| ARCHITECTURE TECHNOLOGY CORP.
9971 Valley View Road Eden Prairie, MN 55344 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(952) 829-5864
Dr. John Wu NAVY 06-143 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Distributed Secure Control of Real-time Networks (DISCRETE) |
| Abstract: | The Joint Forces Command (JFCOM) has identified the need for secure and dynamic management and control of real-time networks to empower war-fighting commanders in network centric personnel recovery and other combat operations. Current hub-centric network control systems limit the capability of the network managers to support dynamic configuration of real-time networks, due to the bottlenecks created by the procedure that requires a central authority to make any changes in the network configuration. Architecture Technology Corporation (ATC) will leverage its extensive experience in secure satellite-based internetworking and other directly related network technologies to develop a novel system called Distributed Secure Control of Real-time Networks (DISCRETE) to support secure and dynamic management and control of IP-based networks. The distributed network control system will provide field commanders with agile and local control of real-time network configuration and security configuration. The security-integrated IP-centric system will be satellite-service-agnostic, providing the capability to make secure use of heterogeneous military and civilian satellite services. DISCRETE will be augmented with Logical Network Boundary Control to provide support for cross-domain collaborations for users with different levels of security clearance. |
| INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS INTERNATIONAL
1608 Spring Hill Road, Suite 200 Vienna, VA 22182 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 883-8088
Dr. James Stevenson NAVY 06-143 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Secure Dynamic Configuration of Real Time Networks |
| Abstract: | The C2 software applications that aid in managing and storing information have increased our military's effectiveness. The speed and power displayed in Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) are dramatic evidence. However, as the volume of information has increased, so has the number of delivery systems-all having different parameters, and limitations in ability to rapidly move data from one location to another. The bulk of these systems are TCP/IP-based and as such, present the opportunity to provide a solution. By optimizing data exchange protocols, and by creating an innovative, dynamically reconfigurable grouping for each user, our two-tiered concept of the Dynamic Virtual Private Network and Joined Dynamic Virtual Private Networks addresses both the interoperability problem AND the rapid reconfiguration problem. ISI's design concept for dynamically configuring and controlling communications and location networks would support the operations of such systems as Force XXI Battle Command Brigade and Below (FBCB2), the Movement Tracking System (MTS), and the Global Personnel Recovery System (GPRS). We characterize the issues involved in the concept, define a design, and demonstrate feasibility by creating and disbanding DVPNs with a simple prototype. As an Option, we create a detailed design for Phase II. |
| SENTINEL AVE LLC
531 Main Street No. 1111 El Segundo, CA 90245 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 704-3579
Dr. Ulrich Neumann NAVY 06-144 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Automating the Production of Terrain Databases |
| Abstract: | This proposal builds upon many years of research and experience in the problems of sensor fusion, and 3D modeling. Powerful modeling and data fusion systems, previously developed by the investigators at USC and at Sentinel, will be extended with new capabilities to produce a step change in the automation of modeling and feature extraction for geospatial database systems. The new algorithms are based on our recent explorations into perceptual grouping and classification with sensor cues, feature invariants, and machine learning. Specifically, we integrate the mathematics of tensor voting, Gabor wavelets, and feature-based recognition to automate the extraction of geometric models and terrain features from aerial images and Lidar data. Early results show the feasibility and advantages of our approach. The integration of these methods to attack the feature extraction and modeling problems has never been attempted, to the best of our knowledge; therefore our effort brings a new approach to the geospatial database problem, with the potential for making significant improvements in automation, robustness, and throughput. |
| TERRASIM, INC.
One Gateway Center, Suite 2050, 420 Ft. Pittsburgh, PA 15222 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(412) 232-3646
Mr. Wilson Harvey NAVY 06-144 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Automatic Compilation of 3D Road Features Using LIDAR and Multi-spectral Source Data |
| Abstract: | Under this Phase I SBIR, TerraSim, Inc. will develop a novel and robust road network extraction system tailored to the rapid processing of LIDAR data and co-registered reflective and multi-spectral imagery. RoadMAP(tm) from TerraSim, a single image semi-automated road detection and tracking system, will be modified to derive and incorporate height estimates from LIDAR and surface material estimates from multi-spectral data as new and integral components of the road network extraction process. |
| APPLIED PHYSICAL SCIENCES CORP.
