DoD SBIR FY07.3 - SOLICITATION SELECTIONS w/ ABSTRACTS

DoD SBIR FY07.3 - SOLICITATION SELECTIONS w/ ABSTRACTS
Air Force - Navy - MDA - NGA

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102 Phase I Selections from the 07.3 Solicitation

(In Topic Number Order)

CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. 625 Mount Auburn Street Cambridge, MA 02138
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 491-3474 Dr. Ryan Kilgore AF 07-010 Awarded: 01/11/08
Title:	Four-Dimensional User-Defined Spatio-Temporal Enhanced Interface Technologies (FUSE-IT)
Abstract:	To effectively control the battlespace, AOC warfighters must rapidly perceive and understand complex geospatial and temporal relationships (e.g., the evolving 3D geometry of SAM-site threat envelopes, the potential for flight path conflicts over mission duration). Advanced 4-dimensional Common Operating Picture (4D COP) technologies are required to better support the cognitive challenges of these efforts. To address this need, we propose to design and demonstrate Four-Dimensional User-Defined Spatio-Temporal Enhanced Interface Technologies (FUSE-IT). FUSE-IT technologies will allow AOC warfighters to rapidly define, explore, and exploit battlespace visualizations that are automatically correlated in time and space. Two major components comprise our approach. First, we will use an iterative, work-centered analysis, design, and evaluation process to identify 4D visualization and interaction methods for the presentation and manipulation of critical battlespace information and meta-information. Second, we will design these methods to support the fusion and display of heterogeneous information resources through a single, rapidly customizable user interface. We will assess the feasibility of our approach by leveraging existing in-house, COTS, and GOTS components to rapidly design and prototype promising FUSE-IT visualization and interaction concepts. We will also design a plan for evaluating these prototypes with subject matter experts in a spiral design and implementation effort.

SONALYSTS, INC. 215 Parkway NorthP.O. Box 280 Waterford, CT 06385
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(860) 326-3621 Ms. Margaret Bailey AF 07-010 Awarded: 01/14/08
Title:	User Definable 4-D Common Operating Picture (COP)
Abstract:	Sonalysts will demonstrate the feasibility of developing a 4-D Common Operating Picture (COP), the elements of which are user selectable and automatically correlated in time and space. The 4-D COP will allow the user to project forward in time and analyze possible outcomes of pending operations. This research will produce a design for a system that allows the operator at the Air Operations Center (AOC) to view, process, and affect the data needed to complete their tasking. The design for the 4-D COP will draw on Sonalysts' successful gaming engine and Flight TraXT operations control system to link geospatial and temporal perspectives in a coherent way, producing a system that improves AOC functioning.

THE DESIGN KNOWLEDGE CO. 3100 Presidential DrSuite 103 Fairborn, OH 45324
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 427-4276 Dr. James McCracken AF 07-010 Awarded: 01/14/08
Title:	User Definable 4-D Common Operating Picture (COP)
Abstract:	TDKC proposes adaptation of their STEED environment to the air operations center domain. An existing 3D, 2D, and data visualization capability with service-oriented architecture capability will be re-engineered to provide the 4D COP functionality.

INTERSENSE, INC. 36 Crosby DriveSuite 150 Bedford, MA 01730
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 541-7603 Mr. Eric Foxlin AF 07-011 Awarded: 01/11/08
Title:	Participant Tracking in Immersive Training and Aiding Environments
Abstract:	Large volume, immersive simulation environments provide a compelling way to train and simulate operational systems. To provide realism to these training scenarios, tracking the absolute location (both position & orientation) of both the player under training and the devices that the player must interact with becomes paramount. In multi-user training environments, each player must also know the absolute locations of the other players for a successful training mission. In immersive Virtual Reality (VR) training with multiple users in a fixed environment, the absolute position and orientation of the head, weapon or virtual handheld devices (i.e. virtual binoculars) are not as important as resolution, latency and weight. For Augmented Reality (AR) training, the position and orientation of the display needs to be tracked accurately relative to the same world coordinate system in which objects in the environment are mapped. We are proposing autonomous tracking solutions that offer a wireless and networkable approach to instrumenting multiple players and devices in an indoor environment with minimal tracking reference infrastructure. Differing from Military Operations in Urban Terrain (MOUT) type tracking approaches, the proposed solutions will meet or exceed "AR-type" tracking accuracies of 0.1 degree in angle and 3 mm in position.

PROPAGATION RESEARCH ASSOC. 1275 Kennestone CircleSuite 100 Marietta, GA 30066
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(770) 795-8181 Dr. Jim Stagliano AF 07-011 Awarded: 01/22/08
Title:	Training Environment Positioning and Orientation System (TEPOS)
Abstract:	Propagation Research Associates, Inc., (PRA) proposes the Training Environment Positioning and Orientation System (TEPOS) effort to provide accurate orientation and position information for platforms (participants and devices) within an immersive training environment. Utilizing waveform diversity, polarimetric antennas, a distributed receiver system, with PRA's proprietary waveform processing and PRA's unique rapid estimation technology, the position and orientation is determined for multiple platforms simultaneously in real-time. Leveraging PRA technologies developed under previous SBIR contracts such as the Precision Pulse Positioning System, Precision Orientation System, and its proprietary Orthogonal Polarimetry technology, PRA will design a system that provides accurate position and orientation information of a platform in a completely wireless fashion yet add mere ounces (tens of grams) of mass to the platform. The advantages of this system are highly accurate position and orientation information updated in real-time, completely wireless between platform and imagery generator, each platform is uniquely identified allowing individual tracking in an environment containing many platforms, and mitigation of multipath fading thereby assuring optimum performance. Using commercial-off-the-shelf hardware, PRA will design (Phase I) and ultimately fabricate (Phase II) a low-cost, effective TEPOS technology.

TIME DOMAIN CORP. 7057 Old Madison Pike, Suite 250 Huntsville, AL 35806
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(256) 428-6324 Mr. Brandon Dewberry AF 07-011 Awarded: 01/14/08
Title:	Participant Tracking in Immersive Training and Aiding Environments
Abstract:	We propose enabling a large-volume immersive simulation environment by fusing Time Domain Corporation's (TDC) ultra wideband (UWB) wireless tracking tag with an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) and magnetometer sensing. These tracking technologies integrated with a complementary Kalman filter will form the basis for a UWB/Inertial Navigation System (INS). The resulting system will combine the advantages of each technology to provide a tracking system with precise position and attitude sensing over a large, easily expandable measurement volume. Recent advancements in UWB tracking tags and small, low-cost Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) IMUs have provided a unique opportunity. TDC has commercially released a small, lightweight, battery power Real Time Location System (RTLS). Each cell of this system supports a warehouse of up to 2500 wristwatch-sized lightweight tags transmitting at 1Hz and utilizing coin battery power for over 4 years and provides wireless data transfer from the tag to the infrastructure. Integration of inertial sensors for expansion into high fidelity tracking markets is a logical next R&D step. MEMS IMU devices become smaller, more affordable, and more capable of precision attitude measurements. To support accurate position translation they require a synergistic external localization technology such as the TDC RTLS tracking system. A miniature UWB/INS tags will provide the best of both worlds: real-time precision wireless position and orientation with small sensors deployable to track multiple kinematic motions on many people in the tracking area. The Phase I will compare system requirements with the current state of the art capabilities; analyze various architectures and trade-offs for accuracy, distance, size, and power consumptions; develop, test, and evaluate a single fused high-speed RTLS/IMU tag; and provide an integrated system design and plan for follow-on development. The feasibility to be demonstrated is to meet the positioning requirement, tentatively 4cm for accuracy and 2cm RMS for precision that will feed into the development and construction of a testable prototype in Phase II.

ADVALUE PHOTONICS, INC. 4585 S. Palo Verde, Suite 405 Tucson, AZ 85714
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(520) 790-5468 Dr. Shibin Jiang AF 07-012 Awarded: 01/11/08
Title:	Terahertz Source and Spectrometer
Abstract:	We propose to develop a fiber-based, high power, narrow linewidth, and tunable THz source to implement a novel THz spectroscopy system by leveraging our proprietary fiber laser technology. This proposed high power fiber-based THz source will be generated by using a nonlinear crystal based on difference-frequency generation (DFG) pumped by high power pulsed fiber lasers in MOPA with high repetition rate (quasi-CW), which will reach a high power of ~ 1 W, a widely tuning range of 0.1-7 THz, and a narrow linewidth of 50-100 MHz. This proposal will use an external power cavity to enhance the conversion efficiency of parametric THz generation. The spectral resolution for the proposed THz spectrometer can be better than 200 MHz due to narrow linewidth, frequency accuracy, fine wavelength tuning step, and low phase noise for the proposed fiber-based THz source.

ADVANCED ENERGY SYSTEMS, INC. 27 Industrial Boulevard, Unit E Medford, NY 11763
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(609) 514-0315 Dr. Hans Bluem AF 07-012 Awarded: 01/14/08
Title:	Terahertz Source and Spectrometer
Abstract:	High power, high frequency (100 GHz to 7 THz) RF sources can provide revolutionary advances in several militarily significant areas. THz imaging, spectroscopy and communications are important emerging applications. A THz spectrometer making use of a high power, tunable source would provide an invaluable tool for exploring these applications and the effects of THz radiation on biological systems. The goal of this SBIR is to demonstrate such a source, and its use in a spectrometer system.

PHYSICAL OPTICS CORP. Electro-Optics and Holography Division20600 Gramercy Place, Bldg 100 Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 320-3088 Dr. Baolong Yu AF 07-012 Awarded: 01/08/08
Title:	Tunable Terahertz Source and Spectrometer
Abstract:	To address the Air Force need for a terahertz spectroscopy system consisting of a tunable terahertz (THz) source, capable of generating energy from 0.1 to 7 THz with 1 W continuous wave (CW) output power, and a THz spectrometer with better than 200 MHz spectral resolution, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Tunable THz Source and Spectrometer (TUTSS). The proposed TUTSS is based on optical rectification of nonlinear chi^(2) medium for THz emitting and electro-optical sampling for THz detection. The system will offer tunable THz source energy from 0.1 to 7 THz at average power of 1 W CW output, and a spectrometer with spectral resolution of 150 MHz (25% better than the AF requirement). Innovative use of special crystals for the THz emitter and sensor will provide powerful and tunable THz radiation and detection. By varying the phase-matching angles of the THz emitter and sensor, the central frequency of the output THz wave is continuously tuned. In Phase I POC will determine the feasibility of TUTSS by designing and testing a laboratory breadboard prototype. In Phase II POC plans to develop, demonstrate, and validate the operational TUTSS system designed in Phase I.

DESIGN INTERACTIVE, INC. 1221 E. Broadway, Suite 110 Oviedo, FL 32765
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(407) 706-0977 Mr. Sven Fuchs AF 07-013 Awarded: 01/28/08
Title:	Integration of Psychophysiological and Performance Measures into an Adaptive Aiding System
Abstract:	To meet the challenges imposed on command-and-control environments by next-generation weapons systems and continued reduced manning efforts, we will develop the Proactive Aiding in Command and Control Environments System (PACES) - an automatic agent, informed by real-time data streams from the system, the mission, and the operator's cognitive state. PACES will use dynamic constraint-based task modeling to anticipate future mission state and operator functional state (OFS) ahead of time. An existing workload analysis method will be used to calculate expected operator load for the future task demands anticipated by the model in real-time. Given this information, preventive adaptations of the information display can be dynamically applied to avoid cognitive bottlenecks before they occur. In addition to preventive adaptation, PACES will employ physiological measures, specifically electroencephalogram and eye tracking, to assess the operator's actual cognitive state and mitigate problems in real-time. Physiological measures will provide input to an intelligent Soar architecture to derive OFS indicators and inform PACES when adaptive aiding is needed. The model may further analyze workflow history and operator's physiological and behavioral responses to system events in order to dynamically adjust and improve the predictive modeling component and mitigation strategies.

QUANTUM APPLIED SCIENCE & RESEARCH, INC. 5764 Pacific Center BlvdSuite 107 San Diego, CA 92121
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 373-0832 Dr. Robert Matthews AF 07-013 Awarded: 01/15/08
Title:	Integrated Adaptive Aiding System for UAV Control and Related Applications
Abstract:	Over the last two years, the proposers have developed both an advanced physiologic state model of operator functional state (OFS) and a human capacity/human performance-based human-in-the-loop model (HITLM) for an Uninhabited Air Vehicle (UAV). The outputs of these two systems are currently combined to produce a numeric measure of current and future operator readiness, but are inherently adaptable to produce other cognitive and performance measures. Under this program we will add to this system a suite of adaptive aiding routines that modify the UCAV operator interface in order to provide the optimum level of information to the operator, and to guide the operator to adopt the optimum cognitive strategies. Candidate aiding approaches will be down-selected based on extensive experimental evidence and our related experience. The existing combined QUASAR physiologic and HITLM outputs and the aiding mitigations will be jointly optimized as a single integrated system. In addition to a state-of-the-art OFS evaluation and prediction capability, the QUASAR team offers a unique wearable sensor interface that has recently been extended to full wireless operation.

SPACE HARDWARE OPTIMIZATION TECHNOLOGY, INC. 7200 Highway 150 Greenville, IN 47124
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(812) 923-9591 Mr. Bruce Meador AF 07-014 Awarded: 01/28/08
Title:	Care and Monitoring Evacuation Litter (CAMEL)
Abstract:	This proposal contains SHOT's R&D concepts for a "Rapidly Configurable Modular Litter System for use in Aeromedical Transport." The Air Force is currently using the old pole and canvas style litter from pre WWII for aeromedical evacuation. A variety of medical treatment equipment is haphazardly piled on, hanging from, or setting around the litter during transport. SHOT's Care And Monitoring Evacuation Litter (CAMEL) provides an innovative system engineering solution consisting of a barebones, ergonomic, rigid litter and a quick-mate/de-mate Patient Attending Kit (PAK). The CAMEL is a self-contained, structurally stand-alone litter capable of installing directly into a variety of evacuation aircraft and can comfortably transport the patient from the battlefield to stateside. The optional PAK is a modular, scalable treatment facility, utilizing SHOT's proven power management system, along with a consolidated control screen to eliminate redundant systems. The PAK can be customized to meet the patient's changing needs during transport with hot-swappable medical tool suites. Furthermore, all patient data is collected and transferred to a central Nurses' Station for upload in to the TRAC2ES system upon patient arrival. CAMEL provides the most cost-efficient upgrade path for the Air Force's aeromedical transport system with the capability to accommodate future medical equipment.

TRIDENT SYSTEMS, INC. 10201 Lee HighwaySuite 300 Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 691-7781 Mr. Michael Stoddard AF 07-016 Awarded: 01/15/08
Title:	Architecture Methodology Integration
Abstract:	Almost all Air Force information systems are developed using a structured analysis methodology at all levels (i.e. system engineering, software design and code). The result is that the Air Force spends 70% of its software lifecycle costs on maintenance. The Air Force anticipates that it can save millions of dollars in maintenance cost each year by converting the structured-analysis code into object oriented code. Use of existing code converters to accomplish this task results in programs that do not take full advantage of the modular nature of object oriented code and does not achieve the cost reduction. What is required is a methodology and supporting environment that converts the available information at the system engineering level and allows for the traceability within the architecture and down into a new object oriented design from which true object oriented code may be developed and the cost reduction objective realized. A limited approach would be to performa straight mapping from structured analysis elements to object oriented elements. However this approach is not much better than the conversions listed above and is almost guaranteed to miss some important element of the structured model. In this Phase I SBIR Trident Systems proposes to apply its InterchangeSE technology in an effort to produce a more robust and complete object oriented model from structured analysis models. Trident will develop a mapping from the structured analysis model into a common data model based on the international systems engineering standard known as GEIA-927. A mapping will then be developed from the common data model to a new set of data that represents the object oriented model. Structured analysis and object oriented model elements will be considered to exist in different "engineering domains" thus allowing both models to coexist in the repository simultaneously. Traceability will be maintained and manageable between the two data sets. Also Trident will investigate the development of a "template" of relationships between structured and object oriented data so taht checks, and recommendations may be made as to the optimal structure of the object oriented model. Finally, Trident Systems will provide a means to share this data set with a wider DoD community by publishing mdeols and modules created in teh environment to an "Open Architecture Asset Repository".

WIZDOM SYSTEMS, INC. 1300 Iroquois AvenueSuite 140 Naperville, IL 60563
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(630) 357-3000 Mr. Steven Kroll AF 07-016 Awarded: 01/15/08
Title:	Architecture Methodology Integration
Abstract:	The objective of this research is to develop and demonstrate new architecture methodology constructs for information systems to provide effective translation of structure architectures into object oriented architectures.

CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. 625 Mount Auburn Street Cambridge, MA 02138
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 491-3474 Dr. Jonathan D. Pfautz AF 07-017 Awarded: 01/17/08
Title:	Distributed Multidimensional Analysis of Battlespace Weather
Abstract:	Weather is a critical factor in the success or failure of a wide variety of military operations. Therefore, the ability to accurately predict the weather and efficiently incorporate these predictions into operational planning and execution represents a significant advantage over any adversary. Weather situational awareness is hampered by the size of the data sets, particular as ensemble forecasting methods are used to generate statistical distributions over multiple model runs. To address the need for improved multidimensional weather data storage and access within the military decision making process, we propose to develop Meta-information-Enhanced Multidimensional Meteorological Online Repositories for the net-centric Enterprise (MEMMOR-E). This approach consists of three primary elements. To streamline data storage and dissemination we will design a parameterized approach to wavelet transformations for fusing raw weather data. To decrease the processing burden and speed up the analysis process within end-user applications/services, we will research and experiment with the latest multidimensional data optimization technologies, including coalescing and temporal and spatial cube blocking methods. Finally, we will design and evaluate a process that controls these optimization technologies by assessing the end-user's information and meta-information requirements and correlating those requirements with the data and meta-data available from sources.

SCIENTIFIC SYSTEMS CO., INC. 500 West Cummings Park - Ste 3000 Woburn, MA 01801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 933-5355 Mr. Jeffrey Morrison AF 07-017 Awarded: 01/16/08
Title:	A New Approach for Distributed Multidimensional Analysis of Battlespace Weather using Dwarf Technology
Abstract:	We propose to leverage our team's critical expertise in weather data acquisition for weather effects modeling and innovative multidimensional database implementation to design a feasible proof-of-concept prototype that will demonstrate a revolutionary concept to improve incorporating weather effects within the air battle management process. Our design will include actual weather data and weather effects models, combined with state-of-the-art Dwarf technology, to generate real-world weather effects and efficacy metrics. Dwarf datacubes are orders of magnitude smaller than tradition datacubes even when they calculate and store every possible grouping aggregation while maintaining 100% precision (lossless). Our design will also accommodate the display of the weather effects using current mission planning system applications to ensure compatibility with the current air battle management process. The efficacy metrics will demonstrate the revolutionary speed, storage, and efficiency improvements due to the application of Dwarf technology to the required weather data, while FalconView will display the actual weather effects as tactical decision aid overlays. Our team consists of SSCI as the prime contractor and Dr. Nick Roussopoulos of Advanced Communication Technology Inc. as the subcontractor.

CODESOURCERY, INC. 9978 Granite Point Ct. Granite Bay, CA 95746
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(650) 331-3385 Mr. Jules Bergmann AF 07-018 Awarded: 01/22/08
Title:	Using Next Generation Processors
Abstract:	CodeSourcery will analyze homogeneous multicore systems (such as multi-core Intel Xeons), heterogeneous multicore systems (such as the Cell/B.E. processor), and special purpose multicore systems (such as Nvidia and ATI GPUs) to determine which characteristics of these processors determine how to provide high-performance implementations of fundamental mathematical operations such (such as FFTs and matrix multiplication). CodeSourcery will then determine how to modify the open-standard VSIPL++ signal- and image-processing API to take into account these factors to provide highly optimized versions for current and future multi-core systems. In Phase II, CodeSourcery will implement these approaches in Sourcery VSIPL++, CodeSourcery's implementation of the VISPL++ API.

IENTERACTIVE RESEARCH & TECHNOLOGY 16340 Sloan Dr Los Angeles, CA 90049
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 849-7411 Dr. Thomas Y. Yeh AF 07-018 Awarded: 01/17/08
Title:	Using Next Generation Processors
Abstract:	The goal of this proposal is to provide better understanding and improve utilization of next generation computational resources for compute intensive systems. In practical terms, this translates to delivering tools to assist in selecting the most appropriate multi-core processor for different target compute problems and applying the appropriate optimizations. Due to the issues of increasing power (power wall), long memory latency (memory wall), and diminishing returns on exploiting instruction level parallelism (ILP wall), the doubling of uniprocessor performance has slowed from 18 months to 5 years. Instead of increasing clock frequency, the current primary method of increasing processor performance is to increase parallelism. Fortunately, Moore's law continues to provide more transistors per chip. All these factors point to the continued scaling of chip multi-processing into the future, where multiple processor cores are placed on-die. The chip multiprocessor (CMP) design space encompasses a wide variety of designs such as small scale homogeneous designs (desktop CPUs), heterogeneous designs (Cell), many-core application specic designs (GPU, PPU, ClearSpeed, SPI), and many-core general purpose designs (Larrabee and Tilera). This shift to multi-core processors comes with new challenges. The wide variety of designs utilizes different ISAs, memory models, programming models, and architectures. Different programming techniques and optimization strategies are required to optimize performance for the same problem across the spectrum of designs. Furthermore, the same application may require multiple implementations in order to compare across different architectures. The challenge from a system design point of view is to select the "optimal" processor design/s for each target problem and apply the appropriate software or system optimizations. One solution is to categorize high performance problems, the CMP architectures, and the available optimization techniques. Then, use this information to obtain optimal mapping of target workload to processor for system design.

MAXENTRIC TECHNOLOGIES LLC 2071 Lemoine Avenue Suite 302 Fort Lee, NJ 07024
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 272-8800 Mr. Houman Ghajari AF 07-018 Awarded: 01/17/08
Title:	Using Next Generation Processors
Abstract:	Next generation processors attain better performance than existing microprocessors because the abstraction layers better expose the underlying VLSI resources (transistors, wires, pins, ...) and constraints (e.g., wire delay, power, ...). However, the management of these resources and constraints requires the development of more sophisticated hardware and software mechanisms, both to improve efficiency and to ease programmer burden. MaXentric believes the largest advances in the next decade of computer architecture will center around these mechanisms. Our vision is a tool chain of software support that helps the user parallelize applications from choosing the appropriate architecture to analyzing and profiling the application for potential re-organization and improvement. We propose one piece of this chain, codenamed PAMM (Problem-Architecture Mapping for Multi-core) that helps the user select an architecture for a given application and to make optimizations based on that architecture. Phase I efforts will establish a categorization of architectures and high performance problems, benchmark their relationships, and begin the design of the PAMM tool.

ARCHITECTURE TECHNOLOGY CORP. 9971 Valley View Road Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(952) 829-5864 Mr. Ryan C. Marotz AF 07-019 Awarded: 01/15/08
Title:	Organically Assured Routing System (OARS) for the Airborne Network
Abstract:	The Air Force has identified the need for an assured routing system for the Airborne Network (AN) that will protect the routing infrastructure from security attacks designed to disrupt the operation of the network. Subversion of the network routing function by attackers could be catastrophic for mission-critical applications running on the AN. This is because security attacks on the routing function could propagate misinformation within the routing tables resulting in misrouting of data packets in the network and consequent application failure. Architecture Technology Corporation (ATC) proposes an innovative approach called Organically Assured Routing System (OARS) for implementing an attack-resistant routing infrastructure for the AN environment. The proposed Phase I effort will establish the implementation feasibility of OARS and lay the groundwork for a full-scale prototype (TRL 5 or 6) implementation of the technology in Phase II.

INTELLIGENT AUTOMATION, INC. 15400 Calhoun DriveSuite 400 Rockville, MD 20855
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(301) 294-5209 Dr. Julia Deng AF 07-019 Awarded: 01/16/08
Title:	Secure Routing in Airborne Networks
Abstract:	The envisioned Airbone Network (AN) is expected to provide seamless connectivity for operators in a large number of applications. All these applications require proper routing security support to establish correct route between communicating platforms in a timely manner. The truth is that not all AN protocols have built-in security, and these protocols are highly vulnerable to various security threats due to the inherent characteristics of ANs. In this proposal, Intelligent Automation, Inc. (IAI), in collaboration with Prof. Jing Deng at the University of New Orleans proposes an integrated Secure Routing scheme for Airborne Networks (SRAN) in order to provide various security characteristics, such as authentication, confidentiality, integrity and non-repudiation. The proposed SRAN approach exploits existing technologies and makes them more applicable to the dynamic ANs. First, we formulate a two-level routing security mechanism performed at airborne backbone and edge network layer respectively. In both layers, network dynamics are addressed. Second, a set of security mechanisms previously designed for mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs) and stable network (Internet) are extended to the domain of ANs, as we believe the AN shares some similarities with each of them. In particular, several mechanisms to reduce computational and communication overhead are specifically designed.

ARCHITECTURE TECHNOLOGY CORP. 9971 Valley View Road Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(952) 829-5864 Dr. Maher N. Kaddoura AF 07-020 Awarded: 01/16/08
Title:	An End-to-end Hybrid IntServ Signaling Platform for Airborne Networks (HISA)
Abstract:	Transporting multimedia information over multi-domain heterogeneous and dynamic networks has significant advantages in both the military and civilian arenas. . In order for these networks to be efficiently employed, there needs for methods that can guarantee a minimum level of Quality of Service (QoS) for critical and real time data. This is particularly important for the airborne networks. In order to reserve a specified bandwidth for an application flow between nodes, Integrated Services (IntServ) QoS is needed. However, currently there does not exist a solution that can provide an efficient end-to-end IntServ signaling mechanism across airborne network environments. This is true because of the characteristics of airborne network environments and of IntServ signaling protocols. Architecture Technology Corporation (ATC) will leverage its extensive experience in network technology to develop, evaluate and demonstrate an efficient end-to-end IntServ signaling techniques for airborne network environments.

MAYFLOWER COMMUNICATIONS CO., INC. 20 Burlington Mall Road Burlington, MA 01803
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 359-9500 Mr. Wassim Ferzali AF 07-020 Awarded: 01/17/08
Title:	QoS Assured Heterogeneous Airborne Network Technology (QAHANT)
Abstract:	Mayflower proposes an Integrated Services (IntServ) QoS technology, the QoS Assured Heterogeneous Airborne Network Technology (QAHANT), to meet the Air Force objectives, namely, to design and develop protocols for providing Integrated Services-model (IntServ) Quality of Service (QoS) in an airborne network composed of heterogeneous network technologies. The proposed QAHANT system uses an open architecture Common Radio Resource Management (CRRM) framework for heterogeneous airborne network operation. The QAHANT reservation function, implemented within this CRRM framework, enables IntServ with minimal signaling overhead. QAHANT protocols are designed to provide reliable reservation in a network whose nodes are widely varying in capability, capable of high dynamics and high-speed mobility. Provision for interoperability with existing QoS protocols such as RSVP enables end-to-end QoS for Global Information Grid, of which airborne network is one component. The proposed QAHANT technology leverages Mayflower's expertise in airborne networking, and builds on technology developed under several SBIR programs and Internal R&D. The QAHANT system, when proven feasible in the Phase I study for the Air Force application, has enormous potential for military and commercial applications. Mayflower will develop a cost effective QAHANT prototype system in Phase I and II, and ensure its commercialization in Phase III and beyond.

