DoD SBIR 22.2

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Autonomy, Hypersonics, Space

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Weapons

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: To develop sensing technologies that enable the receipt and transmission of high-precision, dynamic retargeting data for long-range munitions. Technologies to be developed would provide the means to remove humans as forward observers, especially for long range munitions, with low probably of detection.

DESCRIPTION: This topic addresses enhanced capabilities for three different engagement scenarios. The first scenario involves target information that is to be modified based on reprioritization of targets. The second scenario addresses the delay of target information either because the precise target location is initially unavailable, because the target is moving, or because the munition’s destination is to be concealed from enemy forces. The third scenario involves guiding the munition real time to the target through an operator or an autonomous system.

The delivered technology will enable the munition to sense, geolocate, and relay target and munition data from multiple sources to fire control and battle management systems.

The proposed technology should also provide the means to transmit actual position data that can be used by onboard navigational system to determine if the GPS signal is being spoofed and to take appropriate corrective action.

PHASE I: Conduct a systematic feasibility study of the proposed methods using analytical and computer modeling and simulation and well as proof-of-concept prototyping of the basic components of the system and laboratory testing to determine if they have the potential of meeting the all the requirements for use in munitions, UAVs and UGVs that are to be provided to the Phase I awardees. Manufacturability of the proposed concepts and compatibility with mass production technologies used in similar commercial applications to achieve low cost and highly reliable systems must also be addressed. The Phase I effort must also address shelf life and safety issues and provide a detailed plan for the development of concepts, along with their prototyping and testing during the project Phase II period.

PHASE II: Design and fabricate full-scale gun hardened energy system prototypes of the selected concepts for the selected munitions applications and test prototypes in the laboratory and in relevant environments, including in shock loading machines and in air guns. Demonstrate that such prototypes can survive in operational environments while performing the designed transfer of sensory information for moving targets and dynamic retargeting under various conditions. The Phase II period must also include the fabrication and delivery of final prototypes of the selected design for the selected munitions applications.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The developed technology has a wide range of military applications for remote sensing and targeting, including in UAVs, UGVs and remotely operated robotic systems. Commercial uses for such technology also include remote sensing and dynamic tracking and delivery of payloads or services using UAVs, UGVs and remotely operated robotic systems, particularly to remote locations and in emergency conditions.

REFERENCES:

Roger F. Harrington, \Time-harmonic electromagnetic fields", McGraw-Hill, 1961.; Wang, C., \Advanced computational electromagnetics", Peking University press, 2005, ISBN: 730108096.
Ramesh Garg, “Analytical and Computational Methods in Electromagnetics”, Artech House press, ISBN-13:978-1-59693-385-9.
P. Imperatore, A. Iodice, and D. Riccio, “Physical Meaning of Perturbative Solutions for Scattering From and Through Multilayered Structures With Rough Interfaces,” IEEE Trans. Antennas Propagation., vol. 57, no. 5, pp. 1481–1494, 2009.
M. Moghaddam, Y. Rahmat-Samii, E. Rodriguez, D. Entekhabi, J. Hoffman, D. Moller, L. E. Pierce, S. Saatchi, and M. Thomson, “Microwave Observatory of Sub-canopy and Subsurface (MOSS): A mission concept for global deep soil moisture observations,” IEEE Trans. Geoscience Remote Sensing, vol. 45, no. 8, pp. 2630–2643, 2007.
D. J. Daniels, Ground Penetrating Radar, 2nd ed. London, U.K.: IEE, 2004.; A. G. Yarovoy, R. V. de Jongh, and L. P. Ligthard, “Scattering properties of a statistically rough interface inside a multilayered medium,” Radio Sci., vol. 35, no. 2, pp. 455–462, 2000.
A. G. Yarovoy, R. V. de Jongh, and L. P. Ligthart, “Transmission of electromagnetic fields through an air-ground interface in the presence of statistical roughness,” in Proc. IEEE IGARSS’98, Seattle, WA, Jul. 6–10, 1998, vol. 3, pp. 1463–1465.
R. Azadegan and K. Sarabandi, “Analytical formulation of the scattering by a slightly rough dielectric boundary covered with a homogeneous dielectric layer, ”in Proc. IEEE AP-S Int. Symp., Columbus, OH, , pp. 420–423, 2003.
S. Kurz, O. Rain, V. Rischmuller, and S. Rjasanow, “Discretization of boundary integral equations by differential forms on dual grids,” IEEE Trans. Magnetic, vol. 40, p. 826, 2004.
J. L. Volakis, A. Chatterjee, and L. C. Kempel, Finite Element Method for Electromagnetics: Antennas, Microwave Circuits, and Scattering Applications. New York: IEEE Press, 1998.
P. Monk, Finite Element Methods for Maxwell’s Equations. Oxford, U.K.: Oxford Univ. Press, 2003.; B. Fornberg, A Practical Guide to Pseudospectral Methods. Cambridge, U.K.: Cambridge Univ. Press, 1998.
Q. H. Liu, “Large-scale simulations of electromagnetic and acoustic measurements using the pseudo-spectral time-domain (PSTD) algorithm,” IEEE Trans. Geoscience Remote Sens., vol. 37, no. 2, pp. 917–926, 1999.

KEYWORDS: Long-range munitions, guided munitions, APNT, fire control

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Information Systems

OBJECTIVE: Design, demonstrate and deliver an ontology-based digital engineering solution that enables integration and federated use of models, data, and tools to develop and improve armaments systems.

DESCRIPTION: The integration of engineering tools and models (known as Digital Engineering) presents an opportunity to move at the speed of relevance for the Army Futures Command (AFC) and the Army priorities managed as Cross Functional Teams (CFTs). The data transition across engineering lifecycle phases occurs sequentially with disparate tools and models, resulting in time lost and rework. The integration of such tools was cost prohibitive. However, the proliferation of emerging technologies make this goal more achievable today. Using ontologies and ontological methods and software tools to create and mine data sources provides an opportunity for tool agnostic integration that is flexible and powerful. An ontology-based system opens up the power of triple store and semantic web based technologies to empower our tools and their integration. Such a solution could leverage a domain specific ontology, REST APIs, ETL technology, and visualization technologies, see references [1-5]. Basic research efforts have advanced the utility of ontologies and established frameworks and tools to achieve this end state for DE. For example, Hagedorn et al describe one such framework in [6]. These tools are currently emerging and have not yet been fully matured; as should be expected. There is a need to further develop these tools to a maturity (usability and security being of highest concern) required for use in government and commercial organizations.

With investment, we will link together tools for requirements, architecture, design, analysis, acquisition, manufacturing and fielding, eliminate delays and errors from translating design data between tools and steps. A federated set of data will serve as the single source of truth and change(s) will translate through all levels and tools. The resultant technology supports OSD’s Digital Engineering and Data strategies; improving engineering effectiveness and efficiency across all Army Modernization Priorities. Government estimates of improvement show expected reduction in process time from 33-66% varying by process type and program complexity. These solutions have transition potential as an enterprise solution for the DEVCOM/AFC, as an industry solution, and as a manufacturing solution amongst our production. As such, transition partners would include Joint Program Executive Office Armaments & Ammunition (JPEO A&A) including Product Director Joint Services (PD JS), Joint Manufacturing and Technology Center (JMTC), and Watervliet Arsenal (WVA). The DE solution shall demonstrate the following characteristics and requirements:

1) The solution shall enable the conduct of coupled physics based analysis of multiple types with multiple tools

2) The solution shall perform impact analysis conducted in the event of a request for waiver or change with traceability through design, architecture and requirements

3) The solution shall execute a virtual evaluation of a modified system including determination of data needs and conduct of applicable analyses.

4) The solution shall be tool agnostic and integrate with existing tools with minimal user intervention

5) The solution shall share data maintaining and ensuring a federated authoritative data source,

6) The solution shall include validated tools

7) The solution shall comply with or be able to comply with IT and cyber security requirements applicable to the environment, see [7].

