The technology developed was a compact multifunctional software defined radio hosting both MUOS and Legacy UHF waveforms on a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite platform. The communications link provides low latency, anywhere on orbit data control and connectivity from the user to the space vehicle, which is not currently available to the satellite user. Vulcan Wireless is currently focusing on Machine to Machine (M2M) communications, whereas most Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) terminals are designed for voice and data and are much larger. We see multiple paths to transition to M2M applications, first is into LEO space vehicles, second unmanned aerial vehicles, and unmanned underwater vehicles. This system has been prototyped and its functionally verifiable. We transition products from conception to production for military and commercial customers.
Hyperion Technology Group has developed a system that utilizes a network of listening post arrays (LPs) each containing sensors to detect and localize rocket, artillery, and mortar fire Points of Origin (POO) and Points of Impact (POI). The LPs communicate wirelessly with a centralized Command Post (CP) which uses a geo-positioning algorithm to pinpoint the precise location of the POO or POI. This technology was developed for the Marine Corps which is currently seeking a replacement for their Ground Counter Fire Sensor. The new, demonstrated technology can outperform the current system by integrating improved acoustic sensors, improved signal processing, and improved space, weight, and power characteristics, thus allowing for greater accuracy, faster set-up times, and reduced false alarms. This leads to improvement of war-fighter effectiveness, reduction in operation and maintenance expenses, and increased operational availability.
Altex, a leading combustion and gasifier company, has teamed up with HDT Global, a manufacturer of a vast array of military equipment including shelters and heaters, to develop a multi-fuel self-powered heater for shelters and other markets. The Clean Multi-Fuel Soft Wall Shelter Heater System (CMF-HEAT) operates on JP-8/Diesel and readily available biomass and wastes and saves 50% fuel, paying for itself in less than one year. The heater uses the current HDT Global SHC heater as a platform, it is light and compact. An Alpha unit has been fabricated and being tested, leading to a Beta system for simulated field testing. Team is seeking support to produce five units for field testing along with a procurement commitment contingent on successful field testing.
The USMC’s call for durable, light-weight and affordable exhaust systems for amphibious vehicles is answered by Triton’s light-weight, multilayered composite exhaust system technology. Designed to replace legacy and envisioned metal exhaust system technologies, initial prototype testing demonstrated that Triton’s technology reduces overall weight by approximately 50 percent at approximately 55 percent of the target cost with no performance degradation. Triton Systems, Inc. specializes in developing lightweight, affordable composite products to replace heavy and/or metallic structures to resolve problems of critical importance for military and commercial customers. We seek partnerships with government organizations/test facilities to demonstrate/validate prototype system capabilities and with prime contractors to license the manufacturing and incorporation of the technology. The initial target platform for this technology is the USMC Amphibious Combat Vehicle (ACV).
The United States Marine Corps wants to eliminate liquid fuel needs except for mobility platforms by 2025. Mide, an agile company with proven ability to develop advanced engineering solutions and a proven track record of generating innovative ideas, is developing a Biomass-Incinerating-Stirling Cycle-Energy-Provider (BISCEP) power source. Our Stirling Engine will provide Marines with an alternate power source thereby reducing their dependency on fossil fuels. The end product will have energy densities greater than 25W/sq ft and 5W/lbs. In addition, our revolutionary engine will be produce either nominal 24VDC output or a 120VAC output.
QorTek, an innovative research and development company focusing on smart materials and electronics, has developed a new antenna protection device, the eHalt. eHalt is an add-on for currently fielded radio equipment suited for man-pack, hand-held, and vehicular implementation. eHalt physically disconnects the antenna from the radio from accidental contact with overhead high voltage wires thereby protecting the warfighter. eHalt requires no external or internal power supply and effects a mechanical disconnect in case of high voltage contact. The prototype is a demonstratable unit that will be tested by Harris Communications and the MARCOR Systems Command (MCSC) ground radios team. The integration of this product into fielded communications equipment will allow Harris and other equipment suppliers to conform to the USMC’s safety requirements for antennas.
The Marine Corps Systems Command requires an integrated protective solution for radio antennas used by dismounted USMC Radio Operators. Long radio antennas are mission critical assets; however, if contacted with low-hanging power distribution lines (common in war-torn regions), lethal amounts of electricity can be imparted to the operator and radio. METSS intends to provide high-voltage antenna protection of 35KV RMS, while providing equivalent radiation pattern omnidirectional gain across frequencies between 2 and 88 MHz. Solutions will enable retrofit to existing antennas in the field or while in depot. The added protection will not cue enemies, snag, or fail in harsh conditions. METSS’s solution will be light, easy-to-use, and support whip and blade antennas for the Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio System (SINCGARS).
USMC seeks to develop a renewable 1kW-class hybrid energy power source that will reduce the weight and volume by 50% versus currently deployed systems. West Coast Solutions (WCS) is meeting the challenge with the hybrid/solar Ultra-Lightweight Expeditionary Power System (U-LEPS). Our approach is anchored in our industry-leading, inherently safe, high energy density (150 Wh/kg) lithium-Ion batteries. Peak power handling capacity of U-LEPS is up to 2 kW with over 6400 Wh energy storage, meeting or exceeding the capabilities of existing systems. U-LEPS is inherently more robust and user-friendly than currently-fielded technology. Simulations, risk reduction tests, and engineering reviews have been accomplished to ensure requirements will be met. U-LEPS solves SWaP issues, saves fuel, and reduces convoys, thus reducing operational costs and, most importantly, saving lives.
Triton Systems, Inc. develops advanced technologies for commercial, industrial, and Government use and is currently designing and building a low-power, hand-operated reverse osmosis (RO) system to desalinate brackish water which will allow Warfighters to sustain themselves until resupply operations can be conducted. For use by USMC Warfighters, this capability is smaller in size than current hand-operated sea water RO systems and includes an energy recovery pump to minimize operator fatigue and special membrane coatings that will increase water production and minimize fouling. This will permit continued operation in austere environments for several weeks when resupply of potable water cannot be regularly made. Our goal is to transition this technology to the Marine Corps so that it becomes a part of their Modified Table of Organization (MTO&E) at the squad level.
A recent report estimates that only about 7% of Marines insert earplugs correctly. Blast and Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (B/NIHL) and tinnitus are the top two disability claims for US soldiers and veterans [GAO Report, GAO-11-114]. The USMC wishes to reduce these numbers by developing an improved hearing protection device. Triton Systems, a technology development company providing innovative solutions to the government and industry, is developing the True Awareness Hearing Protector, which uses a passive acoustic filter that allows low level noise through while blocking harmful loud noises. The design minimizes the effects on the warfighters’ situational awareness and their ability to detect and localize low level noise. Our goal is to integrate and transition this technology into government and commercial markets by licensing our Intellectual Property to manufacturing partners.
The Windlift Man Portable Wind Energy System (MPWES) uses an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to generate 6 kW (peak) of wind energy at 200-500 feet. MPWES integrates with battery storage and a backup generator to provide on-site energy production and storage. The system weighs only 440 lbs. and the renewable energy density (Watts/lb.) will be approximately seven times greater than the GREENS system, the current state-of-the-art solar system deployed by the USMC. The UAV also provides the opportunity for persistent surveillance and communications. Windlift is an engineering and computer programming company developing the next generation of Airborne Wind Energy Systems. The company is looking to obtain enough funding to complete all R&D and build efforts to provide a resilient energy platform for expeditionary use.
HYPRES, Inc. (HYPRES) – a superconducting electronics company – offers design, development, fabrication, testing and packaging services for their digital Radio Frequency (RF) product-lines. This Phase II effort develops Co-Site Interference Mitigation for Wideband Receivers. HYPRES Advanced Digital Receiver (ADR) enables full spectrum monitoring and maximizes signal reception for military satellite communication, signal intelligence, radar, electronic warfare systems and tactical data links, providing improved surveillance capabilities, detection of smaller targets, and superior range. Direct RF digitizing eliminates front-end analog components reducing size, weight, and power by 50%. A world leader in advanced digital RF superconductor technology development and production, HYPRES seeks program office and prime contractor support, and equity investors to transition ADR systems for DoD applications and commercial markets.
Triton Systems, a technology development company that provides innovative solutions for military and commercial applications, is currently developing a communication system for helmeted divers to replace the current system developed in the 1960’s. Currently these divers have difficulty communicating among themselves and with the surface due to outdated equipment and sustained background noise levels over 100 dBA. The system has been prototyped, and increased intelligibility has been demonstrated for divers both transmitting and receiving messages. While this communication system has been designed specifically for helmeted divers, it could be adapted for use by other branches of military service with unique communication system requirements. Triton’s goal is to integrate and transition this technology into government and prime contractor systems for specialized communications systems.
There is a critical need to improve Navy aircraft shipboard recoveries in degraded visual environments and high sea state conditions. Systems Technology, Inc. (STI) is developing The Jet Aircraft Shipboard landing Man-machine Interface for Naval Environments (JASMINE) that combines enhanced head-up display symbology and advanced flight director modes with the NAVAIR-developed MAGIC CARPET control laws to guide strike fighter pilots to carrier landings while reducing pilot workload and enhancing safety. With a 60-year history, STI is an industry leader in the design, analysis, and pilot testing/evaluation of manual and automatic flight control systems and related technologies. Development risk is diminished through simulation evaluations conducted by Navy strike fighter test pilots. Rockwell Collins, developer of head-up displays, will provide support and guidance for fleet integration of JASMINE.
Platelet products play an important role in treatment of hemorrhage patients. However, platelet products are unavailable at forward surgical facilities (Role 2) due to their short shelf life (3-5 days). CFD Research’s platelet apheresis platform will allow for collection of fresh leukocyte-reduced platelet products in expeditionary settings. The ruggedized system will enable Role 2 teams to utilize freshly donated platelets to broaden treatment options and improve outcomes for combat casualties. Proof-of-concept for the system has been established. Development of integrated prototype for field testing is ongoing. CFD Research develops cutting edge technologies and provides innovative solutions for Aerospace, Biomedical and other industries and has extensive experience in the development of biomedical devices. Our goal is to transition the technology into Role 2 surgical teams.
Performance of detection and classification of targets in active sonar systems may be degraded in the presence of stationary clutter, ownship motion-induced clutter, and active interference. Applied Research in Acoustics’ (ARiA) sparse estimation algorithms estimate and separate targets, reverberation, and mutual interference signals from a cluttered signal and enable novel classification features to be computed from sparse representations. Integration of ARiA’s advanced signal and information processing enables automated and semi-automated sonar signal detection and classification, thus reducing operator workload. ARiA’s signal and information processing enhancements are targeted for the AN/SQQ89A(V)15 Integrated Undersea Warfare (USW) Combat System Suite’s pulsed active sonar (PAS) function segment (PASFS) echo tracker classifier (ETC). However, the developed algorithms are suitable for integration into most active sonar or radar platforms.
SimVentions has substantial expertise and capabilities in a wide range of technologies built by providing advanced development and solution-based application services to the government. Our InformeDB technology is an enterprise solution moving programs from document centric to data centric collaboration, offering improved methods and tools to optimize platform lifecycle management. Understanding the complete system of systems integration issues and coupling it with the other key challenges of a program’s tradeoff decisions is critical in proactively aligning and coordinate numerous new capabilities from the R&D through shipboard integration. Stakeholders can now manage, track, report and visualize dependencies based on a real-time authoritative data. SimVentions seeks relationships with defense program offices and primes for application of Informedb to Projects and Programs of Record.
The Navy has added mine-detecting capability, called Coastal Battlefield Reconnaissance & Analysis (COBRA), to its MQ-8B Fire Scout UAV. Bodkin Design & Engineering (BD&E) has developed a gimbaled, multispectral, small Size, Weight & Power (SWaP) illumination source to be evaluated in conjunction with the COBRA camera to demonstrate its ability to meet COBRA program requirements for Night Time Detection to enhance 24-hour surveillance capability. This illumination source utilizes flashlamp technology that can be used with any multispectral or broadband sensor. BD&E is an innovative engineering company with a 25+ year history of designing successful electro-optical systems for government & commercial applications. Our goal is for our illumination technology to become the COBRA program illuminator system of choice for Night Time Detection. We seek teaming arrangements with government organizations and primes to test and validate system capabilities and integrate the technology.
