NAVY - 280 Phase I Selections from the 02.2 Solicitation

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

280 Phase I Selections from the 02.2 Solicitation

(In Topic Number Order)

D-STAR ENGINEERING CORP. 4 Armstrong Road Shelton, CT 06484
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(203) 925-7630 Mr. S. Paul Dev NAVY 02-115 Selected for Award
Title:	Stealthy, Efficient, Light-Weight, JP-8 Fueled Hybrid Electric Propulsion System for UGVs
Abstract:	During successful development of small diesel engines and generator sets for the Army, DARPA, NASA and others, D-STAR has developed useful experience and technologies for small, compact, light-weight, high-speed diesel engines and power systems. During Phase I of the proposed effort, D-STAR will explore development of a JP-8 fueled hybrid diesel electric propulsion system for use on small Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs). Proposed Phase I objectives include : Discussions with the Navy project sponsors, and possibly with UGV design study contractors (such as GD-RS, SAIC); Assessment of the state of the art of hybrid drive systems and components; Design trade studies of suitable heavy-fuel-powered hybrid drive systems for the intended family of UGVs; Exploration of applicable technologies for suppression of noise, smoke and IR emissions; Evaluation of feasibility of development and manufacture of the hybrid drive system; and Development of a Phase II plan and a Risk Management Plan for the system and its elements. A heavy-fuel, low-noise hybrid power system would be an ideal enabler of vehicle designs that are unconstrained by conventional engine designs and drive-train layouts. It would also be usable as the prime power for small UAVs, as an Auxiliary Power Unit for larger UGVs, and as a battery charger for squads and other teams of soldiers. Potential commercial applications include use as an Auxiliary Power Unit for small hybrid-electric road vehicles, and use as portable generator sets for use by emergency response and construction crews.

MESA ASSOC., INC. 9238 Madison Boulevard, Building 2, Suite 116 Madison, AL 35758
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(256) 772-7025 Don W. Jones NAVY 02-115 Selected for Award
Title:	Affordable Hybrid Drive System for Small to Medium Sized Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGV)
Abstract:	Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) Technology has been in use in large vehicles for some time. This HEV Technology has yet to be adapted to unmanned ground vehicles (UGV) - especially in the smaller, 1,000 lb. class of UGVs. The objective of this effort is to develop an affordable diesel fueled, Hybrid Electric drive system that powers a 1300 lb. (590kg) GVW. UGV but scaleable to fit in 100 - 5000 lb. UGVs. The hybrid system and vehicle are capable of operating in extremely rough terrain, high and low temperature extremes, and steep slopes. It is also capable of speeds up to 35 kph and silent movement at reduced speed. Additionally the system will operate for 16 hours of RSTA observant silent watch, and 8 hours of 15 kph movement on rough terrain to complete a minimum 24hour mission. This Hybrid Electric Drive system is well suited for industrial and commercial vehicles weighing 1000 -5000 lbs. such as, commercial movers, small forklifts, Ground Support Equipment, Utility vehicles, neighborhood electric vehicles, lightweight construction equipment.

UQM TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 425 Corporate Circle Golden, CO 80401
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 278-2002 Mr. Darin Denton NAVY 02-115 Selected for Award
Title:	Affordable Hybrid Drive System for Small to Medium Sized Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGV)
Abstract:	There has been a recent increase in efforts to develop small/medium robots for military use. These robots, or UGVs (Unmanned Ground Vehicles), are sophisticated pieces of equipment that are beginning to represent many of the technological advancements found in future/prototype vehicles. One such technology that offers many benefits, but not yet implemented, is the HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) drive system. These drive systems have proven to be effective for lowering fuel consumption, emissions, and acoustic signatures in other applications. UQM Technologies, Inc. is proposing to design an HE drive system for the UGV applications that offers the mentioned benefits and is affordable as compared to a conventional drive system. The Phase I work will conclude with the delivery of a final report that shows the system design concept with the feasibility of manufacturing the design. The design will consist of an IC engine, a modular permanent magnet motor/generator design, a patented phase advance control scheme, and a battery pack/management unit. The system design will meet all of the minimum threshold parameters, while achieving many of the objective parameters, for overall operation effectiveness. The Phase I Option will concentrate on purchasing, characterizing, and detail integration of the heavy fuel IC engine. Although the drive system is directly related to military UGVs, there is an anticipated use in the commercial sector. Several types of vehicles can benefit from the reduced emissions and battery operation mode offered by the HEV drive system. Some examples of these applications include warehouse vehicles, man-lifts, and general utility vehicles. In addition, the intended motor/generator design will be modular in nature and will be configurable for many applications outside this HEV drive. This will increase part production quantity and lower unit cost for all applications.

CREATIVE APPLIED TECHNICAL SYSTEMS, INC. 7200B Fullerton Road, Suite 200 Springfield, VA 22150
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 913-3200 Dr. Judith F. Kitchens NAVY 02-116 Awarded: 06NOV02
Title:	Canine Explosive Scent Kit Inert Replacements
Abstract:	This project will develop inert replacements for the canine explosives scent kit. These inert replacements will have the same scent signatures as the explosive materials in the kit, however, they will not contain explosives. Three to six pound quantities of the inert replacements for C-4, Semtex and TNT will be produced in Phase I for testing in Phase II. The methodology will also be developed to generate simulated scent signatures for varying quantities of explosive materials. The canine explosive scent kit is used to train dogs to locate illegal explosive materials. The ability of the dog to locate the explosive materials is a trained response that must be periodically reinforced. Periodic retraining is best accomplished in the dog's normal working environment. The deployment of explosive containing scent kits for this retraining results in security, safety and logistical problems. An inert scent kit will overcome these problems. It will also provide better training for the dogs since the inert materials can be used in any environment. Commercial applications for an inert canine explosive scent kit include worldwide government law enforcement agencies and many private security and protection organizations.

GMA INDUSTRIES, INC. 20 Ridgely Avenue, Suite 301 Annapolis, MD 21401
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(410) 267-6600 Dr. David B. Adebimpe NAVY 02-116 Awarded: 05NOV02
Title:	Inert Analogues of Demolition Explosives
Abstract:	This proposal addresses the need for the Navy to develop inert explosives that comprise the canine explosive scent kit. We propose a multidisciplinary investigational approach that involves the identification of the constituents of the headspace vapor of sample explosives, followed by the systematic development of odoriferously-similar but non-detonable analogues, using our knowledge of structure-odor relationships. In Phase 1, specific explosive scent signatures, and the viability of producing inert analogues from such signatures will be demonstrated. Phase II will involve the further development, optimization and production of these analogues. This technology can reduce the risk and increase the availability of materials for the training of canines for explosive detection. Commercial application of the research can be extend beyond explosives detection, to drug interdiction and crime scene forensics.

AGENTASE LLC 3636 Boulevard of the Allies, Suite B-17 Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(412) 209-7298 Dr. Keith LeJeune NAVY 02-117 Awarded: 04NOV02
Title:	Disposable Chemical Detection
Abstract:	Agentase has previously developed a nerve agent sensor based upon its proprietary techniques for enzyme-polymer synthesis and their use in a variety of sensing applications. This sensor has many advantages over conventional sensors for chemical weapons including fast responses, simple use protocols, and a great resistance to chemical and environmental interference. This sensor is presently being marketed to end-users. More recently a collaborative development effort has shown that nerve agent-sensitive polymers can be adapted to a wearable badge device capable of detecting trace concentrations of nerve agents in the environment. Agentase presently seeks SBIR funding to expand these platform technology concepts toward the development of a battery of enzyme-polymer based sensors for the detection of a variety of chemical weapons and toxic industrial chemicals. Utilizing those enzymes known (scientific literature) to be particularly susceptible to inhibition by hazardous chemicals, Agentase will utilize its acquired expertise in enzyme polymerization and sensor development to rapidly formulate several chemical sensors. These sensors will be shown to monitor air quality in real time for chemical hazards within a simple wearable badge device. This effort will result in the development of a battery of prototype sensor systemss for the detection of hazardous chemicals, including chemical weapons and toxic industrial chemicals. Agentase will package newly developed point-detection sensors with its existing nerve agent sensor within a simple-to-use "pencil box" for chemical identification. Further developemnt in the Phase II effort of this project will result in a wearable badge that can be used to detect a variety of CW and TIC agents.

K&M ENVIRONMENTAL, INC. 2557 Production Rd. Virginia Beach, VA 23454
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(757) 431-2260 Dr. Luke Xue NAVY 02-117 Awarded: 05NOV02
Title:	Disposable Chemical Detection
Abstract:	Since the end of the Gulf War significant concern regarding the health and safety of the soldiers and sailors has been raised. It is clear that the potential for exposure to hazardous chemicals due to chronic and acute environmental threats from the poor environmental practices of host nations as well as collateral damage from warfare and terrorism is faced by deployed soldiers and sailors every day. The absence of an early warning mechanism for the detection of these threats, can be hazardous if not fatal to the service member. The ideal solution for the service member is a sensitve, selective, durable and lightweight badge with no external power requirement to provide an immediate visual indication of the presence of a hazard. Using proprietary K&M technology, colorimetric chemistries will be developed and tested for the detection of toxic industrial contaminants primarily targeting the high priority chemicals listed in the USACHPPM TG 230A. Additionally, the badge design, along with the colorimetric sensors, will be developed in such a way as to reduce or eliminate the effects of face velocity, temperature and humidity on the performance of the badge. Commercialization of this multisensor badge will reduce occupational disease by providing an early warning mechanism to the end user of the presence of the hazards in the environment. This device will be sensitive and each sensor will be selective to the targeted contaminant. Durability will also be achieved with this design.

SENSERA, INC. 200 Turnpike Road Chelmsford, MA 01824
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 606-2600 Dr. Senerath Palamakumbura NAVY 02-117 Awarded: 06NOV02
Title:	Personal Multi Analyte Sensor Badge for Toxic Industrial Chemicals
Abstract:	Sensera, Inc. proposes to develop a passive TIC multi analyte sensor badge. The badge is based on a detailed investigation of the properties of the analyte vapors and can be made in several configurations to suit the intended analytes. It can also be made to have dual transduction capability. The badge will give a rapid general alarm with provision for further on site characterization of the threat. During Phase I, we will develop a promising library of reagents suitable for different sensor badge configurations. We will also conduct preliminary studies on various transduction modes. For the Phase I option, we will study in detail the use of liquid crystals for visual indication and the design of the circuit for electronic monitoring. During Phase II, the design of the sensor badges will be optimized and actual units will be fabricated and tested. The proposed TIC detection badge has commercial applications in both the industrial and civilian sectors. They include: hazardous material emergency response units, environmental pollution monitoring and cleanup, firefighter applications, hazardous gas detection in commercial and residential applications, and industrial monitoring of chemical plant operations.

TESLA TECHNOLOGIES, INC. P.O. Box 31378 Knoxville, TN 37930
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(865) 531-9150 Dr. W.R. Lawrence NAVY 02-117 Awarded: 12NOV02
Title:	Disposable MEMS Single-Chip Chemical and Biological Sensor
Abstract:	We propose to develop and demonstrate an innovative, real-time sensor technology capable of detecting and identifying a variety of chemicals and biologicals. Our goal is to develop a recently demonstrated photothermal micro-spectroscopy technique into a single chip architecture. The technique has previously been successful for demonstrations on a bench-top scale in detecting various chemicals (chem warfare simulants, explosives, etc) and very recently in the detection of biologicals (anthrax simulant bacterial spores and DNA bases). There are no insurmountable fundamental principal or technological hurdle in miniaturizing this technique to the chip scale. In fact some aspect of the approach will actually be enhanced at these scales. In this approach we use microcantilever thermal detectors that has a detection sensitivity of ~10-15 J for heat energy. This unprecedented sensitivity can be utilized to detect the presence of target species with a very high sensitivity and selectivity. Thus the source, thermal detector array, IR waveguide and associated readout and signal processing electronics will all be collocated on the same chip. This approach can produce an extremely low cost (disposable) sensor if produces in large quantities that is highly capable since it is modeled on a recently developed laboratory instrument. Military and commercial employment of rapid chemical and biological sensing has distinct advantages over conventional technology in terms of speed, size, performance and cost. There are numerous application were the fast detection times are desirable. The development of efficient, reliable and cost effective devices will enhance DOD mission capability and have vast commercial spin-offs.

CFD RESEARCH CORP. 215 Wynn Dr., 5th Floor Huntsville, AL 35805
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(256) 726-4871 Dr. Kapil Pant NAVY 02-118 Selected for Award
Title:	A Novel, Microfabricated, Electro-Immuno, Integrated Sensor-Sampler for Bioagent Collection and Detection
Abstract:	Current technologies for biodetection employ typically large, cumbersome, power-guzzling and expensive devices. Integration of separate sampler and detection units often poses problems. They are not flexible enough for adapting to different threat scenarios, and are not capable of monitoring for a variety of possible agents. CFDRC proposes to develop and demonstrate a Microfabricated, Electro-immuno Integrated Sampler-Sensor (MEISS) designed to be a compact, low-cost, tuneable, multiplexed, high-sensitivity, high-selectivity sampling and sensing device. Our novel approach will feature (a) micromachined systems (MEMS) design (b) dielectrophoretic (DEP) forces for collection of bioagents, and (c) antigen-antibody micro-immunoassays on microsphere platforms for detection. MEMS-based systems have yielded dramatic improvement in efficiencies along with reduction in size. DEP-based separation offers orders of magnitude improvement in separation, tuneability and bioefficiencies over conventional inertial samplers. Microsphere-based homogeneous assays provide unprecedented sensitivity and flexibility for detecting low concentration samples in comparison with traditional heterogeneous assay formats. In Phase I, we will design, fabricate and test a DEP-based sample collector and a microsphere-based immunoassay platform. Phase II will involve overall system integration, fabrication and testing with CBW simulants. Further ensuring success, CFDRC has assembled a multidisciplinary team, which includes experts in collector/sampler design, MEMS/microfabrication, system integration, biosensing and chem-bio warfare. An integrated, microfabricated biosensor sampler will allow for monitoring of aerosolized biological particles coupled with high selectivity, high sensitivity assays for detection of toxic bioagents. A portable, low-cost device that can be used on a routine basis, will beneficially impact several existing and emerging global markets encompassing areas of national security, public health care, HVAC, food processing, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, etc.

CONNECTICUT ANALYTICAL CORP. 696 Amity Road Bethany, CT 06524
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(203) 393-9666 Joseph J. Bango, Jr. NAVY 02-118 Awarded: 04DEC02
Title:	Individual Bio Sensor / Sampler
Abstract:	An Electrospray Collector of Aerosol Contaminants or ECAC is proposed. The ability of electrospray ionization to perform as a getter of airborne contaminants offers a new means of CBW agent collection for widespread battlefield use. Sampler is capable of collecting all polar species, including spores and viruses, while ignoring background air. Concept offers an inexpensive, lightweight, small, and virtually silent means of personal CBW agent exposure collection that is compatible with military MOPP gear. Aerosol collector offers means of sampling airborne contaminats, allergens, and particulate media in buildings. Concept may be employed to allow long term exposure evaluation of personnel to toxic agents by DoD, USPO, and for individual use.

ECHO TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 5250 Cherokee Avenue Alexandria, VA 22313
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 443-0066 Dr. Mary Beth Tabacco NAVY 02-118 Awarded: 26NOV02
Title:	Development of an Integrated Personal BioDetector
Abstract:	Presently, there is no way to rapidly detect exposure to sub-clinical levels of biological pathogens or chemical toxins until effects are seen in the victim. Echo Technologies, Inc. proposes to develop an integrated biosampler/biosensor device that it can be used to monitor personal exposure to biological material. ETI is developing optical sensors for detection of Biological Warfare Agents and other pathogens. These generic sensors distinguish and quantify classes of biological material, and can discriminate live/dead bacteria. ETI proposes to team with MesoSystems, Inc., a leader in development of bioaerosol samplers for collection of biological organisms. In Phase I the enabling technology will be developed to integrate the sensors with collection disks used in the biosampler. This involves sensor formulation and deposition changes. Sensor robustness will be tested using a Rotating Arm Collector. Designs for an integrated system incorporating biosampling, biosensing, and real-time detection will be developed. Preliminary specifications for system capability will also be presented as a deliverable for Phase I. In Phase II a prototype Integrated Personal BioDetector (IPBD) will be fabricated and evaluated in the laboratory and at an extramural test facility. The prototype IPBD will be configured for use on an individual's backpack or similar location. The proposed biodetection device can be used by military personnel, first responders and civilian law enforcement personnel internationally. The fundamental technology can be extended to include biosensors designed to identify specific pathogens, and to detect a host of target contaminants such as Toxic Industrial Chemicals and Materials, and organic and inorganic particulates. This suggests more general application in indoor air quality monitoring, and for ensuring worker safety in industrial settings.

GREENSTAR TECHNOLOGIES P.O. Box 8967 The Woodlands, TX 77387
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(936) 321-8048 Mr. John J. Vasselli NAVY 02-118 Awarded: 06DEC02
Title:	Individual Bio Sensor / Sampler
Abstract:	The proposed SBIR project will determine the technical feasibility of developing a new generation of biochemcial aerosol sensor systems capable of field deployable detection and analyses of very low levels of harmful toxin agents of concern to the Department of Defense. The core enabling technology to be employed in this design is a new micro-engineered, biochip sensor-head detection technology developed by GreenStar Technologies. This biochip will be capable of performing automated, "lab-on-a-chip" competitive direct, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (CD-ELISA) testing simultaneously for multiple biotoxin agents. This new sensor head will be integrated into a hand-held Extractor/Sensor device that is capable of rapid, accurate, in-the-field detection, identification and exposure/dose analysis of air samples collected using conventional polyurethane foam (PUF) tube technology. Sample collection will be performed using a new Air Sampler device that will also be designed in this project. Both the Air Sampler and Extractor/Sensor devices will be rugged and weatherproof, will weigh under five pounds each, and will each physically be about the size of a standard 12 ounce soda can. This system will meet or exceed all performance requirements defined in the N02-118 Topic Description. The successful development of the biochemical aerosol sensor defined in this SBIR proposal will result in a field-deployable system capable of air sampling at a minimum rate of 15 liters per minute with an average collection efficiency in excess of 50% over a 1-10 micron particle size range. Samples will be extractable into 1 ml of buffer solution or can be read directly using the portable Extractor/Sensor to be designed in this project. The sampler device will be quiet (less than 70db), self-powered (battery or AC/DC power sources), and capable of sample collection in any orientation. Both the Air Sampler and Extractor/Sensor devices will be rugged and weatherproof, will each weigh under five pounds, and will each be about the size of a standard 12 ounce soda can. The total system performance goals of the project include: (1) the detection of multiple biochemical agents simultaneously; (2) at detection levels of parts per billion (ppb); (3) within minutes of sample testing; and (4) at low-cost, under five thousand dollars per unit. The GreenStar sensor/sampler system proposed offers a sensor technology to the Department of Defense that is new and important to protecting deployed U.S. Military Forced from even low levels of dangerous biochemical toxin agents. The sensor system to be developed possess a large "dual use" commercial potential as well. There is a significant need and commercial market for such sensing and analysis devices within the commercial indoor air quality (IAQ), animal feed/grain, and food quality testing/safety industries where exposure to naturally occurring biological agents is a real and constant concern. Such testing within just the U.S. IAQ marketplace, is estimated to be a 5 Billion dollar industry annually. It is in fact this commercial opportunity that first drove GreenStar Technologies to begin research into the development of the "Waffle BioChip". This new biochemical toxin detection sensing biochip is the central enabling technology upon which this SBIR project will be based.

INNOVATEK, INC. 350 Hills Street, Suite 104 Richland, WA 99352
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(509) 375-1093 Dr. Patricia M. Irving NAVY 02-118 Selected for Award
Title:	Personal Bio-Aerosol Sensor
Abstract:	Fieldable technologies that detect toxic biological particles in the air will provide the ability to warn and treat for exposure to harmful aerosolized agents. Current national military strategy specifies a worldwide force protection capability that requires detection, identification, and vaccination in order to protect U.S. forces against potential biowarfare threats. InnovaTek will develop a wearable bio-sensor that will sound a warning to the user within 10 minutes when approximately 10 CFU's of biological material is present per liter of air. The sample will be preserved for further analysis if biological material is detected. InnovaTek's novel approach integrates several proprietary components to collect, concentrate, process, and detect biological material in the air. These include: 1) a pre-separator that removes large particles from the incoming air-stream, 2) a cyclone collector that concentrates 1-10 mm particles into a small volume of liquid buffer, 3) a micro-fluidics platform for sample processing, 4) reagents for biological detection, and 5) a sensor to convert the chemical signal to an electronic warning signal. The system will produce only 42 db sound, weigh about 3 pounds, and use <0.35 amps of power, which makes it feasible as a battery-powered, wearable device. The development of a personal bio-aerosol sensor will allow monitoring and evaluation of threats from microorganisms in the air as a result of natural phenomena or human-induced activities such as terrorism. In addition to its military and homeland defense applications the proposed device is expected to be of great interest for a variety of global scale markets, including first responder markets and emerging commercial markets such as public health, food production, agricultural, and pharmaceutical/medical applications.

MICROENERGY TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 2007 E. Fourth Plain Blvd. Vancouver, WA 98661
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(360) 694-3704 Mr. Joseph Birmingham NAVY 02-118 Awarded: 26NOV02
Title:	Miniature BioBadge for Biological Material Identification
Abstract:	MicroEnergy Technologies goal is to develop miniaturized, ultra-quiet, highly efficient biological collectors that can be interfaced with several aerosol detection approaches. The focus of this project is to develop the front end system for sampling and concentration of hazardous bioaerosols for subsequent detection using various downstream analytical procedures such as the many optical and wet chemical analysis techniques. The proposed miniaturized geometry provides a number of advantages, including, (1) ordered microstructures provide much lower pressure drop than randomly ordered fibers, (2) can be easily and effectively combined with electrohydrodynamic (EHD) driven flow to pull air through the system for extremely quite operation, (3) high collection and concentration efficiency of aerosols, and (4) high surface area for application of functionalized coatings to provide selective collection of both bioaerosols and chemical compounds of interest. The low-cost plug-and-play miniature sampling coupons are unplugged from the power and control module after sampling in the field, catalogued, analyzed in the laboratory, and properly disposed of (or archived) without the need to regenerate or clean the system. A low-cost miniature detection system will be integrated into the sampler unit for an autonomous remote sensing and data transmission unit. The development of man-portable noninvasive bioaerosol detection device will enable personnel to detect biological contamination for emergency response, law enforcement and military applications.

AGENTAI, INC. 14944 Culley Court, Suite 3 Victorville, CA 92392
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(760) 843-8182 Mr. Kevin E. Mahaffy NAVY 02-119 Awarded: 04DEC02
Title:	Rocket Assisted Safe Projectile (RASP)
Abstract:	The overall objective of the project described in this proposal is to design and develop the technology for a non-lethal munition for area denial to personnel. This projectile delivers relatively the same quantity and quality of force to targets that range from just in front of the muzzle of a M203 grenade launcher to a target as far away as 500 meters. This is achieved by a carefully engineered projectile that flies at a nearly constant velocity and then changes its shape just prior to impacting the target. This project is also designed to deliver secondary payloads as it performs its primary kinetic impact function. Secondary payloads will include chemical agents that can further incapacitate or maintain the incapacitation of the targeted individual. The proposed technology is a new application of existing civilian technology and hence can be manufactured at low cost. Eventually, the non-lethal weapon will be deployed from robotic platforms in order to automate the area denial to personnel mission. The proposed project will demonstrate the feasibility of the solution theoretically through computer modeling and then experimentally by a flight vehicle demonstration that will strike a simulated human target. The technology resulting from this project will benefit the US Navy and the US Marine Corps by creating a new tool to enforce area denial to personnel without doing extensive bodily harm of he targeted individual. Spin-offs from this research effort are expected to be fielded widely in the law enforcement community.

SCIENTIFIC APPLICATIONS & RESEARCH ASSOC., INC. 15261 Connector Lane Huntington Beach, CA 92649
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(714) 903-1000 Dr. Ned Patton NAVY 02-119 Awarded: 09DEC02
Title:	MultiSensory Grenade with Stingballs for Area Denial
Abstract:	Building on development of a Multi-Sensory Grenade (MSG) for USMC MarCorSysCom's Clear Facilities program, the proposed technology will incorporate a sound source at the maximum OSHA safe level of 140dB, a light source at ANSI levels and stingballs. (Other additional sensory elements can be added such as malodors, lachrymators, marker dyes, taggants, etc. based on Warfare Conventions and specific applications). The multisensory overwhelm of the technology will deny, delay, disrupt and repel adversaries. The concept is extremely flexible and the components can be resized to fit into a variety of existing delivery systems including 40 mm, 12 ga. (current MG design), 81 mm, non-lethal mines, 155 mm, etc. The larger the payload volume, the more distractionary elements delivered on target. The proposed technology has numerous civilian law enforcement and military applications. The following markets have been identified: US Military, Civilian Law Enforcement, Dept. of Corrections, Drug Enforcement Agency, Homeland Security, International Military, International Law Enforcement, Multinational Corporations, FBI, Secret Service and foreign and domestic protection.

SCIENTIFIC APPLICATIONS & RESEARCH ASSOC., INC. 15261 Connector Lane Huntington Beach, CA 92649
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(714) 903-1000 Ms. Lexi Donne NAVY 02-119 Awarded: 09DEC02
Title:	Jumping Multiball System for Area Denial
Abstract:	The ability to non-lethally delay or deny access to personnel is an ongoing problem that encompasses perimeters, facilities, ports, and staging areas. For every military scenario, there is a comparable problem in civilian law enforcement, at Department of Energy facilities and within the Defense Threat Reduction Agency's charter. SARA proposes a novel and unique approach to deal with this challenging problem, a single device, randomly delivering an intrusive, distracting, and annoying non-lethal effect, for many seconds. The proposed non-lethal device will fit many existing payloads and delivery systems thereby eliminating the need for another new system, shortening the development cycle and speeding up the time between research and to end use. The proposed technology has numerous civilian law enforcement and military applications. The following markets have been identified: US Military, Civilian Law Enforcement, Dept. of Corrections, Drug Enforcement Agency, Homeland Security, International Military, International Law Enforcement, Multinational Corporations, FBI, Secret Service, and foreign and domestic protection.

