DoD SBIR FY04.1 - SOLICITATION SELECTIONS w/ ABSTRACTS

DoD SBIR FY04.1 - SOLICITATION SELECTIONS w/ ABSTRACTS
Air Force - Navy - DARPA - MDA - DTRA - CBD - OSD - SOCOM - NGA

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470 Phase I Selections from the 04.1 Solicitation

(In Topic Number Order)

COHERENT TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 135 S. Taylor Avenue Louisville, CO 80027
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 604-2000 Dr. Mark Phillips AF 04-001 Awarded: 16APR04
Title:	Frequency-Agile Laser for Low Earth Orbit Satellite Velocity Compensation
Abstract:	Frequency-agile lasers with ultra-narrow linewidth are required for several coherent laser applications, including correction for Doppler frequency shifts between satellite platforms in low earth orbit. Coherent Technologies, Inc. proposes to develop a compact near-monolithic laser operating at 1.064 microns, tunable over its full range of 60GHz in 1ms. This tuning range allows correction for all possible relative velocities between platforms operating in low earth orbit. The tuning mechanism is a combination of electro-optic intracavity phase modulation and electro-optic tuning of a mode-selecting etalon, providing settling times that are commensurate with the 1ms tuning period. Power scaling from a previously demonstrated single frequency power value of 50mW to >100mW will be evaluated. The tunable laser developed on Phase II will be packaged in the form of CTI's standard METEORr product, with dimensions of approximately 3.5" long X 2.3" wide X 1.5" tall. This program leverages off CTI's previous work in frequency offset-locking of single frequency lasers for space-based platform compensation and laser frequency stabilization to ultra-stable reference cavities for long-range micro-Doppler measurements. The Phase I program will include a preliminary tuning demonstration of the frequency-agile laser and characterization of etalon requirements for power-scaling single frequency operation.

POLARONYX, INC. 562 Weddell Drive, Suite 8 Sunnyvale, CA 94089
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(408) 734-3048 Dr. Jian Liu AF 04-001 Awarded: 26APR04
Title:	Alignment-free fast frequency-addressable fiber laser for OPC laser tracking systems
Abstract:	Tunable single frequency high power lasers have been considered to be an enabling technology for Air Force's active laser tracking systems for space surveillance and control. PolarOnyx proposes, for the first time, an ultra fast electronically tuned high power (100 mW) single frequency (< 1 KHz) fiber laser source to meet with the requirement of active laser tracking systems for fast and accurate frequency tuning. It is a specialty fiber based ring cavity, while the fast and wide tuning is achieved by using an electro-optical tunable filter. The tuning frequency can be addressed accurately and repeatedly without any hysteresis associated. A tabletop experiment will be demonstrated in Phase I time frame to show tuning speed of nanosecond over 30 GHz range centered at 1.06 ŸYm. A compact prototype will be delivered in Phase II.

RAINBOW COMMUNICATIONS, INC. 2362 Qume Drive, Suite F San Jose, CA 95131
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(408) 577-0109 Dr. Sean Zhang AF 04-001 Awarded: 23APR04
Title:	Innovative Solid-State Seed Laser With Non-Moving Parts and Random Access of Wavelength
Abstract:	Rainbow Communications proposes to investigate an innovative solid-state seed laser without any moving parts and with random access of wavelength. The proposed seed laser will have the following unique features: (1) High output power (500 mW) with unique optic design and high quality lasing crystals; (2) Robust construction by using monolithic block resonator design without any moving parts; (3) Controllable frequency tunability over a range of 30 GHz by using electro-optic crystal LiNbO3 as both etalon and cavity-length adjustment component; (4) Precise frequency tuning (set-on accuracy of the output lasing frequency of less than 100 MHz); (5) Very fast lasing frequency tuning (switching) time of about 1 microsecond (ms); (6) High stability of frequency (better than 1 MHz/hr.) by using monolithic block resonator design, thermoelectric cooler (TEC) and electro-optic crystals LiNbO3 as cavity-length adjustment component; (7) Lightweight and compact by improving our commercial product with new optic and electronic design, miniature and high efficient optic and electronic components. Phase I will focus on the feasibility demonstration of the proposed solid state laser technology, and in Phase II a practical laser prototype with high power output will be developed to meet all Air Force seed laser application requirements.

METROLASER, INC. 2572 White Road Irvine, CA 92614
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(949) 553-0688 Dr. Anatoliy Khizhnyak AF 04-002 Awarded: 23APR04
Title:	Adaptive Laser System for Space Control and Protection
Abstract:	Space control missions require a high angular brightness and minimal jitter laser beam on the target. These characteristics are difficult to achieve on a real beam path through turbulent atmospheric conditions. MetroLaser's proposal outlines an innovative approach in designing a laser system based on a combination of linear and non-linear optical phase conjugation mirrors. This concept enables correction of the wavefront of a high-energy laser, resulting in a high Strehl ratio of the beam and significant increase of the energy density on the target. During Phase I, we will perform a systematic analysis of the phase-conjugate mirror based laser, and proof-of-concept experiments to characterize key system parameters. The operational limits and constraints imposed by spatial aberrations on the beam path and the delivered energy requirements will be identified and the projected performance envelope estimated. A design trade-off analysis of the prototype architecture will be conducted in order to provide the optimal concept appropriate to a more detailed design and experiment definition study. During Phase II, we will extend the performance capabilities of the proposed laser system, design and build a breadboard for verifying and optimizing the predicted system performance, demonstrate and refine laboratory operation, and estimate the working envelope.

PASSAT, INC. 720 N. Hammonds Ferry Road Linthicum, MD 21090
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(410) 609-2006 Dr. Guerman Pasmanik AF 04-002 Awarded: 21APR04
Title:	Laser System for Space Control and Protection
Abstract:	This topic addresses the development of a phase conjugating laser system that is capable of neutralizing a surveillance or optical communication target system in space, air, or on the ground. The target system can be jammed using multiple wavelengths in-band to the passive sensors of the ground system using a conjugating laser system to deny the ground system to passively track the space craft. The main aim of the project is to develop physical principles of jamming based on optical phase conjugation, to build and test experimentally key parts of a prototype system: an amplifier providing gain of 10^7, low-threshold phase conjugation mirror, transceivers for generation of different wavelengths with amplification of a fixed wavelength.

NP PHOTONICS, INC. UA Science and Tech Park, 9030 S Rita Rd Suite 120 Tucson, AZ 85747
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(520) 799-7438 Dr. Arturo Chavez-Pirson AF 04-003 Awarded: 30APR04
Title:	PANORAMIC OPTICAL POWER AMPLIFIER IN Yb-DOPED MULTI-CORE PHOSPHATE-BASED OPTICAL FIBER
Abstract:	This project focuses on the development of compact, high electrical plug-in efficiency, and high gain panoramic optical amplifiers suitable for image amplification. Laser tracking and pointing of remote targets for space/air surveillance and control applications require a suitable image amplifier covering a wide field of view to improve signal to noise in image detection, leading to longer target range capability and/or stronger immunity to atmospheric disturbance. Our approach centers on a new phosphate glass and fiber technology that enables much higher ytterbium doping than previously possible - resulting in high gain per unit length and short fiber lengths (~10 cm). NP Photonics pre-form and fiber drawing technology makes possible the fabrication of two-dimensional arrays of doped cores embedded in a pump cladding layer -where each core represents a pixel in the image amplifier. Our preliminary calculations with 9 to 19 active cores arranged in a two-dimensional pattern indicate that it is possible for each pixel to have high gain (>20 dB) and large acceptance angle (>10 degrees), and for the amplifier to have high electrical efficiency (>40%) when pumped with commercially available 975nm multimode diodes.

ASTRALUX, INC. 2500 Central Ave. Boulder, CO 80301
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 413-1440 Dr. Randolph E. Treece AF 04-004 Awarded: 26APR04
Title:	Portable E-beam Pumped UV/X-ray Bio-Decontamination System
Abstract:	The malicious distribution of Bacillus anthracis spores through the U.S. Postal Service in the fall of 2001 demonstrated the vulnerability of the United States to biological threats. These events showed the need for improved decontamination methods for buildings and assets exposed to various biological agents, because the current methods rely on the application of a chlorine- or formaldehyde-based liquid and are toxic, corrosive, and harmful to papers, books, and sensitive equipment such as landing gear, brake assemblies, and aircraft interiors. The combination of a high-intensity 250-280 nm ultraviolet (UV-C) emitter and an x-ray radiation source within a single package would offer a clean, non-toxic, and non-corrosive alternative for the surface and subsurface multi-BW agent decontamination of buildings and equipment. Electron-beam pumping provides an efficient method to drive both types of emission. Astralux, Inc. is developing an electron-beam pumped semiconductor UV source technology, which when combined with suitable metal structures, will result in a UV/X-ray bio-decontamination unit that does not suffer from the shortcomings mentioned above. This UV/X-ray bio-decontamination device should prove useful in a wide range of settings requiring disinfection. These applications include mail disinfection, air and water purification, and medical sterilization.

NANODYNAMICS, INC. 34 East 29th Street New York, NY 10016
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(212) 686-0759 Dr. Thomas Vullo AF 04-004 Awarded: 21APR04
Title:	UV/X-Ray Bio-Decontamination
Abstract:	The threat of biological warfare has mandated the need for decontamination methodologies for the military and civilian sectors. Use of chemical agents for decontamination is unfavorable due to their residual nature and potential toxicity to humans and the environment. Both ultraviolet (UV) and x-ray sources have been used individually for bio-decontamination. Currently, there is no combined UV / x-ray source available for use either for bio-decontamintion or any other application. Recent advances in nanoparticle technology have produced nanophosphors which produce, with electron beam excitation, bright emissions in the UV energy range. Likewise, a highly efficient, compact and unique x-ray source has been developed having a flux output two orders of magnitude greater than standard, off-the-shelf x-ray tubes. The goal here is to use this exceedingly bright x-ray source to excite the novel nanophosphors to produce UV emissions, simultaneously resulting in intense UV and x-ray energies. Such a combined and compact UV / x-ray source will be portable and have major advantages for biological decontamination for both military and civilian applications.

STELLAR MICRO DEVICES 2020 Centimeter Circle Austin, TX 78758
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(512) 997-7778 Dr. Leonid D. Karpov AF 04-004 Awarded: 29APR04
Title:	Flat Panel UV/X-Ray Bio-Decontamination System
Abstract:	A novel flat panel decontamination system (FPDS) which can emit simultaneously in both the ultraviolet-C (200 - 280 nm) and X-ray spectra will meet DoD bio-decontamination needs. This system builds on two recent innovations - UV-C nanophosphors developed at the University of Michigan and robust flat panel cold cathodes -- which make possible for the first time a compact, efficient single source for both these spectra.

INTELLIGENT OPTICAL SYSTEMS, INC. 2520 W. 237th Street Torrance, CA 90505
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 530-7130 Dr. Igor Ternovskiy AF 04-005 Awarded: 23APR04
Title:	Analytical Photometric Manifold Modeling
Abstract:	The Air Force is soliciting the development of innovative algorithms to produce 4D models of "uncooperative" objects in near real-time. This modeling would entail high-resolution 3D shape reconstruction and motion tracing of space objects from ground-based images. In response, Intelligent Optical Systems (IOS) proposes to develop a 4D reconstruction system based on an analytical photometric manifold modeling (APMM) algorithm. The proposed APMM technology will build on IOS's proprietary developments in the application of catastrophe theory to image modeling, and will utilize a Modeling Wave Set approach to implement rotationally invariant primitives as a building block for modeling. In Phase I, IOS will: provide proof of feasibility and develop the APMM algorithm to represent space objects as photometric polynomial models, initiate development of key 3-D concepts and relationships, and demonstrate the successful reconstruction of a 3-D structure from at least one sequence of space images. In Phase II, IOS will demonstrate a more robust prototype that will produce accurate representations under difficult conditions and will provide rapid 3-D model reconstruction and motion algorithms. In Phase II, IOS will also demonstrate verifiable prototype software.

PHYSICAL OPTICS CORP. IT Division, 20600 Gramercy Place, Bldg 100 Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 320-3088 Dr. Stephen Kupiec AF 04-005 Awarded: 05MAY04
Title:	Spatio-Temporal Object Reconstructed Modeling System from Ground-Based Imagery of Space Objects
Abstract:	The Air Force is seeking innovative algorithms that automate and expedite the process of extracting four dimensional (4D) space-time imagery of space objects from ground-based space imagery collectors. In response to this need, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Spatio-Temporal Object Reconstructed Modeling System (STORMS) based on a parallel genetic algorithm optimization engine (PGAOE), multiscale structure characterization (MSC), and spatial object dynamics (SOD) modeling. The concise framework of MSC for coarse-to-fine processing and the efficient and adaptive parallel genetic optimization algorithm engine for fast structural matching together enable STORMS to perform 4D modeling (3D spatial plus temporal) on space objects automatically, directly, and from an observed image sequences in less than 20 minutes. SOD modeling will coherently and accurately generate both the global motion dynamics and local dynamics of articulated space objects. The proposed STORM system not only meets the ARFL/DE needs, but has significant commercial applications in surveillance, homeland security, and autonomous robot navigation. In Phase I, POC will develop a prototype system for feasibility demonstration of 4D modeling from real image sequences of a space object. In Phase II, POC will optimize the STORMS to handle real data under less than ideal conditions.

STELLAR SCIENCE LTD.CO 401 Serenity Ct SE Albuquerque, NM 87123
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 453-2713 Dr. Conrad J. Poelman AF 04-005 Awarded: 26APR04
Title:	Automated Techniques for Extracting Four Dimensional Space-Time Data from Ground-Based Imagery of Space Objects
Abstract:	This project will develop techniques for processing sequences of images of a space object, taken from ground-based telescopes, to create a three dimensional model of the object and to calculate the object's attitude motion as a function time. This Shape from Motion problem has been studied since the 1980's, but the approaches have not been subject to rigorous performance testing, and the algorithms typically assume much higher image clarity and spatial resolution than ground-based space surveillance systems can deliver. First, we will create a prototype system that applies the most promising of the current shape from motion techniques, and evaluate its strengths, limitations, and feasibility using simulated and real imagery of space objects. This system will be delivered as a working tool for research and special mission analyses. Second, we will examine novel approaches to the shape from motion problem that are tailored to the characteristics of the space surveillance problem. One approach integrates feature identification with feature tracking to efficiently accommodate noisy data and features that move in and out of view. Another replaces the point cloud representation of object shape with a meshed surface or a set of voxels, making results more useful to other analysis tools.

FARR RESEARCH, INC. 614 Paseo Del Mar NE Albuquerque, NM 87123
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 293-3886 Dr. Everett G. Farr AF 04-006 Awarded: 06MAY04
Title:	A Dual Polarized Tapered Slot Antenna Embedded into an Inflatable Wing
Abstract:	Airborne UWB radar systems will require a receive antenna that can be printed or mounted onto the inflatable wing of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). Such antennas need to reach as low as VHF frequencies, and must be positioned to look to the side of the aircraft. To satisfy this requirement, tapered slot antennas (TSAs) looking off the wingtip have been proposed. However, this antenna receives only a single horizontal polarization. No solution currently exists for either a dual polarized antenna or a vertically polarized antenna looking off the wingtip of an inflatable wing. To address this requirement for a dual polarity antenna, we will investigate a dual-polarized TSA that can be mounted onto a UAV with an inflatable wing. A vertical TSA will be added to the horizontal TSA in its plane of symmetry, so the two antennas do not interact with each other. We also consider the problem of a single vertically polarized antenna that is flush-mounted to an inflatable wing. To achieve this we propose a Conical Slot Antenna (CSA) printed onto the wing. During Phase I we will design, build, and test a dual-polarized TSA and a vertically polarized CSA.

PRO-TECH 11 C Orchard Court Alamo, CA 94507
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(925) 552-0510 Dr. David V. Giri AF 04-006 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Conformal Impulse Receive Antenna Arrays
Abstract:	Conformal arrays are of great importance in a variety of applications. The ability of the antenna array to "conform" to the surface of a host platform is of great benefit primarily because of its compactness and non-obtrusiveness (reducing drag) and thus decreasing operational costs, implying that, for example, airborne platforms, such as fixed wing aircraft, including UAVs and helicopters can maintain their designed aerodynamic characteristics while hosting an array antenna. It should be pointed out at the outset that Pro-Tech's Phase I objective is to develop a conformal impulse "timed-array" antenna, operating in a transient regime and covering a wide frequency band spanning an approximately 200 MHz-2 GHz range. Our goal is to build and test two small-scale prototype impulse arrays capable of operating not only in a "receive" (passive) mode, but also in a "transmit" ("active") mode, thus significantly exceeding the requirements of this SBIR effort.

SCIENTIFIC APPLICATIONS & RESEARCH ASSOC., INC. 6300 Gateway Dr. Cypress, CA 90630
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(714) 224-4410 Mr. Kirk Hawkins AF 04-006 Awarded: 21APR04
Title:	Conformal Impulse Receive Antenna Arrays
Abstract:	The UWB radar operation is based on the transmission of an Ultra-Wide-Band (UWB) impulse signal at the target of interest. The radar will initially receive the short UWB impulse reflected from the target followed by the late time "ringing" of the target at its resonant frequencies. The late time waveform, consisting of multiple damped sine waves, is used to detect and identify metallic objects of interest. In this application, it is vital for the transmit antenna to be non-dispersive over the entire bandwidth of the UWB impulse so that the transmitted pulse does not "spread-out" or "smear", which would mask the late time resonance signals. A non-dispersive UWB antenna maximizes the length of the late time signature used for analysis. We propose to develop a new class of highly configurable conformal antenna array to meet a wide range of UWB radar applications, including optimized performance with SARA's breakthrough channelized receiver technology, which gives AFRL the widest flexibility in terms of custom application development.

ACULIGHT CORP. 11805 North Creek Parkway S., Suite 113 Bothell, WA 98011
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(425) 482-1100 Mr. Chuck Miyake AF 04-007 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Optical Fibers for High-Power, Mid-Infrared Laser Diodes Emitting in the 2.0 Micron to 5.0 Micron Wavelength Range
Abstract:	Currently, mid-infrared lasers must be integrated into highly restrictive volumes near the outer surfaces of air platforms. Fiber coupling of mid-infrared lasers would enhance the tactical utility for such devices by enabling the laser to be remotely located from the pointer-tracker. The proposed work will demonstrate the efficient fiber coupling of a mid-infrared semiconductor laser in a low loss, low divergence, fiber optic consistent with typical IRCM system performance needs.

MATERIALS & ELECTROCHEMICAL RESEARCH (MER) CORP. 7960 S. Kolb Rd. Tucson, AZ 85706
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(520) 574-1980 Dr. Ching-Fong Chen AF 04-007 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	High Performance Fluoride Fiber for IR Optic Applications
Abstract:	Fluoride glass has a very small loss compared to other fibers. The loss for fluoride glass fiber can be as low as 0.003 dB/m. Compared to silica, IR fibers usually have higher loss, larger refractive indices and dn/dT, lower melting or softening points, and greater thermal expansion. The higher dn/dT and low melting or softening point leads to thermal lensing and low laser induced damage thresholds for some of the fibers. The application of fluoride glass can be extended to a wide range of IR applications if a higher strength and high melting/softening material can be achieved. This program proposes an innovative fluoride fiber. The high melting point and high strength can enhance its bending radius, increase length, increase energy capability, and decrease diameter. The continuous process can also lower the cost.

MATERIALS & ELECTROCHEMICAL RESEARCH (MER) CORP. 7960 S. Kolb Rd. Tucson, AZ 85706
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(520) 574-1980 Dr. Witold Kowbel AF 04-008 Awarded: 21APR04
Title:	Lightweight SiC Composite Optics for High energy Applications
Abstract:	SiC-composites offer a paradigm shift in the area of large aperture, very low aerial density optics. In addition, MER has found novel solutions to the print-through problem. The fundamental issue addressed in this proposal is the performance of lightweight optics under a laser beam. Small (4" diameter) mirrors with aerial density varying from 2 - 15 Kg/m2 will be fabricated, analyzed and tested under laser conditions. In addition, a projection to very high energy laser condition will be made.

SCHAFER CORP. 321 Billerica Road Chelmsford, MA 01824
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 338-2865 Dr. William A. Goodman AF 04-008 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Lightweight Optics for High Energy Applications
Abstract:	The corrected system wavefront error (WFE) for tactical airborne and relay mirror systems can be minimized using low figure error/surface finish, low print-through, SLMST technology with high-reflectivity VLA coatings. The performance requirements of corrective mirrors in the system (DMs, FSMs) might also be relaxed as the result of the improved system WFE offered by SLMST. SLMST and Silicon Carbide SLMST (SiC-SLMST) have demonstrated the highest structural efficiency for high-bandwidth fast steering mirror applications (e.g. ABL). SLMST can exceed the 1st frequency of lightweighted beryllium. Vacuum-cryogenic testing (27 K) of SLMST at NASA MSFC demonstrated lower print-through than lightweighted fused silica, ULE, Zerodur, beryllium and silicon carbide mirrors, making SLMST ideal for the -20oC tactical airborne or -50oC high-altitude Relay Mirror operational environments. In Phase I, Schafer will perform thermal and structural analysis and estimate cost for SLMST in diameters from 5 to 33-inch. We shall fabricate a 5-inch plano SLMST mirror, polished to a figure of <HeNe/10 PV and surface roughness of <10 RMS, and coat it with a Very Low Absorption (VLA) dual-band (3.8 and 1.315 micron) high reflectivity coating deposited by the Air Force Optical Components Evaluation Laboratory (OCEL). This prototype would be suitable for high-power testing.

TREX ENTERPRISES CORP. 10455 Pacific Center Court San Diego, CA 92121
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(808) 245-6465 Dr. William F. Fischer, III AF 04-008 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	CVC SiC Mirrors Designed for High Energy Laser Applications
Abstract:	This program targets paths that will improve the manufacturing process and further reduce Trex's fabrication costs and delivery schedule for the provision of high performance chemical vapor composite (CVC) SiC optical mirrors to any DoD program, with special emphasis in the area of high energy laser application. Trex's patented CVC fabrication process is a scalable, low cost, and rapid method for making SiC optical components. In addition to the ABL and ARMS programs, there are a large number of other programs within DoD that require high stiffness, lightweight, low cost manufacturing processes for optics. The Phase I technical objective is to establish the feasibility of Trex's advanced manufacturing process for meeting the specifications for a specific DoD program. To meet this objective, Trex will fabricate and coat coupons and mirrors for evaluation and testing. We will also provide a coating evaluation report and a recommendation on scaling the mirror manufacturing process to 0.75-1.5m class. The results above will establish the feasibility of the Trex process for meeting the goals of the program and provide a plan for manufacturing 0.75m mirrors during a Phase II program.

ASR CORP. 7817 Bursera, NW Albuquerque, NM 87120
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 830-3000 Mr. Michael D. Abdalla AF 04-009 Awarded: 30APR04
Title:	High Repetition Rate Pulsed Power Generators
Abstract:	The ASR Corporation has developed an ultra-compact hydrogen-insulated triggered switch for use in high voltage, fast rise time applications. The objective of the proposed work is to incorporate the switch into a compact 5-stage Marx structure to enable evaluation of a compact, high repetition rate generator. The compact Marx generator will be designed, manufactured and tested.

RF ENGINEERING 157 North Reamstown Road Stevens, PA 17578
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(717) 336-6721 Dr. Ronald J. Focia AF 04-009 Awarded: 21APR04
Title:	High Repetition Rate Pulsed Power Generators
Abstract:	A high-voltage, high-current, and high pulse repetition rate (PRR) pulsed power generator is desirable for use as an ultra-wideband (UWB) source. Advances have been made with solid-state switches and pulse generation techniques allowing PRRs of tens of kHz. However, an all solid-state solution may not be a viable option for generating voltage pulses of over ~30 kV due to the large currents that the switches commonly available would be required to carry. A Marx generator using gas switches would be the most efficient way to generate voltage pulses of over 100kV. Typically, Marx generators are capable of operation at PRRs of only a few hundred Hz. This limitation is due to the methods used to charge the Marx bank capacitors and the recovery time of the spark gap switches. Recent research has shown that corona-stabilized gas switches can operate very reliably, with good repeatability, well into the kHz regime. Additionally, these switches have exhibited lifetimes in excess of 10^8 shots. This proposal outlines an effort to build a prototype high PRR Marx generator that is suitable for use as an UWB source. The prototype will incorporate a compact modular design, utilize optically-coupled and corona-stabilized gas switches, and use fast capacitor charging methods to achieve low jitter, good repeatability, and a high PRR.

EPIWORKS, INC. 1606 Rion Drive Champaign, IL 61822
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(217) 373-1590 Mr. Quesnell Hartmann AF 04-010 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Initial Demonstration of High-Brightness IR (1.8-1.9 æm) Strain-Compensated InGaAsP/InGaAs QW Lasers
Abstract:	The objective of this proposal is to demonstrate 1.8 - 1.9 æm high-power, InP-based pump lasers.

LUTRONICS 28 Ruthellen Rd. Chelmsford, MA 01824
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 387-9685 Dr. Yalin Lu AF 04-010 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Novel Approach toward High Brightness Mid-Infrared Lasers
Abstract:	Semiconductor lasers covering mid-infrared wavelength range have been receiving extensive attentions in recent years. Many primary challenges, however, have been impeding their development progress for many years. Brightness of those developed versions, for example, is still not high enough for practical uses. Brightness depends mainly on the output intensity and beam profile. Wavelength coverage, which is required to cover full mid-infrared range, is another concern. To widen this wavelength coverage, new material system is thus highly needed. In this program, Lutronics uses an innovative structural design and a new material system to reach the goal with effectiveness. The program will be fully grounded with Lutronics's advanced MBE facilities and strong expertise in semiconductor laser development.