475 Bridge Street, Suite 100 Groton, CT 06340 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(860) 448-3253
Mr. Jason Rudzinsky NAVY 06-145 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Mounting of Acoustic Vector Sensors on UUVs |
| Abstract: | Intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance operations in the littorals require higher sensor densities than are generally necessary in blue-water environments, and inevitably place sensor platforms within striking range of enemy combatants. Technological preparations for the littoral battlespace have motivated development of unmanned underwater vehicles as cost effective ASW and mine detection sensor platforms. In parallel, new sonar system concepts are being developed for use on-board UUVs, including acoustic vector sensors, which measure at a collated point both the scalar acoustic pressure and the acoustic particle motion vector. These sensors provide for directionality in a compact body, and are ideally suited for use on UUVs. To date, a consistent and effective method for installing vector sensors within the "footprint" of a UUV has not been achieved. We here propose a dual-track development in response to SBIR Topic N06-145. In the first track, we will develop a concept in which a pre-mounted vector sensor, built into a protective pod housing, can be used either in the nose section or on the exterior of a UUV body. In the second concept, we will investigate and develop an approach in which the (typically) neutrally buoyant vehicle itself acts as a low frequency vector sensor. |
| KAZAK COMPOSITES, INC.
10F GIll Street Woburn, MA 01801 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 932-5667
Mr. Robert Karnes NAVY 06-145 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Compact, Isolating Elastomeric Suspension for Vehicle Acoustic Vector Sensor |
| Abstract: | The increasing use of small platforms such as unmanned underwater vehicles, which cannot support large hydrophone arrays, is driving the development of compact sensors which also work at lower signal-to-noise ratios. The acoustic vector sensor incorporates 3-axis accelerometers whose output can be integrated to give local fluid particle velocity information, so a single AVS can give unambiguous bearing information. Multiple vector sensors in arrays of moderate size can improve spatial resolution. For this sensor to respond with fidelity, it must be essentially adrift in the medium, hence mounting on a moving vehicle is necessarily a compromise. Also, there will always be a compromise between exposure of the sensor to the free field and its isolation from hydrodynamic loads. Finally, any type of mounting will be prone to transmitting some ownship noise into the sensor. KaZaK sees the problem in terms of vibration isolation and impedance matching, and proposes to address it by means of advanced materials: Reducing transmissibility of noise and accelerations with very soft "springs" embodied in an innovative 3-axis series shear mount, and surrounding the sensor with material of good impedance match to the medium and which lends itself to shaping for low drag and flow induced noise. |
| PROGENY SYSTEMS CORP.
9500 Innovation Drive Manassas, VA 20110 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(801) 359-4566
Mr. Dave Baird NAVY 06-145 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Mounting of Acoustic Vector Sensors on UUVs |
| Abstract: | Vector sensors have been shown to operate very effectively in free field applications and are showing promise in the area of towed array configurations. The four channel (combination three axis accelerometers and hydrophone) sensors allow narrower beams to be generated with a smaller number of senors over a smaller foot print than can be obtained from simple hydrophones; however, they have been shown to be senitive to vibrations when rigidly mounted to moving platforms. The effort would support the development of mounting systems that could be faired into the hull of an ASW support UUV and provide isolation from hull vibrations |
| SS ENERGY ENVIRONMENTAL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
4755 Colt Road Rockford, IL 61109 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(815) 873-9220
Mr. Shyam N. Singh NAVY 06-146 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Passive Combustion Control for Turbine Engine Noise Reduction |
| Abstract: | The objective of this research proposal is to investigate the effect of porous inserts on reducing the combustion generated noise from turbine combustor.This investigation of this passive combustion control concept will be conducted in a liquid and or gas fired cylindrical( six inch dia) combustor used in reducing gaseous emissions under contract number N00014-02-C-335.The proposed research will be conducted for atmoshpheric and high pressure operating conditions, using metallic and or ceramic porous inserts with different geometry and aspect ratios. During the investigation we will measure the temperature profile,pressures and noise levels for different air to fuel ratios and pore structure of inserts and their locations in the combustor.Based upon our test results,we will determine the model parameters for developing a numerical model to help screen the important design parameters that would be needed in designing specific geometry of the porous inserts units. Using both experimental and numerical data, we will develop a test matrix needed to conduct further investigation in Phase II . We have got the letter of interest from Hamilton Sunstrand ,a manufacturer of auxiliary power units used in commercial and military aircrafts. |