XPRT SOLUTIONS, INC. 615 HOPE ROAD, BUILDING 3B EATONTOWN, NJ 07724
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(732) 460-9001 Dr. George Elmasry AF 07-020 Awarded: 01/16/08
Title:	Reservation-based Quality of Service (QoS) in an Airborne Network
Abstract:	This proposal is to investigate IntServ signaling protocol options suitable to provide reservation-based QoS in an airborne network composed of heterogeneous waveforms. The technical objectives of Phase I are: to investigating potential IntServ signaling protocols  Aggregate RSVP with pre-emption  RSVP Proxy  Measurement-Based Admission Control to establish a simulation environment for analyzing potential algorithms to demonstrate analysis findings using simulation and provide recommendations The primary analysis simulation environment will utilize the OPNET Discrete Event Simulator. All three approaches will utilize the same basic framework, where the airborne backbone network is constructed as a medium fidelity representation, so that different levels of performance can be established, based on input from the Government sponsors. In higher fidelity, each approach will be modeled and analyzed as separate solutions and together as a total end-to-end solution. The results of this study will be used to produce final recommendations and serve as the basis for prototypes developed in Phase II.

ORIELLE, LLC PO Box 8922 Moscow, ID 83843
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(208) 883-3816 Mr. Peter Mills AF 07-025 Awarded: 01/14/08
Title:	Web Services Rapid Application Assistant
Abstract:	We propose to develop an intelligent assistant that enables the rapid creation and use of web services for the warfighter. We will design a web services toolbox, and a web-based assistant built on it, that extends public-domain interoperability technologies with capabilities for dynamic web service creation, tagging services and their history with semantic metadata, and browsing and invoking web services using client-side adapters. The assistant will incorporate a responsive JSF/AJAX web-based user-interface that guides novice users in the discovery and use of services. Such a web services rapid application assistant will prove of significant benefit for the warfighter.

TRAVERSE TECHNOLOGIES 4 Meadow Sweet Rd West Newbury, MA 01985
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 395-7766 Mr. Joshua Lieberman AF 07-025 Awarded: 01/16/08
Title:	Metadata & Information Tagging Technologies for Application Interoperability and Services
Abstract:	Traverse Technologies will develop a WISE Toolbox in the form of an adaptive network of proxy servers, providing an integrating communications overlay, supported by a distributed network of infrastructure servers providing indexing, search, annotation (tagging), and collaboration/workflow support. The functionality will be modeled after search and tagging capabilities now in common use on the world wide web, and will leverage, where possible, existing open source platforms. Capabilities developed under this effort will be made available under open source licenses.

ATC - NY 33 Thornwood Drive, Suite 500 Ithaca, NY 14850
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(607) 257-1975 Mr. Daniel Tingstrom AF 07-026 Awarded: 01/15/08
Title:	WIRE - Web service Interface Revision Environment
Abstract:	Upgrading a service in a Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) can be costly and inefficient. ATC-NY, together with Architecture Technology Corporation, will develop WIRE (Web service Interface Revision Environment), a framework and toolset to efficiently manage version problems in a large distributed network of services. To determine feasibility in Phase I, we will first create versioning support for WSDL, then implement SOAP web services which will use our WSDL versioning scheme, create translation components to translate old requests, and finally create a prototype management system to efficiently launch and manage a large distribution of services. To provide an easy look-up method for requestors, WIRE's toolset will also automatically update UDDI registries with new service versions and URI locations. In Phase I we will focus specifically on SOAP web services using WSDL interface descriptions, but WIRE will be designed to support a wide range of current SOA interfaces.

HARMONIA, INC. 1715 Pratt Drive, Suite 2820 Blacksburg, VA 24060
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(540) 951-5900 Dr. Marc Abrams AF 07-026 Awarded: 01/16/08
Title:	Interface Design and Versioning Framework
Abstract:	Harmonia Inc., in partnership with Raytheon, will design, prototype, and demonstrate a technical and governance Harmonization Framework (HF) to design and version Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) interfaces. HF addresses a fundamental SOA problem: even though SOA may start with a coherent overall architecture driven by a business case, the coherency can be lost with poor service interface design compounded by erratic version evolution. HF counters with seven innovative components to coordinate the evolution of services providers and clients at design time, but also to allow clients to detect when a service provider makes changes unilaterally at run-time. The seven innovations are: design for extensibility and control via governance; a design decision tool to visually analyze the structure and behavior as well as validate the global impact of design decision points; a coordination protocol by which providers can propose, solicit comment, and roll out services in orderly fashion; registry-based version change notification to communicate changes; fingerprinting to detect when a provider makes a unilateral change; experimental exploration of change impact; and reducing the cost of up-front design for extensibility by providing guaranteed backward versioning compatibility through a chain of adaptors.

ARCHITECTURE TECHNOLOGY CORP. 9971 Valley View Road Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(952) 829-5864 Mr. Benjamin L. Burnett AF 07-027 Awarded: 01/15/08
Title:	Reliable Services for Continuity of Operations (ReSCO)
Abstract:	ATC will combine the fault tolerance and scalability of an Active Replication system with a dynamic Peer-to-Peer back-end to build a Reliable Services for Continuity of Operations (ReSCO) system. The ReSCO system will provide true dynamic automated application and service mobility while providing fast rollover of live systems. During an attack or disaster when COOP protocols are enacted, the network and the system need to quickly recover and allow for the transfer of critical applications to other sites and locations. By using Active Replication with redundant systems the transfer is nearly instant; allowing users to continue using the system remotely or locally, as needed. The ReSCO system will by built using application and service objects to provide service mobility and transfer, an Active Replication system to coordinate multiple redundant copies of services and applications, and a peer-to-peer back-end which will track and maintain the current state of needed services and handle the discovery and registration of resources to be used for dynamic allocation when needed.

SECURBORATION, INC. 695 Sanderling Dr Indialantic, FL 32903
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(850) 313-0177 Mr. Gary Aldrich AF 07-027 Awarded: 01/17/08
Title:	Variable Continuity of Operations/Service-Oriented Architecture (COOP/SOA) Services
Abstract:	Continuity of Operations (COOP) has taken on new meaning in the 21st century with threats from terrorism, natural disasters and cyber warfare. The threat also extends beyond key personnel to Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence C4I. Prior to 9/11 COOP was a cold war relic that was focused on maintaining the government after a nuclear strike. Post 9/11 when the realization that terrorists could destroy significant parts of the government/infrastructure in a short space of time COOP took on new meaning and significant. On the natural disaster front, hurricane Katrina exposed the government's inability to maintain operations when the storm devastated New Orleans transportation, communication, power, and financial infrastructure. The cyber warfare threat is best expressed as "China's ambitions extend to crippling an enemy's financial, military and communications capabilities early in a conflict, according to military documents and generals' speeches that are being analyzed by US intelligence officials. Describing what is in effect a new arms race, a Pentagon assessment states that China's military regards offensive computer operations as "critical to seize the initiative" in the first stage of a war."1 The events described above have caused a major shift in the COOP paradigm to focus on C4I systems. Specifically COOP for the Air Force is centered on legacy stove-piped systems which are brittle and difficult to maintain. It's critical that techniques be developed to provide a systematic consistent approach to migrate the Air Force C4I systems to an agile SOA environment that will support COOP to meet the 21st century threats. As stated in the solicitation current (COOPs/SOAs) solutions are complex, inflexible and costly as demonstrated by long delays between failure and full restoration of critical operations. The fundamental issue is the inability for systems to separate out the meaning/importance (semantics) associated with critical processes from the application and physical infrastructure. This semantic separation will ensure critical processes can run on both unlimited bandwidth and constrained bandwidth environments on virtualized infrastructure. The operational process will determine which environment resources will be used based on the selection of the web service that will provide the semantic capability required.

KEY BRIDGE INTERNATIONAL, INC. 8000 Towers Crescent DriveSuite 1350 Vienna, VA 22182
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(203) 413-3635 Mr. Jesse Caulfield AF 07-029 Awarded: 01/24/08
Title:	Proactive Determination of Networked Node Vulnerability
Abstract:	We propose the development of an open source, modular security software framework into which independently developed 3rd party modules may be loaded to establish, extend and enhance the functionality of the platform. We believe such a framework is unique in the in the marketplace, satisfies large unmet demand and will be well received by the existing information and network security user communities; including Government, commercial, academic and non-commercial users. Our proposed software system is designed to run as a standalone, distributable service yet can be easily embedded into hardened appliances. We employ artificial neural networks, principal component analysis and robust analysis of real-time network traffic flows to profile endpoints and applications and to discover abnormal and anomalous behavior.

REAL-TIME INNOVATIONS 3975 Freedom Circle, 6th Floor Santa Clara, CA 95054
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(408) 200-4753 Mr. Joseph Schlesselman AF 07-029 Awarded: 01/17/08
Title:	Proactive Determination of Networked Node Vulnerability
Abstract:	Real-Time Innovations (RTI) proposes to develop a proactive capability to scan network nodes for security vulnerabilities. This proposal will incorporate recent developments in Active and Passive network traffic sniffing, node management, Complex Event Processing (CEP), high-performance network data distribution, and data persistence. The proposed Phase I effort will focus on the integration of best-of-class real-time middleware technologies by RTI and its world-leading partners Coral8 CEP and ANTS high-performance database with open-source system monitoring and intrusion detection technologies such as Ganglia and Snort. We intend to provide a working prototype demonstration at the conclusion of Phase I.

FETCH TECHNOLOGIES 2041 Rosecrans Avenue, Suite 245 El Segundo, CA 90245
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 414-9849 Dr. Steven Minton AF 07-031 Awarded: 01/14/08
Title:	Consolidating Entity Information from Heterogeneous Text Sources for Multi-INT Fusion
Abstract:	Machine Learning has proven to be a useful approach for developing entity consolidation systems that can be tuned to a particular domain. However, the accuracy of learning algorithms often suffers in applications where there are "special cases" that learning algorithms systematically misclassify. To address this, we propose a new twist to the machine learning approach to entity consolidation in which a domain expert provides knowledge to the system about special cases. This knowledge enables the system to create models that explicitly handle these types of cases. In a sense, our approach combines the best aspects of machine learning with ideas from the older "rule-based" approach to entity consolidation. The objective is to take advantage of the statistical characteristics of data sets, while making it easy to create commonsense inference models that can utilize these statistics for high accuracy matching. We believe this approach will significantly improve upon the state-of-the-art accuracy of entity consolidation, particularly in applications that involve heterogeneous data, where special cases are more common. This includes applications where entity extractors harvest data from very different types of documents.

JANYA, INC. 1408 Sweet Home Road, Suite 1 Amherst, NY 14228
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(716) 565-0401 Dr. Thomas L. Cornell AF 07-031 Awarded: 01/14/08
Title:	Consolidating Entity Information from Heterogeneous Text Sources for Multi-INT Fusion
Abstract:	In this project we propose to develop technology for computing the similarity between two Entity Profiles compiled from text sources by an Information Extraction (IE) engine. The similarity computation is based on contextual information from the text and also on the full range of IE results (entity attributes, relationships and events). We identify several types of features across the spectrum between readily extracted but imprecise information and more precise but scarcer information types. A machine learning based classifier is used to integrate similarity measures across these information types into a single output that determines whether the two profiles are about the same entity and should be merged. The resulting similarity measures can be used to implement Name Disambiguation for entity profile merging and also user-initiated searches for entities most similar to a given exemplar.

CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. 625 Mount Auburn Street Cambridge, MA 02138
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 491-3474 Mr. John T. Langton AF 07-033 Awarded: 01/16/08
Title:	Attack-Centric Autonomic Detector of Insider Adversaries (ACADIA)
Abstract:	Most state-of-the-art cyber security systems focus primarily on detecting and remediating external threats and do not address insider attacks. Any user who can log into a network locally or remotely constitutes an insider on that network. Such trusted entities often have access to details of their network's infrastructure and security systems and can easily plan activities to subvert these systems. To address threats from insider adversaries we propose an Attack Centric Autonomic Detector of Insider Adversaries (ACADIA) that prevents insider attacks using multi-layered policy mechanisms, monitors insider activity using statistical and policy-based user modeling, detects insider threats using correlation algorithms, and responds to insider attacks using policy rule enforcement and data forensics via a multi-agent architecture. Our approach consists of a hierarchical collection of Bayesian belief networks (BN) for insider modeling, complex event processing (CEP) and prediction of insider attack; a configuration engine and cyber security architecture to support policy maintenance and accountability; a correlation engine comprised of statistical and BN learning algorithms for insider modeling, monitoring, and anomaly detection; and a network of autonomic agents to execute policy, aggregate network and host-based event data, and perform response and remediation.

DISTRIBUTED INFINITY, INC. 1382 Quartz Mountain Drive Larkspur, CO 80118
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 681-3966 Mr. Allen E. Ott AF 07-033 Awarded: 01/17/08
Title:	Advanced Insider Threat Detection and Response
Abstract:	Insider threats have become a major issue in the search to secure our military and global infrastructure. Insiders may already have all the relevant information they need to adversely affect the state and response capabilities of our defenses. Concurrently, insiders must be engendered with some measure of trust to effectively perform their duties. This combination of knowledge and capability make the insider threat more insidious and lethal than the generic attacker, who must expend time, energy, and resources to determine network layouts and vulnerabilities, and to gain access to the needed data and process capabilities on the network. Distributed Infinity will combine evolutionary algorithms for insider characterization with game theory for predictive tactical event analysis, and will utilize the Cybercraft environment for sensor data collection. This powerful combination will enable preemptive understanding of potential threat vectors including who is most likely to attack our networks, and how, with sufficient warning to take effective counter-measures.

APTIMA, INC. 12 Gill StreetSuite 1400 Woburn, MA 01801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 496-2467 Dr. Georgiy Levchuk AF 07-034 Awarded: 01/16/08
Title:	Monitoring MIssion MODels for Increased Mission Understanding (MIMOD)
Abstract:	Effects-based operations and mission-driven network management are becoming increasingly focused on leveraging "Command Intent." Arguably, the workflow of personnel can be linked to command intent, either by deriving command intent from the behaviors of personnel during missions, or evaluating workflow within the context of prescribed command intent. Although considering command intent within the context of missions is imperative, it is not easy to accomplish, as command intent and workflow are difficult to describe and require great effort to capture manually. Therefore, we identify the need for a system that passively monitors and models an individual's workflow. The purpose of this phase I effort, MIMOD (Monitoring MIssion MODels for increased Mission Understanding), is to develop a proof of concept application that will passively examine users' observable behaviors at their work stations (keystrokes, usage of resources, etc.) to create mission models of how they do their job. We plan to use a hierarchical, context driven, hypothesis testing approach to gathering data and constructing of the MIMOD models. These models will then be presented to the users in an effort to improve processes. The operators will also be able to augment their constructed mission model or comparison models when needed.

MILCORD LLC 1050 Winter StreetSuite 1000 Waltham, MA 02451
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 839-7138 Dr. Alper Caglayan AF 07-034 Awarded: 01/16/08
Title:	Commander's Learning Agent (CLearn)
Abstract:	Traditional decision aid software requires the manual input of commander's intent in the field, which is impractical as it requires an excessive amount of time to learn the various facets of the commander's job, and requires an unrealistic adaptation capability as the commander's mission changes dynamically in the field. Hence, there is a need to automatically capture the commander's current mission, augment with contextual knowledge, and assign priorities to resources supporting the commander's mission. Technically, this problem falls into the domain of interface agents with learning capability where the agent sits in between the user and application User Interface, passively monitors user behavior in the background, applies machine learning to discover the patterns in the background, and offers to assist the user in the real-time inference mode. Here we propose to develop Commander's Learning Agent (CLearn) that leverages an existing hybrid Belief network and rule base knowledge management architecture, and prior experience in building such desktop learning agents, and server-based Web personalization agents. While CLearn is relevant to many applications, including information security management, we describe our approach in the context of Intelligence Preparation of the Battlespace support for planning, operations, and assessment missions in Air and Space Operation Centers.

CALDERA PHARMACEUTICALS, INC. 3491 Trinity Drive, Suite B Los Alamos, NM 87544
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 412-2345 Dr. Benjamin Warner AF 07-035 Awarded: 01/15/08
Title:	Biomolecular Taggants for Covert Tracking and Watermarking
Abstract:	Caldera will use its R&D 100 award-winning XRpro technologyto develop functional biomolecular taggants for Chemical/Biological/Radiological/Nuclear/Explosive (CBRNE) targets. These taggants will possess functionality which will allow networks of interpersonal connections and travel to be determined, and will allow CBRNE MASINT to be tracked at a distance. Main features of these synthetic protein taggants are selectivity and affinity for CBRNE signature molecules and biomolecules, and optical reporting functionality.

INFOSCITEX CORP. 303 Bear Hill Road Waltham, MA 02451
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 890-1338 Ms. Heather Kauth AF 07-035 Awarded: 01/17/08
Title:	Biomolecular Taggants for Covert Tracking and Watermarking
Abstract:	Tracking of nuclear materials, military ordnance, and chemical and biological threat agents presents a significant challenge to the intelligence and military communities. The proliferation of non-tracked, illegally trafficked nuclear materials in particular has sparked considerable debate and is a cause for concern on the international stage. An effective system must be covert and ubiquitous; while encoding complex interaction information and supplying distinct identification of individual materials and material lots. In this Phase I SBIR proposal, Infoscitex proposes the use of a synthetic DNA-based taggant entrapped in a sol-gel material with attributes allowing for covert and secure labeling. This proposed material can be created using a combination of current technologies integrated into a novel detection and labeling system that is robust and covert.

MATERIAL INNOVATIONS, INC. 15801 Chemical Lane Huntington Beach, CA 92649
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(714) 373-3070 Mr. Chuck Thaw AF 07-037 Awarded: 12/20/07
Title:	Novel High Power Microwave (HPM) Hardening Materials for Aircraft, Ground, & Space Systems
Abstract:	An affordable conformal coating technology that provides broad band electromagnetic immunity through high EMI shielding effectiveness and low electrical faying resistance will be developed for sensitive avionics enclosures, and for shelters. The coating chemistry and application procedure will insure for simplicity with a scalable dispensation process that is production friendly. The conformal shielding coating will exhibit an average shielding effectiveness greater than 60 db over a 100 MHz to over 20 GHz range with attenuation levels greatly exceeding 80db at specific frequency spectra. The solution will leverage from current particulate coating developments at MII combined with the inclusion of nano-based metallic fillers. The synergistic effect of tailoring particulate morphology combined with interstitial nano-filling results in a coating system that is tunable to specific system needs. This has been demonstrated through preliminary shielding effectiveness tests and cursory environmental testing. This program will further develop this technology and refine performance to meet specific DoD system requirements. Analysis combined with laboratory measurements will be used for optimization. Application technologies will focus on spray deposition, demonstration of dip processing, and integration with prepreg composite lamina as alternative approaches. Phase 1 will develop performance data that will establish the production path carried into Phase 2.

METAL MATRIX COMPOSITES CO. P.O. Box 356 Midway, UT 84049
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(435) 654-3683 Mr. George Hansen AF 07-037 Awarded: 01/04/08
Title:	Advances in High Power Microwave (HPM) Hardening Materials
Abstract:	A class of conformal coatings, composites and elastomers capable of shielding high power microwaves (HPM) is proposed. Based on nickel nanostrand technology, these coatings, composites and elastomers will extend both the frequency breadth and decibel depth of protection against HPM and other electromagnetic interference phenomena.

DIRECTED VAPOR TECHNOLOGIES INTERNATIONAL, INC. 2 Boar's Head Lane Charlottesville, VA 22903
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(434) 977-1405 Dr. Derek D. Hass AF 07-038 Awarded: 01/07/08
Title:	Surface Processing for Enhanced Environmental and Creep-Fatigue Resistance
Abstract:	The ongoing drive to increase the performance and efficiency of propulsion systems has led to increasingly severe operating environments, particularly for the components in the hot sections of turbine engines. One potential life-limiting area of future engines is the turbine disk where significant dwell fatigue may occur if engine temperatures are elevated. The mechanism for this reduction is not fully clear but is related to effects of grain boundary creep and surface oxidation / corrosion. The study proposed here will seek to develop advanced surface chemistry and modification techniques for the nickel-base superalloys used for turbine disks to limit dwell fatigue damage and promote higher operating temperatures in the engine. Key factors that will be studied include: (i) computational approaches to designing novel coating compositions that exhibit minimal interdiffusion and hence excellent compatibility with the substrate owing to chemical activity matching; (ii) the deposition, oxidation and compatibility testing of selected compositions; and (iii) the deposition of selected coated systems. Preliminary mechanical testing of the coated systems will be carried out. A targeted significant outcome of this study is the establishment of novel and cost-effective surface modifications that confer greatly improved component reliability and durability.

NANOSONIC, INC. P.O. Box 618 Christiansburg, VA 24068
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(540) 953-1785 Dr. J. H. Lalli AF 07-039 Awarded: 01/07/08
Title:	Highly Deformable Electrically Self-Healing Metal RubberT Skins for Morphing UAVs
Abstract:	NanoSonic has developed Metal RubberT, a highly electrically conductive nanocomposite with tailored surface resistivity (as low as 0.2 /) that can be repeatedly strained to greater than 1000% while maintaining electromagnetic integrity. Unlike typical dense, brittle nanocomposites that require up to 80 volume % filler; NanoSonic employs an elegant layered processing technique to achieve electrical percolation with <0.01 volume % of non-oxidizing metal nanoparticles. Lightweight (0.98g/cc) Metal RubberT is not a conducting polymer or a sputter coated polymer film, rather a free standing nanocomposite formed in-situ by chemically reacting monolayers of well defined electrically conductive nanostructured constituents with high performance copolymers. Durable elastomeric materials are realized; providing stable electrical conductivity over a wide dynamic thermomechanical range, currently from -60�C through 350�C, and in the presence of UV and ozone. Metal RubberT deformable skins are envisioned as a unique enabling technology allowing morphing unmanned aerial vehicles to maintain stable electromagnetic properties under disparate vehicle configurations. The nanostructured yet macroscale skins are currently available as free standing appliqu�s (up to 2'x8') or as conformal coatings on aircraft structures. NanoSonic would work with a major defense prime on performance metrics and materials property evaluation to increase the TRL of Metal RubberT deformable skins.

UES, INC. 4401 Dayton-Xenia Road Dayton, OH 45432
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 426-6900 Dr. HeeDong Lee AF 07-041 Awarded: 12/21/07
Title:	Advanced Ultra-Lightweight Hybrid/Composite Mirrors (ULHCMs)
Abstract:	This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I program seeks to develop a new fabrication technology for producing an ultra-light hybrid mirror for space applications. The state-of-the art space mirrors made of glass and SiC are costly to produce. The areal density of the glass and SiC mirrors also do not meet the ULHCM concepts that require 1 to 5 kg/m2 of areal density. An innovative new process is needed to address these current issues. During the Phase I period, UES proposes to use a novel fabrication process to produce a space quality hybrid mirror. Substrate and laminate mirror facesheets (4-6 inch diameter) will be integrated by applying an inorganic adhesive. In the Phase II program, we will fabricate a large-sized mirror that is mechanically and chemically very stable, and shows an outstanding mirror quality that can minimize the loss of the needed optical properties.

SRICO, INC. 2724 SAWBURY BOULEVARD COLUMBUS, OH 43235
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(614) 799-0664 Dr. Vincent Stenger AF 07-042 Awarded: 01/08/08
Title:	Ion-Sliced Lithium Tantalate for Terahertz Radiation Detection
Abstract:	Terahertz radiation occupies a largely unexploited band from 100 GHz radio frequency to 30 THz infrared. It is capable of penetrating fog and moderate density objects such as wood and fabric at substantially higher resolutions and shorter ranges than radar. THz imaging can be used to screen passers-by for weapons without the safety issues of X-rays. Using spectroscopic techniques, THz radiation can be used for stand-off detection and imaging of suspicious materials or chemicals. These features make THz technology ideal for both the soldier in the field and for continuous surveillance applications such as airport security. This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project addresses the need for THz detectors that are compact and that operate efficiently at room temperature. The proposed technology employs novel materials processes to realize room temperature pyroelectric THz detector devices that are at least one hundred times more sensitive than commercially available devices. The technology is highly amenable to monolithic linear and two dimensional arrays for spectroscopic and imaging applications. Deployment of these newly developed detector devices would result in cost effective implementation of a large number of important industrial, medical and defense applications that could benefit from terahertz radiation technologies.

VIRGINIA DIODES, INC. 979 Second Street SE, Suite 309 Charlottesville, VA 22902
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(434) 297-3257 Dr. Thomas W. Crowe AF 07-042 Awarded: 01/07/08
Title:	Materials for Terahertz Detectors
Abstract:	VDI's goal is to use new materials and processing techniques to achieve low barrier diodes that can be used as very sensitive zero-bias detectors and frequency mixers with extremely low local oscillator power requirements. The basic device goals, in terms of the materials study, are to achieve a controlled Schottky barrier height and reduced 1/f noise. The reduced barrier height will be controlled through the optimization of the alloy content of the semiconductor and the use of novel doping profiles. Advanced materials processing techniques will be used to reduce the 1/f noise. Through the successful conclusion of this effort VDI will achieve reductions in both the low-signal NEP and 1/f noise of state-of-the-art terahertz detectors and a fundamental reduction in the size and complexity of terahertz heterodyne receivers through the minimization of the LO power requirement.

TREX ENTERPRISES CORP. 10455 Pacific Center Court San Diego, CA 92121
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 646-5427 Mr. Paul Johnson AF 07-043 Awarded: 01/07/08
Title:	Hi-Def Low Light Detector
Abstract:	Trex's Photodiode on Active Pixel (POAP) image sensor technology provides high light collection efficiency (QE x Fill Factor) without the need for microlenses on a CMOS image sensor. This technology is particularly amenable to the fabrication of high sensitivity sensors that are capable of withstanding intense optical signals and countermeasures. The planar surface of the device allows for a good optical match with overlaid non-linear absorber material, and a high percentage of metallized surface area of the CMOS Read-out IC provides protection to the underlying circuitry for light that may get through any overlaid absorber. We propose to examine the POAP image sensor technology for susceptibility to optical countermeasures.

VOXTEL, INC. 12725 SW Millikan WaySuite 230 Beaverton, OR 97005
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(971) 223-5646 Mr. George M. Williams AF 07-043 Awarded: 01/07/08
Title:	Development of High-Definition (HD), Low-Light-Level Detector
Abstract:	In this Phase I SBIR program, a low noise SOI CMOS high-definition (HD) low light level television (LLLTV) image sensor will be developed. The detector will be back-illuminated with a 300-micron thick silicon absorption region, for increased sensitivity and spectral-overlap with the night sky radiance. The imager will be configured with 1280 x 1024, 6-micron-square pixels, will operate at 60 frames per second, and will include a 14-bit analog-to-digital converter. The HD LLLTV Imager is based on a SOI (silicon-on-insulator) CMOS image sensor architecture. Fabricating imagers on SOI greatly improves performance. For example, CMOS circuitry is isolated from photo regions, allowing high-resistivity silicon to be employed. In addition, CMOS circuit ground returns for SOI are isolated, eliminating substrate bounce and transient coupling problems. This allows higher operating speeds and lower noise. SOI's planar architecture also makes it easier to passivate surfaces for low dark-current generation. This advantage, in turn, makes the device much more resistant to high-energy radiation environments. Lower fixed pattern noise (FPN) and lower power consumption are also achieved. In Phase I, the HD image sensor will be designed, layed-out, and performance simulated, so that it can be manufactured and tested in Phase II.

