DoD SBIR 2016.2

Agency:

Department of Defense

Branch:

N/A

Program / Phase / Year:

SBIR / Phase I / 2016

Solicitation Number:

DoD SBIR 2016.2

NOTE: The Solicitations and topics listed on this site are copies from the various SBIR agency solicitations and are not necessarily the latest and most up-to-date. For this reason, you should use the agency link listed below which will take you directly to the appropriate agency server where you can read the official version of this solicitation and download the appropriate forms and rules.

The official link for this solicitation is: http://www.acq.osd.mil/osbp/sbir/solicitations/sbir20162/index.shtml

Release Date:

April 22, 2016

Open Date:

May 23, 2016

Application Due Date:

June 22, 2016

Close Date:

June 22, 2016

Available Funding Topics

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Information Systems

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals, their country of origin, and what tasks each would accomplish in the statement of work in accordance with section 5.4.c.(8) of the solicitation.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this effort is to develop and demonstrate an integrated, robust, flexible, and intelligent PHM network for Army aviation applications.

DESCRIPTION: A FIIN would allow for advanced PHM capabilities that would increase aircraft safety and significantly impact O&S costs associated with aircraft maintenance. This network will provide prognostic and diagnostic capabilities to maintainers and crew members over a reliable and integrated network that enables automated inspections, damage detection, real-time component health, and physical state data for near real-time trend analyses and determination of remaining useful life. The goal is to develop a high bandwidth capacity, low cost network that allows for insertion of future PHM capabilities. The FIIN will be implemented into future Army aircraft, with possible insertion into legacy Army rotorcraft where cost effective. The FIIN should incorporate into Army aircraft without requiring any special installation equipment. In order to transition to Army aviation platforms, the FIIN should have minimal size, weight, and power requirements. The FIIN will be required to meet all current military specifications and future specification should be considered in its development. The rotorcraft of the future, the Future Vertical Lift (FVL) family of systems and beyond, will require significant improvements above current levels in operational availability, reliability, durability, maintainability, maintenance down time, and operating and support (O&S) costs. A key element of achieving the sustainment vision is an integrated, robust, flexible, and intelligent PHM network. The FVL will operate on an integrated mission system structure. The Joint Common Architecture (JCA) and Future Airborne Capability Environment (FACE) are being considered for this system structure; developers should consider this when developing their solution. The FIIN will be required to interface with the FVL system structure to enable the sharing of system health information to the aircrew members, the Adaptive Vehicle Management System (AVMS) for flight loads and mission capability data, and to transmit in-flight aircraft health and diagnostic information to ground crews to allow for the prepositioning of assets and maintenance execution when required. To meet these challenges the FIIN will require robustness, flexibility, the ability to reconfigure/self-heal if necessary, network integrity, accuracy and reliability. It will require a machine intelligence and a high degree of automation to ensure that the system continuously provides the physical state and health data for components connected to the FIIN and the ability to determine the proper route for distributing, storing and/or transmitting the data.

PHASE I: The Contractor shall develop and conduct a feasibility and trade-off assessment of a FIIN. The assessment should consider design options for the FIIN architecture. It should address the requirements and technical challenges indicated in the Topic’s description above as well as data types, network composition (copper, fiber-optic and wireless); interface protocols; data transport/distribution; data management; and operational environment, to include vibration, humidity, temperature, and pressure extremes. The product of the Phase I will be a final report that recommends a FIIN architecture to be fully developed and demonstrated on a prototype system.

PHASE II: The Contractor shall design, fabricate, assemble, and demonstrate key elements of the FIIN chosen from the Phase I assessment in a Systems Integration Laboratory (SIL) environment. The FIIN will be evaluated on the level of integration, robustness, flexibility, intelligence, and ability to reconfigure/self-heal to meet future aircraft health assessment requirements and the technical challenges indicated in the topic’s description. The degree of machine intelligence and automation that enables the system to continuously provide the physical state and health data for components connected to the network is of particular importance. The FIIN will also be assessed for its ability to determine the appropriate route for distributing, storing and/or transmitting the data.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The Contractor shall develop a fully operational prototype FIIN for SIL and full-scale rotorcraft ground demonstrations. Transition of this technology could be integrated in a broad range of military/civilian aircraft including future and legacy aircraft.

The resulting technology will facilitate reliable health management of the LRUs connected to it. The health management technology could also apply to components in commercial rotorcraft, to include aeromedical, off-shore & exploration, and general civil aviation.

REFERENCES:

ADS -79D- HDBK, Aeronautical Design Standard Handbook, Condition Based Maintenance System for US Army Aircraft, 7 March 2013.
Technical Standard, Future Airborne Capability Environment (FACE), Edition 2.1, May 2014.
Steven Harrigan, “A Condition-Based Maintenance Solution for Army Helicopters”, The AMMTIAC Quarterly, Volume 4, Number 2(http://ammtiac.alionscience.com/quarterly).
DuBois, Thomas; Kinahan, William and Dones, Fernado, Joint Common Architecture (JCA) Recommendations, American Helicopoter Society International, Forum 70 Proceedings, May 2014 (https://vtol.org/store/product/joint-common-architecture-jca-recommendations-9467.cfm).
Boydston, Alex; Feller, Peter; Vestal, Steve and Lewis, Bruce; Joint Common Architecture (JCA) Demonstration Architecture Centric Virtual Integration Process (ACVIP) Shadow Effort, AHS international Forum 71 Proceedings, May 2015 (https://vtol.org/store/product/joint-common-architecture-jca-demonstration-architecture-centric-virtual-integration-process-acvip-shadow-effort-10125.cfm)

KEYWORDS: Rotorcraft, Aviation, Health Management, Autonomous Control, Reliability, Sustainment, Network, Prognostics, Diagnostics, Joint Common Architecture (JCA), Airborne Capability Environment (FACE)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Weapons

OBJECTIVE: Develop optical materials and novel methodology to produce an infrared-transmitting dome with high optical quality and enough design flexibility to simultaneously minimize cost and aerodynamic drag for missile seeker applications. Produce a low-drag dome for demonstration in an imaging missile seeker to prove the design and manufacturing technology developed in this effort.

DESCRIPTION: Executive Summary Statements:

1.) The US Army desires the ability to operate imaging sensors behind a non-spherical dome at the front of a missile.

2.) This effort shall develop novel materials, fabrication processes, and assembly methods which shall allow for the production of transparent domes for missiles at a minimized cost which is favorably compared to the cost of current, traditional, spherical domes.

3.) Exterior dome shape must remain variable in order to allow for tailoring of aerodynamic characteristics to fit various missile platforms.

4.) Dome materials must simultaneously transmit 1.06-micron laser radiation and either mid-wave infrared (MWIR) or long-wave infrared (LWIR), while not significantly affecting transmission of Ka-band radar. A solution for each infrared band is preferred.

5.) This effort shall consider dome maximum base diameters of 2.75, 5, and 7 inches.

The US Army employs imaging and non-imaging sensors on a variety of missile platforms to provide precision guidance to targets. The Army now places a strong emphasis on decreasing cost in its missiles, while simultaneously increasing the effective range of those missiles. Aerodynamic drag must be reduced on current missile platforms in order to extend the range of the missiles in an efficient manner. A key drag component of a missile with an imaging seeker is the front-end dome.

Aerodynamic drag varies with missile speed. Therefore, the shape of minimal-drag domes must be tailorable to suit different missile platforms.

Domes must also be resistant to abrasions and other environmental effects typically seen by missiles in tactical environments. The Army requires novel research of highly-transparent and robust optical materials. Novel dome materials must allow favorable transmission and wavefront quality for imaging missile seekers. Dome material research must couple with fabrication and alignment innovation in order to realize the cost minimization desired under this effort.

Platforms of interest to the Army are those with outside missile diameters of 2.75-inches, 5-inches, and 7-inches. Transparent dome base diameters are typically slightly smaller than the missile outside diameter. This effort shall expect length to diameter ratios of the aerodynamic domes to be greater than 0.5 (spherical), but likely less than 1.5. The smallest platform of interest (2.75-inch diameter) is likely to have a stationary, non-gimbaled sensor operating behind the dome. The larger platforms (5 and 7 inch diameters) are more likely to be gimbaled. These gimbaled sensors will rotate behind the dome as much as 10-degrees in angle from the longitudinal axis of the missile and dome. This motion significantly complicates dome wavefront quality metrics.

Larger diameter missile platforms may also be required to operate while transmitting both 1.06-micron laser radiation as well as Ka-band radar through the dome. The Army consequently prefers dome materials which might allow for such transmission. The Army shall regard this as lower in priority for this effort than the goal of infrared wavefront transmission and low cost.

Past efforts have developed techniques for both optical correction [1], [2], and dome fabrication and measurement [3], [4], [5], [6], for gimbaled seekers. These techniques have either not considered gimbaled imaging quality, or have proven to be prohibitively expensive for current missile programs.

Relatively recent work in chalcogenide materials [7] and molding technology [8] imply that more unique lower-cost infrared materials and novel approaches to dome technology may exist. The Army also recognizes that fresh approaches to older concepts, like plastics [9] [10], might now be made feasible.

Consider missile speeds for this effort to be subsonic. Dome abrasion is likely due to external mounting on aircraft. The Army may entertain the idea of hardened coatings, possibly even shielding the dome until launch if it is necessary, or any other novel concept to improve the lifetime of any domes developed in this effort.

The Army is primarily interested in domes which are transparent in the mid-wave infrared (MWIR) and long-wave infrared (LWIR). Of secondary interest is the near-infrared (NIR). These correspond to wavelengths 3 to 5 microns, 7 to 13 microns, and 0.7 to 1.5 microns, respectively. The dome materials in this study only have to transmit one waveband at a time. However, the Army prefers the ability to operate seekers on these missile platforms in a dual-mode configuration with a 1.06 micron laser designator sensor. Therefore, preference will be given to dome materials which exhibit simultaneous transmission in one of the aforementioned wavebands as well as at 1.06 microns.

Minimized materials and production costs are just as important to the Army as the ability to tailor domes to aerodynamic shapes with high-quality optical performance. This SBIR effort exists in order to produce domes which cost less than ones currently produced with traditional materials and methods. The Army’s goal for this effort shall be to produce domes at 25% or less than the total cost of a missile seeker. An example production cost goal would be $3,000 for a dome on a large (7-inch diameter) missile platform. Smaller platform dome cost goals would be significantly less than this example.

Phase I proposals will be technically evaluated on the perceived ability of the technology to meet the previously-stated desired system performance goals as well as achieve future cost goals.

PHASE I: Deliverable Summary:

Prior to conclusion of Phase I, the Army requires:

1.) Documented optical materials and fabrication process research to prove feasibility and quantify the likelihood to successfully achieve a dome prototype exhibiting previously-described qualities.

2.) Formulaic descriptions of dome shapes which are achievable by the proposed materials and methods, and which prove adaptability of the novel technology to the range of previously-described dome shapes.

3.) Analysis of expected transmitted wavefront quality with consideration for the novel materials and methods and dome shapes.

4.) Demonstration of feasible operation and scalability of any key technology components which must be achieved to prove feasibility of the proposed technology.

5.) A defined and documented incremental research plan to reduce technical risk as well as achieve cost goals.

Detailed Description of the expected Phase I effort:

The goal of the Phase I effort is to demonstrate the feasibility of a missile seeker dome with the desired properties as described in the previously stated description.

The Phase I effort shall demonstrate concept feasibility through optical design and process fabrication design, proven with calculations, references of direct experience, and component technology prototyping and/or lab experimentation. The Phase I effort shall be formulated to significantly reduce the risk to the success of future research to occur in Phase II and beyond.

A successful Phase I shall demonstrate a good understanding of manufacturing tolerances and alignment procedures which may be required to produce a seeker using such a dome.

Dome cost is often the most costly single component in a missile seeker. This SBIR effort exists primarily to solve this problem. A well-designed Phase I effort will show a clear path to low cost of fabricated, mounted, and aligned domes in quantities of several hundred to only a few thousand per year. Phase I shall define an incremental path of research to develop the technology and achieve the cost goals.

A successful Phase I shall demonstrate dome technology intended for domes exhibiting length-to-diameter ratios in the range described in the solicitation, but show some variability such that small design changes for aerodynamic reasons might be possible in the future.

Transmitted optical wavefront is a key consideration for this effort. Phase I shall examine transmitted wavefronts for proposed dome designs and produce a metric and limiting parameters by which dome optical quality can be assessed.

A well-received Phase I proposal will declare the missile diameters and wavebands which will be investigated in the SBIR effort. The Army will favor a well-formulated proposal which shows technology that might address several or all of the platforms of interest. A Phase I effort may also be formulated to demonstrate a scaled-down version of the novel dome technology, provided that the effort also establishes a well-designed incremental path to a full-scale prototype in later phases.

PHASE II: The Phase II effort shall produce and deliver prototypes of cost-efficient, aerodynamic missile domes. A successful Phase II will develop the technology that was proven to be feasible in Phase I. Detailed optical designs and manufacturing tooling designs shall occur in Phase II. Detailed fabrication and alignment processes shall be developed in Phase II. The Phase II effort shall also investigate and develop methods by which the dome will be held in place on a missile body. Phase II shall produce a functioning imaging seeker optical assembly which can be integrated with a camera to record video and test. The Phase II effort shall allow the Army to make a make a full assessment of the ability of the technology to be developed to a point where it can be integrated onto a missile platform.

In Phase II, the investigating firm shall deliver to the Army no less than two (2) prototype domes, integrated with imaging lenses. The domes shall have different shapes in order to demonstrate the design versatility of the novel technology. Measured data on dome optical and mechanical quality shall be delivered, and shall use any novel quality metrics developed as a part of this effort. Materials discoveries and novel process steps shall be documented and reported. Any early parts which illustrate manufacturing process development shall also be delivered to the Army in order to provide evidence of low-cost production methods. The Phase II shall provide well-justified cost estimates for producing domes in production quantities.

A Phase II effort should also include marketing of the technology to missile prime contractors, and establishing relationships for potential integration of the dome technology into real missile platforms.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Simultaneously develop technology for integration into a specific missile platform as well as develop spin-off commercial applications for any materials, fabrication methods and processes, or novel design processes which were developed through the SBIR effort.

Potential commercial technology areas might be in commercial optics fabrication or software for design, assessment and/or fabrication of similar commercial optical components.

REFERENCES:

Trotta, P. A., “Precision Conformal Optics Technology Program,” Proceedings of SPIE Vol. 4375, pp 96-107 (2001)
Zhang, W., Zuo, B., Chen, S., Xiao, H., Fan, Z., “Design of fixed correctors used in conformal optical system based on diffractive optical elements,” Applied Optics Vol. 52, No. 3, pp461-466 (2013)
Parish, M., Pascucci, M., Corbin, N., Puputti, B., Chery, G., Small, J., “Transparent Ceramics for Demanding Optical Applications,” Proceedings of the SPIE Volume 8016 (2011).
Bambrick, S., Bechtold, M., DeFisher, S., Mohring, D., “Ogive and free-form polishing with UltraForm Finishing,” Proceedings of the SPIE Vol. 8016 (2011)
Shorey, A., Kordonski, W., Tricard, M., “Deterministic, Precision Finishing of Domes and Conformal Optics,” Proceedings of the SPIE Vol. 5786 (2005)
Ditchman, C., Diehl, D., Cotton, C., Burdick, N., Woodlock, J.Z., “Advances in freeform optical metrology using a multibeam low-coherence optical probe (Quad-Probe),” Proceedings of SPIE Volume 8016 (2011)
Schott, Inc., “Infrared Chalcogenide Glasses”. http://www.us.schott.com/advanced_optics/english/products/optical-materials/ir-materials/infrared-chalcogenide-glasses/index.html. (11/4/2015)
Nam, M., Washer, J., Oh, J., “Breaking the Mold: Overcoming Manufacturing Challenges of Chalcogenide Glass Optics,” Photonics Spectra, http://www.photonics.com/Article.aspx?AID=57309 (11/4/2015)
Taylor, C., Borden, M. “LWIR-transmitting windows,” US Pat. No. 5493126A, 20 Feb 1996
Borden, M., Bitting, H., Taylor, C., Lurier, J., “Composite infrared windows using silicon and plastic,” US Pat. No. 5851631, 22 Dec 1998

KEYWORDS: dome, seeker, optics, infrared, missile, optical materials, molding, assembly

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials/Processes

OBJECTIVE: Develop a low cost, domestically sustainable, elastomeric material for use as internal solid rocket motor case insulation, and demonstrate improved performance over state-of-the-art materials through increased stable char yield, reduced erosion, and low thermal conductivity of material up to maximum internal case temperatures.

DESCRIPTION: Traditional solid rocket motors require internal case insulation to prevent overheating of the motor case and subsequent failure of the motor. As newer designs utilizing composite materials begin to replace metal rocket motor cases to provide improved structural and Insensitive Munitions (IM) performance, internal insulation remains critical to keep the case wall well below the glass transition temperature of the matrix. Another essential function of the insulator when used in composite motor cases is to serve as the pressure seal. In addition to providing the necessary insulation for the motor case wall, these materials can also be tailored for use in thermal barriers, supporting multi-mission and extended range goals for tactical missiles.

Conventional motor case insulation materials are easily eroded when confronted with high heat flux and particle impingement. While some of this material ablation contributes to heat removal, increased insulation thickness is required to account for the material loss and maintain a positive thermal margin at the case wall. As a result, the thicker insulation consumes critical volume within the rocket motor and adds unwanted mass.

The intent of this topic is to develop novel, improved performance insulation materials through the use of commercially available constituent materials (additives, modifiers, fillers, reinforcements, etc.) that enable the production of a thick, tenacious, low thermal conductivity char. Balance between heat removal via mass loss and char stability is desired.

A focus on low cost materials and processes is essential, as is the long term domestic viability of the new material. Processability of the new material is critical for ease of insertion into typical solid rocket motor case manufacturing processes. In addition, special consideration must be given to the interface of the insulation material with the propellant. The insulator must have stable properties across the operating temperature range of the missile (typically -45 °F to +145 °F).

PHASE I: Identify and evaluate candidate materials to satisfy the performance objectives: thermal conductivity of the virgin material < 0.21 BTU/hr-ft-°F, and thermal conductivity of the charred material < 126.0 (BTU/ft-sec-°R) x 10^-6 at 6460 °R. Develop processing methods to ensure and demonstrate scalable processability. Characterize candidate filled-elastomer material systems through thermal, mechanical, and physical property testing. Perform propellant interface & bond line characterization with typical high performance propellants. Compare performance of candidate systems with state-of-the-art elastomeric insulation baseline through analyses of the physical properties and thermomechanical performance. Reference 5 provides typical physical properties for state-of-the-art Kevlar/EPDM insulation materials in Table 1, as well as thermal and erosion data for the Kevlar/EPDM designation ARI-2727. This reference (or another relevant reference for state-of-the-art solid rocket motor internal insulation material properties) may be used for comparison with new materials to determine the relative improvements in performance. Offerors should include a cost analysis of candidate materials for comparison with state-of-the-art materials.

PHASE II: Fabricate and test novel insulation material systems to verify improvements in thermo-mechanical properties. Perform relevant coupon level laboratory testing (e.g., plasma or oxyacetylene torch testing) to compare performance with state-of-the-art baseline insulation and down-select candidate(s). Perform sub-scale motor testing with down-selected candidate(s) to demonstrate performance. Provide evidence of process viability for large scale production while focusing on low cost, efficiency, and minimizing environmental impacts while maintaining the necessary material performance.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Demonstrate the new insulation material’s thermo-mechanical capability in a relevant environment. Anticipated benefits for tactical rocket motors include improved motor efficiency, supporting multi-mission and extended range goals, reduced system mass and parasitic volume, and materials and processing techniques for low cost, sustainable, domestically-manufactured critical materials. Phase III applications for integration exist across the portfolio of current tactical Army systems and Technology Efforts through the replacement of thicker internal rocket motor insulation. Programs that would benefit from this innovation are not limited to Army systems, but extend throughout the Department of Defense and to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Commercial applications for this type of low cost, high performance elastomeric insulation material may exist in the private space industry and other commercial areas as well.

REFERENCES:

A.M. Helmy, “Thermal Analysis of Solid Rocket Motor’s Heat Insulation Materials,” AIAA-83-1438, AIAA 18th Thermophysics Conference, 1-3 June 1983, Montreal, Canada.
Steven A. Kyriakides, Scott W. Case, “Processing Mechanical Test Specimens of Charred Solid Rocket Motor Insulation Materials,” Journal of Spacecraft and Rockets, Vol. 46, No. 6, November-December 2009.
D.L. Misterek, K.K. Pace, “Motor Internal Insulation Design Verification & Non-Conformance Analysis,” AIAA Joint Propulsion Conference, 32nd, Lake Buena Vista, FL, 1-3 July 1996.
V.F. Hribar, “A Critique on Internal Insulation Materials for Solid Propellant Rocket Motors,” J. Spacecraft, Vol. 3, No. 9, Revision 9 May 1966.
Catherine A. Yezzi, Barry B. Moore, “Characterization of Kevlar/EPDM Rubbers for Use as Rocket Motor Case Insulators,” AIAA-86-1489,” AIAA 22nd Joint Propulsion Conference, 16-18 June, Huntsville, AL.
W.F.S. Tam, M. Bell, “ASRM Case Insulation Development,” AIAA-93-2211, “AIAA 29th Joint Propulsion Conference, 28-30 June 1993, Monterey, CA.

KEYWORDS: Thermostructural composites, ablation, erosion, solid rocket motor insulation, filled elastomers

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics

OBJECTIVE: Develop an autonomous capability for missile systems to perform real time discrimination between targets, such as Rolled Homogeneous Armor and MOUT. Increase missile system lethality by rapidly and accurately identifying the target and automatically configuring the warhead.

DESCRIPTION: There is a need to develop an autonomous capability for missiles and munitions to discriminate between Rolled Homogeneous Armor (RHA) and various other softer targets on impact in real-time. Given the hardness of some targets, especially stone masonry, there needs to be a mechanism in place to identify an armor target from a MOUT target. In the absence of gunner input or a magnetometer, this task is not currently possible. Previous research focused on developing target signatures from impact sensors. This program will fuse data from multiple sensors to provide input to a configurable warhead for increased lethality effects. The sensors must be rugged and durable to survive high impact velocities greater than 200mps. Total system volume should not exceed 3 cubic inches.

RHA was chosen to represent very hard targets/materials such as tanks and heavily armored vehicles. Softer targets could include, but are not limited to brick, sand and thin steel. These materials represent targets such as cars, non-armored vehicles, bunkers, etc... The overall system should provide a discrimination result in less than 100 microseconds, with a 95% efficiency and reliability rating.

PHASE I: Determine the feasibility of integrating multiple sensors to discriminate between RHA and softer materials. Document and provide target classification data from the individual sensors. Measure, analyze and document the effect of impact angle and velocity on the sensor system response. Document potential improved resilience against false triggering on brush, branches, etc. Provide a conceptual graphical depiction of the end system, detailing the inputs to an advanced fuzing system for multi-purpose, multi-mode anti-armor warheads. Laboratory demonstration of the concept technology would be beneficial and useful for data collection and entry to the Phase II process.

PHASE II: Fabricate the electronics and data acquisition system for the Phase I sensor system. Integrate the multiple sensors with the electronics and data acquisition system. Test integrated device amongst complete target set (hard and soft targets). Demonstrate accuracy and reliability of target discrimination system.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The technology can be integrated with an advanced seeker and has a direct, fully supported transition path into the next generation close combat missile or munition. The advanced electronics and sensing capabilities can be transitioned to commercial applications.

REFERENCES:

Fridling, Barry, “The State Of Multiple Sensor, Multiple Target Tracking In Ballistic Missile Defense.” IDA PAPER P-2590. http://www.dtic.mil/dtic/tr/fulltext/u2/a245433.pdf
Cech, Len, “Active Magnetic Field Based Sensing for Improved Detection and Discrimination of Side Impact Crashes.”
https://www.google.com/patents/CA1140214A1
Patent US6378435. “Variable target transition detection capability and method therefor” https://www.google.com/patents/US6378435
Patent US4019440. “Impact discriminating apparatus for missiles and the like, and method for impact discrimination.” https://www.google.com/patents/US4019440.

KEYWORDS: acoustic sensors, impact sensors, magnetometers, advanced optical sources, broadband optics, data fusion, target discrimination

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics

OBJECTIVE: To develop longwave infrared tunable laserline rejection filters for uninterrupted enhanced force protection and situational awareness.

DESCRIPTION: There is a need to develop tunable notch or laserline rejection transmission filters operating in the longwave infrared (LWIR) spectral region to protect and allow uninterrupted operation of the LWIR sensors. Such a filter will efficiently block a single or multiple discrete wavelength band(s), while transmitting light in the rest of the spectral region. Currently, there are a number of optical filters: bandpass, high-pass, low-pass, etc., available for various applications in optics, imaging, spectroscopy, etc. Such tunable filters include acousto-optic tunable filters (AOTFs), liquid crystal tunable filters (LCTFs), Fabry-Perot filters, etc. that operate over many spectral regions. Existing filter technology is inadequate for notch filtering application since these filters transmit only a narrow band of light and reject the rest of the light in the spectral region. Therefore, novel compact notch filters need to be developed which will be useful in applications where a tunable intense light source or laser is used for a specific task and the operator and the environment need to be protected from the intense radiation.

The primary goal of the current SBIR is to develop a tunable LWIR notch filter capable of rejecting greater than 90% of IR light at the notch, while maintaining a greater than 90% transmission in the rest of the LWIR spectral region. A filter linewidth of less than 200 nm is preferred with an optical power handling of 200-500 mW with an acceptance angle close to ± 27 degree over less than an inch clear aperture. Proposed notch filter designs should clearly include an efficient mechanism for dissipating the absorbed or reflected optical energy at the notch wavelength. An electrical or optoelectronic tuning mechanism should be preferred. Materials should not be limited to traditional optical materials; instead exploitation of compatible material platforms suitable for operation in the LWIR spectral range is encouraged. Ability of the chosen material to dissipate the required optical power and operate under standard military specification should be addressed. The proposed designs should be both polarization and vibration insensitive with no-moving-parts. Fabrication techniques needed to realize proposed filter designs should be clearly defined in the Phase I effort. The device size should be less than one cubic inch and per unit cost should be close to $500.00.

PHASE I: Feasibility study for design and analysis of a tunable LWIR notch filter capable of rejecting greater than 90% of IR light at the notch, while maintaining a greater than 90% transmission in the rest of the 8-12 µm LWIR spectral region. A filter linewidth of 200 nm or smaller is preferable with an optical power handling of 200-500 mW with an acceptance angle of ± 27 degree over less than an inch clear aperture. These filters should be both polarization and vibration insensitive. The deliverables shall include a detailed design and simulation results for a tunable optical notch filter along with preliminary experimental characterization results for an early prototype filter.

PHASE II: Fabrication and demonstration of prototype tunable LWIR notch transmission filters which are polarization insensitive with close to an inch clear aperture with an acceptance angle of ± 27 degree and continuous electronic tuning of optical notch across the LWIR spectral region (8 – 12 micron). Tuning of the notch across the optical spectrum must be achieved at greater than 60 Hz with the smallest possible size. The filter should be capable of rejecting greater than 90% of IR light at the notch, while maintaining a greater than 90%transmission in the rest of the 8-12 µm spectral region. The expected deliverables are at least two fully operational prototype tunable LWIR notch transmission filters. Also, potential commercial and military transition partners for a Phase III effort shall be identified.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Further research and development during Phase III efforts will be directed towards a final deployable design, incorporating design modifications based on results from tests conducted during Phase II, and improving engineering/form-factors, equipment hardening, and manufacturability designs to meet the U.S. Army CONOPS and end-user requirements. Manufactured LWIR tunable laserline rejection filters shall be integrated into military systems utilizing LWIR sensor technologies. Such LWIR tunable laserline rejection filters are useful for commercial applications that use the LWIR lasers for manufacturing and other industrial applications where protection of the operator and the environment is required to avoid damage from high intensity laser radiation. The LWIR tunable laserline rejection filters will provide uninterrupted enhanced force protection and day/night situational awareness. Military applications for this technology include laser safety devices for Mounted/Dismounted Ground System thermal sensors, and for thermal imaging systems on manned aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles and unattended ground sensors. Potential commercial applications include laser protection of thermal security cameras for use in Homeland Security applications (perimeter security at airports, coastal ports, nuclear power installations) or other remote viewing scenarios where an intense laser could be used by criminals/terrorists to defeat security at range.

REFERENCES:

N. Gat, Imaging spectroscopy using tunable filters: a review, Proc. SPIE 4056, p. 50-64, 2000.
N. Gupta, Hyperspectral imager development at Army Research Laboratory, Proc. SPIE 6940, p. 69401P-1-10, 2008.
D. S. Hobbs and B. D. MacLeod, Design fabrication and measured performance of anti-reflecting surface textures in infrared transmitting materials, Proc. SPIE 5786, p. 349-364, 2005.
C. Moser and F. Havermeyer, Ultra-narrow-band tunable laserline notch filter, Appl Phys B 95, p. 597-601, 2009.
W. Gao, et al., Excitation of plasmonic waves in graphene by guided-mode resonances, ACS Nano 6, p. 7806-7813, 2012.
I. O. Mirza, et al., Metamaterial-based tunable absorber in the infrared regime, Proc. SPIE 8261, p. 82610R-1-7, 2012.
E. Rosenkrantz and S. Arnon, Tunable electro-optic filter based on metal-ferroelectric nanocomposite for VLC, Opt. Lett. 39, p. 4954-7, 2014.

KEYWORDS: longwave infrared, LWIR, tunable, transmission filter, notch filter, laserline rejection filter

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Information Systems

OBJECTIVE: Develop and demonstrate a high speed low loss optical switch enabling high capacity quantum entanglement routing in fiber-based quantum networks.

DESCRIPTION: The Army is actively developing novel networks based on quantum phenomena, which will provide unprecedented degree of security and performance in challenging contested environments. Quantum mechanics permits nontrivial special connection between two or more physically separated systems that is called quantum entanglement. In quantum networks numerous pairs of entangled photons propagate over optical fibers to entangle remote network nodes. The resulting quantum entanglement between the nodes allows them to act in accord without explicitly exchanging any information. This in turn offers a number of novel functionalities, extending beyond those available to classical networks such as byzantine general agreement, multi-party function evaluations, quantum finger printing, and anonymous quantum communications. Testing and demonstrating these functionalities requires a small-scale operational quantum photonic network.

Many building blocks for quantum network (such as entanglement sources and detectors) have been researched, designed, built and even are available commercially. Yet a number of technological gaps remains. Some of these gaps – the design and development of hi-fidelity robust quantum memory units require advances in fundamental science. Yet there are the other areas for which the science had been well developed, and only the lack of deployable engineering solutions hinders the progress in quantum networking research and development. For instance, a crucial piece badly needed for putting together a quantum photonic network is a cascadable low-loss (< 1 dB), ultra-fast (GHz), fiber-based cross-bar switch, which would operate at 1550nm transparency window of optical fibers. This element will switch, route and time-bin entangled photon pairs for network operation [1].

The state-of-the-art fiber-optics switching solutions offered by telecom industry are either too slow (low-loss and low speed mechanical and MEMS switches) or have too much loss and polarization sensitivity (high speed and relatively high loss lithium niobate electro-optical switches). It is well understood in the community that low loss and high speed switches are possible to build utilizing the well-studied nonlinear optical phenomena in fibers [2,3]. Thus far such switches have been demonstrated, albeit near the 1300nm fiber transparency band. The switches operating in more technologically relevant (thought to be more challenging) 1550 nm transparency window are yet to be built. The engineering challenges here start with selection of appropriate component solutions for the pump laser and the nonlinear fiber, designing low loss pump/signal combiners, identifying suitable subsystem designs and testing components in out-of-spec ranges. More specifically, the trade-offs between the strength of chosen fiber nonlinearity, its dispersion and loss needs to be characterized to determine the optimal design. While challenging, this task does not require fundamentally new scientific approaches. Instead it calls for adapting existing technologies to the new wavelength range, which amounts to an effort in system engineering.

In summary, there is a need for the development of a quantum switch that operates in the 1550 nm band, has low loss (0.5 dB), high speed (10GHz band), and high fidelity when switching quantum signals. The switch characteristics should be suitable for cascaded operation, and must be demonstrated.

PHASE I: Investigate components to meet the project goals. Demonstrate the concept design. Show switching operation through laboratory testing, modeling, simulation and detailed calculations. Deliverable specification should include loss not exceeding 1dB over 10GHz band and extinction ratios of 13dB in pulsed configuration. Consider the impact of cascaded operation on the isolation of spurious photons. Prepare a plan for prototype development and verification of the planned specifications.

PHASE II: Demonstrate, characterize and deliver a prototype switch. Deliverable specification should include the fidelity of a quantum signal through a single and through cascaded switches to be above 90% for room temperature operation; the switching gate of 50ps; background Raman noise level of 1e-5 photons/gate; and overall insertion loss of 0.5dB. Determine the exact operating signal wavelength range. Extend the system to other relevant wavelength bands if possible.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Improving the prototype toward commercialization. The contractor should work with Army scientists and engineers, along with commercial partners, to identify and implement technology transition to military (ARMDEC, ECBC & CERDEC) and civilian applications (Datacom providers). The applications could impact many areas where the temporal resolution of sensitive light detectors are important including imaging through turbid media, laser radar, fluorescence lifetime imaging, and deep space optical communications (high sensitivity pulse position modulation receivers). Another potential application domain is Datacom, which needs for a cost-effective fast optical packet switch for future intra-data center networks.

REFERENCES:

Migdall, A. L., D. Branning, and S. Castelletto. "Tailoring single-photon and multiphoton probabilities of a single-photon on-demand source." Physical Review A 66.5 (2002): 053805.
Hall, Matthew A., Joseph B. Altepeter, and Prem Kumar. "Ultrafast switching of photonic entanglement." Physical review letters 106.5 (2011): 053901.
Rambo, Timothy M., et al. "Low-loss all-optical quantum switching." Photonics Society Summer Topical Meeting Series, 2013 IEEE. IEEE, 2013.

KEYWORDS: quantum networks, entanglement, fiber-optics, switching, routing

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics

OBJECTIVE: The design, development and fabrication of a realistic indoor GPS constellation simulated signal environment to support GPS antenna and receiver testing in a jamming environment to greatly reduce the need to conduct outdoor jamming testing and bridge the capability gap between outdoor testing and laboratory testing.

DESCRIPTION: Typical laboratory GPS testing lacks realism compared to live testing and laboratory test configurations do not precisely represent the motion of the orbiting GPS satellites with respect to the GPS receiver antenna being tested. The spatial relationships between the GPS satellites and the test item’s antenna is either ignored (when injecting the GPS signals into the receiver’s RF input port) or can only be approximated (tripods/fixed GPS satellite positions) for a short time period since the live GPS satellites are constantly in motion.

The indoor GPS satellite constellation antenna array will provide a complimentary test capability that supplements outdoor GPS EA/ET testing and can greatly reduce the amount of outdoor GPS EA/ET testing events. It will not completely replace outdoor test events but it will provide better realism than existing laboratory testing without the need for spectrum coordination at local, regional, and national levels associated with outdoor GPS EA/ET testing. It will allow for additional opportunities to test GPS systems under realistic conditions to better ensure vulnerabilities are not overlooked. This solution bridges the gap between laboratory and outdoor GPS EA/ET testing.

The position of individual GPS satellite (space vehicle) signal emissions in the indoor array will be dynamic to match the simulated GPS satellite relative position with respect to the receiver under test. The fact that the orbital movement of the actual GPS constellation has the effect of real-time motion makes this solution as realistic as possible. The system should work with a commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) GPS signal simulator (for example the Spirent Federal Systems, Inc. Model 7790) to produce a realistic and dynamic GPS signal constellation at signal levels consistent with live GPS signals and separate them onto individual outputs (channels) that will feed the array. The array will be controlled by the GPS Simulator. The array should be capable of simulating the dynamic positions of at least 14 satellites (L1 & L2 frequencies at C/A-code, Y-code, and M-code).

The size of the array would need to be scalable to fit within a climate-controlled anechoic chamber. The antenna array should be able to be used within a chamber equipped with up to seven other antennas which would be providing threat signal generation. GPS Satellite Simulator Signals will be provided from a control room, adjacent to the anechoic chamber, where EA/ET Signal Generators, Test Control Computers, and Data Collection equipment will reside.

PHASE I: Determine feasibility and provide a prototype design for the Indoor GPS Satellite Constellation Antenna Array.

PHASE II: Develop and demonstrate a prototype Indoor GPS Satellite Constellation Antenna Array which can be integrated with a commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) GPS signal simulator.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: A commercial variation may include a complete system package, including the antenna array, EA/ET system generation and control, control and data collection systems and software, and test item positioner, ready for installation into a suitable chamber and connection to a COTS GPS simulator.

REFERENCES:

http://www.gps.gov/systems/gps/
http://www.ets-lindgren.com/MicrowaveChambers
http://gpsworld.com/anti-jam-protection-by-antenna/
http://www.peostri.army.mil/PM-ITTS/TSMO/

KEYWORDS: GPS, Antenna, Array, Position, Dynamic, Satellite, Simulator, Constellation, Attack, Emerging, Threat, Anechoic, Chamber, Global, Positioning, Controlled, Radiation, Pattern, Jamming, Indoor

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics

OBJECTIVE: To develop an expendable active RF radar countermeasure that can be deployed from rotary wing aircraft and effective at defeating threats independently or in conjunction with low powered directed energy RF countermeasures.

DESCRIPTION: The Army is interested in novel RF countermeasures compatible with the limited size, weight, and power (SWaP) of rotary wing aircraft to counter advances in radar threat systems as a replacement for traditional passive radar countermeasure expendables. The radar countermeasure would be expected to provide a false radar target through active jamming from an expendable. Future expendable technology concepts should consider small power source and aerodynamics that could support enough flight/transmit time and coverage for the platform to maneuver or eliminate the threat. Deployment of this type of countermeasure would be a low weight and low cost alternative and/or supplement to traditional countermeasure systems against radar and RF guided weapons. Current RF expendables on Army Rotary wing are a simple chaff, basically metallic shavings that create a false radar signature in an attempt to either hide the platform or distract an active radar system. This topic is expected to replace chaff by providing active transmission of countermeasure waveforms through application of digital RF memory countermeasure techniques from an expendable.

Developed expendable size constraints are 1 inch x 1 inch x 8 inches (length). Furthermore the expendable should be activated via an impulse cartridge (also known as squib), examples include OMI-M796, and OMI-BBU-355. Objective weight of the expendable is below 200g and must be operable in all weather conditions and temperatures from -45 to 75 degrees Celsius. Preliminary output power objective is 10W average power and a frequency range from 2-18 GHz. Active emission times is expected to be between 15 and 30 seconds from ejection, giving the equipped rotor craft time to mask it’s signature with terrain or other countermeasure capability.

PHASE I: Provide trade analysis and develop overall system design that includes transmitter circuit design and aerodynamics flight model accounting for rotor wash of the aircraft. Expected deliverable from Phase I would include a white paper describing the engineering trade space for potential system designs, notional circuit designs and an analysis of the viability of the aerodynamic flight model.

PHASE II: Develop and demonstrate expendable prototype with realistic power source suitable for long shelf life. Conduct testing to prove feasibility of flight time in operational conditions. Phase II deliverables would include a detailed design of prototype system, including bill of materials and layout, as well as a white paper focused on potential a long shelf life power supply solution.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: At conclusion of Phase III, the expendable would be an additional asset for employment by military rotary wing aircraft by providing countermeasure effects against advanced radar threat systems. Installation and operation would be compatible with current expendable dispensing systems. Information on specifications of existing expendable dispenser system can be found at BAE Systems reference the AN/ALE-47 Dispenser System. The most likely transition of this technology would be to Program Manager (PM) Aircraft Survivability Equipment (ASE) and/or PM Close Combat Systems (CCS) for fielding on Army helicopters. The flight dynamics of the expendable could be modified to suit high-altitude commercial jetliner for self-protection against military grade radars.

REFERENCES:

Avionics Department, Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division Pt. Mugu. Electronic Warfare and Radar Systems Engineering Handbook. 2013. http://www.navair.navy.mil/nawcwd/ewssa/downloads/NAWCWD%20TP%208347.pdf
United States General Accounting Office. Report to the Secretary of Defense: Electronic Warfare. 2001. http://www.gao.gov/assets/240/231543.pdf
Electronic Warfare Technology -- Trends and Visions. Kenneth Helberg, Tony White, Kevin Geiger, Joseph Koesters, David Wilkes, and Lt Ron Merryman, Wright-Research & Development Center Avionics Lab (WRDC/AAWW).1990 www.dtic.mil/cgi-bin/GetTRDoc?AD=ADA223034
Chaff, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chaff_(countermeasure)
EW 104: Electronic Warfare Against a New Generation of Threats by David L. Adamy. Artech House, Feb 1 2015
ALE-47 Airborne Countermeasures Dispenser System, http://www.baesystems.com/en-us/product/ale47-airborne-countermeasures-dispenser-system

KEYWORDS: Expendable, active, Radio Frequency, helicopter, countermeasure, self-protection, electronic, radar, missile

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics

OBJECTIVE: The ubiquitous nature of modern computing requires an arsenal of security tools and techniques. One of the more powerful techniques is the employment of Automated Tools. While many Automated Tools exist they are unfortunately weak in many critical aspects such as forcing a tradeoff between large numbers of false positives and false negatives, failure to identify deliberately injected malicious code, and lack of breadth of coverage, including and a failure to account for many aspects of computing hardware such as hardware accelerators. This topic seeks to develop a set of robust Automated Tools for the modern heterogeneous computing systems following both active and passive security paradigms to address the shortcomings above which are intrinsic to existing technologies. The Automated Tools proposed will provide software security at development and deployment stages for both custom and integrated Commercial-Off-The-Shelf systems.

DESCRIPTION: The current set of Automated Tools available for the security professional have a number of advantages such as speed and volume of coverage [1] [2]. However, these advantages come at a cost which includes limited breadth of scope, over specialization, and a complete ignorance of modern computing hardware designs – e.g. hardware accelerators such as the Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) [3] [2] [4]. Additionally, current software assurance scanning technologies result in finding lists which are largely incomplete (many false negatives), or which contain many false positives requiring large amounts of human analysis to triage.

Therefore as part of mission critical cybersecurity we solicit for the development of a more robust and powerful set of Automated Tools for the modern computing system. This proposal seeks to develop a set of robust Automated Tools for the modern heterogeneous computing systems following both active and passive security paradigms to address the shortcomings above which are intrinsic to existing technologies. The Automated Tools proposed will provide software security at development and deployment stages for both custom and integrated Commercial-Off-The-Shelf systems.

PHASE I: Develop a white paper or prototype which documents a process for developing a robust Automated Tools set for modern computing systems that will provide cybersecurity. The proposed solution shall follow both active and passive design/implementation paradigms that employ automated interface testing for Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS) and machine learning methodologies across distributed and shared heterogeneous architecture environments [5].

The active design model will be defined by real-time testing to detect vulnerability to known hacking techniques, malicious code variants, and interfaces to insecure COTS components using powerful machine learning algorithms to detect intentional and unintentional secure coding issues. This type of analysis would leverage dynamic testing techniques to find exploitable vulnerabilities. The passive design model of this proposed Automated Tools set will be defined by uncovering deliberately injected malicious code logic including the detection of specialized types of malicious code such as GPU-Assisted malware in already developed software applications.

PHASE II: Develop a working prototype, based on the selected Phase I design which demonstrates capabilities of a robust Automated Tools for Cyber Security.

The proposed solution shall provide a higher level of cybersecurity for the developer and security professional. The ability of Automated Tools to actively recognize potential malicious code and logic techniques as the system is developed will provide critical security throughout the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC), which will significantly reduce costs [2]. By finding potential vulnerabilities earlier in the lifecycle, rather than through problem reports after systems are fielded, sustainment costs can be drastically reduced, and system readiness drastically enhanced. The recognition of the potential for malicious attack via the GPU has far reaching benefit for security as well, given the high number of systems that now routinely incorporate such devices in their architectures [4].

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: In conjunction with Army, optimize the prototype created in Phase II. Implement a Robust Software Assurance Tools for Cyber Security solution for test and evaluation, using commercially available technologies. The implementation should ensure that the system is interoperable with existing system of systems. Perform steps required to commercialize the system.

REFERENCES:

Klocwork, "Developing Software in a Multicore and Multiprocessor World," Ottawa, ON, 2010.
G. McGraw, Software Security: Builiding Security In, Addision-Wesley Professional, 2006.
"Comparative Study of Risk Management in Centralized and Distributed Software Developement Environment," Scientific Internation (Lahore), vol. 26, no. 4, pp. 1523-1528, 2014.
G. Vasiliadis, M. Polychronakis and S. Ioannidis, "GPU-Assisted Malware," International Journal of Information Security, vol. 14, no. 3, pp. 289-297, 2015.
M. Atighetchi, V. Ishakian, J. Loyall, P. Pal, A. Sinclair and R. Grant, "Metronome: Operating System Level Performance Management via Self-Adaptive Computing," in Proceedings of the 49th Annual Design Automation Conference, 2012.
D. Quinlan, C. Liao, T. Panas, R. Matzke, M. Schordan, R. Vuduc and Q. Yi, "ROSE User Manual: A Tool for Building Source-to-Source Translators," Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, 2015.

KEYWORDS: Cyber Security, Automate, ROSE, Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS), malicious, vulnerabilities, Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), General Programming for GPU (GPGPU), Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics

OBJECTIVE: Develop a mid-wave infrared (MWIR) laser module, based on coherent combination of several laser emitters, for directed energy and remote sensing applications.

DESCRIPTION: Recent advancements in MWIR laser technology offers efficient continuous wave (CW) and pulsed laser sources operating at near-room temperatures. State of the art semiconductor quantum cascade laser (QCL) emitters produce stable single-mode emissions above 1 watt (W) power levels. Various technologies are employed to increase the laser output power levels based on beam combination from several emitters. The progress in MWIR laser power scaling is limited due to the commercial availability of various optical components required for efficient MWIR beam combining, as well as the difficulties associated with the combination of a larger number of laser emitters into a single diffraction-limited output beam. Presently attainable MWIR laser output power levels do not exceed a few tens of watts. At the same time, coherent beam combining is rapidly evolving as an important technology capable of combining a large number (> 50) of individual emitters, and therefore presents an attractive option for beam combining in MWIR. The purpose of this SBIR is to develop a reliable MWIR laser module for scaling output powers in excess of 100W with high output beam quality, stability, and power. The laser module should be designed for high volume production manufacturing with high yields. The goal is to field this technology to rotary wing platforms where size, weight, and power (SWaP) is a primary concern. Only technologies that have a reasonable chance of meeting SWaP requirements will be considered. Commercial availability of these laser modules with output powers in excess of 100W for directed energy applications will significantly enhance the operational performance of several military laser systems.

PHASE I: Design an innovative concept for the coherent high power MWIR laser beam combining architecture capable of scaling the output beam power levels to hundreds of watts while maintaining near-diffraction-limited output beam quality. Develop a detailed initial concept design of the architecture and the optical components required during the course of the beam combining. The design should clearly demonstrate scalability of the combining approach to several tens of laser emitters operating in the spectral range around 3 to 5 microns, with the combined power levels exceeding 100W CW. Develop detailed analysis of the predicted performance of the combined output beam quality with detailed simulations. This Phase will demonstrate the feasibility of producing a demonstration of the proposed system concept and will outline demonstration success criteria, tolerance analysis, and performance assessment.

PHASE II: Using results from Phase I, produce a prototype beam combining module employing MWIR semiconductor lasers, capable of coherently combining a large number of individual laser emitters, with near-diffraction-limited output beam quality. Demonstrate the prototype in accordance with the demonstration success criteria developed in Phase I. The fractional beam power within the central node of the combined far field distribution should not be less than 80% of the total combined output. The size of the beam combining module should not exceed 18”x12”x4.” Required Phase II deliverables will include the prototype beam combining module, detailed performance characterization results in a laboratory environment, and a final report.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The developed high-power, coherently combined MWIR laser module will be employed to enhance operational characteristics of several potential applications.

MILITARY APPLICATION: This technology has applications in infrared missile countermeasures (IRCM), free-space optical communications, light detection and ranging (LIDAR), and laser-based chemical and biohazard detection.

COMMERCIAL APPLICATION: This technology has applications in remote sensing of industrial effluents, gas leak detection, mineral/petroleum prospecting, medical and dental surgery, LIDAR, and free space optical communication.

REFERENCES:

A. Brignon. Coherent laser beam combining. Wiley-VCH, ISBN 352741150X, 2013.
S. Slivken, et. al., Current Status and Potential of High Power Mid-Infrared Intersubband Lasers. Proc. SPIE, Vol. 7608, 76080B, 2010.
A. Lyakh, et. al., Continuous wave operation of buried heterostructure 4.6um quantum cascade laser Y-junctions and tree arrays, Opt. Express, Vol. 22, No. 1, pp. 1203 - 1208, 2014.
S. Hugger, et. al., “Power scaling of quantum cascade lasers via multi-emitter beam combining,” Opt. Engineering, Vol. 49, No. 11, 111111, 2010.
T-Y Kao, et. al., “Phase-locked arrays of surface-emitting terahertz quantum-cascade lasers,” Appl. Phys. Lett., Vol. 96, 101106, 2010.

KEYWORDS: coherent beam combining, mid-wave infrared, MWIR, laser arrays, infrared countermeasures, IRCM, light detection and ranging, LIDAR, chemical and biohazard detection, free-space optical communications.

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials/Processes

OBJECTIVE: Second Generation Infrared Sensors have a single band focal plane with one F# and 5 or 6 lenses. Third Generation Sensors have a dual band focal plane with two F#s and a plethora of refractive lenses and mirrors. As a result the transmission through this optical system is about 65% of second generation sensors with the resultant increase in noise equivalent temperature difference. It is the objective of this topic to develop anti-reflecting surface textures to have transmission values equal to or better than Second Gen. These surface textures must include both the MWIR and LWIR bands. Innovative solutions to this important problem are being sought after such as the motheye or structured gradient meta-materials. Successful completion of this project would have an overwhelming positive impact on the performance of the 3rd Gen Sensor.

DESCRIPTION: Surface treatments have been optimized for both the LWIR and MWIR spectral band for systems where only a single band is being used. The next generation of systems being developed by the Army will be imaging simultaneously over a much broader band. There are currently surface treatments available that cover this broad spectral range, however, their performance is insufficient to meet all the needs of the Third Gen Sensor systems. The surface treatments are not limited to just one component of the optical system, each set of components needs improvement in transmission to see the largest improvement in performance. The components are listed below in the order of the potential for most significant impact on overall system performance. Radioactive surface treatments are not an acceptable solution.

Refractive lenses:

Typically these surface treatments are degraded by 3-5% versus a standard surface treatment for just the MWIR or LWIR individually. Overall system performance is degraded both because of the lower transmission surface treatment and due to the increased complexity in the design of these systems which result in an increased number of optical elements. The goal is to obtain greater than 99.2% average transmission per lens with high yield for the 3.5 -5.0 µm and 7.8 – 10.5 µm spectral bands (based on a 1mm material thickness). At a minimum, materials to consider are Germanium, Zinc Selenide (ZnSe), Zinc Sulfide (ZnS), Barium Fluoride, and Gallium Arsenide, but also chalcogenide glasses such as AMTIR, GASIR lenses, and any other materials that will meet the transmission spectrum with environmental stability.

Mirror surface treatments:

Mirror surface treatments have two different requirements depending on their location in the system. Typical 3rd Generation FLIR systems will consist of a reflective afocal that will be required to pass light from 0.5 µm to 11 µm tend to have a reflective component to them creating a demand for high reflectivity surface treatments over an extremely broad range. Greater than 99% reflectivity is desired in the 3.5 -5.0 µm and 7.8 – 10.5 µm spectral bands while maintaining greater than 97% reflectivity over the remainder of the spectral band. In addition to the afocal surface treatments, fold mirrors will exist that do not require transmission beyond the 3.5 -5.0 µm and 7.8 – 10.5 µm spectral bands. These surface treatments can be further optimized due to the limited spectral bands.

Beamsplitter surface treatments:

In order to pass multiple spectral bands through the same aperture, it is required to combine the light paths prior to the afocal. This is accomplished via a beamsplitter that will be required to both pass the 3.5 -5.0 µm and 7.8 – 10.5 µm spectral bands and reflect the 0.5 – 2.0 µm or reflect the 3.5 -5.0 µm and 7.8 – 10.5 µm spectral bands and pass the 0.5 – 2.0 µm spectral band. It is desired to be able to achieve greater than 95% for the 3.5 -5.0 µm and 7.8 – 10.5 µm and greater than 92% for the 0.5 – 2.0 µm spectral band.

Cold filter surface treatments:

An important component of the 3rd Gen FLIR Dewar is the cold filter located inside the cold shield. This filter is at nearly the same temperature as the focal plane (~80K) and controls the amount of out of band radiation that reaches the detector. It is desired to have very high transmission in band while rejecting the out of band spectrum. A transmission of greater than 95% within the 3.5 -5.0 µm and 7.8 – 10.5 µm spectrum is desired.

Windows:

Broadband windows are another significant component that needs improvement. Windows offer an additional challenge in that they require a surface treatment that is not only highly transmissive, but also durable. In addition, windows may be required to pass light from 0.5 µm to 11 µm in order to maintain the desired common aperture between sensors that is present in 3rd Gen systems. It is desired that a 3rd Gen window be able to meet a 95% transmission over the spectral band while maintaining a severe abrasion resistance.

Environmental Conditions:

The surface treatments shall meet specified performance after being stored in temperatures IAW ATPD-2404A, 5.2.2.1 and temperature shock IAW ATPD-2404A, 5.2.4. The surface treatments shall meet the Operational Humidity IAW ATPD-2404A, 5.1.3.3. The surface treatments shall meet the exposure to blowing sand IAW ATPD-2404A, 5.1.6.2.

PHASE I: Create theoretical anti-reflecting surface texture designs that will exceed the performance of the current state of the art as described in the topic description. Develop a plan for improved processes to increase yield in surface quality to achieve as built surface treatments closer to that of theoretical. The cost for this innovative approach should not be greater than what is used in second generation FLIRs.

PHASE II: Revise surface treatment designs from phase I as needed and provide witness samples for all IR materials and components suggested in the topic description meeting each requirement. Develop surface treatments for other materials that are applicable for dual band applications. Implement improved surface treatment processes developed in Phase I to increase yield of dual band surface treatments. Provide samples for testing of transmission and durability.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Military Application: Successful demonstration of this technology will lead to its insertion into the Third Gen FLIR program that will be fielded by PMdGS. The success of this technology will immediately improve the performance of 3rd Gen technology (and other dual band infrared technologies), and be immediately inserted without impacting any other system components. Commercial Application: The same impact would be expected for commercial applications that would utilize infrared focal planes. Applications include law enforcement, search and rescue, and high sensitivity broad-band radiometric measuring devices.

REFERENCES:

"Army applications for Multi-spectral Windows," John Hall, SPIE Proceedings 3060, 1997
"Dual f/number optics for third generation FLIR systems," Jay Vizgaitis, Proceedings of SPIE -- Volume 5783, Infrared Technology and Applications XXXI, Bjorn F. Andresen, Gabor F. Fulop, Editors, May 2005, pp. 875-886.
"Third Generation Infrared Imagers," Paul R. Norton, James B. Campbell III, Stuart B. Horn, and Donald A. Reago, Proceedings of SPIE -- Volume 4130, Infrared Technology and Applications XXVI, Bjorn F. Andresen, Gabor F. Fulop, Marija Strojnik, Editors, December 2000, pp. 226-236.
“Design, Fabrication, and Measured Performance of Anti-Reflecting Surface Textures in Infrared Transmitting Materials” Douglas S. Hobbs and Bruce D MacLeod Proceedings of SPIE Volume 5786-40
“Perfect anti-reflection from first principles” Kyoung-Ho Kim & Q-Han Park; Scientific Reports 3, Article number: 1062, January 2013

KEYWORDS: Electronics, infrared, dual band, anti-reflection, motheye, Meta materials

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Space Platforms

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this work is to develop a low-cost, compactly folded aperture approach to replace traditional active phased array antennas for future satellite architectures.

DESCRIPTION: Multibeam steerable antennas are currently used to provide secure communications for a variety of protected and unprotected missions. Improved coverage and capacity is needed. Phased array antennas are desired because more beams can be transmitted and rapidly repositioned arbitrarily for a large number of users. The problem is that high performing phased array antennas are complex and expensive requiring extensive parts list and specialized NRE for each iteration on a given platform. With the limited procurement volumes seen in the space sector, new antenna options are needed that can be procured for less than $1M/m^2 and that can be reconfigured or modularized to meet a variety of RF parameters. Additionally, these antennas need to function as the same aperture for both transmit and receive frequencies for their respective platform. Frequencies used on heritage AF space systems, such as AEHF, Milstar, WGS, etc. are available in open literature. While one single aperture solution may not be able to handle all frequencies for future versions of these systems, it is of interest to capture as much of the spectrum as possible (TX: 7.3, 20, and 73 GHz; RX: 8, 30, 44 and 83 GHz; Cross-link 60 GHz). This may be achievable, for example, using wideband antenna elements combined with RF MEMS or other reconfigurable approaches. Regardless of the approach proposed, authors should plan to explain the appropriateness of a given technology for a space environment consisting of thermal cycle extremes, launch loads, and space radiation induced effects. Thermally induced deformations and the effect on antenna performance must also be addressed.

Phased array antenna technologies are needed with reduced complexity feeds, simpler tuning and phase shifting architectures, reduced overall size and mass, and reduced touch labor required to assemble and integrate. Single feed solutions, similar in principle to a reconfigurable reflectarray, are desired that are capable of both transmit and receive across all the frequency bands of interest, where the reconfiguration of the reflector can be done with low power phase shifting solutions such that all the sensitive, high-powered feed requirements may be limited to the single feed element rather than an array of coupled amplifiers and phase shifters to tune individual or grouped elements. Proposers should not focus solely on approaches limited to a reflectarray approach, which is only offered as one example of a reduced feed Electronically Steered Array.

Future space architectures may disaggregate or augment these communications functions across multiple satellites, either as free-flyers or as hosted payloads on commercial satellites. In order to provide options for smaller spacecraft platforms and hosted payloads in LEO, HEO, and GEO orbits, apertures are additionally desired that can be folded or packaged in some stowed fashion for launch and deployed once on-orbit. Deployable structures are desirable but only if proposed as an antenna system solution. The desire is to fit as large of an aperture as possible onto a 10 kg to 100 kg class spacecraft.

PHASE I: Design, simulate, and build antenna hardware components with focus on proving the antenna critical function. Solution should be producible such that AFRL can verify performance with traditional network analyzer and waveguide setups. Proposers should also begin to form partnerships with payload or prime contractors that have potential to transition into military satellite communications systems.

PHASE II: Fabricate and produce a sub/full aperture brassboard antenna with focus on ground test and evaluation. Include flight qualifiable aspects to the antenna design where possible. Form stronger partnerships with payload or prime contractors that have potential to transition into military satellite communications systems.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Build full-scale flight qualifiable antenna that may be tested in a relevant ground or space environment.

REFERENCES:

Osterthaler, T., "Commentary: Satcom Reboot." C^4ISR Journal. June 2012. Pp 28-30.
Pawlikowski, E., Loverro, D., Cristler, T., "Space Disruptive Challenges, New Opportunities, and New Strategies" Strategic Studies Quarterly, Spring 2012, pp. 27-54.
Warren, P., Steinbeck, J., Minelli, R., Mueller, C., “Large, Deployable S-Band Antenna for a 6U Cubesat,” 29th AIAA/USU Conference on Small Satellites, SSC15-VI-5. Logan, Utah. 2015.
Fuchi, K., et al., "Resonance Tuning of RF Devices Through Origami Folding," 20th International Conference on Composite Materials, Copenhagen, 19-24 July 2015.

KEYWORDS: Milsatcom, Phased Array, Reflector, Beam Steering, Electronically Steered Antenna, Space Antenna, Deployable Antenna

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Battlespace

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 5.4.c.(8) of the solicitation and within the AF Component-specific instructions. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the AF SBIR/STTR Contracting Officer, Ms. Gail Nyikon, gail.nyikon@us.af.mil.

OBJECTIVE: Develop hardware to advance imaging techniques for remotely sensing low level earth surface vibrations via detection of diffusely modulated light; enhance survivability from lab to field, improve ranges to hundreds of kilometers.

DESCRIPTION: Recent work in the laboratory [1-3, 5-7] has demonstrated that detection of dim signals that indicate the presence of surface vibrations via diffuse light modulation can be conducted under controlled conditions, with results sufficient to provide initial proof of concept for the viability of diffuse light modulation-based methods.

The underlying scientific utility of diffuse light modulation has been understood for years [9], and development of specific applications is ongoing. However some technological gaps remain. Long-range detection on the ground is a key step on the path to detection from low Earth orbit or geosynchronous (GEO) orbit [8], and one of the limitations is the lack of an appropriately sensitive advanced sensor capable of high dynamic range that can tolerate field conditions, sense light very precisely (ideally at or near the photon shot noise limit), and remain portable and flexible for ongoing field work. Achieving this goal places significant demands on the imaging sensor, requiring a focal plane with a deep well capacity and low noise. Sensors that can function at spectral bandwidths that provide improved or even optimal chances of vibration detection would also be desirable. Spectral bandwidths for better detection probability may include subsets of the visible spectrum, or the non-visible spectra, depending on the phenomenology.

Accordingly, the goal of this topic is to produce sensor hardware that can make passive detection of surface vibrations via diffuse light modulation methodology at ranges in the regime of tens to hundreds of kilometers, perform in the field reliably, and/or provide a good probability of detection at these ranges. Active sensing devices such as vibrometers are not desirable. This hardware should be able to be field-deployed on the ground or in airplanes to demonstrate viability, that is, used in assorted environmental conditions, without requiring onerous amounts of supporting equipment (e.g., cryocooling hardware, extensive maintenance kits, heavy shock absorption systems, heavy power-generation systems) to be co-deployed.

In addition to the field deployment requirements, support for a path ahead is desirable. Evidence of a clear and graduated path to space from the field is a strong plus, as is availability of field support capability, to enable government users to conduct additional field data collection for later efforts. The capability to deliver multiple units may also be a factor worth considering, as will the ability to work on classified data if the effort begins to generate products at higher levels of classification.

PHASE I: Construct a prototype field deployable hardware system. Demonstrate the prototype under field-similar conditions, and identify major technical obstacles to field deployment, including such factors as sensitivity, data handling/storage, compatibility with other systems, and expected field lifetime.

PHASE II: Extend the field-deployable hardware system to airborne platforms and verify its performance under a set of varied environmental conditions, collecting data from a set of varied targets and in varied locations. Demonstrate ability to extract known vibration signals from collected data amidst clutter.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Package the field-deployable system for use by other government and commercial customers, e.g. passive detection of vibrations due to faults in bridges within the Department of Transportation. Demonstrate collection of data from very dim and unknown vibration sources, with an emphasis on demonstration from space, thereby implicitly extending the airborne theme referred to in Phase II.

REFERENCES:

Robert Shroll, Benjamin St. Peter, Steven Richtsmeier, Bridget Tannian, Elijah Jensen, John Kielkopf, and Wellesley Pereira, Remote optical detection of ground vibrations, Proc SPIE 9608, September 2015.
John Kielkopf, Elijah Jensen, Frank Clark, Bradley Noyes, Fractional intensity modulation of diffusely scattered light, Proc SPIE 9608, September 2015.
Jason Cline, Ryan Penny, Bridget Tannian, Neil Goldstein, John Kielkopf, Remote optical interrogation of vibrations in materials inspection applications, Proc SPIE 9608, September 2015.
Dan Slater, Rex Ridenoure, Passive Remote Acoustic Sensing in Aerospace Environments, Proc AIAA SPACE, 2015-4661, August 2015.
Frank Clark, Ryan Penney, Wellesley Pereira, John Kielkopf, Jason Cline, A passive optical technique to measure physical properties of a vibrating surface, Proc SPIE 9219, September 2014.
Alan Marchant, Chad Fish, Jie Yao, Phillip Cunio, Wellesley Pereira, Feasibility considerations for a long-range passive vibrometer, Proc SPIE 9219, September 2014.
Matthew Buoni, Wellesley Pereira, Reed A. Weber, Carlos Garcia-Cervera, Detecting small surface vibrations by passive electro-optical illumination, Proc SPIE 9219, September 2014.
R. Michel, J.-P. Ampuero, J.-P. Avouac, N. Lapusta, S. Leprince, D. C. Redding, and S. N. Somala, A Geostationary Optical Seismometer, Proof of Concept, IEEE Transactions on Geoscience and Remote Sensing, Vol 51, No 1, January 2013.
Wellesley Pereira, Frank Clark, Laila Jeong, Bradley Noyes, Paul Noah, Curtis Pacleb, Scott Dalrymple, Aaron Westphal, A., Hypertemporal Imaging Diffuse Modulation (HTI-DM) Experiment, AFRL-RV-HA-TR-2011-1010, February 2011.

KEYWORDS: BRDF, field packaging, photon counting, dim signal detection, shot noise limit

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Space Platforms

OBJECTIVE: Develop a system/capability to make satellite ground system development/ integration easier and reusable across satellite programs.

DESCRIPTION: This effort will develop and demonstrate design concepts for a standardized interface suite to improve satellite ground system development and integration capabilities. A requirement for this system capability is to simplify ground system development and integration as well as reducing the required time to perform the task. This improved capability should have the ability to facilitate one of a kind research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) satellites and ground system interfaces. Traditionally ground system development is expensive and time consuming for several reasons which include the failure to integrate the development efforts for Integration and Test (I&T) support and operations hardware and software, and the lack of common interfaces and standards. The ability to perform commanding and telemetry processing is a critical component of I&T and a workstation that can perform this functionality is developed accordingly. In almost all cases for DoD satellite systems the telemetry, tracking, and commanding (TT&C) workstation used in operations is developed separately and with minimal, if any, reuse from the workstation developed during I&T. Significant time and cost savings can be achieved by incorporating a test like you fly philosophy and developing a TT&C console that can be used for both I&T and for Operations.

AFSPC has had some success with standardized space trainer architectures. It is likely that this successful architecture could be leveraged for greater operational/applications/use. In addition to workstation reuse, savings can be achieved by developing standards for: command and telemetry database formats; naming conventions for commands and telemetry parameters; graphical user interfaces; and data transfer protocols. The objective of this topic is to investigate methods which can lower the cost and development time of satellite ground stations through incorporation of the test like you fly philosophy and by employing ground system standards which will enable optimal reuse of resources.

PHASE I: The objective of phase I is to develop a ground architecture that promotes ground system reuse between I&T and Operations, and from program to program. To demonstrate the validity of the proposed concept and architecture a limited demonstration is highly desirable. Emphasis on scalability and reusability is required.

PHASE II: The objective of phase II is to implement the system defined in phase I on a demonstration platform. The developed system should be capable of handling all TT&C functionality. As one outcome of the effort a detailed analysis of the results which quantifies the time and cost savings is also required.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: This proposed research and development effort has equal applicability to the commercial satellite domain. NASA GSFC and JPL have multiple spacecraft programs that could directly benefit from this research.

REFERENCES:

Goddard Mission Services Evolution Center (GMSEC) Home page, http://opensource.gsfc.nasa.gov/projects/GMSEC_API_30/index.php
Lockheed Martin Press release, “Multi-Mission Satellite Operations Center goes Live”, http://www.spacedaily.com/reports/Multi_Mission_Satellite_Operations_Center_Goes_Live_999.html, Jan 2011.

KEYWORDS: Satellite Ground System Technologies, Ground Automation, Satellite Autonomy, Ground Segment Reuse, Satellite Ground Standards

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Space Platforms

OBJECTIVE: Develop techniques to index, export and search large volumes of archived data, across streams of telemetry and mission data and other data sources from multiple satellite missions in order to produce deep forensic analytics

DESCRIPTION: Technology breakthroughs have drastically increased the complexity of today’s satellites, with some satellites having more than of 10,000 satellite telemetry points for just a single satellite, updating at a cadence of once or more per second. In addition, communication technology has increased the data throughput capability across satellite links. The US alone has placed billions of dollars’ worth of assets into space and collecting, searching and extrapolating meaningful information from these assets quickly is a significantly important need. The net effect is that the amount of satellite data that must be downlinked to the ground has increased drastically. These amounts of data are overwhelming at the human level and searching them for patterns or actionable information becomes a challenge. The problem is compounded when applied across multiple satellite missions and beyond to the space enterprise, which results in streams of big amounts of data to search. Innovative software approaches which enable searching these large amounts of data in a fast and efficient way are therefore needed.

To be effective in a normal operational environment, the solution should be designed from the start with human centered computing in mind. The solution space should then have multiple automated processes that run in the background to ease big data workload. Big data storage and quick retrieval are also important. Indexing has proven to be a challenge for big data applications, but plays an integral role in ability to produce a timely and efficient search result. Solutions which reduce the time for index creation are desired. Detection and reporting processes both for real-time and after-the-fact analysis should be running in the background and not require substantial human interaction. It should be possible to conduct search queries in parallel and include ability to conduct multi-variable queries as combining results multiple mission areas. This will allow for powerful pattern matching and pattern discovery across missions. For example, such queries may be able to quickly identify problems in a particular ground area by searching multiple missions that fly over a particular location. The detection and reporting processes need to be self-sustaining, meaning that human management of these processes has been minimized. Satellite and payload state classification, indexing, and archival needs to be accomplished. Many processes should be running in the background including correlation between satellite and payload states with other data sources as well as attribution assessment. Humans should be able to monitor processes and set thresholds for human interaction in real time. Detection and reporting of events to humans with supporting correlations, likely attribution, and potential courses of action are the main real-time processes for human space system operators.

Innovative extensible and scalable low-cost software solutions are sought that will enable high performance searching and pattern and anomaly recognition. These software solutions should enable deep forensic analytics of large volumes of multiple satellite mission data from across the space enterprise. One approach could be a software application that indexes and searches large amounts of archived data from multiple satellite mission areas.

PHASE I: Conduct feasibility studies/technical analysis/simulation/proof-of-concept. The system should demonstrate the ability to work on a single satellite mission, but must scale support multiple missions. It is a requirement that if a software application approach is proposed, the software must be modular/opensource to allow for easy modifications in future increments. Demo prototype highly desirable.

PHASE II: Using the results from Phase I, construct, demonstrate and test tool with actual or properly simulated spacecraft data and other source data. Using simulated or actual data demonstrate a key finding through search of data across multiple missions. Recommend standards for representing satellite data for faster indexing.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Military Application: Transition to the RSC/MMSOC platform and then subsequently to the Enterprise Ground Service Framework.

REFERENCES:

Grolinger, Katarina, et al. "Challenges for mapreduce in big data." Services (SERVICES), 2014 IEEE World Congress on. IEEE, 2014.
Gandomi, Amir, and Murtaza Haider. "Beyond the hype: Big data concepts, methods, and analytics." International Journal of Information Management 35.2 (2015): 137-144.
Huijse, Pablo, et al. "Computational intelligence challenges and applications on large-scale astronomical time series databases." Computational Intelligence Magazine, IEEE 9.3 (2014): 27-39.
Roberts, Margaret E., Brandon M. Stewart, and Dustin Tingley. "Navigating the local modes of big data: The case of topic models." (2014).
Chen, Hsinchun, Roger HL Chiang, and Veda C. Storey. "Business Intelligence and Analytics: From Big Data to Big Impact." MIS quarterly 36.4 (2012): 1165-1188.
Marz, Nathan, and James Warren. Big Data: Principles and best practices of scalable realtime data systems. Manning Publications Co., 2015.
Faloutsos, Christos, and King-Ip Lin. FastMap: A fast algorithm for indexing, data-mining and visualization of traditional and multimedia datasets. Vol. 24. No. 2. ACM, 1995.
“Movement Toward Common Satellite Ground System Gains http://spacenews.com/movement-toward-common-satellite-ground-system-gains-momentum/, April 2015.

KEYWORDS: Big Data; indexing; searching big data; multiple mission satellite operations center; MMSOC; Satellite Command and Control (C2)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Space Platforms

OBJECTIVE: Develop a UDOP that brings multiple dissimilar operational systems into a common presentation level, for ease of use and reduction of training for the operators, in addition to a set of guidelines governing the implementation strategy of the UDOP.

DESCRIPTION: In the satellite community, there is a large variety of different ground systems that requires multiple, unique, independent systems that currently serve each individual satellite mission. In addition, all of the operational screens for each satellite mission have very different screen pictures, and command naming nomenclature. As a result, each satellite mission requires specialists for each type of ground system. Operators are required to be trained in detail for each different system before they can perform their duties which results in higher training time and operational costs for satellites.

A commonality is that each of the ground systems has similar commanding options, satellite state of health information, and contact planning and scheduling options. By integrating the different ground systems into one overarching common presentation level for the ground sites, operators can more easily transition from one ground system to the next with minimal training. The goal is to develop a common user interface that allows a user to follow the same general procedures for basic processes. The interface should be accompanied by a standardized guideline for potential new systems to build to. The interface should also establish a standardized method of focusing on individual aspects of the satellite, for example opening a new tab or selecting a data point. These interface definitions should be specific enough to standardize where specific data is found, but should be broad enough to accommodate a wide variety of missions with different payloads and significant telemetry points. This will promote a common chain of reasoning for satellite control to allow simpler transition between operating different missions.

The design of this interface should also include details accessibility and configuration control. Due to the numerous different programs that will use the interface, details must be established such as user permissions and satellite configuration management. Other important points include establishing how asset capability statuses are determined and displayed.

Another large part of this development will be to determine how the interface will access the data it will display. The goal is to create a common user interface, not a common ground system, so the interface should be capable of supporting a vast variety of different ground systems. It should also be able to support not only Trade, Telemetry & Communications (TT&C), but mission planning, data analysis, and any other significant satellite processes or procedures.

PHASE I: Conduct feasibility studies/technical analysis/simulation/proof-of-concept demonstration of the multi mission area UDOP and an outlined of it's associated standardized guideline. To demonstrate the validity of the proposed concept and architecture, a demonstration is highly desirable.

PHASE II: The objective of phase II is to implement the system defined in phase I on a demonstration platform. The developed system should be capable of handling all operational functionality. As one outcome of the effort a detailed analysis of the results which quantifies the time and cost savings is also required.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Transition to the RDT&E Support Complex/Multi Mission Space Operations Center (RSC/MMSOC) platform and then subsequently to the Enterprise Ground Service Framework.

REFERENCES:

http://www.amostech.com/TechnicalPapers/2011/SSA/MORTON.pdf
http://www.satellitetoday.com/regional/2015/09/14/dod-prepares-for-overhaul-of-military-ground-systems/

KEYWORDS: UDOP, Satellite Command and Control (C2), ground systems, common presentation level

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Space Platforms

OBJECTIVE: Develop prototype for Next Generation Air Force Enterprise Ground System to support autonomous satellite operations.