| ULTRAMET
12173 Montague Street Pacoima, CA 91331 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(818) 899-0236
Mr. Timothy R. Stewart NAVY 06-146 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Passive Combustion Control Device for Noise Reduction and Improved Life in Turbine Engines |
| Abstract: | To reduce combustion instability and noise in turbine engines, Ultramet will team with the University of Alabama to design, model, fabricate, and test refractory hafnium carbide/silicon carbide open-cell ceramic foam to be used in the combustion chamber as a passive control device. Previous work at the University of Alabama utilized Ultramet's open-cell silicon carbide foam as a porous insert medium burner for lean premixed combustion to reduce pollutant emissions. When combustion took place inside the foam, nitrogen oxide and carbon monoxide emissions were greatly reduced; temperature across the test burner was homogenized; and the noise level inside the combustor was drastically reduced. However, the lifetime of the silicon carbide foam burner was limited because of the relatively low melting point of the silicon dioxide protective layer that forms at the surface. The proposed ceramic alloy foam is protected from oxidation by a much more refractory surface oxide, hafnium silicate, which offers a nominally 1000øF higher use temperature. The ceramic alloy also has improved survivability in combustion environments containing a significant quantity of water vapor. Two approaches using open-cell foam as a passive control device will be explored. In the first, the foam will be located downstream of the reaction zone to dissipate the combustion noise and/or instability generated upstream. In the second, the vortex shedding mechanism of combustion instability will be curtailed by placing foam within the recirculation region of the reaction zone. |
| OBJECTVIDEO
11600 Sunrise Valley Drive, Suite 290 Reston, VA 20191 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(703) 654-9300
Dr. OMAR JAVED NAVY 06-147 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Intelligent Retrieval of Surveillance Imagery |
| Abstract: | ObjectVideo (OV) proposes the development of tools and architecture for automatic forensic analysis and retrieval of video data. This effort enables accurate mining of surveillance video data based on target analysis and complex activity recognition. The video analytics solution proposed by ObjectVideo will entail a unified data management framework that integrates video, annotation text, maps and geo-reference data for robust video retrieval. OV's existing Forensics product enables simple event retrieval based on target detection, tracking and classification algorithms. Under Phase I funding, we will develop algorithms to (a) recognize interactions between targets, (b) detect unusual and threatening multi-agent behaviors and (c) recognize targets in un-tagged data from examples. A powerful query/inferencing language will be used to allow users to formulate queries based on logical combination of target features, behavior descriptions and temporal constraints. Intuitive user interfaces will be incorporated for easy query creation and result visualization. |
| SET ASSOC. CORP.
3811 N. Fairfax Drive, Suite 350 Arlington, VA 22203 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(240) 965-6288
Dr. Thomas Strat NAVY 06-147 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Intelligent Retrieval of Surveillance Imagery |
| Abstract: | SET Corporation proposes to design, develop and demonstrate content-based retrieval tools and a user-friendly interface that enable users of video surveillance systems to easily conduct video-based forensics and IMINT from video imagery and display entire event histories for a given target or alerting event, regardless of whether the video data was tagged during acquisition. Our system integrates existing in house algorithms for color, appearance, face, gait, motion and shape-based retrieval of video content guided by a knowledge management architecture that allows non-monotonic reasoning and user interactions. The color and appearance based retrieval is based on a novel geometric transform; face based retrieval is implemented using probabilistic recognition of faces in videos; gait-based retrieval is implemented using a novel human gait signature for detecting the presence of humans and recognizing the activities they are involved in; motion and shape based retrieval is based on a novel application of factorization theorem. Residual analysis techniques are proposed for detecting anomalies in video. The user-interface is designed using extensions of quick-look profiles. The integrated system offers potential advantages for force protection and anti-terrorism in terms of automated alerts that improve the effectiveness of responses to threats and reduce manpower requirements for analysts. |
| UTOPIACOMPRESSION, CORP.
