Permethrin content in the United States Marine Corps Combat Utility Uniform (MCCUU) decreases during active field duty, potentially exposing Marines to disease-carrying insects. Chemical based tests are currently impossible to perform in-situ under field condition and are time- and labor-intensive. Nokomis, Inc. has developed an innovative technology to reliably detect permethrin concentration in the MCCUU using a handheld device. This technology uses low power microwave energy for rapid and accurate measurements of MCCUU effectiveness. Nokomis has specialized in ultra-sensitive sensors for over a decade, and is leveraging this unique expertise to maximize the maturity, flexibility, and ruggedness of the developed technology. Transition of this technology will directly mitigate risks of disease exposure to the Warfighter, increasing military readiness and effectiveness while significantly reducing sustainment costs.
The goal of the Forward Resuscitative Surgical Station (FRSS) is to save both “life and limb”. During operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, USMC FRSS units identified a need for an oxygen generating system that is rugged, portable and uses less power than current capabilities. TDA Research, a technology developer that provides innovative solutions, has developed the Expeditionary Portable Oxygen Generator System (EPOGS) that meets all the requirements identified in MIL-STD-810G. Our system is lighter, uses less energy, produces more oxygen than current models which will increase the survival rate of Marines’ due to life threatening wounds. A world leader in providing superior technological solutions to the DoD and other government agencies, TDA is looking to partner with similar like-minded organizations.
ATA Engineering has developed a lightweight and compact insulating barrier for expeditionary shelters. Based on a tensioned cellular fabric design concept, the barrier is intended to reduce electrical power consumption and packed size/weight of operational equipment by improving insulation qualities of softwall shelters. ATA is an engineering services company that provides innovative simulation and testing solutions to our customers in the defense, aerospace, and other mechanical design industries. The company leveraged this expertise in developing a barrier design for the Marine Corps’ Expeditionary Shelter System (ESS) (Medium), sold by HDT Global as the Base-X Model 305. ATA’s insulating barrier replaces both the existing interior liner and radiant barrier used in the ESS (Medium), greatly reducing the logistical footprint for the warfighter while improving insulative performance.
MACE, developed by Boston Fusion, is a multi-layer graph database that automatically analyzes associations among entities and provides visualization tools to discover and explore latent connections that are otherwise hard to identify in large collections of entity-relationship data from multiple sources, including audio, video, and text. MACE provides a fundamental capability that supports a broad range of mission areas, including the scientific and technical intelligence (S&TI) mission of the Office of Naval Intelligence Farragut Technical Analysis Center. It has been evaluated using the University of Maryland Global Terrorism Database, in which it successfully identified latent relationships among terrorist groups that had not previously been detected. We have identified the FNT-FY12-02 Autonomous Persistent Tactical Surveillance, DCGS-N ACAT IAM acquisition program as a transition target for MACE.
In combating terrorism, Warfighters must monitor threatening individuals and groups. The data sources needed to monitor such entities can consist of military sensors as well as open source data sources. Key data types include unstructured text, audio, imagery, and biometric data. Currently, there does not exist a way to run specific searches in response to a tactical information need against large distributed heterogeneous data stores. To address this, we have developed a system called Discovering Valued Information in a Cloud Environment (DVICE). DVICE provides a framework to correlate, fuse, and exploit key observations which have been extracted from distributed data sources to provide a consolidated and correlated knowledge product to the Warfighter. DVICE is based on a cloud computing platform. 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.
Entities and relationships are mentioned in many ways within documents, web pages, news sites, and other unstructured data sources. Resolving these mentions automatically can be a difficult challenge, however this capability solves that problem. It provides an entity and relationship co-reference resolution capability that accurately collapses entity mentions and identifies/characterizes relationships. This capability is targeted to military intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance programs and is particularly suited for the Distributed Common Ground System (DCGS). The capability is currently being tested and transitioned in a cloud environment with the DCGS-A and DCGS-N programs. 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 making sense of entity mentions in a large corpus of text is a difficult challenge.
Rapid response missions to remote, unknown areas require time-sensitive development of intelligence from multi-source data including open source, historic imagery, and live collections. Capabilities currently exist to extract low-level information (i.e. entities, relationships, and actions) from these large-scale data sources but it must be aggregated with surrounding context to provide analytical value. Therefore, DAC has developed a system called Automated Concept Map Elicitation (ACME). The ACME system is focused on providing users with a rapid, visual mechanism for developing situational awareness around a specific intelligence requirement from multi source data. ACME extracts information stored across numerous ontologies, utilizes automated clustering of entity nodes and relationships to simplify the developed concept maps, and include an intuitive visualization of concept maps based on knowledge pertinent to the specific intelligence requirement. 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 making identifying the high-level concepts in such data is a difficult challenge.
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 technology to manufacture high quality RF transmission lines using superconductor materials with a higher transition temperature than the Nb used in the circuits. This allows a lowering of thermal parasitics on the 4K stage. 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.
Quantum Semiconductor (QS) is developing a Complementary Metal–Oxide–Semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor technology with two key disruptive innovations: (A) Photo-diode with large noiseless internal gain achieved at 3.5V, for extreme light sensitivity, including single-photon counting; (B) Atomistically-engineered epitaxial Group-IV materials, for efficient light-absorption from the Visible to Long-Wavelength Infra-Red (LWIR). These materials also enable light-emission in infrared (IR), thereby enabling monolithically-integrated light sensors and emitters. The innovations are protected by 20 US patents, 18 foreign patent filings, with additional patents pending. The technology can be applicable to many sensor programs. QS is interested in strategic partnerships with prime contractors and in equity investments, which will be needed for productization. QS is a fabless semiconductor company founded in 2001.
Sensing Strategies, Inc. has developed a remote sensing system to detect, locate (at standoff distances), threat lasers used to harass, target or damage a U.S. asset. As the laser technology on a modern battlefield increases, so does the warfighter need for situational awareness to identify the source, analyze it and apply the correct response based on the signature associated with the threat. SSI has designed, fabricated and tested a high energy laser locator sensor (HELLOCS) using established algorithms for rapid threat identification. HELLOCS can be integrated onboard ships or aircraft depending on engagement scenario. Modeling, simulation and testing have led to deployment strategies for effective implementation. As the system matures through transition, SSI will team with hardware developers and collaborators to deliver field deployable systems.
Reactive Metals International, Inc. (RMII), an American owned and operated small business, combined with its co-located sister company MACHI Specialty Chemicals, provide over 30 years of product development and manufacture experience. RMII produces reactive metal and thermitic composite powders capable of providing enhanced, tunable mechanical and thermodynamic performance. RMII has a full suite of in-house analytical capabilities that include projectile impact calorimetry, enabling complete reactive material system development and characterization services through scalable in-house reactive materials production. Component density, impulse, time-on-target, reaction rate, heat of combustion and fragmentation behavior may all be optimized. Defense applications include structural reactive components and additives that enhance lethality / performance in ordnance, propellants and explosives.
This company is not exhibiting at or presenting during the FST. They are not available for 1-on-1 meetings. Please refer to their contact information above.
Metamagnetics has developed a technology to defend against damaging high power microwave (HPM) attacks by using Frequency Selective Limiters. The device protects a system by suppressing dangerous signals strong enough to harm the system, but allows weaker friendly signals to pass through the antenna unaffected. Alternative solutions fall short by only blocking a single damaging signal or fail to allow desired signals to pass through during the attack. FSLs can mitigate multiple signals simultaneously and allow continuous system operation. Initial target platforms include military radar, EW, and communication systems. Lower power devices are already targeted for transition within the Navy for EW pod protection. Metamagnetics, specializing in advanced magnetic materials, is looking to integrate this technology into new platforms with primes and government agencies.
ASR Corporation specializes in developing high power systems for primarily DOD components. The final product will be a switch that utilizes a novel insulating gas, will be compact, require minimal support equipment and will not utilize SF6 (if possible) or SF6 usage will be minimized per EPA mandates. The switch will improve high-power radar transmitters and directed energy systems in nearly all largescale DoD systems, including ships and permanent installations. Our research partner (University of New Mexico, UNM) has identified a potential option: commercially available g3 gas, based on 3M™Novec™ 4710. Modeling infrastructure is being developed to identify high performance gas mixtures. We seek a motivated prime contractor with knowledge of possible applications and platforms including environmental specifications (i.e., shock and temperature range.
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. The future Marine Corps Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF) operation will be characterized by smaller, agile units operating in a distributed environment encountering an array of friendly and enemy networks communication and computer-based systems. To be effective in this battlespace all echelons will be required to leverage technology, create collaborative environments to coordinate ground and airborne non-kinetic capabilities, synchronized with transitional fires.
Advanced tools and technologies are required to support high-performance deformable mirror (DM) development for Laser Beam Control Adaptive-Optic (AO) systems. The need to characterize DM dynamic response is key to performance improvement in future high-bandwidth AO systems able to compensate in real-time for atmospheric turbulence. MIEDAS directly responds to this DoD need as a unique comprehensive testing station employing an architecture supporting optical metrology multiple modalities tailored for varied DM device designs. The system’s functionality has been verified on varied DM device designs. AS&T specializes in providing advanced solutions to critical problems in laser beam control and support technologies. Our goal is to integrate and transition this technology into government/prime contractor systems for facilitating enhanced laser beam control performance.
Formed in 2012, Advanced Ceramic Fibers (ACF) developed and produces Fi-Bar™, a high performance and temperature affordable ceramic carbide fiber made directly from carbon fiber. This fiber is structural “re-bar” to metal and ceramic matrices increasing their strength-to-weight ratios and heat tolerance for composite applications. Fi-Bar™ ceramic composites support the NAVY's goals for turbine engines to operate at 27000F and also for affordable steel and aluminum composites for armor and structural applications. Broad patents and trade secrets protect Fi-Bar™ to be used in any material matrix. ACF demonstrated the capability to fabricate unique Fi-Bar™ ceramic composites during the Phase I project. ACF looks forward to licensing agreements, equity investment and/or direct material acquisition by prime contractors and/or the DoD.
A key to securing any DoD weapon or computational platform is being assured of the functionality provided by the microelectronics that underlies that platform. If the microelectronics contains hidden functionality, malicious or benign, that functionality can be discovered and exploited by a adversary to achieve catastrophic effects such as disabling the system, causing malfunction or exfiltrating confidential information. Chip Scan’s products precisely address these problems: they help identify and mitigate hardware backdoors, or undocumented functionality, in systems that use FPGAs or Custom ASICs. Chip Scan’s underlying technology is based on novel, peer-reviewed, award winning research that has been successfully tested using open red teaming exercises. This technology is currently at TRL 7. The Chip Scan team provides expert strategic advice, and works with partners to identify risk and implement mitigations to minimize the dangers of unassured microelectronic supply chains.