GENEX TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 10605 Concord Street, #500 Kensington, MD 20895
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 962-6565 Dr. Jason Geng NAVY 02-120 Awarded: 22OCT02
Title:	A Visible/Infrared Omnidirectional Sensor Module for Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) Reconnaissance, Surveillance, and Target Acquisition (RSTA)/Mobilit
Abstract:	The primary objective of the SBIR effort proposed herein is to develop and test the feasibility of two designs of novel omnidirectional day/night optical sensors that are able to provide 360-degree simultaneous RSTA capability with compact package size, light weight, and minimum moving parts. . The first module we proposed, dubbed the OmniEye, is an omnidirectional sensor that is able to acquire 360-degree and -45 to +90 degree visible/IR video images simultaneously with no moving parts; it can not only be used for surveillance and reconnaissance but for vehicle navigation and obstacle avoidance as well. . The second module, dubbed the OmniScan, employs a pair of optically aligned visible/IR sensors and a two-degree-of-freedom pan/tilt mirror to provide high-resolution remote target acquisition capability at long distance. It is able to resolve and detect HMMWV sized vehicles at 5,700 meters under daylight conditions and at 1,000 meters during nighttimes. The only moving part in the OmniScan module is the pan/tilt mirror, which in weight does not exceed more than a few ounces. The two sensor modules will be designed to have the same mechanical and electronic interface as its hosting vehicle has, and may be used separately for different mission requirements. However, we also propose a new capability that combines both modules together as a Master-Slave configuration, such that the OmniEye-MultiCam sensor demonstrates "global" RSTA functions with its wide FOV. Once a "hot spot" (potential target) is detected, it will send a motion control command to direct the OmniScan sensor to look closely at the target with a significantly higher image resolution. This intelligent control technology would bring the functionality of the proposed Omni-vision system for the RSTA to a new level of sophistication. The proposed Omni-vision systems can be used to enhance security for many types of military and civilian vehicles, or stationary facilities. In addition, such technology can be used in other security applications, including warehouses, train-stations, airports, government and commercial facilities, sporting events, and schools. The tragic events of 9/11 have triggered tremendous interest in security enhancements in both public and private sectors. We see great potential for commercial applications of the technology developed under this SBIR project.

INTERNATIONAL ELECTRONIC MACHINES 60 Fourth Avenue Albany, NY 12202
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(518) 449-5504 Mr. Zack Mian NAVY 02-120 Awarded: 04NOV02
Title:	Omni-Vision System for Day/Night Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) Reconnaissance, Surveillance, and Target Acquisition (RSTA)/Mobility
Abstract:	The tactical unmanned ground vehicles (TUGV) are envisioned to be the force multiplier of the future. A reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition (RSTA) system is a key component for a TUGV. International Electronic Machines (IEM), a leader in rugged multimedia systems, proposes the development of an innovative imaging system which will meet all of the requirements of this solicitation. The proposed multi-spectral imaging system will be based on an nnovative image scanning approach which will use unique multi-spectral optics to deliver the recognition requirements, 135 degree FOV, virtual pan-tilt-zoom feature, day/night operation, high frame rate, innovative user interface, and a scalable approach. In Phase I of this proposal, IEM will produce a feasible design and demonstrate the feasibility of the key components of the imaging system. Optional tasks include image processing development for image quality enhancement, image processing algorithm development and environmental hardening. The technology resulting from this program will find additional applications in security systems, telemaintenance, telemedicine and virtual reality training tools both in the military and the civilian sectors

PHYSICAL OPTICS CORP. Info Tech Div., 20600 Gramercy Place, Bldg 100 Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 320-3088 Dr. Andrew Kostrzewski NAVY 02-120 Awarded: 22OCT02
Title:	Panoramic Video Monitoring System for UGVs
Abstract:	UGV platforms such as Gladiator and Man-Portable Robotic Systems need a new type of omni-vision system for full range viewing: 360 degrees horizontally and -45 to +90 degrees vertically. To address this need, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new high quality, real-time, ultra-wide-field-of-view, low-bandwidth, panoramic video monitoring (PANVIM) system for reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition (RSTA). POC will for the first time bring panoramic imaging to real-time video. The PANVIM system uniquely combines the following subsystems for UGV RSTA and driving: innovative optics for ultra-wide-field-of-view acquisition through wide-angle reflectors or fisheye lenses with a 360x270 degree field-of-view; high-resolution pick-up device (CCD or CMOS), preferably with a resolution of 5,000x2000 pixels and real-time cylindrical-to-Cartesian coordinate transformation in hardware; small IR sensor for night operation, video signal transfer subsystem for high resolution, and full motion video at 30 frames per second. The high bandwidth video will be compressed by POC proprietary hardware at up to 8000:1. At the control center, an operator will observe the panoramic view from the UGV on a high-aspect-ratio screen, which can be three or more plasma displays, or a multi-projector system for seamless display. Several smaller monitors can display electronically zoomed areas of interest. The proposed PANVIM system will find broad applications in security and surveillance, remote monitoring, robotics, and object tracking. It will also be very useful in telemedicine and entertainment.

FOSTER-MILLER, INC. 350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 684-4306 Mr. Michael Farinella NAVY 02-121 Awarded: 16NOV02
Title:	Stingray
Abstract:	Foster-Miller's Stingray system is a low risk approach to the Marine Corp's long-range incapacitation need. A derivative of Foster-Miller's Sting Net design, Stingray is 40mm compatible fire and forget, optically fuzed, ballistic delivered High Voltage Pulse (HVP) system. The `Stinger' has been shown to be effective up to 60 minutes and within human health effects guidelines. Stingray is not `soft'. The Stingray aggressively delivers High Voltage Pulse (HVP) tasers designed to incapacitate. Stingray is launched at velocities amenable to `flat fire' targeting then pyrotechnically deploys a series of low drag tendrils capable of delivering a paralyzing shock. The Stingray `bullet' remains in closed form to the last possible instant thereby minimizing stability and fuze challenges. The Stingray is designed to significantly increase range potential. Key features of the Stingray system are lower drag, reduced mass, and tendrils that deploy in all directions. Lower drag means longer flight to engage a target. Reduced mass mean higher muzzle velocities and ranges are achievable. Three-dimensional deployment means the tendrils reach in all direction during deployment. Three-dimensional deployment capability relaxes the demand for projectile stability. For example, projectile `yawing' would not diminish Stingray engagement mechanics. (P-020644) In addition to advancing the State of the Art for providing a viable extended range incapacitation capability to the Marine Corp, Stingray development effort would result in significant advancement of several component technologies. The integration approaches and system architectural features that would contribute significantly to on-going technical R&D across DOD, other USG agencies and the private sector, include: . Miniaturized electronics. . Miniaturized mechanical components (MEMS and `conventional'). . Frangible `fly apart' designs. . Integrated pyrotechnics and electronics (shock load management). . Novel sensor elements.

XTREME ADS (ALTERNATIVE DEFENSE SYSTEMS) 1508 E. 7th St. Anderson, IN 46012
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(765) 724-2226 Mr. Pete Bitar NAVY 02-121 Awarded: 25NOV02
Title:	Personnel Neuromuscular Disruptor Incapacitation System
Abstract:	The STUNBEAM will effectively be proven to be the world's first available "wireless Taser", using electromagnetic energy to create ion "streams" which conduct a static charge which can disrupt neuromuscular control of any human or comparable animal target, at an output of between 25,000 and 100,000 volts with extremely low amperage. The weapon can also be used to disrupt electronic devices. Current technology already has proven results at very short, point-blank ranges of between five and ten feet. This Phase 1 work will deal with the ion streams themselves in the areas of columniation, tracking, limiting scattering effects, and static pulse conductivity in order to increase the range and controllability of a larger-scale device to between 50 and 300 feet. Since work has already been done in this area by Xtreme, one of the final results of the Option portion of this Phase 1 SBIR will be to build and deliver a working proof of concept device with a range of at least 10 feet, which will be useful in close-quarter scenarios as are common with the use of "Tasers". Xtreme has the technical ability, facility, and willingness to forge ahead in taking this technology to the incredible potential it has. The benefits of this system are unlimited. The unit will stun, not kill, its target, allowing for hostages to be rescued easily from almost any hostage situation, and criminals or enemy combatants to be captured, not killed, in a variety of military and law enforcement scenarios. This system will be easy to use and will be portable. Units can be sold commercially to police as well as to homeowners for effective, non-lethal self defense. Other applications of the massive ion generation of related devices can be used, among other things, in air purification and medical sterilization.

AGENTAI, INC. 14944 Culley Court, Suite 3 Victorville, CA 92392
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(760) 843-8182 Mr. Kevin E. Mahaffy NAVY 02-122 Awarded: 13NOV02
Title:	Smart Non-Lethal Bullets
Abstract:	Guns and rifles have been the traditional modern weapon for protection and police or security force intervention. However, the bullets utilized are prevalently lethal. The technology described in this Proposal converts the standard gun and rifle bullets to "smart non-lethal bullets." These novel bullet types are non-lethal over their entire range, from muzzle to max range (100 m). This contrasts with present-day non-lethal ammunition, which can severely injure or even kill an individual if the target is at close range or if a bystander accidentally comes in the close line of fire. Furthermore, no customization of the firearms is necessary. The design of these bullets includes tailored explosives and propellants and a booster/projectile design with miniaturized mechanical components, where the energetic part or booster drops off on emergence from the gun, and a soft nose persists in its trajectory with high kinetic energy to impinge on the target with a strong blow or punch effect. The nose can be automatically deflated on target impingement, releasing malodorants, irritants, laughing gas or other chemical agents. Essentially this non-lethal weapon will allow the military to "punch," slap and hit an individual repetitively from a distance and in a manner, which provides no injuries. The conversion of standard bullets to non-lethal bullets has a great potential for rapid progress of non-lethal weapons by adaptation of standard bullets using the same guns and rifles already in the hands of the police forces, security forces, military etc. and requiring no alteration or customization of the standard weaponry. Such a technology will provide great benefits to the Security Forces since during their interventions incapacitation of individuals will be induced with no injury or body damage. Furthermore no new weaponry is required providing for a simple and smooth transition from lethal to non-lethal. Once the action/ idea of this new technology is widely presented, demonstrated and accepted by the Police Forces, Security Personnel and Security Forces, a vast ammunition market will open up. This provides for a great commercial opportunity, which can later extend to the entire ammunition world market. Different designs and optimizations can be developed to produce a new line of non-lethal bullets serving all needs and scopes.

FOSTER-MILLER, INC. 350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 684-4283 Mr. Robert Lee Cardenas NAVY 02-122 Awarded: 13NOV02
Title:	Fire and Forget Non-Lethal Kinetic Energy Munition
Abstract:	The military requires a range-variable, non-lethal kinetic energy munition that is non-lethal over their entire engagement range from muzzle to a maximum range of 100m. An ideal munition would incorporate a highly accurate fuse and proximity sensor that would sense the target range and /or some other system that programs their time to function. On signal, the munitions would adjust their configurations to be non-lethal based upon the sensed range to target by increasing their surface area or by using some braking technology. The system needs to be near 100 percent reliable so that a full velocity projectile that has not reconfigured its shape to be non-lethal never hits the target. A Phase I effort is proposed to develop an optical fused non-lethal munition that can be fired at muzzle velocity that will put the munition 100m down range but can be decelerated to non-lethal impact velocities within several meters. The proposed munitions will be 40 mm and 20 mm and will be designed to fit existing weapons. The proposed work will also review non-lethal impacts and strive to define guidelines for safe but effective non-lethal impacts. (P-020583) The successful development of the Fire and Forget Non-Lethal munition will provide military and civilian user communities with a variable range munition that is non-lethal throughout the munition's entire operational range. The successful development of a 40 mm and a 20 mm optical fuse will make this technology available for a wider range of munitions other than mortar rounds. A non-lethal munition that is effective and accurate to 100m will provide real asset to the non-lethal community and would promote a wider use of non-lethal alternative munitions. The data generated during Phase II evaluation testing will add to the overall knowledge and acceptable levels of blunt trauma impacts.

PHYSICAL OPTICS CORP. 20600 Gramercy Place, Bldg. 100 Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 530-7892 Dr. Sergey Sandomirsky NAVY 02-122 Awarded: 13NOV02
Title:	Optical Proximity Sensor
Abstract:	Although there are currently no range-variable kinetic-energy non-lethal munitions for personal weapons in development, any future model will require a proximity sensor to activate a mechanism that controls the kinetic energy of the projectile. This sensor should be inexpensive, reliable, lightweight, efficient, and easily assembled with any future non-lethal projectile. To meet these Navy requirements, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to design, develop and test an Optical Proximity Sensor (OPS) for variable-range kinetic energy non-lethal munitions. The OPS matches all these requirements and also has advantages over radio and acoustic sensors. The OPS is based on the principle that optical triangulation sensors will react quickly and precisely to any target that appears at a preprogrammed distance. The OPS will be built from commercially available, off-the-shelf, low-cost components. The prototype OPS will be fabricated and tested in Phase I, then fully developed and adapted to a prospective model of a non-lethal projectile in Phase II. The proposed Optical Proximity Sensor will precisely meet the requirements of the Joint Non-Lethal Weapon Directorate (JNLWD) for developing the means of incapaciting enemy personnel. Any future variable range kinetic energy projectile will require a proximity fuse or sensor. Because of its market-attractive performance parameters, POC's OPS will have diverse civil applications such as vehicle collision avoidance systems, law enforcement, and personal weapons for self-protection.

AEPTEC MICROSYSTEMS, INC. 700 King Farm Boulevard, Suite 600 Rockville, MD 20850
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 670-6779 Mr. Thurston Brooks NAVY 02-123 Awarded: 20DEC02
Title:	Integrated System Design and Maintenance Modeling Tools for CBM
Abstract:	As in human medicine, prescriptive based health monitoring (PBHMS) can focus on the symptoms or can be targeted to cure the problem depending on the need and resulting prognostic outcome. The key difference between the more advanced Prescriptive Maintenance concept and existing Predictive, Preventative and Run-to-Failure Maintenance schemes is that PBHMS optimizes operational capability. The PBHMS described in this proposal can process information from various "health" management information sources such as prognostic/predictive monitors, observations, trends, experience, and diagnostic outcomes. The PBHMS will be able to recommend appropriate operations and maintenance actions according to best Navy practices, as well as schedule treatment, not only on parts that have already failed, but also those which are impending failure or are still healthy. The PBHMS prescriptive maintenance actions shall take into consideration urgency, priority, capability, capacity, and cost. Our approach is to leverage technology and extensive knowledge developed in existing Navy programs by (1) Evolving the existing Prognostics Framework as a foundation for the overall prescriptive architecture, (2) Using insights acquired in the Total Ship Monitoring and Battle Group-Automated Maintenance Environment programs, and (3) Augmenting our TSM/BG-AME developments to support the comprehensive information and decision support system required of a PBHMS concept. The PBHMS will be able to recommend appropriate operations and maintenance actions according to best Navy practices, as well as schedule treatment not only on parts that have already failed, but more importantly on those which are impending failure or are still healthy. The PBHMS prescriptive maintenance actions shall take into consideration and optimize urgency, priority, capability, capacity, and cost.

FOSTER-MILLER, INC. 350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 684-4382 Mr. Stephen Chen NAVY 02-123 Awarded: 18DEC02
Title:	Automated Maintenance Prescription Generation for Shipboard Systems
Abstract:	Foster-Miller, Inc. proposes to develop new tools and integrate existing Foster-Miller Machinery Health Management tools into the design of an automated prescription based health maintenance system (PBHMS). The proposed PBHMS will: Generate prescriptions that are dynamically updated and priority ranked by information provided from run-time integrated diagnostic/prognostic software modules. Incorporate battle damage response capability. Easily accept new diagnostic/prognostic modules. Interface with Integrated Condition Assessment System (ICAS), current diagnostic/prognostic and planning/scheduling modules via middleware using Open System Architecture Condition Based Maintenance (OSA-CBM) standards. Provide "What if" analysis allowing onboard and shore-based maintainers to link system failure modes and particular maintenance tasks with operational and mission requirements. Provides simulation capability allowing user to forward project, examine simulated failure consequences, and select alternatives as part of future automated mission emergency and contingency management systems. Provide ship-wide restoration projections, individual machine downtime projections, and battle damage repair planning. In Phase I, a PBHMS design will document functional details needed to design the prototype PBHMS software package for a selected shipboard system in a Phase II. The design will include sample prescriptions, middleware architecture and middleware interface designs. This foundation will provide the basis. (P-020665) The tools and standards developed under this research project could be used by both military and commercial automation system designers to incorporate equipment condition assessment, diagnostic/prognostic, and maintenance treatment software modules into CBM systems used in shipboard or municipal power generation, pharmaceutical processing, and electronic module manufacturing.

IMPACT TECHNOLOGIES, LLC 125 Tech Park Drive Rochester, NY 14623
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(585) 424-1990 Dr. Michael J. Roemer NAVY 02-123 Awarded: 20DEC02
Title:	An Integrated System Design and Maintenance Modeling Tool
Abstract:	Impact Technologies proposes an Integrated System Design and Maintenance Modeling Tool (ISDMMT) for automating and optimizing the prescription element associated with prognostic information used to facilitate condition based maintenance (CBM). The ISDMMT consists of a core real-time distributed computing substrate, wrapped with a Health Management API (Application Programming Interface) layer that provides abstractions that bridge the gap between the health management system domain and the core distribution substrate. The proposed system uses innovative software agents and distributed computing tools to enable the efficient use of emerging prognostic-based health management system technologies. As part of the Phase I demonstration, intelligent sensor validation and prognostic algorithms will be developed for integration into the maintenance modeling system. Genetic algorithms will be used for optimization of the health management system in the functions of reliability, technical risk, complexity and overall life cycle costs. APIs will be developed for supporting the progressive integration of specialized prescription algorithms. An innovative software platform, ConstellationTM from Real Time Innovation, Inc will be used for the development of ISDMMT. ConstellationTM integrates tools and standards like UML, CORBA, Simulink, and graphical programming into one end-to-end development environment. It will speed up the coding process, decrease the development time and costs, and allow for software reusability. The developed Integrated System Design and Maintenance Modeling Tool will reduce overall operation and support costs of shipboard systems, and enable future transition of CBM and PHM (prognostic & health management) information systems to automated maintenance management systems. The successful completion of the proposed work will lead to significant benefits in a wide variety of areas, with a very substantial potential for commercial impact. Examples of key industrial customers that could benefit through use of the developed fault diagnostic technologies include commercial airlines, electric power producers, oil and gas transmission companies, and marine propulsion applications.

FOSTER-MILLER TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 431 New Karner Road Albany, NY 12205
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(518) 456-9919 Dr. Hsiang Ming Chen NAVY 02-124 Awarded: 19DEC02
Title:	Power Harvesting for Shipboard Health Monitoring Sensors
Abstract:	This project will provide the basis for development of a new family of inductive power harvesters that use machine vibration and mechanical resonance to amplify oscillatory motion at the magnetic juncture. The Phase I base program involves the design, manufacture and test an initial power harvester, designed to produce 0.01 W. The practicality of the device will be demonstrated by powering an accelerometer that will measure the vibration of a target machine or structure. A parallel analytical study will lead to the development of a design methodology for a range of generators utilizing this concept. The Phase I option will involve building and testing two additional engineering models, one each rated at 0.1 and 1.0 W. In Phase II we will refine the design, assess the inclusion of electronic control for additional performance and automatic resonance adjustment, and build and test integrated prototypes that includes wireless data transmission. This device represents the crucial enabling technology for a broad range of industrial and military Condition Based Maintenance applications. Wireless, self-powered sensors will enable users to more cost-effectively equip plant and shipboard equipment. The resulting market will be essentially limitless.

HI-Z TECHNOLOGY, INC. Suite 7400, 7606 Miramar Road San Diego, CA 92126
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 695-6660 Mr. Velimir Jovanovic NAVY 02-124 Awarded: 13DEC02
Title:	Power Harvesting for Shipboard Health Monitoring Sensors
Abstract:	Hi-Z Technology, Inc. (Hi-Z) proposes to use thermoelectric devices in developing a miniature energy harvesting system for shipboard health monitoring sensors. Thermoelectric devices convert heat directly to electricity in compact solid-state modules. Hi-Z has been in the business of converting environmental and waste energy directly into electricity (energy harvesting) since 1988. Hi-Z has developed thermoelectric module technology that is well suited for this Navy application. This technology is based on the use of thermal-to-electric conversion in the temperature ranges from room temperature to 300�C. Hi-Z proposes to apply its newly developed multilayer Quantum Well thermoelectric material technology, which has even higher power conversion efficiency and smaller volume that will help in satisfying the small design volume requirement. A number of these applications confirm the concept that energy can be harvested, particularly the recently completed design for the Navy where a thermoelectric generator was designed, fabricated and installed to harvest energy freely available on board ships using the 5�C differences between the temperature of the space inside the ship and the ship's hull. The current proposal is a logical extension of this work applied to a smaller design volume of one cubic inch. The benefits and potential commercial applications of this development are in use of these energy-harvesting modules to power sensors in health monitoring of the ship and submarine engines and structures. These sensors can be used to detect cracks, corrosion, impact damage and temperature excursions as part of the Condition Based Maintenance. These power harvesting modules can be used to replace or augment batteries as electrical power sources.

MICROSTRAIN, INC. 310 Hurricane Lane, Suite 4 Williston, VT 05495
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(802) 862-6629 Mr. Steven W. Arms NAVY 02-124 Awarded: 13DEC02
Title:	Power Harvesting for Shipboard Health Monitoring Sensors
Abstract:	This Phase I Navy SBIR proposal is aimed at the development of a new class of wireless sensing devices. These sensors do not require batteries or external magnetic fields in order to send data, instead, they rely on harvesting vibration energy in order to sense information and to wirelessly transmit that information to a central host. MicroStain, Inc. currently produces a range of wireless sensing instruments, including microprocessor based, multichannel, programmable transmitters that are compatible with a wide range of sensors, including thermocouples, strain gauges, accelerometers, displacement sensors, and capacitive sensors. Furthermore, we have designed and demonstrated prototype energy harvesting systems that employ piezoelectric materials. These wireless sensing systems use digital RF communications, node addressing, and time division multiple access to allow networks of sensing nodes to communicate to a central (web-enabled) receiver. The Phase I effort will include: improvements in the piezoelectric energy harvesting circuit, optimization of the proposed sensing systems for various applications to minimize power consumption, and, development of mathematical models to facilitate piezoelectric energy harvesting from a straining structural element and from a vibratory environment. This will result in improved energy harvesting systems, including the modeling required for application to shipboard health monitoring. These systems have the potential to fundamentally change the way sensors are used. A major barrier to the use of sensors is the cost of wiring. Wireless sensors are now being employed for a range of monitoring applications, including: machine-to-machine health, structural integrity, security systems, agricultural, environmental, medical, and automotive. However, the maintenance of primary batteries represents a major barrier to the wide acceptance of wireless sensing networks. For vibrating systems, harvesting energy using advanced piezoelectric materials would eliminate battery maintenance, allowing wireless sensing networks to be deployed for the entire life of the structure or machine.

WILCOXON RESEARCH, INC. 21 Firstfield Road Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 947-7973 Mr. Wayne Zavis NAVY 02-124 Awarded: 20DEC02
Title:	Power Harvesting for Shipboard Health Monitoring Sensors
Abstract:	The objective of the research presented in this SBIR proposal is the development of the technology needed for power generation from harvesting vibrations from shipboard machinery. The generator should produce sufficient power to energize low-power sensors and a transmitter that communicates on a network and can be easily integrated into a shipboard environment. Wilcoxon Research has extensive experience in the design, manufacturing, and customer support of vibration sensors and related equipment. This proposal would permit the company to explore a novel configuration for power sources that generate and/or scavenge power from the shipboard environment. New packaging requirements and materials, along with a study for improved energy storage systems, are presented. Such a wireless system not only reduces the need for cabling, but also drastically lowers installation costs, permitting more comprehensive instrumentation. The effective deployment of wireless, self-powered, condition-based maintenance sensors requires that are low in cost, but also cost effective for installation. The wiring associated with sensor systems can easily exceed the cost of the sensor, transmitter, and receiver system. It is foreseen that wireless sensors will be used in collecting vibration and other machinery data for processes where either the installed machines or their downtime is costly, such as naval applications. In addition to department of Defense applications, Wilcoxon sees good opportunity to improve productivity and output quality of the $5B (annual) machine tool market.

COHERENT TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 655 Aspen Ridge Drive Lafayette, CO 80026
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 604-2000 Dr. Narasimha S. Prasad NAVY 02-125 Awarded: 16DEC02
Title:	High Bandwidth, spatial tracking, free-space communication link for low visibility conditions
Abstract:	Coherent Technologies Inc. (CTI) proposes to develop a laser communication system (LCS) coupled with a high-speed pointing and tracking scheme for greater than 100 Mb/s data rate, for optimal conditions, and 64kbits/sec, for poor atmospheric conditions, applications for short range (1km) multiple node optical communications. The LCS will provide eyesafe operation with an engagement range greater than 1 km among moving aerial vehicles (including VTUAVs), ships and individual personnel nodes. The dual mode AMCW and pulsed (high peak power), high repetition rate laser transmitter optimally coupled to a compact pointing and tracking unit will be designed to reduce the probability of data link breakdown due to low visibility conditions (i.e. fog). The approach will capitalize upon innovative transceiver and scanner designs developed by CTI for laser radar systems and the advancing scanner technologies such as Micro-Opto-Electrical-Mechanical Systems. The baseline architecture uses a 1.5-mm transmitter optimally coupled to micro-mirror assembly. Three potential configurations for tracking in a highly dynamic environment are envisaged. The Phase I effort will generate system level signal-to-noise ratio assessments for data link performance under various environmental conditions, (2) establish closed-loop pointing and tracking scheme for maximum link performance, and (3) develop a proof-of-principle prototype and execute risk reduction measurements to ensure technical and cost feasibility for Phase II field-worthy hardware implementation. Potential applications include ground-to-ground, ground-to-air, sea-to-air mobile communication systems for video broadcast, telecommunication applications, and other data intensive applications that do not rely on two fixed locations. The proposed system is anticipated to enhance troop communications and battlefield awareness and support search and rescue operations.