DESCRIPTION: In order to transition the AFSCN’s Space Operations Centers (SOC’s) to an autonomous operational mode the methods for handling and processing data (command, health and status monitoring, mission planning) needed by SOC’s needs to be redesigned. In addition technologies are needed which will enable performing automated command and control and specifically to handle complex non-deterministic scenarios. The research and analysis needs to account not only the current data carried by the SOCs, but also the data needed to control or future satellite systems. One area of immediate improvement would be the ability to autonomously reset the telemetry limit checking software to enable more agile on orbit adjustments to account for natural anomalies, aging of the spacecraft, natural drift in on orbit measurements and anomalies which are long lived. Additionally, in order to reduce costs and create more responsive ground control systems technologies are needed which will automate functionality that is currently largely performed by human operators. Over the last several years the use of intelligent systems technologies have made advances in several domains and have shown the ability to not only reduce manpower costs but also to provide the ability to detect and respond to anomalous conditions in a more timely fashion. The time is ripe to develop and develop intelligent system technologies and apply these towards Air Force satellite operations.

To affect autonomy within Air Force SOC’s an overall understanding of SOC mission requirements in terms of control and data needs has to be developed. The research and analysis needs not only cover normal operations with the SOC’s but also provide the ability to detect and respond to anomalous conditions. These systems need to operate within the larger Air Force Satellite Control Network (AFSCN) and its network of antennas. Technologies such as expert systems, machine learning, and model based systems need to be developed and implemented within a modular extensible framework. From the above analysis a robust and extensible network architecture and toolset capable of supporting autonomous operations will be developed and prototyped. One approach could be software applications that monitor and processes health and status (H&S), and satellite telemetry. This particular application would need to be able to process H&S and telemetry from multiple satellite missions (PNT, SSA, Imaging) and have a near-real time indication/warning system that would inform the multiple mission area satellite operators of anomalous behavior (via pop-up dialog boxes or other means) and recommend new telemetry limit points.

The Phase I portion should: 1) conduct analysis of SOC autonomous needs for all modes of operations with an emphasis on dynamic resetting of satellite limit checking, considering both current and future systems as described above. 2)Conduct simulations and loading studies to identify average and peak loads the autonomous systems would need to manage. 3) Develop basic architecture in terms of functions and capabilities for autonomous systems.4) Emphasize scaling to SOC operation of worldwide set of AFSCN antennas and identify initial architectural design components. 5) Emphasize modular and open approach for incremental upgrades. 6) Detailed analysis of the results which quantifies cost and time savings is also required.

PHASE I: Deliver: analysis of SOC autonomous needs for all modes of operations w an emphasis on dynamic resetting of satellite limit checking, simulations & loading studies to identify average & peak loads the autonomous systems, develop basic architecture in terms of functions & capabilities for autonomous systems & detailed analysis of the results which quantifies cost and time savings is also required.

PHASE II: Prototype net-centric compliant architecture that meets the data volume and requirements for autonomous operations. Generate architectural development strategy that will ensure an extensible framework to support future acquisitions. Simulate operations, including both predefined and new events, under relevant conditions using the modeling and simulation and architectural design components identified in Phase 1. Deliver the executable model.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Apply the results of phase two to prototype a basic modular Air Force automated ground operations center. Validate performance and scalability of prototype architecture to entire set of Air Force satellite systems.

REFERENCES:

J Catena, L Frank, R Saylor, C Weikel, “Satellite Ground Operations Automation – Lessons Learned and Future Approaches”, Proceedings of the International Telemetering Conference, May 2001, Las Vegas NV
Air Force Satellite Control Network Interface Control Document: Range Segment to Space Vehicle Center: ICD 000508, 28 Oct 2008.
D Cruickshank, “Automated Data Analysis in Satellite Operations”, SpaceOps 2006 Conference, Rome Italy, May 2006

KEYWORDS: Network Architecture, Open architecture, Automated satellite operations, Status and Monitoring Data, Automated satellite command and control

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Space Platforms

OBJECTIVE: Develop concepts for a high efficiency, compact radiation hard interface between the solar array and the spacecraft power system

DESCRIPTION: Present state of the art power processing of electric power from spacecraft solar arrays utilizes a partial shunt strategy, string switching, or both to control the output of a solar array. The spacecraft solar array can degrade from 20% to 50% in power producing capability over a 15-year mission depending upon the specific orbit it must operate in. These schemes have worked well for solar arrays, which are sized for end of spacecraft life conditions.

However, these designs make it impossible to access the full power available from the solar array. The reason for this is that the solar array must be designed to deliver full power at end of life while being connected to a regulated spacecraft power system bus or a spacecraft battery with an unregulated spacecraft power system bus. In either case the solar array operation cannot be optimized to operate at peak power conditions. To date there have not been many spacecraft with loads which require power above end of life conditions.

However, with the advent of the use of electric propulsion for orbit raising the additional power that the solar array could deliver could reduce trip time from low earth orbit to the operational orbit of the satellite.

To solve this problem the solar array interface must be capable of delivering all of solar array power at the spacecraft bus voltage at beginning of life and end of life conditions. Potential methods for addressing this challenge include, but are not limited to; higher efficiency cell designs, alternate cellular arrangements, dynamic topology adjustment, high-efficiency reconfigurable charge management circuitry, concepts in soft-defined power-aware and degradation-aware distribution architecture possibilities.

The solar array interface should be capable of operation in a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) for 5 years and in a Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (GEO) or Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) for 15 years after storage on the ground for 5 years. It should function after 500 kRad (Si) total dose, be immune to dose rate and single event latchup, and not upset at a single event LET lower than 20 Mev/mg/cm2.

PHASE I: Perform preliminary analysis and conduct trade studies to validate performance for the solar array interface. Using breadboard hardware verify related performance information in support payoff estimates.

PHASE II: Fabricate and deliver engineering demonstration unit. Show the flexibility of delivering reliable power with the solar array at various load points. Identify radiation impacts upon components of the string converter.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Technology developed will be applicable to all military and commercial space platforms. Expected benefits include 20% to 50% increase in beginning of life solar array power.

REFERENCES:

Edward J. Simburger, Simon Liu, John Halpine, David Hinkley, J. R. Srour, and Daniel Rumsey, The Aerospace Corporation and Henry Yoo, Air Force Research Laboratory, Pico Satellite Solar Cell Testbed (PSSC Testbed), Presented at the 4th World Conference on Photovoltaic Energy Conversion, Wailoloa, Hawaii. May 7-12, 2006.
Edward J. Simburger, Daniel Rumsey, David Hinkley, Simon Liu and Peter Carian, The Aerospace Corporation, Distributed Power System for Microsatellites, 31st IEEE Photovoltaic Specialists Conference, Lake Buena Vista, FL. 3-7, January, 2005.
Kasemsan Siri and Calvin Truong, “Performance Limitations of random Current-Sharing Parallel-Connected Converter Systems & Their Solution,” APEC'98, Anaheim, California, pp. 860-866, Vol 2, February 14-19, 1998.
Kasemsan Siri, “Study of System Instability in Current-Mode Converter Power Systems Operating in Solar Array Voltage Regulation Mode,” APEC’2000, New Orleans, Louisiana, pp.228-234, Vol 1, February 6-10, 2000.
Kasemsan Siri, Vahe A. Caliskan and C.Q. Lee, "Maximum power tracking in parallel-connected converter systems," IEEE Trans. on Aerospace and Electronics Systems, vol. 29, no. 3, pp. 935-945, July 1993.

KEYWORDS: Peak Power Tracker, Solar Array, Parallel Power Conversion, Distribution and Control, Solar Array Regulation

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Space Platforms

OBJECTIVE: Develop and demonstrate decreased mass, volume and power requirements for spacecraft liquid chemical propellant storage and feed hardware.

DESCRIPTION: Typical propellant storage and feed systems for spacecraft using liquid chemical propulsion comprise compressed helium or nitrogen driving the propellant from the storage tank. Mission requirements will drive the choice of blow down or regulated pressure feed, likewise, the choice of feed will further drive the type of propellant management device. Also common for hydrazine monopropellant systems, the driving pressure gas and propellant will be within the same tank separated by an elastomeric diaphragm. Also, it is frequently necessary to provide some sort of environmental control for the propellant storage tank to ensure the propellants do not freeze or fall to sub-nominal temperature for thruster operation. These systems are proven for reliability and have long flight legacies, however, they are not free of concerns and there remains opportunity for improvement of the design.

Pressurized tankage presents a significant logistical and cost footprint in the regards to component qualification or verification, acquisition lead time, and spacecraft processing operations. Where monopropellant thrusters are used, catalyst poisoning is always of concern. Though standards for the purity of hydrazine as well as for preparation of the elastomer diaphragm materials, such as AFE-332, that the hydrazine would be continuously contacting within a diaphragm tank are well established, introduction of contaminating substances acquired from the hydrazine or diaphragm leaching may have potential to alter thruster delivered performance due to catalytic poisoning. Similar concerns are also present for emerging advanced green monopropellant formulations.

Other limitations faced with liquid propulsion systems on board spacecraft relate to impulse variability and determination of propellant remaining. In blow down systems, the change in delivered performance of the thruster due to decreasing feed pressure must be mapped in order to be able to determine thrust commands to accomplish desired maneuvers. For missions with large delta-V requirements, significant amounts of propellant will be required driving need of large compressed gas tanks reducing mass and volume available for payload. Liquid chemical thrusters that can deliver variable thrust from a compact configuration, such as combined functionality of low thrust monopropellant and high thrust bipropellant modes, for different mission phases have been developed and are commercially available.

Of interest is a liquid propellant storage and feed system that does not grow in volume and component manufacturing risk with propellant throughput (such as state of the art compressed gas approaches) that also mitigates typical concerns associated with reliability, repeatability, and contamination. Envisioned applications are for thrusters in the range of ~0.25 lbf to ~5.0 lbf, with design knowledge to scale up and be able to support to the 100 lbf level. Minimum impulse bit performance repeatability and predictability that is superior or, as a minimum, equivalent to the state of the art is desired.

Performance and capability advantages to all type of spacecraft platforms from extremely volume limited applications such as Cubesats up to large scale, long life systems such as GPS should be assessed and presented.

Developmental effort should include a physics based understanding in terms of a mathematical expression; capturing details of power requirements, geometry, material make-up, duty cycle, and propellant throughput range as a function of relevant parameters.

Energy requirements should be bounded within today’s nominal satellite bus architecture capabilities.

Additional considerations should include streamlined manufacturing process with high yield and minimal quality assurance required. Estimates of storage life and guidance to maximize storage should also be considered, minimal storage requirements are desired. Approaches with applicability to both state of the art and emerging green propellant formulations are encouraged.

The thruster technology should be capable of supporting a 15-year mission in GEO or Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) and 5 years in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) after ground storage of 5 years.

PHASE I: Demonstrate a feasibility concept and accompanying base model approach that shows path to meet manufacturability and performance metrics stated. The effort should clearly address and estimate propulsion system inert weight and overall flight system impacts as well as model and manufacturing technical challenges.

PHASE II: Demonstrate proof of concept with flight scaled components in relevant environment. Propulsion system inert weight and flight system impacts shall be optimized from those estimated in Phase I. Leading model and manufacturing technical challenges shall be retired or have a clearly defined path to mitigation.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The Offeror shall develop viable demonstration cases in collaboration with the government or the private sector. Follow-on activities are to be sought aggressively throughout all mission applications within DoD, NASA, and commercial space platforms by Offeror.

REFERENCES:

Ballinger, I.A.; Lay, W.D.; Tam, W.H., “Review and History of PSI Elastomeric Diaphragm Tanks”, AIAA 95-2534, 31st AIAA/ASME/SAE/ASEE Joint Propulsion Conference, San Diego, CA, July, 1995.
Ballinger, A.; Sims, D., “Development of an EPDM Elastomeric Material for use in Hydrazine Propulsion Systems”, AIAA 2003-4611, 39th AIAA Propulsion Conference, Huntsville, AL July 21, 2003.
Honse, J.P.; Bangasser, C.T.; Wilson, M.J., “Delta-Qualification Test of Aerojet 6 and 9 lbf MR-106 Monopropellant Hydrazine Thrusters for Use on the Atlas Centaur Upper Stage during the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) and Lunar Crater Observation and Sensing Satellite (LCROSS) Missions”, AIAA 2009-5481, 45th AIAA/ASME/SAE/ASEE Joint Propulsion Conference, Denver, CO August, 2009.
Owens, B.; Cosgrove, D.; Sholl, M.; Bester, M., “On-Orbit Propellant Estimation, management, and Conditioning for THEMIS Spacecraft Constellation”, AIAA 2010-2329, SpaceOps Conference, Huntsville, AL, April, 2010.
United States Patent 5,417,049.

KEYWORDS: Spacecraft Propulsion, Chemical Propulsion, Propellant Storage, Propellant Feed system, Pump, Blow Down, Thruster

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Space Platforms

OBJECTIVE: Develop high-thrust solar electric propulsion technologies that enable/enhance mission capabilities and dual manifest launch opportunities for national security space assets.

DESCRIPTION: Pervasive electric propulsion (EP) technologies greatly enhance in-space maneuverability and spacecraft payload capacity for many DoD missions, such as transfer to Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO), when compared to liquid chemical propulsion [1]. Satellites with EP as primary propulsion have lower propellant mass requirements, which provide cost and schedule advantages with launch vehicle step-down, dual launch, or mixed manifest capability on existing launch vehicles to reduce the number of satellite launches. This has significant benefits for DoD and commercial applications [2,3,4]. State-of-the-art EP on the Air Force Advanced Extremely High Frequency (AEHF) satellites have demonstrated orbit transfer from geosynchronous transfer orbit (GTO) to GEO, however this required multiple months of thruster firing time due to low thrust levels, which are limited by the available on-board power. Thus, maximizing thruster efficiency and thrust to power (T/P) levels are necessary to reduce orbit transfer time, specifically to minimize duration through the Van Allen radiation belts [5]. Existing technologies, such as high-power Hall thrusters, have demonstrated reduced efficiency when operating at peak T/P and must operate at a de-rated power, further reducing overall thrust [1].

This solicitation seeks research on EP system technologies capable of greater than 70% efficiency over the range of 1400 to 2000 seconds specific impulse (Isp), corresponding to T/P levels of 109 to 76 millinewtons per kilowatt (mN/kW), respectively. This efficiency includes power processing and ancillary losses, such as cathode flow or electromagnet power requirements. Proposal solutions may be either ideas for advancing existing thruster technologies or the development of new concepts, such as high-power electrospray propulsion. Specific power of the thruster and power processing should be less than 6 kg/kW. A representative power level for this technology is 3-10 kW, though subscale demonstrations may be conducted at lower power levels to accommodate cost-effective research activities. The full propulsion system (thruster, power processing unit & propellant feed) should define a clear path for transition to national security space applications in the proposal.

The thruster technology should be capable of supporting a 15-year mission in GEO or Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) and 5 years in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) after ground storage of 5 years.

PHASE I: Perform proof-of-concept analysis and experiments that demonstrate the feasibility of the high performance electric propulsion concept. End TRL 2 to TRL 4.

PHASE II: Measure performance and plume characteristics of breadboard hardware to demonstrate program goals for the high performance electric propulsion concept. Breadboard hardware will be evaluated on thrust stands at AFRL, and achieve TRL 5 at the end of Phase II activities. Deliverables include breadboard hardware, preliminary cost analyses, and full performance analysis with comparison to state-of-the-art EP.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Transition of a mature high performance electric thruster will reduce satellite orbit transfer time and enable/enhance dual launch or mixed manifest capabilities. Additional transition partners may include NASA and U.S. manufactured large GEO communications satellites.

REFERENCES:

Brown, D. L., Beal, B E., Haas, J. M., “Air Force Research Laboratory High Power Electric Propulsion Technology Development,” IEEEAC Paper #1549, Presented at the IEEE Aerospace Conference, Big Sky, MT, March 3-7, 2009.
“Commercial Space Transportation Forecasts,” Report, Federal Aviation Administration, Office of Commercial Space Transportation and the Commercial Space Transportation Advisory Committee, May 2013
Sargent, Anne-Wainscott, “SpaceX Effect Fuels Efficiency Push in Launch Services Market,” Via Satellite, July 17, 2014 (www.satellitetoday.com).
Feuerborn, S. A., Neary, D. A., Perkins, J. M., “Finding a Way: Boeing’s All Electric Propulsion Satellite,” AIAA-2013-4126, 49th AIAA/ASME/SAE/ASEE Joint Propulsion Conference, July 14-17, 2013.
Observations of the Earth and Its Environment: Survey of Missions and Sensors, 4th Edition, Herbert J. Kramer, Springer Science & Business Media, 2002.

KEYWORDS: Electric Propulsion, Dual Launch, Dual Manifest, Thrust to Power, Orbit Transfer

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Space Platforms

OBJECTIVE: Develop low-cost, flexible solar electric propulsion technologies that enable/enhance resilient mission capabilities and disaggregated satellite architectures.

DESCRIPTION: Electric propulsion (EP) is a pervasive space technology that greatly enhances in-space maneuverability compared to liquid chemical propulsion [1]. Satellites with EP have lower propellant mass requirements for the same maneuver, which reduces the overall satellite wet mass, enables more on-board propellant for additional maneuvers or extended lifetime, or increased payload mass capability [1, 2]. These capabilities enable numerous advantages for satellite resiliency, including dual launch or mixed manifest for functional disaggregation [3], and flexible positioning to enhance satellite options for multi-orbit disaggregation. To this end, a high efficiency EP technology compatible with chemical propellants could be paired with a chemical thruster to produce highly flexible and efficient multi-mode propulsion (MMP) system. An agile MMP system with shared propellant and tanks reduces system complexity and increases risk mitigation redundancy by enabling flexible and optimal utilization of propellant between the EP and chemical thruster system for in-space maneuvers, including orbit transfer, repositioning, station-keeping, attitude control, and disposal. Realizing these advantages requires innovative solar electric propulsion technologies with high efficiency and high thrust when operated with lightweight, molecular propellants used in chemical propulsion, such as hydrazine or advanced “green” energetic monopropellant formulations [4]. To date, EP technologies have not met the performance and lifetime requirements needed for agile MMP capabilities [5, 6].

This solicitation seeks research on electric thruster technologies capable of greater than 110 mN/kW over a specific impulse from 1000-1500 seconds. Proposal solutions may be either ideas for improving existing thruster technology or the development of new concepts. Specific power of the thruster and power processing electronics should be less than 6 kg/kW. A representative power level for this technology is 1-5 kW per thruster, though demonstrations may be conducted at different power levels or with simulated propellant to accommodate cost-effective research activities. The full propulsion system (thruster, power processing unit & propellant feed) should define a clear path for transition to national security space applications in the proposal.

The thruster technology should be capable of supporting a 15-year mission in GEO or Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) and 5 years in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) after ground storage of 5 years.

PHASE I: Perform proof-of-concept analysis and experiments that demonstrate the feasibility of the high performance electric propulsion concept.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Transition of flexible electric propulsion will enhance satellite resiliency with increased in-space maneuverability and reduced propellant mass. Transition may include NASA and the U.S. commercial large GEO communications satellites.

REFERENCES:

Brown, D. L., Beal, B E., Haas, J. M., “Air Force Research Laboratory High Power Electric Propulsion Technology Development,” IEEEAC Paper #1549, Presented at the IEEE Aerospace Conference, Big Sky, MT, March 3-7, 2009.
Feuerborn, S. A., Neary, D. A., Perkins, J. M., “Finding a Way: Boeing’s All Electric Propulsion Satellite,” AIAA-2013-4126, 49th AIAA/ASME/SAE/ASEE Joint Propulsion Conference, July 14-17, 2013.
“Resiliency and Disaggregated Space Architectures,” White Paper, AFD-130821-034, Air Force Space Command, Released August 21, 2013.
Spores, R. A., Masse, R., Kimbrel, S., McLean, C., “GPIM AF-M315E Propulsion System,” AIAA-2013-3849, 49th AIAA/ASME/SAE/ASEE Joint Propulsion Conference, July 14-17, 2013.
Frisbee, R. H., “Evaluation of High-Power Solar Electric Propulsion Using Advanced Ion, Hall, MPD, and PIT Thrusters for Lunar and Mars Cargo Missions,” AIAA-2006-4465, 42nd AIAA Joint Propulsion Conference, Sacramento, CA, 9-12 July, 2006.

KEYWORDS: Electric Propulsion, Resiliency, Flexible, Disaggregation, Orbit Transfer

DIRECT TO PHASE II

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform

OBJECTIVE: Develop and demonstrate a cost effective system or sub-system that can detect, identify and manage or defeat sUAS. Management or defeat of sUAS range from effects that deter sUAS approach and entry into prohibited areas to kinetic and non-kinetic effects that destructively defeat sUAS while minimizing collateral effect to surrounding assets.

DESCRIPTION: The increasing popularity and proliferation of recreational sUAS, also referred to as drones or Remote Controlled Model Aircraft (such as DJI Phantom, UDI U818A, and 3DR Solo), has resulted in safety and security concerns for the Air Force and the Department of Defense (DoD). Among these concerns are recent sUAS overflights of military installations, flight safety hazards to manned aircraft, and illicit use by criminals and adversaries. Transfers from innovations in other industries, including mobile phones, electric cars, and consumer electronics, have caused a convergence of technological developments that have rapidly advanced the capabilities of sUAS. Collaborative development of advanced flight controllers with integrated GPS and inertial navigation mean that the skill and experience needed to successfully execute a standoff attack on exposed resources is relatively easy and can be done without attribution on the part of the attacker.

The breadth of this threat is both wide in scope and deep in complexity and warrants a variety of solutions for different circumstances. The various configurations of current sUAS make a single optimized solution both impractical and improbable. The final solution will likely be composed of a system of systems that can be tailored to application and budget. The ability of a threat to operate under autonomous control without an active command link can render ineffective those solutions that rely solely on intercepting or jamming of that link. Emerging low cost sensors in the sUAS domain enable enhanced and reliable autonomy and guidance that may make physical engagement approaches necessary. However, the potential threat of biological or explosive payloads may make destructive kinetic effects less desirable because of the potential for collateral damage. Regardless, destructive kinetic effects may be required to stop the vehicle under the appropriate circumstances.

The system must at a minimum detect, identify and manage or defeat sUAS (although there is interest to ‘capture’ and have a full recovery of the aircraft) using solutions that are cost effective and scalable to larger fixed sites and multi-sUAS attacks.

PHASE I: Proposal Must Show:

A) Broad understanding of the sUAS state of the art and capability projections.
B) Understanding of control architecture of modern sUAS autopilots and other subsystems.
C) Ability to design and construct a system that can detect, identify and locate targets or receive queuing onto a target.
D) Creative concept development for both destructive and non-destructive mitigation of sUAS.

FEASIBILITY DOCUMENTATION: Offerors interested in submitting a Direct to Phase II proposal in response to this topic must provide documentation to substantiate that the scientific and technical merit and feasibility described has been met and describes the potential commercial applications. The documentation provided must substantiate that the proposer has developed a preliminary understanding of global surveillance augmentation using commercial satellite systems. The documentation provided must substantiate that the proposer has developed a preliminary understanding of the technology to be applied in their Phase II proposal to meet the objectives of this topic. Documentation should include all relevant information including, but not limited to: technical reports, test data, prototype designs/models, and performance goals/results. Read and follow all of the feasibility documentation portions of the Air Force 16.2 Instructions. The Air Force will not evaluate the offeror’s related DP2 proposal where it determines that the offeror has failed to demonstrate the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of the Phase I project.

PHASE II: Develop and demonstrate an affordable system that can detect, identify and manage or defeat sUAS. The system will likely integrate affordable sensors (e.g., vehicle anti-collision radars, 360 degree cameras, etc.), software for target tracking and intelligent assessment of intent or nature of the threat, and integration of destructive (e.g., interceptor, munition, projectiles) or a non-destructive means of aircraft mitigation (e.g., nets, harpoons, lift disruption). The capability to be effective against a range of potential sUAS threats is a critical metric for the performance of the system. The ability to rapidly set up and operate the system, and to employ the system on moving platforms (e.g., for convoy protection) is also desired.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: A number of government agencies (military and civil) require this capability to protect facilities, operations, critical infrastructure and personnel. Commercial interest in such a system for security and safety applications is also anticipated.

REFERENCES:

“Terrorist Use of Improvised or Commercially Available Precision-Guided UAVs at Stand-Off Ranges: An Approach for Formulating Mitigation Considerations”; Mandelbaum, Jay; Ralston, James; Institute for Defense Analysis, Document D-3199, Oct 2005.
“Terrorist and Insurgent Unmanned Aerial Vehicles: Use, Potentials, and Military Implications”; Bunker, R.J; U.S. Army War College, Strategic Studies Institute; Aug 2015.

KEYWORDS: Drone, Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) or System (UAS), Counter UAS, Air Defense, Aerial Threats, Target Tracking

DIRECT TO PHASE II

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Battlespace

OBJECTIVE: Develop and demonstrate the ability of a global network of commercial and/or university telescopes to collect satellite tracking data to build and maintain, at a minimum, a near-GEO (geo-synchronous orbit) catalog, with the goal of a deep-space catalog, either of which would have a similar or better accuracy as the US Space Surveillance Network (SSN). The project shall serve as a path finder in assessing the feasibility and affordability of developing and maintaining a commercially developed catalog as a commodity.

DESCRIPTION: The modern axiom “Space is becoming more congested and contested” becomes more relevant as the world continues to place more satellites in orbit, becoming increasingly reliant on the services they provide. The Air Force Space Surveillance Network currently maintains a catalog of over 4200 objects in deep-space and over 1500 objects in near-GEO, and it is known that there are many smaller objects that are difficult to detect or cannot be tracked with current systems. For the purposes of this solicitation, deep-space is defined as orbits having a mean period of 225 minutes or greater and near-GEO is defined to include orbits having a mean period of approximately 24hours, or an apogee near 35,768km, and having any values of inclination angle and orbital eccentricity. The inherent responsibilities of Space Situational Awareness are vast and becoming more demanding of the Joint Functional Component Command for Space (JFCC Space) mission. JFCC Space, through its Joint Space Operations Center (JSpOC), provides surveillance of all space objects and activities, maintains detailed reconnaissance of space assets, fuses space data, maintains awareness of cooperative space assets, and allows JFCC-Space to conduct integrated C2 of space forces. Our current space surveillance operations are challenged to keep up with the growing number of space objects indefinitely.

Routine catalog maintenance places a large burden on space surveillance operations and is impacting the ability of orbital analysts to effectively perform the space protection mission. The Air Force Space Commander has called for alternative approaches to execute the function of “Space Traffic Cop” in order to free up JSpOC resources. Many companies are collecting observations (both metric and light curve data) on space objects every day, amateur astronomers are consistently tracking and reporting on satellite positions, and networks of university astronomical research telescopes can be time shared and/or used collaboratively to detect and report on satellite positions. Leveraging the commercial industry, academia and other government agencies has proven to be an invaluable asset for our military in the past, and is expected to provide similar benefits in this area of space catalog maintenance.

PHASE I: Proposal must show

A) Demonstrated understanding of space surveillance technology and data products including calibration.
B) Demonstrated expertise and capability in processing and fusing satellite tracking data for catalog generation and maintenance.
C) Demonstrated feasibility of automated processing of a large volume of tracking data in an ongoing and timely manner.
D) Relevant experience demonstrating successful data ingest and processing using observations from non-government telescope network(s) for space object tracking.

FEASIBILITY DOCUMENTATION: Offerors interested in submitting a Direct to Phase II proposal in response to this topic must provide documentation to substantiate that the scientific and technical merit and feasibility described above has been met and to identify the potential commercial applications. The documentation provided must substantiate that the proposer has developed a preliminary understanding of the technology to be applied in their Phase II proposal to meet the objectives of this topic. Documentation should include all relevant information including, but not limited to: technical reports, test data, prototype designs/models, and performance goals/results. Read and follow all of the feasibility documentation portions of the Air Force 16.2 Instructions. The Air Force will not evaluate the offeror’s related DP2 proposal where it determines that the offeror has failed to demonstrate the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of the Phase I project.

PHASE II: The contractor shall perform the following tasks:

1. Determine the available (commercial, university, etc.) tracking sources to be employed in the feasibility demonstration and secure cooperation agreements with them.
2. Obtain sample tracking data of representative types and demonstrate planned techniques for data calibration and usage.
3. Using simulated or real data, demonstrate large scale tracking data processing and catalog maintenance in an ongoing and timely fashion.
4. Using real commercial and/or university tracking data, demonstrate catalog generation and maintenance of the public near-GEO (minimum)/deep-space (goal) catalog for a minimum period of 1 month at the end of the contract period of performance.
5. Provide cost estimates for employing the demonstrated concept for operational support to the US Government. Estimates shall include cost for data acquisition, catalog maintenance center operations, and data archiving and distribution.

• All work should be accomplished in a contractor and/or university facility.
• Government tracking data will not be provided and should not be used or mixed with the commercial and university tracking data.
• The results of the 1 month test will be compared to the corresponding month of performance of the US Space

Surveillance Network to determine achievement of similar or better accuracy. Additionally, catalog completeness will also be an important metric. This evaluation will be performed by the Government with the help of the contractor team.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The Government has an interest in transition of the demonstrated concept to an operational capability in support of routine space situational awareness operations. Additionally, applications of the technology to support commercial satellite operators are envisioned for collision avoidance and anomaly resolution.

REFERENCES:

N. R. Council, Continuing Kepler’s Quest: Assessing Air Force Space Command's Astrodynamic Standards, Washington DC: The National Academies Press, 2012.
B. Weeden, "The Numbers game," The Space Review, pp. 1-2, 13 July 2009.
USSTRATCOM Space Control and Space Surveillance.

KEYWORDS: space situational awareness, space object identification, space control, space surveillance, space catalog, orbit tracking, deep-space, geo-synchronous orbit, data fusion, data processing, data acquisition, space catalog maintenance, data archiving

DIRECT TO PHASE II

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform

OBJECTIVE: Develop a drop-in robotic system or device to rapidly convert a variety of traditionally manned aircraft to robotically piloted, autonomous aircraft. This robotic system will operate the aircraft (e.g. observe gauges, operate controls, etc.) similar to a human pilot and will not require any modifications to the aircraft.

DESCRIPTION: Automation and autonomy have broad value to the Department of Defense (DoD), with the potential to; (1) enhance system performance of existing platforms, (2) reduce costs, and (3) enable new missions and capabilities, especially with reduced human exposure to dangerous or life threatening situations. This project leverages existing aviation assets and advances in vehicle automation technologies to develop a drop-in robotic system or device to rapidly convert a variety of traditionally manned aircraft to robotically piloted, autonomous aircraft. This robotic system will operate the aircraft (e.g. observe gauges, operate controls, etc.) similar to a human pilot and will not require any modifications to the aircraft.

Considerable advances have been made in aircraft automation systems over the past 50 years. These advances have enabled reduced pilot workload, improved mission prosecution, and improved flight safety. Similarly, unmanned aircraft have developed and leveraged new automation systems to permit operation via remote crew. However, large aircraft are capital-intensive developments generally subject to rigorous safety and reliability standards. The expense of new developments limits the rate at which new automation or autonomy capabilities can be developed, tested, and fielded.

Unmanned flight operations utilizing traditionally manned airplanes offer an increase in mission planning flexibility for a large set of missions and reduced cost while leveraging existing traditionally manned airframes. Non-invasive approaches to robotically piloted aircraft using existing commercial technology and components offer the benefits of unmanned operations without the complexity and upfront cost associated with the development of new unmanned vehicles. Such a system will have the ability to automatically pilot an aircraft using only the gauges and cockpit controls available to a human pilot thus eliminating custom design and integration costs. Mechanical manipulation of existing control effectors and optical sensing of gauges are possible with commercially available products and offer reduced system setup timelines. Non-invasive installations offer the benefit of rapid conversion between manned and unmanned modes while maintaining the airframe’s integrity required for subsequent manned operations. Unmanned, low cost cargo transportation, resupply, refueling, and ISR missions are envisioned applications of this technology.

To operate various aircraft, the system will have to perform four essential sets of tasks: (A) receive/select appropriate control settings, limitations, and parameters necessary to successfully operate a selected aircraft, (B) interface with the control stick/yoke, pedals, throttle, etc. to “fly the plane”, (C) monitor the aircraft state and systems (e.g. flight parameters (i.e. airspeed, altitude, attitude, etc.) propulsion, hydraulics, electrical, etc.) via the gauges and audio alarms, and (D) control the systems via knobs, switches, valves, buttons, etc. in the cockpit.

Some key technical elements for consideration include vision-based cockpit sensing and perception, physical manipulation, procedural verification, algorithmic implementation, flexible flight control techniques, optimized feasible trajectory computation, rule-based routing suggestions, vehicle or health management systems, and consumer-technology based human interfaces. This list is by no means exhaustive and is not intended to be prescriptive.

PHASE I: Proposal must show: (A) demonstrated feasibility of system architecture, (B) demonstrated capability of humanoid-like robotic manipulation, and (C) demonstrated capability of vision-based recognition.

FEASIBILITY DOCUMENTATION: Offerors interested in submitting a Direct to Phase II proposal in response to this topic must provide documentation to substantiate that the scientific and technical merit and feasibility described has been met and describes the potential commercial applications. The documentation provided must substantiate that the proposer has developed a preliminary understanding of the technology to be applied in their Phase II proposal to meet the objectives of this topic. Documentation should include all relevant information including, but not limited to: technical reports, test data, prototype designs/models, and performance goals/results. Read and follow all of the feasibility documentation portions of the Air Force 16.2 Instructions. The Air Force will not evaluate the offeror’s related DP2 proposal where it determines that the offeror has failed to demonstrate the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of the Phase I project.

PHASE II: The contractor will develop and demonstrate a robotic system that can perform the following; (A) ability to interface with and operate existing aircraft control systems across multiple aircraft types, (B) ability to capture knowledge about the aircraft’s state to include both nominal and off-nominal states, and (C) ability to be programmed to accommodate various aircraft’s flight properties and limitations.

All of this will be done without making any modifications to the aircraft. Installation of the robot in the cockpit should be with little or no hard attachment to either the flight controls, avionics, or power system, i.e., completely independent of the aircraft's systems.

The robot should be capable of performing all activities/procedures in an FAA practical test standards, with possible waivers allowed (e.g. radio calls). At a minimum, the robotic system will operate the aircraft to autonomously taxi, take off, follow a predefined flight plan, and land.

This capability will be demonstrated on an FAA Level C or D cockpit flight simulator for a relatively "simple' class of aircraft (e.g. Caravan or King Air).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The contractor will pursue commercialization of the various technologies developed in Phase II for potential government applications. There are potential commercial applications in a wide range of diverse fields that include cargo, resupply, refueling, airdrop, or ISR type missions.

REFERENCES:

Heejin Jeong, Jeongwoon Kim, and David Hyunchul Shim. "Development of an Optionally Piloted Vehicle using a Humanoid Robot", 52nd Aerospace Sciences Meeting, AIAA SciTech, (AIAA 2014-1165).
Stefan Kohlbrecher, David C. Conner, Alberto Romay, Felipe Bacim, Doug A. Bowman, and Oskar von Stryk. “Overview of Team ViGIR’s Approach to the Virtual Robotics Challenge”, 2013 IEEE International Symposium on Safety, Security, and Rescue Robotics (SSRR), IEEE, 21-26 Oct 2013.
Julia Badger, J.D. Yamoski, Brian Wightman, “Towards Autonomous Operation of Robonaut 2”, Infotech@Aerospace 2012, Infotech@Aerospace onferences, (AIAA 2012-2441).
Rocco Dell’Aquila, Giampiero Campa, Marcello Napolitano, Marco Mammarella, “Real-time machine-vision-based position sensing system for UAV aerial refueling”, Journal of Real-Time Image Processing, April 2007, Volume 1, Issue 3, pp 213-224.
Christopher Rasmussen, Kiwon Sohn, Qiaosong Wang, Paul Oh, “Perception and Control Strategies for Driving Utility Vehicles with a Humanoid Robot”, International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems (IROS 2014), September 14-18, 2014, 2014 IEEE/RSJ pp 973-980.

KEYWORDS: Robotics, automation, autonomous operation, flight controls, unmanned air vehicle, unmanned aircraft system, vision based sensing, remotely piloted vehicle, aircraft conversion, drone

DIRECT TO PHASE II

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Information Systems

OBJECTIVE: Develop and apply modern command center technology to provide capabilities for collaborative and efficient conduct of ICBM operations, including status monitoring, maintenance, security and missile launch.

NOTE: Work under this topic will require access to classified information. The proposing firm must have a Secret facility clearance and cleared personnel in order to perform the Phase II work. For more information on facility and personnel clearance procedures and requirements, please visit the Defense Security Service Web site at: http://www.dss.mil/index.html.

NOTE: All information in this solicitation is unclassified; do not include any classified information in your proposal.

DESCRIPTION: The nation’s Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) system provides a land-based nuclear deterrence and strike capability to the President. The current system comprises 450 missiles and their associated C3 facilities located in several northern US states that stand on alert to provide a day-to-day, safe, secure, responsive, global nuclear strike capability to assure our allies, dissuade proliferation, deter adversaries, and, should deterrence fail, decisively defeat adversary targets and retaliatory capabilities as authorized and directed by the President. The operation of this capability encompasses a range of activities, including monitoring of health and status, maintenance of missiles and launch hardware and software systems, physical and cyber security, training for and actual operation of, and if directed, missile launch operations. Because of the strategic significance and nature of this mission, the coordination and conduct of these operations is of paramount importance requiring unprecedented communication and collaboration, shared situational awareness of ongoing and planned activities, assured integrity and timeliness of information, and man-power efficiency.

The ICBM system is comprised of three wings in separate geographical areas, each with a Wing Commander that provides oversight and direction of wing operations. The 20th Air Force’s Task Force 214 (TF214) Command Center is located at F.E. Warren AFB, and provides coordination, command and control of wing activities and reporting of status to higher command authorities (USSTRATCOM and AFGSC). Modernizing the Command Center functions at each of the three missile wings is the focus of this modernization effort, but the architectural concept should look forward to integrating information from the various wings (e.g., security, weather, force tracking, missile status, etc.) and other agencies (for example intelligence and law enforcement) to develop a site picture that can be tailored for the TF214 Command center and other key stakeholders to provide near real-time situational awareness. The Missile Wing Command Centers also serves to integrate and coordinate wing activities, in response to higher leadership directives and contingencies and is ultimately responsible to the Commander 20th Air Force for the operational mission, and for all actions taking place within the missile field with the exception of Emergency Action Message processing. These activities include coordination of 1) maintenance operations which encompasses monitoring and assessing weapon system component and major subcomponent performance, and performing scheduled and pre-emptive maintenance and repairs, and 2) physical and cyber security operations which encompasses monitoring, diagnosing, and assessing security devices, providing routine threat assessments, prioritizing and directing the appropriate security teams during routine operations including maintenance and convoys, directing and dispatching emergency response teams, and providing battlespace awareness provided from on-site cameras, sensors, and other responding elements during a security incident.

This topic area is intended to explore novel social, architectural and functional aspects of these operations, including methods to maintain Shared Situational Awareness and Missile Field Order of Battle, provide effective human interfaces for visualization and collaboration of operational data, automate the mining, fusion, and presentation of data supporting commanding, controlling, and reporting status of ICBM assets and support systems/activities, and enable capabilities for operators to proactively plan and respond to events in real time.

PHASE I: Proposal must show, as appropriate to the proposed effort, technical feasibility of the underlying technology, whether data fusion, human-machine interfaces, etc., via lab or field experiments or related applications.

FEASIBILITY DOCUMENTATION: Offerors interested in submitting a Direct to Phase II proposal in response to this topic must provide documentation to substantiate that the scientific and technical merit and feasibility described has been met and describes the potential commercial applications. The documentation provided must substantiate that the proposer has developed a preliminary understanding of the technology to be applied in their Phase II proposal to meet the objectives of this topic. Documentation should include all relevant information including, but not limited to: technical reports, test data, prototype designs/models, and performance goals/results. Read and follow all of the feasibility documentation portions of the Air Force 16.2 Instructions. The Air Force will not evaluate the offeror’s related D2P2 proposal where it determines that the offeror has failed to demonstrate the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of the Phase I project.

PHASE II: Design and develop command center systems to encompass the range of ICBM operations and functions, and provide the technical (hardware, software, communications) and physical (building, layout, human-machine interfaces) elements of such an operations center, focusing on the Wing Command Center implementation. These elements might include some or all of the following, categorized into two broad areas, for which the contract may propose to address either or both:

Data Fusion and Information Processing

a) Improved information systems to support enhanced operator awareness and efficiency;

b) Tools that automate the mining, fusion, and presentation of data supporting commanding, controlling, and reporting status of ICBM assets; Architectural and Functional Modernization

c) Effective human machine interfaces (touch screen, immersive environments, user specific adaptation, speech recognition, etc.) for enhanced understanding of situations and rapid decision making;

d) Enhanced presentation capabilities for shared situational awareness, both large and small scale; e) Organizationally and socially effective floor plans (human and operations centric, not equipment centric) P

HASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The contractor will pursue commercialization of the various technologies developed in Phase II for potential government applications. There are potential commercial applications in a wide range of diverse fields that include cargo transport operations centers, industrial systems monitoring, and security response command centers.

REFERENCES:

“Utilization of a Multi-disciplinary Approach to Building Effective Command Centers: Process and Products”; Galdorisi, G.; Tolentino, G.; The Tenth International Command & Control Research and Technology Symposium, Jun 2005.
“Leveraging Net-Centric Monitoring Techniques with Information Fusion to Increase US Air Force Information Dominance”; Jos, B.; Culbertson, T., Military Communications Conference, 2006.
“Use of Collaborative Software to Improve Nuclear Power Plant Outage Management”; St. Germain, S.; 9th International Conference on Nuclear Plant Instrumentation, Control and Human Machine Interface Technologies; February 2015.

KEYWORDS: Command and Control, Human-Machine Interfaces, Data Processing, Data Mining/Fusion, Automation

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Information Systems, Materials/Processes, Sensors

OBJECTIVE: Implement warehouse technology strategy employing automated equipment and related systems best practices which enable the prevention and reduction of employee exposure to physical injuries resulting from Material Handling Equipment (MHE) and/or Powered Industrial Truck (PIT) vehicle collisions, falling objects, demanding and/or extreme repetitive motion activities. Introduce innovative technology and automation practices for the DLA Disposition Services warehouse environment utilizing emerging technologies such as sensor technology, robotics, and/or other automation that reduces fatigue and exposure to work tasks that have the potential to result in lost time, injuries, warehouse equipment damage, or materiel losses.

DESCRIPTION: The commercial potential of these technologies is with DLA Disposition Services warehouse and field locations dependent on the strength of the impact on disposition operations. The capabilities of interest are technologies that will result in:

• A reduction in the number of incidences involving MHE, PIT, and equipment damage, or materiel losses resulting from collisions inside warehouse environments
• Reductions in the incidences involving an injury of an employee due to MHE or PIT mishaps/collisions inside warehouse environments
• Reduction or elimination of Powered Industrial Truck (PIT) mishaps through automated operator certification validation prior to operation and impact sensing
• Reduction and/or minimization of the need to pick property at dangerous elevations
• Reduction in the number incidences involving injuries or incidences of property damage due to lifting heavy/maximum allowed weights by the evaluation/use of scale sensors on MHE equipment
• Improvement of the ergonomics associated with reaching into pallet racking and stacking during the property pick-up
• Ensuring that property movement tasks occur at ergonomically correct heights and reach ranges at engineered workstations as opposed to bending/stretching to reach low/high shelves in bin shelving/carton flow racking or pallet racking
• Reduction or minimization of the need to manually write information and handle documents, with voice recognition technology, both hands are free for handling equipment and/or other products
• Reduction or minimization of the physical effort required to lift and stack cases or totes to build shipping pallets

Candidate technologies should balance commercial considerations and DoD requirements.

PHASE I: The research and development goals of Phase I are to identify MHE, PIT, and equipment related systems opportunities to improve safety/ergonomics/environment in DLA Disposition Services warehouses. Develop a plan designed to reduce employee exposure to physical injuries resulting from vehicle collisions, falling objects, demanding and/or extreme repetitive motion activities within the warehouse environment. Examine feasibility of implementing the new technologies through analysis or proof of concept. The small business firm shall deliver a data package to include an ergonomic assessment of the work environment, simulation results, and a plan that identifies technologies and automation improvements to support objective.

PHASE II: Based on the results achieved in Phase I, DLA Disposition Services will decide whether to continue the effort based on the technical, commercial merit, and feasibility of the proposed solution. The research and development goals of Phase II are to conduct a limited demonstration and test of the new technology in one or more of the DLA Disposition Services warehouses and quantifiably demonstrate a reduction in employee exposure to physical injuries resulting from MHE and/or PIT vehicle collisions, falling objects, demanding and/or extreme repetitive motion activities.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: At this point, no specific funding is associated with Phase III. The vendor will use its solution and quantifiable results to build a compelling business case where the agency may choose to pursue a sole source contract utilizing the technology developed through the Phase I and Phase II effort.

KEYWORDS: safety, warehouse, warehousing, automation, robotics, sensor, sensors, material handling equipment, powered industrial truck, ergonomics

REFERENCES:

www.roboticsbusinessreview.com

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Information Systems, Materials/Processes, Sensors

OBJECTIVE: To design, prototype, and test stand-alone mobile office vehicles that are fully equipped with a wide-range of communication and information technologies and capable of providing disposal services at the warfighter’s location.

DESCRIPTION: DLA Disposition Service seeks mobile office vehicle technology that is capable, equipped, and powered to provide a wide-range of disposal services and customer assistance/services at hundreds of geographically disparate military installations. Currently, DLA Disposition Services lacks the capability to provide a full-service mobile office that allows remote property disposal services to our customers at their location. Technologies sought are mobile communications, Wi-Fi, network connectivity for information technology functions/services, data processing, and document/label printing that is also capable of integrating with existing DLA networks, data storage, automated information systems (AIS), and applications. Disposal service functions typically performed are the ability to review/identify customer property requiring disposal, taking photos of property, entering property transactions into an AIS, printing documentation/labels, tagging property with labels, and to provide the warfighter a valid property receipt and any other related turn-in documentation immediately. DLA Disposition Services is also interested in the capability to receive, lift, and stow small amounts of property for transporting to a DLA Disposition Services location. DLA Disposition Services would also welcome information from industry regarding alternative concept vehicles for the above capabilities that use alternative fuels, power sources, and solar power energy.

PHASE I: The applied research and development goals of Phase I is to design and develop a mobile vehicle office prototype capable of performing disposal services, property receipt actions, and customer service at geographically disparate customer and military installations. Develop feasibility study and measures to gauge operational effectiveness/efficiency gains, determine potential increases in customer service and their experience, and develop the operational and sustainment costs if the agency were to use or deploy mobile office vehicles.

PHASE II: Based on the results achieved in Phase I, DLA Disposition Services will decide whether to continue the effort. The applied research and development goals of Phase II will be to build, deploy, and operationally test two prototype mobile office vehicles to perform property disposal actions and customer services at military installations located across the United States. Validate the feasibility study and measures for operational effectiveness/efficiency gains, verify increases in customer service and their experience, and solidify the operational and sustainment costs if the agency were to use or deploy mobile office vehicles

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: At this point, no specific funding is associated with Phase III. The vendor will use its solution and quantifiable results to build a compelling business case where the agency may choose to pursue a sole source contract for several DLA Disposition Services Mobile Office Vehicles technologies that are capable of providing disposal services at the warfighter’s location.

KEYWORDS: mobile office, mobile services, mobile service, telecommunications, information technology, vehicle, property disposal, customer support, customer service

REFERENCES:

www.roboticsbusinessreview.com
www.dmc.meeting.com
https://www.dshs.wa.gov/esa/csd-mobile-office/mobile-community-services-office-mcs0
https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/general/#dmv_2go.asp
DRMS-I 4160.14 Operating Instructions for Disposition Management

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics, Information Systems, Materials/Processes

OBJECTIVE: To design, develop, and test a mobile application (app) that takes photos and automatically upload the photos into an existing website.

DESCRIPTION: DLA Disposition Service seeks mobile technologies/application development capabilities that can take property photos, attach an accurate property description, and automatically upload the photo(s) into an existing website via a mobile phone or other mobile device. The existing website displays information/data similarly to an e-commerce website, but the primary use is for the reutilization, transfer, and donation of property to warfighters. DLA Disposition Services’ current ability to perform these functions is outdated, laborious, and time consuming. DLA Disposition Service also seeks technologies to incorporate voice recognition and translation to text to ensure the accurate and complete description of property. DLA Disposition Services is also interested in utilizing mobile technologies to read/scan barcodes, voice to text technologies, optical character recognition (OCR) for text extraction, and converting images to documents. DLA Disposition Service also seeks photo technologies that utilize existing Wi-Fi and are capable of interfacing with DLA networks.

PHASE I: The applied research and development goals of Phase I is to leverage, develop, and test mobile solutions and application technology and develop test plans that will allow DLA Disposition Services the ability to quickly/easily take and modify photo(s), enter property descriptive data in an efficient manner, and automatically upload to an existing website. Limitations: due to data transfer limitations, photos cannot exceed 2.5 MB.

PHASE II: Based on the results achieved in Phase I, DLA Disposition Services will decide whether to continue the effort. The applied research and development goals of Phase II will be to conduct a wide-scale operational test and evaluation at several field locations to ensure the application works according to the objectives and test plans developed during Phase I. Phase II will ensure the successful interoperability and integration with DLA’s network, data, existing applications and systems. This phase will also confirm the mobile application is compliant with the current DOD Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs), is 508 compliant, and complies with other mandatory information assurance policies/directives.

KEYWORDS: Information technology, e-commerce, property photographs, property photos, photo upload, camera, pictures, reutilize, transfer, donation

REFERENCES:

http://www.dla.mil/dispositionservices
www.dmc.meeting.com
DRMS-I 4160.14 Operating Instructions for Disposition Management
http://www.econtentmag.com/Articles/News/News-Feature/How-to-Realize-ROI-From-Personalization-109358.htm

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics, Sensors

OBJECTIVE: Develop a high-flux 9keV x-ray source with a spot size larger than 10um

DESCRIPTION: Rapid Integrated Circuit (IC) inspection has become a high priority. X-ray inspection of large volumes of an IC is limited to the high intensity beams at a synchrotron. However, those facilities are not easily accessible for routine inspection of parts. Table-top x-ray sources output, at best, 109 x-ray photons/sec(mrad2)mm2(0.1%BW) at 9keV. This limits the quality of the images and the throughput. Mini-synchrotron-like inverse Compton scattering sources may achieve these fluxes, but they are much larger and more complicated to operate. A high-brilliance 9keV x-ray source is needed to quickly image the small features of modern ICs in an x-ray microscope.

PHASE I: Perform a study and provide the preliminary design of an innovative x-ray source. Identify new pathways on how to achieve an x-ray source with the following characteristics: 1) X-ray peak energy between 9 and 11keV (above Cu K lines) 2) Brightness of 1x1011 photons/sec(mrad2)mm2(0.1%BW)) or higher 3) Spot size between 10um and 40um 4) Foot print smaller than 40cm x 40cm x 60cm (not including power supply and chiller) 5) Unstructured spot with a Gaussian profile 6) If pulsed, less than 1% variation in total intensity and in spatial profile from shot to shot The design and detailed specs need to be provided not only for the x-ray source but also for the power supply, chiller (no larger than 10ft3), and any other equipment necessary to operate the source. An interlock that allows a temporary pause in the projection of x-rays without a long (at most 1 minute) re-start time needs to also be designed. Deliver a report of research and innovation that presents tradeoffs between the new approach and existing technology. If any of the above constraints cannot be adhered to, the report must include relevant research and rationale. Offerors may provide alternative parameters that are both attainable and consistent with the goals summarized above. The report must also include all generated files (e.g., CAD drawings) and a program plan for source development.

PHASE II: Based on the aforementioned research, and applicable development/innovation, build the designed prototype. Test and deliver the prototype, characterization results, all generated files (e.g., final CAD drawings, test results), operation instructions, and the test plan to the Government for further testing and verification. PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: There may be opportunities for further development of this source for use in a specific military or commercial application. During a Phase III program, offerors may refine the performance of the design and produce pre-production quantities for evaluation by the Government.

REFERENCES:

O. Hemberg, M. Otendal, and H. M. Hertz (August 2003) Liquid-metal-jet anode electron-impact x-ray source – Applied Physics Letters.
Graves, W.S. et al. “MIT inverse Compton source concept.” Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research Section A: Accelerators, Spectrometers, Detectors and Associated Equipment 608.1 (2009): S103-S105. R&D toward a compact high-brilliance X-ray source based on channeling radiation.
Piot, P. and Brau, C. A. and Gabella, W. E. and Choi, B. K. and Jarvis, J. D. and Lewellen, J. W. and Mendenhall, M. H. and Mihalcea, D., AIP Conference Proceedings, 1507, 734-739 (2012), DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1 I.
Kieffer, P. Gergaud, P. Dova, P. Panine, S. Rodrigues. Development of a High Brilliance X-ray Source For Advanced Thin Film Characterization. 2011 NIST Semiconductor and Dimensional Metrology Division Conference (October 2011).
Weisshaupt, Jannick, et al. “High-brightness table-top hard X-ray source driven by sub-100-femtosecond mid-infrared pulses.” Nature Photonics 8.12 (2014): 927-930.

KEYWORDS: X-ray source, Imaging, X-ray flux

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Information Systems, Nuclear Technology, Sensors

OBJECTIVE: Develop a learning algorithm to use in conjunction with current spectral algorithms.

DESCRIPTION: Within the US Government, there are several select agencies with the task to detect the presence of SNM without revealing the search activity or the means of detection. This greatly limits the searcher’s dwell time, the proximity of the searcher to the threat source, and the ability of the searcher to make multiple passes. Advances in this research would also benefit First Responders, Preventive Radiological Nuclear Detection (PRND) units, and General Purpose forces.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS: DTRA/J10CE is interested in exploring the feasibility of using machine learning for standoff detection of SNM. This learning algorithm could be used in conjunction with gamma spectral algorithms in order to greatly improve performance. The learning algorithm could either be integrated into a given gamma spectral algorithm or be designed to work on its own. Instead of template matching or anomaly triggers, the learning algorithm could look for correlations within the gamma spectrum itself. Triggers could be learned and created by feeding the algorithm data sets and giving it feedback between benign and significant gamma alarms. The goal of this project is to create a learning algorithm that produces alarm criteria that the searcher would otherwise never see. For this project, J10CE will provide its Algorithm IPT data set. The Performer could then inject their synthetic data (for training) into this background data set.

PHASE I: Analyze and interpret search data. Develop a list of potential algorithms to evaluate. Demonstrate potential algorithms on a real or created data set.

PHASE II: Down-select from the list of potential algorithms. Write applications (or modules) that implement the algorithms in Java or Java Virtual Machine compliant language that can be run on the latest Android OS in order to support current R/N search sensors.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Incorporate selected algorithms beyond DTRA/J10CE to the US Government and Industry.

REFERENCES:

Radiation Detection Measurement, Third Edition, Glenn Knoll, New Jersey, 2000

KEYWORDS: machine learning, algorithm, standoff detection, SNM, gamma spectrum, search, PRND

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Information Systems

OBJECTIVE: The present topic seeks computational approaches that “mine” publicly available microbiome data to identify changes in natural soil-borne communities which can be uniquely and predictably associated with environmental presence of ionizing radiation, radioisotopes including those in the actinide series, heavy metals, and/or process chemicals associated with nuclear activities.

DESCRIPTION: Unilateral monitoring for nuclear activities in the post-Cold War era demands new strategies in light of what represents an unconventional threat. Current technologies are ill-suited for non-permissive environments where long periods of observation are required and telling events may be ephemeral. Further, they are reliant upon key signatures which can be lost due to meteorological events and geochemical cycling. Of greater utility for the present purpose are monitoring approaches which provide near- to mid-field access to sites of potential interest and whose informational content is retained even when the original signatures are no longer present. Biological systems could fulfill such a role.

Biological systems are strongly reactive to the presence of pollutants in the environment and exhibit characteristic changes when exposed to specific classes. Biological sentinels thus are used routinely to track the health of “at risk” ecosystems, and associated information such as genomic and proteomic data are often archived in public repositories. Computational approaches can be used to analyze patterns (or lack thereof) in the wealth of available data in order to establish a valid starting point for evaluating impacts of contamination at a given site [1]. The increasingly more sophisticated algorithms developed to support bioinformatics can be used to interrogate indigenous organisms from sites of interest and determine whether there are distinctive changes which may be definitively and predictably linked to the presence of contamination whether or not it is still present [2].

Of particular utility are flora that inhabit routinely-sampled matrices. Soil, sediment, and water host a variety of microscopic life forms (“microbiomes”) for which genomic, biochemical, and trait-based data are already accessible [3]. Microbiomes are composed of thousands of microbial species intricately linked to the health and functioning of systems in which they reside, and community composition is a consequence of the dynamic interplay between the resident species and the local environment [4]. Environmental changes can induce selective pressures which result in notable shifts to species composition and density as well as expression of characteristic traits (e.g., particular protein isoforms) even where the specific taxa may vary from site-to-site [5]. End-state community structure can be somewhat predictable, given the nature of the exogenous stressor, as is demonstrated, e.g., by interrogation of uranium mine tailings [6], industrial areas [7], and other contaminated environmental matrices [8, 9,10]. Certain genera and, in some cases species, are characteristically present in predictable relative proportions or communities exhibit functional similarities. Further proof-of-concept is available in the biomedical realm, where health conditions such as liver disease are associated with the presence of particular gut microbiome constituencies [11].

The present topic seeks development of robust computational tools to explore the phylogenetic and functional characteristics of microbial communities in natural soils contaminated by ionizing radiation, radioisotopes including those in the actinide series, heavy metals, and/or process chemicals from nuclear activities. The overarching goal is to demonstrate that soil microbiomes tend to converge upon a particular community constituency and/or functional state given the chronic or episodic presence of contamination and that the state is predictable. Ideally, algorithms developed to address the need described herein would be applicable to the evaluation of other microbiomes to similarly elucidate predictability of resident communities given a certain condition and thus could be used in biomedical, forensic, and other applications. The research is intended to produce a coarse-grained analytical method that guides more refined site assessments.

PHASE I: Proposed efforts should be purely computational and should make use of existent datasets available in archives such as QIME, MG-RAST, NCBI, and EBI. Proof-of-concept will be provided by demonstrating that the bioinformatics approach(es) developed for the application described herein can be applied to a small, well-defined dataset where the environmental parameter space can be accurately circumscribed. To support proof-of-concept, use of “model system” contaminated sites (e.g., Chernobyl) is acceptable, although the Phase II end-state goal is to support analysis of soil microbiomes where exposures may be low level chronic or episodic in nature. Sources of variation, including those associated with environmental variability, sample collection and archival, technical protocols, and analytical methods, should be taken into account. Likewise, sample sizes and controls should be adequate and appropriate to support meaningful statistical analysis and lay the foundation for future efforts conducted in the same vein. Competitive proposals will include subject matter experts who fully understand the implications and limitations of including particular data in the model and will incorporate sensitivity analysis and risk mitigation plans. Proposals should explain methods that will be used or developed to quantify uncertainties. Applicants should delineate assumptions, including those associated with hypothetical cause-and-effect relationships between proposed community indicators (whether taxonomic or functional) and presence of soil-borne contamination. Likewise, ample rationale should be provided for selection of data types. Although deriving mechanistic understanding is not the intent of this topic, building predictive capacity will require reasonably educated conjecture regarding anticipated presence of particular taxa or functional groups. Phase I deliverables include (1) a final report and (2) the formatted dataset used to test developed algorithms. The report should supply the information requested above, describe model development including parameterization, and provide preliminary results on model fidelity The report should also include plans for development of a user interface which will address Phase II expectations. Operating system, software (where applicable), and data compatibility should be specifically addressed, as should proposed location of the interface.

PHASE II: Phase II efforts will focus on iterative improvement to the approach developed during Phase I. Efforts will be expanded to include additional datasets and to evaluate the predictive power of the model in terms of establishing that community constituency (whether taxonomic or functional) is commonly, and preferably, uniquely associated with presence of particular contaminants. Validation datasets will be included in order to assess model fidelity and performance in terms of retroactively identifying contaminated sites. Feasibility of extending the method to other microbiome types and stressors to support additional applications (e.g., biomedical applications) should be evaluated. The phase II deliverables are a report detailing (1) description of the approach, including optimization techniques and outcomes, (2) testing and validation data, (3) advantages and disadvantages/limitations of the method, and (4) potential for application to other problem sets; the source code; and a user interface and any associated executables.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Identify and exploit features that would be attractive for commercial or other private sector applications such as conducting “forensics” analysis to support development of diagnostics and therapeutics for illnesses whose interrelation with the human microbiome has been established. Examples include high-impact diseases such as cardiovascular disease, colorectal cancer, Alzheimer’s, ulcerative colitis, and periodontal disease.

REFERENCES:

Pylro VS et al. 2014. Brazilian microbiome project: revealing the unexplored microbial diversity—challenges and prospects. Microb Ecol 67:237-241.
Gilbert JA et al. 2010. Meeting report: the terabase metagenomics workshop and the vision of an Earth microbiome project. Standards in Genomic Sciences 3:243-248.
Xu Z et al. 2014. Bioinformatic approaches reveal metagenomics characterization of soil microbial community. PLOS ONE 9:1-11.
Goodrich et al. 2014. Conducting a microbiome study. Cell 158:250-262.
Martiny JBH et al. 2015. Microbiomes in light of traits: a phylogenetic perspective. Science 350:aa93231-aa93238.
Choudhary S, Pinaki S. 2010. Identification and characterization of uranium accumulation potential or a uranium mine isolated Pseudomonas strain. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 27:1795-1801.
Hookom M, Puchooa D. 2013. Isolation and identification of heavy metals tolerant bacteria from industrial and agricultural areas in Mauritius. Curr Res Microbiol Biotech 3:119-123.
Abulencia CB et al. 2006. Environmental whole-genome amplification to access microbial populations in contaminated sediments. Appl Environ Microbiol 72:3291-3301.
Sobolev D, Begonia MFT. 2008. Effects of heavy metal contamination upon soil microbes: lead-induced changes in general and denitrifying microbial communities as evidenced by molecular markers. Int J Environ Res Public Health 5:450-456.
Belozerkaya T et al. 2010. Characteristics of extremophylic fungi from Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant. Nuclear Power Plant. Current Research, Technology and Education Topics in Applied Microbiology and Microbial Biotechnology, Mendez-Vilas A. (ed.), 88-94, Vol. 1, Formatex Research Center: Badajoz, Spain.
Kuczynski J et al. 2012. Experimental and analytical tools for studying the human microbiome. Nature Rev Genet 13:47-58.

KEYWORDS: Bioinformatics, biomonitoring, microorganisms, soil microbiome, biological sentinel

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Nuclear Technology, Sensors

OBJECTIVE: To develop a method for identifying nuclear materials at distances over 100m through the detection of alternative signatures.

DESCRIPTION: Current technology can reliably identify radioactive materials at close range (<50m) through the detection of ionizing decay products (beta, gamma, neutron). However, detecting many nuclear materials (e.g. Pu, HEU) with conventional detectors at distances over a few meters is difficult due to shielding, geometric considerations, and the inherent long half-lives of the radionuclides. New research has shown the potential to detect these materials through alternative signatures. In particular, gamma and neutron radiation creates a unique ionization signature in the surrounding air that can be used to detect the presence of radioactive material. This topic seeks proposals to exploit these alternative signatures to detect Special Nuclear Materials (SNM) at distances over 100m, far greater than current detection limits. Although detecting other mid-mass isotopes may also be of interest (60Co, 137Cs), this study should focus on fissile isotopes: 239Pu and 235U. Designs should demonstrate sensitivity to radioactive sources equivalent to strategic SNM levels: 5kg 235U or 2kg Pu. The total detection time should be on the order of a few minutes. This topic will not address methods of active interrogation using ionizing radiation.

PHASE I: A trade study should be conducted to assess the best detection method using alternative signatures. The study should address the signal size produced by critical quantities of SNM and demonstrate sensitivity to these signals from >100m. A proof of principle experiment should be carried out to demonstrate the chosen detection method’s viability.

PHASE II: Phase II projects should develop a prototype device. Although not necessarily hand-held, the prototype should be man-portable and capable of being used in a field test. The device should demonstrate the detection of radionuclides from >100m standoff distances.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: PHASE III: Based on successful Phase II results, the final product design should focus on minimizing device form factor and increasing ruggedness for use in the field. DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: In addition to SNM detection for national security purposes, this technology could also be used for environmental monitoring.

REFERENCES:

Kumarasiri Konthasinghe, Kristin Fitzmorris, Manoj Peiris, Adam J. Hopkins, Benjamin Petrak, Dennis K. Killinger, and Andreas Muller. "Laser-Induced Fluorescence from N2+ Ions Generated by a Corona Discharge in Ambient Air." Appl. Spectrosc. 69, 1042-1046 (2015)
Erin T. McCole Dlugosz, Reginald Fisher, Aleksey Filin, Dmitri A. Romanov, Johanan H. Odhner, and Robert J. Levis. “Filament-Assisted Impulsive Raman Spectroscopy of Ozone and Nitrogen Oxides.” The Journal of Physical Chemistry A 2015 119 (35), 9272-9280 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpca.5b06319

KEYWORDS: Alternative Signatures, Standoff Detection, Nuclear Detection, SNM

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Information Systems

OBJECTIVE: DTRA is seeking research in the area of plan recognition from unstructured text sources.

DESCRIPTION: The area of plan recognition encompasses a set of tasks that identifies and relates sequentially time-based observed actions of an entity to a specified objective. Plan recognition presents a complex, multi-discipline challenge to elements of the Department of Defense as it incorporates human factors analysis for anticipatory analysis and modeling the goals of adversaries and machine learning in environments lack of information and uncertainty. This topic is of particular relevance for DTRA in the area of counter-proliferation.

Technical and challenges in plan recognition include: detecting and understanding complex speech acts; inferring changes in goals based on changes in plans; plan detecting based on layering multiple inference layers lossy data from intermittent interruptions; and identifying the temporal conditions. Other technical challenges relate to the generalizability of plan recognition across domains (e.g., plan recognition of a chemical event as opposed to a biological event or sub-events) and the temporal details of events in identifying plan elements and sequentially ordering them in the context of composing an adversary’s plan and characterizing technical progress. At a system-level, technical challenges include the generalizability of the plan recognition systems into to other domains. Technical areas of interest include: Improvements over the state of the art in formal representation (logic-based rules) for plan recognition; natural language processing research related to the identification of task-oriented dialogues and sub-dialogues and understanding speech actions as they pertain to goal-directed behavior; hypothesis generation and co-reference of goal-directed behaviors across multiple data sets of disparate provenance; and abnormalities in plan formulation such as deception or changes in plans due to external stimuli. Respondents would propose novel research topics in response to one, but ideally, multiple technical areas of interest.

PHASE I: Investigate and identify plan recognition approaches and demonstrate proof of concept.

PHASE II: Develop and demonstrate a plan recognition prototype, test against identified plans and labeled data and integrate with current modeling capabilities. Characterize performance levels and assess utility to user-centric tasks in the context of evaluations that involve real data and operationally-relevant scenarios.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Plan recognition algorithms demonstrated and proven in operational settings would be valuable in a wide range of potential applications including law enforcement, counter-terrorism and counter international human-trafficking.

REFERENCES:

Carberry, S. (2001). Techniques for plan recognition. User Modeling and User-Adapted Interaction, 11(1-2), 31-48.
Litman, D. J., & Allen, J. F. (1987). A plan recognition model for subdialogues in conversations. Cognitive science, 11(2), 163-200.
Goldman, R. P., Geib, C. W., Kautz, H., & Asfour, T. (2011). 3.27 Coupling Plan Recognition with Plan Repair for Real-Time Opponent Modeling. Plan Recognition, 19.
Schmidt, C. “Introduction to Plan Recognition”. Rutgers University. Retrieved from: http://www.rci.rutgers.edu/~cfs/472_html/Planning/PlanRecog.html accessed on 12/5/2014.

KEYWORDS: NLP, plan recognition, modeling, adversarial planning, logic-based rules, formal representation, goals, intention

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Information Systems

OBJECTIVE: Develop sustainable and scalable data-driven methodologies to discover emerging or disruptive technologies before they have an innovative impact on WMD and the CWMD mission space. Employing discovery methodologies will enable continuous horizon scanning, and drive technology forecast analysis and reporting to assist the CWMD community of interest (CoI) in avoiding technological surprise.

DESCRIPTION: DTRA’s R&D Directorate (J9) is seeking repeatable and scalable data-driven methodologies that will support a distributed technology forecasting framework for the discovery of emerging or disruptive technologies that may impact an adversary's WMD capabilities or the CWMD mission space in the two- to ten-year timeframe.

Current ad-hoc discovery efforts commonly leverage subject matter expertise to identify technologies of interest. These approaches are dependent on the span of knowledge of the individuals involved and limit the breadth of the discovery effort.

Data-driven approaches of interest to DTRA are anticipated to use tools for data collection, data correlation and trend identification to identify and highlight novel, emerging, and/or disruptive technologies. Initial emphasis will be placed on focused data-driven discovery – intended to assess a known technology or technology area – and aim at investigating the potential application of the technology within the WMD mission space. DTRA then intends to broaden the data-driven discovery process, using more of an “unknown / wide-lensed” aperature-based approach to discovery so that emerging technologies without obvious impact on the CWMD mission space might also be captured.

PHASE I: Develop a methodology for focused, data-driven discovery of emerging or disruptive technologies and execute a proof of concept deployment of the capability.

Effectiveness will be based on demonstration of the viability of the proposed methodology and the generation of initial outputs permitting further research or analysis on a known technology or technology area. As the challenges within the CWMD mission space range from nuclear, chemical and biological threats, Phase I vendors are encouraged to concentrate on discovery of emerging technologies relevant to future biological weapons threats.

PHASE II: This phase will consist of two components.

First, the vendor will fully deploy the Phase I developed methodology to discover technologies across the entire WMD spectrum and generate insights of interest to drive further analysis leading to a Technology Forecast to be produced by DTRA personnel.

Second, the vendor will expand the Phase I focused discovery to a broad, data-driven discovery methodology. Leveraging lessons learned from Phase I, the vendor is expected to prove the feasibility of evolving the capability to allow wide-aperture discovery of unknown emerging or disruptive technologies that may impact the CWMD mission space.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The contractor will deploy the complete methodology (with focused and broad functionalities) to provide scalable and sustainable horizon scanning services to DTRA J9. The final product will have potential commercial applications beyond DTRA, including other organizations within the CWMD CoI and other government agencies engaged in CWMD efforts.

KEYWORDS: Data, Analytics, Technology Forecast, Horizon Scanning, Emerging Technologies, Threat

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics, Materials/Processes, Nuclear Technology, Space Platforms, Weapons

OBJECTIVE: Support the development of radiation susceptibility analysis and prediction capabilities in defense systems to reduce the design risks, schedules and overhead while resulting in significant savings in costs and high reliability radiation tolerant microelectronics for DoD missions.

DESCRIPTION: Reliable radiation tolerant microelectronics in modern technology nodes is critical to DoD missions. Development, however, is challenging, costly and requires long design cycles. The effectiveness of the radiation mitigation capabilities is only assessed after a device is manufactured adding significant risk to system development. As the vulnerability of microelectronics to radiation effects increases with modern technology, so does the challenge of implementing radiation tolerance in a strategic manner. Significant feature overhead in both the microelectronic device and supporting system is often necessary; furthermore, there is a limiting effect on the potential performance of a device relative to the capabilities of the technology used for implementation. There is a critical need for efficient approaches/capabilities for radiation susceptibility analysis and prediction that would enable developers to apply the appropriate amount of radiation mitigation to a design and, more importantly, help predict the resiliency of hardened microelectronics prior to device manufacturing.

Assessing radiation effects in microelectronics prior to fabrication currently broadly falls in to two approaches: physics based modeling simulations and fault injection simulations. Neither approach is suitable for assessing or predicting radiation effects on the scale of an entire microelectronics chip design. With both approaches, it is necessary to fabricate and test a design in a radiation environment to assess the performance of any implemented mitigation strategies. Furthermore, these approaches lack a direct means for reliable, direct correlation of the resiliency performance for a fabricated design to the effectiveness and contribution of specific mitigation implementations applied to specific regions of said design.

Of particular interest to this solicitation are new and efficient approaches capable of providing radiation susceptibility analysis and prediction for an entire microelectronic chip while using reasonable computing resources and within acceptable processing delays.

PHASE I: Demonstrate the feasibility of elements for a radiation susceptibility analysis and prediction capability through the development of a very basic radiation susceptibility and prediction compute platform. The outcome of the Phase I would include 1) Development of a basic analytical assessment classifier, 2) Design of a basic strike model library, 3) Development of a basic susceptibility classifier and 4) Integration of a basic radiation susceptibility and prediction accelerator.

PHASE II: Demonstrate a prototype level of a radiation susceptibility analysis and prediction compute platform capable of processing a full chip design. The outcome of Phase would include 1) Optimization of the analytical assessment classifier built in Phase I to increase and optimize processing throughput, 2) Development of abstraction modeling coupons to provide the necessary parameterization, 3) Development of the technology abstraction library and strike model library, 4) Optimization of the strike model library developed in Phase I by leveraging the feedback data provided with testing the abstraction modeling coupons and 5) Development of a susceptibility classifier and integration of a radiation susceptibility analysis and predictor accelerator into a prototype level and fully integrated. The Radiation susceptibility results of a full chip design will be compared to the results obtained by the radiation susceptibility analysis and prediction platform.

Industry and government partners for Phase III must be identified along with demonstration of their support. A roadmap that takes the program through Phase III must be part of the final delivery for Phase II.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Development and optimization of the radiation susceptibility analysis and prediction platform capability to commercial tool/services available and to DoD USERS.

REFERENCES:

R. Baumann, “Radiation-induced soft errors in advanced semiconductor technologies,” Device and Materials Reliability, IEEE Transactions on, vol. 5, no. 3, pp. 305–316, 2005
Dodd, P.E. and L.W. Massengill, "Basic Mechanisms and Modeling of Single-Event Upset in Digital Microelectronics," IEEE Trans. Nucl. Sci., vol. 50, no. 3, pp.583-602, June 2003
C. López-Ongil, M. García-Valderas, M. Portela-García and L. Entrena, “Autonomous Fault Emulation: A New FPGA-Based Acceleration System for Hardness Evaluation” IEEE Transactions on Nuclear Science, Vol. 54, No. 1, Februrary 2007, pp 252 – 261.

KEYWORDS: Nano-technology, Nuclear Technologies, Single-Event Effect, Total Ionization Dose, Radiation Hardened Microelectronics

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics, Nuclear Technology, Sensors

OBJECTIVE: To develop a portable, fieldable neutron multiplicity counter based on non-Helium-3 neutron detection technology. A Helium-3 replacement medium would have similar or better performance in the key areas of neutron detection efficiency and gamma-rejection while minimizing dead-time and double-pulsing. A new medium should also permit comparable or better size, weight, and power consumption to existing Helium-3-based systems.