With investment, the AFC and our partners will be able to link together tools for requirements, architecture, design, analysis, acquisition, manufacturing and fielding. We will eliminate delays and errors associated with translating a design into an engineering analysis tool, then into a technical data package format, then into a manufacturing file, into a 3D rendering in a tech manual, and then back to the design authority via as-built parametric models to facilitate production, sustainment, and demil support. A single data element will serve as the single source of truth and a change will translate through all levels and associated tools. The resultant technology supports OSD’s Digital Engineering and Data strategies; improving engineering effectiveness and efficiency across all Army Modernization Priorities. Government estimates of improvement show expected reduction in process time from 33-66% varying by process type and program complexity. These technology solutions will have powerful transition potential as a local solution for the AC, as an enterprise solution for the DEVCOM/AFC, as an industry solution with our partners, and as a manufacturing solution amongst our production base (first through the Armaments GOCO’s). This technology set offers the promise to support seamless transition of products along a Digital Thread that joins partner organizations in a way never achieved before. As such, transition partners would include Joint Program Executive Office Armaments & Ammunition (JPEO A&A) including Product Director Joint Services (PD JS) for their GOCO mission, Joint Manufacturing and Technology Center (JMTC), and Watervliet Arsenal (WVA). At a minimum the DE solution shall demonstrate the following characteristics and requirements:

1) The solution shall enable the conduct of concurrent physics based analysis of multiple types with multiple tools

2) The solution shall perform impact analysis conducted in the event of a request for waiver or engineering change and automated traceability through design, architecture and requirements

3) The solution shall execute a virtual evaluation of a new or modified system including determination of data needs and conduct of applicable analyses.

4) The solution shall be tool agnostic and be able to integrate with existing tools with minimal user intervention

5) The solution shall share data seamlessly maintaining and ensuring a federated and authoritative data source,

6) The solution shall include validated tools and assist in validating new tools

7) The solution shall comply with or be able to comply with IT and cyber security requirements applicable to the environment, see [7].

Ultimately, these tools will enable the realization of modernization at the speed of relevance. Engineering can truly be concurrent, utilizing a single data source to simultaneously design, analyze, plan for manufacturing, and establish logistics products thus reshaping the acquisition process from a serial process of handoffs to a truly rapid, agile and concurrent process. In phase II, the DE solution would be piloted on multiple projects to exercise all uses cases; including an in-house designed item in development, a legacy government designed item in production, and contractor designed item. Specific targets for pilot will be identified before Phase II.

PHASE I: Deliver the design and specification for the system solution that includes an ontology-based framework and integration of relevant tools to include the concurrent conduct of end to end engineering assessments as well as the sharing of data across and between lifecycle engineering processes. Based upon available research, knowledge of the systems engineering process and the Armaments industry, the system requirements shall be included in a specification for the solution. In addition to a specification, the system design should include the structure of the system via system architecture deliverables. The systems specification and architecture shall describe uses cases and associated functions, including but not limited to: (1) conduct of concurrent physics based analysis of multiple types with multiple tools, (2) impact analysis conducted in the event of a request for waiver or engineering change and automated traceability through design, architecture and requirements, (3) virtual evaluation of a new or modified system including determination of data needs and conduct of applicable analyses. The specification for the system shall include the following characteristics: (a) be tool agnostic and be able to integrate with existing tools with minimal user intervention, (b) share data seamlessly maintaining and ensuring a federated and authoritative data source, (c) include validated tools and assist in validating new tools, and (d) comply with or be able to comply with IT and cyber security requirements applicable to the environment, see [7]. Phase 1 will complete with submission of the following deliverables: (i) System specification for the digital engineering solution. (ii) System architecture description (and/or diagrams) for the digital engineering solution. (iii) A system description document describing the solution and its capabilities, (iv) An armaments specific ontology in a format readable and editable by commercially available ontology editors (e.g. TopBraid Composer), and (v) Demonstration or simulation of the solution with models and data from an armaments and/or ammunition item(s) to be specified and provided by the government. The demonstration may be conducted on a network or computing infrastructure as determined by the vendor. The government subject matter experts will evaluate the feasibility and potential of the proposed solution.

PHASE II: Demonstrate a prototype solution, with the system model and data specified in Phase 1 that meets the system specification and description from Phase 1. Phase 2 will complete with submission of the following deliverables: (1) Install of the solution on an appropriate network as defined by the government (e.g. DREN or NIPR) or the delivery of a standalone computer/server environment with the solution installed and running, (2) Representative data and models loaded with the solution for purposes of demonstration, (3) A demonstration of the solution, (4) An introductory training for the customer, so that they may proficiently utilize the prototype solution and explore its capabilities, (5) An update to prior deliverables if applicable.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: In phase 3 the system solution shall be refined, implemented and demonstrated for dual use. To demonstrate the applicability and scalability of the solution to industry, the system shall be demonstrated within the environment and using functions associated with digital integration of the government R&D environment and industry producer. Specifically, the Ammunition industrial base. The vendor shall recommend to the government the preferred demonstration facility, including but not limited GOCO ammunition producers.

REFERENCES:

A.J. Duineveld, R. Stoter, M. R.Weiden, B. Kenepa And V.R. Benjamins, “WonderTools? A comparative study of ontological engineering tools”, Int. J. Human-Computer Studies (2000) volume 52.
Julita Bermejo-Alonso, Ricardo Sanz, Manuel Rodríguez and Carlos Hernández, “Ontology-based Engineering of Autonomous Systems”, 2010 Sixth International Conference on Autonomic and Autonomous Systems.
Fielding, Roy Thomas (2000). "Chapter 5: Representational State Transfer (REST)". Architectural Styles and the Design of Network-based Software Architectures. University of California, Irvine.
Denney, MJ (2016). "Validating the extract, transform, load process used to populate a large clinical research database". International Journal of Medical Informatics. 94.; Khronos Releases Final WebGL 1.0 Specification". 3 March 2011.
Hagedorn, Thomas. Bone, Mary. Kruse, Benjamin. Grosse, Ian. Blackburn, Mark. “Knowledge Representation with Ontologies and Semantic Web Technologies to Promote Augmented and Artificial Intelligence in Systems Engineering”. Insight, A publication of the INCOSE. Volume 23, Issue 1. March 2020.
Army Regulation 25–2: Information Management: Army Cybersecurity.

KEYWORDS: Digital engineering, digital twin, semantic web, digital thread, ontology.

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Control and Communications

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Weapons

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: To develop methods for secure battlefield communication with munitions to ensure the accuracy of angular orientation, to enhance target intercept capabilities, providing enhanced precision and lethality.

DESCRIPTION: When information is communicated between sensors on the battlefield or when information is transmitted and received between one or more nodes, it is necessary to conceal the information being transmitted. The communication between two or more nodes, requires the transmission of information and recovery of the transmitted information using radio frequency means. As a result, the transmitted sensory information, or the electronic communication between two or more nodes may be detected or jammed by an adversary. The nodes may be a weapon platform and one or more munitions, UAVs, UAGs, fire control stations, and the like.

The initial feasibility studies have shown that information from sensors or information from two nodes or more could be inserted within the noise envelope using novel methods and be completely recovered at every receiving node, even in the presence of interference and noise and significantly better than any conventional methods. When polarization was added to the developed method, the analysis shows a significant increase in resistance to detection, jamming and spoofing.

Such secure and communication capability between weapon platforms and other fire control platforms and munitions is critical for ensuring that the information cannot be detected, jammed, or spoofed and that the munition can be guided to its target with high precision and maximum lethality.

The technology is of particular importance for long range munitions since angular positioning errors can accumulate during their significantly longer flights, requiring correctional information communication from weapon platforms or central control stations and with the adversary having more time to detect and jam or spoof the communication information.

PHASE I: Conduct a systematic feasibility study of the proposed methods using analytical and computer modeling and simulation as well as proof-of-concept prototyping of the basic components of the system and laboratory testing to determine if they have the potential of meeting the all the requirements for use in munitions, UAVs and UGVs that are to be provided to the Phase I awardees. Manufacturability of the required hardware and compatibility with mass production technologies used in similar commercial applications to achieve low cost and highly reliable systems and the development of the required reliable and robust software must also be addressed. The Phase I effort must also provide a detailed plan for the development of concepts, along with their prototyping and testing during the project Phase II period.