Intellisense Systems Inc (ISI) has developed a new Submarine-Deployable Weather Sensor (SDWS) based on a new design that integrates ISI’s miniature weather sensor electronics with proven deployable buoy systems. Specifically, the innovation in ISI’s compact and robust weather sensor design integrated through novel packaging within a mature deployable buoy architecture will enable a low-cost, small sensing device. This device will accurately measure weather parameters above the ocean’s surface after deployment at depth. ISI has demonstrated the feasibility of SDWS by integrating and packaging a basic sensor buoy prototype that can be deployed from underwater and accurately collect weather data leveraging multiple designs from existing weather sensor products to reduce risk. As a final product, the SDWS will provide a simple means for submerged submarines to measure real-time surface weather parameters to aid in both navigation and to define the current atmospheric state.
Intrusion detection and extended surveillance are important to all levels of security from monitoring high valued assets in transit to providing perimeter security at a Forward Operating Base. IAI - a R&D company with extensive experience in RF sensing has developed a comprehensive, low-cost, low-power sensor field and cognitive sensor manager that can discover and task other sensors and supporting analytical services to enable area and container situational awareness for extended periods of time. Using a variety of sensing modalities, the Cognitive Ultra-low Power Sensor System (CUPSS) improves perimeter security, provides integrated surveillance, reduces false alarms, and integrates all modalities of sensors.
Innoveering is developing a non-invasive, portable sensing system that can measure and accurately quantify the flow characteristics (pressure, temperature, density, void-fraction, and/or velocity) of a multi-phase fluid within a 2-inch thick metal structure that is multi-species, compressible, highly turbulent, and highly transient. Advanced signal processing methodology and spatially distributed pitch-catch multi-frequency ultrasonics are adapted to measure and convert signals to engineering properties of interest. The methodology for velocity, pressure and void fraction measurement of the key physics associated with the real transient fluid flow event has been demonstrated. The targeted program is Strategic Systems Programs, which aligns well with Innoveering’s mission of developing revolutionary technologies that address sensing and control challenges in the aerospace, defense and energy markets.
Starting from a 3D model, Sciaky Electron Beam Additive Manufacturing (EBAMTM) technology uses an electron gun to deposit wire feedstock, layer by layer, until the near net shape “preform” is complete. Sciaky’s primary business is selling precision EBAM and welding systems. EBAM shows great promise for refractory metal applications on the Trident D-5 missile program. SBIR testing results show elevated temperature tensile properties exceed OEM values by 150% and can allow both legacy and new components to be manufactured in a cost effective manner. Demonstrations to date have shown process capability to produce geometries common to actual hot gas valve assemblies. Sciaky’s goal for this project is work with the US Navy to fully qualify EBAM for use on the Trident D-5 missile programs.
Kyma produces a high quality gallium nitride (GaN)-on-polycrystalline diamond (GoPD) wafer product for high-power radio frequency (RF) GaN Field Effect Transistor (FET) applications and is a leading wide bandgap semiconductor (WBGS) materials & related products developer for high performance device applications. The product should benefit the Active Electronically Steered Array (AESA) radar and Electronic Warfare (EW) systems performance. Kyma’s novel buffer layer approach enables high quality GaN overgrowth on the polycrystalline diamond substrate and provides a competitive advantage which should be sustainable via continuous improvements in production tools and processes. The greatest technical risk is realizing a high quality buffer interlayer between the polycrystalline diamond and the GaN. Customers can license the technology to bring the process in-house or can purchase GoPD wafers directly from Kyma.
The Expeditionary Fast Transport (EPF) ramp was originally designed only for ship-to-ship and ship-to-pier cargo transfer operations; consequently, Great Lakes Sound & Vibration (GLSV), a full-service engineering and manufacturing company developed a Modular Buoyant Kit (MBK) for the stern cargo ramp; facilitating Splash-Off Launch and Retrieval (L&R) of Amphibious Combat Vehicles (ACVs) and Assault Amphibious Vehicles (AAVs). The modular design does not require a brand-new ramp design, only some modifications, and allows rapid change-over between cargo transfer and amphibian L&R operating modes. GLSV is teamed with Lake Shore Systems, the original equipment manufacturer for the EPF cargo ramp, which will facilitate integration. Extensive modeling and simulation to simulate the system dynamics, including ship motion and ramp motion due to wave interaction has been performed.
Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) is developing a high energy density battery that will extend the operating time or enable new capabilities of Navy devices. This battery, currently targeted for use in high data rate sensors, combines advanced materials and provides 50% more energy density than the batteries in use now. PSI’s unique cell design leverages novel anode materials and coating technologies as well as innovative cell build/formation techniques to offer both increased energy density and cycle life. PSI has successfully demonstrated the ability to scale the required component and cell level technologies necessary to build and deliver the targeted high energy density battery. PSI’s goal is to deliver safe, high energy batteries to meet the increased power needs of Navy sensors and equipment.
Paragon’s Buswork Integrated Cooling System (BICS) is a low-profile TRL 5 solution for battery module cooling that implements our proven Low-profile Hybrid-Manufactured (LPHM) Coldplate technology. BICS is uniquely suited to high-power energy storage cooling with its combination of high electrical isolation, >7kV, and low thermal resistance, <0.02°C/W. This technology is a drop-in replacement for conventional copper busbars. BICS moves heat more effectively by acquiring heat from batteries through the cell terminals, taking advantage of anisotropic cell construction. This produces better temperature uniformity without any cell-to-liquid contact, addressing the complexity of conventional liquid cooling approaches. BICS also permits use of any common thermal working fluid. Intended for future electronic ships systems and high-power weapons, for commercial ships, and applications for power distribution and storage, BICS reduces system size, weight, and power, and reduces lifetime cost.
Colorado Engineering Inc (CEI) is a woman owned small business enterprise which specializes in extremely complex mixed signal system design related to high frequency RF and digital system processing. CEI developed an industry leading architecture Radar Advanced Receiver/Exciter (RARE), through SBIR funding, Topic Code MDA05-034, Contract Number HQ0006-08-C-7908, that has been incorporated into several programs of record. RARE is a modular and scalable architecture which can be used far beyond Radar. RARE, now known as 3DR is being adopted for High Performance Computing and missiles. Colorado Engineering’s strategic semiconductor partnerships and its access to their technology roadmap will enable CEI to advance this modular architecture for future product generations, which can be utilized in sea, land, air and space applications where SWaP-C is critical.
The Navy’s 2075-TH hydraulic fluid, which is used for external hydraulic (HEX) system motion control, is covered under MIL-PRF-17672. This legacy fluid is significantly challenged by the evolution in submarine force inter-deployment training cycles, higher Fleet operating tempo, and changes in maintenance planning philosophy that require the motion control fluids work longer and harder in the undersea environment. The reduced performance of the 2075-TH HEX fluid has led to many instances of component failures critical to operational submarines. METSS’s new synthetic fluid formulation (2075-S) will demonstrate significant improvements in fluid oxidative resistance, additive stability, and tolerance to seawater contamination in extended service life operations. The new synthetic product will improve in-service operability and reliability, while extending product service life and reducing overall maintenance costs.
The complexity of the Battlespace has evolved to the point that it is no longer possible to manually maintain awareness of, and optimally allocate all recourses in real-time. Accelerated decision-aiding coupled with dynamic, optimal sensor and weapon target pairing (i.e., enhanced mission planning, battle management aiding and automated resource controllers) are urgently needed to maintain the initiative against near-peer and above peer threats. LG-RAID Enhanced Mission Planning capabilities address the acute lack of adequate, real-time, integrated, multi-resource planning tools. LG-RAID technology rapidly produces superior integrated plans providing warfighters the tools to create and evaluate the viability of their proposed integrated plans (space, air, surface, subsurface) against a broad range of enemy threat systems and courses of action.
Lange couplers, used as power combiners in high-power amplifiers, have a substantial effect on system-level efficiency. Nuvotronics has developed cost competitive Lange couplers with improved performance over current processes. An AS9100D certified manufacturer of mmWave solutions and components, our proprietary photolithography wafer-based additive manufacturing process produces the industry’s smallest, lightest, highest performing solutions. Shipborne high-power transmit amplifiers are replacing vacuum tube technology with solid-state power amplifiers (SSPAs) where hundreds of modules with Lange couplers are combined. Radar transmit/receive (T/R) modules employ Lange couplers in the transmit output stage. Our patented process makes Lange couplers that are exceptionally small, light, capable of handling high power, and extremely repeatable mechanically and electrically and could become a key component in future Navy radar and electronic warfare (EW) systems.
High-power gallium nitride (GaN) electronics, such as the radio frequency integrated circuits (RFICs) in radar and electronic warfare systems, are thermally limited. Replacing the silicon carbide (SiC) substrates on which GaN is grown with high-thermal-conductivity diamond can speed heat extraction, thereby reducing the cost of RFICs per Watt of output power by a factor of 3. Modern Microsystems’ GaN-on-Diamond technology transfers high-quality GaN epitaxy onto diamond carrier wafers for improved device reliability, higher power capability, reduced size, and lower cost. Initial prototypes demonstrate three times the power of identical GaN-on-SiC transistors. The goal is a fabrication process for custom GaN-on-Diamond wafers that are compatible with existing RFIC foundries. Modern Microsystems seeks prime or third-party partners to be a home for the process.
Hypersonic missiles, projectiles, and vehicles traveling at increased Mach speeds (e.g., Navy Hyper Velocity Projectile) utilize leading edges which experience temperatures that exceed the capabilities of most refractory metals. At the same time, the dynamic launch forces are too extreme for high temperature ceramics. Such competing needs call for a hybrid design which utilizes a combination of materials. However, joining metals and ceramics is complex, especially at elevated temperatures. MR&D provides design/analysis service for these advanced materials and for the community of interest - providing the necessary experience to develop a novel metal/ceramic joint. The design will be developed through finite element modeling coupled with fabrication and testing of full-scale test articles subjected to representative flight loads.
SA Photonics is pleased to propose LightCables, a ruggedized terminal addressing the needs of both legacy (copper) and modern (copper/fiber) shipboard cabling systems. LightCables is built on the core technology of Dense Wave Division Multiplexing (WDM). Multiple analog or digital electrical signals are modulated onto different optical carriers and combined onto a single lightweight fiber-optic cable pair. LightCables can hence provide dramatic communication capacity on a single fiber-optic cable pair, dramatically reducing the amount of shipboard copper cabling. This system can be integrated into existing platforms, allowing the incorporation of more sensors, tactical displays and consoles. SA Photonics, which specializes in the development of advanced photonics systems to solve demanding problems for military and commercial customers, envisions teaming with well-known primes, as it has on past product developments.
Pacific Engineering, Inc. is developing an Adaptable Universal Composite Canister (AUCC) System for the Virginia Payload Module (VPM). This design is adaptable, permitting the packaging of a wide variety of underwater deployable payloads (UUVs, UAVs, etc.) while providing the required common hosts services within a shock mitigation environment. This modular approach permits a variety of missions through deployment of an assortment of payloads without requiring that the submarine return to port, thereby increasing the number of roles that a submarine can perform. In addition to lowering the costs of launching payloads, the AUCC enhances mission capability by permitting rapid loading and integration. As an added benefit, the AUCC will permit Team Sub to field and evaluate other payloads which could be deployed via the VPM.
Biofouling can increase fuel usage and the acoustic signatures of submarines and ships. Boston Engineering is developing a semi-autonomous system to kill biofouling life effectively, reduce skilled manpower requirements, and address environmental concerns. The Maritime UltraViolet Antifouling (MUVA) system uses an ultraviolet light (UV-C) module to eliminate fouling without physically touching – or damaging – coated underwater surfaces. Boston Engineering’s modular design supports manual, semi-automated, and automated operation. Additionally, the MUVA also enables remote management. For more than 20 years, Boston Engineering has been developing game-changing products for its customers, and also leverages that expertise to commercialize its own capabilities for maritime environments. The company will apply its experience to address antifouling requirements across the U.S. Navy, DoD, Coast Guard, and commercial maritime organizations.
Radio Frequency (RF) over fiber optic cable provides many performance advantages over copper interconnect technology, but RF performance issues in the electrical-to-optical (E/O) conversion process currently limits widespread DoD utilization. The linearized RF over fiber (RFoF) link under development dramatically improves the E/O conversion process enabling the radical performance improvements required for widespread RFoF technology deployment in applications such as Electronic Warfare (EW), Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance (ISR), Signal Intelligence (SIGINT), sensors, and communication systems. Initial testing confirms the modeled RFoF link performance improvements. Already the RFoF link performance leader, Photonic Systems Inc (PSI) provides innovative RF, microwave, and photonic products for defense, aerospace, and telecommunications markets. PSI is seeking DoD equipment manufacturers to support the transition of this technology into systems.