CERAMATEC, INC. 2425 South 900 West Salt Lake City, UT 84119
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(801) 978-2138 Mr. John Gordon AF 07-044 Awarded: 01/03/08
Title:	Rechargeable Lithium-Sulfur Battery with Non-Porous Ceramic Separator
Abstract:	Feasibility of a rechargeable lithium battery with sulfur cathode will be demonstrated. Air Force needs high specific energy, low cost rechargeable batteries for solar energy storage. Low cathode utilization and cycle fade have prevented Li-S batteries from reaching their potential. Cathode utilization can be improved dramatically using apolar and polar solvents in combination. Typically porous separators are used for lithium batteries, allowing constituents to migrate, resulting in cycle fade. To prevent inter-electrode constituent migration and capacity fading over charging cycles, a non-porous lithium ion conductive ceramic membrane will be utilized. The membrane developed recently at Ceramatec has conductivity of 1 mS/cm at 25C and 0.6 mS/cm at -20C. The membrane can be as thin as 10's of microns with a laminated porous layer serving as mechanical support. The non-porous separator will prevent dendritic shorting, improving anode safety along with the use of an unreducible lithium salt. Specific energy theoretically is 2600 Wh/kg with a metallic lithium anode or 630 Wh/kg with a lithium carbon anode. Practical batteries would be >1000 or 250 Wh/kg with the two respective anodes. In Phase 1, several factors will be examined to determine their impact on capacity at different charge and discharge rates including a 0.5C rate, the highest rate anticipated for discharging.

YARDNEY TECHNICAL PRODUCTS, INC. 82 Mechanic Street Pawcatuck, CT 06379
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(860) 599-1100 Dr. Arthur Dobley AF 07-044 Awarded: 01/11/08
Title:	High Energy Density Storage for Solar Power Generation Systems
Abstract:	One of the major challenges of developing solar power generation systems is the storage of electrical energy. The energy system ideally has a large amount of energy with a very low weight. This equates to a high specific energy (Wh/kg). Lithium-air batteries offer the greatest theoretical specific energy for batteries at 11 kWh/kg. Yardney has extensive experience in requirements for battery power and metal-air cells. We specialize in lightweight batteries used in aerospace applications. We also research, develop, and sell high energy density metal-air cells. Yardney will advance the Rechargeable Lithium-Air Storage System by creating an advanced rechargeable air cathode with new catalysts, and testing these cathodes in actual lithium-air cells under various environmental conditions. These batteries will provide a lightweight high energy storage device for military applications.

MATERIALS SCIENCES CORP. 181 Gibraltar Road Horsham, PA 19044
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(215) 542-8400 Mr. Richard Foedinger AF 07-045 Awarded: 01/22/08
Title:	Carbon Nanofibers, Testing, and Fabrication (MSC P7027)
Abstract:	Current satellite structures and spacecraft components utilize carbon fiber reinforced composites to achieve low weight, high stiffness, strength and multifunctional performance capability. In order to meet the multifunctional performance and weight goals for future satellite systems and spacecraft components, the Air Force has identified a need for new carbon fibers that provide a balance of high stiffness, strength, fracture toughness, thermal conductivity and electrical conductivity. Advances in nanotube reinforced fiber development and processing research provide a significant opportunity for meeting these multifunctional performance goals, but further research and process development is needed to improve the interface characteristics and understand the microstructure/property relationships to optimize properties. The Phase I research proposed here involves the development, characterization and production of multiwall nanotube (MWNT) reinforced pitch- and PAN-based carbon fibers to provide improved multifunctional performance. Both melt spinning and solution spinning of MWNT/carbon fibers will be performed at different MWNT loading concentrations and process conditions to achieve the optimal fiber material properties. The research draws on the significant related research performed by the Phase I team, where long lengths of MWNT/carbon fibers have been produced to achieve higher tensile strength and strain-to-failure over unreinforced PAN-based carbon fibers.

SIGMA-K CORP. 511 Clayton Road Durham, NC 27703
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(919) 596-8487 Dr. P. Douglas Kirven AF 07-045 Awarded: 01/22/08
Title:	Carbon Nanofibers, Testing, and Fabrication
Abstract:	Carbon Nanotubes have great potential of adding strength in composite materials. In order for carbon nanotubes to be used in prepregging, fibers with diameters in the 7-10 micron range are needed. The carbon nanotubes need to be bundled and twisted to form appropriate size fiber tows. Current technology does not allow carbon nanotubes to be spun at a high enough rate to effectively produce enough tows for large scale projects. Sigma-K Corporation recently demonstrated the concept and will develop a high speed spinning system to spin the carbon nanotubes into yarns with tow size diameters. Our system will allow carbon nanotubes to be used in composites that are needed in high strength applications such as armor and air frames.

AQWEST 8276 Eagle Road Larkspur, CO 80118
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 681-0456 Mr. Jan (John) Vetrovec AF 07-046 Awarded: 01/09/08
Title:	High Capacity, Lightweight , and Compact Thermal Energy Storage (TES) Technologies and Systems
Abstract:	Aqwest proposes to develop novel, high-performance thermal energy storage (TES) technologies and a TES integration concept for thermal management (TM) of directed energy weapons (DEW). In particular, we will develop a packed bed (PB) and sorption-based (SB) TES concepts, and a TES integration into a high-performance (HP) thermal management system (TMS), each offering unparalleled compactness and lightweight. The proposed project will produce major benefits to the Air Force: 1) TES with up to 250 kJ/kg & 254 MJ/m3 @20�C; and up to 600 kJ/kg & 430 MJ/m3 @40�C, 2) TES integration concept offering 3-10x reduction in size and weight, 3) Gravity independent TMS: compatible with maneuvering airborne platforms, 4) TMS operation independent of DEW power supply, and 5) TMS response <<1 second from cold start. In Phase I, we will develop TM requirements for a solid-state HEL on a C-130 tactical platform, evaluate the concepts for PB and SB TES, and optimize the concept for TES integration into HP-TMS. In Phase II, we will complete the design and construct each a subscale PB-TES, BS-TES and a subscale HP-TMS for demonstration testing under representative conditions. Other applications of the proposed technology include high-capacity cooling of intermittent heat loads in commercial systems.

MAINSTREAM ENGINEERING CORP. 200 Yellow PlacePines Industrial Center Rockledge, FL 32955
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(321) 631-3550 Dr. Robert P. Scaringe AF 07-046 Awarded: 01/09/08
Title:	Demonstration of a High Energy Density Phase-Change Storage System
Abstract:	The objective of this effort is to demonstrate an innovative phase-change thermal storage system that can exceed the 1000 kJ/kg and 180 MJ/m3 thermal storage objective sought in the SBIR topic description. This Phase I effort will address a current need of the airframe system integrators for a thermal energy system for directed energy applications. Phase I will experimentally demonstrate a new concept that will reduce the size and weight of the necessary thermal storage system. The focus of the Phase I effort will be to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed phase-change thermal control approach with experiments, develop a preliminary overall design configuration, and provide a detailed comparison with SOA alternatives. The effort is significant because the proposed system will exceed the thermal storage objectives for the complete thermal control system. Clearly, Mainstream has the prior experience in this area, and the effort proposed in Phase I, which includes a preliminary design and bench-top demonstration experiments, exceeds the scope of effort proposed in the Phase I solicitation; however, Mainstream is well into this research and excited about the commercial potential for this technology. Phase II will address the fabrication and demonstration of a complete system.

VOXTEL, INC. 12725 SW Millikan WaySuite 230 Beaverton, OR 97005
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(971) 223-5646 Mr. George M. Williams AF 07-047 Awarded: 12/20/08
Title:	Stand-Off Detection of Functionalized Nanoparticles
Abstract:	In this Phase I SBIR, the feasibility of a chemical, biological, or explosive (CBE) agent micro-taggant monitoring system will be demonstrated. In Phase I, existing CBE-taggants will be evaluated and compared to a novel, solar-insensitive, invisible, lanthanide oxide quantum dot nanocrystal microtaggant. The developed CBE-taggants will emit in the near-infrared (NIR) and shortwavelength infrared (SWIR), enabling US warfighters with unique detection equipment. The lanthanide oxide nanocrystals will be coupled to proteins or secondary antibodies, to enable a variety of specific chem-bio conjugates - optimizing their functionality for CBE agents. The CBE mictotaggants will be tested against environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and smog, and other known risk item, and the microtaggant system will be tested in the laboratory suing commercial off the shelf (COTS) interrogating laser probes and NIR and SWIR cameras. Using the developed concept of operations (CONOPS), we will refine the micro-taggant monitoring system, so that in Phase II, a small-sized, lightweight, prototype system, compatible with man-portable or UAV operation, can be field demonstrated for interrogation, activation, and detection of functionalized nanparticles at over 100 meter distance. The system will be delivered to the AF at the completion of Phase II.

ORBITAL RESEARCH, INC. 4415 Euclid AvenueSuite 500 Cleveland, OH 44103
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(216) 649-0399 Mr. Mike Willett AF 07-048 Awarded: 12/20/07
Title:	Temperature-Tolerant Processor for Reliable Control
Abstract:	High temperature electronics will benefit Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) and Electronic Engine Control (EEC) in an aircraft by reducing or eliminating the need for fuel cooling of electronics. Orbital Research Inc. proposes the development of a high temperature Controller for use in future aircraft FADEC designs that will consist of the following: An ASIC chip and high temperature capacitors, resistors and pcb substrates. The Phase I effort will be primarily to collect data on existing FADECs and EECs, and analyze the data to determine the most appropriate microprocessor to use as the core of the controller. Following the identification of the optimal micro Orbital Research Inc. will design a controller, using a custom-designed ASIC which will provide computational power needed for future FADEC designs. In Phase II Orbital will build a breadboard for testing from the designed circuit. The critical test parameter is adequate processing power in a rugged package that does not need liquid fuel cooling.

SCIENTIFIC MONITORING, INC. 8777 E.Via de VenturaSuite 120 Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(440) 328-5832 Dr. Walter Merrill AF 07-048 Awarded: 12/20/07
Title:	Reliable, High Temperature Engine Control
Abstract:	Scientific Monitoring will develop a high temperature (~200C) FADEC architecture for reliable turbofan engine control. Initially, two competing architectures will be studied to address the need for control distribution and multiprocessing. A software design environment will be specified that will enable control law implementation within a real time context in the high temperture architecture. This may entail the use of sophisticated software redundancy approaches to achieve reliable operation. Phase I will result in a prototype processor demonstration at high temperature as well as a recommeded architecture.

ADVANCED COOLING TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 1046 New Holland Avenue Lancaster, PA 17601
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(717) 295-6104 Dr. William Anderson AF 07-049 Awarded: 12/17/07
Title:	FADEC Cooling Using High Temperature Loop Heat Pipes
Abstract:	The Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) controls engine operation. It is historically mounted on the engine case to minimize the routing length of the sensor and actuator wiring. The FADEC must be maintained below 63�C, while the environment can be as hot as 170�C. The current design uses fuel to cool the FADEC, however, this often limits the allowable ground or flight idle time before the fuel is too hot to cool the FADEC. This SBIR project will develop a loop heat pipe (LHP) thermal management system that will transport the FADEC heat load to an alternate sink, typically located 2 m away. The Phase I project will develop a model of the thermal management system, which will include heat pipes to lower the internal �T in the FADEC box, and LHPs to transport the heat to a heat sink. This will eliminate the use of fuel for cooling the FADEC, isolating it from the fuel cooling system. The benefits include an increase in the allowable fuel temperature, increasing idle time. The goal of the Phase II project will be to design, fabricate and test a LHP thermal system for cooling the FADEC.

RINI TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 582 South Econ Circle Oviedo, FL 32765
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(407) 359-7138 Dr. Daniel P. Rini AF 07-049 Awarded: 12/21/07
Title:	Passive Two-Phase FADEC Cooling System
Abstract:	Rejecting heat from a FADEC unit 2m away over a temperature differential of only 13oC results in a very challenging problem for a LHP cycle, especially when considering the body forces expected on an aircraft. An ideal LHP cycle with only hydrostatic pressure head considerations shows that ammonia is the only fluid that could potentially provide 2m of coolant transport. Even with ammonia, a combination of heat leak to the compensation chamber, high ambient environment, high internal pressure, high g maneuver and low temperature budget makes it unlikely that a LHP can transport heat from the FADEC to the heat sink. RTI proposes to instead use their innovative Liquid Retention Evaporator for a Loop Thermosyphon which rightly suits the needs of this cooling problem. The Loop Thermosyphon offers a passive long-distance/low-temperature-differential cooling application which when combined with the Liquid Retention Evaporator can offer a huge cooling buffer for transient high g periods, lasting minutes.

P.C. KRAUSE & ASSOC., INC. 3016 Covington Street West Lafayette, IN 47906
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(765) 464-8997 Dr. Alex J. Heltzel AF 07-050 Awarded: 12/18/07
Title:	Advanced Heat Exchanger (HEX) Scaling Methodologies for High-Performance Aircraft
Abstract:	The well-known consequence of high-performance, low-observable, more-electric strike aircraft is the increased thermal loading that can ultimately threaten mission-critical components. The ability to efficiently transport the resulting waste energy to onboard coolants is now understood to be an airframe-level design point that should be considered with a priority approaching that of thrust, range, or rate of climb. In this regard, attention has been focused on advanced heat exchanger technologies which offer the potential for increased volumetric heat transfer capacity. PCKA proposes to simulate candidate heat exchangers by discarding flow approximations in favor of 3-D solutions of the Navier-Stokes and energy equations in both solid and liquid domains. Wide parametric studies can be performed, generating performance curves for several candidate heat exchangers, which will include the effect of design modifications on resultant heat exchange capacity and pressure drops. With the acquisition of physics-based performance data, a methodology is outlined by which the CFD can be integrated into a system-level model, where "CFD-in-the-loop" capability can truly contribute to an airframe-wide virtual design tool. The proposed tool is inherently general to non-specific airframes, but can be applied directly in thermal management models already developed for the F-22 and F-35 systems.

SPIRITECH ADVANCED PRODUCTS, INC. 731 N US Highway 1Suite 1 Tequesta, FL 33469
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(561) 741-3441 Mr. Eric Gamble AF 07-050 Awarded: 12/20/07
Title:	Advanced Heat Exchanger (HEX) Scaling Methodologies for High-Performance Aircraft
Abstract:	A Heat Exchanger analytical tool is proposed for rapid thermal analysis and design optimization of advanced heat exchangers. The numerical model incorporates a user-friendly interface capable of modeling the details of the heat load calculation throughout the heat exchanger, including the details of the coolant flow network. The tool is comprised of a Thermal Model to calculate heat flux and wall temperatures for various heat exchangers; a Flow Model to calculate the coolant pressures and temperatures; a Structural/Weight/Cost Model to calculate the minimum HEX thickness and corresponding weight and cost; an Optimizer Model to optimize the heat exchanger design for thermal performance, cost, and weight, and a Properties Model to provide built-in libraries of material and coolant properties. Heat exchanger characterization and scaling laws are incorporated into each of the models through application of fundamental physical equations. The Phase I effort will develop the basic tool, integrating the scaling laws and cost model for a plate-fin heat exchanger. The models will be integrated into a module for incorporation into Simulink. The Phase II effort will further develop the tool by adding a library of heat exchanger types, transient thermal analysis capability, and detailed flow model and will provide validation data.

TTC TECHNOLOGIES, INC. P. O. Box 1527 Stony Brook, NY 11790
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(631) 285-7127 Dr. Ken Alabi AF 07-050 Awarded: 12/17/07
Title:	Advanced Heat Exchanger Characterization and Scaling Methodologies for High-Performance Aircraft
Abstract:	An advanced software tool for heat exchanger (HEX) characterization and scaling for high-performance aircraft is proposed, with the objective of removing the limitations associated with the existing methods of analysis. In addition to supporting the conventional methods of analysis, which are based on the lumped approach, the proposed tool will enable highly-accurate and computationally-efficient simulation methods that consider conditions existing in service, such as variable ram air flow rate from ram air cooling. This has not been possible with any previous HEX characterization method. The proposed predictive tool will also provide unparalleled modeling capabilities for in-flight and installation effects, which are usually not considered in conventional HEX models. Other innovations are the ability to scale heat exchangers and the multi-scale optimization procedure. To develop the proposed tool, TTC Technologies, Inc. (TTC) will leverage its experience in advanced heat exchanger modeling and software marketing. TTC will also partner with Hamilton Sundstrand, for validation data and manufacturing related to the proposed tool, and with Modelogics, Inc., whose expertise in developing interface for modeling and simulation tools for rapid simulation of aircraft flight systems has been used by most of the aerospace industry leaders.

FLORIDA TURBINE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 1701 Military TrailSuite 110 Jupiter, FL 33458
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(561) 427-6340 Mr. Dan Davies AF 07-051 Awarded: 12/12/07
Title:	Affordable Thermomechanical Fatigue Testing under Turbine Airfoil Conditions in the Hyperbaric Advanced Development Environmental Simulator (HADES)
Abstract:	Advanced gas turbine aircraft engines are designed to operate at higher overall pressure ratios, elevated turbine temperatures, and more severe duty cycles. Thermomechanical fatigue (TMF) is expected to be the leading failure mode for hot-section components in these engines, a behavior typically dominated by adverse thermal gradients combined with cyclic thermal and mechanical loading. Improvement in TMF predictive modeling is needed to maximize reliability and affordability of component designs. Characterization at gas turbine operating conditions is needed to support the development of first-principles based material models. The HADES rig (Hyperbaric Advanced Development Environmental Simulator) is a low-cost test device capable of subjecting test articles to turbine gas-path conditions, surface temperatures exceeding 2000F and a very high heat flux. A prototype rig developed by Florida Turbine Technologies (FTT) has been demonstrated. Feasibility studies of a new rig with enhanced capabilities, including tensile and compressive loading of specimens, autonomous cyclic operation, and full-field measurement capability is the subject of this Phase I SBIR proposal. Rig manufacturing, assembly, installation and validation testing are proposed for Phase II. Leased production versions of this rig would then be installed at the customer's site, with training, technical and engineering support and analysis options offered by FTT.

TEST DEVICES, INC. 6 Loring Street Hudson, MA 01749
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 562-6017 Mr. Bruce deBeer AF 07-051 Awarded: 12/20/07
Title:	Test Method for Inducing Steep Thermal Gradients in Thin-Walled Structures
Abstract:	Test Devices, Inc. (TDI) will demonstrate the technical feasibility of and develop a detailed design for a test facility to impose representative steep through-wall temperature gradients, heat flux, and thermo/mechanical loads on turbine airfoils tested outside a running engine. The proposed facility will test actual turbine airfoils and/or specimens of similar material composition and geometry (including TBCs), and provide for representative cooling flows in order to examine the effects of film cooling. The facility will provide the capability to simulate operating strain histories, i.e. Thermal Mechanical Fatigue (TMF), which will be used to make more realistic service life predictions for turbine components.

METROLASER, INC. 2572 White Road Irvine, CA 92614
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(503) 659-1584 Dr. Bauke Heeg AF 07-052 Awarded: 12/20/07
Title:	Optical Temperature and Strain Imaging for Turbine Engine Applications
Abstract:	Two optical measurement techniques are presented for imaging of strain and temperature of high temperature materials used in turbine engines. The proposed strain measurement capability is provided by a variant of electronic speckle pattern interferometry (ESPI), whereas temperature imaging is achieved with thermographic phosphors. The proposed methods are suited for use on both coated and uncoated specimens, and will be designed around thermo-mechanical fatigue test facilities under development elsewhere. One particularly innovative aspect is the prospect of depth resolved lateral strain imaging within and through a ceramic coating. The Phase I work plan consists of a demonstration of the measurement capabilities, an analysis of critical components and feasible operating envelope, and a detailed Phase II design and development strategy.

PHYSICAL OPTICS CORP. Electro-Optics and Holography Division20600 Gramercy Place, Bldg 100 Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 320-3088 Dr. Shilpa Pradhan AF 07-052 Awarded: 12/26/07
Title:	Thermal Imaging Laser Speckle Interferometric Sensor
Abstract:	To address the Air Force need for an accurate, full-field temperature and strain measurement system for turbine airfoils, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Thermal Imaging LAser Speckle Interferometric Sensor (TILASIS). This proposed device is based on the principle of laser speckle interferometry combined with a thermal imaging technique for noncontact full-field measurement of strain and temperature. The innovation in using an infrared laser for full-field laser speckle interferometry, in combination with a thermal imaging camera, will enable us to quantitatively measure and understand the behavior of thermomechanical fatigue (TMF) in turbine engine components under severe thermal and mechanical loads, and to validate a first-principles-based approach for TMF modeling. In Phase I POC will demonstrate the feasibility of TILASIS by developing a detailed design and performing initial testing by simulation and laboratory validation. In Phase II POC plans to develop, demonstrate, and validate a prototype to accurately measure full-field temperature and strain in thin-walled test specimens.

UES, INC. 4401 Dayton-Xenia Road Dayton, OH 45432
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 426-6900 Dr. Rabi S. Bhattacharya AF 07-053 Awarded: 12/17/07
Title:	Spall Propagation-Resistant Hybrid Bearings for High-Performance Turbine Engines
Abstract:	The objective of this SBIR project is to develop spall propagation resistant turbine engine mainshaft bearings for improved reliability, safety, and performance margin of aircraft propulsion systems. New case carburized Pyrowear 675 steel has been developed for bearing races that has been shown to resist surface fatigue initiation and therefore improve the fatigue life compared to the M50 steel. However, once the initiation occurs, fatigue cracks can propagate rapidly resulting in increased spall rate in Pyrowear 675 races. This aspect of the fatigue properties of Pyrowear 675 has not been studied in great detail. In this Phase I SBIR project, UES proposes to identify the key properties of Pyrowear 675 such as microstructure, and near-surface fracture toughness that control the spall propagation rate. For this purpose, Rolling Contact Fatigue tests will be conducted under selected stress cycles, and the neighborhood of spalled area will be investigated. Spalled areas of failed bearings will also be investigated, if available. Also, computer modeling and simulation will be used to understand the role of dynamic operating conditions such as load and speed on the spall propagation.

AERODYNAMIC SOLUTIONS LLC 332 Grissom Rd Manchester, CT 06042
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(860) 649-0764 Dr. Ron-Ho Ni AF 07-054 Awarded: 12/26/07
Title:	Conjugate Heat Transfer Analysis Capability for Gas Turbine Component Design
Abstract:	Turbine performance increases through increasing turbine inlet gas temperature which can result in reduced turbine durability. Currently the design practices employed by the major OEM's for cooled turbine airfoils are generally very empirical in nature and can easily miss important physical behavior thereby compromising airfoil durability. This in turn leads to turbine airfoil durability issues resulting in higher operating costs and weapon system reliability shortcomings. AeroDynamic Solution LLC is propose to develop a robust physics based conjugate heat transfer analysis approach and computational methods that can be readily integrated into the design systems of gas turbine industry OEM's.

FLORIDA TURBINE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 1701 Military TrailSuite 110 Jupiter, FL 33458
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(561) 427-6250 Mr. James Downs AF 07-054 Awarded: 12/12/07
Title:	Practical Conjugate CFD Heat Transfer Design Methods for Complex Turbine Components
Abstract:	Modern cooled gas turbine components are typically characterized by small-scale features (turbulators, impingement holes, and film cooling holes) and complex physics (boundary layer transition, separated shear layers from turbulators, and unsteady mixing of film coolant into the mainstream). The geometric complexity and computational rigor required to resolve the physics yields conjugate CFD/heat transfer analysis durations that are not practical for a target component design iteration cycle of ~4 weeks. Consequently, current technology limits use of conjugate CFD to sub-models models of reduced physical rigor (RANS), or simplified cooling schemes (i.e.: no film holes). Component designers require accurate prediction of the stress/temperature field over the entire component; accordingly, industry needs a method of physically rigorous modeling (DES/LES) in critical regions. For non-critical regions, the proposed conjugate CFD/thermal design methodology omits the small scale features (impingement holes, film holes, or turbulators) from the mesh, and instead meshes only the large-scale flowpath and internal cooling passages. Grid extraneous source terms (mass/momentum/energy) are used to capture the effect of small-scale features in non-critical regions to keep the analysis time practical. The novel aspect of this approach is the manner in which source terms are created, controlled, and integrated into the converging full-scale conjugate solution.

DEICON, INC. 919 Aaron Nutt Rd. Dayton, OH 45458
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 885-4134 Dr. Reza Kashani AF 07-055 Awarded: 01/23/08
Title:	Improved Damping Modeling for Afterburners
Abstract:	In phase I of this SBIR project we propose the development of a software tool for designing passive acoustic treatment for adding acoustic damping to the low-frequency (<1000 Hz) modes most sympathetic to heat release perturbation in an augmentor, i.e., the first tangential and first radial modes. Considering that the resonant frequencies of these modes are reasonably constant (do not change appreciably with operating conditions) and their corresponding frequencies are spaced apart from each other, passive tuned acoustic treatment is proposed as the candidate solution. The physics-based software tool will be considering the effects of grazing flow, cooling flow, and distributed (not discrete) dynamics of the absorber itself. The design tool will be developed in COMSOL finite element analysis environment. The software tool will be used to design 2 acoustic dampers tuned to the first tangential and first radial modes of an augmentor with the same geometry and attributes as that of F136 engine . The effectiveness of the designed dampers will be numerically demonstrated by implementing them in the finite element aeroacoustic model of the candidate augmentor.

ALLCOMP, INC. 209 Puente Ave. City of Industry, CA 91746
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(626) 369-1273 Mr. Wei Shih AF 07-056 Awarded: 12/20/07
Title:	Novel Heat Exchanger Materials for Fuel-Air Cooler Heat Exchanger
Abstract:	Open cell foam, which provides the highest heat transfer surface areas per unit volume, is considered as an excellent heat exchanger core material. Pyrolytic Carbon coated reticulated vitreous carbon (RVC) foam, which offers highly conductive foam ligaments and is available in different pore sizes and density, provides wide design options. A hybrid heat exchanger composed of carbon foam as heat transfer core and metallic parting sheet can provide efficient heat transfer performance, acceptable pressure drop, sound structure that is compatible with external ducting, and meet leak tightness required for a fuel-air heat exchanger. Under this program, we plan to further optimize existing RVC based carbon foams to achieve improved thermal performance with minimum impact on the flow resistance. We also plan to further improve the reliability of joining between carbon foam and aluminum parting sheet meeting both thermal and structural requirements. In addition, we plan to identify and demonstrate new foam materials for advanced heat exchanger applications.

CERAMATEC, INC. 2425 South 900 West Salt Lake City, UT 84119
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(801) 978-2134 Mr. Merrill Wilson AF 07-056 Awarded: 12/20/07
Title:	Next Generation Heat Exchangers Using Ceramic Materials and Surface Morphologies
Abstract:	A ceramic material is proposed wherein surface morphologies are used which enhance the heat transfer performance and reduce heat exchanger weight and volume. This technology would provide a means by which next generation return fuel/air cooler (RFAC) heat exchanger systems could be improved upon. The basic concept is to increase the area-to-volume ratio by fabricating materials which have porous structures allowing for increased heat transfer over a reduced volume. Fabrication and testing will be done using silicon carbide as the ceramic material. In the Phase 1 Program, Ceramatec, Inc. will evaluate, fabricate, demonstrate and characterize the performance of these materials at a sub-scale level.