PHASE II: Design and fabricate the required hardware prototype and develop the required software of the selected concepts for implementation on selected munition systems. The hardware that is to be integrated into munition must be capable to be hardened to withstand the munition firing environment. The developed hardware and software must be tested in the laboratory and in relevant environments, including in shock loading machines and in air guns. Demonstrate that such prototypes can survive in operational environments while securely communicating the sensory information within the environmental noise level so that it cannot be detected, jammed, or spoofed. The Phase II period must also include the fabrication and delivery of final prototypes and software of the selected munitions applications.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The developed technology has a wide range of military applications for secure communication for remote sensing and targeting, including in UAVs, UGVs and remotely operated robotic systems. Commercial uses for such technology also include secure communication in highly noisy environment with low power for payloads or services using UAVs, UGVs and remotely operated robotic systems.

REFERENCES:

Roger F. Harrington, \Time-harmonic electromagnetic fields", McGraw-Hill, 1961.
Wang, C., \Advanced computational electromagnetics", Peking University press, 2005, ISBN: 730108096.
Ramesh Garg, “Analytical and Computational Methods in Electromagnetics”, Artech House press, ISBN-13:978-1-59693-385-9.
P. Imperatore, A. Iodice, and D. Riccio, “Physical Meaning of Perturbative Solutions for Scattering From and Through Multilayered Structures With Rough Interfaces,” IEEE Trans. Antennas Propagation., vol. 57, no. 5, pp. 1481–1494, 2009.
M. Moghaddam, Y. Rahmat-Samii, E. Rodriguez, D. Entekhabi, J. Hoffman, D. Moller, L. E. Pierce, S. Saatchi, and M. Thomson, “Microwave Observatory of Sub-canopy and Subsurface (MOSS): A mission concept for global deep soil moisture observations,” IEEE Trans. Geoscience Remote Sensing, vol. 45, no. 8, pp. 2630–2643, 2007.
D. J. Daniels, Ground Penetrating Radar, 2nd ed. London, U.K.: IEE, 2004.

KEYWORDS: APNT, guidance, secure communications, fire control, noisy environments

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning, Network Command

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors

OBJECTIVE: Military operation simulator with high speed Multi-Domain capabilities and AI/ML, XR interfaces in which AI-enabled Command and Control (C2) agents shall learn by executing simulated Multi Domain Operations (MDO).

DESCRIPTION: Recent assessments by US Army’s Future Study Program have shown that there are no capable simulation systems that meet the requirements of AI for C2 in MDO. Although there are

government-owned and commercial C2 simulation systems available, none of them offer the

necessary combination of very high speed execution, multi-domain richness, and specialized

interfaces for AI/ML applications. The speed and complexity of MDO against a peer adversary are

likely to exceed the cognitive abilities of a human command staff in conventional, largely manual

C2 processes. At the same time, emerging applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques

such as Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) [1] [2] begin to suggest the potential to support C2 of MDO. Recently there has been a growing interest in the DOD community, including military departments, unified combatant commands and defense agencies like DARPA to research and develop C2 AI techniques, specifically DRL based techniques that can learn to seek, create, and jointly exploit Windows of Superiority (WoS), a key element of the MDO paradigm. To converge multi-domain friendly assets on a WoS, the C2 agents will learn to perform complex (re)planning on shortened timelines, quickly offer suggestions, and test alternative Course of Actions (COAs). Developing these agents will require a simulator engine(s) of appropriate fidelity since DRL-derived policies are fundamentally limited to the experiences that is available. This topic looks at developing a simulation environment that can generate scenarios which cover all relevant domains/ capabilities that an AI-enabled C2 system is expected to manage, rapidly produce large amounts of training data for ML algorithms, run much faster than real-time and support massive parallelization in order to make the learning process tractable within operational timelines. From an operational perspective for future MDO, it is envisioned that a comprehensive AI-based C2 system will create high-fidelity simulations of combat scenarios within a short duration of time. AI agents will be trained in the simulator and deployed on the field to generate predictions, decisions, and commands at multiple levels of abstraction. These AI-enabled solutions will also work collaboratively with humans within command posts to ensure that data collection, processing, exploitation, and dissemination is efficient and timely to enable rapid and accurate decision-making. Currently, the C2 simulation environments such as OpSim [3], DXTRS [4], OneSAF [5] mostly provide war gaming, Course of Action (CoA) implementation in the traditional physical domains and are not tailored towards developing AI applications. They do not have the provision to communicate/interface with AI algorithms, adjust resources, scale the computation to generate experiences and incorporate

humans into the AI-C2 loop. In summary, the goal of the SBIR is to research and develop an integrated simulated battle space that address current limitations in training and testing AI systems for C2 with and without human-in-the-loop.

PHASE I: The Phase I research effort shall focus on conceptualizing a brigade level model-based C2

simulation environment prototype with Land, Air, and Sea domains that runs 1,000 times faster than

real-time/actual mission time. This simulation environment will consist of both a stochastic

simulator based on a provided CoA and an OpenAI gym compatible iterative interface for training

DRL algorithms that allows every entity in a simulation to be controlled as a separate agent. The

vendor shall allow the user to modify observations, actions, rewards, metrics and interactions

produced by the simulator. The software shall be designed to execute multiple independent instances

on each node of a multi-node system and collect experience through parallel data collection. A typical unit of measurement for evaluating C2 environment performance is the amount of time required to perform a C2 function or known as a Boyd’s Observe-Orient-Decide-Act (OODA) loop, is the OODA time. An OODA military task using training data suggest that various C2 environments will execute a task between 5 to 30 seconds depending on the complexity of the task and the C2 environment [6][7]. The performer shall develop proof of concept that AI agents trained in the simulator shall produce similar or improved OODA time. Further, the performers shall produce experimental/analytical results to emonstrate the ability of AI agents trained in the simulator to produce improved values for intermediate goals such as casualties, fuel and ammunition consumption, movement when compared to the CoA

designed by expert CoA designers. In addition, the deliverable for Phase I shall include detail documentation on problem description, current limitations, conceptual design, architectural overview, methodology, modules, analytical/experimental critical function and a detailed prototype development plan for Phase II (TRL 2).

PHASE II: The initial part of Phase II shall involve building a prototype based on the concept/methodology conceived in Phase I and meeting the performance criteria described in Phase 1. Further, the simulator will be extended to cyber, electronic warfare (EW) and space domains with the ability to depict communication and information flows at very high resolution. The overall fidelity and

realism in simulation will be increased by incorporating weather, sensors, terrain interactions, and

environmental attributions. Phase II shall also involve development of a next-generation XR user

interface that can alter the battlespace by receiving input from the human user for handling human-in/on-the-loop interactions. The user latency of the interface will be less than 7 ms. The Phase II deliverable shall be an end-to-end software prototype of a multi-domain high-fidelity simulation environment, AI interface, and low latency XR user interface. At the end of phase II, DRL based agents shall be implemented in the simulation and at least 70% of AI re-planning recommendations on scenarios jointly developed by concept writers and stakeholders shall be assessed as reasonable by expert human jurors (TRL 5).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The software shall be extended to improve the run time to 10,000 times faster than real-time. The integrated system shall have the capability to simulate MDO at multiple echelons including squad, platoon, brigade, division and corp. The simulation system shall be implemented on DOD’s advanced supercomputing capability and evaluated using DRL algorithms and human participants on scenarios jointly developed by concept writers and stakeholders. In terms of the Army’s modernization priorities, this software infrastructure will contribute to the three core tenets of

multi-domain operations – calibrated force posture, multidomain formations, and convergence and is

critical for multiple Cross Functional Teams (CFTs) including Network Command, Control, Communication, and Intelligence (C3I), Next Generation Combat Vehicle (NGCV) and Air and Missile Defense (AMD). Other commercial application include R & D and operational simulation infrastructure for planning and decision making during humanitarian assistance, disaster response and emergency management. The C2 simulation environments could also be used for improving training for pilots, air traffic controllers and other complex data intensive professions involving civilian safety and lives.

REFERENCES:

Christopher Berner, Greg Brockman, Brooke Chan, Vicki Cheung, Przemyslaw Debiak, Christy Dennison et. al., “Dota 2 with Large Scale Deep Reinforcement Learning”, arXiv:1912.06680
Oriol Vinyals, Igor Babuschkin, Wojciech M. Czarnecki, Michaël Mathieu, Andrew Dudzik, Junyoung Chung, David H. Choi, Richard Powell, Timo Ewalds, Petko Georgiev et. al., “Grandmaster level in StarCraft II using multi-agent reinforcement learning”, Nature volume 6 575, pages350–354(2019)
Surdu, John R., Gary D. Haines, and Udo W. Pooch. "OpSim: A purpose-built distributed simulation for the mission operational environment." SIMULATION SERIES 31 (1999): 69-74
https://usacac.army.mil/sites/default/files/documents/cact/august%20newsletter.pdf
https://asc.army.mil/web/portfolio-item/peo-stri-one-semi-automated-forces-pdm-onesaf/
J. R. Boyd, “The essence of winning and losing,” 1996.

