| SURMET CORP.
33 B Street Burlington, MA 01803 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 272-3969
Dr. Lee Goldman DARPA 03-001 Awarded: 19JUN03 |
| Title: | Transparent Oxynitride Coatings for High Speed Missile Applications |
| Abstract: | Preliminary work on thin films of silicon-carbon-oxy-nitride (aka SiCON) by ion-beam sputtering (IBS) has suggested the potential of this material for high-speed missile window application. Surmet Corporation proposes to use an innovative plasma deposition technique to demonstrate fabrication of SiCON materials with improved optical transmission, hardness and strength for IR window applications. High rate of material deposition and ease of manipulating the process variables, make Surmet's proposed process suitable for the deposition of substantially thick films with precisely controlled chemistry. Also, unlike IBS it does not require sputtering targets with tailored chemistry. For this research, thin IBS deposited films of both Si-C-N and SiCON will be characterized and used as a baseline for subsequent deposition experiments using Surmet's process to produce materials with characteristics similar to films produced using IBS. The Surmet fabricated films will then be characterized with a focus on optical and mechanical properties to determine the composition best suited for erosion resistant infrared (IR) coatings application. Phase I results and consultation with the DARPA program manager will allow defining a Phase II research proposal for further development of SiCON either as a coating or a bulk material for high-speed IR missile windows applications. It is anticipated that free-standing bulk materials of SiCON (~200 mm) with desirable properties can be fabricated using Surmet's innovative deposition process. The proposed research effort to develop SiCON in the form of coating and/or bulk materials with improved properties for infrared (IR) optical applications in high-speed missile windows will be of significant technological and commercial value. The Phase I feasibility demonstration will help guide a future Phase II research for the synthesis and processing of bulk SiCON materials and its commercialization. |
| MORGAN RESEARCH CORP.
4811A Bradford Drive Huntsville, AL 35805 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(256) 842-7875
Ms. Janet Baeder DARPA 03-002 Awarded: 10JUN03 |
| Title: | Crossover-Free Fiber Optic Gyroscope Micro-Sensor Coils |
| Abstract: | Recent trends in Interferometric Fiber Optic Gyroscopes (IFOG) development have focused on system miniaturization and cost reduction for tactical weapon systems. Due to the significant cost advantage of single mode (SM) fibers, depolarized IFOGs have great potential in meeting low cost goals. A Phase I objective is a thorough investigation of stress induced birefringence in SM micro sensor coils. The second objective is an innovative crossover-free winding approach will be developed followed by a preliminary design of an automated winder for the crossover-free micro sensor coil. Micro sensor coils can be used in IFOGs and other fiber sensors applications. A wide variety of military and commercial applications exist. Military applications include guidance and control of missiles, aircraft, unmanned vehicles/aircraft, submariness, ships, satellites, and spacecraft. Commercial applications include guidance and control of passenger and cargo aircraft/cruise ships/cargo ships, automotive navigation, robotics, and platform stabilization applications. |
| CFD RESEARCH CORP.
215 Wynn Dr., 5th Floor Huntsville, AL 35805 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(256) 726-4800
Dr. Vladimir Kolobov DARPA 03-003 Awarded: 10JUN03 |
| Title: | Accelerated Monte Carlo Methods for Rarefied Gas Dynamics |
| Abstract: | Monte Carlo simulations of rarefied gas dynamics are important for many applications. This project aims to substantially accelerate Monte Carlo (MC) algorithms and develop a rigorous and efficient computer code applicable for a wide range of Knudsen number from rarefied to continuum flow regimes. This will be achieved by using implicit treatment of the collision processes, majorant frequency schemes based on master kinetic equation (MKE), and hybrid approaches combining continuum and kinetic descriptions of the flow. New MC schemes will provide accurate solutions with time steps much larger than required by standard DSMC, and ensure that for small Knudsen number the MC solution relaxes to local Maxwellian with conservation of mass, momentum and energy. Hybrid MC schemes and kinetic schemes of gas dynamics will be used to facilitate the automatic domain decomposition and coupling of the MC solution and continuum equations. The ultimate goal of the project is to develop a unified computer code that will automatically switch between kinetic and continuum models to maximize computational efficiency and ensure numerical stability. The advantages of new methodologies will be demonstrated by comparison against traditional methods. The computational tool that results from this work would be a significant advancement in reliable and efficient modeling of physical phenomena in upper atmospheric flight. It could be used by both government and industry researchers to help design and analyze trans-atmospheric vehicles, new micro-propulsion systems, plumes, etc. Besides aerospace applications, the software will find numerous applications for several "on Earth" industries including material processing, semiconductor manufacturing, microelectronics, microsystems, MEMS, etc. |
| INFORMATION SYSTEMS LABORATORIES, INC.
8130 Boone Blvd., Suite 500 Vienna, VA 22182 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 448-1116
Dr. Christopher Teixeira DARPA 03-003 Awarded: 17JUN03 |
| Title: | Accelerated Lattice Boltzmann-Monte Carlo Method for Simulation of Rarefied Material Dynamics |
| Abstract: | The feasibility of a new approach that will accelerate the modeling of problems involving rarefied gas dynamics is established. The proposed hybrid approach solves the Boltzmann equation directly using a carefully designed discrete-velocity model and a discrete Monte Carlo collision process with several extensions that accelerates its computational capability in comparison with direct simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC). Moreover, in the low Knudsen number limit, the new method seamlessly becomes an efficient simulator of continuum flows called the Lattice Boltzmann method (LBM). The end product will be a new simulation tool with significantly improved computational efficiency for combination continuum/rarefied flow applications. The developed technology will enable significantly higher fidelity and more accurate simulation of rarefied gas dynamics, a critical element in the design of components in numerous defense and civilian applications. Potential applications include improved adaptive flow control in microfluidic structures, improved material fabrication techniques, and improved modeling of physical phenomena entailed in upper atmospheric flight. |
| LEVEL SET SYSTEMS
1058 Embury Street Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 573-9339
Dr. Susan Chen DARPA 03-003 Awarded: 17JUN03 |
| Title: | A Uniform Hybrid Monte Carlo Method for Simulation of Rarefied Material Dynamics |
| Abstract: | The proposed innovation consists of a new analytic and computational method for rarefied gas dynamics (RGD). The prevalent computational method for RGD is the Direct Simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) method. DSMC becomes computationally intractable in the near-continuum regime, which is a significant limitation on its capability for materials processing applications. The new method is an interpolated fluid/Monte Carlo (IFMC) method that will accelerate DSMC in the near-continuum regime, removing this limitation. The IFMC method is an improvement over existing acceleration methods for RGD in that it is a single uniform method, valid for the full range of Knudsen numbers, with the correct asymptotic behavior in the continuum and near-continuum regimes. This innovation will provide a greatly accelerated and more robust computational tool for simulation of materials processing and micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS), and will be of significant commercial value for the electronics and aerospace industries. |
| CDM OPTICS, INC.