ADVANCED FUEL RESEARCH, INC. 87 Church Street East Hartford, CT 06108
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(860) 528-9806 Mr. James R. Markham AF 07-057 Awarded: 12/12/07
Title:	High-Speed Thermal Imaging of In-Service TBC Blades
Abstract:	Ceramic thermal barrier coating (TBC) on first-stage turbine blades is a vital component of advanced engines under development for future military aircraft, protecting the metal alloy blades from the extreme combustion temperature in these high-performance engines. TBC must be proven as a reliable means to prevent blade failure but current engine development programs are hindered since there is not a sensor available to map the surface temperature of TBC blades during engine operation. In fact, the engine sensor community has identified surface temperature mapping of TBC blades as a high priority sensor development need. This Phase I project will demonstrate feasibility for an advanced optical imaging system for both on-board TBC emissivity mapping and TBC temperature mapping. Knowledge of TBC emissivity is critical for accurate temperature measurements, and jet fuel combustion influences emissivity at the coating surface. The TBC emissivity maps will be used with the TBC thermal maps to improve the absolute accuracy of on-engine TBC temperature mapping. On-board emissivity monitoring will also provide an additional diagnostic for high-resolution monitoring of TBC breakdown resulting in metal substrate exposure.

SURFACE OPTICS CORP. 11555 Rancho Bernardo Road San Diego, CA 92127
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 675-7404 Mr. Leif Hendricks AF 07-057 Awarded: 12/12/07
Title:	Innovative High-Speed Sensing System for Operational Monitoring of Jet Engine Turbine Blade Ceramic Coatings
Abstract:	Surface Optics Corporation (SOC), teamed with Pratt and Whitney (P&W), is proposing an innovative solution for operational monitoring of the health of Ceramic Matrix Composite(CMC) Thermal Barrier Coatings (TBC) on jet engine turbine blades. This solution is based on extensive work performed by both team members that has been directed towards problems of similar nature over many years. The problem is that turbine blades are nickel-based superalloys with a CMC thermal barrier that protects them from temperatures as high as 4000 F (the melting point of the steel is ~ 2900 F). The role of the CMC layer is to assure that the temperature of the steel blades does not exceed ~ 1700 F. Premature (occurring before routine scheduled maintenance) degradation or failure of the CMC blanket can lead to engine failure. The possible solution for which the feasibility will be determined in a Phase I program is to monitor in real time the condition of the CMC coatings on each and every blade in the turbine. Our Team solution is to apply proven SOC real-time hyperspectral imaging with continuous automated analysis and reporting of the health of the blade CMC coatings. This solution is discussed in Sections 1.0 through 3.0 of this proposal with a work plan tailored to, and focused on, its efficacy.

BUSEK CO., INC. 11 Tech Circle Natick, MA 01760
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(508) 655-5565 Mr. Nathaniel Demmons AF 07-058 Awarded: 12/14/07
Title:	Atomizing Liquid Fuel Injector for Hypersonic Propulsion
Abstract:	In hypersonic flight vehicles, the limited residence time of fuel in the engine necessitates extremely fast mixing and combustion. Conventionally atomized fuel droplets are typically too large and polydisperse (several to hundreds of microns in diameter) to mix and completely burn during the short 1-3ms residence time in the engine. Busek proposes to investigate a novel approach for creating monodisperse micron-sized droplets at the high mass flowrates required for hypersonic combustion engines. Busek has already achieved the desired droplet sizes and performed successful combustion testing of unmodified JP-8 at low mass flowrates. The goal of the Phase 1 effort shall be to test an augmentation technique for increasing mass flowrates by 1000-fold, culminating in a proof-of-concept functional and characterized fuel injector.

GOHYPERSONIC, INC. 714 E. Monument AveSuite 201 Dayton, OH 45402
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 531-6678 Dr. Lance Jacobsen AF 07-058 Awarded: 12/14/07
Title:	Hypersonic Propulsion-Airframe Integration
Abstract:	This SBIR presents an opportunity to study alternate scramjet engine configurations in an effort to increase spillage to levels between inward-turning and planar inlets while understanding the impact on engine and vehicle performance from a systems level perspective. To accomplish this, our team proposes to integrate new inlet, nozzle, and vehicle flow surface design and analysis capabilities into the Eco suite of tools. Inlet design strategies will focus on developing planar flowlines and new alternative inlet design methodologies including streamline tracing through alternate genera flowfields to explore the design space between the two classes of inlets. Parametric surface flowline optimization CFD techniques will also be employed to further enhance and analyze any promising new inlet designs developed in this study. Furthermore, new planar nozzle flowlines generation routines will also be examined to provide alternative means for the design of the back end of the engine-integrated vehicle configuration. New vehicle surface routines will also be created to allow alternative spatula and waverider vehicle configurations with planar and alternative inlet designs. Flowlines generated with these new tools will be validated using viscous CFD and the resulting configurations will be compared to the baseline inward-turning scramjet configurations over a selected mission.

INNOVATIVE SCIENTIFIC SOLUTIONS, INC. 2766 Indian Ripple Rd Dayton, OH 45440
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 902-6546 Dr. Sukesh Roy AF 07-059 Awarded: 01/14/08
Title:	Measurement Techniques for High-Pressure, Liquid-Fueled Combustors with High Soot Loading
Abstract:	The primary objective of this Phase-I research effort is to build an ultraviolet (UV) hyperspectral sensor at ~310 nm to perform spatially resolved temperature and OH concentration measurements based on multi-line laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) of OH molecule in reacting flows. The proof-of-the-concept demonstration measurements will be performed in an atmospheric-pressure, near-adiabatic H2-air Hencken burner for various equivalence ratios. The potential of two different concepts of generating UV light using hyperspectral sources will be evaluated. These are: (1) generating UV light by sum-frequency mixing of 5W 532 nm light with a high-power hyperspectral source at ~763 nm in a nonlinear crystal and (2) development of an UV hyperspectral source based on native ultraviolet gain, e.g., using quadrupled Nd:YVO4-pumped Ce3+:LiCaAlF6 or Ce3+:LiLuF4 crystals which can provide broadband gain in the 280-333 nm range. High-bandwidth LIF measurements based on continuous-wave (CW) lasers is limited by the low power output of typical distributed feedback (DFB) diode-lasers used for their construction. Hyperspectral sources will allow generating high-power CW laser-light at the desired frequency, i.e., either at ~763 nm or ~310 nm. This feasibility study will pave the way for designing the optimum UV source for implementation in a high-pressure test-rig at WPAFB during the Phase-II research effort.

SPECTRAL ENERGIES, LLC 2513 Pierce Ave. Ames, IA 50010
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 266-9570 Dr. Sivaram P. Gogineni AF 07-059 Awarded: 01/07/08
Title:	Spatially and Temporally Resolved Temperature and Species Concentration Measurements in High-Pressure Combustors using fs-CARS
Abstract:	The objective of the proposed Phase-I research effort is to develop femtosecond (fs) laser-based coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) spectroscopy for providing quantitative high-speed (1-10 kHz) temperature and species concentration measurements in unsteady reacting flows. The initial frequency-spread dephasing rate of the Raman coherence induced by the ultrafast (~85 fs) Stokes and pump beams will be used to measure gas-phase temperature for high-pressure combustion. This initial frequency-spread dephasing rate of the Raman coherence is completely independent of local molecular collisions and depends only on the frequency spread of the Raman transitions at different temperatures. Single-shot CARS thermometry will be performed by obtaining time-resolved CARS spectra from chirped probe pulse. A simple theoretical model based on the assumption of impulsive excitation of Raman coherence will be developed to interpret and extract high-speed, single-shot temperature from the interaction of a chirped probe-pulse with the Raman coherence. During the Phase-I research effort measurements will be performed in laboratory flames. Successful implementation of the proposed technique will pave the way for the application of fs-CARS for high-speed temperature and species concentration measurements in high-pressure gas-turbine test rig and augmentor at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (WPAFB) during the Phase-II research effort.

METACOMP TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 28632 Roadside Drive, #255 Agoura Hills, CA 91301
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(818) 735-4883 Dr. Uriel Goldberg AF 07-060 Awarded: 12/13/07
Title:	Computational Fluid Dynamics Enhancements for Scramjet Flow Simulations
Abstract:	Combusting flows in general, and scramjet flows in particular, strain the performance of existing CFD solvers to their limit, the weakest link being the turbulence closure. Prediction of high-speed combusting flows is particularly sensitive to the level of accuracy in computing mass transport. Solvers based on eddy viscosity models relate turbulent mass flux to species gradients through an exchange mechanism involving eddy viscosity and a so-called turbulent Schmidt number (Sct). A similar approach is used for energy transport, the equivalent parameter being the turbulent Prandtl number (Prt). Both numbers are treated as constants throughout the flow-field. However, experimental evidence suggests that these parameters vary significantly, thus models that treat them as constants cannot predict the flow details with sufficient accuracy. The proposed approach introduces a method for computing variable Sct and Prt numbers with the potential to significantly improve scramjet flow predictive capability.

TTC TECHNOLOGIES, INC. P. O. Box 1527 Stony Brook, NY 11790
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(631) 285-7127 Dr. Xiaodan Cai AF 07-060 Awarded: 12/14/07
Title:	Computational Fluid Dynamics Enhancements for Scramjet Flow Simulations
Abstract:	Several high-fidelity computational schemes and turbulence-combustion interaction models, including the option for high-order spatial and temporal calculations, are proposed to significantly improve the accuracy and turnaround time for practical scramjet engine design and performance analysis. The proposed enhancements of existing tools, such as the government-owned VULCAN computer program, focus on accuracy, speed of execution, and general user interaction with the tools. The project targets issues associated with physics-based modeling of supersonic combustion, aerodynamics, turbulence, and their interactions, with the overall goal of providing accurate and computationally affordable tool. To develop the proposed software, TTC Technologies, Inc. (TTC) is leveraging its extensive experience in the relevant research for the topic and in developing truly advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD) solutions at all speeds (subsonic, transonic, supersonic, and hypersonic). TTC will also partner with ATK GASL, Inc., who will provide quality data to validate the proposed tool, and leverage its extensive research and realistic scramjet manufacturing experience.

GENERAL NANO LLC PO Box 6554 Cincinnati, OH 45206
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(513) 556-4132 Dr. Mark J. Schulz AF 07-061 Awarded: 01/04/08
Title:	Super Long Carbon Nanotubes for Manufacturing Electrical Fiber
Abstract:	This project is to address the feasibility of manufacturing carbon nanotube (CNT) fiber that can replace copper wire for electrical power applications in the Air Force. The proposed work will focus on three critical aspects for fiber production that we believe are unique, and that will allow mass production of high quality electrical fiber. The approaches we selected to attack this scientific and technological challenge are: (1) synthesis of large area, cm long multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) using our novel composite catalysts for which a US patent is pending; (2) spinning long MWCNT into fiber based on existing and widely available industrial spinning technology which is only possible by using cm long nanotubes; and (3) post treatment of the produced CNT fibers for improved electrical conductivity. In practice, MWCNT and hence electrical fiber will always contain defects. A post treatment step integrated within the spinning procedure and based on thermal and plasma annealing is chosen to heal defects and improve the strength and conductivity of the fiber. Electrical fiber after such treatment is expected to be highly electrically conductive, and also flexible, bendable, fatigue resistant, and load bearing for multifunctional applications. All these fiber properties will be vigorously characterized.

NANOCOMP TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 162 Pembroke Road Concord, NH 03301
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(603) 442-8992 Dr. David S. Lashmore AF 07-061 Awarded: 12/20/07
Title:	Longer Length Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) for Electric Power Applications
Abstract:	Nanocomp has demonstrated a continuous fabrication process for SWCNT wires and a batch process for very long SWCNT tapes. Modifications to the conductivity, proposed here, may improve the EM absorption characteristics of these sheets. In this proposal we posit that a CNT wire may be used as a current conductor for both dc and ac frequencies under a wide variety of conditions. Some preliminary data on the electrical characteristics of the wire are presented. We note that at ambient temperature the electrical resistivity is about 1 x 10-4 ohm-cm (1x106 S.m-1) at a wire density of about 0.2 g/cc which on weight basis is close to that of industrial copper (58.6 x 106 S.m-1) whose density of 8.96 g/cc. At high frequencies (>2 GHz) the nanotube wire becomes very much more effective than copper thereby saving considerable weight. At frequencies less than 50 MHz, a power savings for the same capacity can be achieved only if the nanotube conductivity is increased[1]. Widespread commercial applications of CNT wires requires improved conductivity. Means of accomplishing this include doping during or after synthesis, and a novel means of Chirality control implemented during synthesis.

NEVA RIDGE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 4750 Walnut StreetSuite 205 Boulder, CO 80301
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 443-9966 Mr. Richard Carande AF 07-068 Awarded: 01/23/08
Title:	Three-Dimensional (3-D) Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) Image Formation and Exploitation
Abstract:	Neva Ridge Technologies proposes to develop and implement an improved three-dimensional SAR processing algorithm and related data acquisition strategy focused on persistent surveillance circular staring SAR data. The main challenge to be addressed in the phase one effort will be to demonstrate a minimization of the limitations associated with the sparse nature of the anticipated elevation aperture through signal processing techniques to improve the elevation impulse response function, and a careful data collection process. This will be first demonstrated using phase one generated simulated multi-pass data, and available circular SAR data from prior (2006) collections. In addition to image data quality issues, we will establish requirements on flight lines, motion measurement systems and other system engineering related concerns. Results of these simulations will be made available to support a summer 2008 data collection.

SCIENTIFIC SYSTEMS CO., INC. 500 West Cummings Park - Ste 3000 Woburn, MA 01801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 933-5355 Mr. Carl Frost AF 07-068 Awarded: 01/28/08
Title:	Three-Dimensional (3-D) Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) Image Formation and Exploitation
Abstract:	Our main objective is to develop, implement and test novel level-set surface reconstruction methodologies as applied to SAR data that has been collected over a sparse 3D aperture. We believe a tomographic surface reconstruction can best exploit nonlinear models and sparse data collection geometries: These configurations are not readily amenable to more traditional Fourier-based or filtered back-projection (FBP) reconstruction methods. Phase I of this effort will comprise a proof-of-concept stage during which both the radar signal processing, imaging algorithms and hardware implementation concerns will be addressed directly. We will demonstrate a functionality that will effect 3D imaging using existing, albeit augmented, techniques, as well as new capabilities that will effect 3D surface reconstruction via novel level-set techniques. Throughout we will emphasize the development of a solution methodology that is aligned with the end-to-end goal of obtaining a fieldable and modular set of integrable components. Phase II will concentrate on the further development, larger-scale implementation, testing and performance analysis of the techniques developed under Phase I. This includes integration and testing in a lab setting of a modular prototype system using the components developed in Phase I.

SET ASSOC. CORP. 1005 N. Glebe Rd.Suite 400 Arlington, VA 22201
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 241-5857 Mr. Jason Gregga AF 07-076 Awarded: 01/31/08
Title:	Exploitation of Large-Format (ELF) Electro-Optic (EO) Data
Abstract:	Large Format Electro-Optical video data, available from sensors such as Angel Fire, provides a unique capability to see a wide area at sufficient resolution to see small objects such as vehicles. Currently, Angel Fire allows users to see their region of interest in near real-time. However, there is not currently a good way to tie this impressive capability to the next layer of sensing. Without an automated ability to cue other sensors, time consuming steps must be taken by users. This limits the utility of the LF data. SET has chosen to pursue the integration of video from ground-based cameras with the synoptic imagery provided by persistent sensors such as Angel Fire. This topic has enormous potential to dramatically increase our knowledge of the identity and movement of vehicles of interest, by overcoming the limitations of both classes of sensors when used alone. Many ground cameras are currently deployed in theater. Knowledge of the locations and fields of view (FOV) of the ground cameras allows the system to cue them to watch for a vehicle at a particular time and location. High resolution, color video, at highly discriminatory viewing angles can then be used for classification, and precise identification.

BARRON ASSOC., INC. 1410 Sachem PlaceSuite 202 Charlottesville, VA 22901
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(434) 973-1215 Dr. Michael DeVore AF 07-080 Awarded: 01/25/08
Title:	Propagation of Uncertainty in Anticipatory Image Exploitation Using Polynomial Chaos Random Process Representations
Abstract:	The ability to accurately anticipate target behavior on the basis of surveillance data is critical in many military and civilian contexts. Information regarding target behavior may be drawn from a variety of sources, each of which suffers from uncertainties in the form of noise, inaccuracies, and outright errors. This proposal seeks to develop novel methods for dealing with this uncertainty by vertically integrating uncertainty models in a common framework through all levels of data processing, by adapting uncertainty models over time to incorporate newly observed behaviors and interactions, and by leveraging powerful new adaptive processing techniques. The resulting technology will propagate uncertainties from inputs and models, producing a distribution over anticipated behaviors and a characterization of the most likely future target tracks and associated likelihood measures. This output can be used to intelligently manage sensor and targeting assets, to minimize the need for a human operator to supervise system operation, and to quickly detect targets that deviate from predicted behavior.

DECISIVE ANALYTICS CORP. 1235 South Clark StreetSuite 400 Arlington, VA 22202
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(703) 414-5106 Mr. Mike Colony AF 07-080 Awarded: 01/25/08
Title:	SRM driven by a Traffic Anticipation and Response Engine (STARE)
Abstract:	Today's threats tend to maneuver in commercial vehicles through dense, cluttered urban streets where detection and tracking become exceptionally difficult. First, the high volume of background traffic makes it difficult to maintain tracks within the clutter of large numbers of confusing targets. Second, urban structures present obscuration problems that create gaps in coverage. Both of these problems cause frequent track losses, motivating the need for two specific capabilities. First, in order to effectively task sensor assets such that their probability of reacquiring the target is optimal requires the use of algorithms that can fuse all available information into an anticipatory model that exploits traffic trends to predict the likelihood of future locations of vehicles of interest. This capability can be utilized in concert with sensor resource management (SRM) algorithms to improve the ability to reacquire lost targets. Second, novel techniques are needed to improve track correlation and continuity once new sensor observations are provided. The DECISIVE ANALYTICS Corporation will leverage their experience in developing inference-driven sensor management systems to achieve the goals of this SBIR. We will utilize unparalleled techniques in computational probability to provide anticipatory traffic modeling to drive our SRM, as well as to provide improved track correlation.

ADVANCED RESEARCH CORP. 4459 White Bear Parkway White Bear Lake, MN 55110
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(651) 789-9004 Mr. Greg Wagner AF 07-083 Awarded: 01/30/08
Title:	Polarization Selective Infrared Detection
Abstract:	To date, both IR polarization and spectral detectors have been developed and employed for the purpose of object discrimination imaging. Each of these detector families provides unique and complimentary data for object discrimination analysis. A hybrid detector, which is capable of both polarimetric and spectral detection would greatly enhance the range and capability of object discrimination imaging. We propose to develop a detector capable of simultaneous and congruent detection of both polarimetric and spectral source emission characteristics. This will be accomplished with the application of NanoImprint Lithography (NIL).

APPLIED NANOFEMTO TECHNOLOGIES LLC 181 Stedman St. Suite #2 Lowell, MA 01851
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 761-4293 Dr. Zhengmao Ye AF 07-083 Awarded: 01/30/08
Title:	A Monolithically Integrated Multi-spectral Polarimetric Photodetector and focal plane array
Abstract:	Polarization sensitive multi-spectral photodetectors are of great importance in target detection, characterization and discrimination. Most current existing multi-spectral sensing systems employ dispersive optics (gratings or prisms), or external polarizer technologies to obtain spectral and polarimetric characteristics of targets. These systems are usually heavy, bulky, having arrow incident angles, and unable to simultaneously detecting polarizations at different angles. The SBIR proposal aims to develop a new type of monolithically integrated polarimetric photodetector capable of voltage-tunable waveband selection and simultaneous polarization sensing with significantly reduced device size and enhanced reliability. Successfully developing the proposed innovation is expected to provide an enabling technology for ultra-compact, waveband and polarization agile imaging systems suitable for space and airborne applications. In phase I, a preliminary monolithically integrated polarimetric photodetector with wide-spectral coverage (2-14 micro-meter), high polarization extinction ratio, and voltage-tunabl waveband selection will be developed for proof-of-concept demonstration. In Phase II, an ultra-compact focal plane array (FPA) prototype with voltage-tunable waveband selection and simultaneous polarimetric imaging capability will be developed and hybridized with readout circuits. A preliminary voltage-tunable multi-spectral polarimetric IR camera will be also demonstrated and delivered to Air Force research lab in Phase II.

PRIME RESEARCH, LC 1750 Kraft Dr Ste 1000-B Blacksburg, VA 24060
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(540) 961-2200 Dr. Raymond Rumpf AF 07-083 Awarded: 01/30/08
Title:	Nano-Optical Elements for Polarization Selective Infrared Detection
Abstract:	Prime Research and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte propose developing space-variant nano-optical elements to integrate passive spectral and polarization filters directly into infrared focal plane arrays. This novel technology will enable pixels to be uniquely tuned for wavelength and polarization across a focal plane array using a simple fabrication process that is suitable for volume production. Photonic crystals will perform the filtering functions and provide additional mechanisms to further enhance performance. Key performance goals are broadband operation and consistent behavior at oblique angles of incidence. Developmental efforts include design and experimental testing of space-variant photonic crystal filters with integrated polarizing elements. Exploratory concepts include incorporating left-handed materials to achieve omni-directional performance and self-collimation to reduce blurring and defocusing through the element. The proposed technology promises revolutionary advances in remote sensing, surveillance, target discrimination, imaging, spectroscopy, and more.

COMBUSTION RESEARCH & FLOW TECHNOLOGY, INC. 6210 Keller's Church Road Pipersville, PA 18947
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(215) 766-1520 Dr. Srinivasan Arunajatesan AF 07-086 Awarded: 01/30/08
Title:	Store Trajectory Response to Unsteady Aerodynamic Loads
Abstract:	The development of a trajectory envelope prediction tool, capable of identifying stores that may experience significant trajectory deviations due to unsteady loading is proposed. The Phase I part of this program will provide a comprehensive demonstration of the significance of these unsteady loads in determining trajectory envelopes and conceptualize a modeling approach to predict this effect. The modeling tool will be subsequently developed and matures in Phase II through the synergistic use of experimental and computational tools. The methods and procedures used in this program will be collected into a set of testing and analyses procedures for the store certification and clearance process. The incorporation of these into the certification process will improve the accuracy and reliability of this process while expanding its capability with modification to the process. The successful completion of this program will affect current platforms such as the F/A-22, the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) as well as future platforms such as the Long Range Strike Aircraft (LRSA).

M4 ENGINEERING, INC. 2161 Gundry Avenue Signal Hill, CA 90755
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(562) 981-7797 Mr. Kevin Roughen AF 07-086 Awarded: 01/21/08
Title:	Store Trajectory Response to Unsteady Aerodynamic Loads
Abstract:	M4 Engineering proposes to develop a method for predicting store trajectory response subject to unsteady aerodynamic loads. This method will combine low-fidelity data with high-fidelity data in a novel way to represent the deterministic and probabilistic portions of the unsteady aerodynamic response. This development will enable increased efficiency in the use of test and time-accurate Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) data allowing for more accurate simulations to be calculated using fewer resources. The proposed technique will be an excellent compliment to modern test and analysis methods.

TECHNOVA CORP. 3927 Dobie Road Okemos, MI 48864
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(517) 485-9583 Dr. Anagi Balachandra AF 07-088 Awarded: 01/28/08
Title:	Innovative Structural Concepts for Deep-Winged Large Transports
Abstract:	Future deep-winged large transport aircraft would challenge the conventional approach to aircraft structural design. The tremendous size of deep-winged transports offers new latitudes to rethink structural configurations which efficiently meet the escalated structural demands. Conventional aircraft wing structures comprise a multitude of elements, only some of which make major structural contributions. Inefficient load paths are used in conventional designs to transfer wing structural forces to the fuselage; the susceptibility to local and global structural instabilities further undermines the efficiency of conventional structures. As a result, the working stresses in today's aircraft wing structures are relatively low, only about 10% of the tensile strength of high-performance fibers. A new structural concept is proposed here for achieving improved levels of structural efficiency through: (i) replacement of the multitude of semi-structural and structural elements with a streamlined, multi-functional structure that is capable of mobilizing optimum load paths and effectively resisting structural instabilities for achieving higher levels of efficiency; (ii) Optimal use of the prestressing technique to effectively exploit the high tensile strength of advanced fibrous materials towards improvement of structural efficiency; and (iii) streamlined transfer of wing structural forces to the fuselage by mobilizing the efficient structural performance of fuselage under hydrostatic pressure using the wing prestressing tendons, which also benefit the fuselage performance under cabin pressure. The main thrust of the proposed Phase I research is to validate and quantify the gains in structural efficiency and safety resulting from application of the proposed structural concept to deep-winged transport aircraft. The Phase I research will: (i) identify viable ranges for the primary design variables of the proposed structural concept, and establish optimum sets of design variables with existing and emerging selections of materials; (ii) experimentally verify the optimum design with existing selections of materials; (iii) assess the competitive position of the new structural concept versus conventional designs; and (iv) devise and validate strategies for improving the competitiveness of the new concept.

SCIENTIFIC APPLICATIONS & RESEARCH ASSOC., INC. 6300 Gateway Dr. Cypress, CA 90630
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(714) 224-4410 Mr. Alon Yaari AF 07-089 Awarded: 01/21/08
Title:	Autonomous Control Technologies for Terminal Area Operations
Abstract:	Autonomous Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) participation in controlled airspace requires that the UAV behave just as a human-piloted aircraft. Forward airbases with Air Traffic Control (ATC) can be complex when considering ATC commands, localization in a GPS denied environment, flight restrictions, FAA rules, and dynamic obstacles. SARA proposes a behavior-based system that deconfliction these complexities, allowing the UAV to operate safely in the Terminal Area of Operations (TAO). The proposed behavior-based "Autonomous Pilot" uses concurrent simple behaviors to produce emergent complex behaviors. An objective function based solver calculates weights and preferred actions of the individual behaviors to arbitrate an optimum vehicle action. To facilitate development and eventual transfer of the Autonomous Pilot to actual UAV hardware, SARA proposes a modular control architecture. Our proposed "Autonomous Pilot- Multi-Objective Deconfliction" (APMOD) system is based on the "Mission Oriented Operating Suite" (MOOS) architecture. The modularity allows simulation modules during the development phase to be replaced with hardware integration modules as the program develops into hardware-in-the-loop solutions and eventually into actual UAV platforms.

HYPERCOMP, INC. 31255 Cedar Valley DriveSuite 327 Westlake Village, CA 91362
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(818) 865-3710 Dr. Ramakanth Munipalli AF 07-091 Awarded: 01/21/08
Title:	High-Speed Airbreathing Propulsion Integration
Abstract:	In this proposal HyPerComp Inc., jointly with Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, GASL and the University of Texas at Arlington, seeks to create a high performance rapid test environment for hypersonic multimode airbreathing vehicle development. This will be achieved by a systematic sequence of advancements in both computational as well as experimental methods being used in the study of such systems. While due care will be taken to accurately represent the basic external aerodynamics, structural mechanics and heat transfer phenomena, the emphasis of this project will be placed on the study of dual-mode propulsion systems with integrated inlets/nozzles and multiple combustor paths, that are a vital ingredient in major ongoing vehicle programs such as the DARPA-FALCON. The integrated multiphysical approach to the study of the vehicle performance proposed here is aimed to supersede current techniques in component-wise modeling, external integration and lumped performance estimates. Developments in this area are timely, given the rapid pace of activity in hypersonic vehicle design concepts in recent times, such as in the X-51, FALCON-HTV/HCV and allied programs. The proposing team consists of industry leaders in flow simulation, testing, vehicle design and integration.