Bettergy, founded in 2008 to conceive, develop and commercialize innovative energy technologies for both military and civilian applications, has developed a number of novel energy storage technologies. Bettergy is developing a very high energy density air-independent power source to meet Navy requirements for use in sensors and other undersea applications. The battery is much lower cost than existing technologies and, due to the use of non-flammable components, is safe for transport and the environment. The battery is long duration, has a long shelf life and is adaptable to different form factors. Having successfully demonstrated its technology, Bettergy's plan is to transition this energy storage technology to U.S. Naval operations. Other potential applications for this technology include unmanned undersea vehicles (UUVs) and other undersea applications.
The Unmanned Diesel Greenough Advanced Rescue Craft (UD-GARC) is low-cost, high endurance multi-mission platform for Intelligence, Search, Reconnaissance (ISR), communications, and coastal patrol applications. As the diesel, unmanned variant of MAPC’s robust air droppable manned GARC currently in service for high-sea state rescue, the UD-GARC is uniquely qualified for swift deployment /recovery. UD-GARC is a fleet enabler because it can travel an extended range (500 n.mi) at high speeds and loiter, communicating with other naval vessels/land-based control centers well beyond the line of sight. MAPC’s previous experience with Unmanned Surface Vessels, Littoral Combat Ships, and Launch and Recovery systems allowed us to design an entire integrated system for the Very Small Class 1 USV, ready for fleet use.
The US Navy is looking to rapidly manufacture parts while at sea, specifically develop qualified materials and an Additive Manufacturing (AM) methodology to produce defect free parts and maintain geometric tolerance in a shipboard environment. With over 25 years’ experience, Triton Systems Inc. (TSI) is a technology incubator that develops materials and systems applications. Currently, TSI is developing non-halogenated flame retardant thermoplastic feedstocks for use in additive manufacturing of polymeric components in a closed environment, where the risk of fire and smoke are especially critical. The goal of this Phase II effort, hopefully the feedstock and fabricated components will meet the stringent Navy Flame, Smoke, and Toxicity (FST) requirements. TSI is looking for a partner to help commercialize the feedstock to be used in a variety of 3D printers.
The oscillating heat pipe (OHP) heat spreader is a highly efficient passive thermal device capable of transferring extremely high heat fluxes from a small source to a larger, lower heat flux rejection surface. This technology will allow high power operation of electrical components without altering the system design. ThermAvant Technologies is a leading developer of the OHP with applications to Navy radar and electronic warfare systems. ThermAvant’s competitive advantage is the advanced manufacturing, predictive modeling capabilities, and design experience with this technology. These advantages also minimize the risk for producing the OHP. ThermAvant’s OHP technology can be used in a wide range of high heat flux, small form factor, and structurally integral applications thereby allowing increased performance and reduced weight of high power devices.
Innovative Defense Technologies’ (IDT) Automated Verifcation & Validation (V&V) for Distributed Testing (ADT) supports the definition and testing of complex system of system (SoS) interface requirements with a focus on leveraging existing infrastructure, resources, and subject matter expertise from distributed test environments. IDT has developed Automated Test and Re-Test (ATRT), which is an enabling technology for ADT, founded on the patented model based systems engineering approach that accelerates the deployment of software capability to the fleet. ADT is initially supporting testing of SQQ-89 to Aegis baseline 9, however the tool suite was built to be used by any complex system that requires V&V of system of system interfaces. IDT seeks collaboration with government programs with complex, software/data intensive SoS that require distributed test and analysis capability.
Star Lab’s Warden is a minimally invasive technology designed specifically to detect advanced cyber threats inside unique defense compute environments, e.g., systems running customized Linux and real-time operating systems. Consisting of a lightweight sensor package, an ensemble of detectors, and an artificial neural network, Warden identifies potential cyber threats and reports them via the syslog mechanism. Warden’s functionality has been prototyped, tested, and verified using realistic test and training environments for the Aegis Weapon System. Star Lab, an embedded systems security company, is dedicated to protecting devices and systems operating in open, hostile environments. Our goal is for prime contractors to integrate Warden as they modernize combat systems to defeat never-before-seen cyber-attacks.
Interphase Materials is a specialized engineering company that improves operational efficiency of industrial and defense cooling systems through our proprietary surface treatment technologies. We develop and apply advanced materials to deliver capability enhancements that assist warfighters operate at optimal efficiency. Our nano-coating technology creates a protective film which prevents fouling and improves heat transfer efficiency. The technology, developed for submarine heat exchanger applications, can significantly benefit heat transfer efficiency across various platforms, such as engine and HVAC systems. Interphase Materials’ environmentally-friendly surface treatment improves heat transfer by 5-10% and is easily applied to existing operating systems. Interphase is seeking DoD transition partners to demonstrate the products’ benefits across platforms that experience fouling and efficiency issues to improve their efficiency and position the technology for procurement.
Sonalysts is developing a reliable, modular, and scalable Digital Early Warning Receiver (DEWR) that will integrate with the digital foundation of submarine Electronic Warfare (EW). The system leverages modern integrated circuit (IC) video detectors and high speed A/D converters to capture real-time pulsed RF data. DEWR implements innovative DSP algorithms for improved pulse characterization and emitter feature extraction. The technology has been developed and matured through multiple SBIR awards, and can be transitioned to the fleet using a low-risk phased implementation plan. DEWR is targeted for undersea warfare platforms, but is easily extensible to surface naval missions. Sonalysts is an employee owned small business with over 40 years of demonstrated performance in a variety of technical disciplines, including electronic warfare and RF systems development.
Lynntech Inc is developing new polymeric materials that can be extruded to make filaments compatible with fused filament fabrication (FFF) techniques. The newly developed polymer formulations, textile design, and printing process will reduce the number of steps required to manufacture clothing items and simplify production of personalized garments. It will also allow production of clothing articles with mechanical strength and water vapor transport capabilities essential for military fabrics, and allow low volume manufacturing of garments in remote locations. Moreover, this technology will allow for design of garments from a 3D body scanner. Lynntech, a 2016 Tibbetts award winning small business, is looking for textile partners to integrate our 3D printing techniques and formulations into their customizable clothing article development.
Infrared sensors have been used to evaluate thermal stress of clothing and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), but current methods rely on a qualitative assessment of these images and are subjective, prone to errors, and restricted to stationary human subjects or manikins. Our solution, TSAPE, uses a 3D imaging sensor to estimate motion, determine body pose and locate body parts. A thermal camera aligned with the 3D sensor measures temperature. The targeted application is thermal stress analysis of military garment. The solution will enable objective comparison of thermal performance. During Phase I, IAI successfully demonstrated the capability by providing objective thermal measurements for clothing in indoor, shaded outdoor, and at a Navy climatic chamber. The proposed solution will assist researchers to measure heat stress of garments.
Propel, a textile technologies design and development company, has developed knit textiles with embedded electrically functional networks (E-textiles). Our innovations include electrically functional engineered yarns (E-yarns), textile electrodes and textile-electronics integration methods. Using these innovations, together with 3-D knitting, we engineer electrically-enabled textile structures which retain their textiles properties without compromising electrical functionality. The demonstration prototype is a sensor-enabled base layer shirt for Navy SEALs, permitting continuous real-time monitoring of the wearer’s physiology. Beyond this prototype, electrically functional textiles are applicable within any military platform for which the scalable distribution of sensors over a broad surface area is a game changer. Additional applications for the E-textile technology include, but are not limited to, structural health monitoring, RF monitoring, chemical-biological monitoring, antennas, heating, and lighting.
LightSpin Technologies is developing the Photomultiplier Chip, a device that can detect optical signals with high internal gain, low noise, and multi-GHz bandwidths. Photomultiplier Chips allow precise timing of signals as small as single photons. LightSpin’s approach enables unique optimizations including speed, sensitivity, and radiation hardness for applications including free space optical communications, remote sensing, medical imaging, high energy physics, and the detection of special nuclear materials. LightSpin is the first company to demonstrate functional GaAs and GaInP devices, with preliminary experimental results indicating the potential to achieve multi-GHz bandwidths. LightSpin’s Photomultiplier Chip technology is protected with several issued and pending patents on the design and fabrication techniques. LightSpin intends to provide commercial detector modules to prime contractors for Department of Defense applications.
Vacuum Process Engineering, Inc. has over 40 years of experience in precision brazing, diffusion bonding, heat treating, thin film coating and contract manufacturing services. We are currently developing a large scale Scandate Tungsten Nanocomposite production facility to provide high-quality advanced thermionic cathode material to the US vacuum electronics industry enabling the development of any high-performance radar and electronic warfare systems reliant on advanced vacuum electron devices. Our product is capable of significantly improved emission characteristics at lower temperatures and with longer lifetimes than commercially available cathodes and VPE has already produced high-quality material with a threefold increase in production. Our goal is to supply sintered STN pellets to cathode manufacturers in order to manifest the next generation of advanced vacuum electronic devices.
nGimat, a world-class developer and manufacturer of nanotechnology-based engineered materials, has developed Scandia-doped tungsten nanopowders that enable thermionic cathodes to achieve higher power or higher frequency in RF (or higher frequency) applications. Today, these cathodes support numerous Navy applications that utilize vacuum-tube-based RF electronics. By providing higher power or higher frequency, cathodes produced with nGimat’s nanopowders enable various strategic applications (e.g., next-generation satellites, jamming systems, and communications). Additionally, the service life of the cathode, and therefore the larger system, can be increased by over 200%. We have demonstrated the high purity nanoscandia and improved mixing capabilities necessary for technical success. nGimat seeks to partner with an integrator of cathode-based systems capable of developing and manufacturing finished products and identifying additional commercial applications for nanoscandia.
Creare has developed a compact waste-to-energy (WTE) system designed to process up to four tons per day of heterogeneous solid waste. Our key innovation is drop-through ionic gasification technology from partner Cogent Energy Systems. This technology fully converts waste in a single stage for maximum energy efficiency and system reliability by completely immersing waste feedstock in a plasma zone reaching 10,000oC, which entirely dissociates organic matter to its atomic state. The atoms/ions reform as ultra-pure, multi-purpose synthesis gas capable of producing surplus electricity and/or fuels. A full-scale WTE system is operational at Cogent’s facility in Idaho Falls where safety and performance testing is reducing program risk. Our 2019 goal is to deliver an on-site, full-scale system designed for in-situ operational testing, evaluation, and validation.
The sinking hose system for the Amphibious Bulk Liquid Transfer System (ABLTS) is a high-pressure collapsible hose which will remain stable on the seafloor when filled with fuel yet is “lay-flat” so that it can be stored in containers. Materials Sciences Corporation, a small business that performs design, analysis, testing, product development, and low rate production of fiber reinforced materials and products, applies a legacy of analytical mechanics to create and produce new products and services with high-tech materials. This product replaces the floating, low-pressure ABLTS hose with a 500 psi, sea-floor hose that is still deployed from lighterage vessels. MSC has demonstrated feasibility of integrating heavy layers while maintaining flexibility and the exposure of the materials to water and fuel.
Semiotic Digital Encoding (SDE) is a technique to transform information from the data domain to the knowledge domain. Knowledge can be transmitted using significantly less bandwidth. The original information can be recovered by transforming it back to the data domain. The resulting communication is lossless, secure, and platform independent, using as much as 80% less bandwidth than the original requirement. The concept enables the command and control of multiple UASs in a degraded or denied communications environment by utilizing the ultra-low bandwidth space allowing mission critical information to transition remaining available bandwidth without loss of mission capability. The SDE capability, as a platform-independent capability to reduce the bandwidth dependency for structured messages, will have a broad application across platforms, platform types and, missions. Initial applications may include data links for control systems such as the Common Control System (CCS) for unmanned air platforms and air vehicles such as the Fire Scout.
Safe’s Multi-Axis Vibration Reduction for Increased Comfort (MAVRIC) aircraft seat has an electronically controlled suspension to protect Navy aircrew from chronic injuries caused by whole body vibration. The seat’s ergonomic design also reduces discomfort and fatigue for extended mission endurance. Safe is an engineering firm with a core focus on safety and survivability; ongoing technology development in seats, armor, survival rafts, and restraints; and recent deliveries of spacecraft crew protection devices. The vibration damping technology can be used for any vehicle occupant subject to injury hazards from severe vibration exposure. The prototype MAVRIC Operator seat increased the duration of safe exposure 16-fold, and the Copilot seat is now entering testing. Safe seeks Navy support to fully qualify the seat and deploy it to the E-2C/D fleet.
The anticipated deployment of electric-powered weapons systems on Navy ships and increasing power demands of radar and electronic warfare systems will place a highly variable and unpredictable demand on shipboard power systems. Issues associated with this can be greatly mitigated by integrating energy storage into the power system. However, this energy storage system must be capable of very high charge and discharge rates without excessive internal heating that can reduce both performance and battery life. The technology being developed will enable such an energy storage device, by combining proven high power, long-life electrode and cell designs with internal and external thermal management technology that prevents excessive temperature rise without degrading battery performance.
