems that will provide two direct benefits to MDA. The first will be advancement in optical signal processing technologies. The second will be the application of the SOMA process to a wide range of optical systems, accelerating optical prototypes into the production cycle.

ANVIK CORPORATION 6 Skyline Drive Hawthorne, NY 10532
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(914) 345-2442 Mr. Marc Zemel MDA 02-004 Selected for Award
Title:	Low Temperature Fabrication of Integrated Large-Area MEMS Devices on Flexible Substrates
Abstract:	The integration of large-area MEMS devices with electronic circuitry promises to deliver significant benefits, such as reduction of device size, increased sensor sensitivities, and reduced fabrication costs. Further, the use of flexible substrates provides additional benefits in improved environmental performance, conformability, and lower fabrication costs. The applications of an integrated large-area MEMS device on a flexible substrate are numerous, such as improved low-cost inertial sensors for missile and aircraft navigation and shear stress and strain sensor arrays for aircraft skins. Despite advances in the development of MEMS devices with integrated electronics on flexible substrates, limitations still exist that preclude tighter and broader integration. The high temperature processes in standard IC fabrication change the mechanical and/or electrical properties of the materials that would be used in MEMS devices and also prevent the fabrication of conventional thin-film transistors (TFTs) on flexible substrates. Another problem has been the lack of large-area high-resolution processing techniques to enable the fabrication these devices. In this proposal, we present a plan to develop a new, combined MEMS and IC fabrication methodology that would eliminate the high-temperature process steps of IC fabrication and enable large-area, high-resolution patterning on flexible substrates. This methodology would build upon Anvik's extensive ongoing activities in lithography, ablation and materials processing systems. The integration of large-area MEMS devices with electronic circuitry promises to deliver significant benefits, such as reduction of device size, increased sensor sensitivities, and reduced fabrication costs. Further, the use of flexible substrates provides additional benefits in improved environmental performance, conformability, and lower fabrication costs. The applications of an integrated large-area MEMS device on a flexible substrate are numerous, such as improved low-cost inertial sensors for missile and aircraft navigation, shear stress and strain sensor arrays for aircraft skins, and lightweight adaptive micro-optics for space-based telescopes.

CERAMIC COMPOSITES, INC. 1110 Benfield Blvd. Millersville, MD 21108
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(410) 224-3710 Dr. Mark Patterson MDA 02-004 Selected for Award
Title:	Ultra Refractory Composites: Enabling Performance and Cost Payoffs For Divert Propulsion Components
Abstract:	Ceramic Composites Inc. proposes its novel fiber reinforced Ultra Refactory Composites as an enabling technology for replacement of heavy and expensive rhenium components in BMDO divert and attitude systems (DACS). A systematic approach for optimizing a graded C-Re matrix and a graded C-HfC/SiC matrix densification process for different carbon fiber preforms; i.e. for divert thrusters and hot gas valve assemblies, respectively, is outlined. Multiple hot firing tests in a solid DACS envirornment by OEM ATK Thiokol, will provide the success criteria necessary to transition to full scale component testing in phase II. Weight savings of 7:1 and cost savings of 5:1 compared to solid rhenium component are achievable. Millions of dollars in production cost avoidance and enhanced performance capabilities will be realized for Standard Missile III interceptor, a critical part of the Theater Missile Defense' s AEGIS Weapon System. Similar benefits are achievable for THAAD DACS components as well as advanced aricraft propulsion systems and hypersonic missiles. Major spinoff commercial market opportunities have also been identified.

COMPUTATIONAL SENSORS CORPORATION 714 Bond Ave. Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(805) 898-1060 Dr. John Langan MDA 02-004 Selected for Award
Title:	Hardware in the Loop Operational Testing for Analog VLSI Image Processor Design
Abstract:	The objective of this project is to perform Hardware-in-the-Loop (HWIL) operational testing and analysis in support of critical BMDO missions using spatio-temporal image filtering hardware previously developed by Computational Sensors Corporation (CSC). This hardware supports, and is enabling to, BMDO program algorithms that flow down to major missile defense systems. This testing will use simulated and real-world government supplied imagery addressing critical boost phase and mid-course issues of RV detection and micro-dynamics based identification, closely spaced object discrimination in cluttered background environments, and high frequency spatial and temporal filtering for hardware compression. The simulation and hardware development work to date is ready for extensive HWIL testing validation to guide further application-optimized technology development. Specifically, these results will determine the key parameters and architectural features to drive a new analog VLSI chip design tailored optimally for supporting these tasks and suitable for captive flight-testing. This design will be more compact and consume less power than digital alternatives. In Phase I we will produce a chip architecture derived from HWIL results supported by extensive simulations performed to validate the new chip architecture filtering capabilities. Commercial, integrated, analog image processors are ideally suited for compact, low power, military imaging applications. Analog image processing technology may also be applicable in many other commercial areas including automatic inspection, biometric identification, and other machine vision applications.