4001 Discovery Drive, Suite 2110 Boulder, CO 80303 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 449-5593
Dr. W. Thomas Cathey DARPA 03-004 Awarded: 29MAY03 |
| Title: | Use of Wavefront Coding in the Design of Sub-Wavelength Lithographic Imaging Systems |
| Abstract: | Off-axis illumination, optical proximity correction, phase shift masks, interferometric techniques, and pupil plane phase masks have been used to increase lithographic resolution. Further progress requires new techniques and methodologies. The optimal combination of aspheric optics and signal processing which we term Wavefront Coding has been effective in dramatically increasing the imaging performance of other high quality imaging systems such as microscopes and endoscopes. Similar techniques can be used in lithography. Wavefront Coding can be used to increase the resolution and the robustness of the lithographic system. Examples include increased aberration tolerance to increase system z-alignment tolerance (depth of focus); increased instantaneous field of view in proportion to the increase in the depth of focus; increased numerical aperture by 20% to 30%; and the design of better object amplitude and phase masks to reduce the adverse effects of diffraction. Phase masks that are designed especially for lithography would require no signal processing, but the exposure level would be adjusted appropriately. The illumination, object mask and pupil mask could be jointly optimized, for a class of object masks. A successful project will demonstrate the usefulness of Wavefront Coding in increasing the resolution and throughput of lithographic systems. We anticipate a 20% increase in numerical aperture, an increase in the field that is proportional to the increase in the depth of focus (An increase in depth of field of more than 15 was obtained in microscopy), and a systematic methodology to jointly design the illumination and pupil function of lithographic systems optimized for a class of object masks. More effective object masks to reduce the adverse effects of diffraction should be possible with systems designs where all of the components are jointly optimized. As a result of the new methodology, lithographic lens manufacturers and mask makers will be able to produce products that give much smaller features with a higher throughput rate and an improved tolerance to system errors. |
| LUMINESCENT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
500 Emerson Street Palo Alto, CA 94301 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 587-3213
Dr. Daniel Abrams DARPA 03-004 Awarded: 09JUN03 |
| Title: | Sub-Wavelength Lithography Employing Phase Masks |
| Abstract: | Luminescent Technologies is developing a disruptive innovation to improve sub-wavelength lithography for semiconductor manufacturing. The company has developed a new approach for optimizing photomasks as an inverse problem. It is a radical departure from existing resolution enhancement technologies that merely perturb the original design. Unlike existing techniques, this technology will consider the full realm of possible mask patterns which can diffract light in such a way as to print the desired circuit. In general, the optimal mask pattern will not resemble the original design; to the eye, it will appear more like a hologram. By using an inverse problem methodology to find the optimal mask, we can create masks which provide far better resolution and higher yields than any other competing technology. For phase I, we intend to use our approach to develop software algorithms for the design of phase masks (that is, photomasks that use phase shifting regions to enhance resolution). We intend to demonstrate a proof-of-principle simulation confirming that we are able to use our inverse algorithm to design phase masks. The commercialization of optimized photomasks would have dramatic positive effects upon the Department of Defense, the semiconductor industry and consumers in the United States. Semiconductors are ubiquitous devices that are the heart and brains of all electronics and computers and are the cornerstone of the United States technology industry. If the sub-wavelength gap prevents the continued advance of Moore's law, the power of semiconductors will not continue advancing at their historic rate, threatening the technological supremacy of the United States and the US Armed Forces. Similarly, if the sub-wavelength gap prevents semiconductor prices from continuing their historic decline, the productivity gains in the US economy associated with technology will also be threatened. On the other hand, the successful commercialization of optimized photomasks by Luminescent Technologies will enable the DoD to obtain faster, more efficient, and cheaper semiconductors. In addition the technology will create billions of dollars in value for the US technology industry, while literally saving American consumers billions of dollars. |
| CERONE, INC.
8100 Bainbrook Drive Chagrin Falls, OH 44023 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(216) 533-1176
Dr. Hisao Yamada DARPA 03-005 Awarded: 27MAY03 |
| Title: | Cost-Effective Production of Piezoelectric Single Crystals |
| Abstract: | An experimental program has been proposed to economically fabricate PMN-PT single crysal discs, 25mm in diameter and 10 mm in thickness, via the solid-state conversion method. Cerone has demonstrated the fabrication of PMN-PT single crystals as large as 5 mm x 5 mm x 2.5 mm and proposes to further optimize its proprietary solid-state conversin method in the proposed Phase I prgram. The proposed processes are described briefly as follows. First, fully dense ceramic dscs made of high purity PMN-PT powder are produced by a combination of pressureless sintering and hot-isostatic pressing. Second, the ceramic discs are ground to a uniform thickness and one of their surfaces is polished to a 1/4 micron diamond finish. PMN-PT single crystal seeds are prepared likewise. Third, the polished surfaces of the ceramic disc and seed are paired and heated at an elevated temperature to fuse them together. Finaly the pairs are heated at an elevated temperature under a gaseous pressure to completely convert the ceramic discs into single crystals. The latest cost analysis indicates that the solid-state conversion method is a cost-effective way to produce PMN-PT single crystal discs at a price competitive to that of high-quality ceramics. The proposed program will demonstrate a cost-effective way to fabricate PMN-PT single crystal discs. Because of excellent uniformity of their chemical compositions and thus, their very uniform electromechanical and dielectric properties, various electromechanical components for sensors and actuators can be mass-produced economically using readily available semiconductor processing equipment. |
| H. C. MATERIALS CORP.
