DoD 2019.3 SBIR Solicitation

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Weapons 

OBJECTIVE: Develop an integrated sensor architecture that can enhance existing indirect fires to enable a more precise placement of terminal effects on initial fires. The sensors should integrate into the current fire control system, and assist in determining the geolocation and identity of the target, the calculation of the ballistic solution and positioning of the firing system. The objective of the system will be first-round fire for effect, and the elimination of spotting rounds. 

DESCRIPTION: The basic technology of indirect fires is simple. The system is a tube, a projectile, and a gunpowder charge. The tube is aimed by adjusting its elevation (up/down angle) and azimuth (direction of the compass), and the distance of the projectile is determined by the elevation and muzzle velocity (adjusted by using varying sizes of gunpowder charges). Currently, the tube’s aiming requires a forward observer to relay the location and identification of a target to a fire coordination team, which through the use of software, calculates and the firing solution (the pointing and positioning of the weapon and the ballistic solution). The firing team loads the round into the firing system (which in some but not all cases is automatically positioned by the fire control software), and fires. The first rounds fired are spotting rounds. The impact location of these rounds are relayed by the forward observer to the fire coordination team for aiming refinement on the next fire. When the forward observer observes rounds impacting on or near the target, a fire for effect salvo that delivers multiple rounds to the same target to ensure its destruction is executed. Attempts at making indirect fires more precise have focused on precision guided (smart) projectiles, including the 155mm Copperhead and Excalibur rounds, which have proved highly effective in combat. However, the cost and availability of smart projectiles limits their use to certain specific applications. Improvements upon this system could be made in two key areas: the forward observer, and the gun tube itself. Some indirect fire systems, such as the 120mm mortar, have integrated fire laying systems, in which the gun is aimed by the firing control system. This does not extend to smaller dismounted mortars which must be aimed by hand. To create a universal system, an integrated suite of sensors is needed that: • Geolocates and determines the elevation and direction the firing system in a GPS degraded environment by means not limited to a gyroscope, compass, gravimetric sensors, accelerometers, and other methods of assured precision, navigation and timing • Works with existing or create new fire control software to generate the ballistic solution and integrate with sensors that replace the forward observer • Aim the weapon using the calculated ballistic solution with margins of error equal or better than current 120mm systems (4mil error azimuth, 3mil elevation) • Be scalable and able to” bolt-on” to all systems, mounted and dismounted To replace the forward observer with a smart reconnaissance mechanism, networked to the fire control system, the suite of sensors should be capable of: • Geolocating a target in a GPS degraded environment • Target identification (e.g., tank, outpost, armored personnel carrier) • Transmitting the location and identification to the fire direction center in real time • Providing target feedback o For misses: the location of impact of the miss relative to target, and in the case of the salvo, describe the distance/direction of the center point of the cluster relative to target o For hits: confirm the destruction of the target Additional features could include but are not limited to: • Integration of a network of sensors to improve accuracy of geolocation and/or target identification. Integrated sensor network would also add resiliency in a degraded communication environment such as by acting as a mesh network, making it harder to break the sensor shooter link. • Ability to provide target guidance while munitions are in flight, by means such as but not limited to laser guidance. • Ability to hibernate in a low power mode, activate itself upon pre-determined signal and repositioning itself By eliminating a human forward observer from the loop, this sensor architecture could allow munitions to be fired more rapidly, and the accuracy of the munitions assessed faster. It would also allow for placement of sensors in locations where commanders are unwilling to risk human life, and it could free soldiers to perform tasks only capable of being performed by humans. 

PHASE I: Design sensor architecture for either of the areas listed above. If using a network of sensors, create the integrated sensor architecture that allows sensors to communicate in common language. 

PHASE II: Develop a technology demonstrator for the integrated system and refine the design to interface with current Army fire control systems. Perform verification and validation of the new capabilities at both the component level and as an integrated platform. 

PHASE III: Finalize the indirect fire sensor system, including possible integration with tactical Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). Prove the efficacy of the networked integrated sensor suite and tactical UAS through a series of live fire exercises. 

REFERENCES: 

1: Mortar Fire Control System: https://pmmortars.army.mil/pmmortars/Products/mfcs/ software

2:  Mortar Fire Control System Dismounted: https://www.army.mil/article/70122/picatinny_provides_soldiers_with_quicker_safer_mortar_fire_control_system

3:  ATTP 3-21.90 - Tactical Employment of Mortars: https://www.marines.mil/Portals/59/Publications/MCTP%203-01D%20(Formerly%20MCWP%203-15.2).pdf?ver=2017-07-11-153736-750

4:  Dragon Fire Mortar: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dragon_Fire_(mortar)

5:  Paladin Digital Fire Control System: https://www.militaryaerospace.com/rf-analog/article/16714401/bae-systems-to-upgrade-more-paladin-155millimeter-artillery-systems-with-digital-fire-control

6:  Advanced 81mm mortar with fire control system: https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/20077/army-shows-off-awesome-automatic-mortar-system-thats-still-too-expensive-to-field

7:  Lightweight Laser Designator Rangefinder (LLDR): https://asc.army.mil/web/portfolio-item/lightweight-laser-designator-rangefinder-lldr-anped-1-and-anped-1a/

8:  Integr

KEYWORDS: Indirect Fires, Mortars, Sensor, Integrated Sensor Architecture, GPS Denied 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Info Systems 

OBJECTIVE: Develop network optimization and data compression technologies for ultra-reliable delivery of scalable augmented reality and/or virtual reality (AR/VR) capabilities with low to no latency and high fidelity, on a distributed and global basis, even in bandwidth and computationally constrained environments, including over networks with limitations of 8 gigabyte (GB) transmissions. 

DESCRIPTION: The Army is working to improve human performance and decision-making by increasing training effectiveness for individuals and groups deployed on a distributed basis around the world. These efforts bring together virtual, constructive, gaming, and live training environments into a high-fidelity, network-enabled, collective synthetic training environment (STE). This capability will incorporate the most advanced technology allowing for realistic, low-latency, and assessable training activities that provide an accurate representation of real operational environments and scenarios, including live combat operations, reconnaissance and surveillance activities, human-machine interaction, civilian population engagements, and other mission activities. Moreover, this capability will allow for training of individuals and collaborative groups – in person and distributed around the world – in the regularized, repeatable manner required for assessment of mission readiness and for future mission success. To support the creation and utilization of STE, the Army has identified a need for network optimization and data compression technologies to ensure delivery of scalable AR/VR capabilities with low to no latency, on a distributed and global basis, even in bandwidth and computationally constrained environments. Based upon the current training environment performance, the Army has determined that there are needs to: • Optimize training network performance to support AR/VR graphics and scalable data delivery and response; • Compress data to provide low-bandwidth, low-latency, high-fidelity, and ultra-reliable streaming of AR/VR graphics and data in bandwidth-constrained environments, including over networks with limitations of 8 GB transmissions; and, • Implement advanced edge computing and networking architectures and solutions to deliver optimized network performance. 

PHASE I: Develop and demonstrate a prototype system architecture and initial software and hardware components for network optimization and data compression technologies - on a network with a maximum speed of 8 GB and utilizing a commercial off the shelf (COTS) AR/VR platform for visualization. Ensure the delivery of scalable AR/VR capabilities with low-latency to no latency as a result of the ability to compress data to provide low-bandwidth, low-latency, high-fidelity, and ultra-reliable streaming of AR/VR graphics and data of at least 90 frames per second with a target of >99.999% reliability and <5 milliseconds of latency in bandwidth-constrained environments. 

PHASE II: Develop, integrate with the Army STE, and demonstrate a next-generation prototype distributed, edge computing and networking architecture and initial software and hardware components for network optimization and data compression technologies - on a network with a maximum speed of 8 GB and utilizing STE (IVAS) technologies for visualization. Ensure the delivery of scalable AR/VR capabilities with low to no latency as a result of the ability to compress data to provide low-bandwidth, low-latency, high-fidelity, and ultra-reliable streaming of AR/VR graphics and data of 90 to 100 frames per second with a target of >99.9995% reliability and <2.5 milliseconds of latency in bandwidth-constrained environments. 

PHASE III: Develop, integrate with the Army STE, and demonstrate a next-generation prototype distributed, edge computing and networking architecture and initial software and hardware components for network optimization and data compression technologies - on a network with a maximum speed of 8 GB and utilizing STE (IVAS) technologies for visualization. Ensure the delivery of scalable AR/VR capabilities with low to no latency as a result of the ability to compress data to provide low-bandwidth, low-latency, high-fidelity, and ultra-reliable streaming of AR/VR graphics and data of 90 to 100 frames per second with a target of >99.9995% reliability and <2.5 milliseconds of latency in bandwidth-constrained environments. 

REFERENCES: 

1: M .Elbamby, C. Perfecto, M. Bennis, and K. Doppler, "Towards Low-Latency and Ultra-Reliable Virtual Reality, IEEE Network, Volume 32, Issue 2 , March-April 2018.

2:  E. Olshannikova, A. Ometov, Y. Koucheryavy, and T. Olsson, "Visualizing Big Data with augmented and virtual reality: challenges and research agenda," Journal of Big Data, 2:22, December 2015.

3:  K. Doppler, E. Torkildson, and J. Bouwen, "On Wireless Networks for the Era of Mixed Reality," Proceedings of the European Conference on Networks and Communications, pp. 1-6, June 2017.

4:  F. Qian, L. Ji, B. Han, and V. Gopalakrishnan, "Optimizing 360 video delivery over cellular networks," in Proc. 5th Workshop on All Things Cellular: Operations, Applications and Challenges, ATC ’16, New York, NY, USA, pp. 1 2016, pp. 1–6.

5:  R. Ford et al., "Achieving Ultra-Low Latency in 5G Millimeter Wave Cellular Networks," IEEE Communications Magazine, vol. 55, no. 3, pp. 196–203,

6:  S. Mangiante, G. Klas, A. Navon, Z. GuanHua, J. Ran, and M. Dias

KEYWORDS: Network Optimization, Data Compression, Low Latency, Augmented Reality Networks, Virtual Reality Networks 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform 

OBJECTIVE: Develop a standalone software package that can: (1) generate a physics based rolling contact fatigue model which accurately predicts both subsurface and surface initiated failure modes, and (2) accurately predicts rotorcraft engine and drive system rolling element bearing life and durability based upon the generated model. 

DESCRIPTION: The Lundberg-Palmgren (L-P) bearing life model has been around since the 1940’s, and is still the standard used by the aviation industry today. The exponents in the L-P model were derived from air melt 52100 steel using a Weibull probability distribution several decades ago. The source of fatigue in air melted steel is largely from metal oxide inclusions. Today, premium aviation bearing steels such as M50 and M50 NiL use vacuum induction melted - vacuum arc remelted (VIM-VAR) technology to eliminate the metal oxides. In addition, the fracture tough bearing steels, such as M50 NiL, are case hardened where the case has deep residual compressive stress from heat treatment reducing the net operational stress from contact loading. As a result, the L-P model greatly underestimates the fatigue life of VIM-VAR and case hardened bearing steels. It is common to multiply the L-P results by a material life factor greater than thirty based on experimental bearing fatigue life data. All of the models used today (L-P, Zarestsy, Ioannides-Harris) do a poor job of predicting rolling contact fatigue life for operational bearings. The results of each model vary substantially among each other, and they vary from experimental life data. The primary issue with current bearing life models is that they do not capture the physics of the bearing fatigue process. Overtime, it has become clear that VIM-VAR materials no longer fail by air melt inclusions in the subsurface region where the maximum von Mises stress occurs. Instead aviation quality bearing steels usually fail in the laboratory due to localized microstructural damage induced during operation in the subsurface region. Also, laboratory fatigue conditions for bearing steels typically have very low sliding in the contact due to low operational speeds. Typical fatigue tests also operate at stress levels above 3 GPa maximum Hertzian stress to accelerate the fatigue process. However in service, bearings typically operate below 2 GPa maximum Hertzian stress. High speed turbine engine bearings operate under slip conditions of 2 % or more of the rolling velocity. The slip conditions induce surface shear that is not seen in most laboratory tests. Also, at a maximum Hertzian stress levels below 2 GPa microstructural damage is not detected in rolling element bearings, meaning the life mechanism is different in laboratory testing versus the life mechanisms in service. Instead, in-service aviation bearings tend to fail at localized surface features which create local stress raisers. Features that act as stress raisers include ridges from surface finishing, scratches, pits and indentations from debris damage, and corrosion pitting. The sliding shear in high speed bearings adds to the local stress, particularly at defects. A new bearing model must be developed that considers the bearing materials and processes that are used in the rotorcraft industry today. This model must (1) be physics based to accurately predict both subsurface and surface initiated failure modes (e.g. pitting and spalling), and (2) be capable of predicting rotorcraft engine and drive system rolling element bearing life within 10% of actual life. The model developed under this effort must take into account all of the stresses in a modern bearing contact including: residual stress from grinding, residual stress from case carburization, residual stress induced during operation, subsurface stress from the Hertzian contact, and localized stress around surface anomalies in the Hertzian contact. This model must also incorporate the effects of thermomechanical properties and surface asperities. The final product of this effort must be a standalone model with a graphical user interface for predicting bearing surface fatigue life. OSD Tech Area: Artificial Intelligence / machine learning 

PHASE I: Perform initial stress analysis for laboratory and in-service rolling contact fatigue test conditions. Perform bench top testing of the effect of film thickness ratio and rolling contact slip on fatigue. Establish a method to import surface finish data into the stress analysis to model the stress around surface anomalies. Establish a modeling approach to include the effects of stresses, thermomechanical properties, and surface asperities relevant for modern bearing materials and operating conditions. Demonstrate the feasibility of using this modeling approach to accurately predict bearing life. 

PHASE II: Develop a bearing life model which captures the effects of stresses, thermomechanical properties, and surface asperities. Develop a Graphical User Interface (GUI) for the life prediction software. Include an improved bearing life model in a bearing analytical code. Perform demonstration testing with multiple bearing case studies with geometry, surface finish, material, and operating conditions that are relevant to in-service bearings found in engines and drive systems for rotorcraft propulsion applications. Use bearing demonstration results to validate the accuracy of the bearing life model. 

PHASE III: Market analytical code to industry using high end precision bearings in critical applications: gas turbines, helicopter gear boxes; and momentum wheels and gyroscopes in satellites. 

REFERENCES: 

1: . Averbach, B. L. and Bamberger, E. N., "Analysis of Bearing Incidents in Aircraft Gas Turbine Mainshaft Bearings," Trib. Trans., Vol. 34, No. 2, 1991, pp. 241–247.

2:  Forster, N.H., Peters, S.M. Chin, H.A., Poplawski, J.V., Homan, R. J., "Applying Finite Element Analysis to Determine the Subsurface Stress and Temperature Gradient in Highly Loaded Bearing Contacts," STP 1600, 2017 / available online at www.astm.org / doi: 10.1520/STP160020170002, (2017).

3:  Morales-Espejel, G. E., Gabelli, A., and deVries, A. J. C., "A Model for Rolling Bearing Life with Surface and Subsurface Survival-Tribological Effects," Trib. Trans., 58, No. 5, 2015, pp. 894–906.

4:  Nelias, D., Dumont, M. L., Couhier, F., Dudrange, G., and Flaman, L., "Experimental and Theoretical Investigation on Rolling Contact Fatigue of 52100 and M50 Steel under EHL or Micro-EHL Conditions," J. Tribology, Vol. 120, No. 2, 1998, pp. 184–190.

5:  Voskamp, A.P. "Microstructural Stability and Bearing Performance," Bearing Steel T

KEYWORDS: Bearings, Contact Fatigue, Life Model 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform 

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this effort is to develop novel assembly techniques for carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composite joints for aircraft skin-to-frame connections that are more durable, inspectable, maintainable, lightweight, and affordable than traditional through-thickness fasteners or adhesive bonding. 

DESCRIPTION: Composite materials are widely used in the aviation industry due to their high strength-to-weight ratio and fatigue life; however, their greatest benefits are seen in large, unitized pieces that preserve the internal load path. The challenge to this comes in post-cure assembly and lifetime maintenance of discrete sections of composite structure, because the traditional method of using through-thickness mechanical fasteners — such as rivets, pins, or bolts — inherently damages the primary load carrying mechanism of the composite: the fiber. This creates a natural weak point in the structure which drives down the design allowables (e.g. the open-hole compression allowable) and requires design choices that compensate for the loss of strength through additional material, additional fasteners, or both. In particular, the often-high number of fasteners that traditionally attach an aircraft’s skin to its frame results in high maintenance costs and reduced fatigue life, in additional to the costs associated with the installation of each fastener by hand. Additionally, the combination of typical metallic fasteners with composite materials like carbon often results in galvanic corrosion, despite prevention efforts. Adhesive bonding is on the rise, but this solution does not yet come with a reliable, fieldable method of bond line inspection. The Army desires a novel post-cure assembly method for carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) structure which is durable, inspectable, maintainable, lightweight, and affordable without the use of through-thickness fasteners or adhesive bonding. Reversible methods are desirable but not necessary, and concepts should be applicable to both flat and curved geometries. Durable means resistant to damage from all sources; inspectable means able to determine if the joint is functioning at full strength; maintainable means minimizing the extent of parts and labor required for repairs; affordable means minimizing the time-and-materials cost of manufacturing and installing the joint; and traditional through-thickness fasteners include any joining method which decreases the open-hole compression material allowable. The applicable (OSD) Top Ten Technology Area is Autonomy. 

PHASE I: Effort in this phase shall develop and prove a concept to join the surface of representative aircraft skin, such as a flat carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composite laminate panel, to a representative aircraft frame, such as a composite beam, and transfer shear, tension, and compression loads without using adhesive bonding or through-thickness mechanical fasteners. The skin and frame pieces must be manufactured separately, but they may be individually designed as needed to accommodate the proposed joining method. Weight is of concern and minimizing it should be emphasized when developing the concept. Proof-of-concept shear testing shall be performed at a laboratory scale to show load transfer/strength at least equal to traditional through-thickness fasteners. Additionally, a preliminary cost analysis and commercialization plan shall be developed. 

PHASE II: Effort in this phase shall mature and demonstrate the method developed in Phase I. This phase shall further develop and optimize the method through testing a relevantly-sized, rotorcraft-representative skin-to-frame joint to demonstrate the durability, inspectability, maintainability, weight efficiency, and affordability of the method. Models to predict performance and inform design choices of the joint shall be developed and verified/validated using the test data. A study to assess the maintenance and cost requirements shall be performed in preparation for Phase III. 

PHASE III: Effort in this phase shall further mature and commercialize the novel joining method for CFRP composite skin-to-frame connection and load transfer. Consideration shall be given to improving manufacturing readiness level and airworthiness qualification through modeling and testing. The vision is that durable, inspectable, maintainable, lightweight, and affordable joints will increase the mean time between maintenance actions (MTBMA), mean time between failure (MTBF), and maintenance free operating period (MFOP) of Army Future Vertical Lift (FVL) aircraft—both manned and autonomous platforms. This technology is equally likely to transition to U.S. commercial aircraft. 

REFERENCES: 

1: Fernholz, K. D. (2010). 10 - Bonding of polymer matrix composites. In D. A. Dillard (Ed.), Advances in Structural Adhesive Bonding (Woodhead Publishing Series in Welding and Other Joining Technologies, pp. 265-291). Woodhead Publishing. doi:10.1533/9781845698058.2.265

2:  Marty, P., Desai, N., & Andersson, J. (2004). NDT of kissing bond in aeronautical structures. In 16th World Conference on NDT. Montreal, Canada. Retrieved from http://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?doi=10.1.1.159.2883&rep=rep1&type=pdf

3:  McGarry, B. (2015). Admiral: Corrosion Damage on F/A-18 Hornets 'Caught Us by Surprise'. Military.Com. Retrieved from https://www.military.com/daily-news/2015/06/05/admiral-corrosion-damage-on-f18-hornets-caught-us-by-surprise.html

4:  Messler, R. W. (2004). Joining Composite Materials and Structures: Some Thought-Provoking Possibilities. Journal of Thermoplastic Composite Materials, 17(1), 51-75. doi:10.1177/0892705704033336

5:  Miller, B., & Lee, S. (1976). The effect of graphite-epoxy composites on the

KEYWORDS: Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer, CFRP, Composite, Structure, Joining, Assembly, Load Transfer 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform 

OBJECTIVE: OSD TOP TECHNOLOGY AREA: Missile Defense Develop improvements in fuel tank fittings and bladder wall transition area to reduce overall fuel tank system weight of military aircraft using topology optimization and functionally graded materials 

DESCRIPTION: Current military rotorcraft use self-sealing fuel tank bladders with metal fittings. Hydrodynamic ram, caused during crash and ballistic impacts, creates high stress concentrations between fuel tank fittings and bladders due to the large material property gradients. The fittings and transition area of a fuel tank are often the cause of tank failure during significant hydrodynamic ram events, driving designs to higher weight for survivability. With high crashworthiness requirements and sensitivity to weight, military rotorcraft are in need of an innovative solution for lightweight energy attenuation. Fittings with functionally graded characteristics (material) and optimized topology (configuration) offer significant opportunity for weight reduction through material-tuned and configuration-tuned optimized energy attenuation. Areas of high stress concentration can be decreased or eliminated through energy attenuation built into the fittings. Eliminating stress concentrations will allow for less material use in tank transition areas, corresponding with an overall reduction in fuel tank weight and an increase in crashworthiness. Improved fittings should be designed to seamlessly integrate with the fuel tank bladder. Nontraditional materials and methods such as composites and additive manufacturing should be considered. The operational environment should be an addition consideration in material selection (e.g., resistance to chemicals, material properties subjected to temperature extremes) as well as detail fuel tank specifications such as MIL-DTL-27422F 

PHASE I: : Perform a design study to include materials and manufacturing processes that will meet the program objectives. Conduct an assessment of appropriate technologies that may be used to design, build, integrate, and test a system. Develop design concepts capable of integrating into fuel tank bladders. Concepts should show feasible improvements in weight and stress concentrations over currently fielded systems. The weight reduction goal shall have a threshold of 10% and an objective of 25% over currently fielded solutions, and cost goals shall have an objective of 0% cost increase to the end product. 

PHASE II: Develop a complete engineering design of the fuel tank fittings. Modeling and simulation shall be used to down select and optimize the most promising design from Phase I. Perform a study to integrate the fitting into a fuel bladder and design a fully optimized system. A comprehensive test plan, in accordance with appropriate military standards, shall be developed and conducted to support design and optimization of an integrated system. Coupon-scale material testing shall be conducted to determine the ability of the prototypes to reduce the magnitude of property gradients and material weight in the transition section. Testing shall culminate in a full scale drop test of final prototypes. A full model shall be developed and validated concurrently with testing, and used to show improvement over current systems. The manufacturing process shall be developed throughout and be production ready. Final prototypes shall be manufactured by this method. A specification document and qualification plan shall be generated to support qualification. 

PHASE III: The final design from Phase II shall be qualified to meet military and civilian aircraft specifications. It is expected that both military and civil aircraft development and upgrade programs will procure this system to support their platforms. This innovation can transition to current and future manned and unmanned air platforms, as well as future missile defense platforms. 

REFERENCES: 

1: Detail specification for the tank, fuel, crash-resistant, ballistic-tolerant, aircraft, MIL-DTL-27422F

2:  Hascoet, J., Muller, P., Mongol, P., 2011. Manufacturing of Complex Parts with Continuous Functionally Graded Materials (FGM)

3:  Krog, L., S. Grihon, and A. Marasco. "Smart design of structures through topology optimization." 8th World Congress on Structural and Multidisciplinary Optimization, Lisbon, Portugal, June. 2009.

KEYWORDS: Fuel Bladders, Fuel Tank Fittings, Crashworthiness, Topology Optimization, Functionally Graded Materials 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics 

OBJECTIVE: Develop a set of prototypes utilizing additive manufacturing on the INSIDE of cylindrical or spherical/circular-shaped objects – to include electronic and RF components. 

DESCRIPTION: Direct-Write Additive Manufacturing is a quickly growing field of technology that has been adopted across the military and even deployed on the ISS by NASA. The technology allows for the creation of complex components that cannot be achieved using traditional subtractive methods such as machining. The CCDC Aviation and Missile Center is interested in using Direct-Write Additive Manufacturing to create Radio Frequency (RF) traces and components that fit a specific design space - the INSIDE and OUTSIDE surfaces of a cylinder. The performer must be able to print a dielectric (polymer, ceramic, etc.) cylinder with direct-write continuous conductive traces and radio frequency (RF) structures within, through and upon the inside and outside surfaces of a round, cylindrical or spherical/circular-shaped object. These traces must include both electronic capability and RF capability such as ground-signal-ground (GSG) waveguide or stripline over embedded ground plane and radiating elements (antennas). The definition of embedded here is the integration of conductive surfaces on and within the additively manufactured dielectric structure. Barriers to this development include, but are not limited to, the capability to print cylinders with materials having low-loss (good dielectric) properties, multi-material print capability, the ability to stop the additive manufacturing process of non-conductive layers, integrate conductive layers (such as ink), re-register (if necessary), ensure layer cohesiveness, and complete the additive manufacturing process and meet general electronic and RF capabilities (low loss performance). It is the intent of this topic for the offeror to demonstrate the capability to conduct printing inside and outside of the shaped surface, not to build the layers up or stick conductive tape on/in the cylinder. Proposals must apply direct write technology within and inside the cylindrical object. 

PHASE I: In Phase 1, the offeror shall research, develop and fabricate prototypes of electronic structures and RF structures printed on the INSIDE and OUTSIDE of printed cylindrical surfaces (these surfaces are not provided), connected through the wall of the cylinder (vias). The cylindrical diameter requirement is less than six inches. To qualify as “inside”, the conductive prints must extend more than twelve (12) inches into the inside of the cylinder, extending along the h-axis of an r-radius structure1. These structures shall include analog and/or digital traces and RF transmission lines at frequencies up to and including Ka-band (center frequency, 35GHz). The cylinder must be created using materials with good dielectric properties, with low RF losses (similar to that of Ultem). At least two (2) electrically functional or RF functional layers are required with a goal of 12 layers including interconnects and vias. Electronic structures (traces) and RF transmission lines shall also be simulated and evaluated to capture circuit parameters and loss/resistivity characteristics. An RF simulation package, capable of modeling structures at frequencies up to Ka-band, shall be used to generate data on losses, conductivity and resistivity of the resulting RF designs. Prototypes are required during Phase I and must be supplied to CCDC Aviation and Missile Center. 

PHASE II: In Phase 2, the offeror shall use methods developed in Phase 1 to research, develop, fabricate, and evaluate RF structures that pass through the wall of the cylinder to printed conformal antenna elements located on the outer surface of the cylinder. The design should include a minimum of four (4) elements arranged at lambda/2 spacing with interior power combining structures. Connectors shall be either printed or attached allowing anechoic chamber evaluation by CCDC Aviation and Missile Center. In addition, the offeror shall expand the research and development to rugged prototypes of printed structures that can withstand environmental concerns including humidity, dust, shock, vibration, and thermal fluctuations such as that of a missile launch and relevant lifetime. Structures are to be printed inside, within the walls and on the outside of the cylindrical surface and stressed to show the effects of environment upon conductivity, capacitance, s-parameters (RF), and product longevity. This phase must include embedded structures where conductive layers are covered with polymer/dielectric layers. Prototypes are to be stressed to a level of failure which is defined by loss of conductivity, or high RF losses (>7dB). Full evaluation of resulting prints before and after stresses must be conducted. Prototypes are to be dissected and examined using scanning electron microscope or similar technology to show structures before and after applied stresses. RF simulations of all designs are required. All results are to be fully documented, and before and after prototypes of environmental evaluations are to be supplied to CCDC Aviation and Missile Center. 

PHASE III: For Phase 3 of this effort, the offeror shall expand upon the radiating structures of Phase 2 to print a conformal array of elements at a Ka-band, and with a minimum of eight (8) elements. The prototype shall be printed in as few steps as possible with minimal stops/re-starts. The goal would be a single piece, integrated, conformal array after multiple printing steps with power dividing structures on the inside of the cylinder connecting individual radiating elements. Phase shifters allowing steering of the beam shall be integrated on the interior wall using pick-and-place technology. If the final design requires power amplification to overcome losses of printed structures to allow the design to be evaluated, these components should also be integrated on the interior wall. Connectors shall be either printed or attached allowing anechoic chamber evaluation by CCDC Aviation and Missile Center. Phase 3 dual use applications: Particular military applications include generic radar sensor system applications for use on missile technologies that can be applied to hypersonic missile fight environments. Commercial applications include satellite sensor system applications and also design space specific antenna capability. Transitions of opportunity include both immediate and local capability generation of additively manufactured designs with electronics embedded along with field replacement of sub-system components at the connector level and above (i.e., connectors, waveguides, antennas, etc.). The most likely path to transition the cylindrical technology is for a CCDC missile program such as Long Range Maneuverable Fires to adapt the technology during their development and test cycle. These programs run through 2029. 

REFERENCES: 

1: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cylinder (relates to Phase I citation)

2:  Ian Gibson, David Rosen, Brent Stucker, (2014), Additive Manufacturing Technologies: Rapid Prototyping to Direct Digital Manufacturing, Springer, 2014.

3:  Chee Kai Chua, Kah Fai Leong, 3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing: Principles and Applications (with Companion Media Pack) - Fourth Edition of Rapid Prototyping, 2014.

4:  Hod Lipson, Melba Kurman, Fabricated: The New World of 3D Printing, Wiley, 2013.

5:  Andreas Gebhardt, Understanding Additive Manufacturing: Rapid Prototyping, Rapid Tooling, Rapid Manufacturing, Gebhardt, Andreas, Hanser, 2012.

6:  US Dept of Commerce, Properties of Metal Powders for Additive Manufacturing: A Review of the State of the Art of Metal Powder Property Testing, NIST, 2014.

7:  Van Osch, Thijs HJ, et al. "Inkjet printing of narrow conductive tracks on untreated polymeric substrates." Advanced Materials 20.2 (2008): 343-345.

8:  Amit Joe Lopes, Eric MacDonald, Ryan B. Wicker, (2012) "Integrating stereolithography a

KEYWORDS: Direct-Write Technology, Advanced Manufacturing, Cylinder, Conformal Antennas, Antenna Array, Microelectronics 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Battlespace 

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this effort is to develop a very compact, single-use, high relative energy, on-demand, high impedance prime power supply. The direct application of this power supply would be for use in driving very compact directed energy devices. 

DESCRIPTION: The US Army has programs that require on-demand, primary power supplies in very restrictive environments. These power supplies must be capable of supplying voltages as high as 60 to 70 kV, with energy outputs of =5 joules and an active time of =10 us. These mission requirements mean that the power supply must be quiescent and stable under most environments and then be activated with lead times of =10us. The restrictions on size suggest a total geometry volume of about 25 cubic inches. Therefore, the Army is seeking power supply designs appropriate for several classes of directed energy munitions. While multi-use power supplies are desirable, a single-shot power supply design will satisfy all requirements of this solicitation. 

PHASE I: Design and model in detail a new, compact, high-performance, prime-power, power supply for use in driving several classes of directed energy munitions. The design must show the properties of (1) compact geometry and (2) prime power capability. The modeling must demonstrate (1) demonstrate how the power supply functions, (2) provide a reasonable expectation to achieve the output needed, and (3) show whether the power supply can be scaled for higher energy outputs, if needed. The fabrication of the first prototype is desirable. 

PHASE II: The results of the Phase I design and modeling must be fabricated into working prototype power supplies that are tested under realistic conditions. Testing should confirm that the proposed power supply can be (1) dormant until activated, (2) activate/operate in a time of ~10us, (3) provide =5 joules of energy at a voltage >60 kV, and (4) occupy a volume 25 cubic inches or less. The ability to demonstrate proposed performance likely entails a dynamic testing capability for the proposer. 

PHASE III: Instant high voltage in very compact form factor is attractive to military and commercial applications where high voltages is required in standalone and lack of external power source environment. Army applications include prime power for advanced munitions, advanced laser power supplies, multi-mode high-power microwaves, compact radar technologies, and, more generally, directed energy munitions for lower G environments. Such applications will involve contractor interactions with government agencies and/or companies. Thus, the authors must indicate how they intend to interact with these entities to move the development toward commercialization. Commercially this work can support portable lightning simulation, expendable X-ray sources, field medical instrumentation, and oil and mineral exploration. 

REFERENCES: 

1: Development of 60KV Pulse Power Generator Based on IGBT Stacks for Wide Application, Ryoo, Kim, Rim et al, www.keri.re.kr

2:  A Compact Repetitive PFN-MARX Generator, Li, Yang, liu, College of Photoelectric Science and Engineering, National University of Defense Technology, Chang Sha 410073, People's Republic of China

3:  Compact Multi-Level High-Voltage Power Supply for Vacuum Applications, Liran Katzir and Doron Shmilovitz , Tel Aviv University

4:  "COMPACT HV-DC POWER SUPPLY", Michael Giesselmann, Travis Vollmer, Ryan Edwards, Texas Tech University, Center for Pulsed Power & Power Electronic, ECE Department, Thomas Roettger, Madhav Walavalkar, Northrop Grumman Corp., 1-4244-1535-7/08/$25.00 ©2008 IEEE

KEYWORDS: Compact, Prime Power Supply 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Weapons 

OBJECTIVE: Develop an integrated solid state optical switch for the excitation of the next generation Blumlein array (IBA) used for vehicle stopping and explosive hazard neutralization. The IBA uses optical switching to excite and amplify an array high power pulses which provides neutralization capability at standoff. 

DESCRIPTION: Gallium Arsenide(GaAs)PhotoConductive Semiconductor Switches(PCSS)operation in high gain(avalanche) mode has been well documented, however it is usually triggered by an external laser. In the recent years, laser diode has shown to have great potentials as light sources in the commercial applications. This topic focuses on the possible leveraging this advances toward triggering PhotoConductive Semiconductor Switches (PCSS) in vicinity of high fields. This holds the special interest with providing a cost effective commercial based solutions for triggering PCSS without the use of an external laser, making a more compact, reliable, and cost effective solution possible. 

PHASE I: Design an optical subsystem that leverages cheap reliable LDA technoglogy. Conduct a feasibility study of the LDAs to evaluate and assess their suitability to triggering multi-filament currents through GaAs PCSS. Design an optical subsystem consisting of LDA/PCSS optical transport mechanism capable of triggering GaAs PCSS in a high-gain mode and generating multiple current filaments on a surface of a lateral PCSS. Assess LDA drive power source requirements. Prepare and submit the study and detailed LDA/OT design with a preliminary proof of concept demonstration as approved and agreed with the sponsor. 

PHASE II: Build a prototype LDA power source (driver) and a suitable OT subsystem capable of multi-filament PCSS triggering in a high-gain mode. Demonstrate the capability to achieve conduction pulse width of greater than 20 ns and a timing jitter of less than 0.5 ns. Establish fabrication and production processes to scale the prototype system to trigger enough current sharing filaments to switch in excess of 10 kA with 8 PCSSs connected in parallel at the above hold-off voltage, pulse width, jitter. 

PHASE III: This topic investigates an approach to eliminate a number of traditional obstacles via optical triggering, means to deliver optical energy to the photoconductive switch and further improving the efficiency and compactness of switch-based microwave sources and thus directed energy systems. Military applications will include various fast switch-based microwave sources for directed energy systems, UWB (Ultra-Wideband) pulse sources and ground penetration radar. The development will provide the basis for next generation high voltage pulse power switching system control and support to Explosive Hazards Neutralization Technologies and platform protection to Next Generation Combat Vehicles within ARDEC, Armament Research and Development Command. Commercial applications includes X ray generation and medical devices. Its goal will bring novel approach to more compact, reliable, and cost effective high voltage switching mechanism to military and commercial applications. 

REFERENCES: 

1: "Fiber-Optic Controlled PCSS Triggers for High Voltage Pulsed Power Switches", Zutavern, F.J.

2:  Reed, K.W.

3:  Glover, S.F.

4:  Mar, A.

5:  Ruebush, M.H.

6:  Horry, M.L.

7:  Swalby, M.E.

8:  Alexander, J.A.

9:  Smith, T.L.

10:  Pulsed Power Conference, 2005 IEEE, 13-17 June 2005 Page(s):810 – 813.

11:  "Optically Activated Switches for Low Jitter Pulsed Power Applications", Zutavern, F.J.

12:  Armijo, J.C.

13:  Cameron, S.M.

14:  Denison, G.J.

15:  Lehr, J.M.

16:  Luk, T.S.

17:  Mar, A.

18:  O'Malley, M.W.

19:  Roose, L.D.

20:  Rudd, J.V.

21:  Pulsed Power Conference, 2003. Digest of Technical Papers. PPC-2003. 14th IEEE International, Volume 1, 15-18 June 2003, Page(s):591 - 594 Vol. 1.

22:  "Longevity of Optically Activated, High Gain GaAs PCSSs," Loubriel G.M., F. J. Zutavern, A. Mar, M. W. O’Malley, W. D. Helgeson, D. J. Brown, H. P. Hjalmarson, and A. G. Baca. 1997. Proc. 11th IEEE Pulsed Power Conference, Baltimore, MD, June, pp. 405-413.

23:  "Fiber-Optically Controlled Pulsed Power Switches", Fred J. Zutavern, Steven F. Glover, Kim W. Reed, Michael J. Cich, A

KEYWORDS: Laser Diode Array, PCSS Trigger, Photoconductive Semiconductor Switch, Hold-off Voltage, Jitter, High-voltage Triggering, High-gain PCSS 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Weapons 

OBJECTIVE: To create novel approaches for the design and development of scalable hierarchical materials for improved electrodes, collectors and separators in Li-ion batteries with enhanced performance across a wide range of temperatures. 

DESCRIPTION: The US Army needs long-lasting, gun-hardened batteries to address the new extended ranges required for the Army’s number one modernization priority, Long Range Precision Fires. Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have been the dominant solution for the portable energy needs of myriad military and commercial applications. The performance of LIBs in terms of high energy and power density is unparalleled. The development of alternative chemistries has not advanced to any significant degree. Notwithstanding the performance advantage LIBs hold over competing technologies, significant improvements to battery footprint, energy and power density, and cost can be achieved through technical improvements to electrodes that impart higher rate capability, higher charge capacity, and, in the case of cathodes, sufficiently high voltage. In this regard, new advances in materials need to be leveraged to usher in the next generation of the LIBs. Borrowing complex hierarchical structures found in nature, a superior approach might incorporate the use of hierarchical materials as the basis for the design of new electrodes, collectors, and separators in LIBs. This topic endeavors to develop the fundamentals of such a hierarchical structure design for improved electrochemical performance of LIBs. 

PHASE I: Investigate a systematic methodology for the design of multidimensional, self-assembled, hierarchical structures for the cathode and anode of LIBs. The methodology should be guided by physico-electro-chemical, thermodynamic, and kinetic principles for optimizing the structures. Multidimensional porous structures of electrodes to facilitate rapid ion and electron transport pathways and short solid state diffusion lengths will be investigated. Design of porosity will be directed by accessibility of solvated ions in the electrolyte without compromising the tap density of electrodes. LIBs with prototype hierarchical electrodes will be fabricated and evaluated to verify the design approach and identify the optimization parameters and methods for practical implementation in Phase II. 

PHASE II: Further optimization of the physico-electro-chemical, thermodynamic, and kinetic models will be done and hierarchical designs including the separators and collectors will be identified for improved structural, electrochemical, cycling, and environmental stability. Material compatibility, structure-electrochemical property relations, and novel preparation steps for scalability will be the considerations for maximizing the electrochemical performance. In situ characterization techniques (e.g., in-situ X-ray and Microscopy methods) will be explored to observe the structural changes of the hierarchical electrode materials in the presence of the electrolyte. The design of the separators will entail enhancing the safety of LIBs. The desirable porosity in the current collectors will enhance the interface conductivity. Also, scalable methods to construct electrodes will be considered for these hierarchical structured materials (including 3D printing). Phase II will culminate with prototype demonstrations that will showcase the improved next generation LIBs. 

PHASE III: Phase III will entail further research and refinement of the designs of Phase II along with modeling and simulation towards advancing the building blocks of the hierarchical design of the components of the LIBs. The effort through all the phases will be coordinated with the stakeholders in all the three services, which will facilitate definition of the requirements and transition of the technology. Strategic partnerships will be developed to further the commercialization potential of the technology. 

REFERENCES: 

1: L. Zhou et al., "Recent Developments on and Prospects for Electrode Materials with Hierarchical Structures for Lithium-Ion Batteries," Advanced Energy Materials, 8, 1701415, (2018).

2:  M.F. Rodrigues et al., "A materials perspective on Li-ion batteries at extreme temperatures," Nature Energy, 2, 17108 (2017).

3:  H. Zhang et al., "Three-dimensional bicontinuous ultrafast-charge and -discharge bulk battery electrodes," Nature Nanotechnology, 6, 277 (2011).

4:  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5430621/

KEYWORDS: Li-ion Batteries, Hierarchical Materials, Electrodes, Collectors, Separators 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Battlespace 

OBJECTIVE: Develop exothermic-based composite structures that possess sufficient mechanical properties to withstand setback launch forces and spin rate inertias of gun-fired munitions and to provide adaptive heating on-demand for thermal management of munitions components such as power sources at low temperatures. The systems objective is to significantly extend the run-time and high-pulsed power of reserve power systems for gun-fired munitions and extend the stand-off range, thus improving safety for soldiers. 

DESCRIPTION: Munitions can be hand emplaced or gun-launched. Munitions are stored in different environments for several years, including at very low temperatures. In all situations, munition components need to be fully operational at temperatures below -30 deg. C and sometimes as low as -55 deg. C. Proper operation of munition components and in particular munition reserve power system are absolutely critical to the mission at such low temperatures. As an example, when munitions are launched at very low temperatures or are emplaced and must be operational at such low temperatures, methods to heat their components quickly to allow their activation and to make them fully operational becomes critical. For such applications, exothermic materials are ideal candidates as heating source due to their high heat generating capacity and very fast response even at temperatures as low as -55 deg. C. It is desirable that such onboard heating devices require minimal and preferably no additional munitions volume. This topic seeks proposals for the development of exothermic-based composite structures that minimize or eliminate the need for additional volume in munitions and provide the means of heating various components of munitions such as its power source at low temperatures for their proper and optimal performance. For example, by assembling the reserve power system of hand emplaced munitions systems in such composite structures, it becomes possible to activate the munitions at very low temperatures and provide the required high-power pulses during individual missions. Similar activation at low temperatures and high-power pulses can be provided to gun-fired munitions, rockets and missiles at very low temperatures. The development of exothermic-based composite structures must be such that it supports miniaturization of munitions electronics and munitions power sources and must provide the capability to provide managed and controlled heat rates, possibly turning into insulation materials following the delivery of heat and must be capable of being designed to conform to the available geometries as load-bearing structures. The proposed exothermic-based composite structures must be capable of withstanding setback accelerations of over 75,000 Gs and high spin rates of up to 200 Hz and satisfy the military shelf life requirement of 20 years. 

PHASE I: Develop exothermic materials and technologies that possess sufficient mechanical properties to withstand setback launch forces and spin rate inertias of gun-fired munitions and to provide adaptive heating on-demand for thermal management of munitions components such as power sources at low temperatures. The Phase I efforts must demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed technologies to meet the requirements of hand emplaced and gun-fired munitions. The contractor will perform and document design analyses to demonstrate compliance with requirements. The results of Phase I will include an engineering analysis of alternatives noting the design capabilities and limitations and recommendations for the Phase II effort, as well as physical prototypes built in the laboratory and subjected to laboratory functional testing. 

PHASE II: Based on success in Phase I, refine the design(s) selected to meet the functional and environmental requirements. Develop designs and build prototypes and perform instrumented tests to demonstrate the performance for adaptive heating of munitions components at very low temperatures. The Phase II will culminate with a demonstration in a relevant environment. Deliverables include prototypes, an engineering report on the selected designs and related technical data in contractor format. 

PHASE III: The end vision of this SBIR effort is the insertion of the developed technology into hand emplaced munitions power system and for heating of power system and other temperature sensitive components of emerging longer-range gun-fired munitions for operation at low temperatures. On the commercial side, safe and low reserve batteries with a very long 10-20 years of shelf life would be ideal for emergency powering of communications and other similar electrical and/or electronic devices and systems. 

REFERENCES: 

1: Encyclopedia of Electrochemical Power Sources, C.K. Dyer et al, Elsevier Science (2010)

2:  Linden, D. (Ed.), Handbook of Batteries 2nd Ed., McGraw-Hill Inc., New York (1995)

3:  J. Dai, R. LaFollette, D. Reisner, "Thin film Cu5V2O10 Electrode for Thermal Batteries", 218th Electrochemical Society Meeting, Las Vegas, NV, Oct.10-15, 2010, Meet. Abstr. - Electrochem. Soc. 1002 346 (2010)

4:  R.M. LaFollette, J.Dai, D. Reisner, and D. Briscoe, "Thermal Battery with Thin film LiV3O8 Cathodes", 218th Electrochemical Society Meeting, Las Vegas, NV, Oct.10-15, 2010, Meet. Abstr. - Electrochem. Soc. 1002 372 (2010)

5:  N.V. Moss, D.H. Bhakta, "Gun Hardened Thermal Battery", 40th Power Sources Conf., Cherry Hill, NJ, June 10- 13, 2002, 21.4

6:  R.A. Guidotti, F.W. Reinhardt, "A Miniature Shock-Activated Thermal Battery for Munitions Applications", 38th Power Sources Conf., Cherry Hill, NJ, June 8-11, 1998, 10.5

KEYWORDS: Exothermic, Exothermic Materials, Composite Structures, Munitions Power System, Reserve Batteries, Battery Performance At Low Temperature 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Chem Bio_defense 

OBJECTIVE: Develop and document methods for effective cleaning of military firefighters’ Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to mitigate exposure to carcinogens and other hazardous materials. 

DESCRIPTION: Firefighters, including military firefighters (US Army military occupational specialty 12M) have an increased risk of disease from exposure to hazardous materials. Multiple recent epidemiology studies have documented elevated risks of several cancers in firefighters. The International Agency for Research on Cancer classified occupational exposure as a firefighter as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B). In the largest mortality study to date, with data on 30,000 firefighters, Daniels et. al. (2015) found increased mortality and incidence risks for all cancers, mesothelioma, and cancers of the esophagus, intestine, lung, kidney and oral cavity, as well as an elevated risk for prostate and bladder cancer among younger firefighters. In a follow-on study, Daniels et. al. found a dose response relationship between fire-runs and leukemia mortality and fire-hours and lung cancer mortality and incidence. Chemical exposures encountered during firefighting are thought to contribute to the elevated risk of these cancers. The role of chemical contamination of firefighting turnout gear and subsequent repeated skin exposure to those chemical contaminants on the protective equipment has only recently been examined. Methods and technologies are needed to remove what has been shown to be harmful carcinogenic chemical contaminants on firefighter protective gear, including clothing, helmets and boots, to minimize firefighters’ repeated exposure to these dangerous fire-generated chemicals. A recent study of Ottawa firefighters (Keir et al. 2017) documented a 2.9- to 5.3-fold increase in urinary polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) metabolites post fire events. Another study (Fent et al. 2017) determined the levels of PAHs, including known or suspected human carcinogens, on firefighter turnout gear following controlled residential fire responses. In a separate study (Huston 2014) a risk assessment was conducted on the trace metals found on firefighter PPE by estimating the potential for dermal exposure. Based on the analysis of 34 metals, lead and antimony were found to pose a potential risk. This exposure hazard affects a large number of people. In 2014, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimated that there were around 1,134,000 firefighters serving in 27,198 departments nationwide (31% career firefighters. 69% volunteers). Cleaning methods are defined by NFPA 1851, “Standard on Selection, Care, and Maintenance of Protective Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire Fighting”, which is currently being revised. 

PHASE I: Demonstrate a product and identify test procedures to remove hazardous materials from the personal equipment of military firefighters. The methods should be effective on clothing, helmets and boots. The new protocol must be compatible with NFPA 1851. It may involve procedures to treat the equipment in the field immediately after use, procedures for thorough cleaning in a facility, including laundering, or a combination of steps. It must be practical to apply in areas with limited resources. All of the materials involved must be documented as safe for use by personnel and environmentally friendly. Work in Phase I should document the performance of the proposed procedures, and also evaluate the transportability, storage stability and cost of the cleaning materials. 

PHASE II: Carry out additional development and testing to define an optimized system. Phase II should involve collecting data in realistic conditions. Ideally it will involve collaboration with a firefighting organization. It may be desirable to sample firefighters’ equipment before and after exposure to a training fire or an emergency response. If necessary, the performer will obtain informed consent from the individuals involved. Phase II should conclude with a clear demonstration of best practices for adoption. 

PHASE III: Provide military users a prototype system for field-testing. Use feedback to further refine the system design. 

REFERENCES: 

1: CDC Factsheet (2016).Findings from a Study of Cancer among U.S. Fire Fighters. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/pgms/worknotify/pdfs/ff-cancer-factsheet-final.pdf

2:  Daniels, R.D., et al. (2014). "Exposure-response relationships for select cancer and non-cancer health outcomes in a cohort of US firefighters from San Francisco, Chicago and Philadelphia (1950–2009). Occup. Environ. Med. 72(10).