CONFORMAL TECHNOLOGIES 1007 Goosecross Court Bel Air, MD 21014
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(281) 639-8183 Dr. Krishnan S. Menon MDA 02-004 Selected for Award
Title:	Innovative Battery Manufacturing and Unit Cost reduction
Abstract:	A new, innovative battery manufacturing process and related battery structure enabling conformal designs with more than 30% increase in energy/power density and more than 50% unit cost reduction compared to the state of the art, with substantially improved cycle life and safety is proposed. The manufacturing process affords continuous multi-cell lamination from just one anode, one cathode and two separator feed rolls to laminate any number of cell layers together. The process requires certain modifications in the support materials like the separator and the current collector. The separator technology uses a phase-inversion membrane to bond the separator and the electrodes at room temperature and under light pressure. Room temperature lamination eliminates heat transfer problems that prevents one of the problems with multi-cell lamination. A highly conductivity composite current collector (instead of aluminum and copper foils/grids) with innovative trimming techniques eliminate burrs and stringers, that plague the battery manufacturing process and prevents multi-cell lamination, while reducing weight and decreasing cost and increasing process yield significantly. The technology uses state of the art active materials. The material selection affords availability. The increased cycle life and reduced unit cost makes the unit cycle cost very low (<1/4th) compared to the state of the art. This technology is applicable to other battery chemistries as well. Significant unit cost reduction; new innovative manufacturing process eliminating complex stacking process for assembly and significantly reducing the trimming, cutting and/or punching operations; related capital cost savings; conformal designs with substantial freedom to shape the battery; and improvement in the energy/power density, cycle life and safety are the anticipated benefits. The drastic reduction in unit cost and unit cycle cost is what BMDO is looking for. The cost reduction would make this technology, with added safety, very attractive to electric vehicles. In addition to these advantages, the conformal design possibilities will make it very attractive to the military battery market. Military market will gain added cost advantage from the commercial success too: commercial off the shelf (COTS) advantage. Prolonged usage, extended cycle, shallow depth discharge applications like in space crafts is another advantage, where the battery is expected to provide >60,000 cycles. The huge cell phone, lap-top and other portables market also should open up due to this technology because of the benefits this technology brings.

CORNERSTONE RESEARCH GROUP, INC. 2750 Indian Ripple Rd. Dayton, OH 45440
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 320-1877 Mr. D. Ernest Havens MDA 02-004 Selected for Award
Title:	Innovative Manufacturing of Novel, High-Performance Composites for Propulsion Components
Abstract:	Improving performance while reducing cost and weight of kinetic energy kill vehicles and components will require the development of several innovative improvements in materials, processing and manufacturing technologies. For example, many accepted rocket nozzle-manufacturing processes are labor intensive, consume excessive amounts of energy and time, and force engineering tradeoffs involving geometry and efficiency. Cornerstone Research Group, Inc. (CRG) proposes to develop new, high-performance propulsion components and sub-components based on the combination of advanced composite technology and innovative processing techniques. The result is multilayer, organic- and inorganic-matrix-composite propulsion components that are capable of achieving the desired performance while dramatically reducing cost. CRG has assembled a highly-qualified team of consultants to ensure the viability of transitioning and implementing the materials and process technology in propulsion components and sub-components. The team consists of Edison Materials Technology Center (EMTEC), who will provide technical support and consulting services; Alliant Techsystems (ATK), who will provide technical support on the design of propulsion components; and Goodrich Aerospace Corporation (formerly BF Goodrich), who will provide engineering support and manufacturing expertise to assist in integrating their proprietary polymer systems into the composite end product. The proposal discusses the development of advanced materials and processing technology for the low-cost manufacturing of propulsion components, such as high-performance rocket nozzles. The development of this technology will provide the means for lowering costs and actualizing current concepts of propulsion systems and components. One of the primary limiting factors of these enhanced systems has been cost. By overcoming this limitation, a new aerospace market of missile system development and high performance propulsion will be established. Our strategy for initial commercialization lies within in our established relationship with ATK and Goodrich Aerospace.

ENSER CORPORATION, THE 5430-B 70th Avenue North Pinellas Park, FL 33781
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(727) 520-1393 Mr. Harry Straub MDA 02-004 Selected for Award
Title:	Multi-Cavity Die Technology
Abstract:	Thermal batteries are mission-critical components utilized in virtually every weapon system. Thermal batteries require four types of pellets that comprise the energy-producing portion of the battery. These include: (1) anode pellets, composed of Li(Si) alloy and electrolyte salt, (2) cathode pellets, consisting of either FeS2 or CoS2 and electrolyte salt, (3) separator pellets, consisting of MgO and electrolyte salt and (4) heat pellets containing iron and potassium perchlorate. Pellet size and number vary by battery type and application. A pellet is manufactured by compacting its powdered constituents in an automated press. The powder is loaded into a feed shoe, which automatically fills a die cavity. Press tonnage is a function of pellet diameter and thickness. Currently, pellet production is the rate-limiting step in thermal battery manufacture, hence, it is essential to optimize press throughput. At present, only one pellet is produced at a time, i.e., the press tooling is comprised of only one die cavity and one punch. This proposed SBIR project focuses on identifying and addressing the design challenge to implement two (or more) die cavities and punches in order to double, or perhaps even triple, pellet production rate. Virtually every thermal battery production program will benefit as a result of increased production rate capability and concomitant lower unit cost.

ENSER CORPORATION, THE 5430-B 70th Avenue North Pinellas Park, FL 33781
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(727) 520-1393 Mr. Heath Norris MDA 02-004 Selected for Award
Title:	High Rate Powder Mixing
Abstract:	Thermal batteries are a mission-critical component utilized in virtually every weapon system. Four types of pellets comprise the energy-producing portion of a thermal battery. These include: (1) anode pellets, composed of Li(Si) alloy and electrolyte salt, (2) cathode pellets, consisting of either FeS2 or CoS2 and electrolyte salt, (3) separator pellets, consisting of MgO and electrolyte salt and (4) heat pellets containing iron and potassium perchlorate. A pellet is manufactured by compacting its powdered constituents in a die cavity. Pellet production has typically been the rate-limiting step in thermal battery manufacture; hence, press cycle times have been reduced to at/near their minimum practical values. A separate SBIR effort has been proposed to develop/ demonstrate multi-cavity dies to double or triple the number of pellets produced per press cycle. As press throughput rates are increased, the bottleneck in the manufacturing process will switch to raw material powder processing. This proposed SBIR project focuses on identifying and addressing the design challenges associated with substantially increasing powder production rates. Along with successful incorporation of multi-cavity die technology, this effort will result in a substantial increase in thermal battery production capability. Virtually every thermal battery production program will benefit as a result of increased production rate capability and concomitant lower unit cost.

