Award Data

The pressing need exists within industry to accurately measure high aspect ratio microscale structures. For example, diesel injector nozzles are manufactured with microscale holes ranging from 50-200 micrometers in diameter and 3-5 mm depths. One fundamental challenge is to nondestrucvely measure these features in order to validate models, enhance manufacturing processes, and reduce fuel emissions ...

Manning Applied Technology proposes to develop a handheld infrared spectrometer, ideally suited to detection of airborne chemical agents at and below permissible exposure limits. This approach offers unmatched sensitivity and specificity for detection of all types of chemical vapors. The instrument is modular, rugged, compact and highly sensitive. Volume pricing will be less than $1000 each. ...

Homeland Security/First Responder networks require increased bandwidth and reliable connectivity. Future networks such as Project SAFECOM may deploy software-defined radios (SDR) compatible with Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) Software Communications Architecture (SCA). We leverage our SCA compatible, high assurance ¿Smart Radio¿ prototype being developed under an AFRL sponsored Phase II ...

DNA microarray technology, in combination with statistical and predictive modeling tools, could be used to evaluate thousands of genes against distinct gene expression patterns induced by chemical/biological agents to provide early identification and speed therapeutic intervention. The overall objective of this proposal is to demonstrate the feasibility of building a data management system for DN ...

Rapid thermal annealing (RTA) has been widely used in microelectronics fabrications. The current RTA system only provides uniform temperature distribution across the whole annealing chamber at any given time. Therefore, it greatly limits the implementation of combinatorial methodology in one single trial. This SBIR Phase 1 proposal investigates the feasibility of developing a temperature-time grad ...

A need exists to develop cost effective and reliable submersible cage technology for exposed aquaculture. The team assembled as part of this SBIR incorporates JPS Industries, Great Bay Aquafarms and the University of New Hampshire. In Phase I, a design will be developed based on concepts known to work in the industry. Concepts to be investigated include a cage constructed around HDPE pipe, with ...

Sigma-K Corporation proposes to develop a Hermetic Textile Closure Hardware System to be used for Chemical Biological (CB) protective clothing and Collective Protection (COLPRO) portable shelter systems. Our Hermetic Textile Closure Hardware System design will allow the user to easily don and doff one's protective apparel. The system will remain intact during combat behavior. The closure interface ...

MCNC PROPOSES A FEASIBILITY STUDY AND EVALUATION OF THREE PROMISING APPROACHES TO THE FABRICATION OF SURFACE TEST STRUCTURES ON SILICON. SURFACE FEATURES ON THE FIRST STRUCTURE WILL BE PRODUCED BY CONTROLLABLY ETCHING THERMALLYGROWN OXIDES. FEATURES ON THE SECOND WILL BE MADE BY ETCHING PIEZOELECTRIC THIN FILMS. USING THE PIEZOELECTRIC FILM AS PART OF A CAPACITOR, STEP-HEIGHT CAN BE VARIED AND PRO ...

INADEQUATE STARTER FEEDS SEVERELY HOLD BACK NEW AQUACULTURE ENTERPRISES SUCH AS PRESENT ATTEMPTS TO RAISE FISHES WHOSE LARVAE DEVELOP FROM SMALL EGGS AND HAVE VERY "DIFFICULT" FOOD REQUIREMENTS. INERT LARVAL FEEDS HAVE NOT SUCCESSFULLYELIMINATED THE STRICT DEPENDENCY ON NATURAL FORAGE DURING THE CRITICAL POST-LARVAL STAGE AFTER YOLK ABSORPTION AND BEFORE THE DEVELOPMENT OF A DIGESTIVE SYSTEM WITH ...