COMPOSITE TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT, INC. 2600 Campus Drive, Suite D Lafayette, CO 80026
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 664-0394 Dr. Robert Taylor AF 07-101 Awarded: 01/15/08
Title:	Low Cost Solid Surface Deployable Reflector
Abstract:	Future Air Force satellites will require large aperture RF antennas for various missions in communications, signals intelligence, and Radar. At the same time, Operation Responsive Space (ORS) is striving to develop small satellite technology to provide flexibility and adaptability to meet new and evolving mission needs quickly. However, existing deployable antenna systems do not meet the cost requirements of ORS, therefore new deployable antenna systems with simple and elegant designs are required. The proposed technology is a thin, flexible, one-piece solid reflector that has a relatively simple deployable backing structure. These antennas will be low cost due to their inherent simplicity, and have the potential of operating at high frequencies because of the use of: 1) a solid reflective surface, and 2) CTD's novel elastic memory composite materials in multi-functional components that provide substantial deployed stiffness, as well as deployment force and damping. However, achieving high-frequency capability will ultimately require the use of tuning adjustors (between the solid-surface deployable reflector shell and its backing structure) to correct for minor errors in the shape of the thin reflector shell. The proposed research will demonstrate the technical feasibility of a low cost deployable backing structure with built-in adjustment features.

IMPACT TECHNOLOGIES, LLC 200 Canal View Blvd Rochester, NY 14623
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(585) 424-1990 Dr. Michael J. Roemer AF 07-117 Awarded: 01/21/08
Title:	A Portable, Vibro-Acoustic Based NDI System for Composite Structures
Abstract:	Impact Technologies, in collaboration with our commercialization partner Boeing, propose to develop a portable, non-destructive inspection (NDI) system that can quickly and accurately determine the damage state of an aircraft composite structure using vibro-acoustic feature analysis. The high-frequency analysis method proposed can be applied in an automated manner using a modal hammer and vibro-acoustic accelerometers capable of assessing the location and severity of various forms of damage, including dis-bonds and delamination. The application of the proposed developments will be focused on the F-15 vertical stabilator region, which our commercialization partner Boeing to assist with design specific knowledge. The core innovations of this project include: 1) Implementation of practical, real-time, non-destructive inspection (NDI) methods (including sensors and signal processing software) that can be applied to critical regions of aircraft structures using piezo-electric response measurements for damage assessments; 2) Development of an integrated frequency, damping and mode shape sensitivity algorithm for damage detection and localization; 3) Development of a stress wave analysis algorithm that incorporates an optimized triangulation procedure for improved damage localization once damage is detected; and 4) Validation of the portable NDI system prototype (including hardware, software and sensors) based on performing a series of well-organized and realistic tests on composite panels with various levels of external and internal damage and baseline testing of the F-15 vertical stabilator region.

SOUTHWEST SCIENCES, INC. 1570 Pacheco Street, Suite E-11 Santa Fe, NM 87505
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 984-1322 Dr. Andrei B. Vakhtin AF 07-117 Awarded: 01/21/08
Title:	Optical NDI of Advanced Composites
Abstract:	Advanced composite materials are widely used in many aerospace structures. Although these materials possess superior mechanical properties, they are subject to various types of damage during operation. Therefore, it is highly desirable to have non-destructive inspection (NDI) tools capable of monitoring damage and water ingress in the advanced composites. Southwest Sciences proposes to use an innovative optical technique based on diffuse reflectance, which will provide fast non-destructive critical evaluation of damage and water penetration in advanced composites. The Phase I effort will demonstrate the feasibility of this approach and outline the design of the Phase II prototype instrument.

QUEST INTEGRATED 1012 Central Avenue South Kent, WA 98032
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(253) 872-9500 Mr. Phillip D. Bondurant AF 07-118 Awarded: 01/21/08
Title:	Improved magneto-optic methods for aircraft corrosion detection
Abstract:	Aircraft undergo constant routine inspection in order to maintain airworthiness. Subsurface corrosion and metal fatigue in airframes which goes undetected can have tragic consequences. The QUEST proprietary magneto-optic imager (MOI) is a non-destructive technique which is currently used by the Air Force, NASA and commercial clients for subsurface flaw detection with better performance than traditional eddy current methods. We will extend the operational methods to increase the field of view, measure the depth of detected flaws, and incorporate advanced real-time background subtraction methods. These enhancements will significantly extend the ability of the MOI to inspect for subsurface corrosion and cracking in deep subsurface layers down to layer 4 or 5 of airframes. QUEST has extensive experience in developing and deploying non-destructive testing devices for industry.

REACTIVE INNOVATIONS, LLC 410 Great Road, Suite C-2 Littleton, MA 01460
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 952-6947 Dr. Michael C. Kimble AF 07-118 Awarded: 02/01/08
Title:	Aircraft Corrosion Inspection System
Abstract:	The Air Force requires an improved corrosion detector to assess corrosion in multi-layer metallic structures on its aircraft. A compact and portable device is needed that can pinpoint corrosion in the early stages of pitting deep within these multi-layer structures. Reactive Innovations, LLC proposes a Phase I program to develop and demonstrate a corrosion detection system based on an electrochemical interrogation method. We have previously shown a method to electrochemically characterize surfaces that can be packaged into a hand-held and inexpensive device. With this approach, we will apply it to the real-time assessment of corrosion on complex geometric components on aircraft. During the Phase I program, we will show the interrogation methodology to locate and assess the severity of corrosion on multi-layer aluminum components with varying degrees of corrosion. Algorithms will be developed to help assess the detector response. An assessment of the scan rate, detector size and mass, and the unit cost will be made that will be applied in a Phase II program to develop an operational hand-held corrosion detection system.

RADIATION MONITORING DEVICES, INC. 44 Hunt Street Watertown, MA 02472
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 668-6856 Mr. Timothy Tiernan AF 07-119 Awarded: 01/21/08
Title:	Inspection of Subsurface Flaws around Fasteners on Aircraft
Abstract:	New technology is needed for nondestructive inspection (NDI) of defects in metallic components on aircraft. Small cracks and flaws in multilayer components near rivets and fasteners are a particular concern. Other problems include detecting and characterizing small defects in highly confined areas. An NDI technology capable of imaging deeply buried defects at various layers of a component under a variety of surface conditions would be ideal. Existing NDI technologies such as visible imaging, x-radiography and acoustic emission cannot provide the high resolution NDI needed to detect deeply buried defects and characterize their dimensions and depth in a material. RMD proposes a revolutionary new eddy current imaging technology based on magnetic imaging and eddy current mapping detect and characterize cracks, corrosion and other defects in multilayer metallic components. A 2-D, solid-state sensor array will generate magnetic images of eddy currents. Eddy current mapping allow the system to perform highly dependable NDI on multilayer components containing defects near fasteners and holes. The proposed NDI system will be portable, versatile and simple to operate. The proposed NDI technology will improve aircraft integrity and crew safety, improve readiness, and reduce the cost and complexity of inspections.

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

58 Phase I Selections from the 07.3 Solicitation

(In Topic Number Order)

ADVANCED MATERIALS RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT CORP. 7525 Coastal view Drive Los Angeles, CA 90045
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 338-3872 Dr. John Ogren NAVY 07-167 Awarded: 01/09/08
Title:	Innovative Manufacturing Process for Defect free, Affordable, High Pressure, Thin Walled Hydraulic Tubing for Navy Aircraft
Abstract:	The objective of the technical effort is to eventually identify a material and a process that produces thin wall high pressure tubing for high performance aircraft, specifically Navy aircraft. The need for improvements stems from disastrous failures and the subsequent failure investigations that have indicated a need for a more fracture-tolerant tubing material. The first phase of the effort will consist of four distinct activities: 1. Titanium Alloy, TI-425.will be evaluated as a replacement material for Ti-325, the alloy used in current high pressure hydraulic tubes. The former is a relatively new alloy, stronger than Ti-325, with good cold-working performance. This activity will use flat plates. The goal is to identify an oxygen level and thermal treatment that results in a condition such that the 425 alloy is still stronger (and more crack resistant) than the 325 alloy while, exhibiting superior ductility ( and thus, workability). 2. Manufacturing studies will be conducted with major Titanium suppliers to insure that the research results can be economically transferred to large-scale industrial practice 3. Systems-level studies will be held with a major aircraft manufacturer to determine the impact of the change in tubing material on systems performance. 4. Liasion will be established with laboratories involved in Pressure Impulse Testing

DYNAMET TECHNOLOGY, INC. Eight A Street Burlington, MA 01803
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 272-5967 Ms. Susan M. Abkowitz NAVY 07-167 Awarded: 12/10/07
Title:	Novel Alloys and Innovative Low Cost Manufacturing Process for Defect Free, Improved, High Pressure Titanium Hydraulic Tubing for Navy Aircraft
Abstract:	This Phase I SBIR proposal addresses the Navy's need to improve the reliability and safety of titanium thin-walled, high pressure hydraulic tubing used in naval aircraft. Powder metal processing will be used to produce novel, cold formable titanium alloys that are more damage resistant and damage tolerant than the standard tubing alloy, Ti-3Al-2.5V. Tubing will be produced from P/M tube hollows and evaluated to establish the technical feasibility of using P/M tube hollows as starting stock to produce titanium hydraulic tubing. In Phase I several innovative titanium alloys will be evaluated for cold formability, damage resistance and damage tolerance by; smooth and notched tensile properties, scratch hardness, indentation hardness, microstructure and chemistry. These tests will identify the most promising alloys for the production of hydraulic tubing and establish the initial economic and technical viability of making tubing from P/M tube hollows. Impulse tests and low cycle fatigue testing of tubes will be conducted in the Phase I Option to establish that tubes produced from the alloys developed in Phase I are indeed superior to Ti-3Al-2.5V. The proposed technology will answer the need for affordable, damage resistant and damage tolerant titanium thin-walled high pressure hydraulic tubing for military and commercial aircraft.

GREAT LAKES COMPOSITES 12061 West Lakeshore Drive Brimley, MI 48715
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(906) 248-3354 Mr. Joel A. Dyksterhouse NAVY 07-167 Awarded: 01/10/08
Title:	DRIFT ProcessThermoplastic Composites Materials & Innovative Manufacturing Process for Thin Wall, High Pressure Hydraulic Tubing for Navy Aircraft
Abstract:	Great Lakes Composites will utilize its extensive background in thermoplastic composites materials to provide an innovative solution to develop a high pressure, thin-walled hydraulic tubing for Navy aircraft. GLC will utilize the patented Direct Re-Inforced Fiber Technology (DRIFT) process to heat fuse thermoplastic resin to continuous fibers, to efficiently and thoroughly impregnate the fibers without damage, improving the reliability and safety of hydraulic tubing. GLC anticipates that thermoplastic composites tape-form materials, wrapped to form the tubing, will exceed the Navy's expectations, as well as significantly reduce failures. The additional benefits of cost and weight reduction, along with re-formability in the field will further contribute value-added benefits for both the Navy and potential commercial markets. The resulting properties of the thermoplastic composites materials tubing will include a minimum of 5000 psi, a continuous use temperature of greater than 400◦ F, an outside diameter of 0.25" to 0.75" with a wall thickness of 0.022" to 0.065" respectively, and a minimum of 10 feet to 30 feet or more in length. It is anticipated that the resulting thermoplastic composites materials tubing will have zero degradation of properties under continuous exposure to hot hydraulic fluids and be resistant to `chafing' of the outer surface.

JENTEK SENSORS, INC. 110-1 Clematis Avenue Waltham, MA 02453
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 642-9666 Dr. Mark Windoloski NAVY 07-168 Awarded: 12/21/07
Title:	NDE for Residual Stress Relaxation
Abstract:	Fatigue lives of rotating engine components are greatly enhanced through application of shot peening and other processes that impart residual compressive stresses to their surfaces. X-ray diffraction measurements, however, confirm that these stresses relax during service. Furthermore, residual stresses may relax rapidly or gradually and can vary by location. This proposal addresses the need for a nondestructive method of measuring and tracking residual stress relaxation with scanning MWM-Arrays. JENTEK's patented MWM-Arrays have demonstrated capability to measure shot peen quality in nickel alloys and we are confident we can transition a solution for stress relaxation tracking in nickel alloy components, within two years. This proposed program will also address stress relaxation in titanium alloys. JENTEK currently has two active programs that will provide leverage to this program. Under Air Force funding, we are adapting our technology for manufacturing quality assessment of Low Plasticity Burnishing and Laser Shock Processing. Under a separate Air Force program, we are adapting our technology for IBR inspection for cracks and mechanical damage. Scanning MWM-Arrays, already integrated into automated engine disk inspection systems in use at Navy depots, have the potential to provide crack detection and residual stress relaxation tracking with a single inspection.

LAMBDA TECHNOLOGIES 3929 Virginia Avenue Cincinnati, OH 45227
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(513) 561-0883 Mr. Douglas Hornbach NAVY 07-168 Awarded: 12/21/07
Title:	Residual Stress Measurements Program to Support Condition Based Maintenance (CBM) of Critical Rotating Components of Propulsion Systems
Abstract:	Surface enhancement processes are extensively used to introduce compressive residual stresses (CRS) and enhance the fatigue performance in titanium and nickel alloy rotating components for Navy propulsion systems. CRS can relax in rotating components as a result of thermal exposure and cyclic stresses, adversely impacting the fatigue life and strength. Relaxation can occur rapidly depending upon the relative component temperatures and cyclic stresses. Inspection of the components is performed on a routine basis to characterize damage levels in accordance with Technical Manuals (TM). However, the CRS are currently not monitored and tracked during routine inspection. As part of the inspection cycle, components are re-shot peened to overcome any residual stress relaxation that may have occurred. Intervals at which the components are re-peened may or may not be appropriate for the rate of compressive relaxation. A portable XRD measurement device capable of quickly quantifying the CRS would allow the Navy to track the surface residual stress in support of condition based maintenance of critical components. The measurement device would allow for field measurement of critical features of blades and disk components. The device would be capable of not only measuring the surface residual stress but also the cold working which has a significant impact on the rate of relaxation.

LUNA INNOVATIONS, INC. 1703 S Jefferson Street, SWSuite 400 Roanoke, VA 24016
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(434) 220-0148 Dr. Fritz Friedersdorf NAVY 07-169 Awarded: 01/02/08
Title:	Smart Sensor Hub for Corrosion Monitoring
Abstract:	Corrosion of aircraft and rotorcraft is the single largest maintenance cost driver for the Navy and Marine Corps. In order to maximize aircraft availability and minimize inspection and maintenance demands, Luna proposes to develop a smart sensor hub to support corrosion monitoring of aircraft. The sensor hub will be the central application device for a complete corrosion monitoring system that detects early stages of corrosion and estimates corrosive severity. The smart sensor hub will perform wireless network communications, transducer communications, and data conversion and application functions. It will also provide power management to the transducer circuitry and energy scavenging devices to maximize service life. The system will have an open architecture and configurable interface with loading options to accommodate the widest possible range of sensors. Luna's corrosion monitoring system will fuse diverse datasets for improved state awareness and reduced uncertainty in measuring corrosion damage and estimating useful life remaining. The Phase I program will conclude with a breadboard demonstration of the functional elements of the smart sensor hub including power management, control and communication, and data storage. Luna will also demonstrate corrosion sensor response to early stage corrosion damage of aircraft alloys

MANAGEMENT SCIENCES, INC. 6022 Constitution Avenue NE Albuquerque, NM 87110
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 255-8611 Mr. Kenneth G. Blemel NAVY 07-169 Awarded: 12/11/07
Title:	Miniature Corrosion Sensor Hub to Monitor Difficult-to-Access Aircraft Structure with Complex Geometry.
Abstract:	MSI specializes in design and commercialization of miniature intelligent low power instrumentation systems that process data from sensors in scripted Bayesian algorithms in a "rules engine" application. Recently MSI received a US patent a new monitoring methodology for difficult-to-access aircraft structure with complex geometry. Our product will incorporate a tiny processor and a power scavenger circuit in a tape that supports ribbonized sensitized fiber strands. The ribbonized sensitized strands will extend around, under, and on a structure such as a magnesium gearbox housing, a highly complex geometry casting up to 3 cu ft in size. Deterioration or damage to the ribbonized strands will indicate, probabilistically, that damage is occurring to the item under test. The sensor hub will incorporate a low power electronic circuit called the Embeddable Programmable Instrumentation Circuit (EPIC) which is designed for creating stand-alone low power monitoring systems for aircraft and ground vehicle CBM and PHM. The EPIC processor is very low power, capable of being powered by a energy scavenger circuit. The new module will support intermodule wireless communication, and provide interrogation and wireless offload of the state of health of the equipment being monitored to the inspector's handheld or PC.

MICROSTRAIN, INC. 310 Hurricane LaneSuite 4 Williston, VT 05495
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(802) 862-6629 Mr. Steven W. Arms NAVY 07-169 Awarded: 12/21/07
Title:	Miniature Corrosion Sensor Hub to Monitor Difficult-to-Access Aircraft Structure with Complex Geometry.
Abstract:	Embedded wireless sensors for corrosion monitoring of critical aircraft components are needed for improved condition based maintenance and future structural health monitoring (SHM) systems. The objective of this Phase I SBIR proposal is to design, develop, and test a corrosion measurement and data collection system that can utilize multiple types of corrosion sensors. A key design criterion is that the system be extremely low power which will enable its use with energy scavenging power sources, such as vibration based energy harvesters. The basic architecture incorporates a hub which manages data collection and storage from multiple distributed remote corrosions sensing nodes (CSN's). Communication between the hub and the CSN's is achieved using a micro power variation of the RS-485 bus architecture, which allows for up to 256 distributed nodes. The hub incorporates high density non-volatile flash memory for data storage and utilizes an IEEE802.15.4 radio link for offloading the collected data to a remote handheld or personal computer. The CSN's can employ any type or corrosion sensing method, including resistive, electrochemical impedance spectroscopic (EIS), and inductive techniques. Future distributed nodes could be developed that support various other structural sensors, including strain, pressure, and vibration sensors.

PHYSICAL OPTICS CORP. Information Technologies Division20600 Gramercy Place, Bldg 100 Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 320-3088 Dr. Alexander Naumov NAVY 07-170 Awarded: 01/02/08
Title:	3D Optical Defectoscope System
Abstract:	To address the Navy need for a cost-effective nondestructive evaluation system to facilitate high rate, high-precision inspection of hybrid ceramic bearings, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new 3D Optical Defectoscope (3DOD) system based on shearing of scattered light from defects of ceramic elements. The 3DOD performs precision 3D mapping of surface and subsurface defects in ceramic elements at a high operation rate. Innovative implementation of shearography, polarization control, and new optical design, all of these make 3DOD applicable for inspection of ceramic surface features. Implementation of shearography, which is a proven NDE method, offers robustness against environmental disturbances, optical alignment, and high sensitivity to detect defects with a resolution of 0.2 microns. The 3D defect measurement provides high detection probability, with very low false negative and false positive rates. The 3DOD design includes fiber optic bundles and a universal handling module that makes it applicable for both rolling and ball ceramic elements. In Phase I POC will demonstrate the feasibility of the 3DOD prototype by 3D defect mapping for ceramic rolling elements. In Phase II, POC plans to develop an automated prototype for inspection of ceramic ball bearings.

VIBRANT CORP. 3801 Academy Parkway North N, NE Albuquerque, NM 87109
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 314-1504 Mr. Tom Togami NAVY 07-170 Awarded: 01/10/08
Title:	Hybrid Bearings Non Destructive Evaluation (NDE)
Abstract:	The objective of this proposed effort is to demonstrate the feasibility of Vibrant Corporation (Vibrant) improving current non-destructive evaluation (NDE) methods to allow for surface and subsurface feature inspection of hybrid bearings. Under the proposed effort, an NDE capability will be developed and demonstrated that can quickly and cost effectively detect various types of manufacturing defects found in ceramic rolling elements used in hybrid bearings including surface and bulk flaws. The NDE capability will be adapted from the Process Compensated Resonance Testing (PCRT) technology currently used for metal and ceramic parts in the automotive and aerospace industries. PCRT uses Resonant Ultrasound Spectroscopy (RUS) coupled with genetic sorting algorithms and the Mahalanobis-Taguchi statistical method. PCRT is able to determine patterns within the resonant spectra of acceptable and unacceptable parts. These patterns will then be used to generate a sorting tool that can consistently separate parts with any combination of acceptable variations from those with a single occurrence of an unacceptable variation, i.e. critical flaw.

IMPACT TECHNOLOGIES, LLC 200 Canal View Blvd Rochester, NY 14623
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(585) 424-1990 Mr. Carl S. Byington, P.E. NAVY 07-171 Awarded: 01/10/08
Title:	A Lightweight, In-Situ Corrosion Sensing Module (CorrSeM)
Abstract:	Impact Technologies, in cooperation with The Boeing Company and IMR Test Labs, proposes to develop a low power, lightweight, miniature sensing device capable of sensing parameters which contribute to corrosion development in aircraft structures and components. By monitoring the primary drivers of corrosion as opposed to only its formation and effects, maintainers will be able to more proactively address corrosion within a more prognostic condition-based maintenance framework. The Phase I program objective is to demonstrate a prototype Corrosion Sensing Module (CorrSeM) for monitoring environmental factors contributing to corrosion development. Impact will leverage its experience in developing in-situ embedded sensing solutions to architect, design, and build a prototype system for laboratory data collection and demonstration of Phase I feasibility. The ability of the prototype to track corrosion drivers will be verified through controlled ISO and ASTM test methods. At the end of Phase I, Impact will create a development plan leading towards inexpensive, lightweight, miniature solutions which meet or exceed performance expectations. Successful completion of Phase I objectives will allow for smooth transition into a Phase II program focused on rigorous testing of the CorrSeM's capabilities under both laboratory and real-world scenarios and the development of miniature CorrSeM prototypes.

LUNA INNOVATIONS, INC. 1703 S Jefferson Street, SWSuite 400 Roanoke, VA 24016
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(434) 220-0148 Dr. Fritz Friedersdorf NAVY 07-171 Awarded: 01/10/08
Title:	Smart Environmental Corrosivity Sensor Suite for Aircraft Applications
Abstract:	Corrosion of aircraft and rotorcraft is the single largest maintenance cost driver for the Navy and Marine Corps. In order to maximize aircraft availability and minimize inspection and maintenance demands, Luna proposes to develop a miniature, light weight sensor suite that will measure corrosive severity of aircraft operational environments. The smart corrosivity sensor suite will monitor multiple environmental parameters and quantify cumulative corrosive effects that an aircraft experiences. The light weight and small size of the self contained sensor suite will permit instrumentation of critical components and "corrosion hotspots" within the aircraft. The sensor suite will be designed as a smart transducer interface module for compatibility with a network capable application processor such as the miniature corrosion sensor hub (Topic N07-169). The sensor suite will be a low power device for long life use with a battery or energy scavenging module (Topic N07-178). Luna's environmental corrosivity sensor suite will fuse measurements of environmental parameters and corrosivity for improved state awareness and reduced uncertainty in estimating coating system breakdown and structural material damage. The Phase I effort will be concluded by demonstrating the correlation of the breadboard prototype sensor suite response with corrosion of aircraft alloys in accelerated environmental corrosion tests.

PHYSICAL OPTICS CORP. Applied Technologies Division20600 Gramercy Place, Bldg 100 Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 320-3088 Dr. Yunping Yang NAVY 07-171 Awarded: 01/10/08
Title:	Miniaturized Fiber-Optic Spectroscopic Corrosive Sensor System
Abstract:	To address the Navy's need for an environmental sensor suite to monitor corrosion-influencing parameters for aircraft structural materials, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Miniaturized Fiber-Optic Spectroscopic (Mini-FOS) Corrosion Sensor system. This system is based on fusion of several environmental and chemical sensors innovatively integrated on a single optic fiber for monitoring all relevant parameters simultaneously. The self-contained system will be compact (<1 ounce, <1 cubic inch) and powered by an energy scavenging circuit to generate 1 mW/cc. With a detection sensitivity of parts-per-billion for chemicals, ~0.01 degrees C for temperatures, and 0.01% for humidity, this system will collect and store data at a rate of at least one Hertz during flight. In Phase I POC will demonstrate the feasibility of Mini-FOS by investigating the system design by computer modeling, and fabricating and testing a breadboard prototype (TRL 4) in a simulated corrosive environment. In Phase II an advanced, miniaturized Mini-FOS engineering prototype with TRL 5 will be assembled and tested both at POC and at a Navy facility.

ARIZONA PARADROGUE SYTEMS DIVOF WEST COAST NETTING 5075 Flightline Dr Kingman, AZ 86401
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(928) 681-3160 Mr. Robert Najaka NAVY 07-172 Awarded: 01/10/08
Title:	Innovative Concepts for Stabilization and Control of Aerial Refueling Drogues
Abstract:	Arizona Paradrogue Systems, a drogue coupling assembly, a drogue coupling assembly development and manufacturing firm and SySense, Inc, systems development firm specializing in navigation and control design for autonomous air refueling systems have teamed together to develop a fully stabilized and controllable drogue. APS and SySense plan to generate an analytical model of a stabilized/controllable drogue through numerical analysis simulating tanker, receiver and drogue bodies in turbulent air as well as navigation and electro-optical devices as sensors to provide control and feedback information to actuators installed on the drogue. The design will be based on existing APS drogue designs and will bolt on to existing drogue refueling systems requiring no additional mechanical modifications to the hose/reel system. Phase I investigation shall focus on using the C-130 high speed basket as the model in order to demonstrate the concept. Transverse force data on the drogue shall be obtained through wind tunnel testing using a basket modified with manual devices to simulate canopy manipulation. This data shall then be combined with sensor and navigation data to complete the analysis. The Phase I option shall expand the analysis to include C-130 Low Speed basket, Buddy Store and Variable Speed Drive. A full scale prototype will be constructed to demonstrate the concept in the Option phase.

NIELSEN ENGINEERING & RESEARCH, INC. 605 Ellis Street, Suite 200 Mountain View, CA 94043
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(650) 968-9457 Dr. Daniel Pruzan NAVY 07-172 Awarded: 01/02/08
Title:	Innovative Controllable Drogue Refueling System
Abstract:	Nielsen Engineering & Research (NEAR) is proposing to develop an innovative controllable drogue system based on their CDC7 technology. During the Phase I effort, a second generation CDC7 design, which meets the Navy's specific needs, will be developed through numerical analysis and full-scale wind tunnel testing. System feasibility will be demonstrated through dynamic simulations that include the tanker, hose, controllable drogue, sensors, receiver, and atmospheric turbulence. These analyses will demonstrate that NEAR's controllable drogue system can maintain the refueling basket at a specified stabilized location relative to the tanker even in severe atmospheric conditions. In addition to this aerodynamic performance, the proposed drogue system is reliable, durable (minimizing FOD potential), lightweight, compatible with existing USN/USAF refueling systems, and requires no receiver modifications. While the proposed work plan is very ambitious, it is made achievable through the use of 1) NEAR's existing refueling technology and numerical modeling capabilities, 2) a development team with significant experience in the field of aerial refueling, and 3) external funding from a commercialization partner that is established in the aerial refueling industry. The Phase I program will provide a strong foundation for subsequent development and flight testing of the controllable drogue in the Phase II contract.

AERO SYSTEMS ENGINEERING, INC. 358 East Fillmore Avenue St. Paul, MN 55107
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(651) 220-1290 Dr. Dean Long NAVY 07-173 Awarded: 01/02/08
Title:	Practical Assessment of Noise/Performance Trade for High NPR Nozzles
Abstract:	With improvements in high performance military jet aircraft engines and the increase in complexity of the exhaust systems the noise produced has become problematic. Reducing these noise levels, while maintaining overall system performance, has become the driving issue in new nozzle designs. This proposal will focus on nozzle designs of practical application that can be implemented on current high NPR engine configurations, such as chevrons (or serrations) cut into the trailing edge of the nozzle. In Phase I we will address the practical aspects of making the noise/performance tradeoff for high pressure ratio nozzles. Data will be collected on models in a subscale test facility and evaluated using near field holography and shadowgraph imagery to identify the source characteristics. This will aid development of both CFD and noise prediction algorithms in Phase II.