FIBER MATERIALS, INC. 5 Morin Street Biddeford, ME 04005
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(207) 282-5911 Mr. Stephen A. Michaud MDA 02-004 Selected for Award
Title:	Investigation of Placed Fiber Fabrication Process for Manufacture of Integrated Structures for Interceptor Applications
Abstract:	A program is proposed to investigate and demonstrate an innovative approach to the production of integrated structures for interceptor applications such as the Theater High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) System. Currently, the THAAD shroud consists of a tape wrapped quartz/phenolic (Q/P) heatshield bonded to an aluminum substrate. The aluminum substrate requires considerable machining to prepare, and the tapes require preparation of a woven fabric and a resin impregnation step. It is proposed that the placed fiber process can be used to spray a composite substrate with carbon-fiber and bismalemide-resin (C/BMI), and to then spray Q/P panels from which tapes are cut, wrapped, and then cured directly on the C/BMI substrate, creating a single integrated shroud. One or more production steps would be eliminated. Phase I efforts will verify that placed fiber processes for C/BMI and Q/P materials respectively, can be used to create a single, integrated composite. In a Phase II program, an integrated shroud would be fabricated to the THAAD design using C/BMI placed fiber for the substrate Q/P placed fiber for the outer heatshield. The integrated shroud would be fully characterized to show that physical, mechanical and thermal properties required by the shroud requirements are met. The direct benefit will be a single, integrated shroud that can be used in DoD interceptor applications as well other applications where heatshields and thermal protection systems are required. Significant cost reductions should also lead to commercial aerospace applications where high temperatures are present. In addition, the integrated composite can be used in fire protection applications.

INNOVATIVE BUSINESSS SOLUTIONS INC 301 Concourse Boulevard, Suite 301 Glen Allen, VA 23059
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(727) 812-5555 Mr. Edward Jans MDA 02-004 Selected for Award
Title:	Flexible Processor Packaging for Advanced Interceptors
Abstract:	The commercial industry is agressive to reduce size and weight to meet the demands of portable consumer electronics. Smaller component footprints and flexible circuits are key to this high density packaging. We are proposing to apply these approaches and develop an innovative flexible interceptor processor. Phase 1 will capture the commercial technology roadmap of electronics packaging. In addition, the best approach for a ruggedized solution for an interceptor application will be defined. Design, Hardware build and evaluation will be addressed in Phase 2. The proposed program will determine the feasibility of applying the advanced high density packaging approaches of portable consumer electronics to interceptor applications.

LASSON TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 6059 Bristol Parkway Culver City, CA 90230
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 216-4049 Dr. Bruno Pouet MDA 02-004 Selected for Award
Title:	Active Ultrasonic Fluid Probe for Vibration Monitoring of High Speed Machine Tools
Abstract: Abstract not available...

METAL MATRIX CAST COMPOSITES, INC. 101 Clematis Avenue, Unit #1 Waltham, MA 02453
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 893-4449 Dr. James A. Cornie MDA 02-004 Selected for Award
Title:	Manufacturing Cost Reduction for Key Enabling Thermal Management Applications Using CTE Controlled Graphite Fiber Reinforced Al
Abstract:	This proposal shows how innovations in producing a family of CTE controlled, high thermal graphite aluminum composites will reduce manufacturing costs and improve system performance for specific BMDO, Navy, and commercial applications. Technologies developed by a graphite fiber producer, paper textile manufacturer, and metal composites foundry will create a superior thermal management material ideally suited for high volume semiconductor packaging production. BMDO, through the AIT program, supported an effort to develop a Ka-band solid-state transmitter (SST) based on IMPATT (Impact Avalanche Transit Time) diode technology as a significantly lower cost, more reliable upgrade to the current traveling-wave tube (TWT)-based transmitter for the PAC 3 Missile. A light weight, fast machining composite with diamond matched CTE and high thermal conductivity will facilitate a revolutionary breakthrough in concurrent integration of piece part components. Also, Lockheed Martin's Naval Electronics and Surveillance Systems for Aegis destroyers could save an estimated 5000 lbs per ship set - realizing tremendous cost savings and performance benefits. Conventional materials are too heavy, too expensive, inadequate thermally, or are unable to obtain low, reproducible CTE needed for emerging BMDO requirements, as a result - the graphite aluminum and manufacturing innovations proposed are a key enabler to future electronics warfare development. If the overall Phase I and Phase II goals and objectives are met, MMCC will have available to DoD and commercial customers a cost effective, state of the art composite materials technology that will enable new design concepts and reduced manufacturing costs for high thermal conductivity, CTE controlled thermal management solutions. By using graphite aluminum composites, the integrated manufacturing concepts proposed will combine multiple piece part components, provide drastic reductions in weight, improve reliability, and lower costs.