DESCRIPTION: DTRA seeks to develop a neutron multiplicity counter based on non- Helium-3 neutron detection technology. A neutron multiplicity counter does not simply record that a neutron was counted, but also when. To be an effective medium when applied to neutron multiplicity counting, detection efficiency is of paramount importance. The threshold neutron absolute detection efficiency is 0.5% for either bare Cf-252 source or Cf-252 source with 1” polyethylene shield at 50 cm distance. At the same time, gamma-rays must be rejected and the twin toxic effects of double- pulsing (where a single neutron gets counted as two) and dead-time (any period after a neutron is counted when the detector is blind) must be thoroughly abated. The detector shall be insensitive to gamma-rays in 1 R/hr Ba-133 gamma field and shall be able to operate in presence of low dose radiography X-ray equipment (e.g. XRS-3@ 8 ft). A timing resolution on the order of tens of nanoseconds or less would also be highly desirable. The electronics shall be able to support data rate up to 500,000 neutron counts per second. Any Helium-3 replacement needs to permit construction of a rugged instrument for field-use that is physically robust, insensitive to adverse environmental conditions[1], and has reasonable size, weight, and power consumption. The detector shall be able to operate on battery power for a continuous 10 hours period at 20 ºC and capable of running from AC power. The charging time for rechargeable battery shall be less than 6 hours and the battery compartment shall be accessible without special tools. The detector shall be able to fit through an 18 inch opening, weighs less than 50 lb, and support removable Cadmium or Gadolinium shielding for optimal configuration.

PHASE I: Identify key operational components and develop the initial design of the multiplicity counting instrument. Extensive modelling studies must be performed to demonstrate detector sensitivity, meet the physical, power consumption, timing resolution and data rate requirements. Demonstrate pathways to meeting performance goals in Phase II.

PHASE II: Develop a prototype instrument that accomplishes the goals described above. The instrument shall not be dependent on post-acquisition analysis of data. Typical multiplicity counting requires list-mode data acquisition. Demonstrate the neutron multiplicity counting capability equivalent to the most advanced portable multiplicity counter based on Helium-3.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Team up with national laboratories or commercial partners to develop a commercial instrument, for military applications of interest to DTRA as well as domestic applications (FBI, Department of Energy, etc) to support missions responding to an improvised nuclear device (IND) deployed by adversaries using irregular means.

REFERENCES:

MIL-STD-810G, Environmental Engineering Considerations and Laboratory Tests.

KEYWORDS: Portable, field useable, neutron multiplicity counter

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Battlespace, Information Systems, Sensors, Space Platforms, Weapons

OBJECTIVE: Develop innovative techniques to provide greater robustness assessing success of intercept across multiple sensors and phenomenologies.

DESCRIPTION: To enable shoot-assess-shoot engagements within missile defense applications, a very high confidence must be established for kill assessment, or post-intercept assessment. A successful intercept can prevent the need for follow-on shots and reduce cost. This assessment must include determination of effectiveness of the intercept to determine how well the observed phenomenology matched the predicted physics of the interaction.

Consider a missile defense intercept as a physics interaction among objects under varying conditions, such as strike angle, closing velocity, and range. Various sensing phenomenologies need to be considered from radar to electro-optic, visual as well as parameterizations in frame rates and wavebands. With multiple diverse sensor contributions, the system must determine whether some voting scheme is adequate or whether a better understanding of the physics response by the sensors are expressing common information, or reflecting independent phenomena.

The researcher should consider a radar and an electro-optic or a visual sensor observing the intercept simultaneously and sending a report to the system. Design messages from the sensors to the system that will enable optimal assessment by the system. The developed technique(s) should calculate and report overall confidence in intercept with estimates of effectiveness. Corresponding metrics should be defined and demonstrated.

PHASE I: Develop and demonstrate through analysis, technique(s) to combine intercept information from multiple sensors which accurately assess effectiveness of intercept at the system level. The technique(s) should degrade gracefully when not all sensors are available and a metric should be developed to provide an accurate measure of effectiveness.

PHASE II: Refine and update technique(s) developed in Phase I and demonstrate capability with realistic data from flight tests and physics modeling. A heavy emphasis will be on robustness and reliability of measured results. Messages will need to be defined and worked with the program office to insure adequate information is available to enable the assessment.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Demonstrate the technology operationally as part of an element, or a system level test bed. Market technologies to relevant missile defense elements and other DoD entities.

REFERENCES:

Retrieved from http:/www.smdc.army.mil/FactSheets/archive/Kill Assessment.
U.S. Missile Defense Agency. November 3, 2015. Ballistic Missile Defense System. Retrieved from http://www.mda.mil/index.html.
U.S. Department of Defense. Undated. Ballistic Missile Defense Review. Retrieved from http://www.defense.gov/bmdr.

KEYWORDS: kill assessment, hit assessment, post-intercept assessment

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors, Weapons

OBJECTIVE: Develop a non-invasive, innovative, and cost-effective methodology for high-resolution measurement of the internal temperatures and pressures of an energetic material during a range of reactive events, from, and including, deflagration to detonation.

DESCRIPTION: Many warhead types have been analyzed and modeled using first-principle techniques; however, the full spectrum of possible responses of High Explosive (HE) sub-munitions/weapons to various stimuli is poorly understood. Experimental test data that captures the various types of low-order response is very limited or not available in existing databases. Development of models for first-principle codes is critical for modeling and simulation of the responses of HE sub-munitions. Experimental data is needed to aid model development, as well as for model benchmarking and validation. Currently modeling approaches are empirical and/or focused on prediction of high-order rather than low-order reactions. Comprehensive modeling for a range of energetic materials requires a new kind of experimental data to fully characterize the internal state of the HE material as it undergoes the range of low-order reactions from deflagration to detonation. Test instrumentation is desired that will reliably measure the temperatures and pressures internal to a HE test article when it undergoes either high-order or low-order reactions. Non-contact instrumentation is desired to avoid affecting the HE response itself with the addition of instrumentation to detect pressure and temperature. If embedded instrumentation, such as taggant, Radio Frequency Identification, or nano-technology is proposed it must be shown that embedding a sensor in the HE test article does not significantly change its response.

PHASE I: Develop an innovative solution to the measurement of pressure and temperature internal to high explosive or energetic materials during deflagration or detonation. High temporal resolution is desired, on the order of a nanosecond; and, the best possible spatial resolution in three dimensions, on the order of cubic micrometers. Through modeling, simulation, and analysis; demonstrate the utility of the proposed approach(s) to measure and characterize the temperatures and pressures of interest. Provide a plan for demonstration of the preferred approach.

PHASE II: Develop a prototype measurement system that can be included in the characterization test of a high explosive or other energetic materials. Demonstrate performance via component and system-level testing that shows the ability to make measurements of internal pressures and temperatures of energetic material under test. Prove performance of the system via demonstration with a test case that can be benchmarked against other measurement techniques.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Transition the measurement and characterization system from a developmental unit to a test asset and use it to provide test data for characterization testing of energetic materials. Transition data developed under this program to developers of first-principles codes which model reactions of energetic materials for systems of interest to the government. This technology would benefit insensitive munitions testing of reactive materials (HE and propellants) and other DoD weapon program modeling and simulation. Other commercial applications could include explosive ordinance disposal and safety transport which could leverage this information to better perform these missions.

REFERENCES:

Lee and Tarver. December 1980. “Phenomenological model of shock initiation in heterogeneous explosives.” Physics of Fluids, 23 (12). 2362-2372.
LL Gibson, DM Dattelbaum, et al. 2014. “Shock initiation sensitivity and Hugoniot-based equation of state of composition B obtained using in situ electromagnetic gauging.” 18th APS-SCCM and 24th AIRAPT, Journal of Physics: Conference Series 500 192004.
P. R. Guduru, G. Ravichandran, and A. J. Rosakis. Undated. “Observations of transient high temperature vortical microstructures in solids during adiabatic shear banding.” PHYSICAL REVIEW E, Vol. 64, 036128.
C.H. Fan and J.P. Longtin. 2000. “Laser-based measurement of liquid temperature or concentration at a solid-liquid interface.” Experimental Thermal and Fluid Science, 23. 1-9.
Brown, et al. 2013. “Investigations of rf Emissions from Hypervelocity Impacts of Various Metals.” The 12th Hypervelocity Impact Symposium, Procedia Engineering, 58. 418-423.
Koch, et al. 2010. “Hurricane: A simplified optical resonator for optical-power-based sensing with nano-particle taggants.” Sensors and Actuators B 147. 573-580.
Wang, et al. December 2015. “Ultrasonic wave based pressure measurement in a small diameter pipeline.” Ultrasonics, Vol. 63. 1-6.
J. M. Gordon, K. C. Gross, and G. P. Perram. February 2014. “Temperature dynamics of aluminized cyclotrimethylenetrinitramine fireballs for event classification.” Optical Engineering 53(2), 021106.

KEYWORDS: energetic materials, temperature measurements, pressure measurements, high-speed non-contact instrumentation, deflagration, HE materials characterization

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Battlespace, Information Systems

OBJECTIVE: Develop an innovative, low-cost approach to facilitate the inline generation of environments likely to be encountered by missile defense sensors and weapon systems.

DESCRIPTION: Seek new and innovative approaches to perform inline environment generation for real-time Hardware-in-the-Loop (HWIL) testing and constructive digital simulations and eliminate the nee d for pre-generating environment data, to support Tier 1 and Tier 2 (two levels of end-to-end missile defense simulations) modeling and simulation (M&S). Currently, the government has a full suite of environment models for atmosphere, space, gravity, etc. but execution of these models can impair real-time digital simulation throughput within the M&S Enterprise. For some venues comparatively few test cases have environments “turned on” during simulation execution due in large part to the computation-intensive production of the environment data and its subsequent processing in system-level simulations. What is needed is a new, innovative process to perform inline, environment generation in system-level simulations without increasing total test case runtime by more than 10% (threshold)/5% (objective) without significantly reducing the fidelity of the system-level simulations. This innovative process should allow more test cases to be executed with environments “turned on”, thereby enhancing the realism of the simulations in the M&S Enterprise and allowing the production of greater quantities of credible decision quality data. The optimal solution could utilize a modular “plug and play” approach that would facilitate technology insertions (i.e., replacing one environment model with a comparable model) while requiring limited recoding and/or changes in hardware. Rather than seeking new environment models, the government is seeking ways to make better use of the existing environment models and/or environment data. Techniques to achieve this may include improvements in mathematical techniques; data processing hardware; software acceleration; a hybrid approach; optimization; or other techniques.

PHASE I: Design and develop a concept for inline environment truth generation by utilizing a model such as the SHARC/SAMM Atmosphere Generator in an unclassified missile defense simulation or any similarly complex non-missile defense simulation. The goal for Phase I is to demonstrate the proof-of-concept for the offeror’s approach while achieving at least the threshold performance and to specify the Phase II development plan that will deliver a prototype that incorporates additional environment models and/or environment data, and performance improvements.

PHASE II: Develop a prototype for inline environment truth generation by utilizing models such as SAMM, MODTRAN, PROPMOD, and WBMOD in an unclassified or possibly classified missile defense simulation. The goal for Phase II is to demonstrate that these models can be incorporated into the prototype without major rework or significant additional cost while achieving the objective performance.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Complete development of the inline environment truth generator. Add the remaining natural environment and manmade environment models needed by the government. Incorporate the inline environment truth generator into the extant missile defense simulations. The contractor should pursue commercialization of the various technologies developed in Phase II+ for other military and commercial users. Any users with simulations requiring the assessment of the influence of natural and manmade environments on system performance will be keenly interested in technology that allows them to use their existing environment models or easily insert alternative models while improving the throughput of their simulations. The commercialization prospects would increase greatly if the technologies developed also are applicable to models other than environment models.

REFERENCES:

Retrieved from http://www.kirtland.af.mil/library/factsheets/factsheet_print.asp?fsID=7920& page=1.
Retrieved from http://www.spectral.com/SAMMV3.shtml
Retrieved from https//www.deepdyve.com/lp/spie/modtran6-a-major-upgrade-of-the-modtran-radiative-transfer-code-tNO9nPB9k5
Retrieved from http://spawx.nwra.com/ionoscint/wbmod.html.
L. J. Nickisch and D. L. Knepp. June 2013. "The PROPMOD Subroutine: A Flexible Tool for Computing Propagation and TEC Parameters." Mission Research Corporation. MRC/MRY-R-113.
L. J. Nickisch and D. L. Knepp. May 2002. "The PROPMOD Subroutine: Propagation Parameters and a TEC Model." Mission Research Corporation. MRC/MRY-R-106.
L. J. Nickisch and D. Knepp. October 1999 (revised October 2001). "PROPMOD User's Guide and Test Suite: Computing Transionospheric Radio Propagation Parameters." Mission Research Corporation. MRC/MRY-R-082.
D. E. Knepp and L. J. Nickisch. August 1995. "PROPMOD-A Program for Computing Propagation Effects on Transionospheric Radio Signals." with Phillips Laboratory PL-TR-95-2120. Vol. 1 and 2. Mission Research Corporation. MRC/MRY-R-052.

KEYWORDS: simulation environments, software acceleration, hardware acceleration, optimization, SAG, SAMM, MODTRAN, PROPMOD, WBMOD

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Information Systems, Sensors, Space Platforms

OBJECTIVE: Extend capabilities of existing, propulsion-related signature tools to characterize emission phenomena over a broad portion of the electromagnetic spectrum, from ultraviolet (UV) through the long-wave infrared (LWIR).

DESCRIPTION: State of the art propulsion related signature models include exhaust plume phenomena observed in the short-wave through mid-wave infrared portions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Missile defense applications would benefit from increased capabilities in the form of more accurate signature characterizations across a wider region of the electro-optic (EO) spectrum from the UV through LWIR. The general suite of propulsion-related signature modeling tools (which include 2-D/3-D computational fluid dynamic codes, Direct Simulation Monte Carlo models and radiation transport solvers) provide the basic framework for flow-field and signature generation, but do not contain the underlying chemical and physical mechanisms and processes to properly account for all spectral emissions. The driving phenomena in these band regions (e.g. particle optical properties, molecular band model parameters, molecular collision cross-sections, and quenching/excitation mechanism pathways) are not well established or characterized. Passive signatures in these wavebands have been measured in data collections from many flight tests as well as other past DoD-sponsored missions, but the ability to model these observations accurately needs improvement. The emission phenomena include all EO features that may be observed passively through the entire missile flight envelope, from launch through boost phase to impact, that are generated from associated propulsion subsystems or other related phenomenology. While not comprehensive, the list of relevant propulsion events to be examined across the UV to LWIR bands includes: boost phase plumes for all types of propellant systems; propellant fuel and oxidizer venting; particle trails; and solid rocket motor chuffing. Event observables include molecular and particle emission and scattering.

PHASE I: For one propulsion-related signature event observable of interest, identify the chemical and physical phenomena needed to model, and properly account for, the complete process (from propellant combustion through signature emission); and, prioritize the importance of each component as a function of altitude, velocity, and spectral band. Finally, select one important complex component and demonstrate an innovative methodology (theoretical or experimental) to solve for that component unknown. If possible, demonstrate this complex component upgrade within the existing government propulsion related signature tools. Maximum practical use of the existing government propulsion related flow-field and signature framework is desired to reduce both development and validation costs.

PHASE II: Identify additional signature processes and other pertinent phenomenology needed to model propulsion-related signatures in the alternative bands. Demonstrate these new or updated code modules, chemical reaction, and/or physical process databases within the existing suite of government propulsion related signature models. Further, maximum practical use of available plume software is desired to reduce both development and validation costs. Deliver all demonstrations, upgraded software modules/databases, technical documentation, and validation to the government for independent test and evaluation.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Transition advanced methodology into existing signature models used to support government elements. Apply software to a variety of missile defense sensor and missile interceptor systems as well as other problems of interest to the government.

REFERENCES:

Simmons, F.S. 2000. “Rocket Exhaust Plume Phenomenology.” AIAA. Reston, VA.
G. Sutton and O. Biblarz. 2001. “Rocket Propulsion Elements.” Wiley Interscience. Seventh Edition.
S.F. Gimelshein, et al. January through March 2002. "Modeling of Ultraviolet Radiation in Steady and Transient High-Altitude Plume Flows." Journal of Thermophysics and Heat Transfer. Vol. 16, No. 1. 58-67.
V.R. Tagirov, et al. November through December 2000. “Atmospheric Optical Phenomena Caused by Powerful Rocket Launches.” Journal of Spacecraft and Rockets. Vol. 37, No. 6. 812-821.
C.E. Kolb, et al. July through August 1983. “Scattered Visible and Ultraviolet Solar Radiation from Condensed Attitude Control Plumes.” Journal of Spacecraft and Rockets. Vol. 20, No. 4. 383-389.
N. Gimelshein, et al. January 8-11, 2007. “Numerical prediction of UV radiation from two-phase plumes at high altitudes.” AIAA Paper 2007-0114. AIAA 45th Aerospace Sciences Meeting and Exhibit, Reno, NV.

KEYWORDS: plumes, boost phase signatures, high altitude, ultraviolet, visible, near-infrared, long-wave infrared, computational fluid dynamic, Direct Simulation Monte Carlo, particle optical properties, kinetic rates, collisional cross sections, two-phase flow; reacting flow

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Information Systems

OBJECTIVE: Develop new and novel methods that not only collect the correct cyber data from modeling and simulation (M&S) federated and non-federated simulations, but help identify what data should be collected and how it should be collected for analysis and protection requirements.

DESCRIPTION: There is a need to better understand the health and status of M&S systems that connect to larger M&S systems. Most models focus on the object of representation and little technical rigor and planning is conducted for many of the cybersecurity risks. Government M&S needs a novel method for automatically collecting and analyzing the health and status of cybersecurity data for individual models and simulations that can also be used in a large federated or integrated system-level simulation. A key aspect of this technology needs to focus on data protection and making the cybersecurity data collected easily accessible yet secure. A new approach to cyber operations is a key to success. This effort should focus on the awareness aspect of that approach involving automated systems and processes to provide a complete, accurate, real-time understanding of the health and status of the network(s). The maturity of the cyber model should be “Information Enabled” and indicate that the organization(s) within the community are all aware of the issues related to security and have the processes and mechanisms in place to identify security relevant events. The goal at this level is to improve upon the information sharing mechanisms within the community to enable the community to effectively correlate seemingly disparate pieces of information, especially information relevant to cybersecurity.

PHASE I: Develop a proof of concept design/study and a concept of operations. Identify designs/models, and conduct a feasibility assessment for the proposed mathematical technique, model, and/or methods. Work should clearly validate the viability of the proposed solution with a clear concept-of-operation document. The contractor should identify the strengths/weaknesses associated with different solutions, methods, and concepts.

PHASE II: Based on the results and findings of Phase I, develop and refine the proposed solution. Validate the feasibility of the Phase I concept by development and demonstrations that will be tested to ensure performance objectives are met. Validation would include, but is not limited to, system simulations, operation in test-beds, or operation in a demonstration subsystem. This phase should result in a prototype with substantial commercialization potential. This prototype design will be used to form the development and implementation of a mature, full-scale capability in Phase III.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The contractor will apply the innovations demonstrated in the first two phases to one or more missile defense applications. The objective is to demonstrate the scalability of the developed technology, transition the component technology to the missile defense M&S Enterprise, mature it for insertion, and demonstrate the technology in M&S environments.

The contractor will pursue commercialization of the various technologies and models developed in Phase II for potential commercial uses in cybersecurity. Scale-up the capability from the prototype utilizing the new hardware and/or software technologies developed in Phase II into a mature, field-able capability

REFERENCES:

B. Van Leeuwen, V. Urias, J. Eldridge, C. Villamarin, and R. Olsberg. October 31 – November 3, 2010. "Performing cyber security analysis using a live, virtual, and constructive (LVC) testbed." Military Communications Conference 2010. 1806-1811.
M. Djekic. November 25, 2015. “How Mature is Your Cyber Security Model?” Australian Science. Retrieved from http://www.australianscience.com.au/technology/mature-cyber-security-modeland www.australianscience.com.au/technology/mature-cyber-security-model.

KEYWORDS: system of systems simulations, cybersecurity, enterprise, modeling and simulation, software development testing, simulation testing, automation

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Information Systems

OBJECTIVE: Develop a set of capabilities that significantly improves the quality and timeliness of scenario generation and streamlines the development, integration, and validation of those scenarios for System of Systems (SoS) integrated system-level simulations.

DESCRIPTION: The government's modeling and simulation enterprise desires a new, innovative approach to streamline scenario generation across the SoS M&S Enterprise (specifically Hardware-in-the-Loop and Digital system level simulations). The current scenario generation process is a cumbersome, sequential resource and time intensive effort that requires work by every component of the integrated simulation plus supporting organizations impacting the responsiveness of the M&S. The Scenario generation process includes a physical representation of the threat (Red Force), Blue Force, and environments. Currently this is a time-intensive manual process where scenario requirements are generated to meet engagement and test objective goals with the least amount of test cases and scenarios as possible. These scenarios are then fed into a Test Case Description Document that is used to create the SoS scenarios. This topic seeks solutions to the following issues with the current scenario generation process: 1) reduce the time it takes to generate the scenarios; 2) improve object clarity in how the scenarios meet event objectives; 3) reduce and prioritize the scenarios generated; 4) improve the mechanism to validate the scenarios against configurations; 5) improve re-use of validated scenario packages that can be used across multiple events and multiple campaigns; 6) develop methods for consistent comparisons across events and campaigns. Proposed solutions must be able to span across multiple intended uses and levels of abstraction, taking into account the need of constituent systems.

PHASE I: Design and develop improved solutions, methods, and concepts for streamlined scenario generation. The solutions should capture the key areas where new development is needed, suggest appropriate methods and technologies to minimize the time intensive processes, and incorporate new technologies researched during design development. Define the architecture and validity in SoS simulation enterprise.

PHASE II: Complete a detailed SoS prototype design incorporating government performance requirements. The contractor will coordinate with the government during prototype design and development to ensure that the delivered products will be relevant to ongoing and planned missile defense projects. This prototype design will be used to form the development and implementation of a mature, full-scale capability in Phase III.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Scale-up the capability from the prototype utilizing the new hardware and/or software technologies developed in Phase II into a mature, field-able capability. Work with missile defense integrators to integrate the technology for a missile defense system level test-bed and test in a relevant environment.

REFERENCES:

August 27, 2015. “A Practitioner’s Approach using MBSE in Systems of Systems.” U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Research, Development, and Engineering Center. Retrieved from http://www.acq.osd.mil/se/webinars/2015_08_25-SoSECIE-Deakins-Parsons-brief.pdf.
April 14, 2015. “Critical Integration Links Identification for System of Systems.” The MITRE Corporation. Retrieved from http://www.acq.osd.mil/se/webinars/2015_04_14-SoSECIE-Kafle-McZara-brief.pdf

KEYWORDS: system of systems simulations, scenario generation, enterprise, modeling and simulation, software development testing, simulation testing

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Weapons

OBJECTIVE: Extend fast-running intercept debris initial condition modeling to address debris from non hit-to-kill (NHTK) missile engagements.

DESCRIPTION: Modeling debris from NHTK missile engagements poses a number of challenges including sensitivities to engagement conditions, interceptor warhead characteristics, and threat characteristics. Relevant engagement conditions include the standoff distance, closing speed, engagement geometry, and number of fragment impacts. Relevant interceptor warhead characteristics include fragment mass, shape, and material; fragment number, density and pattern; fragment speeds; and blast effects. Relevant threat characteristics include geometry, materials, and payload type. Outputs should include fragment characteristics needed to support the simulation of fragment propagation, fragment signatures, and sensor scenes. Outputs should be based on time-ordered penetration and damage modeling for interceptor warhead fragments including shock-to-detonation effects for threats containing high explosives. Debris modeling for NHTK engagements should consider fragment characteristics and correlations that are less sensitive to engagement type. Innovative debris modeling for NHTK engagements should be anchored using a combination of data from light gas gun, arena, sled, and flight tests. The tool developed needs to be capable of actively supporting Hardware-in-the-Loop ground testing and range safety assessments for flight tests in digital M&S venues.

PHASE I: Identify and prioritize sensitivities for NHTK debris modeling including engagement conditions, interceptor characteristics, and threat characteristics. Develop an approach and conceptual model to modeling the primary sensitivities, penetration and damage, and correlations for NHTK debris. This approach should be generally consistent with HTK debris modeling in terms of outputs and execution time. Identify data and an approach for anchoring and validation.

PHASE II: Based upon the findings from Phase I, the contractor will complete a detailed prototype design of the software/model incorporating government performance requirements. This prototype design should be used to form the development and implementation of a mature, full-scale capability in Phase III that could run in real time.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Execute the approach to address limitations of the initial model developed in Phase II and to complete anchoring and validation. Generate complete documentation including a basis of confidence. Support integration into other models and simulations.

REFERENCES:

U.S. Missile Defense Agency. November 3, 2015. Ballistic Missile Defense System. Retrieved from http://www.mda.mil/index.html.
KIDD Product Sheet (Public Release 12-MDA-6650). Retrieved from http://www.mda.mil/global/documents/pdf/KIDD_Product_Sheet_Mar2012.pdf
PEELS Product Sheet (Public Release 12- MDA-6639). http://www.mda.mil/global/documents/pdf/PEELS_Product_Sheet_Mar2012.pdf

KEYWORDS: modeling, simulation, intercept debris, fragmentation

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Information Systems, Sensors

OBJECTIVE: Develop and demonstrate methods to enhance the accuracy of ionosphere models across missile defense application Radio Frequency (RF) bands to address lowering the probability of false alarm, the effect on signal to noise ratio, and the effect on track accuracy.

DESCRIPTION: Seek creative applications for modeling RF ionospheric and tropospheric effects in real time in support of future ground and flight tests. Radar wavebands of interest include UHF through X band and the K band. Numerous highly ranked, persistent effects are caused by the atmosphere, notably the troposphere and ionosphere. Some of the effects that are of interest include: ionospheric scintillation, range delay, ionospheric loss, tropospheric scintillation, tropospheric refraction and auroral clutter. Currently there are models that address the ionosphere effects on the RF bands and to a lesser extent the effects of the troposphere. These models produce medium to high fidelity results; however, there are current limitations in the development of real time modeling of these effects within the specified bands. The desired model should enable the prediction and preparation for the effects on the radar systems in regards to performance, fidelity, and/or resolution in real time. Techniques to achieve this may include improvements in mathematical techniques, improvements in data processing, hardware or software acceleration or a hybrid approach, optimization, or other techniques.

PHASE I: Provide a proof of concept of the model. The model should capture the key areas where new development is needed, suggest appropriate methods and technologies to realize the desire of real-time modeling based on the research performed, and incorporate new technologies researched during design development. The contractor should identify the attenuation effects along the RF bands for the effects of the ionosphere and troposphere.

PHASE II: Based upon the findings from Phase I, the contractor should complete a detailed prototype design of the software/model incorporating government performance requirements. This prototype design should be used to form the development and implementation of a mature, full-scale capability in Phase III that could run in real time.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Scale-up the capability from the prototype utilizing the new software/model technologies developed in Phase II into a mature, field-able capability. Modeling of the effects of the ionosphere would be applicable to industries that utilize RF sensors, communications, and/or radars.

REFERENCES:

J.K Walker and V.P Bhatnagar. Undated. “Ionospheric absorption, typical ionization, conductivity, and possible synoptic heating parameters in the upper atmosphere.” Geological Survey of Canada.
K. Davies. 1990. “IEE Electromagnetic Waves Series #31.” Ionospheric Radio. London, UK: Peter Peregrinus Ltd/The Institution of Electrical Engineers.
J.K. Hargreaves. 1992. “The Solar-Terrestrial Environment: An Introduction to Geospace.” Cambridge University Press.
J.V. Eccles, R. D. Hunsucker, D. Rice, and J. J. Sojka. 2005. “Space weather effects on midlatitude HF propagation paths: observations and a data-driven D-region model.” Space Weather, 3, S01002, doi:10.1029/2004SW000094.
Community Coordinated Modeling Center. Retrieved from http://ccmc.gsfc.nasa.gov/models/abby_realtime.php.
Lamont V. Blake. 1980. “Radar Range-Performance Analysis.” Lexington, MA.
A. Dissanayake. Fall 2002. “Ka-Band Propagation Modeling for Fixed Satellite Applications.” Journal of Space Communication Issue 2.
D. Vanhoenacker-Janvier, C. Oestgesand, and A. Martellucci. October 2007. “Scintillation and Depolarisation Models for Satellite Communications in the 20-50 GHz Band.” Indian Journal of Radio & Space Physics Vol. 36. 369-374.
U.S. Missile Defense Agency. November 3, 2015. Ballistic Missile Defense System. Retrieved from http://www.mda.mil/index.html.
10. U.S. Department of Defense. Undated. Ballistic Missile Defense Review. Retrieved from http://www.defense.gov/bmdr

KEYWORDS: radio wave, wave, sensor, ionosphere, ionospheric, troposphere; tropospheric, atmosphere, environment effects, radar, model, simulation, radio frequency, attenuation

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Information Systems, Sensors

OBJECTIVE: Develop enhanced models for atmospheric (troposphere, ionosphere, etc.) effects on light propagating in different visible (Vis) /infrared (IR) frequency bands, for use with a scene generation tool to help create Vis/IR scenes in real time.

DESCRIPTION: Numerous higher order persistent effects on radiation are caused by the atmosphere, notably the troposphere and ionosphere. Some effects that are of interest are: atmospheric attenuation, cloud background effects, earth limb effects, celestial background effects, and auroral effects. Current models that address atmospheric effects on Vis/IR radiation produce medium to high fidelity results; however, they do not provide results in real time. The desired model should enable the prediction and preparation of effects on the sensor systems with regard to performance, fidelity, and/or resolution in real time with the possibility of use in concert with scene generation tools like Fast Line-of-sight Imagery for Target and Exhaust-plume Signatures (FLITES). Techniques to achieve this may include improvements in mathematical techniques, improvements in data processing, hardware or software acceleration or a hybrid approach, optimization, or other techniques.

PHASE I: Provide a proof of concept of the model. The model will capture the key areas where new development is needed, suggest appropriate methods and technologies to realize the desire of streamlining scenario generation based on the research performed, and incorporate new technologies researched during design development. The contractor should identify the attenuation effects along the Vis/IR bands for the effects of the atmosphere (ionosphere and troposphere).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Scale-up the capability from the prototype utilizing the new software/model technologies developed in Phase II into a mature, fieldable capability. Deploy the fully tested, verified, and validated missile defense capability. Modeling effects of the atmosphere would be applicable to industries that utilize sensor and satellites in support of future ground and flight tests.

REFERENCES:

Y. Beniguel, J.P Adam, T. Noack, N. Jakowski, E. Sardon, J.J. Valette, A. Bourdillon, P. Lassudrie-Duchesne, and B. Arbesser-Rastburg. November 2006. “Signal scintillations in the low latitudes and high latitudes regions, Antennas and Propagation.” First European Conference.
H. Dothe, J.W. Duff, J.H. Gruninger, R. Panfili, R. Kennett and J.H. Brown. 2009. “Auroral radiance modeling with SAMM®2.” Proc. SPIE 7475, Remotes Sensing of Clouds and the Atmosphere XIV, 834043.
R. Horak. 2007. “Telecommunications and data communications handbook.” John Wiley and Sons, Inc.
H.J Strangeways, V.E. Gherm, and N.N. Zernov. September 2007. “Modeling and mitigation of the effect of scintillations on GPS.” ELMAR 2007 Volume.
K. Yoshio. November 1988. “A New Prediction Method for Tropospheric Scintillation on Earth-Space Paths.” IEEE Vol. 36. No.11.1608-1614.
N.B. Abdul- Rahim, R. Islam, J.S Mandeep, and Hassan Dao. 2012 “Comparison of Tropospheric Scintillation Models on Earth-Space Paths in Tropical Region.” Maxwell Scientific Organization. Research Journal of Applied Sciences, Engineering and Technolo
U.S. Missile Defense Agency. November 3, 2015. Ballistic Missile Defense System. Retrieved from http://www.mda.mil/index.html.
U.S. Department of Defense. Undated. Ballistic Missile Defense Review. Retrieved from http://www.defense.gov/bmdr.
D. Crow, C. Coker, and W. Keen. 2006. “Fast line-of-sight imagery for target and exhaust-plume signatures (FLITES) scene generation program.” Proc. of the SPIE. Vol. 6208.

KEYWORDS: visible, infrared, sensor, ionosphere, ionospheric, troposphere, tropospheric, atmosphere, environment, environment effects, model, simulation, attenuation

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics, Materials/Processes, Weapons

OBJECTIVE: Develop and demonstrate innovative architectures and/or high temperature electronics for increasing the temperature capability of actuators used with proportionally controlled valves/thrusters.

DESCRIPTION: Seek solid propellant, propulsion control systems with longer operation times, increased performance, and reduced size, weight, power, and cost (SWaP-C). There is particular interest in developing and maturing robust Solid Propulsion Control Systems (SPCS)component technologies. Solid propellant exhaust gases are commonly 2,000-4,000°F while the actuator to valve/thruster interface commonly must be limited to less than 200-300°F. This relatively low temperature limit at the actuator interface is often a driving design factor in many propulsion control systems. The development and maturation of proportionally controlled actuators that are capable of enduring higher temperatures while aiming to maintain performance and/or reduce SWaP-C will improve the robustness of future SPCS architectures. Successful development of higher temperature capable actuators has the potential to increase the operation times of future SPCS and offer propulsion vendors increased system design flexibility. The proposer could potentially achieve these desired improvements through innovative actuator architectures or designs, high temperature electronics focused on actuators, or enhanced materials for actuators.

PHASE I: Develop a proof of concept solution; identify candidate materials, electronics, technologies, or actuator architectures. Complete a preliminary evaluation of the proposed improvement(s). Complete an initial design for the actuator technology to demonstrate the proof of concept. Include laboratory experimentation and/or modeling as appropriate to verify the proposed concept. Deliver an initial design for the prototype along with performance estimates.

PHASE II: Expand on Phase I results by completing detailed prototype design and produce components for testing in a simulated environment that can demonstrate the performance of the technology. Testing should verify design assumptions and performance estimates. Include a detailed design and detailed performance analysis from the prototype testing.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Work with the appropriate missile interceptor integrator (prime contractor, propulsion vendor, or actuator vendor) to refine the requirements and demonstrate the technology in a relevant environment. A successful Phase III would transition the technology into a missile defense application.

REFERENCES:

U.S. Missile Defense Agency. November 3, 2015. Ballistic Missile Defense System. Retrieved from http://www.mda.mil/index.html.
U.S. Department of Defense. Undated. Ballistic Missile Defense Review. Retrieved from http://www.defense.gov/bmdr.
George P. Sutton. 2010. "Rocket Propulsion Elements." John Wiley and Sons Inc, 8th edition.

KEYWORDS: actuator, SDACS, high temperature electronics, proportionally controlled, control system, valve, thruster

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics, Sensors

OBJECTIVE: Design, develop, and demonstrate high performance long-wave infrared (LWIR) sensor technologies for interceptor systems that can resist or ameliorate the deleterious effects of radiation in the near-Earth orbital environment.

DESCRIPTION: Over the course of an engagement, an interceptor seeker may be exposed to background radiation or radiation resulting from nuclear events (including x-ray, prompt and persistent gamma, single event effects, total ionizing dose, and optical flash) which may adversely affect sensor components (e.g. focal plane arrays, readout integrated circuits, memories, processors, and other electronic components). This topic seeks innovative sensor technologies that are radiation-hardened either by process, by design, by architecture, or by a combination of these approaches. Ideally, hardening approaches should enable sensors to survive and reliably operate in these environments without increasing weight or decreasing performance. In addition, more information on radiation degradation mechanisms and the degree of radiation hardness achieved through various hardening approaches is desired.

PHASE I: Identify the LWIR sensor component or subsystem which is assessed to be vulnerable to the space radiation environment specified above and elaborate on the specific phenomenology involved. Document proposed techniques to improve the sensor component or subsystem design that enhance the radiation hardness and compare to available experimental results. Report should include a plan to experimentally test proposed techniques and incorporate them into the sensor system. Any limitations of the proposed techniques (specifically for radiation intensity or duration) should be identified, along with mitigation techniques which might be reasonably implemented during Phase II.

PHASE II: Implement the concepts developed in Phase I with the identified improvements. Results should be extrapolated to device operation within the orbital environment or perform experiments within a space environment simulator that replicates or closely approximates the spectrum of radiation in the orbital environment. Approaches based on theoretical methods should be experimentally validated. Sensor performance and service life should be estimated. Projects should identify device improvements that could extend service life and test a radiation resistant prototype in an orbital environment simulator or reasonable analogue. Validation of results at the component level is encouraged.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Manufacture IR sensor components that incorporate the design(s) developed in Phase II. Document their performance in a realistic space radiation simulator or a suitable analogue. Perform a prolonged, mission simulation test in which the subsystems are operated within the radiation environment specified above. Report on their expected performance, service life, operational limits, and market forecasts based on the results of those tests.

REFERENCES:

L. Höglund, D. Z. Ting, A. Soibel, A. Fisher, A. Khoshakhlagh, C. J. Hill, S. Keo, S. D. Gunapala. 2014. "Minority carrier lifetime in mid-wavelength infrared InAs/InAsSb superlattices: photon recycling and the role of radiative and Shockley-Read-Hall recombination mechanisms." Applied Physical Letters, 105, 193510.
Vincent M. Cowan, Christian P. Morath, J. E. Hubbs, Stephen Myers, E. Plis, and Sanjay Krishna. 2012. "Radiation tolerance characterization of dual band InAs/GaSb type-II strain-layer superlattice pBp detectors using 63 MeV protons." Applied Physical Letters, 101,251108.
Elizabeth H. Steenbergen, Jeremy A. Massengale, Vincent M. Cowan, Zhiyuan Lin, Yong-Hang Zhang, and Christian P. Morath. 2013. "Proton radiation effects on the photoluminescence of infrared InAs/InAsSb superlattices." In Proc. SPIE Vol. 8876, Nanoph
Vincent M. Cowan, Christian P. Morath, Seth M. Swift, Stephen Myers, Nutan Gautam, and Sanjay Krishna. 2011. "Gamma-ray Irradiation Effects on InAs/GaSb-based nBn IR Detector." In Proc. of SPIE Vol. 7945, Quantum Sensing and Nanophotonic Devices VII

KEYWORDS: strained layer superlattice, radiation resistance, radiation hardened, long wavelength infrared, LWIR, focal plane array, FPA, interceptor seeker

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors

OBJECTIVE: Develop and demonstrate innovative approaches for advanced and adaptive software that enhances any Inertial Measurement Unit’s (IMUs) long duration performance through severe environments. The expectation is to increase IMU accuracy by reducing sensor error accumulation.

DESCRIPTION: IMUs provide onboard navigational and positional capability to aid guidance and tracking systems. Gyroscopes and accelerometers employed in missile defense IMU applications encounter severe shock and vibration during all phases of operation. In addition, IMU in flight systems (interceptors, airborne platforms, and space assets) are constrained by limits on size, weight, power, and cost (SWaP-C) while requiring high performance. This topic seeks innovations which increase IMU accuracy and decrease SWaP while enabling continuous operation through harsh environments without degradation in performance. In particular, the government seeks innovative software solutions that reduce total error accumulation to enhance the performance capabilities of any IMU during long operating times to include operation in harsh environments and without the use of external aids. The performance improvements provided by the software are expected to be at least two times better than the current state of the art IMU. Solutions should address both the software and the desired implementation electronics. Emphasis will be placed on solutions that are portable, modular, do not increase the SWaP-C, and can be easily implemented on existing or new IMUs.

PHASE I: Develop the conceptual framework or preliminary design for the new and innovative IMU software and electronics that exceeds current IMU performance. Perform modeling, simulation and analysis (MS&A) and/or laboratory experimentation to demonstrate the proof of concept. Proof of concept demonstration may be subscale and used in conjunction with MS&A results to verify scaling laws, feasibility and demonstrate the ability to maintain performance standards in realistic flight environments. Although not desired, Offeror’s are highly encouraged to team with manufacturers capable of incorporating the developed technology into useable product lines. The Government will not provide contact information. Deliver an initial design for the prototype along with performance estimates, software analysis and IMU integration/implementation path.

PHASE II: Complete critical design, demonstrate and validate the use of the technology on an IMU prototype. Evaluate the effectiveness of the technology against a non-enhanced IMU for missile defense applications through testing in simulated environments. Updated MS&A and characterization testing within the financial and schedule constraints of the program will be performed to show level of performance achieved compared to stated government goals and comparison between predictions and test results.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Work with missile defense integrators to integrate the software technology into a critical system application, for a missile defense application system level test-bed and testing in a relevant environment. This phase will demonstrate the application to one or more government element systems, subsystems, or components as well as the product’s performance improvements. When complete, an analysis will be conducted to evaluate the ability of the technology to provide accurate navigation capability in a real world situation.

REFERENCES:

Missile Defense Agency. Undated. Overview of missile defense systems. Retrieved from http://www.mda.mil
Department of Defense. Undated. Link to documents with some information on some BMD near-term and long-term capabilities. Retrieved from http://www.defense.gov/bmdr
Department of Defense. Undated. MIL-STD-810, Environmental Engineering Considerations and Laboratory Tests.
SMC-S-016. Undated. Air Force Space Command and Space and Missile Systems Center document. Test Requirements for Launch, Upper-Stage and Space Vehicles.
Northrop Grumman. 2013. “LN-200 FOG Family Advanced Airborne IMU/AHRS." Retrieved fromhttp://www.northropgrumman.com/Capabilities/LN200FOG/Documents/ln200.pdf.
Honeywell. 2012. “Inertial Measurement Units.” Retrieved from http://aerospace.honeywell.com/en/products/communication-nav-and-surveillance/inertial-navigation/defense-navigation/inertial-measurement-units/hg1700.

KEYWORDS: IMU, software, electronics, inertial measurement unit

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials/Processes, Space Platforms, Weapons

OBJECTIVE: Leverage advancements in additive manufacturing technologies to reduce cost and/or shorten delivery lead times of non-critical parts for missile defense applications, including missiles, kill vehicles, sensors, and radars.

DESCRIPTION: This effort is primarily geared towards replacing non-critical parts with parts made using additive manufacturing methods. Oftentimes, aerospace parts that need to be manufactured have long-lead times for procurement, or the supplier is no longer in the business of making the parts. Advancements in additive manufacturing could be used to address this situation. Additive Manufacturing (AM) is a name to describe technologies that build 3D objects by adding layer-upon-layer of material. The term AM encompasses many technologies including subsets like 3D Printing, Rapid Prototyping (RP), Direct Digital Manufacturing (DDM), layered manufacturing, and additive fabrication. One hurdle in implementing these new manufacturing methods for replacement parts is the stringent, time consuming, and costly qualification processes that must be followed because of the change in manufacturing process or material. The current limitation for applying additive manufacturing methods to aerospace part fabrication is that most of the processes create microstructure that is significantly different than traditional manufacturing processes. While the microstructure that results within a specific part is often repeatable, it has been difficult to control and therefore tends to be unique in each type of part. There are currently no accepted certifications for additive manufacturing equipment, processes, or the resulting material; therefore, each part must be approached individually to receive certification. Before these parts can be trusted or receive flight certification, the material and the manufacturing process need to be certified to establish parameters for getting the best results in large-scale production. This topic seeks the ability to produce non-critical parts which have the potential to transform logistics and sustainment practices and to provide a multitude of suppliers to support more competitive sourcing and reduce supply chain brittleness. These parts include but are not limited to such items as brackets, ducting, housings, shrouds, covers, and hoses. Additive manufacturing of parts for missile defense application components could also be a basis for an anti-obsolescence parts program. Produced parts should be manufactured using aerospace quality materials and meet required specifications and tolerances.

PHASE I: Develop and demonstrate additive manufacturing process(es) to rapidly manufacture and qualify non-critical aerospace parts, with a focus on key elements of the missile defense systems. Identify and prioritize parts to pilot the new manufacturing processes and certifications approaches. Document steps on how parts were chosen, how key qualification issues were addressed, and lessons learned for implementing new manufacturing methods on similar parts in the future.

PHASE II: Demonstrate repeatability of the process(es) developed in Phase I and scale them up to verify other components. Select representative materials that would be used in non-critical parts. Fabricate a set of material test samples and demonstrate that the material properties (e.g., elastic modulus and ultimate strength) match the material properties for forged samples of the same materials. Working with appropriate engineering authorities to work through qualification of manufacturing processes, pilot the process on 2-3 identified parts employed in missile defense. Provide data useful for design rules as well as details on how to specify and evaluate similar products supplied by different vendors. Develop plans for implementing an anti-obsolescence part program based on additive manufacturing processes/parts.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Further commercialize the capability to qualify replacement parts. Enhance the automation of the process and work with missile defense integrators to integrate the technology into missile defense kill vehicles, sensors, and radar manufacturing processes.

REFERENCES:

Dr. M Kinsella, AFRL, and Dr. C. Clinton, NASA MSFC. June 2015. Additive Manufacturing Qualification and Certification for Space and Missile Applications Workshop, National Space and Missile Materials Symposium, Chantilly, VA.
2. 2015. “Creating Innovative Paths Towards Game-Changing Results.” Agenda. Defense Manufacturing Conference.

KEYWORDS: additive manufacturing, sustainment, reverse engineering, non-flight critical, qualification, 3D printing

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials/Processes, Space Platforms, Weapons

OBJECTIVE: Develop application process(es) for applying Liquid Locking Compounds (LLCs) used in missile production and deliver a process solution along with associated tooling to enable reproducible application of LLC for missile components.

DESCRIPTION: This topic seeks to develop innovative, reliable, and repeatable volumetric dispensing processes for applying liquid LLCs or equivalent fluids. The use of adhesive locking features or LLCs as a means of providing a secondary locking feature has been used for decades across many missile defense programs. These compounds are intended to augment preload in the resistance to vibration-induced loosening; however, where there are a number of specifications for prevailing torque locking features depending on the type of design (e.g., nut, bolt, helicoil, insert, etc.), few quantitative process specifications and/or specialized tooling solutions exist for the application of LLCs. As such, variability in application quantity and location exists between production floor operators, resulting in a corresponding variability in the application and robustness of the threaded fastening system. The issue of variability is of primary concern in many threaded fastening systems used in aerospace applications that incorporate locking features that do not depend on fastener preload to function as a resistance to fastener rotation. The primary desire of this topic is to reduce this variability and develop highly reproducible applications of liquid locking compounds through robust processes and/or tooling solutions to aid in the application. Potential solutions of interest include, but are not limited to, enhancements to industry applications that leverage current methods/tools such as micro-pipetting devices and techniques that afford dispensing of controlled, reproducible liquid volumes.

PHASE I: Characterize the LLCs to identify processing sensitivities, determine proper cure time, and the minimum amount of LLC that is required to achieve optimum breakaway torque values. Develop process(es) for application of the LLC and deliver an initial concept/tool for reproducible application.

PHASE II: Deliver a comprehensive Phase II test, verification, and validation plan that would support Phase II demonstration, test, and implementation activities. Develop and demonstrate the prototype application process(es) as well as the design for associated tooling for the application of the LLC.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Automate the LLC application process(es) and implement the solution as part of a pilot program in collaboration with select Original Equipment Manufacturers on programs of interest to the government. Further commercialize the capability to benefit other DoD Agencies, NASA, and other potential commercial partners.

REFERENCES:

Johnny L. Golden, et. al. September 2012. “Process Sensitivity, Performance, and Direct Verification Testing of Adhesive Locking Features.” NASA. Landley Research Center, Hampton, VA.
Patrick J. Courtney and Mike Shannahan. October 2002. "Assembly Adhesives." Henkel Loctite Corporation.

KEYWORDS: Loctite, liquid locking compounds

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials/Processes

OBJECTIVE: Develop and demonstrate a manufacturing process that consistently reproduces an ultra-lightweight propellant tank design from aerospace grade aluminum alloys (e.g. Aluminum 2219, ultra-lightweight aluminum alloy, etc.).

DESCRIPTION: Seek optimized manufacturing process(es) for aerospace grade aluminum alloy tank design to include a high-quality joint in the fabricated structure containing a microstructure consistent with the finished aluminum alloy component. Significant fuel cost savings can be realized in the aerospace industry by employing lightweight materials in the design and fabrication of vehicular components. To date, the exploitation of lightweight aluminum alloys in component fabrication has been restricted due to their limited formability at room temperatures in conventional metal stamping processes. Stir welding is a current process that generates high-quality joints in the fabricated structure and is the baseline joining process for other emerging aerospace aluminum alloy structures such as cryogenic tanks and lightweight structures. This topic seeks improvements to this process or the forming process to produce a more practical, elevated-temperature, rapid-production, manufacturing system for the production of ultra-lightweight aluminum components. Specific areas of interest include incorporating solid state stir welding techniques to enable and expand stir welding to other high-strength, high-temperature alloys using solid state joining. Additional areas of interest include incorporating advancements in ultrasonic vibration technology to facilitate the successful fabrication of the finished propellant tank. Proposed manufacturing process improvements should demonstrate the capability to produce parts to within 0.76 mm (1/30th of an inch) with minimal to no post-process machining for the finished part.

PHASE I: Develop an innovative aerospace grade aluminum alloy fabrication process for production of lightweight propellant tanks. Develop and demonstrate the ability to produce high quality joints and the ability to minimize production non-conformance.

PHASE II: Design, fabricate, and test the prototype elevated-temperature manufacturing system and solid state joining process. The final design should meet the desired level of operational performance and be readily adaptable to future vehicle designs. Computer modeling should be used in conjunction with testing results to optimize process parameters in order to enhance component formability. The prototype should offer flexible control features to allow for process optimization. Verify and validate the finished ultra-lightweight aluminum alloy microstructure relationship to grain size, orientation, service loads, test loads, and mechanical response are adequate for intended operational goals.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Develop reliable and repeatable propellant tank fabrication manufacturing processes that are ultra-light weight and compatible with intended operating conditions and dynamic environment. Further commercialize the capability to benefit other DoD Agencies, NASA, and other potential commercial partners.

REFERENCES:

Jeff Ding, Bob Carter, Kirby Lawless, Dr. Arthur Nunes, Carolyn Russell, Michael Suites, and Dr. Judy Schneider. February 14, 2008. "A Decade of Friction Stir Welding R&D At NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center And a Glance into the Future."
L.E. Murr, G. Liu, and J.C. McClure. 1997. "Dynamic recrystallisation in the friction-stir welding of aluminum alloy 1100." Journal of Materials Science Letters 16 (22). 1801–1803.
R.E. Sanders. 2001. “Technology Innovation in aluminum Products.” The Journal of The Minerals, 53(2). 21–25.

KEYWORDS: solid state stir welding, advanced manufacturing, ultra-lightweight propellant tank

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics, Sensors, Space Platforms

OBJECTIVE: Develop a spectrometer that can be mounted on the aft closure of a Re-entry Vehicle (RV) to observe re-entry waking or on the side of a booster to collect plume spectra.

DESCRIPTION: Currently, optical measurements available on target plumes and re-entry wakes are collected by air or ground assets which view the wake/plume photons after the observables have been filtered through the atmosphere. Because these sources are highly spectral (i.e., non-gray emission), the transmission through the atmosphere tends to remove a significant amount of the information needed to anchor models that simulate these phenomena. This topic solicits innovative approaches to mounting a spectrometer on the aft closure of the RV. This innovation would enable collection of near-field spectral measurement data that is unfiltered by the atmosphere. The acquired, unfiltered spectral measurement data should improve the current wake/plume models and expand our knowledge of the wake/plume species and the underlying chemistry of the wake/plume phenomena which are significant contributors to the observed wake/plume phenomenology.

PHASE I: Develop viable RV mounted spectrometer concepts for obtaining near-field wake/plume spectral measurements. Provide size, weight, and power estimates of the proposed concepts. Describe the types of species that should be detected and provide measurement accuracies that should be achieved by the spectrometer. Describe the expected wake/plume chemistry and resulting phenomenology that should be observed with the proposed spectrometer concept. Develop a schedule and discuss plans for transitions from Phase I through Phase III/commercialization.

PHASE II: Design and build a functional prototype capable of surviving a defined flight environment, ascent and re-entry, to collect the desired spectral observables. The prototype must be to-scale and fully functional with a defined flight vehicle. Test the capability of the prototype as it relates to spectral data collection. Demonstrate analytically the capability of the prototype system to withstand the thermochemical and thermophysical flight environment. Demonstrate analytically how the prototype would integrate with the defined flight vehicle.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Fully qualify the prototype system with a defined flight vehicle and integrate onto a defined government target mission.

REFERENCES:

U.S. Missile Defense Agency. November 3, 2015. Ballistic Missile Defense System. Retrieved from http://www.mda.mil/index.html.
U.S. Missile Defense Agency. November 3, 2015. Ballistic Missile Defense System. Retrieved from http://www.mda.mil/index.html.
A. Kastengren and J.C. Dutton. June 28, 2004. "Wake Topology in a Three-Dimensional Supersonic Base Flow," AIAA-2004-2340, 34th AIAA Fluid Dynamics Conference and Exhibit, Portland, OR.

KEYWORDS: Spectrometer, plume, waking, modeling

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics, Sensors, Space Platforms

OBJECTIVE: Develop an innovative suite of miniaturized sensors that can be deployed from current Associated Object (AO) canisters flown on missile test targets and can be used to collect data on the target scene.

DESCRIPTION: Missile test targets often include AO deployment canisters which could be used to house small, deployable, fly along sensors to collect data on a target scene. This topic seeks innovative miniaturized sensor designs that can be packaged into and deployed from one or more of the AO canisters. This innovative Fly Along Sensor Package (FASP) should be designed to fit within the volume constraints of either of two AO cylinder’s outer mold lines (12 in. diameter X 29in. long or 6 in diameter X 29 in. long). Once deployed from the AO canister, the FASP should be capable of orienting itself to collect data on multiple objects throughout the course of the mission and telemeter the data to the ground or to another instrumented object capable of relaying the data to ground. The proposed FASP should be designed to incorporate a variety of sensor types (e.g., spectrometer, IR/VIS camera, etc.) and include the associated interface electronics and the AO canister deployment mechanism. The deployed FASP should also be designed to minimize radar cross section and IR signatures and be able to survive (collect and transmit data) during re-entry.

PHASE I: Provide a preliminary design concept of the FASP and its associated features and limitations. Demonstrate thorough understanding of the AO canister design restrictions and identify sensor and navigation technologies necessary to accomplish the basic FASP concept. Develop the system design approach and discuss transition from Phase I through Phase III/commercialization.

PHASE II: Construct a working prototype of the FASP conceptualized in Phase I. Demonstrate proper fit and operation with the AO canister. Demonstrate proper operation of the suite of sensors available for the prototype and navigation/control system via test or analysis. Develop a data collection plan and demonstrate its proper operation.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Integrate finalized prototype into the current government mission planning. Verify that flight test hardware can be tested and develop the final flight-worthy FASP. Conduct flight test/analyses of the FASP hardware and ensure that data obtained from the FASP will be collectable and usable by post-mission government analysts.

REFERENCES:

U.S. Missile Defense Agency. November 3, 2015. Ballistic Missile Defense System. Retrieved from http://www.mda.mil/index.html.
U.S. Department of Defense. Undated. Ballistic Missile Defense Review. Retrieved from http://www.defense.gov/bmdr.

KEYWORDS: associated object, fly along sensor package, navigation

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics, Sensors, Space Platforms

OBJECTIVE: This effort seeks to develop computational modeling methodologies that can achieve better accuracy than currently available and develop optical property measurement techniques that provide accurate measurement of the properties desired by computational modeling methodologies.

DESCRIPTION: Seek innovations leading to improved modeling of visible and infrared signatures for objects with partially transmissive surfaces. In particular, this effort seeks to develop a methodology to model the surface and inner component temperatures, transmissive behavior, emission and reflective behavior associated with partially transmissive material surfaces under arbitrary environmental conditions (e.g., solar, earth, and albedo irradiation) with arbitrary material properties. Accuracy and computational efficiency is also important in the methodology development since the methodology must be integrated into a broader scope engineering analysis code. Techniques are needed for high fidelity modeling of the thermal and optical interaction between multiple object components, including radiative wavelength-dependent heat transfer between multiple arbitrary transmissive and opaque materials, and resulting time-dependent temperature distributions. Techniques are also needed for high fidelity wavelength-dependent optical emission, reflection and transmission for an entire object, including both transmissive and opaque materials. Eventually, compatibility with government industry standard codes (e.g., OSC, OPTISIG) is essential. Additionally, the transmissive material’s thermophysical and optical properties can vary as a function of temperature and optical properties can vary as a function of incident angle and wavelength. This effort also seeks to develop techniques for the accurate measurement of optical properties of partially transmissive materials.

PHASE I: Develop viable concepts for computational methodologies and/or measurement techniques associated with partially transmissive materials. Perform trade-offs between model fidelity, computer run-time, compatibility with government industry standard codes, and desired material properties data. Determine a resulting preferred approach for developing a high-fidelity transmissive material thermal and optical signature prediction capability.

PHASE II: Fully develop and demonstrate the modeling capability and/or measurement techniques on materials of interest. Integrate the methodology into current government engineering analysis tools and simulations. Provide a measure of accuracy and computational efficiency related to area of interest to the government. Validate models by comparison to available ground and/or flight test temperature and signature data. In the case of optical property measurement techniques, fully develop and build the setup desired to provide accurate optical property measurements for partially transmissive materials. Perform measurements on materials of interest with accuracy bounds. This phase will include validation against measured data sets.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Expand the transmissive measurements and modeling capabilities from Phase II and fully integrate them into OSC at a minimum (OPTISIG, if possible). Develop approaches for speeding up the run time by mapping to multiple CPU or GPUs to facilitate faster Monte Carlo simulations and/or to allow for real-time operation.

REFERENCES:

U.S. Missile Defense Agency. November 3, 2015. Ballistic Missile Defense System. Retrieved from http://www.mda.mil/index.html.
U.S. Department of Defense. Undated. Ballistic Missile Defense Review. Retrieved from http://www.defense.gov/bmdr.
U.S. Missile Defense Agency. Undated. Propulsion Related Signature Modeling. Retrieved from http://www.mda.mil/global/documents/pdf/PRSM_Product_Sheet_Apr2012.pdf
U.S. Missile Defense Agency. Undated. EO/IR Hardbody Modeling. Retrieved from http://www.mda.mil/global/documents/pdf/EO-IR_hardbody_modeling_Product_Sheet_Oct_2012.pdf

KEYWORDS: transmissive materials, OSC, optical signatures, modeling

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics, Sensors, Space Platforms

OBJECTIVE: Develop an anchored approach to modeling infrared (IR) and/or radio-frequency (RF) re-entry wakes produced by re-entry vehicles (RVs) and RV associated spent boosters and flight hardware in high dynamic pressure and angle-of-attack (HDAOA) environments.

DESCRIPTION: This topic seeks development of a set of fast running HDAOA modeling tools to enhance missile defense mission planning, develop new mathematical techniques, and improve mission definition. Desire innovations leading to improved modeling capabilities covering a broad range of re-entering objects for a wide range of velocities/altitudes/angles of attack. In addition, desire modeling tools that can be anchored by existing high fidelity approaches and/or measurements but provide sufficient computational throughput to allow for improved run-times.

PHASE I: Identify candidate methodologies that are anchored by high fidelity codes and/or measurement data. Define the expected accuracy associated with the methodologies over the specified range of objects considered and re-entry conditions (velocities/altitudes/angles-of-attack). Define the expected computational requirements associated with the methodologies. Down select a methodology that can be further developed into the desired set of re-entry wake analysis tools.

PHASE II: Design, develop, and validate a prototype tool. Determine achieved simulation accuracy of the tool over the range of re-entry conditions of interest when compared to high fidelity simulations and/or measurement data. Determine the computational requirements over the range of re-entry conditions of interest.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Integrate the developed prototype tool into current government mission planning, signature, mathematical technique development, and/or mission definition simulations. Validate the successfully integrated code(s) and determine achieved simulation accuracy over the range of re-entry conditions of interest when compared to high fidelity simulations and/or measurement data. Determine the computational requirements over the range of re-entry conditions of interest for the newly integrated simulation.

REFERENCES:

K.D. Kennedy, C.D. Mikkelsen, and B. J. Walker. October 2009. "Missile Base Flow: Hybrid RANS/LES Computational Fluid Dynamics Comparisons to Measurements; Part II." JANNAF 31st Exhaust Plume and Signatures Subcommittee Meeting, Dayton, OH.
D.E. Wolf, H.S. Pergament, M.J. Thorwart, R.D. Miles, and E.A. Sutton. June 2006. “Modeling of Plume Flowfields and High Frequency RCS for Solid and Liquid Propellant Ballistic Missiles.” 29th JANNAF Exhaust Plume Technology Subcommittee Meeting, Littleton, CO.

KEYWORDS: Endo atmospheric Wakes, modeling

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Information Systems

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMO MC3, Program Management Office, Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) Command, Control and Command

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 5.4.c.(8) of the solicitation. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop Encryption Algorithms for Hand-held devices and Man-pack Radios. The encryption algorithm is to provide Commercial Solutions for Classified (CSfC) protection and integrity and confidentiality of transmitted information. The transmitted information will include Command and Control (C2) messages and Precision Location Information (PLI) for dismounted radios and tactical hand-held devices while providing the ability to be certified at the classified level, agnostic to the network used (i.e. encrypt the data portion of the packet only).

DESCRIPTION: Marine Corps Systems Command (MARCORSYSCOM) provides advanced algorithms for use in Command and Control (C2) network solutions to the Marine Corps. In an operational environment, dismounted Marines may encounter information operations against them in trying to decrypt or infiltrate Marine Corps Enterprise Networks (MCEN) or other information threats. These attacks will be unpredictable in frequency and occurrence and may include electronic warfare directed attacks. Dismounted Marines operate tactical hand-held devices or man-pack radios to send Command and Control (C2) messages as well as Precision Location Information (PLI) messages at the tactical edge. Additionally, Dismounted Marines have relied on the use of Control Cryptographic Items (CCI) type 1 encryptors for protection of classified information to the tactical edge while maintain connectivity to the MCEN Secret Internet Router Protocol Network (SIPRnet). With the new addition of the Commercial Solutions for Classified (CSfC) office, the National Security Agency (NSA) in partnership with the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) have provided an alternate means to protect classified information utilizing double encryption instead of requiring type 1 encryption. The development of technology solutions for this type of environment creates several challenges. Currently approved algorithms allowed require point to point connectivity as well as a dual vendor requirement. Additionally, it is desired for the algorithm to work and be certified for use in both the Windows and Android operating environments. Presently, the solution that has been deployed is to use a type 1 CCI device, however, the inclusion of Data in Transit algorithms may allow for the use of wireless hand-held devices, integrated wireless to radios and also the ability to interoperate with coalition forces that may not have type 1 CCI. At this time, there is no robust, viable technology solution that provides multicast transmission for this ongoing need in the application cited.

MARCORSYSCOM is looking for a solution that must be able to provide protection in a multicast transmission such as those in C2 and PLI messages. Agnostic Data in Transit algorithms, will initially be used for Marine Corps radios AN/PRC-117G and for the new acquisition program Marine Corps Handheld (MCH). The following hand-held and man-pack tactical radios may also use the above mentioned algorithm: AN/PRC-150, AN/PRC-117F, AN/PRC-117G and AN/PRC-152 (Ref 1). The radios will be used as a transmission medium only and will be used for proof of concept testing by the Program Management Office (PMO). Concepts proposed must provide the impact on the availability and throughput (rate of transmission) of messages while still providing integrity and confidentiality. Proposers must address how their technology solution(s) provides the ability to protect classified information, any novel technology combination (algorithms) used to achieve a classified protection, and any applicable algorithm performance information. These algorithms should meet the requirements for protection of classified information per the CSfC process (reference 2). Proposers should employ open architecture designs principles as much as is practicable to protect only the payload portion of an Internet Protocol (IP) message. Preference will be given to solutions that have an overhead of less than 6% (4% overhead for the TCP/IP header plus 2% overhead for encryption) when used in current Marine Corps systems (MCH connected to radios) for a notional 1 kilobyte message. Lastly, the solution should describe any current or previous experience with the CSfC process to include the ability to be certified by NSA which is an ultimate requirement for this technology.

PHASE I: The company will develop a novel data in transit algorithm that a hand-held or man-pack radio may use to protect the integrity and confidentiality of data to the requirements described above. The company will demonstrate the feasibility of the concepts in meeting Marine Corps needs through modeling and simulation and will establish the concepts can be developed into a useful product for the Marine Corps. Feasibility may be established by testing and/or analytical modeling, as appropriate. The company will provide a Phase II development plan with performance goals and key technical milestones, and that will address technical risk reduction as well as the plan for certification through the CSfC process. The company should develop a solution with means to protect the algorithm from disclosure for inclusion in the CSfC process and subsequent NSA CSfC certification if selected for a Phase II.

The Phase I effort will not require access to classified information. If need be, data of the same level of complexity as secured data will be provided to support Phase I work. The Phase II effort will likely require secure access, and the contractor will need to be prepared for personnel and facility certification for secure access.

PHASE II: Based on the results of Phase I and the Phase II development plan, the small business will develop a scaled prototype of the algorithm for evaluation. The prototype will be used on both Android and Windows Operating System Environments to meet the performance goals defined in the Phase II development plan and the Marine Corps requirement for wireless transmission and protection of classified information, with a preference and initial use on the Android Operating System. Additionally, the small business shall carry this product through the CSfC process in which the particular algorithms used may become classified when certified. The performer will still be able to use the certified technology for commercial use but may have disclosure restrictions imposed during the CSfC certification process. System performance will be demonstrated through prototype inclusion of a software encryption of the algorithm on a handheld device and evaluated in both wired and wireless transmission to man-pack radios by integrated testing with existing Program Office events. Evaluation results will be used to refine the prototype into an initial design meeting Marine Corps requirements. The company will prepare a Phase III development plan to transition the technology for Marine Corps use in both the Windows and Android operating system environments with initial preference to the Android Operating system. Additionally, the company should provide in the plan for a transition to both coalition and Naval forces interoperating with Marine Corps.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: If Phase II is successful, the company will be expected to support the Marine Corps in transitioning the technology for Marine Corps, Navy and coalition use. The company will integrate the algorithm for inclusion in a handheld form factor to determine its effectiveness in an operationally relevant environment. The small business will support the Marine Corps for test and validation to certify and qualify the system for Marine Corps use. Private Sector Commercial Potential: Municipalities, law enforcement, and first responders also use radios. New data in transit algorithms would also be attractive to these applications for integrity and confidentiality of the data. Such applications could be applied to both handheld or vehicle mounted applications, shipboard applications and interoperability of coalition forces without the use of CCI.

Additionally, commercial use of data in transit algorithms that provide protection at the classified level are also appropriate for use with health and banking data and almost any application which requires data protection.

REFERENCES:

AN/PRC-150 Military HF Radio, AN/PRC-117G Wideband Tactical Radio, AN/PRC-152 Multiband Radio. http://rf.harris.com/capabilities/tactical-radios-networking
National Security Agency Commercial Solutions for Classified. https://www.nsa.gov/ia/programs/csfc_program/

KEYWORDS: tactical radio; tactical; handheld; AN/PRC-150; AN/PRC-117F; AN/PRC-117G; AN/PRC-152

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Information Systems

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMM-202 (AC2SN), PEO Land Systems

OBJECTIVE: The objective is to develop an artificial intelligence (AI)-based Command and Control (C2) digital assistant that uses advanced computing techniques such as machine learning and natural language processing to provide answers to complex mission-specific questions to enhance battlespace decision making.

DESCRIPTION: The Marine Corps seeks to leverage advanced artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to reduce information overload, improve situational awareness (SA) and collaboration, and aid in Commander decision-making. The cognitive demands of future network-centric forces are overwhelming and commanders often get “caught in the weeds” and suffer from the glare of information. Intelligent assistants such as Apple’s Siri, Google Now, or Facebook’s “M” are commonplace in commercial industry yet similar products do not exist for military commanders tasked with managing an increasingly complex battlespace. New “big data” computing techniques such as predictive analytics, deep machine learning, distributed rules engines, and real-time contextual search can significantly ease the information burden and enable more effective and efficient decision making. These computing techniques not only identify patterns across multiple data sets but they recommend courses of action and evaluate proposed actions.

The aim of AI techniques embedded in an intelligent decision support system such as the proposed Command and Control (C2) digital assistant is to enable computer automation while emulating human capabilities as closely as possible.

The C2 digital assistant is envisioned to be integrated into the Common Aviation Command and Control System (CAC2S), an Acquisition Category I (ACAT I), Major Automated Information System (MAIS) that modernizes the air command and control suite in support of the Marine Aircraft Wings. The program replaces and modernizes the currently fielded, stove piped, and rapidly becoming obsolete aviation C2 equipment and facilities that support the Marine Air-Ground Task Force in Joint and combined air operations today. The Program received a positive Milestone C Decision in February 2015 and is ready to enter IOT&E in April 2016. The C2 digital assistant enhances the Command Tools function of CAC2S.

The AI-based C2 digital assistant will be a secure, open architecture system that runs continuously in the background and learns from its environment. It will utilize open-source libraries, software development kits (SDKs), and application programming interfaces (APIs) to the greatest extent possible and employ well-defined, well-documented interfaces to maximize modularity and extensibility. It will be capable of interpreting ad hoc natural language queries with minimal training and learn progressively as historical behaviors of both friendly and hostile forces are observed over time. By searching through vast troves of persistent unstructured data, the AI-based C2 digital assistant will greatly improve warfighting outcomes and enable commanders to compose “what if’s” based on intelligence information, local and remote sensor data, logistics and weapons information, and battle damage assessment activities. For example, disparate radio frequency emissions scattered across the battlefield may indicate the presence of an Integrated Air Defense System (IADS) and pose a threat to aviation assets. Using the C2 digital assistant to query previously detected RF emissions, the results will expose the presence of IADS assets and alter the Commander to apply appropriate action.

PHASE I: The small business will develop a concept for a high-level information architecture and componentized system design to meet the requirements for the AI-based C2 digital assistant described above. The company will document the feasibility and limitations of the digital assistant based on research and controlled testing of underlying concepts. The small business will provide a Phase II development plan with performance goals, key technical milestones, and risk reduction activities.

PHASE II: Based on the results of Phase I and the Phase II development plan, the company will develop a scaled prototype of the C2 digital assistant for evaluation and testing. The prototype will be evaluated to determine its capability in meeting the performance goals defined in the Phase II development plan and its ability to assist with efficient and effective decision making in a tactical environment. System performance will be demonstrated through prototype evaluation, modeling and simulation, and use case analysis. Phase II will be classified to the SECRET level. Battlefield data such as Tactical Digital Information Links (TADIL), sensor data, composite tracking data, and tactical intelligence information are examples of data that a C2 digital assistant will evaluate and assess. Testing is envisioned to be part of CAC2S Developmental Testing and Follow-on Operational Test and Evaluations at the Weapons and Tactics Instructor Courses in Yuma, AZ. Evaluation results will be used to refine the prototype implementation into an initial design that will meet Marine Corps requirements. The company will prepare a Phase III development plan to transition the technology to Marine Corps use.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: If Phase II is successful, the small business will be expected to support transitioning the technology for Marine Corps use in operational command posts and C2 agencies. The company will develop and integrate a full-scale AI-based C2 digital assistant for evaluation to determine its effectiveness in an operationally relevant environment. The company will provide test and validation support to certify and qualify the system for integration into C2 systems such as the Common Aviation Command and Control System (CAC2S). Private Sector Commercial Potential: The potential for commercial application of an extensible AI-based digital assistant is high. Possible avenues for employment include search and rescue, first responder applications, law enforcement, homeland security, special operations, cyber defense, and Internet of Things (IoT) applications for consumers and businesses.

REFERENCES:

Common Aviation Command and Control System Overview. http://www.dote.osd.mil/pub/reports/FY2015/pdf/navy/2015cac2s.pdf
Air Command and Control and Sensor Netting Overview. http://www.marcorsyscom.marines.mil/Portals/105/PELandSystem/AC2SN_090712.pdf
Non-Deterministic Policies in Markov Decision Processes; Fard and Pineau, 2011. https://www.jair.org/media/3175/live-3175-5361-jair.pdf
Large Scale Deep Learning; Jeffrey Dean, 2014. http://research.google.com/pubs/pub43150.html
Facebook AI Research. https://research.facebook.com/ai

KEYWORDS: Artificial Intelligence; Decision Aid; Big Data; Machine Learning; Command and Control

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Battlespace, Electronics, Sensors

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: Tactical Remote Sensor System (TRSS)

OBJECTIVE: Develop a portable terrestrial sensor kit that is suited to the needs of small tactical units to assist in local area/perimeter security.

DESCRIPTION: Self-establishing networking technologies and miniaturized components are in common use for commercial and government applications. However, transitioning these technologies for use by small tactical units has not been forthcoming (Ref 3).

Small (Hockey Puck Size, weights of 500 grams or less) ruggedized (resin –encased) multimodal (Seismic/Acoustic) battery-operated (COIN sized batteries) sensors of a limited detection range (50 meters or less) combined with a smart-phone size controller/alarm device could satisfy this operational deficiency. These units operate under extremely stressful conditions, and their need for easy manipulation and configuration of these devices in darkness and daylight lends itself to many of the attributes encountered with smart-phone-user interfaces. The advent of multi-purpose tablet sized devices to the operating forces is beginning, and could serve as the basis for the Controller/Alarm platform. Up to 10 sensors shall be controlled by a control module.

Proposed concepts shall be capable of operation between 0-65 degrees Centigrade, with an operating life of 7 days (168 hours) before replacement/recharging of the power supply is required. Water immersion resistance requirements required is for no moisture penetration in 1 meter of water for 24 hours. Shock resistance requirements are for components to withstand a vertical drop of 5 meters onto a hard surface. Setup time requirements shall be less than 2 minutes threshold, 1 minute objective. Reliability requirements shall be 80% reliable for 168 hours with a threshold confidence factor of 80%, threshold 90%. Detection range of moving personnel threshold is 50 meters threshold, 75 meters objective.

The wireless control module shall have a display compatible with night vision devices, and possess both visual and vibration detection alerts, selectable as both, visual or vibration. The system shall have a self-establishing capability. The system shall have the ability to establish its own network upon activation.

PHASE I: The small business will define concepts and demonstrate the feasibility for the development of a Small Unit Terrestrial Sensor Kit and in meeting Marine Corps needs. The small business will further establish that the concepts can be developed into a useful product for the Marine Corps. Feasibility will be established by material testing, cost analysis, and analytical modeling, as appropriate. The small business will provide a Phase II development plan with performance goals and key technical milestones, and that will address technical risk reduction.

PHASE II: Based on the results of Phase I and the Phase II development plan, the small business will develop a scaled Small Unit Terrestrial Sensor Kit prototype for evaluation. The prototype will be evaluated to determine its capability in meeting the performance goals defined in the Phase II development plan and the Marine Corps requirements for the Small Sensors Kit. System performance will be demonstrated through prototype evaluation and modeling or analytical methods over the required range of parameters including numerous deployment cycles. Evaluation results will be used to refine the prototype into an initial design that will meet Marine Corps requirements. The company will prepare a Phase III development plan to transition the technology to Marine Corps use.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: If Phase II is successful, the company will be expected to support the Marine Corps in transitioning the Small Unit Terrestrial Sensor Kit for Marine Corps use. The company support the operational evaluation of the Small Sensor Kit to determine its effectiveness in an operationally relevant environment. The company will support the Marine Corps for test and validation to certify and qualify the system for Marine Corps use. Private Sector Commercial Potential: This effort has applicability to both commercial and government enterprises charged with providing sensor-based security solutions.