HOOD TECHNOLOGY CORP. 1750 Country Club Road Hood River, OR 97031
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(541) 387-2288 Dr. A. von Flotow NAVY 02-125 Awarded: 20DEC02
Title:	Low-Cost Lasercomm from Moving Platforms
Abstract:	This proposal addresses development of close-range lasercomm from moving platforms. The anticipated range of applications includes ship-to-aircraft, ship-to-boat, ship-to-person, UAV-to-ground, UAV-to-UGV, person-to-person, etc. The product of this research will be a user friendly, lightweight, laser communication terminal with full acquisition, pointing, and tracking capability for rapidly moving platforms.

INNOVATIVE TECHNICAL SOLUTIONS, INC. 1100 Alakea Plaza, 23d Floor Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(808) 441-3608 Dr. John Sender NAVY 02-125 Awarded: 20DEC02
Title:	Passive Optical Data Port
Abstract:	NOVASOL proposes a feasibility study for a Passive Optical Data Port (PODP). Together with optical interrogators NOVASOL is developing for NRL, PODP will provide a lightweight, low-power download or full-duplex link for broadband communication with manned and unmanned remote stations. PODP is based on modulating retroreflector technology, making it entirely passive. Its lack of an active transmitter yields a light-weight, low-power design, and gives the PODP inherently low probability of detection/interception. PODP is a flexible unit that can serve purposes as diverse as unattended operation on buoys and sensor emplacements, small unit reconnaissance and special operations teams, and operations on moving vehicles. Both the PODP and its interrogating unit may be based on land, at sea, or in an aircraft. Free space optical communications will play an increasing role as the military theater of operations becomes more automated and sensor-rich. NovaSol's POPD program will provide an important component whose light-weight, low-power, and covertness will expand the range of tactical optical communications deployment to support links between moving units. Civilian users will also welcome this technology for applications such as monitoring volcanos or marine environments, where emplacement of fixed nodes would be impractical.

LSA 1215 Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite 1300 Arlington, VA 22202
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(610) 363-5808 Mr. Dale R. Tyczka NAVY 02-125 Awarded: 13DEC02
Title:	Free Space Optics Near-ship Low Probability of Detection Communication Capability
Abstract:	Free-space optical (FSO) communication's inherently low probability of intercept, resistance to jamming, lack of licensing requirements, ease of use, high-speed capability, and compact size make it an ideal addition to the array of equipment that can be used to form a near-ship network backbone. We propose to develop a littoral and near-ship communication (LANSCOM) network to satisfy the modern military's need for robust high-data-rate communication between ships and shore-based platforms. We will accomplish the goals of this program by integrating sophisticated optical tracking techniques, COTS network electronics, GPS equipment, and miniature protocol-independent FSO transceivers that can be mounted on small vehicles or carried and operated by individual personnel. This system will be designed for compatibility with future communication needs, as well, and will extend high-data-rate communication to support craft, UAVs and manned aircraft. Our considerable equipment experience and proven expertise in FSO communication systems place us in a unique position to develop a system that addresses all of the relevant issues, from link availability to marketing strategies. Robust, high-speed wireless computer networks have numerous applications in military, commercial and industrial settings. They are characterized by fast setup, upgrade and reconfiguration, and thus can benefit mobile tactical operations that are heavily dependent on access to up-to-the minute information. In military scenarios, the ability to covertly extend the network will prevent any segments of the battle group from being cut off. Extensions of the LANSCOM technology will enable individual warfighters to have access to the entire information content of the battlefield or on-ship network for the ultimate in situational awareness. The telecommunications industry and, in fact, the population as a whole, will benefit greatly through the addition of mobile high-speed wireless networks in business campuses and neighborhoods. Farming and land maintenance will become more automated and self-coordinating. FASTCOM will aid in improving homeland, harbor and military base security through enhanced surveillance data transmission capabilities. Disaster relief and recovery crews will be able to quickly set up emergency networks and more-effectively communicate throughout rescue operations, enabling them to quickly reunite missing persons with their families. Analogous applications can be found throughout the Government, commercial and industrial markets.

TALKING LIGHTS LLC 28 Constitution Road Boston, MA 02129
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 242-0050 Mr. Al-Thaddeus Avestruz NAVY 02-125 Selected for Award
Title:	Optical Communication Near Ships
Abstract:	The objective of this Phase I program is to develop a new method of communication to enable ships, personnel and small boats to create a tactical network. The Phase I program will develop a prototype Free Space Optical Network (FSON) including a Ship Optical Communications Array and a Personal Communicator. Particular attention will be paid to range, bandwidth, reliability and ease of use. FSON capabilities will be evaluated and demonstrated. In Phase II, a full size Ship Optical Communicator Array and minaturized Personal Communicators and Small Boat Transceivers will be designed and built and the FSON network will be demonstrated and evaluated in the field and on vessels. Phase III will involve the commercial manufacture and sale of FSON devices for operational use. Transceivers developed in this project will be installed on operational vessels and provided to personnel to provide enhance functional communication capability. The FSON should also be of commercial value in other short range military communications and for civilian communication under emergency circumstances and under conditions where RF cannot be used.

AOPTIX TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 580 Division St. Campbell, CA 95008
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(408) 583-1143 Mr. J. Elon (Buzz) Graves NAVY 02-126 Awarded: 17DEC02
Title:	Ship-to-Ship High-Bandwidth, Secure Free-Space Optical Communications Using Adaptive Optics
Abstract:	The objective of the project is to develop a small, very-high bandwidth optical communications link for the Navy ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore applications. AOptix Technologies has developed a novel Free Space Optical communication system that uses Adaptive Optics to dynamically correct atmospheric aberrations that result from turbulence and scintillation. By correcting these optical distortions, AOptix is able to build multi-gigabit, all-optical, long-range FSO systems. These FSO systems are inherently secure because the light beam is precisely controlled and collimated to fill the receiver aperture. AOptix Technologies will adapt its terrestrial FSO system to meet the Navy's requirements for a long-range, high-speed, secure, compact communications technology. Multi-gigabit, multi-wavelength Free Space Optical Communications capability will break the information access bottleneck. AOptix's highly collimated beam assures the highest degree of security for optical through-air data transmissions. Other military applications exist in ground-to-air, ground-to-space and air-to-space. Commercial applications exist in areas that require long-distance, high-capacity telecommunications links such as cellular phone traffic backhaul.

COHERENT TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 655 Aspen Ridge Drive Lafayette, CO 80026
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 604-2000 Dr. Narasimha S. Prasad NAVY 02-126 Awarded: 12DEC02
Title:	Long range, high bandwidth, fast tracking, free-space communication link
Abstract:	Coherent Technologies Inc. (CTI) proposes to develop a laser communication system (LCS) coupled with a high-speed pointing and tracking scheme for greater than 100 Mb/s data rate, for optimal conditions, and 64kbits/sec, for poor atmospheric conditions, applications for long range (>50km) optical communications. The LCS will provide eyesafe operation with an engagement range greater than 50 km among moving aerial vehicles (including VTUAVs) and ships. The dual mode AMCW and pulsed (high peak power), high repetition rate laser transmitter optimally coupled to a compact pointing and tracking unit will be designed to reduce the probability of data link breakdown due to low visibility conditions (i.e. fog). The approach will capitalize upon innovative transceiver and scanner designs developed by CTI for laser radar systems and the advancing scanner technologies such as Micro-Opto-Electrical-Mechanical Systems. The baseline architecture uses a mid/near transmitter optimally coupled to micro-mirror assembly. Three potential configurations for tracking in a highly dynamic environment are envisaged. The Phase I effort will generate system level signal-to-noise ratio assessments for data link performance under various environmental conditions, (2) establish closed-loop pointing and tracking scheme for maximum link performance, and (3) develop a proof-of-principle prototype and execute risk reduction measurements to ensure technical and cost feasibility for Phase II field-worthy hardware implementation. Potential applications include ground-to-ground, ground-to-air, sea-to-air mobile communication systems for video broadcast, telecommunication applications, and other data intensive applications that do not rely on two fixed locations. The proposed system is anticipated to enhance troop communications and battlefield awareness and support search and rescue operations.

LSA 1215 Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite 1300 Arlington, VA 22202
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(610) 363-5808 Mr. John G. Lehman, Jr. NAVY 02-126 Awarded: 19DEC02
Title:	Free Space Optics Ship to Ship Network Communication Capability
Abstract:	Theater logistics, security, and Command and Control all require communication of huge amounts of tactical information and sensor data in order to locate the enemy and his assets, identify vulnerable targets, and prevent friendly casualties by neutralizing threats before they can inflict damage. Moderate range ship-to-ship communications can use free space optics (FSO) to take advantage of the unregulated infrared portion of the electromagnetic spectrum to minimize or eliminate RF emissions. We propose to investigate the feasibility of developing a Free Space Optics (FSO) Ship to Ship Network Communication system that can be used to form a nominally 50 km range, variable data rate, non line-of-sight connection to facilitate secure and interference free communications between moving ships. The FSO system is based on a novel building-block transceiver implementation to integrate all of the necessary features into a small, rugged package suitable for ship and small UAV installation. As envisioned, the system would provide: ship-to-ship line-of-slight (LOS) communications, ship to aircraft and ashore communications (Non-LOS), accommodate a variable-speed data rate to operate reliably in all kinds of weather (from 100 Mbps to 64Kbps), and operate in the eye-safe 1550nm wavelength region of the spectrum. Relevant near-term applications are present in both military and commercial markets. They include: High bandwidth data communications between ships and from ship to shore, Mine and buoy status communications, Data communications and relay links between aircraft and automobiles, Underwater harbor surveillance and communication system, Voice and data communications for divers and undersea rescue workers, Remote ocean measurement and monitoring capability, Wideband metropolitan area networks, Airport emergency crews (FAA), Federal surveillance efforts, including multichannel (CIA, NSA, DISA), Law and drug enforcement surveillance relay system (DEA, BATF, FBI), Battlefield or other mobile military communications, special operations (DoD).

ADVANCED ROTORCRAFT TECHNOLOGY, INC. 1685 Plymouth Street, Suite 250 Mountain View, CA 94043
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(650) 968-1464 Dr. Chengjian He NAVY 02-127 Awarded: 17DEC02
Title:	Ship Dynamics/Ship Air Wake Interface
Abstract:	Safe and effective shipboard aircraft operation is a challenging task for both pilot and ship deck operators. The launch and recovery of manned and autonomous aircraft are strongly affected by ship motion in the ocean wind and wave environment, the ship induced air wake, and aircraft interaction with the ship dynamics and the ship air wake. A simulation tool is needed to model pilot/aircraft/ship/air wake interaction for purpose of design, operational analysis, and training. We propose to 1. Perform a comprehensive parametric study to investigate the effects of important ship air wake and turbulence parameters (e.g., intensity, spatial grid and time scale, etc.) on the aircraft response. The study will identify the essential characteristics of the ship air wake for accurate simulation of shipboard aircraft launch and recovery operations. 2. Develop an interface between the ship dynamics and ship air wake models to address the effect of ship dynamic motion (e.g., pitch and roll) in addition to the current wind over deck speed and angle variation. 3. Develop an intelligent pilot interface model to address the pilot/aircraft interaction to simulate Mission Task Elements of shipboard aircraft launch and recovery. The tool developed will benefit military autonomous and manned rotary wing or fixed wing aircraft launch and recovery from ship and support the process of design, training, and planning. It will also benefit commercial airlines for take-off and landing safety and improvement of operation efficiency.

CONTINUUM DYNAMICS, INC. 34 Lexington Avenue Ewing, NJ 08618
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(609) 538-0444 Dr. Robert M. McKillip, Jr. NAVY 02-127 Awarded: 16DEC02
Title:	A Coupled Ship Motion/Airwake Model for Naval Aircraft Simulation Applications
Abstract:	Proper simulation-based assessment of aircraft launch and recovery operations from Navy vessels is critically dependent upon the availability of accurate models of the airwake environment surrounding the ship. Current airwake models in use, however, are limited to simulating only steady ship headings relative to a uniform flow field, and do not include any dynamic ship motion responses to surface waves. Continuum Dynamics, Inc. (CDI) proposes the development of a new ship airwake/ship motion/aircraft motion software interface that will provide a range of code modules with scalable fidelity that can properly simulate the airwake environment around ships for aircraft flight simulation. The resulting software can support ship designers, dynamic interface (DI) test planners, aircrew training and flight planning, UAV operator interface design, and sailor training exercises. The Phase I/Phase II program will leverage: (1) previous corporate experience in unsteady flow analysis and software development; (2) an in-house first-principles, time-accurate free wake analysis for rotorcraft flight dynamics; (3) a fast panel-based code for computing wakes and airloads from aircraft and lifting surfaces in arbitrary relative motion; and (4) recent research into supporting real-time simulation of the DI test environment. Accurate prediction of airwake effects on Naval aircraft would support enhanced safety of air operations from a range of surface vessels. Use of the software by ship designers would provide a rapid assessment of the effects of ship modifications on aircraft launch and recovery effectiveness. Components of the software can enhance the fidelity of real-time simulation of both manned and unmanned aircraft operations from Navy ships.

SUKRA HELITEK, INC. 3146, Greenwood road Ames, IA 50014
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(515) 292-9646 Mr. David Schaller NAVY 02-127 Awarded: 18DEC02
Title:	Ship Dynamics/Ship Air Wake Interface
Abstract:	Shipboard landings of V/STOL aircraft have identified both unique dynamic interface issues and the need for an accurate simulation module for practicing shipboard operations. The unsteady, unpredictable air wake generated by large ships presents problems to rotorcraft pilots because it can cause the vehicle to become unstable. A flight simulator for shipboard operations would be invaluable to rotorcraft pilots by providing a safe environment to experience ship air wake phenomena. It is proposed that the flow field for a ship and aircraft be solved using a coupled viscous computational fluid dynamics(CFD) flow solver for various wind speeds and directions. The matrix solutions, created by CFD solver, Rot3dc,will be stored in a database laying the foundation for a real time simulation module. In phase I, the ship's motion is limited to translation and yaw. During the Option period, a turbulance model will be added and the ship's motion will be extended to include pitch and roll. During Phase II, improvements to the simulation module and graphical user interface will be added. The simulation module develpoed under this initiative will find wide usage in the Navy rotorcraft organization and rotorcraft industry. This proposal offers a simulation tool that will lay the foundation for load and wake calculations of rotorcraft during shipboard operations. Sukra Helitek's flagship Rot3DC is used currently for several flight regimes including vortex ring state. The proposed research has resulted from the needs of the U.S. defense industry and is an extention to the well tested Rot3DC. The enhanced capabilities of Rot3DC will further increase its marketability and usefulness.

FOSTER-MILLER, INC. 350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 622-5513 Mr. Derek Fox NAVY 02-128 Awarded: 20DEC02
Title:	Shielding Solutions for Composite Ship Structures
Abstract:	Composite structures can provide major weight savings and performance improvements over metallic structures. Their high strength to weight ratio, corrosion resistance and compatibility with low radar cross-section designs have led to their increasing use in ship construction. However since these structures provide no inherent EM shielding it must be specifically designed-in for ship topside applications. The Foster-Miller team will develop innovative methods for providing effective and durable EM shielding. Our team includes a major shipbuilder, Northrop-Grumman Ship Systems, to assist us with ship design and construction practices. Our technical approach addresses integration of a ground-plane within the composite structure and the connection of this groundplane to the hull of the vessel. Our approach also addresses the needs for grounding the shields for systems and equipment during outfitting. (P-020621) Providing durable and effective shielding of composite structures is required for safety of personnel and equipment in ship topside applications. Proven shielding techniques will enable future ship systems will benefit from the reduced weight and vulnerability of composite ship structures. The Foster-Miller approach is to identify techniques for integrating the shielding provisions during fabrication of the composite structure, rather than adding them as an afterthought. We believe this provides for a more cost-effective and robust approach.

METSS CORP. 300 Westdale Avenue Westerville, OH 43082
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(614) 797-2200 Dr. Donald M. Bigg NAVY 02-128 Awarded: 12DEC02
Title:	Highly Effective EM Shielding Technique for Ship Composite Structures
Abstract:	METSS proposes to develop low radar cross section structural composites that reliably produce a minimum of 60 dB of attenuation in the 100 kHz to 1 GHz range, when used as standalone structures or joined to metals in complex structures. The key to accomplishing this goal is to ensure electrical connectivity across the composite-metal boundary regardless of the joining technique used. METSS will address this service requirement by rendering the matrix resin electrically conductive to such a degree that inter-material resistivity is dramatically reduced. METSS also intends to do this without significantly altering the basic mechanical properties of the composite. Rendering the matrix resin conductive will also reduce the internal electrical resistance between adjacent conductive carbon fibers. Carbon fibers are highly conductive along the fiber direction, but less so in the cross-fiber direction. Consequently, reducing fiber to fiber resistance is important in increasing the overall level of uniformity of conductivity throughout the composite. METSS intends to render the matrix resins electrically conductive by the incorporation of either inherently conductive polymers, conductive nano-materials, or a combination of both technologies. Because of the nature of the electrical conductivity of these two materials, corrosion at joints should be minimized. The benefits of this program are extensive. EMI shielding has been a very active field of study for 25 years, and is important, not only in military applications, but in the commercial sector, as well. Protection of military computers, computer driven devices, and communications requires excellent EMI shielding. Stealth systems rely on the ability to control impinging electromagnetic waves. A constant concern of composite aircraft is their ability to withstand a lightening strike. Lightning strikes can also be dangerous to ground based structures. Making composites electrically conductive composites will allow them to enter markets where dissipation of electrical charges is required.

TOUCHSTONE RESEARCH LABORATORY, LTD. The Millennium Centre, R.R. 1, Box 100B Triadelphia, WV 26059
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(304) 547-5800 Mr. Randy A. Handley NAVY 02-128 Awarded: 12DEC02
Title:	Carbon Foam Composite Material Systems for Ship EM Shielding
Abstract:	The Navy is planning to integrate composite structures into the new CV(X) and DD(X) ship class designs. The structures and components will provide an inherent weight savings and are more corrosion-resistant than current steel structures. Currently, composite structures do not provide the same electromagnetic (EM) shielding effectiveness without being designed into the structure as steel or aluminum. EM shielding effectiveness of 60 dB and greater for 1 GHz and above has been achieved with composite materials; shielding effectiveness in the 100 kHz to 1 GHz ranges are much less. In the proposed effort, Touchstone Research Laboratory (TRL) will work with the University of Delaware (UD), whose previous work with the Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock (NSWCC) has shown that Touchstone's coal-based carbon foam material, labeled CFOAM , can be tailored to be a high-performance absorber and perfect electrical conductor (PEC) of wide-band frequency and wide-angle incidence for electromagnetic shielding structures. Touchstone will also work with Newport News Ships Systems and ATK to develop techniques for joining composite-to-composite and composite-to-metal structures and components using carbon foam. The radar-absorbing and EM shielding material system concepts created by this research will be lighter, stronger and more absorptive than those currently available. Structures, whether on land, sea, or that fly requiring weight reduction though using composites and effective RCS and EM shielding, will benefit.

SURMET CORP. 33 B Street Burlington, MA 01803
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 272-3250 Mr. Nilesh Gunda NAVY 02-129 Awarded: 11DEC02
Title:	Ultra Low Friction Hard Carbon Coatings for Naval Applications
Abstract:	Naval ships contain many systems that have rotating, sliding or otherwise wearing surfaces. Many of these systems require significant maintenance for lubrication and wear related adjustments. Navy has identified the potential use of near frictionless carbon coatings for improving the performance of such systems. Surmet proposes the use of ultra low carbon coatings to improve the efficiency and performance of these systems. Surmet's amorphous carbon coating, is extremely hard, lubricious, wear and corrosion resistant. In Phase I, Surmet will determine th eperformance characteristics of its hard carbon coating in marine environment, including salt air, sea spray and submergence in seawater. In Phase II, potential applications will be identified and tested with the use of the hard carbon coating. A Phase III commercialization plan will be developed for rapid insertion of the technology in operating aircraft. Hard carbon DLC coatings are finding increasing use in the biomedical, aerospace and semiconductor industry. The Navy has identified a few marine applications for the use of low friction hard carbon coatings. The success of this project will lead to significant maintenance and cost savings for the navy.

TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT & TRANSFER, INC. 133 Defense Highway, Suite 212 Annapolis, MD 21401
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 261-8373 Dr. David Palaith NAVY 02-129 Awarded: 19DEC02
Title:	Near Frictionless Carbon Coatings for Marine Applications
Abstract:	Corrosion costs the Navy 26 man-years per year per ship in maintenance, or about 6500 man years per year ($975 million) for its entire 221 surface ship battle force. This includes maintaining coatings of superstructures and catwalks, interior bulkheads and decks, flightdecks and topside decks, bilge wet spaces, tanks and voids, topside camouflage and freeboard, and machinery space passageways. Cathodic protection is used for underwater hull corrosion protection. Argonne National Laboratory (ANL) has developed a new thin film lubricant, known as Near Frictionless Carbon (NFC), that may offer a solution to many of these corrosion problems. In order to demonstrate the feasibility of this proposed solution, Technology Assessment & Transfer (TA&T) will measure tribological, wear, and corrosion properties of NFC films in sea water spray/fog and compare the results with similar measurements of materials currently used by the fleet. TA&T also will subject these films to accelerated corrosion exposure in order to assess long-term behavior. The Center for Corrosion Science and Engineering (Code 6130) at NRL will perform these accelerated corrosion exposures. During the Phase II effort, the Corrosion Control Group (05M) in NAVSEA will review and recommend testing. Since NFC films also perform well in a dry, low pressure environment, an additional applications may be in the space industry especially to lubricate attitude control systems. Other lubricating applications (currently under investigation) include internal combustion engines - piston rings, valve stems/seats, fuel injectors, etc.

UES, INC. 4401 Dayton-Xenia Road Dayton, OH 45432
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 426-6900 Dr. Rabi S. Bhattacharya NAVY 02-129 Awarded: 19DEC02
Title:	Development and Evaluation of Near Frictionless Carbon for Shipboard Applications
Abstract:	Near frictionless carbon (NFC) coating, a form of amorphous carbon that has a friction coefficient of less than 0.001 when measured in dry nitrogen, has been developed at the Argonne National Laboratory (ANL). This coating has potentials for many applications including that of naval shipboard. Naval ships contain many systems such as pumps, fans, windlasses, winches, steering gear, reduction gears, door and hatch hinges, elevators and gun mounts, that have rotating and sliding wear surfaces. Currently used lubricants and coatings do not provide long lasting protection against wear and corrosion in marine environment. UES, Inc. and ANL have teamed up for the development of NFC coating using a large area filtered cathodic arc plasma technique and evaluate the coating for performance under simulated marine environment. Near frictionless carbon coating has potential in numerous commercial applications. Examples are: piston rings, gears and bearing components, cams and cam-roller followers, fuel injectors, air conditioning compressors, etc.

ALAMEDA APPLIED SCIENCES CORP. 2235 Polvorosa Avenue, Suite 230 San Leandro, CA 94577
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(510) 483-4156 Dr. Michael McFarland NAVY 02-130 Selected for Award
Title:	Barrel Coating and Liners for Extended Barrel Life
Abstract:	The purpose of this Phase I effort is to investigate the effectiveness of using coatings to extend the life of gun barrels. The coatings will be deposited using Alameda Applied Sciences' proprietary Coaxial Energetic Deposition (CED) process, which is capable of depositing virtually any metal or alloy and many types of ceramics to the insides of tubes, while using no moving parts. One of the major benefits of the CED process is that the deposition ions are much more energetic than those of other deposition methods, for example sputtering or CVD. Because of these more energetic ions, CED deposited coatings tend to be denser, with fewer voids and cracks, and to adhere better to the substrate. As a first step in this Phase I, a determination will be made of the most promising material for coating the tubes. Several tube sections will be coated and an analysis will be performed to assess the ability of the coatings to extend the life of gun barrels. This novel technology provides a means to inexpensively apply high-quality metal or ceramic coatings to the inside surface of gun barrels and other tubes. These coatings have already demonstrated that they extend the lifetime of ethylene cracking tubes used in olefin manufacturing. These coatings have the potential to extend the life of tubes or cylinders when mechanical wear, caustic chemicals or elevated temperatures are contributing factors to the failure of the system, leading to cost savings in operation and maintenance.

MATERIALS & ELECTROCHEMICAL RESEARCH (MER) CORP. 7960 S. Kolb Rd. Tucson, AZ 85706
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(520) 574-1980 Dr. James C. Withers NAVY 02-130 Awarded: 20DEC02
Title:	The Development of Refractory Materials as Gun Barrel Liners
Abstract:	State-of-the-art gun barrels limit the munition and propellant that can be utilized due to excessive erosion that limits the life and performance capabilities and adversely affects the operating cost and required force levels. In order to increase barrel life, as well as accommodating the use of higher energy and temperature propellants for firing advance projectiles, the refractorness of gun barrels must be substantially enhanced. This program proposes to investigate the use of refractory metal alloys and cermets applied by solid free form fabrication (SFFF) using a plasma transferred arc (PTA) energy source. A variety of refractory alloys and cermets will be produced and screen tested utilizing a vented bomb and heat checking. Forcing cones will be produced in the most promising compositions and delivered to the Navy which after testing will provide a basis for Phase II optimization, additional forcing cone testing and fabricating barrels for live fire test. Gun barrels with refractory metal alloy lings have application in all military branches in all caliber weapons as well as commercial applications requiring reduced thermomechanical erosion.

NORTH STAR RESEARCH CORP. 4421 McLeod, NE, Ste. A Albuquerque, NM 87109
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 888-4908 Dr. Richard J. Adler NAVY 02-130 Awarded: 16DEC02
Title:	Chromium Nitride Barrel Implant/Coating for Extended Barrel Life
Abstract:	In our phase I work we propose to develop and test a mulilayer, ion implanted chrome nitride coating with unique applicability to gun barrel lifetime improvement. We will create an ion implanted CrN coating on top of the present chrome coating of the gun barrel. This coating will have low friction, good hardness and excellent resistance to cracking. Ion implanted coatings have excellent practical life typically 10X chromium by itself in wear situations), and we will build up a multilayer ion implanted coating. This coating is expected to significantly increase the life of the gun barrel. The coating equipment is also uniquely compatible with the cylindrical shape of gun barrel interior, and we expect it to create a coating which conforms to the barrel's rifling. The ultimate cost of the coating will be as low as $500/barrel using this technique. Initial tests of the new surface using a laser heat pulse from a cutting laser will tell is whether the surface is improved. Cross-sectional SEM will also be used to study this problem. Automotive tooling will benefit greatly from this type of coating. Severe high temperature corrosion/wear situations such as aircraft engine parts will also benefit.