3:  Fent et al. (2017). "Contamination of firefighter personal protective equipment and skin and the effectiveness of decontamination procedures." Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/15459624.2017.1334904.

4:  Fire Fighter Cancer Support Network (2013). "Taking Action against Cancer in the Fire Service." Available at https://firefightercancersupport.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/taking-action-against-cancer-in-the-fire-service-pdf.pdf.

5:  Huston, T.N., "Identification of Soils on Firefighter Turnout Gear from the Philadelphia Fire Department" (2014). Theses and Dissertations--Retail

KEYWORDS: Cleaning, Firefighter, Personal Protective Equipment, PPE, Carcinogens 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Info Systems 

OBJECTIVE: Develop and demonstrate a compact, room-temperature, high optical access, trapped ion system capable of trapping a linear chain of ions for use in quantum entanglement experiments. 

DESCRIPTION: Trapped ion physics is relevant for Army applications including, entanglement for enhanced sensing, information processing with quantum memories and classical optimization or machine learning coupled with quantum protocols for complex decision-making. Trapped ions excel at quantum information processing, including high fidelity state preparation [1], quantum entanglement [2] and algorithmic processing [3]. Broader use has been limited by the requirement to construct a system entirely from the ground up. The need for in-house assembly and/or cleanroom fabrication, prevents rapid start up at facilities lacking the required hardware. A SWAP-c, pre-housed trapped ion device under ultra-high vacuum requiring only application of trapping voltages and integration of laser systems avoids replication of Army resources, would be cost-effective and allow for quick start up. Developing a trapped ion system involves several challenges that researchers have taken various approaches to overcome while considering the trade-offs. Challenges include micromotion compensation across a chain of ions or achieving equidistant ion-spacing. Micromotion compensation techniques have included dedicated compensation electrodes or applying relative phase shifts on trapping fields. Attempts to achieve equidistant ion-ion spacing have included approaches such as increased electrode densities for more precise trapping potential control and trapping larger numbers of ions to reduce the edge effects on the central ions. ARL’s quantum sciences program is geared toward the Army’s Command, Control, Communication and Intelligence (C3I) community. In this role, ARL is seeking to partner with a small business to demonstrate a compact trapped ion system. This demonstration must yield a complete, room-temperature, in-vacuo trapped ion package with an RF resonator for trapping. Although surface-based traps may have higher densities of control electrodes, their trapping depths are substantially lower than bulk traps and at present their optical access is limited by the need to avoid laser beam scattering from the surface. Surface traps require years of in-house custom, multi-stage design and fabrication and there are limitations on the wider accessibility of these devices to the community. In contrast, although still requiring extensive expertise, a bulk trap does not need to rely on highly complex, multi-stage fabrication and a compact, packaged, room-temperature trap with multiple electrodes can accomplish a wide array of tasks from entanglement [4] to computing [5]. Employing atomic ions with visible and near visible transitions, leverages readily available laser sources and will enhance commercialization possibilities. To meet this requirement and match existing Army resources, at least Yb+ and Ba+ loaded ovens must be incorporated into the assembly [8]. A high optical access assembly will readily allow for multiple beams and trapping of different ionic species. Demonstration of loading of either ion species may be readily inferred from ion-ion spacing to minimize overhead. 

PHASE I: Outline design specifications for a suitable ion trap including trapping electrodes and in-vacuo DC noise mitigation circuitry. The vacuum housing should operate with a base pressure of 10e-12 Torr and measure less than 50 cm in no more than one linear dimension. At least two different species (barium and ytterbium) of atomic sources should be placed in the vacuum chamber and positioned for efficient isotope selective ionization. The trapping electrodes should consist of at least two rf electrodes and two static voltage electrodes each with a minimum of five individually voltage controllable segments. The ion-electrode distance should be approximately 200 µm. Minimization of micromotion in all three directions should be possible via compensation electrodes and/ or use of a bifilar resonator coil [6]. An additional electrode should be included for application of microwave or RF fields. Optical access longitudinal to the trap with transverse access in two directions at approximately 90 deg to each other should be provided. Analysis of the tradeoffs should be presented for the approach used for micromotion compensation and equidistant ion spacing. The vacuum window designs should be completed along with ex-vacuo assembly of the trapping electrodes within their housing. Complete sourcing should be identified for all parts. The trap should be designed and assembled. 

PHASE II: Demonstrate a research-grade operational ion trapping system validating design operation parameters with either Ba+ or Yb+ atomic ions with micromotion compensation for at least one ion. Advance the research grade system to TRL 4/5. Maintain throughput optical access via at least six 1-1/3 inch optical view ports which allows for sufficient leeway to align the beams to the center of the trap or have a fiber coupled, pre-aligned solution. Two reentrant windows, one with at least 30 mm diameter and a second with 60 mm diameter placed in the plane orthogonal to the smaller ports. An RF resonator operating at approximately 30 MHz should be part of the delivered assembly. The working distance of photonic collection or diagnostic should be approximately 20 mm with a diffraction limit of around 1 micrometer and the NA from the position of the ion should not be less than 0.6 through one reentrant window. Measure and reduce the micromotion to achieve a few V/m residual trapping potential. Trapping of single ions and a linear chain should be shown with measured heating rates via time-resolved fluorescence detection during Doppler recooling [9]. Demonstrate that the heating is a few hundred quanta per second comparable to research grade traps of the same ion-electrode distance [10]. 

PHASE III: Advance development of package to TRL 7/8. Establish and demonstrate regular and routine trapping of a linear chain of 5 to 10 ions of one atomic species, minimize micromotion across the chain to a few V/m and demonstrate typically accepted ion chain lifetimes of a few minutes observed in bulk traps [7]. Fully document operation processes of ion loading, trapping parameters electrode voltages, confinement RF amplitude and characterize ion lifetime and ion chain stability. Investigate commercialization of the package for other atomic sources such as Ca+ and Sr+. 

REFERENCES: 

1: [1] High-Fidelity Preparation, Gates, Memory, and Readout of a Trapped-Ion Quantum Bit, T.¿P. Harty, D.¿T.¿C. Allcock, C.¿J. Ballance, L. Guidoni, H.¿A. Janacek, N.¿M. Linke, D.¿N. Stacey, and D.¿M. Lucas Phys. Rev. Lett. 113, 220501 (2014)

2:  [2] High-Fidelity Quantum Logic Gates Using Trapped-Ion Hyperfine Qubits, C.¿J. Ballance, T.¿P. Harty, N.¿M. Linke, M.¿A. Sepiol, and D.¿M. Lucas, Phys. Rev. Lett. 117, 060504 (2016).

3:  [3] Machine learning assisted readout of trapped-ion qubits, A. Seif, K. A. Landsman, N. M. Linke, C. Figgatt, C. Monroe, and M. Hafezi, arXiv: 1804.07718 (2018).

4:  [4] 14-Qubit Entanglement: Creation and Coherence, T. Monz, P. Schindler, J. T. Barreiro, M. Chwalla, D. Nigg, W. A. Coish, M. Harlander, W. Hänsel, M. Hennrich and R. Blatt, Phys. Rev. Lett. 106, 130506 (2011).

5:  [5] Demonstration of a Small Programmable Quantum Computer with Atomic Qubits, S. Debnath, N. M. Linke, C. Figgatt, K. A. Landsman, K. Wright, and C. Monroe, Nature 536, 63 (2016).

6:  [6] Minimization of

KEYWORDS: Trapped Ion, Quantum Information, Compact Trapped Ion, Quantum Entanglement 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Info Systems 

OBJECTIVE: Develop a networked real-time test chamber monitoring and control system that interfaces with various environmental chamber controllers (e.g. Thermoton 8800, Watlow F4, Micristar, NI cRIO) and complies with Army Cyber requirements. Each ATEC test center has requirements to continuously (24hrs/7days) monitor and control chambers across large test ranges. Current methods are inefficient and in some cases less than effective leading to issues and increased operating costs. Real time chamber monitoring improves efficiency by reducing the labor required to monitor the chambers at multiple facilities. Real time monitoring also improves test safety and quality by supporting quick resolution of a chamber issue prior to damage of the test item (e.g. munitions and explosives). 

DESCRIPTION: Environmental testing replicates the warfighter’s operational life cycle environments in a laboratory setting that is controllable and repeatable. Environmental Chamber testing is performed to evaluate the performance, survivability, and vulnerability of military systems and personnel when they are exposed to the various simulated natural and induced environments. Each ATEC test facility has unique test chambers which incorporate wide variety of chamber controllers (e.g. Thermoton 8800, Watlow F4, Micristar, NI cRIO). There is a need at each test facility to have networked centralized control of the chambers to improve operational efficiency and test quality. A centralized chamber monitoring and control solution will provide: a. Remote Control (Start, Stop and Program the Controller). b. Alerts and Alarms (Text/Email). c. Support a wide variety of chamber controllers. d. Improved network security over existing solutions. e. Access to test and chamber parameters for monitoring and troubleshooting (10-30 channels typical). 

PHASE I: Develop a feasibility study that consist of a high level software and hardware concept that includes identification of necessary communication protocols, physical communication interfaces, network security solutions, and software architecture. Determine overall functionality of the centralized control and monitoring software and any limitations. 

PHASE II: Develop and demonstrate a prototype solution at an ATEC Test Center. Conduct testing to prove feasibility over extended operating conditions. 

PHASE III: This software platform could be used in a broad range of military and civilian applications where environmental chamber controller, or more broadly, industrial controllers are utilized. The ability of a common software/hardware infrastructure to provide a secure centralized interface with multiple makes/models of industrial controllers without an extensive programming effort would be a valuable tool in many industries. The secure interface may support cybersecurity development. In Phase III, the company could (1) be contracted by other Army, Navy and Air Force test facilities to provide the software and specialty hardware required for remote environmental chamber control, (2) be contracted by commercial test facilities to provide the same, and/or (3) convert the software and specialty hardware to support other industries (research laboratories, manufacturing, etc.). 

REFERENCES: 

1: NIST Special Publication 800-53 (Rev. 4.) "Security Controls and Assessment Procedures for Federal Information Systems and Organizations"

2:  Applicable IASE Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs): https://iase.disa.mil/stigs/Pages/index.aspx

3:  MIL-STD-810G, "Department of Defense Test Method Standard, Environmental Engineering Considerations and Laboratory Tests," dated 31 October 2008 (including Change Notice 1, dated 15 April 2014).

KEYWORDS: Environmental Testing, Chamber Control, Remote Network Access, Real-time Monitoring And Control 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics 

OBJECTIVE: Design and develop a digital read-out integrated circuit (DROIC) capable of both LIDAR-like 3D ranging and other detection methodologies for use with a small pitch, cooled thermal sensor. 

DESCRIPTION: The Army is interested in several applications of active systems such as autonomous vehicle navigation, laser range finders, active imaging, etc. All of these applications require the detection of reflected pulses of laser light, but there are significant differences in the readout required for these different scenarios. While the work in commercial autonomous vehicles and ranging has largely focused on the NIR waveband, alternate detection technologies require the use of MWIR and LWIR (thermal) systems. Furthermore, ranging is often achieved using relatively short gate times for detecting the returned laser pulse with high precision and the use of a voltage ramp or some other timing device to sync the detector to the active source, allowing a range to be calculated. Other applications, however, can make use of circuitry such as that for asynchronous laser pulse detection (ALPD), often use longer gate times, and require detecting multiple pulses within a single gate. This topic seeks to develop a DROIC architecture that achieves both laser ranging and at least one other capability such as ALPD and/or multi-pulse detection. The ideal ROIC would support all three capabilities within a single design. Such an architecture will have applications to Next Generation Combat Vehicles (NGCVs) under the Army Modernization Priorities. The developed DROIC architecture should function with active imaging sensors of relatively small pitch (=15 µm preferred) and be scalable to HD arrays. Use with an APD-based detector should be considered. The architecture must have low power consumption, compatible with eventual integration into an Integrated Dewar Cooler Assembly (IDCA) when combined with a thermal FPA. Designs where all capabilities are achieved in a simultaneous, snap-shot format are greatly preferred to those that require switching modes between frames or sequential readout. The design must support triggering by an external source. Laser ranging to a resolution of 1 m or less is desired. Tiled architectures will be considered but are not required. Stacked or 3-D ROIC approaches will be considered but are not expected. 

PHASE I: Investigate, research, and design a DROIC architecture to meet the above specifications. Demonstrate design feasibility and capability of the DROIC through modeling, simulations and analysis. 

PHASE II: Using the results of Phase I, complete the design the DROIC through tape-out. A test chip with test data to verify key circuit design concepts is highly desirable. Establish a working relationship with a detector vendor to acquire FPAs for a possible Phase III effort and ensure that design will integrate with a working detector array. 

PHASE III: Transition the DROIC technology to use with an IR FPA. Produce a fully working detector. The commercialization applications of this technology may include autonomous driving and advanced object recognition. 

REFERENCES: 

1: R. Fraenkel, et al., "High definition 10μm pitch InGaAs detector with asynchronous laser pulse detection mode", Proceedings of the SPIE, Vol. 9819, id. 981903 8 pp. (2016).

2:  B.W. Schilling, et al., "Multiple-return laser radar for three-dimensional imaging through obscurations", Applied Optics, Vol. 41, No. 15, pp. 2791-2799 (2002).

3:  P.A. Forrester and K. F. Hulme, "Laser rangefinders", Optical and Quantum Electronics, Vol. 13, Issue 4, pp 259-293, (July 1981).

KEYWORDS: DROIC, 3D LIDAR, Active Imaging, ALPD 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics 

OBJECTIVE: Develop micro-protocols that operate on a very short lived connections that are either due to contested and congested spectrum, environmental effects or intentionally created to avoid RF signal detections. 

DESCRIPTION: Wireless networks of Army are large scale and heterogeneous. For such a large network providing end-to-end connectivity to facilitate data communication is a major challenge. This challenge becomes more complex when these networks are operating in an environment of spectrum scarcity, active electronic warfare and surveillance. Providing a high performance network routing, reliable end-to-end data transport, and fair medium access is an unprecedented challenge even for the Internet for delay intolerant applications but this challenge is several orders of magnitude more complex for Army networks leading to performance and capacity problems. The cost and capacity requirements created by operations in scarce spectrum and in presence of electronic warfare require exploiting very short lived high rate communication opportunities and when they arise rather than ignoring them. None of the existing waveforms and their associated networking protocols are capable of operating on short lived connections in a spectrum scare environment nor do they have latencies in route discovery, slot allocations, end -to-end data transport, and diversity routing to support sub-millisecond range which is a requirement for mission critical applications. It is critical for the army, therefore to start researching next generation of routing, data transport, and medium access protocols that can support mission critical applications in congested and contested environments with sub-millisecond latencies. The goal will be to perform research in following areas: (a) Develop medium access control protocol that can facilitate interworking with multipath data transport, path diversity based routing, and short lived connections, in presence of electronic warfare. This problem is being studied in part and is an active area of research in intelligent transport systems as well as in vehicular ad hoc networks. One can start with browsing the research that has been part of Dedicated Short Range Communications (DSRC), IEEE 802.11a – Road Side Applications, and other seminal papers. The medium access protocol should have ability to reliably work in a dynamic spectrum access networking regimes among others. (b) Develop diversity routing techniques that dynamically choose among multiple paths that have been pre-discovered to transmit data in parallel simultaneously. Consider time varying link capacities, offered load, and latencies with delay guarantees. The routing techniques should incorporate new mechanisms that update paths two orders of magnitude faster than the current Internet routing algorithms while preserving network stability and connectivity. The routing mechanisms should be capable of computing multiple paths by diversity routing techniques. To significantly improve the responsiveness of path updates, innovative techniques are required to reduce their cost including link state protocols and methods to adaptively trigger link state updates based on quantitative estimates of the resulting benefit. It is desirable that the transport layer protocols detect and react to the fastest link variations on the order of tens of milliseconds, diversity routing across multiple pre-computed paths on the order of hundreds of milliseconds, path updates and applications response on the order of seconds. (c) Develop a new transport layer protocol that can operate on short lived connections in the tactical environment of the future that can react quickly and is able to transmit data reliably. Consider a variant of TCP such as Multipath TCP to start with then, examine the cost benefit analysis of a cross-layer design that can exploit information from application, routing, and medium access control layers. Clearly examine the limitations of existing standardized protocols before arguing for a cross layer design. 

PHASE I: Explore and define a mathematical framework to capture the interactions between MAC, networking and transport layers that need to take place when the physical layer is having short lived connections. Use this framework to formulate probabilistic models for the network operations. This will be used to facilitate networking functions such as neighbor selection, identification of next hop for routing, time slot allocations and transport layer reliability. Develop algorithms that make use of probabilistic models and machine learning techniques to perform networking functions. The chosen approach and the algorithms should be substantiated by means of analysis, modeling and simulation and early breadboard prototyping. 

PHASE II: Develop specification of the protocols which make use of the algorithms from phase I. Software implementation of the proposed protocols and algorithms to be implemented on a radio platform and delivered to Army for further testing. Demonstration of capabilities using a network of wireless mobile nodes under a relevant scenario. Demonstration of the scalability properties of the proposed solution using a combination of real radio nodes and network emulation tools. 

PHASE III: Support the Army in transitioning these micro-protocols to Army’s communication radio and vehicular platforms. Perform final testing of and integrating the micro-protocols with Army’s PEO-C3T PM Tactical Radio Software Define Radio system such as multi-channel handheld radio PRC-163 or similar as well as test this technology in next generation vehicular system. Following successful integration and testing, it is envisioned that the systems will transition to Army’s program of record. In addition to military application, there is a large potential to transition this technology to private sectors where the MANETS that are extensively used. For example in the First Respondent radio system, Homeland Security and agriculture environments. Vehicular networking is another potential application expected to benefit from this research where the multi-path transport mechanisms exists. Envisioned improvements to be provided by this topic in terms of network efficiency and scalability can also be inserted in these applications and thus enable broader use of their capabilities. 

REFERENCES: 

1: John M. Chapin and Vincent Chan, "The next 10 years of Wireless Networking Research", IEEE MIlcom, 2011, pp. 2238-2245

2:  Pack, S. and Choi, Y., "Modeling of Wireless TCP for Short Lived Flows", IEEE VTC, 2005, pp. 75-79.

3:  Melia, M. Stoica, I. and Zhang H., " TCP Model for Short Lived Flows," IEEE Communication Letters, Vol. 6, No. 2, pp. 85-88, 2002

4:  Natani, A. Jakilinki, J., Mohsin, M. and Sharma, J., "TCP for Wireless Networks", ACM SIGCOMM, Vol. 26, No. 5, pp. 163-243, 2001

5:  Padhye, J., Firorin V., Towsley, D. and Kurose, J., "Modeling TCP Reno Performance: A Simple Model and its empirical validation," IEEE/ACM Transactions on Networking, Vol. 8, No. 2, pp. 133-145, 2002

6:  Zhu, J. and Roy, Sumit, "MAC for Dedicated Short Range Communications in Intelligent Transport System", IEEE Communications Magazine, December 2003

7:  Eriksson, J. Balakrishnan, H., and Madden, Sam, " A Content Delivery Network for Moving Vehicles", ACM Mobicom 2008

8:  Niu, Z. et al, "DeReQ: A QoS Routing

KEYWORDS: Short Lived Connections Medium Access Control, Routing And Data Transport Protocols, Dynamic Spectrum Access, Multipath Data Transport, Electronic Warfare, UAVs, And UGVs 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics 

OBJECTIVE: Build and demonstrate a low-cost clandestine radio communication system. 

DESCRIPTION: The Army’s need for low cost highly effective low probability of intercept/low probability of detection (LPI/LPD) RF communication and data transmission systems has been established over the years. There are several technologies currently deployed which have attempted to address this issue for the Warfighter. The first attempts at remediating the problem employed the development of systems which employed traditional techniques such as frequency hopping and utilization of pseudo-noise spread across a spectrum at lower powers for transmission. It has been shown that these techniques, while diminishing the RF footprint of the transmitter, do not fully address the requirements for a robust LPI communication system. Advancements in the application of massively random “noisy” RF has been demonstrated in the use of radar systems. These systems generate millions of random RF signals which appear to be undetectable to known detectors and spectrum analysis. The radar signal and subsequent return appear to simply be expected random background RF noise. The goal of this project is to demonstrate the application of a noisy RF system which can provide voice and data communications across several systems. While the primary goal is to build and test a clandestine communication system, the program will also research the optimal frequencies, bandwidth constraints and other relevant factors effecting a clandestine RF based mobile communication network. 

PHASE I: Offeror will demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of state-of-the-art noisy RF systems and their practical application. Offeror will highlight their understanding of operational parameters facing the dismounted and mounted soldier, as it relates to communication, in the modern Army. The Offeror will provide examples of relevant previous experience designing, developing and testing “noisy” RF system. 

PHASE II: Design, develop, build and test a mounted and dismounted “noisy” RF communication system for voice and date. The communications may be man-packable, or vehicle mounted based upon agreement between the Offeror and the Army. The system shall be developed and demonstrated with the following descending priorities: LPI/LPD: The system should provide an RF network capability to support voice or data communications in a manner which is undetectable or unobservable utilizing existing sensors and analyzers. Data Rate: The system shall strive to maximize the data throughput rate achievable. Trade-offs may be suggested by the Offeror to increase throughput. Range: The system as designed will be for proximity communication. However, the Offeror shall provide an analysis and recommendation for longer range clandestine communication utilizing the system. Low-Cost: The system will be highly cost effective, allowing widespread soldier adoption and utilization for clandestine communication and data transmission. Low-Power: The system will demonstrate the ability of the system to operate over prolonged periods of time without requiring additional charging or battery replacement. The system shall have a dual power capability for vehicle or dismounted operations. 

PHASE III: Offeror will work with the Army and industry partners to create a commercialization and manufacturing plan for the system to support mass production, acquisition and fielding by Army programs of record. The Offeror will work with various commercial industries to transition the technology from military to commercial application. The increased proliferation of autonomous vehicles and systems will require noisy communication systems such as this. While the LPI/LPD capabilities are paramount to the Army, the exponential increase in RF communication systems will require solutions capable of operating without interfering with other nearby transmitting or receiving systems. 

REFERENCES: 

1: Lee and Baxley - "Achieving positive rate with undetectable communication over AWGN and Rayleigh channels", 2014

2:  Lee, Baxley, McMahon, Frazier - "Achieving positive rate with undetectable communication over MIMO Rayleigh channels", 2014

3:  N. J. Corron, J, N. Blakely. - "Chaos in optimal communication waveforms, Proc. Royal Society A, 471, 20150222 (2015). [3] Veth, M. J., "Fusion of Imaging and Inertial Sensors for Navigation," Dissertation, Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), September 2006.

4:  Kutsor, - "APPLICATION OF UWB AND MIMO WIRELESS TECHNOLOGIES TO TACTICAL NETWORKS IN AUSTERE ENVIRONMENTS" – Naval Postgraduate School 2010

5:  Walton, "Ultrawide-band noise radar in the VHF/UHF band" - Jul 1999 · IEEE Transactions on Antennas and Propagation

6:  Walton, "Random Noise Radar" – Live Science 2006

KEYWORDS: RF Communication, Noisy RF, Clandestine, LPD, LPI, Anti-Jam, Stealthy Communication, Noisy Radio 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Chem Bio_defense 

OBJECTIVE: Develop remote optical sensor receiver for the non-contact detection and geospatial mapping of chemical contaminants on surfaces. 

DESCRIPTION: Surface contamination by chemical warfare agents presents a serious threat both to the civilian and military sectors and an adequate defense against these weapons will require rapid detection and identification of both known and unknown agents. Methods of detecting and localizing chemical contamination on operational surfaces is limited to contact sampling and analysis by colorimetric or molecular analysis, forcing a time- and resource-intensive reconnaissance mission that places personnel or systems into direct contact with the hazardous materials in order to interrogate the surface. Recent advances in laser-based optical spectroscopy demonstrate the efficacy of non-contact remote methods for the sensing of chemical on surfaces. Ultraviolet Raman spectroscopy affords one demonstrable means for non-contact optical detection of hazardous materials on surfaces, but the standoff range is limited by atmospheric attenuation of the laser source. An alternative to standoff illumination and sensing of the spectral signature would be the application of remotely-piloted unmanned systems fitted with the laser and spectrometer; however, unmanned ground vehicles have limited maneuverability and would become contaminated on contact with the contaminated surface in order to map the contaminated area. Unmanned aerial systems (UAS) have much greater maneuverability, but a limited mission life and payload size, weight, and power (SWAP) budget. A possible compromise to minimize the SWAP of the UAS payload would be to mount a laser source on the base platform (e.g. the Nuclear Biological Chemical Reconnaissance Vehicle) and mount an optical receiver/analyzer on the UAS. An integrated system that mounts a receiver on a UAS and synchronizes the flight path of the UAS to follow the laser spot on the surface would enable the detection of contaminants without necessarily contaminating the UAS platform. A standoff range from the NBCRV of 50 meters (threshold) to 100 meters (objective) with a 1-meter (threshold) to 2-meter (objective) standoff range for the UAS-mounted receiver would enable the rapid remote interrogation and geospatial mapping of contaminants on surfaces while protecting the reconnaissance platforms from contamination due to contact with the chemical hazard. 

PHASE I: Conduct a feasibility study of detecting liquid contaminants on the ground using a remote, autonomous UAS-mounted receiver paired with a larger, vehicle-mounted laser illumination source. Perform laser-illuminated spectral measurements of a contaminant deposited on concrete, asphalt, grass, and sand surfaces using a static (laboratory bench) system in order to prove the detection concept. Appropriate simulant or toxic industrial chemical targets for this study would include the insecticides malathion and parathion, representing solid and liquid state hazards, respectively. Measurements should be performed using liquid droplets of mission-relevant sizes (~500 µm, micron) on the various relevant surfaces at aerial concentrations of 10 grams/square meter or less. Using the proof-of concept results, develop a system model and conceptual design of a fast hyperspectral line imaging detection system for on-the-move detection. 

PHASE II: Develop a prototype demonstration system using the results of the Phase I study. The remotely operated unmanned aerial vehicle should travel at speeds up to 45 mph with a standoff distance of 1-2 meters from the surface while tracking the laser spot projected onto the surface from 50 meters (threshold) to 100 meters (objective) at slant angles approaching 180 degrees. The system should be able to detect 10 grams per square meter (threshold) to less than 1 gram per square meter (objective) of solid or liquid contaminants. Develop necessary data acquisition, telemetry, and analytic signal processing system to provide real-time detection of chemical agents and toxic industrial chemicals in real time. Size, weight, and power constraints impose a limit of 50,000 cm3, 50 lbs, 350 watts on the laser source and 1000 cm3, 6 lbs, 150 watts on the remote optical sensing platform. Dual-use functionality of the laser source to provide light detection and ranging capabilities are desired, but not required. 

PHASE III: Further research and development during Phase III efforts will be directed towards refining 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 operational requirements of the Joint Chemical and Biological Defense Program, U.S. Army CONOPS and end-user requirements. PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: There are many environmental applications for a sensitive remote chemical detector/identifier. A rugged, sensitive, and flexible remotely operated chemical detector will benefit precision agriculture by providing accurate validation of crop chemical applications and plant health. Environmental remediation industries would benefit from the sensitive detection, localization, and mapping of chemical spills and fugitive emissions from industrial incidents. Homeland security and environmental regulation offices can use the technology to characterize and remediate domestic crises such as natural disasters. 

REFERENCES: 

1: S. Michael Angel, Nathaniel R Gomer, Shiv K Sharma, and Chris McKay, "Remote Raman Spectroscopy for Planetary Exploration: A Review", Applied Spectroscopy, Vol. 66, Issue 2, pp. 137-150 (2012).

2:  Christopher A. Kendziora, Robert Furstenberg, Michael Papantonakis, Viet Nguyen, Jeff Byers, and R. Andrew McGill, "Infrared photothermal imaging spectroscopy for detection of trace explosives on surfaces", Applied Optics, Vol. 54, Issue 31, pp. F129-F138 (2015).

3:  Clayton S.-C. Yang, Eiei Brown, Eric Kumi-Barimah, Uwe Hommerich, Feng Jin, Yingqing Jia, Sudhir Trivedi, Arvind I. D’souza, Eric A. Decuir, Priyalal S. Wijewarnasuriya, and Alan C. Samuels, "Rapid long-wave infrared laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy measurements using a mercury-cadmium-telluride linear array detection system", Applied Optics, Vol. 54, Issue 33, pp. 9695-9702 (2015).

4:  Anupam K. Misra, Tayro E. Acosta-Maeda, John N. Porter, Genesis Berlanga, Dalton Muchow, Shiv K. Sharma, Brian Chee, "A Two Components Approach for Lo

KEYWORDS: Chemical Detection, Surface Detection, Remote Sensing, Laser Spectroscopy, Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Sensing, Non-contact Optical Interrogation 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials 

OBJECTIVE: To develop a process for drying graphitic and/or brass flake obscurant materials that minimizes agglomeration. Traditional drying methods result in individual flakes being drawn together by capillary forces during the process. Phase I will focus on lab scale quantities. Phase II will scale up this process to the kilogram level. 

DESCRIPTION: Smoke and obscurants play a crucial role in protecting the Warfighter by decreasing the electromagnetic signature that is detectable by various sensors, seekers, trackers, optical enhancement devices and the human eye. The proliferation of threats to combat vehicles including ATGM’s and RPG’s, raises the stakes for the Warfighter. A low-cost, precision countermeasure to these threats will be critical in increasing the survivability of the Next Generation Combat Vehicle (NGCV). During current material drying process material agglomeration occurs. This agglomeration greatly reduces the effectiveness of the obscurant because agglomerates are less efficient than single particles (decreased ratio of flake surface area to mass of material). 

PHASE I: Develop a concept for drying graphitic and/or brass flake material to minimize agglomeration. Demonstrate this method by producing five, ten gram batches of material. This material will be disseminated via sonic nozzle in the ECBC chamber with a goal of having an extinction coefficient fifty percent greater than traditional drying methods. The extinction efficiency for traditional drying methods will be determined by testing the material as received from the source manufacturer in the powder form. 

PHASE II: The methods in PHASE I will be scaled up to batches on the order of one kilogram. Five, one kilogram batches will be delivered to ECBC for testing as in PHASE I. Material will also be evaluated in a small scale explosive munition with the goal of achieving an extinction coefficient fifty percent greater than traditional drying methods. 

PHASE III: The methods developed in PHASE II will be scale up further to a batch size of fifty kilograms. The resulting material will be integrated into a new or existing obscuration system. 

REFERENCES: 

1: Bohren, C.F.

2:  Huffman, D.R.

3:  Absorption and Scattering of Light by Small Particles

4:  Wiley-Interscience, New York, 1983.

5:  Embury, Janon

6:  Maximizing Infrared Extinction Coefficients for Metal Discs, Rods, and Spheres, ECBC-TR-226, Feb 2002, ADA400404, 77 Page(s)

7:  Mishra, P.K., Role of Smokes in Warfare, Defence Science Journal, Vol 44, No. 2, Apr 1994, pp 173-179

8:  Tedeschi, S., Improving Aerosol Dispersion Through a Fundamental Understanding of Interparticle Forces, http://etd.fcla.edu/UF/UFE0021643/tedeschi_s.pdf

9:  Embury, J.

10:  Walker, D.

11:  Zimmerman, C., Screening Smoke Performance of Commercially Available Powders 1. Infrared Screening by Graphite Flake, Jul 1993, DTIC AD-A272 461

KEYWORDS: Brass Flakes, Graphite Flakes, Dissemination, Packing, Aerosolization, Obscuration 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Info Systems 

OBJECTIVE: Develop amplifier and antenna material solutions that will facilitate the implementation of C4ISR/EW Modular Open Suite of Standards (CMOSS) compliant modular communication systems within U.S. Army tactical ground and air, manned and unmanned vehicles hosting CMOSS compliant chassis and related payload infrastructure. This solution will provide communication devices for voice and data transmission and reception and greatly reduce future vehicle integration activities after the initial installation of CMOSS compliant chassis and related payload infrastructure. 

DESCRIPTION: The Department of Defense’s (DoD) modular open systems approach (MOSA) is to design systems with highly cohesive, loosely coupled, and severable modules that can be competed separately and acquired from independent vendors. The desired solution at completion will provide the platform commander the ability to configure software-define radio (SDR) communications architecture to support primary and alternate missions as needed. CMOSS compliant radioheads will be mounted on vehicles as part of an overall CMOSS compliant vehicle architecture. Modularity and serviceability are key factors. The resultant product of this effort would be transitioned to PM Tactical Radio, or the Army’s future Command Post Modernization program that is in the requirements definition phase. Commercial application of this technology could include use for commercial communications integration where evolving RF communications, such as those radio systems supporting public emergency, fire and police personnel, in both fixed and transportable environments. 

PHASE I: The Phase I deliverable will be a comprehensive white paper describing: • Trade study focusing on methods of accomplishing CMOSS compliant radioheads. • Analysis of approaches and opportunities for single channel radio head. • Analysis of approaches and opportunities for multiple (two or more) band radio heads. • Analysis of power and cooling challenges for operating as part of CMOSS compliant architecture. • Analysis of radioheads functioning with multi-SDR payloads operating as part of CMOSS compliant architecture. • Analysis of radiohead interoperability with a single chassis or among multiple chassis. 

PHASE II: • Develop and demonstrate a prototype solution for tactical vehicle mounted CMOSS compliant communications system • Phase II deliverables will include: o Prototype solution suitable for supporting a battalion operation center which has reached TRL 5 o Demonstration of the prototype with Army reference CMOSS communications systems currently located at Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD o Test report detailing solution performance o Product documentation detailing functions and operations of the prototype Monthly Progress reports. The reports will include all technical challenges, technical risk, and progress against the schedule. o A baseline schedule for phase III. 

PHASE III: • Develop and demonstrate a prototype solution that builds on and matures the Phase II infrastructure development, and adds support for SDR connectivity, payload interoperability and increased channel density. • Phase III deliverables will include: o Prototype solution suitable for supporting tactical platform mounted operations which has reached TRL 6 o Demonstration of the prototype as part of a tactical vehicle mounted CMOSS compliant system. o Test report detailing solution performance o Product documentation detailing functions and operations of the hardware prototype: technical manual, operator manual and quick reference guide. o Product documentation detailing functions and operations of the hardware prototype related software applications: Application Programming Interface (API), initialization, control, management tools; technical manual, operator manual and quick reference guide. o Productization readiness report which presents any remaining design or implementation issues with respect to suitability to deploy within the command post o Monthly Progress reports. The reports will include all technical challenges, technical risk, and progress against the schedule. 

REFERENCES: 

1: VICTORY (https://portal.victory-standards.org)

2:  MORA (https://portal.victory-standards.org/MORA)

3:  OpenVPX (http://www.vita.com)

4:  REDHAWK (https://redhawksdr.github.io/Documentation)

5:  SCA (http://www.public.navy.mil/jtnc)

6:  FACE (http://www.opengroup.org/face)

7:  SOSA (http://www.opengroup.org/sosa)

8:  U.S. ARMY RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND ENGINEERING COMMAND, C4ISR/EW Modular Open Suite of Standards (CMOSS) Overview, Jason Dirner, Lead Electronics Engineer, CERDEC I2WD CO2 ITA, 01 OCT 2018 (Briefing will be posted)

KEYWORDS: CMOSS, OpenVPX, REDHAWK, FACE, SOSA, MORA, VICTORY, Networking Waveforms, VHF Radio, UHF Radio, HF Radio, L-Band Radio, S-Band Radio, SatCom, Antenna Combining, Signal Combining, SINCGARS, TSM TM, IRIDIUM TM, MUOS, Radiohead, Amplifier, Antenna, MOSA 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Info Systems 

OBJECTIVE: Develop SDR material solutions that will facilitate the implementation of C4ISR/EW Modular Open Suite of Standards (CMOSS) compliant modular communication systems within U.S. Army tactical ground and air, manned and unmanned vehicles hosting CMOSS compliant chassis and related payload infrastructure. This solution will provide communication devices for voice and data and greatly reduce future vehicle integration activities after the initial installation of CMOSS compliant chassis and related payload infrastructure. 

DESCRIPTION: The Department of Defense’s (DoD) modular open systems approach (MOSA) is to design systems with highly cohesive, loosely coupled, and severable modules that can be competed separately and acquired from independent vendors. The desired solution at completion will provide the platform commander the ability to configure software-define radio (SDR) communications architectures to support primary and alternate missions as needed. CMOSS compliant SDRs will be implemented as part of an overall CMOSS compliant vehicle architecture. Modularity and serviceability are key factors. The resultant product of this effort would be transitioned to PM Tactical Radio, or the Army’s future Command Post Modernization program that is in the requirements definition phase. Commercial application of this technology could include use for commercial communications integration where evolving RF communications, such as those radio systems supporting public emergency, fire and police personnel, in both fixed and transportable environments. 

PHASE I: The Phase I deliverable will be a comprehensive white paper describing: • Trade study focusing on methods of accomplishing CMOSS compliant SDR payloads. • Analysis of approaches for implementing various waveforms on PM TR program of record (POR) radios (e.g., SINCGARS, TSMTM, SATCOM, MUOS, WREN) • Analysis of approaches and opportunities for single channel and multiple channel SDR payloads. • Analysis of power and cooling challenges for SDR payloads operating within a CMOSS compliant chassis. • Analysis of multi-SDR payloads operating within a single chassis. • Analysis of multi-SDR payload interoperability with a single chassis or between multiple chassis. 

PHASE II: • Develop and demonstrate a prototype solution for tactical vehicle mounted CMOSS compliant communications system • Phase II deliverables will include: o Prototype solution suitable for tactical platform mounted operations which has reached TRL 5 o Demonstration of the prototype with Army reference CMOSS communications systems currently located at Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD o Test report detailing solution performance o Product documentation detailing functions and operations of the prototype Monthly Progress reports. The reports will include all technical challenges, technical risk, and progress against the schedule. o A baseline schedule for phase III. 

PHASE III: • Develop and demonstrate a prototype solution that builds on and matures the Phase II infrastructure development, and adds support for SDR connectivity, payload interoperability and increased channel density. • Phase III deliverables will include: o Prototype solution suitable for supporting tactical platform mounted operations which has reached TRL 6 o Demonstration of the prototype as part of a tactical vehicle mounted CMOSS compliant system. o Test report detailing solution performance o Product documentation detailing functions and operations of the prototype: technical manual, operator manual and quick reference guide. o Product documentation detailing functions and operations of the hardware prototype related software applications: Application Programming Interface (API), initialization, control, management tools; technical manual, operator manual and quick reference guide. o Productization readiness report which presents any remaining design or implementation issues with respect to suitability to deploy within the command post o Monthly Progress reports. The reports will include all technical challenges, technical risk, and progress against the schedule. 

REFERENCES: 

1: VICTORY (https://portal.victory-standards.org)

2:  MORA (https://portal.victory-standards.org/MORA)

3:  OpenVPX (http://www.vita.com)

4:  REDHAWK (https://redhawksdr.github.io/Documentation)

5:  SCA (http://www.public.navy.mil/jtnc)

6:  FACE (http://www.opengroup.org/face)

7:  SOSA (http://www.opengroup.org/sosa)

8:  U.S. ARMY RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND ENGINEERING COMMAND, C4ISR/EW Modular Open Suite of Standards (CMOSS) Overview, Jason Dirner, Lead Electronics Engineer, CERDEC I2WD CO2 ITA, 01 OCT 2018 (Briefing will be posted)

KEYWORDS: CMOSS, OpenVPX, REDHAWK, FACE, SOSA, MORA, VICTORY, Networking Waveforms, VHF Radio, UHF Radio, HF Radio, L-Band Radio, S-Band Radio, SatCom, Antenna Combining, Signal Combining, SINCGARS, TSM TM, IRIDIUM TM, MUOS, Radiohead, Amplifier, Antenna, MOSA 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics 

OBJECTIVE: Development of a technology solution to provide Criminal/Terrorist Intent Determination allowing for real-time alerting. Potential solutions would identify personnel of interest and possible suspicious activities through various surveillance and security systems used in tactical base and installation security operations. 

DESCRIPTION: The Army has limited capability to uncover potential threats based on Criminal/Terrorist Intent. To meet this challenge, predictive analytics is particularly useful. Predictive analytics solutions apply sophisticated statistical, data exploration, and machine-learning techniques to available information in order to help uncover hidden patterns. This gap presents a risk to personnel performing security operations at Entry Control Points and all personnel operating on a base or installation. Therefore, a need exists for Criminal/Terrorist Intent Determination at stand-off distances during Base Defense and Installation Operations. This includes automated, self-synchronous, cross cueing of sensor and surveillance systems allowing for recognition of Criminal/Terrorist Intent based on various biometric and behavior phenomenology. The scope is integration development for real-time person identification, object recognition, and activity detection of insider threat as well as forensic analysis. Potential solutions would provide real-time alerting of personnel and suspicious activities through integration of surveillance, video recognition, and body-camera imagery for tactical base and installation security operations. This could be achieved through automatic detection of suspicious activities through multiple camera and sensors systems that observe questionable behavior and biometric markers. This capability gap and technology shortfall relates to following Training and Doctrine Command Imperatives: Enhancing Expeditionary Capabilities-Expeditionary Maneuver; Army Warfighting Challenges #5 Counter Weapons of Mass Destruction, #6 Conduct Homeland Operations and #16 Set the Theater, Sustain the Force, Maintain Freedom of Movement. It also aligns with Army’s Science and Technology 30 Year Strategic Plan-Layers: Identity Layer reflecting Increased Stand-Off, Automated, Self-Synchronous Cross-Cueing between Sensors and Operator/Analyst and the Army’s Big 8 Capability #8 Advanced Protection with the Science and Technology Objective in the Army’s S&T Portfolio-Force Basing. Target transition timeframe is early Mid-Term. The specific transition acquisition programs are Integrated Base Defense and Integrated Installation Protection. 

PHASE I: The Phase I activities will include conducting a feasibility study to determine the scientific, technical and commercial merit of the Criminal/Terrorist Intent Determination through technology concept. The technology concept will include continuous surveillance and body imagery from areas of interest of people or objects that could present a threat based on current or past actions, behavior, and activity. This Phase will demonstrate the feasibility of producing a demonstration software and hardware integrated with current operations and systems and will outline the demonstration success criteria. 

PHASE II: Based on the design proposed in Phase I, produce software/hardware capable of interfacing with current and future security systems on bases and installations. The technology will provide continuous surveillance and body imagery from areas of interest of people or objects that could present a threat based on current or past actions. The intent is to identify through various technologies, potential criminals/terrorists before they have a chance to do harm. It will also include operational business rules that allowing for scalability, going beyond just facial recognition to adding specific objects and activities. 

PHASE III: DUAL USE: It is envisioned that this SBIR solution will have “spin-on” military and “spin-off” commercial applications. Transition of the technology would be inclusion in the Army’s Physical Security 1-n Materiel Priority List for technology insertion into both Integrated Base Defense for tactical operations and Installation operations acquisition programs. MILITARY APPLICATION: Used in tactical environments such as Forward Operating Bases, predominately at Entry Control Points and Base operational area; and non-tactical environments such as Military Standard and Non-Standard Installations. COMMERCIAL APPLICATION: Commercial applications of this technology include use at major public and private events, airports, critical infrastructure and other key targets of Criminal/Terrorists. 

REFERENCES: 

1: Army Warfighting Challenges Online: http://www.arcic.army.mil/Initiatives/army-warfighting-challenges.aspx

2:  Big 8 Capabilities Online: https://www.cna.tradoc.army.mil

3:  The U.S. Army in Multi-Domain Operations 2028 Online: https://adminpubs.tradoc.army.mil/pamphlets/TP525-3-1.pdf

4:  Predictive Analytics Online: https://www.predictiveanalyticstoday.com/predictive-modeling/

5:  Installations of the Future: https://madsciblog.tradoc.army.mil/64-top-ten-takeaways-from-the-installations-of-the-future-conference/

KEYWORDS: Sensors, Biometrics, Predictive Analytics, Data Visualization, Visual Data Analytics And Optimization (image And Video), Data Fusion And Integration 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Ground Sea 

OBJECTIVE: The main objective is to design a high fidelity integration kit/technology allowing a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6 ABMS platform to be safely integrated onto an MRAP All-Terrain Vehicle (MATV). Then using modeling and simulation, install/mesh that design on a high fidelity three dimensional MATV; Take that high fidelity model and run it on Operational Mission Summary (OMS) 100 mile missions, that are Root Mean Square (RMS) of 30% Secondary, 30% primary, and 40% Cross Country, for 5,000 simulated miles. This will verify materials, system operation & integration reliability, significantly reducing risk of fielding, and verifying system safety. A break out of the model will do a simulated blast & counter firing to verify full system functionality, and indicate maintenance indices. 

DESCRIPTION: Currently global impulse from underbody blast events are still creating casualties. The army has global impulse reduction technologies that are at a TRL level six, as standalone systems, however further studies into integration and the technology that empowers integration are required, to raise TRL level of the integration technology on the selected platform. Base level integration studies have been done on FMTV, but not necessarily on front echelon vehicles which would be first candidates for fielding and subsequent integration. So the need to study integration technologies and design o f a TRL level 6 Active Blast Mitigation technology on an MATV or RG33 platform is needed immediately. The ideal course of action would be to design a high fidelity model with the ABMS system, with the integration technology and run it through high fidelity Modeling and simulation, in both blast and road load shock and vibe, increasing the TRL level of the integration technology. For road load shock and vibration, the final design and corresponding integration technology would be Road Load shock and vibration simulated in accordance with the MATV Operational Mission Summary (OMS) 100 mile missions, that are Root Mean Square (RMS) of 30% Secondary, 30% primary, and 40% Cross Country, for 5,000 simulated miles. This will verify the technology for integration, subsequent materials, system operation, & integration are reliability; significantly reducing risk, and verifying system safety. A break out of the model will do a simulated blast & counter firing to verify full system functionality, and indicate maintenance indices every 500 miles. This can be done quickly and effectively using the RMS profiles and model that is available at NATC. 

PHASE I: Due to the forces imparted on a vehicle during an underbody blast, and the counter force of ABMS countermeasures the technology to integrate ABMS technology is just as important as the ABMS technology itself. ABMS works by sensing a blast under a vehicle, analyzing that blast, and then reacting to that blast very quickly. Vehicles like MATVs and other Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles suffer from a capability GAP where casualties are due not to intrusion from underbody clast, but from deadly launch, flight and slam down; ABMS mitigates the accelerations the body feels during these events, effectively mitigating the forces felt from launch, flight, and slam down. Therefore Phase one will be to design develop an integration kit/technology to safely integrate a TRL 6 ABMS technology on to an MATV. Since adding more weight would decrease the overall mobility, automotive performance, and blast performance of the vehicle, thus counteracting the most important aspect of ABMS; so it is necessary that the kit is as lightweight and utilizes the most advanced lightweight materials possible. Build a high fidelity three dimensional model of that kit/technology design, and the corresponding materials with the ABMS technology selected. 

PHASE II: Mesh all models, MATV vehicle, ABMS system, and integration technology/kit into the modeling and simulation program, and begin an M & S shock and vibration limited 500 equivalent mile simulated shack down. Using that Mesh all models, vehicle, system, and integration kit, and begin durability M & S study. The model will utilize Operational Mission Summary (OMS) 100 mile missions, that are Root Mean Square (RMS) of 30% Secondary, 30% primary, and 40% Cross Country, for 5,000 simulated miles. This will verify materials, system operation & integration reliability, significantly reducing risk of fielding, and verifying system safety. A break out of the model will do a simulated blast & counter firing to verify full system functionality, and indicate maintenance indices. 

PHASE III: After the system, and integration design has been verified, physically prototype the system in the production intent, and deliver that system to TACOM. This physical prototype can then be tested at an ATEC facility, or utilized by a unit that is at high risk underbody blast incidents. 

REFERENCES: 

1: "TenCate ABDST active blast mitigation system"

2:  website: https://www.tencateadvancedarmor.com/Platform-survivability/Land-system-survivability/Active-protection-systems, Copyright 2018

3:  "ACTIVE BLAST MITIGATION SYSTEMS USING LINEAR ROCKET MOTORS, 2016 NDIA GROUND VEHICLE SYSTEMS ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY SYMPOSIUM MODELING & SIMULATION, TESTING AND VALIDATION (MSTV) TECHNICAL SESSION AUGUST 2-4, 2016-NOVI, MICHIGAN

4: " website: http://gvsets.ndia-mich.org/publication.php?documentID=9 , dated: AUGUST 2-4, 2016

5:  "Blast Technologies" presentation

6:  website: https://apps.dtic.mil/dtic/tr/fulltext/u2/a546307.pdf, classification A for public Release, dated 27 JUN 2011

7:  "Challenges in blast protection research" article, scientific journal

8:  website: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2214914718301272 , dated 29 March 2018

KEYWORDS: Underbody Blast, Underbody Threat Mitigation, Injury Reduction, Core Injury Reduction, Active Blast Mitigation Lightweight Underbody Blast, Injury Reduction 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Ground Sea 

OBJECTIVE: This proposed technology will significantly enhance the acceleration, deceleration, ascending, descending, and turning performances for all of the Army Ground vehicles resulting in augmented crew survivability, with more effective vehicle mission enabling performance. 