KEYWORDS: Command and Control, Simulator, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Human-in-the-Loop

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Human Systems, Information Systems

OBJECTIVE: Create software-hardware systems to sense and process a user’s physiological states, providing just-in-time triggering of adaptive automation to improve computer-supported task performance.

DESCRIPTION: Artificial Intelligence (AI) enabled systems are used by human users to reduce mental workload and ensure greater accuracy and speed at performing task or set of tasks through a robust division of responsibility between AI and human user.

Technological capabilities to sense and process a user’s cognitive state and intervene with adaptive automation aids when needed (and not when the user performs well) would improve human-AI collaborative performance. This SBIR topic is intended to introduce new technology to improve aid triggering that is not presently known to exist. Proposals will posit physio measures that can be sensed, processed, and used as triggers to aid user only when the user needs help. The research question is: “How can physiological indicators from a user be used to improve AI-user collaborative performance?” The contractor will need to provide a proposal outlining a plan for how technological innovations can be used to: (1) sense pertinent physiological data from the user; (2) transform these data into meaningful digital signatures; (3) detect and set cutoffs to determine whether the physiological states indicate a need for cognitive intervention to aid goal completion in the form of adaptive automation; and (4) provide solutions to how AI can aid a militarily relevant task (e.g., convoy route-planning, threat assessment from military intelligence, command and control, etc.) when the user is struggling as indicated by poor performance or physiological indicators.

Physiological measures are often associated with different cognitive processes and therefore may act as triggers for adaptive automation meant to aid the user. Physiological measures are objective (i.e., not involving subjective opinions of the user), and therefore plausible options for AI triggers. The goal of this SBIR initiative is to develop a system that can: (1) sense output from the user for two of five identified physiological variables; (2) assess two of five distinct cognitive variable states; (3) set quantitative thresholds for each of the variables (via physiological assessment) at which the system engages or disengages adaptive automation, (4) implement at least one adaptive automation application using any two of the five physiological variables, and (5) demonstrate task performance increases through empirical testing.

PHASE I: The end of Phase I should produce several outcomes in the range of TRL2-3. (1) Identification of five target physiological measures that relate to specific cognitive variables with at least two citations corroborating these conclusions. (2) Proposed ranges for the two most promising physiological variables that would indicate a need for triggering adaptive automation based on literature search or pilot testing and consultation with ARL researchers. (3) One citation and description of technology that senses and records two of the five chosen physiological measures. (4) An explanation and justification for a plan to leverage each of the existing technologies to process measures in real time. (5) A plan to form new technology which can record and process in real-time minimally two of the five physiological variables that have not previously been recorded simultaneously in the same device. The integration of physiological variables is a particular challenge as physiological variables often differ on the time scale in which they may be collected and analyzed from tens of milliseconds to seconds. These five points need to be incorporated into a report at the end of Phase I that also: (1) Discusses the project’s problem space and current limitations to demonstrate full understanding of what needs to be solved; (2) Explains a methodology to overcome challenges and limitations; (3) Provides a conceptual design of the problem solution with anticipated performance at the end of Phase II, and (4) Outlines what will be done in Phase II. A successful report will demonstrate a path forward for using physiological variables from the user to give technology critical inputs to understanding when and how the user can be helped when challenged. Therefore, a successful Phase I will make a strong argument that the two chosen physiological variables are measurable and are predictive of the associated cognitive states.

PHASE II: The end of Phase II should produce several outcomes in the range of TRL 4-5. (1) Methods of measuring and processing two of the five physiological variables that relate to each cognitive state isolated in Phase 1. (2) One working demonstration for each measure with a display representing a near-real-time assessment of the measure. (3) One working demonstration of at least three of the physiological measures in an Army-oriented task and scenario in which the user’s physiological state triggers adaptive automation. The task must involve decision-making regarding uncertainty as this a major focus area for Artificial Intelligence in general and particularly in Multi-Domain Operations. (4) A demonstrated ability to transfer adaptive automation trigger data to a third-party software. (5) Recommendations and paths forward for implementing adaptive automation based on the remaining physiological measures. The contractors should work toward the following benchmarks to enhance the odds of Phase III investment: (1) Flexibility of approach to account for numerous tasks (e.g., air traffic control, Army training programs, surveillance and sentry duties, security screening); (2) Resiliency of equipment to continue working in rugged conditions; (3) Ability to detach and stay powered when in environments without ready power sources; (4) Capability to interface with a range of secondary systems; (5) Capability to transition technology for commercialization to industry and possible Army applications; (6) Robust statistical procedures to account for large variability in physiological recordings; and (7) Plan for data sharing and use of experimental data, particularly for use by government personnel. A successful conclusion to Phase II will demonstrate technology that can predict through two physiological-variable inputs when a user needs help and experimental results showing the efficacy of the equipment with at least a 0.6 Area Under Curve (AUC) improvement in performance.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: At the conclusion of the SBIR, the contractor will be well positioned to offer numerous technological applications for end users in both the commercial and military domains. In particular, the contractor may design adaptive automation for mental workload intensive jobs such as Intensive Care Unit monitoring and coordination, air traffic control, sports psychology, tutoring system development, pandemic responses, and military intelligence analysis. When physiological measures indicate difficulties with cognitive processing in any of these domains, adaptive automation may be triggered to ease the cognitive burden associated with performance of duty and thus improve outcomes. In the end, the contractor should be positioned to produce one or more potential commercial technologies that could be inserted into defense systems. The market contains many examples of work processes that involve users engaging with smart technology and computers. Following a successful Phase II, award winner can use the knowledge gained and technology created to optimize any number of these processes with adaptive automation using physiological sensors attached to the end user and deliver improved AI-user collaborators performance across a host of tasks and jobs.

REFERENCES:

Byrne, E.A., Parasuraman, R.: Psychophysiology and adaptive automation. Biol. Psy. 42, 249--268 (1996)
Kaber, D.B., Wright, M.C., Prinzel, L.J., Clamann, M.P.: Adaptive Automation of Human-Machine System Information-Processing Functions. Hum. Fact. 47, 730-741 (2005)
Parasuraman, R., Barnes, M., Cosenzo, K., & Mulgund, S.: Adaptive automation for human-robot teaming in future command and control systems. Technical Report. Army Research Laboratory (2007)
Recarte, M.A., Nunes, L.M.: Effects of verbal and spatial-imagery tasks on eye fixations while driving. J. Exp. Psy.: App. 6, 31--43 (2000); Segerstrom, S.C., Nes, L.S.: Heart rate variability reflects self-regulatory strength, effort, and fatigue. Psych. Sci. 18, 275--281 (2007)
Batmaz, I., & Ozturk, M.: Using pupil diameter changes for measuring mental workload under mental processing. J. App. Sci., 8, 68-76 (2008)
Cassenti, D.N., Gamble, K.R., & Bakdash, J.Z.: Multi-level cognitive cybernetics in human factors. In K. Hale and K. Stanney (Eds.), Advances in Neuroergonomics and Cognitive Computing (pp. 315-326). New York: Springer (2016)
Cassenti, D.N., Kerick, S.E., & McDowell, K.: Observing and modeling cognitive events through event related potentials and ACT-R. Cog. Sys. Res., 12, 56--65 (2011)
Critchley, H.D.: Book review: Electrodermal responses: What happens in the brain. Neuroscientist, 8, 132--142 (2002); Feigh, K. M., Dorneich, M. C., & Hayes, C. C.: Toward a characterization of adaptive systems a framework for researchers and system designers. Hum. Fac., 54, 1008--1024 (2002)
Goldstein, D. S., Bentho, O., Park, M. Y., & Sharabi, Y.: Low-frequency power of heart rate variability is not a measure of cardiac sympathetic tone but may be a measure of modulation of cardiac autonomic outflows by baroreflexes. Exp. Physio., 96, 1255-1261 (2011)
Kaber, D. B., & Endsley, M. R.: The effects of level of automation and adaptive automation on human performance, situation awareness and workload in a dynamic control task. Theo. Iss. Ergo. Sci., 5, 113-153 (2004)
Kaber, D. B., & Riley, J. M.: Adaptive automation of a dynamic control task based on secondary task workload measurement. Int. J. Cog. Ergo., 3, 169-187 (1999)
Marinescu, A. C., Sharples, S., Ritchie, A. C., Sanchez Lopez, T., McDowell, M., & Morvan, H. P.: Physiological parameter response to variation of mental workload. Hum. Fac., 60, 31-56 (2018)
Minotra, D., & McNeese, M. D.: Predictive aids can lead to sustained attention decrements in the detection of non-routine critical events in event monitoring. Cog., Tech. & Work, 19, 161-177 (2017)
Naicker, P., Anoopkumar-Dukie, S., Grant, G. D., Neumann, D. L., & Kavanagh, J. J.: Central cholinergic pathway involvement in the regulation of pupil diameter, blink rate and cognitive function. Neurosci., 334, 180--190 (2016)
Parasuraman, R., & Riley, V.: Humans and automation: Use, misuse, disuse, abuse. Hum. Fac., 39, 230--253 (1997)
Picard, R. W., Fedor, S., & Ayzenberg, Y.: Multiple arousal theory and daily-life electro-dermal activity asymmetry. Emotion Rev., 8, 62--75 (2016); Steinhauser, N.B., Pavlas, D., & Hancock, P.A.: Design principles for adaptive automation and aiding. Ergo. Des., 17, 6--10 (2008)
Thayer, J.F. & Lane R.D.: Claude Bernard and the heart-brain connection: further elaboration of a model of neurovisceral integration. Neurosci, & Biobeh. Rev., 33, 81--88 (2009)