2004 South Wright Street Urbana, IL 61802 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(217) 244-8369
Dr. Pengdi Han DARPA 03-005 Awarded: 02JUN03 |
| Title: | Cost-Effective Production of Piezoelectric Single Crystals |
| Abstract: | The objective of this proposal is to demonstrate the feasibility of reducing the manufacturing costs for large-sized PMN-PT single crystals grown by a novel multi-crucible Bridgman method with a specially designed zone-leveling capability. This hybrid method promises a cost-effective approach for the production of large-sized PMN-PT single crystals with improved compositional uniformity and quality control. The traditional Bridgman method is one of the simplest and most economic techniques for the growth of single crystals, but compositional variations in such multi-component PMN-PT systems leads to obvious property changes. Control of compositional homogeneity during the growth of PMN-PT crystals is a limiting factor for the successful commercialization of the next generation of PiezoCrystals and devices. Improvements in homogeneity and properties will lead to increased yields and reduced costs. The merit of the proposed technique is that: (a) multi-crucible configurations significantly increase the useful crystal yield/per run, (b) implementation of zone-leveling (with a large ratio of growth length (L) / molten-zone length (Z)) gives better control of compositional uniformity, and (c) self-refurbishment of platinum crucibles further reduces the costs of manufacture. The proposed work is directed at evaluating PMN-PT crystal quality by relating piezoelectric properties with compositional analysis of the boules. Audit of the manufacturing costs for PMN-PT single crystals grown by this new method will be made by a detailed consideration of the costs for platinum, materials, man power, environmental control, equipment depreciation and capitalization. The proposed crystal growth method will be of immediate applicability to the fabrication of inch-sized devices with uniform piezoelectric properties. Anticipated work in Phase II would be extended to larger sizes. The PMN-PT single crystal products, such as, poled or un-poled plates, disks, rings, cylinders and wedges, will be supplied to clients for the production of PiezoCrystal transduction devices for defense and civilian applications. The work will improve the properties of the next generation of piezoelectric crystals and reduce their manufacturing costs. The improved electromechanical materials will enable better commercial applications, including, transducers, sensors, actuators, and micro positioners, where higher signal-to-noise ratios and efficient energy conversion are required, e. g., acoustic imaging, accelerometers, hydrophones, and adaptive optics. |
| MATERIALS SYSTEMS, INC.
543 Great Road Littleton, MA 01460 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(978) 486-0404
Kelly McNeal DARPA 03-005 Awarded: 28MAY03 |
| Title: | Cost-Effective Acicular Seed Production for SSC Piezoelectric Single Crystal Materials |
| Abstract: | Solid state converted (SSC) piezoelectric single crystal materials have been demonstrated to offer 80 percent of the electromechanical performance of melt-grown single crystals - at only a small fraction of the cost. Cost-effective acicular seed production methods are needed in order to scale up the SSC process and make it available for numerous defense and commercial applications. This program will investigate new processes for fabricating acicular seed crystals that are compatible with the PMN-PT ceramic matrix and effectively initiate solid state conversion. The seeds will then be incorporated into the PMN-PT ceramic injection molding process to form rods, which will be sintered using established methods. The electromechanical properties of the resulting SSC material will be characterized. This program will provide low cost SSC piezoelectric materials with substantially higher displacement and bandwidth than conventional piezoceramics. These materials will enable radically enhanced performance in variety of Navy sonar systems as well as in other military, aerospace, and commercial transducers, actuators, and sensors. SSC materials also facilitate size and weight reductions in a number of existing applications. |
| NEXTECH MATERIALS, LTD.
720-I Lakeview Plaza Blvd. Worthington, OH 43085 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(614) 842-6606
Dr. Edward M. Sabolsky DARPA 03-005 Awarded: 29MAY03 |
| Title: | Cost-Effective Production of Piezoelectric Single Crystals |
| Abstract: | This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project (DARPA SBIR- Topic SB031-005) will focus on the formation of <001> grain-oriented (textured) 0.675Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-.0.325PbTiO3 (PMN-32.5PT) ceramics for various high performance sensor and transducer applications. NexTech proposes to grain-orient (texture) PMN-32.5PT ceramics in the <001> in order to access a high fraction of the properties identified for rhombohedral PMN-32.5PT single crystals. Fiber texturing (1-D oriented texture) will be achieved in PMN-32.5PT planar (wafer geometry) ceramics in the <001> by utilizing the Templated Grain Growth (TGG) process. The TGG process consists of the initial alignment of a low fraction of anisometric seed particles (templates) in the matrix during consolidation. The aligned templates then grow in the matrix during thermal processing, resulting in a textured ceramic. The <001>-textured PMN-32.5PT ceramics formed in this Phase I will potentially show d33-coefficients >1200 pC/N and k33-coefficients >0.85. The texture PMN-PT ceramics could potentially replace the use of single crystals in a multitude of applications, due to the versatility of the size and shape of the textured ceramics and their much lower cost. This Phase I will provide a basis for the formation and manufacturing of textured PMN-PT monolithic and multi-layer actuators in Phase II. Textured PMN-PT ceramics can be used for various military and commercial electromechanical transducer and sensor applications, which include aerospace, marine, biomedical, and ultrasonic industries. The <001>-textured PMN-PT ceramics have the potential of replacing all applications currently using lead zirconate titanate (PZT) ceramics due the enhanced piezoelectric response of the textured ceramics. The textured PMN-PT ceramics may also substitute for many potential applications of oriented PMN-PT single crystals due to the low production cost and geometrical versatility of the TGG technique. |
| TRS CERAMICS, INC.
2820 East College Avenue State College, PA 16801 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(814) 238-7485
Dr. Paul W. Rehrig DARPA 03-005 Awarded: 28MAY03 |
| Title: | Innovative Production of PYbN-PT Piezoelectric Single Crystals |
| Abstract: | The objective of the proposed Phase I SBIR program is to greatly improve the performance of piezoelectric ceramics by combining recent new material discoveries with intelligent processing. Specifically high Curie temperature (Tc) Pb(Yb1/2Nb1/2)O3-PbTiO3 (PYbN-PT) ferroelectrics will be fabricated into textured ceramics and bulk single crystals using templated grain growth (TGG) and templated crystal growth (TCG), respectively. This will yield piezoelectrics with extremely broad operating temperatures ranges and properties comparable to conventionally grown lower Tc single crystal materials. This will be a revolutionary advance in piezoelectric materials manufacturing, and would be an enabling material for a broad range of applications including highly sensitive vibration sensors, 2-dimensional medical ultrasound phased arrays, and high performance actuators for smart structures applications. At the conclusion of the Phase I SBIR program we expect to have produced either single crystals or textured ceramics of piezoelectric Pb(Yb1/2Nb1/2)O3-PbTiO3 by combining recent new material discoveries with intelligent processing. These materials will exhibit broad operating temperatures ranges and properties comparable to conventionally grown lower Tc single crystal materials. This will help advance piezoelectric materials manufacturing technology and to enable the fabrication of material for a broad range of applications including highly sensitive vibration sensors, 2-dimensional medical ultrasound phased arrays, and high performance actuators for smart structures applications. The resulting PYbN-PT textured and converted ceramics will exhibit piezoelectric performance surpassing that of existing materials. |
| TRS CERAMICS, INC.