HYPERTECH SYSTEMS 4 Dickens Court Irvine, CA 92612
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(949) 477-1019 Dr. David Slater AF 04-015 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Advanced Algorithms for Exploitation of Space-Based Imagery to Detect Targets against Structured Earth Backgrounds
Abstract:	Signature-based hyperspectral detection algorithms have demonstrated encouraging results over a range of imagery. These algorithms require as input a reflectance or emissivity spectrum for the target material of interest. Signature-based detection algorithms are often demonstrated using a carefully measured laboratory spectrum for an ideal sample of a target material. In many situations, however, a laboratory spectrum will not be available for a target material. In some cases, we may have a remotely sensed radiance spectrum obtained by an image analyst for a target or multiple field measurements from different sources. A remote spectral measurement cannot be used directly for detection in other scenes because it depends on the environmental conditions at the time of measurement. In the most challenging cases, the remotely sensed radiance spectrum may be for a subpixel target or for a target that is concealed under trees. We have shown that the performance of signature-based detection algorithms has a significant dependence on the input target spectral model. Thus, the generation of optimized target models from different input sources is a critical issue for the success of target detection systems in operational environments. There is also an important relationship between the utility of a target model and the spectral properties of the background clutter in a scene. In this project, we will develop an innovative software product called MODGEN that produces target models that optimize contrast with the background using input laboratory, field, and remote spectral measurements. This product can be used in combination with signature-based detection algorithms such as HyperTech's invariant detection products to provide a system that can be used operationally for model selection and target detection. MODGEN will consider both the visible through short-wave infrared (VNIR/SWIR) spectral range and the long-wave infrared (LWIR) spectral range. As part of this effort, we will consider the important but previously unaddressed problems of model extraction for observed targets that appear at subpixel scale or that are heavily obscured by vegetation. The problem of subpixel targets is of particular importance for space-based hyperspectral systems that often have limited spatial resolution. We will assess MODGEN by evaluating the improvement in ROC performance that is achieved using the new optimized target models as compared against the use of standard models. The assessment will consider a range of VNIR/SWIR and LWIR hyperspectral datasets.

SPECTRAL SCIENCES, INC. 4 Fourth Avenue Burlington, MA 01803
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 273-4770 Dr. Steven Adler-Golden AF 04-015 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Atmospheric Correction for Long Slant Path Imagery
Abstract:	Earth-observing Hyper- and Multispectral Imaging (HSI/MSI) in the Vis/SWIR provides detailed spectral signatures of natural terrain and man-made objects. However, the present inability to accurately correct for atmospheric effects in long slant paths seriously degrades target detection and discrimination, thus limiting surveillance and reconnaissance opportunities. Spectral Sciences, Inc. (SSI) proposes to develop innovative, automated, fast and accurate atmospheric correction software for the highly off-nadir, long slant path scenario. In Phase I, the main building blocks for the correction algorithm will be generated and tested. A combination of real and Monte Carlo-simulated imagery from the SSI MCScene model will be assembled and used to evaluate the AFRL/SSI FLAASH atmospheric correction code in the long slant path scenario and identify the key sources of reflectance error. In addition, one or more new, advanced algorithms for retrieving detailed aerosol properties will be developed and demonstrated. Based on the results, plans will be made for development in Phase II of an enhanced Long Slant-path version of FLAASH that includes the new aerosol retrieval algorithm(s) and an aerosol and view/solar angle-dependent adjacency correction, and for a field experiment designed to validate the enhanced correction capability.

ADVATECH PACIFIC, INC. 2015 Park Avenue, Suite 8 Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(909) 307-6218 Dr. Deganit Armon AF 04-017 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Advanced Cost Model for Space Concepts Development
Abstract:	The Advatech Pacific, Inc. Team (API Team) will analyze historical programmatic data for selected space-system development programs that are representative of current programs of interest. These programs will be analyzed with respect to specific technologies that have gone through a technology maturity cycle. This analysis will define the Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) at each point in the development cycle. This information will then be mapped to a set of normalized Technology Cost, Risk & Maturity curves that will illustrate the relationship between budgeted cost (i.e., funding available to the project managers) and the level of risk and/or probability of success for each given technology at each TRL for space programs. Differences in how the various historical space programs have been managed will lead to estimating error distributions for the technologies under study. Statistically summing all system risks, including those associated with technology development, will then result in a total cost/risk distribution for each space program whose cost is to be estimated. The cost model, based on this analysis, can then be used to predict the required investment needed to execute a space program that is pushing the technical state of the art. The total cost/risk distribution allows the decision maker to associate a degree of confidence in program executability with any proposed program budget. Simultaneously, the API Team will develop the plan for implementing this programmatic Life Cycle Cost/risk (LCC/risk) model strategy into a stochastic analysis code that will automate the computations required to translate the engineering analysis into a cost estimate. Further, this code would make use of the logic and capabilities of existing commercial and Government cost models where they are found appropriate. Most importantly, the plan will address how the stochastic analysis code (and the appropriate commercial cost models) will become an element of the technical design and analysis framework, called the Integrated Space Engineering Tool (ISET), currently being developed and used by AFRL/VSE at Kirtland AFB, NM. This will give ISET the capability to be used to direct technology investment during a program's conceptual phase.

GALORATH, INC. 100 North Sepulveda Blvd., Suite 1801 El Segundo, CA 90245
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 414-3222 Mr. Lee Fischman AF 04-017 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Advanced Cost Model for Space Concepts Development
Abstract:	While suitable estimating methods exist to cost the development and production of space systems planned for the near term, using understood technologies, concepts planned with still-immature technologies (Technology Readiness Level 3) are very difficult to cost. This already poses a significant challenge for advanced concept planning. As the pace of technological change increases, the horizon will continue to contract and concepts may become yet more difficult to cost. Galorath intends to develop a model for costing advanced space concepts containing critical technologies that are at low readiness levels at time of evaluation. The model will be automated except for pre-defined inputs. Potentially, it also will be able to accept customized inputs, reflecting expert knowledge of novel future configurations. The model would ideally be developed as a plug-in to Galorath's SEER-H hardware development and production costing model. This model currently is used to cost near-term space missions, and the SEER-H customer base would be receptive first adopters of this enhancement.

COMPOSITE TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT, INC. 2600 Campus Drive, Suite D Lafayette, CO 80026
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 664-0394 Dr. Mark S. Lake AF 04-018 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Multi-Continuum Analysis Code for EMC Materials
Abstract:	Composite Technology Development, Inc. proposes to develop a multi-continuum finite element analysis (FEA) code for highly strained EMC materials. The multi-continuum analysis approach will allow extraction of stress and strain fields for the composite matrix and reinforcement fiber, in the course of a routine structural FEA. This will provide energy output predictions for EMC components, and will imporove laminate failure predictions by providing independent stress and strain values for the matrix and fiber.

COMPOSITE TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT, INC. 2600 Campus Drive, Suite D Lafayette, CO 80026
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 664-0394 Dr. Mark S. Lake AF 04-018 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	TEMBOT EMC Pultruded Longerons for Furlable Truss Booms
Abstract:	Composite Technology Development, Inc. (CTD) proposes to develop a high strength, high stiffness longeron incorporating CTD's TEMBOT Elastic Memory Composite (EMC) material, which could be used as the main structural element in a wide variety of furlable truss boom designs. The proposed longeron provides deployment force and dampening, and functions as the primary load carrying element in the deployed boom. The proposed EMC longeron is mechanically simple, highly reliable, and highly damped during actuation, and provides a high-precision deployment motion and high post-deployment stiffness and strength.

FOSTER-MILLER, INC. 350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 684-4368 Dr. Peter Warren AF 04-018 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Structural Isogrid/Membrane for Packaging Large Efficient Reflectors (SIMPLER)
Abstract:	The Air Force has a pressing need for large, structurally efficient reflectors for both radar and high bandwidth communication. Because launch volumes are limited, the larger aperture must be volume efficient as well. To meet the stated needs of future DoD missions, the reflectors must be very precise as well as large in diameter. The proposed program will combine ultra-efficient deployable isogrid structures with thin reflecting membranes to form large reflectors with the precise surfaces required for high frequency applications. Foster-Miller isogrid deployable structures have been shown to provide efficiency both in structural support and in packaging for launch. Membrane systems provide smoother surfaces with better electro-magnetic properties than mesh systems and require less tension to maintain their shape. By combining these technologies, the Foster-Miller team will provide the Air Force and other customers with large aperture, high precision reflectors. The Foster-Miller team will develop the Structural Isogrid/Membrane for Packaging Large Efficiency Reflectors (SIMPLER) system through a careful plan of technology transfer, design, modeling, and prototype manufacture and testing. Complete development of this technology will provide the DoD with a reflector system that will enable better, lighter, and less expensive antennae deployed from smaller packaged volumes. (P-040271)

LGARDE, INC. 15181 Woodlawn Avenue Tustin, CA 92780
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(714) 259-0771 Dr. Arthur L. Palisoc AF 04-018 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Light Weight, Low Volume Deployable Antenna Structures
Abstract:	Efficient future space-based military as well as commercial assets require large antenna apertures. These include space-based intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) systems such as the SBR (space-based radar). As spacecraft are severely power-limited, aperture is the most important trade space for increased performance. What is needed is a lightweight, low volume antenna structrue that enables an efficient stowage capability. This is where the L'Garde technology of rigidizable composite structures come in. We will carryout a conceptual design for very large, lightweight, low stowed volume deployable antenna support structures for use with electronically-scanned arrays (ESA) as well as other large aperture space applications. We will identify the appropriate RF technologies and spacecraft applications to provide the springboard for the derivation of requirements for candidate large deployable structures. The applications of interest include (but not limited to) communication, ground moving target indicator (GMTI)radar, and synthetic aperture radar (SAR) as desired for supporting future space-based ISR systems.

SEQUOIA TECHNOLOGIES 5021 Indian School Road, NE, Suite 300 Albuquerque, NM 87110
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 232-4300 Dr. Jerry Alcone AF 04-018 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	An Adaptive Disturbance Rejection Approach for Enabling Pointing and Shape Control of Highly Flexible Antenna Structures
Abstract:	This effort investigates an adaptive disturbance rejection approach for improving attitude control performance of spacecraft with large flexible structures. The technique blends adaptive sensor fusion with closed loop adaptive filtering to improve baseline attitude controller performance. The effort focuses on application to systems with large radar structures, to enable lighter more flexible structures to be utilized in future systems. A key contribution in Phase I is a proof-of-concept demonstration of the adaptive disturbance rejection approach and development of a flight experiment concept for the Deployable Structures Experiment (DSX).

INFINERA CORP. 1322 Bordeaux Drive Sunnyvale, CA 94089
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(410) 480-3820 Dr. Steve Grubb AF 04-019 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Wavelength-Hopping, Multi-Channel Photonic Integrated Circuit Based Transceivers for Secure, High-Data-Rate Communications in Space
Abstract:	In this project Infinera will create a multi-channel WDM transceiver based on novel photonic integrated circuits (PICs). The transceiver will be designed for the needs of a space-based military communications system, including a novel scheme to provide secure communications together with a strong anti-jam system. Overall satellite optical communication system requirements will be taken into account during the design phase. Phase I will include the design/development of the multi-channel communication link and provide a demonstration of the PIC based devices and novel architectural designs in order to establish the feasibility of the design.

Q PEAK, INC. 135 South Road Bedford, MA 01730
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 275-9535 Mr. Jeffrey Korn AF 04-019 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Spread-Spectrum Secure Optical Communications
Abstract:	In response to the solicitation to develop a Multiband Laser Communication system for space based communications, Q-Peak, Inc. proposes to develop a laser transmitter technology that has significant implications on physical layer security, as well as an impact on the networks architecture. Specifically, we propose to analyze and demonstrate a transmitter using an ultrafast pulse and encode the data stream at various points within the pulse spectrum. This approach will allow frequency-hopping spread spectrum communications that provides protection against unauthorized interception or jamming of the data stream. This type of format will provide a substantial barrier to the nefarious user relative to a more conventional WDM system. Furthermore, the use of an ultrashort pulse is applicable for both multiple access and backbone parts of the free-space satellite network.

COHERENT LOGIX, INC. 101 West 6th Street, Suite 200 Austin, TX 78701
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(512) 479-7732 Mr. David Gibson AF 04-020 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Radiation-Hard Parallel DSP (RH-PDSP)
Abstract:	Coherent Logix, Incorporated (CLX) proposes to develop a radiation-hardened, highly efficient, parallel digital signal processor (PDSP) integrated circuit. For non-radiation-hardened applications, CLX is developing a new, revolutionary, highly-efficient, ultra low power signal processor based on its patent pending HyperX,. architecture. The HyperX architecture is exceptionally well-suited to the digital signal processing requirements of Space-Based Radar. Based on simulation studies, including SAR algorithms mapped to it, HyperX processing solutions provide orders of magnitude improvement in computation and energy efficiencies when compared to other current state-of-the-art approaches. Thus, radiation-hardened HyperX processors will provide the performance, programmability, and ultra-low power required for spacecraft applications (fewer solar-cell panels to hoist into orbit). In the Phase I program, Coherent Logix will work with the customer to determine the appropriate algorithms and scenarios to be implemented in an operational prototype solution for Phase II. Throughout the Phase I and Phase II, Coherent Logix will look to partner with leading space computer developers and spacecraft integrators to maximize radiation-hardened applications, to increase unit volume which will drive down costs.

DIGITAL SIGNAL PROCESSING ARCHITECTURES, INC. 7902 NE St. Johns Rd., Bldg 102 Vancouver, WA 98665
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(360) 573-4084 Mr. Michael Fleming AF 04-020 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Radiation Hardened, Low Power Digital Signal Processors
Abstract:	An overdue standardized and programmable chip level approach will move Space based DSP into ultra-efficient frequency domain vector processing and allow high resolution, high sample rate, and multi-dimensional signal and image processing with minimal power dissipation and minimal software engineering. Current DSP processors take a "business" computing microprocessor architectural approach to DSP, ignoring the complex vector and data flow nature of digital signal processing applications. Our approach centers DSP around a unique multi-dimensional FFT centric structure that scales almost endlessly through cascading identical step and repeat macro library building blocks while maintaining signal precisions of 24 bits binary and beyond. By applying deterministic data flow techniques and a latency insensitive system approach our processors will efficiently maximize the final DSP resolution, precision, and sample rate of any chip geometry required by an application. Additionally, our chips can signal process "stand alone" or look like simple high level instruction set extensions to any host microprocessor, allowing the host to do what it does best simultaneously in parallel with the signal processing.

SEAKR ENGINEERING, INC. 6221 S. Racine Circle Centennial, CO 80111
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 784-7736 Mr. Paul Murray AF 04-021 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Light Weight, High Density Space Qualified Bulk Memory
Abstract:	Present space based memory storage system technology cannot accommodate the performance requirements of some future missions. Three critical areas need to be addressed in order to bring the next generation memory system to fruition. These areas are power, storage density, and backplane speed. Present Solid State Recorders (SSR's), which are presently the de facto standard for space memory systems, generally uses large arrays of SDRAM memories with a shared bus backplane architecture. These systems are ideal in terms of cost, reliability, and modularity. Commercial SDRAM technology is cost effective and readily available. Shared buses allow flexible modular configurations with simple protocols, and single point failure immune systems with graceful degradation of the memory array provides tremendous reliability. Unfortunately, these technologies do not support the performance required for next generation systems. This proposal develops a modified system architecture that uses high speed network interfaces to provide a modular, flexible, and memory independent system architecture. Memory and stacking technologies will be investigated and network based memory boards based on the selected memory technology will be designed.

SYSTEMS & PROCESSES ENGINEERING CORP.(SPEC) 101 West Sixth Street, Suite 200 Austin, TX 78701
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(512) 479-7732 Mr. Joe Priest AF 04-021 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Development of a Hyper Memory System
Abstract:	As Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance systems continue to be developed with increased capabilities, the amount of data to be processed and stored becomes a growing concern. Likewise, disseminating the volumes of data for interpretation by the user becomes increasingly difficult. A need exists for an integrated processing and storage system that will allow on-board data processing to effectively "filter" the data that is eventually sent to the user. Likewise, a system with increased memory capacity is required to allow more data to be captured and processed before down linking to the user. This system should be low power, maximize memory density (Gbytes/in3) and be extremely lightweight. Of course, for such a system, reliability is a number one concern. For space based operations, the system must be space radiation hardened and implement appropriate error detection and correction to efficiently correct for radiation induced errors. Systems & Processes Engineering Corporation (SPEC) is in a unique position to propose an extremely innovative solution to this problem by leveraging our on-going, leading edge data acquisition, storage, and System on Chip (SoC) activities to develop an integrated data processing and storage system to develop the Hyper-Memory System (HMS), proposed herein.

METROLASER, INC. 2572 White Road Irvine, CA 92614
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(949) 553-0688 Dr. James D. Trolinger AF 04-022 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Advanced, Integrated Multi-Sensor System for Space Situation Awareness (AIMS for SSA)
Abstract:	This is a Phase I SBIR proposal to develop an advanced, integrated multi-sensor system for application in space situation awareness. The proposed system integrates laser tracking technology with advanced/emerging visible imaging and infrared search and track and radar technologies to produce an integrated multi-sensor system for space object detection, tracking, characterization, discrimination and event detection. Radio frequency radar can provide the initial state vector and cueing information, which is further enhanced with other sensor information as it becomes available. Because this system will use active imaging technology, it can operate in both day and night and for "dark pass" tracking of satellites through the Earth's shadow. Additionally, active illumination provides a means for optical signal gating, which can greatly enhance the signal-to-noise ratio in an acquired image. The system will also operate with several different illumination wavelengths simultaneously to acquire high-quality multi-spectral images of space objects, including data that can be strongly diagnostic of the composition of target objects and aiding in identifying them. The resulting ability to improve the diagnostic quality of such images by exploiting the entire data set will greatly enhance the capabilities of present imaging systems.

HITTITE MICROWAVE CORP. 12 Elizabeth Drive Chelmsford, MA 01824
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 250-3343 Mr. Frank Traut AF 04-023 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	High-Efficiency Phased -Array Antenna Power Amplifier Modules
Abstract:	The power dissipation in amplifiers becomes a practical limit to the transmitter output power. One critical design goal for T/R modules, therefore, is maximization of the power-added efficiency (PAE) of the transmitter power amplifier. As more sophisticated modulation waveforms are introduced, however, power amplifiers in (or near) saturation introduce non-linear distortion of the signal in the form of amplitude and phase distortion and accompanying spectrum spreading and growth of unwanted side bands. In space-based systems, those limited assets available in space must be utilized to the maximum benefit, and it becomes necessary to contemplate the use of radar systems for multiple applications using multiples of carriers. As the prospect of using space-based assets for expanded applications with more than one carrier materializes, it becomes imperative to develop practical methods of reducing non-linear distortion and associated efficiency problems in power amplifiers. This proposal is addressed to those requirements, and novel circuit techniques such as pre-distortion circuits and the Doherty type amplifier circuits aimed at reduction of signal distortion and efficiency enhancement of power amplifiers are described.

Q-DOT, INC. 1069 Elkton Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80907
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(719) 590-1112 Mr. Christopher E. Hay AF 04-023 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	7 GHz SiGe High-Efficiency Power Amplifier Module (PAM) for Phased Arrays (9662)
Abstract:	Q-DOT proposes to develop a SiGe Power Amplifier RFIC with high efficiency and high linearity for use in the 7 GHz downlink multiple-beam antenna (MBA) on the Transformational Satellite (TSAT). The power amplifier will provide a minimum linear output power of 500 mW at 7 GHz, with an ultimate goal of 1 W. Design techniques will be implemented to simultaneously maintain a high average power-added efficiency (PAE) and low IMD while operating with multiple carriers to meet the requirements of the 7 GHz MBA. The power amplifier will be implemented in IBM's advanced SiGe BiCMOS technology to maximize integration onto a single chip. This will reduce the size and weight of the power amplifier, as well as improve its reliability. During Phase I, an assessment of the RF output power and PAE capability for a power amplifier developed in IBM's SiGe will be performed. Architectures for increasing average power-added efficiency and linearity will also be developed, resulting in the conceptual design for the complete power amplifier. In Phase II, the power amplifier will be realized in SiGe BiCMOS, and then tailored to additional military and/or commercial applications in Phase III.

PLANET EARTH COMMUNICATIONS 1983 San Luis Ave. #31 Mountain View, CA 94043
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(650) 965-7456 Mr. Michael J. Maybell AF 04-024 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Multi-Beam Phased-Array Antenna Beamformers
Abstract:	A Novel Multibeam Phased Array Beamformer technology development is described suitable for Transformational Communications applications. The beamformer will be designed for Advanced EHF satellite downlink and uplink payloads and create many simultaneous high gain pencil beams feeding a planar array of 2,000 or more elements from geostationary earth orbit. The beamformer uses row and column two dimensional Rotman lens stacks feeding sub arrays of contiguous more closely spaced elements. Radiating sub array elements each have phase shifters for beam fine steering and shaping within the equilateral triangular beam lattice of the Rotman lens stacks capable of covering the entire 17.4§ earth disc. The sub arrays are arranged in a triangular (hexagonal) element lattice to minimize the number of elements and hence passive and active components needed. The Rotman lens stacks themselves feed the sub arrays directly through each of their array ports. At each beam port of the Rotman lens stack, a narrow pencil beam is formed that has frequency independent beam pointing angle due to the true time delay nature of the Rotman lens phase excitation creation. Within each of these beams, the sub array phase shifters provide fine steering.

SARASWATI ASSOC. 1291 E Hillsdale Blvd, Suite 305 Foster City, CA 94404
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(503) 288-8070 Mr. James Coward AF 04-024 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Multi-Beam Phased-Array Antenna Beamformers
Abstract:	Saraswati Associates is pleased to submit the following Phase I proposal. In this proposal we present our approach to develop technology for very large phased array antennas with many simultaneous beams and flexible wide bandwidth operation. Saraswati has developed the innovative CORONA beam forming concept under a DARPA Phase 1 SBIR contract). The CORONA system is very efficient for very large wide bandwidth phased array antennas because it scales with the square root of the number of elements whereas other concepts scale with either linearly with the number of elements or even the square of the number of elements. We have completed key risk reduction laboratory evaluations in a Phase 1A program and currently are in negotiations for the Phase II effort to develop the key elements of the basic beamformer. The basic CORONA beam forming architecture supports 4 simultaneous beams in X band. Also, in the basic CORONA system, the 4 beams have identical properties (eg. beamwidth, bandwidth, waveform, etc.). We propose to investigate enhancements to the CORONA architecture that allows for a high number of multiple beams (~16) with a flexible wide range of independent control of the beam properties: . Independent simultaneous waveforms for GMTI, AMTI, and acquisition . Independent control of bandwidth and center frequency . Independent control of beamshape and scan/track parameters . Multi-band operation Increasing the number of beams usually scales the beamformer linearly with the number of beams. Because CORONA scales as the square root it is well suited for multi-beam operation. We will utilize the analytic models and computer simulations that we have developed to design a flexible Multi-Beam CORONA (MB-CORONA) concept to have the above capabilities. The models include: Beam properties Bandiwdith and frequency response properties Main lobe beamwidth and gain Sidelobe performance Dynamic range Individual link performance Full scale antenna performance Phase control and time delay allocation budgets Allocation models down to individual components Size, weight, and power (SWAP) models Roll-ups for complete beamformer SWAP performance

B & B CONSULTING 9713 West Long Drive Littleton, CO 80123
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 548-6109 Dr. Bernie Carpenter AF 04-025 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Novel Methods to Improve Efficiency of Copper-Indium-Gallium-diSelenide Solar Cells
Abstract:	Diverse mission requirements and advanced capabilities from defense spacecraft are placing demands on power subsystems beyond that which can be delivered by current state of the art solar arrays. Although cell level specific power has increased, similar advancement is necessary in the deployment system to take full advantage of future high power arrays. State of the practice systems have specific power values of 80 watts/kg or less, more advanced arrays have increased this value as high as 150 watts/kg. The proposed system is expected to be greater than 200 watts/kg based on 7% efficient cells deposited on thin stainless steel substrates. In addition, flexible structures combined with thin film absorbers reduce stowage volume requirements enabling power levels greater than 17kwatts (conventional arrays are limited to this level by the payload fairing envelop). Two-dimensional structures such as this are preferred over 3-D concepts as they offer an order of magnitude improvement in packaging. Our proposed array shown in offers scalability to 40kwatts, is based on cost effective subcomponents and can be ground tested multiple times without deployment device refurbishment.

INTERPHASES RESEARCH 166 N Moorpark Rd, Suite 204 Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(805) 497-2677 Dr. Shalini Menezes AF 04-025 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Engineering the Defects in CIGS films to Enhance Photovoltaic Efficiency
Abstract:	This SBIR Phase I project addresses Air Force requirements for lightweight, flexible, photovoltaic arrays for high specific power in space. Photovoltaic devices based on copper-indium-gallium-diselenide (CIGS) coated metal foil promise low cost, lightweight, high reliability and radiation hardness. But certain critical performance, processing, size and cost issues remain unresolved. This project will devise a single chemical processing step to reconfigure the deep defects in CIGS films. This processing step could potentially enhance the device performance, reduce air sensitivity and replace the hazardous processes used in state-of-the-art CIGS modules. Phase I will develop a surface engineering step to manipulate the CIGS defect density. Photocurrent and spectral response of modified CIGS films and devices will demonstrate proof-of-concept. The treatment step will use a remarkably simple but ingenious aqueous solution dip at room temperature. This step will precisely correct the defects that cause efficiency losses in defective or damaged CIGS films without etching off the material or depositing toxic cadmium sulfide buffer. It will be designed for easy and inexpensive implementation into existing CIGS photovoltaic manufacturing line.

ITN ENERGY SYSTEMS, INC. 8130 Shaffer Pkwy Littleton, CO 80127
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 285-5198 Dr. Garth Jensen AF 04-025 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Defect Passivation for Production-Quality and High-Bandgap CIGS and CIAS Solar Cells
Abstract:	A major factor that detracts from the many advantages offered by thin-film flexible CIGS PV for non-terrestrial applications is that it currently provides substantially lower solar conversion efficiencies than crystalline PV technology. While CIGS device efficiencies exceeding 19% have been produced in the laboratory, efficiencies of devices produced in large-scale production have been substantially lower. Recent work has identified the presence of electronic atomic-level defects in the CIGS material as a primary factor responsible for the gap between laboratory and production efficiencies. Also, the drop-off in efficiencies with increasing bandgap has been attributed to a higher density of defects serving as recombination centers or a higher sensitivity to such defects. Such defects must be eliminated or passivated to achieve the potential of CIGS technology. While all manufactures of CIGS have put considerable effort into minimizing formation of defects through optimizing process parameters, another approach to controlling defects is to "passivate" them by adding constituents that eliminate their electronic activity or alter it in a way that reduces the detrimental effect. ITN Energy Systems, Inc. proposes to conduct a thorough study of defects and potential defect passivation methods in production-quality CIGS and high-bandgap CIGS and CIAS (copper-indium-aluminum-diselenide).

DYMAS RESEARCH, INC. 2910 Fox Run Dr. Plainsboro, NJ 08536
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(609) 865-1103 Dr. Wei Hu AF 04-026 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	A high-performance phase shifter for phased array antenna
Abstract:	Recently, expanding wireless communication systems have presented new challenges to design and produce high quality miniature tunable phase shifters with low cost. Dymas Research proposes a novel RF phase shifter fabricated on high-performance ferreelectric films to provide tunability for adaptive microwave devices. This tunable microwave device has the advantage of achieving frequency or phase tunability as well as small size. It is expected that the proposed structure will be attractive for developing miniature tunable microwave devices with fully planar fabrication technology. This is especially of benefit to monolithic microwave integrated circuits (MMICs) and growing microwave superconductive circuits.