Dynamic Minefield Optimization (DMO) evaluates and optimizes precision placement of maritime mines and sensors/effectors, and also evaluates and optimizes mine and sensor/effector delivery plans for multiple maritime minefields. DMO makes more effective use of scarce maritime mining resources, increases the military effectiveness of maritime minefields, reduces risk to friendly platforms and missions, and reduces operator time-on-task. Daniel H. Wagner Associates has over 55 years of experience in developing/transitioning complex software components to prime contractors and Department of Defense customers, and developed mission effectiveness evaluation and optimization, risk determination, and data fusion algorithms and software components for several U.S. Navy mine warfare systems, including the primary system for mine warfare planning and execution, MINEnet Tactical, and the MK18 Mod 2 Inc 2 unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV). Word Count: 124
Tactical Edge is a SDVOSB that uses software engineering to solve real-world problems for our DoD and commercial clients using emergent and proven technologies, best practices, and innovative thinking. Its Total Visibility Anywhere (TVA) Data Service leverages the Position Location Information (PLI) data made available through current Government owned Authoritative Data Systems (ADS), and in combination with their custom machine learning algorithms, provides DoD Logisticians with contextual information about where shipments of interest are NOW, displaying those locations on a map, and providing estimated arrival dates to stakeholders who need to know how the shipment will affect their mission. TVA has been verified to work in tactical environments and to be interoperable with government-hosted systems. For a Phase III transition partner, Tactical Edge is targeting government PMOs that specialize in Logistics-focused information, as well as data dissemination platforms.
DVTI is developing protective coatings for shipboard gas turbine engine components to address oxidation and hot corrosion across an enhanced operational envelope for surface ship propulsion and auxiliary power systems. Candidate systems have been identified through computational methods and are being validated through a production-scale coating process. These coatings, processed using directed vapor deposition (DVD), have been tested in salt-laden environments using a 100-hour combined cycle without signs of damage to the underlying substrate. DVTI is operating production scale DVD coating equipment that has been utilized for qualification testing of other turbine coating systems and is in the process upfitting a new manufacturing facility for a separate product line. DVTI seeks to perform coating services for interested parties or discuss licensing options for the technology.
Teqnovations’ ultra-wide-bandwidth, timed-array active, electronically steered array (AESA) antennas enable next-generation SIGINT, radar, and data communications systems operating between 8 GHz and 200 GHz. True-time-delay beam steering enables transmitting and/or receiving RF signals in a 5:1 frequency range without squint or RF pulse distortion. Low SWaP-C, timed-array antennas enhance performance of systems on ships, planes, drones, satellites, and the ground. Teqnovations continues to develop its patented, low-SWaP-C, timed-array antenna technology for multiple governmental and commercial applications. Teqnovations has prototyped novel, ultra-wide-bandwidth true-time-delay units (TDUs) and conceptually designed a complete, modular Ka-band SATCOM antenna system to include an integrated receiver. Teqnovations is looking for Defense customers with un-met needs to support development and prime contractors to integrate our technology into advanced systems.
Hypersonic vehicles require reliable, maintenance free, compact, high temperature capable power sources – requirements that are difficult to attain using battery-based systems. eM-TECH’s Thermoelectric Generator (TEG) system technology meets those requirements. In addition, it also increases the temperature limits of legacy TEG systems from approximately 600 C to 1250 C while achieving a figure of merit (ZT) above 1 through the innovative use of silicon carbide and stable aerogels. eM-TECH, Inc. specializes in providing advanced technology solutions to problems of critical importance within the fields of materials chemistry, thermal management, adhesives, composites, and ultra-high heat to electricity conversion. We seek partnerships with government test facilities to demonstrate/validate the prototype system capabilities and with prime contractors to license the manufacturing and incorporation of the technology.
TDA Research, Inc. (TDA) has developed a moisture stable igniter formulation for Navy countermeasure flares. TDA’s novel igniter has been shown to be up to 90% more stable to degradation in high humidity conditions than the current igniter formulations and is thus more reliably ignited when exposed to moisture. The moisture stable igniter formulation has energetic properties that are comparable to the current Navy igniter, with no loss in performance when substituted in Navy hardware. The formulation can be used as a drop-in replacement for the current Navy igniter and is relatively similar in cost. TDA is a small technology manufacturing, research and development company in Wheat Ridge, Colorado and intends to manufacture and supply the igniter formulation directly to the Navy and other customers.
SA Photonics’ Wideband Agile Threat Sensor (WATS) addresses the Navy’s need for an affordable and compact High-Power Radio Frequency / High-Power Microwave (HPRF/HPM) attack warning technology that detects, characterizes and precisely geo-locates HPRF threats while being fully immune to HPRFs. WATS consists of multiple completely passive HPM probes connected by fiber optic cables to an electronic processing system, designed for UAVs and other aircraft and surface vessels. Furthermore, WATS’s tolerance of extremely high electromagnetic amplitudes enables the system to survive repeated exposure to attack without losing sensitivity. SA Photonics, which specializes in the development of advanced photonics systems to solve demanding problems for military and commercial customers, envisions in-house product manufacturing, as it has on past product developments.
GIRD Systems has developed the Alternative Precision Landing System (APLS) to provide precise positioning and navigation for shipboard landing systems in GPS-denied environments. APLS provides a complete navigation solution for the aircraft, integrating measurements computed from shipboard transmissions as well as the aircraft’s navigation system, including GPS fusion when available. The APLS architecture can be implemented as a stand-alone system or integrated with existing airborne/shipboard radios, such as the MIDS-J radios. GIRD Systems is an innovative and agile small business specializing in satisfying the DoD’s signal processing and communications needs. Our target is to integrate APLS into the government system by working with a prime contractor. GIRD is also looking to team with prime contractors in applications beyond the SBIR focus.
VIP Sensors' Fiber Optic Vector Sensors (FOVS) system satisfies Navy requirements for a highly sensitive, compact directional acoustic sensing system. An innovative system of fiber optic sensors and compasses coupled with a readout system and a fiber optic interconnecting cable, FOVS is designed to address measurement applications in the challenging undersea environment when deployed in expendable Class A sonobuoys. FOVS sensors have been built and tested, and electronics have been adapted from existing sonobuoy and undersea applications. Specializing in the design and development of systems to address challenging measurement applications, VIP Sensors seeks opportunities to customize and deploy the FOVS technology in various applications to demonstrate their effectiveness and would entertain teaming arrangements with government agencies/prime contractors to incorporate FOVS technology such applications.
Scientific Solutions, Inc (SSI) specializes in novel ocean acoustic technology servicing the U.S. Navy and other DoD components. Main product areas are acoustic monitoring for the protection of marine mammals, unwanted diver and unmanned vehicle detection (SDSN and MODSS) and senior level project management for various aspects at test and evaluation ranges. Marine mammal detection systems are currently deployed and the diver/UUV system is targeted to become a component of the Navy’s Electronic Harbor Security System(EHSS). SSI’s state-of-the-art, unique design and distributed system for detection is patent protected. Additionally, proprietary multistatic algorithms and unique modeling processes will reduce risk and provide greater confidence that the potential threat is not just another false alert. It is our vision that the NAVFAC Fleet Force Protection Ashore will integrate our system into their harbor protection systems.
Intelligent Automation Inc. (IAI) specializes in developing cyber-security technologies for cyber-physical systems. To help thwart cyber-attack, IAI developed binary code transformation techniques when applied to legacy software enhance critical systems with a “fast-crash” capability preventing those systems from working in degraded state. BRASS (Binary code Randomization for Attack Sensitive Software) consolidates analytics and transformation modules into centralized work flows for automation and user control for transformation tuning and managing performance tradeoffs. The framework can be used to protect shipboard mechanical and electrical control systems of Hull & Mechanic Engine, from operating in compromised state when cyber-attacks occur. BRASS has been prototyped and verified to support multiple software architectures. Our goal is to integrate and transition BRASS into government and prime contractor multi-layer cyber defense systems.
SDC’s Nanomaterial Enhanced Filament Wound Composite Flywheel (NEFWCF) rotors are ultra-high speed/acceleration rotors for high density energy storage and pulse power delivery. NEFWCF rotors use a novel manufacturing method and nanomaterial enhanced properties to provide significant improvement over state-of-the-art. SDC’s design is modular and reconfigurable to meet a variety of needs for future Navy ship pulse loads. SDC is an aerospace and defense company that specializes in highly engineered composite structures and subsystems as well hybridized material development. Phase II testing has indicated that the desired performance is feasible, and full-scale prototype design is in progress. The goal is to integrate the NEFWCF rotors for future Navy ship pulse loads and become a supplier of this technology to prime contractors.
Forward Photonics is developing a 100 W laser in the mid-wave infrared with integrated cooling system. This power level represents an order of magnitude increase in power over what is available commercially. This is enabled by the proprietary wavelength beam combination (WBC) technology that allows for the combination of a number of individual quantum cascade lasers into a single high brightness output beam. The intended Navy application is infrared countermeasures (IRCM) for both fixed wing and rotary wing aircraft, as well as ship-based. The goal is for the laser system to be integrated into an IRCM platform with a prime contractor partner with multi-platform uses. Forward Photonics specializes in high brightness direct diode laser systems for electronic warfare, including IRCM and direct energy weapons.
Since 1995, Applied Optimization, Inc. (AO) has collaboratively developed innovative solutions in material science to address technical challenges for industry, NASA, and the DoD. AO is developing a hardware-software system for layer-by-layer nondestructive inspection and near-real-time determination of spatial distribution material defects in metallic parts, fabricated via selective laser melting (SLM) processes. AO’s hardware is comprised of off-the-shelf laser scanners (profilometer) and precision linear motion, implemented into the deposition chamber of commercial SLM equipment. AO’s software implements signal processing algorithms for data reduction and processing of collected 3-D top-surface build geometry/roughness data to predict material defects. AO’s capability employs physics-based models to correlate the phenomenology of interaction between surface roughness and material defects and to provide voxel-by-voxel anomaly flagging. AO seeks to identify DoD Prime contractor and Programs focused on AM to include selective laser melting (SLM) process optimization.
Charles River Analytics, a 30-year old applied research firm focused on intelligent systems applications, has worked with the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) to develop Grammars for Graph-based Assessment of Mission Readiness (GGRAMR); providing a framework for the graph database equivalent of relational database “views.” Creating views of graph data that directly support the calculation of unit readiness scores, and support predicting measures of performance (MOPs) for mission essential tasks, it transforms raw graph data into graph data that is organized in specific ways to support critical applications. GGRAMR significantly reduces the cost and complexity of working with graph databases and would greatly benefit programs, such as the Defense Readiness Reporting System-Navy (DRRS-N) that must draw on diverse data from large graph databases.
Current quartz temperature-compensated crystal oscillators (TCXO) cannot withstand the harsh environment of a high-velocity, gun-launched guided projectile. The Ferroelectric Resonator Oscillator (FEROS) technology is a high-G mechanical shock and temperature shock tolerant, ferroelectric-based oscillator system that can replace TCXOs and be integrated into high-G miniaturized GPS receivers. Initial prototype devices have been fabricated and tested for electrical and temperature performance validating functionality. Physical Optics Corporation (POC) is an advanced systems integrator with expertise in optical, electronics, and avionics systems, surveillance equipment, sensors, x-ray, and software. Our goal is to work with a prime contractor for the GPS receiver integration and transition this technology into the initial targeted platform, the Hyper Velocity Projectile, SHD FY15-17, for the PEO IWS 3C Surface Gunnery Program.
Sentient Science is developing physics-based life predictions and inspection simulation software to provide a modeling framework to simultaneously optimize inspectability and reliability of Additive Manufacturing (AM) designs before they are finalized. Sentient Science is a technology leader in the field of life prediction simulation and prognostics and health management. Sentient Science’s technology is leveraged to optimize the design of additive manufacturing parts in drive trains and structural components in military vehicles (ships, aircraft and land vehicles). Using this technology, AM parts achieve higher mechanical performance and better inspectability throughout the entire life-cycle. Sentient has more than 15 years of experience in microstructure modeling of different metallic alloys. Aerospace original equipment manufacturer (OEM) design teams leverage Sentient Science’s modeling technology in redesign of existing parts or in new component design.
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is critical to supporting current and future air vehicle design and, shipboard/dynamic interface operations. Unfortunately, current CFD software is too time consuming for many applications. Continuum Dynamics, Inc. (CDI) is developing a CFD solver library for increasing the accuracy and reducing the cost of CFD. CDI specializes in developing highly efficient analysis software and software libraries to support analysis of, most notably, rotorcraft and dynamic interface applications. CDI’s CFD solver library has demonstrated several orders of magnitude cost reduction over contemporary approaches, and our goal is to integrate the solver with DOD CREATE-AV software and transition the technology to engineers within the government and industry to reduce the cost of supporting operations and platform development.