Out of the Fog Research LLC has developed technology that improves signal intelligence (SIGINT) systems by mitigating interference blocking the detection of signals-of-interest (SOI). Shipboard testing by SPAWAR has demonstrated improved detection of ranked SOI. The value to the warfighter is increased probability-of-intercept (POI) of very weak SOI. Improved performance is accomplished using advanced cryogenic tunable notch filters and low noise amplifiers (LNAs). Out of the Fog Research has a Phase III contract for production RF distribution units to transition technology into the Navy Cryptological Carry-On Program (CCOP) and Shipboard Signals Exploitation Equipment (SSEE). Out of the Fog Research seeks relationships with other Navy SYSCOMs and DoD hardware contractors to extend this technology to improve performance of airborne, armored vehicle and man-portable SIGINT and communication systems.
Submarines are vulnerable to detection by passive sonar systems. To assist submarines in minimizing their vulnerability, DASS incorporates several uncertain and fluctuating parameters, including own-ship radiated noise and environmental conditions, into an acoustic vulnerability assessment. Daniel H. Wagner Associates has more than fifty years of experience in Navy algorithm development, and is assisted by the University of Michigan, who has developed a statistical approach, validated in environments of interest, to accurately account for uncertainty in acoustic underwater environments. DASS utilizes this environmental characterization to assess both real-time vulnerability and mission plans, account for both known and unknown threats, and provide tactical recommendations that reduce friendly submarine vulnerability. DASS will be transitioned to U.S. submarines via the Advanced Processor Build (APB) process and integrated into the Mission Planning Application (MPA).
CAMBIO is an adaptive workflow tool developed by Boston Fusion to monitor user behavior and identify patterns of actions that constitute workflow sequences. Using these patterns, CAMBIO anticipates analyst information needs and automatically pre-processes data so that less time is spent preparing information and more time is spent engaged in analysis. CAMBIO is under evaluation in the National Air and Space Intelligence Center (NASIC). The ONI Farragut Technical Analysis Center is a good Navy transition target for this technology. CAMBIO has a sustainable competitive advantage through its ease of transition in service oriented architectures, and through its avoidance of intrusive user monitoring technologies. It can be used in a broad range of applications that involve the collection of data for analysis and decision-making.
The technology consists of a compact, self-propelled, autonomous buoy/vessel, featuring an “inertia-based” wave energy harvesting system to provide long-duration operation of an ASW sonar system. The vessel utilizes a combination of inertial wave energy capture devices, diesel generator, and high-density batteries to power electric thrusters to effect vessel transit or station-keeping. Ocean Power Technologies systems use ocean waves to provide clean, reliable and persistent electric power and comms for many offshore applications, including ASW sonar, radar, surveillance, surveying, communications, and met-ocean sensing. Technology provides reliable, persistent power in a compact easy-to-deploy design. Testing has verified the performance (efficiency) and reliability of critical components. Goal is to integrate and transition this technology into government and contractor autonomous, long-duration systems.
RTI System Designer, a computer software development tool, provides software engineers capability to graphically construct Data Distribution Service (DDS) based computer networks. DDS is used extensively throughout the Department of Defense (DoD) in general, and the Surface Navy in particular. RTI, a 20-year old 150-employee Silicon Valley company and the world’s largest embedded middleware provider, was named “The Most Influential Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) Company.” RTI successfully delivered multiple prototype versions of RTI System Designer to the US Navy AN/SPY-6 Air and Missile Defense (AMDR) Prime Contractor. This tool helps RTI maintain its industry-leading DDS market position by providing great value to existing RTI Connext DDS customers. RTI is seeking other DDS users to evaluate and provide feedback on the RTI System Designer tool.
Low frequency sources play a role in anti-submarine warfare, ocean tomography, marine seismic exploration, undersea precision navigation and timing (UPNT), and acoustic augmentation for our submarines. The Acoustic Augmentation Support Project provides a temporary system used to produce acoustic signals across an operating band of 10Hz-44kHz but cannot completely satisfy Navy requirements below 60Hz. Making a source in the 5-1500Hz range with traditional transducer materials is not feasible. Hydroacoustics Inc. (HAI) has been designing and building sources in this range for 50+ years utilizing hydraulically actuated radiators, reducing source size and achieving required power levels. Our HLF-1D is in service on the Virginia-class submarine. HAI sources were used in DARPA’s Positioning System for Deep Ocean Navigation experiments. HAI seeks partnership with Primes pursuing UNPT systems.
This company is not exhibiting at or presenting during the FST. They are not available for 1-on-1 meetings. Please refer to their contact information above.
RTI System Designer, a computer software development tool, provides software engineers capability to graphically construct Data Distribution Service (DDS) based computer networks. DDS is used extensively throughout the Department of Defense (DoD) in general, and the Surface Navy in particular. RTI, a 20-year old 150-employee Silicon Valley company and the world’s largest embedded middleware provider, was named “The Most Influential Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) Company.” RTI successfully delivered multiple prototype versions of RTI System Designer to the US Navy AN/SPY-6 Air and Missile Defense (AMDR) Prime Contractor. This tool helps RTI maintain its industry-leading DDS market position by providing great value to existing RTI Connext DDS customers. RTI is seeking other DDS users to evaluate and provide feedback on the RTI System Designer tool.
Materials Sciences Corporation (MSC), of Horsham, Pennsylvania, in partnership with Seemann Composites Inc. (SCI), of Gulfport, Mississippi have designed, fabricated and proof-tested a lightweight, durable, corrosion-resistant composite stern ramp for the Navy’s Landing Craft Air Cushion Vehicle (LCAC-43). Successful proof-testing of the first-article stern ramp prototype has demonstrated the superior durability and structural performance of the composite solution while realizing weight savings projections of approximately 40% over in-service aluminum ramps. The MSC/SCI team is currently in the process of leveraging this successful demonstration in the development of a composite bow ramp structural solution. Pending the successful demonstration of a bow ramp prototype, Navy PMS-377 projections indicate the potential for significant operational life-cycle cost savings for the LCAC100 fleet through the implementation of composite vehicle ramps.
Proteckt Non-Conductive Coatings (NCC), the state-of-the-art Anti-Corrosion coating for outboard wet area connectors, provides enhance bond strength and bond service life. Unlike the previous generation which was limited to flat or convex surfaces, this new process and technique applies an even coating over complex surface geometries. During the Phase II effort, testing conducted with Navy approved overmold systems, demonstrated Proteckt NCC exceeded the performance of the existing NCC in side by side testing. TRI/Austin, an advance materials research and development company, is targeting the Virginia Class submarines for qualification of the new Proteckt NCC. Once qualified, Proteckt NCC will be added to the NAVSEA PRO 20 molding manual as well as the PRO 30 NCC spray manual and become available for DoD NCC upgrades.
Oxide/oxide ceramic matrix composites (Ox-Ox CMCs) are targeted for high-temperature aerospace, defense, and energy applications including hypersonic vehicles, missiles, projectiles, and gas turbine engines. Applied Thin Films, Inc. (ATFI) specializes in the development of ceramic materials and coatings for high-temperature environments. ATFI’s Cerablak™ CMCs, fabricated using commercially-available ceramic fibers and proprietary matrix materials, are considered best-performers for electrical and thermomechanical performance and are targeted for curved, thermal protection system radiofrequency (RF) windows, including potential use with the Hypervelocity Projectile (HVP) being developed under the ONR FNC program. Recent developments include 3D-woven fiber CMCs for enhanced interlaminar properties and surface-engineered coatings for improved durability and thermal performance. Our goal is to commercialize this technology into government/prime contractor systems for use in hypersonics and aircraft engines.
Conventional RF measurement technologies do not support high frequency remote sensing and system health monitoring of radar and electronic warfare (EW) systems. EOSPACE’s unique analog optical/RF sensor technology enables embedded system health monitoring of critical RF systems and leverages the low loss and immunity to electromagnetic interference (EMI) of optical fiber to transport system analog data from remote sensors to a secure processing center. The technology is modular, broadband, and extensible, supporting future Navy frequency bands well beyond 40 GHz. A prototype optical/RF measurement system was delivered to the Navy. EOSPACE specializes in high performance electro-optic modulators, switches and integrated optical circuits (IOCs) for Aerospace and Defense fiber optic links. Our goal is to transition this technology to future shipborne radar/EW health monitoring systems.
iCut™ – A novel Hybrid: induction plus arc plasma plus oxygen, cuts steel at 5X the speed for shipbreaking and production cutting. Eliminates fumes due to coatings for shipbreaking, including submarine hulls. Corporate experience delivering metalworking systems: robots, portable/mobile robots and mechanized gantries to shipyards, and Heavy Fabrication. Systems can operate outdoors in shipyards and heavy fabrication including field locations. Tested on ¼” – 4” plate, capable of cutting thicknesses up to many inches. Cuts steel faster than any other process, it can be used with induction and plasma only on aluminum, stainless, titanium. Laboratory and shipyard environments testing has proven the process; it is protected by patent and trade secrets. Interested in system fabrication/delivery financing and/or equity investment for market expansion.
Imagery from submarine sensor masts often suffers from a variety of artifacts, which negatively impacts image quality and performance of downstream processing algorithms. Charles River Analytics, a leading provider of innovative R&D solutions for increasingly complex and important human-systems challenges developed Submarine Imaging Real-time Enhancement (SIREN) to detect and correct these artifacts in real-time, which is currently done manually. Beyond a set of “gold standard” video enhancement algorithms and novel artifact removal techniques, SIREN features an image analysis module that detects which artifacts are present and automatically applies the correct enhancement algorithms. Besides submarines, other Navy platforms using EO/IR sensors would benefit from an automated video enhancement system. Legacy security and surveillance systems could use SIREN to immediately improve video quality without expensive hardware upgrades.
Radars are a fundamental component of a surface combatant ship’s mission and are a key contributor of individual ship and battlegroup Operational Availability (AO). IAI, a research organization with extensive experience developing cutting edge software solutions, is developing a predictive condition-based maintenance (CBM) tool designed for high-powered phased array radar systems to provide continuous online health monitoring and system maintenance recommendations. This tool, Reliability Analysis enhanced Prediction System (RAPS), provides a ranked list of components and associated maintenance requirements that need attention, as a result this may lengthen the system’s operational life, ability to forecast failure, and determine component/system Remaining Useful Life (RUL), based on historical fault data and real time system monitoring. RAPS has the potential to increase AO, improve maintenance efficiency, and reduce costly unscheduled maintenance.
The Surface Composite Tracker Component, a multi-sensor tracking and fusion system, built upon Numerica’s patented Multiple Frame Assignment (MFA) tracking algorithms, developed over 20+ years and deployed in a variety of environments, performs integrated surface threat tracking for Navy surface platforms. Intended to be a Navy Product Line Architecture compliant software component that can be integrated (“plugged-in”) into numerous Navy platforms, it has been analyzed and tested on a significant amount of sensor data from various Navy test events on multiple ships. Numerica seeks to transition its algorithm into current and future Navy surface platforms such as AEGIS, the Ship Self-Defense System (SSDS), Littoral Combat Ship, and others to provide the situational awareness and target information necessary for effective defense.