METAL MATRIX CAST COMPOSITES, INC. 101 Clematis Avenue, Unit #1 Waltham, MA 02453
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 893-4449 Dr. James A. Cornie MDA 02-004 Selected for Award
Title:	Model Foundry for Low Cost Rapid Prototyping, Rapid Manufacturing of Metal Matrix Composites Parts
Abstract:	Manufacturing technology development and integration of MMCC's 3- DPT, Tool-Less MoldT and Advanced Pressure Infiltration(APICT) technologies are proposed. Investment casting of preforms printed directly from a CAD or laser file and subsequent pressure infiltration will enable parts to be manufactured without the added expense of tooling development. With investment materials being recycled and constituent materials being inexpensive aluminum melt stock and low cost ceramic abrasive powder, the process will be cheaper than any competitive process for limited quantity production and competitive at high volume manufacturing. Moreover, the flexibility in design and the elimination of molds and tooling makes it possible to proceed from art to part in as little as two weeks with a fresh design. The overall Phase I and Phase II objective is to create an efficient model foundry that can be licensed to high volume commercial customers, used for component development and limited volume manufacturing or reproduced at any given location and used to manufacture parts for the DoD at low cost and rapid delivery. The specific objective is to show feasibility by producing subscale SM3 guidance housings in collaboration with Raytheon and to deliver a demonstration segment of a full scale housing. Complex parts for BMDO and DoD applications will be manufactured for a fraction of the cost of machined parts. Beryllium and AlBe will be replaced by CAST discontinuous aluminum parts at a fraction of the cost and negligible environmental impact. Designers and component developers will be able to modify designs late in the design cycle without adversely affecting schedules. The technology developed on this project can be transferred to commercial castings where it will be competitive with sand and die casting.

NVE CORP. (FORMERLY NONVOLATILE ELECTRONICS, INC.) 11409 Valley View Road Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(952) 996-1607 Dr. James M. Daughton MDA 02-004 Selected for Award
Title:	Magneto-Thermal MRAM
Abstract:	Magnetoresistive Random Access Memory (MRAM) density is limited by thermal stability of the storage elements for 0.1 micron and smaller lithographies. This proposed program overcomes the thermal stability limits of MRAM cells through the use of intrinsically high coupling fields between a ferromagnetic film and an anti- ferromagnetic film, which creates high storage energy, and through the use of both magnetic fields and heating for writing selected cells. Currents in the cell produce both the magnetic field and Joule heating. Either or both the Neel temperature of the antiferromagnet and/or the Curie point of the ferromagnet must be lower than about 300 degrees C for best operation. Materials, modes of operation, and memory architectures will be explored in Phase I. Repeated (to 10 billion) cell switching with switching times faster than 3 ns using the preferred mode of operation will be shown during Phase I. Phase II will show operating arrays of magneto-thermal cells with 0.05 micron lithography. This technique can extend the ultimate density of MRAM by more than a factor of 10, reduce currents (power), and improve producibility. Very high density nonvolatile memory can be used commercially for "instant on" applications in computing and to replace slow access time hard disk drives, especially where less than 100 GBytes are required. The intrinsic radiation hardness and rugged nature of this memory make it especially suited for space applications.

ONYX OPTICS, INC. 6551 Sierra Lane Dublin, CA 94568
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(925) 833-1969 Dr. Helmuth Meissner MDA 02-004 Selected for Award
Title:	Efficient Manufacture of Flanged Composite Yb:YAG Laser Rods for kW-Class Lasers
Abstract:	Military and commercial applications of diode pumped solid state lasers (DPSSL) using end-pumped flanged Yb:YAG composite rods, incorporating Onyx Optics Adhesive-Free Bond (AFB) and flange-finishing technology, have the potential for significant growth because they represent a new class of compact, efficient and economical high-brightness lasers. They are expected to be crucial as a laser-radar (LADAR) device and as illuminator laser for programs such the Airborne Laser (ABL). For commercial applications they are expected to improve the quality of traditional laser machining techniques and enable new applications such as welding of aluminum car bodies, and cutting of aluminum and titanium for aircraft parts. Therefore, this laser system offers to leverage commercial volume production for supplying a high-performance, low-cost laser system for incorporation into BMD systems. The scale-up of flanged Yb:YAG composite rods for kilowatt-class lasers poses the problem of developing a production process of a lasing element of complex shape. Onyx pioneered the manufacture of such rods in prototype quantities. Onyx Optics now proposes to break new ground in the development of a cost-effective manufacturing process for production quantities of flanged Yb:YAG composite rods with polished barrels. The proposed production process would form the basis for opening a large market for military and commercial high-power laser-diode end-pumped solid state laser systems based on flanged Yb:YAG composite rods.

SONALYSTS, INC. 215 Parkway North, P.O. Box 280 Waterford, CT 06385
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(757) 490-3927 Mr. William J. Buckley MDA 02-004 Selected for Award
Title:	Missile Defense Concept Analysis Tool (MiDCAT)
Abstract:	Phase I efforts will research requirements for a low-fidelity simulation that address a layered Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) for all phases of missile flight and all ranges. Phase I also will demonstrate a Missile Defense Concept Analysis Tool (MiDCAT) concept for new and evolving BMD systems (GMD, MEADS, THADD, Navy TWD, TBMD, etc.) and Ballistic Missile Command, Control, and Communications (BM/C3). This demonstration will be accomplished through development of a BMD scenario and modification of the Jane's Fleet CommandO military simulation/gaming engine. Research efforts also will address scenario generation, automated data collection, and assessment capabilities to support cost-effective 'first order' analysis at the Joint National Integration Center (JNIC) and Joint Forces Command (JFCOM) Joint Experimentation. These capabilities seek cost reductions for conducting full-blown BMD simulations or tests. Phase II efforts will develop a MiDCAT prototype system of a Battle Management Center, as well as, demonstration and evaluation at the JNIC. This research will contribute significantly to the development of a fully functional concept development testing system that will support a BMD command environment on a PC-based system. This technology represents a cost reduction approach to concept testing. We anticipate that the technology developed under this SBIR topic will be employed in future Military programs (ABL, SBIRS, DD(X), CVNX, JCCX, etc.), and within the Military's concept testing infrastructure. This research also will provide simulation support with extensions for "human-in-the-loop" human systems integration (HSI), workload analysis, and training.