SPECTRAL ENERGIES, LLC 2513 Pierce Ave. Ames, IA 50010
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 266-9570 Dr. Sivaram P. Gogineni NAVY 07-173 Awarded: 01/02/08
Title:	Exhaust Jet Noise Reduction for Tactical Aircraft
Abstract:	A class of high amplitude and high bandwidth actuators called localized arc filament plasma actuators (LAFPAs) have recently been developed at OSU and used for control of high-speed and high Reynolds number jets. The control included successful noise mitigation in a Mach 0.9 jet and mixing enhancement (and very preliminary results for noise mitigation) in a Mach 1.3 ideally expanded jet. The control relies on high bandwidth of the actuators and excites various instabilities in the jet to achieve the goal of mixing enhancement or noise mitigation. The proposed Phase I work will explore the effectiveness of this technology in more practical supersonic exhaust jets operating with various flow regimes (i.e. ideally-, over-, and under-expanded) and high temperature. Phase I work will pave the way for detailed parametric study of the control issues to achieve maximum noise mitigation in Phase II, where we will also explore integration and commercialization issues.

TTC TECHNOLOGIES, INC. P. O. Box 1527 Stony Brook, NY 11790
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(631) 285-7127 Dr. Ken Alabi NAVY 07-173 Awarded: 01/10/08
Title:	Exhaust Jet Noise Reduction for Tactical Aircraft
Abstract:	The absence of a comprehensive, integrated aerodynamic/aero-acoustic modeling and analysis framework represents an impediment to achieving significant noise reduction within constraints imposed by the engine cycle, realistic geometry, and airframe. We close the gap by developing a suite of advanced, high fidelity nozzle performance and jet noise-based tools integrated into a unified software package with validation cases and applicability assessments. The flow field software will be based on TTC Technologies, Inc. multi-disciplinary high-order CFD tool, AEROFLO, which predicts temporal and spatial flow fields at all speeds (subsonic, transonic, supersonic, and hypersonic). The tools, ranging from RANS to LES, will be installed as modules interfaced with a comprehensive set of aeroacoustic source modules populated with fundamental physics-based aeroacoustic and semi-empirical models, to allow a range of prediction methods via "pull-down" menus. A large-scale noise model based on a RANS/PSE approach developed by UTRC and Caltech will also be implemented. The simulation codes will be rigorously validated using UTRC acquired data with limitations documented in terms of accuracy, robustness, sensitivity, turnaround time plus recommendations for improvements. The tool will provide a comprehensive approach to the design and development of nozzle components that attenuate exhaust jet noise.

JENTEK SENSORS, INC. 110-1 Clematis Avenue Waltham, MA 02453
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 642-9666 Dr. Darrell Schlicker NAVY 07-174 Awarded: 01/09/08
Title:	Hand-held Corrosion Scanner/Imager
Abstract:	As a result of the environment in which they operate, Naval aircraft are subject to pervasive corrosion damage. On-board sensors can signal when corrosion may be occurring, but there is a need for a portable corrosion scanning system that can confirm the degree and location of actual corrosion damage. JENTEK's patented Meandering Winding Magnetometer sensors and arrays (MWM-Array) have proven capabilities for detecting and imaging corrosion damage on complex aircraft components, such as gear box housings and fuselage lap joints. They are thin and flexible, can be customized to suit the component and will conform to curved parts and areas with varying curvature. JENTEK has recently completed a NAVAIR funded Phase II program (Field Portable System for Electromagnetic Imaging of Cracks Under Fasteners ) that succeeded in integrating the functionality of the laptop computer into the impedance instrument and reducing the overall system weight from 28 pounds to 12 pounds. This proposed program will continue the design evolution to meet the Phase I goals of system volume less than 0.5 cubic feet and system weight under 10 pounds. Additionally, MWM-Arrays will be adapted to provide corrosion detection and imaging on specific components of interest to NAVAIR.

LOS GATOS RESEARCH 67 East Evelyn Ave.Suite 3 Mountain View, CA 94041
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(650) 965-7772 Dr. An-Dien Nguyen NAVY 07-174 Selected for Award
Title:	A Portable Corrosion Detector for inspecting Aircraft Structures with Complex Geometries.
Abstract:	Aging aircraft commonly suffers from several types of degradation including corrosion, cracking and lack of bonding. Severe corrosive environment of naval aircrafts results in corrosion as the fundamental reason for aging aircraft. A corrosion detection system, independent from geometrical complexities, needs to be developed to detect active corrosion. AE method can be used to detect corrosion growth on-line for periodically active corrosion or off-line for active corrosion during measurement. In this proposal, we propose to develop a hand-held detector using of state-of-the-art AE method to detect active corrosion growing on naval aircraft components. During the Phase I and Phase I Option periods of this project, we will demonstrate the feasibility of developing an AE system with optimized settings to detect active corrosion growing on naval aircraft components. The system will have a grading system as a part of analysis software.

PHOTON-X, INC. 4835 University SquareSuite 8 Huntsville, AL 35816
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(256) 704-3416 Mr. Blair Barbour NAVY 07-174 Awarded: 01/09/08
Title:	Portable 3D Corrosion Detector for inspecting Aircraft Structures with Complex Geometries.
Abstract:	Photon-X is pleased to propose the next generation of corrosion detection devices to assist the Navy achieve its goal of reducing the impact of corrosion of aircraft maintenance cost. Our technology is an innovative integration of Spatial Phase Imaging (SPI) applied to both high-resolution video imaging and Terahertz (THz) imaging that captures full 3D volumetric analytical information of both surface and subsurface corrosion. The proposed detector is highly sensitive to submicron size defects such as corrosion in early stages much more effectively than any current technology. It will also provide quantitative volumetric data of corrosion location and severity. Each of the two technologies has been developed for other applications and has been proven to be very strong technology. We will measure the complex 3D geometries of the part and the small deformations that will occur on the surface and under layers of paint at the submicron level on the part. The system can be developed into a portable cost effective method to detect corrosion in critical parts before catastrophic failure. This proposed effort will determine the feasibility of integrating these technologies and establish a small handheld cost efficient corrosion detector and determine a path forward towards a Phase II effort.

EMBEDDED SYSTEMS LLC 22 Salisbury Way Farmington, CT 06032
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(860) 269-8148 Dr. Bhal Tulpule NAVY 07-175 Awarded: 12/21/07
Title:	Intelligent Sensor Node for Distributed Engine Control for Advanced Propulsion System Application
Abstract:	The implementation of intelligent propulsion concepts for the next generation of advanced propulsion systems requires development of advanced enabling technologies such as smart sensors, which are capable of intelligently using all of the available sensors for the synthesis of robust control strategies and the automated management of the health of the engine in order to complete a given mission. The proposed Intelligent Sensor Node (ISN) is a high temperature capable, modular design with the capability to interface with and manage multiple engine control sensors for pressure, temperature and other parameters, and communicate with the FADEC. The ISN can be reconfigured for interfacing with different classes of control sensors without hardware changes, and contains all of the circuitry needed for signal conditioning, acquisition, digital calibration and compensation. The ISN is an enabling building block for the realization of distributed FADEC control system architectures, and is equally applicable to hybrid or legacy FADEC system applications.

INTELLIGENT FIBER OPTIC SYSTEMS CORP. 2363 Calle Del Mundo Santa Clara, CA 95054
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(408) 565-9004 Dr. Behzad Moslehi NAVY 07-175 Awarded: 12/21/07
Title:	Intelligent and Robust Sensor Network for Distributed Engine Control
Abstract:	The Full Authority Digital Electronic Control (FADEC) centralized architecture has become the norm in aero-engine control systems. This architecture, which limits the design choices, accounts for ~20% of total weight and acquisition cost of the engine. Any modification to the system hardware is costly and inefficient. The limitations of electronics in high-temperature environments is another major issue. Distributed control architectures together with enabling high-temperature sensors and standardized interfaces will be able to provide a future-proof platform for next-generation systems. Photonics technology, including standardized fiber-optic wavelength division multiplexing (WDM), is becoming increasingly prevalent in many commercial systems including aircraft. Many systems, including avionics, now use 10-gigabit fiber-optic Ethernet. Also in use in aircraft systems are Fiber Channel and Firewire. IFOS proposes to address the problem with the development of a fiber-optic communications and control architecture based on Dense WDM (DWDM) and providing standardized optical network interfaces on a highly-reliable bi-directional optical network. In Phase I, IFOS will (1) develop a backbone architecture design concept appropriate for aero-engine control systems supporting many sensors with standardized interfaces, including IFOS' high-temperature multiplexed sensors, and demonstrate its feasibility through performance calculations and simulations, (2) ensure the system design meets all requirements for engine control systems

MOUND LASER & PHOTONICS CENTER, INC. P.O. Box 223 Miamisburg, OH 45343
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 865-4481 Dr. Larry Dosser NAVY 07-176 Awarded: 01/02/08
Title:	Short Pulse Laser Texturing of Wear Resistant Surfaces
Abstract:	This program seeks to develop and optimize laser textured wear resistant coatings with adaptive solid film lubricants to protect and extend the life of aircraft engine components. Patterns of micron-sized dimples on surfaces act as reservoirs for smart, nanostructured solid film lubricants that adjust tribological surface properties in response to changing conditions to minimize wear. Optimization of the dimple depth, diameter, and pattern is necessary to obtain best performance from the adaptive lubricant. This program will determine that optimization for a variety of substrate metal and coating combinations of interest to DoD prime contractors. Best results from testing on coupons will be applied to realistic parts in an Option task. Based on Phase I results, projections will be made for processing costs and times in a production environment and estimates will be made of life cycle cost savings for target aircraft engine components. This program is a collaboration between a company with core expertise in laser ablation and surface texturing (MLPC) and a company with expertise in wear resistant coating deposition, solid film lubricants, and wear testing (TXI), with cognizance and input from a Prime Contractor (Rolls-Royce) that will provide an early commercialization transition opportunity for successful program outcomes.

JENTEK SENSORS, INC. 110-1 Clematis Avenue Waltham, MA 02453
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 642-9666 Dr. Andrew Washabaugh NAVY 07-177 Awarded: 12/11/07
Title:	Micromechanical Models for Dielectric Behavior of Ceramic Matrix Composites
Abstract:	The proposed program will enhance material and sensor models to provide improved understanding of dielectric property information regarding Ceramic Matrix Composite (CMC) material condition. These models are to be used to assess thermochemical degradation of CMC's and also to assess the condition of materials during manufacture. JENTEK has developed a family of electroquasistatic and magnetoquasistatic sensors and arrays that have successfully solved a wide range of previously intractable NDE problems. These sensors and sensor arrays use model-based inverse methods to estimate electromagnetic properties that are correlated with many conditions of interest, such as thermal degradation of component materials. JENTEK's Interdigitated Electrode Dielectrometer is being adapted for manufacturing quality control of CMC's. The goals of this Phase I program are to extend standard micromechanical models to predict dielectric behavior of coated fiber CMC's, to incorporate these models into anisotropic layered material representations for dielectric sensor models, and to relate composite constituent behavior with thermal exposure conditions. To address this need, we will work with CMC thermostructural modelers (MR&D), manufacturers (COI Ceramics), and an end user (Pratt & Whitney). In Phase II, we will refine the models to support in-service material evaluation and self-consistent prediction of dielectric, thermochemical, and structural behavior.

MATERIALS RESEARCH & DESIGN 300 E. Swedesford Rd Wayne, PA 19087
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(610) 964-6130 Mr. Kent Buesking NAVY 07-177 Awarded: 12/11/07
Title:	Micromechanical Assessment of Thermochemically Induced NDE Changes in Advanced Composites
Abstract:	The Joint Strike Fighter is considering the use of organic and ceramic matrix composites for high temperature engine components. Material coupons and flight tests have shown that when these materials are exposed to high temperatures in the presence of air, salt fog, and humidity they can react chemically. The chemical reactions may cause a significant loss in composite strength even though there is no physical evidence of damage. Standard non destructive evaluation techniques such as ultrasonics, radiography, and thermography have not been able to accurately identify and monitor the chemical changes. Fortunately emerging NDE techniques based on electrical resistivity, electromagnetics, and dielectric properties have shown promise in relating chemical changes to NDE signal. These techniques, however, are in their infancy and the measurements are sensitive to sensor design, scanning technique, and data interpretation. In order to develop the electromagnetic-based NDE methods into useful engineering tools, it is necessary to understand the theoretical dielectric properties of advanced composites. The development of a micromechanical model for composite dielectric properties will support the development of NDE techniques and standards that can monitor chemically induced changes in advanced composite engine components. Materials Research & Design proposes to build upon their demonstrated understanding of composite material theory and develop a micromechanical model that relates composite dielectric behavior to constituent properties, fiber volume fraction, and fiber orientation. The theory will be tested for feasibility by comparison to NDE signals measured on CMCs of interest. The program will be undertaken by a team of MR&D and Jentek Sensors, Inc. MR&D will develop the theory, debug the computer code, procure CMC specimens, define the test plan, correlate the data, and prepare the reports. Jentek, as a subcontractor to MR&D, will consult on the theoretical assumptions, measure the NDE response, and reduce the raw data.

AGILTRON CORP. 15 Cabot Road Woburn, MA 01801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 935-1200 Dr. Jack Salerno NAVY 07-178 Awarded: 01/10/08
Title:	MEMS vibro-mechanical energy scavenging device for powering wireless sensors
Abstract:	AGILTRON proposes to realize a new MEMS energy scavenger capable of powering in-situ micro sensors and their wireless modules under harsh operational environments. The design overcomes current shortcomings and achieves sufficient power output, reliability, miniature size, and low cost. The approach incorporates several innovations including stable electromagnetic structure, efficient power generation, wide frequency response, and advanced packaging. The approach is suitable for near term commercialization. In the Phase I program, a state-of-the-art MEMS vibration array, ruggedized assembly and package that meet the power and reliability operational requirements for naval aircraft environments will be demonstrated. Fully functional devices will be produced in Phase II.

MICROSTRAIN, INC. 310 Hurricane LaneSuite 4 Williston, VT 05495
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(802) 862-6629 Mr. Steven W. Arms NAVY 07-178 Awarded: 01/10/08
Title:	Development of a Miniature, Vibro-Mechanical Energy Harvester for Powering Wireless Sensors
Abstract:	In the proposed work, we will develop a highly efficient and miniaturized vibration energy harvesting device suitable for use on drive system components of helicopters. The goal is to provide power to run a wireless corrosion hub and sensors (to be developed simultaneously in a separate program). The target power generating capability is 5mW under vibration conditions typical of steady state flight. The size and mass of the system will be miniaturized. Target metrics are 0.0.1mW/gram, and 0.5mW/cc. The harvester will be implemented using our proven strain optimized, resonating cantilever beam with Macro Fiber Composite piezoelectric elements. An integral energy harvesting circuit will be based on one of our two proven circuit designs, our Managed Switching design, or out Capacitive Discharge design. The principle technical challenges will be in minimizing the size and mass of the device while still achieving target power output. This will be achieved by stacking multiple layers of MFC material on the beam, and implementing design features to minimize the beam's stiffness. Ensuring long term reliable operation in hostile environments is a second technical challenge. We will accomplish this through careful selection of materials, and by incorporating environmental sealing and overload stops into the enclosure design.

TPL, INC. 3921 Academy Parkway North, NE Albuquerque, NM 87109
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 342-4427 Dr. Charles Lakeman NAVY 07-178 Awarded: 01/10/08
Title:	XMR- A Novel Vibration Harvesting System for Wireless Sensors
Abstract:	Wireless sensors promise to reduce the Navy's aircraft maintenance costs via real-time monitoring of corrosion-prone components. The promise of wireless sensors lies in their reduced susceptibility to failure, reduced weight and configurational flexibility compared with conventional wired sensors. However, because of the costs of replacing batteries in sensors deployed in inaccessible locations, a significant challenge for wireless sensors is power. In this Phase I effort, TPL proposes to develop a vibration harvesting power system comprising a new vibration harvesting module developed at Washington State University and TPL's patent-pending power management and storage system. The new harvester design is highly efficient, tunable over a broad frequency range (several 10s Hz), relatively inexpensive to manufacture, and is no larger than a stack of 3 US quarters. TPL's power management system efficiently stores the harvested energy in electrochemical energy storage devices to efficiently meet steady state and pulse power loads (up to 500mW) as well as provide back-up power in the absence of harvestable vibrations. Designed for "ZigBee"-type applications, this system can be customized for any user-specified profile. Successful completion of the proposed effort will pave the way for a unique solution to providing power for the Navy's remote, wireless systems.

P.C. KRAUSE & ASSOC., INC. 3016 Covington Street West Lafayette, IN 47906
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(765) 464-8997 Dr. Jason Wells NAVY 07-179 Awarded: 12/11/07
Title:	F-35 Three-Bearing Swivel Nozzle (3BSN) Door Actuator
Abstract:	The lowered cost of maintenance, lowered weight, and reduced installation complexity of smart electric actuators continues to justify the transition from hydraulic actuation to EMAs/EHAs. This SBIR proposal will extend the advantages of EMA technology into high-temperature, high-vibration applications with a first commercialization target being the JSF F35 Lightning II aircraft platform. During the SBIR Phases I research, PCKA will collaborate with NAVAIR and Lockheed Martin to establish the actuator requirements. Once the requirements are defined, PCKA will identify suitable actuator architectures for the application and then optimize the design in terms of weight, reliability, maintainability, manufacturability, and cost. Key design constraints will be the thermal and vibration environment which may necessitate the use of specific motor technologies, high-temperature wire insulation, lubrication, and electronics. In Phase II, PCKA will fabricate a prototype of the optimal design and perform qualification tests including EMI/EMC, vibration, shock, and altitude. If successful, developed technologies will ultimately transition to DoD programs under a Phase III contract.

TURNKEY DESIGN SERVICES, LLC 12757 S. Western Ave.Suite 229 Blue Island, IL 60406
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(708) 293-1120 Mr. Scott Borchers NAVY 07-179 Awarded: 12/11/07
Title:	F-35 Three-Bearing Swivel Nozzle (3BSN) Door Actuator
Abstract:	Turnkey Design Services, LLC of Blue Island, IL proposes to replace an existing high temperature electro-hydraulic actuator on the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter with a smart electro-mechanical actuator. With the advancement of electronics over the last several years, aircraft system integrators have been replacing electro-hydraulic actuation systems with electro-mechanical actuation systems. Electro-mechanical actuators are now being used to control flaps, open weapon, refueling and cargo bay doors and deploy landing gear (fly-by-wire concept). They are being used in every area on the aircraft where temperature permits, however, due to motor and electronic component material limitations the temperature environment is limited. The proposed electro-mechanical smart actuator utilizes several technologies specific to high temperature applications above 200 deg C. The proposed motor is a high temperature Switch Reluctance Motor with high temperature windings. The electronics utilize silicon on insulator (SOI) and silicon carbide (SiC) technology to provide integrated motor controls and system health monitoring capability without active cooling

RESERVOIR LABS., INC. 632 Broadway, Suite 803 New York, NY 10012
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(212) 780-0527 Dr. James Ezick NAVY 07-185 Selected for Award
Title:	Static Analysis Tool for Interface Compliance Verification and Program Comprehension
Abstract:	Our objective is to develop a static analysis tool that can be used by both software developers and verification specialists to verify compliance with standard interface specifications. As an additional capability, our tool will provide both developers and verification specialists with a robust interactive query-driven program comprehension capability that will significantly reduce the overhead of manual code review. While our tool will be applicable to any large C or C++ code base, we will specifically address issues relevant to the analysis of code developed to the Software Component Architecture (SCA). Our Phase I effort will demonstrate the feasibility of our approach by developing an initial prototype. Particular points of emphasis in our Phase I prototype will be to demonstrate the flexibility and extensibility of our approach. In Phase II we will produce an advanced prototype applicable to third-party applications. The transition target for this system is the JTRS Testing & Evaluation Lab (JTEL) which maintains test capability and certifies code in support of the Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) initiative. We will be aided in developing a more robust commercial product and in identifying additional transition opportunities though our collaboration with Mercury Computer Systems who are supporting our proposal.

TECHNOLOGY UNLIMITED GROUP 1885 Sefton Place San Diego, CA 92107
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(619) 865-5173 Mr. John Reddan NAVY 07-185 Selected for Award
Title:	Algorithm Development for Standard Interface Compliance Verification
Abstract:	This SBIR will implement the Software Analysis of Interface compLiance (SAIL) automatic interface test tool, which will support analysis of software interface implementations relative to a `Reference Interface'. The Reference Interface (RI) consists of a compilable (i.e. source code) definition of the interface standard, and is supported by a Reference Test Definition (RTD) which defines the functional test sequences to be applied to the RI. The SAIL software tool will verify multiple aspects of Interface Compliance: (1) Semantic Compliance, consisting of verification of compliance with the published interface standard (Reference Interface), and examination of the interface for extensions or sub-setting; and (2) Functional Compliance consisting of verification of basic functionality of functions or methods defined in the interface, and verification of error handling. SAIL will perform compliance testing relative to the Reference Interface while providing the user to extend and/or control tool perform through the following mechanisms: (1) User definition of standard interface (Reference Interface), (2) User definition of functional performance requirements, and (3) Plug-in extensions to the functionality verification portion of the tool.

UES, INC. 4401 Dayton-Xenia Road Dayton, OH 45432
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(937) 426-6900 Dr. Yongli Xu NAVY 07-186 Selected for Award
Title:	High Temperature Superconductor Circuit Integration with CMOS Electronics on Sapphire
Abstract:	Various DoD systems are starting to incorporate superconducting devices for sensing and/or manipulating electromagnetic fields, from filters for shipboard communication systems, to superconducting transmission lines for use as a microwave power limiters, to the development of electrically small antennas. With the breakthroughs in the materials and fabrication technologies, it thus becomes feasible to design a system on sapphire with multiple HTS detectors, or analog filters alongside CMOS electronics, with the CMOS performing first stage amplification and/or feedback and/or digital signal processing, with only 10s of microns separating the two, both operating in the cold side. Such a system should have major performance advantages over the present state of the art. However, this effort has not been taken beyond the device concept demonstration. We propose to use the Peregrine semiconductor processing and ion damage Josephson junction fabrication technology to make monolithic devices with HTS detectors/filters integrated with CMOS electronics. The ion damage technology allows fabricating identical junctions with high reproducibility. This project seeks to take the technology to the stage where it is clear to industry that monolithic co-fabrication is viable for DoD systems.

TICOM GEOMATICS, INC. 9130 Jollyville RoadSuite 300 Austin, TX 78759
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(512) 345-5006 Dr. Barbara Craig NAVY 07-187 Selected for Award
Title:	RF-based Geolocation I/Q Data Rate Enhancement: SHIFTER
Abstract:	Real-time precision geolocation of COMINT signals of interest is a top priority in the GWOT. As communication signals and standards such as 3GSM, WCDMA, and CDMA2000 proliferate at unprecedented rates, the number of emitters is scaling dramatically. In the GWOT, almost any signal could be a potential signal of interest. The use of this kind of commercial technology and related technologies by extremists continues to expand dramatically. Clearly, the signals of interest target set is growing at a high rate. The Navy and the larger Intelligence Community is aggressively deploying fully interoperable net-centric systems for precision COMINT geolocation to help meet this challenge. It is reasonable to expect that sensor density will increase by a factor of 10 across the IC in the next five years. Consequently, current geo-processing techniques will soon become overwhelmed with signal data, will not be able to effectively manage high sensor counts and will have only a limited capability to simultaneously prosecute the growing class of high value targets. Addressing these challenges is the focus of this SBIR proposal, called SHIFTER. SHIFTER will "shift" the geolocation processing algorithms and processing hardware and software into the "high gear" needed to improve efficiency and scalability.

DATA FUSION CORP. 10190 Bannock StreetSuite 246 Northglenn, CO 80260
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(720) 872-2145 Mr. Kent Krumvieda NAVY 07-188 Selected for Award
Title:	Networked Positioning of Unattended Ground Sensors using JTRS radios
Abstract:	Data Fusion Corporation (DFC) proposes the development of a prototype combat positioning system that will reduce fratricide, increase situational awareness (SA), and enhance combat effectiveness for UGS-to-Soldier based CID applications. The system design will use GPS, Tactical Unattended Ground Sensors (UGS), a modified-mobile adhoc network MANET, local ranging signals and a mesh network that will provide sub-meter position information, velocity, time (PVT) as well as ID. The sub-meter position is obtained using DFC's legacy innovative positioning algorithms that uniquely combine (in a weighted least squares sense) lower accuracy absolute positions with highly accurate relative positions. Furthermore, DFC takes advantage of the mesh rigidity where appropriate. The minimal configuration can be a mixed network of dynamic nodes with or without GPS. GPS receivers only need be single carrier (L1) receivers processing the lower accuracy CA signal. This can be accomplished without any infrastructure. Should L1L2 P(Y) code receivers, and infrastructure be available additional accuracy and robustness can be gained. DFC will leverage its legacy positioning algorithms, GPS signal generator software and GPS soft�ware receiver (Kober, W., 2004), implemented on a Field Programable Gate Array (FPGA), to develop this CID system. The original GPS software receiver design was sponsored in part by AFRL/SN, AFRL/MN and USASMDC.

NAVSYS CORP. 14960 Woodcarver Road Colorado Springs, CO 80921
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(719) 481-4877 Dr. Alison K. Brown NAVY 07-188 Selected for Award
Title:	Networked Positioning of Unattended Ground Sensors using JTRS radios
Abstract:	Unattended sensors are an important element of the Future Combat System (FCS) architecture. These include Unattended Ground Sensors (UGS), autonomous weapons such as the Intelligent Munition System (IMS) and miniaturized Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGV) and Air Vehicles (UAVs). All of these applications have a requirement to use GPS for positioning. A "catch 22" exists between GPS security policy and operational security doctrine in cases where the system is left unattended or is not recovered (munitions excepted). While security policy requires a PPS solution, security doctrine states that PPS devices cannot be left unattended. Under this SBIR effort, NAVSYS proposes to develop a networked GPS positioning solution for UGS based on our patented TIDGET technology. The TIDGET uses COTS GPS components to capture a snapshot of GPS data which will be transmitted over the FCS network to an attended location with a JTRS radio where the GPS crypto processing can be performed. This allows a PPS solution to be calculated for the UGS without requiring crypto equipment to be left unattended in the field. We shall prepare a design for a Phase II system to demonstrate this capability and will provide simulation results to show the expected performance and network loading.

21ST CENTURY SYSTEMS, INC. 6825 Pine Street, Suite 141 Omaha, NE 68106
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(402) 505-7897 Mr. Eric Lindahl NAVY 07-189 Selected for Award
Title:	PSIBED - Parametric Structures for Integrative Backscatter models and Environmental Database
Abstract:	Understanding shallow underwater environment is increasingly important, but shallow water acoustic models depend on a large number of factors that interact in a non-linear fashion. There are many different acoustic back scatter models, but many of the models haven't changed in years and some of the new ones rely on stochastic methods. What's needed is a general acoustic model and environmental parameter structure that can parameterize existing models and associated environmental data, as well as act as a new acoustic modeling framework for shallow underwater environmental awareness. 21st Century Systems, Incorporated is pleased to introduce our parametric structure for integrative bottom backscatter models and environmental database (PSIBED.pronounced "seabed"). PSIBED develops a parametric space built on powerful geometric algebraic formalism for generalizing backscatter models as advanced layered sediment algebraic "versors." The PSIBED algebraic signatures are used to describe and integrate models with parameters and environmental databases. PSIBED uses a multi-dimensional Clifford Fourier Transform structure for representing complex underwater environments and handles propagation of uncertainty as a first class property of PSIBED. Preliminary experiments reveal the potential to obtain, store, and utilize acoustic bottom backscatter information. This technology will ultimately lead to better underwater systems for use by manned and unmanned systems.

