Award Data

The project aims to grow device-quality InxGa1-xN, an important semiconductor because the band gap can be shifted widely by varying x, using a new form of plasma sputtering, Biased-Target Deposition (BTD). The major objectives are to grow x > 0.05 material on sapphire at 600-800°C (standard) and 300-500°C (beneficially reduced) temperatures, and to characterize material quality via X-ray diffra ...

Andrews Space, Inc. proposes to test new high energy density propellant combinations and conduct a feasibility study on their applications. These propellants are enablers for use in high performance tactical missiles, high delta-V single stage vehicles such as a suborbital point to point vehicles, and compact high energy upper stages. Our Phase I approach is to develop stage and vehicle designs ...

Andrews Space has shown under a recently completed DARPA study for the Long Range Time Critical Strike initiative that a morphing wing hypersonic vehicle that uses deployable aerosurfaces can very effectively extend the range and decrease the time to target for munitions launched within the constraints of existing launch platforms. The key enabling technology is a composite material that is flexib ...

Close Air Support (CAS) is playing an increasing role in military operations. The emphasis on Special Operations in recent years has increased the combat range of small units, often sending squad-sized units hundreds of miles behind enemy lines. Small units rely on stealth and airpower. They remain covert, but when they are discovered, they call in airpower to keep from being outgunned. All too of ...

Many modern approaches to autonomy use a layered planning technique where a conventional path planner plans a nominal desired path, and a reactive planner plans trajectories over a local region. In relatively structured environments with good localization, this layered approach has been proven to work well, as shown by TORC’s successful 3rd place entry in the 2007 DARPA Urban Challenge. The ov ...

With the significant advancements in motor efficiency and energy storage technology, electric propulsion systems have become viable power plants and power supplements to aircraft. Offering high power-to-weight ratios, electric drive systems significantly increase the design capabilities for vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capable platforms. Ducted fans offer the ability to develop an enclosed ...

Azure Summit Technology will develop algorithms and techniques for Vector Navigation (VNAV) in this Phase I effort. Using actual collected GPS signals from a degraded RF environment, we will establish feasibility of VNAV through modeling and simulation. We will also develop a plan for a real time demonstration of VNAV in Phase II, as well as to clearly define the product development and funding ...

Caldera Pharmaceuticals proposes to develop a highly metal-selective system to maintain iron concentrations in the body at optimal levels to prevent infections. The system will control iron without the loss of other essential micronutrients; loss of micronutrients is the cause of toxicity in most chelation systems. Metal selectivity and the corresponding safety for use is the key difference betwee ...

Antibiotic resistance is a major concern for both military and civilian populations. The US FDA reports that about 70 percent of bacteria that cause infections in hospitals are resistant to at least one drug. Caldera Pharmaceuticals proposes to develop novel antibacterials for the control of bacterial pathogens that are problematic for the military, focusing on resistance due to biofilms. Calderaâ ...

Our project will focus on the development of a bendable, maneuverable, robotically-assisted endoscopic sheath, with two or more flexible video endoscopes to provide visualization, and flexible instruments which can be used inside this sheath. This will provide new ability to access difficult to reach corners not only in the field of minimal access surgery, but also during open surgery. Applicati ...