KEYWORDS: Artificial intelligence; Cybernetics; Information Science; Behavior; Intelligence; Physiological psychology; Military psychology

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Microelectronics

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics

OBJECTIVE: To advance photon counting UV detectors and surpass the performance of UV photomultiplier tubes by making a reduced SWaP, more robust/ruggedized solid state solution for applications to sensing and communications.

DESCRIPTION: Sensing in the ultraviolet (UV) spectrum (200-375 nm) has many important Army applications, including detection and identification of chemical and biological agents; precision position,

navigation and timing using compact atom-based quantum sensors; optical communications for 2

radio-frequency denied environments; and environmental sensing. Many of these are impactful for

Army Modernization priorities, including networks as well as soldier lethality. However, high cost,

bulkiness, and power requirement limitations in commercially available UV single photon detectors

(UV-SPD), such as photomultiplier tubes and intensified charge coupled device cameras, hinder

system development.

This topic is interested in novel research and development towards demonstrating compact, UV

single-photon-counting detectors (UV-SPD) sensitive in spectral range between 200 – 375 nm. The

devices should have high single photon detection efficiency (SPDE) in the UV spectrum from

200-375 nm and low dark count rate density (DCRD), while also being visible-blind, compact and

operable at room-temperature or using a compact thermo-electric cooler. Of particular interest are

semiconductor based solutions based upon device architectures that include avalanche photodiodes

(APDs), charge-coupled devices or phototransistors. For example, silicon (Si)-based SPDs have

been demonstrated with low dark count rates (~ 25 Hz) but their response both drops off at

wavelengths shorter than 400 nm and exhibits strong out-of-band signal [1] . Improvement requires

addressing surface recombination effects and exploring novel device designs to increase carrier

collection while suppressing long wavelength response [2]. While there are extensive reports on

high multiplication gain measured in wide-bandgap APDs based on SiC or GaN operating in linear

mode, there are fewer results on single-photon-counting operation; these studies report dark count

probability at least 1-2 orders of magnitude greater than that of Si devices [3-4]. Improvements

could be achievable through approaches that build on nascent research advances in the infrared that

can be implemented with wide-bandgap heterostructures. Of interest would be internal amplification

mechanisms (such as carrier avalanche processes) that produce very low noise suitable for

single-photon counting. In particular, advances such as those made using digital alloys [5], staircase

based APDs [6], or other novel amplification schemes needed to surpass photomultiplier

performance (signal to noise) would be considered (although not required). Other interests include

advances in circuitry to operate the detector and count in Geiger mode.

PHASE I: Demonstrate through design, modelling, and/or experimental measurements the ability to produce a UV-SPD that can have a SPDE greater than 15% over a 50 nm region within the spectral range

between 200-375 nm, > 3 orders of magnitude UV-visible rejection, and with a DCRD less than 1

MHz/mm^2 and a maximum count rate > 1 MHz. Designs should operate at room temperature or

employ a compact thermo-electric cooler and ultimately fit in a package no larger than 90 mm x 90

mm x 40 mm (not including power supply). Initial device functionality should be demonstrated

showing a path to meet all requirements within Phase 2. Circuit design considerations for photon

counting should be made. Concepts at the end of this phase should achieve a maturity of TRL 2-3.

PHASE II: Using designs developed in Phase 1, demonstrate UV-SPDs meeting all the requirement defined in Phase 1. In this phase, performers will design, fabricate, and test their device concept and provide a report on the results as well as deliver the UV-SPD to the US Government for evaluation. Devices developed in this phase should achieve a maturity of TRL 4 – device with basic optical package and with a functional photon counting circuitry demonstration that can fit within specified size

constraints.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: A complete detector module suitable for sensor integration should be demonstrated based upon devices developed in phase 2. The size of the housing should be smaller than 90 mm x 90 mm x 40 mm and contain all necessary focusing optics and filters for operation. The module should provide standard output to enable integration into a sensor such as the transistor-transistor-logic standard or another equivalent industrial standard. Potential sensors for integration include Raman spectrometers, scintillation detectors, water-quality monitors, combustion control systems, arc-flash detectors, atom based quantum systems, chemical-biological detectors or other environmental

sensors.

REFERENCES:

Hadfield, R. Single-photon detectors for optical quantum information applications. Nature Photon 3, 696–705 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1038/nphoton.2009.230
Xia et al, “High-sensitivity silicon ultraviolet p+-i-n avalanche photodiode using ultra-shallow boron gradient doping”, Appl. Phys. Lett. 111, 081109 (2017)
X. Bai, H. Liu, D. C. McIntosh and J. C. Campbell, "High-Detectivity and High-Single-Photon-Detection-Efficiency 4H-SiC Avalanche Photodiodes," in IEEE Journal of
S. Choi et al., "Geiger-Mode Operation of GaN Avalanche Photodiodes Grown on GaN Substrates," in IEEE Photonics Technology Letters, vol. 21, no. 20, pp. 1526-
Jiyuan Zheng, Yuan Yuan, Yaohua Tan, Yiwei Peng, Ann K. Rockwell, Seth R. Bank, Avik W. Ghosh, and Joe C. Campbell, "Digital Alloy InAlAs Avalanche

KEYWORDS: Ultraviolet detection, single photon counting, avalanche photodiode, phototransistor, charge coupled device

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Weapons, Sensors

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Design, build, demonstrate, and deliver a high power amplifier (transmitter) operating at an atmospheric transmission window towards realizing short-range Radar applications above 100 GHz.

DESCRIPTION: Robust short and medium-range air surveillance is an essential capability for the security of critical assets and areas as unmanned aerial vehicles commonly known as drones are gaining increased attention in various fields due to their vast application potential. Several air surveillance capabilities in the form of traditional Radar systems operating at X-band and below as well as active and passive infrared and optical systems are tasked to solve the issue of providing a robust air picture, with limited success in a stressing and congested environment.

The upper region of the extremely high frequency millimeter wave band is loosely defined for frequencies between 100 and 300 GHz. This band has shown promising potential for imaging and high-resolution Radar applications. However, those have been limited to very short ranges of centimeters to meters due to the lack of a transmitter that can amplify a waveform in this band to meaningful levels for Radar applications.

Other major parts of a high frequency millimeter wave Radar systems exist to include continuous wave and pulsed signal generators, frequency mixers, antennas, and super heterodyne receivers. What remains is the high power amplifier to complete the hardware requirements for a Radar system.