White River Technologies (WRT), a small business focused on magnetics detection applications, in collaboration with Naval Sea Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC-PC) is developing "MAGNUM," a magnetic sensing confirmation module for the MK18 family of unmanned undersea vehicles (UUVs). MAGNUM significantly improves Navy capabilities to locate, classify, and neutralize undersea explosive threats. This technology addresses the challenges of high clutter, target burial, and heavy marine growth environments where detection and classification is difficult. Extending integrated acoustics for mine countermeasures (MCM), MAGNUM fuses low-noise magnetic sensors for improved performance. This innovative magnetometer approach provides acoustic target clutter rejection via a single-axis gradiometer configuration (M1XG). MAGNUM consists of a nose-cone module housing miniaturized magnetometer, data interface module, integrated DSP, and data archival/exfiltration modules.
GIRD Systems has developed a novel anti-jam waveform for maritime environments with high J/S ratios with throughput of several Mbps. The highly flexible waveform is parameterizable for different channel conditions and throughput. GIRD Systems is an innovative and agile small business satisfying DoD’s signal processing and communications needs. The target application is line-of-sight (LOS) communications between Littoral Combat Ships (LCS) and mission packages for the Multiple Vehicle Communication System (MVCS). The anti-jam LOS waveform has been demonstrated in the laboratory with worst case conditions. The new waveform needs to be ported into an existing military radio platform. We are seeking input from the end customer and DoD prime contractors.
Performance of active sonar systems may be degraded by strong backscattering from resonant biological acoustic scatterers such as air-filled swim bladders in fish. Applied Research in Acoustics’ (ARiA) adaptive signal processing algorithms unmask targets near regions of strong biological clutter to prevent target suppression in the detector. Better-preserved signals and new secondary classification features enable better target discrimination from clutter. Integration of ARiA’s advanced signal processing, enables automated and semi-automated sonar signal detection and classification, thus reducing operator workload. ARiA’s signal 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.
Trident Systems develops software solutions for many critical military applications. After 3 decades experience, Trident has developed an innovative tool, SCIAT, which reduces time, effort, cost of testing, and overall life cycle cost while improving system reliability. Currently Trident is assisting two Primes with metric determinations within their software build and qualification testing framework. SCIAT’s innovative code-2-code automated comparison methodology determines the indirect impact of changes on the unchanged code, recommends improvements to the tests to maintain code coverage, and identifies the tests to execute to verify the changes within the new build. This automation provides an objective code assessment with reduced oversight. Trident seeks companies that desire to improve their software quality while reducing their development and testing costs.
Adaptive Methods’ multi-static sonar processing increases sonar systems probability of detection and overall detection, classification, and localization (DCL) effectiveness. This multi-static capability is unique in that it does not require communications between the active source and receiver. The capability can operate without source-receiver communications or prior knowledge of the transmission scheme. Laboratory prototypes demonstrate effectiveness of multi-static algorithms using recorded data. The initial capability is targeted for integration into the AN/SQQ-89 Combat System on Cruisers and Destroyers. This capability can allow Navy forces to minimize active emissions to protect marine species or avoid active interference.
This company is not exhibiting at or presenting during the FST. They are not available for 1-on-1 meetings. Please refer to their contact information above.
For the crew of a Navy ship, especially the lightly crewed Navy’s Littoral Combat Ship (LCS), maintenance and upkeep of its considerable computer networks is a challenge. TEAMS® Network brings together QSI’s proven technology of complex equipment diagnostics and prognostics into the realm of computer networks. It allows the crew to easily identify, predict and localize network failures and determine corrective actions. QSI’s TEAMS® Network, unlike other network monitoring solutions, guides and elevates the crew’s troubleshooting ability and facilitates proactive and predictive network maintenance. The initial platform for this technology is Navy’s LCS platform. Our goal is to be a technology provider for Navy’s comprehensive condition based maintenance (CBM) initiative and leverage and extend this technology for other Navy ship platforms.
Ship tank maintenance and damage control surveys are expensive and labor-intensive endeavors that regularly expose maintenance crews to significant environmental and safety hazards. Intelligent Automation Inc. (IAI) is developing GECKO, an agile and dexterous robot designed to meet all requirements for remote Level 1 inspection of ship’s tanks and voids that will reduce task execution time and manpower. For mobility, GECKO combines vacuum crawler technology with IAI's legged robot locomotion technology to traverse unstructured ship tank environments. For manipulation, GECKO leverages IAI's state-of-the-art Multi-Arm Robot Control System (MARCS) technology to enable an operator to perform dexterous inspection and maintenance tasks. GECKO has been prototyped, and is currently being matured, with the goal of transitioning to the Navy fleet. We are also looking for commercial partners.
Our Compact Repair System (CRS) uses miniaturized, additive friction stir welding to reinforce thinning fuel system pipes in challenging areas. Creare LLC is an applied engineering research and development firm, with a long history of developing and transitioning advanced technologies for defense applications. The USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) is the near-term target customer for this technology. Our CRS will reduce costs, improve quality, and increase flexibility. We have demonstrated the key elements of the CRS and how these elements far exceed the Navy’s requirements. The ultimate goal is to transition our technology to our product-focused sister-company who will build, sell, and support our system in response to a Navy procurement.
Our company is developing a mid-IR supercontinuum fiber laser with high-brightness multi-band output for various applications including stand-off mid-IR spectroscopy. We are also developing a new, tellurite-based mid-IR transport fiber to provide broader mid-IR range and improved mechanical properties over existing chalcogenide and fluoride transmission fibers. These technologies are initially intended for fixed and rotary wing Navy and Marine Corps platforms. With over 10 years of specialty non-silica glass fiber and laser experience, our company has successfully demonstrated mid-IR transmission past 5 µm in our tellurite fiber, and we have demonstrated an ultra-short pulse mid-IR fiber laser based on our germanate fiber. Our expectation is to supply these technologies to a prime contractor requiring multi-band mid-IR coverage currently unavailable in existing technologies.
Passive sonar is an essential tool for covertly detecting threats to friendly submarines. However, it is difficult to accurately determine threat range directly from passive sonar contacts. SETUS is designed to enhance threat range estimation by accounting for uncertain environmental conditions, threat acoustic signature, and threat tactics. SETUS is developed by Daniel H. Wagner Associates, who has more than fifty years of experience in Navy algorithm development, including pioneering work in anti-submarine warfare (ASW). SETUS combines a new statistical approach to account for uncertainties in the acoustic environment, and a sophisticated Agent-Based Simulation with Bayesian Weights (ABSBW) algorithm to infer threat range, acoustic signature, and tactics. SETUS will be transitioned to U.S. submarines via the Advanced Processor Build (APB) software development Step process.
Beacon’s Innovation Lifecycle Management software utilizes shipboard operational data to create a more complete picture of lifecycle needs. Shipboard and shore-based decision-making and action-taking become more informed and precise, improving Mission Readiness & Assurance. Beacon, a WOSB, is a software company that utilizes data analytics and digitization of human activity to streamline the performance of industrial and knowledge-based workers. By integrating digital environments and humans, Beacon is making the Industrial Internet of Things work for the US Navy. The Company is targeting defense applications such as shipboard data management, maintenance, energy management, and safety and compliance. The first versions of the technology are in test, having been built using aggregate shipboard operational data. Beacon is seeking strategic and equity partners for growth.
ASSETT's Acoustic Array Assessment Tool (A4T) enables array design optimization/trade-off analysis prior to prototype implementation and sea trial experimentation. ASSETT, Inc. is an engineering, research and development firm headquartered in Manassas, Virginia. A4T is targeted to support acoustic sensor array evaluation for the Navy's Columbia Class (Ohio Replacement) Ballistic Missile Submarine. A4T employs reverse far-field processing (RFFP) to accurately simulate the impacts of real ocean environments, on candidate array designs. A4T has yielded significant improvement in the simulation of correlated ocean noise, new visualization techniques for 3D beam-patterns and volumetric data, and vast improvements in computing efficiency using graphical processing unit (GPU) innovative synthetic scenario generation capabilities. Acoustic sensor system engineering, and acoustic sensor array prime contractors are targeted for phase II technology transfer.
When submarines deploy the TB-16/TB-34 towed array sonar system using the Lightweight Tow Cable (LWTC), it has a propensity to buckle rendering the towed array out of commission. METSS is developing a new outer jacket for the LWTC by designing a high density polyethylene (HDPE) resin system that will improve the LWTC axial compression strength, improve cut resistance to longline fishing lines, and improve the cut resistance of the submarine’s torpedo guide wire. METSS is leveraging commercially available HDPE base resins and carbon black masterbatch materials to streamline technology transition process making them compatible with current manufacturing process.
The overall scope of this SBIR effort is the design, development, test and evaluation of a bistatic sensor processing system, to include Tactical Decision Aids (TDA’s) and Mission Planning Tools (MPT’s), implemented as an adaptation to existing monostatic processing capability and for ultimate transition to established Navy SONAR system builds. The ability to localize threat submarine forces in a battlefield scenario by judicious application of bistatic capability in surface ship, submarine, and fixed SONAR systems provides important collaborative benefits to the Full Spectrum Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) kill chain. The approach taken then, as well as the Concept of Operations (CONOPS) documented as part of this approach, would minimize localization error as well as maximize target confidence by mitigation of understood limiting factors inherent in bistatics.
Closures protect payloads from surrounding environments during underwater launch. San Diego Composites, Inc. (SDC) has developed a replacement technology and modified design that utilizes readily available, low cost, off-the-shelf materials, and an optimized design to improve manufacturability and reduce cost of the existing design. SDC is an aerospace and defense company with in-house capabilities to develop and produce products and systems and stands ready to complete development and work with the prime contractor and the U.S. Navy to qualify, integrate, and transition the replacement technology into the current design.
The Electrostatically Supported Gyro Navigator (ESGN) is a complex inertial navigation system that deploys on a submarine. IAI, a research organization with extensive experience in developing cutting edge software solutions, is developing a fault isolation capability called Advanced Prognostics Tool (APT) which provides troubleshooting recommendations to assigned Navigation Electronic Technicians. APT is a self-learning tool that accumulates knowledge based on past maintenance cases and incorporates information from the Field Engineer Information System and Level II Repair Manuals. APT will increase Operational Availability (AO), improve cost efficiency, and increase management efficiency by maintaining a central, accessible database of ESGN maintenance history across the submarine fleet.
ATA Engineering, Inc. (ATA) has developed a computational toolset for simulating complex thermo-mechanical responses of woven carbon-carbon (C/C) composite materials. The toolset, COMPAS(TM), is fully integrated within the ABAQUS finite element analysis environment to provide a novel capability for assessing the design of C/C thermal protection system (TPS) components used on spacecraft, reentry systems, and hypersonic vehicles. From partial information about constituent materials and limited mechanical test data, COMPAS extracts material model parameters (e.g., stiffness, strength) along with associated statistical distributions. As ATA completes comprehensive validation of the toolset’s predictive accuracy through comparison with a variety of experimental test data, we seek opportunities to utilize the technology in providing modeling and simulation services to DoD, NASA, and contractors developing flight systems for extreme environments.