2820 East College Avenue State College, PA 16801 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(814) 238-7485
Dr. Paul W. Rehrig DARPA 03-005 Awarded: 28MAY03 |
| Title: | Flux-Bridgman Growth of Large PZN-PT Piezoelectric Single Crystals |
| Abstract: | TRS Technologies, Inc. is pleased to respond to DARPA's request for cost effective manufacturing of high performance piezoelectric single crystals. The objective of the Phase I program is to develop a cost-effective fabrication process for manufacturing large relaxor piezoelectric PZN-PT crystals by the Bridgman method. Currently, PZN-PT is grown by the flux technique; which results in relatively small crystals (<30mm in diameter). PZN-PT can not be grown by the conventional Bridgman method (directly from its melt), because perovskite PZN-PT is not stable at its melt temperature. However, by using a flux to stabilize the perovskite phase in a Bridgman furnace that allows the use of a seed crystal to control nucleation, we will be able to produce much larger and therefore less expensive PZN-PT than is currently possible. For this program TRS will develop a solution or flux-Bridgman process with nucleation controlled by PMN-PT seed crystals for the production of PZN-PT crystals greater than 1" in diameter. The materials technology developed will add an additional crystal supply stream to increase availability for development efforts that are dramatically advancing the performance of acoustic transducers and actuators in the form of increased sensitivity, broader bandwidth, higher strains, and higher acoustic power. At the conclusion of Phase I, we expect to have established the feasibility of the Bridgman growth technique for the fabrication of large PZN-4.5PT cylindrical crystals for high performance acoustic transducer and electromechanical actuator applications. Our efforts on the Phase II program will be to further scale up both diameter and total volume of grown crystal by investigating ways to efficiently charge the crucible with precursors materials (e.g. by low temperature pre-melting of the precursor powders). The cylindrical shape of PZN-PT crystals grown by the Bridgman method will make it possible to exploit wafer technology currently used in the semiconductor industry for mass production and cost reduction. Emphasis will be placed on ensuring high quality crystals by optimizing the growth conditions in parallel with scale-up efforts to minimize inclusions and other crystal defects. Large, low cost PZN-PT piezoelectric single crystals will compete with PMN-PT in a number of applications including medical ultrasound and vibration sensors. If Phase II is successful, future work will focus on further scale-up of crystal growth to mass production quantities on a similar commercialization path as Bridgman-grown PMN-PT. |
| ADHERENT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
9621 Camino del Sol NE Albuquerque, NM 87111 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(505) 346-1685
Dr. Garth W. Gobeli DARPA 03-007 Awarded: 28MAY03 |
| Title: | Miniature Directional Microphone for Handheld Automatic Speech Recognition in Military Environments |
| Abstract: | The Phraselator, a handheld automatic translation device, currently uses a cardioic microphone as an input for automatic speech recognition (ASR). This microphone is highly vulnerable to performance degradation in typical noisy military environments and, thus, there is a need for an improved transducer for this application. We propose to develop a new directional microphone that is immune to extraneous sound inputs that are outside the microphone's forward detection lobe, i.e., there is a zero backside response. The microphone is comprised of a small parabolic reflector (20-40 mm diameter) that focuses the incoming sound onto a small (1-3 mm diameter) spherical receiver. Preliminary calculations indicate that such a parabolic reflector-based directional microphone will have an excellent directional response characteristic (forward detection response of 21 degrees FWHM) and will have an estimated sensitivity of about 2 x 10-3 Pa (20 db on the acoustic scale). Experimental measurements will be made to verify these calculations and various designs will be evaluated in order to realize optimum performance of the new miniaturized directional microphone. Various methods of encapsulation for ruggedizing the device for military applications will be studied. The miniature directional acoustic sensor has numerous military and industrial applications. Military uses include surveillance, location of vehicles, water craft, or sniper fire, command and control, and nondestructive evaluation. Commercial applications include sensitive hearing aids and inspection of processing equipment and machinery. The extreme sensitivity and directionality of the new microphone brings great benefits to each of these applications. |
| FULCRUM CORP.
9990 Lee Highway,, Suite 300 Fairfax, VA 22030 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 385-5145
Dr. David Lewis DARPA 03-007 Awarded: 28MAY03 |
| Title: | Alternative Transducers for Handheld Automatic Speech Recognition in Military Environments |
| Abstract: | The DARPA Phraselator is a hand-held, voice actuated phrase "book". The Phraselator (see Figure 1) is a handheld, wireless computer used to translate more than 1,000 spoken English phrases into languages such as Arabic and Pashto. Five hundred units were delivered to Peacekeeping troops recently in Afghanistan. The Phraselator, built by Applied Data Systems, incorporates SRI's DynaspeakTM speech recognition software. Phrases are translated in advance by a translator, recorded and saved in a phrase database. When an English phrase is spoken into the system, the translation is played back. The system is not a two-way translator. Input phrase is matched with prerecorded translation and played back through a built in speaker. A Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) Phraselator could be used by the civilans for translations such as doctors; firemen and policemen interact with people who speak foreign languages. It can provided to foreign movie goers, at the museaums, at entertainment activities. Travelers can use the Phraselator while visitingforeign countries. A Phraselator would also enable teachers to interact with foreign students. |
| LI CREATIVE TECHNOLOGIES
225 Runnymede Parkway New Providence, NJ 07974 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(908) 508-0239
Dr. Qi (Peter) Li DARPA 03-007 Awarded: 27MAY03 |
| Title: | Alternative Transducers for Handheld Automatic Speech Recognition in Military Environments |
| Abstract: | The proposal describes unique and promising solutions for robust speech recognition in handheld devices, particularly for the DARPA Phraselator, which was developed under a previous SBIR and a rapid development program. The proposed solutions are: (1) a new special designed microphone array with directional microphones and corresponding algorithms, such as beam forming, adaptive noise cancellation, and passive source localization to improve the quality of input voice signals; and (2) a new auditory-based feature extraction algorithm to improve speech recognition in noisy environments. These two solutions can be applied separately or together to construct an alternative transducer/new front-end, to replace the traditional transducer system. The goal of this project is to apply the results of our speech recognition technology to develop more efficient and effective transducers/front end to enhance multilingual automatic speech recognition and translation in the Phraselator and other handheld devices. As handheld devices and wireless communications gain more acceptance and wide usage, there will be a significant and sizeable market for the technology developed in this project. First, almost all the PDA's on the market today have a voice recording function. In noisy environment, users have to put the PDA's very closely to their mouth to get acceptable