SUMMIT IMAGING, INC. 5025 Boardwalk, Suite 200 Colorado Springs, CO 80919
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(719) 598-6006 Mr. David W. Gardner MDA 02-004 Selected for Award
Title:	High Depth of Field MEMS Inspection
Abstract:	A primary limitation in the implementation of new MEMs devices is the inability to inspect the 3-dimensional structures. Unlike semiconductor circuits, MEMS may contain structures with features extending tens of microns above the wafer's surface. Moreover, these features move, tilt, vibrate or rotate. Because the features in MEMS devices extend significantly along the z-axis, optical microscopes used in conventional semiconductor inspection are of limited use. The narrow field depth of an optical microscope makes it impossible to have the entire MEMS design in focus all at one time. Historically, designers have addressed this issue by using scanning electron microscopes (SEMS). While the SEM is capable of providing a very large depth of field, they are expensive, stimulus must be brought in via cumbersome, hermetically sealed electrical headers and the electron beam used in SEM perturbs conductive elements in MEMS designs. Summit proposes a solution which allows the use of conventional microscopy to examine MEMS structures. Unlike conventional microscopes where the depth of field may be 1 micron or less, the technique proposed offers focal depths as high as hundreds of microns. Moreover, since no vacuum chamber is involved, sophisticated electrical stimulus may be provided with relative ease. The ability to provide high depth of field microscopic analysis has direct application in MEMs manufacturing/inspection, medical microscopy and general microscopy. Traditionally, the only means of providing both high magnification and high depth of field is to stop down the optics. This reduces the light throughput by orders of magnitude in an already light-starved situation. The proposed technique provides ultra high depth of field with no reduction in optical throughput.

TANNER RESEARCH, INC. 2650 East Foothill Boulevard, Mailstop 100 Pasadena, CA 91107
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(626) 792-3000 Dr. Amish Desai MDA 02-004 Selected for Award
Title:	Mass Fabricated Digital Array Micro Thrusters for Miniature Interceptor Divert and Attitude Control Systems (DACS)
Abstract:	New developments in MEMS-based fabrication concepts permit dense packaging of micro thrusters collocated with the microelectronics required to provide digital control. The MEMS-based DACS is a low-cost approach to providing digital micro propulsion that greatly reduces the DACS footprint and mass that miniature interceptors require. This will lead the way for much higher mission performance at less cost for multiple system applications like attitude control for MMKV/MKV, possibly for micro and small satellite stationkeeping, and certainly within the emerging family of medium caliber precision-guided autonomous munitions, like Light Fighter Lethality, which may be spin stabilized, and will require digitally-controlled annular DACS. Tanner Research proposes to dramatically reduce the cost to implement digital array micro thrusters by using MEMS fabrication techniques adapted from the microelectronics industry. Thruster fabrication will be done in its entirety at Tanner Research, and will be facilitated by multiple ongoing projects to develop wafer-based micro cavities. The micro cavities, which are micro thrusters, are currently being tested and evaluated by TACOM-ARDEC for use as micro detonators and MEMS-based safe and arm devices; and, by OSD/WPAFB as a micro thermite device for anti tamper applications. In Phase I, Tanner Research will fabricate micro thrusters on 4-inch silicon wafers, with each wafer containing 200 micro thrusters. The micro thrusters, in a hybrid arrangement, will be digitally controlled from a wire-bonded PC board. We will demonstrate dynamic control of impulse-levels of thrust. The 4-inch wafer design will be multi-functional: e.g., it can be segmented as 5, 10 or 20 separate DACS, each with digital control; or made flexible for conformal mounting. Volume cost projection: $100 per wafer.

THIRD WAVE SYSTEMS, INC. 7301 Ohms Lane, Suite 580 Minneapolis, MN 55439
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(952) 832-5515 Dr. Troy Marusich MDA 02-004 Selected for Award
Title:	Machining of Ceramics Materials
Abstract:	This Small Business Innovative Research Phase I project will investigate and deliver a validated software modeling and analysis capability specifically for the machining of ceramic materials. Industry currently lacks the knowledge and ability to model machining and associated material removal processes in these materials. The proposed innovation will allow customers to study, through simulation and process modeling, the manufacturing conditions inherent to the machining of ceramic materials. This innovation will lead to potentially many new applications of ceramic components for automotive, aerospace and machine components. Industry will benefit economically through significantly reduced testing trials, improved productivity, lower component costs, increased component quality and expanded manufacturing capability. The core research of the project is to implement and validate a constitutive modeling environment specifically for ceramic materials. The baseline modeling environment will be Third Wave Systems AdvantEdge software product, which will then provide a strong commercialization path for the technology to industry. The commercial applications for the proposed innovation are primarily to provide manufacturing professionals an analytical modeling tool for ceramic machining processes. Such capability will provide large economic benefits through reduced testing trials, improved component quality and capabilities, and lower costs to manufacture. Initially industry applications are expected in the engines, bearings, and semiconductor marketplace where use of these materials in new applications is growing.