Temporal loads resulting from wind eddies on aerial vehicles during flight-deck launch and recovery cannot be accurately estimated from current flight test data. To better predict these loads and enhance operations, our simulation tools provide software components for computationally efficient but accurate prediction of disparate scale turbulence interactions. The resulting digital-simulator allows the coarser mesh use without the undesired excessive dissipation and grid-dependency, resulting in an enhanced cost-effective predictive simulation. Kord specializes in aerospace and defense technology software/hardware prototyping, including the DoD simulation tools: Kestrel and Helios. The system has been successfully integrated in naval relevant applications. Our goal is to integrate and transition this technology to DoD acquisition tools and pilot training simulators as well as adoption to the commercial sector.
Charles River Analytics, a leading provider of innovative R&D solutions for increasingly complex human-systems challenges is addressing the need for planning resources and schedules for deployed unmanned logistics platforms that provide energy replenishment, data access and management, and communications capabilities to a heterogeneous suite of UUVs. Their system enables situational awareness of submerged unmanned platform health and status and then develops highly autonomous, multi-vehicle coordination and management algorithms to execute unmanned operations with limited remote supervisory control access. To date the software has been successfully exercised in a series of government-managed Limited Objective Experiments, including in-water operations, simulation-based laboratory tests, and benchside hardware testing. They seek transition into a deployable fleet of platforms to support longer-range and longer-duration UUV missions.
IFOS develops fiber optic sensor systems including Fiber Bragg Grating Sensor Systems supporting up to 256 precision sensors per interrogation node, which are immune to electromagnetic interference, electrically passive and less labor intensive to install. By monitoring dynamic strain (load), temperature and other structural health indicators this technology could enhance emerging LCS Condition Based Maintenance Plus (CBM+) architectures. Installation of such systems allows for real-time condition assessments, which enables more accurate maintenance planning and scheduling thus minimizing unscheduled/unnecessary maintenance events, translating to reduced operational cost, increased lifetime, and enhanced safety. A demonstration was given with 60 sensors attached to cantilever beam and aluminum plate sampled at 6 kHz. Now, IFOS is now proceeding to system testing on a LCAC in Florida and destroyer grillages at NSWC Carderock.
A new generation of miniaturized atomic magnetometers is being developed and integrated into naval systems such as small unmanned fixed wing and rotorcraft platforms. This project is intended to develop a magnetic anomaly detection (MAD) system that integrates these small and low-power sensor elements, control electronics, auxiliary or reference sensors, and digital signal processing methods into a compact form factor. The objective is to develop a capable and flexible system that has utility for multiple naval air assets and can be readily integrated into larger systems or used in a stand-alone fashion. The combination of miniaturized atomic magnetometers with optimal hardware and processing algorithms will accelerate integrated sensor packages that meet the Navy’s requirements for sensitivity and operational performance.
An isogeometric analysis toolkit for Abaqus (IGAFA) is developed for a high-fidelity finite element analysis (FEA) model creation as well as response and failure prediction of metallic and composite structures. IGAFA will create an analysis model with preserved geometry from a Computer Aided Design (CAD) model followed by performing an accurate 3D stress prediction for a complex geometry with structural discontinuities. IGAFA features include: selection of a geometry model, surface and volumetric T-spline construction, FEA and failure prediction, post-processing, and design alternation. In addition, IGAFA can be integrated with simulation tools used for additive manufacturing, 3D printing, or auto placement of fibers for a curved composite structure. Global Engineering and Materials provides software solutions for fracture, fatigue, and multi-scale damage characterization of metallic, composite and hybrid structures. Our goal is to provide the toolkit to DoD Labs and OEMs.
This program targets the development of an integrated cross-cube optical WDM node for avionic applications. The device incorporates four quad WDM receivers (16 receive channels total) cross-coupled to four quad WDM transmitters (16 transmit channels total), with each data path operating at 56Gbps employing PAM4 modulation. The device enables an optical network backbone that does not rely on a lossy passive optical star coupler and incorporates Built-In Test capability, thus significantly improving signal routing and distribution throughput and reliability. Previous efforts have realized the quad transmitter assembly operating at 10Gbps and tunable filter technology suitable for integration into the receiver front-end. Current activity is aligned with development of the laser transmitter capable of achieving 56Gbps PAM4 transmission
Current state-of-the-art undersea warfare modeling and simulation (M&S) tools most often focus on detailed engineering or high-level campaign analysis. None satisfy the operational requirement for a scalable and accessible 2D and 3D cross-domain warfare analytical tool in support of operational experimentation. TRIDENT is a M&S software solution that provides a unique cross-domain bridge connecting systems engineering and mission/campaign-level models in support of experimentation and analysis. This innovative solution is a domain package “plug-in” leveraging Sonalysts’ commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) physics-based Simulation Engine II (SEII) framework. It includes a unique 2D/3D “Seabed-Space” global domain for visualization, PDS real-time data access and more. TRIDENT will enable warfare analysts to quantify and qualify an understanding of revolutionary future warfare concepts in an operational environment.
Keystone developed a repeatable additive manufacturing (AM) process with the capability for rapid process and part qualifications and certifications. The process is ideally suited to solve obsolescence and difficult-to-source large format products that will enhance Navy sustainment requirements. Keystone is a technology development company with extensive manufacturing and production experience including new product and process aerospace qualifications. Keystone possesses two directed energy AM cells with capacity to produce over 64,000 lbs/year and is seeking Navy/DoD production source approvals for AM or repair. The equipment is a low-cost, robust and industrialized AM solution. To date, two major Navy usage alloys have been characterized with B-basis allowable tensile properties produced in conjunction with Materials Properties Development Standardization (MMPDS), and they are extending their data base to include Ferrium M54.
RF environments are increasingly more complex causing distress for system designers across the warfighter to create a robust RF interference mitigation solution. Metamagnetics’ Auto-tune Filter has created a small chip that can mitigate any number of interferers quickly and effectively without the need of complex processing systems. This enables a variety of platforms to easily install a robust, low SWAP solution for cosite and jamming problems. Potential systems include radios, GPS, EW and radars. Metamagnetics, an advance magnetic material design firm, has enhanced the device’s baseline material and performed higher level testing in systems along with transitioning another version of the technology to a Navy EW system. Metamagnetics is looking to partner with primes for system transition along with government entities to help fund development.
In this program, Freedom Photonics will develop a monolithically-integrated, externally-modulated, 1000 nm laser for analog transmission applications. Applications include EW, antenna remoting, and ISR, for avionic platforms and systems. The transmitter is based on an innovative low-linewidth, low-RIN, high-power semiconductor laser, monolithically integrated with a high-performance semiconductor modulator: no such device commercially exists today. Implementation is in the GaAs material system, enabling high-efficiency performance and un-cooled operation in elevated military temperature environments, significantly reducing SWaP. Prior demonstrations of high-efficiency GaAs based semiconductor lasers have been made, with additional effort required to monolithically integrate the modulator. Further technology maturation efforts are needed, in addition to collaboration with defense partners/end users to tailor the transmitter towards specific system-level target applications.
Forward Photonics is developing the Compact Air-cooled Laser Modulate-able Source (CALMS). This is a 3 W laser with wavelength < 400 nm. The design is compact and fully modulate-able up to 10 kHz. High powered ultraviolet (UV) operation is challenging for direct diode lasers, as the GaN diode technology is not as mature as for other materials. This power level at this wavelength is enabled by the proprietary wavelength beam combination (WBC) technology that allows for the combination of a number of individual GaN laser diodes into a single high brightness output beam. Forward Photonics specializes in high brightness direct diode laser systems.
Lynntech Inc. has developed On-Demand Hypoxia Trainer (ODHT) – a portable, pressure-on-demand, mask-on, train-like-you-fly, hypoxia training device for aircrew. The ODHT is based on an energy-efficient electrochemical oxygen pump and has successfully undergone human effects testing at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. Production of the ODHT starts in 2019. The initial customer is the Navy Medicine Operational Training Center, Naval Survival Training Institute; units are scheduled for delivery to NAVAIR starting in late FY 2019. Lynntech, a 30-year old small business successful at developing and transitioning electrochemical-based technologies to the warfighter and 2016 Tibbets Award winner, will manufacture the ODHT in-house and supply it to the customer.
JEM’s innovative frequency-independent Magnetic Flux Channel (MFC) antenna exploits efficient broadband coupling to the bound charge inherent in all magneto-dielectric materials. This enables efficient transmission and reception of RF communication signals in conformal installation environments that severely degrade the performance of conventional antennas using just electric charge control. Successful demonstrations of hardware in SBIR N112-113 laid the groundwork for our conformal frequency-independent designs, such as Archimedean and logarithmic spirals, in SBIR N152-081. Beneficiaries of this technology are networks or swarms of small, self-organizing UAVs to achieve specific intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance or communications mission objectives. JEM Engineering, a woman-owned Maryland small business specializing in communication antenna research, design, manufacture and test, seeks teaming arrangements with government organizations and primes to validate system capabilities and incorporate the technology.
FlexDuo distributed mission processing computer architecture provides reconfigurable FPGA capability to advanced avionics architectures. This capability allows for the ability to perform high speed video processing in support of advanced architectures while also dynamically securing unsecure networks via integrated security. Simultaneously, FlexDuo supports current and future high-speed, high-power hardware and more video-intensive processing. Initially targeting V22 Osprey, AH- 1Z, and UH-1Y helicopters as a rapid acquisition path to securely insert true commercial off-the-shelf hardware into military applications. FlexDuo’s innovative approach helps future-proof systems while reducing cost by minimizing the use of preloaded FPGA-based architectures or specific chips, providing software portability, integration and upgrades via standards-based interfaces, and miniaturization. QuickFlex provides products and services in development of and support of high-performance, state-of-the-art, reconfigurable systems and circuit solutions, novel security protections, fault tolerant solutions, and sophisticated decision engines for embedded, desktop, and networking technologies. FlexDuo technology is anticipated to be a spiral integration into rotorcraft and airframe avionics.
Tactical Troubleshooting Tool (T3) integrates Tactical Data Link configuration settings from multiple legacy systems onboard US Navy ships into a centralized browser-based interface and distributes them via a pub-sub framework to remote, authorized users. Developed by a team of experienced engineers with warfighter input, this project streamlines the process for troubleshooting multi-TDL network connectivity issues by providing a collaborative, real-time environment to view network status and configurations, and recommend corrective actions. T3 interfaces directly with the Common Data Link Management System (CDLMS) but can be configured to interface with other TDL systems. The initial transition target is Command and Control Program Office (PMW 150). Fuse is pursuing opportunities to apply this dynamic, flexible system to DoD and civilian applications that require a remote, global view of aggregated data.
For the last 15+ years, BlueRISC, Inc. has provided next generation system assurance and cyber security products and solutions for government and private industry. ThreatSCOPE Code Injection (CI) is a binary-level, vulnerability analysis toolkit (i.e. no source code required) enabling automated insertion of code into embedded executables/firmware. It provides vulnerability and performance guidance for the insertion of generic and cyber-hardening codes via an interactive GUI. ThreatSCOPE CI is directly applicable to a number of military and commercial embedded systems including unmanned systems (e.g. drones), avionics, industrial control systems as well as legacy embedded systems. ThreatSCOPE CI has been validated on real-world embedded firmware (e.g. Apache web server, avionics OFP) and shown to enable the patching of identified vulnerabilities (e.g. Heartbleed). We seek to license to large system integrators and integrate into Navy software assurance flows.
The MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical Systems) Modulating Retroreflector (MRR) employs the Boston Micromachines Corporation (BMC) optical modulator mounted in a hollow corner cube retro-reflector as the enabling component of a secure asymmetric free-space laser communication link. BMC is a provider of MEMS deformable mirrors and modulator products as well as advanced imaging systems. The MRR can be used for remote sensing in applications such as gas detection, surveillance, tagging and tracking in various platforms as the technology is small, light-weight, covert, and anti-jam. BMC has received three SBIRs for the development of this technology. To transition for use in the field, BMC will work with a sponsor to determine the optimal configuration, which may vary from single-component mounting to full 360-degree turrets for use in flexible, mobile applications.