PEREGRINE SEMICONDUCTOR CORP. 6175 Nancy Ridge Drive San Diego, CA 92121
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 455-0660 Dr. Ron Reedy AF 04-026 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Multifunctional Phased Array Antenna Modules
Abstract:	The project will enable flexible use of the highest performance active devices such as PHEMT and HBT GaAs or InP by means of a novel chip-on-chip (COC) flip-chip integration technique. The project will include design; manufacture and test of one integrated circuit each for transmit and receive sides, with each chip providing amplification, phase shifting, signal power routing and control logic. The chip will be manufactured in an advanced silicon on sapphire (SOS) technology called Ultra Thin Silicon (UTSi) CMOS. By flip-chipping GaAs or InP transistors onto the UTSi device (which will contain all passive matching circuits along with active current and temperature control circuits), the highest available performance can be achieved in a monolithic structure. Choice of CMOS on sapphire is necessary to keep high performance passive devices at the 10-20 GHz frequencies typically used in phased array antennae. Use of a commercially established CMOS on sapphire process ensures that the devices will be highly manufacturable (which is necessary for the large number of antenna elements required for all applications) and that the performance and cost constraints of both commercial and military requirements will be met.

AERONIX, INC. 1775 W. Hibiscus Blvd., Suite 304 Melbourne, FL 32901
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(321) 984-1671 Mr. Jeff Fisher AF 04-027 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	A Radiation Tolerant Cryptograhic Architecture Using COTS FPGA's
Abstract:	Communications security (COMSEC) role in space continues to grow as the available bandwidth expands. The DOD Transformational Communications (TC) vision will transform the space, air, and ground networks into a fully integrated internet-like network. This vision requires cryptographic architectures that satisfy Crypto Modernization requirements, can host current and future cryptographic algorithms, and comply with the High Assurance Internet Protocol Interoperability Specification (HAIPIS). In addition, the architecture can be capable of taking advantage of the rapid rate of commercial FPGA technology development. These advances in technology are available at a much lower NRE cost than comparable custom designed crypto ASICs. In order to take advantage of these technology advances, crypto architectures are required that are robust enough to operate in the presence of semiconductor effects related to total dose, device latch-up, and single event errors. These errors could result in the space based crypto device either becoming inoperable, performance impaired, or potentially susceptible to transmitting erroneous information. This SBIR proposes a cryptographic architecture that utilizes various techniques to detect, correct, rollback, and continue operation in the presence of faults. The methods proposed include enhancements to circuitry, crypto control state machine logic, crypto control software, and algorithm implementation structures.

SITUS LOGIC 1442 Lomita Drive Pasadena, CA 91106
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(626) 799-7830 Mr. Alain J. Martin AF 04-027 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Asynchronous Architectures for Large-Integer Processors with Applications to Security
Abstract:	The proposed research is concerned with the design and implementation of asynchronous architectures for a large integer processor (LIP) able to perform arithmetic operations, in particular multiplications, on integers of a size that current synchronous architectures cannot handle efficiently (say, 5000~bits). The main application is security, in particular public-key and mixed private-key/public-key cryptography. A LIP will be a large processor array used as a coprocessor. A LIP-based system will be able to perform public-key encryption at a fraction of the runtime and/or energy consumption of current hardware platforms due to the use of asynchronous techniques. The LIP will be software-reconfigurable for different cryptographic protocols and different phases in each protocol. We will include finer-grain reconfigurable hardware (such as that found in FPGAs) in order to accelerate certain cryptographic protocols (especially those including private-key cryptography). The architecture will be evaluated for its radiation-hardness and several designs may be presented (non-hardened, radhard-by-design; different levels of reconfigurability) in order to match user requirements. Phase~I will implement unclassified algorithms. For Phase II, we are considering moving to classified algorithms in collaboration with Mykotronx. The LIP architecture will leverage work done at Caltech on clustered architecture for asynchronous FPGAs, and work done at Situs Logic on radhard-by-design asynchronous VLSI and CAD tools for asynchronous VLSI.

MICROLAB 341 E Alamo Dr Chandler, AZ 85225
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(480) 926-9500 Dr. Charles Wheeler AF 04-028 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	MicroElectroMechanical Systems Based Electronically Steerable Antenna
Abstract:	A packaged DC-12GHz magnetic latching MEMS switch will be produced in phase 1 that will provide the enabling componenet to design and build a 3-bit phase shifter circuit for phased array antenna applications. Also in Phase 1, the phase shifter circuit will be designed and a production plan enumerated to implement a 10-element phased array antenna based on the reulting MEMS phase shift circuit.

RADANT MEMS, INC. 255 Hudson Road Stow, MA 01775
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 562-3866 Dr. John Maciel AF 04-028 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	MicroElectroMechanical Systems Based Electronically Steerable Antenna
Abstract:	The performance benefits to satellite communication and other systems employing an Electronically Steerable Antenna are numerous. These include rapid beam scanning, increased beam agility, the performance of multiple functions, lighter weight, no angular momentum impact during beam scan and increased reliability. These improvements are typically obtained at the expense of large increases in overall RF insertion loss and cost when conventional MMIC phase shifters are employed. Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS) phase shifters have been recently demonstrated that show significant reductions in insertion loss, size, and cost as compared to conventional GaAs and PIN diode phase shifters. The goal of this Phase I SBIR program is to develop a low loss, low-cost and high reliability MEMS phase shifter based on the proven Radant ohmic MEMS RF switch. Two leading organizations, Radant MEMS with its demonstrated high lifetime MEMS switch and Professor Rebeiz's (University of Michigan) group of distinguished RF MEMS designers, will team to design a MEMS phase shifter that achieves low insertion loss, long lifetime, small size, light weight, low cost and consumes less prime power than currently available phase shifters.

BLUE WAVE SEMICONDUCTORS, INC. 6208 Three Apple Downs Columbia, MD 21045
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(410) 290-0706 Dr. Ratnakar Vispute AF 04-029 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Combinatorial Library of Radiation-Resistant Optical Coatings for Solar Cell Coverglass
Abstract:	This Small business innovation research Phase I project proposes to develop innovative radiation-resistant multilayer coatings for coverglass protection or directly solar cell protection while operating in the high radiation environment. Exceptional high radiation hardness of the multilayer coatings makes our approach a potential alternative for replacing cover glass for solar cell protection. Novel combinations of radiation hard optical coatings can maintain a high degree of spectral transmitivity in the visible region, withstand UV exposure which can also be tunable from 400nm-200nm and possess relatively high index of refraction. In Phase I we will evaluate optical properties as a function of radiation dose, demonstrate the feasibility of the coatings for solar cell application and provide samples for investigation. In Phase II we will extend the technology to scale up to larger area, free standing optical coatings integrated with transparent and electrically conducting bottom contact bondable to solar cell directly, and process development for manufacturing radiation hard optical windows in anticipation of Phase III transition.

FOSTER-MILLER, INC. 350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 684-4170 Dr. Nese Orbey AF 04-029 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	A Novel Coverglass System with Enhanced Radiation Resistance
Abstract:	The service life of coverglasses used to protect photovoltaic cells on spacecraft is limited by darkening caused by ionizing irradiation. This decline in transmissivity significantly reduces solar-cell power output toward the system's end of life (EOL), which ranges from 15 years for satellites in geosynchronous orbit (relatively low radiation doses), to 10 years for those in low Earth orbit (moderate radiation). Coverglasses with improved radiation resistance are required to reduce or eliminate darkening at EOL for satellites in intermediate orbits that are subject to high levels of irradiation. Cerium, commonly used to impart radiation hardening to glasses, functions by absorbing protons and electrons by redox type reactions. Its effect is limited by practical constraints on the maximum doping concentration, as well as by constraints imposed by redox equilibria. A program to determine the feasibility of using alternative glass types in a novel coverglass system with enhanced radiation hardening properties is proposed here. The glass will accommodate increased amounts of radiation absorbing dopants that provide concurrent oxidation and reduction pathways. Further, the new glasses can be engineered to broaden band gaps and so further enhance performance of modern, high-efficiency III-V solar cells. (P040286)

CFD RESEARCH CORP. 215 Wynn Dr., 5th Floor Huntsville, AL 35805
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(256) 726-4800 Mr. Matthew E. Thomas AF 04-030 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Turbo-Hybrid-Rocket Propulsion for Small Launch Vehicle Operations
Abstract:	CFDRC, in conjunction with support from Orbital Sciences, Allison Advanced Development Corporation and NASA Ames Research Center proposes a novel Turbo-Hybrid Rocket (THR) for the first stage of a responsive and cost-effective small launch vehicle system. This work will leverage CFDRC's extensive experience and leadership in tactical missile ATR technology and NASA Ames breakthroughs in hybrid rocket fuel research to conceive an air-breathing booster engine that could revolutionize small launch vehicle propulsion. During Phase I a comprehensive assessment of THR performance in small launch vehicle applications will be completed. Two key enabling technology issues to be focused upon during Phase I will be (1) an overall system analysis layout assessment and (2) combustion performance of a NASA Ames paraffin fuel in a turbo hybrid rocket afterburner installation. A technology risk mitigation plan that addresses rationale and test exit criteria for both a small scale engine and full scale afterburner demonstration will be prepared. In addition, a sub-orbital design analysis of the THR concept will be conducted in the Orbital Sciences Pegasus SLV or an appropriate equivalent. Preliminary mission-performance assessment, launch response and cost/benefit tradeoffs will be completed. The ultimate result of this effort will be definition of a THR propulsion system capable of answering the Air Force's need to rapidly, flexibly, and cheaply place small satellites into low earth orbit.

ASPEN AEROGELS, INC. 184 CEDAR HILL STREET MARLBOROUGH, MA 01752
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(508) 481-5058 Dr. Dmitry Fomitchev AF 04-031 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Si-N-B-C Aerogels for Thermal Protection System of Reentry Vehicles
Abstract:	The Air Force has an interest in new designs and new materials for TPS of hypersonic reentry vehicles. Military hypersonic vehicles will reenter the atmosphere according to trajectories that are more aggressive than that of the Space Shuttle Orbiter and expected to be able to maneuver in the atmosphere at speeds around March 20 for more than 4100 seconds. This will result in the extremely high temperatures and large heat fluxes (>12 Btu/ft2xs) at some areas on the vehicle's surface. Currently available TPS designs and materials are incapable of providing the level of protection required by the Air Force without significant increase in TPS weight and volume. Aspen Aerogels proposes to develop a new class of super insulation aerogel materials - Si-N-B-C aerogel composites for applications in TPS of the hypersonic reentry vehicles. Proposed insulation will have high temperature limit of 1400øC in air and will have thermal conductivity 20-30% lower than that of currently available materials. During the Phase II project the aerogel composites will be tested at the conditions similar to the conditions of reentry and TPS lay-ups development, fabrication and testing will be performed.

POWDERMET, INC. 24112 Rockwell drive Euclid, OH 44117
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(216) 404-0053 Mr. Andrew Sherman AF 04-031 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Thermal Protection System (TPS) for Agressive Reentry Trajectories of Space Vehicles
Abstract:	Structural C foam lightweight heat shield sandwich panels for use in a next-generation, high-performance thermal protection systems have been previously tested at NASA Ames Research Center under the pullout and glide portions of a simulated extended-range reentry trajectory. Outstanding performance has been demonstrated, with no ablation of the heated surface to heat fluxes of 150-450 Btu/ft2xsec and durations of 255 seconds using a SiC composite non-ablative coating on a lightweight structure. Unfortunately, pore size and density control of these materials is currently inadequate, and facesheet bonding and water adsorption resulted in reliability issues and areas for improvement. The proposed low-cost, lightweight thermal protection system will utilize a SiC composite coating as the hot side ablation resistant coating, deposited directly on low thermal conductivity carbon and/or glassy silicon carbo-nitride foam, yielding a final areal density of ¯1.0-1.2 lb/ft2. The innovation to be demonstrated in the proposed program is the integral production of a castable, rigid, microcellular carbo-nitride foam structure having optimizable thermal and mechanical properties which can be coated directly to a SiC composite ablation resistant coating system.

THOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 2415 Princeton Dr. NE, Suite B Albuquerque, NM 87107
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 830-6986 Dr. Stuart T. Schwab AF 04-031 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Refractory Matrix Composites for CAV TPS
Abstract:	The Common Aero Vehicle requires sharp leading edges on the forebody and control surfaces to maximize down- and cross-range capability. Current thermal protection structure materials do not posses the thermochemical stability to withstand the high aerothermal loads of sharp leading edges. Thor Technologies will leverage the results of recent and on-going material development programs to demonstrate a novel ultra-high temperature material and an innovative processing method, along with a simple and effective inspection technology.

TREX ENTERPRISES CORP. 10455 Pacific Center Court San Diego, CA 92121
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(808) 245-6465 Dr. Colby A. Foss, Jr. AF 04-031 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Chemical Vapor Composite Materials for Thermal Protection Systems in Aggressive Reentry Space Vehicles
Abstract:	A study of the application of the Chemical Vapor Composites (CVC) process to thermal protection system (TPS) fabrication is proposed. CVC offers the benefits of conventional chemical vapor deposition (CVD) in terms of high material purity and related high temperature performance, but without the high residual stress associated with CVD. The CVC process also allows net shape deposition of complex geometries, thus reducing the costs associated with non-CVC ceramic processing. Trex Enterprises Corporation has developed CVC fabrication technologies for silicon carbide (SiC) components. Trex CVC SiC has demonstrated high temperature performance that is superior to other SiC materials. The proposed Phase I study thus focuses on: 1) the design and modification of a CVC SiC reactor for the manufacture of monolithic TPS components; 2) fabrication of test TPS component items; 3) analysis of the material properties; and 4) theoretical evaluation of the thermal profile of monolithic CVC SiC and ultra-high temperature (UHTC) components under aggressive reentry heating conditions. The potential benefits of the proposed study include improvements of current TPS technologies based on silicon carbide, and a knowledge base that will allow the extension of the CVC process to TPS based on ultrahigh temperature ceramics such as zirconium diboride (ZrB2).

AEROASTRO, INC. 20145 Ashbrook Place Ashburn, VA 20147
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 723-9800 Mr. Thierry Guichon AF 04-032 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Programmable Satellite Transceiver (PST) for Dual Band Command and Control
Abstract:	The development of a fully programmable space borne Transceiver is offered. This Transceiver builds on existing digital technology and adapts it to the space environment. This is done with a very careful analysis of potential problems both in the technical area and in the manufacture area. An innovative sales and production approach for this type of product is proposed. Frequency, waveform, protocols are programmable either on the ground or over the air.

RT LOGIC! 1042 Elkton Dr. Colorado Springs, CO 80907
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(719) 598-2801 Mr. Bill Sward AF 04-032 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Programmable Satellite Transceiver (PST) for Dual Band Command and Control
Abstract:	Ground-based transmitters/receivers used for satellite telemetry, command, and range communications have leveraged FPGA-based digital signal processing technology to support multiple waveforms. Technology advances have allowed this equipment to become programmable. An integrated satellite operations concept requires similar advances for the satellite's on-board transceiver. FPGA technology has become "flight-ready" by virtue of configuration scrubbing, periodic reloading, and triple-modular redundancy techniques to overcome single event radiation effects. The ability to implement multiple waveform processing algorithms in on-board FPGAs supports the goal of a programmable satellite transceiver. Direct conversion RF techniques and high speed analog conversion technology allow SGLS and USB waveform processsing to be done with digital signal processing techniques in FPGAs. An S/L Band I/Q Modulator/Demodulator offers a novel technique for DSP-based processing of telemetry and command links. Benefits include modularization, direct conversion of RF to samples and samples to RF, low power, and a small form factor. These technologies enable the design and development of a programmable space transceiver (PST). This SBIR proposal develops a specification for a PST, constructs a prototype, conducts performance and engineering analyses, and develops a top-level design for a demonstration unit that would be produced in Phase II.

3TEX, INC. 109 MacKenan Drive Cary, NC 27511
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(919) 481-2500 Mr. Donald Wigent AF 04-033 Awarded: 16APR04
Title:	Hybird 3-D Textile Gradient Density and Fluted Preforms for C-SiC Structural TPS
Abstract:	Thermal protection materials have been largely parasitic materials adhered to airframe structural materials beneath. Attachment of such disparate and largely non-load-bearing materials incurs weight penalties and encourages failures. Integrated preforms providing enhanced thermal management, improved shock resistance/integrity and thereby enable more efficient re-entry profiles. This project will pursue the formation of Carbon/SiC composites with integrally 3D Braided and 3D woven single ply 3D preforms having a combination of functionally gradient densities, hollow cores, and planned thermal management, using ceramic and non-ceramic fiber types. The preforms will provide continuous fiber connecting the ceramic outer and non-ceramic inner segments of the structure, while internal flutes of the core allow for insulation and/or cooling. With guidance from Northrop Grumman, composite test specimens relevant to known hypersonic TPS and hot structure problems will be designed and fabricated, exploiting the flexibility of the 3BraidTM and 3WeaveTM processes to produce multi-density, and complex shaped hybrid preforms. Partner Starfire Systems will perform ceramization with proven methods for the infiltration of such fiber preforms with gradient ceramic matrices. The preforms will eliminate spalling and de-bonding altogether due to both mitigation of thermal misfits, and by the inherently integral single ply nature of the 3D woven fiber architectures themselves.

TRITON SYSTEMS, INC. 200 TURNPIKE ROAD Chelmsford, MA 01824
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 250-4200 Mr. James Gorman AF 04-033 Awarded: 16APR04
Title:	Robust and Re-Useable MCMC TPS(1000-461)
Abstract:	Triton Systems will demonstrate self-healing, controlled thermal expansion carbon fiber reinforced SiC matrix composites (CMCs) enabling oxidation and damage resistant components for hypersonic vehicle TPS and engine hot sections. Triton's unique materials system design approach to oxidation protection and self-healing behavior focuses on the entire system and not just a surface coating. Our approach also allows innovative design concepts using Triton's hybrid CMC and MMC materials (MCMC). Engineered microstructures for the fiber-matrix interface, mixed oxide glassy matrix modifiers imparting self-healing behavior to the basic SiC based matrix, and impregnation materials sealing the composite from oxygen ingress at temperatures over 4000F makes this TPS concept ideal for reusable TPS. Triton's self-healing micro-engineered CMC materials include alloyed and combined particle inclusions in the matrix that form an array of mixed oxide glassy phases when exposed to oxygen. The combination of these approaches provides novel TPS concepts in many long life applications needed to meet AF space vehicle goals. Triton's innovative MCMC also has significant load carrying capability, allowing integrated TPS/structure concepts to improve vehicle packaging while enhancing flight envelope performance. Triton will work closely with its four major system integrator team members to incorporate novel designs into emerging prototype TPS systems.

K TECHNOLOGY CORP. 110 Gibraltar Road, Suite 223 Horsham, PA 19044
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(216) 692-5400 Dr. Jim Marder AF 04-034 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Advanced Thermal Protection System (TPS) for Future Multiple Entry Vehicles
Abstract:	The development of durable thermal protection systems is one of the critical technologies to enhance performance and reduce operational costs of the next generation reentry space vehicles. k Technology Corporation (kTC) proposes development of an integrated thermal and structural thermal protection system (TPS) with low maintenance. The concept is to develop a leading edge TPS that is a load-carrying, high thermal conductivity k-Core monocoque shell that surrounds a phase change material. The concept provides efficient radiation cooling along with high thermal inertia to absorb heat during reentry so that peak temperatures are limited. The phase I effort will include transient finite element analysis and limited testing of key material combinations.

PHYSICAL SCIENCES, INC. 20 New England Business Center Andover, MA 01810
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 689-0003 Dr. Bryan V. Bergeron AF 04-035 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Energetic Polymeric Nanomaterials for Satellite Power Systems Design
Abstract:	Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) proposes to develop a flexible, solid-state, photovoltaic device, for spacecraft with inflatable solar arrays and high altitude airships. Typically, the I3-/I- redox mediator, and Ru(dcbH2)(NCS)2 sensitizer are used for liquid based dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC). PSI will alter the identity of the redox mediator in order to increase cell voltage. We will also use a sensitizer with electrochemical potentials appropriate for use with this mediator, while maintaining an absorption spectrum comparable to that of Ru(dcbH2)(NCS)2. Solid-state devices will be processed using an inert polymer containing the redox mediator. They will be lightweight and flexible, easy to manufacture, applicable to large surface areas, and inexpensive. These attributes give DSSC advantages over other photovoltaics since they can be accommodate the spacecraft's size and shape. During Phase II, PSI will evaluate the influence of other components, filter incident UV light, and increase efficiency.

PHOTON RESEARCH ASSOC., INC. 5720 Oberlin Drive San Diego, CA 92121
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(631) 331-6322 Bill Jorch AF 04-036 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Efficient Techniques for Construction of Radar MTI Simulation Databases
Abstract:	The enormous potential for a space based radar (SBR) ground moving target indicator (GMTI) systems has fostered continuing interest in the fielding of a GMTI SBR by the U.S. Air Force, the Air Force Research Laboratory and by other Government agencies. Advanced physics based modeling and simulation will play a critical role in various aspects of SBR development including design, systems engineering and assessment of military utility. Sophisticated SBR simulations exist, but in order to be useful, extensive databases which represent the simulated terrain background under consideration are required. Three essential elements must be captured in these databases: a mapping of ground clutter, topography and a delineation of highly reflective linear features. Information which can be used to generate these databases is available directly from the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency in the form of pre-processed GIS coverage layers which can be merged with DEM's to create regional scale simulation databases. However, creating the large databases required to address SBR problems remains difficult and time consuming. Our approach is to build tools to simplify and automate these processes by creating task specific enhancements for the industry standard ArcMap product; a path which will also provide a means to readily commercialize the product.

POLATIN CORP. 57 Janet Terrace New Hartford, NY 13413
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(315) 731-9433 Dr. Paul F. Polatin AF 04-036 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	An Optimal Scene Generation Tool for Space-Based Radar Simulations
Abstract:	The research described in this proposal is intended to provide a basis for the development of advanced scene generation software tools for use in space-based radar simulations. The specific purpose of the proposed work is to formulate realistic and computationally efficient methodologies and test-bed codes for generating wide-area and global MTI radar scenes in the frequency region extending from 100 MHz to 20 GHz or above. Using the software that is the intended product of this proposed SBIR effort, it should be possible to quickly produce a wide variety of useful radar scenes that may be readily interfaced with Air Force simulation activities.

COMPOSITE TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT, INC. 2600 Campus Drive, Suite D Lafayette, CO 80026
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 664-0394 Dr. Mark S. Lake AF 04-037 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	TEMBOT EMC Deployable Components for the PowerSail Solar Array
Abstract:	Composite Technology Development, Inc. (CTD) will work jointly with Lockheed Martin Astronautics Company (LMAC) to develop innovative, high-efficiency Elastic Memory Composite (EMC) structural components, such as deployment hinges and booms, for the PowerSail system. These hinges and booms will be both mechanically simple and mass efficient.

COMPOSITE TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT, INC. 2600 Campus Drive, Suite D Lafayette, CO 80026
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 664-0394 Dr. Mark S. Lake AF 04-037 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	FalconSat-3 EMC Boom Deployment and Packaging Optimization
Abstract:	Composite Technology Development, Inc. (CTD) proposes to optimize the deployment, packaging and control of an Elastic Memory Composite (EMC) deployable boom for the FalconSat-3 mission. In Phase I, CTD will optimize the deployment, packaging and control of the EMC boom longeron through the design, analysis, fabrication and testing of prototype longerons and booms. In Phase II, CTD will develop a deployable boom using the EMC longeron, for flight on the FalconSat-3 spacecraft.

HONEYBEE ROBOTICS 204 Elizabeth Street New York, NY 10012
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(212) 966-0661 Mr. Shazad Sadick AF 04-037 Awarded: 30APR04
Title:	Innovative Rapid Satellite Prototyping, Integration, and Manufacturing
Abstract:	The overall objective of this proposal is to establish the feasibility of a lightweight, universal precision gimbal that provides excellent structural stiffness, low weight and allows for vibration isolation and on-and off axis control of small payloads of a range of shapes and sizes during launch and on-orbit deployment.

MICROSAT SYSTEMS 8130 Shaffer Parkway Littleton, CO 80127
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 285-5138 Mr. Dave Newman AF 04-037 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Protocal Converter
Abstract:	The Protocol Converter (PC) autonomously converts data from one standard or protocol to another. It is intended to allow a variety of payloads and devices that have incompatible interfaces to connect to the standard satellite bus interfaces. It may be sold as a commercial product for other satellites, for UAV's or for industrial applications. Currently, if a payload was incompatible, the C&DH must be customized and re-qualified. The PC is a pre-qualified stand-alone hardware/firmware design, rapidly configurable to accommodate payloads. The PC is reconfigured through a programming port without replacing hardware, eliminating the need to repeat qualification. Tremendous savings in time and money can thus be realized. Generally, the PC uses two printed circuit boards, each designed for a particular protocol with a PCI interface between the boards. Phase I will develop an architecture to support the general PC as well as the particular application of a binary-to-ternary converter. Phase II will build a prototype binary-to-ternary converter, which has immediate cost-saving application to allow use of any generic low-cost command receiver to connect to a decryptor device. The binary-to-ternary converter is unique because it fits on a single PCB, rather than a pair of boards (the normal architecture).

PLANNING SYSTEMS, INC. 12030 Sunrise Valley Dr, Suite 400, Reston Plaza I Reston, VA 20191
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 242-7840 Mr. Dan Cohen AF 04-037 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Modular Rapid Response Spacecraft Integration Using an Open Standard Network Architecture
Abstract:	The current state of the art methodology for satellite development and integration relies on highly customized payload designs. The Air Force has identified an operational need for the capability to launch spacecraft on demand for a variety of DoD missions. A critical missing enabling technology is needed to achieve this goal is the ability to rapidly integrate and launch these spacecraft. To address this critical need, we propose to develop a network based standard for spacecraft payload and bus components describing the command, control, signal, data, and software interface requirements that suppliers of equipment must conform to. We will leverage and extend from work performed on the Network Data Acquisition System (NDAS) for the Deployable Structures Experiment (DSX) to develop a core network infrastructure from which satellites could be rapidly configured, integrated, and tested. To address the space access aspect of the rapid-response problem, we will examine use of the EELV Secondary Payload Adapter (ESPA) capability as a platform for highly-capable small and medium free-flying satellites (or ESPASats) that have plentiful and relatively inexpensive launch opportunities on EELV as secondary payloads.