11150 Olympic Blvd., Suite 1020 Los Angeles, CA 90064 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(310) 473-1500
Dr. Hieu Tat Nguyen NAVY 06-147 Selected for Award |
| Title: | A Semantic Based Surveillance Video Indexing and Retrieval System |
| Abstract: | Beside robust tracking algorithms, a set of efficient and effective tools for video analysis is an important part of security video surveillance systems. The analysis of pre-recorded videos is necessary to discover trends and patterns of threat activities, to evaluate the performance of the security system, and to develop and test new protection rules. The video analysis software should provide security professionals with powerful tools to search and retrieve sophisticated information and knowledge about monitored objects and activities. Currently available content-based video retrieval systems allow for queries on descriptive information, such as target color, location and motion speed/direction, but fall short of searching for high level semantic concepts. Moreover, they lack flexibility as the user has no opportunity to tune the system to achieve best result for a particular query. The objective of this project is the feasibility of an innovative Semantic-Based Video Indexing and Retrieval system (SBVIR) to help security professionals rapidly and effectively search for intelligent information from stored surveillance videos. Our technology is based on a set of powerful statistical classification algorithms that create highly semantic metadata for objects and activities. The system interacts with the user to iteratively increase accuracy and relevance of the retrieved data. |
| ANTHROTRONIX, INC.
8737 Colesville Rd, L203 Silver Spring, MD 20910 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 495-0770
Ms. Corinna Lathan NAVY 06-149 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Automated, Real Time Bi-directional Communication Instrumentation of Combat Attire for Anti-Terrorism Operations |
| Abstract: | Military environments, specifically counter-terrorism and special operations, are characterized by individual and team decision makers who may be spatially (line of sight) separated and must coordinate to share information and resources to attain mission goals in dynamic and uncertain situations. The objective of this SBIR is to develop a prototype embedded Team Status and Signaling System (TS3) that can be embedded in the combat attire of the special operations dismount warfighter for real time capture of individual location and action information, as well as static and dynamic hand signals, for subsequent presentation to the unit commander and other team members in a tactical operational environment. The TS3 will include a range of sensors such as accelerometers, goniometers, magnetometers and bend and pressure sensors, as well as pattern matching algorithms for signal processing. Instrumentation of each team member could enable status information such as position, body posture, movement, and weapon status of each individual team member to be automatically collected and communicated in real time to the unit commander or other pertinent team members, increasing overall team situation awareness without distracting from the mission goals. A Phase II effort will implement vibro-tactile feedback for presentation of the data via vibratory effectors. |
| DESIGN INTERACTIVE, INC.
1221 E. Broadway, Suite 110 Oviedo, FL 32765 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(407) 706-0977
Ms. Kelly Hale NAVY 06-149 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Development of a System for Tactile Reception of Advanced Patterns (STRAP) to Support Bi-directional Haptic Communication |
| Abstract: | The current effort proposes the development of a portable, low power, lightweight, unobtrusive, real time, bi-directional haptic communication system using vibratory tactors and sensors embedded in combat attire, which provides real-time information to squad leaders and individual warfighters during limited vision or out-of-sight operations. During Phase I, investigators will develop and validate a System for Tactile Reception of Advanced Patterns (STRAP) that uses vibrotactile technology to display a haptic communication language developed under this effort. The haptic language will consist of haptic symbols and a generative grammar for presenting complex information associated with Special Operations Forces (SOF), such as warfighter posture, movement and weapon status, as well as a means to convey commands such as those currently conveyed via hand signals. Phase II will incorporate the STRAP and embedded Team Status and Signaling System (TS3) systems (parallel effort by AnthroTronix) into a single bi-directional haptic communication system, and validation of techniques developed in parallel Phase I efforts for conveying status information, issuing haptic commands, and summarizing status and command information for haptic presentation will be completed. The resultant haptic communication system will enhance information throughput, situation awareness, and performance of SOF team members by utilizing human multimodal information processing capabilities. |
| AGILTRON CORP.