It is the goal of this project to push the technology of high frequency millimeter wave Radar to instrumented ranges that are useful for cued air surveillance applications and to produce another frequency band for meeting the challenge of short-range air surveillance. In particular, a high power amplifier operating in a propagation window bounded between 100 and 300 GHz (W-band is purposefully excluded to foster technology development at extremely high frequencies above 100 GHz) is needed for ranging applications reaching 20 km for a 1 square meter target. Initial models suggest that an amplifier with peak output powers of tens of Watts (50 W objective, 15 W threshold) is required assuming high gain antennas (60 dBi) are used. In order to promote multiple approaches, such transmitter may operate in continuous wave mode and/or pulsed mode with a minimum duty cycle of 5%. Associated waveform parameters (pulse width, instantaneous bandwidth, frequency tunability, pulse repetition frequency, harmonics, spurs, etc.) are to be defined by the proposer but should meet the requirements for Radar applications (e.g. an instantaneous bandwidth of 10% is desirable).

PHASE I: Design a high power amplifier operating in an atmospheric transmission window between 100 – 300 GHz (e.g. 140 GHz, 220 GHz). The amplifier solution needs to be compact to allow for transport and use outside a laboratory environment. The delivery is a detailed and technically sound solution for building proposed transmitter within the schedule and budgetary constraints of a Phase 2 award. The transmitter shall accept and amplify a signal provided by an external signal generator with output power of 0 dBm. The transmitter shall output the signal in the form of a rectangular waveguide.

PHASE II: Construct, demonstrate, and deliver the high power amplifier described above. The transmitter shall allow for operation with general AC power supply equipment (e.g. 120V single phase, 208V 3 phase shore power or generator power), meaning the DC power supply has to be included with the transmitter build. Forced air and liquid cooling are both acceptable.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: High power transmitters operating above 100 GHz will open a commercial sector in this frequency region for ranging and high bandwidth communications. With the proliferation of drone usages in urban areas and the ever-increasing need for high bandwidth wireless communications to connect commercial and residential areas and push the availability of high-speed internet to rural areas, high power extremely high frequency millimeter wave signal generation is needed now.

REFERENCES:

High Frequency Integrated Vacuum Electronics (HiFIVE) https://www.darpa.mil/program/high-frequency-integrated-vacuum-electronics; Sub-millimeter wave receivers https://www.vadiodes.com/en/products/custom-receivers
“Backward wave oscillator for high power generation at THz frequencies” SPIE Proc. VIII, Terahertz Emitters, Receivers, and Applications VIII (2017).
“Performance improvement of a sub-THz traveling-wave tube by using an electron optic system with a converging sheet electron beam” Elsevier, Results in Physics, Vol 12, 799-803 (2019).

KEYWORDS: millimeter wave, radar, terahertz, sub-millimeter wave, transmitter, high power amplifier

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning, Hypersonics

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Battlespace, Information Systems

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Identify and develop techniques to analytically correlate and efficiently represent geometric perturbations with millimeter wave target scattering for use in existing scene generation application

DESCRIPTION: The U.S. Army employs a wide array of radar simulations to include all-digital, signal injection, and hardware-in-the-loop environments to conduct high fidelity, cost effective, millimeter wave (MMW) weapon system development and evaluation. These simulation environments are used in sensor and seeker performance assessments, flight test analysis, and algorithm developments and are driven by high-fidelity target and threat radar scattering models which are validated against available referent signatures. MMW target signatures may be derived from a variety of physics based, signature prediction tools that utilize computer aided design (CAD) geometry models as inputs.

CAD inputs are routinely modeled as pristine geometry sources as a philosophical choice to avoid exact fingerprinting of a single target instance in addition to real-world limitations such as a lack of input information, memory limits, or polygon budgets. That said, real-world target structures may exhibit a wide range of non-pristine geometric surfaces and unit-to-unit variability due to operational use, battle and test damage, manufacturing processes, and fabrication tolerances. For millimeter wave applications, geometry perturbations can produce significant deviations in radar scattering parameters to include dominant scattering amplitude, physical location of scattering, as well as the angular extent of scattering phenomenology as experienced for ground and air targets. While existing radar target models provide high fidelity inputs to scene generator applications, radar inputs to scene generation are generally not correlated to or functionally representative of underlying perturbations in target geometry and are handled on a discrete basis. In addition, a significant development resources are expended in MMW radar signature model creation and validation to discern and account for effects of non-pristine geometry elements that may be modeled by polygonal, spline, or parametric solid entities.

Previous research has approached target variability through statistical variation of observed target signatures. While statistical variability methodologies present valuable approaches for modeling signature variation over a target class, the current desire is to research and address the correlation of geometric perturbations and radar signature modeling at the source CAD and scattering physics level. Techniques are required to analytically correlate and functionally represent target geometric perturbations in millimeter wave radar models for use in existing scene generation applications and simulation environments to include the Army’s Common Scene Generator (CSG), CCDC AvMC hardware-in-the-loop (HWIL) facilities, and CCDC AvMC Virtual Target Center (VTC) predictive models. This would allow modeling flexibility and ensure simulation environments are driven by millimeter wave models that capture and quantify the effect of geometry perturbations encountered with a target structure while reducing development duration and validation complexity. The modeling approach for this effort should be adaptable for integration to radar signal generation chains within existing simulations with emphasis on Ka-band scattering for both ground and air assets. Considered solutions should be capable of application to any desired physics-based radar predictive signature application with further extension to empirically derived, measurement-based target modeling. In addition, techniques and methodologies should support VTC validation processes with comparison to empirical data sets.

PHASE I: Identify an approach and demonstrate a methodology to support the analytical correlation of target CAD geometry and associated geometric perturbations to Ka-band scattering from air and ground targets. Quantify implementation and interface requirements for existing CAD modeling, predictive signature, and scene generator applications based on proof-of-concept approaches. Research and recommend methods for metric assessment of model enhancements accounting for perturbation effects as applied to the virtual target validation process.

PHASE II: Develop corresponding algorithms, processes, and frameworks to support assessment, test, execution, and demonstration of correlated CAD geometry and radar scattering model perturbation approaches. Finalize a software toolkit for target model creation and development with demonstrated support of the Virtual Targets Center validation process for a sample high fidelity ground target geometry. Address implementation requirements with CAD, predictive radar, and scene generation applications.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Integrate correlated perturbation techniques and software application into validation processes used by the Army Virtual Targets Center for support of target model generation for all-digital and HWIL simulation environments. Conduct an end-to-end creation, correlation, and perturbation refinement an air and ground target system at Ka-band. Conduct formal validation of final target model results through the virtual target validation process.

REFERENCES:

J.A. Sokolowski and C.M. Banks, editors, Modeling and Simulation Fundamentals: Theoretical Underpinnings and Practical Domains. Hoboken, NJ, John Wiley & Sons, 2010.
William E. Nixon, H. J. Neilson, G. N. Szatkowski, Robert H. Giles, William T. Kersey, L. C. Perkins, Jerry Waldman, "Variability study of Ka-band HRR polarimetric signatures on 11 T-72 tanks", Proc. SPIE Vol. 3370, p. 369-382, Algorithms for Synthetic Aperture Radar Imagery V
Edmund G. Zelnio; Ed. September 1998; [3] Stephanie Brown Reitmeier, “Missile Simulation in Support of Research, Development, Test Evaluation and Acquisition,” National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA), 15 May 2012.
https://modelexchange.army.mil.

KEYWORDS: computer aided design, CAD, radar cross section, Ka-band target modeling, geometric correlation, radar scattering, signature prediction

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Control and Communications, Network Command, Microelectronics, Quantum Sciences

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors, Electronics

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop and demonstrate positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) sensors and technologies, such as database reliant (including star maps, terrain, and the technology developments), complementary navigation (including earth-based phenomena such as magnetic fields, gravity, etc.), quantum and/or photonic to provide earth-based position updates without external Radio Frequency (RF) sources and signals. Solutions should utilize techniques and algorithms to enable initialization and positioning of PNT systems without the reliance on the Global Positioning System (GPS) or Multiple Global Navigation Satellite Systems (Multi-GNSS). The solutions should be suitable for mounted applications and comply with the Army PNT Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA)

DESCRIPTION: Recent advancements in PNT sensors and technologies, specifically database related, complementary, quantum and photonics have made sensors more applicable to Army applications to provide alternative sources of PNT data and enable Assured PNT. These capabilities are desired to enable GPS independent initialization, positioning and operations of PNT systems and solutions. In addition, developments in quantum and photonic sensors and technologies have made it possible to sense physical phenomena effects presented by atoms, electrons, and photons. Sensors that are Quantum and Photonic based have the potential to perform with greater precision, be constructed within much smaller sized packages, and offered at more affordable cost over traditional systems, making many PNT systems realizable.