When escorting ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs), Type Auxiliary Combat General Escorts (T-AGSEs) maintain their relative position using their dynamic positioning (DP) systems, which rely on scanning lasers to measure positions of targets mounted on SSBNs. Laser sensors performance degrades with rain, snow, fog, smoke, bright lights/sun, and/or excessive vessel motion. Charles River Analytics, a leading provider of innovative R&D solutions for increasingly complex/important human-systems challenges developed Sensor system for Precise Automatic Relative-position Keeping (SPARK) using short-wavelength infrared (SWIR) and covert radiofrequency (RF) sensors to track surfaced SSBNs under all plausible environmental conditions, doesn’t require Sailors to go on deck when underway, and meets regulatory standards for system redundancy by incorporating independent systems based on two different physical principles. Opportunities also exist for SPARK in the commercial maritime industry.
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.
Using innovative algorithms and unsupervised machine learning, Intelligent Situational Awareness for Advanced Cybersecurity (ISAAC) identifies anomalous system/network behaviors providing proactive, predictive detection of unregistered threats. ISAAC allows for continuous monitoring and early detection on a 'big data' scale. Fielding targets include the Navy, DoD and commercial networks. ISAAC offers technology for unregistered threat detection, and a foundational approach for processing, management and recollection within significant volumes of data. ISAAC received an Interim Authority to Test (IATT) on 14 APR 17. La Jolla Logic, an advanced technology firm, is seeking accelerated paths for continued development and operational fielding through commercial and DoD partnerships, allowing for continued maturation of the technology.
Propel LLC, a human-centered textile technologies design company, has applied stitchless seaming technology in order to enhance the performance of DOD clothing, personal protective equipment, and other textile items. Successful testing of stitchless seam garments in relevant field environments validated laboratory test data. Manufacturing assessments indicate that the transition from low rate to full rate production in sufficient quantities to meet Navy requirements is highly feasible. The completion of a Phase III contract to design and prototype a new Navy Damage Control (Steam) Suit confirms the technology’s value and transition capability. Integration of Propel’s stitchless seam technology into suitable new and existing clothing items and textile systems will enhance their form, fit, and function and reduce item weight.
Creare’s Carbureted Fuel Injection System (CFIS) is a fueling system that enhances the stability and robustness of augmentor combustion. The target application is the F135 engine that is currently used in the F-35. Augmentors must operate reliably over a large flight envelope, and issues such as augmentor screech can limit the flight envelope and thrust of the augmentor. CFIS fuel injectors more-optimally fuel the augmentor, leading to enhanced combustion stability and more robust overall combustion. This benefits all aspects of augmentor performance including stability, thrust, pattern factor, and emissions. The CFIS technology designed allows retrofit on existing engines and was recently demonstrated in a high-fidelity rig test at AFRL-WPAFB. Currently developing a CFIS hardware set and anticipate a demonstration during CY 2018. Creare is an engineering R&D services firm that has developed innovative thermal/fluid technology and helped solve our clients’ most challenging problems since 1961. Creare seeks to obtain exposure for this technology within the F-35 program, and also establish relationships with additional programs involving gas turbine augmentors for future systems.
MaxPower has developed an 8kW primary lithium battery for high power sonobuoy applications. The Vanadium Pentoxide system is well suited for replacing thionyl chloride and sulfur dioxide batteries traditionally used in high power primary systems such as those found in the SSQ125 sonobuoy. Though presently produced in a 5/4 C sized cell format, this technology is easily adapted to flat plate active cells as well as reserve systems. Full battery testing has demonstrated a power density of 4084 W/l and specific power of 2711 W/kg at discharge rates up to 45°C. MaxPower Incorporated is a battery research and development company with focus in rapid prototyping and low volume production. We are seeking applications in need of mature, scalable, high power density power solutions.
Numerica Corporation is a small business whose primary focus is the development and implementation of advanced algorithms and the licensing of operational software. We focus on the areas of Air and Missile Defense, Space Situational Awareness, and Law Enforcement. Numerica is at the forefront of the multi-target tracking community: Numerica develops MDA's Command, Control, Battle Management, and Communications (C2BMC) track processing thread; and Numerica develops all algorithms and software for the Army's IAMD Battle Command System (IBCS) Track Manager. Numerica develops solutions for Space Situational Awareness, with tracking systems being transitioned to DSC2-D (Dahlgren) for UCT processing and to JMS Inc-2 for breakup processing. Numerica supports several programs to develop, field, and integrate Counter Small UAS systems; in particular, Numerica is partnered with Liteye, Inc., to field the Anti-UAV Defense System (AUDS). Numerica’s Law Enforcement team develops software solutions that integrate disparate law enforcement and intelligence data to enable search and analysis. In addition, Numerica specializes in the development of other advanced algorithms and software solutions for radar, SIGINT, and sensor management.
Infrared sensor developers and testers need accurate, autonomous techniques for atmospheric correction to support flight testing and calibration. SciTec’s Atmospheric Infra-Red Transmittance Calculator (AIRTraC) application will provide Navy Test & Evaluation personnel with a robust, highly automated and user-friendly means of determining atmospheric transmission from available weather information and models. This high-fidelity application provides increased test flexibility and significantly reduces costs by eliminating the need for multiple weather balloon collections or other sophisticated measurement equipment. SciTec has successfully field tested the AIRTraC application against airborne IR sensors and calibrated targets. Performance specifications are available on request. SciTec seeks opportunities with Government IR sensor programs and prime contractor developers to demonstrate capability and provide test and evaluation services. SciTec also seeks partners to license the application.
The Composite Propellant (CP) technology will improve the reliability, safety, performance and costs of cartridge-actuated devices (CAD) / propellant actuated devices (PAD) used in Navy ejection seats by replacing the currently used Double Base (DB) propellants, which experience degradation and depletion of the stabilizers used in the formulation over time, resulting in limited service lives. The CP formulation provides a “drop-in” replacement for the DB compositions. Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) has demonstrated that the CP removes high-pressure “slope breaks” from concern and maintains plateau burning rate profiles from 2000 to 5000 psi. This technology demonstration would also be directly applicable to high performance solid rocket motors for all sized missile systems. PSI has successfully developed and provided innovative technology solutions by maturing emerging science to application for commercial and government use.
Prime Photonics was founded in 1999 and specializes in advanced sensor systems for military and industrial turbomachinery. The Foreign Object Damage (FOD) Detection System identifies and characterizes compressor rotor blade impacts during engine operation. Military gas turbines on fixed and rotary wing aircraft, and ground vehicles, are susceptible to performance-reducing FOD damage. This patented technology provides real-time on-wing diagnostics, improving operational readiness and reducing costs associated with current schedule-based visual inspection maintenance activities. A prototype was demonstrated in F402 engine testing performed May-July 2017. The company seeks engine companies and Defense program office(s) with engine diagnostic or condition-based maintenance applications for the technology.
Helicon specializes in the research and development of nanostructured composites with superior nanoparticle dispersion properties in a variety of host matrices. Helicon is combining patented nanostructured materials and combustion control additives in a composite solid rocket propellant to match the performance of the fielded double base propellants in ejection seat Cartridge/Propellant Actuated Devices (CAD)/(PAD). The currently fielded propellants have thermal stability problems that limit their service life. Helicon will mitigate safety risks in fielded and future ejection seat energetic components, improve reliability, and reduce lifecycle cost. Initial transition target is the NACES ejection seat, with applicability to a range of aircraft seat systems. Propellants have been tested at relevant temperatures, pressures, and aging conditions with a TRL4 anticipated by Phase II completion.
VIP Sensors Inc. has developed a Multimode Optical Sensor that can be integrated into a single node of the Autonomous Undersea Weapon System for target detection, classification, localization and tracking. The sensor can be packaged as an optical vector sensor, which measures the amplitude and direction of acoustic waves, or as an optical pressure sensor that reads the hydrostatic pressure as well as the dynamic pressure produced by gravity waves. The optical sensor is enclosed in a cylindrical canister with a polyurethane dome containing miniature MOMS (micro-optical-mechanical-systems) Silicon chips, and a printed circuit board with the electronics needed to process the sensor signals and to communicate with the upstream system. We are looking for a DoD sponsor to transfer this novel sensors to the fleet.
This company is not exhibiting at or presenting during the FST. They are not available for 1-on-1 meetings. Please refer to their contact information above.
Coaxial cables are heavy, bulky, and require regular replacement on airborne platforms due to mechanical fatigue from the harsh environment. High dynamic range fiber optic links utilizing dual output Lithium Niobate modulators can provide a >10x reduction in size and weight as well as immunity to electromagnetic interference (EMI). EOSPACE’s dual output modulator operates from DC to >40GHz with extremely high reliability and is capable of operating at temperatures from -55C to +200C to support Radar, Electronic Warfare and Communication systems in harsh airborne environments. For more than 20 years, EOSPACE has developed a wide variety of Lithium Niobate modulators designed for high performance DoD and aerospace applications. Our goal is to transition this technology into DoD airborne platforms to reduce SWaP and increase reliability.
Current CH-53K aluminum floor panels provide required durability, they are heavy and limit mission range and impact operational support cost. The objective of this project is to develop a light-weight Thermoplastic composite floor panel where the materials and design are tailored for durability-damage tolerance to meet the specified static and dynamic load requirements for the CH-53K and integration of the Cargo handling system. The floor panel materials and design are validated by analysis, and tests via building-block approach. SciMax Technologies has extensive knowledge and experience in the design, analysis and Fabrication of advanced composite structures for Navy aircraft with high durable, impact damage tolerant resistant structure. SciMax Technologies Goal is to integrate the Thermoplastic floor panel design into the CH-53K and other Navy/DOD cargo aircraft.
Toyon’s Adaptive eLORAN-aided Positioning and Timing (ADEPT) system provides all-weather GPS-denied navigation capabilities with centimeter-level accuracy for local carrier-landing applications and meter-level accuracy for global missions. Local, high-precision performance is enabled by novel transmitters with LPI/LPD waveforms, while a software-defined radio receiver provides global GPS-like navigation capabilities. The ADEPT technology leverages Toyon’s advanced positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) solutions for cost, size, weight and power (C-SWAP) constrained platforms, which include manned and unmanned vehicles. The technology provides both local precision and global accuracy for virtually every platform that requires precise PNT performance under GPS-denied and anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) conditions. Technology feasibility was demonstrated through extensive analysis and simulation, while a real-time demonstration of the transmitter and receiver hardware in a relevant environment is currently underway.
Icing events create a hazardous working environment and could potentially reduce the ship stability, in addition to adversely impacting the operating range of Navy surface vessels in winter and Artic operations, however this technology solves that problem. The durable icephobic coating is applied in a single sprayable step featuring easy to coat, transparency, and extended operational life-time. The coating can be field applied and is extensible into ice repellency for freezer evaporators to ice makers, and into marine anti-biofouling applications. The prototyped coatings have independently verified the lowest ice adhesion values ever reported (< 1 kPa). HygraTek specializes in advance coatings that repel solids and liquids. Our goal is coatings deployment into DoD systems to avoid environmental icing impact, and to ensure a safe working environment. The coatings being ultra-smooth, not textured superhydrophobic coatings or SLIPS, achieve long-term performance even when subjected to abrasion or repeated icing-deicing events.