REFERENCES:

Headquarters Marine Corps Intelligence Plans Division Wargame Report”, Persistent Warrior-Wargame Report August 2015. http://www.mcwl.marines.mil/Portals/34/Documents/EW13%20Final%20Report_FINAL.pdf
Lin, John, “Applications of ZigBee Technology”, NIST, October 7, 2005; http://gsi.nist.gov/global/docs/mra/2005_Lin_ZigBee.pdf
Kaushik, B. Nance, Don, and Ahuja, K “A Review of the Role of Acoustic Sensors in the Modern Battlefield” 11th AIAA/CEAS Aeroacoustics Conference (26th AIAA Aeroacoustics Conference) 3 - 25 May 2005, Monterey, California. https://ccse.lbl.gov/people/kaushik/papers/AIAA_Monterey.pdf

KEYWORDS: Terrestrial Sensors; Multimodal Sensors; ruggedized; Controller/Alarm Function; Seismic/Acoustic; Sensor String

TPOC-1: Constantine Lynard

Phone: 000-000-0000

Email: constantine.lynard@usmc.mil

TPOC-2: Martin Jackson

Phone: 703-432-4368

Email: martin.jackson@usmc.mil

Questions may also be submitted through DoD SBIR/STTR SITIS website.

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Battlespace, Electronics, Sensors

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PM114, Armor & Fire Support (PM AFSS)

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 5.4.c.(8) of the solicitation. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop miniaturized inertial survey system which can meet the current IPADS performance requirements with significant reductions in form factor and weight. The system must support artillery missions by obtaining accurate Survey Control Points (SCPs) and to lay azimuths for indirect fire. In doing so, the IPADS provides a common grid at the accuracies required to support indirect fire missions as opposed to standalone Global Positioning System (GPS) systems which provide an absolute GPS solution.

DESCRIPTION: The current IPADS system utilizes an inertial system supplemented by GPS for use when reception is available as an alternative to re-zeroing at a standstill. However, the current system is based on 10-15 year old inertial navigation sensor technology. While the current system can meet the survey requirement, it requires multiple Marines to lift and install based on the weight and size of the baseplate and IPADS frame. An innovative approach is sought in order to reduce the size and weight of the material solution (less than 30 pounds is desirable) to allow a single Marine to transport and install the system while maintaining system performance. In an effort to highlight technical challenges, it is most difficult to meet the current IPADS requirement that the system shall achieve azimuth accuracy of 0.4 mils Probable Error (PE) from 0 degrees to 65 degrees North or South latitude and 0.6 mils PE from 65 degrees to 75 degrees North or South latitude. Also the IPADS system must meet the threshold requirements in the performance specification without utilizing GPS.

PHASE I: Develop concepts for a miniaturized inertial survey system that meets the previously established IPADS requirements. Analysis (survey tolerance stack-up studies, for example) should clearly demonstrate a system approach where component development and integration will result in a high probability of achieving survey performance goals while allowing weight and size to enable a one Marine transport and installation. Phase I results will also include details on the hardware/software which will comprise the system to clearly illustrate the projected size/weight. Subsequently, Phase I will include a Phase II development plan to prototype and evaluate the system.

PHASE II: Based on the results of Phase I and the Phase II development plan, a prototype solution of the miniaturized survey system should be evaluated and compared against the current IPADS performance specification when installed in or transported by a vehicle. The company will prepare a Phase III development plan to transition the technology to Marine Corps use. The expected transition product is a TRL level 6 prototype miniaturized inertial survey system.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: This effort will require completion of a production representative design that satisfies the performance, cost, logistical, and schedule goals of the IPADS replacement program. Private Sector Commercial Potential: Inertial based survey and navigation equipment and more specifically, the sensors to enable the capability have commercial applications for automotive use, survey equipment applications, autonomous navigation for manned and unmanned aircraft, ground vehicles, ships, and submersibles.

Many automotive systems rely on inertial sensors as one of several triggers to other systems. Additionally, survey capabilities in GPS limited environments rely on GPS base stations as a repeater where a highly accurate inertial system could supplant that technology if cost effective. Furthermore, navigation for aircraft can benefit in urban areas and other locations where GPS signals are unavailable or confounded by multipath.

REFERENCES:

Performance Specification, Improved Position and Azimuth Determining System (IPADS), MILPRF- 52955D, 7 April 2007.
USMC Organizational and Operational (O&O) Concept for the Improved Azimuth and Position Determining System (IPADS), 1 July 2003.
Operational Requirements Document (ORD) for the Improved Position and Azimuth Determining Systems (IPADS), 10 September 2006.

Operational Requirements Document (ORD) for the Improved Position and Azimuth Determining Systems (IPADS), 10 September 2006.

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Weapons

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: MARCORSYSCOM IWS PdM IW M40 Series Sniper Rifle

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this effort is to develop an effective method to remove carbon/metal fouling from permanently sealed, Quick Detach (QD) and direct thread-on suppressors. Current cleaning methods are often ineffective on permanently sealed suppressors. Proper cleaning would extend the service life of these items and eliminate unnecessary replacement costs.

DESCRIPTION: Due to operational tempo, suppressed weapons fire is becoming more common during everyday operations. More carbon/metal fouling accumulates in the firearm through suppressed fire than unsuppressed fire, which necessitates more frequent cleaning. Marine Corps issued suppressors are typically permanently-sealed, QD suppressors. Although these are easily removable from the barrel for cleaning, they are sealed units that cannot be disassembled into individual components to facilitate cleaning. Without the ability to properly clean sealed suppressors, these units are turned in as unserviceable before their lifetime. If a method to properly clean these suppressors were available, this would extend the service life of the item and eliminate unnecessary replacement costs. Proposed methods shall demonstrate superior cleaning performance to conventional methods.1, 2 In addition, proposed methods shall address facility impacts such as cost/savings benefits and the disposal of generated hazardous material.

PHASE I: The small business shall demonstrate the feasibility for the development of a suppressor cleaning system that meets the Marine Corps’ needs. Feasibility shall be demonstrated through benchtop testing with a breadboard model.

PHASE II: The small business shall develop a prototype cleaning system with the capability to simultaneously clean multiple suppressors. The prototype shall be provided to the Marine Corp for testing and evaluation.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The small business shall support the Marine Corps in transitioning the suppressor cleaning system manufacture cleaning systems suitable for fleet use. The small business shall prepare a Facility Impact Report assessing costs, infrastructure requirements, maintenance, and disposal of hazardous material. At a minimum, cleaning systems would be made available to Intermediate Maintenance Activities (IMAs) where facility impacts are easier to manage. An initial quantity of 12 to 24 is projected for the IMAs. Suppressor cleaning systems are desired for use at the Organization Level where maintenance must be expeditious to ensure operational readiness. However, units at the Organization Level are more sensitive to facility impacts due limited resources. If the Facility impact at the Organizational Level is favorable, a quantity of 48 to 96 is projected in addition to those for the IMAs. Private Sector Commercial Potential: In addition to the DoD military market, this cleaning system would be applicable to state and local law enforcement, the Department of Homeland Security (i.e.; State Department, FBI, Secret Service and Coastguard) and the civilian sporting market.

REFERENCES:

Atkinson, B., “How to Clean a Firearm,” SSAA National Media & Publications, accessed 19 February, 2016, https://www.ssaa.org.au/stories/hints-tips-how-to-clean-a-firearm.html.
Sweeny, P. “Should You Clean Suppressors,” Firearm New, March 2015, accessed 19 February, 2016, http://www.firearmsnews.com/gear-accessories/suppressors/clean-suppressors/.
Dater, P., “Sound Measurement Techniques,” Small Arms Review, V3#11, Aug 2000.
Dater, P., “Firearm Sound Levels and Hearing Damage, “Small Arms Review, V6#3, Dec 2000.

KEYWORDS: Small Arms; Sound Suppressor; Suppressor Maintenance; Noise Suppression; Suppressor Fouling; Quick-Detach and Thread-on Suppressors

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Ground/Sea Vehicles

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PM, Advanced Amphibious Assault

OBJECTIVE: The objective is the development of an innovative simple method of deployable/retractable hull modification allowing higher water speed movement of an amphibious vehicle.

DESCRIPTION: With the cancelation of the Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle (EFV) program there still exists within the Marine Corps the need for a high water speed amphibious vehicle. For a vehicle to travel at higher speeds in the water it must be capable of planing or use some other method to reduce drag on the vehicle structure (example hydrofoil). Hydrodynamic drag from the vehicle shape is the major cause driving the size of the engine powering the vehicle and fuel consumption while waterborne. Current state of the art of a hard adaptive hull structure for an amphibious vehicle was developed for use on the EFV program. When deployed, the adaptive hull structure allowed the EFV (a vehicle of dimensions 30 ft. long, 12 ft. wide, 10.5 ft. high and weight 80,000 lb.) to attain a water speed of 25 knot. The system consisted of a retractable suspension, deployable bow and transom extension and chines. This system increased the flat plate planing surface allowing the vehicle to attain high water speed movement. Although functional, it employed a complex high pressure hydraulic system for deployment and retraction of the suspension which resulted in one of the most costly systems on the vehicle. One other available state of the art system capable of supporting an amphibious vehicle is pontoons. These devices are used on a variety of vehicles and take the form of fixed or inflatable devices. Currently deployable pontoons are used on the Korean K21 IFV. The pontoons are stowed in the skirt on either side of the vehicle and inflated when amphibious operations are required. After water operations the pontoons are deflated and retracted into the skirt. Although suitable for low speed movement in their current configuration they are not suited for higher speed water mobility.

Other state of the art technology includes semi rigid structures which utilize a fixed or inflatable planning hull that does not interfere with water jet performance and may allow leaving the tracks/wheels in-place thus reducing overall vehicle complexity/cost. By utilizing one or some combination of the available technologies a suitable adaptive hull structure for supporting a vehicle of dimensions 30 ft. long, 12 ft. wide, 10.5 ft. high and weight 80,000 lb. is sought.

PHASE I: The small business will develop concepts for an adaptive hull structure that meets the requirements described above. The small business will demonstrate the feasibility of the concepts in meeting Marine Corps needs and will establish that the concepts can be developed into a useful product for the Marine Corps. Feasibility will be established by material testing and analytical modeling, as appropriate. The small business will provide a Phase II development plan with performance goals and key technical milestones, and that will address technical risk reduction.

PHASE II: Based on the results of Phase I and the Phase II development plan, the small business will develop a scaled adaptive hull structure prototype for evaluation. The prototype will be evaluated to determine its capability in meeting the performance goals defined in the Phase II development plan and the Marine Corps requirements for the adaptive hull structure. System performance will be demonstrated through prototype evaluation, modeling and simulation and analysis over the required range of parameters throughout the deployment cycle. Evaluation results will be used to refine the prototype into an initial design that will meet Marine Corps requirements. The small business will prepare a Phase III development plan to transition the technology to Marine Corps use.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: If Phase II is successful, the company will be expected to support the Marine Corps in transitioning the technology for Marine Corps use. The company will manufacture a full scale adaptive hull structure for evaluation to determine its effectiveness in an operationally relevant environment. The company will support the Marine Corps for test and validation to certify and qualify the system for Marine Corps use. Private Sector Commercial Potential: The potential for commercial application of an adaptive hull structure has many potential uses. Possible avenues for employment are fire rescue and law enforcement vehicles, recreational vehicles (personal amphibious water craft) and wild life management vehicles to name a few.

REFERENCES:

Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle (EFV) – Specification. http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/ground/aaav-specs.htm
K-21 Infantry Fighting Vehicle. http://www.military-today.com/apc/nifv.htm
Zodiac. http://www.zodiacmarineusa.com/
Rigid-hulled inflatable boat. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rigid-hulled_inflatable_boat

KEYWORDS: Hull; High Water Speed; Adaptive; Plaining; Ground Vehicle; Amphibious

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Ground/Sea Vehicles

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PM, Advanced Amphibious Assault

OBJECTIVE: The objective is the development of innovative technologies that reduce fuel consumption enabling longer mission durations and/or increased operating ranges for an Amphibious Combat Vehicle (ACV) 1.1 vehicle.

DESCRIPTION: The Amphibious Combat Vehicle Phase 1 Increment 1 (ACV 1.1) is an armored personnel carrier that is balanced between performance, protection, and payload for employment within the Ground Combat Element (GCE) and throughout the range of military operations, to include a swim capability. Amphibious vehicles operate on the leading edge of an assault and in austere environments where logistics support including access to fuel is limited. PM Advanced Amphibious Assault (AAA) is looking for technologies that reduce fuel consumption and thus enable longer mission durations and increased operating ranges for ACV 1.1. The automotive industry has done a lot of work improving fuel efficiency. However, ACV 1.1 is significantly heavier than most commercial applications, must operate in water, off-road and idles a significant amount of time. The ACV 1.1 is a Modified Non Development Item that has a traditional diesel engine powertrain. The engine operates at two different load levels. First, the engine must operate at high-power to climb slopes, traverse soft soils and operate in a wide range of amphibious conditions. Second, the engine must operate for long periods of time at a low capacity while the vehicle is parked to support generation of electricity and HVAC functions. Technologies that can efficiently adapt to varying load and terrain requirements as dictated during the performance of its mission could result in significant fuel savings. Other technologies, like electrification of engine accessories, have been investigated to improve fuel efficiency for similar powertrains on commercial and military vehicles. Technologies that reduce weight, particularly un-sprung mass, can improve fuel efficiency while also improving ride quality and water performance. By using a combination of the available technologies, a significant increase in operating time and range could be achieved.

The goal for this program is to reduce fuel usage over the ACV mission profile by 10 to 15%. The ACV will operate on land for more than 95% of its mission and average over 60% of its time at idle, under low load or on silent watch. While the vehicles spend a significant amount of time at idle and silent watch, the majority of its fuel usage is expected while the vehicle is moving. The land operating profile is expected to consist of 10% Primary Roads, 20% Secondary Roads, 30% Trails and 40% Cross Country.

The ACV 1.1 will begin Full Rate Production in 2019, but ACV production will continue for over 20 years. ACV 1.1 will be followed by ACV 1.2 followed by either ACV 1.3 or ACV 2.0. There will be opportunities for Engineering Change Proposals (ECP’s) to fielded vehicles as well as opportunities to cut new technologies into the production line over that 20-year period.

PHASE I: The small business will develop concepts for fuel efficiency improvements including an estimate of reduced consumption/increased operation time and/or distance for an ACV 1.1 notional vehicle. The small business will demonstrate the feasibility of the concepts in meeting Marine Corps needs and will establish that the concepts can be developed into a useful product for the Marine Corps. Feasibility will be established by material testing and analytical modeling, as appropriate. The small business will be encouraged to work with the ACV Prime Contractors but this may not be necessary in Phase I depending on the technology and how it would be integrated on the platform. The small business will provide a Phase II development plan with performance goals and key technical milestones that will address technical risk reduction.

PHASE II: Based on the results of Phase I and the Phase II development plan, the small business will develop a scaled prototype for ACV fuel efficiency improvements for evaluation. The fuel efficiency improvements prototype will be evaluated to determine its capability in meeting the performance goals defined in the Phase II development plan and the Marine Corps requirements for fuel efficiency improvements. System performance will be demonstrated through prototype evaluation, modeling and simulation and analysis over the required range of parameters based on the component/concept selected. Evaluation results will be used to refine the fuel efficiency improvements prototype into an initial design that will meet Marine Corps requirements. The company will prepare a Phase III development plan to transition the technology to Marine Corps use.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The small business will develop a full scale modification package for evaluation on the ACV to determine its effectiveness in an operationally relevant environment. The company will support the Marine Corps for test and validation to certify and qualify the system for Marine Corps use. The small business will work with the ACV program office to develop an engineering change proposal to be applied to fielded systems and/or applied to ACV’s during subsequent vehicle production. Private Sector Commercial Potential: The potential for commercial application of the fuel efficiency technologies developed under this effort will have many potential transition paths. Possible avenues for employment are heavy construction equipment, fire, rescue and law enforcement vehicles, and recreational vehicles (personal amphibious water craft) to name a few.

REFERENCES:

ACV 1.1 Request For Information. https://www.fbo.gov/index?s=opportunity&mode=form&tab=core&id=99a63e69459e1c60885a68674a3ba64e&_cview=0
Butcher, J., Vasavada, N., Bayer, J., Koplin, M. et al., "Optimizing the University of Wisconsin's Parallel Hybrid-Electric Aluminum Intensive Vehicle," SAE Technical Paper 2000-01-0593, 2000, doi: 10.4271/2000-01-0593.
Tai, C., Tsao, T., Schörn, N., and Levin, M., "Increasing Torque Output from a Turbodiesel with Camless Valvetrain," SAE Technical Paper 2002-01-1108, 2002, doi: 10.4271/2002-01-1108.

KEYWORDS: Fuel efficiency; Smart vehicle Technology; Ground Vehicle; Amphibious; Amphibious Combat

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Human Systems

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: Program: Force-on-Force PM: PM-TRASYS

OBJECTIVE: Develop Optically Based Small Arms Force-On-Force Training System (OBSAT) for live, force-on-force engagement that provides an alternative to laser-based engagement systems.

DESCRIPTION: The Marine Corps seeks to enhance “home station unit training through the sustainment and enhancement of live, virtual, and constructive training capabilities.” Specifically, the Marine Corps seeks to “leverage modern immersive training and simulation technologies in order to ensure that Marines first encounter their tactical and ethical dilemmas in a simulated battlefield vice actual combat” [2]. This topic addresses Marine Corps’ need for the development and maturation of alternative technologies to laser engagement systems for live, force-on-force training. Stuster and Coffman [1] showed that there is a significant reduction in unit casualties after the first five firefights. A major contributing factor to the higher casualty rates in those first five firefights was improper use of cover and concealment. The shortcomings in laser engagement systems provide negative training that results in improper use of cover and concealment in combat. Lasers are blocked by obstacles that provide only concealment in the real world but also appear to provide cover in training using Instrumented-Tactical Engagement Simulation System (I-TESS) or other laser engagement systems. Addressing this shortcoming, then, has the potential to reduce Marine casualties in their initial firefights. In addition, with laser engagement systems, basic rifle marksmanship skills are not reinforced, such as leading moving targets and adjusting barrel elevation based on target range. In fact, laser engagement systems reinforce bad habits in these areas. Finally, a major weapon system in the infantry squad is the M-203 grenade launcher. The grenadier cannot practice employment of this key squad weapon during force on-force training, and squad and platoon leaders cannot train on the tactical employment of these systems. The Marine Corps seeks a technology that makes minimal use of appended equipment, such as I-TESS harnesses and halos, to support live training. The Marine Corps envisions a system that calculates the trajectory of the munitions and determines a hit or miss against stationary, moving, and partially occluded targets at realistic ranges and does not require appended lasers. Ideally such a system would use the day or night scope that is (or will be) part of a front-line Marine’s go-to-war kit.

All proposed systems must accomplish the following objectives (a) determining the accuracy/effectiveness of weapons engagement by individual marines using squad/platoon level weapons, (b) providing accurate and immediate feedback to the marine targeted, and (c) utilizing a system that can differentiate between concealment and cover (protection) from weapons engagement will be considered. In addition, the Marine Corps seeks an alternative technology to laser based systems that meet the following parameters:

- Enables Marines to engage in force-on-force events at ranges of at least 375 meters, and preferably longer.

- Enables Marines to engage targets that are partially occluded by foliage and vegetation during force-on-force training.

- Computes real-time casualty assessment in force-on-force training in daylight, night, and in the presence of obscurants.

- Requires Marines to lead moving targets.

- Requires Marines to raise or lower the barrel of the rifle based on target range (the “bullet” travels in a realistic parabolic path, rather than a straight line).

- Enables Marines to use their organic squad weapons (threshold: semi-auto rifle and grenade launcher; objective: burst fire and automatic weapons).

- Makes minimum use of appended equipment.

- Uses munitions trajectory and damage assessment models similar to those used by virtual and constructive simulations, allowing for LVC interoperability.

Ideally this technology is equally applicable to vehicular combat as well as infantry combat.

One possible concept of how an OBSAT might work is to use a client-server approach similar to the current laser-based system. A main server performs combat adjudication, determining if a shot hits and the severity of the hit by having a real-time understanding of where every Marine (client) is within the training area. To maintain this awareness each Marine is instrumented with a GPS and inertial sensor via a Marine-Worn computing device (similar to a smart phone) that constantly updates the server on the location of the Marine. Besides the computing device the Marine is also equipped with a special optic on their weapon and a weapon orientation device. When a Marine pulls the trigger the system detects that a shot has been fired (similar to the way the current laser based force on force system works) and the following events occur:

(1) The Marine’s site picture and weapon orientation are sent to the server via the computing device.

(2) Using the provided information the server determines if the target in the site picture was hit, where and how badly.

(3) If the server determines that the target has been hit it informs the targets computing device that the Marine has been hit and the severity. The targeted Marine receives an audible cue informing him that he has been hit.

Proposals based on different concepts or approaches that are capable of meeting all required objectives and performance parameters will be considered.

The Phase I Option, if awarded, should include the processing and submission of all required human subjects use protocols, if required. Due to long review times involved, human subject research is strongly discouraged during Phase I base, but may be appropriate for the option.

PHASE I: Demonstrate the technical feasibility for the development of an Optically Based Small Arms Force-On-Force Training System that addresses the current shortcomings of laser-based systems and meets many or all of the desired additional capabilities discussed in the Description section. The feasibility demonstration must work with an M-16, M-4, or acceptable surrogate at ranges of 150, 250, and 375 meters. The Phase I effort may involve appended equipment if there is a clear technology path to significantly reduce use of appended equipment as the technology matures.

PHASE II: Based on the Phase I effort, the small business will fully develop a prototype Optically Based Small Arms Force-On-Force Training System (OBSAT). This prototype system must demonstrate reduced need for appended equipment through the use of equipment that is in the fielding pipeline. The small business will also develop the engagement system technology to integrate with a real Thermal Weapon Scope (to be provided for this effort by the Government as GFE). The small business will also improve overall system latency and increase the number of supportable simultaneous trainees. Although the demonstration will be done with approximately 30 systems (2 marine squads) the Small Business must show that the fundamental underpinnings of the technology (e.g., bandwidth and computing power) are able to support over 1,000 participants. The small business must integrate their system with real M-4 rifles which will be firing blanks during the demonstration. The small business will also expand the demonstration of capability by adding one or more of the following: increased ranges, burst fire, automatic fire, and/or 40mm grenades. The result of Phase II will validate whether the prototype system is suitable and effective for live, force-on-force training in preparation for transition to Phase III.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The final result of Phase III is to mature existing technology to at least TRL 6 ready to transition to a PM TRASYS program of record to eventually replace I-TESS systems for Marine live, force-on-force training. Phase III seeks to expand demonstrated prototype Phase II capabilities in a number of directions: expanding to other infantry weapon systems (e.g., machineguns), improving technology readiness level (TRL) and preparing for integration, improving accuracy and robustness, supporting vehicular combat, etc. During Phase III the small business will integrate this technology into operationally representative training events. The small business will also integrate this technology with other live, virtual, and constructive training systems. Demonstration of the applicability of this technology to testing, concept development, and even commercial applications is encouraged. Private Sector Commercial Potential: The optically based technology has applicability in the entertainment industry. This technology, once mature, could replace paintball and laser tag. Since there are no projectiles, like paintballs, it would eliminate the need for special protective equipment, replacing ammunition, and cleanup. Since no lasers are used, the system is inherently eye safe.

REFERENCES:

Jack Stuster and Zail Coffman, Capturing Insights From Firefights To Improve Training, Phase Final Report, Sponsored by ¬Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, ARPA Order: AT64-00, PAN RTW 2W-09, Issued by¬ United States Army Aviation & Missile Command Redstone Arsenal, AL 35898-5280, Contract Number: W31P4Q-09-C-0160, 31 January 2010, ANACAPA SCIENCES, INC., P.O. Box 519¬ Santa Barbara, California 93102.
Marine Corps Combat Development Command, Force Development Strategic Plan, 15 October 2015.
Marine Corps Combat Development Command, U.S. Marine Corps S&T Strategic Plan, 17 Jan 2015.

KEYWORDS: Force-on-force training, laser engagement systems, after action review, live-virtual-constructive

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Biomedical

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: MARCORSYSCOM, Program Manager Combat Support Systems, Battalion Aid Station (BAS) – AMAL 635

OBJECTIVE: The objective is to develop an innovative, energy efficient, small human transportable field refrigeration unit for field medical operations. The unit will be used to keep temperature sensitive human blood products, vaccines, and reagents within an optimum temperature range to ensure long term viability.

DESCRIPTION: Navy Medical Corpsmen, Nurses, and Doctors make frequent use of human blood products for resuscitative medical interventions, administer vaccines to Marines or civilians, and conduct medical assays for detection of illness or other medical conditions. All of these medically important consumable products must be kept within an optimum range of temperatures to prevent spoilage or damage to the active proteins within them. Vaccines and assays in particular are subject to irreversible damage from freezing and must be protected from subfreezing temperatures as well as well as from high temperatures. Currently the Navy fields a medical refrigeration system that is energy inefficient and has only two settings: a Refrigerator mode of +4°C (39.2°F) and a Freezer mode of -22°C (-7.6°F), making it difficult to maintain the specific temperature ranges required for certain vaccines and reagents and doing little to protect frost-sensitive products. To achieve this capability, the Expeditionary Medical Refrigeration Unit shall be able to maintain a user defined internal temperature to within -0, +2°C (-0, +3°F) of set point throughout an ambient operating temperature range of -32 – 52°C (-25 – 125°F) in a tactical environment (Role 1 to Role 2, primarily the Battalion Aid Station (BAS), Shock Trauma Platoon (STP), Forward Resuscitative Surgical Suite (FRSS) and Laboratory Equipment AMALs). The range of selectable internal temperatures shall be between -35°C and 25°C (-31°F – 77°F) Threshold; between -65°C and 25°C (-80°F – 77°F) Objective. The unit shall have minimum net capacity (output) of 30 watts thermal (102 Btu/hr) at a thermostat setting of 8°C and 40 watts thermal (136 Btu/hr) at a thermostat setting of 2°C (at 25°C ambient temperature). To protect frost-sensitive medical products such as vaccines from extreme cold the unit shall include an auxiliary heating capacity of not less than 30 watts thermal (102 Btu/hr). The unit shall have an internal payload volume of no less than 56.6 liters (2 ft3) with no internal payload dimension less than 33.0 cm (13 in), external dimensions not to exceed 100 cm (39.5 in) in any dimension, and a tare weight not to exceed 66 kg (145 lb). The device must support USMC energy efficiency goals by operating from a self-contained power source (such as batteries) for up to 24 hours Threshold; 48 hours Objective and shall utilize standard USMC field power for both direct power and battery recharging (110/220 VAC and 12-32 VDC). Designing for energy efficiency and minimal power consumption will be a primary objective of this program. The device must conform to MIL-STD-810G for environmental readiness, including storage at temperatures of -25 to 160 degrees F and operation at temperatures of -25 to 130 degrees F, the ability to withstand transport shock and vibration, ability to withstand operational drop of 36 inches and storage drop of 48 inches, ability to withstand settling sand and dust and blowing rain, and ability to operate at altitudes of up to 10,000 feet. The device shall be capable of achieving FDA 510(k) clearance for medical devices with submission for 510(k) being a key performance parameter of this device. Devices must be fully self-contained and designed for organic supportability by qualified active duty biomedical engineering technicians.

PHASE I: The small business will develop concepts for an Expeditionary Medical Refrigeration Unit that meets the requirements discussed in the Description section. The small business will demonstrate the feasibility of the concepts in meeting Marine Corps needs and will establish that the concepts can be developed into a useful product for the Marine Corps. Feasibility will be established by material testing, as appropriate. The small business will provide a Phase II development plan with performance goals and key technical milestones, and that will address technical risk reduction.

PHASE II: Based on the results of Phase I and the Phase II development plan, the small business will develop an initial Expeditionary Medical Refrigeration Unit prototype for evaluation. The prototype will be evaluated to determine its capability in meeting the performance goals defined in the Phase II development plan and the Marine Corps requirements for the Expeditionary Medical Refrigeration Unit. System performance will be demonstrated through prototype evaluation over the required range of parameters including numerous deployment cycles. Evaluation results will be used to refine the prototype into an initial design that will meet Marine Corps requirements. The small business will prepare a submission package for FDA 510(k) clearance with the assistance of and sponsorship by the Marine Corps. The small business will prepare a Phase III development plan to transition the technology for commercial and Marine Corps use.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: If Phase II is successful, the company will be expected to support the Marine Corps in transitioning the technology for Marine Corps use. The company will deliver the Expeditionary Medical Refrigeration Unit for evaluation to determine its effectiveness in an operationally relevant environment. The company will achieve FDA 510(k) clearance for the device and will support the Marine Corps for verification testing and validation to certify and qualify the system for Marine Corps use. The company will support the Marine Corps in the training of users and maintainers and the development of commercial users’ and maintainers’ manuals. Private Sector Commercial Potential: The Expeditionary Medical Refrigeration Unit will be an FDA 510(k) certified commercial medical device that can be used in civil and industrial medical use. Potential private sector users include hospitals, clinics, paramedics/EMTs, search and rescue teams, disaster relief organizations, and other industries where medical grade products must be kept at a precise temperature.

REFERENCES:

UL 471, Standard for Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers. http://ulstandards.ul.com/standard/?id=471_10
Solar-Powered Refrigeration System, NASA Johnson Space Center. https://www.nasa.gov/centers/johnson/techtransfer/technology/MSC-22970-1_Solar-Refrigerator-TOP.html
Operating Instruction Two-Temperature Hemacool, Advanced Technology Blood Product Storage and Transport Refrigerator/Freezer Model HMC-MIL-1 of May 2005. http://www.steelsoldiers.com/upload/misc/HemaCool_Operations_5_13_05.pdf
Code of Federal Regulations Title 21, Part 640, of 1 Apr 2015. http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfCFR/CFRSearch.cfm?CFRPart=640
Department of Defense. MIL-STD-810G, Department of Defense Test Method Standard: Environmental Engineering Considerations and Laboratory Tests. 31 Oct 2008. http://www.atec.army.mil/publications/Mil-Std-810G/Mil-std-810G.pdf

KEYWORDS: Medical refrigeration, medical devices, blood products, vaccines, immunizations, medical

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics, Sensors

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMA-290 Maritime Surveillance Aircraft

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 5.4.c.(8) of the solicitation. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop an analog to information processing approach to bypass Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) that is capable of lower power consumption, smaller circuit size and does not require upfront digitization.

DESCRIPTION: The current all-digital processing approach puts the Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) and Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) as close as possible to the sensors and actuators (antenna, pixels, etc.). This approach has been driven by transistor scaling and programming flexibility. Current performance issues include constraints from power consumption, ADC/DAC requirements, and size. While requirements are application specific, current technologies are constrained by the needed physical size, power consumption, resolution, speed and in some case their cost. Performance of present ADCs generally prohibit the direct digitization of wide bandwidth and high dynamic range RF signals; for example, a 10 GHz bandwidth state-of-the art ADC can provide only 5-bit resolution, while near-term next generation receiver systems would require over 10-bit resolution in the same bandwidth. Based on current trends, this would take approximately 30 years to achieve.

The desired innovation is the development of an analog-to-feature converter (AFC) approach that will enable direct conversion of challenging wideband and high dynamic range RF signals to information directly. From a top level functional perspective the AFC should encode the RF/analog input signal to enable a more robust analog representation, i.e., asynchronous pulse domain (continuous-time digital), and to enable implementing general discrete-time/continuous time linear/nonlinear time-frequency filters, delay circuits, and nonlinear processors in the asynchronous pulse domain. The signal path should be split into two after the encoding circuit. The upper path would be used to generate a 1-bit time-frequency map of the input signal using Cohen-class transforms. This map is then optionally delivered to the signal projection unit, analog pre-processing unit, and/or digital post-processing unit, depending upon the tasks the AFC is performing. The key advantages of such an approach is that the analog information to be digitized is highly compressed, and as a result, the AFC requires a much smaller number of ADCs than conventional Nyquist sampling and channelization-based receivers. The key innovation being sought is an implementation approach that accomplishes these functions while significantly reducing the needed size, weight and power required as compared to conventional ADC/DAC approaches. We seek to reduce the computational load on the digital signal processors by an order of magnitude by analog pre-processing of input signal and information and achieve a 10-15 percent reduction in sensor electrical power usage

PHASE I: Detail and demonstrate the feasibility and approach through high fidelity simulations. Develop concepts for hardware design and fabrication and provide a means to evaluate the technical feasibility.

PHASE II: Based on Phase I effort, further develop designs for a prototype AFC system. Demonstrate performance with respect to wideband radio frequency applications (radar and electronic support measures (ESM)). Describe in detail the system architecture including estimated cost to fully mature this technology and manufacturing approaches.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Finalize the AFC design and produce a production representative device suitable for use in a next generation maritime surveillance radar and/or ESM system on Navy aircraft. Private Sector Commercial Potential: Commercial data and video systems will be enabled with this technology.

REFERENCES:

Unser, M., (2000). Sampling 50 Years After Shannon. Proceedings of the IEEE, Vol. 88, No. 4, p. 569-587. http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/xpl/articleDetails.jsp?arnumber=843002
Vaidyanathan, P., (2001). Generalizations of the Sampling Theorem: Seven Decades After Nyquist. IEEE Transactions on Circuit and Systems, Vol. 48, No. 9, 2001, p. 1094-1108. http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/xpl/articleDetails.jsp?arnumber=948437
Donoho, D. and Logan, B., (1992). Signal Recovery and the Large Sieve. SIAM Journal of Applied Math, Vol. 52, p. 577-591. http://epubs.siam.org/doi/abs/10.1137/0152031
Auger, F. and Hlawatsch, F. (2006). Time-frequency Analysis: Concepts and Tools. p 131-151. www.iste.co.uk/data/doc_kmwlrnocsxjk.pdf

KEYWORDS: Radar; Analog-to-Digital Converter; Digital-to-Analog Converter; Analog-to-Feature Converter; Information Processing; Sampling Theory

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Materials/Processes

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: 4.0T - CTO, Chief Technology Office

OBJECTIVE: Develop an innovative multi-scale, multi-physics, analytical software toolset capable of optimizing critical metal laser powder bed additive manufacturing (AM) process parameters to enable rapid, low cost, high-quality component qualification.

DESCRIPTION: As metal additive manufacturing (AM) continues to progress, several Navy programs are looking to take advantage of the design freedom and as-needed production capability the technology has to offer. However, AM part quality is negatively impacted by process variability between AM methods, machines, materials, and build environments. These differences, combined with the cyclic nature of the AM process itself (heating and cooling / expanding and contracting,) often result in parts that do not meet design specifications. The primary method of addressing these issues has been to adjust process parameters through trial and error. However, this costly and time consuming approach may still not provide the best parameter combination. Simulations have been developed to try to predict the effects these influences will have on part quality, but they are limited in their abilities. In most cases these simulations consider the effects of only one of these influences and do not take into account the interactions of the others. These simulations also tend to focus on either a part’s micro or macro structure, which prevents them from being able to fully optimize process parameters for both.

In order to quickly and cost-effectively produce and qualify high-quality AM parts, an innovative prediction and optimization software toolset is sought. The software toolset will need to consider the thermal and mechanical aspects of the AM process and the variables introduced by the selected AM machine, material and build environment for both the micro and macro structure levels. Ideally, this toolset will take user defined and/or previously loaded input parameters for the selected AM machine (e.g. energy, scan speed, scan spacing, and layer height ranges as well as possible support strategies, scan patterns, and build environment conditions), fabrication material (e.g. particle size and shape, packing density, and conduction), and desired part qualities. From these inputs, the toolset will be able to provide the user with a list of machine settings necessary to achieve the desired part qualities such as: surface finish; dimensional tolerances; specified microstructure; necessary performance characteristics (e.g. strength and fatigue); and minimized distortion and porosity.

PHASE I: Demonstrate feasibility of an integrated analytical software toolset capable of predicting key part qualities and providing optimized machine process parameters to ensure a quality part (i.e. a part that has the desired surface finish and dimensional tolerances; minimum distortion, residual stress, and porosity; and the necessary microstructure to achieve the required mechanical and fatigue characteristics) by comparing predictions and a limited set of specimens using a single laser powder bed machine and single material (e.g. Ti64 or 17-4PH.)

PHASE II: Develop a prototype of the software toolset using the framework developed in Phase I to optimize process parameters to achieve desired part qualities, as well as provide a prediction of these features for a part produced using build parameters that have been optimized for production (i.e. minimal support structure, powder use, necessary post processing, etc.). Demonstrate and validate the prototype by comparing the optimized builds and predictions to baseline builds (i.e. using default process settings) and traditional build characteristics (part geometry, strength and fatigue properties) of desired Navy components from a number of Navy-selected laser powder bed machines and materials.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Fully develop the prototype toolset into a release version of the software to enable integration into Navy and Commercial AM software applications. Private Sector Commercial Potential: The design freedom and potential time and cost savings of additive manufacturing (AM) make it applicable to almost any industry. However, in most cases, industries do not have a good understanding of the AM build process. This leads to millions of dollars being wasted on inefficient attempts to address build problems and wasted material on unusable parts. The proposed prediction/optimization toolset would provide industry with an effective means of minimizing residual stress and distortion before the build process is even started and would reduce the need for highly trained operators.

REFERENCES:

Neugebauer F., Keller N., Ploshikhin V.; Feuerhahn F., & Köhler H., (2014). Multi Scale FEM Simulation for Distortion Calculation in Additive Manufacturing of Hardening Stainless Steel. International Workshop on Thermal Forming and Welding Distortion, Bremen, 09-10 April, 2014 http://www.researchgate.net/publication/266652527_Multi_Scale_FEM_Simulation_for_Distortion_Calculation_in_Additive_Manufacturing_of_Hardening_Stainless_Steel
Sun, J., Yang, Y., & Wang, D. (2013). Parametric optimization of selective laser melting for forming Ti6Al4Vsamples by Taguchi method. Optics & Laser Technology 49: 118-124. 23 January 2013. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0030399212005531
Keller, N., Neugebauer, F., Xu, H., & Ploshikhin, V. Thermo-mechanical Simulation of Additive Layer Manufacturing of Titanium Aerospace structures. http://www.dgm.de/download/tg/1171/1171-160.pdf

KEYWORDS: Cost Reduction; multi-scale; Metal Additive Manufacturing; Process Optimization; Multi-physics; Part Quality

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Electronics, Information Systems

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: Joint Strike Fighter F-35 Lightning II Program

OBJECTIVE: The Navy is seeking an innovative tool set solution for the integration of Hardware Open Standards Technologies (HOST) conformant components which will aid in component selection and component integration such that system requirements can be met at a reduced cost.

DESCRIPTION: Hardware Open Systems Technologies (HOST) is an Open Systems Architecture (OSA) which defines virtual and physical interfaces to hardware such that interoperability and reuse of hardware components can be realized. The HOST standards leverage commercial technology combined with form factor such as the VITA Standards Organization’s OpenVPX 6U standard [4, 5, 6]. The OpenVPX standard is flexible enough to allow vendor lock to occur. HOST constrains the use of the OpenVPX standard, thus preventing the opportunity for vendor lock to occur. The intent of HOST is to establish performance and interface requirements that are open, enforceable, and testable. As diminishing supplies and obsolescence become more impactful, HOST will facilitate addressing obsolescence and diminishing supplies as well as capability growth from new and/or evolving requirements.

Currently, the system integration effort is unique for each platform and labor intensive. HOST will enable a market where platforms can acquire hardware from multiple different vendors over the life of the system further complicating embedded system integration. As HOST is a new standard, no tooling currently exists to assist with easing or automating the integration of HOST components. Consequently, innovation is required to develop a set of tools (both physical and logical) to support mission computer and / or embedded processing system integration.

The purpose of this solicitation is to develop tools which can support the integration of HOST conforming hardware components. At a minimum the tool sets should be capable of modeling the following:

1. logical interfaces

2. environmental and mechanical performance

3. load distribution

4. hardware component and system level configuration

Additional modeling areas of consideration may include in rank order priority:

1. Built in Test (BIT)

2. firmware integration

3. error handling and reporting

4. debugging

5. alleviating performance bottlenecks and hardware optimization

6. power analysis

7. boot optimization

Tools should help systems integrators with hardware selection and provide output which integrators can use for the physical and logical integration. Modeling and simulation-driven development of embedded real-time systems published in the Simulation Modeling Practice and Theory Journal [3] articulates some of the complexities associated to the integration of embedded systems and may provide additional insight. Note that this journal entry ties the framework and tool to a specific real-time operating system, this is not within the scope of HOST. Instead, the Navy is seeking a tool that specifically addresses the HOST profiled OpenVPX 6U and 3U hardware and system software excluding any specific operating system.

PHASE I: Develop and demonstrate concept feasibility for a Hardware Open Systems Technologies (HOST) Hardware Integration Tool Set. Phase I will result in the identification of tool(s) with capabilities and methodologies for facilitating interoperable hardware integrations to meet the minimum and to the extent practicable additional modeling considerations identified in the above Description. The developed capabilities and methodologies will provide the basis for tool design and prototype build efforts during Phase II.

PHASE II: Design, build and demonstrate a prototype (HOST) Hardware Integration Tool Set which meets the objectives outlined in the “Objective” and “Description” sections above. This prototype will be based on the capabilities and methodologies identified for the HOST Hardware Integration Tool Set developed in Phase I.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Finalize and transition tool(s) and techniques for HOST hardware integration. During this process, finalize the resultant prototype tool(s) for broader market utilization in both military and commercial applications. Private Sector Commercial Potential: Manufacturers developing hardware for embedded systems and seeking to conform to the HOST standard will benefit from this / these integration tool(s). These integration tools will help to create a market ecosystem which will enable small businesses to more quickly test and incorporate new capabilities that can be provided more rapidly to the warfighter in “bite sized”, cost effective elements similar to the way in which the commercial smart phone market allows even individuals to sell new apps like “Angry Birds” to everyday smart phone users. These embedded systems span much further than just naval aviation and could be utilized within the FAA and control systems ranging from trains to nuclear reactors. In all cases, these systems have to be integrated in order to work correctly. The tools developed under this effort clearly have potential benefit to these commercial needs.

REFERENCES:

Hardware Open Systems Technology – Tier 1 Version 1.0. (Uploaded in SITIS on 4/22/16.)
Hardware Open Systems Technology – Tier 2 Version 1.0. (Uploaded in SITIS on 4/22/16.)
Modeling and simulation-driven development of embedded real-time systems (Simulation Modeling Practice and Theory Volume 38, November 2013, Pages 115–131).
OpenVPX Tutorial. http://www.vita.com/Tutorials
ANSI/VITA 48.2, VPX REDI: Mechanical Specifications for Microcomputers Using Conduction Cooling Applied to VPX.
ANSI/VITA 65-2010 (R2012), OpenVPX Architectural Framework for VPX.
For Ref. 2, uploaded file 2 of 2 -- HOST Standard Tier 2 6U v1.0 PAO SOR (2016). (Uploaded in SITIS on 4/22/16.)

KEYWORDS: Model; Optimization; Integration; Architecture; HOST; embedded system

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Materials/Processes

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: JSF, Joint Strike Fighter

OBJECTIVE: Develop a robust analytical tool for the design and repair of high cycle fatigue (HCF)-resistant integrally bladed rotor (IBR)/blisk airfoils.

DESCRIPTION: Premature failure due to high cycle fatigue or in-service damage has plagued Naval Aviation throughout its history. This issue, for some aircraft propulsion systems, has resulted in a limited mission capability. Good design, inspection, and maintenance practices have mitigated most safety-related risk from HCF, but maintenance costs and asset readiness are still a significant issue for aircraft engine operators. An analytical tool that can accurately portray the risk of current hardware and estimate the benefit of available surface treatments would allow the recent trend of reduced sustainment costs to continue.

Over the past decade, sustainment cost reductions have resulted from the application of compressive residual stress through surface treatments (e.g. shot peening, laser shock peening, low plasticity burnishing etc.) to compressor airfoils to improve HCF performance and tolerance to in-service damage. Generally, these “upgraded” airfoils were developed using simplified, deterministic analytical tools (or models), and components were qualified through extensive fatigue testing. Having a sophisticated analytical tool that is able to incorporate the residual stress fields of available surface treatments while incorporating probabilistic design for a more robust HCF design or for repair optimization is necessary to lower the sustainment costs and maximize the service life of IBRs/blisks.

Because probabilistic design systems are relatively new, their application to airfoils for increased HCF resistance is not accounted for. For example, much of the engineering and qualification of blade improvements, which relies on compressive residual stress imparted by surface treatments, has been deterministic (i.e. empirical, time and cost intensive). A more representative and efficient process for design of HCF resistant airfoils and airfoil repairs is needed, particularly given the cost savings that would result from extending the service life of IBRs/blisks. The design process for HCF-resistant airfoils and robust airfoil repairs should optimize deterministic surface treatment modeling while incorporating probabilistic design systems.

HCF resistance is more critical at this time because the HCF issue is more complex in the integrally bladed rotors (IBR)/blisk configuration found in propulsion systems as opposed to its bladed disk predecessor. The bladed disk configuration benefits from increased airfoil damping from the dovetail joint. However, the welded joint of an IBR/blisk configuration allows aeromechanical “cross-talk” between airfoils which may allow an airfoil that is not excited by its environment to become excited due to response of an adjacent airfoil. The welded joint of an IBR/blisk also nullifies the ability to remove blades following in-service damage which necessitates aggressive airfoil repairs to minimize scrapping of these costly, integral components.

HCF limits are reflected in engine design analysis using engineering models that are calibrated to coupon test data, and HCF performance is validated and certified through component and full-scale tests. Original engine manufacturer (OEM) design practices reflect variability in factors that drive HCF failures (like operational loads, usage cycles, and in-service damage) and in factors that provide HCF resistance (like strength, microstructure, and surface quality). The aforementioned sources of variability are robustly included in probabilistic design systems. As for airfoil repairs, or blends, they leave a given IBR/blisk in a unique condition relative to the design basis that does not benefit from the design practice of a pristine airfoil.

The envisioned analytical tool would be able to deterministically and accurately incorporate the residual stress profile (including the equilibrating tensile residual stress) as a function of depth in the airfoil post surface treatment while incorporating the probabilistic variability innate to airfoils (e.g. manufacturing, material, in-service damage, blend accuracy etc.) to produce a bounded distribution of benefits in the form of a failure rate. The failure rate enhancement due to a surface treatment should be apparent. The application of the analytical tool would be during the design process or as-needed in response to an in-service repair. At this time it is not necessary to model the surface treatment process but rather the residual stress output of any of these processes. Potentially there is opportunity to model the process for an all-inclusive analytical tool which would require an industrial partnership. The analytical tool should produce accuracies within 10% of the actual stress and maintain, or better, the mesh size of the parent finite element method (FEM) model. The analytical tool should leverage, where applicable, modern computer aided design and analysis software available in the market. Residual stress relaxation through loading or thermal effects shall also be considered.

A few applications that an analytical tool will facilitate:

- Component life assessment

- HCF design or surface treatment definition following a service-revealed HCF deficiency

- Airfoil serviceable limit expansion

- Airfoil repairable limit expansion

Collaboration with a major engine OEM is highly recommended, but not required.

PHASE I: Determine project feasibility and develop an analytical tool for the design of HCF resistant IBR/blisk airfoils. The analytical tool should be able deterministically model a depth-wise residual stress profile resulting from available surface treatments within the component's current FEM model. Demonstrate that the analytical tool can accurately portray the subsurface residual stress profile of a component with a surface treatment. The residual stress of that component should be confirmed with a conventional measurement technique (such as x-ray diffraction). Develop the probabilistic elements such as an understanding of geometric, material, processing, and airfoil damage variation, and a means to capture variation in an integrated design process. Demonstration that the probabilistic elements are understood should be provided but need not be integrated with the deterministic, analytical tool at this time.

PHASE II: Develop and validate an integrated deterministic/probabilistic analytical tool that can be adopted during the design process for HCF-resistant IBR/blisk airfoils and airfoil repairs. Demonstrate the architecture of the analytical tool and how it will be integrated into the design process of new or legacy IBR/blisk airfoils. Develop data and experience that show the degree to which the new design process would save sustainment costs. Demonstrate full deterministic/probabilistic analytical tool capabilities.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Finalize technology and assist the Navy in integrating the probabilistic design capability for HCF resistant IBR/blisk airfoils and airfoil repairs. Develop airfoil repair services, potentially in coordination with the OEM, that rely on the probabilistic design capability. Private Sector Commercial Potential: Emerging commercial aviation fleets have also committed to the use of integrally bladed disks in their compression systems. The analytical tool developed under this effort is directly applicable as an element of the design process of commercial turbine engines.

Residual stress is an industry-wide phenomenon that has attention in applications such as -- but certainly not limited to -- railways, bridges and gun barrels as well as processes such as welding, heat treatment and cold work.

REFERENCES:

Prevey, P., et al. (2002). Improved Damage Tolerance in Titanium Alloy Fan Blades with Low Plasticity Burnishing. International Surface Engineering Conference, Oct 7-10, Columbus, OH
DeWald, A. T., & Hill, M. R., (2009). Eigenstrain-Based Model for Prediction of Laser Peening Residual Stresses in Arbitrary Three-Dimensional Bodies Part 1: Model Description. The Journal of Strain Analysis for Engineering Design 44.1 1-11. doi: 10.1243/03093247JSA420
Coratella, S., et al. (2015). Application Of The Eigenstrain Approach To Predict The Residual Stress Distribution In Laser Shock Peened AA7050-T7451 Samples. Surface and Coatings Technology 273 39-49. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.surfcoat.2015.03.026

KEYWORDS: Model; Residual Stress; high cycle fatigue; probabilistic design; in-service damage; integrally bladed rotor

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Electronics, Information Systems

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: Joint Strike Fighter F-35 Lightning II Program

OBJECTIVE: Develop an innovative conformance test tool which will support and add automation to the verification of hardware conformance to the HOST Standards for form factor and functionality that is implemented either in hardware or firmware (i.e. part of the software architecture).

DESCRIPTION: Hardware Open Systems Technologies (HOST) [1, 2] is an Open Systems Architecture (OSA) which defines virtual and physical interfaces to hardware such that interoperability and reuse of hardware components can be realized. The HOST standards leverage commercial technology combined with form factor such as the VITA Standards Organization’s OpenVPX 6U standard [3, 4, 5]. In this example the OpenVPX standard allows flexibility such that vendor lock can still be accomplished. HOST constrains the use of the OpenVPX standard such that vendor lock is preventable. The intent of HOST is to establish performance and interface requirements that are open, enforceable, and testable. As diminishing supplies and obsolescence become more impactful, HOST will facilitate addressing obsolescence and diminishing supplies as well as capability growth from new and/or evolving requirements.

In order for HOST to enforce hardware interoperability, the interface requirements must be testable, both physically and logically. Currently there is no method other than a visual inspection, requirement by requirement, to assess conformance. For the purposes of this paper, visual means to read HOST requirements and search the hardware components supporting documentation to determine if the requirement is met. This process is both labor intensive and subject to errors, not to mention, not a true logical and physical interface verification. To make conformance testing more effective and less labor intensive, new methodologies to test hardware components must be developed to assess claims of component conformance and interoperability (both physically and logically).

Innovations, new methodologies and tools are required to facilitate testing so that conformance assessments can be accomplished in a cost effective manner which avoids barriers to entry for hardware suppliers. The objective of this topic is to obtain hardware/software solutions which will automate the verification testing of HOST hardware components. For the purposes of this topic, automated test refers to a combination of software and hardware which work to execute testing, report test findings and perform comparisons with the requirements in the standard as well as previous tests in a manner that minimizes human interaction [6, 7, 8]. The test tool should address form, function and electrical/mechanical interfacing of candidate HOST computer components as well as test for HOST-System Software functionality. The solution should be capable of testing OpenVPX 6U and 3U computer hardware to determine their adherence to the HOST requirements.

PHASE I: Determine project feasibility for the development of a HOST Conformance Tool. Based on industry VITA standards for OpenVPX and HOST Tier 1 and 2 standards, determine the areas of hardware conformance that are candidates for test automation. The HOST Tier 1 and Tier 2 requirements should be evaluated individually to determine on a per requirement basis which requirements can be automated for test. Determine an innovative approach to develop the tools to test the selected requirements and verify the feasibility / efficacy of the proposed approach. Document the findings and potential test tool architecture along with design decisions. Document the requirements where test cannot be automated and recommend other verification methods for each requirement.

PHASE II: Mature the test tool design and build prototype. Demonstrate a test tool capable of testing components. The form factor will be determined collaboratively with the government to determine if 6u or 3U or both are the targeted form factor.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The conformance tool should be matured and vetted such that it produces reliable results and can be relied on to output viable conformance test results. Coordination with PEO JSF to foster adoption and standardization of the HOST Conformance tool through development and test of the JSF mission computer obsolescence upgrade is required. Industry collaboration is highly recommended. Final result is a tool that can be utilized to test the HOST conformance of upgrades for the JSF mission computer that is accepted for use by the Navy and JSF platform integrators (industry). Private Sector Commercial Potential: This tool would be marketable to all HOST hardware developers and acquirers. It would likely also be valuable / applicable to those applying the standards which make up the HOST Tier II standard (e.g. OpenVPX). The work performed under this SBIR could set a new paradigm for future testing of other commercial hardware (and potentially software / firmware) standards for conformance.

REFERENCES:

Hardware Open Systems Technology – Tier 1 Version 1.0. (Uploaded in SITIS on 4/22/16.)
Hardware Open Systems Technology – Tier 2 Version 1.0. (Uploaded in SITIS on 4/22/16.)
OpenVPX Tutorial”: http://www.vita.com/Tutorials
ANSI/VITA 48.2, VPX REDI: Mechanical Specifications for Microcomputers Using Conduction Cooling Applied to VPX.
ANSI/VITA 65-2010 (R2012), OpenVPX Architectural Framework for VPX.
FACE Conformance Verification Matrix. (Uploaded in SITIS on 4/22/16.)
FACE Conformance Policy. (Uploaded in SITIS on 4/22/16.)
FACE Conformance Test Suite. (Uploaded in SITIS on 4/22/16.)
For Ref. 2, uploaded file 2 of 2 -- HOST Standard Tier 2 6U v1.0 PAO SOR (2016). (Uploaded in SITIS on 4/22/16.)

KEYWORDS: Test; Open Architecture; HOST; Hardware; conformance; OpenVPX

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics, Materials/Processes

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMA-276, H-1 USMC Light/Attack Helicopters

OBJECTIVE: Develop an innovative repair process that restores dimensional and structural capability of damaged Ti-6AI-4V aircraft components.

DESCRIPTION: There is an ongoing need for precise and effective methods for full dimensional and strength restoration of aircraft components to enhance the logistics and maintenance of Navy aircraft. There are many instances where Navy fleet aircraft components are damaged while in service before they reach their life limit. Causes of these damages are either maintenance induced, during component install/removal/handling/inspection, or service induced, due to foreign object debris (FOD). Typical damage includes nicks, dings, and dents. Current Navy aircraft components that are damaged in the fleet need to be sent back to a Navy depot for disposition and repair. Repairs generally include blending away the damages until the surface is smooth to reduce stress risers that may cause fatigue cracking. By blending, repaired components are left with a lower thickness in the repair location which reduces the ability for future repair capability.

For all components, design tolerances exist. Damages that exceed those tolerances generally cause the component to be scrapped, costing the Navy hundreds of thousands of dollars each year. There are ongoing efforts to produce damage limits and tolerances (DL&T’s) to increase the usability of aircraft components, but those too have limits which, when exceeded inevitably lead to scrapped components. The result is an increase in downtime for the fleet as the aircrafts age and as the number of spare parts goes down.

There has been considerable research leading to innovations in equipment and repair processes which can guide toward solutions of dimensional restoration on aircraft components. The Friction stir process [3] can be employed to refine the grain structure and remove porosity produced by other manufacturing processes, but it is yet to be proven as a viable deposition or repair option on its own. The cold spray process [1] has repeatability and uniformity of material deposition, while negating thermal residual stresses by being a solid state process. The main benefit of cold spray is the reduced thermal input, but porosity is common and its success is also limited with materials having poor malleability and high hardness. The metallic melt deposition process [2,4] is a highly versatile process that can produce fully dense structures from diverse materials. It is capable of producing uniform and repeatable deposition, while cooling rate control can lead to highly customizable and refined grain structures. Owing to the potential of metallic melt deposition to deposit free-form objects, it can be employed as a low volume quality production/repair process.

An innovative aircraft component damage restoration method is necessary to restore dimensional and structural capability and reduce the process time for the disposition and repair of Ti-6Al-4V aircraft components. The restoration method should result in a component with the same strength capability as an original non-damaged component. In addition, the resulting restoration method should be environmentally friendly, not require the use of hazardous materials, and should not generate or require the disposal of hazardous wastes, such as chromate containing primers and coatings.

PHASE I: Develop an innovative metallic melt deposition approach for the restoration of damaged Ti-6Al-4V aircraft components. Demonstrate feasibility of the developed approach by performing limited testing and characterization of the deposited material, substrate, and interface at a coupon level.

PHASE II: Fully develop the restoration process that can be applicable to an array of aircraft component geometries. Demonstrate the restoration technique on a demonstration article that is representative of basic geometries seen on aircraft components such as radii, edges, curvatures, etc. The demonstration article may be fabricated or purchased, damage induced, and then the repair process demonstrated. Fully characterize the resulting mechanical and microstructural properties achieved through the process through the use of coupon level testing.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Fully qualify the repair process and perform structural certification for the repair of specific military Ti-6Al-4V aircraft components. Transition the technology to military air platforms, as well as civilian cargo, passenger aircraft components, and other industrial applications. Private Sector Commercial Potential: The technology can be used for the restoration of aircraft components in both military and commercial sectors since Ti-6Al-4V components are widely used.

REFERENCES:

Champagne, V., & Helfritch, D., (2015). Critical Assessment 11: Structural Repairs By Cold Spray. Materials Science and Technology (United Kingdom), 31(6), pp. 627-634. http://dx.doi.org/10.1179/1743284714Y.0000000723
Hong, C., Gu, D., Dai, D., Gasser, A., Weisheit, A., Kelbassa, I., Zhong, M., & Poprawe, R., (2013). Laser Metal Deposition Of Tic/Inconel 718 Composites With Tailored Interfacial Microstructures. Optics and Laser Technology, 54, pp. 98-109. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S003039921300176X
Ma, Z. Y., (2008). Friction stir processing technology: A review. Metallurgical and Materials Transactions A: Physical Metallurgy and Materials Science, 39 A(3), pp. 642-658. http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs11661-007-9459-0
Pinkerton, A. J., Wang, W., Wee, M. & Li, L., (2008). Component Repair Using Laser Direct Metal Deposition. Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part B: Journal of Engineering Manufacture, 222(7), pp. 827-836. http://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007%2F978-1-84628-988-0_78

KEYWORDS: Quality; Onsite Repair; Bonding; Process Robustness; Dimensional Restoration, Ti-6Al-4V Repair

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Electronics, Materials/Processes

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMA-299, H-60 Helicopter Program

OBJECTIVE: Develop a high temperature, insulated wire construction for use in a flexible harness for engine applications, able to withstand the severe environment of an engine bay.

DESCRIPTION: Unique operating environments and conditions expose our systems and their components to extreme temperatures, moisture/humidity, altitude, fluids, vibration, and various other challenges. Unlike a majority of electrical/wiring applications that require harnesses and cables able to withstand temperatures up to 260C, a small number of Navy applications require flexible engine wiring harnesses to operate in continuous, high-temperature conditions exceeding 425C. While many options exist for high-performance wire insulations that can withstand up to 260C temperatures, currently no suitable insulations exist that can withstand continuous temperatures up to 425C while still maintaining the following Key Performance Parameters (KPPs) listed in order of importance.

• Temperature operating range of -55C to 425C

• Mandrel wrap bend test; insulation may not show evidence of visible cracks when wrapped around a six-inch mandrel, while under tension of two-pound weight after high-temperature endurance (MIL-DTL-25028J, para 4.6.4.a and para 4.6.5). Fluid immersion limited to sodium chloride-water solution, omit 4.6.4.b and c.

• Wet dielectric; meet minimum requirement of voltage and withstand insulation integrity test at 500 Volts RMS, 60 Hz after high-temperature endurance (MIL-DTL-25038J, para 4.6.4 and 4.6.6). Fluid immersion limited to sodium chloride-water solution for eight hours, omit 4.6.6.b and c.

• Insulation resistance; meet minimum requirement of 100 Megohms at 500V DC, per SAE AS4373 Method 504 after high-temperature endurance (MIL-DTL-25038J, para 4.6.6).

• Insulation outer diameter not to exceed MIL-DTL-25038/1 requirement of 0.125” ±25% (including conductor)

• Concentricity of wire insulation over the conductor, may be no less than 70% (MIL-DTL-25038J, para 3.4.2.2 and 4.6.2)

• 20-gauge conductor of K, of KP type (thermocouple ASTM E230), using 19 strand construction

• Needle abrasion of 1500 cycles at ambient temperature per SAE AS4373 Method 301 after high-temperature endurance at 425C (MIL-DTL-25038, para 4.6.4).

Several different insulations exist today that satisfy some of the KPPs listed above; however the requirement for this effort is focused on development of innovative materials and processes able to meet all KPPs listed above.

Wiring insulation will need to pass a 50-hour temperature endurance test (at two temperature extremes of -55C and +425C), a 500-hour temperature endurance test (at two temperature extremes of -55C and +425C) and ultimately endure a 5000-hour temperature endurance test meeting all five of the KPPs outlined above and in accordance with the MIL-STDs listed in the References section of this topic.

PHASE I: Design, develop and demonstrate the feasibility of a new, innovative insulated wire construction which meets all the KPPs listed in the Description.

PHASE II: Further develop and produce a prototype wire insulation capable of meeting all the KPPs. Demonstrate the prototype by performing a 50-hour temperature endurance test (at two temperature extremes of -55C and +425C). Further modify and refine the insulated wire construction based on the results of the 50-hour test. Perform a 500-hour temperature endurance test (at two temperature extremes of -55C and +425C, with the goal of meeting all KPPs requirements outlined in the description.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Perform a full 5000-hour temperature endurance test meeting KPPs outlined in description. Additionally, all requirements in MIL-DTL-25038J (whichever is greater) must be met. Develop a commercialization plan to integrate the new insulation as necessary. Private Sector Commercial Potential: There is a current need for this type of insulation within the commercial engine application as well. This capability will allow for the use of high-temperature, flexible harnesses in current and future military and commercial engine applications.

REFERENCES:

MIL-DTL-25038J, 10 January 2012. Wire, Electrical, High Temperature, Fire Resistant and Flight Critical
MIL-DTL-25038/1E, 01 December 2000. Wire, Electrical, High Temperature, Fire Resistant and Flight Critical, Normal Weight
SAE AS4373E, 03 February 2012. Test Methods for Insulated Electric Wire

KEYWORDS: Material; Insulation; Wiring; Electrical; Cable; Wire

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Electronics, Information Systems

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: Joint Strike Fighter F-35 Lightning II Program

OBJECTIVE: Develop, demonstrate and validate scalable hardware based on the design and interface requirements in the Tier 1 [1] and Tier 2 [2] Hardware Open System Technologies (HOST) standards capable of hosting traditionally developed software, as well as software designed/developed in accordance with more current openly available standards (e.g. Future Airborne Capability Environment (FACE) [3]).

DESCRIPTION: Today’s military aviation airborne systems are typically developed for a unique set of requirements and managed by a single vendor utilizing proprietary interfaces. This stovepipe type of development process has served the military aviation community well in the past. However, it comes with some undesired side effects resulting from the fact that proprietary interfaces were used versus current state-of-of-the-art interfaces such as VITA standards for embedded hardware and the Ethernet standard for networking. Potential negative impacts of this closed interface approach include long lead times, cumbersome upgrade processes, and the lack of cross aircraft platform hardware/software compatibility which result in platform-unique designs. Ultimately, these proprietary interfaces force any change, even an obsolescence redesign to require a laborious effort (repeated for every change on every platform) to reanalyze these custom interfaces which only the system designer / integrator knows (and potentially slowly forgets the undocumented details over time) and verify that they are again implemented properly (potentially requiring reverse engineering). To counter this trend, the Hardware Open System Technologies (HOST) standard was developed. HOST is an open, high performance, cost effective, and truly sustainable embedded system architecture engineered with well-defined interfaces based on established industry standards (like VITA and Ethernet) at the component or HOST Module level, so that scalability and compatibility across the breadth of military platforms (e.g. aircraft, ground vehicles), systems (e.g. mission computers, displaces, radars, radios), and applications (e.g. mission, sensor, and image processing) can be achieved. This will also enable affordable integration of new technology based on the ease to integrate to a known interface (e.g. known / VITA backplane connections).

The HOST architecture provides the framework for developing embedded computing systems for U.S. military platforms. HOST compliant hardware, based on the referenced standards [1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7], will change the paradigm of traditional hardware acquisition in much the same way that release of the IBM PC interface specifications in the 80‘s created the PC market and open architecture software standards have changed the portability of software (e.g. apps). HOST is anticipated to leverage capabilities of hardware only now being introduced to the embedded system market. It is also expected to create an infrastructure on which new software architectures (e.g. FACE) can be created. And when all of the benefits of FACE and HOST are eventually realized in conjunction with each other, embedded system application software will become portable and agnostic of the hardware on which it runs. For example, a processor upgrade funded by one activity (or a vendor interested in marketing upgraded performance in a backward compatible format) can be leveraged by any other activity within the Naval Aviation Enterprise (NAE) that is also based on the HOST Standard using the same Tier 3 specification.

The objective of and first priority (1) for this topic is to develop innovative prototype hardware (e.g. HOST module) capable of fulfilling the HOST interface requirements utilizing the smallest size (i.e. real estate on a VMEbus International Trade Association VITA 48.2 6U circuit card; e.g. <5% of the board real estate), lowest power (i.e. electrical power consumption, <1 watt / heat generation), smallest weight and satisfying the harsh military aerospace environmental requirements (e.g. 85 degree C maximum temperature). The prototype may either be in the 6U or 3U format (i.e. HOST Tier 2), which constrains the module in three dimensions (i.e. 233.35x100 mm 6U and 100x160 mm 3U with a =1 inch slot pitch for both). The second priority (2) for this topic is to provide the maximum flexibility in the means by which the HOST required interface is implemented. For example a design to include developing an innovative way to fulfill a particular Tier 2 requirement that allows the same hardware to fulfill two or more logical interface requirements over the same physical interface (e.g. switchable firmware setup interface protocol). The third priority (3) is to provide the most innovative capability to the proposed HOST module, again with the lowest space, weight and power (SWaP). Simple examples (in decreasing levels of complexity and likely innovation) include creation of a secure network server, a Single Board Computer (SBC), or VITA switch card. The fourth and final priority (4) is to fulfill HOST’s overarching objective to show module level interoperability and interchangeability (i.e. the verification the interfaces are adequately defined and implemented by the HOST standard). Teaming across the embedded system market ecosystem to facilitate final transition is encouraged.

PHASE I: Design and determine the technical feasibility of building the most capable prototype hardware innovatively implementing the HOST standardized interfaces. Hardware having general purpose processing (e.g. SBC) should be capable of hosting traditionally developed software as well as software designed/developed in accordance with other open software standards (e.g. FACE). This phase should also include the software capability rehost analysis and design for any proposed general purpose applications (e.g. network server environment).

PHASE II: Develop and demonstrate prototype hardware and capability based on Phase I effort. Validate that the standardized interfaces defined by the HOST Standard (and any additionally proposed capability) have been implemented in the prototype by demonstrating the prototype in a multi HOST module environment. Include a demonstration of the interoperability of the prototype HOST modules on the NAVAIR development test asset which demonstrates interoperability and interchangeability between NAVAIR’s reference system and the prototype developed under this SBIR. The NAVAIR test asset will conform to the HOST 6U OpenVPX Tier 2 standard including slot profile and Ethernet based manager/participant based protocol. The test asset and any necessary support will be made available as government furnished equipment (GFE) as agreed upon by NAVAIR POC and small business.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: In coordination with a NAVAIR program office, identify a potential hardware system (e.g. secure network server, mission computer, display) for application of the demonstrated capability. Based on program office coordination, design and build hardware, and verify through system testing specific hardware capabilities above and beyond simple interfaces. Private Sector Commercial Potential: NAVAIR currently is developing the HOST standard as an open architecture initiative intended to become the standard upon which embedded systems are specified. The results of this SBIR have the potential to directly feed into future avionics systems being acquired by NAVAIR which will specify use of HOST. Both the Army and Air Force are also participating in HOST’s development with the intent to also require HOST. The HOST standard is also starting to see increased interest from the private sector as the industry realizes the value of establishing an ecosystem of products and market niches for embedded system hardware similar to the current consumer electronics marketplace.

REFERENCES:

Hardware Open Systems Technology – Tier 1 Version 1.0. (Uploaded in SITIS on 4/22/16.)
Hardware Open Systems Technology – Tier 2 Version 1.0 (Uploaded in SITIS on 4/22/16.)
The Open Group Website. FACE 2.1 Technical Standard; http://www.opengroup.org/face/tech-standard-2.1
NEXTGEN Avionics Roadmap, Version 2.0; www.dtic.mil/dtic/tr/fulltext/u2/a561244.pdf
OpenVPX Tutorial. http://www.vita.com/Tutorials
ANSI/VITA 48.2, VPX REDI: Mechanical Specifications for Microcomputers Using Conduction Cooling Applied to VPX
ANSI/VITA 65-2010 (R2012), OpenVPX Architectural Framework for VPX
For Ref. 2, uploaded file 2 of 2 -- HOST Standard Tier 2 6U v1.0 PAO SOR (2016). (Uploaded in SITIS on 4/22/16.)

KEYWORDS: Interoperability; Avionics; Architecture; Mission Systems; FACE; HOST

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Human Systems

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMA-205, Naval Aviation Training Systems

OBJECTIVE: Develop an innovative and adaptive training system, techniques and computer-based simulation trainer, for Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) operators to maintain attentiveness during long shiftwork associated with extended UAS missions.

DESCRIPTION: With the expanding use of UAS comes the increasing need for UAS operators to maintain attention for long periods of time during the missions. Shifts of up to 12 hours in length are not uncommon. Shiftwork is associated with higher fatigue levels, degraded task performance and higher error rates [1]. While existing UAS simulations aim to train operators (i.e., Air Vehicle Operators, Sensor Operators) on job-related skills, there are no systems currently that focus on attention. Investigations of larger group 4 and 5 UAS mishaps have indicated that issues with channelized attention contributed to the mishap(s) [2]. Channelized attention occurs when all of an individual’s cognitive resources are focused on one aspect of the environment, causing other equally important cues to be missed [2]. Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) type missions require sensor operators to track contacts of interest for extended periods in order to correctly identify and classify contacts of interest (COIs). Larger UAS are used for long surveillance type missions that require operator attention even if multiple crews are used. This research aims to develop tailored adaptive training techniques to minimize the issue of channelized attention. Training techniques capable of presenting long term mission requirements need to be developed, as no such technology currently exists.

Research on attentional training [3, 4] has indicated that it is possible to train attention and create effects that transfer to tasks after training. Further, a recent meta-analysis found that attentional training may be more effective if it is adaptive [4]. Adaptive training is broadly defined as any instruction that is tailored to an individual trainee’s strengths and weaknesses so that the training experience varies from one individual to another based on either task performance, aptitudes, or test scores. Training can be adapted based on attributes measured prior to training, or during training based on task performance or scores. Many aspects of training can be adapted such as feedback, task difficulty, instruction, etc. The goal of adaptive training solutions is to provide the effectiveness of one-on-one tutoring through computer-based training that does not require an instructor in the loop [5].

Cost-effective, computer-based simulation training solutions that are able to adapt to the learning characteristics of different individuals [5], to the affordances inherent in UAS (i.e., operators are segregated from aircraft), and to the specific details involved with different missions are sought. This effort will develop adaptive training techniques and a computer-based simulation trainer that apply specifically to the UAS domain to aid and improve attention during long mission requirements. Pre-training and post-training evaluations should be performed to measure improvement in attention of UAS operators.

PHASE I: Design, develop and demonstrate a proof of concept for adaptive training techniques and a computer based simulation trainer to improve operator attentiveness during long shift work. System should accommodate different UAS missions, individual operator characteristics and learning styles. Develop protocol for approval of the use of human subjects in a training effectiveness evaluation.

PHASE II: Finalize the adaptive training proof of concept with the candidate UAS mission requirements within the computer-based simulation. Develop individual test subject baselines. Then, post-training, perform an effectiveness evaluation to demonstrate the improved attention of UAS operators.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Finalize all aspects of the training. Perform testing and prepare any and all necessary documentation, such as user's guides and instructor's manuals. Integrate the training solution into a full UAS training environment and to applicable UAS platforms. Develop commercialization plan to transition to industry/relevant users. Private Sector Commercial Potential: Advances in this technology are applicable to the gaming community, and digital tutoring technologies. Methods and technologies developed under this effort could be used by industries which use simulation in place of live training (e.g., commercial aviation, nuclear power generation, emergency management, law enforcement) to ensure that their training systems are warding off attention-related decrements in performance of tasks. Additionally, organizations specializing in training effectiveness and workload assessment could employ the tools and techniques developed here to ensure consistent training outcomes and provide workload assessments for their clientele.

REFERENCES:

Tvaryanas, A. P., Platte, W., Swigart, C., Colebank, J., & Miller, N. L. (2008). A resurvey of shift work-related fatigue in MQ-1 Predator unmanned aircraft system crewmembers
Thompson, W. T., Tvaryanas, A. P., & Constable, S. H. (2005). U.S. military unmanned aerial vehicle mishaps: Assessment of the role of human factors using human factors analysis and classification system (HFACS) (Report No. HSW-PE-BR-TR-2005-0001). Brooks City-Base, TX: United States Air Force 311th Human Systems Wing
Karbach, J. & Kray, J. (2009). How useful is executive control training? Age differences in near and far transfer of task-switching training. Developmental Science, 12, 978-990
Peng, P. & Miller, A. C. (2016). Does attention training work? A selective meta-analysis to explore the effects of attention training and moderators. Learning and Individual Differences, 45, 77-87
Landsberg, C. R., Astwood, R. S., Van Buskirk, W. L., Townsend, L. N., Steinhauser, N. B., Mercado, A. D. (2012). Review of adaptive training system techniques. Military Psychology, 24:2, 96-113
McCarley, J. S., & Wickens, C. D. (2004). Human factors concerns in UAV flight. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute of Aviation, Aviation Human Factors Division

KEYWORDS: UAS; Target Detection; Sustained attention; Adaptive training; Fatigue; Shift work

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Materials/Processes, Weapons

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMA-280 Tomahawk Weapons System; FNC: FY17 FNC titled: Quality Metal Additive Manufacturing

OBJECTIVE: Develop an integrated structural and material design tool that can exploit the benefits of Additive Manufacturing to produce novel designs for future weapon, target drone and unmanned air vehicle (UAV) structural components that cannot be fabricated by current methods.

