Award Data

This proposal describes the application of a mature nanotechnology-based crack arrest / structural repair technology as a novel crack arrestor tool for high-strength pipelines. The crack arrestor would comprise a thin layer or sleeve of electrodeposited nanocrystalline material applied to the outside of the pipe either in the coating mill during fabrication or in-field during or following constru ...

This proposal describes the application of a mature nanotechnology-based crack arrest/structural repair technology as a novel in-field pipeline repair tool. The repair would be comprised of a thin layer or sleeve of electrodeposited nancrystalline material applied to the damaged region of the pipe in order to utilize the "crack filling" characteristic of the process. The concept proposed has alr ...

Research is proposed to develop a locking mechanism for intercity (Amtrak) rotating seats that can be retro-fit to existing seats. Current intercity rail seats, according to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), present a safety hazard to the riding public. Post accident investigations show that passenger rail seats were found to have been uncontrollably rotated even though current se ...

Laser Technology Inc. (LTI) proposes a Phase II SBIR research project to further develop a Compact Shearography System, Analysis Method and Software for micro-crack detection in concrete. There is an urgent need to detect and characterize fine cracks in concrete that form because of various damage mechanisms including alkali-silicate reaction, delayed ettringite formation or frost damage. Fine s ...

Positioning and navigation have become a mainstay of everyday life in the U.S.; applications of interest include navigation of vehicles of all kinds, infrastructure mapping, and safety of life systems. Many of these recent applications have become possible through the GPS. With the recognized vulnerabilities of GPS, it is evident that equivalent backup systems must be developed. One possible so ...

Phase I research on the development of a supplemental seating system for short stature drivers was undertaken by Safe Inc. in 2005. The purpose of Phase I was to demonstrate the feasibility of a device that would improve the ability of short stature drivers to safely operate a motor vehicle and to improve occupant crash safety. The study sought to examine the use of pedal extenders and other imp ...

During Phase 1 of the project, Sharma & Associates, Inc. developed a concept for high speed freight truck intended for 70-ton, regular freight and bi-modal operation, at speeds up to 150 mph. The truck uses a rigid frame and an indpendent, compliant, primary suspension for its basic architecture. Constant contact side-bearings and yaw dampers were also added to improve dynamic performance. Vehi ...

Development of the basic EMAT based transverse rail defect detector has progressed toward finished form, as envisioned in the original solicitation. This modification is intended to produce a demonstratable version of a 2-rail detection system with automated signal interpertation. The objectives of this work are to: a. Further develop the system into a functioning 2-rail detection system, as ori ...

FBS, Inc. proposes to establish the feasibility of an ultrasonically based device for in-situ evaluation of pipeline coatings and for the archiving of coating properties. Based on our experience gained through DOT and EPRI sponsored work on long range ultrasonics, buried pipes, and tar coated pipes we recognize the need for coating characterization not only as an important factor for inspection d ...

Laser Technology Inc. has demonstrated for the first time, the detection of non-visible cracks of less than 10 microns soon after casting of high performance concrete test prisms. Fine cracks may be associated with the two leading causes of concrete deterioration, delayed ettringite formation and alkali-silica reaction. Laser Technology is a leading developer, manufacturere and provider of laser ...