NanoSonic, an advanced materials company has developed the HybridSil Ice Protective Coating (IPC), a one-part nanocomposite coating, which provides near-term ice buildup protection for U.S. Navy ships during arctic missions; offering excellent ice shedding performance, with the added benefits of environmental durability and corrosion protection. HybridSil IPC coated surfaces exhibit drastically reduced ice adhesion which enables fast, effortless ice removal. HybridSil IPC’s easily spray deposited within a broad spectrum of environments, and is suitable for in-the-field application and repair of NanoSonic’s existing commercially available HybridShield Icephobic topcoats. HybridSil’s innovative combination of previously unavailable MIL-PRF-24635E Type V environmental durability and retained ice protective performance exceeds currently available coatings. NanoSonic seeks identification of and opportunities to showcase HybridSil ICP on Navy platforms that’d benefit from ice protection.
Galvanic corrosion at dissimilar alloy interfaces is a significant problem on aircraft, with most problems occurring around fasteners and mechanical attachments. Our advanced development of a sol-gel based surface treatment mitigates galvanic corrosion by providing excellent physical and electrical barrier protection to corrosive environments. Our application is designed for drop-in fastener batch processing for easy integration with common aircraft construction or repairs. Luna develops new-generation products for wide-ranging applications with the intent of delivering unique solutions through innovative science and practical implementation. Luna has demonstrated application, corrosion, and frictional characteristics of the sol-gel surface treatment at TRL 5, and are currently seeking demonstration partners for future transition opportunities.
SeaPort-e approved company has developed an innovative approach and a coupled sensing tool to perform analysis and prediction of environmentally assisted damage accumulation in structural components. Ensuring the safety and future condition of aircraft requires the analysis of damage accumulation at critical locations due to both applied stresses and local environmental conditions; prognostics models that can take into account variation of loading and environmental conditions for calculation of components’ remaining life are needed. The analysis tools developed implement unique analytical formulations linking environmental damage and mechanical damage to perform life calculation at a component level for different environmental conditions. This engineering and software design company seeks Primes interested in identifying platforms that need innovative solutions for corrosion assisted damage accumulation and cracking. (Technical Data Analysis, Inc)
This company is not exhibiting at or presenting during the FST. They are not available for 1-on-1 meetings. Please refer to their contact information above.
The Optical RF Memory (ORFM) system, an upgrade for current DRFM systems, significantly enhances the Navy’s ability to thwart adversarial radar systems. ORFM uses optical computing to implement advanced high-speed digital signal processing that provides improved spectral purity and extremely wide instantaneous frequency bandwidth response with an unlimited number of simultaneous false target outputs. It is suitable for current and emerging ultra-wideband radar systems, thereby increasing current and future effectiveness. ORFM is a fully integrated fiber optic-based system; has low size, weight and power (SWaP); and utilizes only COTS optical and RF parts. 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.
Knite Inc.’s Kinetic Spark Ignition (KSI) provides transformational ignition technology for turbine and augmentor applications. Knite’s KSI technology, based upon the electromagnetic plasma railgun, maintains the simplicity of conventional thermal plasma ignition systems while removing limitations. KSI has demonstrated the ability to enhance ignition capability by dynamically increasing plasma discharge energy content and location, making it an excellent candidate for drop-in ignition upgrades. Within this program KSI has been successfully applied as a plasma injector for active combustion control. KSI's demonstrated ability to actively manipulate and control combustion dynamics allows for a simple and light weight active combustion control system. Knite is actively pursuing collaborative partnerships with leading ignition component suppliers to test, evaluate, and manufacture KSI igniters for next generation augmentor, and combustor components.
This company is not exhibiting at or presenting during the FST. They are not available for 1-on-1 meetings. Please refer to their contact information above.
Technology Service Corporation’s (TSC) Location, Identification and Flight Tracking System (LIFTS) is a radio frequency (RF) sensor and pseudo-lite system for position, navigation and guidance (PNT) in Global Positioning System (GPS) denied, anti-access area denial (A2AD) and adverse environmental conditions. LIFTS provides a RF sensor solution for the Sea-Based Automated Landing and Recovery System (SALRS), unmanned aerial refueling, and vertical replenishment (VERTREP). TSC’s RF solution provides all-weather, extended range operation with minimal size, weight, power, and cost (SWAP-C). TSC specializes in RF sensor and datalink research, detection solutions, navigation and guidance, communications, command guidance, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), radar, fire control, and electronic warfare. Under internal research and development (IRAD), TSC developed the prototype hardware, matured and demonstrated in this NAVAIR Phase II SBIR.
One of the biggest strategic warfare challenges today is a loss of access, as a result of the Anti-Access/Areal Denial (A2/AD) threat posed by our increasingly sophisticated adversaries. Advanced Electronic Warfare (EW) capabilities are a critical element of the A2/AD solution being used in ever evolving combinations to disrupt and exploit adversarial use of the electromagnetic spectrum while protecting friendly freedom of action. Sonalysts is developing a game-based technology to model and visualize complex EW capabilities allowing Naval EW mission planners to effectively develop, analyze, and prioritize potential courses of action during the mission planning process. Development of this innovative visualization capability leverages our comprehensive and complementary range of expertise in tactical game-based visualization, software engineering, human systems integration, Navy training, and mission evaluation.
M4 Engineering, an aerospace and mechanical engineering analysis and consulting company, is creating an advanced modeling tool for adhesive bonds that allows faster introduction of new material systems through better analysis and reduced testing. The Abaqus-based tool will reveal the real-world response of bonded joints for a broad range of mechanical and environmental loading conditions to give higher operational reliability and design robustness. The software tool builds upon the unique world-class polymer model developed by Sandia National Labs1 over a decade and interfaces directly with Abaqus, the premiere nonlinear finite element analysis program from SIMULIA. The goal is to have the tool adopted by the designers and analysts throughout the DoD labs as well their prime contractors in the aerospace and mechanical engineering fields.
The Display Measurement Toolkit (DMT) is a portable multi-sensor measurement tool that can reduce time required for display acceptance testing from days to hours. Stable and objective metrics enable performance comparisons across training devices and programs, and reduce disagreements and delays in acquisition of training devices. The use of vetted standards increases the probability a training device supports warfighter needs. In addition to factory and final acceptance testing, the tool makes practical recurrent testing of fielded systems over their operational life. Visual Performance, LLC is engaged in engineering, research, development, specification, and test of advanced display and imaging systems. The president, Dr. Charles Lloyd is a systems engineer and applied vision scientist with 30-years-experience that includes prototype and proof-of-concept evaluations for managing development risk.
Charles River Analytics, a leading customer-focused provider of innovative R&D solutions for increasingly complex and important human-systems challenges, is developing Advanced Mission Display and Planning Tools (AMPT) providing operators of a multi-vehicle (manned and unmanned), multi-domain (air, ground and sea) common control station with decision support for real-time re-tasking and re-planning of multiple assets. Formal analysis efforts have identified task and information requirements for manned-unmanned teaming, which has driven the design of a set of display concepts and a prototyping and demonstration environment used to validate AMPT technology. We seek to fully integrate software into the PMA-281 Common Control System (CCS) for testing and performance validation and verification.
The product developed is a software utility for the simulation and analysis of the flight dynamic characteristics of rotorcraft-towed objects hosting magnetic anomaly detectors (MAD). The simulation utility includes a physics-based representation of the towing aircraft, tow cable, and towed body and includes all pertinent aircraft subsystems such as rotor systems, propulsion system, and flight controls. Advanced Rotorcraft Technology Inc. (ART) is known worldwide for its state-of-the-art proven flight simulations software FLIGHTLAB. The towing simulation benefits from FLIGHTLAB’s selective fidelity of its models. The towing simulation developed here will help to assess the flight characteristics and performance of MAD sensors towed by Navy FireScout and Sea Hawk aircraft. ART is looking for opportunities on advanced future vertical lift designs, upgrades of existing aircraft, and real time full flight simulators.
System designers avoid conformal coatings as a method to protect RF devices due to the coating’s impact on signal performance. GVD’s coating technology provides environmental protection that achieves parity or exceeds conventional coatings’ reliability and can be applied directly over RF circuits without significant impact to RF parameters. Coated test articles are to be subjected to harsh environments that represent expected performance on a maritime airborne radar system. GVD Corporation provides vapor deposited coating services for a variety of industries and seeks opportunities to commercialize this innovative technology for high reliability electronics.
Mainstream Engineering’s GaN power switch module is a 1.3 kV, 240 A peak, gate drive integrated single phase, three level power module that can switch in excess of 200 kHz. This module is specifically designed for 6 MW/m3 450 VAC, and 1 kV DC power conversion systems. The switch module can handle 70% more output power than a similarly rated IGBT module and reduces generated EMI, resulting in system SWaP reductions. Currently, component testing and modeling are being used to transition the GaN switch from a TRL 4 to 6. Mainstream Engineering develops energy conversion systems and components including those in the area of power electronics. Mainstream seeks transition/commercialization partnerships with DRS, L3, GE, LMCO, and Northrop Grumman for the GaN power switch module.
The rapid proliferation of wireless communications protocols is accelerating the obsolescence of radio equipment. The RF environment is becoming more complex and increasingly crowded to meet the growing demand for wireless services. Azure Summit is defining and developing new innovative algorithms to monitor, sense, and detect signals in a dense RF environment; allowing friendly forces to reconfigure their Software Defined Radios (SDR) to adapt to the new operating conditions on the fly. These algorithms in tandem with Azure Summit’s tactical SDR, will enable electronic warfare and electronic attack capabilities for dismounts and SWAP-constrained, unmanned platforms. This capability will minimize obsolescence and logistics costs while maximizing interoperability and adaptive functionality.
This company is not exhibiting at or presenting during the FST. They are not available for 1-on-1 meetings. Please refer to their contact information above.
Data recording systems (including flight data recorders and health and usage monitoring systems) generate encoded digital files capturing system states, subsystem performance, structural loads, and other parameters. This information is extremely useful, but it is often stored in closed/proprietary file formats. RMCI has developed a universal data decoder technology called Intelligent Data File Interpretation™ (IDFI™). The IDFI™ software uses novel algorithms to quickly and efficiently decode these complex data files into common, usable formats. It is faster and more effective than manual format discovery, and it significantly reduces the labor required for data translation. It also eliminates the need for expensive single-format decoding tools and reduces risks associated with format changes. By increasing the accessibility of data, the IDFI™ tool will significantly improve program efficiency and performance for any organization with closed-format binary data.
UtopiaCompression Corporation (UC) is a high-tech company providing innovative and mission relevant solutions to US Government Agencies and commercial markets. Skill mastery acquisition is essential to ensure better retention and improved on-the-job performance. In this Phase II Base, skill assessment software will be developed based on concept of “knowledge tracing” to estimate mastery achieved by trainees and to predict performance. Currently, this software is being used to identify training gaps in a valve-maintenance trainer called the Virtual Task Trainer (VTT) at the Surface Warfare Officers School (SWOS). In the Option phase, skill-tracking capability will be integrated with the VTT for real-time monitoring of an individual trainee’s skill mastery progression. Different features (batch learning, inference and online-learning algorithms) of the software are being developed and tested via ongoing ONR SBIR projects to drain out risk for ultimate transition and commercialization of this technology. By end of this Phase II Base and subsequent Option we expect to deliver the software at TRL = 5 and 7, respectively.
