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ElectroDynamic Shield for Prevention of Optical Surface Contamination

Award Information

Agency:
Department of Transportation 		Branch:
N/A 		Award ID:
 Program Year/Program:
2012 / SBIR
Agency Tracking Number:
DTRT57-12-C-10071 		Solicitation Year:
2012 		Solicitation Topic Code:
12.2-FR2-007 		Solicitation Number:
N/A
Small Business Information
Poly Adaptive LLC
11719 Hinson Rd. ste. 130 Little Rock, AR 72212
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Woman-Owned: No
Minority-Owned: No
HUBZone-Owned: No
 
Phase 1
Fiscal Year: 2012
Title: ElectroDynamic Shield for Prevention of Optical Surface Contamination
Agency: DOT
Contract: DTRT57-12-C-10071
Award Amount: $150,000.00
 

Abstract:

The Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) Automated Track Inspection Program uses optical systems such as cameras or laser-based systems to monitor rail performance throughout the country. These systems are hindered by adverse weather conditions that allow water, dirt and mud to coat their optical components resulting in unwanted maintenance costs. Thus FRA is seeking a low-cost, practical solution. Poly-Adaptive LLC has developed a self-cleaning surface technology that can prevent accumulation and remove dirt and dust from surfaces and uses no moving parts. Our technology is based on patented innovations originally developed at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and further matured by NASA for robotic and manned space missions over the last decade. It is the aim of this proposal to apply these techniques to critical ground-based systems such as track inspection devices for railroads. The technology is called the Electrodynamic Shield (EDS) that is able to lift and transport dust particles from surfaces without moving parts. During activation particles cannot reach the surface and are directed away from the protected areas. It is the aim of this research to extend the EDS technology to prevent water-based contaminants such as mud from accumulating on sensitive optical systems.

Principal Investigator:

Charles R. Buhler
Principal Investigator
(321) 223-7852
charles.r.buhler@poly-adaptive.com

Business Contact:

Michael B. Miller
Chief Operating Office (COO)
(866) 525-3362
mbmiller@poly-adaptive.com
Small Business Information at Submission:

Poly Adaptive LLC
11719 Hinson Rd. ste. 130 Little Rock, AR 72212-3471

EIN/Tax ID: 273278819
DUNS: N/A
Number of Employees: N/A
Woman-Owned: No
Minority-Owned: No
HUBZone-Owned: No