DESCRIPTION: Increasingly complex aerospace components are limited by current manufacturing methods such as machining wrought forms, various forming, casting, and welding. Additive manufacturing (AM) can be used to fabricate complex components for use in naval aviation with the potential to enhance operational readiness, reduce total ownership cost, and enable parts-on-demand manufacturing. Future weapons, target drones and UAVs could benefit from the increased design freedom, supply chain efficiency, reduced material utilization and reduced energy consumption associated with AM technology. These factors are technology adoption “drivers” rated “high” for the aerospace industry [1]. Complex topologically optimized part designs (e.g., within today’s automotive industry) that are a challenge to fabricate by current manufacturing methods can be made more easily with free form fabrication by AM equipment. Air-platform components such as fins, wings, and uniquely shaped ducts are examples of components that are ideally suited to AM.

A currently fielded missile wing, for example, consists of a ribbed-frame structure with skin bonded to its upper and lower surface. The frame is machined from a solid plate of aluminum alloy weighing more than ten times that of the 30-pound finished part. Through AM, material utilization can be reduced over 90 percent and the overall environmental impact and carbon footprint would be substantially decreased. The business case for using AM versus current manufacturing methods improves with decreasing size of production lots [2], which is typical of many contracts to procure weapons, target drones and unmanned air vehicles.

This topic will focus initially on wings and fins because the aerodynamically contoured shapes of these air-platform parts make them more challenging to fabricate using conventional methods. However, the ability to expand the tool’s scope to include similar small parts such as stabilizers, rudders, flaps, ailerons, and winglets on UAVs should be considered as well. This topic is initially limited to use of AM processed aluminum or titanium alloys to develop an integrated structural and material design tool to support the manufacturing of these components more efficiently and with less cost. Significant work is ongoing [2] or being proposed in the areas of property definition, process qualification and certification for this process dependent manufacturing method, but defining AM properties for some process specific components remains a technical challenge. The proposed tool will be useful to designers during conceptual and preliminary design stages when component size, weight, performance and cost tradeoffs are being evaluated. To achieve this goal, an innovative methodology is needed to conduct part design and fabrication tradeoffs with an adequate degree of confidence using a total systems approach. An adequate level of confidence means that in a tradeoff between the AM-based design from this tool and an alternate conventional design, a similar level of confidence exists to enable a choice between the two options. Analytical “models” that characterize the AM material and process factors need to be developed and integrated with existing structural design tools (e.g. ANSYS [3]) used for topological optimization. The tool’s ability to exploit the unique benefits of the AM trade space to produce lighter, stronger and less-expensive parts will enhance transition of this tool to the aerospace industry.

PHASE I: Develop and demonstrate the feasibility of a topological design tool for additively manufactured air-platform components such as wings and fins in order to reduce component size, weight, count and cost while meeting key performance criteria associated with the part design undertaken to include but not be limited to fatigue, aerodynamics, shock and vibration.

PHASE II: Develop and demonstrate the design tool into existing analysis and design tools. Demonstrate its utility by designing, fabricating and testing an air platform prototype component such as a wing or fin.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Perform final design modifications and final testing. Transition the integrated structural and material design tool for additively-manufactured air platform components to initial use supporting the conceptual and preliminary design activities during the development of a next generation air platform. Private Sector Commercial Potential: Additive manufacturing (AM) is utilized throughout commercial industry for prototype development and part production. This innovative analytical design tool would have applicability to the automotive, commercial aviation, and other industries seeking to increase design freedom and supply chain efficiency and reduce material utilization and energy consumption.

REFERENCES:

Hart, John (2015). Additive Manufacturing. Massachusetts Institute of Technology Lecture 2.810. Retrieved from http://web.mit.edu/2.810/www/files/lectures/lec9-additive-manuf-2015.pdf
Frazier, W.E. (2014). Metal Additive Manufacturing: A Review. DOI: 10.1007/s11665-014-0958-z, ASM International, JMEPEG 23:1917–1928
Fritsch, M. (2012). An Integrated Optimization System for ANSYS Workbench Based on ACT. FE-DESIGN Optimization Inc. Chicago USA, Presentation at the 2012 Automotive Simulation World Congress

KEYWORDS: Additive Manufacturing; Structure; Air Platform; Affordability; Complex Geometry; Design

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials/Processes

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: 4.0T - CTO, Chief Technology Office

OBJECTIVE: Develop reliable all solid-state batteries (ASSB) with enhanced safety and performance by incorporating novel solid state electrolytes for naval aircraft applications.

DESCRIPTION: Naval aircraft currently use nickel-cadmium and lead-acid batteries to perform engine starts and provide emergency power. To improve energy and power density, the Navy is developing and transitioning lithium-ion (Li-Ion) chemistries for naval aircraft applications. For example, Joint Strike Fighter, F-35, currently uses a 28 Volt direct current (DC) and a 270 V DC lithium batteries on board. The demand is continuously increasing for high power, high energy, and long-lasting batteries without compromising on safety for naval aircraft applications. The potential gains of lithium-ion battery technologies are largely limited due to safety hazards associated with the organic liquid electrolytes, which are flammable, volatile, and corrosive.

Advances in overall Li-ion battery technology have resulted in significant improvements in battery electrode materials, liquid electrolytes, and, more specifically, solid electrolytes. Solid electrolytes present an opportunity to replace the liquid electrolytes. The solid-state electrolyte possesses desirable transport properties such as high conductivity, high diffusion coefficient, and high transference number, which have potential to eliminate fire hazards and can ensure the safe operation, protection, and longevity of the battery [1-2].

Recent discovery of a lithium super ionic conductor with 3-dimensional framework exhibiting high ionic conductivity (> 10-2 S cm-1 at room temperature) has revived interest in solid state ionic conductors and solid electrolytes [3]. The high ionic diffusion within the interstitial and vacancy sites of crystal lattices allowed the conduction network to achieve high conductivities for these solid electrolytes. The subsequent demonstration of using them as an electrolyte in an electrochemical cell demonstrated the possibility of an all solid-state battery.

New solid state electrolytes with high conductivity that are suitable for the current Li-ion battery chemistry architecture are needed. Innovative material design concepts to explore efficient solid ionic conductors should be considered. Solid electrolytes must exhibit thermal, chemical, and electrochemical stability. Material innovation coupled with novel fabrication techniques that would facilitate the realization of ASSB should also be demonstrated [4-7].

The ASSB system should demonstrate an energy density exceeding the 200 Wh/kg energy density threshold and 1500 W/kg power density threshold of current Li-ion batteries. The developed system must be compatible and functional with the existing aircraft operational, environmental, and electrical requirements. The requirements include, but are not limited to, an altitude of up to 65,000 feet, electromagnetic interference of up to 200 V/m, operation over a wide temperature range from – 40 degree centigrade to + 71 degree centigrade with exposure of up to + 85 degree centigrade [1], and withstand carrier based vibration and shock loads [6]. The ASSB system must meet additional requirements such as low self-discharge (< 5% per month), long calendar life (> 6 years service life) and good cycle life (> 6000 cycles at 100% depth of discharge cycles). ASSB system must have diagnostic and prognostic capabilities to ensure safe operation and service life of the battery.

PHASE I: Develop innovative concepts to demonstrate the feasibility of an all solid-state battery at full cell level. Perform preliminary safety, electrical, and performance evaluations.

PHASE II: Develop a prototype ASSB system for demonstration, test and evaluation able to meet requirements as identified in the Description section. Demonstrate manufacturing feasibility. Evaluate cost estimates for manufacturing of batteries for meeting form, fit, function requirements.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Integrate ASSB system into Navy aircraft electrical power systems and demonstrate the functionality of the battery in a safe and effective manner in an operational environment. Obtain flight certification and transition the representative technology to appropriate Navy platforms and commercialize the technology. Private Sector Commercial Potential: Improvements made under this topic would be directly marketable to the commercial aviation, transportation and consumer electronics sectors.

REFERENCES:

Takada, K, (2013). Progress and Prospective of Solid State Lithium Batteries, Acta Materialia, 61, 759-770
Patil, A., Patil, V., Shin, D.W., Choi, J.W., Paik, D.S., & Yoon, S.J, (2008). Issue and challenges facing rechargeable thin film lithium batteries, Materials Research Bulletin, 43, 1913-1942
Kamaya, N., Homma, K., Yamakawa, Y., Hirayama, M., Kanno, R., Yonemura, M., Kamiyama, T., Kato, Y., Hama, S., Kawamoto, K., & Mitsui, A, (2011). A lithium superionic conductor, Nature Materials, 10, 682 – 686. http://www.nature.com/nmat/journal/v10/n9/abs/nmat3066.html
NAVSEA S9310-AQ-SAF-010, (15 July 2010). Navy lithium battery safety program responsibilities and procedures. Retrieved from http://everyspec.com/
MIL-PRF-29595A- Performance Specification: Batteries and Cells, Lithium, Aircraft, General specification for (21 Apr 2011) [Superseding MIL-B-29595]. Retrieved from http://www.everyspec.com
MIL-STD-810G – Department of Defense Test Method Standard: Environmental Engineering Considerations Laboratory Tests (31 Oct 2008). Retrieved from http://everyspec.com
MIL-PRF-461F – Department of Defense Interface Standard: Requirements for the Control of Electromagnetic Interference Characteristics of Subsystems and Equipment (10 Dec 2007). Retrieved from http://everyspec.com

KEYWORDS: Safety; Battery; Electrodes; Liquid Electrolyte; Solid State Electrolyte; Solid State Battery

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics, Sensors

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMA-264, Air Antisubmarine Warfare Systems

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 5.4.c.(8) of the solicitation. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop innovative solutions to enable an operator to efficiently detect and discriminate a target(s) in an airborne multistatic Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) mission.

DESCRIPTION: Multistatic sonobuoy fields [1] for air ASW search mission are becoming more complex. The ability to utilize more sources, more receivers, and the resulting higher transmission rates provide an influx of information. As a result, the detection capabilities and data rate for contact reports (automatic detections produced by the received signal processing) is increasing dramatically. It is no longer practical for a sonar operator to be able to sift through detections one-by-one to find the target.

Techniques and tools which consolidate information from the contact reports and provide the operator with the capability to rapidly find and focus on target detections are sought. Typical active contact reports provide time difference of arrival (TDOA), bearing, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and, Doppler [2, 3], depending on the waveform type. Geographical locations based on these measurements and the positions of the sonobuoys are also typically displayed to the operator, along with a target probability surface [4] based on Bayesian inference from the observations. Innovations in graphical display of data that ease the operator's workload, ranking of contacts to bring target detections to the forefront, and automatic suppression of clutter are potential topics of interest.

Focus Areas / Elements of Consideration:

Information Superiority; the ability to gather, process, integrate, disseminate, and display information together with a corresponding increase in the ability to use that information.

Data Fusion; combining track information from a variety of sources into a single best picture of the tactical operational area.

Situational Awareness / Assessment; continually monitoring the dynamic picture for impacts to the plan (recognizing potential limitations in the mission plan).
Mission Planning; recommending updates / changes to the operational plan to ensure the highest probability of detection is possible.
Execution Aides, assisting the crew in executing the operational plan / mission.

Automation, how the information is provided within the elements of the decision-making. The Tactical Decision Aides (TDA) should be prosthesis, adding additional capabilities to the operators, or simply as a tool available to the operators. The TDA shall assist, or replace, the operator when the situation causes an excessive workload that cannot be managed by the human capabilities. These approaches are not mutually exclusive, but complementary, depending on situation context, the specific nature of the TDA element and the operator's role.

Targeted innovate solutions include:

TDA:

Algorithms.
Software.
Graphical tools.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by DoD 5220.22-M, National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Security Service (DSS). The selected contractor and/or subcontractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances, in order to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DSS and NAVAIR in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material IAW DoD 5220.22-M during the advanced phases of this contract.

PHASE I: Research and investigate the suitability and feasibility of proposed technique(s) to significantly improve an operator’s ability to determine target detection(s) using simulated data at representative rates. Develop and demonstrate a conceptual model or process for an Airborne Multistatic Anti-Submarine Warfare Operator Target Detection and Discrimination System which meet the requirements stated in the Description section.

PHASE II: Design and develop an engineering level (beta) TDA and prove, by technical demonstration, the proposed technique(s) by processing existing real world data collection sets and measure the resulting improvement in operator performance in accordance with the parameters in the description.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Develop a production level TDA. Based on the Phase I and II efforts, develop a timeline / plan / process for implementation of the TDA and assist in transitioning the product to the commercial sector and Air ASW community through the Advanced Product Build (APB) process. Private Sector Commercial Potential: The ability to find targets in high duty cycle pulsed active sonar systems with multiple active sources is of interest to the U.S. Navy surface ship community to protect carrier strike groups. It has potential commercial application to harbor protection, security of shipping lanes, and marine mammal detection.

REFERENCES:

Cox, H. (1988). Fundamentals of Bistatic Active Sonar. NATO Advanced Study Institute Underwater Acoustic Data Processing
Ziomek, L.J. (1985). Underwater Acoustics, Academic Press, Inc., Orlando, FL
Neilsen, R. (1991). Sonar Signal Processing, Artech House, Inc., Boston, MA
Stone, L.D., Streit, R.L., Corwin, T.L. & Bell, K.L. (2014). Bayesian Multiple Target Tracking Second Edition, Artech House, Inc., Norwood, MA
Principles of Underwater Sound (third edition). Robert Urick, 1983

KEYWORDS: Workload Reduction; Multistatic; clutter reduction; sonar automation; Bayesian inference; ranking

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Human Systems

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: JSF, Joint Strike Fighter

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 5.4.c.(8) of the solicitation. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop a system to seamlessly transition pilots from aided to unaided vision while performing night operations.

DESCRIPTION: When pilots transition from aided to unaided vision during flight, the number of visual cues that can be used as reference for aircraft attitude is greatly reduced. If this occurs during night operations with very low ambient light, spatial discordance can occur. Rapid transition from aided to unaided vision reduces the number of peripheral visual cues from many to few, which can lead to spatial disorientation and unsafe flight. Dark adaptation, or the ability to perceive low-level light, can take as long as half an hour [1, 2] to achieve. Other cues that indicate the attitude of the aircraft must be made present to mitigate the effects of night-vision aides on the visual system, where a light-adapted eye must quickly transition to extremely dark conditions.

A lack of sufficient peripheral visual orientation cues may lead to a number of spatial discordance issues (e.g., black-hole effect) [4]. Peripheral visual cues are reduced during a dark night or white-out (atmospheric or blowing snow) conditions. In either case, it is the lack of peripheral visual cues that lead to disorientation. Another situation in which pilots require peripheral visual cues is when approaching and closing in on another aircraft (e.g., in-flight refueling). Pilots use peripheral cues to estimate their relative position to the Earth and the aircraft to which they are approaching [4]. Without this peripheral information, as it occurs in extremely dark conditions, closing in on another aircraft becomes significantly more challenging and potentially dangerous. Currently, pilots rely on the plane’s attitude indicator, a visual representation of the plane’s position relative to the horizon, when experiencing spatial discordance. This visual cue provides information to the foveal visual field and does not take advantage of the benefits of cuing peripheral sensory receptors. Although this information is quite salient in the foveal visual field, pilots report dismissing this information since the vestibular cues they experience provide more compelling evidence of their (incorrect) spatial orientation.

As previously mentioned, peripheral visual cues are a major contributor to maintaining straight and level flight and avoiding spatial discordance. More recent research, however, has demonstrated that spatial information can be improved with multimodal (i.e., vision, hearing, tactile) stimulus presentation [1,3]. With the appropriate combination of more than one stimulus modality, humans can orient themselves more quickly and accurately than with the activation of one sensory modality alone [1,3]. Rupert (2000) demonstrated that vibrotactile arrays can provide enough situational awareness for helicopter pilots to navigate some maneuvers while blindfolded [5].

Technology with the ability to provide a pilot transitioning from aided to unaided flight, additional stimuli to maintain straight, level, and safe flight is needed. This technology can use any stimulus modality or use a multimodal approach. It should be able to be activated at the pilot's discretion and suitable for different platforms that have different requirements and constraints. At a minimum, however, this technology should be applicable to Navy 5th generation fighter aircraft. Since the only 5th generation fighter in the current inventory is the F-35 Lightning II, this technology should be compatible with the current cockpit design and successfully integrate with the baseline pilot-vehicle interface (PVI).

No additional weight should be added to the helmet; some possible solutions may involve adding devices to the helmet, which is not permitted. If power is required, it must be limited to the accessory power generated by the aircraft. If possible, the technology should extend to previous generation fighters and other aircraft (e.g., helicopters) – relevant aircraft cockpit specifics will be provided, as needed, during the development of this technology. Although the vibrotactile approach demonstrates some promising research avenues, Fourier transform analyses suggest wide encompassing of resonant frequencies within the cockpit that can prove problematic for the frequency at which vibrotactile arrays provide situational awareness. If a vibrotactile solution is proposed, it is necessary to convey the (1) distinctiveness of the approach; (2) the durability of the system (e.g., sturdiness after cleaning, lifetime strength); and (3) mitigation of resonant frequency issues in the cockpit.

Collaboration with original equipment manufacturers, (OEMs) in all phases is highly encouraged to assist in defining aircraft integration, commercialization requirements, and providing test platforms.

PHASE I: Develop and prove feasibility of an approach that demonstrates the ability for a pilot to orient themselves more quickly and accurately than current technology allows. Provide documentation that demonstrates the suitability of the design into representative platforms and mission environments; platform and mission environment data to be provided by the government upon award. A proof of concept demo should be performed along with a Technology Readiness Level (TRL)/Manufacturing Readiness Level (MRL) assessment.

PHASE II: Develop the system into a prototype, perform further testing in a relevant environment, and demonstrate performance in a simulated or actual flight environment. Tests during this phase should demonstrate the superiority of the new system compared to the standard avionics used during spatial discordance. Feasibility of aircraft/fighter integration should also be demonstrated. TRL/MRL assessment should be updated.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Perform final testing to the system in an actual flight environment to prepare for integration into both naval and commercial platforms. Aid the Navy in transition and integration of the system into the Fleet and all appropriate testing-and-evaluation programs. Private Sector Commercial Potential: This system would be useful in the private sector civilian aviation as spatial discordance has been found to be a large contributor to civilian mishaps as well.

REFERENCES:

Calvert, G. A., Spence, C., & Stein, B. E. (2004). The Handbook of Multisensory Processes. MIT Press
Bear, M. F., Connors, B. W., & Paradiso, M. A. (2006). Neuroscience: Exploring the Brain, 3rd Edition. Lippincott, Williams, & Wilkins
Bertelson, P. & Radeau, M. (1981). Cross-Modal Bias and Perceptual Fusion with Auditory-Visual Spatial Discordance. Perception & Psychophysics, 29(6), 578-584. http://link.springer.com/article/10.3758%2FBF03207374#page-1
Gillingham, K. K. & Previc, F. H. (1993). Spatial orientation in flight. (No. AL-TR-1993-0022). ARMSTRONG LAB BROOKS AFB TX
Rupert, A. H. (2000). Tactile Situation Awareness System: Proprioceptive Prostheses for Sensory Deficiencies. Aviation, Space, And Environmental Medicine, 71(9 Suppl), A92-9 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10993317

KEYWORDS: Spatial orientation; spatial discordance; peripheral cues; vision; multisensory; sensory system

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Space Platforms

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMA-276, H-1 USMC Light/Attack Helicopters

OBJECTIVE: Develop a novel repair assessment and remaining useful life analysis tool for rotorcraft dynamic components using a frequency domain fatigue analysis method which takes into account the effects of multi-axial, local plasticity, and damage state of the component.

DESCRIPTION: During service operations, aircraft structures sustain damage. That damage is routinely discovered via inspection and subsequently repaired. This damage is often caused by fatigue, corrosion, accidents, and mishaps. Repairs are performed to restore the integrity of the part to the original part strength and durability. However, some repair operations involve improper blending/grind-outs, or over-stiffening that may move the fatigue critical locations to another point in the structure causing cracks to start in new locations. There is currently no standard repair procedure that applies to all cases. The problem of improper repair is even more acute on rotorcraft dynamic components because of their constant exposure to damaging environments and increased frequency of incidents.

Analysis of each repair for strength, durability, and damage tolerance is an involved process as it requires evaluation of static and fatigue margins and impact on adjacent structures. In some cases, there are load redistributions because of local changes to stiffness and geometry that need to be analyzed by finite-element (FE) analysis. The complexity of repair assessment further increases if the structure or component is subjected to multi-axial loadings.

Fatigue evaluation in spectral methods is typically simplified by substituting spatial tri-axial stress state to the equivalent uniaxial one with suitable failure criteria. Appropriate probabilistic characteristics are then applied for calculations of fatigue life under the uniaxial random loading. Components under random multi-axial loading need multi-axial fatigue analysis at numerous critical points which requires significantly higher computational effort. In addition, the local plasticity affects at stress concentrators needs to be incorporated in the solution. An alternative novel formulation of multi-axial fatigue analysis under random loading is needed.

Assessment of repair work done in service on dynamic components requires a quick and reliable fatigue damage evaluation method which takes into account the effects of static and dynamic response of the component for a given loading exposure and application of the right fatigue methods to investigate the impact on fatigue life. The recent advances in structural analysis methods and fatigue damage evaluation using frequency domain methods offer the potential to quickly evaluate and assess the repair work of components subjected to complicated service loads.[3, 4]

Develop an analytical tool to assess repair and evaluate remaining useful life of dynamic components in service. The tool must consider local repair geometry, load redistributions, and static and dynamic response to quickly assess strength, durability and damage. The tool must also be general enough to address simple to complex repair geometries and loading situations. This analysis tool should address both static and dynamic analysis needs, damage evolution within the component, and different responses to dynamic excitation due to the presence of damage. In addition, the tool should be able to efficiently calculate accumulated damage starting from input service histories and include quasi-static and dynamic events in complex loading sequences and superposition effects.

Though not required, coordination with original equipment manufacturers (OEM) is recommended throughout the effort.

PHASE I: Develop an innovative, analytical tool using frequency domain methods to assess strength and durability of repaired dynamic components subjected to quasi-static and dynamic excitations. Demonstrate proof of concept and efficiency of solution.

PHASE II: Further mature the approach developed under Phase I to include the effects from a variable multi-axial stress state, local plasticity, and the resulting changes in component dynamic and static response to accumulated damage. Demonstrate the accuracy of the numerical solutions for repair assessment using experimental data of varying degrees of complexity and type of loading. Integrate the methodology within a user interface environment to enable the analysis of components starting from its geometry, applied loads, and boundary conditions.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Commercialize and transition the developed repair assessment and remaining life prediction tool as an analysis package. A detailed verification and validation effort will be performed along with a demonstration of application capability in a production-type and widely used tool. To further the technology transition, the developed repair could be installed and flight tested on a fleet representative airframe in with cooperation with the interested PMA(s) and OEM. Private Sector Commercial Potential: Methods and techniques developed can be included in a commercial software package for broad use in a wide variety of industrial applications in order to estimate the life of safety critical structures and components.

REFERENCES:

Bishop, N. W. M. & Sherratt, F., Fatigue life prediction from power spectral density data. II: Recent developments. Environmental engineering (1988) 2.2 (1989): 11-15. http://cat.inist.fr/?aModele=afficheN&cpsidt=6723908
Potoiset, X. & Preumont, A., (1998). Tools for a multiaxial fatigue analysis of structures submitted to random vibrations. Proceedings European Conference on Spacecraft Structures Materials and Mechanical Testing, Germany. http://scmero.ulb.ac.be/Publications/Papers/fatigue.pdf
Braccesi, C., Cianetti, F., Lori, G., & Pioli, D., (2015). Random multiaxial fatigue: A comparative analysis among selected frequency and time domain fatigue evaluation methods. International Journal of Fatigue, Volume 74. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0142112315000055
Benasciutti, Denis, Frank Sherratt, and Alessandro Cristofori. Basic Principles of Spectral Multi-axial Fatigue Analysis. Procedia Engineering 101 (2015): 34-42. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1877705815006049

KEYWORDS: Durability; Multi-Axial Fatigue; Remaining Useful Life; Frequency Domain Fatigue Analysis Method; Multi-Axial Loads; Repair Assessment

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Human Systems

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMA-261, H-53 Heavy Lift Helicopters

OBJECTIVE: Develop a surface flotation device for an aviation mishap survivor that is pocket-sized, has a method for easy entry, and provides protection from exposure to cold water.

DESCRIPTION: Flying over cold water is a hazard increasingly faced by all military aviators. The possibility of having to ditch the aircraft is one of the most dangerous exigencies, as death can occur quickly from immersion hypothermia when the aviator is not properly protected. Survival in cold water is dependent upon three things; not drowning, staying alive until rescued, and being found. The best chance an aviator has to survive ditching is offered by surface flotation devices. A combination of the life preserver, a dry suit, and a life raft are currently available to aviators. All three components are minimum-required survival equipment for all services, but the life raft is the most versatile and functional component of the cold water survival triad.

Current life rafts are typically aircraft-specialized and logistically hard to manage. Rafts are developed for the limited storage space constraints onboard the aircraft. With different raft types, come different sizes of carbon dioxide bottles; different manifolds with different inspection cycles and procedures; and different spares, repair parts, and consumables. This fracturing of demand across a myriad of rafts and spares often results in persistent supply deficits. Current life rafts are typically sized to hold multiple crewmembers, are heavy and bulky, and are built to withstand improvised stowage, crash damage, and long sea exposures. Depending upon the number of aircrew the raft is designed to hold, it can weigh more than 100 pounds, and the packed dimensions can be as large as 1x2x3 feet. Single man life rafts are also currently too bulky to mount on the person. Logistically, the opportunity cost of carrying rafts equals the commensurate amount of fuel, ammunition, or other cargo that must be left behind in order to make room for the raft. Existing life rafts are difficult to deploy and very hard to board. Swimming through an escape hatch with only a survival vest and life preserver, or wrestling a multi-person raft out of the aircraft, often through only the main door, can be crowded in an emergency situation. Despite the addition of boarding aids, getting into the raft remains one of the most difficult in-water survival tasks. Currently, rafts are designed to keep water out, and therefore must have high sidewalls. High sidewalls on a raft are a problem because once the aviator is in the water with an inflated life preserver, the life preserver lobes act like boat fenders, inhibiting the ability of the aviator to board the life raft. Deflating the life preserver lobes is often necessary to allow boarding, a counterproductive burden and threat to the survivor.

Current one-man life rafts weigh between 4.2 and 5.25 pounds and are not worn on the person due to the bulk not fitting onto the survival vests along with the other required survival gear. Lighter, less bulky and more durable surface flotation devices to supplement the flotation provided by the life preserver are a chronic and documented need. The aviation life raft and life preserver have not changed significantly in more than fifty years. In routine use, inadvertent or failed inflation has been reported, and in cold temperatures, carbon dioxide cannot expand rapidly, creating slow or partially filled conditions that jeopardize boarding, stability, and buoyancy.

Develop a surface flotation device that can be worn or carried on the aircrew without interfering with flight duties and integration with aircraft and survival equipment, be pocket-sized, easy to board and more usable than existing devices. Aircrew will continue to wear their life preservers and will carry this device as an additional means of anti-exposure protection. In addition to the anti-exposure suit worn in conditions where the sum of the air temperature and water temperature are less than 130 degrees Fahrenheit (F), the device should provide additional protection from exposure to cold water. Innovative approaches involving the leveraging of the recreational raft market, use of novel raft construction, and micro-inflator technologies are sought.

The device should:

• be able to fully lift the wearer from the water while providing a 1 inch air gap between the user and the water;

• not impede with survivor egress from the underwater aircraft (i.e., inherent system size to be no greater than 1x3x4 inches);

• achieve deployed form in less than 60 seconds (ideally, 15 seconds);

• have a maximum weight of 5 pounds;

• maintain intact flotation in rough seas for 72 hours;

• be one-size-fits-most (small female to large male) device;

• enable survivor-capable repair, while in water, that is capable of lasting for 72 hours;

• withstand an 11-hour flying time in routine ambient conditions (0 degrees F to 120 degrees F);

• provide resistance to environmental contaminants (e.g., sand, petroleum, oil, lubricants, solar radiation);

• survive prolonged exposures to temperature extremes of negative 20 degrees F to positive 140 degrees F;

• be mold and mildew resistant;

• be flame resistant;

• be salt fog resistant;

• ensure compatibility with current military gear and equipment required to be worn with military dry suits (such as armor, masks, gloves, helmets, and boots);

• be nontoxic to the skin;

• and have a low propensity to sudden static discharge or exposed surfaces.

PHASE I: Design and determine the feasibility of a concept pocket-sized surface flotation device that provides protection from cold water exposure and meets the requirements provided in the Description above. Demonstrate feasibility through analysis and limited laboratory demonstrations. Provide cost and reliability estimates.

PHASE II: Develop, demonstrate, and validate a prototype pocket surface flotation device based on the design concept created in Phase I. Demonstration of device operation and capabilities, except for raft boarding can be conducted in a laboratory environment. Demonstration of raft boarding must be conducted in a facility that trains personnel for underwater egress and survival, using certified safety swimmers. When a prototype has been delivered, a demonstration will be performed by the Government using Navy divers representing the 95th percentile male human subject in controlled immersions, in compliance with the requirements provided in Phase I. Provide draft engineering drawings and benefit and cost/life-cycle cost analyses.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Perform any final design updates based upon the prototype testing in Phase II. Develop mass production capability of the pocket surface flotation device and commercialization for the private sector. Provide updated engineering drawings, detail specifications, and benefit and cost/life-cycle cost analyses. Private Sector Commercial Potential: The transfer and modification of commercial technology is common for efforts like this. Novel alternative flotation devices can benefit other military, industrial, and recreational aviation operators and passengers, as well as industrial, merchant, and recreational marine operators and their crews or passengers. This flotation device also could possibly be adapted for cargo transport protection and/or salvage.

REFERENCES:

Transport Canada. (2003). Survival in cold waters (Publication #TP 13822). E. Ottawa, Canada: Available at http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/marinesafety/tp-tp13822-menu-610.htm.
NATO Research and Technical Organization. (2008). Survival at sea for mariners, aviators, and search and rescue personnel (AGARD-o-Graph #AG-HFM-152). Available at https://www.cso.nato.int/pubs/rdp.asp?RDP=RTO-AG-HFM-152

KEYWORDS: Survival; Life Raft; Surface Flotation/Floatation; Immersion Hypothermia; Buoyancy; anti-exposure

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Sensors

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMA-265, F/A-19 Hornet/Super Hornet

OBJECTIVE: Develop a non-contact torque sensing capability for pre-existing, flight-qualified, rotating drive shafts made from carbon fiber reinforced composites, titanium alloys, and aluminum alloys.

DESCRIPTION: A torque sensing solution for both nonferrous metals and carbon-fiber reinforced composite shafts that does not install onto, or modify the drive shaft is needed. The Navy currently does not have the ability to measure and monitor torque of these shaft types. It is necessary that the solution not contact the shafts so that dynamic balance of the shaft under measurement would not be affected; the shaft deflections common during operation would be less likely to damage the shaft or the instrumentation; and no changes would be required in the approved production design and quality build control of the drive shafts. Since no modifications would be done directly to the drive shafts, no expensive, time-intensive requalification of the drive shafts would be required.

The goal is to deliver a non-invasive torque sensing capability that has the least possible impact on existing and next generation US Navy aircraft designs, while also enabling practical upgrades to existing platforms to meet expanding mission requirements. The sensor should measure torque up to a minimum of 2kHz with recorded data rates exceeding a minimum of 5kHz. The sensing solution should provide sufficient dedicated data storage for a single extended operation, as well as mechanisms to retrieve and access the data. The torque measurement system should accommodate a shaft that is no more than 10 inches long and between 2 and 5 inches in diameter, operating at a nominal speed of 18,000 RPM with torque values of +/-5000 in-lb. The torque measurement accuracy error must be no more than 2% of full scale value. The system should maintain this accuracy over varying operating temperatures, -25 degrees C to 80 degrees C; utilizing temperature compensation as required. The system must operate within this accuracy for pressure altitudes from sea level to 40,000 feet.

Working with original equipment manufacturers (OEM) is highly recommended but is not required.

PHASE I: Design, develop and demonstrate feasibility of a non-contact torque sensor concept that meets the parameters outlined in the Description.

PHASE II: Based upon the design from Phase I, develop and demonstrate a prototype non-contact torque sensor in a laboratory setting. A laboratory bench top capability demonstration should clearly establish the feasibility of the method on both a non-ferrous metal shaft and a composite shaft in a realistic operating environment. This demonstration must include a non-ferrous spinning shaft with variable applied torque and non-contact torque monitoring. Data collected from this test should be compared to calibrated strain-gauge measurements, in-line torque sensors or a suitably accurate dynamometer, and taken during the same tests to meet above mentioned accuracy requirements. This full-scale demonstration should use shaft materials that are both typical of current nonferrous metal shafts and of next generation composite shafts.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Installation of a ruggedized and calibrated prototype torque sensor and any associated devices on in-service Navy aircraft and initial flight testing should be accomplished in coordination with an aircraft OEM. Flight testing should include day/night operations and should exercise the authorized aircraft flight envelope to account for expected airframe and driveshaft distortions. If any expected temperature limitations exist with the torque sensor system, these limitations should be tested during flight test to the extent feasible in prevailing ambient temperatures. Data should be reviewed and compared to any existing data for verification of performance. A cost analysis for future production incorporation or retrofitting within current propulsion systems and commercial applications should be conducted to demonstrate benefits. Private Sector Commercial Potential: Commercial rotorcraft would benefit from a reliable non-contact torque measurement solution. There are also numerous applications where non-contact torque measurement would be beneficial, to include industrial, agricultural and automotive industries.

REFERENCES:

Goldfine, N., Lovett, T., et al. “Noncontact Torque Sensing for Performance Monitoring and Fault Detection.” ASME 2009 Power Conference, POWER2009, Albuquerque NM, July 21-23, pp 479-486.
Caruntu, G., Panait, C., (2005). The Measurement of the Torque at the Naval Engine Shaft. Intelligent Data Acquisition and Advanced Computing Systems: Technology and Applications. IDAACS 2005. IEEE. Digital Object Identifier: 10.1109/IDAACS.2005.282937. Publication Year: 2005, Page(s): 41 – 44
MIL-STD-810G – Department of Defense Test Method Standard: Environmental Engineering Considerations Laboratory Tests (31 Oct 2008). Retrieved from http://everyspec.com/MIL-STD/MIL-STD-0800-0899/MIL-STD-810G_12306/
MIL-PRF-461F – Department of Defense Interface Standard: Requirements for the Control of Electromagnetic Interference Characteristics of Subsystems and Equipment (10 Dec 2007). Retrieved from http://everyspec.com/MIL-STD/MIL-STD-0300-0499/MIL-STD-461F_19035/

KEYWORDS: Composite; condition-based maintenance; non-contact; non-ferrous; torque; drive shaft

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMA-268, Navy Unmanned Combat Air System Demonstration

OBJECTIVE: Develop deck motion compensation algorithm and control law design methodology and guidance via airborne and/or shipboard sensors (e.g. GPS and rate/acceleration gyros) to improve aircraft boarding rate capabilities in high ship motion conditions.

DESCRIPTION: The Navy continues to invest in the development of shipboard automated landing systems and Unmanned Air System (UAS) capabilities. One important area of investment is improved boarding rates in high sea state conditions with large ship motions. Due to legacy systems’ computational and hardware restrictions, current systems only account for the basic movement of the touchdown point with altitude rate and bank angle commands. The systems become unreliable and unusable as the sea state increases which then greatly increases pilot workload and decreases recovery rate. Autonomous and highly augmented aircraft can integrate more sensor information and increase boarding rates using advanced data fusion and control algorithmic techniques. The Navy’s Unmanned Combat Air System demonstration (UCAS-D) program successfully completed several carrier demonstration events using a more advanced deck motion compensation (DMC) scheme, but only in benign sea states.

Control law methods for ship motion and aircraft data fusion and flight control are needed to enable Naval Aviation operations at the worst sea state conditions. These types of algorithms exist and have been used in the past in limited scenarios (i.e. X-47B) and disparate scenarios (e.g. relative position flight control of UAS in swarms). Unfortunately, the implementations have relied on extensive analysis techniques (e.g. Monte Carlo variations of environmental conditions and sub-system capabilities) to test the robustness and precision of the control systems, or were flight tested without airworthiness certifications. Early design and performance guidance (including sensitivities to sensor accuracy, precision, data rate, latency, and reliability), for deck motion measurements, prediction methods, sensor noise and errors, and DMC control algorithms need to be created to support future aircraft development and improvements.

A design guidance and conceptual analysis toolset is needed for existing simulation environments to demonstrate the six-degree-of-freedom (6DOF) simulation response of an aircraft during a shipboard recovery. The environments need to be able to incorporate variations in ship deck (landing/recovery location) motion, environmental disturbances (e.g. turbulence, ship airwake, etc.), and sensor errors/noise to assess the feasibility of the developed design guidance using DMC algorithms and control law design methodology and analysis tools.

PHASE I: Develop preliminary detailed aircraft design guidance for DMC control schemes addressing deck motion measurements, prediction methods, sensor noise and errors, data fusion, aircraft performance, and flight characteristics and control. Develop a conceptual analysis toolset for ship-based recovery and show feasibility of the design guidance with a prototype DMC control method and publically available shipboard environment inputs. The preliminary design guidance and conceptual analysis toolset will be evaluated against algorithm coverage scope, system level accuracy (e.g. approach flight path maintenance and touchdown point location), robustness to control law methods and variations in input data, and incorporation of sea-based aviation environmental considerations.

PHASE II: Mature the DMC design guidance and analysis toolset using multiple prototype DMC schemes, including data source fusion and control algorithms. Perform sensitivity analyses on the DMC schemes to determine what information, and the associated sensor accuracy, precision, data rate, latency, and reliability, needs to be fed back to the system. Identify the data and information types that are required for successful DMC schemes, those that provide improvements to boarding rate and reliability, and the ones that do not impact a DMC scheme performance. Identify flight control law techniques (e.g. vehicle control of flight path, attitudes, rates, accelerations, etc.) and develop associated design and performance guidance for DMC concepts. Show feasibility of the design guidance by evaluating how aircraft performance capabilities and flight limitations affect the DMC schemes performance and reliability. Document the design guidance with technical rationale including the results of the sensitivity studies and the impact of the individual criteria on the overall system’s recovery capabilities.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Finalize and transition the DMC design guidance and analysis toolset by validating them with additional aircraft and simulation sources, as required. Integrate the results into future Navy programs, such as UCLASS, Fire Scout, RQ-21A, F-18, and Joint Strike Fighter, to enable the development of advanced shipboard landing control laws with DMC. Private Sector Commercial Potential: The deck motion compensation concept design guidance and toolset developed under this SBIR are relevant in applications beyond Navy shipboard approach and landing. The underlying technologies can be used with commercial off the shelf UAS platforms that operate on personal, research, or corporate ships to provide improved recovery performance and operational usefulness. Other applications include other two-body relative navigation like formation flight, swarm operations, and vehicle tracking.

REFERENCES:

anon. (1994). Carrier Suitability Testing Manual, SA FTM-01. Carrier Suitability Department, Flight Test and Engineering Group. Patuxent River, MD: Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division. (Uploaded in SITIS on 4/22/16.)
Rudowsky, T., Cook, S., Hynes, M., Heffley, R., ↦ al., e. (2002). Review of the Carrier Approach Criteria for Carrier-Based Aircraft - Phase I; Final Report. Department of the Navy. Patuxent River, MD: Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division. NAWCADPAX/TR-2002/71. (Uploaded in SITIS on 4/22/16.)
Wilkinson, C., Findlay, D., Boothe, K., & Dogra, S. (2014). The Sea-based Automated Launch and Recovery System Virtual Testbed. AIAA 2014 SciTech Conference (pp. AIAA-2014-0474). National Harbor, MD: AIAA. http://arc.aiaa.org/doi/abs/10.2514/6.2014-0474
Ferrier, B., Ernst, R., & Sehgal, A. (2015). Instrumented Deck Landing Cueing in Unmanned Aircraft Systems. AHS Dynamic Interface Forum 71. Patuxent River, MD: AHS International. https://vtol.org/store/product/instrumented-deck-landing-cueing-in-unmanned-aircraft-systems-10296.cfm
Nigam, N., Bieniawski, S., Kroo, I., & Vian, J. (2011). Control of Multiple UAVs for Persistent Surveillance: Algorithm and Flight Test Results. IEEE Control Systems Technology, Volume 20, Issue 5. Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. htt

KEYWORDS: Airworthiness; Unmanned Air Vehicle; Shipboard Landing; Ship Motion; Control Law Design; Sea-Based Aviation

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics, Sensors

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMA-264 Anti-Submarine Warfare Systems

OBJECTIVE: Develop a robust Transmission Loss (TL) estimation capability for multistatic Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) sonars that can be used to reduce the operator workload by eliminating clutter.

DESCRIPTION: New functionalities in ASW for active multistatics, such as operating multiple sources simultaneously, and the resulting higher transmission rates provide enhanced detection capabilities. However, there is an increase in false detections, leading to an increased operator workload. One approach to reducing operator workload is to use TL estimation to help discriminate clutter from possible target echoes.

The challenge exists in that TLs can vary significantly depending on the environmental state, bathymetry of the ocean at the time, and location of a given sonar transmission(s). Therefore, it is not possible to empirically measure either the TLs themselves or even to fully measure the environmental state of an operational area prior to an ASW mission. In order to achieve an implementable solution that operates robustly in a wide range of locations and environmental conditions, it is necessary to develop statistical models that adequately estimate the TLs for a given location, sensor geometry, and set of environmental conditions.

Emphasis should be placed on the development of algorithms and software that utilize historical data with in-situ measured TL data (provided in Phase II), to evaluate existing real world data collection sets and measure the resulting improvement on TL estimation to operator performance. The two-way transmission loss of active sonar detections (dependent on environmental state, bathymetry of ocean at the time and location of a given sonar transmission(s)) should be estimated to improve search mission planning. The detection TL estimates can then be used to reject clutter contacts that originated from areas of high TL.

Candidate algorithms will be assessed using datasets with known clutter to test the ability to reduce or remove clutter. Assessment will be based on known data sets with known “false alarms.” Dummy data sets will be provided to selected Phase I companies for use during development.

PHASE I: Research and investigate the suitability and feasibility of proposed TL estimation algorithm / software, enabling clutter reduction on simulated and unclassified data sets. Identify technological and reliability challenges of the design approach, and propose viable risk mitigation strategies.

PHASE II: Design and develop an engineering level (beta) robust TL estimation algorithm / software prototype based on the design from Phase I. Demonstrate the technique(s) by processing existing real world data collection sets and measure the resulting improvement in TL estimation to operator performance in accordance with the parameters in the Description.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Develop a production level version of the final robust TL estimation algorithm / software. Based on research, develop a timeline / plan / process for implementation of the algorithm / software and assist in transitioning the product to the Airborne ASW community through the Advanced Product Build (APB) process. Private Sector Commercial Potential: The developed technology has the potential to be useful for any system that can benefit from more accurate receiver and transmitter localization; benefitting industries may include seismic and oil exploration.

REFERENCES:

Pittenger, RDM R. & Wiseman, C., (2015). Measured Transmission Loss—A Key to Improved Sonar Performance Prediction, Maximizing Sonar Effectiveness by Measuring Acoustic Transmission Loss. Sea Technology Magazine, http://www.sea-technology.com/features/2015/0115/Pittenger.php
Urick, R. J. (1967). Principles of Underwater Sound for Engineers (1st ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill Book Company

KEYWORDS: Airborne ASW; Mission Planning Tools; ASW Operator Workload Reduction; Tactical Decision Aids; Transmission Loss; Estimation

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Electronics, Sensors

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMA-275, V-22 Osprey

OBJECTIVE: Develop an integrated, low-weight, hybrid Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) system that effectively utilizes fiber optic (FO) sensors and piezoelectric (PZT) actuators to capture damage data and corresponding structural response.

DESCRIPTION: Effective SHM systems must possess the ability to detect and track structural damage as well as monitor the actual environment and loading conditions the structure experiences. Two types of information are needed in order to accurately predict structural integrity: damage data and structural response. Current SHM systems utilize PZT actuators and FO sensors separately. PZT transducers are used to detect and track actual damage while FO sensors monitor loads and environmental parameters. Issues with current SHM systems utilizing PZTs include difficulties with cross communication between sensors and signal attenuation during long distance transmission. A hybrid system can avoid sensor cross communication by using different mechanisms for signal transmission. A hybrid diagnostic system that can capture damage and loads data by using PZT actuators to input controlled structural excitation and FO sensors to measure the corresponding structural response is sought.

An integrated systems approach is needed to develop a hybrid SHM system consisting of a hybrid sensor network, connectors, and data acquisition hardware/software integrated into a single unit that will take advantage of any commonality in electronic components. The FO and PZT sensors should be configured for placement onto the structure without structural degradation. The hybrid system will be evaluated on its damage detection, damage quantification, and static/dynamic loads monitoring capabilities. Emphasis will be placed on demonstration and integration of the SHM system on representative US Navy structural components in real world loading environments. The hardware and software for data acquisition and processing should be packaged as a single unit and must be as small and lightweight as possible. Integration with the current V-22 Vibration/Structural Life and Engine Diagnostics (VSLED) system is desired.

PHASE I: Develop and concept for, and demonstrate the technical feasibility of, an integrated hybrid SHM system that utilizes a FO/PZT sensor network to monitor loads and detect damage on structural components for the V-22 platform.

PHASE II: Develop a prototype of the complete hybrid SHM system and demonstrate the system's structural monitoring capabilities on a representative V-22 structural component/s.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Transition the integrated hybrid SHM system for implementation onto the V-22 platform, ensuring interoperability with the VSLED system. Transition will include ground and flight testing. Transition the developed SHM system to commercial aircraft industry. Private Sector Commercial Potential: Similar to Navy aircraft, commercial aircraft would benefit from a hybrid SHM system that accurately tracks aircraft use and damage data for structural components throughout the component’s life. More precise fatigue/damage tracking can lead to reduced maintenance downtime and cost due to targeted, less frequent inspections and part replacement.

REFERENCES:

Wu, Z., Qing, X. P., & Chang, F. K. (2009). Damage detection for composite laminate plates with a distributed hybrid PZT/FBG sensor network. Journal of Intelligent Material Systems and Structures. Retrieved from http://jim.sagepub.com/content/20/9/1069
Sun, Z., Rocha, B., Wu, K. T., & Mrad, N. (2013). A Methodological review of piezoelectric based acoustic wave generation and detection techniques for structural health monitoring. International Journal of Aerospace Engineering, 2013. Retrieved from http://www.hindawi.com/journals/ijae/2013/928627/
Su, Z., Zhou, C., Hong, M., Cheng, L., Wang, Q., & Qing, X. (2014). Acousto-ultrasonics-based fatigue damage characterization: Linear versus nonlinear signal features. Mechanical Systems and Signal Processing, 45(1), 225-239. Retrieved from http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S088832701300558X

KEYWORDS: Damage Detection; Load Monitoring; Maintenance Reduction; Structural Health Monitoring; Fiber Optic; Piezoelectric

TPOC-1: 301-757-2031

TPOC-2: 301-757-1314

TPOC-3: 301-342-8396

Questions may also be submitted through DoD SBIR/STTR SITIS website.

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Electronics, Information Systems

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: Joint Strike Fighter F-35 Lightning II Program

OBJECTIVE: Create a Graphical User Interface (GUI) tool for Future Airborne Capability Environment (FACE) transport protocol abstraction and platform data model integration that addresses the Navy’s need to create a more efficient process for developing and integrating FACE Units of Portability (UoP), saving both time and money. The tool should be able to highlight disparities between protocols and messages, and data models and facilitate development of interoperability between these approaches.

DESCRIPTION: The Future Airborne Capability Environment (FACE) Technical Standard [1, 2, 3] describes a software Reference Architecture supporting several technical attributes including portability, reusability, flexibility, scalability, extensibility, conformance testability, modifiability, usability, interoperability, and integrate-ability. The FACE Technical Standard provides a framework upon which capabilities can be developed as part of a product line to enhance affordability and speed to fleet by reducing duplicative development efforts. The current FACE 2.0 and 2.1 Technical Standards consist of several layers which seek to abstract the concerns for data distribution and data understanding.

Systems integrated by one lead integrator are most often built in isolation from other systems, and to their own requirements resulting in differing or unique message protocols. This means that one system built to an Open Systems Architecture (OSA) standard may not be interoperable with a system built to the same standard by a different lead integrator. Previous attempts to solve the “Interoperability Problem” with OSA approaches have generally led to specifications of “common message” sets for systems to “speak” the same language but have resulted in little progress due to lack of common protocols and partial implementation of message sets. The FACE Data Architecture attempts to remedy this by requiring specific methods for documenting exchanged data but cases still exist where one system built from FACE conformant components cannot exchange information with another system built from FACE conformant components.

To help streamline the FACE system integration process, new software tools and techniques need to be developed to automate the process and visualize the complexity captured in the data model in a simple manner. Additionally, the standard practice of choosing a protocol for each system introduces additional challenges. To overcome this challenge, the Navy seeks an innovative technology to encapsulate protocols behind an abstraction interface and mediate between protocols allowing interoperability across differing technology innovations and message formats. If protocols become a discoverable, replaceable, pluggable feature, then many of the challenges with system to system interoperability can be solved. This technology could also benefit cyber-security as it would allow the ability to randomly hop between protocols and provide a mechanism to make it harder to intercept network communications. Automation in mapping of disparate messages within FACE Platform Data Models is also desired to ensure interoperability between differing systems.

The functionality of the tools is not limited to these features and additional innovative functionality that assists in protocol mediation and data model integration is encouraged. The technologies resulting from this project should assist system integrators in mediating protocol, visualizing data models, identifying incompatibilities between data models, and combining message models to create or enhance a system.

PHASE I: Develop and demonstrate feasibility of a FACE Transport Protocol Mediation and Integration method for abstraction of protocols and integration of disparate platform data models. The identified methodology will provide the basis for tool prototype efforts during Phase II.

PHASE II: Based on Phase I effort, develop and demonstrate a FACE Transport Protocol Mediation and Integration prototype software tool for meeting the objectives outlined in the Description above. Test cases will be provided to the Phase II recipient and should be demonstrated in less than two hours at the end of Phase II.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Test and apply the developed FACE Transport Protocol Mediation and Integration tool(s) and techniques to a component of a Navy software system (e.g. a new capability). Finalize the prototype tool(s) for broader market utilization (military and commercial). Private Sector Commercial Potential: Many private sector industries developing aviation software supporting the new mandated FACE requirements could greatly benefit from this new technology. It should provide a key tool in modeling software in advance of full system software development. In addition, companies in the industrial and manufacturing sectors that use control systems as the backbone of their business processes (which is now becoming almost omnipresent) would also benefit (as demonstrated by the acceptance of FACE), as those systems are comprised of many diverse systems communicating to perform a common mission. In all cases, these systems have to be integrated in order to work correctly. The tools developed under this effort have potential benefit to these commercial needs.

REFERENCES:

FACE Technical Standard 2.0, https://www2.opengroup.org/ogsys/catalog/c137
FACE Technical Standard 2.1, https://www2.opengroup.org/ogsys/catalog/c145
FACE Shared Data Model 2.1, https://www.opengroup.us/face/documents.php?action=show&dcat=31&gdid=17240

KEYWORDS: Integration; Architecture; FACE; Data Model; Portability; Abstraction

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Battlespace, Sensors

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMA 251 Aircraft Launch and Recovery Equipment

OBJECTIVE: Develop an innovative and low cost wind measurement solution capable of mapping wind speed and direction for the entire airspace for US Navy Air Capable Ships.

DESCRIPTION: The US Navy's air capable ships and aircraft carriers currently use a wind system to measure digital wind speed and direction information, such as crosswind, head wind, relative wind and true wind, to support air operations, navigation, tactical planning, combat, and firefighting by displaying this information to the ship’s crew in multiple locations around the ship and to other systems. The current system requires an interface with the ship’s navigation system, to calculate and display true wind. The current system is only capable of taking measurements at the two or three locations where sensors are installed. The displays are also required to display launch and recovery envelopes and overlay that on the wind data to provide situational awareness to the ship’s crew to enable them to steer the ship within the approved envelope for aircraft operations.

Accurate wind data plays a critical role in Aircraft Launch and Recovery Equipment (ALRE) performance and pilot safety during the launch and recovery of aircraft. For instance, a wind difference of two knots can change the parameters for launching an aircraft off a carrier. The US Navy desires a new low cost solution to accurately measure wind data on the flight deck where aircraft are being launched or recovered as well as areas of interest out in space due to reports where the current wind sensors did not accurately represent the actual wind at the flight deck catapult. These anomalies were during higher sea states when the pitching deck created air turbulences that propagated across the deck. This added capability to map the entire airspace surrounding the ship would be beneficial to the fleet with regards to ordnance delivery, navigation, and the launch and recovery of aircraft, as well as the validation of computational fluid dynamics airwake turbulence models. Targeted production costs for each new system are $10K for a single standardized smart module and $3K for each wind sensor. This new solution should support all air capable ship classes and shore stations with a single standardized smart module capable of recognizing multiple configurations of sensors and displays. The architecture should be such that adding sensors and displays to the system can be accomplished quickly and easily with a self-configuration rather than a lengthy manual process

An innovative approach is needed to identify the most cost effective methods to achieve the Navy’s requirements. It is desired that the new system have the capability to self-calibrate to reduce maintenance costs and have built in tests to detect faults.

Previous research in this field has shown the following technology challenges that must be addressed:

• Compensation for ship motion

• Performance in all types of weather (including rain and fog)

• MIL-STD-810G environmental requirements and MIL-STD-461F Electromagnetic Interference requirements must be met

• Incorporation into existing ship structures

• Identifying the minimum number of sensors needed in order to keep installation costs at a minimum

The system’s threshold requirements are as follows:

• Wind Speed Accuracy:

o 0-50 Knots: ±1.5 Knots

o 50.1-125 Knots: ±2.5 Knots

• Direction over entire sensor array:

o 0-360 degrees: ±2 degrees

• Sensor Range:

o 0-200 feet above water

o 0-200 feet directly above the ship

o 100 feet in front of and behind the ship

o Resolution of 10 feet

• Capable of operating with wind speeds up to 125 knots

• Capable of not dislocating from the ship due to wind up to 175 knots

• Maximum Sensor Dimensions:

o Cylinder with a diameter of 34” and height of 28”

o Objective Requirement: Cylinder with a diameter of 9” and height of 9”

PHASE I: Provide a conceptual design of the wind measurement system. Prove the feasibility of meeting the stated requirements through analysis and lab demonstrations. Identify specific strategies for minimizing system hardware costs.

PHASE II: Build a prototype system and demonstrate accuracy and coverage in a commercial wind tunnel. Demonstrate performance in poor weather by simulating rain/fog. Provide an estimate of per-unit cost with backup cost data, including parts/manufacturing. Provide a top-level failure analysis and service life estimate. Provide a top-level assessment of whether the system would pass MIL-STD-810G.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Further develop complete system architecture with sensing modules and displays optimized for the shipboard application including required environmental qualification and shock testing. Test prototype system to verify requirements established by NAVAIR. Provide production units for aircraft carriers and air capable ships. Private Sector Commercial Potential: Potential uses include private and commercial maritime environments, private and commercial air fields, meteorology, and monitoring potential sites for harvesting wind energy.

REFERENCES:

Department of Defense. (1967). MIL-STD-461F, MILITARY STANDARD: ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE CHARACTERISTICS REQUIREMENTS FOR EQUIPMENT. Retrieved from http://everyspec.com/MIL-STD/MIL-STD-0300-0499/MIL-STD-461_8678/
Department of Defense. (2000). MIL-STD-810G, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE TEST METHOD STANDARD: ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING CONSIDERATIONS AND LABORATORY TESTS. Retrieved from http://everyspec.com/MIL-STD/MIL-STD-0800-0899/MIL_STD_810F_949/
Polsy, S.A., Ghee, T.A., Butler, J., Czerwiec, R., and Wilkinson, C.H. (2011). Application of CFD Anemometer Position Evaluation – A Feasibility Study. AIAA-2011-3346. AIAA Applied Aerodynamics Conference, June 27-30, Honolulu, Hawaii

KEYWORDS: Surface Aviation Ships; Wind Measurement System; Modular Design; Airwake Turbulence; Computational Fluid Dynamics; Reduced Total Ownership Costs

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Sensors

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMA-263, Navy and Marine Corps Small Tactical Unmanned Air Systems

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 5.4.c.(8) of the solicitation. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop an innovative solution to significantly improve the performance and manufacturability of Volume Hologram Optical Elements (VHOE) by improving diffraction efficiency, uniformity and reduce aberrations of the element as a whole.

DESCRIPTION: The concept of holography for creating “thin” mirrors, filters and lenses has been around for many decades [1, 2]. Early analysis showed that off-axis aberrations of Volume Hologram Optical Elements (VHOE) significantly exceed those of conventional optics [3]. Moderate quality, inexpensive (60% efficiency, ~$100) holographic gratings are readily available (Edmund Optics, Thorlabs) as well as special purpose, high quality gratings (High energy laser, HORIBA Scientific). However, optical elements such as spherical lenses and mirrors are not readily available for applications such as a compact telescope. The potential advantages of advancing the state of the art in VHOE are significant weight and space savings for large or complex optical systems, when compared to traditional glass element designs [4].

The objective of this SBIR topic is to advance the state of the art on four aspects of VHOE. The first (1) is diffraction efficiency across the element. Attention should be paid to individual hologram efficiency and packing density of multiple holograms (fill factor). The second (2) area is uniformity. Repeatable performance from hologram to hologram in wavelength, efficiency and diffraction angle will lead to good uniformity across the entire optical element. The third (3) area of improvement is in manufacturability [5]. Processes that lead to uniform material thickness, composition and curing and processes that reduce the total hologram write time should be investigated. Reducing production times from hours to minutes, for example, will negate many environmental factors and increase total production volume. Finally (4), an optical model of the VHOE should be developed so that optical system designers could incorporate VHOE’s into the design process.

PHASE I: Identify the technical hurdles to VHOE performance improvement and manufacturability. Develop and demonstrate the feasibility of the new technical approaches. Perform preliminary bench-top testing to verify performance of component or design.

PHASE II: Develop and demonstrate a working bench-top design. Sufficiently harden the bench-top design such that the element can be handled and mounted for testing and demonstration. Perform testing to include diffraction efficiency, uniformity and predicted versus actual diffraction angle across the element. Design and develop working prototype based on results of the hardened bench-top design. Complete preliminary design of VHOE incorporated into an optical system based on developed model of VHOE.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Complete prototype development and document the design. Prepare VHOE system designs and optical system units to be procured and tested/demonstrated in Navy systems. Support the Navy in testing and demonstrating the units and ensuring that they are production ready for use in Navy Systems. Private Sector Commercial Potential: VHOE optical elements will have wide commercial applications such as compact, lightweight optical systems. For example, replacing a thick, curved surface optic with a thin plate VHOE will enable designs that were otherwise not possible due to size constraints.

REFERENCES:

Collier, R. J. et al. (1971). Optical Holography, Academic Press, New York, 3-4
Rakuljic, G. A. & Leyva, V., (1993). Volume holographic narrow-band optical filter, Opt. Lett., 18 (6) 459-461
Close, D.H. (1975). Holographic Optical Elements, Optical Engineering, Vol. 14 No. 5
Matchett, J.D., Billmers, R.I., (2007). Volume holographic beam splitter for hyperspectral imaging applications, Proc. SPIE 6668
Bruder, F., et al. (2015). Diffractive optics with high Bragg selectivity: volume holographic optical elements in Bayfol® HX photopolymer film, Proc. SPIE 9626

KEYWORDS: Volume Hologram; Grating Efficiency; Holographic Element; thin film lens; VHOE; optical systems

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Materials/Processes

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMA 257 AV-8B Harrier Program Office

OBJECTIVE: Develop a high capability, portable, foreign object debris (FOD) removal system to address a capability gap between larger systems and manual removal to positively impact foreign object damage rates and increase readiness, safety, reliability, and provide cost avoidance.

DESCRIPTION: The AV-8B currently has the highest FOD damage rate in the U.S. DoD inventory which incurs a cost of more than $100M per year in engine removal, rebuild, and reinstallation, as well as decreased readiness and safety. To date, NAVAIR has experienced more than eight Class 'A' mishaps in the AV-8B due to FOD, and an extremely high missed opportunity cost in terms of sorties and training. There are two envisioned uses for a FOD removal system: in the environment adjacent to the aircraft, and domestically within the aircraft. In terms of the environment adjacent to the aircraft, current FOD removal units (large trucks) are not suitable to remove FOD around and under aircraft, in the hangar, at the outdoor and indoor high power facilities, and while deployed to land-based airfields. In fact for land-based airfields, the current standard of FOD removal consists of "FOD walks" where personnel physically walk the flight line and visually observe the airfield surface. It can be at these obscured areas where FOD collects and can be ingested by the engine even under low power settings. Domestic object damage due to objects found inside the engine or aircraft can be just as damaging as FOD. Domestic FOD could be produced from maintenance action (e.g. small tools or bolts fall into enclosed engine compartment, or incorrect assembly leaves a bolt unsecured). At this time, manual procedures are used to collect potential domestic FOD. If domestic FOD is identified (e.g. dropped washers, nuts, etc.) and can’t be recovered, the procedure to retrieve the object is to remove the engine from the aircraft and inspect potential locations until the domestic FOD is retrieved. A system that can remove small sized FOD and have greater accessibility than manual methods is sought. The current mechanical and manual removal systems can remove “large FOD” (0.5 inches or more and weighing over 0.5 g). Test data has shown that objects smaller than “large FOD” can cause significant damage to rotating components of the engine. A FOD removal system that maintains performance of the current systems but can also remove objects smaller than current system capability is envisioned. A successful development effort will result in closing a significant FOD removal gap currently present in the AV-8B and other legacy platforms.

An innovative modular system capable of providing a flexible solution for FOD removal, both on the flight line and in aircraft compartments where FOD collections are needed. The desired size of FOD for removal should be smaller than the current sizes and mass given above. Units will need to be modular with envisioned size being as large as a hand cart for large areas and have the appropriate attachments for confined areas. In all contexts, a single person should be able to operate the system, even when diving into engine inlet necessary. In terms of power draw, the unit should able to be converted from gas powered engine for field use, to 115/220V/3-Phase electrical power for enclosed spaces to maximize flexibility and portability. The units would also need to be non-reactive in the normal aircraft hangar operating environment in-and-around the engine bay and inside the aircraft to ensure safety of personnel and equipment. Such environments can reach high temperatures with gas fumes or other combustible debris, in proximity of areas to be accessed. These units would also need to be robust enough and able to be used in austere sites where aircraft operate away from airfields with mature anti-FOD programs and facilities. Units should be able to be used at unprepared airfields which present frequent FOD hazards to the fleet. No system currently exists that is capable of the modularity and flexibility in terms of power source and environmental considerations. Collected FOD should be able to be analyzed in their as-discovered condition (not demolished) so that it can be identified and documented against any known FOD.

Developing, maturing and implementing an innovative vacuum system will result in a comprehensive FOD mitigation that will help Marines and Navy personnel achieve the goal of reducing the FOD rate by 50% (1.7 incidents per 1000 flight hours (FHs) to 0.8 incidents per 1000 FHs). This will result in a cost avoidance of approximately $50M annually. It is anticipated that approximately 8 Ready Based Aircraft (RBA) will be added to flight availability annually due to reduced maintenance time. The development of new attachments and techniques, tactics and procedures (TTPs) with the units will also reduce the probability of mishap due to internal FOD by giving the maintainers the ability to remove debris with the engine and other components on wing.

Coordination with aircraft and engine original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) is strongly recommended, but is not required.

PHASE I: Design and demonstrate the feasibility of a foreign object debris removal system which can be used in-and-around the aircraft and in the engine bay areas in accordance with the parameters outlined in the Description. Feasibility of FOD removal both in confined areas and non-confined areas must be demonstrated.

PHASE II: Further develop the foreign object debris removal system prototype as well as AV-8B aviation-specific prototype attachments and demonstrate their ability to clean FOD such as what might be found in engine bays, under the ejection seats, under the aircraft and its capability to retrieve and/or remove dropped tools, fasteners, and similar material.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Complete any final design modifications and provide needed support to fully transition and integrate the developed foreign object removal system with custom attachments for commercial and Navy applications, and provide training to users. Private Sector Commercial Potential: Civilian and other aviation applicability is limitless but specifically could assist any sensitive maintenance or rebuild facility where FOD or debris is a problem. All aircraft, civilian or military, have an associate FOD cost and if utilized properly, that cost can be driven down by tailored FOD-mitigation technologies such that these units could provide.

REFERENCES:

Airport Foreign Object Debris (FOD) Management, Advisory Circular. (2010). U. S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), http://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Advisory_Circular/150_5210_24.pdf
Foreign Object Debris and Foreign Object Damage (FOD) Prevention for Aviation Maintenance & Manufacturing, 13 November 2007, http://www.rotor.org/portals/1/committee/fod.doc

KEYWORDS: FOD; Safety; Maintenance; Cost Avoidance; Readiness; Durability

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics, Sensors

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMA-275 V-22 Osprey

OBJECTIVE: Develop an innovative aircraft/engine sensor or sensor system that is capable of determining the composition (with respect to Calcium, Magnesium, Aluminum, and Silicon (CMAS) compounds and other reactive media) as well as characterize the size and concentration of ingested sand and dust particulate.

DESCRIPTION: Modern military and commercial gas turbine engines are subject to increased durability, performance, and safety issues when operating in austere environments where significant quantities of sand, volcanic ash and dust are present and can be ingested into the engines. These environments include desert regions as well as previously active/currently active volcanic areas. Military studies of turbine engine sand, dust, and ash ingestion have shown that certain constituents, typically those containing CMAS compound minerals and/or Chlorides and Sulfates, are particularly detrimental to engine turbine components. These compound minerals, known as ‘reactive media’, have one or more physical or chemical characteristics including but not limited to size, mass, mineralogy and chemical composition that drive the phase of the media to change, from solid to semi-solid (partially molten) or liquid (molten), as they pass through the combustion section of the engine allowing them to adhere to various turbine components including but not limited to stator vanes, rotor blades and shrouds. Reactive media has been found to have significant and rapid detrimental effects on engine performance, durability and operability. Currently, there are no aircraft/engine sensors that can provide the information needed to understand the specific composition, size and concentration of ingested reactive material, which is a key factor in determining if reactive media is being ingested into the engine.

The sensor system developed should implement a technique for detecting, recording, and outputting the debris properties so the information can be leveraged by the existing engine FADEC (Full Authority Digital Engine Control) and/or aircraft mission computers in near real-time. This will allow for crew notification and the employment of advanced self-protection techniques.

Coordination with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) is strongly recommended, but not required. A strong coordination with selected-engine OEM and/or multiple designated second-party partners, especially relating to the signal data bus transmission scheme, data acquisition and processing approach and specific assemble interface to the aircraft/engine would ensure the relevance of proposed methods to modern gas turbine engines and rotorcraft.

Sensor system should detect the size, concentration and presence of, at a minimum, the following materials:

• Calcium

• Magnesium

• Aluminum

• Silicon

• Chlorides

• Sulfates

Integration Requirements:

• The sensor system should be designed to integrate with multiple engines/aircraft with minor modifications. Possible locations include, but are not limited to: aircraft inlet, engine inlet, engine bypass, engine gas path.

• The sensor system should be designed to interface with an engine FADEC and/or aircraft mission computers (or equivalent commercial systems) using existing communication technology.

• The sensor system should not adversely affect airflow into or inside the engine.

Validation Requirements:

• Sensor system functionality will be validated upon successful Phase II effort, using a T700-GE-401C Turboshaft engine on an uninstalled test cell. The media for the validation will be baseline commercially available specification sands and AFRL-03 sand.

PHASE I: Design and demonstrate the feasibility of a sensor system to determine airborne debris size distribution, concentration and composition. Provide technical details on how the sensor system will capture, analyze and communicate its findings to the aircraft systems. A prototype sensor system may be demonstrated in bench tests if feasible.

PHASE II: Produce a detailed design(s) and prototype the assembly. Perform bench level testing on the sensor system to demonstrate effectiveness. Document all technical hardware and software specifications for the system in the Phase II final report.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Finalize sensor system integration with major DoD end users and engine manufacturers and demonstrate the developed sensor system in a relevant engine/aircraft environment. Support the Navy for test and validation to certify and qualify the system for Navy use. Private Sector Commercial Potential: Sand, dust, and ash ingestion is an emerging issue for commercial jet aircraft. One example includes the 2010 Iceland volcanic eruption, which resulted in closure of the airspace of much of northern Europe as a result of the detrimental effect of volcanic ash on commercial airliner engines. Commercial aviation is also subjected to dust/sand ingestion while operating in desert locations. It is expected that the hardware (and software) developed under this solicitation would have direct application for the detection of volcanic dust into commercial airline engines. The technology could provide crew indications to mitigate reactive debris ingestion, thus limiting the damage and repairs that are incurred.

REFERENCES:

Lekki, J., Lyall, E., Guffanti, M., Fisher, J., Erlund, B., Clarkson, R, & van de Wall, A. (2013). Multi-Partner Experiment to Test Volcanic-Ash Ingestion by a Jet Engine. http://ntrs.nasa.gov/archive/nasa/casi.ntrs.nasa.gov/20130013612.pdf
MIL-STD-810G. Department of Defense Test Method Standard, Environmental Engineering Considerations and Laboratory Tests. 31-October-2008
Air Force Research Lab, 03 Test Dust. http://www.powdertechnologyinc.com/product/afrl-03-test-dust/
Whitaker, S., Bons, J. & Prenter, R. (2014). DRAFT: THE EFFECT OF FREE-STREAM TURBULENCE ON DEPOSITION FOR. Proceedings of ASME Turbo Expo 2014: Turbine Technical Conference and Exposition GT2014-27168
Bons, J., Prenter, R. and Ameri, A. (2015). DRAFT: DEPOSITION ON A COOLED NOZZLE GUIDE VANE WITH NON-UNIFORM. Proceedings of ASME Turbo Expo 2015: Turbine Technical Conference and Exposition GT2015-43583.
Bonilla, C., Webb, J., & Clum, C. (2012). The Effect of Particle Size and Film Cooling on Nozzle Guide Vane Deposition. Journal of Engineering for Gas Turbines and Power. http://gasturbinespower.asmedigitalcollection.asme.org/article.aspx?articleid=147

KEYWORDS: CMAS; Gas Turbine Engines; particle separation; Sand dust and ash ingestion; optical and laser sensors; Reactive Media

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics, Information Systems, Materials/Processes

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMA 260, Aviation Support Equipment

OBJECTIVE: Develop innovative test methods and associated tools required to support the advanced testing requirements of emerging high-speed bus technologies that are required for design-for-test as well as operational testing.

DESCRIPTION: Current state-of-the-art test tools handle conventional data buses, but cannot address the testing needs of new, high speed, data buses that are being incorporated in the latest aircraft enhancements. Next-generation Units Under Test (UUTs) are designed with high-throughput buses ranging from 100 Mbps to 1500 Mbps, and utilize various new data buses (e.g. Firewire, RS-422, Wi-Fi, SATA, SMPTE Video). This drives a need for faster digital communication buses in Automatic Test Equipment (ATE) to facilitate testing, file upload and download, and other UUT interactions.

The methods and tools developed will aid in the support of state-of-the-art bus technologies in the fleet, and also ensure the integrity, quality, and reliability of the signals and data communication associated with the buses. This effort should leverage the current Navy Automatic Test System (ATS) environments, and industry standards to support electronics maintenance.

High speed data buses are a new technology being introduced into Navy avionics, as well as electronic equipment in other Services. Solutions to fully test this new technology are required for Navy ATS. The technologies required will have a direct impact on testing associated with both design and operation of Units Under Test (UUTs) employing high speed communication interfacing and busing. This is evident in the need for standards in the DoD ATS Framework Integrated Product Team (IPT)’s key element UUT Device Interfaces (UDI). The UDI element recognizes the requirements for testing complex forms of data communication, and requires industry standards to ensure an open architecture approach is integrated in the resulting technologies. These technologies involve extremely high speed data rates, complex timing and synchronization, and high speed multiplexing, all of which require parameters that are capable of insuring signal integrity. Some of these parameters involve statistical measurements, bit error rates, and complex signal to noise and distortion measurements. Current and conventional test methods are not capable of achieving the degree of testing quality necessary to ensure the proper performance of these UUTs and maintaining the data integrity for high speed net-centric information exchanges.

In order to ensure consistency of approaches and tools, industry standards related to signals associated with advanced bussing should be considered, such as the Automatic Test Markup Language (IEEE-1671, ATML). In working with the current industry standards, deficiencies might be found. In this case, the effort would involve identifying/suggesting new standards, and/or modifications to existing standards, which would help ensure a consistent, open system, approach across DoD systems.

To achieve these objectives, a set of tools are required that employ standardized technologies associated with digital radio, wireless communication, switching, fiber optics, and networking, which are being employed in existing as well as new UUTs. These tools should encompass industry standard signal libraries (such as IEEE-1641), test descriptions describing parameterized test methods, and performance verification for communication with devices that have highly complex inputs and outputs. The tools need to configure test instrumentation such as waveform generators, digitizers, oscillators, up and down converters, bus analyzers, and high speed digital generators to support the development of the signals / methods required. These test and evaluation tools are expected to significantly reduce the test cost and foot print of support items, and enhance Test Program Set (TPS) rehost.

PHASE I: Design and demonstrate a proof of concept signal model necessary to support described technologies. Define a set of tools that utilize the signal model and show how they can be utilized together to support high speed bust testing. If noticed during development, make note of applicability of existing industry standards and the possible need to enhance these standards, or create new standards.

PHASE II: Further develop the Phase I products into a usable library of models and tools to support high speed bus testing. Evaluate and demonstrate the prototype tool using one of the members of the DoD family of testers, such as Navy Consolidated Automated Support System (CASS), Air Force Versatile Depot Automatic Test System (VDATS), and Army Integrated Family of Test Equipment (IFTE). Access to these testers will be provided at DoD labs or maintenance facilities as required and as available at no cost to the small business. Perform analysis of the models and tools to determine their ability to support high speed bus testing. Ensure the models and tools are consistent with industry standards, such as those defined by IEEE.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Finalize and deliver models and tools suitable for use on ATS across the DoD. Transition the technology to appropriate test platforms. Private Sector Commercial Potential: Bus testing is a generic technology used across DoD and industry. This proposal has direct impact to all DoD Services, and could be transitioned to various commercial industries.

REFERENCES:

IEEE STD 1671-2010, IEEE Standard for Automatic Test Markup Language (ATML for Exchanging Automatic Test Equipment and Test Information via XML (2011). http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/xpl/login.jsp?tp=&arnumber=5706290&url=http%3A%2F%2Fieeexplore.ieee.org%2Fstamp%2Fstamp.jsp%3Ftp%3D%26arnumber%3D5706290
IEEE STD 1641-2010, IEEE Standard for Signal and Test Definition (2010). http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/xpl/login.jsp?tp=&arnumber=5578923&url=http%3A%2F%2Fieeexplore.ieee.org%2Fstamp%2Fstamp.jsp%3Ftp%3D%26arnumber%3D5578923
IEEE STD 1394, Firewire System Design for Industrial and Factory Automation Applications. DOI: 10.1109/ETFA.2001.997744
Gorringe, C.; (2013). Bus Testing in a Modern Era, IEEE AUTOTESTCON 2013
Brown, M., Gorringe, C. & Lopes, T. (2009). Digital Signals in IEEE 1641 and ATML, IEEE AUTOTESTCON 2009
DoD ATS Executive Directorate website. http://www.acq.osd.mil/ats/

KEYWORDS: Automatic Test Equipment; Test Program; Bus Technologies; Electronics Maintenance; Data Communication; Digital Signals

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials/Processes

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMS450, VIRGINIA Class Submarine Program Office

OBJECTIVE: Develop advanced non-noble metal PEM electrocatalysts and engineered nanostructures to improve submarine oxygen generators and significantly reduce cost.