PLANNING SYSTEMS, INC. 12030 Sunrise Valley Dr, Suite 400, Reston Plaza I Reston, VA 20191
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 242-7840 Mr. Dan Cohen AF 04-037 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	General Purpose Payload Mount for Structural System Identification and Isolation
Abstract:	The Air Force has an operational need to launch satellites on demand for a variety of missions. One critical capability required to achieve this goal is the rapid fabrication and integration of satellites. As spacecraft designs increasingly emphasize small buses and large deployable payloads, it is critical to develop multi-purpose interfaces that can isolate the flexible dynamics of the payload from the bus attitude control system. It will also be crucial to have the capability to identify these payload dynamics during flight in order to diagnose anomalies as well as to verify and tune performance. To enable the rapid integration of payloads using this interface, its design must incorporate simple attachment methods and modular data communication features. We propose to design a general-purpose active payload mount that can be used as an excitation source and/or isolator for a general class of payload, with the Deployable Structures Experiment (DSX) deployed solar array (PowerSail) used as the reference mission for Phase I. Our design of the ISOHEX (ISOlating Hexapod EXciter) is founded on existing PSI technologies and capabilities that include experience in developing active isolation hardware, adaptive control algorithms, and networked data acquisition hardware performed for the DSX program.

ATA ENGINEERING, INC. 11995 El Camino Real, Suite 200 San Diego, CA 92130
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 792-3965 Dr. Paul Blelloch AF 04-038 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Controlling Stability and Load Limits of Aerodynamically Induced Forces on Very Large Assymetric Fairing Designs
Abstract:	The proposed program addresses the development of a very large asymmetric fairing that will allow considerably larger payloads to be launched than is currently possible with cylindrical fairings. This fairing would be usable on existing launch vehicles without extensive modifications of those launch vehicles and would minimize in-flight instability conditions, reduce lateral force induced peak stresses in the fairing, and minimize the effects on the launch vehicle GNC system. An analysis-driven design approach will be used to evaluate a series of geometric concepts for the fairing before selecting one for further development in a Phase II program. Extensive CFD analysis and shape optimization of these concepts will be carried out to identify one or two geometries which result in the desired aerodynamic and launch vehicle interface loads. The dynamic load response of these geometries will then be evaluated and a preliminary structural design defined. Panel flutter and buffet concerns will also be addressed. The result of this Phase I program will be a very large asymmetric fairing design concept which shows a very high probability of meeting all requirements and which can serve as the basis for a more detailed Phase II design effort, including prototype development.

NIELSEN ENGINEERING & RESEARCH, INC. 605 Ellis Street, Suite 200 Mountain View, CA 94043
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(650) 968-9457 Dr. Robert E. Childs AF 04-038 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Large Asymmetric Launch Vehicle Payload Fairing
Abstract:	This work seeks to develop the technology needed to launch oversized payloads using nonconventional asymmetric payload fairings. These fairing present significant challenges with respect to stability and control, structural integrity, and payload environment. The Phase I effort will involve preliminary feasibility evaluation work in several key areas. Aerodynamic optimization of the fairing shape and a stability analysis will be performed. The need for nonconventional aerodynamic controls will be assessed. The weigh of a suitably strong fairing will be estimated. The technologies needed to address all technical challenges of this concept will be identified and evaluated for suitability.

PLANNING SYSTEMS, INC. 12030 Sunrise Valley Dr, Suite 400, Reston Plaza I Reston, VA 20191
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 242-7840 Mr. Dan Cohen AF 04-039 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	A Statistical Approach to Advanced Space Technology Cost Estimation: Modeling the Stochastic Component of the Projected Cost
Abstract:	The advancement of space systems and technology to a large extent depends on our ability to cost-effectively progress from early technology conceptualization to development, maturation and implementation. While advanced space technology development is almost always a risky endeavor, it is critical to be able to asses the risks, costs, and benefits associated with these efforts. History has shown that it is often very difficult to accurately estimate the cost of such development activities. The ability to accurately estimate the cost of space technology programs, as a function of Technology Readiness Level (TRL), is key to effective cost and risk management of such activities. The underlying assumption for the proposed effort is that the overall cost of a complex project has a strong stochastic component, which originates from many unaccountable factors, such as human productivity, synergistic and nonlinear effects, external interference, and many others effects. Therefore we propose to look at the space technology development cost estimation problem from the statistical point of view, i.e. to treat the evolution of the project cost as a process with a stochastic component.

NORTHWEST RESEARCH ASSOC., INC. P.O. Box 3027 Bellevue, WA 98009
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(603) 889-3661 Dr. Susan Rao AF 04-040 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Plasmaspheric and Enhanced Ionospheric Total Electron Content Monitoring
Abstract:	The integrated charge density through the ionosphere and plasmasphere along a line-of-sight, denoted Total Electron Content (TEC), is a quantity that influences the operation of various radio-frequency systems. Measurement of TEC is utilized in order to assess environmental or system impacts, with possibilities for correction or mitigation. The current primary source of TEC measurements is dual-frequency Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver systems. These measurements contain contributions from the ionosphere and the plasmasphere, as well as biases arising from instrumental sources. While plasmasphere charge densities are considerably less than those of the ionosphere, the large extent of the plasmasphere can produce a significant integrated contribution relative to that of the ionosphere. The instrumental biases can be of any magnitude. To achieve highly accurate TEC measurements, of the order of one TEC unit (1016 electrons/m2 for the integrated charge density), a highly accurate calibration technique, to eliminate the bias effects from the GPS TEC measurements, is required. Developments of a mathematical technique, based on observed characteristics of the ionosphere, have presented the opportunity for conducting separate measurements of the ionosphere and plasmasphere contributions to TEC. This proposal presents efforts to be undertaken for further developments and validation of this technique.

SCION ASSOC. 439 Fillmore Street Port Townsend, WA 98368
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(408) 530-9751 Mr. Peter Ning AF 04-041 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Distributed Optical Imaging of the Upper Atmosphere
Abstract:	Optical imaging of sub-visual emissions is an invaluable tool to study the upper atmosphere. A distributed network of all-sky imagers, preferably with overlapping coverage, can monitor and feed real-time data to forecast space weather and tropospheric phenomena. Establishing these networks has been limited by cost and deployment logistics. Traditional research grade low-light level imagers were often custom built, bulky, and required expensive components to meet their sensitivity and scientific requirements. An innovative all-sky imager designed for production and exploiting modern advances in sensor and computer technologies should significantly make it affordable while retaining sub-visual sensitivity and simultaneous imaging at multiple wavelengths necessary for scientific applications. A functional prototype will be built with no moving parts and use COTS based embedded computing components designed for reliability, low power, and ruggedized field operation. GPS and environmental sensors will monitor instrument health and position. Open source platform-independent software will be utilized for both stand alone and remote network modes of operation. Live automated all-sky images and instrument status are to be displayed over the network to any web browser, demonstrating a low-cost solution to support a distributed network of imagers are both logistically and economically viable.

YANKEE ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS, INC. 101 Industrial Blvd. Turners Falls, MA 01376
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(413) 863-0200 Mr. Mark C. Beaubien AF 04-041 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Distributed Optical Imaging of the Upper Atmosphere
Abstract:	This proposal describes an automatic sky imager capable of remotely and automatically imaging sub-visual optical emissions from the atmosphere. The USAF is charged with monitoring space weather, as well as modeling and forecasting space weather phenomena including equatorial plumes, auroral arcs, or polar cap patches. Surface observations are one of the few means available to determine upper atmospheric conditions over large regions. While space weather forecasts exist, they are frequently inaccurate and real time observations remain critical to assessing the earth-space environment. Ground-based environmental imaging systems are affordable, flexible, and accessible compared to space-based instruments, but are currently limited in operational utility primarily by tropospheric weather conditions and light sensitivity. If the field of view of a ground-based upper atmospheric imager is greater than the decorrelation distance for terrestrial cloud cover, a network of multiple imagers distributed many km apart, but with overlapping fields of view, could provide high-quality real-time space environment information. When favorable conditions allow for multiple overlapping observations, such a network could also provide products including tomographic reconstructions, ionospheric drift measurements, unambiguous emission heights, neutral density determinations, detection of clouds, and wind speed at the cloud base, a feat that currently requires costly radiosonde launches.

ADVANCED SCIENCE & NOVEL TECHNOLOGY 28119 Ridgefern Court Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 377-6029 Dr. Vladimir Bratov AF 04-042 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Multi-channel, bi-directional, user-programmable, radiation-hardened, high-speed voltage level converter.
Abstract:	Expandability and upgrade abilities of commercial and military command and control electronic systems are extremely important to minimize cost and efforts required for integration of novel components and subsystems into existing infrastructures. Voltage level converters are the key components for integration of subsystems operating from different voltage baselines. Their importance increases with migration of modern electronics to lower supply voltages in attempts to reduce the power consumption. Though approaches to interconnection of different input/output interfaces are well developed, the design of a universal level converter presents a great challenge due to poor compatibility of these interfaces not only in voltage levels but also in termination schemes, operational speed and other major parameters. Spacecraft and military applications require radiation-hardened devices, which further complicates the task by limiting the applicable technological and schematic decisions. We propose a novel concept of single-chip universal electronic voltage level converter based on proprietary level shifting technique and reconfigurable input/output buffers controlled by a special tri-level switching logic, implemented in a radiation-hardened technological process. The unique combination of these features leads to realization of user-programmable, low-power, bi-directional, radiation-hardened universal converter with speed characteristics defined only by activated input/output devices.

NVE CORP. (FORMERLY NONVOLATILE ELECTRONICS, INC. 11409 Valley View Road Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(952) 829-9184 Mr. Erik Lange AF 04-042 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Rad-Hard Reconfigurable Level Shifters
Abstract:	As new technologies trend towards lower supply voltages to reduce power consumption at higher speeds their interfaces become less compatible with older legacy systems. In space electronics the challenge is greater since components and systems must also be radiation hardened. Therefore, there exists a need for unique radiation hardened interface devices that transparently convert from one type of electrical interface to another. This phase I program investigates the feasibility of developing fully integrated reconfigurable radiation-hardened level shifters. The program identifies old and new I/O standards common to the space industry and from these develops a component design specification. Radiation hard fabrication processes and techniques are investigated. Finally, feasibility is demonstrated through circuit design and analysis. A novel galvanic isolation technology employing on-chip coils and magnetoresistive sensing elements is introduced. This technology is inherently rad-hard and simplifies the level shifter design. A variety of reconfigurable I/O circuits compatible with this isolator technology is evaluated. Component designs are finalized and integrated circuit layout performed per the design rules of the selected fabrication process. Fabrication will occur as part of the Phase II follow-on effort.

SPACE MICRO, INC. 12872 Glen Circle Road Poway, CA 92064
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 487-9295 Mr. David J. Strobel AF 04-042 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Rad-Hard Reconfigurable Level Shifters
Abstract:	With the rapid move away from the long held industry standard of 5 Volt level logic, it has become increasingly more difficult to manufacture, support, maintain and interface to legacy hardware. Most affected are industries with very long life cycles such as the military, power generation and telecommunications. It affects industries where regulatory requirements make it difficult to make hardware changes without re-qualification such as the aircraft and medical industries. It also means that many devices for military and space applications with established reliability and behavior are either no longer available or have become difficult to interface to with more current technology. The primary objective of Phase I is to create in silicon, a breadboard design that while not radiation hardened, or necessarily built in the optimum process, will demonstrate all the key functional and performance objectives. This will provide proof of concept and provide a roadmap to Phase II for fabricating a radiation hardened version in an optimal HBD COTS wafer fabrication process.

ALPHION CORP. 4 Industrial Way West, 3rd Floor Eatontown, NJ 07724
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(732) 676-7070 Dr. Boris B. Stefanov AF 04-043 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	High Bandwidth Optoelectronic Data Interfaces for Satellites
Abstract:	This SBIR Phase I project proposes the feasibility study of integrated all-optical 2R regeneration and 3R optical signal regeneration devices for use as high-speed interfaces in satellite applications (solicitation AF04-043). Currently available products achieve regeneration of signals by resorting to Optical to Electrical and then Electrical to optical conversion (OEO), which results in costly, bulky, format and bit-rate dependent electronics. The suggested approach consists in using original concepts based on monolithic integration of semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOAs) and resonant Distributed Feedback (DFB) lasers with Mach-Zehnder Interferometer (MZI) structures to achieve the re-amplification, re-shaping, clock-recovery and re-timing of optical signals. The project will evaluate the performance requirements and trade-offs for Photonic 2R (P2R), Photonic Clock Recovery (PCR), and Photonic 3R (P3R) devices for use in high-speed applications. Detailed consideration will be given to application-specific requirements stemming from the requirements of the emerging transformational communications architecture (TCA). The reliable operation of the proposed devices in harsh environments typical of space applications will be evaluated as well. A prototype P2R module will be delivered at the conclusion of the project.

OPEL 22 Quail Run Road Storrs/Mansfield, CT 06268
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(860) 486-3466 Dr. Jianhong Cai AF 04-043 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	High Bandwidth Optoelectronic Data Interfaces for Satellites
Abstract:	Satellite data interfaces require optoelectronics for lower power, higher speed and radiation-hard components. The highest speed function is the transponder consisting of the photoreceiver ( detector , TIA and decision circuit), the clock and data recovery (CDR) circuit consisting of a phase locked loop incorporating a voltage controlled oscillator (VCO) and a deserializer circuit. When implemented with state-of-the-art integrated circuits, the power dissipation is excessively high (typical numbers are 5W at 40GB/s). Achieving low jitter with known VCO circuit designs is very difficult . OPEL proposes a novel solution based upon an optoelectronic thyristor combined with integrated complementary electronics. The thyristor is a four terminal device electronically but it is thresholded optically. The unique ability to perform as both a laser (the on state) and an optical switch (the off state) enables a novel optoelectronic oscillator (OEO) with extremely low pulse jitter associated with optical path delay. By combining the OEO with a second thyristor performing in the role of a phase discriminator, the complete photoreceiver and CDR function are implemented with approximately 15 components and a total dissipation of less than 30mW. This SBIR program will develop the integrated optoelectronic circuit to achieve a fully functional transponder at 40GB/s.

GRATINGS, INC. 2700-B Broadbent Pkwy., NE Albuquerque, NM 87107
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 345-9564 Dr. Saleem H. Zaidi AF 04-044 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Low Voltage, High Current Nanoscale Si Field Emission Arrays for Operation in Air
Abstract:	This phase I SBIR proposal addresses development of low voltage (< 10 V), high current (~ 10 æA/tip) nanoscale Si field emission deveices capable of operating at atmospheric pressure. Earlier work has demonstrated the feasibility of low-voltage operation in air, however, either the currents were too low (~ 10 nA/tip), or separation between cathode and anode was > few æms. We propose application of nanofabrication methods to form closely spaced arrays of Si field emitters (tips and wedges). Using reactive ion etching, wet-chemical etching, and hermal oxidation, the tip radius is reduced to ~ few nms and cathode-anode separation to ~ 50-250 nm range. Since, the mean free path of electrons in air is ~ 250 nm, this separation coupled with emitter radius will allow low-voltage operation in air at high current. Vertical and lateral field emission devices are proposed. Wherass vertical devices use conventional nanofabrication methodology, the lateral device configuration incorporates an innovative configuration comprising of vertically stacked independently controlled emitters to significantly enhance current per unit area. Finally, these structures can serve as templates for cold cathode emitters by suitable deposition of metal and removal of Si.

QXWAVE, INC. 1313 Goddard SE Albuquerque, NM 87106
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 980-2620 Dr. Tony Long AF 04-044 Awarded: 15APR04
Title:	Field Emitters by Nanovacuum GaN Pyramids
Abstract:	The III-V nitrides with outstanding thermal and chemical stability are promising materials systems for vacuum microelectronics and field emission devices applications such as Flat Panel Displays (FPD) because of their high emission current, long life time, negative electron affinity, ability of n-type doping, high temperature and irradiation-resistance. The objective of this proposal is to grow and characterize wide band semiconductors GaN/AlGaN/BN nanoscale tips on nanopatterned Si-wafer by MOVPE. Vacuum electronics devices such as Flat Panel Displays will be demonstrated by GaN tip arrays. Nanopatterned Si-wafers will be employed as substrates for growth of GaN nanoscale tips. The nanometer pads for selective growth will significantly reduce the dislocation defects of grown films. The larger area of nanpatterned Si wafer area plus the ability of integration with Si microelectronics also will significantly reduce the cost of manufacture. The Scanning Electronic Microscope, Atomic Force Microscope and X-ray will be used to characterize the crystalline and microstructure of the tips. Electrical testing of I-V emission Fowler-Nordheim (F-P) relationship for the emitters is performed in high vacuum chamber. Successful accomplishment of Phase I will lead to a follow-on Phase II effort where further development and commercialization of devices such as Flat Panel Displays will take place.

21ST CENTURY TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 11675 Jollyville Road, Suite 300 Austin, TX 78759
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(512) 342-0010 Dr. Paula deWitte AF 04-051 Awarded: 20MAY04
Title:	Pattern Recognition for Aircraft Maintainer Troubleshooting
Abstract:	A significant maintenance problem is to prescribe the best corrective action for a problem; thus requiring a system to be capable of reasoning about a history of symptoms and corrective actions. Considerable time and cost savings could occur if maintainers were provided with the best corrective action given a problem. Since much of the symptoms and corrective actions are recorded as free-form text, a solution must be able to interpret that text, reason about the knowledge presented in the text, and select the best corrective action. COLLT (Computational Language and Learning Tool) will be a robust and extensible natural language and learning technology for CAMS that re-uses the Corrective Actions based on the same or similar Discrepancy. COLLT is built on computational linguistics, inductive logic programming, and machine learning technologies. COLLT derives normalized representations of the discrepancy/corrective action fields from CAMS and uses these to pattern match between Corrective Actions and Discrepancies. These normalized representations form the example set where machine-learning algorithms can compute generalizations about discrepancies and corrective actions based on CAMS. Hence, COLLT becomes more proficient over time. This innovative integration of technologies will result in a significant new capability for the aircraft maintainer in identifying the appropriate course of action.

DESIGN INTELLIGENCE, INC. 8901 72nd St. Noble, OK 73068
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(405) 514-7365 Mr. James L. Grimsley AF 04-051 Awarded: 08JUN04
Title:	Pattern Recognition for Aircraft Maintainer Troubleshooting
Abstract:	The CAMS/GO-81 databases contain massive amounts of historical maintenance data that is unusable in the present form. The primary barrier to effectively using this data for troubleshooting purposes is the "free form" nature of the text fields that describe discrepancies and corrective actions. These text fields contain a wide array of "noisy" data and artifacts that prevent the effective query and search of the database without pre-processing and filtering of the data. The proposed approach seeks to develop a system that functions as a middleware application and enables the maintainer to retrieve useful legacy data in a format that is most useful for the maintenance environment. By using a data mining approach that is a hybrid collection of artificial intelligence (AI) techniques along with concepts from the field of natural language processing (NLP) it is possible to extract useful information from CAMS/GO-81. A combined hybrid approach is proposed since no single technique alone will provide the functionality that is necessary. The proposed approach will enable the Air Force to leverage this legacy data and to deploy a system that will evolve in strength as the system "learns" from the maintainers cognitive processes.

D & R TECHNICAL SOLUTIONS, INC. 28 Washington Avenue Endicott, NY 13760
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(607) 754-2200 Mr. Darren Ashman AF 04-052 Selected for Award
Title:	Integrated Repair Level Analysis (RLA) Agent Technology
Abstract:	The effort will consist of all activities required to identify the relevant elements that will be used to develop a current, state of the art, repair level analysis model. The next generation model will supersede the current USAF NRLA model and will be used to help determine the appropriate maintenance concept for USAF equipment. The effort will include reviewing existing and in-process models to determine the best approach to meeting the primary objective as well as the development of the prototype concept.

CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. 625 Mount Auburn Street Cambridge, MA 02138
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 491-3474 Dr. Subrata K. Das AF 04-053 Awarded: 11MAY04
Title:	Effects-based Evaluation of Logistics Capabilities
Abstract:	Logistics capabilities are essential for the outcome of military campaigns, yet they often remain difficult to assess and integrate in the operational decision-making process. In response to this challenge, we propose a framework for the Effects-based Evaluation of Logistics Capabilities, which will quantify critical logistic factors based on their effect at the operational level. Specifically, we will conduct a detailed domain analysis and knowledge acquisition to describe current processes, methods, and criteria used to convey the availability of logistic capabilities to operational decision-makers, we will uncover difficulties encountered by logistics planners in making operational commanders aware of critical constraints and opportunities, and we will analyze the terms under which operational leaders and planners would be able to easily assimilate and integrate logistic criteria into their decisions. We will then assess a range of qualitative decision-support formalisms which support the assessment of logistic decisions and capabilities in operational dimensions under incomplete and/or uncertain information conditions specific to military engagements. We will propose visualization techniques to make the logistic effects easy to assimilate by operational planners, and we will present a functional architecture to implement the overall approach. The feasibility will be assessed based on the implementation of selected functional components.

KELLEY'S LOGISTICS SUPPORT SYSTEMS, INC. 2091 Exchange Court Fairborn, OH 45324
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 879-3483 Mr. Michael Clark AF 04-053 Awarded: 21MAY04
Title:	Quantification of Logistics Capabilities
Abstract:	The objective of this proposal is to provide theatre and headquarters level logistics planners with an efficient, effective, and highly repeatable method of relating logistics capabilities to operational capabilities. When logistics challenges arise, planners cannot accurately assess the impact these challenges will have on their operational taskings and often have to use inefficient methods to overcome any logistics deficiencies. Planners need a tool that allows them to easily translate operational requirements into specific logistics needs and also be able to assign values to those logistics capabilities needed to support an operational end item such as bombs on target or Army Divisions in place. These values will then assist planners in prioritizing logistics movements and provide insight into likely shortfalls in operational requirements resulting from logistics challenges. KLSS proposes to develop a set of algorithms that will allow for a translation of logistics capabilities into operational capabilities. It will be a rule-based set of algorithms providing a commonly accepted set of weights to the various portions of logistics. These rules will utilize a value-centered approach to provide an adaptable set of operational capabilities based upon changing logistics constraints.

KELLEY'S LOGISTICS SUPPORT SYSTEMS, INC. 2091 Exchange Court Fairborn, OH 45324
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 879-3483 Mr. Steven T. Powers AF 04-054 Awarded: 11MAY04
Title:	Weapon System Design Simulation
Abstract:	System Program Offices (SPOs) and System Managers at Air Logistics Centers (ALCs) have a need to evaluate design alternatives and quantify life cycle costs. Most development opportunities seek to increase operational capability, correct a known problem and/or increase reliability. Each design alternative carries with it life cycle cost implications which include the cost of logistics and maintenance. A tool is needed which will provide these program offices with ways to evaluate these alternatives before monies are spent on acquisition. KLSS proposes to develop a design prediction model that can support SPO logisticians in evaluating various design decision alternatives for new weapon systems and for upgrading existing weapon system components. The tool will utilize the latest technology and, when applicable, COTS and existing tools, and be built with enough flexibility to evaluate alternatives at any level of fidelity needed. The tool will allow for the evaluation of the impact of design alternatives on logistics and maintenance requirements, as well as the impact of logistics resource availability on the design requirements. KLSS proposes to use our existing simulation model, SIMFORCE, in Phase I to provide initial information on the impact of design alternatives on operational and maintenance needs.

TECHNOSOFT, INC. 11180 Reed Hartman Highway Cincinnati, OH 45242
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(513) 985-9877 Mr. Adel Chemaly AF 04-054 Awarded: 01JUN04
Title:	Software Framework for Modeling and Simulation of Weapon Systems Design and Logistics
Abstract:	An innovative modeling and simulation framework is proposed. It captures the operation aspects of a weapon system logistics in support of design optimization for life cycle maintenance, support, and cost management. It facilitates trade studies to evaluate the effectiveness, affordability, and performance of the design and technology alternative of a weapon system. It employs an underlying object-oriented architecture supporting the rapid development of detailed process models, integrated with product design, enabling the assessment of the operational implications of design alternatives through simulation. Discrete events with prescribed distribution can be incorporated to assess uncertainties in model operations, the resulting states, and the requirement for sustainment through out the life cycle of the system. Ultimately it supports design evaluation and optimization at all the stages of the product engineering life cycle - design, production, deployment, and support. The functional specification of the modeling and simulation environment will be developed through the detailed study of the air force and DoD logistics requirement for weapon deployment and life cycle sustainment and cost management. Ultimately, it aids in the strategic design decision for design optimization and logistics planning, resulting in improved system performance with significant reduction in cost of weapon system acquisition and ownership.

KELLEY'S LOGISTICS SUPPORT SYSTEMS, INC. 2091 Exchange Court Fairborn, OH 45324
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 879-3483 Mr. Richard D. Iannacchione AF 04-055 Awarded: 07MAY04
Title:	Maintenance Mentoring
Abstract:	The objective of this proposal is to identify data display technologies and define requirements for the graphical user interface (GUI) of an enhanced interactive maintenance mentoring job aid. The GUI design will address the following capabilities: adapt to the user's skill and experience level, provide interactive instructions to the user on how to troubleshoot and repair a problem, and provide insight to the user on the decision points that are taken into consideration during the troubleshooting and repair process. Solutions will be developed by working closely with Human Factors engineers and psychologists, system experts, and functional experts. KLSS proposes to meet the Maintenance Mentoring objectives by developing an initial concept design and modeling key elements of an interactive electronic maintenance mentoring job aid during Phase I of this effort. KLSS will also provide a prototype of the tool and work with AFRL/HEAL to identify a command sponsor to transition the technology. With approval from AFRL/HEAL, KLSS proposes to work closely with the Aircraft Maintenance Intuitive Troubleshooting (AMIT) team in all research and development associated with this SBIR. We feel that this work will be a significant risk reducer for the AMIT project by providing initial design concepts for the GUI.

PHYSICAL OPTICS CORP. 20600 Gramercy Place, Bldg. 100 Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 320-3088 Dr. Tin Aye AF 04-056 Awarded: 13MAY04
Title:	Optical Amplifier Based on Liquid Crystal Holographic Fabry-Perot Etalon
Abstract:	To address the need for an optical amplifier for advanced night vision systems, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new device based on Amplifiction of Light by Liquid Crystal Etalon (ALLICE). This device will be based on a holographic Fabry-Perot etalon with an optically sensitive dye-doped liquid crystal cavity, which will react to NIR radiation but will be largely unaffected by visible light. The two Fabry-Perot Bragg reflectors will be produced holographically using a coherently coupled recording technique, which ensures that any variation in the LC modulating medium is compensated for in the holographic mirrors, allowing high etalon finesse and contrast without expensive, bulky, and heavy optical plates. This will result in a device with high spatial resolution and spectral selectivity, overcoming the drawbacks of the image intensifier tubes, and allowing see-through for most of the cockpit light. In Phase I, POC will demonstrate the feasibility of ALLICE through modeling and system design, culminating in a proof-of-concept demonstration. System characteristics such as size, weight, power requirements, sensitivity, gain, dynamic range, and image quality will be analyzed. In Phase II, POC will develop a prototype optical amplifier that will be demonstrated in the laboratory and in the field.