DESCRIPTION: Ground Vehicle System Center needs an innovative solution to improve the Army Ground Vehicle’s Crew capability to maneuver while operating on various terrain surfaces including, but not limited to sand, mud, gravel, pavements, snow, ice, and water. Under these extreme mixed driving surface conditions the proposed technology should facilitate the ground vehicle maintaining or regaining control at various speeds. The proposed technology must be a turnkey, bolt-on solution with as many common off-the-shelf components as possible. It should be energy efficient and does not require human operation. As a result, the proposed technology will significantly enhance the acceleration, deceleration, ascending, descending, and turning performances of wheeled vehicles. The Tire, powertrain, drivetrain, and suspension approaches will not be considered as solutions. 

PHASE I: For Phase I the expectation is to do a feasibility study through modeling that this technology can significantly enhance the acceleration, deceleration, climbing, descending, and turning performances. The modeling data will help validate this technology from a measurable metric Total Performance Index TPI = Xg + Yg + Zg where (g = rate of change of the velocity) for the struts, for measurements both without the technology and with it incorporated giving Total Enhancement percent change TE%. The technical data acquired will help ensure the path forward for phase II. 

PHASE II: For Phase II the expectation is to prototype on GFM Polaris Razors (Side by Side) with this technology. The prototype testing would be a full scale mock mission testing exercise with army users driving the Polaris Razors. The expectation to validate this technology will help in mobility, crew survivability, and with improving mission enabling performance from increasing acceleration, deceleration, ascending, descending, and from maneuverability on these Polaris Razors. For measurable metric we will use Total Performance Index TPI = Xg + Yg + Zg + T (lap time) (g = rate of change of the velocity) for the struts, for measurements for both without the technology and with it incorporated giving Total Enhancement percent change TE%. Also other Army wheeled vehicles for Phase II will maybe be evaluated / modeled for the usage with this technology. 

PHASE III: For Phase III the vision is to manufacture bolt on kits, then install this technology onto vehicles that will have increased crew survivability with acceleration, deceleration, ascending, descending, and turning capabilities. Each ground vehicle will have various difference performances with this technology but this performance should be significant that it must be installed. Also other Army track vehicles for Phase III will be evaluated / modeled for usage with this technology. 

REFERENCES: 

1: DTIC: ADA395700 Active Control Technology for Enhanced Performance Operational Capabilities of Military Aircraft, Land Vehicles, and Sea Vehicles

2:  DTIC: ADA389044 Eleventh International Conference on Adaptive Structures and Technology October 23-26, 2000 Nagoya, Japan on Simultaneous Optimum Design of Structural and Control Systems for Truss Structure / Miniature Free Fall Sensors

3:  Reference Book: Multi-axis Substructure Testing System for Hybrid Simulation (MAST) by Riadh Al-MahaidiM. Javad Hashemi. Robin Kalfat. Graeme Burnett. John Wilson. September 4, 2017 Publisher: Springer

4:  Reference Book: Advanced Methods of Structural Analysis by Igor A. Karnovsky. Olga Lebed. March 14, 2010 Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media

KEYWORDS: Structural Analysis, Acceleration, Deceleration, Multi-axis Substructure Testing (MAST), Vehicle Control Systems, Traction, Active Control 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Weapons 

OBJECTIVE: Develop and demonstrate discreet subsystems of an autonomous munitions resupply system for field artillery that functions across the spectrum of supply chain operations from the field munitions delivery point to point of need. 

DESCRIPTION: Field artillery resupply is a multi-step process. Currently, munitions (projectiles, primers, propellant, and fuses) are crated, palletized, and transported to the logistics release point, where they are unloaded, uncrated, and transferred into a Field Artillery Ammunition Support Vehicle (FAASV). The FAASV then travels to a point behind the field artillery weapons system, situated far enough behind the gun line for safety, but near enough to maintain line of sight. Munitions are shuttled by hand from the FAASV to the weapons system and loaded into the gun by hand. This field artillery resupply concept is focused on the expedited delivery of these mission critical munitions. Autonomous logistic resupply systems could assist in this process in numerous areas, increasing the rate of supply to the weapons system and decreasing the number of soldiers required. To stay on the cutting edge of resupply technology the Army is interested in novel solutions in the following areas: • Autonomous logistics systems for munitions: Develop autonomous robotic systems for transport of munitions in a state of storage to accelerate timelines and reduce personnel requirements. Solutions should enable unmanned unloading of crated and palletized items of various sizes from transport vehicles, and the stocking of primer and fuse boxes, propellant canisters, and uncrated projectiles onto the FAASV or alternative system for transport to the gun line. Alternatively, this system could deliver munitions to the gun line itself. • Autonomous field vehicle resupply: Develop ground/or and air platforms for autonomous delivery of field artillery munitions from the FAASV, alternate vehicle, to the weapons system for tactical last mile resupply. Technologies must autonomously deliver a payload of sensitive items across unimproved terrain with a minimum payload capacity of 150 lbs. over distances 1km or under. • Autonomous field weapon system operation: Develop autonomous robotic systems that are capable of semi- and fully autonomous munitions handling inside a weapons system. Its functions would support loading of projectiles into the cannon breech, setting of charges and propellants, and management of excess case materials inside of the weapons system. Potential solutions should consider the need for compact form factors, low electronic signatures, cyber security protections, shock and vibration management, and power supply constraints. • Command and control in a GPS-denied environment: Develop capabilities to facilitate the movement and accurate delivery of munitions to mobile field artillery units while maintaining secure command and control and navigation in GPS degraded/denied and radio frequency contested environments. Potential solutions include but are not limited to digital datalink, computer vision, path planning over unimproved terrain in uncertain/adversarial environments using artificial intelligence, teaming/swarming behaviors, visual inertial odometry and map of the earth. All solutions should have low electronic signatures and cyber security protection. • Human augmentation: Develop passive or active exoskeleton capabilities to assist crew-served artillery systems. Desired capabilities will mitigate injury due to human manipulation of objects weighing greater than 100lbs as well as repetitive motion injury. Additional needs include solutions to mitigate the effects of exposure to high decibel acoustic transients and continuous acoustic signatures consistent with crew-served weapons system operations. Potential solutions will address harmful environmental exposure without impairing communication or sensing of the local environment, be capable of sustained operations, and not require extensive training. Solutions to this solicitation will be those that innovatively adapt current technology to produce results in a short timeframe and at low cost. This topic is intended for companies that can complete a feasibility study and prototype validated concepts in accelerated Phase I and II schedules, and is aimed at later stage development rather than basic science and research. 

PHASE I: This is a direct to phase II SBIR topic. Proposals should document that the performer has developed and demonstrate feasibility of a component, sub-system, or system concept that addresses any or all of the subjects listed above to a technology readiness level of 4. 

PHASE II: Develop and demonstrate a prototype of a component, sub-system, or system concept that addresses any or all of the subjects listed above that is capable of establishing the technical validity of the approach. 

PHASE III: Develop a manufacturing-ready product design that supports the integration of the technology with the crew-served weapons system. The Phase III capability will leverage an open systems architecture (as required) enabling rapid integration with emerging and legacy systems, and successfully demonstrate technology integration as part of end-to-end weapon system operations. Low-rate initial production will occur (as required). 

REFERENCES: 

1: Paladin M109A6 155mm Artillery System: https://www.army-technology.com/projects/paladin/

2:  Army S&T Investment in Ground Vehicle Robotics: https://ndiastorage.blob.core.usgovcloudapi.net/ndia/2018/groundrobot/MillsPT1.pdf

3:  Autonomous Convoy Technology Moves Toward Official Program: http://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/articles/2019/2/22/autonomous-convoy-tech-moves-toward-official-program

4:  Extended Range Cannon to get Autoloader within 5 years: https://www.defensenews.com/digital-show-dailies/global-force-symposium/2019/03/27/extended-range-cannon-to-get-autoloader-within-five-years/

5:  Army Rolling Ahead with Unmanned convoys: http://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/articles/2018/4/4/army-rolling-ahead-with-manned-unmanned-convoys

6:  Marine Corps Autonomous Air Resupply: https://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/your-marine-corps/2018/07/17/the-marines-want-a-drone-delivery-system-that-could-haul-up-to-500-pounds-to-remote-troops/

7:  Joint Tactical Air Autonomous Resupply: https://www.army.mil/article/219

KEYWORDS: Robotics, Autonomous Resupply, Exoskeleton, Human Augmentation, Unmanned Logistics, GPS-denied, Field Artillery, Munitions, Prototype Development 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Info Systems 

OBJECTIVE: Develop an Army Innovation Network – Information System (AIN-IS) that enables: • Rapid access to vendor information • Easy to assess vendor past performance information • Efficient bid, proposal, contractual, delivery, and payment mechanisms • Collection and sharing of problem and product information across Army stakeholder networks • Streamlined review and audit capabilities • Solicitation of solutions from the widest possible range of sources in the defense industry, commercial industry, academia, and the venture capital and startup communities 

DESCRIPTION: Army capability innovation depends on tools that support the robust exchange of information between Army operators, acquisition professionals, and the technology community. While the Army continuously scouts the technology terrain to enhance its capability portfolio, the information derived from such activities, is not sufficiently discoverable due to the manner in which it is collected, managed, and communicated. The lack of “discoverability” in turn limits opportunities for serendipity, where technology information collected for one purpose can be related to alternate needs through the unstructured interactions of an extended stakeholder group. AIN-IS should address this need based on the development of (1) a taxonomy that normalizes technology data collection and reporting and (2) a network-based knowledge environment, where users build an accretive information context for technology decision making. The potential impact of structured, network-based knowledge sharing as a catalyst for innovation is profound – allowing organizations to build Technology Domain Awareness and benefit from the technology and application discovery efforts of other members in the network. For example, such a framework should enable distributed Army stakeholders to collaterally share technology assessments in areas of mutual interest and likewise promulgate information regarding emerging capability gaps. Where technology information intersects with a capability gap, the opportunity for a new applied innovation exists. In this scenario, the ability of the networked organizations to (1) find and (2) apply mission-relevant technologies is amplified by the extent to which the participants represent common technology equities and capability needs. In order to capitalize on innovation opportunities, however, knowledge sharing services alone are not sufficient. Broadly speaking this technology should be to source problems directly from soldiers, use Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) to determine if solutions to the problem exist or are in development across the DOD, program should identify critical Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for the scope of work and source potential domestic and international vendors, and academia. The program should also identify relevant contract mechanisms, existing contracts and facilitate payment to the companies. Approaches to accomplish this could include but are not limited to • Scalable application of block-chain and/or distributed ledger technologies to allow for multiple party interaction with the database and immutable recording of their transactions • Creation of a mobile-optimized engagement platform to allow for the solicitation of ideas directly from soldiers. Explore ability of AI/ML to classify and group similar proposed problems and to develop technology domain awareness capabilities to search for solutions internal and external to the DOD encompassing both industry and academia • Development of a natural language processing skillset to sort through after-action reviews, work orders, and integrated priority lists to identify potential problems not directly input by soldiers • Creation of a platform to allow expert reviewers to assess technology eliminating the need for separate technology analysis systems. When realized this technology will eliminate the need for a central, single authority or intermediary to process, validate or authenticate transactions. 

PHASE I: This is a direct to Phase II SBIR topic and is intended for companies that have already completed Phase I objectives. Proposals will document their research efforts that used AI/ML to classify and group similar topics or problems that are supplied by multiple sources and in varying data formats. This AI must be able to determine appropriate resourcing instruments from those available to government developers, such as other transaction authority (OTA) agreements, that can be used for each technology venture. It must be able to incorporate the collection, discovery, and synchronization of technology and product information, problems and opportunities, and produce feedback and lessons learned from distributed stakeholders and sources. 

PHASE II: The developer will leverage the Phase I research to produce a platform capable of meeting the research objectives described above. The will employ that prototype to validate this innovation discovery process in an Army community of practice using representative problem sets from that community and open source data. 

PHASE III: The developer of mature AIN-IS will pursue an Authority to Operate (ATO) on the Army enterprise network with user portals tailored for government, industry and academic stakeholders. It will be capable of providing matched technology and resourcing packages to material developers compliant with existing and future acquisition authorities. 

REFERENCES: 

1: Impact of Technology domain awareness on the DOD: https://warontherocks.com/2014/10/innovation-warfare-technology-domain-awareness-and-americas-military-edge/

2:  SOCOM's Vulcan technology platform: http://www.tandemnsi.com/2017/02/socom-develops-tech-scouting-portal-called-Vulcan/

3:  The Future of Warfare: Small, Many, Smart vs. Few & Exquisite?: https://warontherocks.com/2014/07/the-future-of-warfare-small-many-smart-vs-few-exquisite/

4:  Technology Scouting & Technology Management: https://www.itonics.de/innovation-management/technology-management/

5:  What is Agile Technology Scouting?: https://www.wellspring.com/blog/2015/07/28/agile-technology-scouting-part-1

6:  Technology scouting. Going far beyond the curated network.: https://ezassi.com/technology-scouting-automation/

KEYWORDS: Market Network, Technology Domain Awareness, Blockchain, Distributed Ledger, Technology Discovery, Crowdsourcing 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform 

OBJECTIVE: Reduce aircrew workload and in-cockpit distractions by automatically tuning communications and navigation equipment based on aircraft state (e.g., takeoff, enroute) and location in flight. 

DESCRIPTION: Currently, typical user interaction with communications equipment are often complex (e.g. tuning, resetting controls for various portions of the mission, etc.), and can distract the warfighter(s) from their primary duties. VARMINT will allow automatic tuning for communications and navigation equipment based on aircraft state (e.g., takeoff, enroute, operating as a flight of aircraft) and location in flight (both planned and actual). Utilizing available aviation navigation dataset(s) (e.g., from Joint Mission Planning System [JMPS], Flight Information Publications [FLIP], enroute products, Air Tasking Order [ATO], Airspace Coordination Order [ACO], Electronic Flight Bag, etc.) to create the required dataset allowing the automatic communication and navigation tuning. Many of the modern electronic cockpit equipage used today incorporate the necessary data required to support VARMINT, as well as those supporting JMPS. VARMINT provides automatic tuning of various Air Traffic Control (ATC) frequencies including: Ground, Tower, Departure, Center and Approach. While some of the navigational controls include: VOR/DME, TACAN, ADF, ILS, GPS, ADS-B. A few of the operational frequencies include: command post, supervisor of flying (SOF), flight frequencies, working area frequencies, AWACS, range control, and training route communications. While most cockpits have the ability to accommodate dual-radio communication such as VHF, UHF high frequencies channels may be dictated or select based on the propagation conditions. VARMINT will also be integrated with detect-sense-and-avoid systems utilizing voice recognition to react to the controllers’ instructions. 

PHASE I: Utilizing available aviation navigation datasets (see description), provide proof of concept (POC) demonstration that aircrew, communication and navigation equipment can be integrated to display (and tune) based on existing flight dynamics. A smart end-user device (EUD) (e.g, Android or other tablet), should incorporate FAA and operational datasets located in description (e.g, enroute products, Air Tasking Order [ATO], Airspace Coordination Order [ACO], Electronic Flight Bag, etc). 

PHASE II: Port POC demo to a smart EUD or available multi-function display (MFD) with integration to, at least, two voice transceivers and one navigation device in an aircraft or in a simulation environment with transceiver control heads to obtain stakeholder comments and suggested improvements. 

PHASE III: Work with avionics manufacturers to match VARMINT to control interface base(lines) (CIB) for commercial and military use. For example, integrate VARMINT with detect-sense-and-avoid systems; utilize voice recognition to react to ARTCC controllers' instructions, etc. 

REFERENCES: 

1. Antonio Chialastri, Automation in Aviation, ~2012, http://cdn.intechopen.com/pdfs/37990/intech-automation_in_aviation.pdf; 2. DARPA’s Aircrew Labor In-Cockpit Automation System (ALIAS) program manual, Link: https://www.darpa.mil/program/aircrew-labor-in-cockpit-automation-system; 3. Data Communications Implementation Team Tower Data Link Services Controller Pilot Data Link Communication Departure Clearance Service (CPDLC-DCL) Flight Deck User Guide https://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/headquarters_offices/avs/offices/afx/afs/afs400/afs410/datacomm/media/A056_Compliance_Guide.pdf; 4. Watson A, Ramirez CV, Salud E (2010) Correction: Predicting Visibility of Aircraft. PLoS ONE 5(7): 10.1371/annotation/be07af21-d5b4-4cb3-b311-a3fc275cd9aa. https://doi.org/10.1371/annotation/be07af21-d5b4-4cb3-b311-a3fc275cd9aa

KEYWORDS: Transceiver, Automatic, Air Taking Order, ATO, SPINS, Special Instructions, Navigation, Detect-sense-and-avoid 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors 

OBJECTIVE: Design, develop, and demonstrate innovative readout integrated circuit (ROIC) structures that are optimized for use with low cost infrared detector technologies in the 1—2.7 um or 3—5 um atmospheric transmission bands. 

DESCRIPTION: Infrared imaging systems currently in use are costly, large, heavy, and consume large amounts of power. These systems typically require cooling to below 80K for proper operation, meaning that some type of cryogenic cooler is required as part of the overall system design. Use in unmanned aerial vehicles is highly desired for infrared sensors, but difficulties brought about by the need for cryogenic cooling greatly limits the inclusion of such systems into these aircraft. This is also a major issue with manned aircraft as well; where size, weight, and power issues greatly limit the inclusion of infrared systems. The development of a low cost, high operating temperature infrared technology is required to open many more uses for infrared technology within Air Force systems. With the proliferation of drones, unmanned aerial systems (UAS), unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), and other reduced-scale aircraft, there is a need to develop a sensor technology with costs that are in line with the overall cost of the vehicle. To this end, a host of low cost infrared focal plane array (IRFPA) technologies are now in development by government labs, industry, and academia. The goal of the majority of these efforts is to produce large format IRFPAs with moderate performance while operating at elevated (>250K) temperatures. Low cost detector technologies include photoconductor and photodiode devices that are deposited directly on the ROIC to keep costs down and manufacturing throughput high. Detector pitch is on the order of 10-30 µm and may operate in a vertical or lateral collection mode. Detector dark current and noise are likely to be very high, and may be higher than the photocurrent. Innovative mitigation schemes that can pick the photocurrent out of this high noise/dark current background is the basis for this topic. Currently, the only commercially available low-cost infrared imagers are microbolometer arrays operating around 9 um wavelength. This topic is focused on developing technology with a price point similar to microbolometer arrays, but in the 1—2.7 um (SWIR) or 3—5 um (MWIR) wavelength ranges. Because of response time and durability limitations of suspended micro-thermal detectors, proposals based on this technology will not be considered. Arrays designed for SWIR should achieve D* greater than 5.0 E 9 Jones. Arrays designed for MWIR should achieve less than 60 mK noise equivalent differential temperature with an integration time of 15 ms or less. The target operating temperature is greater than 250 K for either band, with higher operating temperature favored for a given cutoff wavelength. The ROIC should be optimized for a low-cost detector technology that can be processed on the wafer scale (i.e. no single die hybridization processing will be accepted). This low cost detector technology should be specified in the proposal, with references to expected noise and quantum efficiency performance. No government furnished materials, equipment data or facilities will be provided to the proposers, but the government reserves the right to independent testing of the detectors/arrays in a government facility. The proposer is also expected to perform detector/array characterization, and cannot rely solely on government testing. 

PHASE I: The contractor will conduct a study of low cost detector designs and device models to gain an understanding of the unique characteristics of these technologies. Using this information, the contractor will develop appropriate ROIC unit cells and ROIC architectures for use in Phase II development. 

PHASE II: Using the design developed in Phase I (with further optimization), the contractor will design, fabricate, and demonstrate a moderate-scale (640 x 480 or equivalent) optimized ROIC for use with low cost detector technology. This ROIC will then be hybridized to a low cost detector array to form a focal plane array. 

PHASE III: Optimized FPAs that operate at high temperatures with low size, weight, and power consumption have wide applications in the areas of surveillance, threat warning, and situational awareness. A wide range of commercial applications are possible for FPAs with low size, weight, and power. Included are applications in homeland security, medicine, thermal imaging, and environmental monitoring. 

REFERENCES: 

1. Keuleyan, S. et al., " Mid-infrared HgTe Colloidal Quantum Dot Photodetectors" Nature Photonics, Vol. 5, 489 (2011); 2. Green, K. et al., "Lead Salt TE-Cooled Imaging Sensor Development" Proc. SPIE 9070, Infrared Technologies and Applications XL (2014); 3. Ciani, A. et al., "Colloidal Quantum Dots for Low-Cost MWIR Imaging" Proc. SPIE 9819, Infrared Technologies and Applications XLII (2016)

KEYWORDS: Infrared, Readout, Photodetector, Photoconductor 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Space Platforms 

OBJECTIVE: Using new advanced concept, the parametric antenna, design and develop an antenna prototype system, for the space based radiation of electromagnetic very low frequency (VLF) whistler modes.. The prototype should satisfy the requirements for a space flight 

DESCRIPTION: VLF loop antennas are often used for experiments in the VLF range, both in the laboratory and in space plasma, since such antennas can excite quasi-electrostatic Low Oblique Resonance (LOR) and electromagnetic whistler waves [1-6]. However, it is well known that portion of radiation energy that goes directly into the excited electromagnetic spectrum of VLF waves – the whistler mode, is very small in comparison with the wave energy going into the quasi-electrostatic component – Low Oblique Resonance (LOR) oscillations [2]. Estimations show that only less than 3% of the radiated power belongs to the electromagnetic part of excited by a loop antenna VLF wave spectrum. One of the possibilities to overcome this difficulty and to increase antenna efficiency is to develop a parametric antenna in plasma. Proposed research effort should initiate the development of new concept of parametric VLF antenna in the ionosphere. Applicants should develop working prototype of a parametric antenna system ready for onboard flight experiments to prove the concept. It should consist of a loop antenna 10 m in diameter stowed in a 1:1:2 m box, with expected current of 100 A. Complete system with expected weight 100 kg should include power conditioning, C3 (Command, Control, Communication) and VLF transmitter. It also should include a mesh array, centered in the loop, capable of several amperes for generation of ion-acoustic (IA) waves and a frequency approximately 1/10 of the VLF loop. No use of any government materials, equipment data, or facilities is required. 

PHASE I: Applicants should develop to PDR, an engineering design of a parametric antenna with TRL level 3 or better satisfying the requirements for a space flight. One target flight is the International Space Station. 

PHASE II: Applicants should bring the design to CDR with working components suitable to conduct ground tests to satisfy all the requirements for onboard installation and to be ready for a space experiment. 

PHASE III: Build a flight model suitable for space flight on a to be determined vehicle. Goal is the space test results transition to military and civilian applications. 

REFERENCES: 

1. V.I. Karpman, Electromagnetic field created by a dipole exciter in an anisotropic medium, Phys. Lett., 121A, 4, 164, 1987.; 2. V.I. Sotnikov, G.I. Soloviev, M.Ashour-Abdalla, D. Schriver and V. Fiala, Structure of the near zone electric field and the power radiated from a VLF antenna in the ionosphere, Radio Sci., 28, 6, 1087, 1993.; 3. V. Fiala, E.N. Kruchina and V.I. Sotnikov, Whistler excitation by transformation of lower oblique resonance waves on density perturbations in the vicinity of a VLF antenna, Plasma Phys. Contr. Fusion, 29, 109, 1511, 1987.; 4. V.I. Sotnikov, D. Schriver, M. Ashour-Abdalla and J. Ernstmeyer, Excitation of sideband emissions by a modulated electron beam during the CHARGE-2B mission, Journ. Geophys. Res., vol. 99, p. 8917, 1994.

KEYWORDS: Inonospheric Turbulence, Whistler Waves, Parametric Antenna 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Space Platforms 

OBJECTIVE: Create wireless probes to directly introduce a signal to the electronics input and wirelessly transmit the processed signal from the output to avoid impedance mismatching and signal attenuation from using cables/wires and high pulse frequencies. 

DESCRIPTION: The precise testing of space microelectronics is a crucial aspect of mission success. As companies seek to provide increased capabilities to the US Government at lower costs, the introduction of simplified test strategies is a widespread way to reduce overall expenses. An important aspect of testing involves injecting a standard signal into the electronics at the input and comparing it with the generated signal at the output. The measurements are then loaded to a software application (Labview, Matlab, Excel, etc) for detailed examination. The analysis and comparison of the data allows engineers to understand the hardware performance for multiple purposes. Additionally, when testing is conducted in-situ (i.e. during environmental or radiation testing) it can provide valuable insights about environmental suitability and radiation hardness.The current approach for setting up the test equipment, however, has many drawbacks. Conventional technology uses wired cables to connect an external wave form generator to the hardware input and an oscilloscope/frequency analyzer at the output. A traditional set-up can be very bulky which requires large racks to hold heavy instrumentation. Also, extreme care must be taken to ensure the wires/cables are impedance matched to handle the frequency parameters under investigation. Even slight mismatches can cause significant signal distortion. This is particularly problematic when using higher frequencies since high frequency pulses deteriorate when passed through wired cables. If testing is conducted within an environmental chamber, the cables must be significantly lengthened, sometimes to 10’s of feet, which can result in additional loss of subtle but important characteristics encountered during flight operations. Advancing technology has steadily reduced the size of electronic equipment into smaller form factors, so we propose the development of wireless probes that can directly introduce a signal to the input and wirelessly transmit the processed signal from the output. This would avoid problems of impedance matching and signal attenuation from using long wires/cables and higher pulse frequencies. Additionally, the data can be directly transferred using wireless protocols to a mobile device for processing. If the signal can be measured precisely by the receiving probe, it would obviate the need for an oscilloscope/frequency analyzer and further simplify the entire test architecture. Furthermore, if the probes could be operated during in-situ conditions such as vacuum, it would allow more precise hardware readings under flight like conditions. Such a system would avoid the use of expensive cables, remove bulky equipment, and handle high frequency pulses with no signal loss. No government materials, equipment data, or facilities will be provided. 

PHASE I: Demonstrate how a signal can be directly introduced into a hardware board using a short-length probe. Use a relatively simple waveform such as BPSK or QPSK with frequencies in the low GHz range (< 5GHz). Use a similar short-length probe at the output to wirelessly transmit the information to a device. Compare the data attained with the results of a traditional set-up as proof of feasibility. 

PHASE II: Expand the functionality of the phase 1 concept to explore more complex waveforms and higher frequencies. Possible waveforms include QAM-16 and QAM-256. Frequencies would include 5 GHz and higher. Develop and deliver prototype hardware and software that captures the capabilities successfully demonstrated in Phase 1 and Phase 2. Compare the data attained with the results of a traditional set-up. 

PHASE III: Use prototype wireless probes to perform actual hardware testing on a program of record. Continue to develop the probe technology for testing under in situ conditions. 

REFERENCES: 

1. Nondestructive Test Online Resource, NSF-ATE grant #DUE 0101709 https://www.nde-ed.org/EducationResources/CommunityCollege/Ultrasonics/EquipmentTrans/impedancematching.htm; 2. MIL-STD-883K, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE TEST METHOD STANDARD: MICROCIRCUITS (25-APR-2016), or later version; 3. Coaxial-to-Waveguide Matching Withε-Near-Zero Ultranarrow Channels and Bends, IEEE Transactions on Antennas and Propagation ( Volume: 58 , Issue: 2 , Feb. 2010 ) Page(s): 328 - 339; 4. SMC-S-016 (2014), AFSC SPACE AND MISSILE SYSTEMS CENTER STANDARD: TEST REQUIREMENTS FOR LAUNCH, UPPER-STAGE, AND SPACE VEHICLES (05-SEP-2014), or later version

KEYWORDS: Space Microelectronics, Wireless Technology, Testing, Cost Efficient 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Space Platforms 

OBJECTIVE: Develop the domestic capability to rapidly produce space-qualified 3-d printed circuit boards and other spacecraft components to replace the “produce-on-schedule” model, which is unsuitable for low-volume rapid response systems, with a “produce-on-demand” 

DESCRIPTION: Long-lead parts development is a major schedule driver in acquisition programs. Of note, the process to produce printed circuit boards (PCBs), which are necessarily tailored to an individual application can take weeks or longer. Moreover, mistakes or changes in the design, even simplistic, require restarting the entire process for another revision. In addition to the time, there are also substantial retooling costs, which are only exacerbated with additional revisions. With new additive manufacturing techniques and conductive inks, a 3-d printing solution is now possible. This will reduce the time needed between the digital model and a physical hardware realization from many weeks to hours. With a domestically-produced, space-qualified version of this capability, new payloads and components will be deployed on a shorter schedule with dramatically reduced cost. Changes or added capabilities can be manufactured in hours, quickly responding to changes in requirements or user needs. An evolution of this process would allow 3-d printed structures and components to include integrated circuitry. Satellite structures could be printed with integrated thermocouples or accelerometers into components, saving the need to cut holes through structural components to route wiring. Electromagnetic detectors could be printed on the outside of a space vehicle with power and signal wiring routed to internal shielded spaces 3-d printed into walls or support bracing. These domestically-produced 3-d printed circuit boards would have a wide range of applications both inside and outside of space, and 3-d printers could even be space qualified to provide on-orbit printed components. 

PHASE I: Determine what advances are needed beyond readily available commercial technology, and how to collate those into a workable prototype printer that is capable of creating space quality circuit boards. 

PHASE II: Produce the printer suggested in phase I. Print a variety of circuit boards and put them through an environmental testing gamut to prove space readiness. 

PHASE III: Get one of the space qualified PCBs integrated into a satellite and launched. In addition, experiment with printing circuits within components, develop additional printer technology as needed for this purpose. 

REFERENCES: 

1. Macdonald, Eric, et al. "3D Printing for the Rapid Prototyping of Structural Electronics." IEEE, 13 Mar. 2014, pp. 234-242., doi:10.1109/ACCESS.2014.2311810; 2. Gregory, Kiesel, et al. "Practical 3D Printing of Antennas and RF Electronics." 01 Mar. 2017, http://www.dtic.mil/docs/citations/AD1041830; 3. MacDonald, Eric et al. "Multiprocess 3D printing for increasing component functionality." Science, 30 Sep. 2016, doi:10.1126/science.aaf2093; 4. Lewis, Jennifer A. & Ahn, Bok Y.. "Three-dimensional printed electronics." Nature 2015, 518, 42.

KEYWORDS: Additive Manufacturing 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors 

OBJECTIVE: Develop robust and automatic algorithms for exploiting changes in 3D, full scene models generated from fused radio frequency (RF) and electro-optical (EO) data. 

DESCRIPTION: This effort seeks to fuse information from radio frequency (RF) and electro-optical (EO) sensors in a novel manner to increase analysts’ understanding of the 3D world to enable militarily useful tasks such as automatic change detection. Thus, the fourth dimension to consider is the time elapsed between consecutive looks at the same scene. The desired algorithms will automatically exploit 3D fused models so that analysts’ may quickly identify changes in a scene without needing to constantly survey high-value target (HVT) areas. Research should demonstrate that performing change detection using 3D scene models yields fewer false alarms than performing the same task on 2D imagery. Thus, the fusion of EO and RF data to form 3D models of scenes that change over time will yield an innovative product, providing new information to analysts. To this date, work in 3D reconstruction from EO and RF data has proceeded independently. COLMAP and Visual Structure for Motion (VSFM) are two publicly available tools for reconstructing 3D objects from 2D EO imagery. Conversely, in the open literature, there are several multi-pass synthetic aperture radar (SAR) interferometry and tomographic approaches discussed for generating 3D models from RF data. We challenge researchers to leverage existing techniques to exploit the advantages of each sensing modality jointly when generating fused EO/RF models. An EO sensor measures intensity returns from a passive illumination source at very small wavelengths, while an RF sensor measures complex returns from transmitted microwaves mixing with a scene, resulting in the 3D models arising from each sensor to be visually and physically disjoint. Variations in resolution, frame rate, motion blur and optical distortion lead to uncertainties and errors within the 3D structures generated from EO data. On the other hand, due to the specular nature of RF sensing, 3D models generated from SAR data are more sensitive to sensor viewpoint and object pose and are currently only capable of producing sparse 3D point clouds. Fusing the two sensing modalities will help to eliminate the shortcomings of imaging with each sensor alone. A capability based on this approach has numerous potential military applications in A2/AD environments. EO data (which would typically require persistent flight collection geometry in order to create a quality scene surface model) need only be collected once to form the surface model for focusing the radar phase history data; such data could even be potentially collected from multiple passes of EO satellite imagery. Collecting RF data from standoff geometry with periodic (re-)collections enables more efficient monitoring of the temporal evolution of the scene geometry. In this way the major advantages of RF-based ISR data (all weather, long standoff) could be combined with the greater flexibility of EO data (dense scene representation, higher resolution, diffuse scattering physics) to create a powerful remote site monitoring capability for fixed HVT areas. For completion of this project, the government will grant access to the Air Force Research Laboratory’s Virtual Distributed Laboratory (VDL) and Department of Defense High Performance Computers (HPC). 

PHASE I: The expected product of Phase I is a fused 3D EO/RF model that takes as input multi-pass Gotcha SAR data and Minor Area Motion Imagery (MAMI) EO data. This unclassified, FOUO data will be provided as GFP. Researchers shall demonstrate their capability in a final report, which shall include a proof-of-concept software deliverable in source code format. 

PHASE II: The expected product of Phase II is an implementation of the 3D EO/RF fusion algorithm in source code format on sensitive data reflecting operational scenarios. This data will be classified at least Secret and up to TS/SCI. Researchers shall also demonstrate a robust, autonomous capability to exploit the 3D fused model to detect scenes changes over various lengths of time. 

PHASE III: Military Application: A new warfighter capability to perform intelligence, reconnaissance, and surveillance within contested and A2/AD environments. Commercial Application: Mapping and navigation, emergency response, damage assessment. 

REFERENCES: 

1. Ertin, E., Austin, C. D., Sharma, S., Moses, R. L., & Potter, L. C. (2007, May). GOTCHA experience report: Three-dimensional SAR imaging with complete circular apertures. In Algorithms for synthetic aperture radar imagery XIV (Vol. 6568, p. 656802). I; 2. Pinheiro, M., Prats, P., Scheiber, R., Nannini, M., & Reigber, A. (2009, July). Tomographic 3D reconstruction from airborne circular SAR. In 2009 IEEE International Geoscience and Remote Sensing Symposium (Vol. 3, pp. III-21). IEEE.; 3. Pollard, T., & Mundy, J. L. (2007, June). Change detection in a 3-d world. In 2007 IEEE Conference on Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition (pp. 1-6). IEEE.; 4. Schönberger, J. L., & Frahm, J. M. (2016). Structure-from-motion revisited. In Proceedings of the IEEE Conference on Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition (pp. 4104-4113).

KEYWORDS: Tomography, Structure-from-Motion, Bundle Adjustment, Back Projection, Three-dimensional SAR, Three-dimensional Reconstruction, Simultaneous Location And Mapping 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors 

OBJECTIVE: Develop and design a dynamic representation for electronic warfare threat data. The representation should be easily updated, include contextual and relational feature and environmental information, and be in a compact format. 

DESCRIPTION: Static, table-based libraries are not amenable to the current and future electronic warfare threat. Advanced radars are dynamic and change parameters based on their mission and understanding of the environment. Due to their adaptability on a potential pulse-to-pulse basis, the likelihood of unknown parameters and states for multiple emitters are inevitable. A dynamic library is needed to easily access known threats, update known threats with new information, and add new and unknown threats to the database during a mission. With advancements in machine learning and artificial intelligence and its application in the electronic surveillance trade space, new features besides the traditional pulse descriptive words are available and will continually evolve over time. The representation of threat data should include these new features, their relationships, mission contexts, and support inference at the signal, feature, and decision levels. In addition, the data base should support distributed inference among future manned and autonomous platforms so it should be compact enough to be transmitted over limited bandwidth communication links and should allow incremental updating while maintaining consistency among the distributed assets. 

PHASE I: Direct to Phase II. Given the potential game changing revolutionary capability this novel approach may help deliver to help protect our aircrews and aircraft from modern threats, an open solicitation that informs our adversaries of the intended EW investment strategy is unacceptable. Sufficient studies, as cited in the references, mitigate the need for a Phase I study. 

PHASE II: Building upon open literature EW compact data representation developments for a single platform wherein the database is quickly updated between missions, extend research to multiple platforms sharing new and updated information during a mission. Gov’t complex EW simulation capabilities will be needed to simulate the battlespace environment for which the technology is expected to achieve a ‘compact data representation’. Additionally, this software technology is required to be interoperable with other machine learning software; it will need to be integrated on Gov’t computer systems with other Gov’t licensed software. 

PHASE III: Multiple platforms updating their database against an adaptive, cognitive threat. 

REFERENCES: 

1. Gollagi, Sanganabasav & Math, Dr.M.M. & Patwardhan, V.J.. (2016). A Model for Context-Data Representation and Management for Pervasive Environment. Bonfring International Journal of Software Engineering and Soft Computing. 6. 197-199. 10.9756/BIJSESC.; 2. Pavy, Anne & Rigling, Brian, "SV-Means: A Fast SVM-Based Level Set Estimator for Phase-Modulated Radar Waveform Classification," in IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Signal Processing, vol. 12, no. 1, pp. 191-201, Feb. 2018.; 3. Ashfahani, Andri & Pratama, Mahardhika, “Autonomous Deep Learning: Continual Learning Approach for Dynamic Environments, “ in CoRR, 2018.

KEYWORDS: Spectrum Warfare, EW, Electronic Warfare, Adaptive Threat 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors 

OBJECTIVE: Develop a LiDAR sensor suitable for a small, unmanned aerial systems (SUAS) to perform tactical off-board sensing for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. This device should be amenable to stringent size, weight, power, and cost 

DESCRIPTION: The Air Force has pressing requirements for operating in contested or degraded environments where intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) assets cannot operate freely. The Air Force requires high confidence ID for high value targets to protect air crews and to establish air superiority. LiDAR can provide a superior imaging and target identification capability by generating a range profile of a region of interest. However, its effectiveness for air to ground applications is significantly limited by cloud cover, haze or smoke. The ability to send a sensor out from the primary air platform on a SUAS and below potential clouds is an advantage of the expendable, off-board sensing approach. Combined with a persistent passive imaging via mid-wave or long-wave imaging for cueing and situational awareness, this approach leverages the LiDAR to enhance the target ID capabilities of the launching platform. The off-board sensing SUAS is expected to be launched from a Common Launch Tube (CLT) and be non-recoverable. While this platform will be able to maneuver for gross pointing towards the region of interest, the LiDAR system will have to have a form of its own steering, either as a Non-Mechanical Beam Steering (NMBS) or mechanical steering with more conventional approaches like gimbals or mirrors. NMBS is any technology that provides the ability to direct a laser beam without physical movement of the optical elements. The increased prevalence of LiDAR in the autonomous vehicle industry has led to the development of highly cost-effective yet powerful LiDAR systems. It is a goal of this effort to optimize these systems for air to ground usage at significantly longer ranges than are commonly required for autonomous vehicles. The overall SWaP of the LiDAR system should be less than 5 lbs in weight, fit in a 5.5 inch diameter tube with 7 inch depth, and have a maximum power consumption below 40 W. The target cost at production levels for the functional LiDAR system, including the beam steering, should be expected to eventually be below $50k. The integrated LiDAR design should address system level design trades including operational altitude, laser link budget, transmit aperture, receiver aperture, field of regard, spatial and temporal resolution, and processing latency. The resulting data stream shall allow transmission over existing SUAS-capable encrypted digital data links. Hardware solutions may include improved stabilization and pointing accuracy of the system. Novel architectures and designs can be explored to maximize mission flexibility and support evolving concepts of operation. Both monostatic and bistatic systems will be considered. No government furnished equipment (GFE), data, or facilities will be provided. 

PHASE I: In this initial phase, device concepts will be developed, evaluated, and computer modeled. Design challenges and trade-offs will be tabulated and areas in need of additional R&D will be identified. Critical factors to consider are feasibility, laser power, receive aperture size, low SWAP packaging, low cost, and demonstrating that the technology can achieve requirements through models. Operational requirements such as pointing error, area coverage rate, susceptibility to environmental conditions, and durability should also be considered. Preliminary designs should be developed for Phase II. 

PHASE II: Building on the Phase 1 effort, LiDAR devices will be constructed and tested for SWAP requirements, spatial and temporal resolution, scan range, and data output rate in terms of points/sec. The design modelling should include specific input parameters to accurately simulate use of the LiDAR device in an operational environment. Plans for transferring acquired off-board sensor data back to the launching platform should also be considered. Iteration on designs and improvements will be made as the production process is refined and preliminary designs for a Phase III device should be made. 

PHASE III: A flight ready version of the design will be built and tested. The size, weight and power of both the LiDAR and control systems will be in a form factor for integration in a SUAS. Current manufacturing processes will be evaluated and refined to improve yield while reducing cost. 

REFERENCES: 

1. McManamon, Paul. Field Guide to Lidar. Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers (SPIE), 2015.; 2. Wallace, L.; Lucieer, A.; Watson, C.; Turner, D. Development of a UAV-LiDAR System with Application to Forest Inventory. Remote Sens. 2012, 4, 1519-1543.

KEYWORDS: LiDAR, NMBS, SUAS, Tactical Off-board Sensing 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Info Systems 

OBJECTIVE: To develop a high performance, secure computer system based on the POWER architecture. 

DESCRIPTION: The DoD, as a whole, is in need of high performance processors that are secure. Many microelectronics IPs are often black box, and thus unable to be verified by outside vendors. For example, both Intel [1] and AMD [2] have black box firmware that governs the entire architecture, and if compromised, compromise the entire processor. IBM released a POWER9 CPU in 2017 (currently in production) that has options of 4, 8, 12, and 22 cores, is on 14 nm FinFET GLOBALFOUNDARIES node size (this means that the CPU is fabbed within the USA). Oak Ridge National Laboratories and Livermore National Laboratories have supercomputers brought online in 2017 based on the performance power of this CPU, and Google has announced they intend on building a datacenter based on the POWER9 CPU. The POWER9 CPU has hardware virtualization extensions, Open Coherent Accelerator Processor Interface (OpenCAPI), PCI Express 4.0, AES/AHS/TRNG hardware acceleration, and modern I/O expected in a relevant, modern, high performance processor. Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES), and Debian GNU/Linux natively support the POWER9 CPU. The underlying Instruction Set Architecture (ISA) is available under an open IP specification, and the foundation that governs the ISA (OpenPOWER foundation) is partnered by several major hardware and software companies, to include Google, IBM, NVIDIA, Sandia National Laboratories (SNL), and many others.A small business has already shown that a completely open source solution (to include CPU firmware, CPU Microcode, Baseboard Management Controller (BMC), BIOS boot code, power management, etc.) based on a high performance CPU is possible. If integrated with modern weapon systems, this would greatly reduce the risk in having black box software running critical DoD systems. Every aspect of the software can be audited and provided to vendors free of charge, and they are free to modify it as they see fit. This also greatly reduces the chain required to update software, as all of the software is available to make changes, and a baseline level of software can be easily maintained. No government materials, equipment, data, or facilities will be furnished. 

PHASE I: Develop the concept and an initial operational prototype of a high performance, secure computer system based on the POWER architecture with application to both commercial and DoD systems. Demonstrate ability to inspect and secure firmware IP. 

PHASE II: Develop more mature system for use for DoD systems. Develop management chain for software development. Expand coverage to include CPU firmware, CPU Microcode, bootstrapping software, power management, etc. and demonstrate compatibility with COTS hypervisor/operating system. 

PHASE III: The final product will have both commercial and military use, as any hardware developed can be used in the private sector has well as the DoD. 

REFERENCES: 

1. Joanna Rutkowska, “Intel x86 considered harmful,” https://blog.invisiblethings.org/papers/2015/x86_harmful.pdf; 2. Reddit, “Response by AMD on the source of the PSP,” https://www.reddit.com/r/Amd/comments/5x4hxu/we_are_amd_creators_of_athlon_radeon_and_other/def6hwr/

KEYWORDS: Evolutionary Computing, Embedded System Security, Avionics Cyber Security 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors 

OBJECTIVE: Develop an Enhanced Reference Signal Emitter which significantly improves current ability to geolocate Satellite Communications (SATCOM) Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) using ground-based geolocation systems. Evaluate through study, test, and implemen 

DESCRIPTION: Enhanced reference signal capability will support current reference signal data users to meet ongoing satellite real-time ranging and timing requirements. As the focus of establishing a reference emitter database to reduce transmission ambiguities commonly associated with unstable communication signals outside the direct control of DoD agencies. This SBIR topic seeks to develop methods and system concepts that provide enhanced reference emitters to satellite geolocation units that otherwise are unable to geolocate potential Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) sources at Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and/or Geostationary Orbit (GEO) distances in real time. If applicable, prospective proposers are further encouraged to investigate cutting-edge integrated solutions and discuss diverse perspectives on the applicability of single differencing and double differencing, where reference signal emitter(s) illuminate(s) both reference and EMI sources and whereas signal collectors and receivers track the signal transmitted or reflected by the reference and EMI sources to measure their signals’ time difference of arrival for the relative position between the reference and the EMI sources. Additional considerations on technical challenges, gaps and approaches to orbital knowledge uncertainty, Doppler measurement accuracies, clock biases, time delay measurement errors, etc. 

PHASE I: Develop a concept of operations enabled by multi-source architectures and software-defined radios with transmit precision timed signals subject to valid framed data and agile frequency bands in support of signal arrivals between reference/EMI sources and multiple baselines of signal collectors and receivers. Perform trade studies on 3-D positioning and/or precision timing with reasonable delay measurement accuracy while maintaining the reprogrammable flexibility 

PHASE II: Optimize the results in Phase I for transmit signal and data parameters effective enough to accomplish geolocation and/or timing transfer with controllable accuracy and precision. Develop and test a standalone prototype to demonstrate geolocation and/or precision timing performance in the presence of geographical coverages, delay measurement errors, separation distances between transmit and receive sources, and proximity between the reference and EMI sources. Determine any operational limitations on media delays, time-offsets, instrument delays, etc. 

PHASE III: If successful, work with commercial partners for potential tech transitions of enhanced reference emitter technology with reasonable data security. Military and commercial applications include a self-correcting capability of updating aged ephemeris and/or compensating for timing ambiguities. Work with DoD primes and industry partners for a broader set of opportunities where the proposed technology be seen as enhancing real-time ephemeris required by operational units with sensitivities to satellite position accuracies 

REFERENCES: 

1. Shakir, Z., Zec, J., Kostanic, I. (2018, January 8-10). Measurement-based geolocation in LTE cellular networks. Retrieved from https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/8301628; 2. Burns, P. (2018, October 9). How To Solve The Hardest LPWAN Geolocation Problems. Retrieved from https://medium.com/haystacktech/how-haystack-solves-the-hardest-lpwan-geolocation-problems-f4dd0ff8b0c1; 3. McDermott, K.P. (2015, May 6). On the Improvement of Positioning in LTE with Collaboration and Pressure Sensors. Retrieved from https://vtechworks.lib.vt.edu/bitstream/handle/10919/54019/McDermott_KP_T_2015.pdf;sequence=1; 4. Tripathi, N. (2010, December 9). Positioning Reference Signals (PRS) in LTE. Retrieved from http://lteuniversity.com/get_trained/expert_opinion1/b/nishithtripathi/archive/2010/12/09/positioning-reference-signals-prs-in-lte.aspx

KEYWORDS: Reference Emitter, SATCOM EMI, Timing, Ephemeris, Real-time, Space Control 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Space Platforms 

OBJECTIVE: Exploit advanced digital waveform generation transmitter technology for Position, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) satellite transmitter in order to enable new capabilities in encryption, PNT ephemeris generation and dissemination, and advanced signals 

DESCRIPTION: The Air Force needs advanced PNT waveforms and signals which are compatible with space-based signal generators and receiver Software Defined Radios (SDR). Given limitations on capabilities of space-based software defined transmitters, what waveform classes can be supported based on existing payload and waveform generator technologies must be extended to include recent advances in PNT signals and encryption.[6,7] An examination of the use of different frequency bands on PNT (ex: scintillation due to ionosphere & troposphere, efficiency of the PNT signal chain) and examination of the impacts of antennas and power amplifiers which must now operate over wider bandwidths than prior generations of hardware can be exploited. Specific items of interest are efficient and cyber-secure: • Encryption Key Transmission/Use in joint PNT and communication architectures showing new paths/methods for distribution and authentication. The target purpose is to reduce the operational burden of keying receivers without compromising security while minimizing processing burdens on both PNT satellites and receivers. • Ephemeris and time efficient data transmission in joint PNT and communication architectures and new secure, covert paths and methods for distribution/authentication (secure watermarking, redundant data distribution channels, non-traditional distribution channels, covert distribution channels.) • Methods of efficiently uploading new signals within a waveform architecture [4, 5]. The success goals supported by the proposal should indicate: • How advanced signals and encryption keys would be updated to PNT satellites and receivers within a 1 hour period given commercial satellite communications links (threshold) or present Air Force Satellite Control Network (objective) bandwidth constraints. Explicit estimates of communication bandwidths should accompany the proposal. • Estimates of system latencies across the satellite control system and user receiver network. It is recognized that the current GPS system has a de facto internal capability for dissemination of keys and ephemerides. Proposals should offer substantial improvements over this existing capability. Proposers are strongly encouraged to partner with existing PNT payload and receiver primes in order to ensure that their proposals are commercializable within a phase 1-2-3 path. 