TOUCHSTONE RESEARCH LABORATORY, LTD. The Millennium Centre, R.R. 1, Box 100B Triadelphia, WV 26059
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(304) 547-5800 Dr. Darren K. Rogers MDA 02-004 Selected for Award
Title:	Carbon Foam-Based Lightweight Mirrors
Abstract:	Several current and upcoming space-based telescope and laser beam director designs, such as the Next-Generation Space Telescope and the Space-Based Laser, call for large aperture optical components, often tens of meters in diameter. Using conventional mirror/director technologies, the cost and weight of these systems would be prohibitive. In addition, conventional materials, such as glass, offer insufficient stiffness and their performance is affected by vibration and thermal service conditions. A method of fabricating mirrors/directors by infiltrating coal-based carbon foam with sol-gel glass compositions is proposed. The coal-based foam can be tailored with regard to stiffness, thermal expansion, and graded in density and pore structure through its thickness to provide localized stiffness and thermal expansion control while maintaining an overall weight-efficient structure. The sol-gel derived glass provides the optical surface - in a form amenable to foam infiltration by common resin transfer molding practice. Both materials are very inexpensive (cents per pound) and, together, offer broad design flexibility. Polishability to obtain optical quality surfaces and thermomechanical performance in simulated space service conditions will be considered in the proposed effort. Carbon, when graphitic and highly ordered as in fiber or deposited film forms, can exhibit unmatched stiffness and thermal stability (e.g., near-zero thermal expansion). Carbon foams can provide similar performance to woven or knitted carbon fiber forms at a fraction of the cost and significantly greater design/use flexibility. Optical systems based on infiltrating these foams with glasses or polymers can be designed in terms of stiffness, thermal expansion, and density - even on localized scales. Demonstration that glass-foam composites can be used in space-based optical systems - controlling structure stiffness and thermal expansion and surviving exposure to launch conditions, thermal cycling, vibration, and high-temperature oxidation - will aid in carbon foam insertion into other space-based and/or optical structures. These include: mirrors and directors, optical benches, reaction structures, reinforcement for large-area structures, and thermal protection systems.

VANGUARD COMPOSITES GROUP, INC. 5550 Oberlin Drive, Suite B San Diego, CA 92121
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 784-0431 Mr. Matt Thompson MDA 02-004 Selected for Award
Title:	LIGHTWEIGHT, COMPOSITE PROPULSION MANIFOLD SYSTEM WITH INTEGRAL PROPELLANT LINES
Abstract:	Liquid propellant Divert and Attitude Control Systems (DACS) are unanimously recognized as the most mature, low risk, and most versatile type of propulsion for maneuvering small vehicles and structures. This program will apply a low cost composite fabrication process to a new technology application for BMDO interceptors and commercial satellites. The product, integrally molded propellant lines within a composite propulsion system manifold, will be based on a) a precision composite fabrication process called matched metal net molding, and b) proven liquid propellant systems which are firmly established for a majority of BMDO interceptor programs including the Theater High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile, Ground Based Interceptor (GBI), and the Anti-Satellite (ASAT) programs. This new product will be based on proven composite materials fabrication technologies developed by BMDO and innovative propulsion concepts being developed by Rocketdyne. It has direct application to the THAAD Attitude Control System (ACS) Propellant Manifold, and has garnered interest by the engineering staff at Boeing North American Rocketdyne. The work conducted in the tasks will be linked to other development programs at Rocketdyne developing non-toxic liquid propellant technology for Navy BMDO applications, specifically with potential uses on the Gel DACS design. Propulsion systems have traditionally been fabricated from high density metals, in part because the stress states are complex; however, the development and demonstration of stitching technology in combination with resin infusion technology now makes the use of graphite fiber reinforced composites feasible for these applications. The primary benefit to the interceptor is weight reduction with composite density only 20 percent of steel and 60 percent of aluminum. A weight reduction of the ACES Manifold that is located at the aft end of the KV can be leveraged substantially. Once the material properties and manufacturing database have been deveoped and demonstrated for the ACS Manifold, other candidate propulsion applications such as the Divert Attitude Control System (DACS) Manifold become obvious targets for further weight reduction.

VANGUARD COMPOSITES GROUP, INC. 5550 Oberlin Drive, Suite B San Diego, CA 92121
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 784-0430 Mr. Gary D. Wonacott MDA 02-004 Selected for Award
Title:	Low Cost THAAD Interceptor Kill Vehicle Integrated Airframe Manufacturing Process
Abstract:	As the THAAD interceptor transitions from demonstration validation to production, there is increased emphasis on lower cost manufacturing processes. The proposed program offers the potential to reduce the airframe manufacturing cost by 35 to 40 percent by eliminating almost half of the process steps. This will be accomplished by eliminating the step that attachs the heatshield to the substructure. The proposed approach will lay up dry fiber preforms of the substructure and the heatshield reinforcement followed by injection and cure of a single resin to form the entire airframe. Fabrication of coupons using the VARTM (i.e., vacuum assist resin transfer molding)process confirmed the potential to use the same resin for both the heatshield and the substructure. Tests of the coupons conducted at the AMES arcjet facility demonstrated the viability of this material to withstand the interceptor aerothermal environments. The proposed program will continue the development and demonstration of the technology using a building block approach (i.e., fabrication of coupons and extraction of key aerothermal and structural data), fabricating demonstration articles that can be used to assess aerothermal performance enhancement by stitching the heatshield laminate, and fabrication of full scale test articles for qualification testing in Phase II. The integrated airframe has two benefits: 1) reduce the manufacturing cost 30 to 40 percent compared to the current approach, and 2) enhance the aerothermal performance by stitching the glass layer, thus providing a 2.5 D effect. The material property and producibility database generated for the VARTM process in this program can be used to enable the process to replace more expensive conventional manufacturing processes currently used for everything from space satellite bus structure to ground transit bus structures.

APPLIED PHYSICAL ELECTRONICS, L.C. PO Box 341149 Austin, TX 78734
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(512) 264-1804 Dr. Jon R. Mayes MDA 02-005 Selected for Award
Title:	A Compact Pulse Power Module for Missile Defense Systems
Abstract: Abstract not available...