TPL, INC. 3921 Academy Parkway North, NE Albuquerque, NM 87109
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 342-4445 Mr. Robert F. Lowey NAVY 02-130 Awarded: 16DEC02
Title:	Barrel Coating and Liners for Extended Barrel Life
Abstract:	Gun barrel erosion is due to thermo-chemical reactions. Modern propellants are highly corrosive and burn at ever-higher temperatures. Refractory metals have been demonstrated to resist thermo-chemical reactions better than any other available coating or liner. The problem has been in keeping the material in place under extreme firing conditions. TPL successfully demonstrated explosively clad, tantalum-lined gun barrels under live-fire conditions in 2001, using the extremely hot burning M919 ammunition. In a smoothbore barrel, over 1300 rounds were successfully fired, compared to the baseline test, <300 rounds, when the barrel was condemned. These liners were made from pure tantalum, which is a relatively soft metal, which may have problems resisting projectile spin up or the balloting experienced with large bore gun tubes. TPL proposes to characterize alternative refractory metals and alloys for use in large caliber rifled gun tubes. TPL will fabricate tubing of the selected materials for cladding in short simulated gun tube sections. These sections will be cut into specimens for evaluation of bond quality, bond strength, and fabricated into conforming parts for small-scale erosion tests. Through this effort TPL will identify a material that has both erosion and wear resistance, and one that is available in sufficient quantities for use in gun barrel manufacturing. TPL and the principle investigator have unique expertise in explosive cladding of gun barrels and the development of the necessary explosive formulations. Adoption of this technology by the military for gun systems across the board will not only extend barrel life but will allow higher performance ammunition to be employed. This technology will enable the cladding of tubing with thermo-chemical resistant refractory metals to thin-walled tubing for use in the chemical and nuclear industries. The work effort suggested within this proposal will further enhance that capability by identifying mechanical wear resistant materials that can withstand degrees of abrasion, etc., from detritus within the fluids flowing through the tubing, thereby expanding the industries of interest.

VERITAY TECHNOLOGY, INC. 4845 Millersport Highway, P.O. Box 305 East Amherst, NY 14051
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(716) 689-0177 Mr. Randy Salizzoni NAVY 02-131 Awarded: 13DEC02
Title:	In-Bore Dynamic Instrumentation for Navy Gun Barrels
Abstract: Abstract not available...

FOSTER-MILLER TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 431 New Karner Road Albany, NY 12205
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(518) 456-9919 Mr. Gordon B. Hirschman NAVY 02-132 Awarded: 19DEC02
Title:	Autonomous Prescription of Maintenance Requirements
Abstract:	Condition Based Maintenance (CBM) has become the Navy's overriding operating philosophy aimed at reducing life-cycle costs while maintaining operational readiness by decreasing maintenance requirements and operating with reduced manpower. To support the CBM philosophy, the Navy needs to be able to deploy appropriate tools for equipment health assessment, diagnostics and prognostics. This requires an integrated framework for the development and evaluation of monitoring, diagnostic and prognostic approaches against actual or proposed shipboard system designs. To address this need, Foster-Miller Technologies (FMT) proposes to create a model based software framework we call the Integrated Design Evaluation Architecture for Condition Based Maintenance (IDEA/CBM) that will provide a tool for the system designer or maintenance manager to pull various measurement, diagnostic, and prognostic approaches together and then assess the overall effectiveness of the approaches to provide an integrated assessment of the system's health. The IDEA/CBM supports creation of a model of a shipboard system against which the effectiveness of an approach can be tested. Once an appropriate set of condition assessment tools has been integrated it can be exported to a shipboard CBM system based on the OSA/CBM open system architecture for implementation. The IDEA/CBM framework will facilitate the integration of monitoring, diagnostic and prognostic capabilities to support CBM in a wide range of systems. The framework could be used by any systems manufacturer or system design or maintenance engineering organization (either commercial or military) to select an optimum set of condition assessment tools to match the needs of new or retrofit systems. The resulting CBM practices can reduce maintenance costs, avoid unplanned system outages, and prevent system failures. Potential commercial applications are widespread in the power generation, petrochemical, food processing, transportation, mining, aerospace, electronics and building industries.

GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY CONNECTION, INC. 2839 Paces Ferry Rd. Suite 1160 Atlanta, GA 30339
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(770) 803-3001 Dr. A. B. Thakker NAVY 02-132 Awarded: 23DEC02
Title:	Autonomous Prescription of Maintenance Requirements
Abstract:	Global Technology Connection, Inc. in collaboration with the Georgia Institute of Technology and its industrial partners (General Electric, Lockheed and others,) proposes to conceptualize, define and demonstrate key features of an integrated model-based software framework whose product will assist eventually the maintenance manager and the systems designer to select the "best" prescription for assessing the effectiveness and fault coverage of available models but also to utilize the accumulated knowledge towards continuously improving the design or re-design of critical military or industrial assets. The enabling technologies for this automated prescription-targeted software architecture include novel intelligent agent based information management and decision support logic tools, a hybrid object-oriented modeling methodology, diagnostic and prognostic algorithms already developed by this research team, a case-based reasoning paradigm to assess the accumulated evidence and support the decision making, and an open systems architecture compatible with OSA CBM levels for implementation purposes. A typical shipboard system will be selected as the testbed for proof-of-concept purposes. An aggressive productization/commercialization and tech transfer agenda will be drafted to facilitate Phase II and III work. The results of this project will assist the U.S. Navy initially and other government and industry sectors actively engaged in CBM practices for legacy and new platforms, such as the JSF, UCAV and AAAV, to optimize maintenance and system design or re-design tasks through an intelligent and automated prescription-targeted architecture. This model-based software framework promises to advance significantly the state-of-the-art of CBM/PHM systems and extend their coverage to a variety of multiple platforms. It will lead to improved techno-economic performance of these new technologies and increase the availability and reliability of critical assets in the execution of a mission. Finally, it will make viable PHM systems accessible to a variety of industry sector including the aerospace and transportation industries, the power generation and utility industries, chemical process industries, among others.

INTELLIGENT AUTOMATION CORP. 13029 Danielson Street, Suite 200 Poway, CA 92064
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 679-4140 Dr. Akhilesh Maewal NAVY 02-132 Awarded: 13DEC02
Title:	A Tool for Design of Automated CBM Systems
Abstract:	An Opens System Architecture (OSA) for Condition Based Maintenance (CBM) is being developed through a cooperative development between industry and the Department of Defense. This OSA-CBM standard defines critical software interfaces at various architecture levels including Data Manipulation, Condition Monitoring, Health Assessment, Prognostics and Decision Support. Intelligent Automation Corporation has developed an open architecture Intelligent Machinery Diagnostic System (iMDS) toolbox based on the Mathworks Simulink software environment. The iMDS toolbox provides proven CBM software modules at various levels of the OSA-CBM architecture including Data Manipulation, Condition Monitoring, Health Assessment, Prognostics and Decision Support. IAC proposes adding a OSA-CBM compliant set of input and output tools to the iMDS toolbox that would provide an extremely powerful yet open software architecture for CBM system development. The enhanced iMDS toolset can easily be applied to aviation, vehicle and shipboard CBM applications by third parties. Using a Mathworks/Simulink software environment allows the applications to be generated and tested quickly in an easy-to-use graphical environment. Code generation features of the Mathworks Simulink system provide a mechanism to generate C code that could be used in a variety of CBM acquisition and processing systems. The Department of Defense is interested in having this software architecture support emerging CBM open architecture standards developed as part of the Open System Architecture (OSA) for Condition Based Maintenance (CBM) initiative. The OSA-CBM team is creating information sharing standards with the objective driving suppliers to produce interchangeable hardware and software components based on the standard. The benefits of an open standard for the Department of Defense and industry are simplified system upgrades, more technology and supplier choices, rapid technology development and reduced prices

ELECTRO STANDARDS LABORATORIES 36 western Industrial Drive Cranston, RI 02921
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(401) 943-1164 Dr. Raymond B. Sepe Jr NAVY 02-133 Awarded: 16DEC02
Title:	Sensorless Control of Linear Motors
Abstract:	Closed-loop control techniques such as those based on inner loop vector current control are well suited to meeting these performance criteria. However, they require flux or armature position knowledge which is usually based on the use of mechanical feedback sensors. Mechanical feedback sensors for position or velocity are the most unreliable link in the control system when subjected to harsh conditions such as those found in EMALS. Sensorless control techniques seek to remove the mechanical feedback sensors while still maintaining the same level of control performance. This work will extend the state-of-the-art in sensorless control to linear motor system, and in particular to the demanding transient requirements of EMALS. Signal Injection methods, meausrement based methods, and advanced state estimators will be assessed and new hybrid sensorless controller for linear motors will be developed to meet or exceed the EMALS requirements. Development of a robust hybrid sensorless controller will have immediate benefits for both linear motor and rotational motor systems. Servo grade performance without mechanical sensors improves reliability, survivability, and reduces the cost for closed loop control, making it applicable to a wide variety of industrial, commercial, and military applications. Prime candidates for this technology include linear motor aircraft launch and arrest systems, linear motor conveyor belt and transport systems for moving factory goods through a production or storage facility, linear or rotary vehicle and craft propulsion systems, hybrid electric vehicles, fly-by-wire systems, more-electric aircraft, vehicles, and ships, electrification of mining and drilling equipment, and the machine tool and general automation industry.

NDI ENGINEERING CO. 100 Grove Road, P.O. Box 518 Thorofare, NJ 08086
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(856) 848-0033 Mr. Ted M. Heinrich NAVY 02-133 Awarded: 19DEC02
Title:	Sensorless Control of Linear Motors
Abstract:	Develop a sensorless control scheme, including hardware and algorithms that can effectively and accurately control a long linear motor. Eliminate the need for sensors to control operation, since sensors are the most failure prone components in the system.This would have direct and immediate benefits for all types of commercial rotary and linear motors.

MAGTUBE, INC. 5735-B Hollister Ave. Goleta, CA 93117
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(805) 683-9659 Mr. Jim Fiske NAVY 02-134 Awarded: 16DEC02
Title:	High Density Electric Energy Storage
Abstract:	Magtube proposes to develop a new class of inertial energy storage unit capable of very high energy capacity and power output in a far smaller package than is possible with any currently available technology. We have developed a novel concept that eliminates the primary failure modes of composite flywheels and allows nearly unlimited scalability. We will survey Navy operational requirements to develop target specifications for a prototype unit. We will then develop a design for the prototype, analyze critical components, build a test device to verify computed characteristics, estimate the size, weight, performance and cost of the prototype, and produce a solid model drawing with all components in place. Preliminary estimates suggest the possibility of constructing a 1 GJ, 100 MW unit with a total volume of less than 4 cubic meters. Electrical energy storage has many applications in both military and civilian systems. For the Navy, our units will provide compact, light weight energy storage for aircraft catapults, pulsed power weapons and sensors, and general back-up power for "all-electric" ships. Integrated all-electric designs are expected to significantly improve efficiency,effectiveness, and survivability while simultaneously increasing design flexibility, reducing costs, and enhancing quality of service. In civilian use our units will be safe, efficient, and will have no adverse environmental effects. Low-end units will be suitable for applications such as power quality, small facility UPS systems, and transportation. High-end units could be a viable alternative to pumped hydro. Large units will decrease the need for utility investments in new transmission and distribution systems, with a potential national saving exceeding $3 billion per year in this application alone. They could also reduce the cost of electricity to all consumers, create higher grid reliability and energy security, and result in a very large export market for this technology.

TPL, INC. 3921 Academy Parkway North, NE Albuquerque, NM 87109
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 342-4442 Mr. Eric P. Luther,Ph.D NAVY 02-134 Awarded: 16DEC02
Title:	High Energy Density Capacitive Power Source for Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch Systems
Abstract:	There is an increasing need for energy storage devices with greater energy density capabilities. While major advances are being made in dielectric polymers in this regard, demands are outrunning improvements. Composite dielectrics have shown little promise with the ceramic phase having only a second order effect on dielectric constant but a negative first order effect on breakdown strength. TPL proposes a major advance in composite dielectrics through use of its 50 nm barium titanate particles and high performance siloxane dielectric polymer. To this will be added means of substantially increasing dielectric constant and mitigating breakdown strength effects. An order of magnitude increase in energy density could result. In Phase I, films of modified BaTiO3/siloxane composite materials will be cast. Dielectric constant, breakdown strength, and loss tangent will be measured and compared with baseline materials. Evaluations of improvements will be made. TPL has one of the most comprehensive programs in advanced dielectric materials. As winner of the MILCAP Program, TPL's siloxane polymer is state-of-the-art. The Principal Investigator is a leader in composite dielectric materials. TPL will produce novel barium titanate/siloxane nanocomposites to explore the structure property relations of these materials. The properties of ordered nanocomposites have the potential to greatly exceed those of unordered composites. Nanocomposites with enhanced properties will find use in high energy storage density capacitors and embedded capacitance applications for a variety of military applications. Potential commercial applications include lasers, pulsed lightning and defibrillators.

STEALTH INDUSTRIES US LLC P.O. Box 75323 Tampa, FL 33675
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(813) 645-7702 Mr. Dana Neer NAVY 02-135 Selected for Award
Title:	Aircraft Carrier Environmental Maintenance Enclosure
Abstract:	Fleet commands have an immediate need for an enclosure that will enhance the work performance in aircraft carriers specifically on the flight decks during schedueled upkeep and maintenance periods. The enclosure should be portable, modular, high wind capable and permit establishment of an environmentally controlled work area that will allow the required maintenance to be conducted without ambient temperature and humidity challenges. With a controlled environment the quality of work will be significatly enhanced and consistent. Delays in preparation and actual maintenance associated with weather changes will be reduced. Commercial application in part will be optimized in commercial ship deck work such as for pipe and pipe manifold installation and repairs, other time consuming deck work where weather may be a costly problem in time and man hours. Also, for pipe line contractors and and exterior fabrication such as industrial plants where temporary fabrication on site is required.

TRITON SYSTEMS, INC. 200 TURNPIKE ROAD Chelmsford, MA 01824
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 250-4200 Mr. David Powell NAVY 02-135 Selected for Award
Title:	Modular Aircraft Carrier Environmental Enclosure (MACEE
Abstract:	Triton Systems, Inc. (TSI) proposes to develop a Modular Aircraft Carrier Environmental Enclosure (MACEE) that is portable, lightweight, easy to erect, capable of withstanding heavy winds and can be produced at a competitive cost. The core technology is based upon Triton's integrated team effort approach to create an enclosure design with environmental controls and appropriate materials that will enhance the removal and application of non-skid systems. Triton's team has extensive knowledge of existing shelter systems and has the experience and ability to retrofit these systems for use on Aircraft Carriers. These lightweight low cost rigid shelters will include full HVAC and filtration control of the enclosed environment. Triton's MACEE provides the required environmental protection for the working sailors on the carrier's deck. The specific retrofitting and upgrading of existing systems with appropriate military HVAC requirements will be the focus of the Triton's team effort. At the conclusion of the proposed program, the feasibility of fabricating an MACEE capable of generating temperature, humidity, ventilation and filtration requirements necessary for the application of non-skid will be demonstrated. The proposed environmental enclosure will be able to be used with non-skid coating systems on commercial ships, overland transportation roadways and recreational areas such as swimming pool decks, tennis courts, theme parks, etc. Additionally, the proposed enclosure could be used to control the application of non-skid materials on marine and offshore drilling platforms with aircraft capabilities as well as for airport landing strips and runways.

ACULIGHT CORP. 11805 North Creek Parkway S., Suite 113 Bothell, WA 98011
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(425) 482-1100 Dr. Mark Bowers NAVY 02-136 Awarded: 20DEC02
Title:	Compact, High Power Midwave Infrared Lasers
Abstract:	The Navy requires high power laser sources that can provide multi-Watt output power levels in the mid-infrared for optical countermeasures of anti-ship missiles. Current state of art laser transmitters, consisting of diode-pumped solid-state lasers and optical parametric oscillators, have demonstrated the required optical power and wavelength in the mid-infrared spectral region. However, these laser systems are unreliable, requiring constant maintenance due to component failure or optical misalignment. To improve the performance of next generation countermeasures systems, Aculight Corporation proposes a novel laser source based on emerging fiber-optic technology coupled with an innovative wavelength shifter to provide high power, broad bandwidth radiation in the mid-infrared. In the Phase I, experiments will be performed to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed novel wavelength shifter. A preliminary design of the mid-infrared laser to be built in the Phase II will also be developed. Results from the Phase I will be used in the option task to perform a detailed design of the laser module that will be built in the Phase II. The market targeted for the proposed compact, high-power mid-infrared laser source is the military production of such lasers for Army, Air Force and Navy infrared countermeasures systems.

Q PEAK, INC. 135 South Road Bedford, MA 01730
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 275-9535 Mr. Glen Rines NAVY 02-136 Awarded: 20DEC02
Title:	Midwave infrared OPO pumped by a compact, efficient Tm laser
Abstract:	We propose the development of a MWIR system comprised of a diode-pumped, Q-switched, Tm laser pumping an OPO, which yields signal and idler waves that are both in-band to the atmospheric windows of interest (3.5 to 4.1 and 4.4 to 5.0 microns). The primary improvement over previous work, in our view, is that we have provided the necessary 2-micron pump laser for the OPO by directly Q-switching a Tm laser rather than using the Tm laser as an optical pump for a separate Ho laser. This eliminates one conversion step and substantially reduces the optical complexity of the system. The all-Brewster, side-pumped-slab gain module and its concomitant benefits will allow us to obtain efficient, reliable, Q-switched, TEM00 operation in a configuration that is less costly, more compact, and more robust laser than previously demonstrated MWIR sources. Specifically, we believe that our single-slab gain module, configured in the proposed all-Brewster, Tm:YALO geometry, pumped by two 60-W diode bars will yield 40 W of Q-switched, 2-micron output at 20 kHz. This pump source will, in turn, generate a total OPO output of 20 W, ~10 W in each of the two desired atmospheric windows. The development of a MWIR OPO-based source would add a new and strongly desired capability to existing remote-sensing technologies, by providing an alternative to the FTIR technology that has been well accepted in the commercial (rather than research) market for remote sensing. Given success in the overall proposed SBIR effort, Q-Peak would attempt to develop a commercial OPO-based instrument for gas concentration monitoring. We believe customer acceptance of such systems will occur given their similarity but clear advantages over installed FTIR devices. In addition, the OPO source would provide a path for Q-Peak to enter the industrial process control market, a large and growing business.

BRANDES ASSOC., INC. 1417 Crestline Drive Santa Barbara, CA 93105
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(231) 719-1396 Mr. Joseph Gattuso NAVY 02-137 Awarded: 20DEC02
Title:	Integrated Information Architecture for Crisis Management and Response
Abstract:	This project proposes research directed toward the rapid design, development, construction, and deployment of a prototype Heterogeneous Asymmetric Warfare Crisis Management System (HAWCMS). The HAWCMS will integrate extant data sources, chemical, biological, nuclear, radiation, explosive, and environmental sensor and systems outputs via wireless, internet, SIPRNET, Ethernet, 802.11b, free-space optical, and voice/data switching technologies into an open, plug-and-play, secure, distributed, web-based, client/server architecture, employ intuitive GUIs customized for each system client, and then distribute doctrinally-based actions in response to crises and appropriate recommendations regarding courses of action (COA) based upon real-time or trend-analyzed data. The system will additionally provide mission, action, or event planning capabilities, predictive WMD analysis, and a simulation capability for crisis response rehearsal or COA analysis. Benefits: Improved Asymmetric Warfare Defensive systems, improved crisis response, reduction in damage caused by asymmetric warfare or disaster events, reduction in required manpower for increased levels of security for military assets, geographic locations, or strategic entities. Commercial Applications: Naval vessel/port/pier security, commercial shipping security, first-responder training, rehearsal, and crisis simulation capability, emergency response systems capability.

ORINCON CORP. 9363 Towne Centre Drive San Diego, CA 92121
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 455-5530 Ms. Teresa Petrescu NAVY 02-137 Awarded: 20DEC02
Title:	Crisis Response Management Network (CRMNet)
Abstract:	Crisis responders face challenges that can be reduced by substantially improved monitoring, up-to-date situational awareness, and timely dissemination of data to responders. Information technology advancements will be leveraged to provide COTs driven solutions that greatly improve the monitoring and decision-making processes required for rapid response. Conversion of the vast amounts of data to knowledge is key to the scalable crisis management system architecture to be developed under Phase I. Components in sensor monitoring, situational awareness, and knowledge dissemination to facilitate rapid response under challenging conditions are addressed. ORINCON will develop a rapidly deployable, scaleable, crisis management system architecture using commercial technologies for shipboard, pierside, and land-based monitoring, and data dissemination to responders. This architecture will provide interoperability, integration with legacy systems, and built in reliability, performance and security. Users will benefit from context sensitive procedural reasoning and flexible displays that combine the vast amounts of data stored in data warehouses into information required by the response team. A sensor Interface Design Language will facilitate extensibility while knowledge dissemination, via a web-based architecture, will achieve a flexible system that provides coordination with multiple levels of responders at military, national, and local levels. ORINCON's system will contribute to homeland security objectives. Effective knowledge management techniques, employed with efficient, coordinated crisis response processes are needed at numerous locations, including high security facilities, such as military sites, hazardous material sites, such as nuclear and chemical production, handling, and storage facilities, and transportation and public sites, including air and sea transportation centers, and public works facilities. A flexible architecture that can be readily scaled to meet the demands of each facility is required. Components of the crisis response system architecture can be applied to reasoning systems for medical, health, and related applications. A notional system architecture built around commercial technologies, open interfaces, and plug-and-play components can be easily extended to the specific user's needs. Domain specific response, which can be easily modified by subject matter experts for dissemination during high-stress crisis situations, can dramatically increase the effectiveness of the first responders, and provide improved information to subsequent crisis response personnel. Users are guided through interactive, context sensitive doctrine based on subject matter expertise that best matches the crisis situation, provides improved effectiveness, and reduced risk to personnel. The cost of the system is offset by reduced training and manpower costs.

MICROENERGY TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 2007 E. Fourth Plain Blvd. Vancouver, WA 98661
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(360) 694-3704 Mr. Joseph Birmingham NAVY 02-138 Awarded: 20DEC02
Title:	Miniature CBR Sensor with Combined Sampler and Terahertz Spectroscopy
Abstract:	The objective of this proposal is to evaluate the efficacy of the novel combination of microstructured aerosol and gas collector and terahertz (THz) spectroscopy techniques to non-invasively collect and detect hazardous chemical vapors, biological pathogens and toxins, and nuclear materials of interest. MicroEnergy Technologies, Inc. in cooperation with the University of Wisconsin-Madison will perform the joint research during Phase I in combining their technologies for the development of a unique, advanced sampling and sensing system. We have substantial experience in every aspect of the novel combination of filtration and detection, including air sampling for CBR agents, surface sampling, and optical spectroscopy. We will integrate a miniaturized terahertz spectroscopy system with microstructures to develop a state-of-the-art high signal-to-noise ratio chemical, biological, and nuclear agent detection system. During Phase I of this project, we will perform the feasibility of development of this system and demonstrate the approach with simulants, while during Phase I option and Phase II we`ll focus on development of a prototype for demonstration with real agents in a certified agent lab. The development of portable, noninvasive NBC detection device will enable personnel to detect chemical, biological, and nuclear contamination for emergency response, law enforcement and military applications. This system can also be used for border patrol and other agencies for homeland security.

PICOTRONIX, INC. 2925 Boardwalk Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(734) 864-5639 Dr. David Zimdars NAVY 02-138 Awarded: 19DEC02
Title:	Automatic, Non-Intrusive Chemical, Biological, and Radiological (CBR) Threat Detection
Abstract:	We propose to develop the design for a terahertz imaging and spectroscopy test bed system for the non -intrusive detection of chemical, biological, and radiological threats. Terahertz imaging has the potential to reveal concealed explosives, flammables, biological agents, chemical weapons, metallic and non-metallic weapons, and other threats delivered to the Navy on personnel or packages. Because terahertz imaging employs safe non-ionizing radiation that penetrates clothing, people may be routinely scanned as well as packages. Images can have sub-millimeter resolution, superior to longer wavelength techniques. Explosives may posses a spectral fingerprint in the terahertz regime. In phase I, a commercially available terahertz imager will be used to demonstrate the feasibility of detecting concealed threats and discriminating against harmless objects. A test bed based on commercial components will be designed. High speed image scanners will be designed to overcome the limitations of the conventional terahertz image technique which raster scans by moving the object. In particular, designs with no moving parts analogous to pulsed MRI and ultrasound will be evaluated theoretically and experimentally. The design approach will be evaluated for projected capabilities, the impact on shipboard use, and lifecycle costs. A successful Phase II will result in a terahertz spectroscopic imaging test bed of the appropriate configuration (portal scanner, portable or hand held scanners) with the capability of detecting chemical, biological, or radiological threats. The high speed terahertz imagers, algorithms and associated hardware developed will add to the list of recently commercialized transmitters, receivers, and signal processors. In addition to DOD applications, terahertz security scanners for aviation and law enforcement could be commercialized, as well as OEM applications including, manufacturing, medical, and environmental diagnostics.

ACULIGHT CORP. 11805 North Creek Parkway S., Suite 113 Bothell, WA 98011
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(425) 482-1100 Dr. Andrew Brown NAVY 02-139 Awarded: 16DEC02
Title:	High Energy Solid State Laser (SSL) for Ship Self-Defense
Abstract:	Megawatt power lasers are required for military weapons applications. In order to allow such lasers to have unlimited time of operation in the field, they should be electrically driven. The power output of current solid-state lasers meeting this requirement is limited to kilowatt levels due to thermal issues and problems of degraded beam quality. Aculight proposes in this work to demonstrate the feasibility of scaling the power level of solid state laser technology orders of magnitude beyond the current state-of-the-art. The technical innovations involved are: � the use of a novel beam combination scheme which allows straightforward combination of beams from hundreds of individual lasers � a new technique for scaling of output power from individual fiber lasers while maintaining beam quality These two innovations allow high power generation to go beyond the limitations imposed by the complexity of coherent beam combination and the thermal limitations of conventional solid state lasers. In this work we intend to demonstrate that beam-combined fibers could be scaled to the 100kW power level. Many industrial applications exist for lasers generating kilowatt output power. These include marking, cutting, micro-processing, welding and drilling. It is estimated that the worldwide market for industrial lasers was ~$1bn in 2001.