PHASE I: Phase I should examine the space environment of the GPS satellites to determine which waveform generation data is necessary to be uploaded to transmitters and receivers within their proposed, improved architecture. Phase I should include a demonstration of the concept through modeling and simulation or actual hardware and monitoring data. 

PHASE II: Phase II builds upon the research of Phase I to determine how to prototypically demonstrate that architecture. Phase II also creates the necessary software and breadboard level hardware for that demonstration. Phase II should demonstrate this concept using hardware receivers and actual PNT transmitter hardware. 

PHASE III: Phase III further matures the architecture and software developed in Phase II and results in greater digital payload utility for both the space and user environments of the GPS system. COMMERICIALIZATION: Exploit GPS centered phase 1-2 design for extended military or civil PNT and communications applications. 

REFERENCES: 

1. Kaplan, Elliott and Christopher Hegarty, eds., Understanding GPS Principles and Applications, Artech House, Boston, 2017; 2. “On-Orbit Reprogrammable Digital Waveform Generator (ORDWG) for the GPS Spaceccraft Navigation Payload”, Solicitation Number: BAA-RVKV-2014-0004, Agency: Department of the Air Force, Office: Air Force Materiel Command Location: AFRL/RVKV - Kirtland AFB; 3. John Keller, “General Dynamics joins Northrop Grumman and Boeing in upgrading GPS digital waveform generator”, Military & Aerospace Electronics, May 20, 2016; 4. Department of Defense, “Communication Waveform Management and Standardization”, DoD Instruction 4630.09, DoD CIO (July 15, 2015)

KEYWORDS: Navigation Satellite, Waveform, Encryption, PNT 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors 

OBJECTIVE: Provide a rapid differencing method of positioning interference signals transmitted over satellites during periods of unavailable adjacent satellites due to frequency, positioning, or lack of reference emitters. 

DESCRIPTION: Satellites communications are facing increasingly more diverse physical and electromagnetic interferences (EMI) that transmit radio frequency (RF) signals in X/Ku/K/Ka/Q-bands. Therefore, RF emitter detection and localization is a key enabler for reliable space control, space situational awareness, intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance, as well as satellite communications together with positioning, navigation and timing. As the focus of developing an effective proof-of-concept for 3-dimensional (3-D) positioning of EMI sources, this SBIR topic seeks to develop methods and system concepts that detect and locate in real time potential EMI sources at Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and/or Geostationary Orbit (GEO) distances.Prospective proposers are invited to submit cutting-edge integrated solutions and discuss diverse perspectives on the applicability of single differencing and double differencing, where signal transmitter(s) illuminate(s) both reference and EMI sources and whereas signal collectors track the signal transmitted or reflected by the reference and EMI sources to measure their signals’ time difference of arrival for the relative position between the reference and the EMI sources. Additional considerations on technical challenges, gaps and approaches to orbital knowledge uncertainty, Doppler measurement accuracies, clock biases, time delay measurement errors, etc. 

PHASE I: Develop a concept of operations supporting multi-source architecture-level integrated situational awareness for signal arrivals between reference/EMI sources and multiple baselines of signal collectors. Perform trade studies on meter-level 3-D positioning accuracy with reasonable time delay measurement accuracy. 

PHASE II: Optimize the results in Phase I for standards for automated messaging and publish/subscribe perspectives. Develop and test an operational prototype to demonstrate geolocation performance at LEO and/or GEO as a function of delay measurement errors, separation distances between transmit and receive sources, and proximity between the reference and EMI sources. Compare the results to operational systems as well as true data. Determine any limitations on media delays, time-offsets, instrument delays, etc. of the technologies, and based on prototyping results, determine if per unit pricing is affordable to the geolocation units or if better ephemeris data could resolve some of the ambiguities. 

PHASE III: Commercialize the technology to further improve ability to support the Space Control mission area. Also, a variety of programs exist in the DoD to geolocate EMI signals using satellite communications. Single Satellite Rapid Geolocation of SATCOM technology could be incorporated into existing systems, such as Bounty Hunter geolocation system as well as into the MUOS satellite geolocation capability for UHF signals. Additionally, this technology could be used to improve the performance of the Counter-Communications Systems. 

REFERENCES: 

1. Fredrick, Brian C. (2014, March). Geolocation of source interference from a single satellite with multiple antennas. Retrieved from https://calhoun.nps.edu/handle/10945/41379; 2. Kalantari, A., Maleki, S., Chatzinotas, S., Ottersten, B. (2016, September 5-7). Frequency of arrival-based interference localization using a single satellite. Retrieved from https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/7601472; 3. Smith, W.W., Steffes, P.G. (1989, March). Time delay techniques for satellite interference location system. Retrieved from https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/18683; 4. Amar, A., Weiss, A.J. (2008, August 19). Localization of Narrowband Radio Emitters Based on Doppler Frequency Shifts. Retrieved from https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/4602539

KEYWORDS: SATCOM EMI, Geolocation, Reference Emitters, Space Control 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Info Systems 

OBJECTIVE: An autonomous system to ingest data streams from various platforms/systems utilizing 2- and 3-dimensional data, geospatial data (raster & vector), AR & VR data, and audio data for implementation within the USAF Command and Control (C2) simulator. 

DESCRIPTION: The USAF has developed a software stack to support contingency installation planning and execution. The software includes: (1) Geospatial Expeditionary Planning Tool (GeoExPT): An AutoCAD Map 3d-based application to support the development of aircraft parking plans, contingency beddown plans, and management of airfield damage. (2) Installation Recovery After Attack (IRAA): A Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF) based application to support management of equipment, manpower, materials, and vehicles. (3) ADR C2 Simulator: A Unity-based application providing a first- and third-person virtual training environment. (4) GeoExPT ADR Synchronization (GAS): A enterprise SQL Server application that connects the ADR software stack and enables connectivity to other platforms via a robust software development kit (SDK) Due to the scale of exercises and limitations of high demand/low density equipment, the USAF has developed a virtual reality training simulator to provide realistic training to exercise command and control activities. The simulator is built on COTS software provided by Unity and is architected to integrate with the USAF-owned GeoExPT, IRAA, and GAS software. To expand the capabilities and provide more realistic training, the USAF desires to add the ability to include external input and control of operating assets within the simulator. This topic solicits technology that autonomously processes information from various platforms/systems into the C2 Simulator. The solution should provide the ability for a variety of clients to synchronize and share their data. The data should be shared in both directions and it should be focused on the data and processes and be hardware (input device) agnostic. The solution should be lightweight with the ability to run on a robusted laptop or desktop computer (should not require a dedicated server) with limited user interface. The solution should also include a robust software development kit (SDK) to extend capabilities to other developers. The SDK should enable data transfer in both directions and include the ability to support voice over IP (VOIP) protocols. The SDK shall be fully documented and provide adequate sample data and code strings to simplify implementation. 

PHASE I: Technology research to document the candidate solutions for the integration platform and SDK development. Proposed solution fully described utilizing the appropriate Department of Defense Architecture Framework (DoDAF) documents. A proof of concept of the integration of an external connection to the C2 Simulator. 

PHASE II: Full integration of the external connection to the C2 Simulator, to include the ability to pass data in both directions. Expanded DoDAF documents. Robusting the SDK. 

PHASE III: Full integration of solution designed and enabled to connect to the AF GIG, Final development and documentation of SDK. Limited technology fielding. 

REFERENCES: 

1. Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC) http://www.opengeospatial.org; 2. Spatial Data Standard for Facilities, Infrastructure, and Environment (SDSFIE) http//www.sdsfieonline.org; 3. International Standard Organization (ISO) VRML97 (ISO/IEC 14772-1:1997); 4. International Standard Organization (ISO) X3D (ISO/IEC 19775-1)

KEYWORDS: Augmented Reality, Geospatial, Training, Virtual Reality 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors 

OBJECTIVE: Develop and test a semi-autonomous wide area threat detection capability for site security using networked low-power, multi-modal signal acquisition nodes combined with machine learning for event classification and determination of hostile intent. 

DESCRIPTION: USAF fixed sites face a wide area of security threats including traditional asymmetric weapons such as snipers, artillery, rockets & mortars, and more recently, the coordinated multi-agent “swarm” of low-cost drones. Other threats include physical incursion, vehicle-based improvised explosives, etc. Battlefield sensor technologies have been developed to provide threat reports to central command posts. Typically, these systems are used to indicate the threat point-of-origin, and corresponding track if available. For area-target weapons, such as mortars, rockets, and RPGs, the point-of-impact locations may also be resolved. In many cases, the weapon type may be determined, which is vital to deploy countermeasures effectively. Traditionally, sensor node locations are placed at fixed sites often constrained by availability of power and network communications. Once commissioned, surveillance systems are usually static, but the threat remains dynamic based on the conditions outside the fixed site and within the fixed site as critical assets are moved/relocated. Other factors affecting sensor performance are also variable such as weather. Perhaps most importantly the enemy is adept at learning where surveillance systems are located and understanding capabilities and limitations. As the enemy learns, they are able to postulate means of avoidance and/or defeat. This project proposes technology for wide area surveillance in-and-around fixed sites providing mobile, semi-autonomous sensors which may be continually relocated/repositioned in lieu of changing threats or environmental factors. This topic envisions utilization of recent advances in cost-effective, semi-autonomous/robotic platforms and low-power multi-node communications technology. Commercial drone-based technology could be leveraged for aerial surveillance and/or node relocation. It is recommended to seek utilization of existing mobile robotic platforms, keeping in mind cost per node, payload, mission run time, and other factors. A multi-modal approach is required and this could include some combination of electro-optical (visible and/or infrared), radar, ultrasonic, acoustic, laser, etc. This topic should foster concepts leveraging advances in the field of deep learning. Event analysis in consideration of historical data can improve assessments of hostile intent. Especially when such events are detected by a number of sensors, across several disparate modalities. Over the past few years, commercial off-the shelf hardware allows for “big data” processing on conventional desktop computers and laptops. New types of processors are being developed optimized for such computations. This topic proposes a boundary condition limiting the utilization of hardware feasibly used in a tactical operations center or similar facility in a desktop or laptop computer platform. 

PHASE I: The objective of Phase I is to demonstrate feasibility of a semi-autonomous mobile multi-modal sensor network via study, simulation, and practical testing. Offerors are encouraged to leverage COTS technologies. The result should be a design which can be realized in Phase II providing detailed information on selected mobile platform(s) such as cost, power, payload, terrain capability, etc. 

PHASE II: Based on the design established in Phase I, a system should be designed implementing a group of mobile, semi-autonomous agents accomplishing detection using a various sensor modalities. The system should be demonstrable in a relevant environment. A range of threats should be simulated demonstrating detection capability across several modes, allowing exploration of design tradeoffs discussed. Data exfiltration to other systems should be considered, to support activation of countermeasures. 

PHASE III: Based on results from Phase II, the system will be optimized for commercialization and transition to military platforms providing new and improved wide area security capabilities for DoD bases and non-DoD stakeholders including state and local law enforcement agencies, the FAA, DHS, and DOE, etc. 

REFERENCES: 

1. “Serenity payload detects hostile fire” AMRDEC Public Affairs. Found Online: https://www.army.mil/article/140459/serenity_payload_detects_hostile_fire. Dec 2014.; 2. National Research Council. Technology Development for Army Unmanned Ground Vehicles. National Academies Press, 2003.; 3. Finn, Anthony, and Steve Scheding. "Developments and challenges for autonomous unmanned vehicles." Intelligent Systems Reference Library 3 (2010): 128-154.; 4. Cortes, Jorge, et al. "Coverage control for mobile sensing networks." IEEE Transactions on robotics and Automation 20.2 (2004): 243-255.

KEYWORDS: Teleoperation, Unmanned Ground Vehicles, Sensors, Multi-modal, Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, Data Fusion 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials 

OBJECTIVE: Develop thermal spray coupon management, dispensing and process tracking system to reduce/eliminate mistakes, improve efficiency, eliminate unnecessary overtime for sample issuance, ensure compliance with coupon handling and tracking requirements and redu 

DESCRIPTION: Mission critical components that are coated using thermal spray methods require process verification coupons to be coated simultaneously with the components. These coupons then undergo rigorous processing and inspection in the metallurgical laboratory to ascertain the coatings have achieved quality microstructure characteristics such as bond strength, porosity, unmelts, oxides, integrity, hardness, etc. There are many types of coupons used, depending on the component to be coated and the type of coating to be applied. The coupons must be serialized and carefully managed throughout the entire production coating process and the laboratory inspection process to ensure the coated component receives certification before being placed in service. Time is often of the essence, and the coated components can be delayed for production release if the coupons are not processed expediently. Additionally, due to the many types of coupons, the many types of coatings and the many types of laboratory inspection steps/processes, mistakes can be made that result in unnecessary re-coats and component release delays. Most coupon operations are currently performed manually, requiring significant technician hours that could be better spent on more technical duties. Development of a system is needed that will manage the thermal spray coupon inventory, provide automated coupon dispense with intelligent serialization at time of use (date, booth, operator, process, etc.) and provide a means of tracking the coupons throughout the entire process of coating application, sectioning, mounting, polishing and the various inspections/evaluations. The system needs to provide automated visibility of coupon status at any time to ensure delivery of high priority components are not delayed. Research is needed to determine the optimal system/process that would initially be used on currently operational thermal spray booths. The research would need to identify how this system could integrate with any existing thermal spray management processes and data. The research would also need to include identification of requirements to expand the use of the system by facilities within DOD. The above-mentioned data is not currently available but would be of great benefit in process tuning and continuous process improvement. 

PHASE I: Proposal must provide: A) Feasibility analysis of automated dispensing of the thermal spray coupons and intelligent serialization at point of use. B) Analysis of tracking/scanning methodologies for the various metallurgical lab process steps and providing data that can be queried for various purposes. C) Feasibility analysis to achieve authority to operate adhering to Risk Management Framework (RMF) requirements. D) Feasibility analysis to integrate with any existing DOD thermal spray management processes and data. 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 19.2 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 prototype concepts and methodologies for thermal spray coupon management, dispensing and process tracking through the entire coating application and metallurgical laboratory inspection processes, including integration with current thermal spray operations and processes. Demonstrate down selected concept and methodology with a prototype system. Develop and initiate plan to achieve authority to operate adhering to Risk Management Framework (RMF) requirements on a production system. 

PHASE III: DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: This technology has application at all the DOD depot facilities engaged in thermal spray coatings for critical weapons system repair. Additionally, this technology would be a good tool for any commercial entity engaged in thermal spray coatings of components that require coupon verification prior to production release of the product. 

REFERENCES: 

1. Cooray, P. & Rupasinghe, T., 2015, A Real Time Production Tracking and a Decision Support System (PTDSS): A Case Study from an Apparel Company. 12th International Conference on Business Management (ICBM); 2. Kelepouris, T. & Baynham, T. & Mcfarlane, D., 2006, Track and Trace Case Studies Report.; 3. Sobotoval, L. & Demec, P., 2015, Laser Marking of Metal Materials, Science Journal.

KEYWORDS: Thermal Spray, Metallurgical Laboratory, Track & Trace, Automated Dispensing, Certification And Accreditation (C&A) 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials 

OBJECTIVE: Develop Rapid Manufacturing capability of anodes used in electroplating. Need to quickly manufacture lead based anodes used in chromium plating. Anodes are made of lead tin or lead antimony with a copper or steel core for durability and conductivity. 

DESCRIPTION: Many aerospace components need to be chromium plated in order to bring them back to original dimensional tolerances. Chrome plating requires the use of anodes made from 93% lead/7% tin or 93% lead/7% antimony. Custom anodes are required to reliably electroplate many of the complex features on Air Force landing gear, hydraulics, and gas turbine engine components. Currently it takes months to fabricate new lead anodes; this requires designing and fabricating specialized molds, pouring the lead, filling voids or holes, performing machining, then bonding the lead to copper or steel for mechanical strength and conductivity. AF maintenance activities needs a more cost effective and rapid way of fabricating the plating anodes. This effort is intended to research and develop the technology; eventually delivering the technology solutions/equipment to the Air Force. Additive manufacturing (3D printing) has been shown to have the capability of printing some metals and appears to be a logical path to rapidly fabricate these anodes. However, to this date no 3D printing companies have the capability to print lead or lead based alloys. Capability is needed to rapidly manufacture lead anodes that are nonporous and compatible with the chromium plating solutions. 3D printing may be used to print casting tooling but if this avenue is used, tooling must be impact resistant and reusable; 3D printed casting tooling evaluated thus far is fragile enough to be considered “one time use” where AF maintenance activities requires the tooling to be reusable (minimum 10 times). Additional requirements for the Lead Anodes: Lead material must be 93% lead/7% tin or 93% lead/7%antimony (per MIL-STD-1501) Printable with 0.040” or better resolution Surface of lead does not need to be smooth, porosity is more of a concern. Required shapes range from simple planar/ring/cylindrical to complex shapes. Size Envelope needed is at a minimum 12” x 12” x 6” Capability to print ¼” of lead material over copper or steel cores; other conductive metals may be suitable as a core material as long as they add strength similar to copper or steel. AF maintenance activities would prefer an integrated 3D printing solution (through a single or multi stage process, additive manufacturing is used to create the entire anode), however other methods may be proposed by the researcher. Lead material should be machineable and nonporous (plating solutions will attack the copper or steel core if it diffuses through the printed lead exterior) 

PHASE I: R&D solution that meets the above requirements and conduct preliminary business case analysis (BCA) to determine implementation costs, including a return-on-investment (ROI) calculation that compares anticipated savings to expected costs. Proof-of-concept prototype(s) shall be developed to demonstrate conformance to the requirements. 

PHASE II: Initiate and complete the test plan developed in Phase I. Proof-of-concept prototype(s) shall be refined to installation-ready article and shall undergo testing to verify and validate all requirements. This process may require multiple iterations before a final design is selected. Refine BCA/ROI based on the final design. 

PHASE III: If developed technologies are cost effective, passes verification / validation and qualification testing, then it shall proceed to transitioning and implementation of the technologies, with possible application across AF maintenance activities. 

REFERENCES: 

1. SAE AMS2460 “Plating, Chromium”; 2. SAE AMS2403 “Plating, Nickel General Purpose”; 3. MIL-STD-1501 “Chromium Plating, Low Embrittlement, Electrodeposition”; 4. DPS 9.71 “Chromium Plating”

KEYWORDS: Electroplating, Plating, 3D Printing, Additive Manufacturing, Anodes 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials 

OBJECTIVE: Develop 3D printable materials that will survive the chemicals and temperatures of a plating facility and be nonporous in aqueous solutions. One version has to be a hard/rigid material and a second version has to be a soft / flexible material. 

DESCRIPTION: Many aerospace components require plating in certain locations on the part. Non plated areas are required to be masked. Current masking processes uses a one-time use plastic maskant material, various tapes and lacquer. The application of maskants has been described as “hand assembled work of art” rather than technical process. Substantial rework is associated with the masking process. After plating the current masking is removed by hand and disposed of as hazardous waste. AF maintenance activities need a cost effective, rapidly manufacturable, multi-use masking system for plating aerospace components. Cost savings would come from reduced energy used to keep the plastic maskant material liquid, reduced rework resulting from the improper/poor application of the maskant, reduction of hazardous waste and reduced time required to: re-assemble the fixtures, re-electroplate components, remove the maskant. Additive manufacturing (3D printing) maybe a logical path for manufacturing masking fixtures. Currently no 3D printable materials have been identified that are nonporous, electrically nonconductive (volume resistivity 1 x 1010 Ohm-cm minimum), and resistant to the chemicals and temperatures encountered in electroplating processes used in AF maintenance activities. The electroplating shops need both solid and flexible 3D printable materials to use as maskants for anodize and plating: chrome, nickel, and cadmium. The masking fixtures shall be reusable for at least 20 full electroplating runs (note that parts being plated can remain in the plating solution up to 48 hrs). The masking material shall not swell due to exposure to the plating solutions or be detrimentally affected in any way. The masking material shall not absorb electroplating solutions.Additional requirements for the Hard Material: Thermal expansion coefficient must be less than 0.006” per inch length for a temperature change from 70 °F to 200 °FNonporous in the plating solution (maximum percent weight change after 6 hours exposure to the plating solution shall be 0.1%).Printable with 0.010” or better resolution. Mask must be printable using current additive manufacturing equipment (3D printers)Impact resistance at least 50% of the impact resistance of CPVC at room temperatureBondable (compatible) with the soft materialResistant to the following chemical baths and temperatures:Chromium plating solution (per MIL-STD-1501) at 130 °FHeavily alkaline solutions (rust strip 20% NaOH) up to 150 °F30% sulfuric acid at room temperatureNickel plating solution (per MIL-STD-868 solution #2) at 130 °F 20% H2SO4/5% HF at 70 °FCadmium plating solution (per MIL-STD-870) at room temperatureAdditional requirements for the Soft Material: Nonporous in the plating solution (maximum percent weight change after 6 hours exposure to the plating solution shall be 0.2%)Form an aqueous tight seal with the plating substrate(s)Bondable (compatible) with the hard material (if used as a gasket material)Printable with 0.020” or better resolution Mask must be printable using additive manufacturing equipment currently available on the open market Durometer or Hardness Range: 40 - 100 Shore A (ASTM D2240)Tensile Strength: 300 - 2000 psi (ASTM D412) Elongation at break: 70% minimum (ASTM D412)Resistant to the following chemical baths:Chromium plating solution (per MIL-STD-1501) at 130 °FHeavily alkaline solutions at 150°F (rust strip 20% NaOH)30% sulfuric acid at room temperatureNickel plating solution (per MIL-STD-868 solution #2) at 130 °F 20% H2SO4/5% HF at room temperatureCadmium plating solution (per MIL-STD-870) at room temperature 

PHASE I: R&D solution that meets the above requirements and conduct preliminary business case analysis (BCA) to determine implementation costs, including a return-on-investment (ROI) calculation that compares anticipated savings to expected costs. Proof-of-concept prototype(s) shall be developed to demonstrate conformance to the requirements. 

PHASE II: Initiate and complete the test plan developed in Phase I. Proof-of-concept prototype(s) shall be refined to installation-ready article and shall undergo testing to verify and validate all requirements. This process may require multiple iterations before a final design is selected. Refine BCA/ROI based on the final design. 

PHASE III: If developed technologies are cost effective, passes verification / validation and qualification testing, then it shall proceed to transitioning and implementation of the technologies. 

REFERENCES: 

1. MIL-STD-870 “Cadmium Plating, Low Embrittlement, Electrodeposition”; 2. MIL-STD-868 (solution #2) “Nickel Plating, Low Embrittlement, Electro-Deposition”; 3. MIL-STD-1501 “Chromium Plating, Low Embrittlement, Electrodeposition”; 4. SAE AMS2403 “Plating, Nickel General Purpose”

KEYWORDS: Mask, Electroplating, Plating, 3D Printing, Additive Manufacturing 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials 

OBJECTIVE: Troubleshoot health and security concerns for manufacturing devices through ‘Monitoring and Diagnosing via Energy Consumption Auditing’ methodologies 

DESCRIPTION: This effort will develop a novel heath and security monitoring and diagnosis mechanism via energy consumption auditing of both cyber and manufacturing devices (e.g., inverters and electric machines) in manufacturing systems. Some cyber threats and most physical threats may bypass existing software-based mechanisms. Here, threats includes both attacks and system health problems. Energy consumption auditing is an emerging side-channel monitoring mechanism and can identify both cyber and physical threats in both cyber and manufacturing devices. Industry has explored paradigms in internet of things (IoT) devices and it has designed several approaches on anomaly detection and classification. For instance, industry has applied deep learning methods to intelligently predict unknown and unknown cyber and physical attacks in IoT devices by learning from existing normal system behaviors. In manufacturing systems, in addition to equipment failure due to aging, many manufacturing devices including electrical machines are controlled coordinately to achieve a certain objective through wired or wireless communication network and they are also vulnerable to cyberattacks. If sensors or actuators are maliciously changed, it might cause system instability, even further devastating damages if not detected at the early stage. Manufacturing machines always repeat a few tasks, and each task may include a combination of several operations. The output power (mechanical power) will respond to the manufacturing demand, and the efficiency of electric drive systems (inverters and electric machines) will vary with operating conditions (e.g., speed, torque, etc.). Thus, each operation consumes energy at different rates and patterns. Time series energy profiles exhibit different characteristics in normal versus abnormal states. Threats cause energy consumption profile change. Each manufacturing machine is typically controlled by a programmable local controller (PLC), which runs on a Finite State Machine (FSM). If attacks happen, the FSM alters. Reconstructing an FSM through Hidden Markov Models (HMM) could enhance identification and location of attacks or fault sources. Machine learning/deep learning methods could additionally enhance identification and location capacities. 

PHASE I: Build the relationship model between system statistics (e.g., torque command, speed command, etc.) and energy consumption data. Validate that energy consumption pattern of manufacturing systems can be used to detect cyber and physical attacks, then develop a disaggregation model in order to map the relationship and assist root cause diagnosis. 

PHASE II: Develop energy consumption auditing hardware and software for anomaly detection and root cause diagnosis. To further locate the anomaly source, the aforementioned disaggregation model should be trained with the data from a normal device. After the new batches of data arrive and an anomaly is detected, with the pre-trained projection relationship model and the reconstructed FSM model, the anomaly source can be narrowed down to a specific system component. 

PHASE III: Monitoring and diagnosis via energy consumption auditing has many commercial applications. A successful system could be marketed to commercial manufacturing, aerospace industry as well as other defense customers. Additional markets might include the smart home, construction, and power industries. 

REFERENCES: 

1. F. Li, Y. Shi, A. Shinde, J. Ye, and W. Song, “Enhanced cyber-physical security in internet of things through energy auditing,” IEEE Internet of Things Journal, in revision.; 2. F. Li, A. Shinde, Y. Shi, W. Song, and X.-Y. Li, “System statistics learning-based IoT security: Feasibility and suitability,”IEEE Internet of Things Journal, in revision.; 3. Y. Miao, H. Ge, M. Preindl, J. Ye, B. Cheng, and A. Emadi, “MTPA fitting and torque estimation technique based on a new flux-linkage model for interior permanent magnet synchronous machines,” IEEE Transactions on Industry Applications, vol. 53, no. 06, pp. 5451-5460, Nov/Dec. 2017.; 4. J. Ye, K. Yang, H. Ye, and A. Emadi, “A fast electro-thermal model of traction inverters for electrified vehicles,” IEEE Transactions on Power Electronics, vol. 32, no. 5, pp. 3920-3934, May 2017.

KEYWORDS: Manufacturing System, Monitoring And Diagnosis, Energy Consumption 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors 

OBJECTIVE: Develop and demonstrate a sensor system technology capable of tracking aerospace ground equipment and other maintenance assets over areas of up to 3 square-kilometers while offering lower size, weight, and power (SWaP) than existing RFID solutions. Ideall 

DESCRIPTION: Aircraft heavy maintenance requires an array of powered and non-powered mobile ground support equipment ranging in character from power generators to maintenance stands. It is essential that this equipment be tracked, maintained, and accounted for in order to ensure their availability for use in a dynamic aircraft maintenance environment. Therefore, there is a need to track this equipment’s location across the flight line and maintenance industrial area. Existing RFID technology has been implemented to track the location of these assets. However, due to the wide area over which they are used, active RFID was implemented, which requires replaceable batteries for each RFID tag. This creates a maintenance burden to replace batteries in each piece of equipment being tracked. Inevitably, these batteries are not replaced often enough to keep the system functioning reliably. As a result, some assets are difficult to locate and regularly miss required inspection and maintenance intervals. An alternative sensor technology is sought that is low cost, low power, lightweight, and operate over a range of at least 3 kilometers. The sensor must be able to operate indefinitely, requiring no battery replacement. The sensor must be able to be placed onto metal surfaces with no performance degradation and the system should be able to locate the sensor within inches. To minimize cost of deployment and maintenance burden, a relatively low number of readers should be required over a 3 kilometer square area. The system must operate on existing free and public frequency bands in the United States. 

PHASE I: Demonstrate a proof of concept sensor and demonstrate location detection range and accuracy. 

PHASE II: Develop a prototype location sensor system for aerospace ground equipment suitable for demonstration in an industrial environment. This system must keep a log of location, dwell time, and date ranges of where equipment resides at their various points of usage and rest. 

PHASE III: Deploy the sensor solution to track the location of aerospace ground equipment in the Air Force air logistics complex environment. 

REFERENCES: 

1. Witrisal, K., Meissner, P., Leitinger, E., Shen, Y., Gustafson, C., Tufvesson, F., ... & Win, M. Z. (2016). High-accuracy localization for assisted living: 5G systems will turn multipath channels from foe to friend. IEEE Signal Processing Magazine, 33(2),; 2. Sanpechuda, T., & Kovavisaruch, L. (2008, May). A review of RFID localization: Applications and techniques. In Electrical Engineering/Electronics, Computer, Telecommunications and Information Technology, 2008. ECTI-CON 2008. 5th International Conference o; 3. Vougioukas, G., Daskalakis, S. N., & Bletsas, A. (2016, May). Could battery-less scatter radio tags achieve 270-meter range?. In Wireless Power Transfer Conference (WPTC), 2016 IEEE (pp. 1-3). IEEE.

KEYWORDS: Sensors, Air Ground Equipment, Tracking 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials 

OBJECTIVE: Develop a method to re-apply and repair a section of grit blasted flooring using spot anodizing technology on cargo aircraft during Programmed Depot Maintenance 

DESCRIPTION: Cargo aircraft floors are made of 7000 series aluminum and are sulfuric acid anodized to meet military specifications. These floors are frequently damaged by heavy objects and repairs require blasting the area to be repaired, then bonding an aluminum patch over the damaged area. As a result of the current repair process, a 1-2 inch zone of bare aluminum will remain from the original blasted area. This results in reduced abrasion and corrosion resistance of the patched area. 

PHASE I: Develop a report on spot anodizing coating performance, conformance to the military specification, material compatibility, advantages and disadvantages compared to traditional tank anodizing, and analysis of the structural integrity of the bond line. 

PHASE II: Develop equipment capable of non-drip spot anodizing, operating manual, and further analysis of anodizing Materials & Processes (M&P); follow-on Phase II may be needed in order to “beach test” coupons for 3 years to help determine impact to recurring PDM schedule. 

PHASE III: If Phase II is successful, the USAF will work with the company to include equipment in PDM process for cargo aircraft in hangar bays. Further analysis also required to determine application to cargo aircraft and large frame aircraft. 

REFERENCES: 

1. Lu, Pei & Lu, Doris & Wenham, Stuart & Lennon, Alison. (2014). Selective Anodization 2014 IEEE 40th Photovoltaic Specialist Conference, PVSC 2014 10.1109/PVSC.2014.6925516; 2. Schaedel, Fred C. (2018). New Selective Brush/Cell Anodizing Technology Using Sulfuric/Organic Mixed Electrolytes for Dimensional Restoration of Difficult Alloys. NASF Surface Technology White Papers.; 3. Corrdesa (2016) Selective (Spot) Anodizing system for repair of aircraft flooring.

KEYWORDS: Spot Anodizing, Sulfuric Acid Anodizing; Corrosion Resistance 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials 

OBJECTIVE: Develop a repeatable process in which FEM software packages will be effectively and efficiently used to determine the fatigue characteristics of wing structures prior to, and after, the installation Boron and Titanium bolted bonded patches. 

DESCRIPTION: The Bonded Repair Center of Excellence (COE) Delegated Engineering Authority (DEA) employs a variety of techniques in the determination of damage extent and optimal repair form. Certain techniques need to be improved upon with the proper utilization of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) tools. The majority of repairs conducted by the bonded repair DEA in recent years, conducted in accordance with T.O. 1-1A-81 and T.O. 1-1-6912, are based on historical, experimental data. The DEA has a need for a repeatable analysis methodology with the ability to estimate crack initiation and propagation under fatigue conditions. This methodology should include high-performance computing programs, such as ANSYS3, incorporating available Finite Element Modeling codes. Utilizing this process will improve the quality and effectiveness of repair designs. Additionally, a quantitative description of damages in the form of material removals would grant the DEA the ability to confidently prepare for unconventional repairs. Proper classroom training specifically for bonded repair of aircraft structures will likely be necessary, and should be developed and administered by the same firm. FEA offers a convenient means of obtaining several pieces of valuable information significant to understanding structural performance; these pieces of information include, but are not limited to, Von-Mises stress, engineering strain, and stress concentration factors. With this information, the COE can more effectively evaluate the quality of both common fatigue driven wing plank repairs on aircraft and eventually unconventional repairs on weapon systems, as well. As a result, the Bonded Repair COE will be better equipped to develop a vast array of repairs with a higher degree of confidence and accuracy. 

PHASE I: Develop a proof of concept, high accuracy, repeatable crack initiation and propagation prediction methodology. In this phase, the methodology will utilize available solid modeling/analysis and FEA software to demonstrate the ability to analyze the available data and predict damage under fatigue conditions. Initial demonstrations may be limited to common fatigue driven wing plank repairs, multiple combinations of a single failure mode, or a combination thereof. Classroom style training should also be prepared and ready to administer. 

PHASE II: Develop the repeatable crack initiation and propagation prediction methodology to a deployment ready state. Greater ability to analyze the available data and predict damage under expanded conditions will be implemented, developed processes/models will be validated against current standards. The methodology will utilize the FEA software to provide a quantitative description of damages in the form of material removals, and effectively evaluate the quality and effectiveness of unconventional repairs. The goal of the phase II will be a robust, user friendly methodology useable with available FEA software resulting in measurable improvements in the determination and evaluation of a vast array of bonded repair techniques. 

PHASE III: A successful methodology could be marketed to other weapon systems and defense customers who require the ability to analyze and model various bonded repair methods under common and unconventional damage scenarios. 

REFERENCES: 

1. "AIRCRAFT AND MISSILE REPAIR. STRUCTURAL HARDWARE”, Technical Order 1-1A-8, https://sbe85fe43e9b86f2d.jimcontent.com/download/.../1-1A-8%20CHA NGE%203.pdf, 15 February 2006.; 2. “CLEANING AND CORROSION PREVENTION AND CONTROL, AEROSPACE AND NON-AEROSPACE EQUIPMENT”, Technical Order 1-1-691, https://www.robins .af.mil/Portals/59/documents/technicalorders/1-1-691_CHG%2016.pdf?ver=2019-01-25-105433-723, 02 November 2009.; 3. “ANSYS Mechanical Pro Capabilities”, ANSYS, Inc., https://www.ansys.com/products/structures/ansys-mechanical-pro, 19 February 2019.

KEYWORDS: FEA, Repair, Aircraft 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Info Systems 

OBJECTIVE: This is a Pitch Day Topic, please see the above Pitch Day Topic instructions for further details. A Phase I award will be completed over three months with a maximum award of $75K and a Phase II may be awarded for a maximum period of fifteen months and up to $1.5 million. The objective of this topic is to explore innovative software technologies related to the F-35 Lightning II that may not be covered by any other specific SBIR topic and thus to explore options for innovative solutions that may fall outside the Air Force’s current fields of focus but that may be useful to the F-35 Lightning II Joint Program Office. This topic will reach companies that can complete a feasibility study and prototype validated concepts in accelerated Phase I and II schedules. This topic is specifically aimed at later stage development rather than earlier stage basic science and research. 

DESCRIPTION: The F-35 Lightning II Joint Program Office is responsible for the acquisition of software and hardware in support of the F-35 mission. The Air Force wishes to provide the warfighter with innovative software tools to increase the efficiency of software development and is looking to do so by partnering with pioneering small businesses that may have solutions to Air Force challenges, including but not limited to: 1. Multisource data fusion and management 2. Conditional optimization in building data files 3. Synthetic radio frequency environment generation and scenario development 4. High fidelity modeling and simulation for test 5. Automated data file deployment and delivery 6. Analytical mapping software 7. Integration of disparate data sources 8. Data encryption Additionally, solutions must be compatible with the existing containerized development pipeline and interface with existing software products (i.e. Pivotal Container Services and Pivotal Cloud Foundry). 

PHASE I: Validate the product-market fit between the proposed solution and F-35 JPO and define a clear and immediately actionable plan for running a trial with the proposed solution and the proposed AF customer. This feasibility study should directly address: 1. Clearly identify who the prime (and additional) potential AF end user(s) is and articulate how they would use your solution(s) (i.e., the one who is most likely to be an early adopter, first user, and initial transition partner). 2. Deeply explore the problem or benefit area(s), which are to be addressed by the solution(s) - specifically focusing on how this solution will impact the end user of the solution. 3. Define clear objectives and measurable key results for a potential trial of the proposed solution with the identified Air Force end user(s). 4. Clearly identify any additional specific stakeholders beyond the end user(s) who will be critical to the success of any potential trial. This includes, but is not limited to, program offices, contracting offices, finance offices, information security offices and environmental protection offices. 5. Describe the cost and feasibility of integration with current mission-specific products. 6. Describe if and how the demonstration can be used by other DoD or governmental customers. 7. Describe technology related development that is required to successfully field the solution. The funds obligated on the resulting Phase I SBIR contracts are to be used for the sole purpose of conducting a thorough feasibility study using scientific experiments, laboratory studies, commercial research and interviews. Prototypes may be developed with SBIR funds during Phase I studies to better address the risks and potential payoffs in innovative technologies. 

PHASE II: Develop, install, integrate and demonstrate a prototype system determined to be the most feasible solution during the Phase I feasibility study. This demonstration should focus specifically on: 1. Evaluating the proposed solution against the objectives and measurable key results as defined in the Phase I feasibility study. 2. Describing in detail how the solution can be scaled to be adopted widely (i.e. how can it be modified for scale). 3. A clear transition path for the proposed solution that takes into account input from all affected stakeholders including but not limited to: end users, engineering, sustainment, contracting, finance, legal, and cyber security. 4. Specific details about how the solution can integrate with other current and potential future solutions. 5. How the solution can be sustainable (i.e. supportability). 6. Clearly identify other specific DoD or governmental customers who want to use the solution. 

PHASE III: The Primary goal of SBIR is Phase III. The contractor will pursue commercialization of the various technologies developed in Phase II for transitioning expanded mission capability to a broad range of potential government and civilian users and alternate mission applications. Direct access with end users and government customers will be provided with opportunities to receive Phase III awards for providing the government additional research & development, or direct procurement of products and services developed in coordination with the program. NOTES: a. Due to the large amount of expected interest in this topic, we will not be answering individual questions through e-mail, except in rare cases. Instead we will be holding a teleconference to address all questions in an efficient manner. This topic will be updated with the final call-in details as soon as the date is finalized. In the meantime, feel free to use the SITIS Q&A system. b. This SBIR is not awarding grants, but contracts. When registering in SAM.gov, be sure to select ‘YES’ to the question ‘Do you wish to bid on contracts?’ in order to be able to compete for this SBIR topic. If you are only registered to compete for grants, you will be ineligible for this topic. c. We are working to move fast, please double check your CAGE codes and DUNS numbers to be sure they line up, if they are not correct at time of submission, you will be ineligible for this topic. In order to ensure this, please include, in your 15-slide deck, a screenshot from SAM.gov as validation of your correct CAGE code, DUNS number and current business address along with the verification that you are registered to compete for All Contracts. d. Companies must be present at the F-35 Pitch event (November, 2019 in Washington, DC) and complete their pitch to evaluators in order to receive an award. Further details will be shared in SITIS 

REFERENCES: 

1: "A Revolution in Acquisition and Product Support." Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, 2013, Retrieved 20 October from https://www.wpafb.af.mil/Portals/60/documents/lcmc/LCMC-Revolution-in-Acquisition.pdf?ver=2016-07-01-110338-350

2:  "Air Force Life Cycle Management Center Homepage," Retrieved October 20 from https://www.wpafb.af.mil/aflcmc/

3:  3. "The Heilmeier Catechism." DARPA, Retrieved October 24 from https://www.darpa.mil/work-with-us/heilmeier-catechism

KEYWORDS: F-35, Software, Data File, Automation, Agile, Open-Source, Cloud Foundry, Test Driven Development, Application Programming Interface, Microservice, Container 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials 

OBJECTIVE: Develop a virtual painter training system to provide lifelike, real-time training that enables all aircraft painters to develop a skill baseline, allowing aircraft maintenance squadrons to maximize its resources and increase throughput. 

DESCRIPTION: The Air Force requires the ability to provide real-time training for all aircraft painters to have a baseline of skills which will allow the squadron to maximize its resources for the purpose of increasing aircraft throughput in constrained facilities. Current and projected workload will require all aircraft painters to possess the ability to prepare surfaces and paint on all shifts, on all weapon systems, and in all facilities in accordance with T.O.’s 1-1-691 and 1-1-8, respectively. Use of a highly adaptable virtual reality training simulator, which mimics a fully-customized painting and coating production environment, will allow all painters to achieve a minimum skill level followed by hands-on, in-shop training for reinforcement. A virtual reality system will also allow these painters to receive training without the use of hazardous materials to increase their proficiency. Current virtual painter training technologies in use are outdated, limited in capability, and not applicable across all skill levels. Existing products on the market provide some of the desired features, although none meet the acute Air Force requirements and full range of necessary capabilities. Technologies specifically need development to enable multiple users to operate in the same environment, to render and simulate large aircraft parts and eventually full aircraft, and to be optimized for current hardware utilized by the Air Force. 

PHASE I: DIRECT TO PHASE II: the Air Force will only accept Direct to Phase II proposals. FEASABILITY DOCUMENTATION: for this Direct to Phase II topic, the Air Force is expecting that the submittal firm substantiate a present ability to: - Develop a proof of concept, high accuracy, and user friendly virtual painting simulator. In this, the simulator will need to accommodate, at a minimum, two (2) users in the same environment. Initial demonstrations may be limited to full paint capability on large aircraft parts, the exact dimensions of which shall be determined by the Air Force. - Develop multiple environment renderings that seamlessly transition between those same environments. - Develop lift capabilities and scenarios within the simulator environment. 

PHASE II: Develop a high accuracy, user friendly virtual paint training simulator to a deployment ready state. The capabilities of the simulator shall be expanded to accommodate up to five (5) users. The simulator shall be highly adaptable, mimicking fully-customized painting and coating production environments, and capable of simulating, at least, a full size cargo aircraft. Lift capabilities should be further developed, with higher levels of realism and incorporation of safety procedures. The goal of the phase II will be a robust virtual paint training simulator with expanded capabilities over existing technologies, resulting in measurable improvements in the skill level of painters, maximized planning of resources, and increased throughput aircraft and parts. 

PHASE III: Refine and mature the system to be marketed to other weapon systems and defense customers who require the ability to instill a skill level baseline across all of their painters, and develop of more efficient and capable workforce to increase output. 

REFERENCES: 

1. “Cleaning and Corrosion Prevention and Control, Aerospace and Non-Aerospace Equipment”, Technical Order 1-1-691, https://www.robins.af.mil/Portals/59/documents/technicalorders/1-1-691_CHG%2016.pdf?ver=2019-01-25-105433-723, 02 November 2009.; 2. “Application and Removal of Organic Coatings, Aerospace and non-Aerospace Equipment”, Technical Manual: TO 1-1-8, http://www.robins.af.mil/Portals/59/documents/technicalorders/1-1-8.pdf?ver=2016-07-29-154634-250, 24 August 2017.; 3. “Airmen take advantage of virtual reality paint booths”, Air Education and Training Command, https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/1715619/airmen-take-advantage-of-virtual-reality-paint-booths/, 17 December 2018.

KEYWORDS: Training, Virtual Reality, Aircraft Painting And Masking 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Weapons 

OBJECTIVE: Research and develop a general discrete, mesoscale computational framework that can be used for laminated composites as well as 2D and 3D textile composites to capture the damaging and fracturing behavior without element deletion. Propose a framework for the identification of the parameters of the model via Artificial Intelligence. Verify and validate the proposed technology by low-velocity impact experiments, compression-after-impact tests and extensive Non Destructive Evaluation (NDE), including micro-computed tomography. Couple the proposed technology with Eulerian fluid solvers for the simulation of Fluid-Structure Interaction in extreme events such as e.g. aerial explosions or shockwaves. 

DESCRIPTION: The application of composites in primary and secondary load-bearing structures is increasing dramatically thanks to the outstanding, specific mechanical properties of these materials. Composites offer several advantages over other materials such as outstanding stiffness and strength, excellent intra-laminar fracture energy and impact energy absorption capability, superior fatigue behavior and excellent resistance to corrosion. The broad use of composites in military applications has the potential to lead to lighter and damage resistant military vehicles thus reducing operational costs, increasing the range of operation and payloads while improving the safety of soldiers against IEDs. The mechanical performance of laminated, fiber composites and 2D and 3D textile composites may be affected significantly by the damaging and fracturing mechanisms occurring at the micro- and meso-scales. These include e.g. matrix microcracking in shear, fiber failure and pull-out, matrix splitting, kink-band localization in compression and, mixed-mode inter-laminar fracturing among others. The broad use of composites in aviation and aerospace urges the development of computational tools that are capable of capturing such damage and fracturing mechanisms efficiently. Notwithstanding the recent efforts in this area, an established approach that can meet these requirements has not been developed yet. High resolution FEM micromechanical models have been proposed but the number of degrees of freedom does not allow the simulation of practical structures. On the other hand, homogenized models for structural simulations have shown their limitations when it comes to capturing the peculiar damage and fracture mechanics of these materials. The objective of this project is to develop a discrete, mesoscale model for the Fluid-Structure Interaction (FSI) and fragmentation of laminated composite and 2D/3D textile composite structures. There is currently no software that can be used for simulating large composite structures using analytical models and high-performance computing systems in the presence of Fluid-Structure Interaction (FSI). Also, most of the current software relies on element deletion/erosion to solve the numerical issues induced by severe element distortion in dynamic simulations such as perforation of a composite panel. This practice typically prevents the correct prediction of the dynamic failure events since important sources of energy dissipation such as e.g. the energy dissipated by friction by the eroded/deleted elements are automatically neglected. Further, since the elements that are mostly damaged are generally removed from the simulation, the extent of the fixtures/craters developed during the failure process is significantly overestimated. This undermines any efforts devoted to an accurate modeling of FSI. Novel discrete modeling approaches such as e.g. Lattice Discrete Models or Finite and Discrete Element Methods have shown great potential for simulating cracking and post-failure behavior of quasibrittle materials including e.g. concrete, rock and ceramics without the need for element erosion. The extension of these theoretical formulations to composites, which feature a very complex heterogeneous mesostructure, has the potential of improving the accuracy of extreme dynamics failure events. This capability will enable organizations to design and optimize large primary and secondary structures made of novel composite materials. The model will also provide an excellent platform for FSI simulation of complex heterogeneous media in the presence of damage. The model will enable designs to account for local situations and requirements and address vulnerability and design issues of composite structures under extreme loading conditions including (i) blast loads on composite structures and protection systems, (ii) shockwave damage in super/hypersonic vehicles and (iii) fragment impacts on composite panels. To increase the accessibility to the model and reduce empiricism, the calibration of the foregoing model using the experimental data shall be performed leveraging state-of-the-art AI techniques. 

PHASE I: Proposal must provide: A) Demonstration of a novel discrete approach for modeling the structural behavior of Laminated Composite Structures (LCS) and 2D/3D Textile Composites (2D/3DTC) at the mesoscale level in extreme loading conditions, such as fragment impacts and blast loads. B) Demonstration that the existing formulation does the following: 1) captures the elastic behavior of LCS and 2D/3DTC in both the in-plane and thickness directions, 2) can simulate damaging and fracturing behaviors of LCS and 2D/3DTC in quasi-static and dynamic events without resorting to element deletion. C) Capabilities in simulating the failure and post-failure response of structures subjected to blast loads using mesoscale structural models and a proven Fluid-Structure Interaction (FSI) approach. 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 19.3 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 computational capabilities for the simulations of composite structures subject to various dynamic loading conditions without resorting to element deletion. Formulate a robust framework for the simulation of Fluid-Structure Interaction. Validate analytical predictions through a broad range of experimental tests including buckling and post-buckling failure analysis, low-velocity impact and CAI tests, and perforation of a composite panel. Use extensive NDE to validate the capability of the model to capture the damaging mechanisms and fracture patterns. Refine the software based on user feedback. Demonstrate ability to predict response to multiphysics stimuli in new environments and for new material systems. Document user manual guidance, best practices, and case studies to facilitate transition. 