This company is not exhibiting at or presenting during the FST. They are not available for 1-on-1 meetings. Please refer to their contact information above.
The CH-53K Integrated Hybrid Structural Management System (IHSMS) increases reliability and safety, reduces maintenance and operational costs, and maximizes operational readiness of the Navy’s helicopter fleet. Current IHSMS requires direct electrical wire connection of the SHM sensors within the rotor and blades exceeding weight and power requirements. Consequently, Redondo Optics is developing a high-speed, self-powered, wireless fiber optic sensor (MOFIS™) SHM system to provide real-time load and fatigue damage detection, tracking, and prognosis for the helicopter rotor structural components. The MOFIS™ system operates in extreme Navy helicopter environments, eliminating costly, potentially trouble prone wire harness installations, allowing measurements in critical inaccessible locations within the rotating parts of the helicopter without complex slip-ring connections. Potential to integrate into all structural health usage management/monitoring systems (HUMS).
Effective use of manned/unmanned teams in complex contested environments requires a revolutionary change in mission planning technology to achieve desired mission management and execution capabilities. Our tools, built on formal methods and contextual messaging, will enable such complex mission planning and execution tasks. Planning details will be intuitively obtained from the user, and then formal methods will be utilized to produce provably correct plans that can be initially transmitted and dynamically changed using very limited bandwidth. We expect that this revolutionary technology will transition to one or more manned/unmanned cooperative planning and execution systems. Daniel H. Wagner Associates, Inc. has long been and continues to be at the forefront of DoD C2 efforts, with emphasis on optimal mission planning and information flow optimization.
CORE addresses a significant need of airborne, surface, and subsurface platforms that require a minimized size, weight, and power (SWaP) hardware footprint for dual security enclave networking. Fuse reviewed operational needs and defined key SWaP limitations across multiple manned and unmanned platforms to rapidly design and develop a solution compatible with existing Navy cipher text WAN networks in a single integrated form factor. Fuse has built upon this development to show CORE networking solution provides a leap forward in ruggedized minimized SWaP networking technology as well as expands C2 and ISR functionality over IP networks. Fuse is pursuing opportunities to provide CORE to DoD and industry organizations that require minimized SWaP or advanced networking solutions.
Creare’s microchannel recuperator technology increases the time on station for unmanned aircraft by reducing fuel consumption. The target application is the Navy’s MQ-8C Fire Scout unmanned rotorcraft used for reconnaissance, situational awareness, and precision targeting support and is powered by a Rolls-Royce M250 turboshaft engine. Innovative fabrication techniques and design features enable an inexpensive, lightweight, high performance, modular heat exchanger, while innovative sealing technology contributes to excellent durability making Creare’s recuperator extremely well-suited for use with turboshaft engines. We project a 25-30% increase in loiter time for an MQ-8C powered by a recuperated engine compared to a non-recuperated engine. A single module has met its thermal and flow performance requirements and survived 30 thermal cycles with no degradation in performance. We are building a full size (28-module) recuperator and will demonstrate performance and durability by testing with a Rolls-Royce M250 engine. Creare is an engineering R&D services firm that has developed innovative thermal/fluid technology and helped solve our clients’ most challenging problems since 1961. Creare seeks to establish relationships with additional Navy programs that need to increase the endurance of UAVs powered by gas turbine engines.
White River Technologies’ (WRT) advanced electric field (e-field) technology reduces geomagnetic noise and optimizes magnetic anomaly detection (MAD) to improve Navy anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities. WRT, focused on magnetitic (MAG) and electromagnetic (EM) detection, developed a sensor to perform accurate and robust measurement under varying conditions, that can be deployed via multiple airframes. E-field sensors optimize UAV-based MAD by addressing multiple spatial and temporal noise sources. WRT’s compact rotating electrostatic field-mill design, suitable for small UAVs, fully meets size, weight, and power (SWAP) requirements. Combined with innovative digital signal processing (DSP), multi-spectral noise mitigation and target detections are optimized. High-sensitivity (< 1 mV/m) enables generator, and power source detection, making WRT’s technology a candidate for integration into a wide range of detection and surveillance applications.
ASSETT's Architecture Assessment Tool (AAAT) provides a means to reduce project life-cycle costs and risk associated with systems architecture planning, development, and evaluation efforts. ASSETT is an engineering, research and development firm headquartered in Manassas, Virginia. This SBIR develops an evaluation framework to analyze complex, dynamically reconfigurable, net-centric system architectures such as DD(X) to ensure effective system operation and maintenance. ASSETT's phase II approach establishes a framework that compares the viability of candidate architectures and provides test cases to demonstrate effectiveness of the AAAT evaluation framework. Phase II incorporates guidance from the Navy and focuses on demonstrating the prototype assessment framework via the test cases. ASSETT's intent is to work with IBM to incorporate the AAAT architecture evaluation capability into the Rational integrated toolset.
The advanced technology RDT is developing is a Si-based photo-conductive solid-state switch (Si-PCSS) 10kV-module for coupling to different microwave radiation technologies. RDT develops and commercializes state-of-the-art semiconductor devices that have been laboratory proven by RDT and collaborating Universities. Applications that benefit from Si-PCSS technology include: microwave-emission devices driven by non-linear transmission lines, and firing sets and superposed antenna, whose phase alignment require picosecond coordination. The uniqueness of RDT’s Si-PCSS technology is its fast rise-time, low jitter, low laser-energy trigger, high average power, solid-state robustness, operation at hundreds of kHz, and maturity (VLSI silicon: availability, manufacturability, reproducibility). The combination of the silicon switch and the laser allows for meeting all the pulse and timing requirements set forth by the Navy without the need for vacuum electronics.
SA Photonics has developed a concept for our Multiple Optical Beam Landing System (MOBLS™) to provide autonomous landing of aircraft in RF-denied environments. MOBLS™ utilizes multiple, redundant methods to determine the real-time location and bearing of the aircraft relative to the carrier-based landing strip. By having built in redundant modalities, MOBLS™ provides highly reliable landing information. MOBLS™ is entirely based on optical signals, providing landing operation and high data rate communications between the aircraft and carrier in RF- and GPS-denied environments. MOBLS™ also operates entirely without operator intervention. Our goal is to transition this technology via well-known primes into military fleets.
AID‐MEDIC (Assisted Informatics and Decisions for Medics) is an innovative suite of AI‐driven software tools for situation awareness and decision support in mass casualty incidents, including optimal allocation of patients to hospitals. Perceptronics Solutions develops intelligent computing technologies that help people make better decisions when facing uncertainty or operating in high stress environments. AID‐MEDIC is targeted at Navy and Marine Corps pre‐hospital casualty care operations and at civilian emergency medical services. Competitive advantages come from faster and more effective field decision making leading to better immediate care and increased survival rates as well as better information handoff and patient tracking. AID‐MEDIC features have been demonstrated in simulation, and the tools have been endorsed by the prestigious Los Angeles County Emergency Medical Services Agency.
Cyber-security continuously evolves to establish security against ever-changing methods of attack, hackers too continuously adapt their tactics and methods to evade state-of-the art defensive security mechanisms. As this never-ending billion dollar “cat-and-mouse game” continues, it is useful to explore avenues that examine novel, orthogonal defensive strategies to counter ongoing cyber-threats. Orthogonal cyber-security protections, employ alternative strategies and multi-dimensional detection regimes, not well known to hackers, making them more difficult for hackers to detect, and evade. Mayachitra’s orthogonal cyber-security framework, MALSEE: employs a multi-tiered detection strategy; optimizes analysis times; effectively reduces scan time and the number of malware variants to be scanned; provides security against zero-day attacks; is complimentary to existing cyber-security solutions; is operating system agnostic; and derives intelligence in a fraction of the time.
The wireless spectrum is a dynamic and harsh environment, and has become another Cyber battle space for the military. To maintain our spectral dominance, we need a cognitive radio that is self-aware of the dynamic spectral domain and seamlessly avoids interference and intentional jamming through intelligent application of multiple “radio personalities” in a single portable device. Syncopated Engineering’s Cognitive Radio, built on our highly successful CIELO family of multi-channel Software Defined Radio (SDR) products, includes a cognitive engine capable of autonomous learning and reconfiguration to adapt to dynamic spectral environments. Our Cognitive Radio includes spectral sensing, waveform recognition, and adaptive radio communications providing complete spectrum situational awareness, cognitive EW and robust, anti-jam wireless communications for cyberspace operations.
The product being developed is a unidirectional carbon fiber broadgood fabric with high permeability that holds the tows together without nonstructural stitch fibers. Components manufactured using this broadgood fabric are expected to have improved fatigue performance because stitches have been shown to be damage initiation sites under fatigue loading, reducing runout strain. Composites Automation specializes in composite technology including development of new materials and processes, analytical modeling of fabrication procedures, and design and development of damage tolerant composite structures. Initial targeted applications are large high performance Navy components. High permeability unidirectional broadgoods are being increasingly used in both military and civilian high performance composite applications. The material is lower cost than incumbent unidirectional fabrics. Phase II has produced prototype quantities of 18 ounce unidirectional T700 broadgoods with improved performance compared to incumbent material. The ultimate goal is to license the technology to existing fabric producers or produce the fabrics ourselves.
Aircraft and other aviation components have contours for aerodynamic performance using composite sandwich structures for high strength-to-weight ratio. MR&D is exploring these complex sandwich structures through the development of a multi-scale material model tailored for the design of pin-reinforced foam cores capable of near net shape fabrication to meet critical performance needs. MR&D’s role as an industry leader in providing design/analysis services for the advanced materials community provides the necessary experience to develop such a complex material model. Future vertical lift aircraft are expected to be the immediate beneficiaries of such a development. Such a solution will greatly improve the development of pin-reinforced foam cores capable of achieving strength-to-weight ratios not capable with heritage solutions. To reduce risks, MR&D is validating the model with a variety of fabrication and experimental tasks.
This mature small business specializing in environmental sensors for meteorological applications such as severe weather forecasting or radar ducting at sea has developed an Automated Dropsonde Dispenser (ADD) for its Expendable Digital Dropsonde (XDD). The XDD measures a high resolution vertical profile of pressure, temperature, relative humidity and sea surface temperature, and real-time data initializes operational electro-optical propagation or weather models. The ADD replaces a human-in-the-loop dropsonde operations and allows deployment based on geographic positioning, making this a perfect solution for MQ-4C Triton and other UAV systems. The system has been demonstrated on NASA WB-57 and DC-8 aircraft in support of ONR, NOAA, NASA and Naval Postgraduate School experiments, making it a suitable system for U.S. Navy P-8A Poseidon and USAF WC-130J aircraft.
Hydronalix has become a recognized international leader in robotics innovation. Developers and manufacturers of manually controlled rescue robots to fully autonomous mobile buoy platforms with advance sensor systems. New technology centers on a hybrid unmanned surface vehicle used to carry radar, sonar, weather stations, cameras and advanced communication devices. The new hybrid technology extends mission range. Focus on lightweight materials results in improved payload capacity, increasing speed, and improved durability. Initial platforms will focus on uses such as improving port security operations. Risk has been reduced by previous Navy development work resulting in operational electric or gas prototype sensor boats. We are looking for Defense customers that have need for small, low cost, lightweight, and highly efficient unmanned surface vehicles with capability to carry sophisticated instrumentation.