recoding quality. Using the microphone array and the new algorithms developed in this project, the quality of the recorded voice will be improved significantly under the same recording condition; Second, the same technology can be applied to wireless handset; therefore, the quality of the voice will be improved while the users are talking in a moving car or on streets with background noise; and Last, there are several companies which have already implemented automatic speech recognition and translation technology in PDA's and wireless handsets, and they provide market for the improved solutions developed under this SBIR project. The technology developed in this project can be used directly to improve the performances of speech recognition and translation in the handheld devices. Furthermore, we expect the solutions to be available in a very rapid development cycle and thus support pressing DoD needs. Also, we anticipate the proposed solutions will provide significant improvement with minimum added cost penalty. Upon the above analysis, Li Creative Technologies will be benefited significantly from licensing the new technologies developed from this project to the wireless and PDA industries and providing supports and further improvements continuously. |
| MAYUR TECHNOLOGIES
238 Amberleigh Drive Silver Spring, MD 20905 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 464-2542
Ms. Xia Chen DARPA 03-007 Awarded: 03JUN03 |
| Title: | Alternative Transducers for Handheld Automatic Speech Recognition in Military Environments |
| Abstract: | The DARPA Phraselator currently in use is capable of translating spoken English language phrases into audible Pashto, Urdu, Dari, and Arabic language phrases. Although usable, the Phraselator is highly vulnerable to typical military noise resulting in degradation of its performance, primarily due to the limitations of the microphone. Therefore it is proposed to develop an innovative "magnetostrictive microphone" that uses the bone conduction vibration, setup due to the action of speaking, as the source of sound. Using magnetostrictive material coupled to the teeth/bone it is possible to convert the bone vibration into a proportional electrical signal that can be directly fed to the voice recognition module of the Phraselator. Since the environment sound does not have a direct path to the human bone, due to the attenuation effect of skin/muscle, they are automatically filtered out from the magnetostrictive microphone. In Phase 1, it is proposed to conduct a feasibility study to evaluate two alternative microphone technologies, viz., magnetostrictive rod-based transducer and magnetostrictive composite-based transducer, with specific objective of improving performance of the Phraselator in noisy military environment. The proposed magnetostrictive microphone has several potential commercial applications. They include communications on the tarmac of airports, helicopters, and Navy Carriers. The US military will be benefited by this new technology improve communication in the battle field environment. Other US federal agencies such as FAA and NASA are also beneficiaries of this technology development. The proposed magnetostrictive microphone has several potential commercial applications. They include communications on the tarmac of airports, helicopters, and Navy Carriers. |
| MAYA DESIGN
2100 Wharton Street, Suite 702 Pittsburgh, PA 15203 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(412) 488-2900
Dr. Peter Lucas DARPA 03-008 Awarded: 12JUN03 |
| Title: | Cluster-Based Repositories and Analysis |
| Abstract: | We propose to build an Open Analytical Framework to support collaborative, distributed data collection and analysis.The Open Analytical Framework will be an inexpensive, distributed data mining and analysis platform. It emphasizes collaboration through information liquidity and performance through massive scale and parallelization. It is composed of a large distributed ensemble of cooperating data storage nodes (repositories) and applications layered on the resulting uniform data space.We will address the problems of information object identity, schema definition, distributed indexing and query, caching and consistency, change notification, and intermittently connected (e.g., mobile) applications. Our proposed solutions revolve around the use of simple layered data representations (u-forms) and agents to manage the data (shepherds). Our goal is to facilitate the routine sharing of information and analytical insight across cooperating (but independent) organizations to support, for instance, law enforcement operations. We expect the resulting technology to have numerous government and commercial applications. |
| NIMKATHANA CORP.
1807 W WINNEMAC AVE UNIT A Chicago, IL 60640 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(847) 943-1834
Dr. Alok N. Choudhary DARPA 03-008 Awarded: 27MAY03 |
| Title: | Cluster-Based Repositories and Analysis |
| Abstract: | We propose a feasibility study to develop and inexpensive and scalable cluster and software architecture (comprising commodity components) to support data warehousing and mining applications. This study will include design, prototyping, and evaluation components with the overall goal of being commodity-driven (and henceforth cost effective) and emphasize ease-of-use and deployment to support DoD and advanced commerical applications. The technical features of the cluster will include scalability of both processing and I/O performance to enable large-scale data warehousing and mining software infrastructure, which is required for doing data analysis in terrorism-related applications. We provide details in the Commercialization Strategy of the narrative. Here is a summary: 1. High integration potential with existing products (e.g. SAS, SPSS, etc.) where there is a clear need for a "backend" cluster computing component. 2. Direct marketing and integration via system integrators such as Accenture. Many customers are asking for high-end, turn key solutions for large-scale data warehousing and mining (analysis) based on commodity clustering technology. 3. Availability as a paid service in the emergent world of network services, which is likely to require high-end clustering in order to scale well. This will also allow economies of scale to be leveraged, since many customers will not want to acquire and maintain their own clusters of servers. 4. Ability for corporations to support real-time analysis applications such as cyberterrorism, wherein there needs to be continuous analysis and refinement to support such applications as network intrusion detection, etc. |
| QUIMBA SOFTWARE, INC.
2672 Bayshore Parkway, Suite 618 Mountain View, CA 94043 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(650) 625-1950
Mr. Robert Dourandish DARPA 03-008 Awarded: 21MAY03 |
| Title: | Cluster-Based Repositories and Analysis |
| Abstract: | This effort focuses on building a distributed data warehouse infrastructure running on an inexpensive cluster of processors and free-to-use, open source software, using the following components: Linux (operating system), openMosix (Cluster Software), and mySQL (Database Management Software.) In order for the system to perform as a single cohesive unit, a number of custom components will also have to be developed. Many organizations collect vast amounts of data for a variety of purposes, including resource exploration, market forecasting, intelligence analysis, or process management. In a number of industries, such as Pharmaceuticals, or disciplines such as Cancer or AIDS Research, BioInformatics, or Seismology, relatively massive primary data is routines collected from actual events - such as patient response to drug cocktails, results of research experiments, or earthquakes. This effort creates a viable option for the analysts and researchers in government, academia, or industry to bring down the cost of implementing multi-terabyte repositories to a reasonable amount. |
| APTIMA, INC.