Complementary technologies and sensors of interest for this topic include database related (including star maps, terrain, and the technology developments), earth-based phenomena such as magnetic fields, gravity, etc.), and any other non-RF sensors. Quantum and photonics sensors of interest to this topic include inertial measurement units, magnetometers, gravimeters, or clocks.

The sensors and technologies for this topic shall be compliant with the pntOS (PNT Operating System) application programming interface (API), the Army PNT Reference Architecture (PNT RA), the DoD All Source Position and Navigation (ASPN) Interface Control Document (ICD) version 3.0, the C5ISR/Electronic Warfare (EW) Modular Open Suite of Standards (CMOSS), and Vehicular Integration for C4ISR Interoperability (VICTORY), which will enable rapid integration of the sensors within multiple Army PNT suites.

Metrics that will be assessed include position or time accuracy, Size, Weight and Power (SWaP), compliance with pntOS and the other defined standards, and the complexity associated with system initialization and overall set up time.

PHASE I: The vendor will conduct trade-studies, analyses and/or modeling and simulations to determine the technical feasibility of their proposed solutions to meet the objective. The vendor will present to the government the sensor design to include system error budgets that support expected performance metrics and environmental analyses. The vendor will present a plan for compliance with the pntOS API, the Army PNT RA, ASPN version 3.0, CMOSS and VICTORY. The vendor will provide a system specification needed for phase II development.

PHASE II: Develop and demonstrate sensor and/or technology prototypes based on the specifications, hardware and software identification from phase I. Ensure that developed prototypes and software comply with the pntOS API, the Army PNT RA, ASPN version 3.0, CMOSS and VICTORY. Provide documented reports of compliance to these standards. Conduct demonstration of the prototypes at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 5. Evaluate and provide the test results of the prototypes to the government POC. Deliver two units of the developed prototypes to the government for evaluation, including all hardware and software necessary to operate and collect data from the delivered units. Deliver digital engineer artifacts, such as Models Based System Engineering (MBSE) products of the product and software.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Modify the sensor prototype design based upon test and evaluation results from Phase 2 to achieve a better small size, weight, and power (SWaP) system applicable to a selected host A-PNT systems and comply with CMOSS or other standards identified in Phase II. Transition the technology to the U.S. Army and integrate this technology into future A-PNT Programs of Record (PoRs) or Science and Technology (S&T) Projects, such as the Absolute Positioning Enabled by Resilient Tactical UseR Equipment (APERTURE) Project.

REFERENCES:

“Concepts of Comprehensive PNT and related Key Technologies,” Z. Zuo, X Qiao and Y Wu, International Conference on Modeling, Analysis, Simulation Technologies and Applications (2019).
K. Kauffman et al., "Scorpion: A Modular Sensor Fusion Approach for Complementary Navigation Sensors," 2020 IEEE/ION Position, Location and Navigation Symposium (PLANS), 2020, pp. 156-167, doi: 10.1109/PLANS46316.2020.9110165.
C. HAN, L. PEI, D. ZOU, K. LIU, Y. LI and Y. CAO, "An Optimal Selection of Sensors in Multi-sensor Fusion Navigation with Factor Graph," 2018 Ubiquitous Positioning, Indoor Navigation and Location-Based Services (UPINLBS), 2018, pp. 1-8, doi: 10.1109/UPINLBS.2018.8559802.
K. Fisher and J. F. Raquet, “Precision position, navigation, and timing without the global positioning system,” Air & Space Power Journal, vol. 25, no. 2, pp. 24–33, 2011.

KEYWORDS: Positioning, Navigation and Timing (PNT), Assured Positioning, Navigation and Timing (APNT), PNT Assessment Exercise (PNTAX), C5ISR/Electronic Warfare Modular Open Suite of Standards (CMOSS), pntOS (PNT Operating System), All Source Position and Navigation

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: General Warfighting Requirements (GWR), Microelectronics

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors, Electronics

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Design and develop a digital read-out integrated circuit (DROIC) capable of passive imaging and active LIDAR-like 3D ranging for use with small pitch, cooled longwave infrared (LWIR) detectors

DESCRIPTION: The U.S. Army is interested in the application of active imaging systems in the LWIR, such as autonomous vehicle navigation and laser range finders. Active imaging systems all require the detection of reflected light, usually through an active source such as a laser, but depending on the intended application, different readouts are required. While the majority of the work in active imaging has been in the visible, near-infrared (NIR), shortwave infrared (SWIR), and midwave infrared (MWIR), the U.S. Army has significant interest in developing these same active imaging capabilities in the LWIR in pursuit of operating and ranging in degraded visual environments (DVE). One significant difference in active imaging capability is the required gate times, where laser range finders require high-precision short gate times and the use of a voltage ramp or other timing device, while asynchronous laser pulse detection (ALPD) requires longer gates and need to be able to detect multiple pulses in a single gate. Additionally, current range finding technologies, when leveraged by the warfighter, have the limitation of ensuring that the target of interest is being ranged, and does not allow for verification of the target being ranged. This topic seeks to develop a digital read-out integrated circuit (DROIC) architecture that achieves laser range finding alongside the ability to do passive imaging to verify the target, while adding one other capability such as ALPD or multi-pulse detection. The ideal ROIC would support all forms of active imaging while enabling passive imaging in a single design. This kind of architecture will have applications to Next Generation Combat Vehicle (NGCV) as well as Future Vertical Lift (FVL) under the Army Modernization Priorities.

The developed DROIC architecture should function with active imaging sensors with pixel pitches less than 30 µm, with the goal of 12 µm, and be scalable to HD arrays. The DROIC architecture should be able to be hybridized with an avalanche photodiode (APD) detector and have an overall low power consumption. For laser range finding, ranging resolution of 1m or less out to 5km are greatly preferred. The architecture must be able to eventually be integrated into an integrated dewar cooler assembly (IDCA). Target array size is 128x128; but 512x512 is preferred. Designs where all capabilities are achieved in a simultaneous, snap-shot format will be considered; but are not expected over designs that require switching modes between frames or sequential readout. The design must support triggering from an external source. Stacked (3-D) or tiled ROIC architectures will be considered but are not required.

PHASE I: Investigate, research, and design a DROIC architecture to meet the above specifications. A PDR level design is acceptable; but a design leading into a CDR and tapeout is preferred. Demonstrate design feasibility and capability of the DROIC through modeling, simulations and analysis.

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

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Transition the DROIC technology to use with LWIR detector. Produce a fully working focal plane array (FPA) module. The commercialization applications of this technology may include autonomous driving and advanced object recognition.

REFERENCES:

R. Fraenkel, E. Berkowicz, L. Bykov, R. Dobromislin, R. Elishkov, A. Giladi, I. Grimberg, I. Hirsh, E. Ilan, C. Jacobson, I. Kogan, P. Kondrashov, I. Nevo, I. Pivnik, S. Vasserman, "High Definition 10μm pitch InGaAs detector with Asynchronous Laser Pulse Detection mode," Proc. SPIE 9819, Infrared Technology and Applications XLII, 981903 (20 May 2016).
https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2222762; Kelsey M. Judd, Michael P. Thornton, Austin A. Richards, "Automotive sensing: assessing the impact of fog on LWIR, MWIR, SWIR, visible, and lidar performance," Proc. SPIE 11002, Infrared Technology and Applications XLV, 110021F (7 May 2019).
https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2519423; J. Rothman, E. de Borniol, J. Abergel, G. Lasfargues, B. Delacourt, A. Dumas, F. Gibert, O. Boulade, X. Lefoule, "HgCdTe APDs for low-photon number IR detection," Proc. SPIE 10111, Quantum Sensing and Nano Electronics and Photonics XIV, 1011119 (27 January 2017); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2256175.
Leye Aina, "True 3D, angle resolved, ultrasensitive IR laser sensor for autonomous vehicles," Proc. SPIE 11002, Infrared Technology and Applications XLV, 110021G (7 May 2019).
https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2521240

KEYWORDS: DROIC, 3D LIDAR, active imaging, passive imaging, ALPD

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Microelectronics

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop a long wave infrared (LWIR), scene-based, non-uniformity correction (NUC) algorithm to lower the noise in polarimetric micro-grid sensors suitable for use on small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV).