COHERENT TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 655 Aspen Ridge Drive Lafayette, CO 80026
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 604-2000 Dr. Iain McKinnie NAVY 02-139 Awarded: 20DEC02
Title:	High Brightness Directed Energy Laser for Ship Defense
Abstract:	Ship defense requires 10kW-100kW near diffraction-limited lasers with optimal wavelength and temporal format, taking into account laser efficiency and beam quality, atmospheric transmission, thermal-blooming, and target interactions. Solid-state laser technology is most mature at 1mm wavelength, but 1.6mm lasers typically provide better atmospheric transmission in the marine environment. CW and high peak power laser lasers are each likely to be optimal for different targets and different thermomechanical interactions. With current solid-state slab laser technology, 1-5kW average output power can be achieved in pulsed or CW mode at 1 micron, but typically with modest efficiency and >2x diffraction limited beam quality from a bulky system. Heat capacity lasers can achieve > 10kW power, but only for very low duty cycles. CTI proposes a breakthrough laser architecture (validated in proof-of-concept demonstrations) to enable development of compact, power-scalable MOPA systems. The architecture implements a proprietary technology for achieving higher efficiencies than rod or slab architectures, with near diffraction-limited beam quality and minimal thermo-optic aberrations. Modeling indicates that using this technology, a single MOPA system can reach 1-10kW-class power levels. Higher powers can be achieved using a phased array of these MOPAs. Phase 1 provides laser and system modeling and design trades for different gain media, wavelengths, and Navy tactical scenarios. This will ensure a low risk Phase 2 program that focuses on developing a 0.5-1kW (wavelength-dependent) MOPA system, and generates designs for a >10kW system. The program will leverage CTI's experience in kW-class lasers and in flight qualified laser systems. In addition to DoD directed energy applications, high brightness, high average power solid state lasers are required for applications in materials processing in semiconductor manufacturing and in automotive and aircraft industries, and for destruction of used surface ordnance.

PHYSICAL OPTICS CORP. Electro & Holography, 20600 Gramercy Place Bldg100 Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 320-3088 Dr. Russell Kurtz NAVY 02-139 Awarded: 19DEC02
Title:	Maritime Advanced Ship-Defense Thermally-Managed Intensely Focused Laser
Abstract:	For ship self-defense, the Navy requires a rugged, effective, maintainable, efficient solid state laser that can be scaled to generate 100 kW in a high-quality beam. To address this need, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a novel Maritime Advanced Ship-defense Thermally-managed Intensely Focused laser (MASTIFF), a two-stage phased array of laser elements with dynamic cavity correction in both covert and overt modes. MASTIFF will employ diode-pumped Yb:YAG laser modules in POC's proprietary laser-pumped laser cavity, which will reduce heat removal requirements and greatly improve both system scalability and performance over current laser systems. Specifically, the laser beam power will be increased by up to four orders of magnitude over that produced by Nd:YAG lasers and cost per effective shot will be reduced from the current $10,000 to under $10. Injection locking will ensure that light from all modules is combined into a single, powerful output beam, so that each module, and consequently the entire system, maintains high beam quality. In Phase I we will develop a complete design of the MASTIFF system and build a proof-of-concept device to demonstrate the feasibility of the MASTIFF concept. In Phase II a functional MASTIFF prototype will be developed. POC's proposed MASTIFF is a truly modular, efficient, scalable laser system. It is more efficient and easier to install than current devices. Such a laser system will be exceptionally useful in both the government and commercial sectors. Since it is so easily scalable, it can be operated in lower power mode as a large area illuminator (government) or even for graffiti removal (civil). At medium power it can be used for distant target designation (military) or for typical welding tasks (industrial). The possibility of choice of covert or overt modes enhances its usefulness as an illuminator or target designator. At high power the MASTIFF can be used as a directed energy weapon (military) or for cutting and deep welding (industrial). The commercial applications for this technology are excellent. There is a large market for superior, scalable welding and cutting tools.

ASI TECHNOLOGY CORP. 980 American Pacific Drive, Suite 111 Henderson, NV 89014
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(702) 734-1888 Dr. Theodore Anderson NAVY 02-140 Selected for Award
Title:	Plasma Phased Array Radar Antenna Architecture
Abstract:	To reach the objectives of new and innovative technologies and architectures for phased array radar system development, ionized gas plasma antennas (GPA) and waveguides may be effective. GPA approaches such as windowing to reduce back and side lobes, increase radiation efficiency and provide rapid reconfigurability would support new revolutionary radar designs. Plasma waveguides would decrease the size, weight and cost of these systems. A larger electrical aperture for a given volume provided by plasma would give greater power, flexibility, efficiency and directivity. Replacement of metal elements with plasma in frequency selective surfaces design would allow selective bandwidth and filtering for a given frequency. When the GPA is deionized the antenna electrically disappears. Plasma barriers could be developed by selecting proper plasma skin depths, ion and electron densities and gas pressure. Any and all of these plasma attributes could be applied to evolutionary as well as revolutionary phased array radar architectural designs. ASI Technology is the pioneer in plasma research. Innovations include plasma antennas, plasma waveguides, plasma frequency selective surfaces, plasma shields and reflectors, plasma jet engine noise reduction and plasma decontamination. ASI's staff includes Dr. Ted Anderson and Dr. Igor Alexeff, leaders in the field of plasma science. Gas plasma could have applications in many commercial areas. Replacing smart antennas with gas plasma in wireless communication operations would reduce multipath problems. By increasing the number of antenna elements, the number of directional lobes can be increased thereby increasing the SNR. ASI Technology is working with Rennsalaer Polytechnic Institute to address this problem. DC discharge plasma could be used to develop a volumetric device capable of destroying bacteria in forward-deployed areas. ASI recently received a STTR award to study this problem in partnership with Eastern Virginia Medical School. Plasma could be created and activated in jet engines to reduce noise pollution. ASI is working with the National Center for Physical Acoustics (NCPA) to determine the feasibility of this technology for commercial application.

PHYSICAL OPTICS CORP. 20600 Gramercy Place, Bldg. 100 Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 530-7892 Dr. Paul Shnitser NAVY 02-140 Selected for Award
Title:	Magnetic Prism Array Scanning Antenna
Abstract:	Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new X-band scanning Magnetic Prism Array Scanning (MAPASA) antenna that utilizes magnetically induced variation of the refractive index in the composite material containing previously oriented hematite nanoparticles. Because of the strong response of this material to the external magnetic field, the proposed antenna can be compact and lightweight while providing a large scanning angle. This Hematite Composite Material (HECOM) offers an extremely high phase shifting dynamic range within microseconds. In Phase I, POC will optimize parameters of the composite material and the technology of its fabrication. The antenna design will be prepared for the full-scale prototype development in Phase II of this project. In addition to the initially targeted X-band frequency range, the proposed material and antenna concept can be used at larger frequencies in the Ku, K, and Ka bands and in the millimeter-wave bands. In Phase II, POC will prepare a prototype antenna and test its performance. The proposed technology offers significant cost and weight reductions while providing flexibility in the beam forming and beam scanning. It also allows for fitting the antenna shape to the various radoms and envelopes. The resulting scanning antenna can be used in a variety of military platforms and will have numerous applications in civilian radars.

TLC PRECISION WAFER TECHNOLOGY, INC. 1411 West River Road North Minneapolis, MN 55411
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(612) 341-2795 Dr. Timothy T. Childs NAVY 02-140 Selected for Award
Title:	Demonstration of an Antenna Integrated MMIC Mix-mode Transceiver
Abstract:	TLC will develop a wire-bond free wide band (X-band to Ka-band) miniature low cost high trhoughput radar transceiver technology that integrates a circular polarized antenna array with a mix-mode (digital& RF) MMIC transceiver chip. This will be developed by systematically utilizing TLC's proven capabilities of mix-mode lattice engineered material development, RF and digital circuit development, innovative MMIC & digital fabrication capbilities, antenna design and module integration experiences. In phase I the antenna design and test will be performed along with the building blocks. In phase II, integrtion methods will be established for the transceiver MMIC and the antenna, and a prototype unit will be delivered. Revolutionized Radar systems for both military and commercial by reduction of size, weight, and cost with simplified assembly and better performance.

WAVEBAND CORP. 375 Van Ness Ave, Suite 1105 Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 212-7808 Dr. Vladimir Manasson NAVY 02-140 Selected for Award
Title:	Electronically Controlled Beamformer Based on Reconfigurable Hologram Aperture
Abstract:	WaveBand Corporation (WaveBand) is developing a novel approach to electronic beam forming. The new approach radically differs from the existing phased array technology. It promises dramatic cost and weight reduction, while providing: digital beam forming for steering, tracking, and nulling; individually controlled simultaneous multiple beams; and extremely flexible reconfigurability. The new approach is based on a pixelized aperture representing a quasi-optical reconfigurable hologram. In this Phase I project, WaveBand proposes to explore the applicability of the new approach to the frequency band of 5 GHz through 18 GHz (C-band through Ku-band). New beamforming antennas will benefit various military applications as well as commercial products, like surveillance and security systems, wireless communications, and broadcast.

ANDRO CONSULTING SERVICES Beeches Tech Campus, Bldg 3, Ste 4, Rt 26N, Turin Rome, NY 13440
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(315) 334-1163 Mr. Andrew L. Drozd NAVY 02-141 Awarded: 16SEP02
Title:	Advanced Antenna Evaluation and Design Software with Radomes and Frequency Selective Surfaces
Abstract:	This effort is to develop, optimize, and demonstrate a suite of physics formalisms, codes, and novel techniques for designing complex antennas such as multi-function arrays recessed in airframe surfaces and shipboard composite masts that may incorporate radomes and Frequency Selective Surfaces (FSS) with complex materials. A unique and innovative approach is proposed allowing for the concurrent near field analysis of antennas in the presence of radome structures or the coupling of such antennas with other nearby airframe devices and the host platform. Of particular interest is the effect of the radome structures and mutual coupling with other devices on the substructure. The focus is on geometrical and material adaptability, as well as on reducing design time. Computational speed and the development of a practical toolset will be addressed. The toolset will incorporate constrained tradeoff optimization routines (e.g., Pareto or genetic algorithms) that will automatically drive the process to a desirable design. The Optima-FSS concept design includes provisions for an array geometry generator, pre/post-processing capabilities, and a user-friendly GUI. This R&D will result in a revolutionary approach for efficiently designing and analyzing complex antenna arrays as a function of geometry, materials, EM properties, and logistical factors to a level that has not been previously demonstrated. The knowledge gained from this research will be applied toward the development of robust, high-fidelity antenna analysis techniques that can be used to streamline the antenna design process to achieve optimal performance. It will facilitate tradeoff analyses for various antenna types, installations, and configurations involving a variety of FSS radome and complex materials covering the frequency bands for VHF, UHF, GPS, PCS, commercial satellite broadcast radio, ISM, and surveillance radar. The approach will draw upon the theory and knowledge of the phenomenology associated with multi-functional antenna array technologies and measured radiation benchmarks. A study will also be performed to investigate ways of optimizing the human computer interaction (HCI) and human machine interface (HMI) to exploit the power of the OpTIMA-FSS toolset based on antenna designer feedback. This R&D directly supports the goals of the ACAT II, PMA 290 - Maritime Surveillance Aircraft (MSA) Leadership Program and addresses the DoD's Key Technology Areas, in particular, the advancement and application of Sensors, Electronics and the Battlespace Environment. This technology will also address the needs of combat surface ships that employ composite mast and multi-function, multi-band array technologies and future weapons systems (e.g., Joint Strike Fighter). As a result of the universal need for wireless communication and information collection, there is an increasing need for new and complex antenna designs in both the commercial and government sectors. The proposed product would be useful to any electronics firm, the communications industry, automotive industry, computer industry, or security and surveillance firms. Companies involved in geo-sensing and enviro-sensing applications are also potential users of this technology.

EMAG TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 1340 Eisenhower Place Ann Arbor, MI 48108
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(734) 973-6600 Dr. Kin Sze NAVY 02-141 Awarded: 19SEP02
Title:	Advanced Antenna Evaluation and Design Software with Radomes and Frequency Selective Surfaces
Abstract:	The purpose of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) project is to develop a computer aided design tool for large phased arrays including radomes and frequency selective surfaces. For this purpose, we will use the hybrid finite element (FEM) and method of moments (MoM) simulator that was developed at EMAG Technologies as part of our RECAP project. The simulation engine can handle both periodic and non-periodic structures. In order to analyze large phased arrays efficiently, a decompose-solve-recompose (DSR) technique is proposed that subdivides the entire array into interior and edge groups. The former is treated as a periodic structure, while the latter is solved as a regular non-periodic structure. The two solutions are then recombined in a systematic way to provide a fast but accurate overall solution. A visual software environment with design utilities such as parameter sweep and optimization will be developed to facilitate the usage of the code. The resulting software from this SBIR project will enable antenna designers to design very complex phased array systems including radomes and FSS. It will save time and cost in the design cycle by including the radome and FSS effects in the virtual prototyping.

VISUALEM CORP. 2019 Georgetown Blvd Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(734) 222-4558 Dr. Tayfun Ozdemir NAVY 02-141 Awarded: 23SEP02
Title:	Advanced Evaluation and Design Software for Antennas with Radome and FSS Structures
Abstract:	This proposed work envisions a software suite for modeling antennas with radomes and frequency selective surfaces. Infinite as well as finite arrays will be modeled efficiently. Phase I work will involve a feasibility study of the proposed computational algorithms and their capabilities for various antenna structures (periodic or finite in size) as well as structure which incorporates a radome. Nearby structures will also be considered by integration of the associated tools as they evolve. Design optimization tools will be an integral part of the software suite and will be incorporated with the user in mind. Graphical interfaces that offer stand-alone geometry/grid generation will be developed. Additionally, the interface will allow for importing of external CAD files in standard formats as well as use of various external gridding tools. The importance of antennas to commercial and governmental organizations can hardly be overstated. They are ubiquitous structures in every military and commercial vehicle, and thus there is a continuous and growing need for antenna design methods to develop a variety of new antennas which combine a variety of competing needs. Access to capable EDA tools will become the key competitive advantage for high-technology companies for the next 10 to 15 years. Thus, there is an increasing emphasis on design methods for designing sophisticated multifunctional antennas.

JP INNOVATIONS, LLC 101 East Main St., Suite 207 Monroe, WA 98272
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(206) 459-2805 Mr. Jeffrey W. Pierce NAVY 02-142 Awarded: 01NOV02
Title:	Advanced Diode Laser Packaging
Abstract:	Diode pumped solid state lasers are starting to be used in many military vehicles, including, missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), and aircraft platforms. The military applications include laser radar systems, laser designators, and optical countermeasures. All of these systems require high power, very efficient, rugged, and low cost laser diodes to pump the solid state lasers. While laser diode bars with output power up to 80 W cw have been produced, commercial 50 W and higher cw laser diode bars have not demonstrated good reliability or long lifetimes. This is likely caused by the additional heat load and temperature rise suffered by these diode bars when mounted with conventional "copper block" techniques. Clearly the limits of conventional diode bar mounting technology are being approached. What is needed is a new packaging technology for high power laser diode bars. Materials should be used that have higher thermal conductivity than copper, and a coefficient of thermal expansion that is more closely matched to Gallium Arsenide. In addition, mechanical registration of the laser diode would reduce labor time for packaging, further reducing unit cost. After development of advanced packages, these new, high power laser diode bars will be used in many military applications, as well as commercial applications including materials processing, laser projection display systems, and in next generation photolighograpy light sources.

QUINTESSENCE PHOTONICS CORP. 15632 Roxford St. Sylmar, CA 91342
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(818) 833-4664 Dr. Jeffrey E. Ungar NAVY 02-142 Awarded: 24OCT02
Title:	Low-Cost Laser Diodes for Navy Applications
Abstract:	High power solid state lasers using different active media have emerged as critical components in a variety of military systems. These lasers are efficiently and reliably pumped by diode laser arrays, but the very high cost per watt of arrays poses a serious impediment to wide application, particularly where very high total powers are required. There is little prospect that conventional approaches to laser design can result in cost reduction of the required magnitude. We propose to fabricate arrays based on an entirely new design. The resulting arrays will be much cheaper to manufacture, test and assemble than conventional arrays. Our new approach offers, we believe, the only realistic pathway to prices in the single $/watt range. The radical reduction in cost of pump power will enable applications that are now economically impractical. Diode pumped solid state lasers for directed energy weapons and other military applications are currently impractical because of high pump cost. For similar reasons, the use of diode pumped lasers in important applications such as projection displays and machining has been limited. By dramatically changing the cost structure of pumps, these applications will be made economically practical

B&C ENGINEERING ASSOC., INC. 411 Wolf Ledges Pkwy., Suite 104 Akron, OH 44311
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(330) 375-1632 Mr. Dennis Townsend NAVY 02-143 Awarded: 21NOV02
Title:	Techniques and Models to Relate Useful Life Remaining Predictions to Detectable Fault Conditions in Mechanical Systems
Abstract:	Maintenance costs, depending on the specific industry, can represent a large percentage of the costs of the manufactured product. In the aerospace/aeronautic industry, the reduction of maintenance costs, safety and long-life operations in engine and power equipment has been the top priorities. Accurate component life prognostic methodologies are sought to effectively schedule the maintenance downtime as well as to insure accomplishments of long-range missions. This proposal aimed at the development of an innovative machine health and prognosis system for gear transmission and the bearing support systems. Gear damage monitoring will be conducted using a joint time-frequency analysis on rotor vibration signatures. The damage level will be quantified using an optimal tracker on the vibration data. Wear/damage in the bearing will be detected and quantify using bearing housing vibration signals with a chaotic distribution scheme. Analytically, a cohesive constitute model will be established using finite element approach to predict the growth of the cracks in both gear and bearing components. Using the damage parameter developed through the cohesive crack model and the existing damage quantified by the signal processing procedures, the remaining life of the damaged component will be prognosticated by a recently developed nonlinear regression procedure. The fault detection techniques, the damage quantification schemes, and the remaining life prognostication procedures will be integrated into a pre-prototype system to provide an overall health diagnosis and prognosis for gear and bearing components. Commercial application of the developed product will be two folded: (1) a machine life prognosis system that can be used to predict remaining life of mechanical components on military rotorcraft and jet engine transmission systems, and (2) a smart prognostication system that can be used for on-line machine diagnostics to schedule maintenance downtime for petrochemical/production industries.

IMPACT TECHNOLOGIES, LLC 125 Tech Park Drive Rochester, NY 14623
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(585) 424-1990 Mr. Gregory J. Kacprzynski NAVY 02-143 Awarded: 26NOV02
Title:	Techniques and Models to Enhance RUL Prognostics and Fault Detection in Mechanical Systems
Abstract:	Impact Technologies proposes to develop a suite of Statistical Influence Models (SIMs) and fusion techniques for enhancing physics-based prognostic models and calibrating them in the presence of various forms of fault detection or state awareness in aircraft mechanical systems. While the robustness and accuracy of physics-based Remaining Useful Life (RUL) Prognostic models and incipient fault detection tools have been improving, the improvements have thus far been largely independent of each other. Through state-of-the-art knowledge fusion of various Statistical Influence Models (SIMs) focused on usage profiles, manufacturing defects, random damage events, build tolerances, material condition and inspection capability, the integration of state awareness and predictive prognostics promises to be significantly improved. The enhancement capabilities of the statistical models and fusion techniques will be demonstrated with simulations in a Prognostics Testbench focused on the STOVL lift fan transmission on the F-35 aircraft. The Prognostics Testbench architecture will be such that generic bearing, shaft and clutch prognostic models will be simulated with pre-defined usage profiles. Statistical Influence Models (SIMs) addressing fault detection updates, damage and defect likelihoods, and manufacturing and maintenance induced conditions will be "plugged" into the Testbench to investigate their influence on the RUL predictions and associated confidence bounds. In turn, the Testbench will help identify where various state awareness enhancements should be focused and how they should be implemented with respect to PHM. The proposed generic Prognostics Testbench will enable Prognostic and Health Management (PHM) system developers to objectively evaluate the benefits provided from various fusion techniques and statistical models to core RUL predictions of mechanical systems and critical subcomponents. The robust and comprehensive PHM capability enabled by this tool will provide military commanders with the ability to adaptively manage and deploy air vehicle assets to the limit of their current and future capability and reduce the risk of safety or system availability related failures. More accurate time-to-failure predictions can also reduce costly inspection routines and premature component replacements by using a risk-based, maintenance optimization techniques. The utility of such a tool is not limited to military aircraft mechanical systems and can be applied to other military and commercial assets such as ground vehicles, power plants, or commercial aircraft.

SYSTEMS PLANNING & ANALYSIS, INC. 2000 N. Beauregard, Suite 400 Alexandria, VA 22311
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 474-1310 Dr. Jason S. Kiddy NAVY 02-143 Awarded: 25NOV02
Title:	Techniques and Models to Relate Useful Life Remaining Predictions to Detectable Fault Conditions in Mechanical Systems
Abstract:	Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) proposes to expand upon our Remaining Useful Life Estimation (RULE) algorithm as a means of predicting the remaining useful life of fatigue limited components on the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF). By accurately predicting the remaining useful life of a component, the U.S. Navy will be able to keep parts in service longer, thereby saving substantial operating costs without sacrificing safety. The RULE algorithm uses regime recognition or usage monitoring data as an input into a Monte Carlo simulation based technique that allows for the prediction of the remaining useful life of a particular component with a known reliability. Standard Navy practices dictate that a component operates for a set number of hours before retiring that component. Based on the predicted aircraft usage, test flight measured load data, and experimentally measured fatigue data, the fatigue life is set such that the part has a known reliability. Using the RULE methodology, the component can be flown until a certain percentage of the fatigue life is consumed, while retaining the desired reliability of the current technique. SPA's Phase I SBIR program focuses on using the RULE methodology on the JSF and experimental validation of the technique. The RULE methodology has applicability in any application where critical components are replaced on a regular basis becuase of fatigue. The most direct application of the technology would be to helicopters and other rotorcraft, which contain a large number of fatigue limited rotor system components. However, the methodology may be applied to aerospace, naval, and civil structures.

IMPACT TECHNOLOGIES, LLC 125 Tech Park Drive Rochester, NY 14623
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(814) 861-6273 Mr. Carl S. Byington NAVY 02-144 Awarded: 22NOV02
Title:	Prognostic Models and Remaining Life Predictions for Flight Control Actuators
Abstract:	Impact Technologies, in collaboration with Boeing Phantom Works and Moog Inc., proposes to develop and demonstrate a prognostic modeling paradigm for use with actuator fault detection to failure progression. Actuators are complex mechanisms utilized in various aircraft systems from flight control surfaces to landing gear, cargo doors and weapon systems. Impact has previously developed PHM techniques applicable to hydraulic pumps and engine control system components. These proven approaches along with novel tracking methods will be pursued in this research, using system models, failure mode diagnostics, advanced knowledge fusion, and failure mode progression (prognostic) algorithms in a probabilistic framework. Utilizing available real-time command/response data from actual flight control actuators and this model-based framework, Impact will demonstrate prognostic algorithms that provide an assessment of the current actuator health state and provide a prognosis of the actuator's useful life remaining. The adaptation of these methods and architecture to hydraulic, hydro-electrical, and electrical actuator systems will also be addressed. BenefitsThe deployed actuator diagnostic/prognostic techniques and associated reasoning architecture generated under this program will improve aircraft control system safety and reliability, allow for optimized maintenance/logistics planning, reduce ownership costs, and increase operational availability. The elements of this prognostic approach include the ability to assess actuator health through sensor observables, apply performance and damage models to identify evolving problems, use statistical correlation and fusion to minimize uncertainties in measurements and properties, and predict fault evolution with confidence bounds in real-time. More accurate time-to-failure predictions can reduce costly inspection routines and premature component replacements by using a risk-based, maintenance optimization technique. The actuator prognostic modeling approaches, techniques, and specific algorithms could be implemented in a wide range of military as well as commercial applications in the civilian aviation community (passenger aircraft, cargo transports, business jets, private aircraft, etc.). The developed technologies could also be applied to land and water vehicle drive systems, industrial actuation systems, fluid power transmission, and robotic applications.

QUALTECH SYSTEMS, INC. 100 Great Meadow Rd., Suite 501 Wethersfield, CT 06109
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(860) 257-8014 Dr. Somnath Deb NAVY 02-144 Awarded: 02DEC02
Title:	Early Detection, Isolation and Residual life prediction techniques for F/A-18 C/D actuator subsystem
Abstract:	QSI and HR Textron, Inc. (HR) team seeks to provide prognostic models and techniques for relating detected incipient fault conditions in actuators to accurate useful life remaining by focusing on F/A-18 C/D servoactuator subsystem for aileron control. This effort emphasizes a systematic approach to adding prognosis with a goal of improving mission reliability and aircraft availability, by carefully identifying the most significant failures, trading off different prognostic techniques to achieve a cost-effective solution. The end product of this effort is a complete diagnosis and prognosis solution that utilizes the sensors and capabilities that already exist to the greatest extent, while identifying new capabilities that can be easily added onboard or on ground support equipment, to achieve maximum mission reliability within reasonable cost. HR will provide: (a) high-fidelity nonlinear dynamic models of aileron servoactuator of F/A-18 C/D for normal and faulty conditions, (b) the domain knowledge on failure modes, reliability and maintainability data and sensors, while QSI will focus on a systemic processes needed to relate "useful life remaining" predictions to detectable fault conditions in actuators, viz., assess prognostic coverage, identify prognostic needs, sensing, design of tests for diagnosis and prognosis, inference and prediction. Prognosis and Health Management (PHM) Technology, as proposed by the QSI-HR team, should be implemented on all Commercial and Military Aircraft. Specifically, HR is applying PHM technology to Bell Textron Helicopter, CESSNA Textron Aircrafts, Boeing X-45B UCAV and Boeing CMUS Programs. In the X-45B UCAV Program, a module of reconfiguration is linked to the PHM Processes. In the CMUS Program, an additional link to a Real Time Hardware-in-the-loop Simulation is planned to communicate with the same sensors used for PHM data acquisition. Thus, QSI's partnership with HR provides for a clear commercialization path to a significant market.