12 Gill Street, Suite 1400 Woburn, MA 01801 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 496-2411
Mr. Daniel Serfaty DARPA 03-009 Awarded: 22MAY03 |
| Title: | Modeling Asymmetric Threats to Critical Infrastructure |
| Abstract: | To predict likely terrorist actions and terrorist targets in the U.S. we need (1) models of how terrorist organizations evolve and learn (2) identification of cultural variables likely to shape the evolution of terrorist organizations within the U.S. and (3) methods for including these cultural context variables in organizational learning models. Our team includes three essential types of expertise: (1) historical knowledge of terrorist organizations and activities and how they have evolved over time; (2) theoretical predictions from cultural anthropology on how cultural context affects organizational evolution; and (3) knowledge of available computational organizational modeling techniques and what they can accomplish. We plan to bring world experts from each of these three areas together onto one team, and conduct a Symposium in Washington, D.C. to assess what should be modeled, and what can be modeled. In Phase I we will assess what is needed to develop a model that predicts the evolution of terrorist groups in the U.S., evaluate current modeling organizational techniques against these requirements, identify areas where new modeling techniques will be needed, develop possible approaches, and prepare a plan for Phase II model development. The primary use of the model will be in predicting terrorist activities in order to protect U.S. infrastructure and develop courses of action for counter terrorism. Law enforcement agencies could adapt the model to assist in the management of riots and incidents of terrorism. Public and private agencies can use the model to help plan disaster relief operations, which typically involve many different types of organizations. Industry can use the model to help manage multinational responses to large-scale industrial accidents such as the Exxon Valdez oil spill. |
| PSYNAPSE TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
1000 Thomas Jefferson St. N.W., Suite 400 Washington, DC 20007 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(202) 298-2660
Dr. Gary M. Jackson DARPA 03-009 Awarded: 03JUN03 |
| Title: | Modeling Asymmetric Threats to Critical Infrastructure |
| Abstract: | The proposed project will provide the detail necessary for all steps of a functional prototype of an assessment instrument to determine terrorist threat and likelihood of an organization being targeted for attack. The purpose of the Phase I proposal is to present a final design of such a system with tested and demonstrated functional components. Based on a reliable and validated behavioral model, the application proposed will focus on the identification and use of neural network based predictive patterns combined with an expert, rule-base component that augments historical information with targeting expertise of terrorism subject matter experts. A reporting mechanism whereby results would be embedded within interpretive text will be presented as part of the instrument design. Currently, no scientifically reliable and validated commercial application exists that is capable of accurately anticipating terrorist targeting. Given that the application designed is constructed and validated, it will be possible to provide organizations with a proactive capability that indicates weaknesses in security based on assessed targeting and associated vulnerabilties. Such an assessment, based on the organization's characteristics and current world events, will allow the organization to enhance security in a resouceful and efficient manner. |
| ELECTRICAL GEODESICS, INC.
1600 Millrace Drive, Suite 307 Eugene, OR 97403 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(541) 687-7962
Dr. Don M. Tucker DARPA 03-010 Awarded: 19JUN03 |
| Title: | Head Access Laminar Optoelectric Neuroimaging System |
| Abstract: | This project develops a dense array fNIR/EEG neuroimaging system for use in operational environments. Miniature NIR-enhanced optical emitters and detectors are combined with EEG and EIT (Electrical Impedance Tomography) electrodes embedded in a novel, flexible and wireless, geodesic head web. This device integrates all interconnect for power and signal within the flexible geodesic tension structure, allowing comfortable and inobtrusive use while minimizing movement artifact. A novel phase change polymer technology is introduced that optimizes coupling of both electrical and optical signals with the skin and scalp. An advance in miniature electronics will allow all amplification and signal processing to be worn on the head or body, allowing high bandwidth telemetry of dense array data on brain activity to the Cognitive Workload Assessment workstation. The initial design allows topographic reconstruction of both the hemodynamic (NIRS) and fast optical (EROS) signals, and it anticipates new algorithms for tomographic reconstruction of brain activity throughout the head volume. This optoelectric neuroimaging system will allow comfortable acquisition of dense array data on brain activity from a gossamer, wireless web structure attached to the head. High bandwidth information on spatial and temporal components of human brain activity can then be gathered with minimal interference in the routine behavior of the workplace. The soft flexible design allows use under a helmet while maintaining impact protection, and the resistance to movement artifact allows routine use with both ambulatory and supine patients in the medical setting. |
| INNOVATIVE TECHNICAL SOLUTIONS, INC.
1100 Alakea Plaza, 23d Floor Honolulu, HI 96813 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(808) 441-3606
Dr. Hunter Downs DARPA 03-010 Awarded: 27MAY03 |
| Title: | Wireless Near-Infrared Devices for Neural Monitoring in Operational Environments |
| Abstract: | The rapid development of the telecommunications industry over the last decade has led to significant advances in several technologies. Two of these technologies, wireless networking chipsets and laser miniaturization, have made it possible to create a device for wirelessly monitoring neuronal activity. In this project, we propose to utilize these technologies to create a wireless whole brain functional brain imaging systems with applications in the cognitive neuroscience, brain-machine interface, and medical fields. The NOVASOL continuous wave system uses three near-infrared wavelengths to compute blood flow and blood oxygenation over targeted areas and is the fastest CW fNIR system available. It is easily extended to multiple areas, can image through hair, and is currently being integrated into a helmet for comfortable imaging setup. The proposed wireless design and development Wireless CW OTIS system will allow the entire electro-optical data acquisition system to be incorporated into a self contained helmet, transmitting the data using wireless networking protocols to a remote computer. Building upon its unique experience with fiber optic based fNIR systems, NovaSol is proposing to research, design, and implement a WiFi peer-to-peer fNIR brain imaging system by coupling COTS WiFi hardware with existing fNIR architecture already developed by NovaSol. The proposed imaging system will yield a prototype that will demonstrate a mobile, continuous, non-invasive brain imaging system with spatial resolution on the order of centimeters and a temporal resolution able to image both the brain's immediate neuronal as well as its delayed hemodynamic response. This combination of characteristics will make this prototype a state of the art imaging system with far reaching applications and markets extending to: ú Military ú Research laboratories currently involved in brain imaging, ú Laboratories that in the past could not afford the current state of the art brain imaging technology, and ú Hospital patient monitoring. NovaSol, as a company, is very interested in taking the prototype system and adapting it for use in these market areas. We expect that interest in the system, as a product, will be generated through scientific publication and informal demonstrations with military, research, and hospital personnel. We will regularly seek input from these groups during the prototype development, especially when tradeoff decisions must be made. Modifications / enhancements to meet the specific needs of these groups will also be elucidated and considered for inclusion in final products. To facilitate this transfer, the project will be developed in accordance with standards governing the use of medical devices, such as ISO 9000 and the FDA Medical Devices standard. We envision transitioning the prototype into several products. One of these will be directed towards continuous monitoring in restricted environments such as the cockpit of flight simulators. Another product will be catered to the general brain imaging research community where an emphasis will be placed on easy extensibility by the community so that the product can continue to mature through industry-academic collaboration. Still another area of interest for product development is in the use of such a system for monitoring of blood pooling wounds, particularly hematoma development but also, with some changes in geometry, in other injuries occurring throughout the body (such as internal bleeding). |
| TECHEN, INC.