15 Cabot Road Woburn, MA 01801 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 935-1200
Dr. Guanghai Jin NAVY 06-151 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Advanced Fiber Optic Connectors for Condition Based Maintenance |
| Abstract: | Leveraging on our extensive production experience on glass ferrules and micro-optic components, AGILTRON proposes to realize a new class of fiber optic connectors with built-in stress relief and special fiber optic components of miniature beam splitters and 90 degree reflectors, targeted for structural health monitoring applications of military assets. These connectors and components are very lightweight, miniature in size, easy to interconnect, easy to mount on the surfaces of materials; and highly reliable and durable. The design intrinsically eliminates damaging thermal cycling stress, providing excellent temperature stability and longevity. Furthermore, our designs offer advantageous attributes of quick action, minimum operation space, built-in cable retention, low cost, and withstand severe environmental conditions. The feasibilities of the glass ferrule connector and miniature 90 degree reflector have been successfully demonstrated. In this Phase I program, state-of-the-art ruggedized fiber connector, reduced size beam splitter, and miniature 90 degree reflector that meet the low loss and reliable operational requirement in military/aerospace avionics fiber-optic sensor network environments (including the extreme -75 to +200 øC range) will be further developed and demonstrated. |
| TRANSLUME
655 Phoenix Drive Ann Arbor, MI 48108 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(734) 528-6330
Dr. Philippe Bado NAVY 06-151 Selected for Award |
| Title: | 90-degree Fiber Optic Connectors for Condition Base Maintenance |
| Abstract: | Translume is proposing a novel interconnecting approach that should provide a simple, yet extremely robust and reliable way of attaching single-mode fibers, in tight spaces such as small avionic bays. This approach, which is compatible with environment where explosive vapors are present, can be adapted to create a simple, robust and reliable way of connecting single-mode fibers at 90-degree angles. |
| ALTEX TECHNOLOGIES CORP.
244 Sobrante Way Sunnyvale, CA 94086 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(408) 328-8303
Dr. Mehdi Namazian NAVY 06-152 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Naval Aviation Logistic Fuel Desulfurizer |
| Abstract: | Altex Technologies Corporation and Penn State University (PSU) have developed and demonstrated desulfurizers from 20 watts to 10 kWe for different logistic fuels and different fuel cell applications. In particular a 10 kWe Logistic Fuel Sulfur Removal (LFSR) system has been developed for Navy shipboard applications that effectively removes sulfur from JP-5. While LFSR is effective in desulfurizing JP-5, it is not directly applicable to aviation applications. Naval aviation requires a desulfurizer that is ultra compact, light weight, fast start, and flight worthy to 70,000 altitude and is able to withstand flight vibration and potential crash shock. All these requirements are met by the proposed Naval Aviation Logistic Fuel Desulfurizer (NAVLFD) that will effectively reduce the JP-5 sulfur from 3000 ppmw to a level suitable for PEM fuel cell. Innovations are included to make the system ultra compact, flight worthy, vibration and shock proof and meet other stringent aviation requirements. Under the proposed Phase I, the NAVAIR and ONR inputs will be used to refine the NAVLFD design. A breadboard unit will be developed, fabricated, tested and delivered for independent testing. This unit will not be optimized for weight and volume but will be a reasonably compact NAVLFD that will receive JP-5 and clean it to below 1 ppmw sulfur level. During a successful Phase II, the unit will be refined and optimized to and improved to deliver a flight worthy NAVLFD. |
| NU ELEMENT, INC.
2323 N. 30th St., STE 100 Tacoma, WA 98403 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(253) 573-1780
Dr. Michael K. Neylon NAVY 06-152 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Desulphurization of Logistic JP-5 Jet Fuel for Enhanced Fuel Cell Operations |
| Abstract: | The proposal solicits funding for the development of a fuel processing component for the reforming of sulfur-laden JP-5 and other logistic fuels as part of an overall fuel cell energy system. Sulfur in such fuels will hinder the performance of reforming processes and the fuel, but existing sulfur-handling methods either are too difficult to adapt to small on-board reforming systems, or will require frequent maintenance to replace adsorption beds. The proposal outlines the work towards the development of a processing step based on the pre-reforming of the fuel in order to achieve two goals simultaneously: to and to strip and remove the sulfur species from the lighter fuel product in order to be either captured or vented later, and to reduce the fuel to small hydrocarbons that are less prone to coke formation at higher temperatures. The overall process include regeneration and redundancy for protection of downstream processing components. The proposal described a two phase work plan. In the first Phase, catalysts for the proposal process will be developed and tested in laboratory conditions to determine the feasibility of the process. In the second Phase, a test bed unit for this process will be built and demonstrated. |
| TDA RESEARCH, INC.