BOUNDLESS CORPORATION 1730 Conestoga Street SE Boulder, CO 80301
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 415-9029 Dr. John Olson MDA 02-005 Selected for Award
Title:	Dual-Function Carbon Composite Electrodes for Multifunctional Structural Sandwich Panels Incorporating Ultracapacitor Elements as Sandwich Core
Abstract:	Low-mass, highly optimized power systems are critical to the success of advanced missile defense systems and HEVs. Augmenting primary power sources like fuel cells, batteries or internal combustion engines with ultracapacitors promises to reduce their size, but the mass and volume of conventional high-power ultracaps is still substantial. Boundless' CapaciCoreTM High-Power Multifunctional Ultracapacitor Panel offers a unique and innovative solution to this problem by replacing missile or vehicle structure with high-performance, load-bearing carbon composite electrodes. High specific power and high power density is achieved by: ú Spreading capacitor active material in very thin layers relative to the thickness of the bulk current collector, yielding low resistive losses and minimizing heat generation at high discharge rates. ú Constructing capacitor electrodes in a corrugated configuration and spreading them out within a large volume, forming cooling channels adjacent to heat sources. ú Using carbon composite electrodes for structural support as well as for energy storage, enabling high ratios of current collector to active material without excessive mass. ú Replacing the inert structure with a structural ultracapacitor, allowing the ultracapacitor mass to be discounted to account for structural utility, further enhancing effective specific power. Since the unique CapaciCoreTM multifunctional ultracapacitor becomes part of the missile or vehicle structure, it promises improvements in specific power, specific energy, power density, and energy density. Prospective commercial partners have expressed interest in CapaciCoreTM for next-generation THAAD or Patriot missiles - its low mass and volume may allow larger, more advanced payloads or electronics packs without sacrificing range or transportability. Structural capacitors could help the U.S. Army achieve aggressive mass and volume reduction goals (70% mass reduction, 50% volume reduction) for the Future Combat System and may enable FCS elements like electromagnetic guns, electro-thermal chemical guns, and directed energy weapons. Near-term, DARPA's Hybrid RST-Vs, Electric M113 Armored Tracked Vehicles, Hybrid Bradley Tanks, and Hybrid HMWWVs are all targets for structural ultracapacitor adaptations, as is the Navy All-Electric Ship. These military applications will pave the way for integrating CapaciCoreTM into the large and rapidly growing commercial markets for fuel-cell and HEVs. Commercial manufacturers of fuel cell vehicles (like the Freedom CAR participants) and HEVs can improve fuel efficiency and range without reducing passenger space or eliminating features and accessories consumers have come to expect.

CHEMAT TECHNOLOGY, INC. 9036 Winnetka Avenue Northridge, CA 91324
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(818) 727-9786 Mr. Haixing Zheng MDA 02-005 Selected for Award
Title:	CIGS Thin Film Solar Cells via the Sol-Gel Process
Abstract:	Future DoD/commercial space missions will require photovoltaic devices having specific power ratings in excess of 1000 W/kg. Thin film devices (which have effective area density equal to the substrate) have the potential of providing higher specific power ratings. In this proposed research, we plan to use the sol-gel process to make the dense crystalline CIGS films at room temperature. Typical processes will be employed to make the cells and modules. We are targeting to achieve higher than 10% efficiency using the low density polymer (~ 1 g/cm3) as substrates in order to obtain a specific power rating of 1000W/kg. The proposed research has great potential to reduce the cost in manufacturing CIGS solar cells because the process in non-vacuum and low temperature. Low cost high efficiency thin film solar cells could be used for terrestrial/space applications. The market place for commercial space based/terrestrial solar arrays is strong and growing at a rapid rate.

DOTY SCIENTIFIC, INC. 700 Clemson Road Columbia, SC 29229
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(803) 788-6497 Dr. F. David Doty MDA 02-005 Selected for Award
Title:	Advanced Turbo-generators for 1-1000 kW Variable-load Aero-Missions
Abstract:	Preliminary analysis and simulations show a novel, recuperated, open Brayton cycle gas turbine should achieve system specific mass (including the generator and power conditioning) below 5 kg/kWE and efficiency of 35-50% over the range of 1-1000 kW with extremely low thermal and acoustic signatures at altitudes from sea level to 14 km. The dual-spindle compressor will enable high efficiency over a very wide load range, from idle to full power, with response time of 3-10 s after a 15-minute warm-up, making the system well suited to pulse-mode as well as continuous operation. The design integrates advanced features in the Si3N4 turbine, superalloy microtube recuperator, 2-stage compressor with intercooling, micro-jet combustor, high-speed generator, bearings, and power conditioning. The engine will be compatible with most liquid and gaseous fuels and achieve very low emissions. The Phase I is expected to include off-design engine calculations and simulations, detailed CFD and FEA turbine blade optimizations, analysis of factors in erosion of Si3N4 turbine blades, NOX decomposition kinetics analysis, superalloy vacuum brazing experiments, initial spindle design for a 10 kW unit, and tests of a model spindle at turbine tip speeds over 400 m/s. Manufacturing cost analyses will also be an important part of both Phase I and Phase II. Initial applications will be for aerospace and air-platform ballistic missile defense power sources where mass, efficiency, and variable-load compatibility are very important. Eventually, this advanced turbo-generator, perhaps burning propane, diesel, or ethanol, may also replace gasoline and diesel generators in many other air-platforms, land, and sea-based applications.