115 Cedar Street Milford, MA 01757 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(508) 478-0042
Mr. William A. Johnson DARPA 03-010 Awarded: 29MAY03 |
| Title: | Wireless Near-Infrared Devices for Neural Monitoring in Operational Environments |
| Abstract: | Measuring functional activation of the human brain has been advancing rapidly through development of several non-invasive techniques. Near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and diffuse optical tomography (DOT) offer the possibility of measuring simultaneously and non-invasively neuronal and vascular signals in the brain cortex. Although optical measurement of hemodynamic signals is well established, optical measurement of neuronal activation (the Fast signal) is just emerging and requires further optimization. The main goals of this feasibility proposal are to advance neuronal monitoring and DOT methodology, by demonstrating a portable (helmet and backpack), Proof of Concept (POC) wireless NIRS device. By miniaturizing existing NIRS laser and detector modules, and integrating wireless link capability, we will build a portable, light weight, functional NIRS system. The wireless link will couple real-time NIRS data to a portable computer for display. Validation test will use an existing DOT instrument (hemodynamic signals) and an EEG system (Fast signals) to locate and digitize ideal human head sensor sites, and to acquire baseline data. POC system sensors will then be placed at the same head locations and acquired data verified against the reference data thereby establishing the feasibility of using the Proof of Concept system for portable neuronal monitoring. A wireless monitoring device that offers both neuronal and vascular signals has a huge commercial potential. The market for non-intrusive portable monitoring by means of non-invasive brain monitoring offers a most exciting and significant break-through, impacting many industries. Early adapters are expected from the military for training under stress; medical - head trauma evaluations; educational- diagnosis of learning disabilities; and law enforcement - for interrogation. Medical research will also benefit from this research and development effort, because many brain studies may be improved by portable monitoring of functional activities including stroke rehabilitation and epilepsy. Other research benefits are for the study of normal brain development in infants, the diagnosis and follow-up of cerebrovascular diseases, and psychiatric syndromes in adults and children. |
| ANTHROTRONIX, INC.
387 Technology Drive, Suite 1101 College Park, MD 20742 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 405-0156
Dr. Corinna Lathan DARPA 03-011 Awarded: 19MAY03 |
| Title: | Personnel Monitoring for Assessment and Management of Cognitive Workload |
| Abstract: | The objective of the proposed research is to use non-invasive physiological monitoring to aid in managing the workload of military personnel in a multi-task or high stress environment. Numerous physiological sensors are currently available for monitoring physiological parameters such as electrical activity in the brain, heart rate variability, respiratory rate, vascular blood volume, and skin conductance, all of which can be used to evaluate stress and cognitive workload. We propose to develop a conceptual architecture for a user centered physio-cognitive monitor, then determine the feasibility of a Physiological Assessment Monitor (PAM), which integrates a variety of non-invasive physiological and mechanical sensor systems. The PAM will be used to identify elevated stress levels and cognitive overload experienced during completion of various tasks. The PAM will be unobtrusive, so as not to interfere with task performance, and will be applicable in a variety of operational settings. A common task battery will be used to induce stress and workload elevation as physiological data is assessed. By identifying excessive stress and cognitive overload experienced during task performance, it becomes possible to predict, and therefore prevent, overloading of military personnel. In complex military and civilian environments where increased demand is placed on individuals and teams to achieve more, systems that can evaluate cognitive workload and stress levels could fill the need for an objective assessor of fitness for duty. Assessing the levels of stress and cognitive workload of numerous personnel allows for work to be delegated efficiently to those operators who are the most physically and mentally equipped to carry out a given mission or responsibility. Potential natural dual-use applications for a robust and reliable personnel assessment tool include use by commercial pilots/aviators, fire/rescue personnel, police, and others operating in high stress environments. Additional dual-use applications for this technology include use by pharmaceutical companies to assess the efficacy of stress related drugs, and use as an early detection platform for diseases such as Alzheimer's Disease and Parkinson's Disease. |
| ELECTRICAL GEODESICS, INC.
1600 Millrace Drive, Suite 307 Eugene, OR 97403 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(541) 687-7962
Dr. Phan Luu DARPA 03-011 Awarded: 19JUN03 |
| Title: | Integrative Platform for Cognative Workload Assessment |
| Abstract: | In modern military operating environments, military personnel are faced with the challenge of accomplishing more with less human resources. To meet this challenge, each personnel must be able to function optimally. In other words, each operator's cognitive resources must be maximized and delegation of tasks by supervisors to each operator must be based upon knowledge of the soldier's remaining cognitive capacities. Towards this end, the DoD wishes to develop an integrated workstation for the monitoring of the operator's cognitive state. In this application we propose to build a software platform that will provide the foundation for an integrated, user centered monitoring workstation. The software will provide the architecture for the integration of multiple, cognitive-load-sensitive, psychophysiological signals and real-time analysis engines for each of these signals. This architecture will support local as well as network access to the operator's cognitive state. We will also conduct functional studies in which an operator's EEG, electrocardiogram, electrodermal activity, and pupilometry signals will be analyzed to index the operator's cognitive workload. These studies will test the feasibility of building an integrated monitoring workstation of cognitive workload assessment. The anticipated benefits of developing such a platform are many. For the Augmented Cognition Project the resulting product will offer a platform for the integration of multiple psychophysiological signals. In addition it will provide a platform in which prototype analysis engines and cognitive load gauges can be rapidly developed. Outside of the Augmented Cognition Project this software platform will be relevant to medical applications. We are currently introducing our dense-array EEG system to the medical market. In the medical market, it is not uncommon for multiple neurophysiological signals to be monitored simultaneously, such in the emergency department or intensive care unit. Therefore, the software platform that will result from the completion of the proposal will also be very attractive selling points in the clinical market. |
| HUMAN BIONICS LLC
190 N. 21st Street, Suite 300 Purcellville, VA 20132 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(540) 338-0477
Mr. Donald DuRousseau DARPA 03-011 Awarded: 19JUN03 |
| Title: | Multimodal Cognitive Assessment System |
| Abstract: | We propose to investigate the design of a multimodal cognitive assessment system (MCAS)to seamlessly integrate recording and analysis technologies and enhance the arousal state and decision-making performance of the war fighter under stressful conditions. Our plan is to define a multimodal psychophysiological data collection and analysis system architecture for the development of future technologies capable of delivering cognitive status updates and augmenting the presentation of critical data to a time when the operator is aroused and attentive and best able to process and retain information. Our proposed technology would analyze brainwave patterns associated with higher order executive processing, as well as, eye and heart measures to intelligently identify variability in arousal, stress, and cognitive workload capacity and manage the interface of these data for fitness assessment and task assignment. Our innovative technology would provide behavioral and workload assessment researchers with new tools to investigate higher order cognitive and automomic mechanisms involved in operational decision-making under high stress conditions. Quantifying a war fighter's cognitive state under stressful conditions is a multifaceted problem that is unlikely to be solved by any single effort. What is required are tools that aid the creation of new experiments designed to study the stages of mental effort in actual operational situations from many different viewpoints and with multiple populations taking into account cognitive processing differences based on ability, age, sex, and stress from fatique, injury, or workload. With portable tools to acquire multimodal signals and measure task specific attentiveness and stress changes, workload researchers will be able to gather psychophysiological data in real-world settings and enhance the interoperability of computer-based war fighter systems. Therefore, we intend to develop an inexpensive and easy to use MCAS that includes tools for sensor integration, task design and analysis, and wireless transmission capabilities to take cognitive monitoring technologies out of the lab and into the field. |
| 21ST CENTURY SYSTEMS, INC.