SIL is a product developer of Li-Ion batteries and avionics, and A9100C certified to design, test and manufacture these products, i.e., High Energy and Safe Li-Ion Battery with Advanced Battery Management System (BMS) for Missile, Aircraft and UAS platforms. Aerospace platforms for the Li-Ion battery technology include Aircraft (F18 and JSF), Missiles (NAVAIR, MDA and ICBM) and UASs (RQ-21, Aerosonde, MQ-8, and Small UAS). The Li-Ion Battery has an advanced internal BMS to ensure battery operational safety. Battery prognostic algorithms are used to detect a failing cell and predict when the battery is going to fail to minimize aerospace platform downtimes and reduce life cycle costs. The Li-Ion battery is designed to reduce risk by passing MIL-STD environmental tests and using highly reliable parts and materials.
Composites Automation specializes in composite technology including development of new materials and processes, and analytical modeling of composite fabrication. A software tool currently under development, couples multi-scale process and void physics models with macro-scale manufacturing simulations to predict defects during manufacturing of thermoset prepregs, leading to defect free structures. This tool supports modeling thermoset prepreg processing across the composites industry and predicts manufacturing induced defects which occur based on the material, part geometry, tooling and processing parameters. Implementation as custom subroutines that fully couple the void models with ABAQUS CAE multiphysics solvers provide a natural transition into current Navy composite design/analysis processes (i.e. Triton UAS program) for validation, and enables OEM’s rapid assimilation for production of defect free composite structures.
Coaxial cables are heavy, bulky, and require regular replacement on airborne platforms due to mechanical fatigue from the harsh environment. High dynamic range fiber optic links utilizing dual output Lithium Niobate modulators can provide a >10x reduction in size and weight as well as immunity to electromagnetic interference (EMI). EOSPACE’s dual output modulator operates from DC to >40GHz with extremely high reliability and is capable of operating at temperatures from -55C to +200C. For more than 20 years, EOSPACE has developed a wide variety of Lithium Niobate modulators designed for high performance DoD and aerospace applications. We are now integrating this rugged modulator with a high performance laser to create an ultra-compact fiber optic transmitter to reduce SWaP and increase reliability on DoD airborne platforms.
Advanced outer-loop algorithms are currently under development that allow rapid replanning based on changing mission requirements and environmental factors, enabling tighter integration between manned and unmanned vehicles. The greatest obstacle to the operational use of such algorithms is the lack of methodologies to assess algorithm performance during the certification process. INSPECT is a software tool that enables analysts to answer the question: does an algorithm meet Navy requirements? By automating simulation-based testing, INSPECT requires minimal human intervention -- saving time and money. The INSPECT tool will efficiently determine both worst-case and expected performance over the set of expected operating conditions, even in presence of nondeterministic and discontinuous behavior. The ultimate goal is to work with the Navy to certify new autonomous capabilities on unmanned platforms.
Modern military avionic systems employ a vast network of sophisticated sensors and communication equipment, requiring digital and analog links with high-bandwidth, high link margin, and low-susceptibility to electromagnetic interference (EMI). Fiber-optic communications have been proven as the superior means of transmission. High link gain, noise figure (NF), and spurious-free dynamic range (SFDR) can be achieved with higher optical powers – thus, there is a need for high performance optical transmitters. For practical realization of avionic sensor and communication micro-networks using high-speed high-performance photonic links, there is a need for military-grade, ruggedized components with low size, weight, and power (SWaP). One of the key missing components for analog avionic photonic links is a ruggedized, wideband, high-power, optical laser transmitter with high linearity.
The Navy has a need for a low cost, air deployable A-size persistent, passive cuing sensor that when fully deployed can reach an operational depth of 14000 feet. During this program Systems & Technology Research (STR) will design and prototype a next generation passive sonobuoy sensor that has: Full ocean depth operation Low noise vector sensor Compact form factor Long endurance operations Low cost manufacture for future procurements. During Phase II, STR will refine the existing sonobuoy design, demonstrate a sensor that meets the low noise requirements, and validate the low power characteristics of the design. STR specializes in the design and development of deep ocean sensors and other maritime applications. Our goal is to transition this technology to a sonobuoy manufacturer for large scale production and fleet use.
Intelligent Optical Systems (IOS) has developed a laser ultrasonic (LUT) inspection system for additively manufactured (AM) parts. It will detect defects inside of metal AM parts during fabrication. IOS is small business that conducts research on topics ranging from laser ultrasonic testing to chemical sensing. There is a growing pull from multiple Defense agencies for AM parts and an in-line inspection solution is needed to qualify the parts. Multiple technologies exist for in-line AM part inspection, but all are indirect, as they rely on predictive algorithms. There is no other technology currently available that can provide real-time direct inspection of AM parts on a layer-by-layer basis. In its work to date, IOS has demonstrated an LUT defect detection sensitivity of 500 μm in AM parts. IOS is seeking a business partner that can provide funding to help grow/further develop our technology.
For 30+ years, Charles River Analytics Inc. has provided intelligent systems technology, software tools, and design/analysis services for government and private industry. We are developing an Embedded Architecture for Cyber-resilience (EAC) to protect cyber-physical systems from cyber threats, ensuring fault isolation for both system- and application-level software components and using novel machine learning algorithms to detect, locate, and automatically recover from compromises due to cyber-attacks. EAC is directly applicable to a number of military and commercial systems including satellites (e.g. CubeSat), avionics, unmanned systems, and industrial control systems. Early versions of EAC have successfully detected component faults and predictably and efficiently recovered from these faults to achieve mission success. We seek to license to large system integrators and integrate into Navy embedded control systems.
Metal Additive Manufacturing (AM) lacks the ability to repeatedly produce quality parts. 3DSIM specializes in designing, developing, implementing and validating advanced predictive tools for the AM industry, improving quality control and design for AM processes. With multi-scale, multi-physics solvers, users can define the full set of physics phenomena associated with laser powder bed fusion/laser sintering processes to predict distortion, stress, thermal history, and defect distributions within a part before it is built. This early insight saves significant time and money associated with traditional AM trial and error experiments. Ageing aircraft fleets with critical parts supply issues and/or higher part failure rates are early adopters for these innovative predictive tools. Collaborating with both Industry and Government AM organizations demonstrates easy integration with current design/production/qualification processes.
This company is not exhibiting at or presenting during the FST. They are not available for 1-on-1 meetings. Please refer to their contact information above.
Atmospheric Plasma Coating Removal (APCR) is a new, environmentally responsible, method for coating removal. APCR is found be a safe and effective alternative to media blasting. Requiring only compressed air and electricity to operate, a low temperature air plasma beam is created which enables rapid coating removal without the use of any media, virtually eliminating the need for containment. The APCR process converts the coating into a dry residue which can be vacuumed away. Single or multiple plasma beams may be configured for handheld or robotic use to prepare a variety of substrates. The APCR technology is suitable for use on a wide range of coatings found in the US Navy and other DoD service branches in addition to a wide variety of commercial applications.
SCALABLE provides network design and analysis tools that enable customers to develop, test and deploy, large enterprise wired/wireless networks in a simulated environment. Working with the Forward-Deployed Energy and Communications Outpost (FDECO) Innovative Naval Prototype (INP) team to develop technologies for extended unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) operations, SCALABLE’s innovative Joint Network Emulator (JNE)/EXata modeling tools provide accurate energy and communication representations with Live, Virtual and Constructive simulation capabilities for development, experimentation, testing, and validation of algorithms, protocols, hardware, and operational scenarios. Specific advantages of JNE/EXata include the scalability its high fidelity model library allowing large, distributed communication networks to be modeled using standard computing hardware, and its comprehensive commercial and military asset libraries that include ground, air, space, and underwater communication protocols.
SeaLandAire Technologies, specializing in rapid development of advanced engineering solutions in a broad range of applications, is developing the Digital DIFAR Vertical Line Array (DDVLA) sonobuoy to complement the U.S. Navy’s emerging technologies in low frequency sonar detection. The buoy utilizes a vertical line high-gain array of miniaturized directional detectors for a high signal-to-noise ratio in noisy environments. DDVLA will be used in aircraft-based Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) operations as part of a growing family of low-frequency sonobuoy systems. Initial prototypes of the acoustic system show promising results, and leverage SeaLandAire’s experience in sonobuoy development. The end objective of this Phase II is to have a field-proven buoy system design that can then be moved to production and qualification, with the assistance of a transition partner.
Lynntech Inc is developing rechargeable lithium-air batteries composed of a lithium metal anode, a lithium-ion conducting electrolyte, and a porous air cathode to meet the increased energy demands of military aircraft and systems. Lynntech has significant experience in developing advanced electrodes and electrolytes for lithium-based batteries. The Airborne Electronic Attack (AEA) Systems and EA-6B Program Office (PMA-234) is the acquisition program sponsor under Program Executive Officer for Tactical Aircraft Programs [PEO(T)]. Rechargeable lithium-air batteries provide greater specific energy, wider operating temperature ranges, longer lifetimes, enhanced safety, and lower cost than current lithium-ion batteries. Phase I results have demonstrated the feasibility of rechargeable lithium-air batteries with high specific energy, enhanced safety, and wide operating temperature performance that meet the Navy’s requirements for naval aircraft power systems.
Metis Design Corporation (MDC) has developed Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) technology that utilizes a network of digital sensors to monitor physical changes in critical structural components within the application environment. The patented technique utilizes passive and active ultrasonic monitoring techniques to detect fatigue crack initiation and growth, corrosion, and/or impact events. Condition Based Maintenance (CBM) initiatives have been evolving for over twenty years, and have resulted in significant cost avoidance, safety improvements, and increased fleet readiness. State-of-the-art CBM-enabling technology has been focused on dynamic and high-cost systems. With current aircraft structural maintenance and inspection procedures being severely labor & material intensive across industry and defense platforms, and with new metallic and composite components being introduced, advancements in SHM technology has become an increasing priority for many military and commercial air-framers.
Naval aircraft currently rely on lithium-ion batteries, but as energy demands continue to increase, there is a need for even higher energy density batteries. TDA Research develops aerospace and military hardware as well as manufactures advanced materials and currently is developing novel cathode materials for Lithium-Sulfur (Li-S) batteries. Our cutting edge research shows Li-S batteries offer the promise of twice the specific energy of lithium-ion batteries, but because of limitations with the cathode material, the cycle life is too low. Prototype cells using TDA cathodes show high specific energy densities and long cycle life. Our goal is to develop Li-S batteries based on our cathode materials and when successful, the Navy could replace lithium-ion batteries with Li-S batteries, significantly improving SWaP constraints.
Delivering an automated test diagram generation solution and eliminating the time consuming, error-prone manual process. Test diagrams show the routing of signals in a Test Program Set (TPS) and are a key troubleshooting resource. Summit’s software tool generates test diagrams using open source IEEE Automatic Test Markup Language (ATML) standard data. The transition target is the Navy CASS, eCASS and RTCASS test stations, however is applicable to other DoD test stations. Benefits include savings in manpower, time and costs by automating the process. Founded in 2004, this company, with extensive experience in ATS and ATML solutions, is uniquely qualified to deliver a robust solution. We are seeking DoD programs that are interested in applying these technologies to enhance the automatic test process.