EOSPACE, INC. 8711 148th Ave NE Redmond, WA 98052
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(425) 869-6975 Dr. Suwat Thaniyavarn NAVY 07-190 Selected for Award
Title:	Ultra-High-Efficiency Lithium Niobate Modulators
Abstract:	Lithium Niobate electro-optic modulators with improved efficiency achieved via novel device geometriesThe objective on this proposed work is on the development of LiNbO3 modulators designs that consider novel device geometries to achieve low Vpi, and low optical loss performance beyond the current state of the art. The modulator design is compatible with modulation bandwidths to Ka band. The effort will address all aspects of device fabrication, and justify the feasibility/practicality of the approach. The proposed approach will be focusing on practical implementation leading to a relatively low-cost, high-yield manufacture process.

PHOTONIC SYSTEMS, INC. 900 Middlesex TurnpikeBuilding #5 Billerica, MA 01821
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 670-4990 Dr. William K. Burns NAVY 07-190 Selected for Award
Title:	Improved Slope Efficiency, Decreased Optical Loss Lithium Niobate Modulators
Abstract:	Lightweight, high-performance fiber-optic links with minimized power consumption could fulfill important antenna remoting functions on Navy platforms if the modulators were more efficient. A factor of ~ 3.2 improvement in slope efficiency could be gained by pinning down the cause or causes of the optical waveguide insertion losses that until now have limited the benefits accrued from increasing the electrical-optical field interaction length in the material. This program goal is to isolate the root cause of the optical loss dependence on ridge width in ridge waveguides in Z-cut LiNbO3. Once the root cause is understood, we can develop an approach to make the ridge waveguides that reduce the dependence of loss on ridge width. With such an approach we hope to be able to reduce the V�� by ~30% and the insertion loss by ~ 2 dB.

RAINBOW COMMUNICATIONS, INC. 2362 Qume Drive, Suite F San Jose, CA 95131
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(408) 577-0109 Dr. Sean Zhang NAVY 07-190 Selected for Award
Title:	Lithium Niobate Thin Film Based Novel Geometric Electro-Optic Modulator
Abstract:	Rainbow Communications proposes to investigate a compact, highly efficient, low driving voltage, broad bandwidth, high extinction ratio, low optical insertion loss, zero frequency chirp, electro-optic modulator based on thin-film lithium niobate materials, selected domain inversion technique, and optical-wave and electrical-wave velocity matched traveling-wave electrodes configuration for applications in RF photonic links and optical communication. The proposed EO modulator will be capable of modulating the intensity of optical light up to 40GHz with sub-volt driving voltage and up to 20-dB extinction ratio. The total fiber-to-fiber insertion is as low as 3-dB with zero frequency chirp. Several unique features distinguish it. First, Rainbow will fabricate a Mach-Zehnder (MZ) interferometer waveguide structure on a thin-film LiNbO3 material. Second, the domain of one arm of MZ will be inverted by using Rainbow�_s unique electrical poling process. Third, by using thin-film structure and optimized traveling-wave electrode design, this EO modulator can achieve both very broad bandwidth, over 40GHz and very low driving voltage, much less than 1-V with high extinction ratio. Fourth, by using Rainbow�_s novel package design and optical-fiber to waveguide coupling optimization, overall optical loss is very low and the efficiency of proposed EO modulator can be reach very high.

SRICO, INC. 2724 SAWBURY BOULEVARD COLUMBUS, OH 43235
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(614) 799-0664 Dr. Sri Sriram NAVY 07-190 Selected for Award
Title:	Thin Films of Lithium Niobate for High Efficiency Electro-Optic Modulators
Abstract:	In the past twenty-five years, electro-optic modulator technology has made significant advances in terms of performance. Modulator bandwidth, a key technical parameter, has been extended to 40 gigahertz in the commercial world and to 100 gigahertz and beyond in research laboratories. The greatest problem has been to achieve such bandwidths while still maintaining low drive switching voltage, low insertion loss, high linearity and high extinction ratio. Material electro-optic coefficient, optical loss, dielectric loss and permittivity all contribute to these parameters, with lithium niobate currently representing the best balance of materials properties. This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project develops novel materials processing techniques that extract the maximum possible performance out of the lithium niobate electro-optic material. The new technology promises to substantially improve the performance capability of existing electro-optic modulators for Navy platforms.

COBRA DESIGN & ENGINEERING, INC. 3230 Bennett St. N St. Petersburg, FL 33713
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(727) 528-1621 Mr. John J. Tischner NAVY 07-191 Selected for Award
Title:	A LIGHTWEIGHT, UHF SATCOM DIPLEXER FOR USE IN EXPENDABLE BUOY SYSTEMS
Abstract:	The existing Diplexer Designs currently employ bulky, machined cavity housings and cannot meet the requirements of a UHF SATCOM full duplex capability while staying within the weight budget. Cobra Design & Engineering, Inc. intends to employ a tubular coaxial resonator construction consisting of meandering tubes with interconnected ends. This method will allow the components to be lightweight, affordable and rugged enough to withstand the shock environment while meeting the electrical requirements of a full duplex UHF SATCOM Diplexer. Initial analysis of this concept suggests minimal insertion losses and a unit weight that is very close to the required limit.

NUWAVES LTD. Research and Technology Center122 Edison Drive Middletown, OH 45044
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(513) 360-0800 Mr. Ted Longshore NAVY 07-191 Selected for Award
Title:	A LIGHTWEIGHT, UHF SATCOM DIPLEXER FOR USE IN EXPENDABLE BUOY SYSTEMS
Abstract:	Existing filter technology does not suit the mechanical and electrical needs for use in expendable buoy systems. Current diplexer designs do not provide adequate rejection of the high power transmitter signal within the receive channel within the specified size, weight and acceleration constraints required for the Navy Buoy System. The proposed research includes the analysis and simulation of a high Q transmit filter that provides the required 90 dB transmit to receive stop band attenuation with low insertion loss to the transmit signal. One potential solution, which leverages NuWaves' expertise in planar filters, utilizes an interdigital filter plated on a center circuit board. NuWaves' initial simulations prove the sufficiency of the above approach. Phase I deliverables include a trade-off analysis of the expected diplexer performance vs. the design parameters. The expected diplexer performance will be based on a non-ideal simulation which includes real-world resistances and parasitics. The mechanical aspect of the effort includes physical size and packaging, thermal heat dissipation, resistance to high G acceleration, and housing metallization.

WAVECON 1432 Mandeville Place Escondido, CA 92029
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(760) 747-6922 Mr. Kenneth M. Johnson NAVY 07-191 Selected for Award
Title:	A LIGHTWEIGHT, UHF SATCOM DIPLEXER FOR USE IN EXPENDABLE BUOY SYSTEMS
Abstract:	This is a study for the development of a diplexer for Navy Bouy application. Approaches to the diplexer are a receive band-pass and a transmit band-stop filter with a diplexing circuit. These are designed using lumped components or transmission lines. Preliminary analysis shows that for the transmit filter, a transmission line band-stop filter using cross-coupling can meet the Navy requirements. For the receive filter a rod coupled filter using cross-coupling will also meet the Navy requirements. The band-stop filter can be a surface mount structure and thus will meet the shock requirement of 55 G's. For the receive filter, foam filling and rugged design can be used to meet the shock requirement.

ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS SUPPORT, LLC 1640 Marsh Harbor Lane Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(864) 710-2030 Dr. Edward W. Page NAVY 07-193 Selected for Award
Title:	Planning and Management of QoS-Based Mobile Wireless Networks
Abstract:	Mobile Ad Hoc Networks (MANETs) are expected to play a vital role in the network-centric warfare paradigm. Among the many technical challenges that must be solved before MANETs can fulfill their envisioned role is the issue of network management. Policy-based network management is an effective tool for ensuring that users receive the Quality of Service(QoS), security, and other network capabilities they need. Policy-based networks employ intelligence in the form of rules to deal with situations that are likely to occur. When the policy-based network management scheme is targeted toward achieving QoS performance goals, the rules are designed to regulate both users and network resources to provide differentiated services among users. MANETs must employ a distributed approach to network management in which the individual nodes actively participate in the network management process. The proposed research is directed toward the development of prototype tools for expressing performance goals, monitoring network conditions, and taking actions to adapt network performance in real time. The results of the proposed effort will provide an architectural foundation for developing cognitive networks capable of allocating network resources to applications in an optimal manner in order to meet end-to-end performance goals

IRI COMPUTER COMMUNICATIONS CORP. 11950 San Vicente BlvdSuite #214 Los Angeles, CA 90049
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 260-1034 Dr. Izhak Rubin NAVY 07-193 Selected for Award
Title:	Utility Oriented Planning and Management of Multi Segment QoS based Robust Mobile Wireless Networks
Abstract:	We propose to develop a tool that will be used for the planning and management of QoS based mobile wireless networks. Our innovative techniques include: 1. Resources are allocated to aggregate classes of flows. 2. Significant performance advantage is gained by capitalizing on the availability of multiple communications transport segments and related routes. 3. A segment's route may offer features that make it uniquely suitable for handling certain flows. They are measured by utility functions. The latter are aggregated to yield an overall measure of effectiveness. 4. We will develop management algorithms that provide for the joint routing and capacity allocations to be made for each flow class. Our models and methods will be applied to provide for failure, performance and topological planning and management operations for mobile wireless networks. 5. The proposed tool will include effective graphical user interfaces to define the underlying network system, traffic flows, and the per segment utility measures. Our combined mathematical and simulation based techniques enable the tool to carry out the planning process, and under each set of monitored network status conditions, to compute the required management actions and resource allocations, in realtime and in a highly effective manner.

REFERENTIA SYSTEMS, INC. 550 Paiea StreetSuite #236 Honolulu, HI 96819
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(808) 423-1900 Mr. John Smith NAVY 07-193 Selected for Award
Title:	Network Planning and Real-time Automated Management System (NetPARAMS)
Abstract:	Mobile ad-hoc networking is a technology that offers great value to warfighters. It promises self-forming, self-healing distributed networking ideally suited to the constantly changing environments of the battlefield. However, the reality of mobile ad-hoc networks (MANETs) has yet to come level with the promises. Military network planning does not yet enable planners to use MANETs as a connectivity extender, and to date MANETs are not reliable enough in either connectivity or throughput to reliably carry mission-critical information for the military. Given MANET's mobile nature, it is necessary that MANETs evolve from self-forming to self-managed networks so as to help relieve planning requirements. The idea behind self-management is that MANET nodes collaborate to optimize their own routing and quality of service. In this effort, tools will be created to move MANETs close to self-managed networks and provide network monitoring and management that covers network from the wireline to the wireless. Algorithms will be generated and simulated to improve MANET connectivity and QoS. A planning tool will be created to help network planners use MANETs, and existing network management software will be modified to provide wireline and MANET monitoring and management.

AURIGA MEASUREMENT SYSTEMS LLC 650 Suffolk StreetSuite410 Lowell, MA 01854
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 441-1117 Dr. Nickolas Kingsley NAVY 07-194 Selected for Award
Title:	Shipboard Low Noise Amplifier Assembly.
Abstract:	Auriga Measurement Systems and M/A-COM team up in this program to address the issue of mast-mounted shipboard low noise amplifier assemblies, which are required to have not only rigorous electrical performance but also to withstand severe weather and corrosive environments. The assembly being created in this work will contain a high power self-protective non-reflective limiter, a high linearity LNA and a low-noise bypass switch. To provide reliable, operator-free performance this assembly will feature built-in-test (BIT) and repair capability. In the event of a failure, the assembly will be capable of detecting the problem, notifying the operator, and automatically repairing the problem for seamless operation. Most of the components will be integrated onto a single MMIC. The end result will be a low-cost, compact assembly capable of state-of-the-art LNA performance. The small size will allow for easy integration onto existing and future mast top assemblies. In Phase I, a detailed design analysis will be performed and a layout will be generated. In Phase I Option, a prototype assembly will be built using commercial components and tested. In Phase II, the MMIC designed in Phase I will be fabricated, hermetically packaged, thoroughly tested, and prepared for commercial and military applications.

HITTITE MICROWAVE CORP. 20 Alpha Road Chelmsford, MA 01824
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(978) 250-3343 Mr. David Helms NAVY 07-194 Selected for Award
Title:	Shipboard Low Noise Amplifier Assembly (2007051)
Abstract:	This proposal addresses the need to miniaturize low-noise front-ends with capabilities for low-noise figure, high dynamic range, and burn-out protection. The proposed approach is based on newly emerging wide band-gap (WBG) semiconductors, silicon-carbide (SiC) and gallium-nitride (GaN). LNAs made of those devices offer all three attributes, low-noise, high dynamic range, and burn-out resistance. Hittite Microwave Corporation has been engaged in development of GaN amplifiers for variety of different applications. Hittite has demonstrated power amplifiers operating at an output level of 20 watts over a multi-octave frequency range covering HF to S-band. Hittite has assessed devices and processes provided by several foundries and have compiled a library of device parameters. Based on those assessments of processes available in the industry, Hittite has developed a concept of a single-chip low-noise front-end with capabilities of 1 dB noise figure over the band of 2 - 6 GHz, dynamic range of up to +10 dBm input, and the capability to withstand high-power radiation of up to 15 watts. The initial objective of the proposed program is to design a single-chip MMIC low-noise GaN amplifier to operate in surveillance receivers (SIGINT, ESM) operating in the frequency band of 2 to 6 GHz.

METRON, INC. 11911 Freedom DriveSuite 800 Reston, VA 20190
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(858) 792-8904 Ms. Colleen M. Keller NAVY 07-196 Selected for Award
Title:	Modeling Human Decision Making and Agent-Based Modeling of C3 Architectures in Warfare Assessment Models - MP 113-07
Abstract:	Constructive Warfare Assessment Models are used by the OPNAV N81 Assessments to support budget planning decisions for future Navy programs. These models simulate approved Major Combat Operations and Global War on Terrorism scenarios that often span days to weeks, cover multiple warfare areas, and that attempt to capture details of tactics, CONOPS, threat behavior, weather, coalition forces' contributions, and equipment performance. One area that has been lacking in validity is command and control and tactics execution - areas that require modeling of human decisionmaking in a military context. It is not possible to separate the human decisionmakers and operators from equipment performance; instead, better representations of the humans-in-the-loop must be developed to capture true systems performance. This SBIR proposal provides examples from recent warfare assessment modeling of poor representation of human decisionmaking and proposes methods for improved simulation of these phenomena leveraging innovative uses of agent-based simulation.

SOAR TECHNOLOGY, INC. 3600 Green Court Suite 600 Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(407) 207-2237 Dr. Douglas Reece NAVY 07-196 Selected for Award
Title:	Knowledge-Rich Agents for Modeling Naval C3
Abstract:	Current traditional warfare assessment simulations have been criticized for their simplistic modeling of command and control behavior, often resulting in inappropriate reactions to complex tactical situations, which can produce erroneous simulation results. Soar Technology, in partnership with Rolands & Associates, proposes to address this problem in the specific context of the Naval Simulation System (NSS). We will identify a framework to integrate agent software with NSS to allow different kinds of intelligent agents to enhance command and control behavior. We will also prototype a knowledge-rich intelligent agent based on Soar, a cognitive architecture for human behavior modeling that has been used successfully to build agents in military simulations over the past 10-15 years. Such knowledge-rich agents have the potential to bring human-level decision-making capabilities to simulations like NSS, resulting in more accurate modeling and assessment of new tactics.

TOYON RESEARCH CORP. 6800 Cortona Drive Goleta, CA 93117
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(805) 968-6787 Dr. Charlene S. Ahn NAVY 07-196 Selected for Award
Title:	Modeling Human Decision Making and Agent-Based Modeling of C3 Architectures in Warfare Assessment Models
Abstract:	Toyon Research Corporation proposes to develop the capability within a constructive simulation to model military command and control decisions given information from many sources. In particular, Toyon will address the problem of intelligently redeploying forces given changing conditions reflected in the information provided by military sensors, including complex reactions such as learning from past experience. Toyon will use a layered approach; one layer will be a threat propagation layer, where single elements are modeled by a dynamic Bayesian network and relations between elements are modeled by a cellular-automaton based approach. The second layer will scalably simulate human command and control decisions by modeling each asset as an agent bound by simple local rules. In Phase I, we will develop these algorithms to specifically address the problem of re-deployment of ISR assets. We will show the utility of our work in a proof-of-concept scenario where the complex behavior of the cellular automaton and agent-based algorithms will allow a richer decision-making process than a simplistic rule-based decision tree. In Phase II, we shall design and implement a prototype model integrated within a mission-level simulation to model sophisticated C3 behaviors in a campaign-level scenario of utility to the Navy.

GENESIC SEMICONDUCTOR, INC. 25050 Riding PlazaSuite 130-801 South Riding, VA 20152
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(571) 265-7535 Dr. Ranbir Singh NAVY 07-197 Selected for Award
Title:	High Voltage High Frequency SiC Switch
Abstract:	The stringent power quality, size, weight and volume specifications for operating high power hardware in more-electric warships require the development of >100 kHz, 2 kV Silicon Carbide based power devices. GeneSiC proposes the development of a single chip power subcircuit using a unique and innovative Silicon Carbide SuperJFET technology. Apart from better circuit integration this approach offers more than an order to magnitude higher switching frequency, 2X higher current density, higher chip yield and highly reliability as compared SiC power MOSFETs. The reduction of interconnect parasitics and passives dramatically improves the temperature, radiation and power density metrics. The first challenging task of this program is the analytical, epitaxial and cell layout designs of these high risk/high reward concepts. Next, a novel SiC fabrication process sequence will be implemented in a commercial SiC foundry. The economical production of these devices allows a large number of these basic building blocks to be produced. A MIL-STD device test plan and circuit performance routine will be implemented. A comprehensive cost model will be developed for commercial feasibility. The initial demonstration of design and analysis of 2 kV power circuit is targeted, to enable MW-class power devices in Phase II and beyond.

SEMISOUTH LABORATORIES 201 Research Blvd. Starkville, MS 39759
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(662) 324-7607 Dr. Adndrew Ritenour NAVY 07-197 Selected for Award
Title:	High Voltage High Frequency Switch
Abstract:	SemiSouth Laboratories, Inc. (SemiSouth), a leading developer and manufacturer of silicon carbide (SiC) power-electronics device technology, proposes the development of a low-cost hybrid switch based on the company's silicon carbide high-voltage junction field effect transistor (JFET) products. SemiSouth has two principal objectives for Phase I. First, to establish the feasibility of the proposed four-terminal switch by building a 1.5 kV prototype using available 1.6-kV SiC JFETs and COTS electronic components that provide the electrical isolation between the control inputs and the high-voltage outputs; and second to scale the design of the current 1.6-kV SiC JFET to 2-kV in preparation for a possible Phase II effort.

TRUENANO TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 1097 Love Ct. Boulder, CO 80303
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(303) 997-7649 Dr. Tomoko Borsa NAVY 07-197 Selected for Award
Title:	High-Voltage SiC Switch with Nanosecond Response Time
Abstract:	TrueNano Technology Corporation will develop the design and simulate a high-voltage SiC switch with nanosecond switching transients. Our novel approach is based on a vertically scaled bipolar junction transistor with a high voltage termination structure. This structure is expected to meet the stated objectives and result in a reliable and manufacturable device suitable for deployment in both military and commercial applications.

NAVSYS CORP. 14960 Woodcarver Road Colorado Springs, CO 80921
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(719) 481-4877 Dr. Alison K. Brown NAVY 07-198 Selected for Award
Title:	Low cost, lightweight, low power Precise Positioning System (PPS) GPS Solution for Software Defined Radios
Abstract:	Under this proposed effort, NAVSYS will leverage our expertise with developing ultra-low power GPS solutions to develop a software GPS receiver solution that can be embedded in military software defined radios that will be used for handheld, sensors and weapon applications. The objective of this effort is to develop a top-level software design for a lightweight GPS application, "GPS-Lite", which is capable of performing PPS GPS positioning within a small form factor JTRS radio. We shall focus this effort on developing a design suitable for transition into the JTRS HMS radios that is also extensible to all tactical radio form factors and adaptable to sensor and weapon use. The architecture study performed shall identify the radio resources that will be used by the GPS-Lite application and the software components to be implemented. We will consider methods for partitioning the GPS-Lite functions to optimize use of the processing and security resources within the JTRS HMS to minimize the power required to compute a GPS PPS fix. We will also perform lab testing to validate the processor and relative power consumption requirements and develop a plan to build an unclassified prototype of the GPS-Lite application under Phase II for test and evaluation.

SIGTEM TECHNOLOGY, INC. P.O. Box 5546 San Mateo, CA 94402
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(650) 312-1132 Dr. Chun Yang NAVY 07-198 Selected for Award
Title:	Advanced GPS Solution for Software Defined Radios
Abstract:	We propose an advanced GPS solution for software defined radios (SDR) for military users. Different from conventional software GPS receivers that merely mimics what a hardware receiver does, the proposed GPS solution sets forth advanced signal processing techniques along the signal and data processing chain, some of which are difficult, if not impossible, to implement within conventional receiver architectures, thus allowing the realization of the full potential a software receiver can possibly offer. For military applications, the design emphases are therefore placed on dynamic range, interference suppression, and weak signal operations. In the Phase I base effort, the proposed algorithms will be formulated and a subset of which will be investigated for implementation within the Software Communications Architecture (SCA). In the Phase I option effort, the design of a hardware accelerator will be conducted to implement a cascaded DFT/IDFT on FPGA. In Phase II, the validated algorithms and their designs will be prototyped for demonstration.

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

159 Phase I Selections from the 07.3 Solicitation

(In Topic Number Order)

AERIUS PHOTONICS, LLC. 4160 Market St., Suite 6 Ventura, CA 93003
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(805) 642-4645 Dr. Michael MacDougal MDA 07-001 Awarded: 02/13/08
Title:	Broad Spectral Range Detectors for Vis/SWIR Focal Plane Arrays
Abstract:	Aerius proposes to build detectors with low dark current and a cutoff wavelength of 3.0 um, using InP-based detectors. These detectors do not suffer from the same problems conventional "extended-wavelength" suffer, such as high dark current, low quantum efficiency, and limited spectral range. Aerius proposes to achieve, high quality, high uniformity extended short-wavelength infrared (SWIR) detectors that can also be sensitive to short wavelengths in the visible. Realizing this material would extend the capabilities of satellites and kill vehicles by detecting both reflected light and thermally generated wavelengths in one detector, reducing the cost and mass of detector deployment.

AGILTRON CORP. 15 Cabot Road Woburn, MA 01801
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(781) 935-1200 Dr. Lawrence Domash MDA 07-001 Awarded: 02/13/08
Title:	Nano-Enabled Broadband Infrared Anti-Reflection Coatings
Abstract:	In this program, Agiltron and the group of Professor D. W. Wang at Boston College propose a novel nano-porous coating for next generation MDA IR anti-reflection (AR) coatings for detectors and optics. The collaborative research leverages recent progress in nano-material development at Boston College, and Agiltron's recently developed nano-coating processes. The proposed IR AR coatings will possess engineerable nano-porosity and predefined index profile characteristics along with extremely precise thickness control. These coatings can be expected to yield graded index profiles as well as discrete multilayers leading to the first universal IR AR solution for critical surfaces. The coatings will also possess superior radiation hardness, broadband anti-reflection, good thermal-mechanical stability, and both high and low temperature stability critical for a space environment. Additionally, our nano-porous coatings are obtained by a low cost wet chemistry process compatible with state of the art detector fabrication. Nano-porous coatings can also be applied to other IR optical components such as IR lenses and windows. The feasibility of the proposed approach will be demonstrated in Phase I. In Phase II, we will test its applicability to practical sensor surfaces and show net improvements in detector performance.

LAKE SHORE CRYOTRONICS, INC. 575 McCorkle Blvd. Westerville, OH 43082
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(614) 891-2243 Dr. William McGovern MDA 07-001 Awarded: 02/13/08
Title:	Long-to-Very-Long-Wavelength Infrared Band-Pass Filters for Space Infrared Detectors
Abstract:	This Phase I SBIR proposal requests innovative sensor solutions to improve strategic space sensors. One route of improvement is selective band-pass filtering of radiation before it reaches the detector. Such filtering can improve detection by blocking out-of-band interferences and allowing transmission of the desired spectral components. Filtering can improve a cheaper detector with a broader detection profile into a high performance detector. Filtering can also improve signal-to-noise of a detector by eliminating out-of-band radiation from reaching the detector and causing spurious signal or A/D saturation. Comparable band-pass filters in the mid-infrared are typically thick multilayer dielectrics subject to poor adhesion between layers, thermal mismatch stress, or moisture sensitivity which can lead to destructive delamination. The innovative very-long-wavelength-region band-pass filter design proposed here has high transmission, can tolerate cryogenic temperatures, ionizing radiation and vibration making them launch-capable. The 2mm-thin proposed band-pass filter allows insertion into tight spaces. Lake Shore has demonstrated prototype band-pass filters with center bands from 14 - 25 microns in the infrared spectrum. By using innovative fabrication, it will be possible to extend this range down to the long-wavelength-infrared region. New IR detectors, developed in-tandem with Lake Shore band-pass filters can produce a high-performance solution for MDA applications.

QUALLION LLC 12744 San Fernando RoadBuilding 4 Sylmar, CA 91342
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(818) 833-2016 Dr. Hirsohi Nakahara MDA 07-002 Awarded: 02/13/08
Title:	Advanced Space Power Management & Energy Storage Technologies
Abstract:	Quallion currently manufactures hermitically sealed, prismatic 15Ah and 72Ah lithium-ion cells for the aerospace community. The cells are undergoing real-time life testing at various government agencies, in which the 15Ah cell has demonstrated over 12,000 LEO cycles at a 60% depth of discharge (DOD). Under these conditions, Quallion expects the cell to perform over 50,000 cycles. In this effort, Quallion will modify its existing long-life high energy density chemisty to meet high rate capabilities. Once modified, Quallion will incorporate this chemistry into the same form-fit factor of our current satellite cells.

VPT, INC. P.O. Box 253 Blacksburg, VA 24063
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(540) 552-5000 Dr. Glenn Skutt MDA 07-002 Awarded: 02/13/08
Title:	High-Efficiency, Radiation-Hardened, Power Converter System for Distributed Space Applications
Abstract:	VPT Inc. proposes to develop an innovative radiation-hardened, high-efficiency, thick-film hybrid DC-DC power converter that addresses demanding MDA space application needs. The targeted technology will provide efficiencies of greater than 90% for multiple low output voltages. The proposed system includes a single output isolated DC-DC converter with synchronous rectification to convert a standard MDA 28V bus directly down to 5.0V as well as multiple non-isolated point of load converters to obtain output voltages from 3.3V to as low as 0.8V. This system will be based on VPT standard product, Mil-PRF-38534 Class K hybrid DC-DC converters and recent VPT radiation analysis and testing including Total Ionizing Dose (TID), Enhanced Low Dose Rate Sensitivity (ELDRS), Radiation Lot Acceptance Testing (RLAT), Flash Xray (FXR), Single Event Upset (SEU). In the SBIR Phase I VPT will perform the following: (a) develop a multiple output converter breadboard using the new VPT hybrid converters and demonstrate electrical performance including high efficiency, (b) select and characterize new radiation-hardened components (c) perform circuit design changes and analysis to achieve 500kRads of total dose radiation performance and 60MeV of single event upset capability, (d) evaluate planar winding magnetics for high efficiency and wide temperature range of operation.