PHASE III: This technology will be used by the Air Force, other federal agencies, and potentially the private sector (e.g. Boeing, SpaceX, Blue Origin) to properly design and optimize composite structures subjected to extreme loading conditions including e.g. impact loading and stress waves induced by explosions. Additionally, this technology would be a good tool for USAF depots to validate the repair of composite structures. The technology is directly related to the current efforts at the AFRL and the NASA for the development of design tools for the high-fidelity modeling of progressive damage in advanced composites. The coupling of the proposed theory with Eulerian fluid solvers will provide unique opportunities to investigate FSI in complex heterogeneous media in the presence of damage. Possible areas of application of the proposed technology include hyper/supersonic flight (AFRL and NASA) and the unmanned vessel program at the ONR 

REFERENCES: 

1. Cusatis, G., Pelessone, D. and Mencarelli, A., 2011. Lattice discrete particle model (LDPM) for failure behavior of concrete. I: Theory. Cement and Concrete Composites, 33(9), pp.881-890. ; 2. Cusatis, G., Mencarelli, A., Pelessone, D. and Baylot, J., 2011. Lattice discrete particle model (LDPM) for failure behavior of concrete. II: Calibration and validation. Cement and Concrete composites, 33(9), pp.891-905.; 3. Smith, J., Cusatis, G., Pelessone, D., Landis, E., O'Daniel, J. and Baylot, J., 2014. Discrete modeling of ultra-high-performance concrete with application to projectile penetration. International Journal of Impact Engineering, 65, pp.13-32.; 4. Berton, S. and Bolander, J.E., 2006. Crack band model of fracture in irregular lattices. Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering, 195(52), pp.7172-7181.; 5. Morris, J.P., Rubin, M.B., Block, G.I. and Bonner, M.P., 2006. Simulations of fracture and fragmentation of geologic materials using combined FEM/DEM analysis. International Jou

KEYWORDS: Low Velocity Impact, Residual Strength After Impact, Dynamic Response, Finite Element Analysis 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Bio Medical 

OBJECTIVE: Develop and integrate a matrix of sensory cueing devices into flexible wearable garments to reduce aviation mishaps by non-visually enhancing and preserving aircrew situation awareness (SA) through the mitigation of spatial disorientation - a potentially deadly condition that results from loss of visual references, physiological responses to gravitoinertial forces (GIF), and/or hypoxia experienced during flight. 

DESCRIPTION: In both military and civilian aviation, the largest cause of fatalities is spatial disorientation (SD) from loss of situation awareness (SA). Spatial disorientation occurs when pilots lose SA due to a loss of visual references (e.g., instrument flight conditions, brownout, flying with night vision goggles), or when the gravitoinertial forces (GIF) associated with flight act on the vestibular and body senses to create erroneous perceptions (i.e., vestibular illusions) of orientation. Additionally, hypoxia (oxygen deprivation typically occurring at higher altitudes) can contribute to SD by creating tunnel vision and confusion in pilots, making it difficult to maintain (or regain) SA from visual instruments while in this compromised physiological state. An Army-developed (with Air Force collaboration) countermeasure to prevent SD is the Tactile Situation Awareness System (TSAS), which employs a collection of tactile transducers located in the seat, shoulder straps, and a torso-worn belt to provide continuous, intuitive, non-visual tactile cueing orientation information to pilots. The onboard helicopter sensors provide orientation, drift velocity, altitude, and targeting information to the tactile cueing system. The U.S. Army Safety/Combat Readiness Center evaluated the past 20 years of Army helicopter accidents and reported that 24% of all Class A mishaps could/would have been prevented if the TSAS technology had been provided (Flightfax). The U.S. Army Program Executive Office for Aviation is supporting tactile cueing as part of the Integrated Cueing Environment in which tactile, visual, and 3-D auditory cues provide a synergistic awareness to pilots and aircrew in high workload environments. The tri-service Future Vertical Lift Program has incorporated a requirement for tactile cueing to provide enhanced situation awareness for aircrew. Moreover, the USAF Big Safari program office and Air National Guard (ANG) have expressed interest tactile cueing to meet a requirement improved pilot situation awareness and performance enhancement. Lastly, pilots from multiple USAF operational units (e.g., AFSOC 8th SOS, 582nd Helicopter Group) have expressed a need for enhanced cueing to improve safety and effectiveness during map of the earth flight, hoist operations, engagements in hostile environments, formation flight, and to provide location/status information of aerial assets in collaborative manned-unmanned teaming scenarios. Wearable flexible electronics are beginning to make inroads into virtual reality systems for entertainment and work applications. Various research and development activities have provided stretchable electronic elements permitting electronic systems to be conformal with textiles. With recent technology and material developments (e.g., piezoceramic), the tactile transducers are now smaller, lighter, and consume less power. As a result, it is now technically feasible to incorporate tactile arrays into garments that are close to the skin such as a “T-shirt”. The low power requirements and wireless options will permit the system to become free of the current umbilical connecting the current pilot belt and garment configuration to the aircraft. Using currently available sensors, wearable electronics will enhance situation awareness provided to aircrew both in the aircraft and when dismounted. The dismounted configuration has additional applications to aeromedical evacuation personnel, special operation forces (e.g., USAF Pararescue Jumpers), and civilian police/firefighter operations.  

PHASE I: Identify the current state of knowledge concerning wearable flexible electronics applicable to helicopter aviation environments. Determine the desired capabilities, including concept of operations of aircrew-worn electronics in relation to the current and future vertical lift aircraft. Develop and design a concept for an electronic garment for a system for receiving presenting aircraft flight parameters, threat warning information, and GPS location via tactile transducers. Tactile transducers and wired garments must be compatible with the military aircrew operating environments, as well as withstanding 100 plus washing cycles. 

PHASE II: Refine and prototype a working system(s) of the Phase I design. Make the prototype more user-friendly by incorporating user feedback from aircrew to include pilots, crew chiefs, and aeromedical personnel. Verify value of the integrated garment via a study on human subjects. Demonstrate durability to include wash cycles. 

PHASE III: Explore options for self-powered, umbilical-free wireless integration. Transition the wearable electronic garment through widespread commercialization and government acquisition. Deliver the final product(s) for the government and private sector market. Applications should include policemen, firefighters, swat team members, gaming and entertainment communities, and civil aviation, especially the helicopter emergency medical services community. 

REFERENCES: 

1: Brill, J. C., Lawson, B. D., & Rupert, A. H. (2015). Audiotactile aids for improving pilot situation awareness. Proceedings of the 18th International Symposium on Aviation Psychology. May 4-7, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, pp. 13-18.

2:  Flightfax U.S. Army Safety Center: https://safety.army.mil/Portals/0/Documents/ON-DUTY/AVIATION/FLIGHTFAX/Standard/2015/June_Jul_Aug_2015_Flightfax.pdf

3:  A. M. Kelley, R. L. Newman, B. D. Lawson and A. H. Rupert, "A Materiel Solution to Aircraft Upset," presented at AIAA, Modeling and Simulation Technologies Conf., 2014. http://youtu.be/5MCtv5WDU5U

4:  Rupert, A. H. & Lawson, B. D. 2015. Recent advances in tactile cueing. Proceedings of the 18th International Symposium on Aviation Psychology. May 4-May 7, 2015, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, pp. 7-12.

KEYWORDS: Wearable Electronics, Smart Garments, Spatial Disorientation, Degraded Visual Environment (DVE), Tactile Cueing, Tactors E-textiles, Smart Clothing, Electronic Textiles 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Bio Medical 

OBJECTIVE: Navy divers are exposed to a number of environmental stressors that place them at a heightened risk of neurologic dysfunction. Special Operations divers, who typically dive using rebreather systems on 100% oxygen are subject to additional risks from oxygen toxicity. This SBIR topic aims to design, test and deliver a system of sensors to be placed on a diver’s head, along with suitable electronics, with both being capable of operating underwater and at depth. 

DESCRIPTION: Navy divers must perform complex tasks in an austere environment that challenges their physiologic and neurologic functions. Medical conditions that threaten diver safety include nitrogen (inert gas) narcosis, hypercarbia, hypoxia, high pressure nervous syndrome and others (CNS/pulmonary oxygen toxicity, alternobaric vertigo, CNS/vestibular decompression illness/arterial gas embolism, inner ear barotrauma). Further compounding the dangers associated with hyberbaric gas, divers encounter additional physiologic stressors including cold, physical exertion, water immersion-induced vascular fluid shifts, sensory disorientation and mission stress. These conditions place the diver in a compromised physiological and neurocognitive state. Due to the critical nature of the underwater environment, a system capable of detecting early signs of neurologic distress (defined as a departure from accepted standards of normal brain activity) and generally monitoring brain health (normal function as defined through cellular to physiologic data as established in the scientific literature) is an attractive physiologic monitor for diving. Yet, measuring the effects of diving on the brain is challenging since current technologies are incapable of submerged data collection. Functional Near-InfraRed Spectroscopic (fNIRS) detects local changes in blood flow to the cerebral cortex which occur in response to cortical activation. (1) This topic explores the feasibility of appropriately water-tight and pressure resistant fNIRS system to measure diver performance at a variety of depths and oxygen conditions. This will allow for the first time measurements of cognitive function during a dive, ultimately assisting individual assessment to safely continue underwater operations. The device must have an adequate number of channels to investigate a large fraction of the cortical surface, understand the complex neurology of experimental diving scenarios, and accurately localize the interactions of various brain functional regions simultaneously. Although such non-invasive devices are currently available in the commercial market and are employed in clinical settings, there are currently no fNIRS products designed to function underwater and under increased pressures. The key challenge is that the device must provide full function and data processing while immersed in salt water and exposed to increased hyperbaric pressures of 100 feet of sea water (FSW) (threshold)/300 FSW (objective) at a temperature range of 32-95 Degrees F. The initial design will be used primarily as an experimental tool for diving medicine experimentation. Alternative neurocognitive assessment methods that meet the requirements of measuring brain activity as well as brain tissue oxygenation may also be considered. Previous efforts to establish diving physiologic monitoring devices such as ECG have demonstrated how sensors developed for dry data collection can be adapted for underwater use.3 

PHASE I: Demonstrate feasibility through analysis and limited laboratory demonstrations, a head-worn device that is capable of measuring brain tissue oxygenation and blood flow to be worn by: pool swimmers/divers, surface supplied divers, and free swimming divers underwater. Provide cost of system, cost per dive, and reliability estimates, including lifetime expectancy and lifetime cost estimate. The required Phase I deliverables will include: 1) a research plan for the engineering the design of the waterproof cap with embedded sensors; 2) a preliminary prototype, either physical or virtual, capable of demonstrating effectiveness (accurately and reliably predict and capture changes in neurological function as measured against as established in the scientific literature) of the proof-of-concept of design; and 3) test and evaluation plan to validate accuracy of data collection including identification of proper controls. Important considerations should include projections regarding the latency of data collection. Devise should target wavelengths between 700 and 850 nm where the absorption spectra of deoxyhaemoglobin and oxyhemaglobin are distinct to the greatest extent and there is little overlap with water. Phase I will provide key information about the uses and limitations of the system and could include rapid prototyping and/or modeling and simulation. 

PHASE II: Develop, demonstrate and validate the underwater fNIRS prototype hood based on the Phase I design concept. The system should be used under the expected extreme environmental conditions (as cited in the Description section) to collect and analyze data and test algorithms against the known neurocognitive alterations during diving activity. Initial prototype may be designed for use in a tethered helmeted dive or on the head of a diver on traditional scuba not to interfere with mask fit. Initial design may be intended for experimental or training use and need not be adapted for operational use. 

PHASE III: Transition prototype to a functional unit to the US Navy’s Naval Sea Systems Command Supervisor of Salvage and Diving (NAVSEA SUPSALV), Naval Special Warfare (NSW), and/or Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) Aircrew Systems Program Office (PMA-202) . Operationally relevant conditions may will necessitate additional parameters such as greater depths, prolonged data collection, and eliminating motion artifacts. The small business will be expected to support the Navy in transitioning the resulting technology for use in operational environments. The small business will be expected to develop a plan to transition and commercialize the technology and its associated guidelines and principles. Private Sector Commercial Potential: This SBIR would provide much needed understanding objective measures of detecting early signs of neurologic distress and generally monitoring brain health across recreational and commercial diving populations during mixed gas dives for use in hyperbaric treatments by medical professionals. 

REFERENCES: 

1: Felix Scholkmann, Stefan Kleiser, Andreas Jaakko Metz, Raphael Zimmermann, Juan Mata Pavia, Ursula Wolf, Martin Wolf, A review on continuous wave functional near-infrared spectroscopy and imaging instrumentation and methodology, NeuroImage, Volume 85, Part 1, 2014, Pages 6-27, ISSN 1053-8119, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuroimage.2013.05.004.

2:  Chiarelli AM, Zappasodi F, Di Pompeo F, Merla A. Simultaneous functional near-infrared spectroscopy and electroencephalography for monitoring of human brain activity and oxygenation: a review. Neurophotonics. 2017

3: 4(4):041411.

4:  B. A. Reyes et al., "Novel Electrodes for Underwater ECG Monitoring," in IEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering, vol. 61, no. 6, pp. 1863-1876, June 2014. doi: 10.1109/TBME.2014.2309293

KEYWORDS: Functional Near-InfraRed Spectroscopic (fNIRS), Waterproof, Neurocognitive Performance, Diving Medicine, Hyperbaric Medicine 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Bio Medical 

OBJECTIVE: Develop and demonstrate an undergarment design that incorporates layers of absorbent materials including a layer utilizing a functional material that is capable of evaporating the water content in urine through a chemical reaction or electrolysis on low power requirement. 

DESCRIPTION: Advances such as mid-air refueling have extended mission profiles for naval aviation creating challenges for managing essential bodily functions such as waste elimination. Prolonged exposure of skin and mucous membranes to moisture can lead to growth of bacteria that can cause urinary tract infections and other medical issues. The unsatisfactory urine collection options available, especially for female aviators [Ref 1], has created a culture of intentional dehydration prior to and during flight to avoid discomfort and risk of infection. The Navy and Joint Strike Fighter program is in need of a system that is easy to use without interfering with in-flight operations and will allow aircrew to remain hydrated and urinate in stride with minimum disruption throughout the flight. Mission times typically range from 4 to 6 hours. However, depending upon the aircraft, the operating theatre, and the mission, the mission time can be significantly longer—extending up to 11 hours. Recent advances in nanotechnology show promising integration of nanoscale materials that maximize surface area and evaporate water at accelerated rates [Refs 2-6]. Additionally, graphene-based textiles have been manufactured that are flexible, strong, breathable, and comfortable, and generate good electric conductivity even after repeated wash cycles [Ref 7]. Porous materials such as metallic organic frameworks and related compounds maximize storage of liquids and gases and may be capable of simultaneous electrocatalysis and high-capacity storage properties. [Ref 8] It is therefore feasible to consider designing a multifunctional, potentially layered material capable of electrolysis of the water content of urine and safely storing the resulting gases in a porous material. To be most effective for aircrew in-flight use, the system must provide the following as capabilities: - Provide the capability for male and female aircrew members to obtain bladder relief on typical missions up to 3 hours in duration and long-duration missions up to 16 hours without causing clinically significant skin irritation or physiological adverse side effects such as prolonged exposure to urine, infections, hot spots, pinching, rubbing, extreme heat, etc. - Does not require a unisex design. - Capable of collecting a volume of 800cc per individual use. - Should not restrict movement of aircrew before, during, or after flight, nor interfere with performance of duty or result in aircrew unstrapping neither from seat nor with emergency egress procedures, nor interfere with operation of the aircraft in flight, such as interfering with the aircraft controls. - Must operate in an aircraft environment which include: exposure to Electro-magnetic Interference (EMI), high humidity, high and low temperatures (-20°C/-4°F to +70°C/158°F), dust, rain, static electricity, salt fog and environmental contaminants such as hydraulic fluid and will comply with applicable military standards (ex. MIL-STD 810D, 461G). - Should be usable for the entire flight in conjunction with a flight uniform, anti-g suit, and exposure suit without unstrapping/releasing from a restraint system. - Be compatible with all aircraft ejection seats. - Provide hands-free urine collection. - Be flame resistant and not ignite in highly explosive atmospheres. - Should allow the user to don the device or applicable components while donning flight gear without assistance, or don without undressing just prior to going to the flight line. - Should be compatible with Life Support Systems flight gear and be discrete in appearance when worn. - Should require no maintenance other than battery replacement, battery charging, and system cleaning, all of which can be performed by the user. - Should have no special disposal requirements (disposal shall be in regular trash service). - If components are to be cleaned and reused, the cleaning process should dry the components quickly, eliminate residual odor, and be a process that is conducted by the user. - Gases produced by water electrolysis must be contained within the undergarment materials and must not be released into the surrounding spaces.  

PHASE I: Demonstrate feasibility through analysis and limited laboratory demonstrations, an undergarment material that can be used by men and women in flight that actively and rapidly eliminates the water content of urine or is capable of storing the liquid content of urine in a compressed state enabling compact and dense absorportion. Provide cost of system, cost per flight, and reliability estimates. The required Phase I deliverables will include: 1) a research plan for the engineering the design of the garment that include the following features: antimicrobial, disposable or washable for re-use, ability to evaporate or condense water content of urine and 2) a preliminary prototype, either physical or virtual, capable of demonstrating effectiveness of the proof-of-concept of design. 

PHASE II: Develop and demonstrate an operational prototype device in a laboratory environment showing use of the urine collection-liquid evaporation system by both men and women. Any testing with human subjects must adhere to the Human Subject Protocol that was developed and approved during Phase I. Update cost analysis and reliability estimate for use of an operational system. Provide preliminary engineering drawings and specifications. The proposed solution should incorporate a layer of material (chemically or electronically-based) to evaporate or condense the water content of urine. The proposed solution can employ small batteries to power electrolysis techniques (provided the batteries do not interfere with uniform fit), does not restrict movement, is comfortable to wear, and can easily be removed for washing. To be most effective for aircrew in-flight use, the system must meet testing requirements as defined in topic description. Off-gassing testing should be included to determine whether or not design releases harmful gases into the confined environment such as a cock-pit. 

PHASE III: Perform any final design updates, as needed, based upon the In-Flight Urine Evaporation system prototype testing in Phase II. Develop and demonstrate mass production capability of the system and components. Provide updated engineering drawings, detail specifications, and cost/life-cycle cost analyses. Ideally, final product design would be tested in-flight in typical aircraft environment performing typical maneuvers at speed and at altitude. Private Sector Commercial Potential: The use of a device such as this urine evaporation undergarment also has application for the cloth diaper industry, feminine hygienic products, medical patients who cannot control their urination processes, and those who are immobile.  

REFERENCES: 

1: To pee or not to pee…" Approach: The Naval Safety Center’s Aviation Magazine, March 2003. https://web.archive.org/web/20080630192803/http://www.safetycenter.navy.mil/media/approach/issues/mar03/ToPeeorNot.htm

2:  Jiang, Q., Tian, L., Liu, K., Tadepalli, S., Raliya, R., Biswas, P., Naik, R. R., and Singamaneni, S. "Bilayered Biofoam for Highly Efficient Solar Steam Generation." Adv. Mater. 2016, 28: 9400-9407. doi:10.1002/adma.201601819

3:  Li, Q., Xiao, Y., Shi, X., and Song, S. "Rapid Evaporation of Water on Graphene/Graphene-Oxide: A Molecular Dynamics Study.. Nanomaterials 2017. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5618376/

4:  Neumann, O., Urban, A. S., Day, J., Lal, S., Nordlander, P., and Halas, N. J. "Solar Vapor Generation Enabled by Nanoparticles." ACS Nano 2013 7 (1). https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/nn304948h

5:  McNally, David. "Army discovery may offer new energy source." United States Army Research Laboratory Public Affairs. 24 July 2017. http://www.arl.army.mil/www/

KEYWORDS: Urine Collection Device; Bladder Relief; In-flight Urination; Aircrew Urination; Aircrew Dehydration; Aircrew Hydration; Nanotechnology; Graphene; Evaporation; Electrolysis 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Bio Medical 

OBJECTIVE: Develop a novel manufactured universal whole bloodlike solution which improves outcome following severe hemorrhage and is functionally similar or equivalent to fresh whole blood. 

DESCRIPTION: The Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) guidelines on fluid resuscitation preference administration of whole blood (WB). If WB is not available, then administration of plasma is recommended followed by Hextend and, lastly, crystalloid fluids. The TCCC guidelines limit administration of blood and/or plasma to two units (due to availability issues), followed by crystalloids until a target blood pressure of 90 mm Hg is reached. (1) The limited availability of blood and blood products are a critical issue. In severe hemorrhage, currently available resuscitation fluids address the immediate need for volume expansion and increasing blood pressure but offer few other benefits. The loss of blood volume leads to cellular stress and dysfunction as a result of insufficient circulatory capacity to move blood cells and other blood components. There are well-established, significant detrimental effects associated with use of Hextend and the crystalloid fluids. Current crystalloid solutions (e.g. normal saline) are associated with negative outcomes following severe hemorrhage including hyperchloremic acidosis and tissue edema. (2-4) Hextend is associated with renal injuries and increased bleeding risks, and has shown no survival improvements over crystalloid fluids. (5) Additionally, both crystalloid and colloid solutions induce dilutional coagulopathies. There has been significant investment in the development of modified blood products (dried plasma and dried platelets). These products have significant developmental hurdles as they are manipulated blood products and must meet strict Federal regulations for pathogen reduction to reduce the risk of infectious disease transmission, and to control of batch-to-batch variability (as they are isolated from continually varying normal human sources in contrast to recombinant products). Dried plasmas currently used in Europe are either ABO specific, or a universal plasma created by mixing and pooling A, B, and AB plasmas. ABO specific plasma has a logistical constraint in that different bags are required for each blood type. While plasma has been shown to correct coagulopathies, it has no capacity to carry oxygen. (6) Hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers have been investigated and several are in development. SPECIFICATIONS: The solution should have the following capabilities in order of precedence: prevent or reverse coagulopathies, prevent or reverse endothelial injury, be universally transfusable and provide gas exchange. Additionally, minimization or elimination of refrigeration for the technology is encouraged. The technology can be either a liquid or dried formulation. 

PHASE I: The use of whole blood and plasma is to primarily address the dilutional coagulopathy that is induced by the crystalloid and colloid resuscitation fluids. The expectations for this phase is the design and development of a prototype solution that can meet the specifications without inducing a dilutional coagulopathy and the completion of a proof-of-concept in vitro studies. The studies should determine whether the prototype is capable of addressing the various aspects of the specifications. The expectation is also to develop a plan for a proof-of-concept in vivo animal study including the descriptions and methods of determining the study endpoints to be measured for each of the specifications. RESEARCH INVOLVING ANIMAL OR HUMAN SUBJECTS: The SBIR/STTR Programs discourage offerors from proposing to conduct Human or Animal Subject Research during Phase 1 due to the significant lead time required to prepare the documentation and obtain approval, which will delay the Phase 1 award. All research involving human subjects (to include use of human biological specimens and human data) and animals, shall comply with the applicable federal and state laws and agency policy/guidelines for human subject and animal protection. Research involving the use of human subjects may not begin until the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command's Office of Research Protections, Human Research Protections Office (HRPO) approves the protocol. Written approval to begin research or subcontract for the use of human subjects under the applicable protocol proposed for an award will be issued from the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command, HRPO, under separate letter to the Contractor. Non-compliance with any provision may result in withholding of funds and or the termination of the award. 

PHASE II: In this phase, the Offeror will conduct an in vivo evaluation of the technology compared to a crystalloid (current standard of care), plasma, and whole blood in a model of severe hemorrhage/hemorrhagic shock. The size of the study should be appropriately powered to ensure that the results are statistically significant. The study should be designed to include the evaluation of the solution for the acute phase and 24-hour ICU phase of care for hemorrhage/hemorrhagic shock. These outcome measures should include survival, evaluation of tissue oxygenation, correction of coagulopathies and prevention of endothelial injury, end organ function, inflammatory markers, evaluation of coagulation parameters, and evaluation of metabolic parameters. Design a large animal proof of concept study to extend the evaluation of the solution to 72 hours. Develop a business strategy for the development and commercialize the technology. Initiate discussions with the FDA on the regulatory pathway for the technology. The commercialization strategy could include applications of the technology to other uses beyond prehospital traumatic hemorrhage treatments to include in-hospital and blood banking use to supplement the blood supply during periods of limited availability. 

PHASE III: The technology developed will address the Defense Health Program gaps for enhanced blood products for resuscitation and prolonged prehospital care. The desired end state goal of the technology will be a lightweight effective replacement for whole blood or plasma that is universally transfusable, maintains a long shelf life at ambient temperatures and packaged in a simple to use format. The likely path for transition of the technology will be through either the Air Force or Army Advanced Medical Development Program or the Defense Health Program Medical Development Program as all three are currently involved in the development of related products, such as extended life blood products and dried plasma. It is envisaged that the product developed will be procured for use by all of the Services for primary use in the field/prehospital environment. In this phase the Offeror in consultation with the FDA will conduct a GLP or GLP-like large animal validation study. The study should be appropriated powered for determination of statistical significance of the results. The study should involve a large animal model of hemorrhage/ hemorrhagic shock (swine, sheep, non-human primates, etc). The Offeror will conduct Investigational New Drug (IND) enabling studies to establish safety/toxicity in an appropriate Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) animal model and an appropriate product stability studies. The Offeror should also conduct other IND enabling studies such as pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamics as deemed necessary following discussions with the FDA. The end state of this research is to conduct all appropriate studies required to receive IND approval for the conduct of human clinical trials. The Offeror will be encouraged to identify and apply for other government sources of funding or private funding to conduct the clinical trials. 

REFERENCES: 

1: Butler FK, Holcomb JB, Schreiber MA, Kotwal RS, Jenkins DA, Champion HR, Bowling F, Cap AP, Dubose JJ, Dorlac WC, Dorlac GR, McSwain NE, Timby JW, Blackbourne LH, Stockinger ZT, Strandenes G, Weiskopf RB, Gross KR, and Bailey JA (2014) Fluid Resuscitation for Hemorrhagic Shock in Tactical Combat Casualty Care: TCCC Guidelines Change 14-01--2 June 2014. .J Spec Oper Med.14(3):13-38.

2:  Wise, R, Faurie, M, Malbrain, MLNG and Hodgson, E. (2017) Strategies for Intravenous Fluid Resuscitation in Trauma Patients. World J Surg. 41: 1170–1183

3:  Santry, H.P. and Alam, H.B. (2010) Fluid Resuscitation: Past, Present, and the Future. Shock. 33(3): 229-241.

4:  Cotton, B.A., Guy, J.S., Morris, J.A., and Abumrad, N.N. (2006) The cellular, metabolic, and systemic consequences of aggressive fluid resuscitation strategies. Shock. 26(2): 115-121.

5:  Rasmussen, KC, Secher, NH, and Pedersen, T. (2016) Effect of perioperative crystalloid or colloid fluid therapy on hemorrhage, coagulation competence, and outcome: A systematic revie

KEYWORDS: Prehospital, Blood, Coagulopathy, Resuscitation, Trauma, Hemorrhage 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Bio Medical 

OBJECTIVE: Develop and demonstrate a technology (e.g. brace, exoskeleton, etc.) that will allow Warfighters who have sustained lower extremity musculoskeletal injuries to continue to operate (both training and/or combat operations) during recovery. 

DESCRIPTION: The DoD lacks the capability to optimally sustain combat power and readiness by rapidly returning injured Warfighters to duty in garrison and operational environments. Over 1 million medical encounters and roughly 10 million days of limited duty occur annually as a result of injuries and injury-related musculoskeletal conditions, affecting over half of Soldiers each year (U.S. Army Public Health Center. 2018. 2018 Health of the Force, https://phc.amedd.army.mil/topics/campaigns/hof). Military recruits engaged in training are at a higher risk of suffering an injury, with the majority of injuries occurring in the lower limb (Andersen, KA, et al. 2016. Musculoskeletal Lower Limb Injury Risk in Army Populations. Sports medicine - open, 2, 22.). Additionally, uncontested air superiority and overmatch in recent conflicts have allowed unrestricted medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) of injured Warfighters to higher roles of care. 81.1% of MEDEVAC in OIF/OEF were due to non-battle injury related injury (MSMR. 2011 Feb;18(2):2-7.) with musculoskeletal injuries as leading cause. Many of these injuries will need to be managed in the operational environment without MEDEVAC. Future multi-domain battle operations against peer/near-peer adversaries will restrict MEDEVAC of injured Warfighters necessitating care closer to the point of injury. 

PHASE I: Conceptualize and design an innovative solution for a technology that allows a Warfighter with a non-life threatening lower extremity injury (e.g. tendon sprains, muscle strains, stress fracture, plantar fasciitis, etc.) to continue to operate in garrison and operational environments. Designs should comply with existing military equipment and uniform standards. Proposed solutions may need to be deployed to environments with limited resources where advanced technologies and providers with specialized experience are not available. The required Phase I deliverables will include: 1) a research design for engineering the device and 2) A preliminary prototype with limited bench-top testing to demonstrate proof-of-concept evidence. Other supportive data may also be provided during this 6-month Phase I effort. RESEARCH INVOLVING ANIMAL OR HUMAN SUBJECTS: The SBIR/STTR Programs discourage offerors from proposing to conduct Human or Animal Subject Research during Phase 1 due to the significant lead time required to prepare the documentation and obtain approval, which will delay the Phase 1 award. All research involving human subjects (to include use of human biological specimens and human data) and animals, shall comply with the applicable federal and state laws and agency policy/guidelines for human subject and animal protection. Research involving the use of human subjects may not begin until the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command's Office of Research Protections, Human Research Protections Office (HRPO) approves the protocol. Written approval to begin research or subcontract for the use of human subjects under the applicable protocol proposed for an award will be issued from the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command, HRPO, under separate letter to the Contractor. Non-compliance with any provision may result in withholding of funds and or the termination of the award. 

PHASE II: The investigator shall design, develop, test, finalize and validate the practical implementation of the prototype system that implements the Phase I methodology for a technology to allow Warfighters with lower extremity musculoskeletal injuries to continue to train and operate during recovery, over this Phase II effort. The investigator shall also describe in detail the transition plan for the Phase III effort. The testing and practical implementation of the prototype system should be relevant to Warfighters who have experienced lower limb musculoskeletal injuries in training or operational settings. There is a need to allow these injured Warfighters to continue to train and/or operate while recovering from their injuries, in order to meet Combatant Commanders requirements for Readiness of the Force. The demonstration of prototype systems should be rigorous enough to demonstrate the abilities of the system to function in these environments beyond current capabilities. 

PHASE III: The investigator shall work with commercial partners, military subject matter experts (e.g. US Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine (USARIEM) and/or Naval Health Research Center (NHRC)), military medical acquisition program managers and/or the civilian marketplace (i.e. sports medicine) to move towards a final commercial product that will allow Warfighters with lower extremity musculoskeletal injuries to continue to train and operate during recovery. Regulatory approval to ensure that the commercialized product will meet FDA requirements must be considered. 

REFERENCES: 

1: U.S. Army Public Health Center. 2018. 2018 Health of the Force, https://phc.amedd.army.mil/topics/campaigns/hof

2:  Andersen, K. A., Grimshaw, P. N., Kelso, R. M., & Bentley, D. J. (2016). Musculoskeletal lower limb injury risk in army populations. Sports medicine-open, 2(1), 22.

3:  Armed Forces Health Surveillance Center (AFHSC. (2011). Causes of medical evacuations from Operations Iraqi Freedom (OIF), New Dawn (OND) and Enduring Freedom (OEF), active and reserve components, US Armed Forces, October 2001-September 2010. MSMR, 18(2), 2.

KEYWORDS: Musculoskeletal, Lower Extremity, Injury, Bracing, Exoskeleton 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Bio Medical 

OBJECTIVE: Direct-to-Phase II effort to provide a medical materiel solution for clinical evaluation, surveillance, risk assessment and measurement of intervention outcomes of musculoskeletal injuries involving the lumbar spine. 

DESCRIPTION: Low Back Pain (LBP) is the most common musculoskeletal injury and is a leading cause of work-related impairment and disability. Within the Military Health System (MHS) LBP is a significant readiness degrader, with high associated healthcare cost, not including disability assessments. The military community has unique surveillance needs, as the incidence rate for LBP in DoD warfighters is 40%, a 29-fold increase over the general population, and the highest risk of disability occurs 5 years post-injury. Because of the complex nature of the condition only 20% of patients are given precise pathoanatomic diagnoses. Return-to-work and disability decisions are based in part on indices such as the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS), which measure subjective subscales. Even with this data, long-term outcomes are mixed. The sixth edition of the American Medical Association (AMA) [1] Guide provides diagnosis-based impairment guidelines but may also increase subjectivity and inter-rater variability. The objective of this topic is to obtain a non-invasive medical device comprised of a hardware (sensor) and software (algorithm/database) solution that provides a rapid and simple lumbar impairment score for clinical assessment based on peer-reviewed clinical evidence. Hardware shall be Commercial, Off-The Shelf (COTS), allowing for minor aftermarket modifications as needed for data collection. Data collected shall be analyzed and interpreted by the software to provide users with additional useful metrics. Useful metrics should include individual performance, based on available data; significant changes from baseline scores; the type of impairment (structural versus muscular); return-to-work score; and test reliability to significantly reduce or eliminate subjective evaluation and variability among clinicians. It is desired that the system is compatible with the MHS information system GENESIS [2] or comparable civilian healthcare information technology platform in order to allow the tracking of clinical outcomes and patient functional trends throughout their military career. The system will be capable of shipboard and/or operational clinic use.  

PHASE I: The vision is for a portable, easy-to-use tool that provides reliable, valid and objective kinematic assessments for warfighters. For clinicians, this tool would identify and quantify the severity of kinematic lumbar abnormalities; monitor improvement over time; assist with treatment outcome evaluation and provide valid return to work metrics. Occupational specialists would be able to assess injury risk across all industrial environments, providing empirical data to reduce lumbar injuries and assess prevention strategies. In both cases, sincerity of effort would be an ideal measurable metric. End of Phase I efforts shall result in a working prototype with enough significant data obtained to allow for generation of actual performance data in a user-friendly interface. 

PHASE II: A final product from a Phase II effort shall be a functioning device; it is desired that at the end of this Phase documentation will be submitted to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) with a proposed classification consistent with Code of Federal Regulations, Title 21 Part 860 (FDA Medical Device Classification) and clinical results that support the proposed classification. While military population data would be ideal, there will be no partiality against devices that already have developed algorithms capable of defining lumbar function, injury risk and test reliability based on general population data. Measurements with human subjects should be validated with existing “gold-standard” equipment that can accurately define human motion, such as optoelectronic motion capture systems. This validation equipment, should not be considered as part of the deliverable. Performance goals for Phase II include the following: 1. Test & Evaluation (T&E) plan for Contract Officer approval, to include: a. Test protocol; b. Submission and subsequent approval documentation from the Office of Research Protections ORP Human Research Protection Office (HRPO); c. Documentation on the status for FDA IDE approval plan, if data collection is deemed by an Investigational Review Board as “Greater Than Minimal Risk”; d. Documentation on FDA 513(g) request and subsequent opinions; e. Plan for FDA 510(k) clearance submission and subsequent device registration; f. Manufacturing usability assessment; g. Proposed transition to DoD clinical assets. 2. Refinement of platform as needed to satisfy the stated objectives; 3. Define required objectives for clinical testing, and develop test protocols for clinical data acquisition for a military population; 4. Define prototype fabrication requirements for scalable manufacturing efforts; 5. Define storage and/or shipping requirements for possible shipboard deployment; 6. Final prototype produced and tested. 

PHASE III: The envisioned medical device would be a relevant treatment and screening tool in every Military Treatment Facility within the Defense Health Agency (DHA) that monitors and/or treats LBP. Formal acquisition would occur through the Defense Medical Logistics Enterprise; it is envisioned that the first customers would be aeromedical clinics and physical therapists. Commercialization to the civilian sector would likely include physical therapists, chiropractic and general practitioners; to obtain this goal, pursuit of FDA clearance as a medical device for clinical use is desired, and contingent on additional funding. The device should be ready for use after Phase II completion in non-clinical, occupational environments for cost-effective, objective surveillance and risk monitoring by military and civilian ergonomists and Industrial Health specialists. 

REFERENCES: 

1: AMA Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment, 6th Ed. 2008.

2:  https://www.health.mil/Military-Health-Topics/Technology/Military-Electronic-Health-Record/MHS-GENESIS

3:  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4171543/

4:  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23047044/

5:  https://apps.dtic.mil/dtic/tr/fulltext/u2/a524200.pdf

KEYWORDS: Lumbar, Spine, Back, Injury Risk, Musculoskeletal Disorder, Clinical Assessment, Occupational Health, Kinematics, Sensor, Motion 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Materials, Weapons, Nuclear 

OBJECTIVE: Improve product availability and increase competition through the development of Source Approval Requests (SAR) by small business manufacturers for National Stock Numbers (NSNs) with government provided technical data or through the Reverse Engineering (RE) of a technical data package. If DLA has adequate technical data available, the small business manufacturer will utilize the technical data to develop a SAR package. If the technical data is not available or inadequate, the small business will conduct relevant research and reverse engineering resulting in the development of the technical data package (TDP) as well as a SAR. The intent is that the participating small business manufacturer, once the SAR package is approved by the Engineering Support Activity (ESA), will be responsive to future solicitations as well as participate in the development of additional SARs for technically related NSNs. 

DESCRIPTION: The DLA Nuclear Enterprise Support Office (NESO) was established to position the Agency to be fully responsive to the needs of the United States Air Force and U.S. Navy nuclear communities. The sole mission of the office is to synchronize DLA’s enterprise wide support to the nuclear enterprise and engage strategically with DLA customers. Through partnerships with the small business industrial base, DLA will augment existing sources of supply to enhance life-cycle performance, product availability, competitive pricing as well as ensure effective logistics support to the nuclear enterprise. This program is restricted to DLA managed NESO items where sources of supply are scarce and is in use to incentivize small business participation to address specific weapon system requirements as well as provide small manufacturers the opportunity to build a mutually beneficial relationship with DLA. A SAR package is an assembly of information required of a prospective new supplier of a Critical/Weapon System Item (NSN). A SAR package contains all technical data needed to demonstrate that the prospective contractor can competently manufacture the Critical/Weapon System Item to the same level of quality or better than the system prime contractor, major subsystem contractor, or initial Approved Source (OEM). There are SAR Guides with templates and charts that explain the process. The guide, charts, checklists, and templates can be found via the internet at the referenced link 1. The list of candidate parts is posted on the DLA Small Business Innovation Program (SBIP) site http://www.dla.mil/SmallBusiness/SmallBusinessInnovationPrograms Specific parts may require minor deviations in the process dependent on the Engineering Support Activity (ESA) requirements. Those deviations will be addressed post award. Participating small businesses must have an organic manufacturing capability and a Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) code and be Joint Certification Program (JCP) certified in order to access technical data if available. Refer to “link 2” below for further information on JCP certification. Additionally, small businesses will need to create a DLA’s Internet Bid Board System (DIBBS) account to view all data and requirements in C Folders. Refer to “links 3 and 4” below for further information on DIBBS and C Folders. All available documents and drawings are located in the C Folder location “SBIR193C”. If the data is incomplete, or not available, the effort will require reverse engineering. 

PHASE I: The innovation research goals of Phase I are to provide small business manufacturers an opportunity to qualify as an Approved Source for one or more of the NSNs specifically identified in this BAA. In this phase, manufacturers will request SAR approval from the applicable Engineering Support Activity (ESA) and will submit a Gantt chart detailing the steps and timing to complete the TDP, SAR, through the beginning state of Low Rate Production (LRIP) of the NSN(s). In addition, it is encouraged that manufacturers and engineers consider innovation opportunities for the identified component for the potential for cost reduction, extended life cycle, and improvement of the performance of the component. The culmination of this research will provide the basis for the business case included in the final report. The NESO team selected the list of items and associated details to address the needs of the Nuclear Enterprise to sustain critical weapons systems as described below. Proposals may include all or a subset of the NSNs listed at http://www.dla.mil/SmallBusiness/SmallBusinessInnovationPrograms . Multiple proposals may be submitted for this topic providing that the proposals address unique NSNs. Proposal costs should be generated based on the level of effort and not the maximum available dollars to be competitive. The expected cost of a "SAR only" package should not exceed $30,000 per part, and the expected cost of a Reverse Engineering SAR package should not exceed $45,000 per part. 

PHASE II: Based on the results achieved in Phase I, DLA NESO will decide whether to continue the effort based on the technical progress, potential for authorization to participate as an Approved Source, and feasibility of the manufacturer’s business case. The goal of Phase II is to obtain authorization to participate as an Approved Source, conduct product qualification, and test as appropriate, and achieve Low Rate Production for the specific NSN in future procurements. If the part identified is already in production as a result of Phase I, the Phase II may be used to create additional manufacturing capacity to meet demand and/or pursue SARs for other DLA managed items. 

PHASE III: At this point, no specific funding is associated with Phase III. Progress made in PHASE I and PHASE II should result in the manufacturer’s qualification as an approved source of supply enabling participation in DLA procurement actions. COMMERCIALIZATION: The manufacturer will pursue commercialization of the various technologies and processes developed in prior phases through participation in future DLA procurement actions on items identified with this BAA. 

REFERENCES: 

1: DLA Aviation SAR Package instructions. DLA Small Business Resources: http://www.dla.mil/Aviation/Business/IndustryResources/SBO.aspx

2:  JCP Certification: https://public.logisticsinformationservice.dla.mil/PublicHome/jcp/default.aspx

3:  Access the web address for DIBBS at https://www.dibbs.bsm.dla.mil/default.aspx , then select the "Tech Data" Tab and Log into c-Folders. This requires an additional password. Filter for solicitation "SBIR193C"

4:  DLA Small Business Innovation Programs web site: http://www.dla.mil/SmallBusiness/SmallBusinessInnovationPrograms

KEYWORDS: Nuclear Enterprise Support (NESO), Source Approval, Reverse Engineering 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials, Sensors 

OBJECTIVE: The Defense Logistics Agency seeks to develop Standardized Additive Manufacturing (AM) procedures that are essential in the DoD acceptance of certified AM parts in the DoD supply chain. DLA Logistics Operations seeks process-monitoring technologies to address four primary objectives: 1. Provide reduced overhead costs. 2. Increase yield, reduce costs, and realize repeatable, certified, and affordable parts. 3. Reduce fulfillment cycle times and accelerat4e4 part supply options and certifications by transferring known part specifications between AM suppliers and technologies. 4. Expand and enable a flexible and scalable supply chain where qualified parts are not dedicated to specific AM suppliers, technologies, or dedicated equipment. 

DESCRIPTION: Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) build failures can be attributed to a plethora of root causes, but immediate cost savings could be made if feedback to the operator was available at the first signs of build errors. The objective shall be to develop and refine sensor data algorithms that can process inputs from low-cost, third party sensors, and provide user feedback that improves process quality and repeatability. Algorithmic solutions must be capable of utilizing sensing techniques that are non-invasive to commercially available LPBF systems. The Department of Defense (DoD) demand for out-of-production parts to maintain mission readiness of various weapons system platforms is an ongoing challenge for the Defense Logistics Agency. DLA's strategic objective is to enable a flexible supply chain that can accelerate repairs and part replacements utilizing AM. However, AM technology is relatively new to manufacturing and has many hurdles to overcome before universal adoption as a replacement. DLA is looking to leverage this evolving digital environment to enable a reliable supply chain that is both flexible and scalable. Of the many elements required to certify parts, process monitoring and control will play a major role in assuring consistent quality achievement across the spectrum of potential suppliers and technology solutions. Process monitoring and control provides consistency in the thread between AM technology types and suppliers, and assures that machine-to-machine variation is within limits, both today and tomorrow as well as provides critical insights into the path towards quality, reliability, and certification. With respect to economics, the affordability of AM parts will be largely dependent on the overhead costs to develop part-specific parameters and production scrap rates. 1. Currently, input process parameter development is dependent on geometric features, material properties, feed stock type, power source, individual AM machine variation over time, and many other factors. 2. Process control is imperative to increase yield, reduce costs, and realize repeatable, certified, and affordable parts. In addition, the ability to minimize the overhead to validate parts on multiple technologies can have significant impact on the flexibility of the supple chain and the economics of parts supply.  

PHASE I: Establish an approach to integrate various "third party" independent sensors and monitoring into the additive manufacturing process.  

PHASE II: Integrate "third-party" sensors and demonstrate process monitoring and feedback for multiple additive manufacturing systems. The resulting integrated solution should demonstrate how the transfer of known part specification between AM systems can reduce fulfillment cycle times and accelerate part supply options. 

PHASE III: should result in a functional Open Source System which can transition into the Government or the commercial markets. COMMERCIALIZATION: Expand and enable a flexible and scalable supply chain where qualified parts are not dedicated to specific AM suppliers, technologies, or dedicated equipment.  

REFERENCES: 

1: W. J. Sames, F. A. List, S. Pannala, R. R. Dehoff & S. S. Babu, "The metallurgy and processing science of metal additive manufacturing" International Materials Review, 2016. Downloaded by [Oak Ridge National Laboratory] at 08:18 07 March 2016

2:  Spears, T. G., and Gold, S. A., "In-process sensing in selective laser melting (SLM) Additive Manufacturing," Integrating Material and Manufacturing Innovation, Issue 5, Volume 2, February, 2016.

KEYWORDS: Additive Manufacturing; Input Process Parameter Development; Process Control, And Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials 

OBJECTIVE: The Defense Logistics Agency seeks to develop Standardized Additive Manufacturing (AM) procedures that are essential in the DoD acceptance of certified AM parts in the DoD supply chain. This project must demonstrate a standardized method for certifying Additive Manufacturing (AM) parts for the DoD supply chain in a manner that is AM machine independent, and greatly reduces or eliminates the need for post-build part testing. 

DESCRIPTION: DLA Logistics Operations has the goal of widespread use of AM in the DoD supply chain to bring benefits of 1. Reduced overhead costs. 2. Increased yield, reduced costs, and repeatable, certified, and affordable parts. 3. Shortened fulfillment cycle times and increased part supply options; and certification by transferring known part specifications between AM suppliers and technologies. 4. A flexible and scalable supply chain where qualified parts are not dedicated to specific AM suppliers, technologies, or dedicated equipment. AM processes adoption is currently limited because part certification, for critical applications, is arduous, long, expensive, and results in a solution that is limited to a small subset of the DoD supply chain. Consequently, DLA is looking for qualified techniques that address AM part certification. Ideally, techniques would be independent of the AM system to maximize adoption across the DoD supply chain. Techniques must provide the ability to correlate AM part build outcomes to AM part performance requirements.  

PHASE II: To qualify for the Phase II effort the proposer should possess a technology with proven feasibility – i.e. demonstration of capturing the information needed to certify AM part builds. Proposers should develop and propose a plan to enable certification of parts of a wide range of geometries on a wide range of LPBF systems with multi-modal data. Commercialization is expected shortly following the Phase II effort. 

PHASE III: At this point, no specific funding is associated with Phase III. Progress made in D2P2 should result in a functional Open Source System which can transition into the Government or the commercial markets. COMMERCIALIZATION: Expand and enable a flexible and scalable supply chain where qualified parts are not dedicated to specific AM suppliers, technologies, or dedicated equipment. 

REFERENCES: 

1: Air Force Structures Bulletin (SB) EZ-SB-19-01 released June 10, 2019

2:  W. J. Sames, F. A. List, S. Pannala, R. R. Dehoff & S. S. Babu, "The metallurgy and processing science of metal additive manufacturing" International Materials Review, 2016. Downloaded by [Oak Ridge National Laboratory] at 08:18 07 March 2016.

3:  Spears, T. G., and Gold, S. A., "In-process sensing in selective laser melting (SLM) Additive Manufacturing," Integrating Material and Manufacturing Innovation, Issue 5, Volume 2, February, 2016.

KEYWORDS: Additive Manufacturing; Input Process Parameter Development; Process Control, In Situ Sensing, And Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Ground Sea 

OBJECTIVE: Develop lightweight run-flat tire/wheel assemblies for Marine Corps Wheeled Vehicles by using innovative materials, design, manufacturing processes, and test methodology to provide increased survivability and mobility on/off paved roads and in water. 

DESCRIPTION: A run-flat tire is a pneumatic tire designed to resist the effects of deflation when punctured, and to enable the vehicle to continue to be driven at reduced speeds for limited distances. Military run-flat tires have traditionally used an insert installed in the pneumatic tire that can support the weight of the vehicle in the event of a loss of pressure. These inserts are heavy and add significant un-sprung, rotating mass that reduce ride quality and decrease vehicle fuel efficiency. Run-flats function by providing a minimal rolling radius, thus ensuring adequate traction and acceptable longevity over a specified maximum speed and range of operations. Run-flats provide immediate mobility following a flat but are designed to be used in emergency situations as their use results in the degradation of the tire. The Marine Corps needs lightweight run-flat tire/wheel designs for military vehicles that increase the survivability and mobility of tactical and combat vehicles. The designs can use the existing or a modified Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS) and should consider the effects on the drivetrain of running tires of different diameters. The wheel assembly of interest has a 53-inch diameter using a 16 R 20 tire. The run-flat must maintain a minimum distance of 17 inches from the ground to the center of the wheel under individual wheel loads up to 11,500 lbs. The objective weight for the lightweight run-flat is less than 50 pounds but must be lighter than 75 pounds. The cost for a lightweight run-flat should be less than $2,000 per tire for a 75-pound design but could be higher for lighter weight designs. The run-flat must allow the vehicle to maintain mobility for 25 miles at a speed of 30 mph when one or two tires are flat, and 5 miles at a speed of 5 mph when three or four are flat on one side. The design must meet the requirements of SAE J2014 [Ref 1]. 

