Award Data

This Small Business Technology Transfer research project addresses the perception and learning of complex sound patterns within complex auditory scenes. The objective is to model auditory signal processing, pattern recognition and learning in the human auditory system. Our novel approach simulates the nonlinear signal processing that has been observed in auditory physiology. By mimicking functiona ...

Chemical agents in aerosol form have been identified as a major threat, and there is now interest in applying the long wave infrared frequency agile laser sensor to detection of this important agent form. If successful, it would be possible to perform detection of chemical agent vapors and aerosols and biological aerosol agents with a single dual-use sensor. To accomplish this, it is critical to ...

The Phase I effort was successful in experimentally showing feasibility of a combined isotope transmitter that can be developed and demonstrated under the Phase II program. The initial experimental results give the window of gas mixtures for a stable discharge. Laser extraction tests were accomplished with C12/C13 mixtures to give guidance for further work to increase laser gain. For application ...

Results of the Phase I work showed that an advanced, compact Point Sensor can be built with good sensitivity for detection of both biological agents and chemical aerosol and vapor agents. This will be the first point sensor capable of this dual role. The

Small combat dive teams require a situational awareness capability that combines robust, low probability of detection (LPD) communication with navigation/tracking functions. The project will result in a compact terminal for underwater acoustics based communication, navigation and tracking. The Diver Messaging and Navigation Terminal (DMNT) will be rugged and easy to use, warranting a description ...

Early detection of virulent infectious pathogens is critical to blocking the devastating epidemic spread of the pathogen and the potential harm this could have on our armed forces and general populations. In Phase I, we have utilized the state-of-the-art QuantiGene 2.0 technology to establish an assay for the sensitive quantification of SARS (epidemic spread in 2001) and assessing plasma DNA level ...

The proposed STTR will demonstrate how magnetic meta materials based antennas are ideal for integration into composite structures where the graphite composite backplanes can be integrated with dielectric ballistic protection materials that surround, yet do not interfere with the antenna. In ongoing research we have shown such antennas can approach the theoretical Gain-Bandwidth Product (GBWP) limi ...

FuelCell Energy, Inc., in collaboration with the University of Minnesota, is proposing to develop an innovative fuel processor for person-portable fuel cell power system applications. The system will be designed to reform butanol into a hydrogen-rich stream suitable for use in a low-temperature Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cell. The technical approach will focus on the development of a no ...

The Navy is developing an electromagnetic (EM) launcher for long-range naval surface-fire-support. Severe operating conditions of the EM system place stringent requirements for materials, including high current and magnetic fields, high temperatures, contact with liquid metals, high stress/gouging from balloting contacts and high-speed-sliding electrical-contact with an Al armature. Engineered Coa ...

Defects of mitochondrial performance limit physical and cognitive endurance, and resistance to age-related deterioration and trauma. However large scale screens to identify drug-like compounds that improve mitochondrial function have not taken place, bec