ADVANCED SCIENCE & NOVEL TECHNOLOGY 27 Via Porto Grande Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(408) 564-9236 Dr. Sean P. Woyciehowsky MDA 07-003 Awarded: 02/13/08
Title:	High Performance Rad Hard Analog to Digital Converter Architectures
Abstract:	Electronic components for future space based radar systems on chip (SOC) must function correctly in natural and radiation filled environments while providing state-of-the-art performance. The corresponding SOC must employ advanced, extra low-power, radiation-hardened (RH), analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) capable of operating at multi-giga sampling speeds. To satisfy the described needs, we propose to develop an ADC block with 9 bits of resolution and up to 10Gs/s of sampling speed. The 9 bit wide data will be demultiplexed by a factor of eight to a rate of 1.25Gb/s for direct loading into a following FPGA where signal processing will be performed. Our patent-pending radiation-hardening techniques incorporate a methodology based on protection and redundancy, which provides both total ionization dose (TID) and single-event upset (SEU) tolerance within the IC. The proposed high performance characteristics of the ADC will be achieved by utilizing an advanced SiGe IC fabrication technology.

HITTITE MICROWAVE CORP. 20 Alpha Road Chelmsford, MA 01824
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(719) 590-1112 Dr. Michael Hoskins MDA 07-003 Awarded: 02/13/08
Title:	High Sample-Rate Ultra-Wideband Track-and-Hold Demultiplexer (2007047)
Abstract:	Hittite proposes to develop a Radiation-Tolerant Ultra-Wideband Track-and-Hold (T/H) Demultiplexer to address MDA's future needs for microwave signal sampling/data conversion. This development is motivated by the difficulties in achieving high-speed interleaved analog-to-digital converter (ADC) assemblies with good accuracy. A switched-emitter-follower T/H amplifier in the SiGe BiCMOS process with the capability for 15 GHz sampling bandwidth, 6 - 8 Gs/s sample rate, and 8 - 9 bit accuracy will be studied. This high-speed T/H will be used as the front end of a two-rank T/H sampler/demultiplexer that provides a 2:1 output sample rate reduction, enabling the use of lower rate ADCs in an interleaved assembly without the usual sample timing mismatches that degrade performance. The T/H demultiplexer can also operate as a subsampler to down convert any Nyquist bands within the 15 GHz bandwidth. This T/H circuit is expected to offer unprecedented bandwidth and operating speed while maintaining accuracy suitable for meeting the X-band and microwave data conversion goals of many military systems. Under Phase I, Hittite will perform a design study with circuit simulations to determine the feasibility and performance of the basic T/H amplifier and the two-rank demultiplexer. Prototype circuits will be built and tested in Phase II.

NU-TREK 17150 Via del CampoSuite 202 San Diego, CA 92127
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(909) 864-7858 Mr. William Poland MDA 07-003 Awarded: 02/13/08
Title:	Multiplexed, Rad Hard ADC
Abstract:	The proposed part is a rad-hard, 16-input, 14-bit ADC, with aggregate speed of 200 MSPS. The 16 inputs are sampled individually and can be configured as 16 single-ended inputs or 8 differential inputs. The ADC provides 14 data outputs, a data-ready signal, and an over-range indicator. The digital outputs of the ADC are CMOS low-voltage differential signal (LVDS) outputs. The part will be fabricated using Texas Instruments' BiCom3X, a SOI process with CMOS and complementary SiGe bipolar transistors. SiGe bipolar transistors typically have very high total dose hardness, and we are not aware of an ELDRS problem. The SOI wells prevent latch-up and restrict the silicon volume that can produce photocurrents from either ionizing dose rates or single event strikes. Our designers, Bill Poland, Jim Swonger, Wayne Dietrich and John Branning, have designed over 140 ASICs, many of them rad-hard. They worked together on a 14-bit rad-hard ADC, on which the proposed part is based. Nu-Trek is an emerging suppler of rad-hard parts, with four parts coming on sale in 2008. The Nu-Det has already been inserted into the MKV and NGIMU. The Clam/NED is slated for insertion in the Army's FCS.

ORORA DESIGN TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 18378 Redmond Fall City Road Redmond, WA 98052
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(425) 702-9196 Dr. Ying Wei MDA 07-003 Awarded: 02/13/08
Title:	High Performance Rad Hard Analog to Digital Converter Architectures
Abstract:	Orora Design Technologies proposes to develop and demonstrate the feasibility of a template-based solution to the design of high-performance radiation-hardened analog-to-digital converters (ADCs). Research will be focused on innovatice architectures for a Delta-Sigma ADC of 2.5 MSPS data rate at 16-bit or greater resolution with 250mW or less power consumption, and a pipelined ADC of 180MSPS data rate at 14-bit or greater resolution with 540mW or less power consumption. Baseline radiation goals are 300Krad total dose, and single-event latchup immune and single-event upsets with LET greater than 15, and bit error rates less than 1E-10 errors/bit-day. The output of this research is template-based architectures and a behavioral model library that captures expert radiation-hardening design techniques and can be adapted to different design performance requirements and fabrication processes. In addition, a set of enabling computer-aided design tools will be developed in a mainstream EDA design environment and can be used by avionic electronics designers. The technical novelty of this research consists of (a) joint optimization of architectures, processes, and circuits for varying applications and radiation hardness, (b) hierarchical radiation-aware parametric behavioral modeling, and (c) adaptive design templates.

CREARE, INC. P.O. Box 71 Hanover, NH 03755
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(603) 643-3800 Dr. Mark V. Zagarola MDA 07-004 Awarded: 02/13/08
Title:	An Advanced Thermal Management System for Gimbal-Mounted Sensors
Abstract:	Future missile detection systems will require improved thermal management for cooling gimbal-mounted sensors and optics. Current systems utilize cryocoolers placed on the gimbal, which necessitates the cryocooler heat to be rejected directly from the gimbal. A far superior approach in terms of payload mass would locate the warm elements of the cryocooler on the stationary platform near the spacecraft heat rejection system, and place only the cold elements required to cool the optics and sensors on the gimbal. On the proposed program, we plan to develop an innovative cryocooler for cooling gimbal-mounted sensors and optics. The cryocooler is based on space-proven turbo-Brayton technologies which will be adapted to the unique requirements of this application. The inherent attributes of the turbo-Brayton cycle permit the warm components of the cryocooler to be mounted off gimbal, which will drastically improve thermal management and reduce payload mass. The warm and cold components of the cryocooler will be connected using custom flexible tubing, which has been demonstrated to provide the flexibility and life required for gimbaled systems. In Phase I we will develop a preliminary design of the cryocooler and its components, develop performance curves, and perform trades to establish a packaging and integration concept.

MAINSTREAM ENGINEERING CORP. 200 Yellow PlacePines Industrial Center Rockledge, FL 32955
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(321) 631-3550 Dr. Robert P Scaringe MDA 07-004 Awarded: 02/13/08
Title:	Experimental Demonstration of an Improved Cryocooler Configuration to Lower the Gimbaled Mass and Volume for Infrared Sensors
Abstract:	The objective of this effort is to reduce the weight of the cryocooler system, improve the efficiency of the cryocooler system, provide multiple cryocooler temperatures, and improve the configuration of the gimbaled flexible joint. At first glance, this set of claims seems incredibly ambitious; however, as disclosed in this proposal, these achievements can be obtained by implementing an improved cryogenic cooler. The proposed configuration can also provide multiple cooling temperatures, allowing both the cryogenic cooling and the electronics thermal control from a single cooler. This Phase I effort includes the experimental demonstration of this cryocooler (in a bench-top configuration), as well as a demonstration of an improved gimbaled flexible joint. Phase I also includes a comparison with current state-of-the-art technology to verify mass, reliability, and energy benefits. Clearly, Mainstream has the prior experience in this area, and the effort proposed in Phase I, which includes a preliminary design and bench-top demonstration experiments, exceeds the scope of effort proposed in the Phase I solicitation; however, Mainstream is well into this research and excited about the commercial potential for this technology. Phase II will address the fabrication and demonstration of a complete system.

SOUTH BAY SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY CORP. 7525 W. 81st St., Playa del Rey, CA 90293
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 337-7230 Mr. John Ikegami MDA 07-004 Awarded: 02/13/08
Title:	Advanced Heat Rejection Methods for Space Cryocoolers
Abstract:	Future space EO systems will require cryogenic subsystems that are substantially more powerful than those presently in use. Input power levels are expected to increase by a factor of 2X to 4X, necessitating changes from the payload level down to the cryocooler subsystem level. Payload-level changes involve the inclusion of more robust power busses and heat rejection systems, while changes to the cryocooler subsystem will focus on optimization of the internal heat rejection schemes to allow the thermo-mechanical units to run at relatively cool internal operating temperatures despite the increased power load. The South Bay Science and Technology Corporation (SBSTC), as the prime contractor, and Raytheon, as subcontractor, propose to develop high efficiency Closed-Cycle Cryocooler waste heat rejection designs as part of a system solution for electro-optical (EO) space payload power and mass reduction.

2LRESEARCH 190 Green Valley Road Owens Crossroads, AL 35763
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(256) 656-9652 Mr. Luis R. Lopez MDA 07-005 Awarded: 02/13/08
Title:	Relational Pattern Analysis Tool for Legacy Conversion
Abstract:	This project develops a technology to automate the interpretation and understanding of complex trees of source code and related artifacts for conversion to run on newer hardware, operating systems and languages. The center of our proposed innovative approach is to map and parse a complex source code tree (plus related artifacts such as `makefiles') into an appropriate process and object oriented schema tree. From this representation we propose to generate relational database queries, stored procedures and advanced algorithms that extract dependencies and partitioning with respect to hardware, operating system, distributed processing, application programming interfaces [APIs], etc. The proposed tools will help analysts visualize, analyze and gain a deep, multi-level understanding of legacy code. This approach supports automation of legacy code functional inventory, language translation and re-partitioning. The solution is extremely flexible and applies to multiple versions of Ada (ANSI/MIL-STD 1815A, ISO-8652:1987, ISO/IEC 8652:1995/Amd 1:2007). We also propose to develop a plug-in for a popular software tool such as Eclipse. This approach has potential to yield order of magnitude reductions in the man-hours/cost required to modernize Ada applications.

CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. 625 Mount Auburn Street Cambridge, MA 02138
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 491-3474 Mr. Curt Wu MDA 07-005 Awarded: 02/13/08
Title:	LANguage Conversion Engine (LANCE)
Abstract:	From 1987-1997, DoD required Ada for every software project where new code generation was more than 30% of the effort. With the decline in Ada's popularity, it has become increasingly difficult to find skilled Ada developers to maintain this legacy code. Code maintainers that don't know Ada typically convert the code to a language they understand and this is a tedious error-prone process. What is needed is a toolkit that converts Ada into more widely supported languages, provides guidance on translation, and plugs in to the maintainer's IDE. Such a toolkit must provide a view of each module within the context of the legacy application and weigh the relative merits of various conversion options. The converted code must also be validated against the legacy code to ensure accurate and effective conversion. Our proposed LANguage Conversion Engine (LANCE) will not only accurately translate and validate Ada code but also provide the necessary guidance to wrap or rewrite code that can not or should not be translated. This guidance will include the necessary metadata to integrate the various code modules that have been translated, wrapped, and rewritten. Finally, the system's software repository will store translated code modules for cataloging and reuse.

HARMONIA, INC. 1715 Pratt Drive, Suite 2820 Blacksburg, VA 24060
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(540) 951-5900 Dr. Marc Abrams MDA 07-005 Awarded: 02/13/08
Title:	Legacy Software Conversion Tool
Abstract:	Under MDA07-005 Harmonia, Inc., in partnership with Raytheon Space and Airborne Systems (SAS), will build a system to cost effectively modernize legacy information, sensor, space platform, and weapons systems such as the Space Tracking and Surveillance System (STSS) written in languages such as Ada83. We develop an innovative new toolset that guides the engineer through a comprehensive methodology to inventory and understand the legacy system to be modernized, estimate the cost benefit of reusing versus rewriting the legacy code, extract and translate reusable components from the legacy system for use in new architectures, and verify the correctness of the translated code. Our toolset improves upon the state of the art in several ways: breaks the "black box" of most conversion methods to facilitate a human-involved process of discovery; reduces cost by automating tedious migration tasks; fosters and encourages "educated conversion," allowing the engineer to understand the code as it is converted; preserves understanding for future engineers through a repository of reusable components, documentation, and annotations; and utilizes flexible methodology and Open Source technology including Eclipse to provide a robust platform for migrating legacy code to C++ that is extensible to C++ .NET, Java, and other languages within STSS and beyond.

REIFER CONSULTANTS, INC. P.O. Box 4046 Torrance, CA 90510
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(310) 530-4493 Mr. Donald J. Reifer MDA 07-005 Awarded: 02/13/08
Title:	Legacy Software Conversion Tool
Abstract:	The purpose of this Phase I SBIR is to develop a non-translator-based, language-independent methodology and toolset architectural design for legacy code modernization. The methodology proposed build models of the application and then analyzes them using to ensure that they properly represent the software as it actually runs on the platform and in the environment to which it is targeted. The methodology relies on aspects to capture processor/platform dependencies and domain models for a determination of which functions it makes sense to carryover for redesign. The utility and effectiveness of the methodology will be verified during Phase I through the use of a pilot project. Correspondence between the actual code and the modernized software will be demonstrated at least in part prior to Phase II when a more extensive proof-of-concept will be attempted.

LGARDE, INC. 15181 Woodlawn Avenue Tustin, CA 92780
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(714) 259-0771 Dr. Koorosh Guidanean MDA 07-006 Awarded: 02/13/08
Title:	Low Cost Calibration Test Objects for MDA Systems
Abstract:	Development of the electro-optical sensors for use by the MDA requires flight testing against calibration targets that have well characterized radio frequency, optical and infrared cross sections. These tests are very expensive therefore there is a compelling need for low cost calibration targets. Providing well characterized visible and radar targets is reasonably straight forward, however IR is not. To solve this problem we are proposing to develop black balloons that are inflated with a liquid inflatant that has a surface tension below the critical value that allows complete wetting of the inside surface of the balloon. This will provide an isothermal target to within a fraction of a degree. If the balloon is made of a material like black Kapton then the reflected radiation will be specular, so both the IR and the visible spectrums will be independent of the viewing angle or solar angle. Also since the Kapton is carbon filled its radar signature will also be well characterized. This very simple target balloon design when married with existing L'Garde flight proven designs for the balloon canisters and ejectors will meet the MDA price goal of less the $250,000.

SYSTEMS & PROCESSES ENGINEERING CORP.(SPEC) 6800 Burleson RoadBuilding 320 Austin, TX 78744
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(512) 479-7732 Mr. Victor Dube MDA 07-006 Awarded: 02/13/08
Title:	Modular Adaptive Low-cost Test System (MALTS)
Abstract:	Systems & Processes Engineering Corporation (SPEC) proposes the low-risk adaptation of existing flight-proven MDA Targets & Countermeasures (TC) subsystems to meet the requirements of this topic. In an increasingly tight budgetary environment, the frequent calibration testing needed by new, modified and operational sensors must be accomplished in a much more cost and schedule efficient manner. SPEC's Modular Adaptive Low-cost Test System (MALTS) concept is a much simplified lower-cost derivative of an equivalent system developed and flown under the MDA/LMCO BMDS Targets & Countermeasures Prime Contract (TCPC). SPEC and teammate ITT Industries are very familiar with the requirements for well characterized test objects, as a result of being a current provider of MDA target systems and with personnel long involved in ballistic missile penaids and SDIO targets, going back to the mid-1960's on the Minuteman-II Penaids Program(s) and continuing on every US ICBM reentry system since then. The baseline MALTS concept, fully compliant with topic requirements, consists of a programmable pneumatic ejector and a spherical inflatable test object. Both have been flown successfully and are suitable for launch on sounding rockets, ICBMs, space launch vehicles or from satellites. Recurring unit flight test cost will be well under the $250K goal.

K TECHNOLOGY CORP. 2000 West Cabot Blvd.Suite 150 Langhorne, PA 19047
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(215) 375-3035 Dr. Larry Roderick MDA 07-007 Awarded: 02/13/08
Title:	Passive Cooling of Laser Diodes for Use on Satellites
Abstract:	A novel concept integrating, k-Corer (a material system which consists of encapsulated annealed pyrolytic graphite) saddle with a loop heat pipe evaporator is proposed. Due to five fold increase compared to the baseline aluminum, the proposed concept can enable much higher heat flux levels at lesser resistance to the radiator. In addition, the proposed concept will not have any weight penalty compared to baseline aluminum. During phase I, a saddle, designed for a LHP evaporator will be designed, fabricated and evaluated towards meeting the program goals of 60 W cooling at heat flux of 700 W/cm2

TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT & TRANSFER, INC. 133 Defense Highway, Suite 212 Annapolis, MD 21401
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(410) 224-3710 Mr. Walter Zimbeck MDA 07-007 Awarded: 02/13/08
Title:	Loop Heat Pipe Laser Diode Array Cooling System
Abstract:	A two-phase loop cooling system will be developed for thermal management of high heat laser diode arrays on satellites. To achieve the high heat flux capacity necessary for this application (700 W/cm2) and the tight temperature control, a novel flat plate, high flux evaporator will be developed. For close integration of the evaporator to the laser diode bars, thermal expansion matched materials will be used to construct the evaporator. The Ph I effort will focus on evaporator design, system modeling and fabrication and characterization of a prototype evaporator. A full-scale prototype system will be built and tested in Phase II.

APPLIED TECHNOLOGY ASSOC. 1300 Britt SE Albuquerque, NM 87123
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 767-1202 Dr. Henry R. Sebesta MDA 07-008 Awarded: 02/13/08
Title:	Next Generation Gimbal (NGG)
Abstract:	Applied Technology Associates (ATA) proposes innovations in the design and mechanizations of space gimbals and their electrical and pointing controls. This new paradigm for a gimbal design is denoted the Next Generation Gimbal (NGG) and yields a gimbal system that is lighter, uses less power, and exhibits better performance. The technology innovations that will be exploited in creating the NGG include: On-Gimbal IMU for precise and accurate pointing control and stabilization; Momentum storage and exchange mechanisms to achieave more efficient power utilization than conventional gimbal motors; Innovative mode logic and control algorithms to optimize overall mass, power, function, and performance; Advanced gimbal subsystem control electronics hosted on flexible, small, low-power FPGA processors with characteristics suitable for space environments; Material selections that are compatible with optical payload gimbal applications. The combination of these new gimbal design approaches, advanced technologies, and new control and operating philosophies offer great promise and allows us to reach the goals of SBIR Topic MDA07-008.

APPLIED TECHNOLOGY ASSOC. 1300 Britt SE Albuquerque, NM 87123
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(505) 767-1224 Mr. Darren R. Laughlin MDA 07-008 Awarded: 02/13/08
Title:	Disk Resonator Gyroscope (DRG) Electronics Optimization
Abstract:	Proposed Missile Defense Agency (MDA) systems, such as the Space Tracking and Surveillance System (STSS), require high precision gyroscopes for high-resolution Line of Sight (LOS) stabilization and pointing control for the acquisition, pointing and tracking (APT) systems. To achieve these mission objectives, MDA is very interested in the development of compact, high performance, space qualified micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) gyros. The recently developed MEMS Disc Resonator Gyro (DRG) has the potential of fulfilling the MDA MEMS gyro requirement. Research associated with the volume manufacturing for the DRG is currently underway by Sensors in Motion (SIM). However, miniaturized, low power, and radiation hardened electronics have not yet been developed for the DRG and ultimately required for satellite applications. ATA proposes to develop miniaturized, radiation hardened electronics for the DRG for realization of MDA's MEMS gyro needs. High performance DRGs incorporating compact optimized electronics would be used extensively in precision inertial reference units (IRUs) and inertial measurement units (IMUs) with the advantage of much smaller size and weight, less power, and also less cost due to the mass production implications of MEMS devices in general. High performance MEMS DRGs would facilitate MDA's space-borne applications that cannot be fulfilled with current gyro technology, i.e. HRGs, RLGs, FOGs, and DTGs, because of size, weight, power, and cost limitations.

HYPER-THERM HIGH-TEMPERATURE COMPOSITES, INC. 18411 Gothard StreetUnit B Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(714) 375-4085 Mr. Wayne Steffier MDA 07-009 Awarded: 02/13/08
Title:	Flight-Weight Ceramic Composite Monopropellant Rocket Thruster Assembly
Abstract:	Rocket thrusters based on hydroxyl-ammonium nitrate (HAN) monopropellants are of interest for Network Centric Airborne Defense Element (NCADE) missile axial and divert propulsion applications because of their inherent system simplicity, low toxicity, high specific impulse (~275s), and 50% greater density-specific impulse over hydrazine (Isp�220s). Their high combustion temperatures (33300�F), however, pose significant challenges on chamber and bedplate materials. In order to exploit the performance benefits of HAN, advanced materials, such as SiC composites, reticulated SiC foams and lightweight end-closure joining methods are needed. SiC composite and SiC foam catalyst bedplates have demonstrated superior performance qualities in recent hot-fire testing at AEROJET, while significantly decreasing weight and manufacturing cost over alternative designs and materials. Hyper-Therm HTC's SiC composite thrust chambers and SiC foam bedplates have been selected by AEROJET for several MDA missile applications, however composite chambers have not yet been demonstrated using HAN. Moreover, a method for efficiently joining the composite chamber to the metallic forward end-closure is essential to the success of affordable flight-weight composite propulsion devices. The objective of this program is to develop a flight-weight composite monopropellant rocket thruster consistent with the requirements of NCADE for hot-fire evaluation. High-performance SiC composite thrust chambers incorporating ultra-lightweight SiC foam catalyst bedplates and utilizing a weight-efficient end-closure joining method will be developed in Phase I and prepared for hot-fire testing by AEROJET using HAN early in a Phase II program.

PLASMA PROCESSES, INC. 4914 Moores Mill Road Huntsville, AL 35811
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(256) 851-7653 Mr. Timothy McKechnie MDA 07-009 Awarded: 02/29/08
Title:	Light Weight Thrust Chambers for Advanced Interceptor Axial Propulsion
Abstract:	The Network Centric Airborne Defense Element (NCADE) is an affordable boost- and ascent- phase ballistic missile interceptor system. NCADE has the same form, fit and interface as the Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAMT). The boost- and ascent-phase capability of NCADE is enabled by high-altitude launch and a high performance two-stage propulsion system. The second stage uses a hydroxylammonium nitrate (HAN) based monopropellant for all upper stage propulsion, including axial, divert and attitude control system, to provide endo- and exoatmospheric flight. The combustion environment of high-performance HAN formulations is both high temperature (>1700�C) and corrosive (nitric acid, steam, carbon dioxide). The biggest technical challenge for HAN based propulsion systems is developing low-cost, lightweight thrusters and hot gas valves to withstand the extreme temperature environment of combustion products. Lining carbon-carbon chambers with a thin layer of rhenium or iridium is an innovative way to both economically use refractory metals and improve the performance of high temperature composite chambers. This proposal will evaluate using iridium-lined carbon-carbon to form a composite structure for HAN axial thrusters and DACS gas generator components.

TREX ENTERPRISES CORP. 10455 Pacific Center Court San Diego, CA 92121
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(808) 245-6465 Dr. Clifford T. Tanaka MDA 07-009 Awarded: 02/15/08
Title:	Chemical Vapor Composite (CVCT) SiC for HAN Propulsion Systems
Abstract:	Trex will develop rocket motor components suitable for liquid HAN monopropellant propulsion systems utilizing its patented CVC SiCT process. CVC SiC enables production of high quality SiC capable of handling extreme temperatures up to 3700oF, well within the requirement for the HAN propellant. Furthermore, near net shape fabrication of rocket motor components, such as nozzles, flame liners and pintles is possible via CVCT. Finally, addition of solid particles and chopped fibers has been demonstrated, which yield stress-free, robust composite SiC materials required for the extreme pressure and thermal loads in the intended application. The proposed Phase 1 will produce prototype, near net shape CVC SiCT fiber-reinforced composites, thereby demonstrating a cost-effective manufacturing process for these high temperature components.

VALLEY TECH SYSTEMS 129 N. Cloverdale Blvd #5 Cloverdale, CA 95425
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(916) 996-9220 Mr. Michael Oberth MDA 07-009 Awarded: 02/13/08
Title:	Multi Nozzle Grid Technology Application to MDA Missile Systems
Abstract:	As the US missile defense capability matures there is a growing need for new technologies that enable smaller packaging envelopes and higher mass fractions with improved performance. One such promising technology is the use of Multi Nozzle Grids (MGN) in place of conventional rocket nozzles. The MGN technology packages an array of small "nozzlettes" that individually exhibit high performance expansion ratios and collectively provide large delivered thrust. An MGN nozzle provides the benefit of reducing conventional nozzle lengths (up to 10:1), reducing system weight while potentially improving overall delivered performance. To demonstrate the benefits of the MNG technology to an MDA missile system Valley Tech Systems (VTS) is proposing a Phase I SBIR program for the conceptual design modeling and establishment of processing methods for an MNG nozzle. This Phase I program will provide the design and analyses foundation to proceed into a Phase II demonstration that substantiate the MGN technology benefits to the MDA missile system.

MILLI SENSOR SYSTEMS & ACTUATORS 93 Border Street West Newton, MA 02465
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(617) 965-4872 Dr. Donato (Dan) Cardarelli MDA 07-010 Awarded: 02/13/08
Title:	Actively Stabilized MEMS IMU for Autonomous Guidance and Navigation
Abstract:	Without the means for stabilizing the scale factor and bias of MEMS gyroscopes and accelerometers, they cannot become precise and accurate instruments. With stabilization, however, autonomous navigation is possible and GPS reliability can be improved. We propose to introduce active stabilization methods and test devices and carry out the proof-of-concept tests during Phase I. We will make use of existing hardware from related programs. The significance of the bias stabilization method to performance is that the formerly limiting 1/f - derived bias instability can be greatly reduced, with the potential of obtaining less than 1 deg/hr. An added importance of the scale factor and bias stabilization methods is the reduction in testing required and the corresponding drop in cost.

SA PHOTONICS 650 5th StreetSuite 505 San Francisco, CA 94107
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(415) 977-0553 Mr. James Coward MDA 07-010 Awarded: 02/15/08
Title:	Advanced Interceptor Guidance, Navigation and Control (GN&C) Components
Abstract:	SA Photonics is pleased to propose a program to develop a low cost navigation grade Fiber Optic Gyro development program. There has long been a desire to build a low cost fiber optic gyro using single mode fiber, but various noise sources have precluded this dream from being realized. The scientists at SA Photonics, utilizing their more than 30 combined years of navigation grade Fiber Optic Gyro development experience, have created simple innovative solutions for these noise terms that will finally achieve the long anticipated goal of a low cost navigation grade single mode fiber optic gyro. In Phase I, we will analyze and predict the performance of the proposed low-cost gyro and demonstrate experimentally our key enabling technologies.

SYSENSE CORP. 300 East Magnolia Suite 300 Burbank, CA 91502
Phone: PI: Topic#:	(818) 238-2330 Dr. Ashitosh Swarup MDA 07-010 Awarded: 02/14/08
Title:	Advanced Interceptor Guidance, Navigation and Control (GN&C) Components
Abstract:	This proposal addresses the need for a low-powered, low-noise, high-sensitivity, jam-resistant P/M code capable GPS receiver which can continuously track a GPS signal under high-g environments. The system incorporates several innovative technologies. First, the system is designed to keep the intrinsic system noise to a minimum. Second, a sensor suite incorporating an inertial measurement unit (IMU) is interfaced to the system and an ultra-tightly coupled algorithm incorporating a nonlinear filter to integrate the equations of motion increase