PHASE I: Develop concepts for lightweight run-flat tire/wheel designs that increase the survivability and mobility of the Amphibious Combat Vehicle (ACV) by exploring the use of alternative materials, design, maintainability, and manufacturing techniques that meet the requirements outlined above. Demonstrate the feasibility of the concept in meeting the Marine Corps needs. Establish feasibility by material testing and analytical modeling, as appropriate. Provide a Phase II plan that includes designs for tactical vehicles and identifies performance goals, key technical milestones, and addresses technical risks. 

PHASE II: Build prototypes for material testing and analytical modeling as appropriate. Support evaluation of the prototypes to determine if the performance goals defined in the Phase II development plan and the requirements outlined in SAE J2014 [Ref 1] and TOP 02-2-698 [Ref 2] have been met. Demonstrate system performance through prototype evaluation and modeling to include Mission Profile Run Flat, Paved Run Flat, Tire Traction, Vehicle Evasive Maneuver, Bead Unseating, Rolling Resistance, Dimensional Criteria, and Mechanical Reliability (Off-road Durability). Refine the designs based on the results of testing/modeling. Prepare a Phase III plan to transition the technology to the Marine Corps and the commercial marketplace. 

PHASE III: Conduct full-scale application, testing, demonstration, implementation, and commercialization. The technologies developed under this SBIR would have direct application to other Department of Defense applications including other services’ Run Flat Tire/Wheel Assemblies on Combat and Tactical Wheeled Vehicles. Additional applications would include government and private security industries for personal protection, the banking industry, and police armored vehicles. 

REFERENCES: 

1. SAE J2014 - Pneumatic Tire/Wheel/Run flat Assembly Qualifications for Military Tactical Wheeled Vehicles. https://www.sae.org/standards/content/j2014_201303/; 2. Test Operations Procedure (TOP 02-2-698) – Run flat Testing. https://apps.dtic.mil/dtic/tr/fulltext/u2/a622562.pdf

KEYWORDS: Run-flat; Run-flat Wheel Assembly; Tires; Wheels; Mobility; Survivability 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Ground Sea, Electronics 

OBJECTIVE: Develop an open architecture, portable, podable, relatively low size, weight, and power (SWaP) reprogrammable solution to focus computing power on high-speed streaming data in order to rapidly extract and identify signals of interest. 

DESCRIPTION: Electronic receiver bandwidth and fidelity capabilities are increasing rapidly. Each of these attributes increases file size of stored radio frequency (RF) sample data and data rates streaming to those sensors. In most cases, the data is packaged into summary descriptor format (such as pulse descriptor words (PDWs)) for further ingest by on-board computing resources or stored for off-board processing. Turning the In-Phase Quadrature (IQ) data into PDWs leaves the potential for unprocessed and unexploited data of which the end user is unaware. Reference 3 explains the current method of forming PDWs and the type of information they contain. There is no common standard for PDWs as each vendor uses their own signal detection, classification, and PDW generator algorithm. Select a PDW format that best suits the development of the approach to signal identification. A method for collecting and exploiting the unprocessed and unexploited data that needs to be developed. Develop a capability whereby an operator can selectively filter unexploited data real-time in frequency, time, or other method. The ability to look for correlation with existing emitter files and/or to identify emitters of interest in an electromagnetic (EM)-dense environment frequency band at the point of actual IQ data, before the PDW summary information is formed which can potentially result in loss of information is needed. For this SBIR topic, the term “emitters of interest” can be communication signals in a population-dense urban environment, such as individual cell phones, radio, television, or satellite communication. The general idea of this system is the ability to detect a specific signal, like a military type emitter, in an EM-cluttered urban environment—taking into account that the emitter of interest will be using benign signals to hide its intent or actions. The system must take advantage of the many Open Systems Architectures (OSAs) that are available so that as threat systems advance, the system can be reprogrammable with new algorithm improvements to respond to ever changing threats. Examples include OSAs such as Open System Architecture (OSA), Sensor Open System Architecture (SOSA), and/or Modular Open System Architecture (MOSA). The resulting system should be able to analyze 1GHz - 4GHz of instantaneous bandwidth and cover as much frequency as possible, 0.1 – 18 GHz preferred, more if possible. The final design should be compatible with standard Air Transport Radio (ATR) chassis or equivalent chassis with SWaP requirements of fitting in a 7-10 inch diameter pod such as the ALQ-167, convert 400Hz to 28V DC, and use 350 Watts or less power. Operational system will have access to 3 PHASE 400 Hz 115/200VAC at 10A per PHASE. 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. This will allow contractor personnel 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: Propose a new Electronic Warfare receiver architecture where such a system could reside, how it could access data, how it could be steered or reprogrammed, and what the capabilities of rapidly inferring RF environment from raw data samples are (e.g., latency, fidelity). The proposed should understand that there is a high probability of there being multiple signals within the frequency range of interest. Feedback from the PDW formation process is an option to aid in deinterleaving, but the proposed approach should rely on the predetermined mission data files that specify emitter parameters as a final option. System must have a way of dealing with the possibility that an emitter-mission data file is not loaded and providing the user with an acceptable solution. The Phase I effort will include prototype plans to be developed under Phase II. 

PHASE II: Prototype a solution with (for example) GUI interaction for reprogramming of a high bandwidth data stream. Simulate the data stream or provide by other efforts - such that Phase II does not become an activity of designing a high-speed receiver. The prototype should instead focus on aiding interpretation of the data. Work in Phase II may become classified. Please see note in Description paragraph. 

PHASE III: Perform final testing with a real-world EM dense environment to test the developed algorithms. Demonstrate the ability to identify complex emitters. Transition and integrate into appropriate platforms and systems. Successful technology development would benefit Commercial Airport Monitoring, as well as Frequency monitoring for the communication industry. 

REFERENCES: 

1. “AN/ALQ-167 - E/F Band Jammer Group.” Rodale Electronics, Inc. http://www.rodaleelectronics.com/wp-content/uploads/Rodale_ALQ-167_EF_Band.pdf; 2. MIL-STD-810H, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE TEST METHOD STANDARD: ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING CONSIDERATIONS AND LABORATORY TESTS (31-JAN-2019). http://everyspec.com/MIL-STD/MIL-STD-0800-0899/MIL-STD-810H_55998/; 3. MIL-STD-461, MILITARY STANDARD: ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE CHARACTERISTICS REQUIREMENTS FOR EQUIPMENT (31 JUL 1967). http://everyspec.com/MIL-STD/MIL-STD-0300-0499/MIL-STD-461_8678/

KEYWORDS: Field Programmable Gate Array; FPGA; Radio Frequency System On Chip; RFSOC; VME International Trade Association; VITA; Graphic Processing Unit; GPU; Machine Learning; ML; Open System Architecture; OSA; Sensor Open Systems Architecture; SOSA; Modular Open System Architecture; MOSA; Artificial Intelligence; AI 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Info Systems 

OBJECTIVE: Investigate, design, and develop the capability to leverage quantum information such as electron momentum/spin to transmit information over radio frequency (RF) in binary form instead of waveform and power levels, therefore making the signal less susceptible to jamming, interception, and possibly detection. 

DESCRIPTION: The Navy seeks the means to: (1) create a bias in order to transmit quantum information over radio frequency (RF) (for example, using electron spin) in a binary method as opposed to power levels and waveform modulations; (2) properly detect the quantum information (e.g., electron spin) and convert it into a binary digit (bit); and (3) by using the electron spin as the example of quantum information, designating the spin up to a 1 and a spin down to a 0, leverage this to become a transfer of information via radio frequencies. The electron has a magnetic momentum or spin either as “up” or “down.” The usual probability of the electron having either of these spins when measured is 50%. Developing the ability to deliberately bias that spin either in the up or down would change the probability to something higher than 50% to indicate the meaning of a binary digit. The Stern-Gerlach experiment involves sending a beam of particles through an inhomogeneous magnetic field and observing their deflection. The results show that particles possess an intrinsic angular momentum that is closely analogous to the angular momentum of a classically spinning object, but that takes only certain quantized values [Ref 3]. The device must weigh less than 100 pounds and have a volume less than 3,600 cubic inches. Design goal is to be comparable to existing military avionics equipment such as an AN/ARC-210 radio [Ref 4]. Measure and characterize the behavior of the device over RF frequencies from 300MHz up to 40GHz in the following bands: 30-300MHz, 300MHz-3GHz, 1-2 GHz, 2-4GHz, 4-8 GHz, 8-12 GHz, 12-18 GHz, 18-26 GHz, and 26-50 GHz. The device should run on 28V DC and be designed with considerations of MIL-STD-810H [Ref 5]. Conduct demonstration in an indoor lab or outdoor range to demonstrate quantum information transmission and reception. Report the results including the design architecture, the measured results of quantum information detection, the detections versus frequency, and conclusion and recommendations of the test and demonstrations conducted. Demonstrate the device on a manned fixed wing or manned rotorcraft civilian or military air vehicle, to show the overall capability that was developed. 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 I 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: Design, demonstrate and validate, through analysis and/or simulation, a binary quantum state that can be created, transported over RF and detected by the prototyped device. Characterize the hardware it would take to make that happen. Determine the desired probability of quantum information detection given a finite number of biased quantum particles. Assess the device performance parameters including the size, weight, cooling, and power consumption of the hardware to create such a device. Estimate the parameters of feasibility for such a device to operate such as frequency range, effective radiated power of transmitted radio frequency signal, and minimal detectable signal for reception of the RF to achieve the desired probability of quantum information detection. Predict operational environment of such a device in terms of isolation, temperature, and physical stability of device to generate the quantum information suitable for transportation over radio frequency. Determine if free-space RF is suitable for the transfer of quantum information, and propose the best-suited frequencies for such transfer. The Phase I effort will include prototype plans to be developed under Phase II. 

PHASE II: Based on Phase I, design and fabricate the prototype and demonstrate/validate the ability to transport quantum information for maritime airborne applications. Measure operating parameters related to operation range, including the signal-to-noise ratio for a minimal detectable signal of the RF to achieve the desired probability of quantum information detection, and the probability of quantum binary digit detection. Demonstrate or predict how other natural phenomena such as atmospheric affects (e.g., clouds, water vapor) would affect the minimal discernable reception. Measure and/or calculate the distance to achieve a desired probability of quantum information detection. Characterize the behavior over RF frequencies from 300MHz up to 40 GHz in minimum of bands from 30-300MHz, 300-3GHz, 1-2 GHz, 2-4 GHz, 4-8 GHz, 8-12 GHz, 12-18 GHz, 18-26 GHz, and 26-50 GHz. Conduct demonstration in an indoor lab or outdoor range to demonstrate quantum information transmission and reception. Report the results including the design architecture, the measured results of quantum information detection, the detections versus frequency, and conclusions and recommendations of the tests and demonstrations conducted. Upon successful demonstration in the lab or outdoor range, build a flight-worthy system to transmit and detect quantum information that can fly aboard a manned civilian or military air vehicle. Work in Phase II may become classified. Please see note in Description section. 

PHASE III: Based on Phase II prototype, prepare for and demonstrate the capabilities in a relevant airborne environment such as a manned fixed-wing or manned rotary-wing civilian or military aircraft. Collect and verify the performance parameters to include bit rate, error rates, and data transport rates in megabits per second. Develop a draft, system performance specification. Report on produce-ability of product, as well as suitability of product to augment existing radio-frequency systems. Propose options for integrating product into existing military radio frequency systems. Transition final device for use on appropriate platforms. This technology can apply to any transport of information that currently uses radio frequencies including household Wi-Fi routers, mobile communications, security and encryption applications, broadcast communications, and other microwave data transmissions. 

REFERENCES: 

1. Drysdale, T. D., Allen, B., Cano, E., Bai, Q. and Tennant, A., "Evaluation of OAM-radio mode detection using the phase gradient method." 2017 11th European Conference on Antennas and Propagation (EUCAP), Paris, 2017, pp. 3606-3610. https://doi.org/10.23919/EuCAP.2017.7928341; 2. Kenyon, Henry S. "Quantum Radio Takes A Giant Leap." AFCEA International, Fairfax, VA 2018. https://www.afcea.org/content/quantum-radio-takes-giant-leap; 3. Hsu, Bailey C., Berrondo, Manuel, et. al. "Stern-Gerlach dynamics with quantum propagators." Department of Physics and Astronomy, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah 2011. https://journals.aps.org/pra/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevA.83.012109; 4. "RT-1990A(C)/ARC-210 – GENERATION 5." Rockwell Collins, Cedar Rapids, IA 2015. https://www.rockwellcollins.com/-/media/files/unsecure/products/product-brochures/communication-and-networks/communication-radios/629f-23-brochure.pdf?lastupdate=20170118201627; 5. Department of Defense. "Environmental Engineering Considerations and Labora

KEYWORDS: Quantum; Data Transport; Information Science; Datalink; Radio Frequency; Assured Command And Control 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Info Systems, Battlespace 

OBJECTIVE: Develop autonomous capabilities that allow teams of unmanned air systems (UAS) to make decisions independently that satisfy operator-provided mission objectives in complex, uncertain, denied environments. 

DESCRIPTION: The U.S. Navy increasingly relies upon UAS to perform a variety of missions. Current UAS require continual operator supervision, relying on operators to devise a course of action in response to unexpected changes in the operating environment. The dependence upon operator-provided decisions during a mission reduces mission effectiveness by introducing a dependency on high quality service communications between the operator and UAS, demanding an undesirably high operator-to-vehicle ratio for swarming techniques; and additionally, introducing latencies between UAS sensor observations and UAS reactions. To improve UAS performance, NAVAIR is developing Research & Autonomy Innovation Development Environment & Repository (RAIDER), a re-usable software infrastructure utilizing the Future Airborne Capability Environment (FACE) standard [Ref 2]. RAIDER is a reusable software infrastructure derived from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Collaborative Operations in Denied Environments (CODE) program that enables teams of UAS to make decisions autonomously in denied environments [Ref 1]. NAVAIR has a requirement to expand RAIDER to support diverse Navy-relevant missions. This SBIR topic seeks to enable RAIDER expansion by having the performer produce FACE compliant units of portability (UOPs) and behaviors that provide UAS with resilient autonomous behaviors and planning services. These products should focus on adding functionality to accomplish new Strike, anti-surface warfare (ASW), or anti-submarine warfare (ASuW) missions. The performer's UOPs should promote operational resilience, and must be capable of managing unexpected circumstances (including unexpected threats and unexpected adversary/non-combatant maneuvers) as well as losses of capability due to UAS damage, unexpected system/subsystem failures, and attrition. RAIDER will be available to the performing small businesses. RAIDER UAS UOPs must be capable of satisfying operator-provided objectives and rules of engagement by generating tactical decisions without further operator involvement (e.g., search for and track all vessels in a given area, never approach within 10 miles of a vessel). UOPs must utilize a principled approach to assure that UAS decisions are appropriate, and made in real time. Operational resilience should be demonstrated by showing that the on-board planning with the UOPs is capable of: - Providing effective UAS coordination with varying degrees of complexity. UOPs should be capable of coordinating teams of as few as two and as many as thirty UAS to respond to maneuvers and threats from as many as fifty adversaries. - Operating in denied environments in which communications are limited and full connectivity between UAS may not exist for periods of an engagement. - Guaranteeing that a priori operator-provided rules of engagement are not violated. Rules of engagement may include geospatial, temporal, and behavioral constraints. - Supporting coordination between heterogeneous teams in which UAS may include different payloads, communications transceivers, and mobility characteristics. Develop a UAS capability to quickly and accurately geo-locate and identify stationary emitters within a region by only using passive RF sensors with limited communications between the unmanned air vehicles (UAVs) within a UAS. A collaborative autonomous fusion UOP to generate a nearly common operational picture (NCOP) amongst a group of UAS is needed. The UOP should address constraints on communication between UAS, i.e., a reduced subset of information can be shared. Information includes own-ship telemetry and sensor measurements or tracks, or a combination of the two. Each UAS must be able to determine constraints on sharing information with other UAS in the distributed autonomous systems to support mission success. Such intelligent information sharing must consider the mission(s) objectives, time constraints, bandwidth constraints, mission constraints, and the information required to support the mission objectives. 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: Develop one or more autonomous UOPs that support a NAVAIR-relevant mission. Suitable missions may include, but are not limited to, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) and Fast Attack Craft defense. Develop and design the process that discusses the feasibility and effectiveness of addressing the passive RF geo-location UAS problem. This process should include the framework and the algorithms, tools, or UOPs used for the solution. Potential roadblocks may be encountered; identify them and approaches to overcome them. Demonstrate UOP resilience in simulation-based experiments. The Phase I effort will include prototype plans to be developed under Phase II. 

PHASE II: Integrate autonomous UOPs into RAIDER-enabled UAS and conduct live flight demonstrations showing proof of concept for UOP in a collaborative autonomous mission. Note: A RAIDER-enabled UAS will be provided by the government. Develop a UAS UOP to quickly and accurately geo-locate and identify stationary and moving emitters within a region by only using passive RF sensors and with limited communications between the unmanned air vehicles (UAVs) should be demonstrated. To find and accurately geo-locate all of the emitters quickly, the UAVs must autonomously produce a coordinated optimal search and adaptive plan as emitter data is received real-time while avoiding being attrited if the enemy radars have developed a track on that asset. Gather metrics from flight demonstration to show the completeness, accuracy, and timeliness of identifying, tracking, and localizing emitters. Demonstrate a collaborative autonomous fusion UOP designed to address constraints on communication between UAS. Validate that the intelligent information sharing must show consideration the mission(s) objectives, time constraints, bandwidth constraints, mission constraints, and the information required to support the mission objectives. Gather metrics from demonstration to show fusion, information sharing effectiveness, communications effectiveness, and ability to thrive and complete desired mission in denied communications and denied GPS environments. Demonstrate algorithms on operationally realistic simulated scenarios and modify/extend as necessary to address any challenges that arise during development and testing. Work in Phase II may become classified. Please see note in Description section. 

PHASE III: Conduct fleet demonstrations, and participate in discrete and extended fleet experiments to validate new capability. Commercial applications from a successfully developed technology would include forest fire management by the Dept. of the Interior. Equipped UAS and unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) would be able to work together to fight forest fires in large swarms of firefighting water “tankers”. 

REFERENCES: 

1. Wierzbanowski, S. “Cooperative Operations in Denied Environment (CODE).” Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). https://www.darpa.mil/program/collaborative-operations-in-denied-environment; 2. “The Open Group FACETM Consortium.” Future Airborne Capability Environment. https://www.opengroup.org/face; 3. Scheidt, DavidH. “Command and Control of Autonomous Unmanned Vehicles.” Handbook of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, Springer, Dordrecht. 2015, pp. 1273-1298. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-90-481-9707-1_110

KEYWORDS: Autonomous Systems; Artificial Intelligence; Unmanned Air Systems; UAS; Sensor Fusion; Denied Environment; Communications 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Ground Sea, Electronics 

OBJECTIVE: Develop an antenna/sensor package that provides high frequency/very high frequency (HF/VHF) detection and direction finding (DF) capabilities in a 7-inch diameter, flight vehicle cavity. 

DESCRIPTION: Achieving high-bandwidth antennas in HF/VHF for transmitters and receivers is a difficult radio frequency (RF) design. References 3 and 4 illustrate that as antennas become significantly smaller relative to the wavelength of the signal, the instantaneous bandwidth of the antenna sharply decreases. Traditional antennas are often at least a quarter of the wavelength of the intended signal, and in HF/VHF applications, this forces antenna to be > 1 meter in size. Therefore, traditional design approaches for high-gain and high-bandwidth antennas onboard tactical and small-unmanned aircraft are not suitable due to the antenna’s physical size. Specifically, as antennas are miniaturized relative to the signal wavelength, their impedance bandwidth sharply decreases. For transmitters, the antenna rejects and reflects high-bandwidth signals because any frequency outside of its impedance bandwidth is mismatched with the antenna, preventing efficient signal acceptance in the antenna. For receivers, the electrical size of the antenna is so small compared to wavelength, that the gain of the antenna is small, reducing signal to noise ratio (SNR) and sensitivity of the receiver. This is fundamentally due to the conductive and material losses overwhelming the radiation power of the receiver. This prevents the signal from being distinguishable above the noise floor. References 1 and 2 illustrate a method for overcoming bandwidth-limited electrically small antenna utilizing a transistor switch that directly modulates the signal in order to “time-vary” the impedance boundary conditions of the antenna. If synchronized well, the signal at the input of the antenna is matched exactly at the same moment the impedance boundary of the antenna, due to the transistor, is changed. Yet, both of these references 1 and 2 are methods for electrically small transmitters, and not for electrically small receivers. For receivers, achieving high-gain, high-bandwidth antennas are difficult as stated above. References 5 and 6 propose a method for using cryogenic systems that significantly reduce the antenna temperature so as the incoming SNR of the signals have significantly lower noise figure at the input of the RF front end. Still, such proposals require additional physical volume to house said-cryogenic systems, significantly increasing the physical area needed. Specifically, this topic seeks a HF/VHF antenna/sensor package capable of direction finding (DF). Traditionally, high-gain sensor packages are comprised of arrays capable of electronic scanning. The physical size of the package directly increases with demands for higher gain. In rapidly evolving aerodynamic environments, physically large antennas are not practical for tactical aircrafts, unmanned vehicles, and weapons applications. The proposed antenna sensor system must handle up to 10 Watts, physically sized in all three physical dimensions less than a tenth of the wavelength. The ratio of the radiated power to the total power (i.e., the sum of the radiated power, power lost to ohmic losses, and power lost to material losses) must be as high as possible but greater than 50% or must achieve an antenna gain of at least -6 dBi. The antenna radiation pattern should have a beam width of 3-5 degrees, but an omnidirectional pattern along a vertical axis is acceptable. Clearly state the necessary electronics to achieve direction finding. A 360-degree scan within 2 seconds or a 10 ms dwell time per beam (if antenna is directive) is desired. An innovative approach to achieving these results would include: 1) Significantly reduce material losses and conduction losses so as the antenna radiation efficiency is almost 100% (0 dB). 2) Reduce the noise figure and antenna temperature so as the SNR of the signal at the input of the receiver RF front end is at least 6 dB. 3) Provide information (i.e., direction finding) on where the signal came from while handling up to 10W of power within an angular resolution of 3-5 degrees. 

PHASE I: Design and determine the best low-frequency sensing approaches that are packable into a physically 7-inch diameter volume and used to sense HF/VHF signals, and provide direction-finding capability. The Phase I effort will include prototype plans to be developed under Phase II. 

PHASE II: Develop and prototype a solution that can be ‘flown’ in an anechoic RF chamber setting whereas HF/VHF performance can be characterized within proposed electrically small (length, width, height less than tenth wavelength) of volume. Identify and propose solutions to areas that will be difficult to transition to high speed flight. 

PHASE III: Finalize design and perform testing to ensure HF/VHF performance in a flight operational manner where RF performance from chamber setting is maintained in-flight. Transition final solution to appropriate platforms and end users. Successful technology development would benefit space communications, general aviation, wireless infrastructure, and the internet of things (IoT). 

REFERENCES: 

1. Yao, W. and Wang, Y.E. "Direct antenna modulation - a promise for ultra-wideband (UWB) transmitting." Microwave Symposium, Dig. 2004 IEEE MTT-S Intl, vol. 2, pp. 1273-1276. https://doi.org/10.1109/MWSYM.2004.1339221; 2. Santos, J.P., Fereidoony, F., Huang, Y., and Wang, Y.E. "High Bandwidth Electrically Small Antennas through BFSK Direct Antenna Modulation." Military Communications Conference, MILCOM, 2018. DOI: 10.1109/MILCOM.2018.8599778; 3. Chu, L.J. "Physical limitations of omni-directional antennas." J. Applied Physics, vol. 19, no. 12, 1948, pp. 1163-1175. https://doi.org/10.1063/1.1715038; 4. Hansen, R.C. "Fundamental Limitations in Antennas." Proceedings of the IEEE, vol. 69, no.2, 1981, pp. 170-182. DOI: 10.1109/PROC.1981.11950; 5. Clarke, J. "Principles and Applications of SQUIDs." Proceedings of the IEE, vol. 77, no. 8, August 1989, pp. 1208-1223. https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/34120; 6. Kornev, V.K., et. al. "Linear Bi-SQUID Arrays for Electrically Small Antennas." IEEE Transactio

KEYWORDS: Electrically Small Receiver; HF/VHF Antenna; Direction Finding; DF; Antenna; Low Profile 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Battlespace 

OBJECTIVE: Develop innovative and operationally efficient approaches to exploit weaknesses in an adversary’s neural network-based cognitive sensing systems, and by association, techniques to protect our own systems from deception. 

DESCRIPTION: The 2018 National Defense Strategy notes the challenge presented by new technologies such as big data analytics, artificial intelligence, and autonomy. Because of the lower barriers of entry, the utilization of these approaches are moving at accelerating speed. [Ref 1] These technologies are enabling the development and fielding of a class of cognitive sensing systems. A variety of neural networking approaches are being employed as the basis for the underlying machine learning. In many instantiations, these sensing systems train continuously while operational in an unsupervised fashion in an effort to gain maximum additivity to a dynamic threat environment. For example, concepts for true cognitive electronic warfare systems envision a neural network-driven sensor that “should be able enter into an environment not knowing anything about adversarial systems, understand them and even devise countermeasures rapidly”. [Ref 2] Obviously as our adversaries field these systems, we will seek methods to counter them and in the same vein as we develop the very adaptive systems, we must understand their vulnerabilities and take steps to mitigate threats. It has been shown that neural network-based classifiers can be fooled by subtle undetected adversarial training leading to sensor responses that are inappropriate or incorrect. These vulnerabilities are widely recognized and the research community has proposed many defenses that attempt to detect and defend the network from adversarial training. “Unfortunately, most of these defenses are not effective at classifying adversarial examples correctly.” [Ref 3] We must better understand how to exploit these fundamental blind spots in the training algorithms which adversary might utilize and how to protect our own system from such deception. Consider undetectable adversarial training techniques as well as other approaches when designing a solution. 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. This will allow contractor personnel 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: Conceptually develop robust and operationally feasible approaches to defeat emerging cognitive sensor systems by exploiting weaknesses of these high data-driven neural network approaches. Perform an unclassified proof of concept demonstration to show the scientific and technical merit of candidate approaches. Consider undetectable adversarial training techniques as well as other approaches in the design. The Phase I effort will include prototype plans to be developed under Phase II. 

PHASE II: Perform detailed development and demonstrate algorithm performance in terms of ease of operational implementation, effectiveness in degrading system performance, and adaptability. Consider candidate cognitive sensor systems in electronic warfare and radar. Consider how own systems might be protected from such deception while maintaining advantages of cognitive system adaptability. Demonstrate the algorithms in high-fidelity, operationally representative scenarios. Prepare a detailed concept of operations describing the implementation of the approach in the field and potential challenges in its implementation. Work in Phase II may become classified. Please see note in the Description. 

PHASE III: Implement algorithmic approaches and concepts to defeat adversarial cognitive-based systems into Navy operation systems and concepts of operations. Incorporate methods to protect our own cognitive based sensors from exploitation. The same general techniques are applicable to a wide range of data-driven cognitive systems including commercial applications utilizing internet-based data mining. 

REFERENCES: 

1. Summary of the 2018 National Defense Strategy of the United States of America. https://dod.defense.gov/Portals/1/Documents/pubs/2018-National-Defense-Strategy-Summary.pdf; 2. Pomerleau, M. “What is the Difference Between Adaptive and Cognitive Electronic Warfare?” C2/Comms, December 16. 2016. https://www.c4isrnet.com/c2-comms/2016/12/16/what-is-the-difference-between-adaptive-and-cognitive-electronic-warfare/; 3. Carlini, N. & Wagner, D. “Adversarial Examples Are Not Easily Detected: Bypassing Ten Detection Methods.” University of California, Berkeley, 1 November 2017. https://arxiv.org/pdf/1705.07263.pdf

KEYWORDS: Cognitive Sensors; Radar; Electronic Warfare; Electronic Support Measures; Deception; Behavior Manipulation 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials 

OBJECTIVE: Develop innovative, affordable thermal/mechanical test methods for hypersonic material systems under a relevant hypersonic environment in a range of Mach 5-20. 

DESCRIPTION: Hypersonic vehicles and their propulsion systems have significant challenges in their design and development attributed to their extreme operational environments. One of the key challenges in hypersonic vehicles is their thermal protection materials and management systems. Recent progress in the research and application of hypersonic material systems has significantly contributed to our understanding of materials’ behavioral aspects under extreme hypersonic environments. However, ever-increasing demands of hypersonic vehicles in in terms of function, operation, and life expectancy require continuous technological innovations. In addition, there is a need for advanced test methodologies for hypersonic materials to ensure operational reliability and durability of hypersonic vehicles. Therefore, there is a need to develop innovative, affordable thermal/mechanical test methods under a relevant hypersonic operational environment. The target hypersonic environment ranges between Mach 5-20. The environment must recreate operational conditions including temperature, heat flux, thermal/pressure loading, atmosphere and plasma. The test methods must be able to assess thermomechanical properties of candidate hypersonic material systems with respect to strength, creep, and life coupled with relevant test frames. Subsequently, the test methods must be able to characterize environmental durability of the materials in terms of oxidation, ablation, and catalytic/plasma effects. Candidate hypersonic materials are primarily targeted for leading edge applications in which appropriate thermal management architectures (e.g., for thermal gradient or cooling, etc.), although not required, may be taken into account. Consider employing Finite Element Analysis (FEA), computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and Integrated Computational Materials Engineering (ICME) or any other physics/chemistry-based analytical tools to design optimized target test conditions in conjunction with test coupons/sub-elements and test facility. Collaborations with research institutions could strengthen the efficacy of research efforts and are thus encouraged. 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. This will allow contractor personnel 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: Design and develop initial conceptual model(s) of proposed thermal, environmental, mechanical test methods under the required hypersonic environment of Mach 5-20. Determine and demonstrate the feasibility of the designed model(s). The Phase I effort will include prototype plans to be developed under Phase II. 

PHASE II: Fully develop and optimize the approach formulated in Phase I. Demonstrate and validate the approach using selected hypersonic material systems. Develop and deliver a laboratory-scale test cell prototype with thermal/environmental provisions. Work in Phase II may become classified. Please see note in Description paragraph. 

PHASE III: Perform final testing and transition the approach to hypersonic leading edge sub-elements to assess their related operational capabilities under simulated Mach 5-20 environments. The topic, if successful, will have both private-sector commercial potential and dual-use applications due to its unique nature of new, affordable technology development. Test Methodologies would also allow the energy sector to quantify material properties for high-temperature materials and composites, which in turn allows the validation of modeling and simulation. 

REFERENCES: 

1. Evans, A.G., Zok, F.W., Levi, C.G., McMeeking, R.M., Miles, R.M., Pollock, T.M., & Wadley, H.N.G. “Multidisciplinary University Research Initiative on ‘Revolutionary Materials for Hypersonic Flight'.” Final Report, Office of Naval Research, 2011. https://apps.dtic.mil/dtic/tr/fulltext/u2/a552599.pdf; 2. Glass, D.E. “Ceramic Matrix Composite (CMC) Thermal Protection Systems (TPS) and Hot Structures for Hypersonic Vehicles.” Proceedings of the 15th AIAA Space Planes & Hypersonic Systems & Technologies Conference, April 28-May 1, 2008, Dayton, OH. https://ntrs.nasa.gov/archive/nasa/casi.ntrs.nasa.gov/20080017096.pdf; 3. Bond Jr., J. W. “Plasma Physics and Hypersonic Flight.” Journal of Jet Propulsion, Vol. 28, No. 4, 1958, pp. 228-235. https://arc.aiaa.org/doi/abs/10.2514/8.7284; 4. Shashurin, A., Zhuang, T., Teel, G., Keidar, M., Kundrapu, M., Loverich, J., Beilis, I. I., & Raitses, Y. “Laboratory Modeling of the Plasma Layer at Hypersonic Flight.” Journal of Spacecraft and Rockets, Vol

KEYWORDS: Hypersonic; Hypersonic Materials; Hypersonic Thermal Management; Hypersonic Thermal Protection Materials; Ceramics; Ceramic Matrix Composites 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platforminfo Systems, Battlespace 

OBJECTIVE: Develop novel Artificial Intelligence (AI) methods that predict future actions of an adversary using their assets, the arrangement of those assets, and the recent behaviors of those assets. In the case where adversarial action can result in a “mission kill”, “hard kill”, or “soft kill” of U.S. assets, develop additional AI methods to automate a countermeasure response coupled with maneuver and pattern egress from potentially lethal encounters. Additionally, ensure that precautions are in place to avoid leading an encounter into an unintended escalation. Knowledge gained from this effort could further allow the DON to counter known vulnerabilities in autonomous capability design efforts. 

DESCRIPTION: The tempo of warfare is increasing. Winning wars will require faster decision-making, which must be based on reading not only what adversaries have done, but also what future actions they are likely to undertake. Drawing inspiration from team sports where there is both offensive and defensive play (e.g., football, soccer, basketball), the defensive team must quickly and accurately read the offensive team’s actions to determine how best to counter the offense’s future actions. When playing defense, the coach and players need to “read” the offense and adjust their defensive posture to thwart the offensive drive. The “reading” is based on a combination of observation and learned experience. The observation is to collect data on the disposition, but the interpretation of the data is based on experience and knowledge of how the game is played. In the case of a future conflict where Unmanned Air Systems (UAS) are sent on offensive missions, perhaps in vast numbers, we currently do not have a way to train, learn, and build up the years of experience that make a good defense. Further complicating matters, the two sides could be asymmetrical; one side could have much larger assets to bring to the conflict in terms of quantity and/or capability. In the case where a UAS is at risk from a potentially lethal engagement by one or more threat systems, the ability is needed to effectively predict a lethal outcome, automate optimal implementation of countermeasures, and egress to a standoff location or non-hostile terrain. Surviving an engagement is dependent on precise maneuvering and countermeasure response, and rarely anticipates follow-on threat activity. The technology would need to maintain situational awareness of known threats and real-time threat activity in order to optimize the countermeasure response and successfully escape the threat environment. Develop a scope of operations that can offer reasonable balance between plausible and manageable. - Consider how to provide stimulus to the algorithms. - What is the novel AI algorithm? Propose a “Defensive Coordinator.” - Ideally, proposed solutions will be implemented into UAS. Consider processing power required for the algorithms. - Propose a method and metric for quantifying success. - What defensive options are available? Consider the range, mobility, and reach of defensive options. - Consider the possibility of algorithms to assist with finding vulnerabilities in current DON autonomous vehicle designs. - The objective is full automation, however showing that a human can be maintained in the loop for awareness is worth having. 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: Develop initial bounded algorithms for a UAS-implemented “Defensive Coordinator” by modifying/using existing algorithms and demonstrating a proposed design in a representative war game context. Identify the data required and existing hardware capabilities to collect the data; define requirements to real-time collate and process the data; and identify the human machine interface necessary for a survivable maneuver, countermeasure response, and egress solution. 

PHASE II: Extend the research toward more operationally realistic scenarios with consideration to directing defensive actions. Develop and refine ground-up prototype algorithms, incorporating lessons learned from the Phase I exploratory work into the design. Potentially demonstrate simulated ability of algorithms to engage countermeasures, initiate aircraft maneuvering, and perform egress routing. Employ threats that will be modelled using existing modelling and simulation software. Demonstrate algorithms in a mission simulation. Work in Phase II may become classified. Please see note in Description. 

PHASE III: Due to the broad nature of this topic, applications for proposed algorithms and lessons learned are wide and varied depending on the approaches defined in Phase II. As AI becomes more prevalent in the private sector, the autonomous driving industry is a commercial area that would benefit from a “defensive coordinator.” More robust systems are required in autonomous civilian vehicles to both predict oncoming threats/pedestrians/traffic and execute time-critical options for life saving and collision avoidance. 

REFERENCES: 

1. Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics (2016). Report of the Defense Science Board (DSB) Summer Study on Autonomy. https://www.hsdl.org/?view&did=794641; 2. Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics (2008). Report of the Joint DSB Intelligence Science Board Task Force on Integrating Sensor-Collected Intelligence. https://fas.org/irp/agency/dod/dsb/sensors.pdf

KEYWORDS: Autonomous; Artificial Intelligence; AI; Unmanned Air System; UAS; Threat Detection; Offensive Counter; Decision Making 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Weapons 

OBJECTIVE: Significantly reduce the size and weight, and improve the efficiency of Pulsed Power systems for High Energy Laser applications, suitable for operation as a pod-contained payload supporting operation in the next generation of tactical aircraft laser weapons. 

DESCRIPTION: The U.S. Navy has been developing a flashlamp-pumped, 1.05 micrometer Nd:Glass rod laser design using multiple pump chambers. The current implementation requires a pulsed power supply capable of delivering 50,000 Joules of energy in 5 milliseconds. The current system is strictly laboratory-based, weighing over 8,000 pounds with a volume of 768 cubic feet. The laser operates in a pulsed mode with a pulse repetition frequency (PRF) of 100 Hz. Significant improvement in pulse rate, reduction in size, weight, and power (SWaP) of the pulsed power forming hardware, and improvement in overall laser efficiency are the goals of this SBIR topic. Successful technology development should result in a demonstration of a minimum of 200,000 Joules in 5 milliseconds with a rise time of100-150 microseconds, while being suitable for packaging into a 330-gallon aircraft fuel pod. The final objective for the system weight is 1,500 pounds in a volume of 60 cubic feet. An intermediate goal is to demonstrate a minimum of 50,000 Joules per pulse (5 millisecond current or voltage pulse with 100-150 microsecond rise time) into the laser at 20 Hz in a volume of 120 cubic feet and a weight of 4,000 pounds. The average power goal of this system should be 20 mega Watts (MW) with an intermediate goal of 1 MW. The Navy will provide appropriate laser rods and lamps as Government Furnished Equipment (GFE) during Phase II of the effort. The system must be able to operate at a pulse repetition rate of at least 10 Hz for all of the chambers. Each pump chamber must trigger independently from all of the other chambers, allowing for a short (up to 2 second) burst of pulses with variable inter-pulse spacing (1-10 milliseconds). Although specifically targeted for implementation in future high-energy laser systems for tactical air platforms, the same technology would undoubtedly provide benefits to ground- and sea-based high-energy lasers and programs in all the services for applications such as missile defense and laser countermeasure systems. For the purposes of Phase II performance, the operational environmental conditions shall be nominally 5-35°C, with moderate shock and vibration conditions. However, the laser system design should be robust for eventual operation in deployed military systems and environments subject to MIL-STD-810. 

PHASE I: Develop a conceptual design for an improved efficiency, smaller SWaP pulsed power system that meets requirements laid out in the Description. Include methodology and potential prototype performance that will demonstrate the proposed concept with the output pulse parameters as described. A sub-scale hardware demonstration is desirable. The Phase I effort will include prototype plans to be developed under Phase II. 

PHASE II: Develop detailed designs based upon the Phase I with improved efficiency and smaller SWaP that meets Navy requirements. Build a prototype pulsed power system, according to this design, meeting intermediate parameters. Install the prototype system in a Navy laboratory, conduct preliminary testing, and report performance results to the Government. 

PHASE III: Complete the SWaP reduction and ruggedization of the overall pulsed laser system for incorporation on a Naval aviation platform including electrical interfaces as required by MIL-STD-704F. Demonstrate the final system and the initial scale-up of manufacturing capabilities to deliver for a Program of Record (PoR). Transition the technology to an appropriate platform or end user. Pulsed laser systems may have applications in materials processing fields for cutting and welding. Other commercial applications for the pulsed power system include those where large amounts of energy in a short time period are required such as radar for commercial aviation and the medical field for x-ray systems. 

REFERENCES: 

1. Beach, F.C. and McNab, I. R. "Present and Future Naval Applications for Pulsed Power." IEEE Pulsed Power, 2005, pp. 1-7. https://doi.org/10.1109/PPC.2005.300462; 2. MIL-STD-810G, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE TEST METHOD STANDARD: ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING CONSIDERATIONS AND LABORATORY TESTS (31 OCT 2008). http://everyspec.com/MIL-STD/MIL-STD-0800-0899/MIL-STD-810G_12306/; 3. MIL-STD-704F, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE INTERFACE STANDARD: AIRCRAFT ELECTRIC POWER CHARACTERISTICS (12 MAR 2004). http://everyspec.com/MIL-STD/MIL-STD-0700-0799/MIL-STD-704F_1083/

KEYWORDS: High-energy Laser; Pulsed Laser; Pulsed Power System; Laser Damage Effects; Directed Energy; Laser 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Electronics, Battlespace 

OBJECTIVE: Develop a low space, weight, and power (SWaP) system fitting into a single rack unit for generating multiple laser frequencies to drive Rubidium85 (Rb85) transitions relevant to atom manipulation. 

DESCRIPTION: The Navy is pursuing quantum sensing, both the development of new sensor technologies and the advancement of existing technologies. One of the challenges in this pursuit is simplifying and condensing complicated laboratory setups into a configuration that is able to be placed on a Navy platform. One such subset of quantum technologies is sensors based on Atom Interferometry. These sensors require simultaneous access to multiple atomic transitions for any given atom, which can result in complex electronic and optical setups. In particular, Rb85-based sensors require five separate, stabilized laser frequencies locked near the Rb85 D2 line [Ref 1-3] in order to drive the necessary atomic transitions. The characteristics of each of these laser outputs are listed in the specifications. The currently employed method of accessing all necessary frequencies uses multiple independent lasers - each with separate saturated absorption locks. This method is demanding in terms of space and laser control electronics, and adds the complication of requiring multiple, independent locking mechanisms to stabilize each laser frequency and intensity. While adequate for laboratory demonstrations, this option is unrealistic for mobile sensor development. Integration onto a moving platform will require significant reduction in the number of optical components requiring active stabilization and lock down in order to maintain un-interrupted operation. Options that minimize the number of internal laser sources required to achieve the necessary output frequencies would have benefits in terms of complexity, ruggedness, and commonality of noise sources. The optical and electronic packaging [Ref 4] should each be consolidated into a single 19”W x 19”D x 3.5”H rack with the optical rack having 5 polarization maintaining, FC/APC fiber coupled outputs. Consider the ability to actively stabilize frequency to within 10 kHz of the respective atomic transitions and intensity fluctuations below 0.1% of the output intensity; however, the saturated absorption reference does not necessarily need to be integrated into the completed package. All lasers must maintain polarization stability to within 0.01 degrees, which must be set to the fiber-coupled outputs. System must withstand the shock, vibration, pressure, temperature, humidity, electrical power conditions, etc. encountered in a system built for airborne use [Ref 4]. Locked laser bandwidth: threshold: <200 kHz, goal <100 kHz. Laser band and power specifications are as follows: TRANSITION 1 (F=3 to F’=4): LASER 1 – red detuned by 6-10 MHz, coherent output, threshold: 200mW CW, goal: 300mW CW; LASER 2 – On resonance, coherent output, threshold: 6 mW, goal: 10 mW CW; LASER 3 – On resonance, coherent output, threshold: 60mW CW, goal: 80mW CW. TRANSITION 2 (F=2 to F’=3): LASER 4: red detuned by 10-15 MHz, coherent output, threshold: 40mW CW, goal: 80mW CW. TRANSITION 3 (F=2 to F’=3): LASER 5: red detuned by 1.5 GHz, coherent output, threshold: 40mW CW, goal: 60Mw CW. The final system should be capable of operating under the conditions specified in [Ref 4]. Additionally, weight threshold: <30 lbs, goal: <10 lbs and power threshold: <200W, goal: <50W. 

PHASE I: Develop the system design, including modeling, to determine the expected power output and phase stability, and demonstrate feasibility of the proposed solution. The Phase I effort will include prototype plans to be developed under Phase II. 

PHASE II: Acquire necessary optical components, including lasers, Acousto-Optic Modulators (AOMs), lenses, and any other optical and electrical components required to accomplish the design developed during Phase I. Develop, demonstrate, validate and deliver prototype based on Phase I work. 

PHASE III: Demonstrate operation of Phase II prototype in a magneto optical trap. Ruggedize the prototype to meet MIL-STD-810G [Ref 4] operational conditions. Commercial and academic use of laser cooled Rubidium will benefit from a simpler process for generating the necessary optical frequencies leading to less expensive and more reliable systems that utilize cooled rubidium. This could benefit existing industrial uses for cooled rubidium in atomic clocks, gravitational sensors, and any other application that requires laser cooling of rubidium. 

REFERENCES: 

1. Phillips, W. "Laser Cooling and Trapping of Neutral Atoms." Reviews of Modern Physics, Vol. 70, No. 3, 1998; https://journals.aps.org/rmp/pdf/10.1103/RevModPhys.70.721; 2. Kasevich, M. and Chu, S. “Atomic Interferometry Using Stimulated Raman Transitions.” Phys. Rev. Lett. 67, 2, pp. 181-184, 8 July 1991. https://link.aps.org/doi/10.1103/PhysRevLett.67.181; 3. Steck, D. “Rubidium 85 D Line Data.” (revision 2.1.6, 20 September 2013) https://steck.us/alkalidata/rubidium85numbers.pdf; 4. MIL-STD-810G, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE TEST METHOD STANDARD: ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING CONSIDERATIONS AND LABORATORY TESTS (31 OCT 2008) (Section 514.6C-1, 514.-C7 pages C-19, C-20). http://everyspec.com/MIL-STD/MIL-STD-0800-0899/MIL-STD-810G_12306/

KEYWORDS: Laser; Atomic; Quantum; Rubidium; Multi-Band; Magneto Optic Trap; MOT 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors, Electronics, Battlespace 

OBJECTIVE: The Navy seeks to develop enabling technologies that can collect a broad spectrum of ocean acoustic data that allows for large scale spatial and temporal research on ambient sources of sound and biologics such as whales and dolphins. 

DESCRIPTION: The Navy must train and test to enhance warfighter lethality and enable undersea dominance. In order to ensure uninterrupted training and testing, the Navy is responsible for compliance with a suite of federal environmental laws and regulations such as the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the Endangered Species Act (ESA), and the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA). As part of the regulatory compliance process associated with these Acts, the Navy is responsible for assessing the potential impacts from military readiness activities. The Navy is required to apply for environmental permits to conduct activities that may result in impacts to protected species regulated under environmental statutes, such as ESA or MMPA. Without permits and associated environmental compliance, the Navy risks not being able to train or test. Without training and testing, the Navy cannot be ready to meet its mission. Environmental compliance is fundamental to continued uninterrupted training and testing, and ultimately, to Navy readiness. The Navy needs to be able to monitor sites of interest such as Navy training and testing areas to avoid further unnecessary mitigations and potential geographic restrictions that may affect readiness. Currently, the Navy uses visual survey teams on a contractor-supplied vessel to monitor the presence of marine mammals in areas of Navy interest. The costs of this method preclude the Navy from being able to effectively monitor large geographic areas, such as the entire Southern California ocean basin south of Point Conception and out to the extent of the Economic Exclusion Zone (EEZ). The Navy seeks to develop enabling technologies that can collect a broad spectrum of ocean acoustic data that allows for large scale spatial and temporal research on ambient sources of sound and biologics such as whales and dolphins. Passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) is a proven means of detecting, classifying, and localizing vocally active marine mammals, as well as a number of fish species. Unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) are the most effective platform type to cover large spatial and temporal scales, with an endurance of three months or greater. The Navy seeks the development of cost-effective PAM technologies (less than $100K) capable of sampling up to 200 kHz, deployed on UUVs capable of recording and archiving acoustic time-series data, running near real-time acoustic detectors and classifiers capable of transmitting detection reports via remote satellite link. The UUV, PAM-integrated package needs to be capable of being deployed and recovered nearshore from small vessels such as a Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIB) with a minimally staffed crew. The platform should weigh less than 115 kilograms and be less than 4.5 meters in length, not including towed cabled sensor weight or length. The Navy is interested in increasing knowledge and understanding of all marine mammal species. However, in order to provide some guidance on research priorities, below is a list of priority marine mammal species: -Deep diving species (Cuvier’s beaked whale, other beaked whales, and other deep diving species) -ESA-listed species (large whales) The UUV PAM system should be capable of acoustically detecting at least one of the priority species. Systems with capabilities to detect multiple species in the low and high frequency bands are desirable. This investment area aligns with the goals of the Navy’s Task Force Ocean to make every Navy platform a sensor for data collection. Advances in sensor technologies and platforms are increasing rapidly so it is important to continually integrate these new capabilities to reduce financial or operational constraints that impact the mission. Data from this technology development has further application in oceanographic, UUV, and sensor development research within Navy. This technology would have immediate application to enable efficient and cost-effective implementation of the Navy’s Marine Species Monitoring program in support of the Navy’s environmental compliance and permitting processes. Minimum specifications : - Minimum 3-month deployment and recording endurance - Acoustic frequency band of general interest: 10Hz-100kHz (designs may limit to specific bands within this range to target specific species) - Design PAM to detect at least one species of primary interest and determine direction of signal detected with a minimum of 30 degree bearing resolution (designs may limit to specific bands within this range to target specific species) - Capability to run onboard detectors and/or classifiers for acoustic signals of interest and transmit results in near-real time via iridium - Develop guidance documentation for externally created detector and classifiers developed in MATLAB to interface UUV PAM platform - Archive, unprocessed acoustic and environmental data onboard the system for post-recovery analysis - Remotely operated and autonomous navigation, and near real-time position and system health monitoring - Near real-time sampling and reporting of oceanographic data such as salinity, temperature, and depth - Acoustic sensor/s deployment predominantly below the thermocline with a maximum depth of 3,000 meters - Platform speed up to 2 knots, taking in consideration of minimizing flow noise over acoustic sensor/s 

PHASE I: Identify existing UUV and PAM technologies capabilities that could be leveraged towards the design of a prototype. Include a cost benefit analysis and proposed recommendation of the initial design specifications for a Phase II prototype that would best address the need in a cost-effective manner. The Phase I Option, if exercised, will include the initial design specifications and capability description to build a prototype in Phase II. Develop a Phase II plan. 