12152 Windsor Hall Way Herndon, VA 20170 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(402) 212-7474
Mr. Jeffrey D. Hicks DARPA 03-012 Awarded: 02JUN03 |
| Title: | Next-Generation, Unifying Agent Architecture |
| Abstract: | Agents, Agent Architectures and Agent-based applications have become a phenomena in recent years with seemingly everyone jumping on the bandwagon. However, as with any truly revolutionary breakthrough technology, Agents have lacked standards and ruling bodies to govern the direction of the bandwagon in its infancy. While inside this wagon train apparent chaos ruled, but with that chaos came many unique and valuable discoveries and innovations. Now that Agent technologies have become more mature with complex and useful applications being fielded, there is a need for a standardized common infrastructure. This Next-Generation, Unifying Agent Architecture should encompass the best of breed capabilities and technologies of existing and in-development Agent Architectures, Commercial and Academic-based Agent Architectures, and Operational and Theoretical Agent Architectures. To fully realize the objectives for the Next-Generation, Unifying Agent Architecture an honest broker is needed. 21CSI is that honest broker. 21CSI will leverage our considerable experience in developing Agent Architectures and our extensive expertise in developing Agent-based Applications, gleaned from Decision Support Systems developed on behalf of other DoD customers. This new Agent Architecture will be developed from scratch using the latest best of breed techniques documented in an exhaustive investigation of both commercial and academic/research Agent Architectures. This particular topic is by its very definition not limited to DOD applications. The Next Generation Unifying Agent Architecture will apply to all and any agent applications, military or commercial. Agent applications are already present widely, mostly to search and monitor events. With the Next Generation architecture, it will become more efficient for the entire software agent community to develop considerably more sophisticated applications, to make them useful and present in ever more industries. |
| INTELLIGENT AUTOMATION, INC.
7519 Standish Place, Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20855 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 294-5248
Dr. Philip Geotz DARPA 03-012 Awarded: 17JUN03 |
| Title: | An Infrastructure for Cognitive Architectures |
| Abstract: | A cognitive agent is a software model of a human's perceptual processes, reasoning, and behavior. A general approach to building cognitive agents must address the problems of knowledge representation, planning and reasoning, sensory and motor modeling while satisfying constraints imposed by neural implementations and human cognition. Moreover, different users have varying requirements for their cognitive agents, ranging from modeling fine-grained response and action times to stimuli to modeling high level cognitive actions such as reasoning, planning and mission execution. We propose to create a new design and systems engineering methodology, architecture and infrastructure for cognitive agents that promotes reuse of design, behaviors, and code and supports the incorporation of flexible control strategies and human modeling parameters. It includes both a set of reusable design templates for agents as well as a set of cognitive modules that can be plugged together in different ways to construct different domain-driven cognitive agents. The architecture will be interoperable with existing cognitive approaches through translation and mediation modules as well as through pluggable control and mediation strategies. This cognitive infrastructure and methodology can be used in conjunction with our distributed software-agent infrastructure, CybeleT. A methodology and cognitive agent infrastructure will allow us to provide our clients with a complete solution to distributed multi-agent simulations. Commercial applications include intelligent agents in computer games and online virtual environments, simulation for measuring human performance operating devices, and modeling human behavior in transportation such modeling pilots and vehicle operators. |
| INTELLIGENT SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY, INC.
2800 28th Street, Suite 306 Santa Monica, CA 90405 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 581-5442
Dr. Azad M. Madni DARPA 03-012 Awarded: 30JUN03 |
| Title: | COGNITECTURET: Cognition-based, Integrative Architecture for Next Generation Intelligent Agents |
| Abstract: | Computational architectures for intelligent agents and human behavior models have advanced to the point where one can benefit from the other in creating more realistic Intelligent Synthetic Force behaviors. This Phase I effort is directed to analyzing the respective strengths and weaknesses of agent architectures and cognitive/human behavior models with a view to incorporating high payoff cognitive/behavioral constructs into agent architectures. To this end, a comparative framework will be constructed to explore the strengths and limitations of candidate agent architectures and human behavioral models with a view to identifying and exploiting common features, combining unique strengths, and circumventing the limitations of each within a next generation agent architecture. The resultant architecture will improve both the fidelity and validity of distributed training and wargaming simulations while facilitating the design, development, and deployment of agents. Psychologically-principled, socially-aware agent architectures will enable rapid development of increasingly usable systems in both the military and commercial sectors. In addition, distributed training, distributed mission rehearsal, wargaming, virtual reality systems development and constructive simulations, all stand to benefit from these next generation agent architectures. |
| TEXTWISE, LLC
401 South Salina Street, 5th Floor Syracuse, NY 13202 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(315) 426-9311
Dr. Edmund S. Yu DARPA 03-012 Awarded: 11JUN03 |
| Title: | UNIfying COllaborative, Reflective, Neurogenetic (UNICORN) Agent Framework |
| Abstract: | We propose to develop a new agent architecture based on a new agent framework, code-named the UNICORN (UNIfying COllaborative, Reflective, Neurogenetic) agent framework, which will combine the strengths of our own neurogenetic agent framework, enriched by the theory of Emergence (and the collaborative, self-organizing Swarms), with the strengths of other types of agent architectures, including the reflective processes. In Phase I, we will analyze strengths and weaknesses of current leading architectures for intelligent agents and human behavior models, 2) develop a comparative framework to identify common and unique strengths and weaknesses, and 3) use that framework to design a new architecture that shows significant improvements over existing architectures. We will attempt to develop a `neurogenetic' agent framework, as an integral part of the comparative framework, to model, simulate, evaluate and compare the leading architectures for intelligent agents. The `neural' part of the neurogenetic agent framework can be used to model various learning/reasoning capabilities, and perhaps even autonomy, while the `genetic' part can be used to model `interactions' among agents, the importance of which cannot be over-stressed. Furthermore, the `Swarm Intelligence' can be fully integrated into this framework, broadening the types of interactions what can be modeled and simulated, when empirically evaluating and comparing existing agent architectures. Our proposed UNICORN agent framework centers on the evolutionary, neurogenetic approach to creating and controlling intelligent agents, which has been concept-proved in two of our government funded projects, the NIMA (National Imagery and Mapping Agency) funded EVA project (EVolving Intelligent Text-based Agents) and the AFRL (Air Force Research Lab) funded EMMA project (Evolving and Messaging decision-Making |