Innoveering is developing a sensor system that is capable of operating uncooled in the ultra-high temperature environments (>2500 oF) of gas turbine engines to provide real-time turbine blade health monitoring information. A micro-distributed transduction approach in combination with novel processing enables real-time tracking of blade tip dynamics with high spatial and temporal resolution. Fabricated miniature probes leverage high temperature materials and exceed current size requirements. A frequency response in excess of 1MHz has been demonstrated in subscale gas turbine tests. The targeted application is the Joint Strike Fighter Program and improved understanding of integration requirements will assure a successful transition, and support Innoveering’s mission of developing revolutionary technologies that address sensing and control challenges in the aerospace, defense and energy markets.
To manufacture conformal optical windows to protect aircraft electro-optical sensors, OptiPro, the only US-based manufacturer designing and building 5-axis computer controlled equipment for fabricating precision optics and advanced ceramics, developed the eSX 5-axis grinding machine, UltraForm Finishing (UFF) sub-aperture polishing process, and UltraSmooth Finishing (USF) mid-to-large aperture polishing process. UFF is capable of polishing the surface of conformal windows to precision levels with high removal rates while USF tools proved to be effective in rapidly polishing conformal windows with minimal grain decoration; the UFF and USF processes have been integrated into our newly developed freeform optics manufacturing software, PROSurf. Defense customers and prime contractors will be able to integrate our equipment onto their factory floors to manufacture spheres, aspheres and freeform optics.
Future infrared and electro-optical sensor domes and windows with aerodynamic and conformal shapes require corrective optics to counter the optical distortion produced by said shapes. To increase the optical precision and reduce the cost and time for manufacturing OptiPro developed Radial In-Feed Grinding that reduced cycle time by 60%, PROSurf freeform CAM software that uses 3D figure data to optimize a dwell map, reducing form error, and Bridger Photonics new optical probe used on UltraSurf showed potential to achieve interferometric-level accuracies. Defense customers and prime contractors will be able to integrate OptiPro’s eSX grinding, UltraForm Finishing (UFF), and UltraSurf non-contact metrology, along with our other platforms onto their manufacturing floors to fabricate precision optics and advanced ceramics.
OptiSonic ultrasonic grinding technology, driven by advanced IntelliSonic software showed a 50% reduction in grinding force leading to improved material removal. UltraForm Finishing (UFF) is a patented deterministic sub-aperture polishing process. UltraSurf is the only commercially available technology that can measure surface irregularity, transmitted wavefront, thickness, wedge, tilt, and decenter for ogive shaped domes. All of these technologies enable the production of complex shaped ogive components to optical tolerances from a hard ceramic material such as polycrystalline alumina (PCA). Defense customers and prime contractors will be able to integrate the solutions we have developed onto their manufacturing floors. OptiPro is the only US-based manufacturer designing and building 5-axis computer controlled grinding, polishing, and measuring machines for the fabrication of precision optics and advanced ceramics.
SCALABLE provides network design and analysis tools that enable customers to develop, test and deploy, large enterprise wired/wireless networks in a simulated environment. Scalable is working with the MIDS Program office to deliver a capability that allows waveforms with non-IP and IP Operational modes over a Targeting Network Technology (TTNT) and Link 16 to exchange messages at the application layer. This will be used for parametric, bi-directional traffic generation that works across a variety of waveform protocols that can be used by the Joint Network Emulator (JNE). Specific advantages include the scalability of our high fidelity model library which allows large, distributed communication networks to be modeled using standard computing hardware and our experience working with a wide variety of military waveforms.
Bridger has developed a new metrology solution to improve manufacturing of high performance IR optics, such as aerodynamic domes and conformal windows. Currently available systems are unable to effectively penetrate these IR materials and have limited working distances. The SLM IM IR enables simultaneous surface and thickness profiling of IR transparent optics at higher update rates and precisions than current solutions. When coupled with a precision metrology stage, the SLM-IM-IR has the potential to decrease metrology time, a significant portion of the overall manufacturing process, by a factor of 10 or more and allow for complete profiling of complex components.
UltraSurf is a 5-axis non-contact metrology system capable of measuring the surface irregularity of aspheric and freeform optics, conformal windows and ogive shaped domes to sub-micron accuracies in addition to measuring transmitted wavefront, optical thickness, tilt, wedge and decenter. This enables Defense customers and prime contractors to measure the optical figure and transmitted wavefront error of visibly opaque, infrared-transparent aerodynamic domes, conformal windows, and optical corrector elements, providing feedback for optical figure correction on their manufacturing floors. OptiPro is the only US-based manufacturer designing and building 5-axis computer controlled grinding, polishing, and measuring machines for precision optics and advanced ceramics and our collaboration with Prime Contractors has set a solid foundation that we can build upon to further improve the performance and precision of UltraSurf.
Current and emerging threats against GPS require innovative PNT solutions to enable military operations in an absence of GPS denied environment. NAVSYS technology provides a system-of-systems, open architecture PNT (SOAP) software solution that utilizes augmentation signals and next generation sensors to provide precision, Assured PNT (A-PNT). This software solution leverages Signal of Opportunity (SoOPs) and Software-defined Radios (SDR) to provide A-PNT. It can be integrated into platforms requiring an A-PNT solution. NAVSYS Corporation specializes in Position, Navigation and Timing (PNT) products and services. Our goal is to leverage 30 plus years of industry experience into a solution ready for integration and transition into a prime contractor system with a requirement for operating in a GPS denied environment.
A new class of high performance, single-component (1K) polysiloxane topside coatings. These coatings are solvent-free and intended to be used on exterior applications where superior weathering resistance and durability are required. If applied in thin coats, the surface will be dry and ready for additional coats within 30-45 minutes. Surfaces can be handled, including sanding, within 6-8 hours and will reach full hardness after 7 days. This new topside coating is chemical resistant to fuels, most solvents, and > 250 methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) double rub resistance after 24 hrs. Application areas include exterior applications where superior weathering resistance and durability are required; including both military and commercial industries: automobile, maritime, sports equipment, outdoor furniture, oil & gas rigging/platforms, wind and renewable energy equipment, and bridge/structural beam coatings.
Zinc-based batteries offer a safe, inexpensive alternative to fire-prone lithium-based batteries, yet have been historically limited by poor rechargeability. The Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) has eradicated this centuries-old roadblock by developing a 3D zinc (Zn) “sponge” electrode architecture comprising interpenetrating networks of Zn scaffolding and void space. The design yields superior electrochemical properties when cycled in alkaline electrolytes. This breakthrough transforms the future capabilities and performance of the entire family of Zn-based alkaline batteries. NRL has demonstrated fully rechargeable nickel–zinc prototype cells that challenge Li-ion performance, but which use aqueous-based cell chemistry that is inherently safer than the nonaqueous liquids used in Li batteries, thereby meeting the goals for a robust, energy dense, and safer battery.
NRL has developed a low-temperature, pressureless one-step method to synthesize dense, form-shaped boron carbide (B4C) and/or nitride (BN) ceramics from a blend of a meltable polymer precursor and elemental boron. B4C and BN ceramics are lightweight, resist wear and degradation, and are exceptionally hard materials. Currently, these ceramics are fabricated using ultra-purified boron carbide powders under extremely high pressures and temperatures. They are not economically viable for most applications. This new method of making larger shaped-forms of B4C and BN delivers nanocrystalline refractory ceramics in all shapes and sizes with a simple, low-cost method. Applications that rely on ceramic materials with low density, high hardness, and excellent stability are: body and vehicle armor, cutting tools, hypersonics, engine components, heat shields, and shaped fiber-reinforced composite ceramics.
Black Ghost is a ceramic turboshaft gas engine for unmanned aerial vehicles that has decreased fuel consumption and uses new ceramic designs to lower weight, enable superior heat transfer capabilities, and to support mechanical strength. Fuel consumption is reduced by increasing the turbine inlet temperature by using a heat exchanger to recycle waste heat from the exhaust. Ceramic injection molding (CIM) is being used to manufacture complex parts at low cost and high yield rates. The engine with a ceramic turbine rotor and stator can operate at 1225 degrees C, about 300 degrees C hotter than typical uncooled metal turbines. The gas engine design reduces operating and maintenance costs. It provides more onboard electric power for small long-endurance UAVs, which improves payload and mission capabilities.
Disclosed is a product and method to quickly and accurately measure the total static and fluctuating magnetic flux Φ passing through a large area. A uniform oscillating current flows down the measurement area interacting with magnetic flux to produce Lorentz forces at each point proportional to the magnitude of the current and the magnetic flux to be sensed. Lorentz forces are transferred to piezoelectric areas (PVDF) that produce voltage on top and bottom electrodes in response to the changes in tension. Existing sensors are essentially point flux density (B) sensors and many measurements must be taken to integrate B over the area.
A new, non-explosive generated pressure pulse for novel surface treatments and production of new materials. Possible applications to new Solid Lubricants, Anti-Friction Coatings, Textures, Absorbents, Chemically Reactant Surfaces
A system for autonomous monitoring of AC and DC background magnetic fields associated with power lines, electronic devices, electronic vehicles and the Earth. The system enables the measurement of the natural variability of magnetic fields over specified periods of time within a specified proximity. Components include a series of three axis analog magnetic sensors, a fluxgate compass and a programmable micro-controller. The micro-controller receives data from the sensor and compass and is programmed to detect anomalous magnetic signals having particular characteristics of interest. Protected under U.S. Pat. No. 8,321,161.
Robust, fault tolerant design offers substantial potential to easily retrofit and greatly improve performance and capabilities of existing patch antennas without altering the device footprint. The bandwidth of a prototyped GPS antenna was increased from a typical 2-5% to 20-25%. A highly anisotropic superstrate layer is placed over an existing patch antenna as a retrofit or incorporated into new systems to enable broader bandwidth capabilities for a given antenna while not compromising other performance characteristics. Substantial bandwidth improvement enables diverse, multiple capabilities from a single antenna (e.g. satellite telephone and GPS) and higher data transfer rates. Protected under US Pat. No. 9,281,568.
An image analysis system comprised of software and hardware has been developed and prototyped for the evaluation of periscope head windows or any curved surface such as helicopter, or other aircraft, or surface ship window, including laser window analysis and evaluation. The invention has potential as a hand held tool for port-side platform head window quality analysis, greatly reducing labor, material and certification costs. Protected under US Pat. No. 9,219,890.
Developed as part of the Towed Array Handling System Measurement System (HSMS) for a towed array, the point load sensor measures how much squeeze type forces an array sees in the handler, irrespective of the arrays circumferential orientation as it goes through the handler. A critical part of the HSMS, the invention allows non-acoustic measurement and characterization of forces on the array to test the impact of engineering changes to the handler as well as new handling system concepts. The HSMS is reeled into and out of the handler with the submarine in dry dock or pierside and utilizes the existing ship signal path eliminating the need for ship alterations or diver support. Protected under US Pat. No. 9,176,015.