SCIENTIFIC MONITORING, INC. 4801 S. Lakeshore Drive, Suite 103 Tempe, AZ 85282
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(480) 752-7909 Dr. Link Jaw NAVY 02-144 Awarded: 26NOV02
Title:	Techniques and Prognostic Models to Relate "Useful Life Remaining" and "Performance Life Remaining" Predictions to Detectable Fault Conditions in Flig
Abstract:	The firm proposes to conduct a program of research on the design and validation of prognostic models for flight control actuators. Specifically, the research will focus on developing models that can predict the fault-to-failure progression process and estimate the remaining useful life of flight control actuators. In Phase I, the firm will conduct a feasibility study to prove the concept of the proposed technology. In Phase I Option, the firm will conduct a hardware-in-the-loop simulation of the concept to further assess the feasibility. If Phase I objectives are met, the firm will develop a prototype of the prognostic capability and test it in actual operating environment. The anticipated benefits of the proposed technology are: �More accurate prediction of incipient failures and useful service life of systems. �Increased availability and mission effectiveness from more accurate prognosis of failures. �Reduced total cost of ownership (TCO) through optimized maintenance/logistic decisions.

ORINCON CORP. 9363 Towne Centre Drive San Diego, CA 92121
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 455-5530 Mr. Michael Kurnow NAVY 02-145 Selected for Award
Title:	Weapon System Operator Multimedia Tactical Operation Aids
Abstract:	Relatively inexpensive human interface peripheral devices/software, such as natural speech recognition software, gesture recognition data gloves, wireless mice, head-mounted displays, and eye tracking systems, are now commercially available. Additionally, there is increasing interest in the development of future military command and control systems for human assistance by intelligent agents (in the form of agent associate surrogates) to make human operators more efficient and decrease the cognitive burden needed for real-time tactical decision making. ORINCON is a leader in advanced agent-based intelligent user interface prototype developments for future naval platforms such as DD-X. The integration of multiple human interface modalities with an advanced agent associate framework can provide a robust and flexible intelligent multimodal interface to increase efficiencies of weapon system operators working in a variety of command and control environments like the E2-C2. By using the existing workstation agent-based intelligent user interface automation framework being developed for the DD-X combat system, along with COTS multimodal interface devices as a starting point for this effort. The risk to accomplish program objectives is reduced while the immediate benefit to the Navy is maximized. This Phase I SBIR effort will provide a demonstrable foundation for a Phase II effort to develop a comprehensive intelligent user interface (IUI) workstation prototype. This prototype will integrate multiple human interface modalities with an agent associate architecture that can be applied as an agent-mediated intelligent multimedia interface to increase operator efficiencies in performing E-2C tactical command and control tasks. The resultant IUI workstation developed under Phase II will be tested and integrated in a Navy E-2C laboratory environment such as the E-2C System Test and Evaluation Laboratory (ESTEL). Tactical command and control scenarios relevant to E2C missions will be developed and measures of increased operator efficiencies will be determined. These MOEs will include E2C-specific mission effectiveness measures as well as generic operator effectiveness response measures currently being used to evaluate advanced operator workstation concepts for the DD-X platform. The development and integration of a domain-independent agent associate architecture with advanced COTS multimodal interface devices can be applied to numerous military and commercial domains that require an intelligent interactive control of complex systems by human operators. Examples are power plant operations, space station operations, and advanced military C4ISR systems.

TECHNOLOGY ENGINEERING RESEARCH, INC. 16 Wildhedge Lane Holmdel, NJ 07733
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(732) 817-9299 Mr. Benjamin Tirabassi NAVY 02-145 Selected for Award
Title:	Weapon System Operator Multi-Media Tactical Operation Aids
Abstract:	TERI will develop and demonstrate the combined use of voice commands, audio response, hands-free pointing/clicking, Multi-Media Tactical Operation Aid (MTOA), and cueing as an effective and efficient multi-media interface. Innovative technologies have been developed and matured recently that can now support the implementation of a multi-media "smart" interface tactical aid in the typical tactical noisy, mobile, ship and airborne environments. The multi-media combined enhancements to the E-2C ACIS controlled weapon system have the potential to significantly reduce operator workload while increasing the Weapon System Operator (WSO)s ability to react and proact to potentially hazardous situations. Projective task analysis, driven by a decision support activity scenario, will be conducted for various combinations of interface technologies to derive an effective and feasible conceptual design MTOA integrated with natural language. Quantitative performance and qualitative human interaction analysis will be documented and provided with the conceptual design. A demonstration of the integrated technologies for typical combined speech and MTOA input activities is planned. Lightweight and low power commercially available eye-tracking sensors can be integrated with an E-2C ACIS simulator to study the combined benefit for interaction in a vibrating and motion environment. The Technology Engineering Research Inc (TERI) natural language speech and synthesis dialogue contextual software, previously developed for the E-2C high noise environment, will be combined with eye tracking and facial gesture detector (optical or neuromuscular) to improve upon the total hands-free control interface between the WSO and the E-2C ACIS platform display. The use of a multiple-controller approach enables the interaction to be tailored to the E-2C task and environmental constraints, as well as user preferences. A natural language software-based speech recognizer in combination with eye-tracking, facial gesture, brain wave and neuromuscular sensor technologies are to be configured in a variety of ways to provide the required functionality. Unique to this proposal is the development of an integrated set of human-computer control suite technologies using standard Application Program Interfaces (APIs) in the commercial Windows and Unix environment that are compatible with the platform legacy architectures for efficient hands-free operation of computer systems. Unique to this proposal is the visual gesture cue processing of a normal face contour model into a hierarchical probability based framework, which will operate in a vibration environment. This decomposes the complex head shape into two simple layers: the global shape with descriptors for the position, scale and rotation of local shapes (eyes, eyebrows, mouth, chin); and local shape with salient descriptors for the motion of these local shapes. Visual perception will be cooperative and mutually supported by these shapes and movements for independent interpretation of operator-desired point, click and selection commands. Numerous applications in air traffic control, unmanned vehicle command, industrial production monitoring, power plant control and distribution, entertainment, anti-terrorist screening, law enforcement and e-commerce vending. Hands-free control suites for computers have wide military and commercial applications in portable and mobile environments; and whenever it is prudent to replace the traditional keyboard, mouse and trackball because of an unstable or unsuitable workplace.

IPITEK 2330 Faraday Avenue Carlsbad, CA 92008
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(760) 438-1010 Dr. James Menders NAVY 02-146 Awarded: 30OCT02
Title:	Optical Wireless ICS for E2C Platforms
Abstract:	Direct voice communications in military aircraft suffer from interfering ambient noise. Usually, an intercommunications system (ICS) gives relief by using interconnected headsets. The E2-C "Hawkeye" is equipped with a conventional copper cabled ICS. The cable has the disadvantages of "tethering" the crew members to the ICS jacks, of providing a limited data transmission rate, and is susceptible to radio frequency interference (RFI). We propose an optical ICS consisting of infrared wireless headset links to a fiberoptic backbone via an optical access point. The wireless link would free the crew members from the cable tether. In addition, the wide bandwidth available to the fiberoptic backbone may be exploited to provide a high data rate bus for the delivery of headup displays and data transmission between workstations. A fiberoptic local area network (LAN) could easily support the intercom function of the ICS while providing a capability for high speed data transmission. Installation of fiberoptic LANs for transmission of voice, video and sensor data are currently being for considered for several platforms such as E2-C, EA-6B, P-3 and JFS. A wireless ICS connected to such a LAN is a logical extension to increasing aircraft performance capability. The emergence of portable information terminals in work and living environments is accelerating the introduction of wireless digital links and local area networks (LANs). The use of diffuse infrared links for indoor wireless links has advantages over RF approaches. The infrared band is unregulated world wide so that no licensing is required. Separate, non-interfering IR links may be set up in adjacent rooms. Unlike RF wireless, infrared optical wireless is not subject to multipath fading. As a result, short range infrared wireless links are finding a ready commercial market.

LSA 1215 Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite 1300 Arlington, VA 22202
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 416-4600 Mr. Robert E. Lee NAVY 02-146 Awarded: 12NOV02
Title:	Digital Wireless/Copper Data Bus Combination for Intercommunication System Applications
Abstract:	In this proposal, we describe an innovative freespace optical (FSO) solution to provide a robust wireless, high-data rate 100Mbps digital Ethernet bus architecture for the E-2C Hawkeye carrier-based tactical airborne warning and control system platform Intercommunications System (ICS). Our approach leverages on current work we are conducting on development of mobile access to computing and visual display systems for Air Force Information Operations (IO) and Command and Control (C2) environments . The architecture is based on extensions to the IrDA and/or IEEE 802.11 standards and will be fully compliant with the Joint Tactical Architecture Version 4.0 and the Joint Tactical Radio System development. The optical solution we propose will provide complete, TEMPEST compliant, and secure untethered connection for the E-2C digital ICS via a wireless optical interface from Ethernet equipped ICS nodes to the aircraft ethernet server. Implementation of this solution will result in greatly reducing the complexity of wiring multiple ICS nodes within the aircraft and will improve ICS system reliablity and maintainability. Potential commercial applications include airport tower internal/external communciations and data transfer, implementation of wireless LANs in emergency response centers, and commercial airline cockpit-to-cabin intercom systems, and/or wireless connection of individual aircraft seat audio/visual systems.

MATHTECH, INC. 6402 Arlington Blvd., Suite 1200 Falls Church, VA 22042
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 294-5821 Mr. Jo Ellen Hayden NAVY 02-146 Awarded: 25NOV02
Title:	Digital Wireless/Copper Data Bus Combination for Intercommunication System Applications
Abstract:	This study will address the possibility of using magnetics, laser, infrared, ultraviolet, or wireless ultra wideband for a wireless ICS application. The investigation will address the feasibility of conversion of Mathtech's Advanced Inter-communications System to a wireless technology. Wireless technology is a repidly expanding field that has wide commercial application. The technology being considered for this application is not yet militarized and could be used to provide bandwidth-intensive data services to military platforms.

CONTINUUM DYNAMICS, INC. 34 Lexington Avenue Ewing, NJ 08618
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(609) 538-0444 Dr. Milton E. Teske NAVY 02-147 Awarded: 15OCT02
Title:	Modeling Carried-Based Aircraft Hot Gas and Steam Ingestion
Abstract:	The hot gas and steam environment during launch of a carrier-based aircraft can impact engine performance by forcing operation at off-design conditions and by introducing fluid dynamical instabilities. The development of the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) and the need to characterize carrier operating conditions at launch demand the development and validation of a model that will accurately predict the ingestion of hot gas and steam into the JSF engines, and provide the information needed to assess the influence of these effects on propulsion system operation and stability. The innovation proposed here is to adapt for this purpose a verified and validated particle tracking model, LDTRAN, previously developed for the U. S. Army, thereby immediately accomplishing one of the major objectives of this solicitation. This existing model will take as input the defined hot gas and steam environment on the carrier, and a pre-computed flow field around the launching aircraft, and predict the anticipated flow behavior and field deposition pattern anywhere near the aircraft and more specifically in the vicinity of its engine inlets. Thus, the Phase I effort can focus on describing the carrier environment prior to launch, and setting the groundwork for the anticipated full-scale surveys in Phase II. The successful modification of an existing, verified and validated particle tracking model will guarantee success in Phase I with regard to problem solution, and enable the Phase II effort to improve the description of the ambient carrier environment, possibly involving full-scale surveys of the steam environment at a land-based catapult facility. The final version of this model will be useful in the engine design process and in setting operational guidelines for JSF carrier operations.

SITE, L.L.C. 1111 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Suite 508 Arlington, VA 22202
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 416-4930 Mr. Andy Britton NAVY 02-147 Awarded: 10OCT02
Title:	Modeling and Simulation of Hot Gas Ingestion and Steam Ingestion Characteristics for Aircraft Propulsion System Performance and Operability Assessment
Abstract:	The proposed effort will develop a pair of new analytic techniques that will predict both the Hot Gas Ingestion characteristics for STOVL aircraft and the Steam ingestion characteristics for conventional Naval aircraft. The techniques will allow the design engineer to efficiently predict the anticipated magnitude of these two phenomena without the need for expensive and repetitive model or full scale testing, as is the current practice. The techniques capture the stochastic nature of these phenomena by combining flow dynamics with the development of a probability density distribution for the temperature near the aircraft. For the STOVL application this probabilistic approach will avoid the necessity for expensive and time consuming detailed modeling of the highly chaotic flow around the jet boundaries that lead to Hot Gas Ingestion. The method will also provide a high quality prediction of the velocity outwash from the landing aircraft that could be used to define safe zones for personnel and equipment. While for the Steam Ingestion application this approach will allow the catapult environment to be defined in an analytic design method. The computational efficiency of the proposed methods allows them to be developed as PC based applications leading to a highly portable design package. The methods that will be developed under this SBIR will provide software tools that will allow the government to reduce its current reliance on subscale and full scale testing. In particular, this effort will lead to timely identification of design shortfalls that, unless identified early in the design process, could be both time consuming and expensive to accommodate once the design configuration has become established. Additionally, the proposed method will be capable of accurately predicting the outwash from vertical landing aircraft or helicopters. With relatively minor modifications and some calibration the technique could readily be applied to predict the anticipated dust/sand ingestion characteristics for helicopters operating at austere sites.

CFD RESEARCH CORP. 215 Wynn Dr., 5th Floor Huntsville, AL 35805
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(256) 726-4929 Mr. Daniel A. Nickolaus NAVY 02-148 Awarded: 13NOV02
Title:	Low Emissions, Affordable Fuel Injector for High Performance Military Gas Turbines
Abstract:	CFD Research Corporation (CFDRC) will develop an advanced low emissions fuel injector for military engines that is based on CFDRC's lean direct fuel injector technology. The design produces a unique flame pattern caused by a bifurcated flow pattern, in which the pilot airflow separates from the main airflow and a recirculation zone is created between the pilot and main airflows. This design has the potential of greatly reducing NOx, CO, and smoke at full power compared to current JSF designs. In addition, the proposed design is affordable, and provides good thermal protection of the fuel. In Phase I, CFDRC will show the feasibility of the proposed fuel injector. First, validated CFD analysis will be used to predict emissions at various power points provided by our selected subcontractor, Rolls-Royce, Indianapolis. Second, prototype hardware will be fabricated and tested at ambient pressure conditions, to establish the design's potential for meeting LBO goals. In Phase II, the fuel injector will be further developed and tested in a single injector high pressure rig at Georgia Tech. The complete thermal design will be completed and design prints finalized for an engine-quality fuel injector for JSF application. In Phase III, a full set of injectors will be fabricated and tested in an annular combustor rig at Rolls-Royce. If successful, the fuel injector will be used to reduce NOx, CO, UHC, and smoke emissions to levels on par with legacy aircraft, while maintaining performance, durability, and operability. It is anticipated that Rolls-Royce will utilize the CFDRC fuel injector in the F136 engine, and CFDRC will receive royalties for every production injector fabricated. Other engine applications, and corresponding royalties, are also possible.

PRECISION COMBUSTION, INC. 410 Sackett Point Road North Haven, CT 06473
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(203) 287-3700 Dr. Hasan Karim NAVY 02-148 Awarded: 04DEC02
Title:	Low NOx Catalytic Combustor for Military Aircraft Engines
Abstract:	Precision Combustion Inc. (PCI) proposes a novel gas turbine engine fuel injector design that combines catalytic combustion, direct injection and higher airflows through the injector for reducing NOx emission from military aircraft engines without deterioration of the Lean Blow Out (LBO) limit and relight stability and avoiding flashback or early autoignition. This design builds upon PCI's Rich Catalytic/Lean burn technology, now in advanced development for ground power generation gas turbines with substantial support from the U.S. Department of Energy and gas turbine manufacturers. The design provides a basis, discussed in the proposal, for expecting NOx emissions reductions of 80%. Phase I will achieve proof of concept through a combination of atmospheric pressure prototype testing and full condition CFD and other modeling. Phase II will optimize the design through injector testing at engine conditions in collaboration with a major aircraft engine manufacturer, as well as further modeling and durability testing. Success offers a new fuel injector design for achieving very low NOx emissions for both military and commercial engine application. The proposed technology targets gas turbine engine fuel nozzle design combining catalytic combustion and direct injection concepts for reducing NOx from military aircraft engines. The system offers breakthrough technology for achieving lowered Nox emissions (<8 g Nox/kg jet fuel) for aircraft engines with low costs and high levels of reliability. The primary markets for the specific injector technology proposed herein will be for military and commercial aircraft engines driven by pollution regulations and policies to have continued high performance with low emissions. The commercial potential is favorable for the application of this technology and the market size is substantial. Outfitting the Joint Strike Fighter fleet with the CC / LDI injector technology is worth in excess of $1 billion. There is a potential to spin-off this technology for application in both heavy commercial jet and regional jet engine businesses, with substantial market sizes of $2.4 billion and $2.2 billion respectively. PCI seeks to commercially supply the core injector technology while working with aircraft turbine manufacturers for engine integration requirements. Following a Phase I award, a manufacturing alliance or joint venture with specific engine manufacturers will be explored.

CFD RESEARCH CORP. 215 Wynn Dr., 5th Floor Huntsville, AL 35805
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(256) 726-4874 Dr. David L. Black NAVY 02-149 Awarded: 16OCT02
Title:	Improved Turbulent-Combustion CFD Modeling for High Fuel-Air Ratio Combustor Analysis
Abstract:	Current CFD combustion codes are not capable of predicting CO and H2 emissions in high performance military combustors with high-power operating conditions approaching stoichiometric. To provide this important capability, advanced turbulent-combustion models with multi-step chemistry are required. Accurate combustor modeling also requires extended calculation domains (from compressor discharge through turbine inlet guide vane) and improved mixing models. In Phase I of this SBIR, the feasibility of modeling advanced military combustors will be demonstrated. Two innovative models will be implemented into CFD-ACE+, the starting code for this project: 1) a dynamic Schmidt number model and 2) a joint PDF turbulence combustion interaction model for multi-step chemistry. The software will be used to model the Rolls-Royce AE3007 combustor at full-power conditions. Predictions will be compared to measurements of exit temperature and averaged emissions. The calculation will be repeated at high overall fuel-air ratios to assess the code's capabilities of capturing the nonlinear behavior of CO emissions and other important combustor operating parameters. In Phase II, more advanced turbulence-combustion models will be implemented into the code, including the Conditional Moment Closure (CMC) model. Analysis will be performed of the Rolls-Royce JSF F136 combustor, and predictions compared to measurements. Various combustor design modifications will be investigated. The modeling capability developed in this SBIR program will allow for accurate simulations of high performance, near-stoichiometric combustors. Innovative techniques for improved predictions of turbulent mixing and chemical reactions will be integrated into an existing commercial CFD software, CFD-ACE+. The advanced turbulent-combustion models will be useful for application to various combustion challenges, and will help increase our software market share in the combustion community.

COMBUSTION SCIENCE & ENGINEERING, INC. 8940 Old Annapolis Road Suite Columbia, MD 21045
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(410) 884-3266 Dr. Richard J. Roby NAVY 02-149 Awarded: 09OCT02
Title:	High Fuel-Air Ratio (FAR) Combustor Modeling
Abstract:	Advanced mission requirements for both military and civilian aircraft demand greater engine efficiency and increased thrust-to-weight ratios. These requirements have driven aircraft engine designers to increased pressure ratios and higher total temperatures for next generation engines. This increased performance relies, in part, on an increase in fuel-air ratio (FAR). However, as overall FARs reach levels of 0.040, some regions of the combustors will be operating at rich local fuel-air ratios. These regions can lead to burning in the turbine or along the combustor walls where cooling air is available. Since mixing and kinetics control these rich zones, current assessment tools that rely on equilibrium assumptions are not adequate for evaluating the performance of high FAR engines. Thus, the need exists for new kinetics-based modeling tools to assist engine builders in the design and development of high FAR engines. These tools must enable designers to make reasonable predictions of the effect of fuel-air ratio on temperature and species at the combustor exit and at other boundary areas of the combustors such as along film-cooled walls. Combustion Science & Engineering, Inc. proposes to develop a flexible computational tool based on chemical reactor modeling for the initial stages of gas turbine combustor design. The chemical reactor modeling (CRM) tool to be developed will provide detailed information about the combustion chemistry while allowing gas turbine design engineers to investigate a wide range of combustor designs, by varying parameters such as residence times and flow splits. Important information about unburned fuel, flame blowout, heat release and pollutant formation will be determined with this tool. The market for this product includes gas turbine designers of both military and civilian aircraft engines. This tool will significantly reduce development costs by eliminating some iterations of hardware testing, which is expensive and time consuming.

ENGINEERING RESEARCH & ANALYSIS CO. 340 SENTINEL OAK DRIVE DAYTON, OH 45458
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 255-2007 Dr. Mohammed A. Mawid NAVY 02-149 Awarded: 03OCT02
Title:	High Fuel-Air Ratio (FAR) Combustor Modeling
Abstract:	A high fuel-air ratio combustor/turbine computational model (computer code) is proposed for development in this SBIR project. The proposed computational model will address fuel-air ratio and temperature non-uniformities and fluctuations at the combustor and 1st stage high pressure turbine exit planes based upon actual JP-8 fuel chemical kinetics. A reduced chemical kinetic model will be developed using a detailed JP-8 chemistry mechanism and implemented into the combustor/turbine computational model. The proposed computational combustor/turbine model will also address secondary combustion in the high pressure turbine blades film cooling. Steady-state as well as transient operational effects upon high-fuel air ratio fluctuations, chemical species dissociation and recombination reactions, maximum temperature rise and fluctuations, pattern factor, and film-cooling reactivity will all be predicted in an efficient manner. The proposed combustor/turbine computational model will be capable of identifying the impact of various operating parameters through detailed parametric studies, which can not be accomplished by the conventional multi-dimensional CFD codes. It is therefore anticipated that the proposed combustor/turbine computational model will become, once validated, an integral part of the high-fuel air ratio combustor design cycle. It is anticipated that the proposed high fuel-air ratio combustor/turbine computational model for development in this SBIR will be an integral part of current and future high fuel-air ratio combustors and turbine film cooling design methodologies and databases. In addition, the proposed model will quickly identify the critical design and chemical parameters that impact the high fuel-air ratio combustor/turbine designs. These features will make the proposed combustor/turbine computational model highly marketable to both commercial and military gas turbine engines and ground-based turbine for power generation.

AMERICAN GNC CORP. 888 Easy Street Simi Valley, CA 93065
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(805) 582-0582 Dr. Gabriel Udomkesmalee NAVY 02-150 Awarded: 30OCT02
Title:	Data Fusion Unit for Mid-Air Collision Avoidance System (MCAS)
Abstract:	The objective of this project is to investigate, evaluate, and demonstrate the feasibility of a Data Fusion Unit for Mid-Air Collision Avoidance System (MCAS) to merge numerous MCAS data sources. The proposed system will be developed based on AGNC products and advanced processing techniques providing a versatile high performance computation platform and robust data fusion algorithm. This data fusion unit can be integrated into the Mid-Air Collision Avoidance System (MCAS) to merge multiple data tracks of a single aircraft from numerous MCAS data sources, including Mode-S, Link-16, Mode-5, and traffic information service B (TIS B), into one accurate single track for MCAS phases 2 and 3. In Phase I, efforts are focused on assessing needs, identifying requirements, processing implementation, and conducting analytical/experimental simulation tests for results to establish performance criteria and design specifications for subsequent prototype development in Phase II. This project leads to a Data Fusion Unit for Mid-Air Collision Avoidance System (MCAS), which is of great military and commercial potential, such as, Air Traffic Control (ATC) systems, general aviation, spacecraft, and cargo airlines.

ADAPTIVE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 1700 Kraft Drive, Suite 2350 Blacksburg, VA 24060
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(540) 951-1284 Dr. Michael A. Vaudrey NAVY 02-151 Awarded: 25SEP02
Title:	A Finite Element-Based Acoustic Engineering Design Program for Advancements in Passive Noise Reduction Performance of Helmet Mounted Noise Defenders
Abstract:	Adequate hearing protection for U.S. Navy crew personnel is mandatory and may be achieved through the use of earcups, earplugs, or both. Donning only the earcups or only the earplugs is referred to as single hearing protection (SHP), while the use of earplugs under earcups is called double hearing protection (DHP). This Phase I program offers a comprehensive engineering study and design strategy that relies on Acoustic Finite Element Analyses (AFEA) and correlated test-based models to prioritize all specific acoustic phenomena that affect SHP noise transmission to the ear across the entire audible frequency bandwidth. This prioritization of controlling noise mechanisms will then form a much-needed framework for exploitation of new design principles in both SHP and DHP applications. The Phase I Option and Phase II will continue the evolution of the model to address further problems in the DHP application. Finally, comparisons between the DHP FEA results to measured DHP system performance measurements, will help to identify the absolute best possible noise attenuation that can be achieved in the occluded space, not accounting for bone conduction paths. The most significant benefit of the Phase I program will be the contribution of a detailed acoustic engineering study that prioritizes all noise propagation mechanisms participating in the noise attenuation/transmission paths created by helmet mounted hearing defenders. Commercially, the FEA models developed under this Phase I program will be made available to both Navy engineers and sold to other noise control designers who wish to upgrade their design methods. The FEA models will have to be evaluated using the ANSYS software but the specific earcup FEA models can be provided easily as a commercial product provided that the recipient has purchased ANSYS software.

COMMUNICATIONS & EAR PROTECTION, INC. PO Box 311174, 101 Development Ave Enterprise, AL 36331
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(334) 347-1688 Mr. Ben T. Mozo NAVY 02-151 Awarded: 03OCT02
Title:	Passive Noise Reduction Technology to Improve Speech Intelligibility and Reduce Noise for Pilot and Deck Crew Helmet Mounted Systems
Abstract:	This SBIR Phase I research will examine methods to provide the Navy aviator with a device that will enhance communications and hearing protection performance that can be used in conjunction with the Navy helmet system. The U.S. Army currently uses an insert device that significantly improves the sound attenuation and voice communications of their helmet system. There was an attempt with a small sample of Navy aviators to use this technology in the Navy HGU-68 helmet. The attempt was classified as unsuccessful because of discomfort and poor user acceptance. The problems are suspected to be caused by inadequate space within the helmet/earcup and external ear. We will examine the geometry of the external ear and ear canal for a better understanding of the space that is available for adequate location of an earphone transducer in the external ear. The geometry assessment will lead directly to improved designs of the housing that contains the earphone transducer. The second goal of the research is to develop improved foam compositions and configurations that will increase sound attenuation for the user while maximizing comfort. Performance of the device will meet the sound attenuation requirements per DODI 6055.12 for all Navy aircraft and flight conditions. Reduce hearing loss and increase communications performance of aviators.