PHASE II: Build a full prototype and conduct an initial bench test of the sensor and platform package with the minimum specifications listed in the Description. Following the bench test, conduct at-sea deployment testing nearshore with a phased test plan to demonstrate offshore capability. At completion of testing, the sensor package must be able to demonstrate that it is capable of meeting the minimum specifications and be deployed and recovered in an efficient manner with minimal ship time and manpower. Total deployment, operation, and recovery costs should be less than $250K per mission. Additionally, package must demonstrate the ability to run onboard acoustic detectors and classifiers for marine mammal species of interest, such as those that are available on Oregon State University’s Cooperative Institute for Marine Resources Studies website [Ref 5], and send reports via remote link in near real-time, along with location and other platform information. At the end of Phase II, the awardee will prepare a Phase III development plan to transition the technology for Navy and potential commercial use. 

PHASE III: Demonstrate the UUV, PAM package in application to a specific Navy Marine Species Monitoring program objective of acoustically monitoring a geographic area of interest. Following successful demonstration of application to a specific objective of navy interest, a transition plan will be developed to transition the technology to the Navy’s Marine Species Monitoring program. This technology has commercial applications for oceanographic and marine species research by universities and other government agencies. For potential future application of the UUV PAM system in sensitive locations such as Navy ranges, the Navy will need to consider including encryption of the data to meet Federal Information Standard (FIPS) 140 Level 1-2 standards using National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) approved technology. 

REFERENCES: 

1. “The Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 as Amended.” https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/national/marine-mammal-protection/marine-mammal-protection-act; 2. “Endangered Species Act.” https://www.fws.gov/endangered/laws-policies/esa.html; 3. “National Environmental Policy Act.” https://ceq.doe.gov/laws-regulations/laws.html; 4. Office of Naval Research. “Task Force Ocean.” https://www.onr.navy.mil/task-force-ocean; 5. Oregon State University, Cooperative Institute for Marine Resources Studies. “Ishmael.” http://www.bioacoustics.us/ishmael.html

KEYWORDS: Marine Mammals; Autonomous; Monitoring; Species; Detection; Classification; Localization; Sensor; Acoustic; Glider; AUV; UUV; PAM 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Info Systems 

OBJECTIVE: Develop prototype algorithms for accurately providing precise angular pointing vectors from a shipboard satellite communications antenna to geostationary (GEO) communications satellites, develop positioning algorithms for the navigation system host to process the pointing vectors into positional data, and develop an Interface Control Document (ICD) describing the messaging and formats to provide this pointing information to the GPS-based Positioning Navigation and Timing Service (GPNTS) as an input message. 

DESCRIPTION: The GPNTS is the Navy's next generation surface platform Positioning Navigation, and Timing (PNT) system providing modernized, robust, secure, integrated, and interoperable network-centric PNT capabilities. GPNTS will replace the legacy Navigation Sensor Systems Interface (NAVSSI) systems. The Navy Multiband Terminal (NMT) is the fourth generation Military Satellite Communications (MILSATCOM) terminal that provided both protected and wideband communications to the Fleet while enabling a fourfold increase in data rate capacity over legacy terminals. NMT will also provide MILSATCOM capability to Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) Teleports, Ballistic Missile Defense, the Coast Guard, the United Kingdom, Canada, and the Netherlands. The NoGAPSS Future Naval Capability (FNC) will provide for integration of navigation sensors independent on GPS with new sensor fusion algorithms to process disparate sensor inputs. This SBIR topic will address the utilization of directional data of NMT satellite antenna pointing information to derive usable positioning data as a sensor input to the GPNTS NoGAPSS functionality. This will require the development of an algorithm to process elevation and azimuth data and present an output compatible with the NoGAPSS federated navigation filter running in GPNTS. This effort includes investigating the NMT satellite communications antenna pointing scheme to yield faster tracking of GEO communications satellites (e.g., using a monopulse method in lieu of using a conical scan). This new capability will provide an independent and robust navigation input for the NoGAPSS federated filter that will reside in the GPNTS. There is an expectation that this effort will require the development and implementation of mathematical models and formulations that will process the antenna pointing accuracy (in fractional degrees) as well as the number of satellites being pointed at, and output a description of the probable location of the ship (for example, an error ellipse for 90% probability center coordinates x and y, and major axis a with minor axis b and orientation c). The Phase II effort will include determining the antenna pointing accuracy that can be achieved at a specific technology readiness level utilizing a monopulse satellite tracking technique. 

PHASE I: Formulate and determine a concept for accurate positioning using azimuth and elevation pointing vectors from two shipboard satellite communications antennas. Determine pointing accuracy and precision necessary for effective positioning (within 25% of military GPS accuracy) and study alternative pointing methods to include using the monopulse method instead of a conical scan. In addition, develop an algorithm that is capable of ingesting angles-only inputs from the SATCOM terminal and producing accurate positioning outputs (within 25% of military GPS accuracy). Positioning outputs are to be compatible with a federated filter that will be used to provide resets to the ship’s inertial navigator. Interface to GPNTS will be TIA/EIA RS-422 with “OD-19” message format. Interface to NMT will be IEEE 802.3 Ethernet. The OD-19 ICD and NMT Ethernet message format will be provided to the awardee post contract award. Develop accurate pointing algorithms that will result in precise positioning, including consideration for ships motion and movement. Consider antenna mechanical design changes that might be necessary to accommodate precise pointing. Include performance for position accuracy of less than 1 nautical mile during periods of GPS unavailability and that is not subject to drift over time. Consider stability in shipboard environments (i.e., MIL-STD-461G, MIL-STD-810G) and vibration characteristics (MIL-STD-901D). Formulate an innovative approach to perform positioning using only the inputs from antenna pointing vectors. Describe the most promising technical solution based on technical trade-offs performed earlier in this phase. Describe the selected pointing methodology (e.g, monopulse or other accurate and novel technique), and describe the selected navigation solution processing to produce accurate platform positioning information. Address aircraft carrier environment, motion, and vibration conditions. Develop SBIR Phase II Project Plan to include detailed schedule, spend plan, performance objectives, and transition plan for the identified PORs. 

PHASE II: Develop performance and interface specifications for SCAPP. Perform initial integration activities and identify/develop the necessary engineering changes for both the NMT and GPNTS to perform improved antenna pointing accuracy and positioning algorithms from the Phase I approach. Note: The Program Office will coordinate collaboration with the GPNTS and NMT Programs of Record (POR). It is foreseen that the positioning algorithm uses angles only. After performing initial integration activities and using the Phase I approach, develop a prototype system for demonstration and validation of the SCAPP technology. Develop strategies targeted toward systems requirements for operation in an aircraft carrier environment with specific attention paid to maintaining accurate antenna pointing to support positioning under shock and vibration conditions. Develop lifecycle support strategies and concepts for SCAPP. Develop SBIR Phase III Project Plan to include detailed schedule in Gantt format and spend plan. 

PHASE III: Refine, fully develop, and integrate the Phase II prototype SCAPP algorithms and any antenna hardware changes into SATCOM antennas, and positioning algorithms into GPNTS. Perform Formal Qualification Tests (FQT) on the integrated NMT and GPNTS systems with final SCAPP algorithms. FQT testing will be conducted against the performance and interface specifications developed during Phase II. Support fielding of the SCAPP algorithms by implementing lifecycle support strategies and concepts with NMT and GPNTS. Study potential commercial applications for SCAPP including implementing new pointing algorithms in antennas systems that are part of systems such as the Commercial Broadband Satellite Program (CBSP). 

REFERENCES: 

1. Lane, Steven O. (inventor). Satellite Antenna Pointing Systems: US Patent # 6,393,255 B1; 21 May 2002.; 2. Boor, Samuel, Harvey, Melvin, Polchat, Guy et al. Single Channel Monopulse Techniques. Rome Air Development Center Technical Report # RADC-TR-67-143; 30 August 1967.; 3. IEEE 802.3, Ethernet. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ethernet; 4. PMW/A 170 Communications and GPS Navigation Program Office. http://www.public.navy.mil/spawar/PEOC4I/Documents/TearSheets/PMW170_FactSheet_2017_DistroA.pdf; 5. Schuler Tuning. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schuler_tuning; 6. TIA/EIA STANDARD, Electrical Characteristics of Balanced Voltage Digital Interface Circuits, TIA/EIA-422-B, May 1994

KEYWORDS: NMT; GPNTS; NoGAPSS; SCAPP; PNT; GPS; SATCOM; MILSATCOM; NAVSSI; Satellite Communications Pointing Vector 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Info Systems 

OBJECTIVE: Develop artificial intelligence (AI)/machine learning (ML) capabilities to address a variety of use cases that expand outside the current field of focus of the Navy. Technologies should address capability development, testing and certifying AI/ML algorithms, Readiness and Sustainment, as well as enable analyses of massive quantities of data in a multitude of applications with a shared focus on program and fleet success. 

DESCRIPTION: The Department of the Navy is interested in the development of cutting-edge AI/ML technologies and intends to collaborate with innovative small businesses to obtain solutions to the following and related Navy Focus Areas. Submit no more than one proposal per topic to one of the following Focus Areas: 1 - Readiness and Sustainment 2 - Unmanned Aircraft Systems Autonomy and Automation 3 - Predictive Maintenance 4 - Cyber 5 - Counter Artificial Intelligence 6 - Streamline Business Operations 7 - Integration of Automatic Dependent Surveillance 8 - Integration of Automatic Identification System (AIS) Data through AI/ML Applications 9 - C4ISR (Test/Certify) 1. Readiness and Sustainment - Maintaining inventories and supply chains is a critical function within Naval Air operations; this becomes especially important in keeping a frontline offensive supplied and ready. This process involves keeping suppliers aware of current demands and the flow of supplies to the destination. Aircraft readiness depends significantly on efficient supply chain. Currently, the acquisition software and databases embedded with bad data make it difficult to track parts. This affects the prediction of supply chain needs, making detection by humans improbable. Errors in the data propagate within the databases, causing major delays. Using AI/ML protocols to identify such errors, and applying deep learning techniques with pattern analysis, can cleanse the data error in short intervals. AI/ML protocols can also uncover relationships between variables and clusters, currently an expertise limited to experts. Develop innovative AI/ML technologies that can predict and prescribe items for resupply. Develop innovative technologies that utilize AI/ML techniques and collaborative planning to address efficient logistics support, maintain inventories, reduce waste, allocate spare parts, and optimize inventory levels. Demonstrate scalability and trouble-shooting to enable rapid deployment of agile, adaptable forces at reduced costs. Successful development will enable the warfighter to receive the correct material at the right time and place, contributing to increased readiness and sustainment. 2. Unmanned Aircraft Systems Autonomy and Automation - Develop AI/ML solutions for unmanned systems with a focus on capability development, autonomy, and automation. Software architectures and systems capabilities often define Navy unmanned assets whether they are unmanned aerial systems (UAS) or weapon systems. Accurate perception of the surroundings is critical to accomplish unmanned missions. Work in the area of image understanding of "standard" electro-optical/visual (EO) imagery has been characterized by sharp, well lit, and well framed features, rather than lesser quality images or "non-optical" imagery such as those from IR (infrared), SAR (synthetic aperture radar), and ISAR (inverted SAR). Explore and develop advanced image understanding techniques, such as multimodal imagery, in conjunction with sensor fusing. Architectures and implementations contain vulnerabilities that put survivability of systems at risk, often making them the target of cyber-attacks. Leverage AI/ML techniques to design, develop, and test processes that increase the resilience and survivability of critical UAS/weapon/weapons systems software through optimization of implementation and architectures that consider both failures due to mistakes and events perpetrated by adversaries. 3. Predictive Maintenance - Predictive maintenance applications, such as condition-based maintenance, have huge potential for supporting fleet forces and driving efficiencies. Develop novel approaches that predict and mitigate the failure of critical parts, target aircraft mission degraders such as foreign object debris and corrosion, automate diagnostics, and plan maintenance based on data and equipment conditions. Produce prototypes of predictive maintenance solutions and demonstrate scalability. Such AI/ML based applications have the potential to predict, more accurately, maintenance needs on equipment. Such solutions will significantly improve availability of aircraft on the flight line, increase operational readiness, and reduce life cycle costs. 4. Cyber - Cyber risk assessment and management of the Navy's weapons and weapons systems, quantification and understanding of risk provides temporary results based upon information available at the time of the assessment, and the risk to platforms in cyber-contested environments changes rapidly. Develop tools and techniques using AI/ML and analytic techniques to accumulate and integrate internal/external information, to report risk in near real-time. The developed system should be able to identify trends and emerging risks based on historical and current information, as well as provide risk measures of the mission through the development of key risk indicators, key performance indicators, and associated threat measures. The resulting system would extend the concept of CYBERSAFE to a near real-time environment using the results of those processes as a baseline. 5. Counter Artificial Intelligence - Methods used to trick AI/ML techniques, something as simple as changing a pixel in a common picture derived out of AI/ML techniques, can lead to misclassification of the image, resulting in unintended consequences; the system programmed to identify the subject of the photo is unable to do that through a small tweak. That said we must to determine if AI/ML can be trusted to interpret data correctly and act accordingly. Develop innovative approaches such as complimentary classifiers and meta-reasoners to understand such failure modes, propose mitigation plans to prevent deceit of AI/ML algorithms, leading to resilient systems. Such solutions enhance AI/ML techniques’ capabilities, delivering results that can be trusted and validated, and on par with human-like performance. 6. Streamline Business Operations – The DoD workforce dedicates time and effort on highly manual, repetitive tasks that are prone to errors. AI/ML technologies have the potential to reduce the number and cost of mistakes, increase productivity, and allow allocation of DoD resources to higher-level and mission-priority activities. As an example, the workforce is investing significant time and money to assess the current state of projects, with respect to cost, schedule, and performance. Often, the earned value management processes fall short of identifying real problems with a project during its duration. Data driven AI/ML techniques could identify such risks, optimize allocation of resources, and automate mundane project tasks. Develop innovative approaches applying AI/ML techniques for project management capacities, human capital management, workforce productivity and efficiency enhancement, and automation of business systems and digital workflow, which connect data and processes at the enterprise level to drive better business outcomes. 7. Integration of Automatic Dependent Surveillance – Broadcast (ADS-B) data through AI/ML Applications: The ADS-B data are obtained from publicly available sources. The Navy seeks to develop models and algorithms through AI/ML processes to autonomously characterize behaviors of self-reporting aircraft using ADS-B data. The behavior models and data will be used to (1) identify apparent air corridors and (2) detect anomalous behavior in support of determining aircraft intent. 8. Integration of Automatic Identification System (AIS) Data through AI/ML Applications - AIS data are obtained from publicly available sources. The Navy seeks to develop models and algorithms using AI/ML processes to autonomously characterize behaviors of self-reporting maritime traffic using AIS data in order to use these behavioral models and data to (1) identify apparent shipping lanes and (2) detect anomalous behavior in support of determining surface vessel intent. 9. C4ISR (Test/Certify) – Trusted and reliable AI technologies can be used to enhance mission capability and increase the performance of many types of Naval systems. Recent advances in ML are improving countless technologies from image classifiers to game playing, with the potential to revolutionize innumerable others, from natural language processing to robotics. However, the current ability to leverage advancements are limited because no reliable method exists for testing and certification of the outputs of these systems. Therefore, the Navy is seeking innovative solutions to enable the transformation of opaque ML and AI systems into trusted and understandable systems, necessary for the warfighter to utilize these advanced systems reliably to achieve mission goals. Develop appropriate framework and methods to test and certify ML and AI algorithms and systems using ML and AI technologies for Program Executive Office for Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence (PEO C4I). Successful methods will provide an effective and efficient way to test and certify Navy systems utilization of ML and AI algorithms and allow acquisition and fielding. Awardees should conduct testing in an operationally relevant environment with final testing by the Navy. Validation, testing, qualification, and certification for Navy use across a wide range of conditions as applicable for the relevant class of problem will be conducted. 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 be 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 contract as set forth by DSS and the awarding NAVY SYSCOM 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 advance phases of this contract. 

PHASE I: NOTE: Please add the Focus Area number you are proposing to as a prefix to the Phase I Proposal title. Develop a solution to address one or more of the use cases outlined in the Description and demonstrate the feasibility of that concept. Assure data integrity that is representative of affected processes. Feasibility can also be established through modeling, simulation, and analysis. A high-level description of the intended approach for Phase II should be included in the Phase I proposal. 

PHASE II: Based upon the results of Phase I, develop, demonstrate functionality and deliver prototype systems for testing and evaluation. The prototype system will vary based on the proposed approach, but it may include hardware and software. It is probable that the work under this effort could become classified under Phase II (see Description section for details). 

PHASE III: Transition the technology developed to improve and expand mission capability to a potentially broad range of government programs and entities. Commercialize the various technologies developed to civilian entities with alternate mission needs. 

REFERENCES: 

1. VADM Dean Peters article (USNI June 14, 2018) calling for readiness improvements that our AI application is uniquely qualified to enable throughout the FRCs depots space. https://news.usni.org/2018/06/14/navair-to-develop-modernization-plan-for-3-depots; 2. During October 2018 NRDE A2I Summit in San Diego, RADM David Hahn challenged attendees (government and industry) to find ways to "take AI to scale" and to accelerate AI-enabled technologies into the Fleet "at the speed of industry."; 3. “Summary of the 2018 department of defense artificial intelligence strategy”, Accessible from https://media.defense.gov/2019/Feb/12/2002088963/-1/-1/1/SUMMARY-OF-DOD-AI-STRATEGY.PDF, February 2019.; 4. U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Automatic Identification System Overview”, United States Coast Guard. 17 November 2018 https://www.navcen.uscg.gov/?pageName=aismain.; 5. Bishop, Christopher. Pattern Recognition and Machine Learning. New York, Springer-Verlag, 2006 https://www.springer.com/us/book/97

KEYWORDS: Artificial Intelligence; Neural Networks; Big Data; Machine Learning (ML); Data Analysis; Sustainment And Readiness; Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B); Automatic Identification System (AIS); Testing & Evaluation; Certification 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Ground Sea 

OBJECTIVE: Develop autonomous behaviors so that an Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) and/or an Unmanned Undersea Vehicle (UUV) can respond to a given situation like a manned surface ship or submarine. 

DESCRIPTION: The small business should develop software or a combination of software and hardware that would enable a behavior in one of the five classes listed below. The proposed solution can be for USVs, UUVs, or both. The Navy is seeking a broad range of emerging technologies that can utilize machine learning and/or artificial intelligence as potential solutions. This will increase mission capability by allowing USVs and UUVs to perform their missions without communicating with a distant control station. No current commercial technologies exist that have the military applications that the Navy seeks. Submit no more than one proposal per topic to one of the following Focus Areas: 1 - Storm Avoidance and In-storm Maneuvering (USV only) 2 - Perception 3 - In-stride Detection of Sensor Degradation 4 - Automated Pattern and Anomaly Recognition 5 - Classification of Surface and Subsurface Vessels 1. Storm Avoidance and In-storm Maneuvering (USV only): A USV needs to weigh mission accomplishment against potential damage from high seas. Once in a high-seas situation, the best immediate course and speed to minimize vessel motions may not coincide with the best path away from the storm. The USV needs a maneuvering behavior that balances overall mission accomplishment, immediate avoidance of excessive motions, and longer-term maneuvering away from projected high-seas areas. 2. Perception: A UUV or USV needs to accurately perceive its surroundings in order to accomplish its mission. Behaviors that improve perception could include choosing a course, speed, and depth combination that minimize vehicle vibration or deviations from base course, turning in order to optimize sensor “view” of a given object, closing range to an object, circling an object, or minimizing other power uses to allow maximum power output of a chosen sensor. Other behaviors, or combinations of behaviors, are possible. The optimal behavior may depend on the object of interest, USV/UUV sensor capabilities, and environmental conditions. 3. In-stride Detection of Sensor Degradation: During a mission, sensor inputs may degrade over time. Novel approaches are sought to detect such degradation and adjust accordingly. Detection of degradation requires determining if changes in environmental conditions or target behavior/type may be the cause. If the degradation is determined to be within the sensor, possible approaches include adjustment or re-calibration techniques, re-initialization of the sensor, or adjusted tactics to compensate for the degraded sensor. The USV/UUV might also have an option to send a snippet of raw sensor data back to a controlling platform for confirmation of a problem by a human operator. Approaches could also include a method for computing the value of continuing the mission with the degraded sensor and comparing it to the value of returning immediately to the host platform or maintenance location for repairs. 4. Automated Pattern and Anomaly Recognition: During each mission, the USV/UUV will ingest a rich stream of data unlike any previous mission. In a manned submarine, the human operator excels at recognizing patterns as well as anomalies. Novel approaches are sought to enable the USV/UUV to more closely approach that human capability of figuring out what is essentially the same or “normal”, and identifying situations and objects that are both unusual and important. 5. Classification of Surface and Subsurface Vessels: The USV/UUV will encounter surface and subsurface vessels during its sorties. Novel approaches are sought to solve the problem of classifying such vessels. At the coarse level, a vessel should be classified as friendly, neutral, or adversary; the neutral category would include most merchant, fishing, and pleasure craft. A finer classification could be at the level of vessel type, or even the specific vessel by name or other identifier. Approaches could be based on a single sensor, multiple sensors, analysis of behavior compared to previously learned patterns, or combinations of these. Any solutions that help identify a warship or naval auxiliary that is pretending to be something else are particularly of interest. Testing will be conducted by the small business in an operationally relevant environment with final testing by the Navy at sea. The product will be validated, tested, qualified, and certified for Navy use in at-sea trials across a wide range of conditions as applicable for the relevant class of problem. 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 be 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 contract as set forth by DSS and NAVSEA 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 advance phases of this contract. 

PHASE I: NOTE: Please add the Focus Area number you are proposing to as a prefix to the Phase I Proposal title. Provide a concept to solve the Navy’s problem as stated and demonstrate the feasibility of that concept. The expected product in Phase I may either be software or a combination of hardware and software. Demonstrate feasibility by a laboratory bench test or a limited scale field experiment. As an example, this might use a fixed sensor at a point ashore viewing vessels in a harbor or at sea close to shore, with associated recognition software. (Note: Proposers are expected to include concept feasibility testing as part of their proposals.) Include a high-level description of the proposed approach in a Phase II plan. 

PHASE II: Develop and deliver prototype systems that may include hardware and software for testing and evaluation based on the results of Phase I. (Note: The hardware may be a commercial system, or it could be a Navy-provided system.) Evaluate the prototype at sea, either from a Navy USV, a Navy UUV, or a surrogate vessel. Perform additional laboratory testing, modeling, or analytical methods as appropriate depending on the company’s proposed approach. Provide two prototypes to the Government for testing, at least three months prior to the end of Phase II. Produce a Phase III development plan at the end of Phase II. It is probable that the work under this effort could be classified under Phase II or Phase III (see Description section for details). 

PHASE III: Support the Navy in transitioning the technology to Navy use. The final product will be software integrated with Navy-provided hardware, or software integrated with company-provided hardware. The Navy expects companies to support transition to Phase III through system integration, testing support, software and hardware documentation, and limited hardware production if applicable. Possible platforms where the technology will be used include the Medium Unmanned Surface Vehicle (MUSV), the Large Unmanned Surface Vessel (LUSV), the Large Displacement Unmanned Undersea Vehicle (LDUUV), and the Extra Large Unmanned Undersea Vehicle (XLUUV). The technology will meet critical Navy needs in USV and/or UUV operations, as applicable to the class of solution. In Phase III, the product will be validated, tested, qualified, and certified for Navy use in at-sea trials across a wide range of conditions as applicable for the relevant class of problem. Additional software testing will likely also be required to ensure that all applicable conditions can be tested even if they do not occur during at-sea test periods. All of these solutions have potential for dual use in unmanned or minimally manned commercial ships or UUVs. 

REFERENCES: 

1. Prpic-Oršic, Jasna, Parunov, Joško, and Šikic, Igor. "Operation of ULCS-real life." International Journal of Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering 6, no. 4, 2014, pp. 1014-1023. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/277911664_Operation_of_ULCS_-_real_life; 2. Polvara, Riccardo, Sharma, Sanjay, Wan, Jian, Manning, Andrew, and Robert Sutton. "Obstacle avoidance approaches for autonomous navigation of unmanned surface vehicles." The Journal of Navigation 71, no. 1, 2018, pp. 241-256. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/320309314_Obstacle_Avoidance_Approaches_for_Autonomous_Navigation_of_Unmanned_Surface_Vehicles; 3. Liu, Zhixiang, Zhang, Youmin, Yu, Xiang, and Yuan, Chi. "Unmanned surface vehicles: An overview of developments and challenges." Annual Reviews in Control 41, 2016. pp. 71-93. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/301831885_Unmanned_surface_vehicles_An_overview_of_developments_and_challenges; 4. Jiang, Li, Djurdjanovic, Dragan, and Ni, Jun. "A new method for sensor degradation

KEYWORDS: Heavy Seas Avoidance Software; USV Perception; Sensor Degradation Detection; Automated Anomaly Detection; Automated Vessel Detection; Automated Vessel Classification 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Battlespace, Human Systems 

OBJECTIVE: The Naval (Navy and Marine Corps) Enterprise is interested in all facets of training and education to improved mission warfighter readiness and lethality. Driven by ubiquitous computing and advanced analytics techniques, the commercial applications for Manpower (e.g., human resources) and education communities have grown. The Navy seeks to apply those successes to military relevant applications across the Naval (Navy and Marine Corps) Manpower, Personnel, Training and Education (MPT&E) Enterprise. The broad topic will include various training and measurement technologies (e.g., game–based training, augmented and virtual reality domains) and the science of learning (e.g., cognitive models) to provide individual and collective training, along the training continuum (e.g., schoolhouse and to the fleet). 

DESCRIPTION: We are seeking innovative solutions of technologies and methods within the following areas: The United States Navy and Marine Corps seek a common shipboard and Rotary Wing Augmented, Mixed or Virtual Reality (AR/MR/VR)-enabled crew trainer to support and facilitate training objectives with a low cost and small footprint. Submit no more than one proposal per topic to one of the following Focus Areas: 1 - Instruments for assessing readiness in schoolhouse and operating forces 2 - Rapid and actionable After Action Reviews (AAR) technologies and methodologies 3 - Secure training architecture for LVC Training in a Degraded and Denied Environment (D2E) 4 - Distributed secure wireless network for shipboard training in a LVC environment 5 - Shared, sensed, distributed undersea and atmospheric simulation environment for use in maritime LVC training at sea 6 - Simulation into the cockpit of live aircraft 7 - Design Guidelines / Models for training system fidelity 8 - Game-based training systems for individual and collective skills 9 - Mixed reality AR/VR adaptive scaffolding tools for enhancing readiness 1. Instruments for assessing readiness in schoolhouse and operating forces: The Fleet needs hardware and software to capture warfighters warfare performance starting from the accession through the advanced training pipeline. The Navy lacks an end-to-end (E2E) solution to collect, fuse, analyze, and present this type of data across the whole training spectrum. In order to collect and analyze the warfighter performance this solution must be scalable and nimble to accept, tag, and fuse various data sources and types (e.g., live, virtual) until a Fleet wide data standard is accepted and implemented. The solution should be able to track a Sailor or Marine throughout his or her career whether at training commands, deployed overseas, CONUS, or at sea. Additionally, these assessments must be able to be combined into team/crew/unit/Strike Group level warfighting performance and warfare readiness. This will allow for comparison within Strike Groups at various levels (individual, team, crew) and across Strike Groups throughout the training pipeline. 2. Rapid and actionable After Action Reviews (AAR) technologies and methodologies: The Fleet needs a standardized AAR solution across domains (e.g., surface, aviation) that will provide near real-time feedback to warfighters at the appropriate level of detail focused on mission tasks in training, assessment, or certification event(s). This feedback should be provided at the individual, unit, and strike group level. Near real-time is defined as one to two hours after the conclusion of the individual and unit level evolution(s) and eight to twelve hours for complex multi-unit, cross platform, multi-mission at sea events. Moreover, this solution should also focus on providing instructors with real-time assessment tools to enable rapid synthesis/aggregation of instructor learning points to support the near real-time requirement. This solution needs to seamlessly operate in a shipboard, aircraft, and submarine combat system(s) with the capability to be backhauled from sea to shore-based training facilities. The solution should also address current shortfalls in data availability and integration (e.g., chat, voice, radar) for assessing performance real time and post hoc. 3. Secure training architecture for LVC Training in a Degraded and Denied Environment (D2E): The Fleet needs the ability to execute large at sea exercises to train, assess, and certify units and large collections of ships and aircraft while operating in a simulated Command and Control in a Degraded and Denied Environment (C2D2E). In order to execute this live, virtual, and constructive (LVC) at sea exercise two-way communications must be maintained for the simulation and mentors/assessors data between the simulation center ashore and the ships and aircraft at sea. This should address using existing Navy Communication Circuits but should use intelligent agents to optimize and prioritize the simulation and mentor/assessor data flow from ships and aircraft at sea and the shore. 4. Distributed secure wireless network for shipboard training in a LVC environment: The Fleet needs the ability to train, assess, and certify Sailors onboard ships while underway using commercial AR headsets without being hardwired to a network or computer. In order to use commercial AR headsets, it requires a wireless connection to the simulation for locating the wearer of the AR headset. This should address connecting wireless headsets to a classified simulation network onboard a ship while operating at sea. The solution(s) should be able to connect inside the confines of the ship, as well as outside the skin of the ship, and between the confines of the ship and outside the skin of the ship. 5. Shared, sensed, distributed undersea and atmospheric simulation environment for use in maritime LVC training at sea: The Fleet needs the ability to train, assess, and certify ships and aircraft in cross platform warfare against submarines and anti-ship missiles in a shared environment either under water or above the water. Currently each platform uses separate environmental data bases and target parameters which causes mismatches in various areas (e.g., ranges, detection parameters, aspect presentation, etc.). This leads to not being able to share targeting data across platforms and “negative training”. The solution(s) should be able to share usable target data (e.g., range, speed, target aspect, tracking frequencies, etc.) to allow platforms to share targeting data for under water threats and above water threats from a shared environment. 6. Simulation into the cockpit of live aircraft: The Fleet needs the ability to train, assess, and certify the aircraft carrier and amphibious assault ship along with its embarked aircraft. Currently aircraft train, assess, and certify before they embarked at instrumented land ranges without the supporting aircraft carrier or amphibious assault ship. The solution(s) should be able to inject threats with all the required data to appear as live threats in the cockpit of the aircraft, and the aircraft carrier or amphibious assault ship should have the same shared scenario as the aircraft. Additionally, the solution(s) must use existing operational/tactical circuits and must not overload these circuits. 7. Design Guidelines / Models for training system fidelity: The Navy needs evidence-based tools and models for training system fidelity, current simulations and simulators are developed in an ad hoc manner and are costly. The solution for training developers is scientifically validated methods and tools to understand and select the optimum level of fidelity for training simulators and simulation systems. Models/tools are needed to understand the differing effects of fidelity on learning, taking into consideration trainee experience level of fidelity and task complexity, and how these factors interact to produce different learning outcomes. 8. Game-based training systems for individual and collective skills: The Navy and Marine Corp need methods and tools to train small unit commanders to develop tactics and strategies in a dynamic and uncertain battle space. The solution is the use of multiplayer action video games designed to teach unit commanders and their team members to develop tactics and strategies on the fly. Action video games have in numerous studies demonstrated that playing multiplayer games is associated with increased cognitive performance, such as increased problem solving and decision making. These multiplayer games must have the capability to author new scenarios that reflect actual mission requirements and the ability to collect performance metrics at both individual and unit levels. 9. Mixed reality AR/VR adaptive scaffolding tools for enhancing readiness: The Navy seeks an AR/MR- enabled Head Mounted job performance aid (JPA) to support maintenance and operations. Develop and validate two types of tools a mixed reality tool for extraction and preservation of expert domain knowledge. Develop a validate JPA for transferring domain knowledge and supporting skill acquisition for classroom and ship-based training and job support. This solution will require a pedagogical framework and design guidelines. 

PHASE I: NOTE: Please add the Focus Area number you are proposing as a prefix to the Phase I Proposal title. Validate the product-market fit between the proposed solution and Navy stakeholder and define a clear plan for trial and/or test with the proposed solution and the focus area. The proposed solution should directly address: 1. Identify the Navy end user(s) and explore the benefit area(s) which are to be addressed by the proposed solution(s) 2. Define clear objectives and measurable results for the proposed solution(s) – specifically how the proposed solution(s) will impact the end user 3. Describe the cost and feasibility of integration with current mission-specific products 4. Describe how the proposed solution(s) can be used by other government customers, both DoD and non-DoD 5. Describe technology related development that is required to successfully field the proposed solution(s) The funds obligated on any resulting Phase I SBIR contract are to be used for the sole purpose of conducting a thorough feasibility study using scientific experiments, laboratory studies, and commercial research. Prototypes may be used or developed with SBIR funds during Phase I to better address the risks and potential return on innovative technologies. 

PHASE II: Develop, integrate, and demonstrate a prototype determined to be the most feasible solution during the Phase I period. The demonstration should focus on: 1. Evaluating the proposed solution against the objectives and measurable results as defined in Phase I 2. Describing in detail how the solution can be scaled to be adopted widely 3. A clear transition path for the proposed solution that takes into account input from stakeholders 4. Specific details on how the proposed solution can be integrated and how it will be supported/sustained 

PHASE III: Expand mission capability to a broad range of government and civilian users and applications. Coordinate with the government for additional research and development, or direct procurement of products and/or services developed in coordination with the Navy. 

REFERENCES: 

1: A Design for Maintaining Maritime Superiority Version 2.0 DTD December 2018. https://www.navy.mil/navydata/people/cno/Richardson/Resource/Design_2.0.pdf

2:  Surface Force Strategy and Implementation of Distributed Lethality. https://www.navy.mil/strategic/SurfaceForceStrategy-ReturntoSeaControl.pdf

3:  Information on Business Accelerator Pilot opportunity with H4XLabs for N193-A03 Phase I Awardees (defined in Business Accelerator Services section in Proposal Submission Instructions for Technology Acceleration Topics). https://www.h4xlabs.com/sbir (uploaded in SITIS 8/26/19).

KEYWORDS: Training; AR/VR; LVC Environment; Command And Control; Models For Training; Shipboard 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Human Systems 

OBJECTIVE: Adaptive training environments with deployable training for maintenance are applicable to general and commercial aviation communities. Further, programs for training aviation maintainers, which includes high school magnet programs through college degree programs, would benefit from this type of interactive and standardized training. It is likely that similar technology would transition to other maintenance type trades, include automobile mechanics as well. Finally, with space exploration and commercialization advancing, providing just-in-time training for complex, unique, and rarely used tasks are likely to be in high-demand training in the future. 

DESCRIPTION: It is all too common for a Sailor to go through “A” school and “C” school, receive advanced training and earn a Navy Enlisted Classification (NEC), only to spend years away from the system he was taught to maintain, performing unrelated work. This is often the case when Sailors go to shore duty, and then return to an operational unit where the skills they once had have become eroded. While the Navy is working toward extending first shore tours to provide more experience to maintainers early in their careers, providing on demand training capabilities throughout the training pipeline to include operational tours is critical for minimizing skill decay and ensuring proficiency at the time skills are required. [Ref 6] Further complicating the matter is a pendulum shift to increase pilots’ monthly flight hours to increase readiness. As noted by Deputy Commandant for Aviation Lt. Gen. Steven Rudder: “While there’s still no direct link between low readiness rates and causation to Class A mishap rates, we continue to believe a true metric of health of naval aviation is aircrew flight hours. Well trained, practiced aviators react to malfunctions and difficult circumstances far better and are much less likely to make mistakes, which in turn allow them to react in a fluid situation or unforeseen event.” Rear Adm. Roy Kelley, commander of Naval Air Forces Atlantic, said, "Class C mishaps, which involve $50,000 to $500,000 in damages to aircraft or a nonfatal injury, have doubled in the Navy since 2012.” [Ref 6] Ensuring that maintainers have the tools required to react to maintenance issues is a crucial part of addressing the cause-or-effect relationship maintenance has in mishap incidence. Previous efforts by the Navy to invest in readiness-builders, including increased inventory of spares, maintenance, and logistics, have shown positive gains. [Ref 6] However, investment in ready relevant training solutions and capabilities for assessing performance of skills are necessary. This topic seeks the development of a training environment that will provide refresher training normally left up to the operational command. Naval Aviation Squadrons face this training problem whenever sailors return from shore duty, and an elegant system for refresher training would save training dollars and improve readiness. Initiatives like Sailor 2025 are scratching the surface by identifying updates to schedules for formal, milestone training and providing tools that allow maintainers to focus on topic-based training and standardized recurring refresher training at the squadron level. Introduction of training at this level fills a gap associated with infrequent maintenance tasks, complex maintenance repairs, and emerging recurring maintenance trends. It is possible that the resulting technology may be incorporated into the Navy Marine Corp Internet (NCMI) arena and will therefore need to meet Information Assurance (IA) requirements as illustrated in the Refs 4 & 5. Additional information will be provided to performers during the Phase II. This Direct to Phase II SBIR topic addresses refresher training for aircraft maintenance technicians who have completed tours of duty away from the system for which an NEC was earned. Specifically, the Navy seeks an approach that combines the benefits of hands-on training, computer-based instruction support and performance assessment into a single, immersive solution. Further, a solution that incorporates objective assessment of proficiency based on training performance and job experiences would expand the use of the system to support readiness tracking, management of personnel, and refinement of training curricula. Training curricula will be explored as part of the Phase II in coordination with transition partners and will be made available during Phase II. 

PHASE I: Design a proof-of-concept technology that integrates benefits of hands on training, computer based instruction support and performance assessment. The proposed design should integrate (1) job aiding solutions that delivers expert systems advising maintainers on diagnostic and repair procedures in context, and (2) a training technology solution leveraging computer-based training, hands on training opportunities, and performance assessment, to develop sailor knowledge of diagnostic strategies and system components. During development, adhere to the Risk Management Framework guidelines [Refs 4 & 5] to support information assurance compliance. For a Direct to Phase II topic, the Government expects that the small business would have accomplished the following in a Phase I-type effort. It must have developed a concept for a workable prototype or design to address at a minimum the basic requirements of the stated objective. The below actions would be required in order to successfully satisfy the requirements of Phase I: - Determined the technical feasibility of integrating (1) job aiding solutions that deliver expert systems advising maintainers on diagnostic and repair procedures in context, and (2) a training technology solution leveraging computer-based training and hands-on training opportunities. - Determined the technical feasibility of applying integrated performance assessment capabilities. - Demonstrated a training solution that integrates hands-on training, computer-aided instruction and performance assessment to develop sailor knowledge of diagnostic strategies and system components. - Determined the feasibility of the technology meeting Risk Management Framework guidelines [Ref 4] to support cybersecurity compliance. FEASIBILITY DOCUMENTATION: Proposers interested in participating in Direct to Phase II must include in their response to this topic Phase I feasibility documentation that substantiates the scientific and technical merit and Phase I feasibility described in Phase I above has been met (i.e., the small business must have performed Phase I-type research and development related to the topic, but feasibility documentation MUST NOT be solely based on work performed under prior or ongoing federally funded SBIR/STTR work) and describe the potential commercialization applications. The documentation provided must validate that the proposer has completed development of technology as stated in Phase I above. Documentation should include all relevant information including, but not limited to: technical reports, test data, prototype designs/models, and performance goals/results. Work submitted within the feasibility documentation must have been substantially performed by the proposer and/or the principal investigator (PI). Read and follow all of the DON SBIR 19.3 Direct to Phase II BAA Instructions. Phase I Proposals will NOT be accepted for this BAA. 

PHASE II: Develop a prototype of the integrated training system. Consider and adhere to the Risk Management Framework guidelines during the development to support information assurance compliance. [Refs 4-5] 

PHASE III: Develop hardened system architecture and complete the Risk Management Framework process to gain cybersecurity accreditation for system deployment. Integrate transition-specific content for initial training capability transition. Adaptive training environments with deployable training for maintenance are applicable to general and commercial aviation communities. Further, programs for training aviation maintainers, which include high school magnet programs through college degree programs, would benefit from this type of interactive and standardized training. It is likely that similar technology would transition to other maintenance type trades, include automobile mechanics. Finally, with space exploration and commercialization advancing, providing just-in-time training for complex, unique, and rarely used tasks are likely to be in high-demand in the future. 

REFERENCES: 

1. Dzikovska, M. O., Steinhauser, N., Farrow, E., Moore, J.D., and Campbell, G.E. "BEETLE II: Deep natural language understanding and automatic feedback generation for intelligent tutoring in basic electricity and electronics." International Journal of Artificial Intelligence in Education: Volume 24, Issue 3, September 2014, pp. 284-332. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs40593-014-0017-9; 2. Durlach, P.J., & Lesgold, A.M. (Eds.) “Adaptive Technologies for Training and Education.” Cambridge, UK: Cambridge University Press, 2012, pp. 289-302. https://www.cmu.edu/dietrich/sds/ddmlab/papers/Gonzalez2012.pdf; 3. De Crescenzio, Francesca, Fantini, Massimiliano, Persiani, Franco, Di Stefano, Luigi, Azzari, Pietro, and Salti, Samuele. “Augmented Reality for Aircraft Maintenance Training and Operations Support.” IEEE Computer Graphics and Applications, Volume 31, Issue 1, Jan-Feb 2011.http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/xpl/login.jsp?tp=&arnumber=5675633&url=http%3A%2F%2Fieeexplore.ieee.org%2Fxpls%2Fabs_a

KEYWORDS: Maintenance Training; Maintenance Readiness; Just In Time Training; Adaptive Training; Mixed Methods Training; Performance Assessment 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Ground Sea 

OBJECTIVE: Develop technology for autonomously launching, recovering, storing, and recharging multiple small, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) on a moving unmanned surface vehicle (USV) in rough water. Develop the technology for use in a variety of different missions on different types of surface vehicles. 

DESCRIPTION: Currently, the Navy utilizes Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in a number of situations where having a human pilot is dangerous, inefficient, or otherwise undesirable. As the technology to control multiple UAVs improves, groups of UAVs will be deployed into a wider range of potential missions. One potential application is for use in counter-small boat applications. In this scenario, once identification and initial classification of a potential threat is completed, the UAVs would be tasked to fly to the expected location of the potential threats. Once there, they would perform further identification and communication with the rest of the naval forces. At the end of operations, they would return to their home USV for stowage and recharging. Additionally, they may also be replaced and returned to base if their battery charge is low. This topic focuses on the design of a modular system that stores the UAVs when not in use, and performs the necessary actions to prepare them for launch and recovery after mission completion. Currently, the Navy does not have a system in place to operate multiple UAVs from a USV or small manned vessel efficiently. While there are a variety of UAVs of different sizes, each comes with its own launch, recovery, and storage equipment taking up valuable deck space. Further, these systems require some level of human involvement. From manually setting up the launching system to actually steering the UAV into the air, none of the systems currently in use by the Navy is fully autonomous for launch and recovery operations. The new system should automate launch, recovery, storage, and recharging of multiple UAVs for use in a variety of missions, including the counter-small boat application described previously. This system should provide a convenient means of storing multiple UAVs, and must utilize one or several of the Joint Military Intermodal Containers (JMIC) for attachment to a USV or any other vessel for transporting the system, given the JMIC’s open hardware interfaces. There could potentially be several different types of UAVs stored in the system; however, it can be assumed that only one type at a time would be stored, but the type of UAV could change between missions. All possible types will be capable of performing vertical take-off and landings (VTOL) and be battery operated. An example of one possible set of characteristics for the possible UAVs is the ability to fly at 60 knots out a distance of 5 nautical miles, hover on station for 10 minutes, and then return home. However, the exact performance characteristics may change. Regardless of the UAV type, the system should store at least 3 UAVs. The system should also use open, modular interfaces to connect to the mission computer. This connection is how the system receives information on when to launch UAVs and how many to launch. It receives this request and then autonomously performs the steps necessary to prepare the UAVs for launch. This could be one at a time or multiple at once. The system will then interface with the mission controller to acknowledge that the UAV(s) is ready for launch. Additionally, it must provide any relevant status to the mission controller, such as number of UAVs currently stored. The mission controller, mission execution, and UAV flight controls are not part of this solution and could be a counter-small boat mission or a variety of other options. As the UAVs conclude their missions, due to low battery or mission completion, the mission controller will steer the UAVs back towards the system. The controller and the system again interact using open interfaces so the controller and system can successfully recover the UAVs. At this point, the UAVs are then stored and recharged for use in later missions. All portions of the system, particularly launching and recovering, should be operable while the surface vessel or USV is underway and on rough seas. Because of the wide range of possible missions, it is important that the system is capable of launching and recovering different numbers of UAVs at different times. In other words, the launch and recovery solution should not be an all-or-nothing system where all the UAVs are in use or are all stored. Different UAVs may be coming and going at different times as the mission dictates. Additionally, this system must operate completely autonomously, as there are cases where it would be located on other unmanned vehicles. Finally, the system should be able to integrate with and operate from a USV or small manned vessel that is deployable from a parent ship. A definitive requirements guide is in development. Use the following MIL-STDs for guidance purposes until specific requirements documentation is available; MIL-STD-810, particularly 505.6, 506.6, 507.6, 508.7, 509.6, 514.7, 516.7; MIL-STD-1568; MIL-STD-7179; MIL-STD-889 [Refs 3–7]. 

PHASE I: For a Direct to Phase II topic, the Government expects that the small business would have accomplished the following in a Phase I-type effort. It must have developed a concept for a workable prototype or design to address at a minimum the basic requirements of the stated objective above. The below actions would be required in order to successfully satisfy the requirements of Phase I: - Designed and developed a system to perform end-to-end handling of multiple UAVs (recovery, storage, recharging, and launching again) in naval environments - Determined and demonstrated the technical feasibility of a system capable of performing all aspects of end-to-end handling of multiple UAVs (recovery, storage, recharging, and launching again) in naval environments, including rough sea states and a moving host vessel. FEASIBILITY DOCUMENTATION: Proposers interested in participating in Direct to Phase II must include in their responses to this topic Phase I feasibility documentation that substantiates the scientific and technical merit and Phase I feasibility described in Phase I above has been met (i.e., the small business must have performed Phase I-type research and development related to the topic, but feasibility documentation MUST NOT be solely based on work performed under prior or ongoing federally funded SBIR/STTR work ) and describe the potential commercialization applications. The documentation provided must validate that the proposer has completed development of technology as stated in Phase I above. Documentation should include all relevant information including, but not limited to: technical reports, test data, prototype designs/models, and performance goals/results. Work submitted within the feasibility documentation must have been substantially performed by the proposer and/or the principal investigator (PI). Read and follow all of the DON SBIR 19.3 Direct to Phase II BAA Instructions. Phase I Proposals will NOT be accepted for this BAA. 

PHASE II: Based upon the work documented in the Phase I Proposal, build a system prototype and prove the end-to-end handling of multiple UAVs (launching, recovery, storage, recharging, and launching again) in realistic environments such as wave pools, motion simulators, or on water. The system prototype should also demonstrate its ability to integrate on to small vessels and/or USVs. 

PHASE III: Perform final testing that involves integration into the rest of the Multi-Domain Autonomous Defense Against Surface Swarms (MADASS) effort and demonstration on an actual USV. Ensure that this testing demonstrates and verifies the full mission capability of the system. Transition the completed system for use on appropriate platforms. This technology will provide a convenient way to store, launch, and recover groups of rotary wing UAVs; therefore, search and rescue, disaster response, entertainment, recording, sports, or other applications requiring a large number of UAVs would benefit from the development of this technology. 