ZIVA CORP. 6160 Lusk Blvd, C-206 San Diego, CA 92121
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 550-0596 Dr. Pengyue Wen AF 04-056 Awarded: 04MAY04
Title:	Optical Amplifier for Night Vision Imaging
Abstract:	Ziva proposes to identify the most promising optical technology for imaging under low illumination conditions which does not suffer from the inherent problems of the image intensifier tube. The resulting improved image quality and the ability to be adaptable to a wide range of wavelengths promise to make this technology broadly applicable not only to military applications but also to the civilian sector in applications ranging from astronomy to medicine, law enforcement and homeland security. Ziva's novel approach uses Vertical Cavity Semiconductor Amplifiers(VCSOA) in a unique configuration called Semiconductor Optical Image Amplifier (SOIA). This approach not only allows a dramatic reduction in the amplifier array size but also radically reduces the overall power consumption and enhances the image quality compared to conventional approaches. Under this program Ziva proposes to study the feasibility of using VCSOA device arrays as effective pixel or pixel array amplifiers to improve the system performance of next generation Night Vision Imagers. The device design tradeoff and array related device issues are the focus of this study. We also propose to experimentally demonstrate the feasibility of using one VCSOA to amplify a small image pixel array and analyze system design tradeoff in Phase I.

NANOSONIC, INC. P.O. Box 618 Christiansburg, VA 24068
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(540) 953-1782 Ms. Sabrina Hannah AF 04-057 Awarded: 03MAY04
Title:	Self-Assembled Nanoporous Anti-Reflective Coatings for Image Intensifier Tubes
Abstract:	The proposed Air Force SBIR program would develop antireflective coatings for image intensifier tube faceplates. Such coatings would improve the performance of military night vision devices by allowing more light to enter the image intensifier tube and simultaneously reducing the "veiling luminance" caused by light scattering. NanoSonic Inc. has extensive experience in the manufacturing of thin film coatings using electrostatic self-assembly (ESA). The ESA process, licensed by NanoSonic, is a low cost and environmentally benign process allowing deliberate control of film properties at the molecular level. Recently, NanoSonic researchers have successfully applied ESA to prepare nanoporous films having effective refractive indices in the range of 1.2 to 1.5. Due to their low and controllable refractive indices, such materials are ideal for use in antireflective coatings. Moreover, ESA is an ideal process for fabricating low index AR coatings directly on the faceplates of fully assembled image intensifier tubes. During Phase I NanoSonic would; apply various methods to fabricate nanoporous films and evaluate their optical and mechanical properties; develop and apply theoretical analysis capabilities to evaluate coating effects on image intensifier tube performance; and demonstrate design feasibility, including fabrication of prototype coatings, and estimation of life cycle cost.

21ST CENTURY SYSTEMS, INC. 12152 Windsor Hall Way Herndon, VA 20170
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(402) 212-7474 Mr. Jeffrey Hicks AF 04-058 Selected for Award
Title:	Exemplar-based Latent Semantic Analysis Rational-agent Ontological System (ELROS)
Abstract:	There is a need to automate training, performance evaluations, and knowledge formation for personnel but especially expeditionary forces. The immediacy and high levels of performance required of expeditionary forces can push training tools and techniques to their limits. In response to SBIR AF04-058, 21st Century Systems, Inc. is pleased to leverage our considerable agent-based decision support environment and knowledge representation expertise to rapidly develop an agent-based automated knowledge formation and training system using LSA and rational agent technology. Our system concept is entitled "ELROS", meaning an exemplar-based latent semantic analysis rational-agent ontological system. In our exemplar-based approach to LSA, a populated knowledge repository is used to boost the results of the LSA. Our exemplar-based approach goes beyond concept-based boosting approach by using modal perception categorization and belief statements. ELROS rational agents will provide ready-made training SME's to guide both trainers and trainees through their tasks and amplify their effectiveness by increasing the completion of the highest valuation of tasks first. ELROS rational agents will learn in a passive unsupervised manner, but can also be instructed. Rational agents are proxies for humans and take on their human's needs matrix to build and execute plans within ELROS.

APTIMA, INC. 12 Gill Street, Suite 1400 Woburn, MA 01801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 496-2486 Dr. Paul Allopenna AF 04-058 Awarded: 03JUN04
Title:	Probabilistic Latent Semantic Analysis of Verbal and Behavioral Data in Dynamic Mission Operations
Abstract:	Recent efforts to automatically assess cognitive state from communications data using Latent Semantic Analysis (LSA) have produced impressive results (Gorman, Foltz, et al., 2003; Freeman, Thompson, and Cohen, 2000). However, these efforts (1) leveraged only the linguistic data available in simulations, not the rich behavioral data (such as maneuvers, sensor use, and weapons use), and (2) they failed to use new advances on the LSA algorithm. We propose to combine linguistic and behavioral data as input to a recently developed, highly robust statistical technique - Probabilistic Latent Semantic Analysis (pLSA) - to assess performance in Distributed Mission Operations. In particular, we propose to develop a model of knowledge and skills associated with F16 and AWACS training. The proposed model will take linguistic and behavioral input in the form of verbal exercise communications and discrete behavioral measures. This integrated linguistic/behavioral model will output assessments of trainee knowledge and skills. It will be the foundation for the development, in Phase II, of a performance assessment module for the DMO entitled DECA2DE: Dynamic Embedded Communication & Action Assessment in Distributed Environments.

21ST CENTURY SYSTEMS, INC. 12152 Windsor Hall Way Herndon, VA 20170
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(775) 832-4407 Mr. Richard Flanagan AF 04-060 Awarded: 01JUN04
Title:	Team-based Aircraft Maintainer Support (TAMS)
Abstract:	Keeping the Air Force assets flying is difficult enough at depot level where there are extensive facilities and expert help but in austere environment these advantages aren't present. A recent innovation, the Portable Maintenance Aid (PMA), is a new tool to the help the human through these situations. PMAs are mobile computing devices that can be used at the point of maintenance and are becoming more widespread. PMAs range in size from hand-held devices weighing only ounces to bulky items weighing up to 25 pounds. There remain many issues including usability in the field, interoperability, cost, and more. In response to SBIR AF04-060, 21st Century Systems, Inc. is pleased to propose researching and developing a state-of-the-art maintenance support system. The concept is entitled "Team-based Aircraft-based Maintainer Support", or TAMS, System. TAMS provides the individual maintainer a virtual workshop of tools, manuals, and connections to remote team members while at the aircraft. The collaboration tools for multi-media interaction with technical experts located near or far away are avatars (a computer representation of a human). The virtual workshop with avatars provides an interpersonal session but greatly reduces the video requirements. Avatars can also spawn analysis tasks in support of the maintenance session.

CYBERNET SYSTEMS CORP. 727 Airport Boulevard Ann Arbor, MI 48108
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(734) 668-2567 Mr. Joseph Tesar AF 04-060 Awarded: 11MAY04
Title:	A Personal Virtual Collaborative Maintenance System (PVCMS)
Abstract:	This proposal describes a Portable Virtual Collaborative Maintenance System (PVCMS) that can support maintenance personnel in austere locations. Efficient communications between personnel is especially important when maintaining the complex machinery currently used by the military. In addition to technical documents and schematics, technicians frequently need support from other maintainers that have more experience with a given problem. Our proposed system will allow multiple technicians to collaborate on a technical problem, which is vital in an era of reduced manning. The PVCMS is termed "virtual" since collaboration takes place over wireless networks. Regardless of location, the technician has access to a variety of resources, ranging from central databases for technical bulletins to Interactive Electronic Technical Manuals (IETMs). Graphical data is displayed on handheld, high-resolution displays. The PVCMS ties the technician to existing data networks via wireless links, which provide the ability to dynamically access a central database of information. Most importantly, the technician can share real time audio and video with other personnel, which means that technicians with differing levels of knowledge and expertise can all share in the solution to the problem.

INSIGHT TECHNOLOGY, INC. 3 Technology Drive Londonderry, NH 03053
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(603) 626-4800 Mr. John Tantillo AF 04-061 Awarded: 05MAY04
Title:	Future Night Vision System
Abstract:	Trade studies will be completed on new sensors and microdisplays for the purpose of selecting candidate techologies for the Future Night Vision System. Optical and mechanical designs for a head-mounted system will be completed using the selected devices.

OPTICS 1, INC. 3050 E Hillcrest Drive, Suite 100 Westlake Village, CA 91362
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(603) 296-0469 Mr. John Hall AF 04-061 Awarded: 14MAY04
Title:	Future Night Vision System
Abstract:	The objective of this proposal is to design and develop a future night vision system (FNVS) that will incorporate advanced sensor, display, and other electro-optical technology within one, two, and four channel configurations. This type of system will not only enhance the warfighter's direct-view night vision capability but will also allow for simultaneous overlay of other sensor and symbology information provided by the aircraft or similar systems capable of supplying a proper electronic signal. Key considerations such as operational effectiveness and suitability will also be at the forefront of the FNVS design effort. For this reason the FNVS will be designed with state-of-the-art optical performance in a package that has an extremely low profile and weight. As a result, this type of system will be easily adaptable to many tasks for land, air, and maritime operation.

VOXTEL, INC. 12725 SW Millikan Way, Suite 300 Beaverton, OR 97005
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(503) 906-7906 Mr. George M. Williams AF 04-061 Awarded: 28MAY04
Title:	Future Night Vision System
Abstract:	In this Phase I SBIR program, a Voxtel, Inc. led team proposes to develop the design of an ultra-lightweight, future night vision imaging system. During Phase I, we will perform the necessary performance, anthropometric, reliability, and safety tradeoff analysis, and we will optimize an approach to realizing a lightweight new generation night vision system (NVS) using advanced sensor technology. Our approach, based on hybrid and solid-state night vision sensors and helmet-mounted displays, will provide war fighters with a lightweight new generation night vision system that can be a standalone device and accept onboard sensor imagery for information fusion so as to increase situational awareness.

INTELLIGENT AUTOMATION, INC. 7519 Standish Place, Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20855
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 294-5238 Dr. Chiman Kwan AF 04-062 Awarded: 11MAY04
Title:	Expanded Speech Recognition to Include Foreign Accents
Abstract:	Current speech interfaces in many military applications may be adequate for native English speakers. However, recognition rates drop for users with foreign accents. Non-native speakers demonstrate large temporal (duration of each phoneme) and intra-phoneme (exact shape of speech signal) variations when pronouncing the same words. This problem is compounded by the presence of environmental noises from tanks, helicopters, etc. Intelligent Automation, Inc., with Prof. Richard Stern of Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) propose a novel integrated system to improve speech recognition performance for people with foreign accents. It is emphasized that this team has rich experience in understanding the speech characteristics in non-native speakers. Some adaptations are needed to update speaker models for non-native speakers. The proposed system uses state-of-the-art techniques and consists of the following five parts: 1) a speech enhancement module to eliminate background noise; 2) a speaker verification algorithm to identify the speaker; 3) a speaker adaptation algorithm that uses a small training data set to update the speakers' models in both the speaker verification and the speech recognition areas; 4) a speech recognition system to recognize speech; and 5) a speech coding module to compress speech for storage or transmission.

PERL RESEARCH LLC 4800 Whitesburg Drive #30-136 Huntsville, AL 35802
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(256) 651-8169 Mr. Paul G. Cox AF 04-062 Selected for Award
Title:	Expanded Speech Recognition to Include Foreign Accents
Abstract:	PERL Research, LLC proposes to design and implement a computationally efficient algorithm to recognize a particular foreign accent. This algorithm will map the input speech on to a normalized speech that is highly recognizable by one of the most widely used off-the-shelf speech recognition systems such as IBM ViaVoice, Dragon NaturallySpeacking, Philips FreeSpeech, or L&H Voice Express. Although our initial algorithm is intended to recognize Russian accent, with additional research, it could be improved to include additional accents, speaker authentication, and improving real-time communication across foreign language. In addition, research will be performed on feasibility of mapping a normalized speech to a particular accent.

ATMOSPHERIC GLOW TECHNOLOGIES 924 Corridor Park Dr. Knoxville, TN 37932
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(865) 777-3776 Dr. Kimberly Kelly-Wintenberg AF 04-063 Selected for Award
Title:	New Decontamination for Aircraft Cargo Interior
Abstract:	Atmospheric Glow Technologies proposes to develop the Plasma Agent Neutralization Elimination (PLANE) System based upon its patented One Atmosphere Uniform Glow Discharge Plasma (OAUGDP) technology. When developed, this advanced design will serve as a stand-alone system for decontamination of large frame aircraft and assoicated cargo. AGT has demonstrated the success of the OAUGDP in decontaminatng various substrates against biological and chemical warfare simulants. Phase I efforts will focus on decontamining materials common to cargo and aircraft (including sensitive materiels) with PLANE technology in an open environment. Work will also focus upon examining the material for any changes following atmospheric plasma exposure.

DIRECTED ENERGY SOLUTIONS 14230 Timberedge Lane Colorado Springs, CO 80921
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(719) 593-2408 Dr. Jeffrey W. Bacon AF 04-063 Selected for Award
Title:	Prototype Singlet Delta Oxygen Decontmination Device For Aircraft Cargo Interior
Abstract:	Directed Energy Solutions (DES) proposes to deliver a prototype portable decontamination device which delivers high concentrations and fluxes of molecular singlet delta oxygen (SDO) for rapid decontamination of interior spaces. SDO, which has a lifetime of 0.1 - 0.25 seconds in air, is entrained in nitrogen and projected through a wand, allowing the decontamination of inaccessible spaces. SDO is noncorrosive and may be used on sensitive equipment. DES will leverage its expertise in the generation of high concentrations of SDO to build and test a prototype device in Phase I.

FOSTER-MILLER, INC. 350 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02451
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 684-4439 Mr. Christos Athanassiu AF 04-063 Selected for Award
Title:	Aircraft Cargo Space Decontamination Using an Electrostatic Aerosol Decontamination (ECADS) Process
Abstract:	Decontaminating large aircraft cargo interiors poses unique challenges. The large volume requires a decon system that can effectively address all of the complex cargo surfaces. The solution can't endanger the personnel using it, nor impact on-board equipment, cargo, or aircraft structure. Logistical implications demand ease of transport to address needs around the world. Foster-Miller, with EnviroSystems and others, offers demonstration of an available decon process for near-term biological threats, and a development program aimed at a complete range of chemical and biological threats. The program addresses each challenge to large aircraft cargo interior decon. The system employs Foster-Miller's Electrostatically Charged Aerosol Decontamination (ECAD) technology delivering a biocide called EcoTru, which is both safe to humans and non-corrosive. Phase I provides the Air Force with a ready means of addressing threats posed by the majority of biological agents. Demonstration of this capability is combined with development efforts addressing critical issues of effectiveness, safety, transportability and system design to meet requirements for effective rapid, single decon application. Phase I prepares for continued development in Phase II which expands the safe, non-corrosive decon approach to a broad range of biological and chemical reagents and develops the large aircraft interior delivery system. (P-040176)

PHYSICAL OPTICS CORP. Photonic Sys Div, 20600 Gramercy Place, Bldg 100 Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 320-3088 Dr. Gregory Zeltser AF 04-063 Selected for Award
Title:	Cold Plasma Decontaminator
Abstract:	To meet the Air Force need for decontamination, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to design and develop a novel Cold Plasma Decontaminator (CPD) for use in aircraft cargo interiors without affecting the aircraft or its contents, and that can be applied in 15 minutes or less and not require reapplication. The novel CPD discharges a nonthermal, ambient-pressure plasma in an effluent stream of highly reactive chemical species carried by dehumidified air. The key innovation is preionization of the ambient air, decreasing dielectric barriers to triggering the glow plasma discharge. Preliminary theoretical analysis shows that high concentration of the reactive species in the outflowing air plus the high permeability of the aircraft cargo materials to air will make it possible to achieve the Air Force required efficiency of decontamination, equal to off-gassing of the chem-bio agents at rates less than 0.0018 mg-min-m3 (GD), 0.018 mg-min-m3 (HD), and 0.00061 mg-min-m3 (VX). In Phase I, POC will design and fabricate a CPD benchtop prototype for a laboratory proof-of-concept demonstration of destroying chemical and biological agent simulants. In Phase II, POC will develop and test a system prototype capable of decontaminating a full aircraft cargo interior in a short time without need for reapplication.

COMPUTER GRAPHICS SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT CORP. 2483 Old Middlefield Way #140 Mountain View, CA 94043
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(650) 903-4922 Mr. Roy latham AF 04-064 Selected for Award
Title:	Algorithms for Run-Time Terrain Deformation
Abstract:	Traditionally, the terrain surface has been accepted as "truth" and features have been forced to conform to the terrain surface. The features are changed in elevation to conform to the surface. However, the locations of key features related to targeting may be known with greater accuracy than the underlying terrain surface. Target data may be time-critical so that the off-line processing is unacceptably time consuming. In this study, the objective is to identify and demonstrate real time algorithms that meet the constraints of (a) adjusting the terrain surface to meet the specified features, (b) appearing smooth and continuous so that the adjustments appear natural, (c) not distorting aspects of the database that must be preserved, and (d) accommodate adding terrain as in becomes viewable without changing terrain currently in view. A protoype algorithm is discussed, and an open source implementation is proposed.

DIAMOND VISIONICS LLC 400 Plaza Drive, Suite-A, PO Box 1276 Vestal, NY 13851
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(607) 729-8526 Mr. Graham Upton AF 04-064 Awarded: 02JUN04
Title:	Algorithms for Run-Time Terrain Deformation
Abstract:	In recent years, the volume and accuracy of data available for use in synthetic environments has increased exponentially. Current tools and techniques for utilizing this data have not evolved at the same pace, however. Traditional approaches to database modeling still require a significant amount of manual effort. Although it is a seemingly simple and necessary task, currently available tools do not support making small changes at run-time to the topography to correlate with feature data. Furthermore, as new and better data becomes available, re-incorporating this data with existing tools is cumbersome and costly, often requiring large portions of a database to be regenerated. In cases where sensor databases are also required, the cost of regenerating correlated sensor-encoded databases must also be considered. Finally, traditional tools and techniques for database development do not scale with hardware advancements. As new hardware capabilities rapidly become available, databases must be regenerated to incorporate additional content in order to take advantage of these advancements. Diamond Visionics will provide useful solutions to address the challenges stated above based on our extensive background in the instant construction and deformation of databases for visual simulation. In Phase I, Diamond Visionics will develop a proof-of-concept PC-based IG capable of automatically adjusting topography to correlate with feature data where provided. This system will greatly reduce the amount of effort required to update the visual database as additional and improved data becomes available

SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY, INC. 13766 S. Hawthorne Blvd. Hawthorne, CA 90250
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 679-2281 Ms. Cecy Pelz AF 04-066 Selected for Award
Title:	Next Generation Visualization Tools for Mission Planning, Briefing and After Action Review
Abstract:	Systems Technology, Inc. proposes to create the Combat Airspace Visualization and Planning System (CAVAPS), a deployable battlespace visualization system that will run on PC-based notebook computers, under the Windows, operating system. This system will bridge the gap between 2D mission planning intelligence data and 3D flight simulation by importing flight planning data from the Portable Flight Planning System (PFPS) and displaying the data as 3D elements superimposed over a high fidelity 3D terrain model, providing out-of-the-cockpit pilotÝs eye-view and other views of the anticipated battlespace. In addition, CAVAPS will provide the ability to add simulated hostile and friendly air and ground forces to the visualized battlespace. CAVAPS will also accept flight data (i.e. aircraft trajectories, threat encounters, combat and other events) from completed simulations and display it in the same fashion, to enhance post-simulation mission analysis and debriefing. The Phase I work will result in system requirements for CAVAPS, as well as a concept demonstrator that will exhibit the feasibility of integrating the CAVAPS with existing mission planning tools and simulation databases. The concept demonstrator will also illustrate some of the added functionality that can be included in CAVAPS to enhance mission planning and rehearsal.

VISUAL TRAINING SOLUTIONS GROUP, INC. 620 Herndon Parkway , Suite 320 Herndon, VA 20170
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 464-5891 Mr. Frederick Rody AF 04-066 Selected for Award
Title:	Integrated Flight Mission Preparation System
Abstract:	Effective training for aviation combat missions requires a system that offers practice and feedback in all phases of employment: planning, rehearsal, execution and debriefing. It should build knowledge of all mission elements. It should be available when needed at the home bases and temporary airfields where aviators most need to rehearse critical missions. Current training rarely meets these requirements. Our objective is to create a software application that does. This project will prototype the integration of current preflight planning software tools with a PC based flight simulation. This is a first step towards a complete air combat mission preparation tool that will integrate flight planning information into 3D flight simulation for mission rehearsal and mission review. This project will also define measures of essential competencies in mission planning, highlight critical deficiencies that demand training or tool support, and define concepts for planning tools that can be built into the simulation system in Phase II.

INTELLIGENT SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY, INC. 3250 Ocean Park Boulevard, Suite 100 Santa Monica, CA 90405
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 581-5440 Dr. Azad M. Madni AF 04-067 Awarded: 02JUN04
Title:	DecisionEdgeT: Achieving Decision Dominance In Information Operations
Abstract:	Information superiority can be a source of potential advantage in warfare. To realize the benefits of information superiority, data and information need to be rapidly transformed into actionable knowledge, the key to decision superiority in Information Operations. Decision superiority requires a sound understanding of the C2 decisionmaking processes and the C2 information systems that support the decisionmaking process. This R&D effort is concerned with the design and development of a scenario-based interactive training system for C2 decisionmaking processes and C2 information systems usage. Phase I of this effort will demonstrate the feasibility of designing and developing this scenario-based process training system. This system will employ sound instructional strategies in teaching decision processes and C2 information system usage as they relate to the C2 political-military function.

KNOWLEDGE BASED SYSTEMS, INC. 1408 University Drive East College Station, TX 77840
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(979) 260-5274 Dr. Perakath Benjamin AF 04-067 Selected for Award
Title:	Battlespace Superiority Through Better Decision Making (SuperCision)
Abstract:	The goal of this effort is to design and successfully deploy the methods and tools to i) more accurately assess individual decision-making effectiveness, and ii) help train military decision makers to dramatically, and predictably, improve their decision-making skills . The envisioned tool supporting these capabilities is referred to as SuperCision, reflecting its support for Battlespace Superiority Through Better Decision Making. This technology will provide decision-makers with the decision-making skills needed for decisive victory. The approach involves the innovative use of Bayesian nets to determine key decision maker evaluation factors (e.g., decisiveness, situational awareness, avoidance of decision traps), evaluate decision maker areas of potential strength and weakness, generate specialized training and experience-building exercises, and predict expected decision-making performance from incremental investments in that training.

REFERENTIA SYSTEMS, INC. 4429 Malaai St., Suite #104 Honolulu, HI 96818
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(808) 423-1900 Mr. David Tribble AF 04-067 Awarded: 02JUN04
Title:	Developing A Dynamic And Effective Command And Control Decision Trainer (C2DT)
Abstract:	The objective of this proposal is to investigate the concept of a Command and Control Decision Trainer (C2DT) that would "wrap" a multi-student scenario-driven training system inside a user interface that simulates common command and control (C2) systems. This C2DT technology will allow military decision makers to practice and train on the processes required to achieve information and decision superiority using realistic scenarios that simulate the actual tools used to support decision making processes. The system will allow one or more students to assess a dynamic tactical picture on a C2 simulator and make decisions via the system's simulation environment, just as if it were an actual crisis situation using the actual decision support and information management tools. Different "skins" will be created as necessary to simulate the appropriate C2 systems. Student actions will be collected for scoring, review and playback, with the possibility of storing score and progress information in a Learning Management System (LMS). Instructors will be able to input various aspects of political-military scenarios, then monitor and control the evolution of the scenarios as necessary to maximize the learning value of training sessions on a per-user and a group basis.

CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. 625 Mount Auburn Street Cambridge, MA 02138
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 491-3474 Dr. Mark L. Hanson AF 04-068 Awarded: 03MAY04
Title:	Agent-based Satellite Attack Analysis System (ASAAS)
Abstract:	Recent military operations demonstrate the heavy reliance of U.S. military operations on space assets for intelligence, surveillance, communications, and targeting. Using anti-satellite methods such as lasers or kinetic energy vehicles, potential adversaries have the capability to attack space assets and severely degrade the U.S.'s military superiority. To maintain dominance, defensive counterspace techniques and attack detection algorithms are aggressively being developed. Due to the complexities and limitations in current techniques and algorithms, improved user work-centered interface systems are needed to assist operators in analyzing the provided information (e.g. interpreting neural network outputs) in order to decrease decision and reporting time, thereby by enabling operators to intelligently and efficiently filter data to verify the output of the detection algorithm. To address this problem, we propose to construct a prototype Agent-based Satellite Attack Analysis System (ASAAS) for satellite operators or national asset managers who are in off-nominal situations due to anti-satellite attacks. Our approach is to use a work-centered support system design that combines cognitive task analysis with intelligent agents. We see considerable potential for this approach in enhancing current and planned Air Force Rapid Attack Identification, Detection, and Reporting Systems (RAIDRS) approaches and technologies.

CHI SYSTEMS, INC. 1035 Virginia Drive, Suite 300 Fort Washington, PA 19034
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(215) 542-1400 Mr. Michael Szczepkowski AF 04-068 Awarded: 13MAY04
Title:	Intelligent WCSS for Counterspace, (IWC)
Abstract:	An increasing dependency on and criticality of space capabilities represents a significant and growing vulnerability. Defensive Counterspace Operations (DCS) to protect these capabilities against enemy threat are now a top DoD priority. In particular, attainment of DCS will require operators to fuse, analyze and exploit critical information from a wide array of sources within a large and complex network under dynamic and time-pressured conditions. As part of the process of developing USAF counterspace capabilities, it is necessary to develop workstations that are capable of supporting the operators who will perform the unique counterspace work. Rather than adapt legacy ground systems, this information-intensive job would benefit immensely from the adoption of new technologies for manipulating, interpreting, and managing information. CHI Systems proposes to develop a work-centered support system (WCSS) for counterspace operations that takes advantage of technology in ways that will optimally benefit operator effectiveness, focusing the human-computer interface on the work needs of the operator instead of the functionality of existing tools, databases, and other system components. CHI Systems proposes to develop this WCSS, called the Intelligent WCSS for Counterspace, or IWC, using a work-centered design methodology and toolkit based on 15 years of research and development of user interfaces.