Both military and commercial unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) can benefit from onboard detect-and-avoid (DAA) sensors to keep well-clear of other aircraft. SARA’s PANAMA military DAA sensor and Passive Acoustic Non-Cooperative Collision-Alert System (PANCAS) commercial sensors are the first systems for UAS that detect aircraft as far away as 10km and meet size, weight, and power (SWaP) limitations. PANAMA has been demonstrated in a relevant FAA environment and evaluated independently by the Air Force Test Pilot School when integrated onto a Group 1 UAS. SARA Inc. aims to provide a small SWAP DAA for use with Navy UAS platforms. SARA Inc. develops novel systems for remote sensing, electromagnetic pulse (EMP) and pulse power applications. Our goal with PANAMA is to increase the capability and autonomy of U.S. military UAS.
Marine gas turbines operate at less than full power. However, future Navy ops will require engines to be operated at higher temperatures for sustained periods necessitating the insertion of new materials and coatings that exist at these higher temperature conditions. This technology will mitigate that problem. It consists of utilizing an ICME model to promote TBC life >20K hours and assisting in maximizing corrosion and oxidation resistance. Sustained competitive advantage is provided as this technology allows users to understand actual coating life. Moreover, the ICME model can be utilized in other applications where difficult relationships between process variables and resultant properties exist. The isothermal TBC life model has been accomplished and its function verified. ReliaCoat Technologies specializes in in-situ process monitoring and control for advanced coating processes. Our goal is to integrate this technology into government and industry for coating engineering and life prediction.
SkyLight™ is a cost-saving and performance-improving free space optical (FSO) communication system being developed for PEO Space. It has extremely low size, weight and power (SWaP) to allow its use on nanosatellites, namely the CubeSat platform. The device allows small (3U) satellites to communicate with the ground via infrared FSO techniques. SkyLight™ operates with high data speeds at high altitudes (LEO) through varying weather, allowing for significantly enhanced global communications. The company, which specializes in the development of advanced photonics systems to solve demanding problems for military and commercial customers, envisions its own small-scale production as well as teaming with well-known primes, as it has on past product developments.
SA Photonics is pleased to propose the SOCRATES™ free space optical communication and sensing system featuring the Photonic Optical Multicast Mast Unit (POMMU) to satisfy the Navy’s requirements for a secure point-to-multi-point optical sensing and communications architecture to enhance tactical and strategic awareness in multiple high-threat, congested environments. SOCRATES™ technology enables 360-degree multicast capability of high bandwidth communication, in addition to threat search and tracking capability. SA Photonics will optimize its field-proven atmospheric FSO technologies coupled with new component capability from partner NCSU to develop a low cost, multicast operation in the marine environment. SA Photonics, which specializes in the development of advanced photonics systems to solve demanding problems for military and commercial customers, envisions teaming with well-known primes to demonstrate, validate and integrate the technology.
ObjectSecurity, a small company in downtown San Diego traditionally focused on cybersecurity, has branched out into data analytics and Artificial Intelligence (AI). ObjectSecurity’s award-winning, patented security product is OpenPMF, employs cool models and algorithms to make it easy to author and maintain fine-grained, dynamic access control policies. ObjectSecurity is engaged in exciting product development to include a supply chain risk analysis product which integrates legacy SAP data dumps and into a graph database, suitable to run risk data analytics. Another, ObjectSecurity project is "AI hacker", which leverages AI to simulate a hacker. ObjectSecurity is a spin-off of the University of Cambridge Computer Laboratory. ObjectSecurity’s focus is to transfer the results of academic research to consulting and industrial research and development, and bundle the abilities of several experienced scientists, consultants, programmers and security technology specialists. ObjectSecurity is fully employee-owned.
To date, traditional search techniques such as Information Retrieval (IR) and Information Extraction (IE) have been executed independently providing information that is not analysis ready and is limited in scope. The Building Open-domain Semantic Search (BOSS) technology will combine the strengths of IR and IE into a single capability and address the mutual limitations of both. It will allow users to explore data from any domain through a search that returns structured results. This search capability is semantically-based, allowing users to search text data based on what it means instead of the numerous ways that meaning might be expressed. Decisive Analytics is an Employee-owned company providing data processing capabilities that move beyond simple extraction by automatically organizing, identifying, and extracting activities and relationships from large corpora of text, imagery, video, and audio. We are seeking opportunities to transition this capability to programs where identifying threats from a large corpus of multi-source data set in real time is a difficult challenge.
Future all-electric warships demand improved electrical power density, conversion efficiency and system reliability. GeneSiC’s innovative, highly reliable silicon carbide (SiC) metal oxide semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) switching module with its low on-resistance, high voltage (6.5kV) high current (100 A), high switching speeds (up to 20 kHz) and high temperature (200 0C) meets those demands. With a cost structure of less than $45.00/ampere, these 6500V/100A modules are ideally suited for applications such as electromagnetic rail gun, Air and Missile Defense Radar (AMDR), propulsion motor drives and shipboard power distribution on future medium voltage electric ship platforms. GeneSiC Semiconductor, a privately held Corporation specializing in developing and manufacturing in high quality, high value-added Silicon Carbide based semiconductor devices, seeks teaming arrangements with government agencies/primes to validate capabilities and integrate the technology.
JPAnalytics’ Modular Clandestine Communications System (MCCS) is an underwater acoustic communications system capable of delivering reliable communications in challenging environments while being virtually undetectable by adversaries. JPAnalytics lives by the motto “Where Data, Theory and Analysis Create Innovative Solutions” to harness its expertise in signal processing, underwater acoustics, communications and embedded systems and develop paradigm-shifting solutions in underwater acoustic communications and detection. The MCCS addresses extensive needs in undersea vehicles, weapons and sensors. Its proprietary processing algorithms and modular signal, software and hardware architectures enable robust operation in challenging environments and efficient system optimization to satisfy user requirements and constraints. The MCCS has been extensively tested with field data and analyzed by independent organizations. JPAnalytics is looking for visionary customers and innovative and resourceful partners.
Applied Optimization, Inc. (AO) is developing Integrated Computational Materials Engineering (ICME) models and software to support additive manufacturing (AM) development of conformal heat exchangers (HeX) for power electronics hardware. The conformal geometry of cooling channels is optimized to attain higher thermal efficiency. ICME optimization ensures the manufacturability of quality metallic parts from a variety of AM machines at different geographic locations. AO's team of scientists, engineers, and software developers’ modeling and simulation capabilities has advanced the understanding of the state-of-the-art in additive manufacturing (AM) processing. Employment of AM leads to innovative HeX designs capable of more efficiently removing heat because these designs eliminate or severely reduce joints. AO seeks to identify DoD Prime contractor and Programs focused on AM and thermal management optimization.
Kennon’s aircraft armor system is built on patented technology that greatly increases damage tolerance and multi-hit capability, as verified through prototype testing. The armor’s damage isolation allows it to retain the majority of its structural integrity after impact - permitting its use as a load-bearing structure that can both line cabin walls and be integrated into flooring panels. Low weight and intrusion profile allow the armor to be used for nearly all missions. While the initial target platform is the V-22, core armor structures can easily be adapted to other air, land, and sea vehicles. Kennon is a research, design, and manufacturing company dedicated to protecting high-value assets. Our goal is to provide armor systems for all aircraft and vehicles operating in contested areas/hostile environments.
Filtered Rayleigh Scattering (FRS) provides a completely nonintrusive method of full annulus airflow characterization. It uniquely characterizes pressure, density and temperature as well as provides flow speed and angle. During engine operations, complex distortion profiles that cannot be mimicked in a ground test environment are experienced. There is currently no method of characterizing these profiles. FRS, once fully mature, will fill this technology gap as well as enhance ground test measurements. Unlike other current techniques, FRS proposes no obstruction to the flow nor introduce particles into the flow. The target initial platform for this technology is an advanced fighter aircraft. During the Phase I, mean velocity, temperature and pressure measurements were resolved to within acceptable limits for both uniform and distorted flows of a free jet in a laboratory environment. Prime Photonics is a technology company focused on bringing innovative products to the marketplace. Our focus areas include sensor and materials technologies for test & measurement, inspection, control and health monitoring of commercial and military equipment, structures and turbomachinery.
Area-I is a pioneer of advanced solutions for autonomous systems through the design, integration, and testing of unmanned platforms and their control systems. A key facet of these systems is the Maestro autopilot and avionics architecture which enables custom control schemes for advanced guidance, navigation and control and Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) mission capabilities. The Maestro hardware and software has been developed by Area-I from the ground up, allowing complete control and customization of the system functionality to the customer’s needs. This effort leverages Maestro’s proven performance record onboard aerial systems to enable advanced mission capabilities of unmanned surface vehicles (USV) in autonomous port patrol, mine countermeasures, and anti-submarine warfare. The ultimate goal is to transition the technology onto a program of record.
This technology will streamline composite repair processes on aircraft and other vehicles. The approach could potentially transform additional composite fabrication areas. The majority of high performance thermoset resins have two-components and require thermal curing to achieve acceptable properties. The resin system developed by TRI/Austin can be supplied as a one component system that can be cured at ambient temperatures. Without post-cure the resin will provide a glass transition temperature in excess of 350 °F (177 °C). The implications of this development are significant in terms of the ease of use and elimination of procedural steps. While the resin system was developed specifically for vacuum bagging, it is expected to be viable for other composite fabrication methods including resin transfer molding (RTM) and vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM). The resin system can be cured at ambient temperatures in approximately one hour. However, if higher cure speeds are desired it can also be cured thermally.
For the repair of composite aircraft components, a Double Vacuum Debulk (DVD) process is commonly performed on a repair patch to reduce void volume, prior to application of the patch to the damaged structure. Luna Innovations Incorporated has developed an advanced single vacuum bag process utilizing a novel Breathable, Resin Barrier (BRB) which can be utilized to fabricate high quality aerospace laminates. The technology eliminates the dedicated equipment, complexity, and size limitations of the DVD tooling, while reducing process time by more than 50%. The developed out of autoclave process is applicable to legacy material systems and a wide variety of fabrication and repair applications, but the initial implementation target will be at Navy depots to simplify and more efficiently repair aircraft, such as the V-22.
Charles River Analytics, a leading customer-focused provider of innovative R&D solutions for increasingly complex human-systems challenges, is developing Intuitive User Interfaces for Task-Tailored planning (INTUIT) to provide a set of efficient and effective mission planning user interfaces for the Navy’s Joint Mission Planning System (JMPS). These role- and task-tailored user interfaces increase the usability of planning systems and efficiency of operators with varying skill levels across a range of vehicles, mission contexts, and unique tasks. Formal analysis efforts have identified task and information requirements for the mission planning process within the targeted environment, driving the design of a set of display concepts and the prototyping and demonstration environment used to validate INTUIT. Ultimately, INTUIT’s user interface will be integrated into JMPS and other DoD systems.
Aircraft landing gear supports the entire weight of an aircraft during landing and ground operations; consequently, Engineering & Software System Solution, Inc. (ES3) a high-end engineering firm specializing in engineering and design of aircraft components and advanced material coatings for aerospace applications has developed Diagnostic Of Landing gear Fatigue In-service Nexus (DOLFIN) multifunction Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) system that can be utilized for fatigue damage tracking of landing gear systems, in this case on the P-8 Poseidon (PMA-290). ES3 is working separate contracts relating to the same topic for the F/A-18 (PMA-265) and is completing a commercial qualification and certification effort on a rotorcraft program that will be fully complete in the next few months. The P-8 DOLFIN program utilizes form, fit and virtually identical functional hardware to this commercial program.
Vigilant Cyber Systems, Inc. (VCS) has developed the Cyber Battle Damage Assessment Tool (CyBDAT). A modeling tool that enables a comparative analysis between information related capabilities and traditional kinetic fires during mission planning, within Computer Network Attack (CNA), Computer Network Exploitation (CNE) and Electronic Attack (EA) events. Using game theoretic modeling we have developed a methodology to quantify the value of cyber exploits and electronic attack within the context of relevant mission threads to rapidly inform decision made on the battlefield. VCS is currently working closely with the Joint Technical Coordinating Group for Munitions Effectiveness (JTCG-ME) from the Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC). They have developed several data standards to quantify specific data required to create comparison numbers between kinetic and cyber, and CyBDAT is incorporating these data standards into current testing, with the end goal being that CyBDAT will roll directly into the JTCG-ME’s efforts of building a tool to provide this comparison.
Polaris’ Pyxis is a next-generation sensor that images previously undetectable objects in cluttered and traditionally challenging environments. Pyxis is a short-wave infrared polarimeter containing thermal, polarization and hybrid modes that has an extremely high dynamic range. Polaris specializes in customized electro-optical systems for target detection, identification and tracking. Pyxis will perform route clearance for the Navy’s ground vehicles but also has great potential for water and shoreline target detection. Pyxis outperforms current thermal cameras by added polarization sensing, which clearly distinguishes man-made objects from natural ones that are not detectable in standard visible or thermal imagery. Polaris will license Pyxis’ technology to a well- established, respected camera manufacturer, who will integrate Pyxis into their established manufacturing processes. Polaris will develop upgrades and offer technical support.