RED TAIL HAWK CORP. 135 Storm Rd. Groton, NY 13073
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(607) 272-1288 Dr. John W. Parkins NAVY 02-151 Awarded: 26SEP02
Title:	Passive Noise Reduction Technology to Improve Speech Intelligibility and Reduce Noise for Pilot and Deck Crew Helmet Mounted Systems
Abstract:	RTH proposes the development of a new passive communications earplug that will provide 12 dB of additional attenuation compared to traditional devices. The earplug makes use of a novel attenuation concept that RTH is in the process of patenting. When worn in conjunction with earmuffs or helmets, the total attenuation provided will be over 45 dBA. The communications earplug, named the "EOV-Plug," will provide a universal fit. Therefore, expensive and time-consuming ear canal impressions will not be needed. Due to the unique design of the EOV-Plug, the device will be safer to use than custom-molded earplugs. The EOV-Plug mitigates the occlusion effect and may improve attenuation limitations of hearing protectors due to bone conduction. The EOV-Plug is compatible with standard earcups, and will be available with and without communications capability. The use of the EOV-Plug with earmuffs or helmets will provide superior passive attenuation to any system on the market. The system will have applications in: civilian and military aircraft environments, manufacturing plants, construction sites, mining environments, and other environments where noise protection is desired. The improved attenuation results in superior protection from hearing trauma and improved speech intelligibility.

APPLIED HYDRO-ACOUSTICS RESEARCH, INC. 15825 Shady Grove Rd., Suite 135 Rockville, MD 20850
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 218-3249 Mr. Brian Samuels NAVY 02-152 Awarded: 21NOV02
Title:	Environmental Mission Planner - The Total Solution
Abstract:	The objective of this research is to research alternatives of a total planning system solution for use of environmental sensor data for the tactical ASW warfighter. The software will plan an integrated deployment strategy for both environmental and tactical sensors prior to takeoff. It will run rapidly and take into account trade-offs of using environmental sensors. During the flight the software will provide for processing and assimilation of the measured data, recalculation of the pattern based upon environmental inputs, and use of the inputs to improve performance. Finally, post-mission reconstruction and data archiving and dissemination will be provided. The software will interact with existing models, equipment, and databases without interference. It will easily ingest environmental data from a variety of sources as well as output to similar databases. It will be cross-platform compatible, web-enabled, and employ efficient code development/reuse by being written in JavaBeans and using CORBA. Designs of GUIs will include forethought to allow the operator to understand the reasoning behind recommendations. The prediction of reduction in uncertainty of environmental measurements can benefit not only the Navy but also any organization that wants to better measure the ocean environment. The system level design of the tactical ASW environmental mission planner could also benefit coastal weather prediction. As part of the Coastal Storm Initiative (CSI), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is currently developing tools to integrate real time ocean measurements with web-enabled applications that will provide risk and vulnerability assessments. The overall software architecture involved in linking ocean sensors, decision/planning aids, and database/data assimilation tools might be valuable to the NOAA in establishing a total system solution to coastal storm prediction and hazard prevention.

RDA, INC. P.O. Box 49 Doylestown, PA 18901
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(540) 349-8083 Mr. Jon E. Dionne NAVY 02-152 Awarded: 21NOV02
Title:	Environmental Mission Planner - The Total Solution
Abstract:	ASW tactical missions require accurate knowledge of the environment to plan and conduct operations, especially in littoral environments. In concert with the planned deployment of the TAM environmental sensor, the Navy needs a Tactical Decision Aid to assist Navy war-fighters on-board aircraft and at ground stations to optimally position these sensors. The TDA will support pre-flight planning, and post-flight analysis and training. It will also support in-flight near real-time updates as measured by the sonobuoy or retrieved from established environmental databases. The design must investigate cross-platform compatibility and networking, web-enablement, and efficient code development and reuse. This Phase I effort proposes to develop an Environmental Mission Planner that addresses each of these issues. The proposal consists of four key components. The first is the development of an efficient and robust optimal sensor-positioning algorithm. The second is the development of a technique for making the algorithm environmentally robust and viable, especially in information-poor op-areas. The third is the development of an intuitive, easy-to-use web-like GUI providing functionality and a look-and-feel with which today's Navy operator would feel at home. The fourth is the development of a robust data server capable of providing historical environmental data. A number of benefits are anticipated from the work and efforts of this SBIR. First is a powerful and environmentally robust algorithm for identifying the optimal placement of environmental sensors during op-area characterization. The algorithm will address information-rich and information-poor environments. Next is integration of assets and platforms via web-like architectures, allowing operators from any location to access the tool suite. The final benefit is access to remote data servers providing historical environmental data services and archiving of data acquired in-situ.

PHOENIX SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 27 Industrial Avenue Chelmsford, MA 01824
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 367-0232 Dr. Raymond B. Schaefer NAVY 02-153 Awarded: 05NOV02
Title:	High Source Level Sparker for Navy Applications
Abstract:	This proposal is to develop a conceptual design of a sonobuoy with the potential to exceed the source level goal for Navy applications. Phase I will demonstrate sparker technology enhancements that, when combined with previous sparker innovations, will increase the source level and lead to a low cost sonobuoy in a form factor of 1/3 A size. Phase I will demonstrate both the feasibility of a low cost capacitor technology not yet available commercially that can store three times more energy than current commercial capacitors and a new discharge initiation technique to increase electrical-to-acoustic energy conversion efficiency. These Phase I developments will be synergistic with our development of a smaller high voltage switch and transformer and collectively enhance the potential to exceed source level goals and reduce sonobuoy cost and size. Phase I includes a conceptual design and the development of a technology roadmap to achieve Navy cost objectives. Thus this Phase I is expected to have a major impact towards providing a sparker source that meets/exceeds NavAir application requirements. Anticipated Benefits A successful project will lead to the development of a new low cost sparker module that meets NavAir source level and cost goals. Developments in the proposed Phase I also may provide benefits for other Navy applications, including countermeasures and mine sweeping. Commercially, the new sparker will have use in our ongoing work to use sparkers for controlling zebra mussels, for inactivating pathogens in water and preventing the growth of slime in heat exchanger pipes.

DOGSTAR, INC. 2416 Salisbury Lane Alvin, TX 77511
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(281) 538-7702 Dr. Tad D. Shelfer NAVY 02-154 Awarded: 02DEC02
Title:	Water Column Sound Velocity Sensor Package
Abstract:	The objective of this Phase I SBIR proposal is to investigate the feasibility of using an optical time-domain reflectometer to perform distributed temperature sensing using a single fiberoptic cable. This technique will provide nearly simultaneous water-column temperature measurements down to 300 meters, in one meter increments. In addition to the innovative sensor system described in this proposal, we will evaluate the cost versus measurement capability of key components to identify the best solution for use in the Phase II prototype-development opportunity. The distributed temperature-sensor system described in this effort would enhance bathythermograph measurements and improve anti-submarine warfare capabilities. The potential commercial benefits and applications of this system to drilling companies, the civil engineering community, and the fiberoptic telecommunication industry are tremendous. The potential commercial benefits and applications of this system to drilling companies, the civil engineering community, and the fiberoptic telecommunication industry are tremendous.

INVOCON, INC. 19221 IH-45 South; Ste. 530 Conroe, TX 77385
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(281) 292-9903 Mr. Aaron Trott NAVY 02-154 Awarded: 17DEC02
Title:	Un-tethered Velocity of Sound Profiling Sensor (UVOSPS)
Abstract:	Accurate knowledge of the Sound Velocity Profile (SVP) is necessary to interpret SONAR signals correctly. The Navy requires sensors, for wide deployment in existing sonobuoys, capable of determining the SVP. Surpassing the limitations and costs of tethered solutions, IVC proposes the Un-tethered Velocity of Sound Profiling Sensor (UVOSPS). This system is a stack of miniature probes that are periodically released to sink and transmit temperature and corresponding depth to the buoy using ultrasonic communications. The simplicity of the system is the release mechanism-a harmless crystalline structure (with a predictable dissolving rate) erodes and releases a wired receiver and then periodically the un-tethered probes. As a probe sinks, it begins transmitting the real-time SVP information to the ultrasonic receiving transducer. The probe continues to transmit until all battery power is consumed-at least a depth of 300m. The crystal material dissolution properties will allow a "factory programmable" acquisition rate. The initial UVOSPS units will contain 24 probes to be released evenly over 72 hours. The advantage of this method is the incredibly simple and inexpensive sensor system. There are no moving components and no long tethers, yet it is capable of gathering data for a very detailed and accurate SVP. Sonobuoys are used throughout the waters of the world for measurement of ocean currents, temperatures, pollution, waves, depths, aquatic life, and weather. The UVOSPS sensor structure has an innate flexibility in the sensor selection that will give ability of the un-tethered probes to measure an unlimited number of ocean parameters. The temperature sensor can easily be augmented or replaced by salinity, alkalinity, oxygen, carbon dioxide, nitrate, or visible light. These sensors can determine the health of the ocean's inhabitants. Any variation of these parameters can severely affect all forms of aquatic life. The visible light sensor could measure the transmission of sunlight through the water to measure pollution or suspended particles. Additional probes could be designed to float after deployment; these could measure acceleration at the surface that indicates the wave action. Three neighboring sonobuoys with GPS could monitor the Doppler shift in the ultrasonic received signals from a sinking probe to determine deep ocean currents accurately. Most of these potential applications are also useful in freshwater bodies or rivers-as a sonobuoy travels downstream, it drops probes at different locations to measure the water health and quality.

CERANOVA CORPORATIOIN P. O. Box 278 Hopkinton, MA 01748
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(508) 520-7600 Dr. Mark V. Parish NAVY 02-155 Awarded: 26NOV02
Title:	Low Cost Polycrystalline Alumina for Infrared Windows
Abstract:	Polycrystalline alumina has great potential for providing the same or better aerothermal performance than sapphire yet offers the opportunity for low cost powder based manufacturing. Heretofore, such material was translucent in the visible wavelengths due to birefringent scattering. This program is aimed at mitigating birefringence, and providing excellent transparency throughout all wavelengths through a unique powder processing approach. Such a material can be fabricated to near net shape by a process compatible with conventional mass production techniques, offering the potential to markedly lower costs over sapphire domes. Successful completion of this project will result in the development of a low-cost, near-net-shape processing methodology for producing transparent polycrystalline alumina (PCA). The process will be scaleable and will utilize conventional mass production techniques. The resulting PCA material will have high transparency over a broad range of wavelengths and high thermal shock resistance. In addition to military markets for infrared windows, transparent PCA has potential commercial application in lighting products, watch crystals, and supermarket scanner plates. Also, the processing technology proposed in this Phase I could be applied to other ceramic systems to produce high density, high strength, near net shape components, with complex shapes. CeraNova has identified a number of markets/applications where the technology could be more broadly utilized.

MATERIALS SYSTEMS, INC. 543 Great Road Littleton, MA 01460
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 486-0404 Dr. Richard Gentilman NAVY 02-155 Awarded: 18NOV02
Title:	Nano-Grain Partially-Stabilized Zirconia IR Windows
Abstract:	MSI will develop nano-grain partially stabilized zirconia (PSZ) as an extremely durable MWIR window and dome material. PSZ has 3 times the fracture strength and 2 times the fracture toughness of sapphire, the most durable current IR window material, and its intrinsic IR absorption edge extends nearly 1 micron beyond that of spinel. PSZ is noncubic and therefore must be fabricated with a submicron grain size in order to reduce MWIR scattering to acceptable levels. During Phase I, fully dense PSZ samples will be fabricated using high purity nano-size powders and readily-scaleable densification methods that prevent significant grain growth. The fabricated samples will be optically, mechanically, and microstructurally characterized. This program will produce fundamentally stronger MWIR windows and domes for use in extreme environments. Other applications include transparent armor and sensor windows for high temperature and erosive/abrasive environments.

ACULIGHT CORP. 11805 North Creek Parkway S., Suite 113 Bothell, WA 98011
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(425) 482-1100 Dr. Matthias Savage-Leuchs NAVY 02-156 Selected for Award
Title:	Compact, High-Efficiency, Eye-Safe, Fiber Laser for LADAR Applications
Abstract:	We propose to build a novel eyesafe fiber laser source capable of operating over the 20-100 kHz repetition rate range. Using a combination of COTS technology from the telecom industry and amplifier designs based upon recent developments at Naval Research Labs, the source will deliver 7-10 Watts while maintaining pulse duration <10 ns, and beam quality <1.8 x D.L. We show designs using available commercial components packaged into a 6 x 8 x 17 cm volume. The laser will be much more efficient and far more rugged than conventional Q-switched crystal lasers using nonlinear converters to reach the eyesafe range. The proposed laser has potential for use in sensing of chemical leaks or chemical weapons (homeland defense), and in materials processing applications.

COHERENT TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 655 Aspen Ridge Drive Lafayette, CO 80026
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 604-2000 Dr. Iain McKinnie NAVY 02-156 Awarded: 13NOV02
Title:	Compact, Efficient, Robust Eyesafe Ladar Transmitter
Abstract:	The Navy has identified a need for an eyesafe pulsed laser transmitter for the CMRTR program, and for similar imaging and designator ladar systems. The transmitter cost, weight, footprint and performance ( >10W, 20-100kHz, 10ns, M2<1.2) requirements cannot be simultaneously met using current transmitter technology based on bulk Er, Ho, Tm lasers, OPOs, OPAs or Raman lasers. Additionally, conventional single-mode or large core fiber lasers are limited by damage and parasitic nonlinear processes to peak powers well below those required in this program. CTI proposes a breakthrough approach to meet the transmitter requirements. The proposed transmitter implements a proprietary self-imaging process in a large core fiber to retain the high efficiency, diffraction-limited beam quality, and excellent thermal handling of a single-mode fiber laser, while scaling the aperture to handle much higher peak power levels. A versatile MOPA architecture is adopted to meet the temporal format requirements without need for resonators or Q-switches. The self-imaging technique and MOPA architecture are leveraged by comprehensive demonstrations and by multiple other programs. A preliminary concept for the rugged prototype transmitter has been developed, leveraging off CTI's widespread experience with rugged flight-qualified laser systems. Phase I will conduct validation demonstrations of the ladar transmitter and develop a preliminary design for the prototype transmitter. Phase II will develop and test the prototype, and deliver it to the Navy for testing. Anticipated applications include (1) eyesafe laser radar systems for military markets including 3D-imaging, seeker/ targeting systems, and NCID as well as commercial applications including offshore and underground surveying, docking, robotic vision and bridge inspection; (2) laser range-finding for military and commercial markets; and (3) a new generation of compact, moderate peak-power eyesafe lasers for industrial, medical and scientific applications.

INFRAMAT CORP. 74 Batterson Park Road Farmington, CT 06032
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(860) 678-7561 Dr. Yide Zhang NAVY 02-157 Awarded: 30SEP02
Title:	High-Permeability Magnetic Nanocomposite for High Power Applications
Abstract:	The U.S. Navy seeks electrical means of launching aircraft, requiring cost effective magnetic materials with high saturation magnetization, high permeability and linear magnetizing behavior. Inframat proposes to demonstrate the feasibility of exploiting a FeCo/Al2O3 soft magnetic nanocomposite for improved magnetic performance to satisfy Navy's needs. High permeability FeCo/Al2O3 nanocomposite will be chemically synthesized using Inframat's economically viable aqueous solution method. The synthesized FeCo/Al2O3 nanocomposite will be consolidated into magnetic components, and tested. The design of this nanocomposite is based on the concept of exchange coupling, a quantum effect taking place between neighboring nanoparticles. Because of high resistivity, bulk sized FeCo/Al2O3 components can be manufactured without laminating, leading to significantly improved mechanical strength, compared with conventional components made by assembling metallic alloy strips. The proposed FeCo/Al2O3 nanocomposite is expected to possess higher saturation magnetization, higher permeability, higher electrical resistivity, higher Curie temperature, and lower power loss in the dynamic magnetization (such as pulsed magnetizing) process than the currently available Fe-Si alloys. Processing procedures involved in fabricating FeCo/Al2O3 cores will be simpler than the metallurgy processing in fabricating laminated metallic magnetic cores, leading to manufacturing cost savings. The proposed research is a collaboration between Inframat and the College of the Holy Cross. The proposed FeCo/Al2O3 nanocomposite will result in a novel soft magnetic material superior to the extensively used Fe-Si alloys in the magnetic and mechanical properties. Therefore, we expect this research to have a large impact in the electric and electronic industries. Commercial applications of the proposed technology include: high permeability magnetic components to launch electromagnetic aircraft, power converters, microwave antenna or rectennas, high frequency electronic parts made by ferrites, such as inductors, chokes, sensors, core-shape transformers, ultra high radio frequency telecommunications, planar transformers, and hybrid circuits. Other applications include telecommunications, industrial electronics, computers, Entertainment, automotive, and multimedia equipment.

MATERIALS PROCESSING, INC. 5069 Martin Luther King Freeway Fort Worth, TX 76119
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(817) 492-4446 Dr. Animesh Bose NAVY 02-158 Awarded: 11OCT02
Title:	Corrosion Resistant, Ultra-High Strength, High Toughness Steel
Abstract:	Current state-of-the-art ferrous products do not provide the desirable combination of ultra-high strength, high toughness as well as good corrosion resistance. For the carrier-based aircraft components, there is the urgent need for such an alloy. Currently that need is met by very-high strength steel with good fracture toughness that is chromium electroplated for good corrosion resistance. However, the process of chromium electroplating is expensive and it uses chemicals that are known human carcinogens. The current project aims at developing a novel ferrous alloy (using powder metallurgy approach) that would exhibit ultra-high strength, good toughness, and good corrosion resistance without electroplating. The new alloy will develop the desired property combination through the application of several metallurgical principles such as ultra-fine precipitation of intermetallic compounds, use of chromium to impart corrosion resistance and produce a carbon-free Fe-Ni-Cr type martensitic structure, ausaging and maraging-type heat treatments to improve strength, solid solution strengthening, and additional strengthening though the inclusion of a small volume of ultra-high hardness precipitates. The success in the project will provide DoD with a novel stainless steel having ultra-high strength, good toughness, and corrosion resistance properties, with applications in numerous defense and commercial sectors. The successful completion of this project will provide DoD with a new alloy that will have a unique combination of ultra-high strength, high toughness as well as good corrosion resistance. The newly developed material will replace state-of-the-art ferrous high strength, high toughness alloys, that rely on chromium electroplating (expensive, human carcinogen, pollutes the environment) for corrosion resistance. The primary beneficiary of this new alloy will be DoD, and especially Navy, which has a need for such material in their carrier-based aircraft components (landing gear, nose gear, various pins and fastners, etc.) that have to withstand extremely aggressive environments (saltwater spray, salt laden air, and sulfur dioxide). However, this material will have extensive use also in the commercial arena. Some applications include dies and tooling for the aluminum industry, forging tools, plastic molding dies, numerous commercial aircraft components, golf club heads, chemical equipments, etc. Thus, the success in Phase I will open up a new horizon in the area of ferrous stainless, ultra-high strength, and high toughness alloys.

QUESTEK INNOVATIONS LLC 1820 Ridge Avenue Evanston, IL 60201
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(847) 425-8222 Dr. Charles J. Kuehmann NAVY 02-158 Awarded: 10OCT02
Title:	Computational Design of High-Strength, High-Toughness Stainless Steels for Carrier-Based Aircraft Components
Abstract:	A novel computational materials design approach will be applied to demonstrate the feasibility for the development of a nanostructured high-strength, high-toughness stainless steel that meets the stringent mechanical properties for carrier-based aircraft components. Currently, 300M and the higher performance AerMet 100 are used for critical aerospace components. Both alloys, however, are nonstainless and highly susceptible to both corrosion and hydrogen embrittlement. As a result, a number of aircraft components, such as landing gear, require a costly cadmium coating process to protect against corrosion. Cadmium, a known carcinogen, represents significant environmental risks in both primary manufacture and at DoD overhaul and repair facilities. A well-developed set of computational design tools has already been applied to the design of new stainless steel for land-based aerospace applications that match the mechanical properties of 300M. Under this proposed Phase I SBIR, a series of microstructural toughening strategies will be theoretically assessed to devise stainless steel compositions matching the more rigid mechanical strength and toughness properties of AerMet 100 steel, currently used for carrier-based aircraft components. A new high strength, high toughness stainless alloy would benefit the environment and have dual-use application potential for commercial aircraft and other commercial markets such as marine equipment. The primary anticipated benefit of developing a unique structural stainless alloy for carrier-based aircraft components would be environmental. AerMet 100, the steel currently used for carrier-based aircraft components, is nonstainless and requires a costly cadmium coating process to protect against corrosion. Cadmium is a known carcinogen and represents significant environmental risks in both primary manufacture and at DoD overhaul and repair facilities. Eliminating this coating process has a tremendous potential for reducing long-term maintenance costs and eliminating environmentally hazardous processes. Furthermore, many of the major items that are cadmium plated, such as landing gear, are damage tolerant and sensitive to hydrogen embrittlement during maintenance and stress corrosion cracking during use. This sensitivity makes stress corrosion cracking the primary failure mechanism for landing gear - a failure that often causes significant collateral damage to the aircraft, even thought the failure usually takes place while it is parked. The Boeing Company has also provided a letter of support for this proposed initiative as the development of a high-strength, high-toughness stainless equivalent to AerMet 100 would have significant commercial aerospace potential.

CARDINAL PEAK, LLC 1017 S. Boulder Road, Suite H-1 Louisville, CO 80027
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 665-3962 Dr. Mike Perkins NAVY 02-159 Awarded: 23DEC02
Title:	Digital Motion Imagery (MI) Manipulation for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)
Abstract:	The objective of this proposal is to develop a software-only prototype system for simultaneous low-latency display, indexing and recording of MPEG-2 motion imagery delivered by Unmanned Aerial Vehicles. Low-latency display is critical to minimize the control problem of "oversteering" the UAV that results if the UAV operator relies on out-of-date imagery to make control decisions. The prototype will demonstrate the feasibility of developing a deployable software package meeting the Navy's UAV requirements and compatible with the TCS operating environment. In this document, we outline: a set of technical objectives for the Phase I prototype; a software architectural design of the prototype; and a project plan to achieve the objectives. We also outline a Phase I Option that addresses the prototyping of features not directly related to the fundamental issue of low-latency display, indexing and recording. Innovations in this system include: (i) a deterministic, low-latency data pathway for video decoding, and (ii) a powerful and flexible motion imagery data storage schema that allows diverse metadata to be indexed at receive-time while video is being decoded with low latency. The commercial market for the technologies to be developed under this proposal is sizable. It includes: (i) the market for video from military and scientific UAVs; (ii) the civilian market for MPEG-based video surveillance recording systems for banks, casinos, airports, and public transit; and (iii) searchable MPEG-based video databases of highlight films for professional, college, and high-school sports teams.

HARY & PARTRIDGE CONSULTING LLC 842 Coleman Avenue Suite 15 Menlo Park, CA 94025
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(650) 462-9534 Mr. Mark Hary NAVY 02-159 Awarded: 30DEC02
Title:	A Software Tool for Improved Digital MI Handling
Abstract:	HPC will develop a software tool that uses software-only decoding to display digital MI to screen from a 8Mbit MPEG-2 TS from a UDP source. HPC will use their MPEG-2 decoding technology, which offers decoding rates exceeding 50 fps (less than 20ms) and no-buffering of I-frame only images. Additionally, this software package will use an ODBC connection to talk to a DIICOE approved RDBMS to store and retrieve motion imagery. A user will be able to annotate digital MI as it is displayed on screen, retrieve the digital MI with the annotation, and will be able to auto-generate mosaics using state-of-the-art mosaicking technology developed by HPC. This Phase I investigation will culminate in a prototype software tool and a Software Requirement Specification that will drive the Phase II development effort. The resultant software will have great commercial potential for branches of the DoD, for local and state law enforcement agencies, and for private surveillance firms who need to store, retrieve, and manipulage digital MI.

ANACAPA SCIENCES, INC. 301 East Carrillo Street 2FL Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(805) 966-6157 Dr. Steven P. Rogers NAVY 02-160 Awarded: 06NOV02
Title:	Intelligent Advisor for Multi-Modal Human-Computer Interface (HCI) Design
Abstract:	The objective of this Phase I effort is to design an Intelligent Advisor for Human-Computer Interface Design (IAHCID) in preparation for demonstration of a prototype system in Phase II. IAHCID will provide the HCI design team with rapid accessibility to the enormous array of existing design data, including recommendations for the recent multi-modal HCI techniques, filtered and tailored for the design project at hand. One IACID component will assist HCI designers' analysis of the future system, defining the nature of the required tasks and information elements. Another component will allow the user to constrain the intelligent advisor solutions in accordance with hardware acquisition requirements and likely operational conditions. Both rule-based and case-based reasoning systems and databases will support the Design Recommendations Component, which provides guidelines for optimal control/display techniques for each information element identified in the task analysis. Recommendation references and examples will be provided on demand. The IACID Interactive System Prototype Decision Aid will assist the HCI designer in specific HCI element selection and layout, interactively leading the user through the logical steps of the design process, ensuring that all of the required information elements are represented, and offering suggestions based upon proven design principles. The commercial success of IAHCID is nearly assured because it will greatly reduce the HCI design time and costs, improve product safety and usability, and support HCI design for all types of computer-based products. With the commercialization of IAHCID, high-quality HCI design expertise will become available to all manufacturers, leading to an improved HCI on thousands of types of products. The resulting reduction in errors and times for training and system operation will yield enormous cost savings to military and private sector system users.