12345 W. 52nd Ave. Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(303) 940-2349
Dr. Gokhan Alptekin NAVY 06-152 Selected for Award |
| Title: | JP-5 Desulfurization System |
| Abstract: | The major drawback to the use of fuel cells as electric generators and auxiliary power units (APUs) by deployed forces is their inability to directly use battlefield fuels. Both Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cells and the Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs) require a clean, essentially sulfur-free feed stream to prevent the poisoning of the fuel cell anode catalyst. Unfortunately, battlefield fuels (i.e., JP-5) contain high levels of refractory sulfur species (up to 3,000 ppmw), which need to be removed by advanced fuel processing technologies. TDA Research, Inc. (TDA) proposes to develop a novel sorbent-based desulfurization system, an integral part of a compact and efficient fuel processor, to produce a clean hydrogen feed from high sulfur fuels. In Phase I, we will develop a high capacity, regenerable adsorbent and demonstrate that its potential to reduce the sulfur content of the fuel to sub ppm levels tolerable by the fuel cells. We will show the long-term durability and regeneration capability of the sorbent under representative conditions. Based on experimental data, we will also carry out preliminary design of a desulfurization system integrated to a fuel processor that can deliver sulfur-free feed required to operate a 1 kW fuel cell APU. |
| IMPACT COMPUTING CORP.
606 Burnt Mills Avenue Silver Spring, MD 20901 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(301) 593-2350
Mr. Hyam Singer NAVY 06-154 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Simulation, Mission Rehearsal, and Training Tools (SMRTTs) for Counter-Terrorism Operations |
| Abstract: | Impact Computing proposes development of a Simulation, Mission Analysis, Rehearsal, and Training (SMART) tool. Key features include: Dynamic, extensible geospatial 3D object database Intuitive, easy-to-use tools for 3D spatial object creation and editing Easy-to-use scripting mechanisms Extensible and reusable script-based library of training scenarios and rehearsal Collaborative mission planning and rehearsal capability Support for low-bandwidth collaboration 2D / 3D integrated view Autonomous rapid 3D data collection sensor system Open, well-defined interface mechanisms that maximize interoperabilit Highly portable and easy to deploy browser-based clients Extensible, plug-and-play architecture and modular framewor Flexible and highly-configurable Our comprehensive SMART solution will enable mission planners, trainers and warfighters to fully exploit and integrate 3D geospatial visualization into their mission planning, training, execution and debriefing processes. Impact Computing will be supported on this effort by Object Raku Technologies, developers of the Sextant suite of 3D scene rendering tools. |
| SONALYSTS, INC.
215 Parkway North, PO Box 280 Waterford, CT 06385 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(860) 326-3621
Ms. Margaret Bailey NAVY 06-154 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Photogrammetry for 3D Scene Generation to Support Simulation, Mission Rehearsal, and Training Tools (SMRTTs) |
| Abstract: | 3D simulated environments will benefit mission rehearsal and training for counter-terrorism operations. The challenge is to create SMRTTs for simulating actual 3D environments that are easy to use, quicker, and more accurate than existing tools. To reproduce actual locations in a simulated 3D environment, photogrammetry will be the primary tool. Photogrammetry, a sophisticated image processing technique based upon triangulation, generates 3D models from 2D digital images. Properly used, photogrammetry can create exceptionally accurate 3D models. We will apply photogrammetry to the problem of visualizing the battlefield in 3D in a time-sensitive environment. Central goals will include automating the process to the maximum degree possible, and finding the optimum trade-off between speed and accuracy. The models will be stored in formats that can be easily edited by existing tools such as SketchUp. To further support training and mission rehearsal, a simulation framework will be provided. The Extensible Modeling and Simulation Framework (XMSF), a set of Web-based technologies within an extensible framework, will accommodate emergent modeling and simulation technologies and will also provide a means to interoperate with legacy simulations such as CTDB and OpenFlight. We will provide a cost effective solution for 3D visualization and simulation. |
| CREARE, INC.