DESCRIPTION: Oxygen is generated onboard submarines utilizing electrolysis conducted within a stack of Proton Exchange Membranes (PEM) cells known as a cell stack. Within the electrolysis cell stack, the PEM material is a subcomponent of the Membrane Electrode Assembly (MEA) and it is within this MEA that electrocatalysts are employed to encourage both the oxidation and reduction processes. The electrocatalysts currently used are noble metal catalysts, which add significant cost to the submarine electrolysis cell stack valued at $1M each.

Noble metals are also known as strategic metals as defined by the National Research Council and are often referred to as such in electrolysis studies. At an estimated 25% of the cost of an electrolysis cell stack, the MEA is a prime candidate for catalytic improvement with significant and measureable cost benefit. Recently reported basic research (references 1, 2, and 3) discusses the successful use of a non-noble metal catalyst for the electrolysis. The reported successes utilizing molybdenum phosphide (MoP) and molybdenum phosphide with a phosphosulfide surface (MoP/S) are extremely promising and directly applicable to PEM electrolyzers, however additional research is required to evaluate how these materials or similar non-noble metal catalysts perform at high current densities of approximately 1000 amps per square foot (ASF). By eliminating or reducing the use of costly precious metals as the electrocatalysts, the Navy will achieve significant cost reductions in acquisition and maintenance to the order of roughly $200,000 per electrolysis stack.

Additionally, the development of an improved and novel MEA such as an engineered nanostructure to enhance activity (references 4 and 5), will achieve a reduction in the catalyst loading, which will also result in significant cost reductions by reducing the amount of catalyst required. PEM fuel cells and the PEM electrolysis cell stacks have unique requirements. They have already achieved loading reductions of at least an order of magnitude below the current submarine PEM electrolysis cell stack design from on the order of 1 mg of catalyst / cm^2 of active area to on the order of 0.1 mg of catalyst / cm^2 of active areas. These unique requirements include alternative catalyst morphologies and compositions, support characteristics such as wetting properties and the porosity for gas and fluid transport, and deposition methods to form a highly active and stable electrode at low catalyst loading.

Current submarine electrolysis cell stacks are capable of operating at oxygen generation rates of 225 standard cubic feet per hour (SCFH) and a current density of 1000 ASF which are required to operate for a minimum of 30,000 hours prior to failure. Future submarine oxygen generators currently in development have these same operational requirements and will utilize a PEM electrolysis cell stack. It is critical to the Navy to invest in advancements in technology to realize benefits from potential performance improvements, to reduce the cost, and improve affordability of a known high dollar acquisition and maintenance component. Qualification of a new cell stack for submarine use would most likely involve shock/vibration testing and a 2,000-hour endurance test or equivalent testing to show that the cell stack will last the required 30,000 hours of operation.

The target platform for implementation of these improvements would be on all current and planned VIRGINIA Class submarines. Additionally, these improvements would be beneficial to the PEM electrolyzer on Ohio Replacement and may even stand to benefit the PEM electrolyzer on SEAWOLF and OHIO Class submarines. The objective is to meet current performance requirements while achieving a reduction in acquisition cost by $200K per electrolysis cell stack, which will have additional affordability benefits to the Navy’s operation and maintenance costs on the order of magnitude of $10M’s.

PHASE I: The company will develop a concept that will demonstrate and report on achieved and anticipated optimized performance of non-noble metal electrocatalysts as compared to noble metal electrocatalysts and improved or novel MEA structures capable of operating in the described submarine operational environment. The company will perform modeling and simulation to provide the initial feasibility assessment of the concept performance. The Phase I Option if exercised, will include the initial layout and capabilities description to build the MEA structures.

PHASE II: Based on the results of Phase I and the Phase II Statement of Work (SOW), the company will develop and build a prototype 4-cell stack incorporating the improved electrocatalyst and novel MEA structures developed in Phase I. This prototype should be capable of operating at equivalent current density of 1000 ASF and at an equivalent oxygen generation rate of 225 SCFH. Results from the prototype 4-cell stack testing will be compared to a 4-cell stack utilizing a noble metal electrocatalyst representative to those currently deployed on VIRGINIA Class submarines. The company will deliver the prototype at the end of the Phase II to the Navy.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The company will design and develop a process for manufacturing a 225 SCFH electrolysis cell stack which will operate in the VIRGINIA Class PEM electrolyzers capable of meeting the acquisition needs and the future maintenance requirements for potentially all other Navy submarine PEM electrolyzers. Depending on the need and similarity to the existing cell stack, the improved PEM electrolysis cell stack would optimally be qualified for submarine use as a standalone component as part of a submarine electrolyzer first article unit, or strictly by analysis, pending qualification. Private Sector Commercial Potential: This area of research and technologic improvements has direct importance to commercial PEM electrolyzers and PEM fuel cells. PEM electrolyzers and PEM fuel cells compete in markets such as automotive propulsion as an alternative to gasoline-powered engines (alternative energy source), supplying power to our nation’s electrical grid (energy efficiency), and even use as a clean water-splitting energy source as an alternative to fossil fuel-based power generation (alternative energy source). Adaptions of these improvements are also relevant for use in solar photo electrochemical cells in energy generation (alternative energy source) and all other market in which solar cells compete. All of these applications rely on the same limited noble metal electrocatalysts so all improvements will uniformly benefit all of these applications.

REFERENCES:

Gao, Min-Rui et al. “An efficient molybdenum disulfide/cobalt diselenide hybrid catalyst for electrochemical hydrogen generation.” Nature Communications 6, Article Number 5982, DOI: 10.1038/ncomms6982, 14 January 2015.
Kibsgaard, Jakob and Jaramillo, Thomas. “Molybdenum Phosphosulfide: An Active, Acid-Stable, Earth-Abundant Catalyst for the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction.” Angewandte Chemie International Edition Volume 53, Issue 52, 22 December 2014, Pages 14433-14437.
Jaramillo, Thomas. “Low Cost Catalyst for Hydrogen Production and Renewable Energy Storage.” Stanford University Office of Technology Licensing. Stanford Reference: 14-317. http://techfinder.stanford.edu/technology_detail.php?ID=31394
Lu, Qi et al. “Highly porous non-precious bimetallic electrocatlysts for efficient hydrogen evolution.” Nature Communications 6 Article Number 6567, DOI: 10.1038/ncomms7567, 16 March 2015. http://www.nature.com/ncomms/2015/150316/ncomms7567/full/ncomms7567.html
Zhao, Zhenlu. “Bacteriorhodopsin/Ag Nanoparticle-Based Hybrid Nano-Bio Electrocatalyst for Efficient and Robust H2Evolution from Water.” Journal of the American Chemical Society, 2015, 137, 8, Pages 2840-2843. http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/jacs.5

KEYWORDS: Non-noble metal catalyst; electrocatalyst for oxygen generation; electrochemical; hydrogen evolution; proton exchange membrane; fuel cell molybdenum phosphide with a phosphosulfide surface

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Battlespace, Electronics, Sensors

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMS406, Unmanned Maritime Systems Program Office

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 5.4.c.(8) of the solicitation. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop an innovative acoustic generator capable of being mounted to and operating from an Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV).

DESCRIPTION: Many Navy systems are being developed that use Fleet-class USVs. These USV-based systems require lighter weight, lower drag, and smaller footprint products than their legacy counterparts (Ref. 1). There are currently a number of technology development efforts for various types of sensors and emitters that will be suitable for integration with a Fleet-class (11-meter) USV. However, many of these sensors and emitters are towed systems which result in increased drag and fuel consumption, as well as reduced capability in shallow water and constrained waterways (Ref. 2). By eliminating the towed system from the USV, a reduction in towed system drag on the craft will result in increased endurance for the system while operating at the same speed. This will increase system capability by potentially increasing the coverage rate and allowing its use in shallower water and constrained waterways than current towed systems.

The US Navy is seeking an innovative acoustic source capable of generating a broad range of outputs that would be mounted either above the waterline or within the hull and structure of an existing Navy USV. However, if a solution were sub-surface, the acoustic generator would be stowed above the waterline or within the USV hull-form until performing operations. The system must be lightweight (less than 200lb); contained in a small-volume (less than 30cft); require minimal electrical or propulsion power (less than 10kw electrical power; Propulsive Power 90hp); have a high acoustical power radiation (between 175-185dB, each over frequency range of 10Hz to 5kHz); and mitigate the effects of craft speed and its variations (be speed independent). The acoustic generator will be autonomously activated by the USV’s central command and control.

By eliminating towed items, the towed system drag to the Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) can be reduced by up to 50%. That savings will result in a lower fuel burn rate and an increased endurance. An increase in endurance will increase the capability of the USV and multiple payloads can be carried on the USV for multiple mission sets. Dragging these systems through the seawater increase the life-cycle cost based on the maintenance associated with the seawater environment. By removing the acoustic source from the water, the mean time before maintenance will increase which will reduce the life-cycle cost of these systems.

PHASE I: The company will develop a concept for an acoustic generator meeting the requirements in the description. The company will identify the technical feasibility of the proposed concept and demonstrate the concept through modeling, analysis, and/or bench top experimentation where appropriate. The results will be used to determine the feasibility of the concept through effectiveness modeling for an innovative acoustic generator that meets the needs of the Navy. The Phase I final report shall capture the technical feasibility and economic viability for the proposed concept. The Phase I Option, if awarded, should include the initial description and capabilities to build the unit in Phase II.

PHASE II: The company will develop and fabricate a prototype acoustic generator based on the Phase I work and Phase II Statement of Work (SOW) for demonstration and characterization of key parameters and objectives. At the end of Phase II, prototype acoustic generator components shall be tested according to requirements set forth in the description. Based on lessons learned in Phase II through the prototype demonstration, a substantially complete design of the acoustic generator should be completed and delivered.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The company will be expected to support the Navy in transitioning the technology for Navy use. The final acoustic generator product will need to conform to requirements as described in the description and expected to pass Navy qualification testing. A full-scale prototype will be operationally tested and certified by the Navy to be integrated with an USV for further performance testing. Private Sector Commercial Potential: Developed technologies may be of some potential benefit/use to the petroleum, water rescue/salvage, and commercial fishing industries.

REFERENCES:

Roberts, Scott D. Stability Analysis Of A Towed Body For Shipboard Unmanned Surface Vehicle Recovery. Thesis. Monterey, CA: The Naval Post Graduate School, 2005; www.dtic.mil/dtic/tr/fulltext/u2/a432512.pdf
US Coast Guard. Boat Crew Seamanship Manual – Chapter 17: Towing. Washington, DC: Department of Homeland Security, 2003, pp17.1-17.60; http://www.uscg.mil/directives/cim/16000-16999/cim_16114_5c.pdf

KEYWORDS: Non-towed acoustic generator; low-drag; unmanned surface vehicle; acoustic frequency and amplitude; endurance; autonomous

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Ground/Sea Vehicles

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMS 320 - Advanced Surface Machinery Systems

OBJECTIVE: Develop a lightweight and affordable capability to restore Medium Voltage Direct Current (MVDC) power to zones isolated from generation by damage, to zones between the source and the rest of the system. Portable elements of the capability shall be light enough to be safely handled by a team composed of sailors of size and strength ranging from the 5th percentile female to the 95th percentile male. For a given ship design, the decision on whether to install an MVDC casualty power system will be based on risk and a comparison of the cost and system weight of the MVDC casualty power to the cost and system weight of effectively armoring and protecting the port and starboard buses from damage within a zone.

DESCRIPTION: Casualty power has typically been used to provide loads to specific 440 volt (60 Hz. alternating current) VAC loads through a network of portable cables and through-bulkhead connectors. The system currently used is power limited and very labor intensive.

Future combatant designs are anticipated to implement zonal survivability and selective compartment survivability to the greatest extent practical (ref #1). One challenge is that for small warships, power generation is not generally located in the forward or aft zone due to the inability to locate intakes and uptakes. Furthermore, the beam of smaller warships may not be sufficient to ensure both port and starboard buses in a two-bus system will survive. In these cases, zonal survivability must consider both vulnerability and recoverability. A casualty power system is the means for recovering power to a zone that may be isolated by generation due to battle damage in a zone between it and the zone with generation. A capable casualty power system will enable the crew to recover power to undamaged zones following battle damage.

The envisioned solution would not depend on cable or equipment surviving in the damaged zone, but would employ equipment permanently installed in zones on either side of a damaged zone and portable conductors that the crew could use to “jumper” across the damaged zone. Several redundant portable conductors would be stored in different zones of the ship to ensure a sufficient number of portable conductors survive the battle damage. The casualty power system is intended for MVDC systems (ref #2) with voltages between 6 kV and 18 kV and rated for a current between 300 and 500 amps. The casualty power system should interface (via a mechanism such as coded cable connectors, auxiliary conductors or fiber optic cables) with the machinery control system to enable detection of the connectivity and to limit current to below the system current rating. The envisioned solution should be safe to rig and operate within 30 minutes of the ship’s power system experiencing damage. Minimizing system overall cost and weight are key factors.

A capable Casualty Power System as described here enables recovering power to undamaged zones following battle damage. The alternative would be to either accept the operational risk of losing the capability provided by systems within the unpowered-undamaged zone or by heavily armoring and protecting each of the longitudinal electrical distribution busses (at great cost and additional weight) to enhance their ability to survive battle damage. This would reduce the acquisition costs due to not having to procure new assets to replace those that were not repairable after sustaining damage.

No known research exists on MVDC casualty power systems.

PHASE I: In Phase I, the company must provide a concept for a MVDC Casualty Power system. This concept shall be analyzed to estimate its cost, weight, volume requirements, and the time required by the crew to deploy the system. The company shall perform a hazard analysis and ensure the concept is safe to deploy and operate. The company shall identify technical risks of their concept. In the Phase I Option if exercised, companies will produce draft specifications and a capabilities description for the final components of the system.

PHASE II: In Phase II, the company shall produce a prototype system for testing and evaluation based on the results of Phase I and the Phase II Statement of Work (SOW). This prototype will be delivered at the end of the Phase II. The company shall conduct a test and evaluation program to address the technical risks of operating and integrating the system onboard. This prototype system shall have the full electrical and control system functionality. The company shall update the specifications for the final components of the system. The company shall develop a design practices and criteria manual for the design and installation of the casualty power system for a surface combatant.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The company will support the Navy in transitioning the technology to Navy use. The company shall produce first-articles using the specifications for the final components of the system. The company shall conduct first-article testing and any other testing as detailed in the specification for each of the components. The company shall design, construct, and demonstrate a casualty power system using the specifications and the design practices and criteria manual developed in Phase II. The contractor shall update the specifications and design practices and criteria manual to reflect lessons learned. Private Sector Commercial Potential: While casualty power systems generally do not have a direct application to commercial systems, some industries do employ temporary power systems where similar technology may apply. Examples include the mining industry, tunneling machines, and oil industry.

REFERENCES:

Doerry, CAPT Norbert, "Zonal Ship Design", ASNE Naval Engineers Journal, Winter 2006, Vol. 118 No 1, pp 39-53. http://doerry.org/norbert/papers/050120ZonalShipDesign.pdf
Doerry, Dr. Norbert H. and Dr. John V. Amy Jr., "The Road to MVDC," presented at ASNE Intelligent Ships Symposium 2015, Philadelphia PA, May-20-21, 2015. http://doerry.org/norbert/papers/20150319ASNEISSDoerryAmy.pdf

KEYWORDS: Casualty Power System; portable power cables; temporary power systems; power terminals; medium voltage DC power cables; medium voltage DC power connectors

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Ground/Sea Vehicles

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMS320, Electric Ships Office; PMS501 Littoral Combat Ship Program Office

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 5.4.c.(8) of the solicitation. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop an innovative hermetically sealed, orientation independent vacuum measurement system capable of measuring vacuum levels between 1 Microtorr to 1520 Torr (~2 atm).

DESCRIPTION: Future naval power systems are trending towards a fully integrated power system, which will leverage installed electrical generation to meet the high power demand of future loads. The electric propulsion loads fall within the range of 20-80 MW. Distributing this level of power requires a high power density solution to minimize space and weight. High temperature superconductor (HTS) technology including cables, motors, and generators, is one potential solution. In addition to power applications, HTS is an ideal candidate for degaussing applications due to the high current density with less weight and space. Successful application of this technology requires minimizing heat transfer into the cryogenic spaces where the HTS material resides.

HTS systems utilize a vacuum space in conjunction with multi-layer insulation (MLI) to minimize the heat transfer into cryogenic space. The vacuum degrades over time due to outgassing of materials. As the vacuum degrades, the performance of MLI decreases and higher heat leak into the cryogenic system occurs. Either the result is the inability to maintain the cryogenic environment thereby destroying the superconducting state; or the cryogenic system output needs to be increased to keep up with the higher heat load. A deep vacuum of approximately 1 Microtorr (1E-6 Torr) is an ideal vacuum level; however, in practice, warm vacuum levels approximately 1 Millitorr (1E-3 Torr) are acceptable.

Currently, the only commercially available hermetically sealed vacuum gauges that meet system requirements are spinning rotor gauges which have orientation sensitivity. This orientation sensitivity is problematic when installed on an HTS cable since the final installed orientation is generally not known at the time of manufacture. If the rotor gauge is not in the proper orientation in the final installed position, the vacuum gauge becomes inoperable. Non-orientation sensitive solutions are available, but are not hermetically sealed. Maintaining a high vacuum level is dependent on the exclusion of contaminants within the system, and elimination of sources of vacuum leaks. For these reasons, the Navy needs a hermetically sealed, non-orientation sensitive solution.

The Navy has been developing a high temperature superconducting degaussing system (HTS DG) that has a lower system cost, decreases weight and volume requirements, and offers lower power requirements as compared to a traditional copper-based degaussing system. This topic seeks to develop a component that replaces a current vacuum gauge that has significant limitations for use in the field. The orientation sensitivity of the existing gauge results in inoperability on an installed HTS DG cable leaving vacuum levels in the cryostats unknown. The component developed through this topic will have utility in HTS Motors, generators, power cables, and any other vacuum insulated system that requires monitoring deep vacuum levels.

The objective of this topic is to develop an innovative vacuum sensor capable of measuring vacuum in the range of 1-Microtorr to 1520 Torr (~2 atm) while being insensitive to installation orientation. High precision vacuum readings are not required and an error of 10-20% of the reading is acceptable. The sensor must be rugged enough to be used in a shipboard environment and must meet all qualification requirements including shock and vibration, which will be tested by the Navy. Two potential approaches to using these gauges on the ship are as either an active part of the HTS system that continuously monitor the vacuum or the gauge may be used for periodic checks, similar to the current gauges. Use as an active part of the system is preferable solution as it has the potential to reduce manning requirements for periodic vacuum level evaluation. The final vacuum sensor is expected to be low cost ($100-$500), compact in size (3” x 2”dia), and have a service life of 30 years.

PHASE I: The small business will develop a concept for a hermetically sealed, orientation independent vacuum measurement system. Feasibility of an innovative vacuum sensor that meets the needs of the Navy as defined in the description will be demonstrated by modeling and simulation. The company will identify the technical feasibility of the proposed concept and demonstrate the concept through modeling, analysis, and/or bench top experimentation where appropriate. The Phase I final report shall capture the technical feasibility and economic viability for the proposed concept. The Phase I Option, if awarded, should include the initial description and capabilities to build the unit in Phase II.

PHASE II: The small business will develop and fabricate a prototype vacuum gauge based on the Phase I work and Phase II Statement of Work (SOW) for demonstration and characterization of key parameters and objectives. At the end of Phase II, a prototype vacuum sensor shall be delivered to the Navy for further performance testing. Based on lessons learned in Phase II through the prototype demonstration, a substantially complete design of a vacuum sensor should be completed that would be expected to pass Navy qualification testing including shock and vibration.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The small business will be expected to support the Navy in transitioning the technology for Navy use onboard ships. This includes teaming with appropriate industry partners to provide a fully qualified vacuum sensor for integration and use in HTS systems for degaussing and power distribution. Private Sector Commercial Potential: Vacuum sensors have wide spread industrial and academic use in cryogenics, superconductivity, and the semi-conductor industry making it broadly applicable to the commercial world.

REFERENCES:

J.T. Kephart, B.K. Fitzpatrick, P. Ferrara, M. Pyryt, J. Pienkos, E.M. Golda, “High temperature superconducting degaussing from feasibility study to fleet adoption,” Transactions on Applied Superconductivity, Vol.21, 2010, 2229. http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/Xplore/defdeny.jsp?url=http%3A%2F%2Fieeexplore.ieee.org%2Fstamp%2Fstamp.jsp%3Ftp%3D%26arnumber%3D5672800%26userType%3Dinst&denyReason=-134&arnumber=5672800&productsMatched=null&userType=inst
R. K. Fitch, "Total pressure gauges," Vacuum, vol. 37, pp. 637-641, 1987. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/0042207X87900492
F. Völklein and A. Meier, "Microstructured vacuum gauges and their future perspectives," Vacuum, vol. 82, pp. 420-430, 12/12/ 2007. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0042207X07003065
Y.-T. Wang, T.-C. Hu, C.-J. Tong, and M.-T. Lin, "Novel full range vacuum pressure sensing technique using free decay of trapezoid micro-cantilever beam deflected by electrostatic force," Microsystem Technologies, vol. 18, pp. 1903-1908, 2012/11/01 2012. http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs00542-012-1468-2
MIL-S-901D, MILITARY SPECIFICATION: SHOCK TESTS. H.I. (HIGH-IMPACT) SHIPBOARD MACHINERY, EQUIPMENT, AND SYSTEMS, REQUIREMENTS FOR (17 MAR 1989); http://everyspec.com/MIL-SPECS/MIL-SPECS-MIL-S/MIL-S-901D_14581/

KEYWORDS: HTS; superconductivity; hermetic sealed vacuum gauge; orientation independent vacuum gauge; vacuum maintenance and measurement; vacuum spinning rotor gauge

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Battlespace, Electronics, Sensors

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMS340, Naval Special Warfare Program Office (Acquisition Program: SDV, SWCS) USSOCOM (PEO-M) DCS

OBJECTIVE: Develop a UHF SATCOM antenna with low elevation angle coverage to meet the operational needs of Naval Special Warfare.

DESCRIPTION: Naval Special Warfare (NSW) Forces employ the use of undersea mobility platforms including the in-service SEAL Delivery Vehicles (SDV) and two additional platforms that are currently under development. All of these platforms include the capability to communicate via UHF SATCOM. The current UHF SATCOM antenna used in the SDV fleet provides usable coverage only in the upward looking direction at elevation look angles greater than 45 degrees above the horizon. The SDV program office seeks the development of a Low Elevation Angle UHF Mast Antenna that will be used for UHF SATCOM communication on NSW Submersibles including the SDV and Dry Combat Submersibles (DCS). The antenna will be mast-mounted and will be a modular replacement with the existing UHF SATCOM antenna in use. It should be capable of being submerged in seawater to 125m. Prior to use, the antenna will be raised above the water line.

A mathematical approach is described to determine the required look angles (Ref. 1) to point an antenna to a geostationary communication satellite such as the Ultra High Frequency Follow-on (UFO) Satellite, which is used for military UHF SATCOM. Earth coverage analysis and simulation is described (Ref. 2) along with the difficulties of maintaining coverage with satellites for communication.

Physical Characteristics:

The existing UHF SATCOM antenna in use is housed in a government designed cylindrical radome made from G-10/FR4 fiberglass. The low angle antenna should be developed to fit within this exiting radome if possible. Novel and innovative ideas will be considered that exceed the existing radome envelope if they show promise for operating in a submerged marine environment and for successful integration into an NSW undersea mobility platform. This effort will reduce the life-cycle cost by 20-30% of future undersea mobility platforms through the development of a common solution that can be used on multiple platforms and ultimately Operations & Maintenance (O&M) costs during the sustainment phase for these platforms (Logistics, Maintenance, and Training).

Radome inner dimensions:

Diameter: 5.875 inches

Length: 23.49 inches

Radome exterior dimensions:

Diameter: 6.88 inches

Length: 26.95 inches

Maximum Weight (including radome): 35lbs

Performance:

Elevation Coverage Pattern: +18 degrees to +45 degrees above the horizon

Radiation Pattern: Omni-directional in azimuth

Polarization: Right Hand Circular Polarized (RHCP)

Frequency Range: Ultra High Frequency Follow-On (UFO) uplink/downlink frequencies

Impedance: 50 ohms

Power Handling: 100W

The antenna will be characterized in a radio frequency (RF) measurement facility (Anechoic Chamber) or other suitable facility.

PHASE I: The company will develop a conceptual design of the Low Elevation Angle UHF SATCOM antenna that meets the technical requirements outlined in the description section above. The company will demonstrate the initial feasibility of this effort through software modeling and simulation. The Phase I Option if exercised, will include the initial design and capabilities description to build a prototype in Phase II.

PHASE II: Based on the results of Phase I effort and the Phase II Statement of Work (SOW), the company will develop a prototype antenna for evaluation and test it on an SDV or other available platform. Coordination to use a Government test platform will occur through NAVSEA PMS340. This effort will focus on integration into a government-supplied radome (if desired) or other efforts to make the antenna suitable for use in a submerged marine environment. The prototype antenna will be characterized in an anechoic chamber or other suitable antenna measurement facility prior to integration and testing on an SDV or other available platform in an operationally relevant environment. Success during testing will be characterized by making successful UHF SATCOM communications with a UFO satellite at an elevation between 18 and 45 degrees above the horizon. Evaluation results will be used to refine the prototype into a final design that will meet the desired performance goals. The Government will be required to coordinate the use of Department of Defense (DoD) communications assets and to identify funding for Government test platform and support.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The company will be expected to support the Navy in transitioning the Low Elevation Angle Antenna for use on undersea mobility platforms. The company will support the Navy for test, validation and certification in accordance with SDV and DCS specifications to certify and qualify the system for Navy use and for transition to operational undersea mobility platforms. Following testing and validation, the end design is expected to produce a product that provides improved low elevation angle UHF SATCOM coverage. The technology is expected to be integrated into the Dry Combat Submersible and SDV Programs. Private Sector Commercial Potential: This technology could be used in any situation where there is a need to reliably establish communications with low elevation angle satellites where antenna size is limited. While this particular effort is tailored to marine environments this could be used for land, aviation, and space applications as well.

REFERENCES:

Tomás Soler and David Eisemann, “Determination of Look Angles to Geostationary Communications Satellites” Journal of Surveying Engineering, Vol. 120, No. 3, August 1994, pp. 115-127 http://www.ngs.noaa.gov/CORS/Articles/SolerEisemannJSE.pdf
Shkelzen Cakaj, Bexhet Kamo, Algenti Lala, Alban Rakipi, “The Coverage Analysis for Low Earth Orbiting Satellites at Low Elevation” International Journal of Advanced Computer Science and Applications, Vol 5, No. 6, 2014, P. 6-10 http://thesai.org/Downloads/Volume5No6/Paper_2-The_Coverage_Analysis_for_Low_Earth_Orbiting_Satellites_at_Low_Elevation.pdf

KEYWORDS: Naval Special Warfare communications; SEAL Delivery Vehicle; UHF SATCOM Antenna; Satellite Communications; UFO Satellite; Low Elevation Angle UHF Mast Antenna

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Battlespace, Electronics, Sensors

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMS 495, Mine Warfare Office, Airborne Laser Mine Detection System (ALMDS)

OBJECTIVE: Develop an innovative technique to allow current state-of-the-art electro-optic systems to extend their dynamic range beyond their fixed capability.

DESCRIPTION: Organic mine countermeasures (MCM) give naval and marine units the ability to detect, characterize, and neutralize mines using their own assets. The US Navy and Marines fill gaps in MCM capabilities with electro-optic sensor systems. Airborne and underwater MCM sensors are vital to enabling operational maneuverability from the ship to the objective. To meet Naval MCM requirements, a “system-of-systems” approach has been adopted which consists of mine-hunting, minesweeping, and mine neutralization systems. These weapon systems are primarily deployed and operated from MH-60S helicopter platforms equipped with Airborne Mine Countermeasures (AMCM).

Mine-hunting is the preferred method of locating and neutralizing sea mines. One such system, which helps to fill a significant capability gap in complete coverage of the upper water volume and complements other MCM systems, is the Navy’s Airborne Laser Mine Detection System (ALMDS).

The ALMDS provides a capability for the rapid detection, laser image classification, and localization of near surface moored mine threats. Moreover, ALMDS uses pulsed laser light and streak tube receivers (Ref. 3) in a push broom mode for high coverage rate. The transmitted laser light passes through the atmosphere, ruffled air-water interface, and seawater then returns along the similar path to the airborne receivers. This imposes an environmentally induced high dynamic range requirement over the area of interest, which is beyond that of the receiver, limiting system performance.

As with all airborne laser interrogation systems flying over water, the optical return from the surface of the air-water interface is relatively large and the return from within the water column decreases exponentially with depth as the optical scattering blurs the image (Ref. 1). The obvious objective is to clearly image from the surface to as deep as possible. Intuitively, increasing the dynamic range of the optical receiver would be the most logical approach; however, receiver technology limits the dynamic range. Setting the receiver gain too high saturates the surface return and setting the gain lower limits depth penetration. Note that laser safety and natural in-water phenomena limit the system’s practical laser power.

The ALMDS program is currently experimenting with modifications to the pod receiver cameras to increase dynamic range (i.e. dual slope) and improve the quality of images at the surface (bright area) while maintaining depth performance. Additional concepts and techniques, which may be considered, are located within references #1-5.

This topic is seeking novel and innovative technological techniques and/or new software algorithms that will effectively increase the technology’s dynamic range capability for its intended operational mission by extending the range (water depth) for target detection classification and location. Conceptual proposals should include discussions on any developmental history, technical risks, maturity levels, challenges, and applicable mitigation alternatives.

The intended product for Phase I is a technical report describing innovative technologies and novel techniques that will enhance the future naval system’s limited dynamic range detector capabilities. These novel concepts must support operations in high dynamic range environments. Emphasis should be upon the technological feasibility to meet the Navy’s needs that include but are not limited to an enhanced airborne active electro-optic system capable of detecting and identifying in-water objects, reduced false alarm rate, increased depth penetration, and sustained area coverage rate capability. The desired threshold improvement is an effective increase in dynamic range of 10% (for example, increasing a 10 bit dynamic range receiver to an effective 11 bit dynamic range).

This topic’s intent is to provide significant increase in the ability to find mines in an expanded water column using innovative techniques utilizing current technology to modify MCM systems. Implementing these newly SBIR developed techniques with demonstrated feasibility of a capability increase into the ALMDS system is a cost effective way to improve capability with a shortened developmental time for the acquisition program to support resulting in significant development costs. The ability to locate mines in depth regimes legacy systems have difficulty operating in has the real potential to save ship and life losses when hostile actions require ship presence.

PHASE I: The Phase I effort will articulate the feasibility of the concept to meet Navy needs and will establish if the concepts can be practicably developed into a useful product for the Navy as outlined in the description. The company will identify a methodology for integrating the high dynamic range environmental problem of active airborne Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) imaging through the air-water interface with current technology. Generating experimental data to predict performance, mathematical calculations, and modeling are in order to demonstrate proof of concept. The intended product for Phase I is a technical report describing innovative technologies and novel techniques that will enhance the future naval system’s limited dynamic range detector capabilities. The Phase I Option, if awarded, should include the initial description and capabilities to build the unit in Phase II.

PHASE II: Based on the results of Phase I and the Phase II Statement of Work (SOW), the small business will develop a Phase II prototype for integrating the high dynamic range environmental problem of active airborne LIDAR imaging through the air-water interface with current technology. Metrics for increased performance for Phase II efforts will be defined to quantify the increased depth performance of an active airborne imaging system through the air-water interface based on the effective dynamic range increase. The company will provide the experimental test bed(s) (configuration of technologies and test equipment necessary to collect pertinent data) and/or prototype hardware/software configured for testing, evaluation, and data collection for the accompanying algorithm and model development. The company will demonstrate an increased performance (extending the sensor’s native dynamic range) in terms of depth performance. The company will perform detailed analysis to ensure materials are appropriate for Navy applications. The company will deliver a final report documenting all findings to include recommendations for transition to Phase III for Navy use, along with all hardware and software prototypes developed under this effort.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The small business will apply the knowledge gained in Phase II to build finalize the design of hardware/software prototypes. Moreover, the company will demonstrate and characterize the performance in an operationally relevant environment as defined by Navy requirements and support the Navy in transitioning the technology for Navy use. Private Sector Commercial Potential: The technology and techniques developed will have direct applicability to other Government and private airborne LIDAR ocean sensing systems as well as laser interrogations systems operating through the air.

REFERENCES:

Josset, et al, LIDAR equation for ocean surface and subsurface, Optics Express, Vol. 18, Issue 20, pp. 20862-20875 (2010), http://dx.doi.org/10.1364/OE.18.020862
Mullen, Alley, Cochenouv, Investigation of the effect of scattering agent and scattering albedo on modulated light propagation in water. Applied Optics, Vol. 50, No. 10, 1 April 2011.
H. Yang, et. al., Signal-to-noise performance analysis of streak tube imaging lidar systems: Part 1: Cascaded model, Part 2: Theoretical analysis and discussion. Applied Optics, Vol. 51, No. 36, 20 December 2012.
Arnaud Darmont, High Dynamic Range Imaging: Sensors and Architectures (First ed.). SPIE press, 2012. ISBN 978-0-81948-830-5.
Banterle, Francesco; Artusi, Alessandro; Debattista, Kurt; Chalmers, Alan (2011). Advanced High dynamic Range Imaging: theory and practice. AK Peters/CRC Press. ISBN 978-156881-719-4.

KEYWORDS: Airborne LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging); imaging in high dynamic range environments; extending optical sensor’s dynamic range; dynamic range compression; LIDAR signal processing; frequency modulated laser imaging

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Battlespace, Electronics, Sensors

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMS 495, Mine Warfare Office, Airborne Laser Mine Detection System (ALMDS)

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 5.4.c.(8) of the solicitation. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Identify and exploit attributes of a LIDAR signal in hardware and/or software to demonstrate improved detection and identification of sea mine-like objects with a low false alarm rate for future Navy use.

DESCRIPTION: Organic mine countermeasures (MCM) gives naval and marine units the ability to detect, characterize, and neutralize mines using their own assets. The US Navy and Marines fill gaps in MCM capabilities with electro-optic sensor systems. Airborne and underwater MCM sensors are vital to enabling operational maneuverability from the ship to the objective. To meet Naval MCM requirements, a “system-of-systems” approach has been adopted which consists of minehunting, minesweeping, and mine neutralization systems. These weapon systems are primarily deployed and operated from MH-60S helicopter platforms equipped with Airborne Mine Countermeasures (AMCM).

Minehunting is the preferred method of locating and neutralizing sea mines. One such system, which helps to fill a significant capability gap in complete coverage of the upper water volume and complements other MCM systems, is the Navy’s Airborne Laser Mine Detection System (ALMDS).

The ALMDS is a helicopter-deployed system utilizing a streak tube imaging LIDAR system to rapidly detect, classify, and localize floating and near-surface moored sea mines. The ALMDS uses pulsed laser light and streak tube receivers in a push broom mode for high coverage rate. The transmitted laser light passes through the atmosphere, the ruffled air-water interface, through the seawater and returns along the similar path to the airborne receivers imposing an environmentally induced high “clutter” throughout the area of interest, which limits system performance (ref. 1). A variety of image processing techniques are utilized to optimize the probability of detection (Pd) and the probability of classification (Pc) as well as reduce the false alarm rate (FAR).

As with all airborne laser interrogation systems flying over water, the optical return from the surface of the air-water interface is relatively large and the return from within the water column decreases exponentially with depth. The ruffled sea surface redirects (scatters) the transmitted laser light, reducing penetration and scatters the light returned from any submerged object, blurring the image. The turbidity of the water column attenuates and further scatters the transmitted light and blurs the return image (ref. 1). The electro-optic receivers (cameras) sometimes enhance the scatter glow and produce halos around bright spots and in high frame rate systems have image ghosts that further reduce image quality that hinders identifying a submerged object.

The Navy needs to be able to clearly detect and identify sea mines deployed from the surface to as deep as possible with ALMDS while sustaining a high area search rate and maintaining a low false alarm rate. The traditional methods for optimizing current airborne LIDAR system’s capability of imaging through the air-water interface and through the water column is to create the best image possible and use a variety of image processing techniques to identify targets of interest within the return image (ref. 3). The current more mature LIDAR imaging systems use electro-optic techniques such as short laser pulses, polarization, specialized scanners, narrow field of view, range-gated receivers, and streak tube receivers to enhance the system’s ability to provide better images for processing.

This topic is seeking novel and innovative techniques to exploit the laser signal for fusion with image processing techniques to: better detect, recognize, and identify mine-like targets; reduce the false alarm rate; and to quantify results. A variety of technologies and techniques may address this issue. These may include, but are not limited to: 3D imaging, narrow band laser filters, time delay integrate (TDI), polarization (ref. 2), coherent detection (ref. 3), speckle imaging, modulated laser beams (ref. 4), non-imaging techniques, and possibly other means of discriminating the ballistic photons returned to the receiver such as time discrimination (ref. 5). Conceptual proposals should include discussions on any developmental history, technical risks, maturity levels, challenges, and applicable mitigation alternatives. In addition, the proposal should state the expected performance improvement by the proposed method of exploiting aspects of the laser signal and clearly define how the proposer intends to demonstrate and measure the improved performance. (For a simple example: We will use our LIDAR imaging system and standard software as a base line of capability in a standardized laboratory target setup. We will then use technique ‘xyz’ by modifying the laser transceiver and the software accordingly and compare results.

The intended product for Phase I will be a technical report describing innovative technology concepts and novel techniques utilizing the laser signal of an airborne LIDAR system to enhance the future naval system’s capability of detecting and identifying in-water objects and reduce the false alarm rate without sacrificing sustained area coverage rate. These novel concepts must support operations in the natural at-sea environment. Emphasis should be upon the technological feasibility to meet the Navy’s needs that include, but are not limited to, an enhanced airborne active electro-optic system with increased capabilities of detecting and identifying in-water objects, reducing the false alarm rate and possibly increasing depth penetration without sacrificing sustained area coverage rate. The desired threshold improvement of a combined increased Pd/Pc and reduced FAR is 10%. This improvement, in consultation with the Government, may be demonstrated with most any mature system, a laboratory controlled experiment, possibly a mature model or some combination thereof. A clear description of the metric used to measure performance must be included.

This topic’s intent is to provide significant increase in the ability to locate and identify mines as well as reduce false alarms using novel and innovative techniques exploiting attributes of the LIDAR signal to modify the ALMDS system. Implementing these SBIR developed and demonstrated techniques is a cost effective way to increase capability with a shorter development time. In operational mode, increased Pd/Pc and decreased FAR reduce secondary interrogation and mitigation, reducing time lines for mine countermeasures resulting in significant operational cost savings. The ability to increase Pd/Pc and/or lower FAR has the real potential to save ships and lives when hostile actions require ship presence.

PHASE I: The company will identify laser attributes for exploitation to better detect, recognize, and identify sea mine-like objects and reduce the false alarm rate while sustaining area coverage rate other than by image processing techniques alone. Determine the technical feasibility of the concept to meet Navy needs and establish if the concept can be practicably developed into a useful product for the Navy. Select experimental data to predict performance, mathematical calculations and/or modeling may be utilized to demonstrate proof of concept. The Phase I Option, if awarded, should include the initial layout and capabilities description to build the prototype in Phase II.

PHASE II: Based on the results of Phase I and Phase II Statement of Work (SOW), the small business will develop a prototype for evaluation. The Phase II SOW will cover the experimental test bed, which is the configuration of technologies and test equipment necessary to collect pertinent data, and prototype hardware and/or software for testing, and data collection for evaluation and may be used for algorithm and model development. The small business, in consultation with the Government, will define metrics for increased performance (Pd/Pc and decreased FAR) and quantify system performance improvement. The company, in consultation with the Government, will demonstrate increased performance using developed prototype hardware and/or software. The company will perform detailed analysis to ensure any materials used are appropriate for Navy applications. The company will deliver a final report documenting all findings, detailed descriptions of any hardware or software developed under this effort and recommendations for transition to Navy use.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The company will apply the knowledge gained in Phase II to build an advanced test bed which will include a configuration of technologies including the developed hardware and software prototypes to demonstrate and characterize the performance in an operationally relevant environment as defined by Navy requirements. Based on demonstrated results, the intent is the insertion of these developments into the Airborne Laser Mine Detection System. If so, it is expected that the company would support the transition of the developed technology for Navy use. Private Sector Commercial Potential: The technology and techniques developed will have direct applicability to other Government and private airborne LIDAR ocean sensing systems as well as laser interrogation systems operating through the air.

REFERENCES:

Josset, et al, “Lidar equation for ocean surface and subsurface,” Optics Express, Vol. 18, Issue 20, pp. 20862-20875 (2010), http://dx.doi.org/10.1364/OE.18.020862.
Churnside, “Polarization effects on oceanographic LIDAR,” N21 January 2008 / Vol. 16, No. 2 / OPTICS EXPRESS 1196OAA Earth System Research Laboratory.
Christie Kvasnik, “Contrast enhancement of underwater images with coherent optical image processors,” 10 February 1996 @ Vol. 35, No. 5 @ APPLIED OPTICS.
Pellen, et al, “Radio frequency modulation on an optical carrier for target detection enhancement in seawater,” Journal of Physics D: Applied Physics, 34(7):1122, 2001.
S. Farsiu, J. Christofferson, B. Eriksson, P. Milanfar, B. Friedlander, A. Shakouri, R. Nowak, "Statistical detection and imaging of objects hidden in turbid media using ballistic photons," Applied Optics, vol. 46, no. 23, pp. 5805–5822, Aug. 2007.

KEYWORDS: Airborne LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) imaging through the air-water interface; mine detection; sea mine detection; LIDAR signal processing; frequency modulated laser imaging; Streak Tube Imaging; coherent imaging

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Ground/Sea Vehicles

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMS 408, Expeditionary Missions

OBJECTIVE: Develop and demonstrate an explosive Charge Delivery System (CDS) for precision placement by means of an Undersea Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV)

DESCRIPTION: U.S. Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Forces are tasked with the remote neutralization of explosive hazards in the maritime environment. These hazards include naval mines and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) placed in the water in order to damage ships or infrastructure. To counter Naval Mines and Underwater Improvised Explosive Devices (UWIEDs), US Navy EOD Divers are required to approach the device manually at severe risk to life in order to defeat the threat. Not only is this hazardous to the diver, the physiological limitations and decompression time add additional constraints such as staffing, chamber requirements, and decompression time. The dive profile for a decompression dive to greater than 200 feet can take more than two hours. The use of an Undersea Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) would allow smaller teams to work safely and quickly to restore access to mined ports, harbors and waterways. Lessons learned from fighting IEDs on land have shown the value in employing robotic systems when addressing explosive devices. These robots allow faster response times and reduce risk to life (Ref. 1).

There exists a need for an explosive charge delivery system that can integrate with a Commercial-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) ROV to counter naval mines and maritime IEDs that are floating, submerged in the water column (tethered or drifting), or positioned on the seafloor. This proposal is for the development of a “plug-and-play” kit that can be incorporated on to an existing COTS ROV or slightly Modified-Off-The-Shelf (MOTS) ROV. To meet EOD force needs the “plug-and-play” kit needs to interface with an ROV that is one or two person deployable/retrievable without the need for additional launch and recovery equipment. The intent is that the ROV will be operated from an F-470 or F-580 Combat Rubber Raiding Craft (CRRC). The CDS container should interface and function mechanically with the ROV (absent of a need for acoustic or electrical interface) in order to allow for adaptability and incorporation into future ROV chassis and end-effector developments (Ref. 2). In order to optimize effectiveness, the CDS container should be designed with consideration for ROV stability (metacenter, center of buoyancy, and other criteria) while minimizing cross sectional area to reduce drag on the ROV in strong currents (Ref. 3). The technical innovation required is to control the buoyancy and stability of the ROV throughout the operation.

There are alternative and costly weapon systems available or devices that utilize non-military firing systems. Currently, the Urgent Operational Needs (UONs) solution utilized by EOD forces expends a costly proprietary neutralizer to expend of a single naval mine. To avoid such costs, the proposed solution would make use of common demolition materials already in use by EOD forces. The proposed system will make use of standard military plastic explosives and firing devices in order to:

1) Streamline the Weapon System Certification processes. By using explosives and firing devices already approved for military use, the lengthy and costly process of certifying a weapon system will be reduced significantly.

2) Ease logistic burdens required with storing and shipping specialized weapon systems by utilizing existing explosives and firing devices already approved for storage on Navy installations and vessels.

3) Avoid life-cycle cost by providing EOD forces with a tool that incorporates common demolition materials already in service and stored in Explosive Magazines around the world. Not only does this ease the operational logistics of transporting the equipment, it leverages an existing infrastructure for storage, transportation, and training. This system will work with our standard C4 or equivalent and current firing devices. Those items are already in circulation and therefore do not require a logistic tail to support (storage, use, training, and production costs).

PHASE I: The company will define and develop a CDS concept for integrating with a COTS/MOTS ROV and placing charges on drifting, moored, and bottom mines. The company will demonstrate the feasibility of the concept through modeling and analysis to show that the concept will provide a cost-effective CDS that utilizes standard military demolition materials and allows for optimum ROV performance. The company will demonstrate in their analysis the open architecture aspect of the design and how it would interface with multiple COTS/MOTS designs. Phase I Option if exercised, would include the initial layout and capabilities description to build the unit in Phase II.

PHASE II: Based on the results of Phase I effort and the Phase II Statement of Work (SOW), the company will develop CDS prototypes and provide support for evaluation. The prototypes will be evaluated in an operationally relevant environment against the performance goals defined in the Phase II SOW. This system will not be evaluated using live explosives. To understand the risk and scope of achieving required safety certification, the company will conduct a preliminary hazard analysis. The Navy will use this analysis to conduct a more detailed Operational Risk Management (ORM) assessment in support of Phase III. The company will deliver a final prototype at the end of Phase II.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The company will support the Navy in transitioning the CDS to operational use. The company will integrate the finalize design into the COTS/MOTS ROV, test and certify the complete system and provide recommendations for integration into the system into the Navy’s MK 19 ROV Program of Record. Private Sector Commercial Potential: This technology provides capability for a small ROV to conduct precision placement of items on the sea floor. If desired, the containers could be fitted with various sensors (active or passive) for use in monitoring and/or recording activity in the undersea environment. This capability would have applications in Defense, Industry, and Research.

REFERENCES:

CDR (Ret) Reynolds, Thomas S., “How navies can adapt IED lessons for mine-countermeasures effort”, Proceedings, July 2013; http://www.minecountermeasures.com/MediaCenter.aspx
Department of Defense, Unmanned Systems Integrated Roadmap (FY 2013-2038); http://www.defense.gov/pubs/DOD-USRM-2013.pdf
NOAA Ocean Service Education, “Tides and Currents”, 25 March 15; http://oceanservice.noaa.gov/education/tutorial_currents/02tidal1.html

KEYWORDS: Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) in a marine environment; Undersea Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV); Improvised Explosive Device (IED) in a marine environment; Naval Mine Warfare; Mine Countermeasures; Undersea Robotics

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Information Systems

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PEO Integrated Warfare Systems (IWS) 1.0, AEGIS Integrated Combat System.

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 5.4.c.(8) of the solicitation. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop a real-time capability for anomaly based detection of cyber-attacks in Internet Protocol (IP) based Combat System networks.

DESCRIPTION: Cyber-attack is a growing concern in military and commercial markets due to the increased sophistication and proliferation of hacker implements such as Denial of Service (DoS) tactics and zero day threats. Conventional approaches such as data encryption and virus definition files deployed through anti-virus software and associated updates are unable to address the increased complexity of today’s cyber-attacks. Commercially available technologies for preventing attacks are not updating real-time to protect against emerging threats or assessing compounded system vulnerabilities, a Navy specific need for ensuring protection and operational availability of the combat and weapon systems integral to mission success. By developing a cyber-protection system architecture possessing the ability to detect an imminent cyber-attack on a real-time basis from one or more vectors, the Navy can protect vital data and communication equipment and software and prevent system failures due to cyber threats.

The Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) is a cyber-adversary that attempts to gain a stealthy foothold on a targeted system (Ref. 1). The APT can remain present (persist) within the targeted system for extended periods without being detected. An APT can potentially observe military tactics, techniques, and procedures for executing a mission. The APT can observe and corrupt the data used to plan and execute the mission posing a loss of life, risk to the war fighter, as well as mission failure. Being stealthy, the APT would have the opportunity to deny the execution of the mission at a time of the APT’s choosing. The APT may accomplish this objective by depositing malware onto the target system via social engineering or supply chain infiltration. A layered defense in-depth strategy mitigates the APT, but additional capabilities to assess system health and behavior against the APT are desired so that if an APT is detected, the APT may be eliminated, isolated, or presented with disinformation to assure mission success.

The APT may target a system through any combination of three cyber-attack vectors: Data At Rest, meaning the files on the disk drives; Data in Execution, meaning data and computer programs in memory; and Data in Transit, meaning the data moving across a network.

State of the art techniques used to detect and mitigate the APT include file integrity checkers, anti-virus tools, automated computer log reviewers, network access controlled appliances, and rule-based System Information and Event Management (SIEM) tools. Heuristic algorithms are needed to compliment near real-time rule-based approaches to thwart the APT.

Current cyber techniques utilize code-signature mechanisms, such as virus definition files, which contain a set of digital signatures for previously identified malicious code, as well as real-time data encryption such as “https” protocol, Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) and NSA approved Triple Data Encryption Standard (Triple DES) to achieve cyber security. Such methods are more than adequate for communications with a validated network peer and supporting non real-time detection of the potential compromise of a suspect system utilizing file-scanning techniques. For low-bandwidth communications, rudimentary pseudo-real-time uses of code-signature techniques (such as email-scanning virus-detection processes) are used to help validate incoming data and prevent cyber-attack. The ability to detect a cyber-attack from one or more vectors, and pre-emptively secure the system from that pending attack (or immediately mitigate the effects of the attack if prevention is impossible), becomes a critical issue.

There is a need for a cyber-protection tool with the capability to detect imminent, un-documented cyber-attacks. The foundations of this system shall be derived from the development of pattern recognition sensors and algorithms developed by the proposer. The system will be capable of identifying and classifying cyber-attack methods based on data collected through network traffic, computer usage logs, and load monitoring software. Proposed cyber-protection architectures would need the capability to detect and identify cyber-attacks from multiple vectors including network-based attacks, system infiltration attempts (zero-day and otherwise), and other malicious access and data infiltration techniques (Ref. 1). This will be accomplished in a manner that would allow continued system operation (Ref. 2) and for the deployment of appropriate attack-dependent cyber countermeasures designed to either eliminate the specific attack, or mitigate the effects of the specific attack, before extensive damage occurs. The software should not affect system message latency and have a low false alarm rate. Software testing to prove concept accuracy in pattern recognition will be done by the small business. Software certification will be a joint effort between the small business and the systems integrator.

PHASE I: During Phase I, the company will develop a concept for a real-time low or no latency anomaly detection capability for Combat Systems. The company will show the feasibility of this concept with a set of real-time pattern detection models, methods, and algorithms capable of identifying and classifying potential cyber-attack vectors and methods. These models, methods and algorithms would be based on real-time data collected through network traffic and load monitoring software, as well as real-time predictive algorithms enabling the potential classification of the attack within a period adequate to enable real-time attack mitigation and response. For example, a fast discovery scan to sequentially map a network for attack should be recognized within minutes while a shrewd adversary may wait hours between seemingly random connection attempts. Feasibility will be demonstrated by numerical, probability of detection analyses comparing sample baseline system and data attributes, and system and data attributes associated with experimental cyber-attacks. The Phase I Option, if awarded, will include the capabilities description to develop the software in Phase II.

PHASE II: Based on the results of Phase I and the Phase II Statement of Work (SOW), a prototype software with real-time capability will be delivered that could be integrated with any hardware and software systems. The prototype must be capable of demonstrating real-time attack pattern detection and attack classification prediction models in a timeframe commensurate with the requisite real-time attack response requirement. The company shall provide a detailed test plan to demonstrate the deliverable identifies the APT. A Phase III qualification and transition plan will be provided at the end of Phase II.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: During Phase III, the company will support the Navy in the system integration and qualification testing for the software developed in Phase II. This will be accomplished through land-based and ship integration and test events. Private Sector Commercial Potential: Cyber-attacks on commercial companies have grown exponentially with ever-increasing sophistication in the types of attack. Public sector organizations deal with the ramifications of these attacks after the fact versus being able to respond to them in a real-time preventative manner. The technology developed under this effort would be directly applicable to the commercial need to respond to the same sorts of attack that the DoD is facing. Many DoD protocols and interface requirements are based on commercially accepted standards which facilitates a viable technology transition of this topic’s technology to the commercial market.

REFERENCES:

Eric M. Hutchins, Michael J. Clopperty, Rohan M. Amin, Ph.D. "Intelligence-Driven Computer Network Defense Informed by Analysis of Adversary Campaigns and Intrusion Kill Chains" (PDF). Lockheed Martin Corporation Abstract. 13 March 2013. 4 June 2015. retrieved from http://www.lockheedmartin.com/content/dam/lockheed/data/corporate/documents/LM-White-Paper-Intel-Driven-Defense.pdf.
McDowell, Mindy. "Security Tip (ST04-015) Understanding Denial-of-Service Attacks” Department of Homeland Security United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team. 06 February 2013. 15 April 2015. https://www.us-cert.gov/ncas/tips/ST04-015
Department of Defense Instruction, No. 8500.2, “Information Assurance (IA) Implementation. 6 February 2003. http://www.cac.mil/docs/DoDD-8500.2.pdf

KEYWORDS: Detect and identify cyber-attacks from multiple vectors; detect a potentially imminent cyber-attack; cyber-protection architectures; network-based DoS; malicious access and data infiltration techniques; pattern detection models

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Information Systems, Materials/Processes

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: NAVSUP Fuels Asset Management and Maintenance System (FAMMS)

OBJECTIVE: Develop a mobile platform (hardware and software) that integrates with the IBM MAXIMO Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) system used by Fuels Asset Maintenance Management System (FAMMS)¹.

DESCRIPTION: FAMMS is utilized by Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Fleet Logistics Centers (FLCs) to maintain petroleum, oils and lubricants (POL) facility equipment assets at Defense Fuel Support Points (DFSPs). The system tracks equipment assets and manages all aspects of fuel facility maintenance. Personnel currently rely on paper work-orders generated by FAMMS to update, distribute and post maintenance record data, a cumbersome and inefficient process. At the beginning of each month, NAVSUP FLC Fuel Department maintenance management personnel generate the month’s work-orders and job plans. The job plans detail the steps to perform the work-order tasks and describe any safety precautions, hazards, special tools or materials and special instructions. The work-orders are printed, sorted, distributed and assigned accordingly. Upon completion of the assigned task, the maintenance personnel annotate pertinent information on the work-order (labor datum, hours, special comments, etc.) and hand in the paper work-order for manual entry into FAMMS. NAVSUP FLC Fuel Departments generate and print thousands of paper work-orders each month. In November 2015, nine of the 16 DFSPs using FAMMS generated and completed 7,561 work-orders. NAVSUP FLC San Diego averages 1,300 work-orders per month; NAVSUP FLC Puget Sound averages 800. Each work-order has multiple pages. One job plan for a scheduled annual work-order in NAVSUP FLC San Diego is 300 pages long. The period of time between the actual maintenance action (recorded on paper) and the data entry into FAMMS risks a loss of integrity due to latency. Data entry may also be slowed due to lack of completeness or legibility of the paper work-order. The labor used for data entry averages 435 hours per year at NAVSUP FLC Puget Sound (Manchester Fuels).

Developing a mobile platform for FAMMS will improve efficiencies in asset management and maintenance work-order processes. Implementation of this technology will enhance fuel facility labor management practices and improve productivity with continuous access to data. Time for data entry and record maintenance actions will be decreased since work data would be captured at the point of execution. Works order tasks assigned and distributed electronically eliminates the need to print reams of paper each month. The solution must provide a mobile platform that combines a hardware device and software applications that integrate with the IBM MAXIMO EAM system. The device must have a minimum of 4 gigabytes (GB) of Random Access Memory (RAM) to support the MAXIMO EAM system. The device screen size must be no smaller than 4 inches long by 2 inches wide. The device battery life must last throughout an 8-hour work shift without need for recharging. The device must be capable of both wired and wireless internet connectivity. The device’s operating system must be capable of running when internet connectivity is not available (offline mode). The mobile device must comply with MIL-STD-810G, being ruggedized to withstand the work environment of a fuel facility or must be augmented by ruggedized accessories (protective cases, sleeves, screen covers). The software application must be able to synchronize data with FAMMS that was entered into the mobile device while the device was in offline mode. It must run on any mobile device (Apple, Android, Blackberry, Windows). The solution (hardware and software) must meet the system DoD accreditation and certification requirements as cited in DoDI 8510.01, Risk Management Framework (RMF) for DoD Information Technology (IT), and DoDI 8500.01, Cybersecurity.

PHASE I: Develop the Mobile Platform for the FAMMS operational concept and select viable hardware and software solutions that meet the requirements identified in the description. The company will perform proof-of-concept and prepare any supporting documentation for technology development. The company will provide an initial layout of the capabilities and a plan for the development and demonstration of a prototype solution as part of Phase II.

PHASE II: Based on the results of Phase I, produce a mobile platform prototype solution, conduct a technology demonstration and deployment of the Mobile Platform for the FAMMS solution at an operational DFSP within the continental U.S.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Based on the results of Phase II, deploy the Mobile Platform for the FAMMS solution to all FAMMS participating DFSPs. The company will explore the potential to transfer the solution to other military and commercial systems. Private Sector Commercial Potential: Development of this solution to meet the Navy's POL asset management and work management maintenance needs would present the small business with the potential to apply the resulting technology to satisfy requirements for large commercial organizations in the fuel management and other sectors.

REFERENCES:

DoDI 8510.01, Risk Management Framework (RMF) for DoD Information Technology (IT), dated 12 March 2014.
DoDI 8500.01, Cybersecurity, dated 14 March 2014.

KEYWORDS: Mobile; Fuels; MAXIMO; FAMMS; Asset Management; Work Management, automated work order

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials/Processes

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 5.4.c.(8) of the solicitation. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop novel low-cost techniques for high volume manufacturing of maritime Radio Frequency (RF) materials.

DESCRIPTION: There is a growing need for the development of high performance, low cost RF materials for the maritime environment. As the Navy begins planning for next generation platforms novel, affordable, maritime compatible materials will need to be developed. Current, conventional materials need to be improved to enhance their capabilities as a function of both bandwidth and performance. Current materials are also prone to degradation due to environmental effects, have weight issues and temperature limitations. Novel approaches to RF materials are desired that allow for maritime compatibility, wideband performance, broad temperature performance, and better mechanical properties. The specific materials of interest for this topic include materials with: high RF dielectric and magnetic properties, low and high RF electric and magnetic loss, and stiff and flexible materials. Techniques that achieve a number of these interests will be preferred. A manufacturing technique to develop these low cost RF materials is critical to the success of an affordable future Navy. Example applications include:

1) antenna size reduction materials (high dielectric and magnetic properties with low loss)– materials that have the potential to reduce the physical size of antennas while maintaining the RF performance of the antennas, specific emphasis should be placed on frequencies below 4GHz.

2) RF absorbing materials (high dielectric and magnetic properties with loss) – materials that show potential to far exceed the RF performance of current absorbing materials (carbonyl iron powder) in bandwidth, frequency of operation, weight, cost and environmental compatibility.

3) flexible materials (high dielectric and magnetic properties with and without loss) – maritime compatible materials that retain their mechanical properties over a very broad temperature range (-110 to +350 degrees Fahrenheit).

PHASE I: Demonstrate the ability to develop and manufacture an RF material with an index of refraction greater than 10 at 2 GHz. Characterize material(s) electromagnetic properties in-house or with ITAR controlled laboratories. Deliver to the Government a prototype sample of at least 1 sq. ft. in size and, if applicable, 100 grams of the filler material. Develop and present to the Government a plan to scale up the materials, either independently or with a materials manufacturing company.

PHASE II: Refine the manufacturing technique and demonstrate consistent electrical properties, temperature range and environmental stability by testing statistically meaningful material lots. Property requirements/goals will be refined in collaboration with the Government for specific applications. Once the requirements/goals are refined the contractor shall demonstrate scalability to tens of sq. ft. of material.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Finalize the development of material based solutions and work with an industry partner to develop processes so that the chosen materials can be readily implemented on existing and future Navy assets. In phase III, the technique will be applied to a large scale application. While the scope of the finalized affordable RF material manufacturing will be determined by the technique itself, the final state of the technology will be an adaptable low cost manufacturing process for high index of refraction RF materials. Private Sector Commercial Potential: Wireless technology is a large and growing part of the world economy. Affordable RF materials with high electric and magnetic properties decrease the size and potential weigh of the antenna systems.

REFERENCES:

E. F. Knott, J. F. Shaeffer, M. T. Tuley, “Radar Cross Section”, Artech House, Inc, 1993.
Richards, Scheer, Holm, "Principles of Modern Radar: Basic Principles", Scitech Publishing, Inc., 2010.

KEYWORDS: Processing/Manufacturing, RF Absorbers, Flexible, RF Materials, Antennas

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 5.4.c.(8) of the solicitation. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Design and develop a system capable of measuring the Radar Cross Section/Radio Frequency (RCS/RF) performance of Naval platforms or sub-systems (i.e. apertures) while deployed at sea.

DESCRIPTION: While assigned to the fleet, there is a need to quickly verify air vehicles’ RCS/RF performance to maintain operational readiness. To find RF defects or changes, measurements are taken and then used to assess the health of the aircraft and antenna functionality. The operating costs and readiness levels of many current and next generation platforms are driven by their maintenance and sustainment need. Previous and current methodologies for precise platform measurements and antenna patterns have proven too costly to the point of being impractical. An onboard RF evaluation system suite that quickly and affordably takes qualitative measurements of the RCS/RF performance on an aircraft is ideal to check system ability. The baseline bandwidth for RCS/RF verification measurements will be 2-18 GHz with stretch objectives to go both lower and higher in frequency. This SBIR topic is intended to address three levels of RCS/RF verification over the noted bandwidth:

1) On-board verification – develop a handheld or similar device to perform near field RCS/RF verification on the flight deck or below deck in the hangar space.

2) Shipboard to air verification – develop a portable verification system that is based on board the ship and allows for the RCS/RF verification of aircraft as they fly near the ship.

3) Air to air verification – develop a verification system that is compact enough to be integrated into an air vehicle to perform air to air RCS/RF verification.

PHASE I: Determine the feasibility for the development of a RCS/RF verification measurement system. This will include a determination of what approaches might be possible to address the objectives listed in the Description section. As part of Phase I, the contractor shall demonstrate an understanding of the problem, the physics associated with the problem and provide a clear path towards build of a prototype and technology demonstration during Phase II.

PHASE II: Based on the Phase I effort, demonstrate and validate the RCS/RF verification measurement system. In this phase the small business shall build a RCS/RF frequency verification prototype system to measure an aircraft in at least one (and up to all) of the objective configurations. The bandwidth of the system shall be at least 2-18 GHz. Additional systems to go either lower or higher in frequency are encouraged.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Based on the Phase II effort, integrate the RCS/RF verification measurement system with a naval platform. Perform field testing to show the robustness of the system and to resolve issues with signature and RF measurements of aircraft in shipboard environments. Private Sector Commercial Potential: The RCS/RF verification measurement system can be used in the field to measure the RCS contributions from wind turbines. Also, the system has potential to measure and diagnose the RF health of antennas and “smart” vehicles.

REFERENCES:

R. Cioni, A. Sarri, S. Sensani, G. de Mauro; "A Low-Cost Compact Measurement System for Diagnostic Imaging and RCS Estimation", Proceedings of AMTA 25th Meeting and Symposium, Irvine, CA, 2003.
Radar Cross Section Measurements and Simulations of a Model Airplane in the X-bandInácio Malmonge Martin, Mauro Alves, Guilherme G. Peixoto, and Mirabel Cerqueira de Rezende PIERS Online, Vol. 5, No. 4, 377-380, 2009 doi:10.2529/PIERS090220150258. http://www.piers.org/piersonline/piers.php?volume=5&number=4&page=377

KEYWORDS: RCS, RF, verification, antennas, shipboard

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics, Ground/Sea Vehicles, Weapons

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: ONR 331 POM-15 Multi-Function Energy Storage FNC, ONR 35 Electromagnetic Railgun INP

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 5.4.c.(8) of the solicitation. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop an advanced, modular and scalable capacitor charging converter that takes advantage of the unique characteristics of wide bandgap semiconductor devices. This converter will be capable of charging one or more 325kJ capacitor(s) to 6.5-10kVDC in 5 seconds at a repetition rate of up to 10 charges per minute. This duty cycle will be continuous without pause, and indefinite. The charger will be able to vary energy level and charge duration as needed to meet mission requirements, and present a manageable and reasonably continuous and level load to reduce effects on the power system.

DESCRIPTION: Future electric weapons, such as Electromagnetic Railguns, will require high-voltage supplies to provide power to their pulse-forming-networks (PFNs). While high-output-voltage power converters have been successfully applied in other applications, existing units have inadequate power densities to be deployed in volumetrically constrained shipboard applications. Additionally, most existing high-output-voltage converters do not accept input voltages in the range of projected Navy power systems. In commercial and other military applications, wide-bandgap semiconductor materials such as silicon carbide and gallium nitride have enabled substantially smaller switching devices with greater thermal capabilities, higher breakdown voltages, and much faster switching frequencies. This technology can enable the development of more compact, better-performing, and more efficient high-voltage power converters.

The Navy capacitor charging application is very different from commercial capacitor chargers in that the power levels are higher (i.e. a greater amount of capacitance is being charged), the per-kW size is smaller to fit within the constrained space on ships, and the charging converters are operated continuously at high repetition rates. In addition, the Navy converters must be compatible with the shipboard environment with its unique shock, vibration, and other environmental requirements. For this reason, it is necessary to develop application-specific converters for this application rather than applying a commercial-off-the-shelf solution.

This topic pursues innovative means of charging capacitors from zero to 6.5-10 kVDC, in a rapid, repetitive manner, with a range of input voltages. The proposed charging converter to be produced shall have the following characteristics:

-Be able to draw power from a battery or rectifier source with input voltages of 650-1100 VDC. Different add-on front ends can be used to accommodate higher input electric distribution voltages of 6.5 kVDC, and/or 4160 VAC, with one of these selected for demonstration.

-Be able to charge 325kJ of capacitance (or integer multiples of this value to enhance power density) in 5 seconds and have a repetition rate of 10 charges per minute, continuously with no maximum number of charges.

-To minimize peak power demands on the source, the charging converter shall have a peak-to-average power ratio of no more than 1.1 over the charge cycle.

-Proposed concepts shall incorporate liquid cooling since they will ultimately reject their heat to water provided by the ship. Coolant will be 0-35°C Seawater and/or 5-40°Coolant (50/50 Propylene Glycol/Water)

-To fit within the shipboard environment, the charging converters should have a power density, using average not peak power, of 3 MW/m3 or greater, not including additional add-on modules proposed for interfacing with higher voltages. Dimensions will be tailored to best facilitate serviceability, changeout, and appropriate bussing within a group of charger units. The longest single dimension will not exceed 72”.

-The outputs of the converters should be galvanically isolated from the input voltage.

-Parameters of the charging profile (i.e. the ramp rate of power at the beginning and end of the charge cycle) should be adjustable in order to be compatible with a variety of power sources. Load behavior will not include any large (>25%) drops or other behaviors that are unsupportable by prime movers or power system dynamic requirements.

-In order to be compatible with the shipboard environment, the final design should meet the following requirements: Shock MIL-S-901D, Vibration MIL-STD-167-1A, and Transportability MIL-STD-810G (design to but not test to these requirements under phase I/II).

-Suitable to be multiplexed to a single power converter or source. The controls for operation should allow multiple units to start charging simultaneously or with a variable delay.

-A desirable but not required attribute would allow the device to operate bidirectional, potentially enabling other uses in power conversion between 6.5-10kVDC and a lower feed voltage (650-1100 VDC).

-The small business may use any switching devices, power electronic topologies, and control strategies that meet the requirements above and herein as defined for the phases of execution.

PHASE I: Demonstrate the feasibility of an advanced, scalable, modular converter charger for 325 KJ capacitor(s) using wide bandgap switching devices. As applicable, demonstrate the effectiveness of the solution with hardware, modeling and simulation, and applicable engineering analysis. A Simulink simulation will be created under the base phase and delivered to the Navy. Hardware-based demonstration will support validation of the model, and a validated version will be provided to the Navy under the option phase, if awarded, as a Simulink file, capable of operating under the Opal-RT real-time HIL environment. Establish performance goals and provide a Phase II developmental approach and schedule that contains discrete milestones for product development.

PHASE II: Develop, demonstrate and fabricate a prototype with characteristics identified in Phase I. In a laboratory environment, demonstrate that the prototype meets the performance goals established in Phase I, as related to charging performance and continuous operations. Conduct performance, integration, and risk assessments. Update simulations according to the as-built design attributes. Testing during this phase should demonstrate the ability to charge a capacitor(s) with the required charge time with rep rate capability. Thermal management will be sufficiently characterized to ensure that steady-state is reached. The unit, as built, will be assessed by simulation and implemented design practices for suitability to meet shock, vibration and environmental characteristics. The performer will then develop a cost benefit analysis and cost estimate for a naval shipboard unit. Provide a Phase III installation, testing, and validation plan, including shock, vibration and environmental requirements, which includes spare test units.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Working with the Navy and Industry, as applicable, design and construct a fully functional high voltage charging converter meeting all requirements listed in the Description section. The company will support the Navy for test and validation to certify and qualify the system for Navy use. The converter will be tested at full power and maximum rep rate during this phase in an in indicative manner at the vendor as a Factory Acceptance Test (FAT), and then at a Navy test facility where appropriate high voltage equipment can be demonstrated with it. The company shall explore the potential to transfer the technology during this SBIR effort to other military and commercial systems. Market research and analysis shall identify the most promising technology areas and the company shall develop manufacturing plans to facilitate a smooth transition to the Navy. Private Sector Commercial Potential: Technologies developed in this program are applicable utility and industrial applications requiring high density dc power conversion, especially those involving the charging of large banks of capacitors. Examples include fusion research facilities such as the National Ignition Facility (NIF) which use 100’s of megajoules of stored energy. Technologies would also be applicable to more general medium voltage power electronics applications such as High-Voltage DC transmission (HVDC) systems, medium-voltage motor drives, and systems designed to interface alternative energy supplies to the medium voltage distribution grid.

REFERENCES:

Gully, J. H., “Power Supply Technology for Electric Guns”, IEEE Transactions on Magnetics, Volume: 27 Issue: 1, Jan 1991, Page(s): 329 -334.
Elwell, R.; Cherry, J.; Fagan, S.; Fish, S.; “Current And Voltage Controlled Capacitor Charging Schemes”, IEEE Transactions on Magnetics, Volume: 31, Issue: 1, Jan 1995, Pages: 38 – 42.
Bernardes, J. S.; Sturmborg, M. F.; Jean, T. E., “Analysis of a Capacitor-Based Pulsed-Power System for Driving Long-Range EM Guns”, IEEE Transactions on Magnetics, Volume: 39, Issue: 1, Jan. 2003 Pages: 486 - 490.
Grater, G.F.; Doyle, T.J.; “Propulsion Powered Electric Guns-A Comparison of Power System Architectures”, IEEE Transactions on Magnetics, Volume: 29, Issue: 1, Jan 1993 Pages: 963 – 968.
James, C.; Hettler, C.; Dickens, J.; Neuber, A., "Compact Silicon Carbide Switch For High Voltage Operation," in Proceedings of the 2008 IEEE International Power Modulators and High Voltage Conference, vol., no., pp.17-20, 27-31 May 2008.
Friedrichs, P.; Rupp, R., "Silicon carbide power devices - current developments and potential applications," in 2005 European Conference on Power Electronics and Applications, vol., no., pp.11 pp.-P.11, 11-14 Sept. 2005.
Shenai, K., "Wide bandgap (WBG) semiconductor power converters for DC microgrid applications," in 2015 IEEE First International Conference on DC Microgrids (ICDCM), vol., no., pp.263-268, 7-10 June 2015.
MIL-S-901D: http://everyspec.com/MIL-SPECS/MIL-SPECS-MIL-S/MIL-S-901D_14581/
MIL-STD-167-1A: http://everyspec.com/MIL-STD/MIL-STD-0100-0299/MIL-STD-167-1A_22418/
MIL-STD-810G: http://everyspec.com/MIL-STD/MIL-STD-0800-0899/MIL-STD-810G_12306/

KEYWORDS: Electromagnetic; capacitors; pulsed-power; converter; power electronics; pulse-forming; wide bandgap; silicon carbide; railgun; gallium nitride

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Ground/Sea Vehicles, Sensors

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: Expeditionary UUV Neutralization System (EUNS) in PMS-408

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 5.4.c.(8) of the solicitation. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop a trace chemical / explosive sensor system for underwater unexploded ordnance (UXO) applications that is effective for TNT and other nitro-based underwater UXO analytes of interest.

DESCRIPTION: Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) response teams encounter a variety of underwater explosive threats including limpet mines, naval mines, underwater improvised explosive devices (UW-IEDs) and other UXO. A trace chemical/explosive sensor system will provide improved classification and identification of suspect underwater targets in missions for which acoustic and/or visual imaging alone are not effective. The chemical sensor package desired from this project will be capable of being integrated into a man-portable remotely operated vehicle (ROV). The goal of this program is to expand the existing trace chemical detection capability to include TNT and other nitro-based underwater UXO analytes of interest, such as RDX, PETN and HMX, as well as home-made explosive (HME) compound such as ammonium nitrate, triacetone triperoxide (TATP), and hexamethylene triperoxide diamine (HMTD). The current state-of-the-art is a single analyte sensor for detection of TNT, which only partially addresses the Navy’s requirement to detect the full range of explosive threats.

PHASE I: Define and develop a concept for a multi-analyte sensor system to detect explosive threat compounds of interest at operationally relevant concentrations in seawater. Perform modeling and simulation to predict effectiveness against TNT and other nitro-based underwater UXO analytes of interest, such as RDX, PETN and HMX, as well as home-made explosive (HME) compound such as ammonium nitrate, triacetone triperoxide (TATP), and hexamethylene triperoxide diamine (HMTD). The weight and volume of the sensor should not exceed 25 pounds and 250 cubic inches. The maximum power requirement should not exceed 2.5 watts. The sensor’s response time should not exceed 2 minutes. The minimum detection limit threshold should be 500 parts per trillion.