BH Technology is a sensing technology products and systems based solutions company. Using our patented sensing technology we have created a novel Digital End Speed Indicator (DESI) system for Steam Catapult aircraft launch systems. Our system consists of updated form, fit, and function enhancements that eliminate current system obsolescence; end of life, and performance issues while reducing total cost of ownership of the system over its expected lifetime and ensures safety of both aircraft and personnel handling the equipment. Our technology, components, and designs used in our DESI system are leveraged from our current NAVY qualified sensor systems used on aircraft carrier elevators so that first pass qualification testing of the DESI system has a very high probability of success. The DESI system represents the 2nd insertion platform of our qualified sensing technology. Implementing our sensor technology enables system enhanced functionality, robustness, and reliability in harsh environments. These enhancements include built in system diagnostics, health monitoring, autonomous calibration, data retention, and intuitive user interface via touchscreen versatility.
Touchstone Research Laboratory, an award-winning developer of advanced materials for commercial and government customers, has developed an innovative prepreg tape made from continuous fiber aluminum metal matrix composite (MMC) material that is four times stronger and stiffer than standard aluminum alloys. When applied to aluminum hulled ships, the MMC prepreg tape can both prevent cracks and retard crack growth and, thus, significantly reduce maintenance and repair costs. The higher strength and stiffness compared to traditional composite patches makes the MMC prepreg suitable for repairs on mechanically loaded structures as well. These benefits translate into increased time on mission across a wide range of ship classes. The plan is to add MMC prepreg to the current patch repair kit.
The Naviator represents the first unmanned vehicle platform capable of operating both in air, surface and underwater and that can transition back and forth between these mediums seamlessly. SubUAS LLC, formed by the inventors of the Naviator, world experts in hybrid air/sea autonomous vehicles, is developing this technology for both commercial and military applications. The Naviator allows for rapid air/underwater deployment, and transition between underwater/air. Combined with high maneuverability and reliability of multirotor vehicles, this results in disruptive technologies that can extend operations, provide rapid response in the ocean battlespace environment and surveillance arena. Battlefield applications for this new platform include launch and recovery from air, water or ground vehicles, rapid response to investigate threats, delivering payloads, rapid deployment of explosives to eliminate mines, smart buoy sensors, ships/ports inspections, stealth missions, air/water communications system, among others.
Global Engineering Research and Technologies (GERT) has developed a state-of-the-art simulation tool that is capable of predicting initiation of matrix cracking, fiber breakage and delamination as well as their propagation paths in laminated composites under various loading conditions. GERT specializes in analytic method development towards prediction of deformation and failure of aerospace structural parts. Initial targeted platforms include PMA 275 and V-22 Osprey. There is no known existing analysis capability that can predict all possible failure modes in composites. GERT has so far developed an analysis capability to determine accurate stress and deformation fields in the presence of a cracks. The ultimate goal is to implement this technology into government and prime contractor production cycles as a failure analysis step that is necessary for certification.
Nevada Composites specializes in development of improved tooling approaches for manufacture and repair of high-performance composite parts. Our technology integrates advanced materials with low cost, rapid manufacturing procedures to repair, replicate, or manufacture composite parts for aerospace platforms. Initial targeted applications include repair of composite parts at Fleet Readiness Centers as well as manufacture of rocket motor cases. Our tooling is applicable to composite parts from legacy platforms to advanced systems and can enable higher temperature systems in the future. Phase II development has guaranteed the long-term availability of essential components while improving manufacturing technology to reduce time-to-manufacture and cost. The ultimate goal is to qualify our technology as the tool-of-record in multiple government and commercial repair installations as well as for composite manufacturing.
This program targets a photonic analog to feature converter based on optical speckle. This targets electronic warfare applications including compressive sensing, electro-magnetic (EM) spectral awareness, RADAR/Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR), and other applications that need to identify features in a large information bandwidth. The developed innovation builds on existing compressive sensing algorithms but which incorporates a unique enabling component in the utilization of optical speckle processing, which has the potential for low-power photonic integration. A redesign of the previously developed system based on discrete components to allow photonic integration has been performed. The redesigned system has been validated. The next step will be to push the technology towards further integration and maturity, and to tailor the system towards specific target applications to be defined in collaboration with defense partners/end users.
Toyon’s MTP-Predict solution delivers predictive analytics to enhance the Navy’s ability to detect, track, and identify surface vessels in littoral waterways. The data-driven technology automatically learns motion patterns from available surveillance data – such as archived radar tracks or automatic identification system (AIS) reports – and delivers high-fidelity surface vessel motion predictions at long time horizons. The targeted applications include automatic target tracking, sensor resource management, and mission planning for platforms that surveil littoral waterways with dense and diverse surface traffic; including the P-8A (Poseidon) and unmanned helicopters. Feasibility was demonstrated through extensive analysis using simulated surveillance data, while prototype development and validation are currently underway. Toyon Research Corporation is a nationally recognized small business performing both technology development and defense systems analysis.
Technology Service Corporation (TSC) is a high technology company providing engineering consulting and products, electronic components for microwave, digital processing computer software, and automated test & control systems to the U.S. Government and industry. TSC is developing a High-Speed Bus Tester that will utilize IEEE Automatic Test Markup Language (ATML) Std. to incorporate Open Architecture (OA) test capability into DOD standard Automated Test Equipment. Our OA design allows users to modify and expand capabilities as necessary without proprietary restraints. To reduce risk and accelerate development, TSC is leveraging our proven automated test tool, TestForge Test Execute (TE). Initial market is U.S. Navy Depot Sustainment efforts using electronic Consolidated Automated Support System (eCASS); looking for the opportunity to fully develop and mature our TE and interfaces to provide DOD with the OA solution for High Speed Bus testing
The technology that is being developed is an inductor that will assist in provide a reduction of common mode (CM) current with in the power electronics integration into the Medium Voltage Direct Current (MVDC) micro-grid. The sustainable competitive advantage and innovation is the evolutionary computing through an in-house genetic algorithm to design and construct a CM choke that will reduce CM in a MVDC system. Prototype construction and testing has been successfully accomplished to show the reduced CM current by using our design. Continuous Solutions is a power and energy components company involved in the design of dynamic power-electronic based electromechanical system such as those found in hybrid electrical vehicles, aircrafts and warships. We are looking for power electronic companies to partner with to sell them our CM choke component for the integration into MVDC.
Instead of training each Sailor in every mission-relevant skill—a costly proposition—it makes sense to optimize a team’s collective expertise. Group Learning and Optimization of Collaborative Workflows (GLOW), is a task distribution, collaboration, and peer review platform that optimizes team output, giving Naval Officers accurate data on Sailors’ strengths so they can make better training and tasking decisions to craft diverse, knowledgeable teams. Charles River Analytics, maker of intelligent systems solutions, has successfully demonstrated the feasibility with the development of a prototype Collaborative Workspace. GLOW will support rapid learning and development of group expertise for platforms such as the Distributed Common Ground System-Navy (DCGS-N) Program; teams will be constructed based upon collective expertise and individuals will acquire new knowledge and skills through peer collaboration.
The increasing capabilities of adversary submarines, combined with the challenging acoustic characteristics of littoral waters create a significant challenge, particularly for current tactical Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) systems, which are primarily platform centric and designed for mono-static operations. SeaLandAire Technologies (SLA) specializes in rapid development of advanced engineering solutions in a broad range of applications. SLA is developing an A-size Mid Frequency Active Sonobuoy (MFAS) capable of significantly improving the ASW effectiveness resulting in better defense for the carrier fleet in all ASW mission areas. The end objective of this Phase II is to have a field-proven buoy design that can then be moved to production and qualification, with the assistance of our transition partner.
TiER1 Performance Solutions focuses on people, performance, and organizations. We help transform organizations by developing training, strategic change, and organizational effectiveness programs for commercial and government clients. The Attentional Trainer to Improve Control of Unmanned Systems (ATTICUS) provides a gamified, scenario-based training tool to develop attentional skills in unmanned aerial system (UAS) operators. ATTICUS provides UAS operators an engaging, self-paced learning experience. The tool is specifically targeted to sensor operators but can be modified for a variety of UAS operators. The ATTICUS design process includes user testing and a human-in-the-loop, experimental study to evaluate training effectiveness. We are seeking a customer to assist in conducting pre- and post-training assessments of operator performance to demonstrate system effectiveness for improved operational outcomes.
Adaptive Immersion Technologies specializes in creating innovative training and human-performance management technologies. Their Sustained Attention Training in Unmanned and Remote Navigation (SATURN) system is an adaptive, game-based training system for unmanned aerial system (UAS) operators, targeting the attention control skills required during long-haul UAS missions. With a constant performance measurement capability, SATURN can automatically adapt training content to provide the right level of challenge based on an individual operator’s skill strengths and deficiencies. SATURN is intended to be operated as a standalone training device, as well as integrated into existing training simulators for UAS operators. Currently platform-agnostic, SATURN can be rapidly customized for any UAS platform, integrated with the required models, mission requirements, and associated attention control challenges.
Collaborative Airborne Anti-Submarine (ASW) Warfare Mission Evaluation and Optimization (CAMEO) provides web-based collaborative mission planning tools, applications, and services to synchronize mission execution, help communicate commander’s intent, substantially shorten the mission planning process, and improve the effectiveness of multi-platform, multi-sortie, multi-sensor airborne ASW and Surface Warfare (SUW). CAMEO is intended for use in the Navy's Joint Mission Planning System (JMPS), to coordinate and plan tactical and operational details of airborne ASW and SUW combat missions. CAMEO Phase II prototyping has extended and enhanced Phase I operational concepts. For 50+ years, Wagner Associates has developed/transitioned complex software components to prime contractors and Navy warfare systems, such as USW-DSS and MH-60R avionics. Our products include mission effectiveness evaluation and optimization, risk determination, and data fusion algorithms.
Hi-SPINOUT, adjunct to Automatic Test Equipment (ATE), enables slow, legacy ATEs to test high speed units under test (UUT). A.T.E. Solutions stands for “Advanced Test Engineering,” our aim is to find advanced solutions to test and test engineering problems. The initial platform on which Hi-SPINOUT will be demonstrated is the US Navy’s eCASS ATE at Lakehurst, NJ. Hi-SPINOUT is implemented on a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), which employs reconfigurable synthetic instruments (SIs) at high speed to interface with the UUT. An important instrument in high-speed testing is the bit error rate tester (BERT) that characterizes high-speed faults such as jitter. The innovation involves a breakthrough where tests can be performed through higher speed, TPS reuse, lower TPS development cost and delivering TPS capabilities earlier.
Smart Weather InstruMentS (SWIMS) system has a blimp that moves up/down in the air-sea boundary, collecting in-situ data up to 1km from the sea surface, tethered to an autonomous surface vehicle (ASV), enabling autonomous deployment to any location on the surface; improving data quality/quantity. It has a satellite communication link to remote command and control (C2) stations to stream real-time field data as well as receive any mission instructions, can operate unattended for 3-4 months with its onboard adaptive behavior based autonomy architecture enabling it to track and follow weather patterns, and can be fitted with sensor suites to fit with customer requirements, and Charles River Analytics, maker of intelligent systems solutions is targeting the Navy’s Meteorology & Oceanography (METOC) office, Coast Guard, and NOAA.
Increased power demands with limited cooling availability have stressed traditional generation systems resulting in reliability and maintenance challenges. PCKA’s AC-field Electrical Synchronous Generator (ACESG) is specifically designed for such stressing applications enabling sustained power in harsh extended temperature environments. As a design, analysis, and development company of advanced power and thermal systems, PCKA developed a rapid machine design technique that was used to design, construct, test, and successfully meet requirements for a full-scale ACESG hardware unit. PCKA is seeking funding to mature the technology. Furthermore, PCKA is looking for a manufacturing partner that would either license or produce the technology for the end customer.
Acellent designs, manufactures and supports our SMART Layer Technology based Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) systems to monitor the health and condition of diverse structures ranging from aircraft, spacecraft and rotor-craft to pipelines, bridges, wind turbines, autonomous cars, etc. Our state-of-the-art SHM systems offer active damage detection and impact damage detection that can be used to increase safety, decrease inspection costs and enhance maintenance performance for all composite and metal structures. Our Hybrid SHM system will enable the customer to detect damage, and to monitor in real-time the strains, temperatures, loads, and damage growth to know the health and integrity of their structure. The ultimate goal is to transition this technology to mass volume for government and commercial use.