P.O. Box 71 Hanover, NH 03755 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(603) 643-3800
Dr. Anthony J. Dietz NAVY 06-158 Selected for Award |
| Title: | High Temperature Superconductor Quick Disconnect |
| Abstract: | Superconducting degaussing, propulsion and power systems offer potential weight, size and performance advantages over conventional systems. High temperature superconductors enable superconducting operation at higher temperatures, reducing the size and complexity of the cooling system. Many of the required technologies for these systems are commercially available. However, new connector technology is required for such systems to be viable in the operation environment of a Navy ship, where routine maintenance and rapid damage repair will necessitate the disconnection and replacement of system components. Creare proposes a High Temperature Superconductor Quick Disconnect (HTSQD), which combines a demountable HTS joint with minimal electrical resistance with Creare's proven and patented U-Guard cryogenic seal. Our design goals are to minimize electrical resistance, minimize heat leak, and maximize operability, reliability and maintainability. Furthermore, the connector design will be guided by a system-level analysis. In Phase I we will prepare a preliminary design of the HTSQD and we will demonstrate its feasibility through tests and analyses. In Phase II we will fabricate a prototype connector and measure its performance. |
| TAI-YANG RESEARCH CORP.
9112 Farrell Park Lane Knoxville, TN 37922 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(865) 805-7261
Mr. Scott Marshall NAVY 06-158 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Rugged Low Heat Leak Cryogenic Seals and Electrical Quick Disconnects |
| Abstract: | Tai-Yang Research Company of Knoxville, TN proposes to design, fabricate, and test a novel cryogenic quick disconnect with a high temperature superconducting electrical connection. This novel quick disconnect is rugged, lightweight, and based upon proven cryogenic vacuum technology. |
| OCEAN ACOUSTICAL SERVICES & INSTRUMENTATION SYST
5 Militia Drive Lexington, MA 02421 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(781) 862-8339
Dr. Kevin Heaney NAVY 06-160 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Autonomous seafloor geotechnical property sensor |
| Abstract: | Remote classification of seafloor geotechnical properties is addressed in this SBIR. In shallow coastal waters, the current standard Navy databases do not contain information of suitable quality to determine pre-mission whether seafloor mines will be proud or buried, whether deployed bottom arrays will sink in mud or roll away from prescribed locations, or the performance of mine countermeasure (MCM) or anti-submarine warfare (ASW) systems. Sediment characteristics can be determined acoustically by using a combination of seismic reflection, reflection coefficient vs. grazing angle and interface wave travel time measurements. OASIS Inc. proposes to develop a system based upon existing Autonomous Undersea Vehicles (AUV) and novel acoustic measurement approaches for sediment characterization. By examining a combination of these hardware systems, algorithms and signal processing approaches, a system will be designed that has the cost, deployability, accuracy and resolution required for this challenging problem. OASIS proposes to work with the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution to leverage existing AUV systems for remote, autonomous acoustic classification of seafloor sediments. |
| OMNI TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
P O Box 766 Slidell, LA 70459 | |
| Phone:
PI: Topic#: |
(228) 813-1800
Mr. Sean Griffin NAVY 06-160 Selected for Award |
| Title: | Autonomous seafloor geotechnical property sensor |
| Abstract: | Omni Technologies, Inc. (OTI) is proposing to develop an autonomous, geotechnical survey tool for mapping marine sediment properties. Our approach is to leverage one of the available man-portable autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and develop an instrument capable of surveying a wide area. OTI proposes to combine a geotechnical instrument(s) with an acoustic sub-bottom profiler to combine large area coverage with accurate results. OTI will develop the sub-bottom profiler for a man-portable AUV based on our experience building medium size AUV profiler systems. While sub-bottom profilers coupled with sidescan sonar provide wide coverage of the seafloor, sediment classification from these acoustic data requires ground truth using geotechnical measurements. OTI will investigate various geotechnical sensors that can be autonomously deployed from a small AUV to obtain sediment shear strength at locations determined autonomously by the AUV during the survey. Reliable estimations of shear strength have been obtained with penetrometers, making them the leading candidate for our sensor package. Additional parameters (grain size, porosity, etc.) would be also be helpful and OTI will investigate alternative or additional sensors during Phase I. |