PHASE II: Produce a prototype sensor system based on the Phase I work. The prototype will be used to demonstrate and validate the concept developed in Phase I in an operationally relevant environment. The weight and volume of the prototype sensor should not exceed 25 pounds and 250 cubic inches. The maximum power requirement should not exceed 2.5 watts. The probability of detection threshold value is .80 and the objective value is .95. The probability of false alarm threshold value is less than .15 and the objective value is .05. The sensor’s response time should not exceed 2 minutes. The minimum detection limit threshold should be 500 parts per trillion. The sensor reliability should be greater than 80 percent and should operate from the ocean surface to a depth of at least 300 feet.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Integrate prototype sensor system into a man-portable ROV and demonstrate detection of underwater UXO chemical signature targets in an operationally relevant environment prior to transition to PMS-408. Private Sector Commercial Potential: Detection of underwater chemicals for pipeline inspection.

REFERENCES:

Charles, PT, André A. Adams, Jeffrey R. Deschamps, Scott Veitch, Al Hanson and Anne W. Kusterbeck, Detection of Explosives in a Dynamic Marine Environment Using a Moored TNT Immunosensor, Sensors 2014, 14(3), 4074-4085; doi:10.3390/s140304074.
Adams, André A., Paul T. Charles, Scott P. Veitch, Alfred Hanson, Jeffrey R. Deschamps, and Anne W. Kusterbeck, (2013), REMUS100 AUV with an integrated microfluidic system for explosives detection, Anal Bioanal Chem 405:5171–5178, DOI 10.1007/s00216-013-6853-x.
Andre A. Adams, Paul T. Charles, Jeffrey R. Deschamps, and Anne W. Kusterbeck, Demonstration of Submersible High-Throughput Microfluidic Immunosensors for Underwater Explosives Detection, Analytical Chemistry (2012), dx.doi.org/10.1021/ac2009788.
Paul T. Charles, André A. Adams, Jeffrey R. Deschamps, Scott P. Veitch, Alfred Hanson, and Anne W. Kusterbeck, Explosives detection in the marine environment using UUV-modified immunosensor, Proc. SPIE 8018, 80181U (2011).
Dock, Matthew L.; Harper, Ross J.; Knobbe, Ed, Combined pre-concentration and real-time in-situ chemical detection of explosives in the marine environment, 2010, OCEAN SENSING AND MONITORING II, Book Series: Proceedings of SPIE-The International Societ
Trace Chemical Sensing of Explosives: Edited by Ronald L. Woodfin. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/9780470085202.fmatter/pdf

KEYWORDS: Chemical sensor, explosive sensor, underwater sensor, remotely operated vehicle, underwater UXO, underwater IEDs

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Ground/Sea Vehicles, Information Systems

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: Exchange of Tactical Information at the Tactical Edge (EAITE) FNT FY14-03

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 5.4.c.(8) of the solicitation. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: The objective is to research, assess, and develop a new ground vehicle based network to enable future advances in condition-based maintenance (CBM) and energy command and control (EC2).

DESCRIPTION: Naval Expeditionary Forces--specifically the US Marines, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command, and Naval Special Warfare Command--work in demanding and austere environments requiring reliable systems. There is a desire to research and implement new CBM capabilities for these forces to enhance a platform's operational availability while decreasing total ownership cost. This will necessitate new affordable health and usage monitoring systems, accurate prediction of the current state of vehicle health, notification of required maintenance actions, and better facilitation of overall fleet maintenance through data-driven decision making. Currently the US Army has a pilot CBM+ program that logs time series data from the vehicle's data bus that communicates with existing component diagnostics in the engine, transmission, brakes, and electrical systems (e.g., engine oil temperature and pressure, fuel rate, injection control pressure, etc.). Existing diagnostics from the original equipment manufacturers rely on state parameters like temperature and pressure, which present potential warnings after component damage has already occurred. The current pilot program primarily relies on connecting a laptop computer to a vehicle's CBM data logger once every month; data is then uploaded to the CBM data warehouse for further use. Standalone implementation of CBM wireless mesh technologies have also been experimented to automatically communicate with external nodes; this system currently has very low data rates that meet current needs. The data rates of this mesh technology may not be sufficient for the future vision of a more robust implementation of CBM. To elicit earlier indications and warning of component wear and damage, other CBM health and usage monitoring sensors are envisioned, such as low cost vibrational, corrosion, or fatigue sensors. Additional sensors will increase onboard or off-board computational requirements and likely tax the exchange and collection of health and usage data. There is a desire to fully automate the CBM process in the future by removing the need to physically connect to a vehicle to collect pertinent data, while increasing data collection frequency. In a garrison environment, health and use data may be automatically collected or uploaded at a Motor Pool upon vehicle dispatch/return, during preventive checks and services, or prior to corrective maintenance services. In a tactical environment there are additional challenges with the disconnected, intermittent, limited bandwidth (DIL) environment; potential cyber safe requirements; and potential cross-domain (classified/unclassified) movement of unclassified maintenance data from a classified operational data network to unclassified data warehouses. Additionally, the vehicle dispatch methodology doesn't apply in combat, especially before forward operating bases are established; therefore, collecting vehicle health and usage data will be increasingly important. This network architecture and automation of CBM may also enable a commander and maintenance leaders to have a dashboard view of the health of his/her assets to guide mission execution and support operational and logistics decision-making. It is envisioned that this ‘commander’s dashboard’ also fulfills the need to support future energy command and control concepts. Currently commanders lack the visibility of the energy/fuel posture of their force, so they lack basic knowledge such as the current operational reach (range) of their force prior to resupply. This lack of information, which may be fulfilled with health and usage monitoring information transmitted over new data networks, may be a contributing reason that we observe up to 70% idling of tactical vehicles in combat and training.

Finally, new vehicle network architectures must consider the pros/cons of the potential integration of operational, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and logistics communication /data requirements at the tactical edge in austere naval expeditionary environments compared to separate standalone logistics network solutions.

PHASE I: Define and develop an initial concept and a network architecture for the autonomous communication of condition based maintenance (health and usage) and energy command and control information for naval vehicles and riverine craft. The network must consider the potential for the integration of operational data and logistics (including maintenance and energy status data) across tactical communication capabilities versus standalone ad hoc network capabilities dedicated to CBM data. This may include consideration of future CBM data needs; onboard versus off-board data conditioning and processing; estimation of data storage and throughput needs; exploration of various secure communication schemes; persistent messaging and dissemination control; data fusion; and responsiveness to disconnected, intermittent and limited bandwidth environments.

PHASE II: Refine the network architecture for the autonomous communication of condition based maintenance and energy command and control information. This may include network modeling of various concepts of employment to select optimal network elements and flow. Establish a prototype hardware-in-the loop implementation of this network architecture with key vehicle/platform and network components passing and using emulated or live data to demonstrate network efficacy. Experiment with various optimization concepts.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Refine as needed, the final architecture and system design based on the results of the hardware in the loop demonstrations and experiments. Implement the network on a government selected naval expeditionary platform (e.g., ground vehicle, construction equipment, or riverine craft) for operational testing to support technology transition and additional commercialization. Private Sector Commercial Potential: ONR held a workshop in October on condition based maintenance. Major original equipment manufacturers are advancing condition based maintenance employment for commercial fleets; however, these industrial partners have access to unsecure cellular wireless infrastructure to support these programs making DoD CBM needs unique. But there is strong potential that the advanced health and usage monitoring network concepts presented in this SBIR program will benefit the commercial implementation of CBM and can be adopted by industry. Concepts like the 'commander's dashboard' would also be equally amiable to a construction/mining foreman’s or fleet manager’s dashboard for productive, cost-effective operations.

REFERENCES:

Enabling Condition Based Maintenance with Health and Usage Monitoring Systems. First I. T. Scott Kilby 1, Second I. Eric Rabeno 2, Third James Harvey 3. AIAC14 Fourteenth Australian International Aerospace Congress Seventh DSTO International Conference on Health & Usage Monitoring. http://www.humsconference.com.au/Papers2011/Kilby_S_Enabling_Condition_Based_Maintenance.pdf accessed December 2015.
Exchange of Actionable Information at the Tactical Edge. http://www.onr.navy.mil/~/media/Files/Funding-Announcements/BAA/2013/13-017.ashx; accessed Dec 2015.
LIA Focus Areas. https://lia.army.mil/focusAreas.aspx; accessed Dec 2015.
SAE Aerospace Standards Summit Condition Based Maintenance. Greg Kilchenstein. 08 July 2015. https://www.sae.org/standardsdev/summit/presentations/kilchenstein-condition_based.pdf; accessed Dec 2015.

KEYWORDS: CBM; HUMS; network; architecture; energy command and control; cross domain; vehicle health

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Battlespace, Electronics, Sensors

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 5.4.c.(8) of the solicitation. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: The objective is to demonstrate Ultra-Sensitive Low Frequency Receiver with a compact RF front end that delivers better than 26 bit dynamic range and 1 Hz frequency resolution for >3 simultaneous signals of interest anywhere across 100 Hz to 20 MHz. This front end should encompass from the analog RF antenna feed into a commercial of the shelf (COTS) standard digital processor using a standard digital interface.

DESCRIPTION: Communications over the visual horizon is critical to operational coordination. Low frequency signals are more able to propagate around the world without relay stations than those at high frequencies. Unfortunately, intentional signals must also compete with high interference (effective noise floors) due to that ability and their usefulness for voice communications between, for example, taxi cabs and their dispatchers. Thus monitoring the weak signals in the spectra below roughly 20 MHz requires receivers with extremely large dynamic range. Historically analog channelization into a slowly scanning, narrow band receiver provides some awareness for platforms large enough to carry resonant antennas. Recently, magnetic field sensors and other approaches to electrically small, ultra-wide band antennas have been demonstrated, as have oversampling analog to digital convertors (ADC), which allow a fully digital, direct reception approach. That allows unrestricted parallelization of digital extraction of specific signals following cueing by a search mode. Beyond the complexity of the digital signal processor (DSP), the hardest technical problem is now to provide adequate inherent dynamic range and stability/accuracy of the required high clock rate analog to digital converters.

COTS acoustic ADC can achieve as much as 24 bit dynamic range for 5 or 25 KHz wide base band signals. However, to stare at 20 MHz of instantaneous band width(IBW) this way you need 800 channels or more, a nightmare for coherent clock & local oscillator distribution, component matching, and digital reconstruction of wider signals. Scanning lowers channel count but necessarily lowers either frequency resolution or probability of signal intercept. Direct, wide band digital reception is essential to full spectrum awareness.

The Phase I proposals must define an architecture for the entire front-end system. A technical risks section should be included with a discussion of the origin, nature and severity of each perceived risk, and potential solutions thereof, before clarifying which risk(s) would be reduced/retired during the phase 1 effort. Hypotheses should be offered as to performance one could expect at the end of phase 1 and 2. While smaller and lighter systems are always desirable, an entire front end system (antenna feed through to COTS Si processors) that occupies one 19 inch, full height rack or less and delivers user defined, arbitrarily chosen portions of the band is desirable.

PHASE I: During the Phase I effort, the front end architecture should be further developed and the highest technical risk component identified in the Phase I proposal be actively worked. The base phase should conclude with an Initial Phase II plan and refinements of the residual risks estimates. The option, if awarded, should further reduce technical risk.

PHASE II: The Phase II effort should develop and demonstrate a compact RF front end prototype that delivers better than 26 bit dynamic range and 1 Hz frequency resolution for >3 simultaneous signals of interest having different power levels and signal modulation types and IBW anywhere across 100 Hz to 20 MHz. This front end should encompass from the analog RF antenna feed into a COTS standard digital processor using a standard digital interface format, e.g. Vita 49. The base effort should focus on the part(s) (e.g. ADC) that initially prevents a demonstration of over 26 bits difference in input power between pairs of large and small signals placed individually anywhere in the band. The first option, if awarded, should produce a demonstration of multiple signals similarly resolvable from a single data stream. The second option, if awarded, will most likely include a classified test of receiver readiness and functionality defined by the transition sponsor.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The Phase III will consist of any further required risk reduction and integration of this front-end prototype with the required back-end DSP subsystem of the transition partner’s choice. Private Sector Commercial Potential: The primary commercial interest will be in the audio-phial market where extremely accurate recording of live music is required. They will, however, require a different power range and less instantaneous band width than DoD.

REFERENCES:

http://www.analog.com/en/products/analog-to-digital-converters.html
http://www.digikey.com/product-search/en/programmers-development-systems/evaluation-boards-analog-to-digital-converters-adcs/2622527
Superconducting High-Resolution A/D Converter Based on Phase Modulationand Multichannel Timing Arbitration. Sergey V. Rylov and Raphael P. Robertazzi HYF'RES, Inc., 175 Clearbmk Road, Elmsford, NY 10523. http://www.hypres.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/rylovADC95.pdf

KEYWORDS: analog to digital converters; direct reception; over-the-horizon communications; ducting; atmospheric scattering; thermal noise limits; oversampling

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Human Systems

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: CMP-FY17-02 - Future Integrated Training Environment (FITE)

OBJECTIVE: To develop a lightweight, small, low-cost, Helmet Mounted Display (HMD) to support Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) training applications for Marine dismounts.

DESCRIPTION: The commercial sector for HMD devices is growing: HTC Vive, Intevac I-Port, Oculus Rift, Samsung Gear VR, Sony Project Morpheus, and Star VR, etc. Variously these devices are expensive, bulky, clumsy, have low resolution, may be for video display only, and/or are designed for indoor/home use only. Most rely on a cell phone or a clumsy, bulky reflective interface. No single device meets and/or exceeds the objectives needed to perform in an outdoor setting - e.g, military training.

Recently, the Office of Naval Research transitioned the Augmented Immersive Team Training (AITT) capability. AITT enhances force-on-force (FOF) training of call-for-fire and close-air support. Currently, Marines cannot see simulated battlefield effects, such as munitions explosions, during FOF exercises. This training limitation is a Marine Corps training requirements gap. AITT address this gap with Augmented Reality (AR) technology. AITT will transition the resulting science and technology products to the USMC FOF program of record and the Squad Immersive Training Environment (SITE) program – a “toolkit” of live, virtual, and constructive (LVC) technologies to enhance squad operational readiness and squad leader tactical decision-making skills. When the capability was transitioned it was noted that the current video-see-through technology was going to be discontinued and that there weren't any good available options for replacing the capabilities. This work seeks to develop an improved capability that can integrate within the Army and Marine Corps augmented reality efforts [1, 2].

The general device requirements are: a low-cost (<$1000) video-see through HMD that is rugged (e.g. outdoor use), have a small form-factor, be very low mass, have ultra-low electronic power performance, and capable of high-resolution HMD operation. The display must be unobtrusive and mountable on existing Marine Corps helmet Night Vision Goggle (NVG) rails. The device will additionally have three unique features: 1) the device will have dual forward facing “camera” sensors incorporated into its design. These sensors should be user-removable and user-replaceable, and operate as Electro-optical (EO) Infra-Red (IR) (EO/IR) low-light type devices; and 2) the HMD should contain miniaturized-high efficiency (low power) computational hardware and software together with; 3) an embedded inertial measurement unit (IMU) capable of precise, moment-to-moment spatial localization and attitude sensing of the wear’s head anywhere within a 100 meter uncluttered area.

Specific device optical requirements include: 1) Field-of-view FOV approaching 120 degrees and 135 degrees, width/height, respectively; 2) a blended, high-resolution 60 pixel/degree FOV across the foveated display area; 3) a latency less than 5 ms; and 4) the HMD should have a refresh frame rate above 60 Hz. Trade-offs between the requirements are acceptable with priority for higher-resolution, less latency, and future upgrades.

Specific device IMU requirements include: 1) at least 6-Degree of Freedom (DOF) inertial measurement; 2) one or more secondary means of spatial localization (passive RF signals (commercial AM/FM radio), GPS, magnetic compass, astronomical recognition, or some other) would be a plus; and 3) the IMU must resolve with no less than 2000 degrees/sec baseline resolution in each rotational axis uncorrected by anticipatory filter algorithm. The IMU can be physically attached to the HMD although it is preferred the IMU be integrated into the HMD itself. The goal is to reduce the moment-arm and transient vibrations associated with distal mounting. Trade-offs between requirements listed here are acceptable with priority for smaller size and mass, lower-power, greater localization resolution and accuracy, and future upgrades among those that might be proposed by the small business. However, at minimum, we require improvements over a 1280X1024 pixel, full-color, 75° diagonal, with 60° H X 48° V display.

Specific device computational hardware and software requirements include a native capacity for the HMD circuitry to: 1) operate as software-defined, H.264 (V9) (level 5 or better, per page 307, Table A-7) video coding/decoding (CODEC) device [3]; 2) repeat-to-self its EO/IR sensor video, and 3) provide switch selectable transmission of its EO/IR sensor stream to an external device using Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) standard 802.3 (wired) [4] and (wireless) [5] embedded 802.11 RF transmission. Additionally, the HMD must be able to receive an externally sourced video stream (via 802.3 and 802.11) overlaying the stream onto (combining with) and or replacing its own video sensor stream completely. Trade-offs between requirements are acceptable with priority for smaller size and mass, lower-power, more flexible end-usage, and future upgrades.

PHASE I: Develop a concept for a low-cost, high-performance, HMD to superimpose computer-generated information on an individual’s view of the real world. Demonstrate the feasibility of the selected concept (hardware/software system HMD device) to meet infantry Marine Corps needs through a set of specific Phase I deliverables.

Deliverables include: 1) An initial prototype or concept / mockup system; 2) A computer aided design (CAD) mechanical design package showing the top-level device and all major sub-assemblies anticipated; 3) Trade-off design decisions and associated justification for system design to include: recommended bill of materials (BOM), CAD, non-recurring engineering cost estimates (NRE), electronic hardware and software architectures, a recommendations list of display surface technologies, processor(s), and graphic processing unit(s).

PHASE II: Based on the results of Phase I deliverables evaluation the company will develop a working proof of concept HMD device for the Marine Corps. Prototype the HMD, conduct critical design review, and demonstrate initial capabilities are sufficient in existing Augmented Reality training applications. Deliver proof of concept devices (at least 2) for evaluation. The prototypes will be evaluated to determine their capability to meet Marine Corps needs and requirements for an augmented reality HMD. Deliver a final BOM, all CAD drawings, hardware schematics, software source code, and negotiated CMMI Level 2 Maturity [6] documentation.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The performer will be expected to support the Marine Corps in transitioning the HMD device. The performer will support the Marine Corps with integrating the HMD into service with existing Augmented Reality training devices. The performer will assist with certifying and qualifying the HMD system for Marine Corps use. The performer will assist in writing device Marine Corps user manual(s) and Marine Corps system specifications materials. As appropriate, the small business will focus on scaling up manufacturing capabilities and commercialization plans. Private Sector Commercial Potential: It is anticipated this technology will have broad applications in military as well as commercial settings. This effort could create a new product for the computer gaming, home and commercial entertainment, medical, machine operation, and many other markets. Similarly, a successful HMD may find application in search and rescue settings, law-enforcement tasks, water-craft piloting, some driving environments, and many other life uses.

REFERENCES:

Schaffer, R., Cullen, S., Cerritelli, L., Kumar, R., Samarasekera, S., Sizintsev, M. Branzoi, V. (2015). Mobile augmented reality for force-on-force training. Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation and Education Conference Proceedings.
Samarasekera, S., Kumar, R., Zhu, Z., Branzoi, V., Vitovitch, N., Villamil, R., Garrity, P. (2014.) Live augmented reality based weapon training for dismounts. Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation and Education Conference Proceedings.
H.264 (V9) (02/2014): Advanced video coding for generic audiovisual services. (2014). http://www.itu.int/rec/T-REC-H.264-201402-I . Retrieved on 2015-18-12.
IEEE 802.3. (2012.) IEEE Standard for Ethernet. http://standards.ieee.org/about/get/802/802.3.html . Retrieved on 2015-18-12.
IEEE 802.11. (2012.) IEEE Standard for Wireless LANs. http://standards.ieee.org/about/get/802/802.11.html . Retrieved on 2015-18-12.
CMMI Level 2 Maturity. (2015). CMMI for Development, Version 1.3. http://resources.sei.cmu.edu/asset_files/TechnicalReport/2010_005_001_15287.pdf . Retrieved on 2015-18-12.

KEYWORDS: Augmented Reality (AR); Virtual Reality (VR); Heads-up-display (HUD), Helmet-mounted-display (HMD); Training; Games

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Biomedical, Human Systems, Information Systems

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: Live Virtual Constructive

OBJECTIVE: Develop a software tool to assess and validate the efficacy of simulation-based training technologies in an effort to enhance learning performance using “sensory analysis”.

DESCRIPTION: This problem is critical for simulator and simulation design and development. Currently there are no systematic empirically based methods that provide meaningful direction to training developers to determine how much realism (e.g., fidelity requirements) is needed to train for mission effective performance. Fidelity related design decisions are motivated by the belief that the more accurately the simulation stimulates the human sensory system, the higher the probability that the system will provide effective training (Skinner et al., 2010).

The Navy needs a scientifically sound method for determining how much realism is needed to train a specific task. As budgets tighten, it is critical that these systems are optimized for training effectiveness. Other methods (e.g., user reactions) are more prevalent, especially using subject matter expert (SME) analysis. Another promising method of task analysis is sensory analysis that relies on a detailed analysis judging the capability of a system to produce required sensory cues. However, subjectivity of sensory analysis requires empirical validation. To maximize its effectiveness, it is necessary to understand: 1) how much fidelity is necessary for effective training, 2) the relationship between predictive and empirical training evaluation methods, and 3) if expertise level affects fidelity impact on training. However, additional methods and tools are needed to support these goals, resulting in optimal training for Warfighters, while yielding gains in time and cost reduction.

This effort should generate software that provides direction for training developers and human–computer interaction and ergonomics. The software tool and the associated guidelines, which would be a natural by-product of the software, should help developers to determine the level of fidelity optimal for effective training and interface design. The end result of this effort could generate clear and concise guidance that would enable subject matter experts to develop simulation-based training that is mission effective. To this end, this SBIR effort seeks an innovative software tool that can assess and validate the efficacy of simulation-based training technologies. This software tool, and any associated hardware required to run the software, will be used to evaluate current Navy simulator training and future simulation training design and development.

PHASE I: Determine feasibility for the development of an innovative software tool that can assess and validate the efficacy of simulation-based training technologies. During Phase I, the small business will 1) empirically define the concept of simulation fidelity which also incorporates cognitive and functional fidelity in operational terms, 2) based on this concept, the small business will then develop and define a plan for the full development of the software tool in Phase II, and 3) these prior two activities should then inform the development of objective and reliable methods to assess and validate the results of the sensory analysis. The end goal of this effort is to develop, during Phase II, the software tool and its associated guidelines, principles and algorithm(s) along with documenting the methods used to develop them. The small business shall provide a Phase II development plan with performance goals, key technology milestones, and a plan for testing and validation of the proposed fidelity guidelines/ algorithm(s). During the Phase I Option, if exercised, the small business must begin the processing and submission of any necessary human subjects use protocols.

PHASE II: Based upon the Phase I effort, the small business will develop the prototype software tool to assess and validate sensory analysis and training efficacy. During Phase II, the small business will also conduct a systematic, empirically based approach to validate the sensory analysis system as conceived in Phase I. A set of guidelines for training developers must be provided from these efforts explaining principles to be used in determining how much realism (e.g., fidelity requirements) is needed. This will require a demonstration to illustrate where training developers would apply the guidelines and principles to a wide range of task types to insure that the guidelines/principles can be generalized. This research and development effort must be conducted in the context of simulations/simulators that provide training of interest to Navy and/or Marine Corps (e.g., maintenance tasks). The results of the system demonstration will be used to refine the sensory analysis software tool prototype into an initial design that will meet DOD requirements. The small business will prepare a Phase III development plan to transition the technology for Navy and/or Marine Corp use.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The small business will be expected to support the Navy in transitioning the sensory analysis software tool for its intend use. The small business will be expected to develop a plan to transition and commercialize the software and its associated guidelines and principles. Private Sector Commercial Potential: In addition to the military market, the technology could have broad applicability in technical training and education, consumer learner products, and developers of augmented and virtual reality systems.

REFERENCES:

Kirkpatrick, D. L. (1994) Evaluating Training Programs: The four levels. Berrett-Koehler, San Francisco.
Phillips, J.J., (2003). Return on investment and performance improvement programs. 2nd Edition. Butterworth-Heinemann, Burlington, MA.
Stanney, K., Samman, S., Reeves, L., Hale, K., Buff, W., Bowers, C., Goldiez, B., Nicholson, D., & Lackey, S. (2004). A paradigm shift in interactive computing: deriving multimodal design principles from behavioral and neurological foundations. International Journal of Human-Computer Interaction, 17(2), 229-257.
Perez.R.S ( 2013) . Foreward. In Special Issue of Military Medicine: International Journal of AMUS. Guest Editors, Harold F. O'Neil, Kevin Kunkler, Karl E. Friedl, & RS. Perez. 178,10,16-36.
Fitts, P.M ., Posner,M. (1967). Human performance. Oxford, England: Brooks/Cole Human performance. (1967)
Skinner et al., (2010) Chapter in Special Issue of Military Medicine: International Journal of AMUS. Guest Editors, Harold F. O'Neil, Kevin Kunkler, Karl E. Friedl, & RS. Perez. 178,10,16-36.
Thorndike, E.L.(1906) The Principles of teaching: Based on Psychology, Routledge, London.

KEYWORDS: Fidelity, Simulation, Simulators, Sensory cues, Training Systems

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Battlespace, Electronics, Sensors

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: Future INP on IR sensors, following current ARC on Long range ISR in Degraded Visual Environments

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 5.4.c.(8) of the solicitation. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop a capability to enable digital data reports from microwave kinetic inductance detector (MKID) arrays that are currently being read out via analog wideband frequency-division multiplexed (FDM) techniques.

DESCRIPTION: Imaging through dense fog is desirable from a continuity of operations point of view and is expected to be achievable using large arrays of highly sensitive, cryogenic photon detectors such as Microwave Kinetic Inductance Detectors (MKIDs). These detectors are typically cooled to very low (&tl; 1 K) temperatures to obtain best sensitivity. Today's most prevalent readout method is to make each detector as a micro-resonator at a unique carrier frequency. Analog multiplexing in the frequency domain is then used twice: an analog signal comprising a closely-spaced frequency comb is sent down to the array by a programmable signal generator and the comb elements are amplitude and phase modulated by transmission through the resonator array. Allowing 1 MHz wide frequency domains per sensor, a 10,000-element detector array requires 10 GHz of instantaneous bandwidth.

Such a wideband, closely spaced frequency comb emanating from low-temperature is particularly vulnerable to nonlinear distortion and noise pick-up. It must be transported up the temperature gradient and to the signal analysis system with extreme fidelity in order to retain the information while also maximizing the field of view (FOV) of the imagery. Any nonlinearity in high-gain low-noise amplifiers that are required by current analog readout systems, can compromise the signal quality by creating intermodulation products. By performing digitization as close as possible to the sensing elements of the focal plane, signal quality will be maximally preserved. Therefore, while room temperature Analog to Digital Converters (ADC) are currently used in the read-out, digitization of the wideband signal on/close to the focal plane is preferable following little or no analog amplification.

Low-power cryogenic ADCs, such as superconductor ADCs, make this possible, even convenient, given the cryogenic requirements of the MKIDs. Digital readout approaches must balance requirements on instantaneous bandwidth (scaling in number of pixels in field of view) and dynamic range (impacting image contrast), which together determine the image quality, with total power consumption (<10 kW from wall desired). Digital multiplexing approaches of either electrical or optical character that reduce the number of output lines from the cryogenic environment are also of interest. Superconductor ADCs with sample rates up to 100 GHz have been demonstrated. Such ADCs would need to be optimized for sensitivity, dynamic range, and low power consumption for the Frequency Division Multiplex Module (FDM) detector readout application while showing documented ability for co-fabrication with MKIDs. Semiconductor ADCs require demonstration of integration feasibility, including power dissipated in the cryogenic environment, and performance.

Phase I proposals need to define a definite approach to be taken and include an analysis of technical risks for this approach/application. The base period should noticeably reduce the total technical risk and produce the initial Phase II proposal. The Phase I option, if awarded, should further reduce the total technical risk. The proposed technical approaches should include all aspects of data transport, including cryogenic cables and data recovery circuits at room temperature. Approaches including standard non-proprietary interfaces are strongly preferred.

PHASE I: Develop a conceptual design through modeling and prototype circuit measurements for a complete digital readout system compatible with a large, scalable cryogenic detector arrays. Design should include quantified trade-off between ADC dynamic range and the number of pixels feasible to individually digitize. Quantify risk of non-linear distortion of array readout signal as a function of separation of frequencies in the comb.

PHASE II: Develop and demonstrate a prototype detector readout scheme and its associated components and integrate them on a cryogenic platform (consistent with that needed by MKID detector array) produced using a COTS cooler. By the end of phase II option demonstrate the operation of delivery and removal of a comb of 64 discontinuously amplitude modulated frequencies or more to a circuit with MKIDs-like output functionality. Experimentally quantify required separation of comb frequencies to achieve low bit error rate from digitizer to room temperature processors. In option II or before, replace MKIDS-like circuit with actual MKIDS linear array and prove readout circuitry can report out all elements in at least a scanning mode. Determine the range of signal pulse durations reported. Engineer a readout system suitable for cost-share source’s highest priority MKIDS system.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Build a first ever imaging system comprising a cryogenic MKIDS detector array and the readout circuit designed according to stakeholder’s requirements and demonstrated to TRL4 or above in Phase II. Private Sector Commercial Potential: Both nuclear and high energy physics research requires large area, rad hard imaging arrays to allow accurate reproduction of complex events and discovery of new physics. The materials science, and conceivably manufacturing industry, also needs this sort of detectors for compositional uniformity metrics. Many petaflop computing centers may also benefit from this work if 4K superconducting circuits are used for the raw digital processing since many bit wide results data will need to be transmitted back to room temperature at high rates.

REFERENCES:

P.K. Day, et al., "Broadband superconducting detector suitable for large arrays," Nature 425, pp. 817-821 (2003).
H. Leduc, et al., "Titanium Nitride Films for Ultrasensitive Kinetic Inductance Detectors", Appl. Phys. Lett., 97, 102509 (2010); available online at http://arxiv.org/abs/1003.5584.
J.J. Baselmans, et al., "Development of high-Q superconducting resonators for use as kinetic inductance detectors", Adv. Space Research 40, pp. 706-713 (2007).
B.A. Mazin, et al., "Digital readouts for large microwave low-temperature detector arrays", Proc. 11th Int. Workshop on Low Temp. Detectors, in Nuclear Instrum. & Methods in Phys. Research A559, pp. 799-801 (2006).

KEYWORDS: Microwave Kinetic Inductance Detectors; imaging arrays; wavelength division multiplexing; frequency division multiplexing; cryogenic detectors; thermal engineering

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Ground/Sea Vehicles, Human Systems

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: Support of FNC/INP programs with distributed unmanned systems

OBJECTIVE: To develop and demonstrate a human interface and related decision support tools that allow human management of swarms of up to 100 unmanned vehicle systems in which communications are highly limited, attrition can occur, and individual swarm members may not have accurate state information about themselves and/or others.

DESCRIPTION: The last decade has seen substantial advances in the design of supervisory control interfaces that allow a single operator to manage multiple unmanned systems based on higher-level mission criteria such as objectives, constraints, priorities, allowable risks, and the level of autonomy for decision-making. Frequently, this is done through a combination of map, timeline, and vehicle status displays. However, existing multiple Unmanned Vehicle System supervisory control interfaces are typically designed under assumptions that may not be valid for swarms. Swarming systems are here defined as systems which are scalable to large numbers of platforms and utilize decentralized control to enable robust collective behaviors despite only limited communications and state information. (e.g., for some types of methods, each vehicle would have the ability to intermittently keep track of or communicate with their nearest neighbors only). In contrast, assumptions for existing interfaces include: (1) relatively good communications with each entity or at least a good ability to project the future actions of each individual system, (2) a manageable number of discreet entities (e.g., individuals, cohesive groups that move in close formation, etc.), (3) well-defined methods to convey user intent and adjust as needed, and (4) a good user mental model of the automation. In comparison, a key reason to use swarming methods is that communications are limited, individual members may lack reliable state information about themselves and others, and swarm size and composition may change due to attrition. Swarming algorithms as well may demonstrate emergent behaviors (e.g., dynamic subgroup formation/dissolution) in which the group collectively completes a mission task in a way in which certain aspects of the overall group characteristics are predictable (e.g., boundaries, distribution over areas, etc.), but individual actions within the group are difficult to comprehend and predict. Finally, the types of control inputs that exist for different types of swarming concepts may bring new challenges to designing appropriate human interaction methods. Ways of controlling a swarm may include higher level mission criteria, more direct group control/influence, local control/influence of subgroups/individuals, and group or subgroup parameter adjustment to shape behaviors.

The goal of this effort is to develop and demonstrate a human interface and related decision support tools that enable users to more effectively understand, predict, shape, and redirect the behaviors/capabilities of highly decentralized systems to meet mission demands including a better understanding of (1) what are appropriate levels of user interaction with a swarm, (2) what metaphors are most effective for humans to use in managing these types of systems, (3) how should controls, displays, and decision support be designed to facilitate swarm management and tasking, and (4) what are the best times/modes for the operator to interact with the swarm and what kind of decision support/displays will best help the user infer or be guided to them. The focus of this effort is on humans interacting with swarms remotely via a computer interface of some type. The development of new platforms, network communications, or hardware of any kind is outside the scope of this topic. Existing capabilities for multi-modal inputs and new display concepts may be leveraged, but the focus is not on developing new multi-modal input systems like speech, sketch, or gesture or new display concepts such as 3-D audio/video or virtual/augmented reality. Concepts that require reliable, highly connected, and/or high-bandwidth communications with the swarm or near-perfect state information about the swarm are outside of the scope of this effort.

PHASE I: Develop a concept to demonstrate a human interface and related decision support tools of swarms of up to 100 unmanned vehicle systems. Perform initial limited structured human factors analysis to begin examining what is an appropriate level of interaction with swarms, and what are the best times/modes for the operator to interact with the swarm. A limited set of swarming methods may be used for this initial phase. A limited scope of platforms, environments, and mission tasks may be chosen for Phase I, but the chosen ones should also demonstrate the broader applicability of the concept. Mission tasks of interest include but are not limited to maritime or littoral environmental sensing/sampling, surveillance, search, tracking, and force protection. The system concept should support implementation within appropriate open architecture frameworks. It is preferred that the swarming algorithms used as a baseline be those found in the open literature. Based on this, develop a preliminary user interaction concept focusing on those new elements which appear most promising. This could be a static mockup or include some limited functionality by leveraging existing prerecorded data, limited-fidelity simulation elements and/or hardware elements as appropriate within the limited scope of the Phase I. Use this initial concept to perform a cognitive walkthrough at minimum. Develop experimentation plans and metrics to evaluate the system in Phase II and consider options for how the approach could integrate with a future swarming system.

PHASE II: Perform a more extensive structured human factors analysis of the domain to understand the specific warfighter interaction needs and constraints for swarm management, iterative development and evaluation of the human interface concept and related decision support tools with a broader range of swarming methods and mission tasks, and final development of a software prototype and evaluation of its ability to support swarm management. As much as possible, the Phase II design should be compatible with open architectures to be applicable to multiple naval operating environments. Phase II tasks should continue advancing our understanding of: What is an appropriate level of interaction with a swarm, what metaphors are most effective for humans to use in managing these types of systems, how can controls, displays, and decision support be designed to support swarm management, and what are the best times/modes for the operator to interact with the swarm and how can the human infer or be guided to them. Final evaluation should include integration of the prototype with simulation and/or hardware elements with sufficient autonomy components to perform laboratory operator in-the-loop demonstrations and comparisons with benchmarks. Demonstrations with live assets may be used when of value, but are not required. Revise evaluation metrics and interface concepts as necessary. Ensuring that the demonstrations have representative complexity of the challenges of future swarm operations is of more importance than a very high degree of fidelity to an existing system.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Continue software development of the prototype as plug-in capabilities for relevant open architectures and address any unique requirements for interoperability with particular target domain(s), perform a more formal systems integration task to provide effective software interfaces to particular naval control stations and assets, perform component testing and operator evaluations, and participate in integrated demonstrations of autonomous system operations. Private Sector Commercial Potential: This capability could be used in a broad range of military and civilian security and first responder applications of unmanned systems and in other applications involving management of distributed automated systems, such as agriculture and scientific research.

REFERENCES:

C. E. Harriott, Adriane E. Seiffert, S. T. Hayes and J. A. Adams (2014) “Biologically-Inspired Human-Swarm Interaction Metrics,” Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society’s Annual Meeting.
D. Brown, S. Kerman, and M. A. Goodrich. Human-Swarm Interactions Based on Managing Attractors. In ACM/IEEE International Conference on Human-Robot Interactions. March 2014.
Nagavalli, S., Luo, L., Chakraborty, N., Sycara, K., Neglect Benevolence in Human Control of Robotic Swarms, International Conference on Robotics and Automation (ICRA), Hong Kong, China, May 31-June 7, 2014.
Walker, P. Amirpour S. Chakraborty, N., Lewis M., Sycara, K. Control of Swarms with Multiple Leader Agents, International Conference on Systems, Man and Cybernetics, San Diego CA, October 5-8, 2014.
Luo, R., Chakraborty, N., Sycara, K. Supervisory Control for Cost-Effective Redistribution of Robotic Swarms, International Conference on Systems, Man and Cybernetics, San Diego CA, October 5-8, 2014.
D. Brown, S. Kerman, and M. A. Goodrich. Limited Bandwidth Recognition of Collective Behaviors in Bio-Inspired Swarms. Proceedings of AAMAS, May 2014, Paris France.
Sean T. Hayes and Julie A. Adams. Human-Swarm Interaction: Sources of Uncertainty. In Proceedings of the 9th ACM/IEEE International Conference on Human-Robot Interaction, pages 170-171, 2014.
D. S. Brown, S.-Y. Jung, and M. A. Goodrich, Balancing human and inter-agent influences for shared control of bio-inspired collectives. Proceedings of IEEE International Conference on Systems, Man, and Cybernetics. October, 2014, San Diego.
Human Control of Bioinspired Swarms: Papers from the 2012 AAAI Fall Symposium (Michael Lewis, Katia Sycara, Paul Scerri, Michael Goodrich, Marc Steinberg, Program Cochairs), Technical Report FS-12-04. Published by The AAAI Press, Menlo Park, California
J McLurkin, J Smith, J Frankel, D Sotkowitz, Speaking Swarmish: Human-Robot Interface Design for Large Swarms of Autonomous Mobile Robots, AAAI Spring Symposium, 2006.
M Steinberg, Biologically-inspired approaches for self-organization, adaptation, and collaboration of heterogeneous autonomous systems, SPIE Defense, Security, and Intelligence, 2011.

KEYWORDS: human interaction; swarming; unmanned systems; autonomy; unmanned air system; unmanned sea surface system; autonomous undersea system

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Ground/Sea Vehicles

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: Next Generation Electronics Cooling System FNC (proposed)

OBJECTIVE: Develop a compact and efficient refrigerant liquid-vapor phase separation system capable of operating under dynamic platform motion with minimal system impact.

DESCRIPTION: Two-phase cooling systems are being explored to extract large heat loads from future shipboard high-energy sensors and weapons due to their decreased size, weight, and power consumption. One such system, a two-phase pumped refrigerant loop, circulates refrigerant between the cold plate (evaporator) and the condenser, but the durability of the circulation pump and, thus, the reliability of the cooling system require that the refrigerant be a single-phase liquid at the pump inlet. Ensuring that no entrained vapor enters the pump can be accomplished by sub-cooling the refrigerant, but this adds system complexity, increases pumping power, and requires a larger condenser. Physically separating the vapor from the liquid is an attractive alternative, but traditional liquid-vapor separators can’t be used in shipboard applications because they rely on the buoyant vapor rising out of a static pool of refrigerant. Recently, a number of phase separators have been developed for microgravity environments. However, the dynamic motion of a sea vessel will affect the two-phase flow regimes within the separator differently than microgravity. In addition, these separators have been designed to output a single-phase vapor for use in vapor compression cooling systems, instead of the single-phase liquid required for pumped refrigerant loops.

The goal of this topic is to design and fabricate a liquid-vapor phase separator for a refrigerant that delivers single-phase liquid under dynamic platform motion. The separator must comply with DOD-STD-1399/301a, which defines the criteria for the magnitude, period, and acceleration of various platform motions, e.g. the static design limit for ship roll is 45° from horizontal, and accept vapor qualities as high as 0.8, a refrigerant mass flow of several kilograms per second, and a saturation temperature near ambient. Separators should minimize their electrical consumption and pressure drop, as these impact the overall performance of the cooling system.

PHASE I: Develop concepts for compact, high efficiency liquid-vapor phase separator. Validate design performance through analytical modeling and subscale demonstration with vapor qualities up to 0.50 and orientation independence of +/- 30°.

PHASE II: Based on Phase I effort, build and demonstrate a prototype for the operation of a liquid-vapor phase separator capable of delivering 1 kg/s of R134a in a pumped refrigerant loop with inlet vapor qualities up to 0.8. The separator should maintain proper operation when subjected to the ship motion dynamics discussed in DOD-STD-1399/301a.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Finalize design and manufacturing plans for a liquid-vapor phase separator using the knowledge gained during Phases I and II. The separator is intended to be installed as part of a two-phase pumped refrigerant loop thermal management system aboard a future surface combatant. Private Sector Commercial Potential: The development of refrigerant phase separators capable of operating under the orientation and dynamic motion associated with shipboard installation has commercial applications that include cooling of electric vehicles and commercial vessels.

REFERENCES:

Department of the Navy, Naval Sea Systems Command, DOD-STD-1399/301a, “Ship Motion and Attitude,” (1986).
S. Kuravi, B. Glassman, et al, “Design of a Two-Phase Separator for Variable Gravity Applications,” Proceedings of the 37th AIAA Thermophysics Conference, AIAA 2004-2288 (2004).
M. Ellis, F. Best, and C. Kurwitz, "Development of a Unique, Passive, Microgravity Vortex Separator," Proceedings of the 2005 ASME International Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exposition, IMECE2005-81616, (2005).

KEYWORDS: Electronics Cooling; Two-Phase Cooling System; Pumped Refrigerant; Liquid-Vapor Phase Separator; Thermal Management

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Battlespace, Ground/Sea Vehicles, Materials/Processes

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: FNC EPE FY15-02 Gas Turbine Developments for Reduced Total Ownership Cost, Improved Ship Impact

OBJECTIVE: To develop a suite of computational tools that will accelerate the creation and development of alloys and coatings for gas turbine engines. The computational, informatics-based suite should be capable of utilizing various material database formats, and be able to convert and integrate modeling and simulation tools with experimental data and existing materials databases to provide the foundation for optimal materials design and development.

DESCRIPTION: Current state of the art software tools and associated infrastructure presently available do not address the data heterogeneity and fragmentation challenges in a way conducive to the feasible development and maintenance of high-quality databases of commercial alloys or coating reaching 12-15 components. This gap comprises a significant scientific and economic opportunity to enhance the ability of scientists and engineers to solve challenges in developing new engineering alloys and coatings. The quality of materials databases is uneven in the literature and requires labor and time to investigate and determine what constitutes viable materials data sources. As an example, the data required as inputs to Calculation of Phase Diagrams (CALPHAD) models are highly fragmented across numerous literature and non-literature sources. There is an urgent need for creating and developing specialized informatic tools for data capture, management, analysis, and dissemination. Advances in computer power created in recent years, coupled with computer modeling and simulation, and materials properties databases will enable accelerated creation and development of new materials. Using these informatic tools as sources will facilitate Integrated Computational Materials (Science and Engineering) (ICMSE/ICME)) to reliably predict the composition and behavior of new materials. This proposed SBIR effort seeks the development of tools that will allow usage of various open and closed materials data sources to create useful thermodynamic and kinetic data formats with computational methodologies for creating and developing propulsion materials.

PHASE I: Identify a material (alloy or coating), material system, or material process that will produce a viable component for a marine gas turbine engine. Identify the boundary conditions to which the material, material system, or materials process must conform such as chemical composition, corrosion and/or oxidation resistance, fatigue, interdiffusion resistance, creep, resistance to phase transitions, coefficient of thermal expansion compatibility durability, stress, temperature stability, etc. The small business needs to assemble and assess a suite of modeling tools to predict processing outcomes and desirable materials properties. The modeling tools should have a history that the modeling results represent real-world conditions and provide an accurate mathematical representation of the engineering principles and relationships and predict the materials behavior that they were designed to represent. The small business needs to create an informatics-based framework that will be able to assess the type and quality of the databases required by ICME and other computational programs that can also work with materials modeling and simulation tools. The small business needs to demonstrate the functionality of this framework on a limited scale.

PHASE II: Using the outline of a framework created in Phase I, the informatics –based program needs to be expanded to determine the quality of different database sources. The program(s) should be able to identify errors in databases such as data entry errors, measurements errors, distillation errors, and data integration errors. Models should be developed to summarize general trends and complexity in data using e.g. linear regression, logistic regression focus on attribute relationships, identify data points that do not conform to well-fitting models as potential outliers, perform goodness of fit tests (DQ for analysis/mining), and check suitableness of model to data, verify validity of assumptions, and determine if the database is rich enough to provide the necessary inputs to the materials computational models. The small business should have a "good" baseline database so that the discriminating program can detect potentially corrupt sections in the test data set of other databases. The discriminating database program should be able to perform nonparametric statistical tests for a rapid section-wise comparison of two or more massive data sets, and repair errors in databases. The program should provide a means for capturing, sharing, and transforming materials data into a structured format that is amenable to transformation to other formats for use by ICME and other computational programs and modeling and simulation methods. The data can be searched and retrieved via several means.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The small business should engage with a government, public, commercial, company, or professional technical society that retains materials databases. The small business should demonstrate the means for capturing, sharing, and transforming materials data into a structured format that is amenable to transformation to other formats and the range of sources of materials databases it can use as inputs to materials computational tools that are used to describe various materials properties. The results should be compared to a previously verified "good" materials database. The small business also needs to interface with a software company that promotes and delivers materials computational programs to explore and develop an integration pathway for the database discriminating program with their software. The outcome of this technology development program will be a commercial suite of informatics-derived tools that can will be able to reliably analyze and discriminate various sources of materials databases to optimize the capability of ICME, other computational techniques, and modeling and simulation tools to work together to accelerate materials design and development for DoD ever-increasing material demands. Private Sector Commercial Potential: ICME and other computational programs are oriented toward reducing the time and cost of developing a material, a coating, or a materials system or manufacturing process in order to support the development of advanced products. But the military and the commercial world need to develop new informatics-based tools that will reliably discriminate various materials and properties databases so that these computational tools do not lead to flawed materials design. These informatics tools will help mitigate the time and cost to assess database quality manually. The tools developed in the research will expand and automate the determination of database quality so that integrated computational materials science and engineering tools provide more consistent results for public (Military) and private commercial use.

REFERENCES:

S.M. Arnold and T.t. Wong, editors, "Models, Databases, and Simulation Tools Needed for the Realization of Integrated Computational Materials Engineering", ASM International, Materials Park, OH (2010).
C.J. Kuehmann and G.B. Olson, "Computational Materials Design and Engineering", Materials Science and Technology, 25, 7 (2009).
B. Cowles, D. Backman, and R. Dutton, "Verification and Validation of ICME Methods and Models for Aerospace Applications", Integrating Materials and Manufacturing Innovation, 1, 16 (2012).
D. Furrer and J.Schirra, "The Development of the ICME Supply-Chain Route to ICME Implementation and Sustainment," JOM, 63(4) pp. 42-48 (2011).

KEYWORDS: ICME, materials database, materials development, data processing, regression analysis, modeling, infomatics

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Ground/Sea Vehicles, Materials/Processes

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: POM17 FNC - Advanced Topcoat Systems; NAVAIR 4.3.4 Air Vehicle Engineering Materials Division

OBJECTIVE: Develop innovative models and analysis tools that support the maturation of metal-rich coatings, including their interaction with metallic and non-metallic surfaces and prediction of performance in the laboratory and naval operating environment.

DESCRIPTION: Metal-rich primers using anodic materials, such as the newly-developed Al-rich systems, are showing a great deal of promise for replacement of legacy chromated primers in aircraft. However, development and optimization of these primer systems is inhibited by a lack of understanding of how the entire system behaves and protects coated aircraft components, and assemblies in which they are used. Furthermore, the technology to manufacture these primers is quite advanced with regards to particulate size, loading and a number of other parameters that can be manipulated. Consequently, given this capability to customize the manufacturing process of such metal filled primers, a model-based analysis/optimization tool is required that can provide guidance on how to adjust these numerous parameters in order to optimize coating system performance.

Accurate electrochemical modeling is needed that explicitly accounts for the chemistry and structure of these metal-filled primers. This would make it possible to predict the behavior of the primer in a primer/topcoat system as a function of resin system chemistry, solvents, additives, metal particle alloy, particle size and shape, surface chemistry, and loading. This detailed modeling of the paint system must then be able to be used for guiding the choice of primer/particulate parameters for manufacture and an upfront prediction of how painted components will behave in aircraft galvanic assemblies.

This modeling must incorporate both the initial condition of the substrate/primer system, and changes that occur over time, including degradation of the polymer matrix in which the particles reside, corrosion and dissolution of the particles themselves, corrosion products, and voids and other changes created in the system by the dissolution of the particles. This modeling must include charge transfer through the resin system, electrochemical surface reactions at resin matrix/particle interfaces, electrochemical surface reactions at the substrate/resin interface (including interactions with the substrate conversion/passivation coating), and electrochemical reactions at the primer/electrolyte interface of a non-topcoated paint system, and at the primer/topcoat interface of a system with supplementary coatings like a topcoat. It must also be able to model interactions between the primer materials and damage such as porosity, scratches, and holidays.

PHASE I: The small business will develop and demonstrate a proof-of-principle model for the electrochemical interactions of a metal-rich primer that incorporates interactions between the metal particles, substrate, and electrolyte based on the measured electrochemical properties of the metal rich primer system, including its polarization behavior and electrochemical impedance, using microscopic structure information and electrochemical measurements supplied by NAVAIR, augmented if necessary with additional test data.

PHASE II: Based on the results of the Phase I effort, the company will extend and fully develop a prototype software tool/model to include the explicit primer/substrate and primer/topcoat interactions, including modeling of scratches and other coating damage. The small business will incorporate this prototype paint-system model into an accurate electrochemical model of an assembly of components painted with Al-rich and Zn-rich primers, with and without topcoats, on aluminum and steel. The company will model how these primers will behave in the short and long-term in the presence of protection system damage and adjacent galvanically-coupled components of the assembly, such as stainless steels coupled to metal-rich painted aluminum. The company will apply this modeling to prediction of the behavior of assemblies such as the NAVAIR galvanic test assembly or actual representative aircraft assemblies.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The company will apply the knowledge gained in Phase II to optimize the model for certification which can be used by the Navy and commercial entities to accelerate the development, implementation and characterization of metal-rich primers and supporting materials like topcoats. The small business will support the Navy for test and validation to certify and qualify the model for Navy use. The company shall explore the potential to transfer the model to other military and commercial applications. Market research and analysis shall identify the most promising applications and the company shall develop validation plans to facilitate a smooth transition to the Navy, DOD and commercial M&P industry. Private Sector Commercial Potential: Metal-rich primers are used extensively in the commercial markets for the protection of transportation, storage, energy, facilities, and other structures. Advanced modeling capability will enable new and improved protective materials which are less costly to develop and faster to transition.

REFERENCES:

"Aluminum-Rich Primer" B. Skelley, 2015 DOD-Allied Nations Technical Corrosion Conference Proceedings.
"Reducing Stress-Corrosion Cracking with an Aluminum-Rich Primer" C. Matzdorf, 2015 DOD-Allied Nations Technical Corrosion Conference Proceedings.

KEYWORDS: metal-rich primer; protective materials; models; electrochemistry of coatings; degradation of coatings; lifetime prediction

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials/Processes

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: EPE-FY-17-03 FNC entitled "Quality Metal Additive Manufacturing" or QUALITY MADE

OBJECTIVE: To develop a new energy source or improve an existing energy source or integrate multiple energy sources with their control units into a metal Additive Manufacturing system to better characterize and control key aspects of the metal AM process prior to, during and after processing of each layer.

DESCRIPTION: At the heart of any additive manufacturing (AM) process is the energy source that powers the thermodynamic forces that drive the metallurgical transformations that produce the microstructure that define the quality of the manufactured metallic parts. In order to make certifiable AM parts (i.e. defect and residual stress free parts with controlled microstructure and narrow tolerances) it is critical to control all aspects of the energy delivery system.

There are multiple parameters that control the microstructure of AM parts. Each particular AM process will have its own list of key control parameters. Some of these parameters include (without grouping them by process): the powder size distribution; powder layer thickness; wire feed velocity; energy beam spot size; melt pool temperature profile; the cooling rate; melt flow dynamic characteristics; evaporation rates and many others. As the process volume becomes smaller (to better control dimensional tolerances and microstructure) and as the process energy scanning speeds become faster (due to the faster heating and cooling rates associated with the smaller volumes) the requirements for higher precision, adaptability and agility of the energy source become more stringent. Most of the existing energy sources have some of these characteristics, but in order to further improve the quality of metal AM parts new or improved energy sources are required that have more of them.

Also, the AM process has inherent pre-, in-, and post-process variabilities associated with the powder size distribution, small processing volumes, high processing energies and fast scanning speeds that can affect the layer quality (such as surface roughness, microstructure distribution, residual stresses, alloy composition changes, defects). Accounting and correcting these variabilities is critical if we are to build quality metal AM parts. Since feedback control of the energy processing source is nearly impossible at the typical processing speeds found in most AM systems, it is highly desirable that as much information as possible is gathered of each layer before AM consolidation as well as after AM consolidation for purposes of feedforward control. Energy sources that can be used to characterize the AM material before processing and the consolidated layer after processing for purposes of feedforward control are desirable.

Finally, some of the desired attributes of the energy source and control unit could be, but are not limited to: dynamic control of the power level; energy excitation frequency; pulse duration and repetition rate, spot size control and energy distribution. Another desirable attribute of the energy source and control unit is the ability to switch to a low energy mode enabling in-situ measurement of various build parameters before, during and/or after the processing of each AM layer for building quality AM parts. Parameters such as: the powder layer quality and thickness prior to melting; monitoring certain aspects of the melting process (power level, melt pool temperature); and parameters after the melt processing could include measurement of the quality of the finished layer (surface profile, defect distribution) are critical for building quality AM parts via feedforward control.

For purposes of parameter estimation to assist with proposal preparation, the objective of this program is to develop an agile, adaptable and precise energy source and controller capable of AM'ing a quality part that weighs approximately 1 kg and occupies a volume of no more than 1 cubic foot in approximately 1 day.

PHASE I: During Phase I (concept formulation and development) the small business will determine, for the specific energy source that it chooses for this program, the key system parameters that need to be controlled and the ranges required to process common AM metallic feedstock material (such as Ti-6Al-4V, 316L SS, Inconel 625, Ni) to make quality AM parts. The small business will define and develop a protocol to characterize the AM material prior to processing, during processing and/or after processing each layer for purposes of feedforward control. This protocol should not add more than another day to the build process for a total of 2 days. During the Phase I the small business will validate key aspects of the concepts that were formulated to demonstrate feasibility.

Once all the key system parameters are determined and during the Phase I Option if awarded, the contractor will perform a preliminary design of the energy delivery and control system for making quality AM parts. Depending on the time and resources available during Phase I Option the contractor will start buying, testing and assembling the parts to build the system (energy source and controller). For the purpose of this program, a quality AM part is defined as one that is defect and residual stress free with controlled microstructure and narrow dimensional tolerances.

PHASE II: The Phase II effort should result in prototype development and validation of the system. The contractor will perform a detailed design of the system and will complete the purchase of all components and assemble the unit following the design established during Phase I. The contractor will write all the firmware and software code necessary to drive all the components of the system to produce the highest level of precision, adaptability and agility of the energy source in order to fabricate “quality AM parts”. The contractor will select a material system from the list provided above for the purpose of making simple geometrical test coupons to support the code development and system optimization tasks. For purposes of system performance validation, the contractor will fabricate a complicated metal AM part and will characterize its “quality”. It is highly recommended that the contractor work with a leading university professor in the field of metal AM and/or with an OEM that could help guide many of these tasks and ultimately provide an integration and transition path.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The "Advanced Energy Sources and Controls for Metal Additive Manufacturing" will be transitioned using funding provided by the Navy system program office interested in integrating the SBIR product into a complete AM system. The OEM involved during Phase II will be part of the transition team. Phase III will require integration of the Advanced Energy Sources and Controls with other AM process and controls (such as feedstock delivery system, build volume temperature control, gas handling system) required for a complete Metal Additive Manufacturing system. Private Sector Commercial Potential: Commercial applications include almost all commerce sectors such as: aerospace, shipping, transportation, rail, automobile, medical. Applications include almost all technology areas such as: engine parts, structural parts, mechanical or electrical parts, medical prosthetics, tooth implants. Finally material applications focus is on metals.

REFERENCES:

W.E. Frazier, “Metal Additive Manufacturing: A Review”, DOI: 10.1007/s11665-014-0958-z, ASM International, JMEPEG (2014) 23:1917–1928.
E. Herderick, "Additive Manufacturing of Metals: A Review", ASM International, Materials Science and Technology, MS&T (2011), 1413-1425.
A. Allison, "2014 Additive Manufacturing: Strategic Research Agenda", AM SRA Final Document, TWI (2014), 1-64.

KEYWORDS: Metal Additive Manufacturing, Energy Source, Material Processing, Microstructure, Defects, Residual Stress,

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Human Systems, Information Systems

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: The Distributed Common Ground System-Navy (DCGS-N) Program

OBJECTIVE: Develop computational models and tools for rapid training and development of collective expertise.

DESCRIPTION: The development of individual expertise depends on a) efficient teaching, b) the quality of the learning material, and c) objective assessment methods. Traditionally, teaching has been based on one directional interaction between a teacher and a student where the material is presented in “one-size-fits-all” fashion. Assessment of student’s expertise has been conducted using a similarly crude approach by administering predesigned tests. Recent advances in technology provide the opportunity to revolutionize teaching and training by tailoring instruction to the needs and characteristics of each student [1,2]. However, the advances in the area of the assessment have been much more modest. The use of tests as the main tool for assessing student’s mastery of the learned material is still difficult to replace with more efficient, but hard to implement, peer-based assessments [3].

While individual expertise is of great value for addressing a variety of tasks [4], it can be inadequate for addressing very complex tasks for which joint efforts of a group of trained individuals are required. Therefore, of particular interest is the development of a platform for training a group of individuals so they can achieve performance that cannot be matched by any group of individual experts operating independently. Unfortunately, the theory of expertise as it is currently defined has little to say about collective capabilities in terms of training and assessment of a group and therefore the associated theories and experiments are missing [5,6]. While adaptive learning methods have been developed for individual learners [7], new approaches are needed to automatically optimize the whole learning ecosystem by considering not just the parameters of an individual but also parameters of target content, peer interaction, as well as the instructor within group performance. Special focus should be devoted to rapid convergence, and efficient exploration of all ecosystem parameters.

It is clear that in order to develop group expertise, it is not necessary that each individual in a group achieve maximal possible (individual) expertise. Rather, of greater importance is how to develop complementary expertise, and how to develop mechanisms for efficient communication and collaboration [8] among group members. While the potential for large-scale collaboration has been demonstrated in certain domains [9], further efforts are required to generalize these findings to other domains where expertise is required.

PHASE I: Design experiments, and approaches that will be used for developing and testing collective expertise. Define approaches for conducting collaboration and efficient communication (e.g. discussion board or small group collaborations), matching members based on their expertise, and incentivizing collaboration. Identify and select learning tasks. Propose and discuss optimal design of group structure (e.g. centralized, hierarchical, flat, random, or cluster-based. Propose algorithms for peer-based assessment of learning and performance.

During the Phase I option, if exercised, design metrics for algorithm evaluation in Phase II including but not limited to issues related to: joint optimization of ecosystem parameters, rapid convergence, and efficient exploration of all ecosystem parameters; assessment of learning and assessment of group performance. Develop algorithms for peer-based assessment of learning and performance.

PHASE II: Based on the effort performed in Phase I, conduct experiments and demonstrate the operation of the developed algorithm(s). Perform detailed testing and evaluation of the algorithm(s). Establish performance parameters through experiments; determine the range of group sizes the algorithm(s) can support, and the optimal group size that should be used for development of rapid expertise. In addition, define rapid expertise in terms of necessary time to develop collective expertise, class of task types, levels of difficulty, and prior expertise level.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The functional algorithm(s) should be developed with performance parameters. Finalize the design from Phase II, perform relevant testing and transition the technology to appropriate Navy and commercial training and simulation efforts. Private Sector Commercial Potential: This technology will primarily support rapid learning and development of group expertise by developing methods for adaptive presentation of materials and efficient evaluation and testing strategies. Therefore, this technology can be easily transferred to all institutions that require learning, training and evaluation of its personnel. This includes educational institutions as well as businesses that depend on continuous training and re-training of its employees.

REFERENCES:

E. Waters, A. S. Lan, and C. Studer, "Sparse Probit Factor Analysis For Learning Analytics", International Conference on Acoustics, Speech, and Signal Processing (ICASSP), 2013.
C.Tekin, J. Braun and M. van der Schaar, "eTutor: Online Learning for Personalized Education," ICASSP, 2015.
A. E. Waters, D. Tinapple, and R. G. Baraniuk, "BayesRank: A Bayesian Approach to Ranked Peer Grading", ACM Conference on Learning at Scale, 2015.
O. Atan, C. Tekin, M. van der Schaar and W. Hsu, "A Data-Driven Approach for Matching Clinical Expertise to Individual Cases," ICASSP, 2015.
Ericsson, K. Anders, and J. Smith. "Toward a General Theory of Expertise", 1987.
Ericsson, K. Anders, et al., eds. “The Cambridge handbook of expertise and expert performance”, Cambridge University Press, 2006.
T Mandel, YE Liu, S Levine, E Brunskill, Z Popovic, “Offline policy evaluation across representations with applications to educational games”, International conference on Autonomous agents and multi-agent systems, 2014.
W. Mason and D.J. Watts, “Collaborative learning in networks”, in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, vol. 109, no. 3, pp. 764–769, National Acad Sciences, 2012.
GA Khoury, A Liwo, F Khatib, H Zhou, G Chopra, WeFold: a coopetition for protein structure prediction, Proteins: Structure, Function, and Bioinformatics, 2014.

KEYWORDS: Rapid training, adaptive learning, collective expertise, decision-making, assessment and evaluation.

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics, Materials/Processes, Weapons

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: FNC JS-EMW-FY17-01 High Reliability DPICM Replacement (HRDR)

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 5.4.c.(8) of the solicitation. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop and demonstrate packaging and assembly techniques that can be utilized for the integration of MicroElectroMechanical Systems (MEMS) with energetic materials and are scalable for high-volume production applications.

DESCRIPTION: MEMS are an emerging technology that are the focus of several efforts to develop miniature Safe and Arm (S&A) and sensor prototype devices for Navy and Marine Corps munitions. These efforts include the integration of MEMS components and energetic materials (explosives and propellants) to produce devices that can be directly integrated into munition fuzing systems. These devices must be packaged in a way that ensures the long-term survivability and reliability of the microscale mechanical and energetic components. The packaging techniques utilized must also be scalable and compatible with high-volume manufacturing techniques capable of affordably producing thousands to millions of devices in a parallel fashion.

The work proposed in this topic involves developing and demonstrating techniques that can be used to package micro energetic components (sub-millimeter to millimeter scale) that have been integrated with silicon-based MEMS devices. Work should focus on wafer to wafer alignment and bonding, post-bonding die singulation, and handling, alignment and assembly of explosive components (pellets) utilizing methods such as pick and place.

The packaging and assembly techniques developed must be compatible with explosive materials. Explosive compatibility includes limiting bonding temperatures to 150 ºC or less or applying localized heating techniques if temperatures that exceed 150 ºC are utilized. Minimizing environmental stimuli, such as electrostatic discharge (ESD), shock, and vibration during component handling is also critical. While various low temperature wafer bonding techniques have been developed in academia and industry, none have been reported to have been demonstrated with energetic components. The developed techniques should also be compatible with sensitive MEMS components such as low-stiffness spring-mass systems (accelerometers and g-switches) so that stiction and other mechanical damage is not induced during packaging.

PHASE I: Define and develop conceptual techniques for energetic component handling and placement, wafer alignment and bonding, and die singulation. Perform modeling and simulation to determine heat transfer to energetic components and stresses induced on MEMS components due to packaging. Feasibility/proof of concept shall be established during the Phase I base using modeling and simulation and/or other experimental techniques. During the Phase I Option, if exercised, design test structures and produce wafer layouts for devices that can be fabricated for complete concept feasibility and tested in Phase II.

PHASE II: Fabricate test wafers based on layouts produced in Phase I in quantities sufficient to demonstrate and validate the proposed component handling and packaging techniques. Determine the effectiveness of the proposed techniques by assembling prototype packages and subjecting the packages to testing that validates bond strength, integrity, and hermeticity and proper post-assembly MEMS component performance. Analyze test and evaluation results and recommend go-forward assembly techniques that can be used to produce prototypes in higher volumes during a possible Phase III project continuation. Deliver limited test devices to the government for additional testing and inclusion in munition subsystems.

In the Phase II base, techniques can be initially demonstrated on an individual chip level or with partial wafers if it can be proven that they can be readily scaled to a wafer level with a high degree of confidence. Initial assembly trials can also be performed with inert simulants instead of energetic materials if it can be demonstrated the developed processes can be utilized with energetic materials with a high degree of confidence. During Phase II Options, if awarded, the developed techniques should be demonstrated on the wafer level with tactical energetic components.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Build upon packaging and assembly techniques developed and demonstrated throughout Phases I and II in order to demonstrate that packages can be reliably produced in high volumes. Deliver MEMS S&A packages that are suitable for integration into the JS-EMW-FY17-01 FNC program and a TBD follow-on acquisition program. Private Sector Commercial Potential: The developed techniques will be applicable to any MEMS devices that contain energetic materials, heat sensitive components, or otherwise contain delicate components that require low-temperature assembly techniques. Examples could include ignition safety devices (ISD) for commercial rocket motors or detonators for automobile air bags, mining, and demolition.

REFERENCES:

Joon-Shik Park, Yeon-Shik Choi, and Sung-Goon Kang, “Silicon to Silicon Wafer Bonding at Low Temperature Using Residual Stress Controlled Evaporated Glass Thin Film,” Materials Science Forum, Vols. 510-511, (2006), pp 1054-1057.
MASAYOSHI ESASHI, AKIRA NAKANO, SHUICHI SHOJI and HIROYUKI HEBIGUCHI, “Low-temperature Silicon-to-Silicon Anodic Bonding with Intermediate Low Melting Point Glass,” Sensors and Actuators, Vols. A21-A23, (1990), pp 931-934.
JWei, H Xie, M L Nai, C KWong, and L C Lee, “Low temperature wafer anodic bonding,” Journal of Micromechanics and Microengineering, Vol. 13, (2003), pp 217–222.
Hsueh-An Yang, MingchingWu, and Weileun Fang, “Localized induction heating solder bonding for wafer level MEMS packaging,” Journal of Micromechanics and Microengineering, Vol. 15, (2005), pp 394–399.
Park, J-S. and Tseng, A. A, “Development and characterization of transmission laser bonding technique,” Proceedings of IMAPS Int. Conf. Exhibition Device Packaging, (2005.)

KEYWORDS: MEMS; Wafer Bonding; Packaging; Energetics; Fuze; S&A; ISD; Hermetic

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Battlespace, Ground/Sea Vehicles, Sensors

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: Proposed FNC on the EM effects in near surface conditions; also EM Railgun for over water targets

OBJECTIVE: The objective is to develop an autonomous, mobile, marine meteorological station with the capability to launch radiosonde balloons for marine boundary layer characterization. The challenges of this development are stability of the platform for measurements, real-time data transmission, gas-handling, and unmanned surface vessel (USV) autonomy.

DESCRIPTION: For air-sea interaction measurements, it is important to measure the atmospheric boundary layer at the same time that we measure the ocean wave boundary layer and the ocean mixed-layer parameters. Because we have moved field measurements in the ocean to autonomous vehicles, we now have a mis-match between the measurements of the ocean wave-boundary layer and ocean mixed layer and the atmospheric boundary layer. The radiosonde measurements of atmospheric parameters for the upper 10-1000 m, the near surface humidity, temperature, particle concentration, wind speed, direction and pressure, and other meteorological measurements have historically been made from ocean research vessels. We would like to create a matching autonomous sampling capability for the atmospheric boundary layer. This capability would provide tremendous cost-savings; a ship-day costs from $25K to $55K a day. We estimate that a fully-operational USV with meteorological measuring gear could cost about $500K; however, its mobility but would create an appropriate match or time and spatial sampling with autonomous ocean gear like gliders, floats, etc. The present methods of measuring boundary layer data and fluxes at sea are very rough and crude with a large loss of accuracy - this will improve the quality as well as quantity of the data.

The objective of this program is to develop a mobile, steerable meterological measurement system that is capable of measuring the atmospheric boundary layer from just above the wave tops to the stable atmosphere. The following parameters are desirable:

Real-time reporting

Steerable, stable platform with navigational accuracy to 1 meter over 1 hour

Duration of 2-6 months

Retrievable (desirable but not a hard and fast option)

Deployable from surface vessels

Operating conditions: operational up to Beaufort Scale 4 [winds 13 - 17 mph;

wave height 3.5 - 6 ft; small waves with breaking crests; fairly frequent whitecaps]

Functional at storm conditions is desirable but also needs to be examined as a trade-off

Supports the following measurements:

Pressure, temperature, humidity, wind speed, wind direction, aerosol concentration

Supports the release of radiosondes or equivalent measurements through the boundary layer to the stable atmosphere (this should be part of the trade-off study)

This leap-ahead technology would also have tremendous utility to other agencies that support at sea-operations such as the Coast Guard, NOAA, the Navy METOC community

PHASE I: Develop initial concept design and evaluate potential components that can meet the operating and environmental criteria outlined above. Perform trade-off studies of cost, compatibility and capability; utilize market surveys, modeling, and or simulations to demonstrate feasibility. Create the initial design and interface control document. Under the option, if awarded, detail the costs, components, and structure of a prototype.

PHASE II: Based on Phase I work, construct a prototype system and demonstrate:

(1) operational efficacy in a maritime environment across the range of environmental conditions outlined above, meeting minimum thresholds, (2) collect and relay in real-time data sets for evaluation, and (3) engage in a comparative study of data quality against fixed or boat-based systems. (4) describe and detail cost advantages for productions of 10-50 units. Identify applications and benefits to the commercial and private sectors.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Conduct a full-scale scenario operational demonstration of the Phase II prototype. Integrate into the broader FNC programs or DRI programs to provide an operation use evaluation and to demonstrate viability across the naval force. Develop plans for scaling up manufacturing capabilities and commercialization plans with emphasis on price point and reduction for large numbers of units. Private Sector Commercial Potential: Industry, other governmental, and NGO organizations engaged in weather forecasting, climate-change assessment, marine condition forecasting, oil spill assessment and response, disaster response, disaster relief and recovery, maritime recovery, and marine science and exploration—conducted in countries/regions possessing or lacking developed maritime infrastructure—will benefit from this product.

REFERENCES:

Ocean Futures Study, 2015, National Studies Board; http://www.dtic.mil/dtic/tr/fulltext/
A Cooperative Strategy for the 21st Century Seapower; OCT 2007; jointly released by the Chief of Naval Operations, Commandant of the US Marine Corps, and Commandant of the US Coast Guard;https://www.ise.gov/sites/default/files/Maritime_Strategy.pdf
Naval Expeditionary Logistics: Enabling Operational Maneuver From the Sea; 1999; National Studies Board; http://www.dtic.mil/dtic/tr/fulltext/u2/a413072.pdf

KEYWORDS: autonomous surface vehicle; mobility; near-surface meterology; radiosonde measurements; humidity, atmospheric pressure; air temperature, atmospheric stability

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics, Information Systems

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: Commercial Broadband Antenna Program, ACAT III

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 5.4.c.(8) of the solicitation. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop a prototype radome and multi-band (at least C and Ka bands) antenna system that features an ideal mix of traditional metallic and composite materials as well as candidate advanced composites and meta-materials to allow placement on aircraft carrier mast or superstructures and protection/relocation from jet blast.

DESCRIPTION: Due to the large size (3.53 m diameter) and weight (818 kg) of C-band satellite antennas, the placement of these on aircraft carriers are limited to a very few locations excluding the mast on the superstructure. Accordingly, these antennas must be placed at a low enough point to reduce the center of gravity on the structure. Currently, antenna placement results in a sub-optimal location that is subject to significant blockage from the superstructure. Current approach to overcome this problem is the employment of a dual antenna array (fore and aft) along with complex electronic switching systems, dual sets of waveguides, and specialized satellite modems. Additionally, a new problem has been introduced on board aircraft carriers with the recent introduction of the Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) aircrafts such as Harrier and F-35C Joint Strike Fighter. The jet blast resulting from take-off and landing of these VTOL aircrafts have resulted in the destruction of radomes as well as the antennas they protect from the environment. These radomes and antennas were anticipated to have a long service life; however, the sparse set of spares are being depleted at a rapid rate. This is an untenable situation that requires an alternate means to solve this problem.

Efforts to address this problem should be focused on the areas of:

(1) Identify or develop methods for using advanced composite and/or meta-materials to yield significantly lighter antennas, gimbal mechanisms, and pedestals with equal or greater performance,

(2) Identify or develop advanced composite and/or meta-materials that will result in the ability to yield multi-band reflector arrays (i.e. advanced composites and meta-materials that selectively responds to multiple simultaneous set of wideband and narrowband satellite signals), and

(3) Using the knowledge gained and materials identified/developed under areas (1) and (2) to reduce large satellite antenna count and to allow mounting the lighter multi-band antennas on the aircraft carrier's mast or upper superstructure so they are not subject to blockage or jet blast from VTOL aircraft.

PHASE I: Determine the symbiotic relationship between the reduction of antenna weight to the corollary reduction in size and weight of the gimbal mechanism and pedestal. Identify the optimal trade-off for the use of some combination of traditional metallic structures, composites, advanced composites, and meta-materials that yields maximum service life at the best cost point. Determine the feasibility of developing a multi-band antenna that can replace at least two discreet satellite antennas. Study the use of advanced composites and meta-materials that selectively responds to multiple simultaneous sets of wideband and narrowband satellite signals.

Determine alternate locations for the innovative new antenna on the aircraft carrier's mast or upper superstructure. Also determine the effects on the radome from VTOL jet blast on the candidate antenna placement location.