REFERENCES: 

1. Joyce, J. "’Realm of the Possible’ Revealed by Multi-Mission Unmanned Surface Vehicle." Navy News Service, 20 April 2018. http://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=105220; 2. “JMIC: Joint Modular Intermodal Container.”. Garrett Container Systems, Inc. https://www.garrettcontainer.com/jmic; 3. MIL-STD-810G, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE TEST METHOD STANDARD: ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING CONSIDERATIONS AND LABORATORY TESTS (31 OCT 2008). http://everyspec.com/MIL-STD/MIL-STD-0800-0899/MIL-STD-810G_12306/; 4. MIL-STD-1568D, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE DESIGN CRITERIA STANDARD: MATERIALS AND PROCESSES FOR CORROSION PREVENTION AND CONTROL IN AEROSPACE WEAPONS SYSTEMS (31-AUG-2015). http://everyspec.com/MIL-STD/MIL-STD-1500-1599/MIL-STD-1568D_52579/; 5. MIL-STD-7179, MILITARY STANDARD: FINISHES, COATINGS, AND SEALANTS, FOR THE PROTECTION OF AEROSPACE WEAPONS SYSTEMS (30 SEP 1997)[SUPERSEDING MIL-F-7179G]. http://everyspec.com/MIL-STD/MIL-STD-3000-9999/MIL-STD-7179_10345/; 6. MIL-STD-889C, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

KEYWORDS: Unmanned Aerial Vehicles; UAV; Launch And Recovery; Autonomy; Modular Storage; Open Interface; Unmanned Surface Vehicle; USV 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Electronics, Battlespace 

OBJECTIVE: Develop and demonstrate an Interference Mitigation prototype Very High-Speed Integrated Circuit Hardware Description Language (VHDL) design to operate on Multifunctional Information Distribution System (MIDS) terminals using specified frequencies. Assess design requirements and conduct initial hardware testing and lab demonstration. 

DESCRIPTION: The modern communication field is characterized by the networking, Internet Protocol (IP)-ready capability, long range with limited transmit power, high throughput and high Anti-Jam (AJ) resistance. At the same time, Moore’s law brought a substantial increase in computational capabilities at the lower power consumption needed for the tactical communications systems, thus making the implementation of these new computationally complex algorithms possible [Ref 1]. However, advancement of increased computational capabilities has also provided the opportunity for adversaries to develop capabilities that can potentially degrade or inhibit communications for military systems on relevant operational environments. The Navy seeks mature (Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 5 or higher) innovative interference mitigation algorithms solutions that can be implemented in Field Programmable Gated Array (FPGA) to improve communications resilience in a contested/degraded operational environments and demonstrated via a prototype for transition into a MIDS Program Of Record (PoR). The effort should include the assessment of existing software algorithms and should be accompanied by detailed analysis and/or simulations that allow for comparison of performance of the proposed algorithms with current algorithms, and estimates of the computational requirements. The selected interference removal solution(s) should not degrade the link and should demonstrate significant performance during software and hardware simulation, prototyping, and testing. In addition, algorithm parameters should be developed and identified that will be used for a future link layer algorithm that allows for trades to be made between adversarial and friendly nodes to preserve interconnectivity and data dissemination capability. Of higher interest are mature technology solutions (TRL6 or higher) that are efficient in utilization of FPGA resources, have low latency (i.e.,10uS or less) and the ability to separate both signal of interest and interferer, and are able to output both signals. Work produced in Phase II will likely 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 SPAWAR 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. SPAWAR will process the DD254 to support the contractor for personnel and facility certification for secure access. 

PHASE I: Feasibility documentation MUST NOT be solely based on work performed under prior or ongoing federally funded SBIR/STTR work. Demonstrating proof of feasibility is a requirement for a Direct to Phase II award. For this Direct to Phase II topic, the Government expects that the small business would have accomplished the following in a Phase I-type effort: - Surveyed existing algorithms and established base figure of merits for proposing two algorithms – one implementable in General Purpose Processor (GPP) and another implementable in FPGA. - Established simulations required to establish the Eb/N0 figure of merit for the proposed algorithm modulations, codeword size and coding rates, included in Additive Gaussian White Noise (AWGN) environments. FEASIBILITY DOCUMENTATION: Offerors interested in proposing to this Direct to Phase II topic must include in their response Phase I feasibility documentation that substantiates the scientific and technical merit; proof that Phase I feasibility (described in Phase I above) has been met (i.e., the small business must have performed Phase I-type research and development related to the topic, but feasibility documentation must not be solely based on work performed under prior or ongoing federally funded SBIR/STTR work.); and describe the potential commercialization applications. The documentation provided must validate that the proposer has completed Phase I-type development of technology as stated above. Documentation should include all relevant information including, but not limited to: technical reports, test data, prototype designs/models, and performance goals/results. Work submitted within the feasibility documentation must have been substantially performed by the offeror and/or the principal investigator (PI). 

PHASE II: Produce, deliver, and implement (in software) prototypes for the proposed algorithms, encompassing both the design of the encoding and decoding algorithms. Conduct evaluations primarily by simulation and testing the algorithms against the required modulations and the emulated threat signal sets. (Note: The Government, at its discretion, may also provide threat signal data for testing. Likewise, the Government may also opt to conduct independent testing at a Government facility at Government expense.) After successful software implementation and performance, integrate proposed algorithms on an actual Software Defined Radio (SDR) hardware to demonstrate successful MIDS Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) TRL6 performance on a relevant laboratory environment. Assess FPGA resources required for final integration into targeted SDR FPGA hardware. Evaluate the performance of the algorithms based on efficient utilization of FPGA resources (less than 10%desired), latency (less than 10uSec required), Eb/N0 [Ref 2] and ability to separate both signal of interest and interferer(s) at a TRL6. Prepare a Phase III development plan to transition the technology for Navy and potential commercial use. Partnership with MIDS prime vendors is encouraged. It is likely that the work under this effort will be classified under Phase II (see Description section for details). Though Phase II work may become classified, the Direct to Phase II proposal will be UNCLASSIFIED. 

PHASE III: Support the Navy in transitioning the algorithms to Navy use. Further refine finished algorithms to ensure software coded, validated, documented, and information assurance (IA) compliance according to the Phase III development plan for evaluation to determine their figures of merit. Perform test and validation to certify and qualify software and firmware components for Navy use. Implement in the form of fast, efficient algorithms that, once proven, can be coded in software defined radios. Support or license the final product and transition to the Government. Partnership with prime vendors is encouraged. 

REFERENCES: 

1. J. Proakis and Salehi, M. “Digital Communications, 5th Edition.”, McGraw-Hill Education, 2007. https://www.allbookstores.com/Digital-Communications-5th-Edition-John/9780072957167; 2. Axford, Roy. “Figures Of Merits (FOMs) for Interference Excision, version 1.0.” 13 Jul 2017, SPAWAR PMW/A-170; furnished upon request to topic POC

KEYWORDS: Data Links; Software Defined Radio; Algorithms; Figures Of Merits; Interference 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials 

OBJECTIVE: The DOD relies on a diverse supply chain and a strong manufacturing industrial base to complement the organic defense industrial base. The department has a need to accelerate the transition of manufacturing technologies to ensure technological advantage for the warfighter. 

DESCRIPTION: Many emerging technologies in textiles will require consistent, reliable, safe and potentially washable power sources. The development of energy delivery fabrics can greatly accelerate the delivery of new fabric technologies for applications from self-powered shelters to drop and charge fabrics. This topic produces a fabric system capable of generating, storing and/or supplying power to relevant, modern electronic systems. 

PHASE I: Demonstrate useful charge/discharge rates and safe power cycles generation. Of interest are working prototype fabric-based systems, or systems that can be integrated with fabric-based-devices, that can generate energy through solar, triboelectric, thermoelectric, piezoelectric or other means with requisite electrical connections to supply power to a representative device. Safe, flexible battery sources that can be integrated into fabric systems and fabric antennae designs that can receive wireless power are also sought. 

PHASE II: Develop fabric systems that can store energy through supercapacitors or batteries that are incorporated into the fabric system itself. Systems should interface with existing electronic devices and provide power outputs suitable for the application they were designed. Fabric systems that can charge devices wirelessly regardless of specific area of contact through inductance or other means are of particular interest. Analysis of power generation per unit size and weight of fabric (Watts/m2/kg) is desired. 

PHASE III: Finalize the development of a material-based solution at production level quantities that can be readily implemented on existing manufacturing equipment. Upon success of Phase II, these technologies would be transitioned to fabric systems already in development to product integrated closed-loop fabric systems at least MRL 6. Address integration issues, cost, and power delivery vs. design complexity. 

REFERENCES: 

1: Liao, M. et al. "Printable Solid-State Lithium-Ion Batteries: A New Route toward Shape-Conformable Power Sources with Aesthetic Versatility for Flexible Electronics" Adv. Electron. Mater. 2019, 5, 1800456

2:  Aktakka, E.E., Najafi, K. "A Micro Inertial Energy Harvesting Platform With Self-Supplied Power Management Circuit for Autonomous Wireless Sensor Nodes" IEEE Journal of Solid-State Electronics, 2014, 49, 2017

3:  Lee, M., et al "Solar Power Wires Based on Organic Photovoltaic Materials" Science, 2009, 324, 232

KEYWORDS: Textiles, Fabrics, Fabric System, Wearable Fabrics, Advanced Functional Fibers And Fabrics Manufacturing 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials 

OBJECTIVE: The DOD relies on a diverse supply chain and a strong manufacturing industrial base to complement the organic defense industrial base. The department has a need to accelerate the transition of manufacturing technologies to ensure technological advantage for the warfighter. 

DESCRIPTION: The world is rich in opportunities for active fabrics to improve training, enhance medical triage, sense and respond environmental factors, and provide care to victims. This topic seeks a fabric system that can monitor and report physiological and performance status. Measurements of interest include hydration level, blood oxygenation, core body temperature, heart rate variability, energy expenditure, hypothermia or shock measurements in fabric systems or other as defined. 

PHASE I: Demonstrate feasibility of a fabric system that can monitor and report physiological and performance status. Measurements of interest include hydration level, blood oxygenation, core body temperature, heart rate variability, energy expenditure, hypothermia or shock measurements in fabric systems or other as defined. 

PHASE II: Develop fabric systems that can that can monitor and report physiological and performance status. Measurements of interest include hydration level, blood oxygenation, core body temperature, heart rate variability, energy expenditure, hypothermia or shock measurements in fabric systems or other as defined. Metrics for each proposed prototype will vary but should include signal to noise ratio required for reliable operation, system-level power requirements, performance comparison to gold standard or currently deployed measurement systems, description of algorithms required to interpret response and plans to test in relevant operational environment. 

PHASE III: Finalize the development of a physiological monitoring garment at production level quantities that can be readily implemented on existing manufacturing equipment. Upon success of Phase II, these technologies would be transitioned to fabric systems already in development to product integrated closed-loop fabric systems at least MRL 6. Address integration issues, cost, and reliability. 

REFERENCES: 

1: Rein, M., et al "Diode fibres for fabric-based optical communications," Nature, 2018, 560, 214

2:  Servati, A. et al, "Novel Flexible Wearable Sensor Materials and Signal Processing for Vital Sign and Human Activity Monitoring," Sensors 2017, 17, 1622

3:  Yokus, M.A., Jur, J.S. "Fabric-based wearable dry electrodes for body surface biopotential recording," IEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering, 2015, 63, 423

KEYWORDS: Textiles, Fabrics, Fabric System, Wearable Fabrics, Advanced Functional Fibers And Fabrics Manufacturing 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials, Sensors 

OBJECTIVE: Fielding hypersonic weapons is one of the DoD’s highest technical research and engineering priority. The DoD is pursuing options for land, sea, and air-based hypersonic weapons to dominate the battlefield by 2028. These systems will require novel material systems to perform at much higher operational temperatures than conventional weapons. 

DESCRIPTION: There are a number of commercial applications where electronic components are required to operate at high temperatures. This topic seeks to leverage commercial capability to provide compact multi-modal seeker technologies in form factors, having robust performance attributes in environmental extremes. These devices should support applications in precision aiding sensing or navigation and provide capability for secure high-speed data link protocols for transmission over long ranges these devices should also be in conformal in nature, as to fit into the airframe of a projectile. 

PHASE I: Demonstrate feasibility of designing a conformal sensor/seeker device that can perform at operating temperatures in the range of 850-1300oC, RF: VSWR, S11, S21, Dielectric loss, gain in EL/AZ, wideband antenna BW, maximum power handling, loss per interconnect, 8-40 GHz operation, low SWAP-C 

PHASE II: Prototype a representative electronic sensor/seeker device using high temperature conductors, dielectrics, and connectors, validate RF properties at high temperature (850-1300°C), simulate performance at high temperature (850-1300°C) modeling capability, and validate high-temp RF performance. 

PHASE III: Finalize the development of a high-temperature device that can be made in a production-representative environments in quantities that can be readily implemented on existing manufacturing equipment. Upon success of Phase II, these technologies would be transitioned to system-level demonstrators in projectile or vehicle platforms of at least at least MRL 6. Address integration issues, cost, and reliability. 

KEYWORDS: Sensor/Seekers, COMS/Data Links, High Temperature Materials, Printable Electronics 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics 

OBJECTIVE: Develop silicon anode-based lithium-ion technology in a format directly applicable to all man-portable batteries to enable a 50-100% increase in battery runtime. 

DESCRIPTION: The DOD has identified key capabilities that require modernization. Power and energy is a cross-cutting technology area that enables many of these key capabilities. In particular, enhanced portable power provides resilient, survivable networks and enables close combat lethality and the ability to maneuver and operate effectively as a smaller dispersed and resilient force. These are the underlying characteristics for enhanced Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR), joint lethality in contested environments, and forward force maneuver and posture resilience. Each of these capabilities rely on lithium-ion batteries for energy storage to accomplish the mission effectively. By incorporating a higher capacity material into the negative electrode of lithium-ion batteries in high concentrations, a 50% - 100% increase in runtime can be realized. This will extend the Warfighter’s mission time and minimize the need for logistic resupply. Spirally-wound or cylindrical cells have the benefit of alleviating the swelling concerns of polymeric (cell phone-type) cells while allowing for enhanced rate capability and heat dissipation in a battery pack. This cell type is used in the majority of military and commercial systems that employ lithium-ion batteries. The manufacturing infrastructure already exists to package these electrodes into spirally-wound cells like 18650s because they are so prevalent in the market. However, a research effort must be made to optimize, scale, and manufacture the electrode component itself before dropping into the traditional cell manufacturing phase. 

PHASE II: For this Direct to Phase II topic, OSD ManTech is expecting that the submitting firm will have done the following: - Determined the technical feasibility of silicon anode material for incorporation into >2 Ah electrochemical cells - Demonstrated ability of prototyping spirally-wound silicon anode cells - Presented samples to C5ISR Center for preliminary cycling capability and capacity verification at ~C/2 rate - Present a plan for manufacturing scale-up of electrode and cell production highlighting the present limitations in manufacturing with suggestions for overcoming them. FEASIBILITY DOCUMENTATION: Offerors interested in participating in Direct to Phase II must include in their response to this topic Phase I feasibility documentation that substantiates the scientific and technical merit and Phase I feasibility described in Phase I above has been met (i.e., the small business must have performed Phase I-type research and development related to the topic, but from non-SBIR funding sources) and describes the potential commercialization applications. The documentation provided must validate that the proposer has completed development of technology as stated in Phase I above. Documentation should include all relevant information including, but not limited to technical reports, test data, prototype designs/models, and performance goals/results. Work submitted within the feasibility documentation must have been substantially performed by the offeror and/or the principal investigator (PI). PHASE II: Development of spirally-wound silicon anode-based lithium-ion cells to demonstrate an increase in energy per unit mass of at least 50% (T) to 100% (O) over traditional graphite anode lithium-ion cells of the same size (ex., 18650). Additional characteristics include the following: • Greater than 25 wt% silicon with demonstrated attempt to maximize silicon content • Target 200-500 cycles to 80% of original capacity at a C/5 rate • Cells must be capable of 2C pulses • Cells must operate across a wide temperature range from -20 °C to 55 °C (diminished capacity during low temperature discharge understood) • Shelf life of greater than 2 years • Demonstrate production throughput improvement over course of effort with reduced cost to manufacture The final deliverable shall be a large sample set of spirally wound silicon anode-based cells for electrochemical performance testing at the U.S. Army CCDC C5ISR Center and for incorporation into a battery pack from a battery packager. These deliverables must have passed UN 38.3 and UL 1642 safety tests prior to delivery.  

PHASE III: Refine and mature cell-level technology for packaging into several battery formats, beginning with portable power solutions such as the Conformal Wearable Battery, handheld radio battery, and the BB 2590 presently used in over 80 different pieces of military equipment. Following these initial efforts, the technology will be applicable to larger battery modules that already use spirally-wound or cylindrical lithium-ion cells (examples include, Diver Propulsion Device (DPD), MK18 Mod 2 UUV battery, and versions of the 6T battery). Additionally, the technology is directly applicable to commercial systems presently employing cylindrical cell formats, including electric vehicles and consumer electronics. 

REFERENCES: 

1: Uday Kasavajjula, Chunsheng Wang, and A. John Appleby "Nano-and bulk-silicon-based insertion anodes for lithium-ion secondary cells." Journal of Power Sources, Volume 163, Issue 2, (2007) pp. 1003-1039

2:  Xiaohui Shen, Zhanyuan Tian, Ruijuan Fan, Le Shao, Dapeng Zhang, Guolin Cao, Liang Kuo, and Yangzhi Bai "Research progress on silicon/carbon composite anode materials for lithium-ion battery." Journal of Energy Chemistry. Volume 27, Issue 4, (2018) pp. 1067-1090.

3:  Yoon Hwa, Won-Sik Kim, Seong-Hyeon Hong, and Hun-Joon Sohn. "High capacity and rate capability of core-shell structured nano-Si/C anode for Li-ion batteries." Electrochimica Acta. Volume 71, (2012) pp. 201-205.

4:  Xuemin Li, Andrew M. Colclasure, Donal P. Finegan, Dongsheng Ren, Ying Shi, Xuning Feng, Lei Cao, Yuan Yang, and Kandler Smith. "Degradation mechanisms of high capacity 18650 cells containing Si-graphite anode and nickel-rich NMC cathode." Electrochimica Acta, Volume 297, (2019) pp. 1109-1120.

5:  In Hyuk Son, Jon Hwan Park,

KEYWORDS: Power And Energy, Batteries, Portable Power, Energy Storage 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics 

OBJECTIVE: Drive a revolution in RF direction finding and triangulation by testing and integrating VTOL UAV platforms with interferometry algorithms within an Altera Cyclone V FPGA. Also, to execute rapid prototyping by linking some of the country’s largest and most powerful computers with the nation’s largest 3D printing machine and other integrated capabilities to dramatically accelerate development, testing, and evaluation cycles. 

DESCRIPTION: Most existing cell phone and radio frequency triangulation methodologies are deployed and utilized to aid kinetic end states, drive the decision-making process for leadership, and support humanitarian aid objectives (i.e. find people in emergency disaster situations). Through the integration and incorporation of Altera Cyclone V FPGA interferometry algorithms with long-range VTOL UAV platforms, end users and warfighters will be provided with a product that saves the mission time, energy, and resources – especially in highly contested, austere, decentralized, joint environments. Solutions in this environment also serve to mitigate risks for government and DOD personnel through UAV integration, helping to save lives of support forces and extending the reach of resources to those impacted by natural disasters. Advanced Rapid Prototyping (ARP) is based on high-fidelity modeling that enables a “Model-Test-Build” philosophy that works through design problems in a physics-based environment and uses rapid prototyping to validate what the models predict. Detailed designs can be fully-vetted and tested long before any manufacturing is performed with a projected 80-90% time savings over traditional approaches for vetting of design concepts. Prototyping in this manner has the potential to more affordably field war-winning capability at the speed of relevance without sacrificing rigor. 

PHASE II: PHASE II: For this Direct to Phase II topic, OSD ManTech is expecting that the submitting firm will have: - Conducted a feasibility study on the integration of VTOL UAV platforms and interferometry algorithms within an Altera Cyclone V FPGA - Produced an advanced RF direction finder (triangulator) with significant real-world application and RDT&E - Produced an advanced RF direction finder capable of triangulating RF location in urban and non-urban environments out to 1,500 meters - Selected the proper VTOL UAV platform for systems integration - Have a third-party government customer willing to take part in the integration and end user testing of the final product - Have an established customer base within DOD, SOCOM, and various Federal Law Enforcement Agencies - Determined the technical feasibility of applying advanced rapid prototyping to validate models - Demonstrated ability of prototyping design concepts FEASIBILITY DOCUMENTATION: Offerors interested in participating in Direct to Phase II must include in their response to this topic Phase I feasibility documentation that substantiates the scientific and technical merit and Phase I feasibility described in Phase I above has been met (i.e. the small business must have performed Phase I-type research and development related to the topic, but from non-SBIR funding sources) and describes the potential commercialization applications. The documentation provided must validate that the proposer has completed development of technology as stated in Phase I above. Documentation should include all relevant information including, but not limited to: technical reports, test data, prototype designs/models, and performance goals/results. Work submitted within the feasibility documentation must have been substantially performed by the offeror and/or the principal investigator (PI). PHASE II: Develop, connect and operationalize an ARP system. The Phase II deliverable shall use the ARP system to conduct research and development projects representative of the following: • Advanced FPGA programming • Advanced RF direction finding sensor RDT&E • Advanced VTOL UAV and RF direction finding integration testing • Advanced additive manufacturing concepts in support of material solutions • Advanced additive manufacturing concepts in support of logistics and maneuver requirements • Optimization theory applied to design computations and rapid prototyping protocols • Feedback loops in design-experimentation hierarchies • Optimization of sensor and electronics emplacement in 3D printed substrates • Throughput enhancement techniques for operationally-relevant production expectations • Printing lay-down sequencing and configurations to maximize production capacity • Rapid head replacement to enable a range of material type integrations The final deliverable shall also provide techniques employing and assessment of composite materiel products for rapid production and modification of prototype systems. 

PHASE III: Refine and mature Advanced Rapid Prototyping (ARP) techniques employing and assessment of composite materiel products for government or commercial rapid production, modification, and repair of prototype systems. 

REFERENCES: 

1: Badiru, Adedeji B., et al. Additive Manufacturing Handbook: Product Development for the Defense Industry. CRC Press, 2017.

2:  Gebhardt, Andreas, and Hötter Jan-Steffen. Additive Manufacturing: 3D Printing for Prototyping and Manufacturing. Hanser Publishers, 2016.

3:  Guo, Nannan, and Ming C. Leu. "Additive Manufacturing: Technology, Applications and Research Needs." Frontiers of Mechanical Engineering, vol. 8, no. 3, 2013, pp. 215–243., doi:10.1007/s11465-013-0248-8.

4:  Syed-Khaja, AH, et al. "Advanced Substrate and Packaging Concepts for Compact System Integration with Additive Manufacturing Technologies for High Temperature Applications." IEEE., 2015 IEEE CPMT Symposium Japan (ICSJ), 2015, pp. 156–159.

KEYWORDS: Additive Manufacturing, Computational Prototyping, Data Analytics 

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

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this topic is the development of innovative payloads that can be hosted onboard a nanosatellite bus, for the advancement of USSOCOM capabilities in rapid intelligence collection, surveillance, and reconnaissance. 

DESCRIPTION: USSOCOM is interested in improving its capabilities in intelligence collection, surveillance, and reconnaissance from spaceborne platforms. Although existing national assets and commercial services can provide ISR data to USSOCOM users, USSOCOM desires more abundant capabilities for rapid collection and dissemination of actionable data. A constellation of tens or hundreds of ISR satellites is envisioned. Since costs (developmental, procurement, and launch) are all generally correlated with spacecraft size, building such a constellation with traditional large spacecraft would be cost-prohibitive. Thus, it is advantageous to reduce the size of the spacecraft as much as possible. Nanosatellites, and particularly CubeSats, have become increasingly popular in the last decade. Although many of the first missions were academic or experimental in nature, more recent missions have demonstrated the feasibility of using these platforms for actual operational capabilities. Certain missions that would have traditionally been performed by larger spacecraft can be transitioned to these smaller platforms, resulting in numerous benefits. There are, however, also technical tradeoffs and challenges in hosting payloads on nanosatellites rather than larger platforms. The payload must have a smaller volume and be shaped appropriately. Available power is limited, both instantaneously and orbit-averaged. Thermal regulation, attitude control, onboard processing, and communication data-rates are all typically poorer on smaller spacecraft than their larger counterparts. The purpose of this SBIR topic is to advance the state-of-the-art of technologies for small satellite ISR data production and delivery, acknowledging both the mentioned challenges and the harsh space environment. The desired outcome is high TRL (technology readiness level) packaged ISR payloads for nanosatellites. Resulting payloads should demonstrate novel capabilities or significant advantages over spacecraft ISR payloads currently available on this size scale. In terms of the missions themselves, USSOCOM is interested in ISR data of various forms. Broadly, USSOCOM is interested in detecting, geolocating, identifying, and/or characterizing objects of interest. Objects of interest include adversaries, their weapons, their equipment, their vessels/vehicles, and the terrain/structures of the environment itself (note that both terrestrial and maritime environments are applicable). Collection methods could include, as one example, analyzing imagery in the visible band (this is already the most prolific and mature of nanosatellite missions). Additional utility might be achieved by expanding imagers into the infrared regime or improving spectral resolution. Other techniques might be able to derive actionable intelligence from RF signals, by either actively probing (e.g. synthetic aperture radar) or passively collecting, enabled by advancements in antennas and software-defined radios. Other methods of remote sensing, such as those used on scientific missions, might offer unexplored utility when applied to USSOCOM ISR applications. These descriptions are non-exhaustive, and suggestions for ISR methods not-listed might also be appealing. So long as the proposed effort is developmental in nature, there are multiple avenues that could be followed in achieving the desired outcome of producing packaged nanosatellite ISR payloads that advance the state-of-the-art. The following are all within scope of this topic: • Innovating with novel sensors or designs to produce nanosatellite ISR payloads for which fundamental merits have been demonstrated, but there are no operational heritages. • Miniaturization of larger ISR payloads to the nanosatellite form factor. • Repurposing of existing technologies or payloads to meet USSOCOM-specific ISR needs. This could include, for example, development of novel software processing techniques to derive new conclusions from common sensors, or hardware modifications to enhance collection capabilities on USSOCOM-peculiar targets. • Adaptation of payloads used on ground, sea, or airborne platforms to the nanosatellite platforms. Developments would need to account for the challenges unique to nanosatellite platforms, including reduced Size Weight and Power of the new platforms, the challenges of the space environment, and the greatly increased ranges between the sensors and targets. • Fusion of data between two or more bundled sensors, to enable exploitation of data in ways not possible on prior payloads with singular sensors. Emphasis is placed upon rapid tactical operation. The envisioned CONOPs would have a user (in the tactical theatre) issuing an ISR request to the constellation, the satellites autonomously performing data collections as necessary, and then quickly downlinking the results back to the user. Although payload developers are not responsible for the communications infrastructure itself, they should be mindful of the quantities of data that their payloads produce, especially since ISR sensors are typically able to produce large quantities of data in excess of downlink capabilities. If possible, mitigation of the downlink requirements is desirable, for example by extracting and downlinking only key conclusions rather than the entirety of the raw data. USSOCOM does not pose strict requirements for the usage of any particular satellite host bus, but preference is given to selecting a commercial host bus that follows CubeSat design standards and is 6U in size (ref 1). Similarly, the term “nanosatellite” typically refers to spacecraft with gross mass in the range of 1 kg to 10 kg, but host spacecrafts larger in size will also be considered for this topic (up to 30 kg gross mass). If multiple design options exist for the size of the payload, then the trade space of size versus performance should be presented. USSOCOM will work with the vendor during the SBIR effort to identify a host bus that can both support the payload and allow for high-volume constellation deployment. PROPOSALS ACCEPTED: Offerors have the option of pursuing either a Phase I award, or a Direct to Phase II award. Direct to Phase II awards are intended to fund efforts for which prior research and development have demonstrated designs with maturity comparable to that of the outcome of a Phase I effort. Direct to Phase II proposals are expected to include feasibility documentation, as described below in the “Feasibility Documentation” section, in lieu of performing a Phase I effort. 

PHASE I: For the Phase I effort, offerors shall conduct a feasibility study to assess the art of the possible to satisfy the requirements specified in the above “Description” section. As an outcome of this feasibility study, offerors should include a concept of operations and analyze/quantify potential data that can be provided. Offerors should also include a preliminary payload design and address all viable system design options with respective specifications. Offerors should justify the scientific and technical merit of the technology, especially for components that are innovative or otherwise higher-risk. Tasking under this phase could include: • Identify basic scientific principles for the proposed payload, applications to USSOCOM needs, and notional CONOPs. • Establish proof-of-concept of basic principles and applications, either analytically or experimentally. • Formulate a preliminary payload design, including packaging and electronics that could feasibly be integrated with a nanosatellite host. • Predict performance of the preliminary design by using analysis, modeling, simulation, tests and/or other tools. • Estimate the system properties of payload, such as mass, volume, and shape. • Estimate the requirements for integration with a host satellite, such as power requirements, attitude control requirements, thermal regulation requirements, computing requirements, and downlink requirements. • Verify the integration compatibility of the preliminary design with potential commercial nanosatellite buses of the appropriate form factor. • Describe the procedure and algorithms for processing the collected data. At minimum, describe any techniques that are strictly necessary for transforming the raw sensor data into a form that can be consumed by the user. Optionally, describe any more sophisticated techniques that could exploit the data stream to enhance the utility of the data, or reduce the quantity of data that must be downlinked. • Define how operators would task the payload, receive payload data, and interpret such data. Wherever possible, automation is preferred, and it is desirable to maximize utility of the data while minimizing burden on the user. The objective of this USSOCOM Phase I SBIR effort is to conduct and document the results of a thorough feasibility study (“Technology Readiness Level 3”) to investigate what is in the art of the possible within the given trade space that will satisfy a needed technology. The feasibility study should investigate all options that meet or exceed the minimum performance parameters specified in this write up. It should also address the risks and potential payoffs of the innovative technology options that are investigated and recommend the option that best achieves the objective of this technology pursuit. The funds obligated on the resulting Phase I SBIR contracts are to be used for the sole purpose of conducting a thorough feasibility study using scientific experiments and laboratory studies as necessary. Operational prototypes will not be developed with USSOCOM SBIR funds during Phase I feasibility studies. Operational prototypes developed with other than SBIR funds that are provided at the end of Phase I feasibility studies will not be considered in deciding what firm(s) will be selected for Phase II. 

PHASE II: For the Phase II effort, offerors shall develop and demonstrate the prototype system determined to be the most feasible solution during the Phase I feasibility study. The objective of this phase is to advance the technology readiness of the payload as much as possible, by refining the payload design, building a prototype payload, and testing the prototype in a relevant environment. USSOCOM will coordinate with the vendor to identify a suitable nanosatellite host bus, and one outcome of this phase would be the integration of the prototype payload with hardware and software equipment representative of the selected host bus. Subject to USSOCOM funding and user interest, a flight demonstration mission will also be considered under the scope of this phase. Tasking under this phase could include: • Coordinate with USSOCOM to identify a suitable nanosatellite host bus. Modify payload design as necessary to ensure compatibility with the selected host bus. • Perform further analysis, modeling, and simulation to optimize payload design and improve performance. • Build a prototype payload. • Test the prototype payload and verify its capability to collect mission data on a representative target. Evaluate measured performance characteristics versus expectations and make design adjustments as necessary. • Develop software to control the payload, collect/process mission data, and interact with the host bus. • Demonstrate operation of the prototype payload in a representative space environment. Validate the robustness of the payload to both the space environment and the launch environment, performing necessary tests (e.g. thermal vacuum, vibration) as guided by an appropriate standard (e.g. ref 2). • Integrate the prototype payload with hardware and software equipment representative of the selected host bus. Integration equipment should be procured from the host bus vendor and could be either a flat-sat, a desktop development unit, or an engineering development unit. Subject to USSOCOM funding and user interest, tasking under this phase could also include: • Integrate a prototype payload with a flight unit of the selected host bus, in preparation for launch of a demonstration mission. • Support on-orbit test, demonstration, and evaluation. • Train government operators as required to command the payload, interpret mission data, and evaluate payload capabilities. 

PHASE III: This system could be used in a broad range of military applications where there are requirements for timely collection of ISR data from spaceborne assets. A potential transition path could involve fielding of this payload on tens or hundreds of satellites in a coordinated multi-plane constellation, achieving frequent revisit rates and unprecedented data delivery latencies. Depending on the nature and specifics of the payload, the capabilities developed could also be used in other missions by commercial companies or other government organizations. 

REFERENCES: 

1: CubeSat Design Specification, California Polytechnic State University, http://cubesat.org/

2:  NASA General Environmental Verification Standard (GEVS), GFSC-STD-7000, Rev A, Goddard Space Flight Center, https://standards.nasa.gov/standard/gsfc/gsfc-std-7000

KEYWORDS: USSOCOM, Space, Satellite, Nanosatellite, Cubesat, Payload, Imagery, Remote Sensing, ISR 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform, Ground Seaweapons 

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this topic is to develop an innovative small arms marking round to replace tracers in adjusting machine gun fire. 

DESCRIPTION: USSOCOM is seeking 7.62mm x 51 NATO spotting rounds to replace tracers for adjusting machine gun fire, both day and night, producing a flash and /or smoke signature visible at 800m-1200m. Current tracers allow gunners to observe the trajectory of the rounds and make aiming corrections without observing the impact of the rounds fired and without using the sights of the weapon. However, these rounds give away the gunners position, burn out before the maximum range of the machine gun and draws enemy fire. Replacing tracers with marking or spotting pyrotechnic rounds enables the gunner to directly control the impact on to the target, shows target coverage, and does not disclose the shooters location. This will increase the accuracy of machine gun fire, save ammunition, and increase gunner survivability. Key Attributes: Threshold (T), Objective (O) a. Visible day and night at 600m (T) -1500m (O) b. 7.62mm (T) , 7.62, 6.5mm and .338 (O) c. Ballistic trajectory match the 147 gr 7.62mm x 51mm M80 Ball (T), 6.5mm 130grs Open Tip Match (OTM), and 300gr 338 Norma Magnum OTM. d.. 90% flash on hard surfaces (T), 70 % function on soft ground (O). e. Fire hazard no worse than current tracers. f. Meet environmental, health and safety limits. While traditional incendiary projectile have some of these attributes, they have unacceptably thick jackets and tend to function only against hard surfaces. The pyrotechnic mix is optimized for incendiary effects rather than maximizing visual effects with minimum incendiary effects. Projectile weight, shape, combination of materials, and loading will have to be adjusted to achieve a ballistic match. 

PHASE I: Conduct a feasibility study to assess what is in the art of the possible that satisfies the requirements specified in the above paragraph entitled “Description.” The objective of this USSOCOM Phase I SBIR effort is to conduct and document the results of a thorough feasibility study (“Technology Readiness Level 3”) to investigate what is in the art of the possible within the given trade space that will satisfy a needed technology. The feasibility study should investigate all options that meet or exceed the minimum performance parameters specified in this write up. It should also address the risks and potential payoffs of the innovative technology options that are investigated and recommend the option that best achieves the objective of this technology pursuit. The funds obligated on the resulting Phase I SBIR contracts are to be used for the sole purpose of conducting a thorough feasibility study using scientific experiments and laboratory studies as necessary. Operational prototypes will not be developed with USSOCOM SBIR funds during Phase I feasibility studies. Operational prototypes developed with other than SBIR funds that are provided at the end of Phase I feasibility studies will not be considered in deciding what firm(s) will be selected for Phase II. 

PHASE II: Develop, install, and demonstrate a prototype system determined to be the most feasible solution during the Phase I feasibility study on a 7.62mm Marking Round. 

PHASE III: This system could be used in a broad range of military applications where sensing and adjusting the target impact is critical. The new rounds are most applicable to effective long range machine gun and/or achieving second round hits when sniping at extreme long range. 

REFERENCES: 

1: Jean Huon, "Military Rifle and Machine Gun Cartridges", .50 caliber Spotter, M48, pages 329-330, dated 1 June 1990

2:  Headquarters, Department of the Army, Technical Manual, TM 43-0001-27 "Army Ammunition Data Sheets Small Caliber Ammunition" FSC 1305, dated April 1994

3:  https://www.army.mil/article/130675/engineers_developing_safer_more_accurate_tracer_round, Engineers Developing Safer, More Accurate Tracer Round, By Audra Calloway, Picatinny Public Affairs July 28, 2014

4:  Bev Fitchett's Guns Magazine, "Chemical Analysis of Firearms", https://www.bevfitchett.us/chemical-analysis-of-firearms/incendiary-bullets.html, Incendiary Bullets, 27 Mar 2019

KEYWORDS: Small Arms Ammunition, Machine Gun Fire Control, Incendiary Ammunition, Marking Rounds, Spotting Rounds, Machine Gun Techniques Of Fire 

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

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this topic is the development of innovative payloads that can be hosted onboard a nanosatellite bus, for the advancement of USSOCOM capabilities in rapid intelligence collection, surveillance, and reconnaissance. 

DESCRIPTION: USSOCOM is interested in improving its capabilities in intelligence collection, surveillance, and reconnaissance from spaceborne platforms. Although existing national assets and commercial services can provide ISR data to USSOCOM users, USSOCOM desires more abundant capabilities for rapid collection and dissemination of actionable data. A constellation of tens or hundreds of ISR satellites is envisioned. Since costs (developmental, procurement, and launch) are all generally correlated with spacecraft size, building such a constellation with traditional large spacecraft would be cost-prohibitive. Thus, it is advantageous to reduce the size of the spacecraft as much as possible. Nanosatellites, and particularly CubeSats, have become increasingly popular in the last decade. Although many of the first missions were academic or experimental in nature, more recent missions have demonstrated the feasibility of using these platforms for actual operational capabilities. Certain missions that would have traditionally been performed by larger spacecraft can be transitioned to these smaller platforms, resulting in numerous benefits. There are, however, also technical tradeoffs and challenges in hosting payloads on nanosatellites rather than larger platforms. The payload must have a smaller volume and be shaped appropriately. Available power is limited, both instantaneously and orbit-averaged. Thermal regulation, attitude control, onboard processing, and communication data-rates are all typically poorer on smaller spacecraft than their larger counterparts. The purpose of this SBIR topic is to advance the state-of-the-art of technologies for small satellite ISR data production and delivery, acknowledging both the mentioned challenges and the harsh space environment. The desired outcome is high TRL (technology readiness level) packaged ISR payloads for nanosatellites. Resulting payloads should demonstrate novel capabilities or significant advantages over spacecraft ISR payloads currently available on this size scale. In terms of the missions themselves, USSOCOM is interested in ISR data of various forms. Broadly, USSOCOM is interested in detecting, geolocating, identifying, and/or characterizing objects of interest. Objects of interest include adversaries, their weapons, their equipment, their vessels/vehicles, and the terrain/structures of the environment itself (note that both terrestrial and maritime environments are applicable). Collection methods could include, as one example, analyzing imagery in the visible band (this is already the most prolific and mature of nanosatellite missions). Additional utility might be achieved by expanding imagers into the infrared regime or improving spectral resolution. Other techniques might be able to derive actionable intelligence from RF signals, by either actively probing (e.g. synthetic aperture radar) or passively collecting, enabled by advancements in antennas and software-defined radios. Other methods of remote sensing, such as those used on scientific missions, might offer unexplored utility when applied to USSOCOM ISR applications. These descriptions are non-exhaustive, and suggestions for ISR methods not-listed might also be appealing. So long as the proposed effort is developmental in nature, there are multiple avenues that could be followed in achieving the desired outcome of producing packaged nanosatellite ISR payloads that advance the state-of-the-art. The following are all within scope of this topic: • Innovating with novel sensors or designs to produce nanosatellite ISR payloads for which fundamental merits have been demonstrated, but there are no operational heritages. • Miniaturization of larger ISR payloads to the nanosatellite form factor. • Repurposing of existing technologies or payloads to meet USSOCOM-specific ISR needs. This could include, for example, development of novel software processing techniques to derive new conclusions from common sensors, or hardware modifications to enhance collection capabilities on USSOCOM-peculiar targets. • Adaptation of payloads used on ground, sea, or airborne platforms to the nanosatellite platforms. Developments would need to account for the challenges unique to nanosatellite platforms, including reduced Size Weight and Power of the new platforms, the challenges of the space environment, and the greatly increased ranges between the sensors and targets. • Fusion of data between two or more bundled sensors, to enable exploitation of data in ways not possible on prior payloads with singular sensors. Emphasis is placed upon rapid tactical operation. The envisioned CONOPs would have a user (in the tactical theatre) issuing an ISR request to the constellation, the satellites autonomously performing data collections as necessary, and then quickly downlinking the results back to the user. Although payload developers are not responsible for the communications infrastructure itself, they should be mindful of the quantities of data that their payloads produce, especially since ISR sensors are typically able to produce large quantities of data in excess of downlink capabilities. If possible, mitigation of the downlink requirements is desirable, for example by extracting and downlinking only key conclusions rather than the entirety of the raw data. USSOCOM does not pose strict requirements for the usage of any particular satellite host bus, but preference is given to selecting a commercial host bus that follows CubeSat design standards and is 6U in size (ref 1). Similarly, the term “nanosatellite” typically refers to spacecraft with gross mass in the range of 1 kg to 10 kg, but host spacecrafts larger in size will also be considered for this topic (up to 30 kg gross mass). If multiple design options exist for the size of the payload, then the trade space of size versus performance should be presented. USSOCOM will work with the vendor during the SBIR effort to identify a host bus that can both support the payload and allow for high-volume constellation deployment. PROPOSALS ACCEPTED: Offerors have the option of pursuing either a Phase I award, or a Direct to Phase II award. Direct to Phase II awards are intended to fund efforts for which prior research and development have demonstrated designs with maturity comparable to that of the outcome of a Phase I effort. Direct to Phase II proposals are expected to include feasibility documentation, as described below in the “Feasibility Documentation” section, in lieu of performing a Phase I effort. 

PHASE I: For the Phase I effort, offerors shall conduct a feasibility study to assess the art of the possible to satisfy the requirements specified in the above “Description” section. As an outcome of this feasibility study, offerors should include a concept of operations and analyze/quantify potential data that can be provided. Offerors should also include a preliminary payload design and address all viable system design options with respective specifications. Offerors should justify the scientific and technical merit of the technology, especially for components that are innovative or otherwise higher-risk. Tasking under this phase could include: • Identify basic scientific principles for the proposed payload, applications to USSOCOM needs, and notional CONOPs. • Establish proof-of-concept of basic principles and applications, either analytically or experimentally. • Formulate a preliminary payload design, including packaging and electronics that could feasibly be integrated with a nanosatellite host. • Predict performance of the preliminary design by using analysis, modeling, simulation, tests and/or other tools. • Estimate the system properties of payload, such as mass, volume, and shape. • Estimate the requirements for integration with a host satellite, such as power requirements, attitude control requirements, thermal regulation requirements, computing requirements, and downlink requirements. • Verify the integration compatibility of the preliminary design with potential commercial nanosatellite buses of the appropriate form factor. • Describe the procedure and algorithms for processing the collected data. At minimum, describe any techniques that are strictly necessary for transforming the raw sensor data into a form that can be consumed by the user. Optionally, describe any more sophisticated techniques that could exploit the data stream to enhance the utility of the data, or reduce the quantity of data that must be downlinked. • Define how operators would task the payload, receive payload data, and interpret such data. Wherever possible, automation is preferred, and it is desirable to maximize utility of the data while minimizing burden on the user. The objective of this USSOCOM Phase I SBIR effort is to conduct and document the results of a thorough feasibility study (“Technology Readiness Level 3”) to investigate what is in the art of the possible within the given trade space that will satisfy a needed technology. The feasibility study should investigate all options that meet or exceed the minimum performance parameters specified in this write up. It should also address the risks and potential payoffs of the innovative technology options that are investigated and recommend the option that best achieves the objective of this technology pursuit. The funds obligated on the resulting Phase I SBIR contracts are to be used for the sole purpose of conducting a thorough feasibility study using scientific experiments and laboratory studies as necessary. Operational prototypes will not be developed with USSOCOM SBIR funds during Phase I feasibility studies. Operational prototypes developed with other than SBIR funds that are provided at the end of Phase I feasibility studies will not be considered in deciding what firm(s) will be selected for Phase II. 

PHASE II: For the Phase II effort, offerors shall develop and demonstrate the prototype system determined to be the most feasible solution during the Phase I feasibility study. The objective of this phase is to advance the technology readiness of the payload as much as possible, by refining the payload design, building a prototype payload, and testing the prototype in a relevant environment. USSOCOM will coordinate with the vendor to identify a suitable nanosatellite host bus, and one outcome of this phase would be the integration of the prototype payload with hardware and software equipment representative of the selected host bus. Subject to USSOCOM funding and user interest, a flight demonstration mission will also be considered under the scope of this phase. Tasking under this phase could include: • Coordinate with USSOCOM to identify a suitable nanosatellite host bus. Modify payload design as necessary to ensure compatibility with the selected host bus. • Perform further analysis, modeling, and simulation to optimize payload design and improve performance. • Build a prototype payload. • Test the prototype payload and verify its capability to collect mission data on a representative target. Evaluate measured performance characteristics versus expectations and make design adjustments as necessary. • Develop software to control the payload, collect/process mission data, and interact with the host bus. • Demonstrate operation of the prototype payload in a representative space environment. Validate the robustness of the payload to both the space environment and the launch environment, performing necessary tests (e.g. thermal vacuum, vibration) as guided by an appropriate standard (e.g. ref 2). • Integrate the prototype payload with hardware and software equipment representative of the selected host bus. Integration equipment should be procured from the host bus vendor and could be either a flat-sat, a desktop development unit, or an engineering development unit. Subject to USSOCOM funding and user interest, tasking under this phase could also include: • Integrate a prototype payload with a flight unit of the selected host bus, in preparation for launch of a demonstration mission. • Support on-orbit test, demonstration, and evaluation. • Train government operators as required to command the payload, interpret mission data, and evaluate payload capabilities. 

PHASE III: This system could be used in a broad range of military applications where there are requirements for timely collection of ISR data from spaceborne assets. A potential transition path could involve fielding of this payload on tens or hundreds of satellites in a coordinated multi-plane constellation, achieving frequent revisit rates and unprecedented data delivery latencies. Depending on the nature and specifics of the payload, the capabilities developed could also be used in other missions by commercial companies or other government organizations. 

REFERENCES: 

1: CubeSat Design Specification, California Polytechnic State University, http://cubesat.org/

2:  NASA General Environmental Verification Standard (GEVS), GFSC-STD-7000, Rev A, Goddard Space Flight Center, https://standards.nasa.gov/standard/gsfc/gsfc-std-7000

3:  Statement of Objectives for Nanosatellite Payloads for Tactical Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance.

KEYWORDS: USSOCOM, Space, Satellite, Nanosatellite, Cubesat, Payload, Imagery, Remote Sensing, ISR 

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Bio Medical, Sensors 

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this topic is to develop an innovative, novel approach for a remote physiologic monitoring capability to enhance Multi-Purpose Canine (MPC) care and capabilities through continuous health monitoring. 

DESCRIPTION: The ability to provide continuous physiologic monitoring of an MPC at rest, as well as during high levels of performance in all environmental conditions will significantly improve their operational effectiveness, recovery, and overall care. As a part of this feasibility study, the proposers shall address all viable overall system design options with respective specifications on the key system attributes: • The ability to remotely monitor the physiologic status of MPCs utilizing an implantable device for collection and transmission of data in real-time, under all environmental conditions. • Implants must not cause tissue reactivity or other bodily harm to the MPCs 

PHASE I: Conduct a feasibility study to assess what is in the art of the possible that satisfies the requirements specified in the above paragraph entitled “Description.” The objective of this USSOCOM Phase I SBIR effort is to conduct and document the results of a thorough feasibility study (“Technology Readiness Level 3”) to investigate what is in the art of the possible within the given trade space that will satisfy a needed technology. The feasibility study should investigate all options that meet or exceed the minimum performance parameters specified in this write up. It should also address the risks and potential payoffs of the innovative technology options that are investigated and recommend the option that best achieves the objective of this technology pursuit. The funds obligated on the resulting Phase I SBIR contracts are to be used for the sole purpose of conducting a thorough feasibility study using scientific experiments and laboratory studies as necessary. Operational prototypes will not be developed with USSOCOM SBIR funds during Phase I feasibility studies. Operational prototypes developed with other than SBIR funds that are provided at the end of Phase I feasibility studies will not be considered in deciding what firm(s) will be selected for Phase II. 

PHASE II: Develop, install, and demonstrate a prototype system determined to be the most feasible solution during the Phase I feasibility study on canine remote physiologic monitoring. 

PHASE III: This system could be used in a broad range of military applications where remote physiologic monitoring is required. Other applications include various federal and state agencies, law enforcement, sporting, hunting, agility training, and veterinary medicine. 

REFERENCES: 

1: "Comparison of Non-invasive and Implanted Telemetric Measurement of Blood Pressure and Electrocardiogram in Conscious Beagle Dogs." 14 Apr 2012

2:  "Cardiac Monitoring of Dogs via Smartphone Mechanocardiography: A Feasibility Study." 23 Apr 2019 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31014339

3:  "Environmental and Physiological Factors Associated with Stamina in Dogs Exercising in High Ambient Temperatures." 11 Sep 2017

4:  "Evaluation of Dry Electrodes in Canine Heart Rate Monitoring." 30 May 2018 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29848952

5:  Statement of Objectives for Canine Remote Physiologic Monitoring.

KEYWORDS: Dog, Canine, Physiologic Monitoring, Electrocardiography, Implantable Device