THE DESIGN KNOWLEDGE CO. 1909 Bartley Road Dayton, OH 45414
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 602-8340 Dr. James R. McCracken AF 04-068 Awarded: 11MAY04
Title:	Work-Centered Support System for Counterspace Operations
Abstract:	The Design Knowledge Company, Inc (TDKC) and SRA, International, Inc. present a unique and commercially viable solution to the problem. Our Satellite Threat Evaluation Environment Development (STEED) program applies several innovative and key technologies to support development of tools for intelligence analysts. Specifically, we propose the application of TDKC knowledge of relevant programs such as RAIDRS and Satellite Toolkit, augmented by the knowledge and reach of our partner SRA within a Work-Centered System Support analysis approach to analyst work and TDKC's knowledge-based intelligent agent technology and proven cognitive engineering methods to develop usable tools for analysts.

APTIMA, INC. 12 Gill Street, Suite 1400 Woburn, MA 01801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 496-2451 Dr. Michael Garrity AF 04-069 Awarded: 02JUN04
Title:	M-PORTAL (Multi-Player Operational Readiness Trainer for Advanced Leadership)
Abstract:	The focus of this proposal is to create a model-based proof-of-concept for a scenario-based, on-demand trainer to enhance and extend current on-the-job training focused towards the development and maintenance of Operational Readiness in senior AOC leaders. The training will be based on an updated model of the leaders' work environment, the knowledge and skills needed to perform effectively in that environment, and will leverage lessons learned collected to date to provide content for a contextually rich scenario-based training. In Phase II a prototype trainer and effectiveness metrics for a single position, JFACC, will be developed and models and a detailed plan as to how to extend the trainer to include other key leadership positions such as (AOC-Director, Chief of Combat Ops, Chief of Combat Plans, Chief of Strategy, Chief of Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance, etc.) will be provided. Throughout the process, there will be a heavy reliance upon both existing documentation and SME review to ensure the appropriate levels of fidelity and accuracy of both content and context within the training environment.

MAK TECHNOLOGIES 185 Alewife Brook Parkway Cambridge, MA 02318
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(913) 758-1956 Mr. Jim Lunsford AF 04-069 Selected for Award
Title:	Enhancing Commanders' Cognitive Readiness at the Operational Level of War
Abstract:	Today's fast-paced, dynamic war environment is driving a requirement for a better training capability targeted at senior Air Force leaders in critical command & control (C2) positions, specifically the Joint Forces Air Component Commander (JFACC) and senior leaders within the Joint Air and Space Operations Center (JAOC). The Air Force needs, as a key component of a new instructional strategy, a realistic, interactive training simulation environment that can mimic the operational level of war while creating decision-making opportunities for these senior C2 leaders to gain experience prior to, and in conjunction with, on-the-job training. To solve this problem, MŽK Technologies will work with the Air Force and our supporting subcontractors, Zel Technologies LLC and Klein Associates, to design (Phase I) and develop (Phase II) a prototype training system that will provide easy access to lessons learned via a knowledge management system combined with an effective, realistic, PC-based training simulation environment to support improved senior leader operational C2 training.

MCDONALD RESEARCH ASSOC. 3452 Lake Lynda Drive, Suite 114 Orlando, FL 32817
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(407) 644-1900 Dr. Bruce McDonald AF 04-070 Selected for Award
Title:	Distributed Planning, Debriefing, and After-Action-Review Capability
Abstract:	The objective of this proposed program is to define the causes of reduced training effectiveness over long-haul lines and develop mission planning, debrief and AAR technology to mitigate or eliminate these problems. During this Phase I effort we will define the causes of reduced training effectiveness and develop a proof of principle demonstration of a sample of these technologies. In Phase II we will further define the proposed technologies, implement prototype mission planning, debrief and AAR technologies, conduct training effectiveness studies in long-haul training exercises, and modify the technologies and procedures based on test results. One way to conduct this project would be develop only the technology that is totally new and ask the user to evaluate its effectiveness as a stand-alone tool. Users often have trouble envisioning the functionality of the tool in a vacuum, leading to poor ratings of potentially useful approaches. We propose to take advantage of existing planning, debrief and AAR tools and develop innovative new technology to make these tools effective in the long-haul environment. Then when we ask users to evaluate the new technology, they will be able to appreciate its contribution to an effective package.

SDS INTERNATIONAL, INC. One Crystal Park, 2011 Crystal Drive, Suite 100 Arlington, VA 22202
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(407) 282-4432 Mr. Mathew Archer AF 04-070 Selected for Award
Title:	Distributed Planning, Debriefing, and after-action-review Capability
Abstract:	The aims and opportunities of the Joint-NEXWARS-Web-Module (J-NEXWARS) are to provide an effective capability for trainee collaboration in support of mission planning/briefing and/or trainee/instructor interaction for monitoring, debriefing and after-action-review of long-haul, distributed, computer-driven, simulations in support of team coordination training. Uniquely, OSD/AFRL and ONR/USMC support of integration of SDS' Decision-Skills-Training-Web-Module(DST-WM) and NEXWARS products already provides the foundational basis for near-term evolution of J-NEXWARS capacities. Currently, operational USA/USMC C2PC software interfaced to and augmented by DST-WM enhanced versions of the NEXWARS 3D-Viewer; Microsoft's Netmeeting; and GOTS Marine-Digital-Voice are provided as the baseline tools for trainee collaboration during USMC distributed mission planning/briefing, exercise monitoring and simultaneous replay of simulation exercises at geographically-separated sites including both the simulation visual display and selected trainee/instructor communications occurring during the exercise. This basis enables near-term development of advanced J-NEXWARS features such as new composite types of interactive control including jointly viewing live/simulation or replayed time-slices via master/multiple-slave shared 3D Stealths, web movies, snap-shots, timelines, and tables/graphs illustrating outcomes of mission planning and simulation training/rehearsal exercises. J-NEXWARS features-set also includes SMARTr board integration options, plus direct production from distributed exercises of Advanced-Distance-Learning content (i.e., SCORM-Sharable-Content-Objects); Case Studies; "Take-Home-Lessons-Learned" packages; Virtual-Reality-Space-Time- Mapping of scenario-based training events.

BIG FUN DEVELOPMENT CORP. 620 Lakeshore Drive Duluth, GA 30096
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(404) 806-5428 Dov Jacobson AF 04-071 Awarded: 11MAY04
Title:	Adaptive Levels of Automation for UAV Supervisory Control
Abstract:	Problem UAVs hold great potential for force multiplication and increased functionality. To deliver on this potential, future UAV systems must include reliable and flexible autonomous control. UAV autonomy is limited. The desireable level of autonomy depends on many factors. Ideally, the level is dynamic, raising and lowering in response to the mission phase and realworld contingencies. This project will develop an Adaptive Level of Autonomy (ALoA). The system itself continuously determines the appropriate balance of control. Approach 1. Begin with existing successful mulit-UAV simulation. 2. Articulate components, define autonomy levels. 3. Develop variable levels of autonomy. 4. Define cooperative UAV protocol. 5. Develop adaptive mechanisms. 6. Create human interface. 7. Test and iterate. Result Phase I results in a functioning ALoA design. This design manifests itself in three distinct deliverables: 1. A sophisticated realtime simulation demonstrates the ALoA system in operation. The simulator offers supervisory control of several overlapping missions. To each mission is assigned a single UAV or a cooperative UAV group. A variety of different UAV profiles are modelled in the simulator. 2. A whitepaper reports on the research and declares a set of ALoA principles. 3. A sophisticated DVD summarizes Phase I in presentation-oriented format.

IA TECH, INC. 10501 Kinnard Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90024
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 474-3568 Dr. Kam S. Tso AF 04-071 Awarded: 14MAY04
Title:	Automation Architecture and Testbed for UAV Supervisory Control
Abstract:	This research will result in an architecture and the associated testbed for the implementation and evaluation of methods of managing automation in UAVs under supervisory control. The architecture will support varying native UAV capabilities and ground station automation, as well as the presentation of various user interface components. This will allow the implementation of both adaptable and adaptive automation support, and the exploration of approaches that make the automation support both comprehensible and predictable. The architecture will be realized in a testbed that simulates operations of multiple UAVs in a battlefield environment. The testbed will also support the creation and presentation of differing yet repeatable mission scenarios and the logging of the necessary data for evaluating the performance of a human operator executing a mission. These goals will be accomplished by extending and integrating two existing systems. The first is the MIIIRO human factors testbed which is already being used to examine operator performance of multi-UAV missions. The second is Playbook which uses a delegation approach for controlling automation and has been demonstrated on UAV and other robotic systems.

OR CONCEPTS APPLIED 7032 Comstock Avenue, Suite 100 Whittier, CA 90602
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(562) 907-6700 Dr. Rubin Johnson AF 04-071 Awarded: 19MAY04
Title:	Adaptive Levels of Automation for UAV Supervisory Control
Abstract:	Several unmanned air vehicle (UAV) programs are investigating ways of automating UAV control system functions to increase the number of aircraft controlled by a single operator. However, research indicates that implementing high-levels of automation and putting the human operator in a passive monitoring role can leave the operator out of the loop and unable to intervene effectively when required to take control of system tasks. Also, significant workload increases can occur as the human assumes system control tasks. To counter these problems, a human-centered approach to automation has been proposed, in which the human and the machine work together as a system. The goal is to keep the human in the loop by having the human perform meaningful tasks and to keep the workload manageable at all times. Two complimentary approaches have been developed that address the OOTL performance problem: Level of Automation and Adaptive Automation. Tools are needed to investigate the feasibility of implementing adaptive levels of autonomy in a UAV control station context. The goal of this SBIR program is to devise an architecture suitable for a multi-UAV control station simulation test-bed that will allow testing and evaluating different methods for adaptive levels of autonomy.

ANACAPA SCIENCES, INC. 301 East Carrillo Street 2FL Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(805) 966-6157 Dr. Michael Silver AF 04-072 Selected for Award
Title:	Identifying cultural factors affecting the use of non-lethal weapons
Abstract:	Non-lethal weapons (NLWs) provide useful options to military commanders in operations other than war such as those currently underway in Iraq and Afghanistan. However, commanders are not well-informed about the psychological and behavioral effects of these weapons on their targets. Relevant data are simply in short supply. Even less known are differences in the reactions to NLWs by members of different cultures; using a particular weapon in one culture may de-escalate violence whereas using the same weapon in a similar situation in another culture may escalate violence. This project will use structured interviews and focus groups with US and non-US personnel experienced in the use of NLWs to identify differences in the reactions of individuals and groups to the use of NLWs between cultures. Phase I will provide some of the information necessary for commanders to make the right decisions regarding the use of non-lethal weapons in a variety of cultural settings. The output of Phase I can help guide the development of tactics, techniques, procedures, and tools that will improve US performance in crowd situations and other situations that could see the use of NLWs. Results may also guide future research on cultural differences and NLW effects.

KLEIN ASSOC., INC. 1750 Commerce Center Blvd. North Fairborn, OH 45324
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 873-8166 Dr. Winston Sieck AF 04-072 Selected for Award
Title:	Law Enforcement Across Cultures: How Culture Impacts the Use of Non-Lethal Weapons
Abstract:	While assumptions can be made about the behavior of Westerners in response to law enforcement actions, we cannot assuredly say the same for non-Western cultures. Tactics used for crowd control in the U.S. can be interpreted and responded to much differently in diverse cultures. This Phase I will focus on the differences in cognition across cultures and how these dissimilarities influence how individuals interpret the use of non-lethal weapons. To accomplish this, we will first investigate crowd control techniques currently used in the civil and military law enforcement domains. Using our existing Cultural Lens Model we will make predictions of how these tactics may be perceived in different cultures. The Cultural Lens Model is a framework for understanding, explaining, and potentially predicting reasoning and decision-making behaviors of members of different cultures. This model has been used in a range of domains to develop recommendations for training U.S. forces for missions in multinational environments. We will also leverage our work in sensemaking and decision making to strengthen our understanding of which crowd control techniques may be the most effective across different cultures. Finally, we will explore strategies for training and technologies for building just-in-time training tools for law enforcement personnel.

QUANTSUPPORT LLC 6034 Richmond Hwy, Suite 218 alexandria, VA 22303
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 960-1106 Mr. akwasi apori AF 04-072 Selected for Award
Title:	Cultural Factors Influencing the Use of Non-Lethal Weapons
Abstract:	This proposal describes the opportunity created by using strategic personality typing to assess and diagnose the effectiveness of different non-lethal weapons on various cultural groups. This proposal also addresses the feasibility of using strategic personality typing to create a commercially viable training program and field software application for military use.

INTELLITE 1717 Louisiana, NE, Suite 202 Albuquerque, NM 87110
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 268-4742 Mr. John Dee German AF 04-073 Selected for Award
Title:	Aberration-Corrected Retinal Spot Projector and Imager (ARSPI)
Abstract:	Intellite, Incorporated will team with the Optical Sciences Center at the University of Arizona to develop an adaptive optics system that will project a diffraction-limited spot on the retina by pre-correcting the laser beam for all significant optical aberrations of the specific eyeball under test. The system will use real-time feedback from a low-power laser reflected from the retina to measure the aberrations and modify the shape of a membrane deformable mirror. Furthermore, the proposed system will include a retinal imaging subsystem which will employ the same deformable mirror technology to produce a very high-resolution image of the retina and the laser spot. This imaging system can also be used to determine the nature and extent of retinal laser injuries occurring in the field. These functions will be integrated into a prototype design for an Aberration-Corrected Retinal Spot Projector and Imager (ARSPI) that will provide AFRL/HEDO the tools needed to advance the state of knowledge and understanding regarding laser safety.

IRIS AO, INC. 2680 Bancroft Way Berkeley, CA 94704
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(510) 849-2375 Dr. Nathan Doble AF 04-073 Selected for Award
Title:	Focused Delivery of Laser Energy to the Eye Using Adaptive Optics
Abstract:	The overall goal of this effort is to design and model an adaptive optic system that satisfies all of the technical, size, and cost requirements for diffraction limited delivery of laser energy to the retina through an aberration-corrected system. The adaptive optics (AO) system will also be designed such that it will be capable of imaging cells on the retina of a living eye in addition to delivering a laser pulse. Phase I will focus on proving feasibility through tightly coupled design and analysis of the complete AO system. Iris AO proposes to investigate different imaging modalities to find an optimized design. This will result in a new instrument that fulfills the requirements of the Air Force. Questions regarding overall system design, next generation deformable mirror design, efficient mirror control, and optical system integration will be answered. This will have widespread use for a host of biomedical imaging applications.

PHYSICAL SCIENCES, INC. 20 New England Business Center Andover, MA 01810
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 689-0003 Dr. Daniel X. Hammer AF 04-073 Selected for Award
Title:	Focused Delivery of Laser Energy to the Eye Using Adaptive Optics
Abstract:	Characterization of the mechanisms of retinal damage from ultrashort pulsed lasers requires measurement and correction of ocular aberrations because many prevalent non-linear optical effects dominate this regime. Physical Sciences Inc. proposes to construct an adaptive optics system to deliver aberration-corrected laser pulses to the eye. In Phase I, a wavefront sensor will be designed and constructed for high-speed measurement of aberrations in artificial and live human eyes. A novel compact line-scanning laser ophthalmoscope (LSLO) will be added to the wavefront sensor for wide field, high contrast retinal imaging. In Phase II, a wavefront compensation mirror will be added and dynamic closed-loop correction of aberrations will be achieved. In addition, the imaging component will be altered for simultaneous acquisition of high-resolution retinal images. The complete system will be a valuable tool for investigation and direct in vivo imaging of laser pulse damage.

BIO-BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS SYSTEMS, LLC 7472 Woodlawn Colonial Lane St. Louis, MO 63119
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(314) 961-6321 Dr. John A. Stern AF 04-074 Selected for Award
Title:	Real-time Bio-Sensors for Enhanced C2ISR Operator Performance
Abstract:	We have selected three technologies for the remote monitoring of bio-behavioral events. Camera based measures of gaze, including eye and head movements, pupil diameter, vergence, and blink parameters; Laser Doppler Vibrometry (LDV) based measures of cardiovascular and muscle activity; and behavioral measures including movements of body parts as well as keyboard operations will be utilized. Our collaborator, J.W. Rohrbaugh, has been instrumental in the development of the application of LDV technology for these measurements. We, as well as others, have demonstrated the utility of gaze control measures for indexing aspects of loss of alertness and performance lapses. There is a reasonable literature attesting to the utility of cardiovascular and muscle activity in this regard. We propose to continue our development of software to reliably abstract relevant measures. Procedures for developing software appropriate for the on-line monitoring of specific measures and combination of measures will be developed for implementation in the phase II effort. Since little work has been done on utilizing fine head movements as reflectors of attentional demands, we propose a pilot investigation to evaluate this measure.

QUANTUM APPLIED SCIENCE & RESEARCH, INC. 5764 Pacific Center Blvd, Suite 107 San Diego, CA 92121
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 373-0832 Dr. Robert Matthews AF 04-074 Selected for Award
Title:	Real-time Non-Invasive Monitoring of C21SR Cognitive Performance Using Off-Body Sensors
Abstract:	This program combines state-of-the-art (SoA) expertise in the relationship between physiologic variables and cognitive performance with pioneering knowledge in the development of high- impedance bioelectrodes. The recent development of these new electrodes enables accurate measurement of bioelectric signals without contact to the skin, and opens up the possibility of a wearable sensor suite for operational environments. The goal of Phase I is to relate the number and placement of electrodes and their required fidelity with accuracy in monitoring performance. The study will be done using existing EEG and heart rate data collected by conventional wet electrodes on subjects performing mentally challenging tasks and undergoing physical and mental stress during military training exercises. To augment these, the benefit of adding a near infrared measurement of oxygen usage in the brain will be assessed via SoA physiologic models. The result will either be a clear argument that these core sensors are sufficient or a case for additional sensors. In Phase II, a prototype sensor array and algorithms for assessment of C2ISR operator performance will be demonstrated. The target configuration is a noninvasive array of the new bioelectrodes and infrared sensors mounted on the inside of a helmet with in-clothing ECG sensors.

SAM TECHNOLOGY, INC. 425 Bush Street, Fifth Floor San Francisco, CA 94108
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(415) 837-1600 Dr. Michael Smith AF 04-074 Selected for Award
Title:	Biosensor System for Real-time Detection of Operational Fatigue and Cognitive Overload
Abstract:	Cognitive overload, fatigue, stress, and injury or illness can degrade operational readiness. Early detection of such conditions could provide an opportunity to implement countermeasures, improving effectiveness and minimizing performance errors. We have developed component technologies that are prerequisite to the capacity to automatically sense cognitive overload and/or operational fatigue, and have begun to demonstrate such tools in individuals engaged in console-based activities roughly analogous to those common in C2ISR environments. The technologies include wearable physiological data acquisition hardware that integrates quick-application headsets with wireless amplifiers and disposable sensors for measuring signals of brain function, eye-movements, and heart activity. They also include powerful signal processing algorithms capable of extracting cognitive load- and fatigue-sensitive neurocognitive signals in near real-time while minimizing artifactual contaminants. Here we propose to extend and integrate these advances to create an automated neurocognitive assessment system for C2ISR operations. In Phase I we will determine feasibility by analyzing existing neurophysiological data to identify optimal methods for making such measurements quickly and reliably in Air Force operational contexts. These methods will be tested and validated in a small experiment in which cognitive workload and state-of-alertness are varied. An integrated prototype system would be implemented and field tested in Phase II.

INFORMATION IN PLACE, INC. 501 North Morton Street, Suite 206 Bloomington, IN 47404
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(812) 856-4202 Dr. Sonny E. Kirkley AF 04-085 Awarded: 30APR04
Title:	Military and Civilian Air Traffic Management Information Exchange and Visualization
Abstract:	This proposal outlines a comprehensive plan to apply an emerging technology, augmented reality (AR), to provide military and civilian air traffic controllers with the capability to integrate information from various data sources in ways that are easily and rapidly interpretable. The ultimate objective of this project is to present controllers with an effective, reliable tool with which they can maintain situational awareness and make rapid, accurate decisions in their potentially high-stakes, high stress work environments. The proposal describes the methodology for defining the need, then sets out how the proposer, Information in Place, Inc., (IIPI) will design and build a prototype system and interface to exploit the advantages of augmented reality. AR can electronically overlay the real environment with information via see-through head-worn displays. To the user, this information appears to exist in the same three-dimensional space as the real world objects it identifies and highlights. This capability has the potential to greatly simplify the controller's most challenging tasks. The proposing organization, Information in Place, Inc., is uniquely qualified to perform this project because of its strengths in augmented reality software development, human factors engineering, and aviation subject matter expertise.

SSS RESEARCH, INC. 650 Warrenville Road, Suite 100A Lisle, IL 60532
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(630) 281-4507 Dr. Stephen G. Eick AF 04-085 Awarded: 30APR04
Title:	Air Traffic Management Information Exchange and Visualization System
Abstract:	Air Force Command and Control systems have access to a wide variety of real-time Air Traffic Management data that, if suitably packaged, could help DOD and Civilian Agencies improve flight safety in the vicinity of Air Force operations. In this project we will define an XML schema for ATM data, create a system that collects and fuses Air Force ATM data, and will publish information products using the data that preserve security while increasing situational awareness. The information products will include both raw XML data dumps and new, novel air traffic visualizations.

ALPHATECH, INC. 6 New England Executive Park Burlington, MA 01803
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 273-3388 Dr. Paul Lanzkron AF 04-086 Awarded: 07MAY04
Title:	Fast Detection and Location of Spoofing ADS-B
Abstract:	The use of ADS-B to determine safe navigation of airspace is an important feature in the upgrade of the FAA NAS. This upgrade to the NAS will provide a far more accurate location system for aircraft, allowing safer and closer separations in the airspace. At the same time, reduction of the use of radars will allow the FAA to decommission old, costly to maintain radars. ADS-B transmits the location of the transmitter, using the navigation system of the aircraft. An adversary can use the system against itself by transmitting false locations, or transmitting many false ADS-B messages with arbitrary locations, making the airspace seem unsafe for travel. In addition to the ability to create a safer airspace, the system's future includes TIS-B. TIS-B has the potential for significant improvement over the old TCAS system, allowing dangerous situations to be dealt with by the pilot, preventing a mid-air collision. Spoofed targets could cause pilots to take dangerous actions in response to non-existent potential collisions. The goal of this work is the fast determination of whether an ADS-B reporter can quickly be determined to be false, and then to locate the position of the transmitter accurately enough that it can be engaged.

21ST CENTURY TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 11675 Jollyville Road, Suite 300 Austin, TX 78759
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(512) 342-0010 Dr. Paula Dewitte AF 04-087 Awarded: 28APR04
Title:	Expert Intelligent Match of Requirements and Solutions
Abstract:	Ex-PERT, proposed under this SBIR, will aid a human decision maker in filtering contractor proposed solutions that match requirements, reducing the time to select an appropriate solution and hence, reducing the overall system development cycle-time. The work effort will 1) develop a capability to match textual descriptions of requirements to relevant textual descriptions of contractor proposed solutions to achieve improved efficiency in the system development life-cycle and 2) implement that capability in the Ex-PERT tool. The innovations include 1) a functional grammar and ontological lexicon based on the sublanguage of the Requirements, 2) an ontology of the notion of an appropriate solution, 3) an ontology of the application domain, and 4) a functional grammar and ontological lexicon based on the sublanguage of the contractor-proposed Solutions which differs from that of the Requirements. The application domain for demonstrating Ex-PERT will be the intrusion detection area. Phase I will develop the prototype based on proven computational linguistics technology in several complex areas including 1) text extraction for both the Requirements and proposed Solutions; 2) knowledge representation techniques and ontological representations for representing the Requirements text in a normalized form as well as the notion of a good solution; and 3) inference methods to determine the suitability of the matches between Requirements and Solutions. Ex-PERT will produce a score for matching of the Requirements and Solutions based on metrics of the solutions to provide a scale for comparing possible solutions.

STOTTLER HENKE ASSOC., INC. 951 Mariner's Island Blvd., STE 360 San Mateo, CA 94404
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(206) 545-1478 Ms. Laurie Spencer AF 04-087 Awarded: 29APR04
Title:	Accurately Matching Requirements to Solutions through the Accumulation and Exploitation of Background Knowledge
Abstract:	We propose an innovative yet pragmatic approach to the matching of information warfare requirements to solutions. The proposed system concept, Resolve, will be fashioned from an eclectic set of proven technologies with the goal of both improving search precision and recall, and dramatically reducing the effort required to find matching solutions. Resolve will exploit a unique capability to extract requirement-descriptive terminology from proposal documents that, through a series of processing steps, can fuel the autonomous collection of supplemental requirement-related documents from the Web and local repositories. This additional textual material will then be used to facilitate a query expansion process that will in essence mediate between a user's query and the body of indexed solutions (mitigating the terminology mismatch problem). Resolve will offer further improvements by utilizing a proven context-enhanced process that exploits user feedback and pseudo-feedback to autonomously scour a topical search space, reducing the need for countless query reformulations. By exploiting a number of existing technological components Stottler Henke will be able to make rapid progress, yielding a limited yet fieldable prototype in Phase I. This prototype and its evaluation will provide a solid foundation for the complete implementation of Resolve in Phase II and its eventual commercialization.

QUIMBA SOFTWARE, INC. 2672 Bayshore Parkway, Suite 618 Mountain View, CA 94043
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(650) 625-1950 Mr. Bob Dourandish AF 04-088 Awarded: 30APR04
Title:	Automated Data Sharing Across Functional Boundaries
Abstract:	The objectives of this proposal are (a) to build a data sharing mechanism that can be deployed across diverse functional boundaries; and (b) to do so in such a way that existing software, databases, or platforms can interface to the resultant system with minimal modification. This effort combines Web Services and Ontologies to accomplish its research objectives.