EIKOS, INC. 2 Master Drive Franklin, MA 02038
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(508) 528-0300 Mr. Paul J Glatkowski MDA 02-005 Selected for Award
Title:	High Eneregy Density Nanocomposite Dielectric For Power Capacitors
Abstract:	Eikos Inc. proposes to develop a nanocomposite with high dielectric constant (K), low loss, and high breakdown strength, to meet the design objectives of high energy density (HED) capacitors. This technology offers substantial improvements in energy storage by lowering size, weight, and system cost applicable to a wide array of future and existing systems. In the proposed Phase I program, we will apply rigorous computational techniques, with support from our partners at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), to predict the properties of this new class of nanocomposite polymers and enable more advanced weapons design. We will create nanocomposite films, and measure its electrical properties. Initial calculations and experiments indicate that these polymers will have greatly enhanced dielectric properties than analogous polymers lacking nanotubes. The development of nanocomposite materials is crucial to overcoming the current plateau in dielectric materials development. This technology lends itself to application and enhancement of existing polymer and ceramic dielectric materials. The compact, high temperature and high-energy density DLC capacitors have myriad uses in both commercial and military applications. These include applications such as domestic utilities and appliances, well drilling equipment, power supplies, aircraft, satellites, trains, automobiles and medical devices. The high temperature capability of the capacitors will enable electronic devices to be mounted close to aircraft engines. This enables more sophisticated engine actuators, sensors and controls to be implemented with a net reduction in weight achieved through the reduction or even elimination of wiring hardware, which is necessary when the electronics have to be remotely located. High-energy density capacitors are also greatly needed for DoD pulse power applications. Eikos has already started negotiations with venture capital firm for securing additional financing for commercialization of this promising technology

HYPER TECH RESEARCH INC. 110 E. Canal St. Troy, OH 45373
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 332-0348 Mr. Michael Tomsic MDA 02-005 Selected for Award
Title:	Development of Magnesium Diboride Coils for High Voltage Superconducting Transformers
Abstract:	New high power airborne and mobile military systems will require megawatts of electrical power produced by very lightweight power sources. The majority of these new systems will require multi-megawatts of power delivered at very high-voltages. Generators will not be able to directly produce the high voltages so high-voltage, multi-megawatt transformers will be required. A superconducting transformer offers the possibility of developing very lightweight, high power transformer. While BSCCO and YBCO coated conductors are being considered for this application, the AC loss characteristics of these conductors are not ideal. In January 2000 it was announced that magnesium diboride compound is superconducting up to 39 K. Our present properties of magnesium diboride wires in the 20-30 K range in magnetic fields up to 2 tesla appear ideal for superconducting transformers. We have also demonstrated a magnetic shielding approach that can result in a significant reduction of AC losses. This proposal explores the development and demonstration of magnesium diboride coils for both the primary and secondary coils of a superconducting transformer. By accelerating the development of a low cost, low AC loss magnesium diboride wire, commercial applications for superconducting transformers, open MRI, generators, and motors will implemented sooner in the marketplace.

INTERPHASES RESEARCH 166 N Moorpark Rd, Suite 204 Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(805) 497-2677 Dr. Shalini Menezes MDA 02-005 Selected for Award
Title:	Low-temperature Fabrication for CIGS Solar Cells
Abstract:	Copper indium gallium diselenide (CIGS) based thin-film devices could potentially provide high specific power for future BMDO space missions if they could be fabricated at low temperatures on low-density polymer substrates. This project proposes a new non-vacuum method for low temperature deposition of CIGS films on polymer foils. The method uses a new molecular level electrochemical approach to synthesize high quality CIGS films that can be used directly in device fabrication without further heat treatments. Phase I will develop and validate this method for CIGS deposition on polymer substrates. Phase II will extend the method to the other device components to complete the device. The low process temperatures will eliminate the need for insulating layer, de-lamination or etching. Atomically controlled electrodeposition will increase CIGS device efficiency. Method implementation will result high specific power, low-cost, radiation resistant cells that is amenable to monolithically integrated solar arrays. The project will lead to high efficiency energy converters for use in DoD spacecrafts and commercial solar arrays. Lower costs, easier manufacturing will translate into a wider spectrum of mobile and space commercial markets. Its commercialization will provide a timely solution to the nation's escalating energy and environmental problems.

ITN ENERGY SYSTEMS, INC. 8130 Shaffer Pkwy Littleton, CO 80127
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 285-5135 Dr. Lawrence M. Woods MDA 02-005 Selected for Award
Title:	Enabling Durable Bottom Cell for Multi-Junction Thin-Film Photovoltaics
Abstract:	ITN Energy Systems, Inc. (ITN) intends to meet the requirements for future spacecraft power by developing >20% efficient photovoltaic (PV) cells on lightweight flexible substrates. ITN will achieve this goal using a two-terminal monolithic tandem (multi-junction) structure with thin-films of high-efficiency and radiation resistant copper indium diSelenide (CIS) and bandgap tunable CIS-alloys with Ga and/or Al. As an intermediate goal to this large endeavor, ITN will perform research and development on a durable bottom cell (low-bandgap) for the multi-junction device, which would survive the harsh processing conditions of the monolithically deposited top cell. This new photovoltaic device will avoid the CdS top heterojunction layer that is typically associated with CIS-alloy devices, but that is responsible for degradation under top cell processing conditions. Several different pathways to achieving durable bottom cells will be investigated. The achievement of a 10% efficient durable bottom cell would be enabling for the multi-junction device and allow for several promising thin-film technologies as the wide-bandgap top cell. Light weight, flexible, high efficiency, long life, radiation resistant, durable thin film PV modules would quickly takeover the small and medium spacecraft power market due to their inherent low cost and high specific power (W/kg). Light weight, flexible, high efficiency, long life, radiation resistant, durable thin film PV modules would quickly takeover the terrestrial photovoltaic market, and small to medium spacecraft power market due to their inherent low cost and high specific power (W/kg). Lightweight and flexibility (folded or rolled PV) will also be enabling for terrestrial military applications where quiet, and mobile, power sources are required.

LITHIUM POWER TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 20955 Morris Avenue, P.O. Box 978 Manvel, TX 77578
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(281) 489-4889 Dr. M. Zafar A. Munshi MDA 02-005 Selected for Award
Title:	High Capacity Lithium Ion Batteries
Abstract:	The objective of this BMDO SBIR Phase-I program is to perform research and development on new designs of anode materials for lithium ion batteries, including novel methods of fabrication with useful