PHASE II: Develop a prototype radome and multi-band (at least C and Ka bands) antenna system that features an ideal mix of traditional metallic and composite materials as well as candidate advanced composites and meta-materials. Characterize the performance against current Force Level Variant (FLV) FLV Commercial Broadband Satellite Program Antenna system, AN/USC-69(V)2. Produce complete radome and antenna model with electronics assemblies represented by appropriately placed non-functioning mass that can be tested at China Lake's shock, vibration, and environmental stress test facility to Navy Multiband Terminal (NMT) specifications. Determine survivability of the new multi-band antenna system's ability to survive the potential VTOL jet blast at the revised antenna location.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Produce production representative prototype for testing on aircraft carriers, increase Technology Readiness Levels (TRL), and, potentially, perform limited fielding of the antenna systems. Private Sector Commercial Potential: Commercial satellite programs such as O3b Networks used on commercial cruise liners can benefit from the reduction of antenna arrays required on ship.

REFERENCES:

Joint Strike Fighter: http://www.jsf.mil/
Gimbal mount complexity: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gimbal
Dual shell gridded satellite antenna reflectors: http://vst-inc.com/satellite-components/antenna-reflectors/dual-shell-gridded-reflectors/
PMW/A 170 Communications Program Office SATCOM program overview: http://www.public.navy.mil/spawar/Press/Documents/Publications/1.25.12_AFCEA_Kit_IX.pdf

KEYWORDS: JSF, gimbal, commercial SATCOM, MILSATCOM, multi-band antennas, meta-materials, advanced composites

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Battlespace, Ground/Sea Vehicles

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMW/A 170 ACAT IC Navy Multiband Terminal; ACAT III Commercial Broadband Satellite Program

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 5.4.c.(8) of the solicitation. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop troposcatter control algorithms and control software that can compensate for ship motion and can overcome the communications limitations imposed by Anti-Access Area Denial (A2AD) environments.

DESCRIPTION: Anti-Access Area Denial (A2AD) environments impose significant communications threats from traditional jamming interferers to kinetic attacks on any communications relay vehicles. The A2AD threats continue to grow significantly each day rendering certain counter-counter measures less effective and, potentially, ineffective in the very near future. A2AD environment threats can be partially overcome via communications systems that do not rely on communication relays; these include Line of Sight (LOS) and Beyond Line of Sight (BLOS). Shipboard LOS communications, however, are generally limited to 15 miles which provides very limited ability to overcome A2AD environments for a vast majority of mission scenarios.

Troposcatter uses the troposphere as the reflection medium; thus, BLOS communications distances of 150 miles can be easily realized. Troposcatter typically utilizes narrow channel beams which provides inherent jam resistance and Low Probability of Detection (LPD). Troposcatter, therefore, can effectively provide communications capabilities for ships in A2AD environments. However, due to the amplitude fluctuation associated with mobile platform dynamics, troposcatter communications have been limited to “communications at the halt”. Shipboard dynamics is constant; thus, the notion of ‘at the halt’ is not possible for any Navy ship platforms. Recent work by Draper Laboratories indicates that the issue of platform dynamics can be addressed. Comtech has an existing troposcatter solution for relatively low dynamic marine oil and gas platforms to stationary shore site communications. There is no commercial system to the best of PMW/A 170’s knowledge that can address two dynamic platforms (ship to ship) troposcatter communications.

A novel troposcatter control algorithm and ship motion compensation software that utilize existing shipboard Commercial Broadband Satellite Program (CBSP) C-band without imposing significant ship alternation is desired. The troposcatter control algorithm should be designed to maintain at least 10 Mbps of throughput with Bit Error Rate of 10^-5 or better. The troposcatter motion compensation software will also need to compensate for ship motion dynamics that range from World Meteorological Organization (WMO) sea state 0 (calm) to 5 (rough).

PHASE I: Determine technical feasibility for the development of troposcatter control algorithms and to increase communications capability for shipboard application, identify potential algorithms/software that can counter ship motion effects, and develop a strategy to realize troposcatter capabilities that maximize reuse of existing CBSP and a commercial off the shelf troposcatter modem (e.g., Comtech CS67500A) systems. Elements of the control algorithms can be considered for embedment in the future Navy Multiband Terminal (NMT) Wideband Anti-jam Modem (WAM) for CBSP application.

PHASE II: Based on the Phase I effort, develop, demonstrate and validate the counter ship motion effects algorithms for troposcatter communications on a representative CBSP like system to include C-band antenna control system meets the throughput and error rate requirements specified above. Produce an Interface Control Document (ICD) for the troposcatter antenna control system prototype that conforms maximally to the current CBSP C-band antenna control system.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Deliver at least two prototype software systems for demonstration and testing for ship-to-land communications. Additional ship-to-ship testing may be conducted. Support Navy efforts for integration and certification for use in the NMT and WAM for CBSP application. Private Sector Commercial Potential: Troposcatter for use on commercial ships and oil rigs to provide high capacity and low cost communications to both shore and afloat platforms.

REFERENCES:

Long range propagation via the mechanism of tropospheric scattering. http://www.mike-willis.com/Tutorial/troposcatter.htm
Comtech mobile troposcatter systems. http://www.comtechsystems.com/#information-tab2
PMW/A 170 Communications Program Office SATCOM program overview. http://www.public.navy.mil/spawar/Press/Documents/Publications/1.25.12_AFCEA_Kit_IX.pdf

KEYWORDS: A2AD; PMW/A 170; Shipboard communications; Troposcatter; NMT; CBSP; C-band; NLOS; LOS; BLOS

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials/Processes

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: Strategic Systems Programs, ACAT I

OBJECTIVE: Develop innovative, predictive condition-based maintenance software to determine degradation and forecast production and refurbishment of hardware to reduce maintenance costs and increase operational availability.

DESCRIPTION: The acquisition program has an ongoing need to reduce total ownership costs and extend the life-cycle of components and systems to improve the reliability and overall operational readiness of the fleet. A cost effective method for ensuring component reliability is to augment the fixed schedule maintenance approach with deterministic component health and usage data to inform selective and targeted maintenance activities. The acquisition program seeks an innovative condition-based maintenance technology (i.e., a maintenance system that forecasts the health of the hardware) that can use adaptive learning techniques to “understand” component interdependencies and can accurately predict component failure of the system based on all available parametric data.

Innovative predictive software for forecasting the performance and maintenance of the hardware is required to address issues with the present method of maintenance. Currently, there is limited preventative maintenance that occurs on the hardware and is usually time-based and dependent upon human monitoring of systems. Hardware for this effort includes a two speed electric winch, wire rope, motor, brake, gearbox, and large metal structures. Computer-controlled test and monitor systems provide system status and allow for monitoring of key sub-system parameters such as fatigue, degradation, stress etc., but this data is not captured and thus not analyzed over time. Currently, preventative maintenance is not driven by automated system status or performance indicators and trends. Thus, maintenance is performed inefficiently and often fails to predict or prevent component and system failures.

Additionally, corrective hardware maintenance usually occurs after a component or system fails, or if component degradation is observed during routine maintenance. Failure to anticipate corrective maintenance requirements increases mean time to repair (MTTR), and decreases operational availability (Ao). Unanticipated corrective maintenance actions also drive up costs due to increased labor costs and expedited shipping costs when parts have to be obtained quickly.

Current software is not capable of making decisions but can be trained to improve its performance by factoring both technical decisions and programmatic decisions. An expert system that can use readily available, but not currently recorded, performance parameters to predict and thus preempt component and system failures is sought to improve overall system Ao, reduce MTTR, and reduce system maintenance and repair costs.

• Software should predict a failure, the inability or at least serious degradation of the hardware to perform its intended functions

o Software should determine the current degree of fault as quantified by Figure of Merit

o Prediction about the progression of the fault, in order to postulate the equipment’s degree of fault as a particular point in time in the future

o Determine the level of the fault, as quantified by the FOM that will produce a failure of the platform.

• Software will be able to use inputs from historical and manufacturing data along with data from current sensors on the equipment.

• Software should be able to predict the life of the equipment

• Software should provide the dynamic variation/ uncertainty boundaries on the prediction

• Software should be able to use both supervised and unsupervised learning

• Software can include but not limited to linear regression, linear multiple regression, time series analysis, Bayesian dynamic linear models and non-linear regress and multiple regress

A desired, innovative solution is needed to expertly and continuously monitor the component parametric data streams and conduct trend analysis. The expert system would combine the trend analysis data with component degradation and failure data reports to improve its prediction algorithms. The desired result is a system that is capable of providing a report such as, “hardware A” has a 90% probability of failure within the next 72-96 operating hours” or “the output of component “B” decreased by 10% in the last 7 days with the rate of output decrease accelerating significantly in the last 24 operating hours, indicating there is an 89% probability of component failure in the next 96 operating hours.”

PHASE I: Define and develop a predictive condition-based maintenance forecaster that meets the requirements described above and demonstrate the feasibility of the concept against hardware. Perform analysis, modeling and simulation, or laboratory investigations/demonstrations to provide initial assessment of approach feasibility.

PHASE II: Develop a prototype based on Phase I for evaluation. Validation of the software should include apparent, internal and external validation. Internal validation should include calibration with the data used to construct the predictive software, assessment of discrimination with the data and use of bootstrap to generate bias-corrected estimates of calibration and discrimination.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Perform assessments on the hardware using data collected from in-situ sensors, hardware manufacturers and historical data in order to provide a long range maintenance plan. Software predictions will be compared to actual degradation and life of the equipment. Extend the use of this predictive condition-based maintenance forecaster to additional hardware components through future required development. Private Sector Commercial Potential: A predictive maintenance forecaster would improve the operational reliability of all hardware and improve their availability. Commercial hardware manufacturers would be able to incorporate the technology into their sustained maintenance planning. This is an innovative capability that can be used in any industry that needs to increase operational availability (Ao) and mean time to repair (MTTR).

REFERENCES:

Peng, Ying, Dong, Ming, and Zuo Jian M. Current Status of Machine Prognostics in Condition-based Maintenance. The International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology, Volume 50, Issue 1, pages 297-313. 06 January 2010.
Sun, Jianzhong, Zuo, Hongfu, Wang, Wenbin, and Pecht, Michael G. Application of a Stat Space Modeling Technique to System Prognostics based on a Health Index for Condition-Based Maintenance. Mechanical Systems and Signal Processing. Volume 28, pages 585-596. 29 November 2010.
Voisin, A., Levrat, E., Cocheteux, P., Lung, B. Generic Prognosis Model For Proactive Mainteannce Decision Support: Application to Pre-Industrial E-Maintenance Test Bed. Journal of Intelligent Manufacturing. Volume 21, Issue 2, page 177-193. April 2010

KEYWORDS: Condition-based, maintenance, software, predictive, sustainment, sensors

DIRECT TO PHASE II

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Weapons

OBJECTIVE: Develop a manufacturing technique that economically manufactures large caliber steel cartridge cases within required dimensional and mechanical parameters.

DESCRIPTION: The Navy uses 5-inch steel cartridge cases, which are manufactured using a deep draw production process, in some of its guns. The deep draw production process and the associated equipment are economical for high volume production but not for low volume production. The Navy is seeking innovative manufacturing techniques or processes that enable equitable manufacturing of the cartridge cases in low volumes. A maximum total cost is targeted at $800/unit for an initial production year run of 8,000 units. Subsequent year target cost is $350/unit for additional production runs of 8,000 units/year. Specifications for the shell casing will be provided upon contract award.

The present deep-draw steel cartridge case is one with specific mechanical properties built into the case which the new manufacturing process must meet. These properties are such that the steel will expand to the gun chamber surface and obturate satisfactorily during firing, but must still be resilient enough to recover after firing to allow for extraction. The required mechanical properties (i.e., strength, expansion, and contraction capabilities and metal integrity) are produced and controlled by judicious use of heat-treating and metal-forming techniques during casing production. These properties are required to be varied along the entire length of the case.

When a gun is fired, the propelling charge is ignited and the resultant internal gas pressure causes the case to expand to the diameter of the gun chamber, after which case and gun expand together. The gun expands elastically; the case expands elastically and plastically. The elastic characteristic of the gun is fixed and both the elastic and plastic characteristics of the case are functions of the case material's composition and yield strength. The taper profile on the 5-inch cartridge case prevents net shape forming via conventional flow forming techniques. One would neither be able to remove the part from the mandrel nor be able to flow form the exterior taper (standard flow forming techniques create straight walls). Furthermore, the required material properties along the length of the case have been difficult to reproduce.

While prior research has shown flow forming as a potential technical and economical long term solution, the current processes in both metal forming and heat treating technologies are inadequate. Economically, flow forming is a slower process and generally not as efficient. An innovative manufacturing technique could include pre and post machining, and heat treating as an effective solution. The innovative manufacturing techniques or processes developed under this topic will likely have application in the Army’s and Navy’s family of large caliber ammunition (e.g. Navy 76mm, 5-inch, and 155m; Army 105mm cannon and 105mm artillery).

PHASE I: The offeror will develop an approach for innovative manufacturing techniques that meets the parameters of producing a 5-inch cartridge case. The approach must be economical for low and high production yields of the cartridge and demonstrate a feasible path to fabricating a conforming cartridge case as described in the description.

PHASE II: The offeror will develop, demonstrate, and validate the approach developed during Phase I to produce a prototype of the innovative manufacturing technique. The process will be validated through performance of risk reduction prototype testing on samples as necessary to mature and validate the manufacturing technique or process. At least two rounds of full scale prototypes will be fabricated and analyzed for metallurgy and function, including case to munition interface and handling equipment operation. A final delivery of 50 cartridge cases will be delivered for demonstration testing by the Naval Gunnery Program Office.

DIRECT TO PHASE II (DP2): Offerors interested in submitting a DP2 proposal in response to this topic must provide documentation to substantiate that the scientific and technical merit and feasibility described in the Phase I section of this topic has been met and describes the potential commercial applications. The offerors related DP2 proposal will not be evaluated without adequate PH I feasibility documentation. Documentation should include all relevant information including, but not limited to: technical reports, test data, prototype designs/models, and performance goals/result. Please read the OSD SBIR 16.2 Direct to Phase II Instructions.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The offeror will demonstrate the production of the innovative manufacturing technique for 5-inch steel casings that conform to the casing requirements. The offeror is expected to provide 100 production representative 5-inch shell casings for qualification tests to be conducted by the Naval Gunnery Program Office in the Major Caliber Program Production of shells. Nominally, this testing will proceed similar to a First Article Test and live fire tests using complete propelling charges. The technology developed under this topic has potential use in both Navy and Army large-caliber guns.

AMCP 706-247 Engineering Design Handbook: Ammunition Series Section 4: Design for Projection, Jul 1964.
AMCP 706-249 Engineering Design Handbook: Ammunition Series Section 6: Manufacture of Metallic Components of Artillery Ammunition, Jul 1964.
Felmley,T and McHenry, J. “Flow Formed Cartridge Testing” National Center for Excellence in Metalworking Technology. 08 Jan 1998.
Creeden, T.P., Bagnall, C, McHenry, J.C., Gover, J., Kovalcik, C.M., Dong, H., and Ucok, I. Optimized Flow-Formed Steel Cartridge Casings: Product and Process Analysis. 30 Jun 2000.
Onesto, E.J. and Bagnall, C. “Optimized Flowformed 5-inch/54 Steel Cartridge Cases.” 02 Jan 2002.

KEYWORDS: flow forming; deep draw; large caliber; steel cartridge case; major caliber; heat treating

DIRECT TO PHASE II

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics, Human Systems

OBJECTIVE: Design and fabricate an Augmented Reality (AR) user interface for tactical air and ground vehicles that demonstrates minimal formal Soldier training, embedded Soldier training, and minimal Soldier cognitive burden during semi-autonomous ground and air tactical vehicle operations for acquiring image products, performing area reconnaissance, and performing remote sensing of airborne chemical, biological radiological, or nuclear toxins.

DESCRIPTION: The DoD has a critical need for breakthrough user interface technologies in order to plan and monitor the acquisition of mission critical image products and remote sensing, while enabling the Soldier to maintain their focus on primary tactical operations. This topic seeks to integrate state-of-the-art augmented reality user interface display content and human computer interface technologies with existing ground Soldier communications interfaces for training, embedded training, mission command, and semi-autonomous vehicle route planning and operations monitoring and controlling. This topic is open to a multiplicity of AR user interface architectures that first and foremost, demonstrate significant improvements in minimizing Soldier training and operational cognitive burden for monitoring and controlling tactical semi-autonomous vehicles, and secondly integrate with existing Nett Warrior interface standards including android operating system for the operating system, MIL-STD 2525B for mission command graphics, H.264 for video, Joint Architecture for Unmanned Systems (JAUS) for tele-robotic communications and Cursor on Target eXtended Markup Language (CoT XML) for robotic waypoint and route control.

The gaming and computing industry has pushed advances in the fidelity and daylight visibility of AR display hardware. These advances have enabled the probable use of AR displays for ground Soldiers. However, the time lag between AR hardware advancements, AR user interface content and user interface controls that are tactically relevant to ground Soldiers continues to be lengthy. Developing and demonstrating an AR display concept and style guide for semi-autonomous ground and aerial vehicles that leverages current mission command graphics and commercial advances in direct view AR graphics should yield a minimally cognitive burden Soldier experience.

Similarly, the gaming industry has pushed advances in the fidelity and user experience for control of the gaming experience but the ground Soldier tactical equipment has not had similar advancements. Voice commands, head gestures, virtual joysticks, or other emerging user input devices are needed to enable ground Soldiers to operate in a near hands-free posture as much as possible in order to remain in tactical, hands-on weapon posture when needed. Additionally, while tactical aerial vehicle operation has become more routine with the advent of control loops to automatically maintain desired height above ground, the current training time and on-demand training technologies are archaic. This topic also seeks the development of the same operational AR user interfaces and controls to provide formal and embedded aerial and ground vehicle operations and mission management training. This topic should leverage existing mission command satellite imagery and digital terrain elevation data; physical models of vehicle mobility and payload operations; and AR user interfaces and computer input devices to provide a train as you fight training prototype for tactical vehicles.

Proposals should target the design, development and demonstration of AR user interface components and Soldier input device components. Essential elements of the AR user interface components include low cognitive burden for the three phases of operation: training, planning, and operating the tactical ground and aerial vehicles. The essential elements of the control input are near hands-free operation, low cognitive burden and high Soldier acceptance for managing tele-robotic operations as well as mission operations.

Critical to the design of the system is minimizing Soldier cognitive burden while maximizing mission performance. In addition, proposals should detail the intended AR user interface components, (i.e. symbology, overlay style, notifications, FMV, training tools, and available functions), their interface design to robotic systems, computer input devices, mission messaging, and map data that will ultimately yield the lowest cognitive burden, lowest training time, and highest Soldier acceptance for vehicle control and mission image product generation. Offerors are to first uncover and understand the critical integration challenges that may limit the translation and commercial-viability of current AR user controls and AR content, symbols, and overlays.

Technical challenges may include:
• The development of a standard AR style for diverse user interface spectrum including tele-robotics, image product collection, remote toxin sensing, and mission status.
• The development of a spectrum of input controls for tactical vehicle control operation using AR displays.
• Development of high fidelity vehicle performance metrics to ensure training environment adequately mimics live vehicle operation.
• Establishing optimal trade-offs between head tracking, FMV processing, AR content overlay, and control inputs required to minimize the real time delay between external, physical environment and AR displayed content.

PHASE I: Explore and determine the fundamental feature list, sub-systems integration, and cognitive burden limitations in implementing a fully-integrated AR user interface for Soldier deployed, ground and aerial tele-robotics and autonomous mobility and payload control including embedded AR training mode. Phase I deliverables are a final report and proof of concept demonstration. The Final Report should identify: the AR user interface features for robotics control and embedded training; the feature list and ergonomic limitations of computer human input devices for controlling the wearable AR system; the technical challenges, relevant modular and extensible physics based control modeling of tactical ground and aerial semi-autonomous vehicle mobility and payload control; and the feature list and limitations of AR based embedded training for Soldier deployed, ground and aerial tele-robotics and autonomous control. The demonstration deliverable should include a proof of concept system that shows the key AR display and user control components in a bench-top prototype, for either a tactical ground or aerial vehicle along with all the design documents and complete specifications, along with documentation of committed sources and service providers for the fabrication of the ultimate integrated AR vehicle and payload control as well as the embedded AR training system to be produced in Phase II; full specifications and a complete Bill of Materials are required, itemizing each component and system that comprises the final prototype system. This demonstration should be performed at the contractor’s facility.

PHASE II: Development, demonstration, and delivery of a working, fully-integrated AR user interface for ground and aerial tele-robotics and autonomous mobility including training mode. The Phase II demonstration should operate within the existing set of ground Soldier interface standards: Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0 for peripheral electronic integration, H.264 for video, JAUS for tele-robotic communications, and Cursor on Target eXtended Markup Language (CoT XML) for autonomous waypoint commands. The Phase II final deliverables shall include (1) full system design and specifications detailing the AR user interface concept software (executable and source code) to be integrated for achieving the three mission sets of reconnaissance, terrain mapping and remote sensing; (2) full system design and specifications detailing the electronics and software (executable and source code) for AR Soldier control device(s) to be integrated; (3) full system design and specifications detailing the embedded training software (executable and source code) and details of the aerial aerodynamic physics models and configuration parameters; and (4) full system design and specifications detailing the embedded training software (executable and source code) and details of the ground mobility physics models, gripper physics models, arm physics models and camera models and the associated configuration parameters for each.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Refine and mature AR user interface software applications for military reconnaissance and commercially for real estate, disaster relief and other reconnaissance operations. Refine prototype hardware and associated ergonomics for AR user interface control hardware to be used in Military and Department of Homeland Security, and disaster relief environments. Refine, and mature AR embedded training software applications for Military, Department of Homeland Security, and disaster relief types of tactical ground and aerial vehicles.

Gagnon, S. A., Brunye, T. T., Gardony, A. L., Noordzij, M. L., Mahoney, C. R., & Taylor, H. A. (2014). Stepping into a map: Initial heading direction influences spatial memory flexibility. Cognitive Science, DOI 10.1111/cogs.12055.
McCaney, Kevin. " Army’s move to Samsung reflects a flexible mobile strategy." Defense Systems, 24 Feb 2014.(https://defensesystems.com/articles/2014/02/24/army-nett-warrior-samsung-galacy-note-ii.aspx)

KEYWORDS: augmented reality, human factors engineering, ergonomics, training, prototype

DIRECT TO PHASE II

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics, Human Systems

OBJECTIVE: Design and fabricate an integrated Augmented Reality system for use by Dismounted Soldiers that demonstrate high levels of immersion in live indoor and outdoor environments and demonstrate future interoperability in both single and multiplayer (collective) configurations with evolving Synthetic Training Environment (STE).

DESCRIPTION: Perceived as an emerging technology of the future, Augmented Reality (AR) is making its way into Smartphones and Tablets, as next generation image capturing and Heads-Up Display (HUD) technologies mature. The US Army of 2025 and beyond requires a robust, realistic, and adaptable training capability. Augmented Reality (AR) technologies will enable the integration of synthetic simulations with live training environments. This topic seeks to integrate state-of-the-art electronics, packaging, and augmentation technologies with the latest low-power data, computing, and rendering components in a single man-wearable package.

Currently, the COTS industry has several emerging capabilities that show great promise for home and/or industrial use. These capabilities appear to have some degree of dismounted Soldier training value when combined as a wholly integrated solution. The integration of these capabilities as-is may not be sufficient, however, because of concerns of ruggedness, interference (e.g., wireless, magnetic, optical occlusion), weather resistance, and so on. The system may result in the modification of these COTS components and/or the creation of new components to address any capability gaps. Soldiers utilizing the system should experience minimal encumbrance to their existing tactical/training equipment and gear. The system should be able to support a squad-level size unit. The system should have a clear design and architecture path to scale up to a platoon level.

The DoD has a critical need for breakthrough man-wearable technologies to develop and demonstrate an advanced AR technology prototype system that demonstrate lightweight and affordable approaches which enhance the ability of live soldiers to train with virtual and live entities in live environments. The advanced AR system prototype is a system that must include real-time live/virtual bridging, correlated content, low-latency augmented reality with static / dynamic occlusion and depth sensing, indoor and outdoor operations, support all lighting conditions (dark night to bright sunlight), real-time localized haptics feedback, full weapon and existing soldier equipment integration, multimodal man-machine interfaces, and support sensing of full-body articulation to be used with virtual content interaction (equipment, avatars, etc.) and presentation to other virtual / gaming / constructive training systems within the Army’s synthetic training environment (STE) initiatives. The approach must also provide for methods to rapidly map live 3D spaces for new deployments and use in future training exercises along with natural blending of virtual content into the live display (static / dynamic lighting, shadows, etc.). The systems must also provide reliable real-time telemetry to allow for high-fidelity distributed after action review (AAR), remote monitoring and configuration, and support cloud development and content delivery strategies.

Proposals should target the design and implementation of a COTS-based man-wearable augmented reality system and it’s supporting components. Essential elements of this component include a wide field of view, wireless head mounted display (WHMD), human articulation tracking technologies, flexible direct electronic interfaces to haptics sensors, and low power pre-processing circuitry to 6-DOF pose and 3D depth sensing sensor signals into formats that can be transmitted wirelessly to after action and monitoring systems. Packaging must leverage state-of-the-art miniaturized sensors, processing, and rendering packaging that incorporates on-board wireless power reception and conditioning circuitry.

Technical challenges may include:
• The development of a wide field of view, high contrast, wireless HMD capable of providing clear mixed/augmented reality displays under indoor and outdoor conditions and in a wide variety of lighting conditions and operational spaces which a soldier can wear for long periods of time without significant eye/head fatigue.
• Maximizing the scalability and bandwidth-power product of both the on-board devices and external wireless data and power interfaces, but doing so within safe heat dissipation limits for human extended use.
• Establishing optimal trade-offs between physical, electronic, and data transmission specifications required to minimize the componentry bill of materials (BoM) and hence the size and weight of the devices mounted on the human.
• Determining optimal power-bandwidth tradeoffs and scalability to support extended training exercises using the man-wearable technologies.
• Developing enhanced virtual content capable of naturally blending into the live lighting environment
• Demonstrate the ability for multiple dismounted soldiers to train together in a common location without interference or degradation of AR sensor / wireless telemetry performance
• Providing for distributed training concepts where the immersed human seamlessly trains and interacts with live soldiers and other training system interfaces (virtual, game, constructive)
• Developing enhanced augmented reality dismounted solider training scenarios which exploit the additional capabilities associated with mixed / augment reality

PHASE I: Determine the feasibility/approach for the development of integrated augmented reality technologies to meet training requirements in support of US Army dismounted solider training initiatives within live training domain environments. The tasks include a cognitive task analysis to understand the competencies and knowledge requirements associated with dismounted training; a technology analysis to guide the application and trade off key components, approaches, and subsystems; and research conducted to evaluate the impact of augmented reality technologies on trainee understanding.

PHASE II: Development, demonstration, and delivery of a working prototype augmented reality based dismounted soldier training (full Army squad 9 man) capability that can be utilized within live domain training environments. Prototype system will need to track soldier training timelines, objectives, soldier actions taken or received by others, and provide visual/haptic cues in response to the actions taken or received. Demonstrations will be at TRL 6. Phase II deliverables include full system design and specifications to include executable and source code.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Refine design and continue technology investigation and integration into a prototype baseline, and implement basic modeling methods, algorithms and interfaces. Pursue full integration within the Live Training Transformation (LT2) and Tactical Engagement Simulation Systems (TESS) product lines, to define an implementation solution. Continue to develop models, procedures, actions and reactions with virtual content, ensure complete traceability to dismounted soldier training requirements. Ensure product line development between live domain and virtual / gaming solutions with a target for integration into the Army’s synthetic training environment (STE) and planned training technology matrices with cloud based content and development strategies.

Naval Research Laboratory Washington, D.C. 20375-5320, “Advancing Human Centered Augmented Reality Research” (2004).
Naval Research Laboratory Washington, D.C. 20375-5320, “The Development of Mobile Augmented Reality” (2012).
Livingston, M., Gabbard, J., Swan II, J., Sibbley, C., & Barrow, J. (2012). “Basic Perception in Head-worn Augmented Reality Displays”, In Human Factors in Augmented Reality Environments (pp. 33-66). New York, New York: Springer.
(4) G. Kim, C. Perey, M. Preda, eds., “Mixed and Augmented Reality Reference Model,” ISO/IEC CD 24-29-1, July 2014.
Crutchfield, Richard., et al. “Live Synthetic Training, Test & Evaluation Infrastructure Architecture, A Service Oriented Architecture Approach”, MITRE Technical Report, MTR 150046, 20 February 2015
R. Kumar et al, “Implementation of an Augmented Reality System for Training Dismounted Warfighters,” paper No. 12149, in Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation, and Education Conf. (I/ITSEC) 2012.
S. You, U. Neumann, R. Azuma, “Orientation Tracking for Outdoor Augmented Reality Registration,” IEEE Computer Graphics and Applications, November/December 1999.
PEO-STRI, “Synthetic Training Environment (STE) Technology / Industry Day”, 1-2 September 2015

KEYWORDS: Head Mounted Display, Haptics, Augmented Reality, Human Computer Interaction, Training, Embedded Training

DIRECT TO PHASE II

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics, Human Systems

OBJECTIVE: To provide an enhanced, real-world experimentation and prototype capability to Soldiers that are learning to use sensors, sensor imagery, geolocation information, Situational Awareness (SA) and command and control information in new and novel ways through the use of virtual reality, augmented reality, and augmented virtuality.

DESCRIPTION: Urban combat requires full situational understanding and informed, accurate information for rapid and decisive action. Current solutions require Warfighters to look away from the battlefield at a display and manually mark items – losing Situational Awareness, accuracy and understanding. Fusion of information to displays is inefficient and ineffective, affecting rapid and decisive action by small units in their Area of Responsibility (AOR). Further, there is a lack of connectivity and sharing of information between the mounted and dismounted Warfighter.

We seek the ability to provide imagery to soldiers in the back of a vehicle, but the issues associated with that capability are unknown. For example, what level of detail is sufficient to provide accurate SA to the soldier? What update rate is required to avoid motion sickness? Does the position of the soldier in the vehicle versus the location of the display affect understanding and efficacy? What are the problems with using geo-registration? A short range camera with a wide field of view (FOV) provides accurate location; how can a long range camera provide accurate geo-registration? How can we automate DTED data and horizon matching? If current solutions use landmarks, what can be used when those are not readily available? Overall, what is the accuracy of VR/AV solutions and how can we ensure that an icon is accurately matched to a target?

We believe the issues can be addressed with a capability that provides VR/AV prototypes in the context of target acquisition experimentation, with the goal of increasing Soldier performance and familiarization with the increased SA. Experimentation could include, but is not limited to, lightweight, flexible displays or optics that can be integrated into protective eyewear or helmet-mounted displays, mobile electronics, game-based systems, intelligent tutoring, enhanced character behaviors, and the efficient use of terrain databases and models for target acquisition experimentation.

PHASE I: The offeror will survey existing capabilities and propose solutions to the issues identified with providing SA imagery to mounted and dismounted soldiers. The offeror will select a limited number of challenge areas to research, in order to create an experimental design and methodology for augmenting target acquisition performance measurement and experimentation. The phase will result in a study and report of the challenges associated with VR/AV capability, an experiment design for use in a perception testing laboratory, and a detailed research plan to execute a Phase II prototype.

PHASE II: The offeror will implement one or two tactically correct prototype capabilities demonstrating a virtual vehicle simulation (i.e., Abrams tank, Tank Commander/Gunner crew positions) using advances in use of Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, Augmented Virtuality, thru-sight tactical visualization, touch screens, motion tracking, software algorithms and models, and gaming technologies. The offeror will consider long-term requirements as defined by efforts such as the Synthetic Training Environment (STE). The offeror will conduct a statistically relevant set of experiments using the design and methodology to evaluate situational awareness, accuracy, and target acquisition performance measurement and experimentation developed in Phase I. The experimentation difficulty will vary from a novice level to an expert level of target acquisition, with the appropriate noise and blur applied to the imagery. Metrics will be developed and collected for evaluation of Soldier target acquisition performance under varying conditions, with and without enhanced SA.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The offeror will work with available funding sources to transition capability into practical use within Army/DoD simulation systems, while consider options for dual use applications in broader domains including state/local governments, and commercial.

U. S. Army, Training and Education Modernization Strategy, 15 December 2014.
Live, Virtual, Constructive Integrating Architecture Initial Capabilities Document, 28 July 2004.
Aviation Combined Arms Tactical Trainer Increment II Capability Production Document, 02 December 2011.
Close Combat Tactical Trainer Reconfigurable Vehicle Tactical Trainer Capabilities Production Document, December 2006.
Close Combat Tactical Trainer Capability Production Document, 24 June 2009.
A Taxonomy of Mixed Reality Visual Displays, P. Milgram, F. Kishino, IEICE Transactions on Information Systems, Vol E77-D, No. 12 December 1994.
Windows on the World: An example of Augmented Virtuality, K. Simsarian , K-P. Akesson. 1997.
Usability Issues of an Augmented Virtuality Environment for Design, X, Wang, I. Chen 2010.
Supporting Cooperative Work in Virtual Environments S. Benford, J. Bowers, L.E. Fahlen, J. Mariani, T. Rodden. 1994.
Azuma, R., Baillot, Y., Behringer, R., Feiner, S., Julier, S., & Macintyre, B. (2001). Recent advances in augmented reality. IEEE Computer Graphics and Applications IEEE Comput. Grap. Appl., 21(6), 34-47. doi:10.1109/38.963459
Brown, D., Coyne, J., & Stripling, R. (2006). Augmented Reality for Urban Skills Training. IEEE Virtual Reality Conference (VR 2006), 249-252. doi:10.1109/VR.2006.28
Goldiez, B., Livingston, M., Dawson, J., Brown, D., Hancock, P., Baillot, Y., Julier, S. (2005). Proceedings from the Army Science Conference (24th): Advancing Human Centered Augmented Reality Research. Orlando, FL. ARMY - 66
Hodges, G. (2014). Identifying the Limits of an Integrated Training Environment Using Human Abilities and Affordance Theory. Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, CA.
Livingston, M., Barrow, J., & Sibley, C. (2009). Quantification of Contrast Sensitivity and Color Perception using Head-worn Augmented Reality Displays. 2009 IEEE Virtual Reality Conference, 115-122. doi:10.1109/VR.2009.4811009

KEYWORDS: virtual reality, augmented virtuality, modeling and simulation, synthetic training environment, interfaces, LVC, combat vehicles, aviation simulation

PROPOSALS ACCEPTED: Phase I and DP2. Please see the 16.2 DoD Program Solicitation and the DARPA 16.2 Direct to Phase II Instructions for DP2 requirements and proposal instructions.

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Biomedical, Materials/Processes

OBJECTIVE: Develop a real-time device capable of measuring small-molecule antibiotic drug concentrations from a small quantity of blood in less than 30 minutes. The application of this technology would be improved and personalized antibiotic administration, which would diminish the likelihood of the development of antimicrobial resistance.

DESCRIPTION: There is an urgent DoD need to optimize antimicrobial dosing to address the prevalence of drug-resistant pathogens and the increase of minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of antimicrobials. Recent evidence suggests that current antimicrobial dosing may be inadequate for some critically ill patients. Specifically, variable metabolism of antibiotics due to the patient’s current state of illness, as well as heterogeneity among patients in the metabolism and antimicrobials, lead to substantial fluctuations in levels. The ability to measure drug concentrations in near real-time would greatly facilitate treatment and reduce the risk of administering suboptimal doses of antimicrobials. Unfortunately, the reliance on laboratory-scale equipment such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to quantify drug concentrations precludes measurement at the point of care.

PHASE I: Develop a benchtop breadboard device to demonstrate feasibility of approach. Deliverables will include a detailed device design plan, regulatory plan, Phase II commercialization strategy, and Phase I final report.

PHASE II: Compare the performance of the breadboard device developed in Phase I with gold standard testing (e.g., HPLC) to determine the performance characteristics of the system in an in vitro and in vivo small animal model. Modify the approach to ensure that the device meets the minimum specifications outlined below. In addition, develop and implement a design-for-manufacturability strategy. Deliverables will include ten standalone prototype devices suitable for user evaluation, and Phase II final report.

The device prototype will be required to meet the following specifications:

• Antimicrobials of Interest: Amphotericin; Voriconazole; Colistin; Gentamicin; Meropenem (1 specimen per test)

• Specimen Matrix: Blood (< 50 µL drop)

• Limit of Detection: Dependent on drug (specify & justify in proposal)

• Dynamic Range: Dependent on drug (specify & justify in proposal)

• Error and Uncertainty: Specify & justify in proposal (compared to gold standard measurement and across multiple measurements)

• Test Turnaround Time (TAT): < 30 minutes

• Ease of Use: Low complexity; < 5 steps by user with one timed step requiring < 5 minutes of user intervention

• User Interface: Results displayed on screen with capability to save and recall previous results

• Power: AC and battery (> 8 hour lifetime; > 15 tests between charges)

• Training: Minimal; instructions and graphical aides sufficient for user operation

• Storage: Reagents do not require cold-chain and shelf stable > 12 months

• Form Factor: Handheld device for sample preparation and measurement

• Communications Interface: USB with computer for data upload/download

The ultimate device may be comprised of a disposable component containing the reagents and a non-disposable component (e.g., pumps, power supply, electronics etc.). The device form factor should be suitable for use at the point of care by a nurse or physician, similar to commercially available glucose meters. Sample preparation by the user should be minimal and all reagents required should be self-contained within a disposable component and not require refrigeration. The device should accept specimens from the patient using standard clinical methods (e.g., finger prick or venous whole blood).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: A clear plan towards FDA approval for the device should be implemented and additional testing to meet FDA requirements will be completed. Additional funding may be provided by DoD sources, but the awardee must also look toward other government or civilian funding sources to continue the process of translation and commercialization. If successful, this device would have clinical utility in both civilian and military settings. Acquisition customers include the US Army Medical Research and Materiel Command (MRMC) and Defense Health Agency (DHA).

REFERENCES:

Akers, KS. Colistin Pharmacokinetics in Burn Patients during Continuous Venovenous Hemofiltration. Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy 59, 46-52 (2015).
Ferguson, BS. Real-Time, Aptamer-Based Tracking of Circulating Therapeutic Agents in Living Animals. Science Translational Medicine 5, 213ra165 (2013).
Wong, G. How do we use therapeutic drug monitoring to improve outcomes from severe infections in critically ill patients? BMC Infectious Diseases 14, 288-299 (2014).

KEYWORDS: Therapeutic drug monitoring; point-of-care test; drug concentration; biosensor; personalized medicine

PROPOSALS ACCEPTED: Phase I and DP2. Please see the 16.2 DoD Program Solicitation and the DARPA 16.2 Direct to Phase II Instructions for DP2 requirements and proposal instructions.

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Biomedical

OBJECTIVE: Develop point-of-care technologies to monitor and characterize host-pathogen interactions during acute severe infection.

DESCRIPTION: There is a critical DoD need to develop a system that could be used at the point of care for monitoring in near real time host-pathogen interactions that would enable personalized therapeutic interventions during acute severe infection. Proposed approaches must go beyond traditional techniques for diagnosis based on microbiological testing, clinical signs, symptoms, and physiology to enable more targeted and appropriate interventions. Parameters of interest include, but are not limited to nucleic acids, cytokines, coagulation factors, hemopexin, and pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP) molecules. The proposed technique must be capable of frequently measuring analytes and be in a format suitable for point-of-care use. During the course of severe clinical infection, the fluctuating status of patients requires frequent monitoring that ultimately informs treatment. Patient outcomes are determined by the invading pathogen(s), subsequent host response, and therapeutic intervention. For example, sepsis arises from an exuberant host response to infection that results in collateral organ and tissue damage. This syndrome represents a major health challenge and is one of the most common causes for admission into intensive care units (ICU). Blood culture is considered the gold standard for diagnosis and identification of pathogens in the bloodstream, but is insensitive and suffers from a long turnaround time.

PHASE I: Demonstrate feasibility of the approach in a breadboard configuration. A detailed design and manufacturing plan, animal testing plan, regulatory plan, and commercialization strategy shall be delivered with the final report.

PHASE II: Develop prototypes of the system. The performance characteristics of the system shall be evaluated using clinically relevant samples. Manufacturing of the system should be done under GMP conditions. A regulatory package should be drafted with the requisite supporting information. The device prototype will be required to meet the following specifications:

• Specimen Matrix: Blood (< 50 µL drop) • Limit of Detection: Dependent on analyte (specify & justify in proposal) • Dynamic Range: Dependent on analyte (specify & justify in proposal) • Error and Uncertainty: Specify & justify in proposal (compared to gold standard measurement and across multiple measurements) • Test Turnaround Time (TAT): < 30 minutes • Ease of Use: Low complexity; < 5 steps by user with one timed step requiring < 5 minutes of user intervention • User Interface: Results displayed on screen with capability to save and recall previous results • Power: AC and battery (> 8 hour lifetime; > 15 tests between charges) • Training: Minimal; instructions and graphical aides sufficient for user operation • Storage: Reagents do not require cold-chain and shelf stable > 12 months • Form Factor: Handheld device for sample preparation and measurement • Communications Interface: USB with computer for data upload/download

REFERENCES:

Jain, A. A shear gradient-activated microfluidic device for automated monitoring of whole blood haemostasis and platelet function. Nature Communications 7 (2016).
Kellum, JA. Understanding the inflammatory cytokine response in pneumonia and sepsis. Arch Internal Medicine 15, 1655 – 1663 (2007).
McHugh, L. A molecular host response assay to discriminate between sepsis and infection-negative systemic inflammation in critically ill patients: Discovery and validation in independent cohorts. PLoS Medicine 12, 1 – 35 (2015).
Oved, K. A novel host-proteome signature for distinguishing between acute bacterial and viral infections. PLoS One 10, 1 – 18 (2015).
Service, RF. Will biomarkers take off at last? Science 321, 1760 (2008).
Taslik, EL. Host gene expression classifiers diagnose acute respiratory illness etiology. Science Translational Medicine 8, 322ra11 (2016).

KEYWORDS: Host-pathogen interaction; point-of-care; prognostic; diagnostic; pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP) molecules; nucleic acid detection; hemopexin; cytokines

PROPOSALS ACCEPTED: Phase I and DP2. Please see the 16.2 DoD Program Solicitation and the DARPA 16.2 Direct to Phase II Instructions for DP2 requirements and proposal instructions.

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Human Systems, Information Systems

OBJECTIVE: Develop tools to support innovation in advancing best practice research methods and capabilities for the social, behavioral, and economic (SBE) sciences, which include, but not limited to: analysis software, workflow systems, statistical packages, experimental platforms, and others.

DESCRIPTION: There is a critical DoD need for accurate and robust, reliable social, behavioral, and economic (SBE) models, which are increasingly important for planning and conducting effective military operations, including humanitarian aid, disaster relief, and stability support missions. The SBE sciences provide essential theories and frameworks that shape understanding of a wide range of human social behavior and systems of relevance for national security. The validity and reliability of SBE theories and concepts are fundamental to strong tactical, operational, strategic, and policy-level decision-making across the Department of Defense.

In light of several widely recognized “crises” in reproducibility in a number of disciplines, there is increased appreciation for the importance – and challenge – of experimentally validating results and claims of theories or model predictions. The academic community has responded by identifying a wide range of biases in the published literature, as well as their sources in experimental, statistical, and institutional structures and practices. Fortunately, a number of best practices and innovative methods have been developed to mitigate some of these challenges – but there remain opportunities for further development and dissemination of tools that, if matured and adopted, could have significant positive impact on a wide range of research questions and communities in SBE.

Accordingly, this topic is soliciting proposals for innovative tools that could demonstrate this positive impact. Examples might include proposals that provide credible approaches to improve the speed, efficiency, cost and/or adoption of one or more of the following tools: methods for pre-registration of experimental protocols; tools for transparent, modular, dynamic, and portable informed consent; Bayesian Net tools for tracking contingent evidentiary support structures within complex data or experimental designs; statistical tools to help identify and mitigate different biases in published or unpublished research; meta-analytic tools for exploring the robustness and generalizability of empirical findings; extensible packages for the analysis of text or geocoded data; assimilation methods for tuning computational models using real-time observations; licensing models for ethical data-sharing that protects Personally Identifiable Information (PII); platforms for joint collaboration and design of experimental protocols to increase scientific value prior to data collection; methods to obtain institutional pre-approval of widely-used experimental platforms like online surveys or games; and platforms that ethically and cost-effectively recruit a large number of experimental subjects across a wide range of cultural and demographic variables.

This topic is generally not seeking to fund approaches that are tightly tied to narrow experimental protocols or sensor systems, rely on restricted or excessively costly software and/or data sets, or visualization tools not explicitly tied to reproducible analytic techniques. Hardware and sensor approaches should leverage widely-available existing platforms and any proposed development efforts must focus on range of application, ease of use, and low barriers of entry for adoption of the tool or tools by academic, government, and commercial SBE researchers.

PHASE I: Identify the target research practice, protocol, or method that will be improved by the tool, and justify your approach via detailed specification of the degree of improvement over current practice, or a description of the new capabilities afforded. Demonstrate the key technical principles behind the proposed solution, and identify mitigations for any barriers to scale. The demonstrations should show wide applicability and relevance and potential benefit for common methodological approaches or challenges in the SBE sciences. Phase I deliverables are a notional prototype that achieves the core functionality of the complete product, as well as an extensive commercialization/propagation plan for achieving widespread use, and a final report.

PHASE II: Demonstrate scale and usability of the proposed approach. The demonstration should validate the predicted improvements and/or new capabilities versus current state of practice, as well as the engineering and design work required to easily scale. This includes integrations into existing systems and the development of institutional partnerships. The Phase 2 deliverables include the prototype system and a final report that includes the demonstration system design and test results.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Commercial applications may include product development, collaboration and workforce productivity tools, privacy enhancement, business intelligence, and data management. Military applications may include rapid ethnographic assessment, mission planning and logistics, crisis response and disaster relief.

REFERENCES:

Nature special issue on "Challenges in irreproducible research" - online at http://www.nature.com/news/reproducibility-1.17552
Ruths, D., and Pfeffer, J. "Social media for large studies of behavior." Science, Vol. 346, Issue 6213 (2014): 1063-1064
Pashler, Harold, and Eric–Jan Wagenmakers. "Editors’ Introduction to the Special Section on Replicability in Psychological Science: A Crisis of Confidence?." Perspectives on Psychological Science 7.6 (2012): 528-530.
Ioannidis, John PA, et al. "Publication and other reporting biases in cognitive sciences: detection, prevalence, and prevention." Trends in cognitive sciences 18.5 (2014): 235-241.
Haeussler, Carolin, et al. "Specific and general information sharing among competing academic researchers." Research Policy 43.3 (2014): 465-475.
Schrodt, Philip A. "Seven deadly sins of contemporary quantitative political analysis." Journal of Peace Research 51.2 (2014): 287-300.
King, Gary. "Restructuring the Social Sciences: Reflections from Harvard's Institute for Quantitative Social Science." PS: Political Science & Politics 47.01 (2014): 165-172.

KEYWORDS: social sciences, statistics, analysis, research practice, psychology, economics, behavioral science, data security

PROPOSALS ACCEPTED: Phase I and DP2. Please see the 16.2 DoD Program Solicitation and the DARPA 16.2 Direct to Phase II Instructions for DP2 requirements and proposal instructions.

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Information Systems

OBJECTIVE: Create a secure messaging and transaction platform that separates the message creation, from the transfer (transport) and reception of the message using a decentralized messaging backbone to allow anyone anywhere the ability to send a secure message or conduct other transactions across multiple channels traceable in a decentralized ledger.

DESCRIPTION: There is a critical DoD need to develop a secure messaging and transaction platform accessible via web browser or standalone native application. The platform separates the message creation, from the transfer of the message within a secure courier to the reception and decryption of the message.

Legacy messaging and backoffice infrastructures, traditionally based on centralized, unencrypted hub-and spoke database architecture, are expensive, inefficient, brittle and subject to cyber attack. The overhead costs of maintaining such architectures is rising rapidly. Many organizations unknowingly keep duplicate information and fail to ensure synchronization thus amplifying the potential for data theft and data corruption/rot. Incorporating a truly transparent mechanism for conducting journaled transactions enables the DoD to leverage its distributed footprint for a reduction in latency of these transactions, their security and their integrity and assurance.

The messaging platform will transfer messages via a secure decentralized protocol that will be secured across multiple channels, including but not limited to: 1) Transport protocol, 2) Encryption of messages via various application protocols, 3) Customized blockchain implementation of message deconstruction and reconstruction, and decentralized ledger implementation. With this messaging platform the business logic of the DoD ecosystem would be mapped onto a network of known entities using distributed ledgers. By doing this significant portions of the DoD backoffice infrastructure can be decentralized, ‘smart documents and contracts’ can be instantly and securely sent and received thereby reducing exposure to hackers and reducing needless delays in DoD backoffice correspondance. As an example, Military Interdepartmental Purchase Requests (MIPR) could be implmented using the secure ledger. Regulators with access to the ledger could read the correspondance and thus easily verify that a MIPR transaction didn’t violate Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR).

The messaging platform would act as the transport for a cyptographically sound record of all transactions whether they be MIPRs, contracts, troop movements or intelligence. Troops on the ground in denied communications environments would have a way to securely communicate back to HQ and DoD back office executives could rest assured that their logistics system is efficient, timely and safe from hackers. The benefits are broad and could even be applied to domains such as space. With crowded skies it’s important to maintain situational awareness of all satellites and those concerned with space situational awareness/telemetry or air traffic control could instantly share data between nations using a separate but equivalent ledger implementation thus removing questions as to the authenticity and integrity of the data.

PHASE I: Create a specific decentralized messaging platform built on the framework of an existing blockchain framework. There are several layers of complexity that will be explored in this phase from the messaging platform, to transport protocol, to end user application. Phase 1 goals include: creating a model for the decentralized messaging platform, experimenting with encryption schemes, evaluating hardware to be used in combination with the messaging platform to provide additional security, and defining the product feature set from the application and platform perspectives and finally, developing a blueprint of the platform architecture mapped to DoD constructs.

PHASE II: Develop, test and evaluate a working prototype with the following features:

• Decentralized back end blockchain implementation

• Data aggregation, reconstruction

• Data transport protocol implementation

• End user application implementation (alpha)

• Conduct simulated MIPR transactions using the decentralized ledger

• Allow transparent regulatory review of DoD legal findings and contracts

• Significant reduction in time for regulatory overview of various transactions

• Tracking of aircraft or satellites with simulated telemetry or air traffic control data

• System Admin and Monitoring tools and engine

• Integration of hardware or edge of network hardware components

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The DoD requires a secure messaging system that can provide repudiation or deniability, perfect forward and backward secrecy, time to live/self delete for messages, one time eyes only messages, a decentralized infrastructure to be resilient to cyber-attacks, and ease of use for individuals in less than ideal situations. Based on the outcomes and feedback from Phase 2, Phase 3 will focus on commercialization and full-scale implementation of the platform. This entails converting the alpha of the end user application into a beta application and increasing user testing and platform monitoring and industrializing the back-end platform in terms of decentralized ledger architecture and blockchain implementation.

REFERENCES:

Hyperledger Project https://www.hyperledger.org/
SoK: Secure Messaging http://cacr.uwaterloo.ca/techreports/2015/cacr2015-02.pdf

KEYWORDS: email, end-to-end encryption, privacy, security, secure messaging, repudiation, perfect forward secrecy

PROPOSALS ACCEPTED: Phase I and DP2. Please see the 16.2 DoD Program Solicitation and the DARPA 16.2 Direct to Phase II Instructions for DP2 requirements and proposal instructions.

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Battlespace, Information Systems

OBJECTIVE: Develop meta-heuristic algorithms for the management of interacting autonomous agents by leveraging insights from highly resilient biological systems.

DESCRIPTION: Modern warfare requires reacting to ever-greater numbers of autonomous systems, not only in the form of vehicles, but also as agents working in cyber defense [1,2] and in social media [3,4]. As a result, there is a critical DoD need for the development of control strategies for groups of autonomous agents ("swarms"), in particular, strategies that would allow for resilient performance when interacting with other (friendly, neutral, or hostile) swarms employing their own, potentially unknown, strategies. Such interactions can lead directly to unexpected and potentially adverse emergent behaviors. The U.S. stock market “flash crash” of 2010 [5,6] is one example of adverse emergent behavior resulting from, in part, the interaction of autonomous agents with proprietary and largely unobservable internal workings.

In future joint operations, coordination of swarms will become a strict requirement to prevent unwanted emergent behavior. Similarly, managing interactions with neutral and adversarial autonomous agents in “gray zone” [7] and major combat operations will be essential. In all cases, the autonomous agents may be required to function and coordinate/manage interactions under a large variety of conditions without a robust model of their interacting partner or adversary systems. This lack of models makes the common modeling- and simulation-based approach to the design of autonomous system control strategies [8] less effective. An alternative approach is to focus on developing novel control strategies based on advanced meta-heuristic algorithms [9] that provide the necessary resilience to interactions with other systems.

Research into the social behavior of species such as wasps, ants, and bees [10-12] (as well as the collective behavior of cells [13], such as bacteria, yeast, and amoebae) has the potential to help identify useful such meta-heuristic control strategies, as they (a) exhibit strong parallels to autonomous agents, with processing and action at both individual and group levels [10], (b) necessarily and routinely engage in interactions within colonies, across colonies, across species, and across varied environments, and (c) have evolved highly resilient policies governing a number of forms of synchronized and coordinated behavior. The study of biological systems and their control strategies—which have evolved over millions of years to provide resilience in the face of a wide array of challenges—has already contributed significantly to computer science [14–17] and autonomous systems research [18–20].

Furthermore, research on non-vertebrate species can typically be done rapidly and at low cost, with established rigorous experimental practices for investigating specific classes of interactions. These biological systems therefore represent a vast natural library of meta-heuristic algorithms that could be used in the design of control strategies, and, in addition, can serve an experimental platform for investigating specific classes of interactions.

The focus of this work will be on leveraging research in biological systems to identify strategies and develop algorithms for coping with emergent behavior in shared environments with both competitive and non-competitive autonomous systems. Domains of interest include, but are not limited to: cyber defense, social media, data-mining, unmanned vehicles, and complex system design (see, e.g., [21]).

PHASE I: Define one or more compelling problem domains related to national security where swarms of autonomous agents interact in shared environments. Identify one or more non-vertebrate species (not subject to animal use guidelines) that can provide insights into the control of autonomous agents and provide detailed rationale for their selection. Develop experimental design for biological system study and conduct a pilot study. Prototype a software framework for testing, in simulation, algorithms embodying new meta-heuristic control strategies. Develop and demonstrate simple algorithms based on the result of the pilot study and/or prior research data, explicitly show the biological system basis for the strategies, and compare performance to existing algorithms. The Phase I final report will include an experimental plan to be executed under Phase II.

PHASE II: Execute the experimental plan developed under Phase I to study the most informative forms of interaction in the chosen species. Develop and demonstrate algorithms based on results of the experiments, explicitly show the biological basis for the strategies, and compare performance to existing strategies. Implement the software framework for testing, in simulation, algorithms embodying higher-level control strategies. Evaluate algorithms against existing state of the art, and demonstrate the biological system basis for the strategies. Identify target autonomous systems that could adopt resulting algorithms. Deliverables will include software (source code) and technical reports, and the Phase II final report with recommendations for transitioning the algorithms to operational systems.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The DoD has considerable interest in ensuring successful interoperation of autonomous systems (and systems of such systems) in joint operations with partner nations. Therefore, the goal during Phase III will be on transitioning algorithms to specific platforms and their respective programs of record, as well as transitioning the software framework for testing control strategies for use in laboratory environments. This will entail development of application-specific software, hardening the algorithms, and ensuring performance on application-specific hardware as well as in real-world and real-time environments.

REFERENCES:

Tirenin, W. & Faatz, D. A concept for strategic cyber defense. In Proceedings of the Military Communications Conference MILCOM 1999, vol.1, 458–463, (1999).
Saydjari, O. S. Cyber defense: Art to science. Communications of the ACM, 47, 52–57, (2004).
Duggan, P. M. Strategic Development of Special Warfare in Cyberspace. Joint Force Quarterly, 79, 46–53, (2015).
Boshmaf, Y., Muslukhov, I. & Beznosov, K. Key challenges in defending against malicious socialbots. In Proceedings of the 5th USENIX conference on Large-Scale Exploits and Emergent Threats, (2012).
Kirilenko, A., Kyle, A., Samadi, M., &smp; Tuzun, T. The Flash Crash: The Impact of High Frequency Trading on an Electronic Market, SSRN, (2011).
Easley, D., de Prado, M., & O’Hara, M. The Microstructure of the ‘Flash Crash’: Flow Toxicity, Liquidity Crashes and the Probability of Informed Trading. J. of Portfolio Mgt., 37 (2), 118-128, (2011).
Kapsuta, P. The Gray Zone. Special Warfare, October-December, (2015).
Hodicky, J. (Ed.) Modelling and Simulation for Autonomous Systems, Proceedings of 2nd International Workshop, MESAS, (2015).
Glover, F., & Kochenberger, G.A. Handbook of metaheuristics 57. Springer, International Series in Operations Research & Management Science, (2003).
Fewell, J. H. Social Biomimicry: What do ants and bees tell us about organization in the natural world? Journal of Bioeconomics 17, 207–216, (2015).
Sumpter, D. Collective animal behavior. Princeton, (2010).
Garnier, S., Murphy, T., Lutz, M., Hurme, E., Leblanc,S. & Couzin, I. Stability and Responsiveness in a Self-Organized Living Architecture. PLoS Computational Biology 9(3), (2013).
Ratzke, C. & Gore, J. Shaping the Crowd: The Social Life of Cells (Preview). Cell, 1(5), 310-312, (2015).
Bonabeau, E., Theraulaz, G., & Dorigo, M. Swarm Intelligence: From Natural to Artificial Systems. Springer, (1999).
Dorigo, M. & Blum, C. Ant Colony Optimization Theory: A Survey. Theo. Comp. Sci., 344 (2-3), 243-278, (2005).
Karaboga, D., & Basturk, B. A powerful and efficient algorithm for numerical function optimization: Artificial bee colony (ABC) algorithm. Journal of global optimization, 39(3), 459-471, (2007).
Dressler, F., & Akan, O. B. A survey on bio-inspired networking. Computer Networks, 54(6), 881-900, (2010).
Hsieh, M. A., Halász, Á., Berman, S. & Kumar, V. Biologically inspired redistribution of a swarm of robots among multiple sites. Swarm Intelligence, 2(2), 121-141, (2008).
Yu, C.-H. & Nagpal, R. Biologically-Inspired Control for Multi-Agent Self-Adaptive Tasks. American Association for Artificial Intelligence (AAAI) Press, (2010).
Pfeifer, R., Lungarella, M. & Iida, F. Self-organization, embodiment, and biologically inspired robotics. Science 318, 1088–1093, (2007).
Jennings, N. R. An agent-based approach for building complex software systems. Communications of the ACM 44, 35–41, (2001).

KEYWORDS: autonomous systems, swarms, control theory, bio-inspired computing, emergent behavior, animal models, self-organizing systems, artificial intelligence

PROPOSALS ACCEPTED: Phase I and DP2. Please see the 16.2 DoD Program Solicitation and the DARPA 16.2 Direct to Phase II Instructions for DP2 requirements and proposal instructions.

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics, Sensors

OBJECTIVE: Investigate and demonstrate an innovative and radical approach capable of revolutionizing technologies for high power amplification at terahertz (THz) frequencies.

DESCRIPTION: Vacuum electronic and solid state high power amplifiers are important technologies for a wide range of military, civilian, and commercial applications. Vacuum electronic amplifiers are based on electron beam transport in vacuum and are capable of high power amplification (gain over 40 dB), output power in the kW range, wide bandwidth (multi-octave), high reliability (100,000 hours), high efficiency (up to 90% with depressed collector), high radiation tolerance, and efficient heat dissipation. Solid state amplifier technologies are based on electron beam transport in semiconductors and tend to have higher reliability (one million hours), but with reduced output power in the range of tens to hundreds of watts and efficiency as high as 40% at microwave frequencies and below. Solid state technologies also exhibit less efficient heat dissipation that contributes to increased system size, weight, and power. Significant progress continues to be demonstrated in both technologies towards higher operating frequencies, bandwidth, and efficiency, although vacuum electronic devices still maintain an edge in applications requiring high power and efficiency at the highest frequencies.

The worldwide availability and proliferation of inexpensive, high power commercial amplifiers and sources has made the electromagnetic spectrum crowded and contested in the RF and microwave regions. The wealth of technical advantages offered by operating at higher frequencies, most notably the wide bandwidths available, are pushing both commercial and DoD solid-state and vacuum electron devices into the millimeter wave (mm-wave) region and beyond. However, pushing device operation to THz frequencies results in significant degradation in performance as the device dimensions decrease proportionally. For vacuum electronic amplifiers, the performance degradation is due to the constrained electron beam that must pass through much reduced interaction structures, as well as the challenging manufacturing and alignment tolerances. Similarly, solid state amplifier technologies suffer scaling challenges of their own that significantly limit their performance.

Researchers have demonstrated vacuum electronic amplifiers operating at 850 GHz with output power above 50 mW, 15 dB gain, and 11 GHz of bandwidth; and solid state amplifiers operating at 1 THz with output power to several milliwatts, 10 dB gain, and 90 GHz of bandwidth. However, the approaches demonstrated for both technologies are reaching their physical limits at THz frequencies. DARPA is seeking radical and innovative new approaches to fundamentally challenge the limitations imposed on power amplifier technologies at THz frequencies. At a minimum this approach will enable and enable, at the minimum, 1 W output power, 10 dB gain, 10% bandwidth, 50% power efficiency, and predicted reliability of one million hours; all in a reduced form factor for a single amplifier device. The proposed solution will provide technological advantage to military and commercial systems through increased accessibility to the regions of the electromagnetic spectrum that currently are unexplored.

The proposed approach must address all aspects of amplifier technology, including power supply and thermal management, necessary to demonstrate capabilities for high performance in a compact form factor at operating frequencies beyond 1 THz. Proposals must identify risks associated with the proposed innovative approach and present a thorough risk mitigation plan.

PHASE I: Demonstrate the feasibility of an innovative device concept capable of high power amplification enabling, at a minimum, operation at 1 THz with 1 W output power, 10 dB gain, 10% bandwidth, 50% power efficiency, and predicted reliability of one million hours from a single, compact device. Proposers will develop the initial concept design, identify key elements of the technology that will enable high performance, and perform complete analysis of the design using full-wave electromagnetic modeling and simulation. Deliverables will include a Phase I final report including a detailed plan for demonstrating a hardware prototype that can meet the performance metrics listed above.

PHASE II: Fabricate and test a single unit hardware prototype based on the Phase I concept and demonstrating the threshold performance targets. Develop and demonstrate the feasibility of concepts to extend the performance of the device to meet objective performance targets of operation at 1.5 THz with 10 W output power, 20 dB gain, 67% bandwidth, 50% power efficiency, and predicted reliability of one million hours from a single, compact device. Deliverables will include a Phase II final report including complete documentation of the prototype test results, a detailed plan for demonstrating a hardware prototype that can meet the performance metrics listed above, along with applications and prospective partners for technology transfer in Phase III.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Achieve a technology readiness level sufficient to support transition to military, civilian, and commercial applications for high power amplifiers (typically TRL 6). A successful Phase III development will demonstrate a hardware prototype based on Phase II design and meeting the objective performance targets and deliver the prototype with complete documentation to a commercial transition partner for applications in communications and sensing.

REFERENCES:

Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency. (2008, June). “Terahertz Electronics (THz), SOL BAA 08-54, POC Mark Rosker, DARPA/MTO.” [Online]. Available: http://www.fbo.gov
J.C. Tucek et al., “0.850 THz vacuum electronic power amplifier,” IEEE International Vacuum Electronics Conference, pp.153-154, 22-24 April 2014 (doi: 10.1109/IVEC.2014.6857535)
X. Mei et al., “First Demonstration of Amplification at 1 THz Using 25-nm InP High Electron Mobility Transistor Process,” IEEE Electron Device Letters, vol. 36, no. 4, pp. 327-329, April 2015 (doi: 10.1109/LED.2015.2407193)
Department of Defense. (2010, February). “Defense Acquisition Guidebook, Table 10.5.2.2.T1. TRL Descriptions.” [Online] Available: https://acc.dau.mil/CommunityBrowser.aspx?id=518698#10.5.2.2

KEYWORDS: Beam-wave interaction structure, beam collector, electron source, vacuum electronics

PROPOSALS ACCEPTED: Phase I and DP2. Please see the 16.2 DoD Program Solicitation and the DARPA 16.2 Direct to Phase II Instructions for DP2 requirements and proposal instructions.

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Information SystemsTECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Information Systems

OBJECTIVE: Create a Graphical User Interface (GUI) with integrated pre- and post-processors that interface with efficient and accurate nonlinear micro-magnetic computation engines and allow rapid virtual prototyping of nonlinear magnetic components within standard RF design tools.

DESCRIPTION: There is a critical DoD need for capabilities that would provide improved interface of nonlinear micro-magnetic computation engines with standard RF design tools. Electromagnetic modeling and simulation engines are indispensable tools that enable rapid prototyping of components and systems. Linear magnetic behavior of components, such as circulators and oscillators, is efficiently and accurately modeled using any of a variety of standard RF computational engines, including circuit simulators such as Keysight Advanced Design System (ADS) and SPICE. However, these RF computational engines become inefficient and inaccurate for nonlinear and time-dependent magnetic behaviors, thus excluding magnetic components with those signal processing capabilities from the components inventory of RF design engineers. Some of the nonlinear magnetic components of potential value to many RF design engineers include frequency selective limiters (FSL) and signal-to-noise enhancers (SNE), which are self-adaptive (frequency and amplitude) notch and bandpass filters, respectively. Accurate and efficient modeling of the nonlinear and time-dependent magnetic behavior of components such as FSLs and SNEs requires micromagnetics computation engines that operate at the fundamental materials level, which are relatively of insignificance to RF design engineers. In addition, micromagnetics tools are not designed to interface with any specific RF computation engine and tend to produce output data that can be difficult to interpret. This renders micromagnetics tools impractical to RF design engineers and restricts their use, and thus the adoption of self-adaptive components. This impediment can be eased with a user interface capable of interfacing efficiently with both micromagnetics and RF computational engines. As such, this topic calls for innovative solutions for a Graphical User Interface (GUI) with integrated pre- and post-processors that gives the operator an efficient means to set up modeling and simulation problems and scenarios, which includes nonlinear magnetic components, and provides a vehicle for visualization and intuitive interpretation of the simulation output data. The GUI should work with existing RF computation engines and be scalable and robust enough for commercial and military users.

PHASE I: Select one or more candidate RF computation engines and determine input and output data exchange requirements with a high level micromagnetics computation engine. Develop initial concept design for and identify key elements of a GUI with integrated pre- and post-processors to generate input data and display output data for the candidate RF computation engines. Determine technical feasibility of integrating the proposed GUI with the selected computational engines. Deliverables will include a Phase I final report with draft use case, requirements, and implementation documents supporting the proposed integration strategy.

PHASE II: Develop prototype GUI code and demonstrate the capability to generate input data and display output data with the selected RF computational engines. Demonstrate the capability to set up, analyze, and display a simple nonlinear magnetics component, such as an FSL, and validate the simulation results using experimental data or analytical results. Deliverables will include a Phase II final report, prototype GUI source code with complete use case, requirements, and implementation documents, and validation results showing the accuracy and efficiency of the prototype GUI.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Produce a fully integrated and optimized GUI, with complete technical and user documentation, supporting one or more selected RF computational engines using the prototype GUI source code from Phase II. Provide GUI source code to DoD laboratories for evaluation and testing. Demonstrate the capability to set up, analyze, and display results from a complex nonlinear magnetics component structure, which will accelerate the design cycle for components critical to electromagnetic communications and sensing applications in the commercial and military sectors.

REFERENCES:

M.J. Donahue and D.G. Porter, “OOMMF User's Guide, Version 1.0,” Interagency Report NISTIR 6376, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD (Sept 1999).
G. Mohler, A.W. Harter, and R.L. Moore, “Micromagnetic study of nonlinear effects in soft magnetic materials,” Journal of Applied Physics, 93, 7456-7458 (May 2003)
Rahmouna El-Bouslemti and Faouzi Salah-Belkhodja, “Passive Coplanar Circulator with the Yig Thin Films,” International Journal of Electronics Communications and Electrical Engineering Volume 3 Issue 8 (August 2013). ISSN: 2277-7040 [Online]. Available: http://www.ijecee.com/
Keysight Technologies, “Advanced Design System (ADS),” (February 2016) [Online]. Available: http://www.keysight.com/find/eesof-ads
The University of California Berkeley, “The Spice Home Page,” (February 2016) [Online]. Available: http://bwrcs.eecs.berkeley.edu/Classes/IcBook/SPICE/

KEYWORDS: Electromagnetics, GUI, Micromagnetics, Modeling and simulation, RF circuit simulator

PROPOSALS ACCEPTED: Phase I and DP2. Please see the 16.2 DoD Program Solicitation and the DARPA 16.2 Direct to Phase II Instructions for DP2 requirements and proposal instructions.

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform

OBJECTIVE: Establish practical approaches to achieve distributed coherent communications between two disaggregated groups of RF communications nodes.

DESCRIPTION: There is a critical Department of Defense (DoD) need to create and exploit distributed coherent communications to enable future defense operations to make greater use of small, disaggregated, collaborative elements in contrast to larger elements. The challenge of communicating between clusters of such nodes becomes more acute as their size, weight, and power is reduced, in all environments (air, ground, maritime). The ability to create and exploit distributed coherent communications can be of great benefit to meeting these challenges. The reason for this is that a phase coherent array of n RF transmitters can enhance the power received at a distant receiver by a factor of n^2 relative to a single radio [1]. If the receiver also contains an array of m elements, a factor of (n^2)m power gain can be achieved in one direction, and (m^2)n in the other direction. In a symmetric system, n^3 gain is possible. For example, a distributed coherent collection of 10 transmitters communicating to 10 receivers can ideally reduce the power required of a single transmitter by a factor of 1000. This project is aimed at maximizing the ability to exploit this phenomena.

In systems that are not physically connected, the separate challenges of 1) phase coherence between the transmitters, 2) RF channel state measurement, and 3) coordinated sharing of the information communicated must be resolved. While topics associated with coherent communications between groups of users and a centralized base station have been considered in the past, the case of communication between two disaggregated groups is more challenging [2,3,4]. Innovative and practically implementable solutions to these challenges are sought such that the size, weight, and power of the communicating clusters is minimized for a given data rate and operating frequency.

PHASE I: Develop an initial concept design and model key elements of all 3 challenges, and analyze the resulting communication systems properties. Phase 1 deliverables shall include a final report that contains design concept and architecture for a group to group communication system; results of simulation and modeling to establish system feasibility; and a plan for an experimental demonstration of a group to group coherent communication system.

PHASE II: Develop and demonstrate the efficacy of a distributed coherent communications system operating between two self-organizing clusters of nodes. An exemplary demonstration would include n airborne nodes over a variety of link ranges exhibiting n^(3/2) range enhancement relative to a single pair of nodes. Such a system will utilize a local network to establish and maintain communicating groups and to coordinate information transmission between the distant groups. A means for establishing and maintaining coherence among participating users and across groups will be developed. Groups of at least 3 members will be shown, with a preferable goal of 10 group members. Groups shall be flexibly assembled and members may join and leave the assembly in an ad hoc fashion. Phase 2 deliverables shall include the demonstration event, the hardware and software used to effect it, and final report describing the results, a comparison to theoretical expectations, identification of steps needed for further maturation of the technology and open issues or challenges to taking them.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Emergency responders often have a need to communicate in challenging conditions where conventional cellular communication infrastructure may be damaged or destroyed. In such conditions, the ability to communicate between disparate groups of radio-equipped users may be essential. The use of reach-enhancing techniques may be essential in these conditions.

Ad hoc communicating clusters of airborne nodes can be used to reduce power demands of autonomous unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) swarms or other collections of small disaggregated sensors. In such environments, small, affordable, stand-in platforms may be called upon to communicate results of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance information. The use of distributed coherent group-to-group communications methods may significantly reduce the size, weight, and power burden that would otherwise be required on a single platform. A similar need arises for separated groups of soldiers communicating in austere environments.

REFERENCES:

“MIMO Channel Prediction Results on Outdoor Collected Data,” Patrick Bidigare, D. Brown, S. Kraut, U. Madhow, 2013 Asilomar Conference proceedings.
“Massive MIMO for Next Generation Wireless Systems, “E.G. Larsson, O. Edfors, F. Tufvesson, T. Marzetta, IEEE Communications Magazine, Feb. 2014.
“Distributed Transmit Beamforming: Challenges and Recent Progress,” R. Mudumbai, D. R. Brown III, U. Madhow, H. V. Poor, IEEE Communications Magazine, Feb. 2009, p. 102
“Distributed Transmit Beamforming Using Feedback control,” R. Mudumbai, J. Hespanha, U. Madhow, G. Barriac, IEEE Trans. Information Theory, v.56 (3), 2010, p.411.

KEYWORDS: multiple-input, multiple-output (MIMO), coherent communications, RF systems, data links

PROPOSALS ACCEPTED: Phase I and DP2. Please see the 16.2 DoD Program Solicitation and the DARPA 16.2 Direct to Phase II Instructions for DP2 requirements and proposal instructions.

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Information Systems, Sensors

OBJECTIVE: Develop and demonstrate innovative methods to for leveraging commercially-available satellite imagery data for use in national security applications.

DESCRIPTION: There is a critical DoD need for improved large scale situational awareness that can be addressed by leveraging the growing availability of public and commercial satellite imagery and sensor data. Access to commercial and public satellite imagery and sensor data enables the development of data analytics applications throughout the public and private sectors. Users are able to monitor weather events, crop growth, natural resource harvesting (e.g., mining and logging), urban growth, and many other natural and human-driven activities worldwide. In many cases, data is available with little delay between observation and data delivery. The data can be used for time critical applications such as natural disaster impact predictions and assessments as well as near- and long-term applications such as famine prediction, regulatory and international law compliance assessment, new infrastructure demand evaluation, food and natural resource availability assessment, and regional stability evaluation.

The same commercial and public satellite imagery and sensor data may also be beneficial for DoD and national security related applications, particularly when used to augment other data. Commercial satellite imagery combined with other intelligence can support international drug interdiction, maritime security, and treaty compliance. Further, the use of unclassified satellite imagery and data enables greater sharing of analysis products with non-DoD US agencies and coalition partners for conducting joint operations.

PHASE I: Develop a system concept and software architecture for applications of commercial and public satellite imagery and sensor data for DoD, US interagency, and/or US-supported coalition missions. Develop algorithmic approaches that enable monitoring, prediction, and assessment capabilities for the selected application or mission. Identify metrics, constraints, and performance levels needed for supporting the selected applications and missions, including data distribution approaches. Develop and demonstrate a limited-functionality prototype of the software system. Applications may use a single data source/type (e.g., imagery) or a combination of sources/types. Phase I deliverables shall include a final report that describes the system concept and software architecture, algorithms, and experiment and demonstration data.

PHASE II: Develop, demonstrate, and validate a prototype software solution. The prototype should focus on information collection, analysis, and analysis product dissemination at the appropriate time scales. Conduct tests of the system (software, data collection and distribution, etc.) to show performance relative to established metrics and associated requirements (processing, data access/exchange, and networking) for a deployed application. Phase II deliverables shall include a final report that contains the final system and software architecture, a prototype that has been tested in a realistic environment, test a

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