ALPHATECH, INC. 6 New England Executive Park Burlington, MA 01803
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 273-3388 Mr. Mark Keaton AF 04-089 Awarded: 26APR04
Title:	Modular Gateway Architectures Study (MGAS)
Abstract:	Our SBIR goals include 1) assessing architectural alternatives for future interoperability gateways that facilitate component testing, certification, and reuse, and 2) taking initial steps to implement selected alternatives. Historically, interoperability gateways required each link interface to implement translation rules for all other supported links types, yielding an O(N2) maintenance, testing, and certification problem. More recent architectures (e.g. our XML-Defined Gateway) incorporate a neutral data format to remove link interdependencies, so that link interfaces need only support translations between its native format and the neutral format. This allows testing and certifying interface implementations individually, and assembling gateways from pre-certified interface modules: i.e., a toolbox architecture. Although attractive, a neutral format approach has the overlooked problem of generating translation rules between neutral and native formats that are complete and consistent with MIL-STD rules expressed only in native formats. We propose to design automated approaches for: decomposing native-to-native translation rules into native-to-neutral and neutral-to-native translation rules; verifying the original rules are mathematically correct compositions of the decomposed rules; and identifying when translation rules from different rule sets induce inconsistencies. We also propose to extend the engineering cost model developed under our previous SBIR to compare architectural trades and select the best overall approach.

COMMAND & CONTROL TECHNOLOGIES CORP. 1425 Chaffee Drive, Suite 1 Titusville, FL 32780
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(321) 264-1193 Mr. Greg Hupf AF 04-089 Awarded: 28APR04
Title:	Generative Gateway Toolkit for Heterogeneous C3I Systems
Abstract:	CCT proposes a model driven composable architecture for C3I gateway systems that will provide a generic platform independent software toolkit for creation of communication gateways. This new approach will simplify interoperability of new and legacy systems by leveraging transport and semantic exchange standardization. Use of product line architecture methods will be employed to ensure large-scale system reuse, enabling component-based gateways to be generated from high-level specifications. Central to the scope of the gateway architectural approach is accommodation for variation and evolutionary extension of communications and exchange services. This dual focus on architectural strategy and standards is critical to dealing with the historical problems of stove piped architectures and N(N-1) interfaces between systems. The benefits of this approach include simplification of creation of domain specific gateways, and improved interoperability between systems. Phase 1 of the research will evaluate alternative architectural strategies and methods for generation of gateways from the toolkit, culminating in a proof of concept prototype. Phase 2 will create a fully functional toolkit of reusable gateway components that can be automatically composed into operational configuration, demonstrating both systems interoperability of heterogeneous systems and method of instance specific generation.

CYBERNET SYSTEMS CORP. 727 Airport Boulevard Ann Arbor, MI 48108
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(734) 668-2567 Mrs. Charles J. Cohen AF 04-090 Selected for Award
Title:	Intelligent Distributed Decision Management for Avionics Systems
Abstract:	The Air Force requires a system that connects multiple onboard systems and provides a translation mechanism to allow all of them to effectively speak one language. This Intelligent Distributed Decision Management system will be designed to minimize the cognitive load on Decision Makers and Shooters. This system will: 1) Provide a mechanism that can read from and write to multiple hardware and protocol interfaces. 2) Create a translation layer that converts to and from device data formats. 3) Develop a network distribution system that distributes the avionics data. 4) Develop a sensor fusion layer that distills and aggregates the raw data to avoid cognitive. 5) Develop a system that notifies the decision maker when the factors used to determine a target priority change or when the factors used to determine a potentially higher priority target change. 6) Develop a network distribution system that distributes the avionics and decision. 7) Adapt the fusion layer to facilitate the presentation of pertinent sensor and decision data. We propose to create an Intelligent Distributed Decision Management architecture for Flight Systems and will work with Ball Aerospace to integrate their KnowledgeKineticsT system into OpenSkies to facilitate scenario creation and testing of the entire system.

LAKOTA TECHNICAL SOLUTIONS, INC. PO Box 2378 Ellicott City, MD 21041
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 725-2727 Mr. J. Robert Pence AF 04-090 Awarded: 07MAY04
Title:	Improved Situational Awareness in the Cockpit
Abstract:	Improved situational awareness in the cockpit is only accomplished when the right information is available to the warfighter at the right time. Currently, Department of Defense (DoD) sensors and systems have useful information, but lack the capability to share that information with each other. The DoD Network-Centric Warfare (NCW) initiative has spurred the development of Sensor and Command and Control (C2) networks. As a result, the infrastructure for ubiquitous information sharing is quickly becoming a reality. What is lacking is 1) services to access this information in a timely and efficient manner and 2) services that allow emerging and future networks to operate with legacy networks. Within DoD aircraft, a Real-Time Information into the Cockpit (RTIC)-to-Avionics Gateway (RTAG) can provide these services. Lakota's solution is based on developing a comprehensive information model from which RTAG services will be derived. Our research and development will concentrate on leveraging information technologies developed to address similar problems encountered during the development of the Internet.

APTIMA, INC. 12 Gill Street, Suite 1400 Woburn, MA 01801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 496-2453 Mr. James Melhuish AF 04-091 Awarded: 26APR04
Title:	CASSIE: Complex Adaptive System Strategy Interplay Environment
Abstract:	At the core of the Joint Force Air Component Commander's (JFACC) responsibilities is the need to understand the enemy, and the enemy's Courses of Action (COA) to enable successful operational decision-making and to develop a comprehensive air strategy for the Aerospace Operations Center (AOC). Effects-Based Operations (EBO) has widened the scope of the problem, requiring analysis of the enemy as part of a broader interconnected system. JFACC decision-making and blue COA development have typically been aided by analysts with expertise in enemy strategy, by wargaming, and more recently by computer simulation of enemy response or behavior. However, as Paul Davies writes "Current methods of analysis and modeling are inadequate for representing EBO.. Addressing the challenge will require changes of mindset, new theories and methods, and a new empirical base." (Davies, 2001) One solution is to use Complex Adaptive Systems (CAS) theory to create simulation models that portray friendly and adversary as a complex dynamic system with emergent counter-intuitive behavior. CASSIE - Complex Adaptive System Strategy Interplay Environment - provides the tool necessary to examine, predict, and learn potential enemy strategies and courses of action. CASSIE simulations will show the unexpected consequences that occur from interactions of blue and enemy strategies.

CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. 625 Mount Auburn Street Cambridge, MA 02138
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 491-3474 Mr. Paul G. Gonsalves AF 04-091 Awarded: 27APR04
Title:	Complex Adaptive Systems-based Toolkit (CAST) for Dynamic Plan Assessment
Abstract:	The Air Force requires C2 systems that support full spectrum of operations. This is specifically relevant to the air campaign mission planning and analysis community where there have been several recent concept changes, advancements in information technology, sensors, and weapons, and the expansion in the diversity and capabilities of potential adversaries. To fully support campaign plan development and analysis in this new environment, there is a need for systems and tools that enhance understanding of the behavior of battlespace entities, assess potential threat capabilities and vulnerabilities, perform C2 system trades, and provide methods to identify macro-level novel or emergent combat tactics and behavior derived from simpler micro-level rules. Such systems must also be interactive, collaborative, and semi-autonomous, providing the planning analyst with the means for exploration and potential exploitation of novel combatant behavior patterns. To address some of these issues, we propose to design and prototype a Complex Adaptive Systems-based Toolkit (CAST) for Dynamic Plan Assessment to support Air Force air campaign operations. Our proposed CAST integrates: a graphical environment for the development and specification of combat agent behavior models, a scenario generation component, a simulation engine, and an agent adaptation mechanism employing a genetic algorithm based optimizer.

DOLPHIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 474 Phoenix Dr. Rome, NY 13441
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(315) 838-7035 Mr. James Marcinkowski AF 04-094 Awarded: 30APR04
Title:	XML Guard
Abstract:	The adoption of XML as the underlying paradigm by which a wide range of commercial, Government and Military systems communicate is fundamentally changing the way in which systems interact. Since many mission critical data flows for government, DoD, and commercial systems occur across security domains or organizational boundaries, XML-enablement of cross domain controlled interfaces, to include Guard systems, is a pertinent research and development endeavor that, once proven, will likely find itself on the fast-track to producing an operational commercially viable capability. Operational cross domain solutions, like the ISSE Guard, are already successfully utilizing XML technology to include XML DTD-based and schema-based validation techniques. However, more R&D is needed. The Extensible Stylesheet Language Transformations (XSLT), XML Path Language (XPath), Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML), and XML Access Control Language (XACL) are but a few of the XML technologies which appear to have applicability to the controlled interfaces of tomorrow. This effort will focus on: determining if, and where, these technologies can be employed, assessing what the potential security, infrastructure and performance related implications are of their integration into future controlled interfaces, and demonstrating, via one of more prototypes, the use of leading edge XML technology in a guard application.

SOPH-WARE ASSOC., INC. 624 West Hastings Road, Suite G Spokane, WA 99218
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(509) 468-8264 Dr. Ronald C. Turner AF 04-094 Awarded: 30APR04
Title:	XML Cross-Domain Guard
Abstract:	It is currently nearly impossible to define, manage and deploy the rules for secure information access in an agile and consistent manner. Moreover, there is no robust rules-based implementation for cross-domain message filtering (higher-security to lower-security transfers). Without the ability to enact and deploy XML-based security policy (rules sets) quickly, easily, and with a minimum of man-in-the-loop, security authors and administrators cannot hope to achieve the Air Force's currently stated advanced technology goals for XML tagged and signed information. XML Cross-Domain Guard (X2DG) provides man-machine interfaces (MMIs) that allow policy authors and certificators to develop and manage access rules and transformation rules (especially for down-transfer) quickly and without programming skills. Once these policies and transformations are safely in place, X2DG executes reliable high-to-low cross-domain transfers without human intervention. Uniform (XML) security tagging and signed information objects as strategic investment areas are only part of the cross-domain information sharing (CDIS) solution. X2DG leverages that investment with (1) programmer-free policy management and (2) unmediated (no-man-in-the-loop) policy deployment (filtering and sanitization). Applying XML and Extensible Stylesheet Language Transformations (XSLT) to security problems is not new. Eliminating the programmer and the message-handling man-in-the-loop is a significant breakthrough.

CHILIAD PUBLISHING, INC. 44 Belchertown Road Amherst, MA 01002
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(413) 253-7430 Mr. Paul McOwen AF 04-097 Awarded: 26APR04
Title:	Metadata Generation
Abstract:	Chiliad proposes a research effort to enhance and extend its advanced software for analysis, metadata generation, dynamic knowledge discovery, real-time situation awareness, instant alerts, and task-specific collaboration from de-centralized information sources and servers distributed across an enterprise or multiple organizations. The further development and scaling of this technology will enable automatic indexing and tagging of text and multimedia intelligence documents for ease of retrieval, context sensitive summarization, and global awareness of Homeland Security information. Chiliad's recent developments with one of these agencies is pushing the technology envelope for text based analysis using concept recognition and association, Metadata generation, and correlation with structured data in a relational database, deployed to an analyst community in an operational system that is in use daily for national security applications. Specific enhancements are designed for dynamic analysis and real-time filtering across distributed repositories located on multiple decentralized host machines. These dynamic and real-time techniques are adaptive and discerning, provide capabilities for instant alerts and immediate response. Specific enhancements are targeted to further scalability testing and tuning and further refinement of techniques to merging search and analysis results effectively by relevance across distributed collections.

COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY ASSOC., INC. 12530 Parklawn Drive, Suite 300 Rockville, MD 20852
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(760) 446-9234 Ms. Heather Burnett AF 04-100 Awarded: 30APR04
Title:	Achieving Ubiquity: Technologies to Make Intelligence Available Everywhere on Demand
Abstract:	This research proposal is directed at the development of intelligent agent software infrastructure designed to support the near real-time situational awareness information requirements of warfighters anywhere on the globe. Our focus is on the development and ubiquitous delivery of user-focused "actionable intelligence" (as opposed to the dissemination/publication of large volumes of raw ISR data without context) to mobile warfighters (e.g. tactical air control, special operations, airborne) with limited in situ processing and communications capabilities. The envisioned infrastructure will support the dynamic formation of autonomous data/services "discovery" capabilities tailored to specific user's protocol/routing/format needs, and provide the ability to disseminate "information in context" resulting from a dynamic "focus", at the network level, on warfighter-specific time critical activities and requirements. This proposal will establish the feasibility of achieving this net-centric focus in near real-time via a system of autonomous, intelligent software agents driven by user profiles, automated triggers, action rule sets, active ontologies and association logic that serve as intelligent intermediaries between critical information sources, transformational applications (sensor tasking, registration, fusion, etc.) and globally distributed users with a broad spectrum of mobile-class processing and communications equipment (palm/lap tops, avionics mission computers/displays, mobile image transceivers, UHF LPI/LPD digital radios, SATCOM broadcast terminals, etc.).

DEFENSE RESEARCH ASSOC., INC. 3915 Germany Lane, Suite 102 Beavercreek, OH 45431
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 431-1644 Mr. James Utt AF 04-101 Awarded: 16MAY04
Title:	F-22 Data Compression
Abstract:	The F-22 Raptor aircraft has been re-designated as the F/A-22 to reflect its expanded ground attack mission. This critical mission is supported by a targeting system with an image database. The F/A-22 is arguably the most sophisticated weapon system in the world. Its ground attack capability is not limited by aircraft or weapon characteristics, but by the amount of imagery that can be transmitted to and stored by the targeting system. Compressing the data can alleviate this limitation, provided that the compression technique does not degrade the image data to the point where it is not useful. The DRA team has developed revolutionary compression technology that will substantially improve F/A-22 ground attack capability. DRA will prove the concept is viable by compressing data from the synthetic aperture radar and showing that image quality as measured by appropriate metrics is not substantially degraded in the reconstructed image. DRA will then design an embedded software implementation of the compression algorithm suitable for integration into the radar processor during Phase II.

RNET TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 555 Bryant Street , #578 Palo Alto, CA 94301
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(650) 248-3371 Mr. Ram Balasubramanian AF 04-101 Awarded: 11MAY04
Title:	Data Compression
Abstract:	The AF04-101 topic solicitation states that the objective of this SBIR is to develop image and video compression techniques that will significantly increase the transmission capability of current data links by providing greater compression ratios without additional degradation relative to current techniques for targeting and tracking. In response, a completely new approach known as virtual object based compression is proposed for data compression. This new approach is an evolving version of the ultimate object-based approach. It is feasible to implement this new approach using today's computing technologies. A virtual object is a segment of a video frame in terms of some features, but it does not need complicated segmentation and classification algorithms to track. We also propose to use the wavelet transform to extract features of virtual objects and use the wavelet transform again for virtual object based compression in the temporal domain. The new approach will increase the compression ratio significantly without degrading the image quality. It is hoped that this new approach will theoretically and practically push the data compression technology to the next level.

SCIENTIFIC SYSTEMS CO., INC. 500 West Cummings Park - Ste 3000 Woburn, MA 01801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 933-5355 Dr. Adel El-Fallah AF 04-102 Awarded: 26APR04
Title:	Unified Bayesian Situation Assessment Sensor Management
Abstract:	Sensor management in support of situation assessment (SA) presents a daunting theoretical and practical challenge. Scientific Systems Company, Inc. of Woburn MA and its subcontractor, Lockheed Martin Tactical Systems (LMTS) of Eagan MN, propose a foundational, joint control-theoretic approach to SA and SA sensor management that draws upon basic research currently being conducted by us for AFOSR. It is based on three innovations: (1) a ``dynamic situational significance map'' that mathematically specifies the meaning of tactical significance for a given theater of interest at a given moment; (2) an intuitively meaningful and potentially computationally tractable objective function for SA, namely maximization of the expected number of (ordinary or group) targets of tactical interest; and (3) integration of these two concepts with approximate multitarget filters (specifically, first-order multitarget moment filters and multi-hypothesis correlator (MHC) engines). Under this approach, sensors will be directed to preferentially collect observations from targets of actual or potential tactical significance, according to an adaptively modified definition of tactical significance. The project team includes Dr. Ronald Mahler of Lockheed Martin. Lockheed Martin will provide both technical and commercialization support in the application of sensor management technologies.

TOYON RESEARCH CORP. Suite A, 75 Aero Camino Goleta, CA 93117
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(805) 968-6787 Dr. Mark R. Meloon AF 04-102 Awarded: 26APR04
Title:	An Information-Theoretic Approach to Sensor Resource Management for Situational Assessment
Abstract:	Toyon Research Corporation proposes to develop algorithms for the active management of multiple sensors necessary for a situational assessment (SA) system. In our approach dynamic sensor resource management is cast as an optimization problem where the goal is to minimize the information-theoretic entropy of a target database subject to sensor usage constraints. Choosing an appropriate partitioning of database entities into classes is the key to using existing sensor resource manager (SRMgr) technology to provide data of importance to a SA system. Our system representation is based on probability mass and density functions. As a result, a Bayesian algorithm will be used for transforming the system state from individual targets to entities of interest to SA. Toyon will demonstrate the effectiveness of this SRMgr using our software testbed SLAMEMT on an example problem requiring tracking and identification of enemy units. If we are selected to continue development of the concept in Phase II, we would work to extend our algorithm and test it on a variety of situations and perform system demonstrations to evaluate the performance of the resulting SA system.

K3 TECHNOLOGY 36 Battle Flagg Rd Bedford, MA 01730
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 760-2828 Dr. Katherine Hall AF 04-103 Awarded: 26APR04
Title:	Enabling Technologies for Free Space Quantum Cryptography
Abstract:	We propose to demonstrate the feasibility of two novel optical subsystems within a new optical embodiment for quantum key distribution. The configuration is potentially scalable for space-based implementations of quantum key distribution. The proposed technology utilizes optical control systems that substantially improve the practicality of quantum key distribution. If proven feasible, the technology can also lead to potential improvements in speed and link-budget with reduced transceiver size, weight and power for future free-space laser communication systems, which will also benefit the application of QKD to satellite communications. The proposed technology is a modification of proven multiplexing techniques recently developed by the principle investigator to achieve ultra-long-distance and ultra-high-bit rate communications for commercial fiber optic systems.

NUCRYPT LLC 7727 Kildare Ave Skokie, IL 60076
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(630) 841-7817 Dr. Gregory S. Kanter AF 04-103 Awarded: 28APR04
Title:	Enabling Technologies for Free Space Quantum Cryptography
Abstract:	In this SBIR Phase-I project we aim to exploit a new invention in quantum cryptography to secure free-space optical links and networks. Unlike the techniques based on single-photon states that are limited to low bit rates and short distances, our approach is based on coherent states emitted by ordinary lasers, permitting scaling to high speeds and deployment over realistic distances. We have already demonstrated single channel speeds of 0.25 Gbps over 100 km distance in optical fiber. In this SBIR we aim to scale this technology to 2.5 Gbps over free-space distances spanning LEO and MEO spacecrafts and ground networks. We believe this technology is also applicable to encrypting data over emerging commercial free-space-optics (FSO) networks. Specifically, in Phase I we will perform the following tasks: 1) Determine optical power budgets required to achieve 2.5 Gbps encrypted data rate over LEO and MEO distances. 2) Build a laboratory prototype free-space encryption link working at 622Mbps with streaming data propagating 20-200 meters. 3) Explore combining this encryption technology with free-space quantum key distribution to achieve fully secure high-speed data transmission between spacecraft and ground stations. 4) Explore opportunities with commercial FSO equipment vendors for encrypting data on FSO networks.

EFFICIENT CHANNEL CODING 600 Safeguard Plaza, Suite 100 Brookyln Hts, OH 44131
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(216) 635-1610 Dr. William Thesling AF 04-104 Awarded: 27APR04
Title:	High Data Rate Error Correction
Abstract:	In this SBIR, Efficient Channel Coding (ECC) will develop an innovative Forward Error Correction (FEC) architectures that are optimally suited for burst error correction and feasible for 40 Gbps data throughput applications. Design goals include improving BER performance, minimizing decoding latency, and lowering codec complexity / power consumption for on-satellite processing. Today's 40-Gbps FEC solutions are mostly RS code based, contrasting to ECC's product code technology that uses innovative iterative (turbo) decoding to obtain higher coding gains, while keeping the complexity practical for Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) implementation. Among such codes, RS product (RSP) codes are extremely suitable due to their inherited burst error control capability, significantly improved BER performance, and complexity advantages Some other iterative FECs will also be investigated with Hard Input Hard Output (HIHO), or simplified Soft Input Soft Output (SISO) decoding algorithms. A range of suitable codec will be selected in Phase I and the Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) implementation of a selected codec(s) will be developed and tested in Phase II. Eventually, a radiation hardened ASIC device will be developed in Phase III to operate at 40 Gbps.

SPACE MICRO, INC. 12872 Glen Circle Road Poway, CA 92064
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 487-9295 Mr. Peter Nolan AF 04-104 Awarded: 27APR04
Title:	High Data Rate Error Correction
Abstract:	Space Micro, Inc. proposes to develop a radiation hardened forward error correction (FEC) codec ASIC for use in very high data rate, space-based, laser communication systems. Our proposed codec uses an innovative combination of a Reed-Solomon code concatenated with other short binary block codes, and a variable-depth interleaver. The code achieves outstanding error correction performance: 10 dB or more of net coding gain for random errors (at BER = 1E-12), and extremely long burst error correction - the duration of correctable burst errors is effectively limited only by the size of the codec's interleaver memory. Our innovative codec hardware design has a relatively low computational complexity that is feasible for implementation in FPGA and ASIC technology at data rates up to 40 Gbps and above. Radiation hardening is provided through a comprehensive "hard by design" approach, including the use of an innovative, inherently rad-hard decoder architecture and other logic design techniques, as well as a rad-hard ASIC process. Space Micro's extensive experience in both FEC coding and radiation hardening of microelectronics makes us particularly well qualified to perform this R&D, and insert the resulting IC product into DoD and NASA programs.

ADAPTRUM, INC. P.O.Box 60205 Sunnyvale, CA 94086
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(408) 768-2187 Dr. Haiyun Tang AF 04-105 Awarded: 26APR04
Title:	Dynamically Sensing and Adapting Wireless Network
Abstract:	In this project, we propose an integrated effort to develop a new radio technology, which we call adaptive spectrum technology, that is capable of dynamically sensing and locating the unused spectrum segments for use of communication in a way that causes no harmful interference to the designated users of the spectrum. The new radio technology improves spectrum efficiency and operation flexibility and has significant commercialization potential in both military and civilian applications.

TOYON RESEARCH CORP. Suite A, 75 Aero Camino Goleta, CA 93117
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(805) 968-6787 Dr. Richard E. Cagley AF 04-105 Awarded: 29APR04
Title:	Dynamically Sensing and Adapting Wireless Network
Abstract:	For many wireless systems, such as satellite communications (SATCOM), capacity is limited by a lack of available spectrum. However, studies have shown that at any given time only a small percentage of the active wireless spectrum is used. Since its inception, wireless transmission has been regulated by allocation of frequency bands. While straight-forward to administer, this allocation of wireless resources is a poor method of adapting to varying system demands. One method of increasing efficiency is sensing available resources and dynamically allocating channels in open bands. In this Phase I SBIR, Toyon proposes to apply this strategy to demand-assignment multiple-access (DAMA) SATCOM networks. These systems are designed to provide data communication access to remote sites. While the system typically operates on assigned UHF bands, during emergency situations it is desirable that unused bands could be utilized thereby providing increased capacity. Toyon will research technical areas of this problem: modifications to messaging of existing standards to support emergency channels and providing algorithms for determining which unallocated portion of the spectrum would be most satisfactory. Building on this research, Toyon will present a modified architecture for DAMA SATCOM that provides surge capacity of emergency transmission while providing maximum backward compatibility with existing systems.

JJW CONSULTING, INC. 455 commack road Deer Park, NY 11729
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(631) 595-6602 Mr. Henry Paczkowski AF 04-106 Awarded: 28APR04
Title:	Q/V/W-band High Powered Amplifiers
Abstract:	JJW is proposing a development of MMIC chips for Q/V/W-Band High Powered Amplifiers for the MILSATCOM marketplace and other phased array systems. The development of phased array systems have been hindered due to the high cost and poor performance of the high power MMIC chips that are an integral part of the system configuration. The MMIC chips will have a power output of 100mw, a PAE of 40%, with 25dB of gain. This two stage MMIC will have a production cost of approximately $3.00 per chip compared to a present day cost of about $16.00. We will also be generating designs for a 2watt version of the high power amplifier with a PAE of 35% and a gain of 20dB.

VT SILICON, INC. 75 5th Street NW, Suite 244 Atlanta, GA 30308
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(404) 526-6169 Dr. Vikram Krishnamurthy AF 04-106 Awarded: 26APR04
Title:	Q/V/W-band High Powered Amplifiers
Abstract:	This proposal describes the impetus and relevance of the development of SiGe based low-cost and low-power millimeter-wave (mmwave) power amplifier ICs for phased array transmit applications for both the 49-51 GHz band and the 71-78 GHz band. In addition to providing novel mmwave design topologies, this proposal describes a work plan for further analysis, design, and development of a high frequency and high performance SiGe power amplifier technology. Development of millimeter-wave IC components has traditionally proven to be a costly exercise of exotic semiconductor process development and optimization, without much emphasis on innovative circuit design techniques. This has resulted in development of costly compound semiconductor power processes with low manufacturability and yield, and in turned, eliminated the commercial viability of millimeter-wave ICs, most specifically power amplifier ICs. Currently, the cost of millimeter-wave components is one of the major hurdles in deployment of millimeter-wave commercial communications systems, and military radar, communications and electronic warfare systems. VT Silicon is proposing the development of a low cost, and high performance mmwave power amplifier utilizing silicon germanium (SiGe).

RADIANCE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 500 Wynn Drive, Suite 504 Huntsville, AL 35816
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(228) 688-1077 Dr. Walt Smith AF 04-107 Awarded: 26APR04
Title:	A Family of Decision-Centric Software Applications for the Future ISR Network
Abstract:	Military planners and operational decision makers are currently levering the power of information technology to apply force multipliers for shock, action and response to the myriad of threats. However, they have yet to obtain and employ robust, verifiable decision aids and decision support systems that can work across the entire planning domain. The current set of Command and Control systems, although responsive to current operational requirements, do not have premier and forward decision-making tools for planning or the analysis to conduct the detailed and "real-time" planning. Radiance Technologies in cooperation with its team members, Diamond Data Systems, NVision, and the University of Southern Mississippi proposes to design a prototype decision making software toolset and "workbench" for the tactical military decision maker. Our prototype solution will heavily leverage our combined strengths in sensor data processing, information system development, decision support system development and geospatial systems information development.

SECURBORATION, INC. 695 Sanderling Dr Indialantic, FL 32903
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(321) 591-9836 Mr. Bruce McQueary AF 04-107 Awarded: 26APR04
Title:	A Family of Decision-Centric Software Applications for the Future ISR Network
Abstract:	Dynamic Intelligence Anticipation, Prioritization, and Exploitation System, or DIAPES. DIAPES combines an innovative application of ontology modeling, intelligence data integration; artificial intelligence techniques; and visualization to allow analysts to rapidly solve intelligence requirements in support of complete Predictive Battlespace Awareness (PBA) while compressing the ATO cycle. The goal of this research is to develop and demonstrate a prototype system.