APTIMA, INC. 12 Gill Street, Suite 1400 Woburn, MA 01801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 496-2439 Dr. Gabriel Spitz NAVY 02-160 Awarded: 04NOV02
Title:	Case-Based HCI Design Advisor
Abstract:	As the number and range of interface technologies increases, the personal experience and expertise of human computer interaction (HCI) designers is often insufficient to ensure that wide ranges of innovative interface options are considered during design. This limited experience could slow down the interface design process and result in interfaces that are sufficient, but not optimal. Aptima proposes an intelligent advisor that will help capture the experiences of a broad range of HCI designers in the form of user interface design cases and provide an indexing schema for effectively searching and retrieving user interface design (UID) cases from a case database. The retrieved UID cases will aid the HCI designer in generating an initial set of viable and innovative user interface design options to use as a starting point for a UI design effort. Each UID case in the proposed case database will contain: 1) a dialog representation (e.g., a dialog box image, a description for gesture based dialog, a transcription of speech dialogs, etc.); 2) a depiction of the functional, operational, and usability requirements the dialog supports; and 3) links to related dialogs used to characterize and index the UID case. The anticipated benefits are as follows. The case-based HCI design advisor will enable the HCI designers and/or the systems design team to: � Expand the type and number user interface design options/ideas considered when designing an interface, thereby increasing the suitability of the interface to its functional, operational and usability requirements. � Reduce the user interface design life cycle by jump-starting the creative aspects of the design with an initial set of ideas. � Reduce the user-interface design life cycle by providing HCI designers with actual designs that can be used as is or with simple modification. � Increase the functional completeness of the user interface design by suggesting functionalities that were included by other HCI designers in similar situations.

MICRO ANALYSIS & DESIGN, INC. 4949 Pearl East Circle, Suite 300 Boulder, CO 80301
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 442-6947 Mr. Brett Walters NAVY 02-160 Awarded: 04NOV02
Title:	Intelligent Advisor for Multi-Modal Human-Computer Interface (HCI) Design
Abstract:	Recent advances in multi-modal technologies are now sufficiently mature to be embedded in future multi-modal interfaces. The question remains as to how designers can use this technology to provide a more intuitive interface that will allow users to process information more quickly, build a better state of situation awareness, and make better decisions. A large amount of research has been conducted to understand human thought and information processing capabilities in order to design effective displays that are engaging and easy to use. However, it is ultimately the responsibility of designers to be aware of and understand the implications of this research. The primary objective for Phase I is to develop an innovative approach for providing interface design support. Our first task will be to examine methods (e.g., task analysis, simulation modeling, artificial intelligence) to include in the Multi-modal Interface Design Advisor (MIDA). The second task will be to research theories regarding human-computer interaction (HCI). Then we will review different display technologies and collect interface guidance information with a deliberate focus on multi-modal interactions. The fourth task will be to understand the issues involved in developing MIDA. Finally, we will design sample prototype interfaces that demonstrate our approach. This project will provide the Navy with an approach for developing a tool that can support upgrades to the Tactical Tomahawk Weapon Control System. However, the principal benefit of this tool will be its potential for increasing the awareness and use of multi-modal user-interface technology across a wide variety of platforms for both government and commercial interests. Virtually any interface, from head-up displays to personal digital assistants, can be designed with the help of this tool. It will save users time by removing the requirement of having to review guidance information and standards. This tool can also ensure that interface design will be done right the first time, preventing the need for multiple iterations of design and testing, saving time and money in the process. Finally, this tool can serve as a learning device. Simply by using the tool, users can become aware of research, guidelines and theories on HCI.

NAVSYS CORP. 14960 Woodcarver Road Colorado Springs, CO 80921
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(719) 481-4877 Dr. Alison Brown NAVY 02-161 Awarded: 29OCT02
Title:	Hybrid Integrity for Precision Guidance and Landing
Abstract:	Under this Phase I effort it is proposed to develop a design for a hybrid integrity solution solution for precision approach and landing in a GPS jamming environment. The proposed integrity solution leverages the capabilities of next generation digital spatial processing and ultra-tightly-coupled (UTC) GPS/inertial integrated military User Equipment (UE). Under this effort we will assess the failure modes inherent in the GPS system and UE and evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed GPS/Inertial Receiver Autonomous Integrity Monitoring (GI-RAIM) algorithms in assuring the integrity, availability and continuity of the GPS observations during the challenging precision approach and landing phase of operation. The GI-RAIM algorithm will use the spatial diversity provided by the digital spatial processing algorithms to detect GPS and UE failure modes and will embed failure detection and isolation algorithms within the UTC signal processing algorithms. An analysis will also be included of an algorithm designed to perform carrier phase tracking integrity monitoring embedded within the Kinematic Carrier Phase Tracking (KCPT) positioning algorithms. This multi-level integrity monitoring approach will be evaluated first through simulation. Under Phase II, test data will be collected to demonstrate the GI-RAIM algorithm performance in an UTC GPS/inertial digital spatial processing test-bed The modular nature of the GI-RAIM GPS/inertial integrity monitoring algorithm will allow it to be embedded within other manufacturers' existing architectures providing additional signal integrity for military and commercial integrated systems. The algorithms are designed to be synergistic with existing approaches for integrity monitoring (e.g. AIME) and KCPT precise positioning. Applications exist for the JPALS and SRGPS precision approach and landing systems and for GPS/inertial guided munitions. Commercial applications also exist for the Local Area Augmentation System (LAAS).

SYSENSE CORP. 3660 West Temple Avenue, Suite 2200 Pomona, CA 91768
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(909) 869-3278 Dr. Jason L. Speyer NAVY 02-161 Selected for Award
Title:	Hybrid Integrity for Precision Guidance and Landing
Abstract:	The objective of this proposal is to develop a methodology for the improved integrity and continuity of absolute and relative GPS/IMU systems based on the architecture of the fault-tolerant estimator. This scheme is based on new results in analytic redundancy management methodologies. This methodology combines new robust fault detection filters with residual processor and fault magnitude reconstruction to develop fault-tolerant estimators, which operate at high level of integrity with lower level integrity hardware components. This system is applicable to all levels of coupling between the GPS receiver and the IMU, but is most critical for ultra-tight coupling of GPS/IMU since the replica signals generated from the INS is fed back to the receiver correlators. The fault-tolerant estimator is proposed to ensure that the replica signals are to a very high probability not corrupted by GPS and IMU faults. This work can be applied anywhere where GPS/INS navigation is used as an enhancement to safety and integrity of operations. Specifically, this work may be applied to autonomous carrier landing, autonomous aerial refueling, formation flight for drag reduction, and relative navigation for munitions guidance.

ANALYTICAL SERVICES & MATERIALS, INC. 107 Research Drive Hampton, VA 23666
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(757) 865-7283 Mr. Karl E.Wiedemann NAVY 02-162 Awarded: 06NOV02
Title:	Innovative Erosion-Resistant Coating Materials/Concepts for Leading Edges on Composite Rotor Blades
Abstract:	The Navy operates its helicopters and other aircraft in dust, salt, and water-laden environments. The impact of sand and water droplets on the rotor blades at high velocities causes rotor life to drop drastically. The cost of replacing and maintaining rotor blades is a significant factor. The current solution is to use metallic abrasion strips that offer limited protection; however, the strips limit the fatigue life of composite rotors. AS&M has developed a coating that provides superior erosion protection without reducing fatigue life. AS&M's coating is comprised of a fine dispersion of very hard particles in a resilient matrix. The coating partly absorbs the energy and reflects back the impacting particles without deformation or cratering. In Phase I, we propose to demonstrate the applicability of AS&M's coating on composite material for adhesion, uniformity, smoothness, erosion, and cavitation properties. In the Phase I option, we propose to establish a field repair kit for maintenance and extending the coating life. In Phase II, we propose to coat airfoil shapes for simulated erosion test and also to carry out a full-fledged fatigue test on a coated rotor. In Phase III, we will work with a rotor blade manufacturer and transition the technology to a rotary-wing platform. Helicopters, vertical/short take-off and landing aircraft, fighter jets, general aviation aircraft and helicopters, gas turbine engines and power plants, wind turbines, and mining machinery will benefit from the effective and economical protection afforded by the proposed coating. We are currently interacting with several customers to develop and apply coatings for specific products.

FOSTER-MILLER, INC. 350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 684-4114 Dr. Robert Kovar NAVY 02-162 Awarded: 13NOV02
Title:	Gradient Functionality, Nanocomposite Elastomer Sheath System for Composite Rotor
Abstract:	Metal protective sheaths currently used on the V-22 rotor blade leading edge to protect against sand and rain erosion are heavy, rigid and expensive. Elastomeric sheaths are being considered as replacements for metal sheaths, since they are lightweight, flexible and abrasion-resistant. However, elastomeric sheaths tested to date have exhibited delamination and creep failure caused by sand and rain droplet impact damage coupled with high centrifugal loads. Foster-Miller proposes to develop a gradient functionality, nanocomposite elastomer sheath system, called NESS, that addresses each of these issues. The NESS design provides for the highest sand and rain erosion-resistance, reinforcement against centrifugal shear forces and protection against rain droplet impact damage. NESS can be manufactured using a low-cost, automated Resin Transfer Molding (RTM) process, is lightweight, non-conductive and durable enough to resist the environments that currently cause premature sheath failure. In Phase I, we will apply computer modeling to identify candidate NESS materials, produce NESS test specimens and evaluate NESS specimens for key properties; such as, adhesion, sand and rain erosion-resistance and creep-resistance. The Phase I Foster-Miller team includes experts in computer modeling, nanocomposites, abrasion-resistant elastomers and helicopter rotor blade design, as well as a commercial helicopter manufacturer and a polyurethane supplier. (P-020535) Successful development of the proposed Nanocomposite Elastomer Sheath System will increase the reliability, survivability and mission lifetime of military aircraft, such as the V-22 Osprey in severe environments. Commercial helicopters will benefit from this low-cost, enhanced performance abrasion-resistant sheath for composite rotor blades by realizing longer leading edge lifetime. The market for such improved performance at an economical cost includes all commercial and military rotary wing aircraft.

HONTEK CORP. 161 South Satellite Road South Windsor, CT 06074
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(860) 282-1776 Mr. Shek C. Hong NAVY 02-162 Selected for Award
Title:	Molded Erosion Protection Systems for Composite Rotor Blades
Abstract:	Naval aircraft operate in hostile environments that include sandy or dusty landing zones and/or severe sand/rain storms. Helicopters and other vertical/short takeoff and landing (VTOL/ STOL) aircraft such as the V-22 Osprey are expected to endure these severe environments without rapid erosion to the leading edge of their rotor blade. The U.S. Navy is interested in removing the metallic leading edge strip and replacing it with innovative erosion-resistant coating materials/concepts directly over the composite leading edge of the rotor blade. Hontek has developed extremely rain and sand erosion resistant polyurethane elastomers under prior SBIR contracts. Hontek proposes to mold these highly erosion resistant elastomers directly onto the composite leading edge, or mold them into individual boots for installation later onto the composite leading edge. In addition, this proposal will investigate the adhesive bonding, the removal and repair of the erosion protection systems. Fast and easy removal and repair techniques will be developed. Another task will investigate the use of nanoparticles to increase the erosion resistance of the elastomers. The proposed molded erosion protection systems have universal applications to all types of composite rotor blades, propeller blades and radomes. It is anticipated that this effort will provide a light weight and conformable erosion protection system for the composite leading edge on current and emerging VTOL/STOL aircraft such as V-22 Osprey. This effort will eliminate the need for frequent inspection to detect incipient fatigue cracks in the metal leading edge, reduce acquisition and operating costs, enhance blade fatigue life, improve mission safety, reduce need for spares, simplify field serviceability and reduce total ownership cost (TOC).

OPTRA, INC. 461 Boston Street Topsfield, MA 01983
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 887-6600 Ms. Julia Rentz NAVY 02-163 Awarded: 15OCT02
Title:	In-Line IR Particle Analyzer for Gas Turbine Engines
Abstract:	OPTRA proposes the development of a compact, ruggedized in-line IR particle analyzer for in situ, open-path, particulate matter quantification for gas turbine engines. We offer a novel approach to the in-line particle sizer, employing an IR laser diode and IR optics that allow for 200x reduction in overall volume relative to systems traditionally operating in the visible. We have incorporated an inexpensive uncooled microbolometer focal plane array in place of the standard annular silicon detector array. This in-line system records the far-field diffraction pattern for all particles present in the laser beam at the focal plane of the imaging optics; concentrations of particle sizes are deduced from the distribution of the diffraction pattern over the detector focal plane array. In addition, we employ a spectroscopic absorption technique by tuning the IR laser on and off the 3 micron H-C stretch resonance band characteristic of essentially all hydrocarbons. The change in the diffraction pattern in the far-field provides discrimination between condensable hydrocarbons forming PM and all other scattering particulates. This system holds commercial potential in areas of jet engine PM measurement, vehicle emissions measurement, and industrial and process monitoring.

PROCESS METRIX 2110 Omega Rd., Ste D San Ramon, CA 94583
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(925) 837-1330 Dr. Donald J. Holve NAVY 02-163 Awarded: 16OCT02
Title:	Gas Turbine Engine Particulate Matter Measurement
Abstract:	The primary method of particle mass measurement for industrial processes uses sampling via extraction and filtration. Long sample times are specifically a problem for measurements of industrial gas turbine engines, and as stated in the solicitation, are virtually impractical for short term operation of military gas turbine engines. The Navy would like to find a fast and accurate substitute measurement technique for the conventional mass sampling EPA Method 5. PMC and its predecessor company, Insitec have worked to develop in-situ real time particulate instruments for the power industry for more than 15 years. Process Metrix (PMC) is currently developing an optical instrument known as the PPC (Process Particle Counter) that is ultimately directed at precisely the application described above. Indeed a prototype instrument has obtained quantitative size and mass concentrations in a variety of harsh environments, including pulp and paper recovery boilers, expanders (turbines without compressors) in the petroleum industry, and industrial gas turbines for power generation. The goal of the proposed work is to incorporate additional improvements to the PPC, demonstrating that this sensor can produce fast real-time size and mass quantitative measurements comparable to EPA method 5 in military gas turbine engine environments. PM10/PM2.5 Measurement of Particulate Matter. This optical technique can supplement or replace standard EPA method 5 measurement of particulate emissions for a wide range of industries.

INNOVATIONS & PROTOTYPE ENGINEERING 4029 Bristol Road Clinton, NY 13323
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(315) 853-6868 Mr. Edwin E. Morris NAVY 02-164 Awarded: 25OCT02
Title:	Precision Geo-Location for Turreted Electro-Optic Sensors
Abstract:	Innovations & Prototype Engineering has developed a concept for transfer aligning two coordinate frames using what can be described as delta-quaternions. These delta-quaternions can be generated using vectors of almost any quantity that can be characterized in each of the two coordinate frames. Examples of these vector quantities are inertial linear acceleration, inertial angular rate, and inertial line of sight. These delta-quaternions can be filtered to find a transformation matrix so that any vector defined in one of the two coordinate frames can be readily expressed in the other. There are existing military systems that use slave inertial measurement units with a full set of navigation equations and a Kalman filter to transfer align the slave to a master inertial navigation system. The phase I effort will focus on characterizing the current absolute pointing error of representative EO/IR systems. The performance improvements of the low impact method using the delta-quaternions will be compared to the more complicated method using the full navigation solution. Locate surface targets from airborne law enforcement vehicles. Counter drug enforcement.

INTEGRATED SENSORS, INC. 502 Court St., Suite 210 Utica, NY 13502
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(315) 798-1377 Mr. Larry Nelson NAVY 02-164 Awarded: 25OCT02
Title:	Precision Geo-Location for Turreted Electro-Optic Sensors
Abstract:	A novel method for improving the geo-location of ground and marine targets using current and next generation airborne, turreted, Forward Looking Infra-Red (FLIR) sensors is proposed. The approach generates the target's position on the surface of the earth directly and thus includes all error sources and attempts to minimize total location error. The quality of the geo-location information is expected to sufficiently high enough to support precision strike capability. The solution proposed here is also characterized by 1) Refinement of the target's geo-location by observing the behavior of the line of sight (LOS) to the target over time using passive ranging like algorithms 2) Automated procedures for alignment of the FLIR coordinate system to the own-ship's targeting (i.e. weapons) coordinate system are included 3)Automated procedures for measuring and compensating optical system distortions and image plane mis-alignment are provided 4) Novel stationary surface target tracking techniques are proposed that work well the low contrast FLIR environment 5)The system works with or without an IMU located on the turret's stabilized platform 6) The system works with or without target range being known and 7)The method proposed below can also be applied to electro-optical systems as well as Infra-Red systems. Placing ground targets at risk to a wide variety of today's highly precise weapons first requires precision geo-location of the target. Providing the capability to accurately geo-locate high-value targets will greatly improve the Navy's capability for precision strike. Current and next generation turreted, Forward Looking Infra-Red (FLIR) systems offer the potential to precisely geo-locate high value and time critical targets in a cost effective manner. However before this potential can be realized, a number of technical issues must be successfully addressed. These technical issues are discussed below.

MISSISSIPPI POLYMER TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 13233 Webre Road Bay Saint Louis, MS 39520
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(228) 533-0825 Dr. Robert M. Springfield NAVY 02-165 Awarded: 10OCT02
Title:	LOW-COST RAMJET COMBUSTOR INSULATORS
Abstract:	Mississippi Polymer Technologies, Inc. (MPT), in cooperation with Atlantic Research Corporation, proposes to develop ultra-high performance Parmaxr Self-Reinforcing Polymers (SRPs) for ramjet combustor applications. Parmaxr SRPs, which offer strengths comparable to mild steels and specific strengths comparable to titanium alloys, are thermoplastic polyparaphenylenes with superior ablative properties. This combination of low-cost thermoplastic processing and high char-yield makes Parmaxr SRPs ideal insulators. Parmaxr SRPs provide a rigid char that will withstand the combustor flow field shear forces without degrading the produced energy; offering lighter weight and higher performance (thermal diffusivity, conductivity, and ablative performance) than existing silica-filled silicone rubber materials. Additionally, Parmaxr SRPs will offer enhanced bondability and minimized off-gassing at the case bondline. In fact, because of their great strength, Parmaxr SRPs may offer the capability to fabricate ramjet or integrated rocket/ramjet engines without the use of an insulated steel case. This will provide tremendous system performance increases, including increased range/payload, reduced logistical cost, and potentially reduced lifecycle cost as a result of reduced corrosion concerns. Parmaxr SRPs are able to offer this unparalleled capability because of their unique chemistry - no other material in existence is comparable to these amorphous thermoplastic rigid-rod polyparaphenylenes. Successful completion of Phase I R&D will provide an excellent foundation for replacing heavy glass fiber and high fabrication cost carbon fiber insulation in not only ramjets but also integral rocket/ramjet and pure rocket designs. Parmaxr SRPs will offer the convenience of thermoplastic processing in place of traditional tape-wrapping, fiber placement, and weaving/impregnation fabrication technologies. Parmaxr SRPs are melt processible allowing use of injection molding, compression molding, and extrusion. Parmaxr SRPs with specific gravities in the range of 1.2 will weight less than present insulations offering system performance enhancements as well. Additionally, the results from this Phase I effort will also provide sufficient data to allow placement of Parmaxr SRPs into both DoD and commercial aircraft structures. Parmaxr SRPs do not contain sulfur or nitrogen so in fire situations there are no hydrogen sulfides or cyanides produced. Parmaxr SRPs are also lightweight and strong so these materials are ideally suited for use in manned aircraft or spacecraft.

SYSTEMS & MATERIALS RESERACH CONSULTANCY 19300 Crosswind Circle Spicewood, TX 78669
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(512) 263-0822 Dr. Alan V. Bray NAVY 02-165 Awarded: 10OCT02
Title:	Lightweight Ablating Insulation for Ramjet Combustion Chambers
Abstract:	To reduce ablating insulation weight in a ramjet interceptor the ablative performance per pound of material must be proportionally improved. SMRC/SWT proposes an innovative nanocomposite ablative technology similar to that demonstrated in our Air Force fiber reinforced nanocomposite rocket ablative material (NRAM) project. The approach involves the intercalation of a nanoclay by an elastomeric (epoxy) resin. The nanoclay surface preparation will be varied for optimal nanoclay exfoliation and ablative properties. Chemical and particle reinforcement for char formation and physical property improvement are also proposed. A pre-proposal experiment with two off-the-shelf nanoclays and the current Dow Corning 93-104 ablating insulation material showed 20 - 30% improvement in char formation and insulating properties for one of the clays, but the other failed to improve 93-104. This illustrates the importance of tailoring nanocomposite ablatives to optimize insulation performance. A detailed 3-round project plan is proposed that examines resin choice, nanoclay surface preparation, and reinforcement strategies in detail. A full Linde torch ablation test facility will be used to conduct over 80 test firings on candidate materials in Phase I. Ramjet combustor and trowelable ablatives that FAR outperform current products on the market - and that can be processed with current manufacturing techniques - are an assured result. The SMRC commercialization approach includes qualifying an OEM toll blender for interim production to support ongoing Navy ramjet programs immediately after Phase II. In addition it includes development of a trowelable ablative based on the ramjet combustor material that can be sold in the larger launch asset protection market. The trowelable ablative market includes land- and sea-based missile launch pads and is estimated at roughly $50 million a year worldwide. The cost of SMRC's ramjet combustor ablative will be very competitive, and probably lower, than current trowelables while performing better, and should be able to capture a significant market share.

SYS 9620 Chesapeake Drive, Suite 201 San Diego, CA 92123
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 715-5500 Mr. Michael Welch NAVY 02-166 Selected for Award
Title:	Readiness Assessment and Training Evaluation System (RATES) for Aviation Maintenance
Abstract:	Poor availability of training equipment for aviation maintenance training centers due to mock up malfunctions or out-of-date equipment can compromise Naval readiness. The purpose of this project is to devise an assessment methodology. The objective is to provide an assessment system and process that measures training technologies such as hardware, simulation, advanced distance learning, advanced technology approaches, etc. as they relate to aviation maintenance Naval training requirements and high-level training and readiness goals. A second objective of this project is to investigate the process of continually assessing all training technology implementation as an effective means of delivering training to the sailor while ashore or afloat. The process of establishing an assessment framework for aviation training technologies will prove effective. The assessment is based on a framework of Navy readiness and training goals. The entire assessment framework will be available to Naval training decision-makers on an interactive Web site in a client/server format that allows distributed and asynchronous assessment visualization into the future. Fundamental payoffs for training system performance measurement, that is using RATES, will be realized from quantifying impact to aviation maintenance readiness from training equipment non-availability or out-of-configuration status and assessment results that define levels of impact to readiness based on categories of training equipment, i.e. training devices for aviation electronic technicians, aviation ordnanceman, aviation boatswain's mate, etc. In addition RATES will Identify an effective training approaches, such as, the trade off of use of Technical Training Equipment (TTE) hardware verses advanced technology-based approaches to training aviation maintenance sailors. This will include an Instructional Media Matrix that cross-references the different training in terms of types of equipment, devices, and documents. Also, documented and perhaps most importantly, assessment that can be used as justification for funding of training devices development, spare parts, hardware/software updates and adequate levels of maintenance on these devices and the ability to prioritize scarce resources based on readiness contribution.

TECOLOTE RESEARCH, INC. 1 S. Los Carneros Rd, Ste 125 Goleta, CA 93117
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 414-3290 Mr. William Humphrey NAVY 02-166 Selected for Award
Title:	Rule-Based Information System for Training Resource Planning and Fleet Readiness Assessments
Abstract:	Measuring fleet readiness is a significant and critical challenge that faces the Navy today. The goal to maintain a force that is trained and knows how to apply their training effectively is crucial for the fleet's and the nation's preparedness. An effective maintenance training program not only trains under the best of circumstances, but needs to simulate what can and does go wrong as well. To measure readiness requires quick and seamless access to the information that contributes to a successful training program, not the least of which is availability specially engineered maintenance training devices and other training tools that simulate the behavior of malfunctioning weapon systems. Tecolote Research is proposing to develop a model that would integrate with the NAWCSTD's TEELTR (Training Effectiveness Link to Readiness) model, and provide a mechanism to measure maintenance training equipment availability on fleet readiness. The innovation in this approach will be in integrating the disparate data sources, developing the metrics for measuring readiness impact and providing for geographically dispersed information transfer as well as a contemporary web-services based software application to allow easy, secure access to the model. Government and industry are both concerned with managing the logistics of critical resources (training systems, weapon systems, facilities) and assessing how their availability impacts organizational goals. Being prepared comes at a cost, and the impact of essential resources (maintenance training equipment) "availability" needs be measured. Such a measurement coupled with cost estimates of various maintenance profiles and maintenance capital investment options would provide a sound basis for comparing alternative configurations.

IMPACT TECHNOLOGIES, LLC 125 Tech Park Drive Rochester, NY 14623
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(814) 861-6273 Mr. Carl Byington NAVY 02-167 Awarded: 22OCT02
Title:	Intelligent Embedded Diagnostics and Open Architecture for Future Avionics Systems
Abstract:	Impact Technologies, in collaboration with Honeywell Defense Avionics Systems, proposes to develop and demonstrate improved on-board embedded diagnostics for avionics as well as open communications architectures that enable information continuity between on-board and off-board systems or maintenance aids. Within this paradigm shift approach, embedded diagnostics improvements will be sought through the evaluation of improved sensed features, various artificial intelligence methods, and more detailed consideration of available data, such as from a data bus monitor. The application of avionics reliability and aging (usage) models to improve assessments or resolve ambiguity will also be addressed. In addition, an ambiguity group analysis that employs data fusion will be developed to assist the at-wing, automated test equipment, if necessary, to rank probable causes. The information continuity, however, will require implementation of suitable open architecture protocols such as AI-ESTATE or OSA-CBM, and it will allow the diagnostics results, symptoms evaluated, and operational/environmental conditions to be more easily captured in a database that will allow for further data mining, clustering, case-based reasoning and other knowledge discovery methods. This pathway and database integration of the diagnostics development ensures that continuous learning of new trends and diagnostics could be developed for future updates to the on-board system. The development and integration of embedded diagnostics and prognostics within avionics system and support test equipment will provide many benefits including: improved safety associated with system operations; reduced life cycle or total ownership costs; optimized maintenance intervals and prioritized task performance; and increased combat readiness/availability of military systems. We also anticipate a significant reduction in CND, RTOK, and NFF with the diagnostics/prognostics software modules and associated open architecture protocols generated under this program. In addition, the work will contain many generic elements that can be transitioned to a broad range of other applications. The embedded diagnostics approaches, techniques, and specific algorithms could also be implemented in a wide range of military as well as commercial applications in the civilian aviation community (passenger aircraft, cargo transports, business jets, private aircraft, etc.). The open system architecture development could