The H-60 requires flexible engine wiring harnesses to operate in continuous, high-temperature conditions exceeding 425 deg C; however, no suitable insulation currently exist that can withstand these conditions. Consequently, UES partnered with the University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI) developed high-temperature wire insulation concepts enabling performance up to 450 deg C. Tests conducted after 50 hours of exposure at 425 deg C met all performance standards. One insulation concept lasted 50 times more cycles than the baseline in the needle abrasion test (SAE AS4373 Method 301) showing a dramatic durability improvement, the concepts may be applicable to legacy and current wiring, as a near drop-in replacement. UES, an employee-owned innovative science and technology company provides government and industry customers with superior research and development expertise, and world class support through on-site and in-house research.
Metis Design Corporation (MDC) is a recognized worldwide leader in the field of structural health monitoring. MDC has developed a unique approach for monitoring of fastened joints by developing an ultrasonic transducer that is integrated into rivets after they have been installed on a structure. The method effectively turns a row of fasteners into its own phased array, with the ability to scan for fatigue cracks or corrosion in any layer of the fastened stack-up. The main advantage of this approach is that it does not impact typical rivet installation, which would add risk and further certification requirements. This technology is initially targeted towards the CH-53K rotorcraft, but MDC seeks interest from other platforms with riveted joints who would benefit from condition-based maintenance enabling technologies.
Human ability to search for objects in visual scenes is unsurpassed by current automated techniques. Performance of overhead sensor data state-of-art region saliency and object recognition is degraded by low resolution data quality, object-of-interest size, view occlusions, and crowded scenes. To successfully detect objects in cluttered scenes, the human brain relies on multiple factors: prior object occurrence probability, global scene statistics, and object co-occurrence. Mayachitra’s proposed solution provides efficient and effective small object detection from overhead noisy (crowded occluded) videos. The proposed technology enables collection speed data labeling, and intelligence mining. Benefits are multi-tiered: analyst time is optimized through reduction/elimination of mundane viewing tasks; multiple search, tagging, discover, data access and analysis capabilities are provided; intelligence is derived and verified in a fraction of time; and no data is thrown away providing analysts the capability to explore archival data.
The urgent call for improved nondestructive inspection (NDI) of aircraft is answered by the JENTEK jET® eddy current array tester, with inherent “intelligence” which enables rapid adaptation to address families of corrosion and crack detection needs for relatively thin structures.” Unique advantages and savings result from improved reliability and damage sizing and rapid inspection at competitive prices. This jET’s improved detection capability enables increases in safety and production efficiency, lowers costs and decreases aircraft turnaround times – increasing aircraft availability. JENTEK software offers unique “intelligence” through model based multivariate inverse methods using rapid searching of databases called HyperLattices® and spatial filtering. Several successful transitions for DoD continue to provide substantial return on investments, making new transitions and broader use likely. JENTEK seeks strategic investors and teaming relationships with DoD prime contractors to accelerate market penetration. Target platforms include Navy and Air Force fixed and rotary-wing aircraft.
ES3 a high-end engineering firm specializing in engineering and design of aircraft components and advanced material coatings for aerospace applications has been developing cold spray repair coatings and application techniques, robotic and handheld, MIL-Spec approved, that provide dimensional restoration using environmentally-friendly, corrosion resistant coating applications. ES3 successfully completed a similar effort with the US Air Force Phase I/II; development, demonstration and validation required for future implementation of the low-/mid- pressure (up to 250 psi) cold spray repair applications where lessons learned will be leveraged. Initially, the target market for this technology will be the USAF and USN depots that are responsible for refurbishing and restoring worn or damaged surfaces of on any aircraft platforms and/or ground support equipment manufactured from aluminum and magnesium substrates.
SCALABLE provides network design and analysis tools that enable customers to develop, plan, test and deploy wired, wireless, acoustic and optical networks in a high fidelity, physics-based simulation environment from undersea-to-space. SCALABLE is working with the Multifunctional Information Distribution System (MIDS) Program office to deliver a live/virtual/constructive Link-16 network environment that combines a Joint Range Extension Applications Protocol Version C (JREAP-C) application layer model, standards-compliant external interfaces to live radio hardware, J-series message generation and consumption capability, and functional interfaces to external simulation systems such as the Network Enabled Weapons Control Interface Module (NEWCIM). This will provide a robust, scalable Link-16 network system-in-the-loop capability as part of the Joint Network Emulator (JNE) library of military waveforms to enable predictable communications in all physical and cyber warfighting domains.
While thin film holographic lenses have replaced bulky refractive optics in many commercial applications, holographic optical elements such as spherical lenses and mirrors are not readily available for demanding imaging applications such as compact telescopes. TIPD’s technology consists of thin film volume holographic elements integrated into a Cassegrain telescope to improve light collection efficiency and reduce weight and costs. The system has been prototyped and has demonstrated the high angular and wavelength sensitivity needed for lidar and ladar applications. TIPD specializes in developing novel and cost effective optical solutions to critical problems in the fields of laser, remote sensing and lidar. The ultimate goal is to integrate and transition this technology into the government’s and prime contractor’s imaging systems to improve performance and reduce costs.
Redondo Optics is developing a lightweight, miniature size, and power efficient, distributed hybrid “piezo-electric/fiber-optic” acousto-ultrasound sensor (FAULSense™) network SHM system. The hybrid FAULSense™ system offers a unique capability for real-time load and damage detection, tracking, and prognosis of rotorcraft structural components; improving flight mission reliability and providing enhanced condition-based maintenance while reducing operational costs. FAULSense™ testing will demonstrate operation in extreme Navy rotorcraft environments and enable measurement in critical inaccessible locations such as the fuselage structure and the rotating parts of the rotorcraft. We seek to integrate with V-22 Vibration/Structural Life and Engine Diagnostics (VSLED) system to expand its functionality to perform inspections and structurally monitor large scale V-22 metallic and composite structure.
RTI System Designer is a computer software development tool that allows software engineers to graphically construct a Data Distribution Service (DDS) based computer network. DDS is used extensively throughout the DoD in general, and the Surface Navy in particular. RTI, a 20-year old 185-employee Silicon Valley company, is the world’s largest embedded middleware provider and was named “The Most Influential Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) Company.” RTI successfully delivered multiple prototype versions of the RTI System Designer to the US Navy AN/SPY-6 (AMDR) Program. This tool is helping RTI maintain its industry-leading DDS market position by providing great value for our existing RTI Connext DDS customers. RTI is now seeking other DDS users to evaluate and provide feedback on the RTI System Designer tool.
CAMX Power Optical Torque Sensor is a non-contact sensor that measures the torque, speed and position of a variety of unmodified rotating shafts. The torque sensor is in development through a Navy SBIR contract in support of the Navy F/A-18 Hornet/Super Hornet program but has broad applications across the DoD and commercial systems with rotating shafts. These sensors enable predictive maintenance and optimization to reduced operating cost, increased performance and improved safety and reliability. CAMX Power, with our sister company TIAX, seek to partner with a major Defense, Aerospace, Transportation, Energy or Manufacturing Equipment company to demonstrate this capability in an operational environment.
New and rapidly changing threat environments necessitate increased capabilities in missile and munition path following. Systems Technology, Inc. (STI) is developing missile modeling and pseudospectral optimization technologies to perform real-time path optimization to meet this challenging threat environment. This capability allows the missile to attack fixed and moving targets, change targets, and perform multi-phase missions including adapting to threats, countermeasures, etc. With a more than 60 year history, STI is an industry leader in the design, analysis and implementation of dynamic vehicle models and control methodologies that are directly applicable to this problem. Development risk is diminished through the extensive use of desktop simulations and close coordination with the relevant Program/Project Manager, Air (PMA) to establish realistic scenarios and constraints on missile performance and capabilities.
Optimax, the largest privately-owned precision optics company in the U.S., specializing in short lead times on prototype optical components of all geometries and sizes between 3 – 500 mm has developed a large working-volume polishing and finishing platform for precision optical components. It’s geared towards large extreme freeform optics that match the curvature of an airframe, such as those protecting sensor arrays on all aircraft including the MQ-25 Stingray and can serve as upgrades to traditional windows like the Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS) found on next generation aircraft. Optimax has produced a 550 x 500 mm square extreme freeform component with 170 mm of sag to <1 µm rms surface figure error from fused quartz; several other freeform optical components have also been polished on this platform.
The sensors on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), such as the MQ-25 Stingray require conformal windows for protection from the elements. With 35+ years of experience developing and manufacturing precision optical fabrication machines and metrology systems, OptiPro has developed OptiSonic ultrasonic machining that adds ultrasonic vibration while grinding. Coupled with UltraForm Finishing (UFF), a sub-aperture polishing process involving a moving belt of polishing material wrapped around a precision compressive wheel and UltraSmooth Finishing (USF), which smooths mid-spatial frequency content and corrects the figure error of a surface by polishing with a mid to large size aperture tool, companies can cost-effectively manufacture 24”x24” conformal windows and other large precision optical components to sub-micron accuracy. Prime Contractors have already integrated OptiSonic, UFF, and USF onto their manufacturing floors.
Optimax, the largest privately-owned precision optics company in the U.S., specializing in short lead times on prototype optical components of all geometries and sizes between 3 – 500 mm has developed a non-interferometric, reflection-based, metrology system for characterizing mid-spatial frequency errors on arbitrarily shaped precision optical components. It’s used in-situ, mounted on a robotic-arm based polishing platform, enabling the manufacture of aspheric and freeform optics (e.g. conformal windows) that will be efficient, cost effective, and precise; representing the next generation in electro-optic sensor windows. Integrating metrology onto the manufacturing platform solves the issues of physically moving large conformal windows and the associated time, cost and safety issues of repeatable moving large, heavy optics; offering the manufacturing and metrology capabilities to produce larger optics than currently available.
Future weapon systems require sensor windows that can survive severe mechanical and thermal stresses while providing the optical performance necessary for target recognition. CeraNova’s proprietary process produces spinel with high in-line transmission (>80% from 200nm to 5000nm) and strength 2-3 times higher than other spinels. CeraNova spinel can provide the improved optical/mechanical/thermal performance required for demanding applications, i.e., sensor windows, missile domes and transparent armor. CeraNova specializes in high technology ceramics process and product development, especially transparent optical ceramics for defense and commercial applications. Large spinel conformal windows (16”x16”) and plates (20”x20”) are being developed; transparent 4”x4” tiles have been produced for ballistic testing (Q3/Q4 2018). We seek application and transition partners for relevant environment testing and evaluation leading to prototype and pilot scale manufacturing.
Mayachitra leverages recent advances in deep learning and computer vision to deliver robust solutions to critical problems in multimodal data analysis and cyber security. Mayachitra's effort is aimed at taking the guesswork out of the analyst's job to improve accuracy and reliability by developing a Figure of Merit (FOM). The approach scans an image using a condition theoretic approach to isolate strong line and corner information, present in the image. It also examines the distribution of that information about the image. Mayachitra then quantifies the quality of the image with respect to registration potential. A Graphical User Interface (GUI) is provided to streamline the analyst's interaction with the FOM. The GUI provides extended functionality to intuitively access and process data on demand.
The Global Positioning System (GPS) provides extremely precise Positioning, Navigation and Timing (PNT) information; however, GPS may not be available or reliable in Anti Access, Area Denial (A2/AD) environments. Charles River Analytics, a leading provider of innovative R&D solutions for increasingly complex and important human-systems challenges has developed a system for Stealthy radiofrequency (RF)-based Alternative PNT (STRAP). STRAP intelligently fuses data from multiple sources to generate accurate estimates and ensure adaptable, robust performance under varied environmental and tactical conditions; uses an innovative, RF-based localization technology that is covert, jam-resistant, GPS-independent, and as accurate as GPS; uses inputs from miniaturized IMUs and aiding sensors to enable accurate navigation even if all other localization inputs fail; and uses hardware that will be small, lightweight, low-power, low-cost, and compatible with military aircraft and UAVs.
Touchstone Research Laboratory, an award-winning developer of advanced materials for commercial and government customers, has developed an innovative prepreg tape made from continuous fiber aluminum metal matrix composite (MMC) material that is four times stronger and stiffer than standard aluminum alloys. When applied to aluminum hulled ships, the MMC prepreg tape can both prevent cracks and retard crack growth and, thus, significantly reduce maintenance and repair costs. The higher strength and stiffness compared to traditional composite patches makes the MMC prepreg suitable for repairs on mechanically loaded structures as well. These benefits translate into increased time on mission across a wide range of ship classes. The plan is to add MMC prepreg to the current patch repair kit.