PEERLESS TECHNOLOGIES CORP. Suite 117, Suite 117 Dayton, OH 45402
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 222-1330 Mr. Brad Power AF 04-109 Awarded: 30APR04
Title:	Disseminating ISR Products, Including Real-Time Moving Imagery, as a Multi-Service Enterprise
Abstract:	This effort is to develop an overall system design for automated dissemination based on information content and provide a proof-of-feasibility demonstration. The DoD is moving from centralized thinking and planning to net-centric planning. The current Task, Process, Exploit, Disseminate (TPED) concept used in many services to provide information from the producer to the consumer is giving way to a new paradigm, Task, Post, Process, Use (TPPU). The transition from the TPED concept to the TPPU concept leverages information technology and connectivity to improve the speed and quality of DoD decision making. The resulting prototype will: Support posting data to shared spaces Provide users with the capability to pull whatever data they need, whenever they need it, from wherever they are Automatically notify users when new data is available

PRESEARCH, INC. 8500 Executive Park Ave., Suite 400 Fairfax, VA 22031
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(434) 872-8553 Dr. Jon Michel AF 04-109 Awarded: 28APR04
Title:	Disseminating ISR Products, Including Real-Time Moving Imagery, as a Multi-Service Enterprise
Abstract:	Success on the modern battlefield requires commanders to see first, understand first, and execute first. This is particularly true in unconventional operations where enemies are using asymmetrical threats to defeat our overwhelming combat power. Combat information is currently being provided by far ranging sensors of every sort in every intelligence discipline (IMINT, HUMINT, SIGINT, etc), all the way from space-based collection systems to battlefield interrogations. The ability to fuse that information and draw sound conclusions is dependent on automated applications that wade through the masses of information, culls out the relevant data, and is organized to present a coherent picture to the decision maker. This proposal explains the development of an automated system for information extraction and dissemination. The core of the system is a semantic ontology knowledge store. This knowledge store is utilized to extract concepts for automatic generation of metadata. By creating the potential for capturing domain knowledge in a semantic ontology, we furnish the basis for significant advances at the system level: 1.) automated concept extraction and 2.) metadata labeling and search capability. While this data mining capability is a potent technology advantage on the battlefield, this work expands the commercial potential in exploring business information.

SECURBORATION, INC. 695 Sanderling Dr Indialantic, FL 32903
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(919) 244-3946 Mr. Lynn Lehman AF 04-110 Awarded: 27APR04
Title:	Campaign Level Adversarial Modeling System
Abstract:	An innovative framework to support adversarial modeling -- entitled Emergent Adversarial Modeling System (EAMS). EAMS leverages the Securboration team's past experience in knowledge integration, scenario generation and adversarial modeling to address the difficult problems facing the adversarial modeling domain

STOTTLER HENKE ASSOC., INC. 951 Mariner's Island Blvd., STE 360 San Mateo, CA 94404
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(973) 746-7032 Dr. Daniel Fu AF 04-110 Awarded: 30APR04
Title:	Intelligent, Authorable Adversary Modeling System for Course of Action Assessment
Abstract:	We propose to build for the Air Force a next-generation adversary model that can dynamically generate realistic adversary actions in an operational-level predictive simulation. This system will use advanced artificial intelligence behavior modeling techniques to capture the full range of potential adversary actions and decisions. It will also model the effects of culture and other extra-cognitive factors on behavior. The proposed system consists of two components: an adversary authoring tool and a model execution engine. The authoring tool will permit military analysts to customize all aspects of the adversary model without the assistance of a programmer. This tool will feature an intuitive visual editor in which the user can assemble models from basic building blocks by manipulating graphical elements. Giving analysts direct control over the adversary models will encourage the development of better models. The model execution engine will use the resulting models to control adversary forces in a simulation. The engine will include an execution monitor allowing the analyst to observe the changing "mental state" of the adversary as well as to ask for an explanation of any action or decision. We will absolutely demonstrate the feasibility of our ideas through the development of a Phase I prototype.

NATURAL SELECTION, INC. 3333 N. Torrey Pines Ct., Suite 200 La Jolla, CA 92037
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 455-6449 Dr. David B. Fogel AF 04-111 Awarded: 28APR04
Title:	An Integrated COA versus eCOA Tool
Abstract:	Current course of action (COA) planning is predominantly a manual ad hoc process where the mission planner seeks to maximize the immediate effects of his COAs while reacting to the opposition's known COAs, and possibly countering the enemy's immediate anticipated response. Long-term moves and countermoves are not considered, nor are objectives achieved in a calibrated quantitative manner. There is a need to search for optimal COAs by considering multiple friendly COAs in light of multiple potential enemy COAs (eCOAs) and "dovetailing" the effects of each side's actions into a chain of moves and countermoves, actions and reactions, that defines the overall sequence of unfolding events in combat. This Phase I project will develop and test software that uses an upgraded JANUS simulation to address this need within the context of UAV (or other vehicles) mission planning in light of enemy defenses. The Phase II effort will treat scenarios involving scores to hundreds of units on multiple sides, and be demonstrated within an EBO context. The software will be applicable to all branches of the military, and to the software entertainment industry. Natural Selection, Inc.'s sister company, Digenetics, Inc., is already well positioned to effect a successful commercial transition.

SYNERGIA LLC 2400 Broadway, Suite 203 Redwood City, CA 94063
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(650) 569-4999 Dr. Gregg Courand AF 04-111 Awarded: 28APR04
Title:	An Integrated COA versus eCOA Tool -- Decisive Engagements
Abstract:	We present a technology for COA versus eCOA analysis. It provides for modeling the adaptive capacity of human systems at the level of practices, individuals, and multi-actor systems. COAs are realized as restrictions on actors' general performance capacities. We introduce the concept of a decisive engagement. This is one that both informs us as to relative risks and opportunities, and more importantly, controls outcomes so that they sharply favor friendly objectives, and minimize adversary success. We employ normative calculations to manage simulation experiments (COA versus eCOA engagements) so that we discover and redesign action toward decisive engagements. Both calculations limit the computational complexity of multi-actor simulation.

INTELLIGENT AUTOMATION, INC. 7519 Standish Place, Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20855
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 294-5248 Dr. Philip Goetz AF 04-112 Awarded: 30APR04
Title:	New Information Technologies for Crisis Operations
Abstract:	The innovation of this proposal is using our novel software agent-based tools and techniques to provide a tool that will simulate the behavior of groups of people in crisis situations, and a decision support tool that will perform real-time planning, scheduling, and resource allocation for crisis management. We will also integrate a robust and flexible wireless ad hoc mobile network capability into the same structure. The primary components to achieve this system already exist and we will be able to demonstrate a functional system operating for a single crisis scenario by the end of Phase 1. The system will execute on a set of commercial off the shelf hand held PDAs and/or laptop computers. This is only possible within the time and resources of a Phase 1 SBIR because IAI has been developing software agent applications for over a decade and we have an extensive set of tools and techniques that essentially implement the required capabilities already. Our work will also include both analytical and simulation capabilities to assess the stability, probability and magnitude of events of clustered volatility that will effect the behavior emerging from a crisis situation.

STOTTLER HENKE ASSOC., INC. 951 Mariner's Island Blvd., STE 360 San Mateo, CA 94404
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(206) 545-1478 Dr. Tamitha Carpenter AF 04-112 Awarded: 27APR04
Title:	Integrating Decision Support and Knowledge Capture for Crisis Operations
Abstract:	Stottler Henke proposes an innovative approach to supporting crisis response operations that will allow for the amassing and exploitation of lessons learned during the resolution of previous incidents while simultaneously providing an advanced situational awareness capability. To accomplish these goals, we must necessarily address the fundamental challenge of knowledge capture since much recent research into the failures of various knowledge management initiatives highlights the fact that it is difficult, even in military organizations, to motivate personnel to codify their knowledge for the greater good. In recognition of this fact, the proposed Athena system will be designed so as to provide immediate benefits to the user that significantly outweigh the effort they expend. In particular, Athena will utilize the incremental description of an incident and its response to retrieve previous related cases as well as provide context-aware information retrieval, dissemination across the organization, and monitoring that can cut through information overload and thereby reduce cognitive burdens. Captured knowledge will not only benefit future crisis resolution, but also provides valuable content for scenario-based trainers. Phase I development of a limited prototype will provide a foundation for the complete implementation of Athena in Phase II and its commercialization.

ISX CORP. 760 Paseo Camarillo, Ste. 401 Camarillo, CA 93010
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(805) 484-6100 Mr. Justin Donnelly AF 04-113 Awarded: 21APR04
Title:	J-DASP: JBI Dynamic Administration, Simulation and Policy
Abstract:	ISX and its subcontractors, three researchers associated with the Institute for Human and Machine Cognition (IHMC), propose to design J-DASP, the JBI Dynamic Administration, Simulation and Policy toolkit. J-DASP will play a key role in enabling the Network Centric Warfare vision by enhancing existing Joint Battlespace Infosphere capabilities with an administration toolkit that will provide dynamic policy management, visualization of infosphere operations, and simulation of changes to the state of the infosphere. J-DASP policy will determine access control, prioritization of information flow, as well as parameters of the platform's persistence and caching mechanisms. Its simulation capabilities will allow administrators to predict the effects of changes to the platform from administrative actions, the introduction of new clients, or changes in client behavior. These capabilities will be based on mature research products and commercial tools, including IHMC's KAoS Domain and Policy Services, which have been used to provide dynamic policy management for a variety of software environments including the DARPA CoABS Grid and the DARPA ALP/UltraLog Cougaar agent framework, and the AFRL JBI v1.1 Platform Services. The maturity of these research results will allow to us produce immediate Phase I results and to provide a design for advanced Phase II capabilities.

STANFIELD SYSTEMS, INC. 718 Sutter Street, Suite 108 Folsom, CA 95630
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(916) 608-8006 Dr. Timothy M. Jacobs AF 04-113 Awarded: 29APR04
Title:	Information Management Staff Toolkit
Abstract:	Successful management of information is crucial to effective operation of the JBI. Unlike traditional management applications that focus on physical aspects of a network, the information management staff toolkit must manage information for the functional end user. This requires insight into which information is required for a particular function and how that information is collected and transformed as needed by the end user. To ensure critical information is delivered to decision makers in a timely manner, policies controlling delivery of and access to information must be defined and enforced. To assist in administering the JBI, we envision user configurable visual representations of management information that can be directly manipulated by information staff. Effective visualization will enable high-level overviews of system activity along with detailed views of specific information paths. Staff members can use these visual representations to monitor and reconfigure information delivery policies and transformation paths. To be effective, these visual representations must accurately depict current status of frequently changing information. This requires that appropriate information be collected in real-time to update the visual presentations. We plan to use collaborative agents that monitor information paths and synthesize relevant information from JBI infrastructure applications.

ARGON ENGINEERING ASSOC., INC. 12701 Fair Lakes Circle Fairfax, VA 22033
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 828-2250 Mr. Scott Mason AF 04-114 Awarded: 29APR04
Title:	Physical Layer Information Assurance for Wireless Networks
Abstract:	It is temping to leverage the tremendous power and rapid evolution of commercial wireless communications, although the vulnerability of this technology to intrusion, spoofing, and jamming remains a frustrating obstacle to their use in sensitive environments. Argon Engineering proposes to investigate augmentations and modifications applicable to these COTS products to provide improved information assurance, allowing these much-needed capabilities to reach the Military end-user while retaining low cost. Argon will draw upon our extensive background in SIGINT to develop RF fingerprinting techniques allowing the unique identification of each node in the wireless network. Active means of imprinting a distinctive RF and physical layer signature on client and access point hardware will further enhance user authentication. Previous research and knowledge on the subject of electronic warfare will be used to study physical layer changes aimed at addressing the threat of denial of service through jamming. Argon has embraced the software defined radio concept and will use this as the basis for eventual Phase II prototyping efforts. The reconfigurable approach will allow us to explore changes to the physical layer protocol through an all-software implementation. Such relatively low cost implementations ultimately allow for the broad deployment of integrated wireless network security, authentication, and anti-jam capabilities throughout the military as well as commercial enterprises.

FIDELITY COMTECH, INC. 5485 Conestoga Court, Suite 237 Boulder, CO 80301
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 786-8048 Mr. Joseph M. Carey AF 04-114 Awarded: 26APR04
Title:	Physical Layer Information Assurance for Wireless Networks using Phased Array Technology
Abstract:	Commercial wireless local area networks provide the Air Force the opportunity to lower network infrastructure costs, while allowing the user increased mobility and flexibility. The key factor limiting deployments of these IEEE 802.11 standard based networks is security. In this Phase I project Fidelity Comtech is proposing an innovative physical layer solution that will integrate an IEEE 802.11 compliant access point with an extremely low-cost phased array. This competitively priced solution will limit the physical access to the wireless network.

CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. 625 Mount Auburn Street Cambridge, MA 02138
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 491-3474 Mr. Paul G. Gonsalves AF 04-115 Awarded: 26APR04
Title:	On-line Situation Awareness and Knowledge Acquisition (OSAKA)
Abstract:	Recent military operations illustrate the importance of information dominance and the need to provide enhanced battlespace situation awareness (SA) to our warfighters. Enhanced battlespace situation awareness ensures our warfighters have the requisite information to enable timely and accurate decision-making. Advances in information and communications technologies have facilitated enhanced sensing and fusion of intelligence information, rapid processing, display, and visualization of information, and enhanced joint services and coalition communication, command, and control. The associated application and assimilation of these technologies provides a tremendous opportunity to enhance decision-making capabilities within Air Force Air Operation Centers (AOCs). Here, we propose a system for On-line Situation Awareness and Knowledge Acquisition (OSAKA). Our novel approach integrates an off-line mechanism for rapid construction of Bayesian belief network (BN) SA models with an on-line model adaptation and knowledge acquisition scheme. Model construction is supported via a cognitive task analysis based approach for identifying key domain requirements and a process for translating these requirements into a library of BN-based SA models. On-line SA and knowledge acquisition is supported via BN evidence propagation and model parameter learning. We see considerable potential for this approach in enhancing Air Force AOC SA requirements and addressing future information dominated battlespace requirements.

DECISIVE ANALYTICS CORP. 1235 Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite 400 Arlington, VA 22202
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 414-5087 Dr. David Lee AF 04-115 Awarded: 30APR04
Title:	Innovative Approaches to Fusion 2+
Abstract:	Fusion 2+ as it relates to air-to-air engagements involves pressing real time constraints and very large amounts of imperfect data. Real-time data acquired under an air-to-air engagement will have different types of imperfection; two representative classes of imperfection are vagueness and ambiguity in the data. However, the current available approaches of Fusion 2+ are limited when utilizing vague data or ambiguous data. The challenge of this proposal is to explore the prototyping of a hybrid processing model that can formally process both vague (fuzzy) and ambiguous (probabilistic) data types. The challenge is to integrate heterogeneous data where the fuzzy domain is defined as "possibility" and the probabilistic domain is defined by traditional "probability". This research provides a hybrid model by exploring and adopting a transformation method between probability and possibility domains.

BLACK RIVER SYSTEMS CO., INC. 162 Genesee Street Utica, NY 13502
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(315) 732-7385 Mr. Mathew DePasquale AF 04-117 Awarded: 26APR04
Title:	Coalition Shared Database Implementation
Abstract:	Black River Systems Company, Inc. proposes to research, design and demonstrate a cost effective, bandwidth efficient information storage and dissemination system to provide a more robust awareness of the battlefield and fully exploit the capabilities of coalition systems. Targeted towards the CAESAR program, the system will facilitate interoperability between coalition data generating entities, exploitation stations, and command and control assets. Modern distributed data sharing networks, dissemination architectures, registered data formats, security techniques and generic software layer methodologies shall be investigated and selected for use in the creation of a software specification and implementation plan for transitioning towards Phase II. Specifically, the primary emphasis of Phase I will be to: (1) identify current shortcomings of data information sharing among NATO coalition systems, (2) investigate current technology products, concepts and methodologies which apply towards solving these issues, (3) design a system solution to exploit the full capabilities of these systems, and (4) demonstrate efficient information sharing within a controlled laboratory environment such as the AFRL Fusion Facility. The Phase I results will be leveraged towards the development of a Phase II prototype with sufficient maturity to be integrated into a future CAESAR exercise for validation and refinement.

TIA RESEARCH 800 Turnpike Street, Suite 300 North Andover, MA 01845
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 686-0311 Dr. John J. Fox AF 04-117 Awarded: 30APR04
Title:	Coalition Shared Database Implementation
Abstract:	TIA Research will develop an approach for supporting the efficient storage, dissemination and retrieval of Ground Moving Target Indicator and Synthetic Aperture RADAR imagery within a distributed database. We will achieve this by a comprehensive research agenda that addresses the key elements of the problem: (1) the design of data structures for supporting efficient queries against data that representing rapidly moving points, (2) the design of a distributed database management system for efficiently managing the storage and retrieval of this data and (3) the development of a novel query mechanism for supporting spatio-temporal queries against this data. In all cases, the developed data structures and interfaces will adhere to the relevant commercial standards, such as XML. In Phase I, we will design and prototype tools demonstrating each of these capabilities. In Phase II, we will focus on maturing the resultant software components and, if desired, integrate the tools into the MTIx workstation.

CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. 625 Mount Auburn Street Cambridge, MA 02138
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 491-3474 Ms. Karen A. Harper AF 04-119 Awarded: 26APR04
Title:	JFACC Agent-based Mentoring System (JAMS)
Abstract:	Recent military operations have clarified the benefits of a centralized aerospace control concept under the authority of the Joint Force Air Component Commander (JFACC). However, these potential benefits can be compromised by the sheer complexity of the JFACC's responsibilities, and the lack of available training resources to support effective performance. As a result, the JFACC is expected to learn largely "on the job". We believe that this on the job learning experience can be enhanced by an on-line, software-based mentoring environment, which monitors JFACC activities and provides "advice" to help him achieve his objectives. This mentor is not a typical decision aid - it does not provide specific guidance with respect to operational decision-making. Rather, it provides the JFACC with in-depth insight into his own business processes, allowing him to track current objectives, task status, and performance. We propose to develop a JFACC Agent-based Mentoring System (JAMS), comprised of three components: 1) a set of mentoring agents encoding the task space for JFACC operations; 2) a dynamic user model that estimates user state and adjusts the interactions between the user and mentoring agents; and 3) an intuitive human/system interface (HSI) supporting the JFACC's understanding of his current objectives, tasks, and performance.

KLEIN ASSOC., INC. 1750 Commerce Center Blvd. North Fairborn, OH 45324
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(763) 561-2010 Mr. William A. Ross AF 04-119 Awarded: 27APR04
Title:	Learning in the Hot Seat: Mentoring Software to Support JFACC Command
Abstract:	Centralized command and control of air assets has been a goal of many major military operations since the end of World War II. With the ever-increasing importance of air support in modern warfighting tactics, the commander of these assets (the JFACC) must be effective. This is a lofty goal, considering that formal training for this position is brief, and on-the-job training is often unmentored and relatively unstructured. The challenge is to provide a software tool that will mentor a novice JFACC and allow him or her to rise to the new challenges of this command. The same program should also support the command styles of more experienced, senior JFACCs. Klein Associates will leverage its experience with JFACCs and proven methodologies to extract the core decision-making skills in this domain of expertise, and use these to create the concept for an intelligent, flexible software advisor. Based on in-depth Cognitive Task Analysis interviews, a collection of heuristics and knowledge will be elicited. An appropriate architecture for the implementation of the mentoring system will be proposed, along with design recommendations for interface and usability, based on a decision-centered notion of operator support that has proven effective for high-level commanders.

ALPHATECH, INC. 6 New England Executive Park Burlington, MA 01803
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 273-3388 Mr. James B. McKeon AF 04-120 Awarded: 11MAY04
Title:	Automated Targeting for Precision-Guided Munitions in Flight
Abstract:	Analysis and experimentation suggests that the Phase 1 goal, to develop an integrated process and systems architecture that automatically passes mensurated-targeting information to Precision Guided Munitions (PGMs) in flight, is feasible using existing systems. Our innovation builds upon related ALPHATECH weapon-target pairing (WTP) work successfully demonstrated at multiple Joint Expeditionary Force Experiments (JEFX). WTP employs many features relevant to PGM targeting including mensuration tool interface, Joint Effectiveness Munitions Manuals (JMEMs) data usage, time on target, fuel, and threat calculations. The primary WTP product, J9.0 command messages, is transmitted to execution authorities that divert designated assets to targets. We developed and demonstrated a WTP to Rapid Precision Targeting System (RPTS) interface. RPTS, with WTP information, created and forwarded target folders (including imagery and mensurated coordinates) to launch platforms in flight. Our innovation leverages our previous efforts and investigates direct interface processes for JMEM/Air-To-Surface Weaponeering System (JAWS), or Weapons Effects Analysis & Probability Software (WEAPS), or other front ends. We will investigate interface improvements to mensuration tools, Launch Acceptability Region (LAR) calculations, and formatted data generation and transmission for launch platforms and PGMs. The process establishes paths to automated generation and transmission of PGM pairings and consideration of different PGM options.

COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY ASSOC., INC. 12530 Parklawn Drive, Suite 300 Rockville, MD 20852
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(719) 590-5258 Dr. Neil Beer AF 04-120 Awarded: 30APR04
Title:	Technologies for Injecting Targeting and Re-targeting Data in Precision-Guided Weapons in Flight
Abstract:	This research effort will investigate the feasibility of an automated end-to-end sensor-to-weapon environment, within which user-specified rules of engagement can evolve from today's manual targeting and weapon-target pairing processes to highly automated real/near real time `kill chain' operations, thus enabling automated generation and delivery of targeting and retargeting data from an operator/analyst workstation to a precision guided weapon in flight. The software process to establish this targeting capability will require the application of agent-based technology and the integration of (1) software tools developed to support time-critical targeting operations, the air tasking order generation and update process, and weaponeering (weapon effectiveness and damage assessments), and (2) "final mile" tactical digital communications links to specific weapons in flight.

SPATIAL DIGITAL SYSTEMS, INC. 23600 Telo Ave, Suite 118 Torrance, CA 90505
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 530-4433 Dr. Donald C. D. Chang AF 04-121 Awarded: 12APR04
Title:	RA-2 Over the Horizon (OTH) Communications for Small UAV's
Abstract:	An enabling technology to accomplish OTH communications systems architectures for small UAV_s is identified. In addition two small-UAV based communications architectures are highlighted for theater applications. One utilizes multiple small UAV_s for disadvantage users with hand held terminals; the other is UAV-based communications systems with ground beam forming for ground mobile users with small directional antennas. SDS, with support from AOptix, proposes a tri-band solution that combines the best of all three communication technologies. This TRI-Band Universal-aperture Terminal (TRIBUTE) supports FSO, millimeter wave, and RF bands all in one robust and compact common-aperture package. In addition, it utilizes recent innovations at AOptix and SDS. AOptix FSO Terminals incorporate unique curvature-based Adaptive Optics (AO) optimized specifically for long distance atmospheric FSO. AOptix AO subsystems exhibit size, weight and power (SWaP) orders of magnitude lower than traditional AO systems, servo bandwidth high enough to mitigate atmospheric optical turbulence and scintillation effects, and packaging robustness suitable for battlefield use. SDS Digital Beam Forming (DBF) technology provides agile RF beam forming features that are not possible or practical with current phased array technology. The proposed enabling technology and two communications architectures will be evaluated in phase I study.

ALPHATECH, INC. 6 New England Executive Park Burlington, MA 01803
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 273-3388 Dr. Geoff Meltzner AF 04-122 Awarded: 29APR04
Title:	Development of a hybrid modified MELP/LPC-10e speech coder
Abstract:	Low bit rate speech coding is vital for communication in today's military environments. Currently, the Link-16 waveform uses the LPC-10e speech coder to perform this task at 2.4 kbs. However, Link-16 speech communication can potentially be improved with an upgrade to the newer Mixed Excitation Linear Predictive (MELP) speech coder, which produces higher quality speech and was chosen as the new military standard 2.4 kbs speech coder. Taking advantage of MELP's capabilities requires upgrading the systems which use Link-16. However being a more complex speech coder, MELP may introduce unwanted computational delays in the system. Moreover, because not all communications equipment will be upgraded simultaneously, there remains a need to retain backwards compatibility with LPC-10e. ALPHATECH proposes to develop a modified hybrid MELP-LPC-10e speech coder/decoder that will implement MELP within Link-16 and retain backward compatibility with LPC-10e, even improving LPC-10e speech. This Phase-I effort will focus on: (1) modifying the MELP vocoder by simplifying or removing certain analysis steps to reduce computation time without affecting the speech quality, (2) developing a hybrid decoder that can seamlessly decode both encoding schemes, and (3) testing the new speech coder to ensure it meets the required Quality of Service (QoS) standards.

LUMIDIGM, INC. 800 Bradbury SE, Suite 213 Albuquerque, NM 87106
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 272-7406 Dr. Robert Rowe AF 04-123 Awarded: 29APR04
Title:	Study to Improve Finger Print Sensors with Liveness Detection
Abstract:	For the past six (6) months, Lumidigm has conducted basic research on an anti-spoofing deep tissue sensor for detecting live tissue under a Research and Development Task Order through Unisys funded by the Department of Defense for Biometrics R&D support for NSA. This project is yielding a research prototype sensor which will be delivered by March 12, 2004 to NSA. The research prototype sensor will be used to test for biological skin substitutes, animal tissue, and thin films of material applied to living human skin that could be used for creating a false finger print,. Based on this basic research, Lumidigm is proposing to conduct a feasibility study to reduce the sensor size and determine how to tightly integrate it with a finger print touch sensor and/or finger swipe sensor. This study will also determine the limitations of commercially available fingerprint sensors, the potential characteristics needed to test for liveness simultaneously when a finger is place on the finger print sensor and will determine the size and functional requirements to create a prototype finger print anti-spoofing sensor to be built in a follow-on project.

WETSTONE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 17 Main Street, Suite 237 Cortland, NY 13045
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(607) 756-6086 Mr. Chester D. Hosmer, Jr. AF 04-123 Awarded: 27APR04
Title:	Biometric Liveness Authentication Development Environment (BLADE)
Abstract:	Our ability to improve the accuracy and effectiveness of biometric devices deployed in mission critical environments is of paramount importance. In order to rapidly develop and deploy new testing and validation methods we must create a development environment that combines a sophisticated set of software tools with a carefully crafted database of sample biometric templates (both legitimate and imposters). This database will be generated from a broad demographic base and be accessible via a plug and play interface of both legacy and state-of-the-art biometric devices. The BLADE provides a secure and extensible environment for the advancement and