DESCRIPTION: Fixed pattern noise in infrared focal plane arrays affects the ability to detect, recognize and identify targets. Two-point correction is often used make offset and gain corrections to the image to lower the fixed pattern noise. However, factory correction is inadequate due to the drift of pixel response over time.

Correction in the field is often cumbersome, impractical, and inadequate to accommodate changing scene conditions. The problem becomes worse when dealing with polarization because of the image processing involved in generating the polarization images. For example, microgrid sensors typically have four polarization filters, horizontal(H), vertical(V), and two filters at 45 degrees and 135 degrees. Calculating the Stokes vector involves adding, subtracting, and dividing. Calculating the Degree of Linear Polarization (DoLP) involves squaring square rooting, and dividing. Each of these operations increases the noise. The Army requires a correction for pixel drift and changing scenes using microgrid, microbolometer sensors operating from a moving platform such as a small UAV. The algorithm(s) should operate using sensors at a 30 hertz frame rate and an F/1 lens.

PHASE I: Phase I consists of the development or adaptation of an SBNUC process using image sequence or video data that has characteristics of imagery collected from a small UAS using a minimum number of images or scene changes. It is required that a quantitative improvement in performance of the SBNUC process over that of a conventional two-point NUC be established. Analysis shall include a comparison of mean and standard deviation of degree of linear polarization (DoLP) noise characteristics in addition to other image comparison algorithms or metrics. Shortcomings of the developed process should be described. The path to make the approach more robust under a greater variety of scene and platform motion conditions to be implemented in Phase II should be described. It is necessary to eliminate to the greatest extent possible any dependence on additional hardware or specific motions of the platform or a gimbal to achieve scene-based corrections. Trade- offs that may be necessary to achieve the SBNUC improvement shall be identified.

PHASE II: Phase II consists of the implementation, testing, and optimization of the polarimetric SBNUC process on real data collected from a small UAS platform. Further, data shall be collected and the SBNUC shall be demonstrated under a variety of environmental, background, and time of day conditions. The improvement shall be demonstrated using the analysis developed in the Phase I. Any potential sensor or other hardware improvements for optimization shall be identified.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The commercialization of this process is expected to provide low cost, high performance uncooled cameras that operate over a wide range of conditions. Potential uses are in a variety of military applications including sensors for manned and unmanned aerial and ground platforms for clutter suppression, target detection and tracking, and in commercial applications including environmental monitoring, security/law enforcement, border patrol, and homeland security.

REFERENCES:

B.M. Ratliff, et al, “Adaptive Scene-based Correction Algorithm for Removal of Residual Fixed Pattern Noise in Microgrid Image Data”, Proc. SPIE 8364, 11 June 2012.
R.C. Hardie, et al., “Super-resolution for imagery from integrated microgrid polarimeters,” Opt. Express 19, 12937–12960 (2011).
J.E. Hubbs, et al, “Measurement of the radiometric and polarization characteristics of a microgrid polarizer infrared focal plane array,” Proc. SPIE, Infrared Detectors and Focal Plane Arrays VIII, 6295, 62950C (2006).
Jun-Hyung Kim, et al, “Regularization approach to scene-based non uniformity correction,” Optical Engineering, 53(5), 053105 (2014).

KEYWORDS: Scene-Based Non-Uniformity Correction; Polarization; Infrared Focal Plane Array

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Hypersonics

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform

OBJECTIVE: Develop parallel file readers and writers that work efficiently on HPC systems for in situ data extracts.

DESCRIPTION: The goal of this topic is to develop efficient, parallel IO tools for in situ data extracts that work with ParaView Catalyst and VisIt LibSim. The tool should support all VTK (https://www.vtk.org) data types that are supported in ParaView Catalyst and VisIt LibSim. The tool must be open source with an appropriate license to work with both of these libraries (e.g., BSD, Apache) and the data format must be open as well. The data extract output should minimize the number of files generated per output time step and, possibly, aggregate over multiple output time steps. Additionally, the tools would automate the efficiency of the parallel IO, considering significant and varying load imbalance, with as little as possible user parameters.

PHASE I: Demonstrate prototype software that combines parallel partitioned VTK data that would normally be written to separate files into a consolidated dataset that minimizes the number of files produced. Characterize the performance improvements of new IO algorithms that can deal with time varying, poorly load-balanced in situ data, through increased IO speed, and reduced number of files produced.

PHASE II: Complete in situ workflows that minimize the number of files produced for in situ data extracts per time step for all appropriate VTK data types used in ParaView Catalyst and/or VisIt LibSim. Tools must be in open-source software with open-data formats. Complete effective strategies for efficient parallel IO of in situ data extracts. These strategies should be able to be automatically tuned to specific HPC machine architectures in order to minimize user specified parameters to get the tool to work efficiently.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: In situ use through both ParaView Catalyst and VisIt LibSim are already well established in the CREATE-AVTM program through Helios and Kestrel, respectively. Additionally, in situ use has spread to non-DOD specific simulation codes. See for example, OpenFOAM (https://www.openfoam.com/news/main-news/openfoam-v1806/post-processing). It is expected that this technology will simplify parallel file IO for data extracts for many ParaView Catalyst and VisIt LibSim users.

REFERENCES:

A. Bauer, H. Abbasi, J. Ahrens, H. Childs, B. Geveci, S. Klasky, K. Moreland, P. O'Leary, V. Vishwanath, B. Whitlock, and E. Bethel, "In Situ Methods, Infrastructures, and Applications on High Performance Computing Platforms," Computer Graphics Forum, vol. 35, no. 3, pp. 577-597, Jun. 2016.
Fabian N., Moreland K., Thompson D., Bauer A. C., Marion P., Geveci B., Rasquin M., Jansen K. E.: The paraview coprocessing library: A scalable, general purpose in situ visualization library. In IEEE Symposium on Large-Scale Data Analysis and Visualization (LDAV) 2011 (October 2011), Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, pp. 89–96.
S. Herbein, S. McDaniel, N. Podhorszki, J. Logan, S. Klasky, M. Taufer, “Performance characterization of irregular I/O at the extreme scale, “Parallel Computing, Volume 51, pp 17-35, 2016.
Lofstead J., Zheng F., Klasky S., Schwan K.: Adaptable, metadata rich io methods for portable high performance io. In Parallel Distributed Processing, 2009. IPDPS 2009. IEEE International Symposium on (May 2009), pp. 1–10.; 5. Whitlock B., Favre J. M., Meredith J. S.: Parallel in situ coupling of simulation with a fully featured visualization system. In Proceedings of the 11th Eurographics conference on Parallel Graphics and Visualization (2011), Eurographics Association, pp. 101–109.

KEYWORDS: HPC, in situ analysis & visualization, parallel IO

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Autonomy, General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials, Human Systems

OBJECTIVE: The Modular Assembly Shelter (MASh) Kit (Patent # 10,612,233), developed by the Construction Engineering Research Laboratory (ERDC-CERL), is an innovative system designed to use lightweight materials for expeditionary shelters and capitalize on the advantages of large-scale 3D printing, or Additive Manufacturing (AM). The MASh Kit concept uses pre-engineered construction techniques to produce a kit-of-parts for rapid assembly of a rigid shelter that is modular, simple, portable, durable, and reusable, which are all desirable shelter characteristics defined by the Capability Development Document for Army Standard Family (ASF) of Rigid Wall Shelters (RWS) (U.S. Army 2016). When fully developed, the AM process can be performed near the point-of-need producing an assembly-ready system that does not need cure time for full structural strength.

The AM transformation strives to create a world with less waste, less inventory, and lower emissions. While 3D printing has been in existence for decades, the industry is still relatively young with applications of this scale. This project will develop the MASh Kit design for production, evaluation, and fielding for use in austere environments, to include Arctic regions, through a partnership with the Private Sector and the Academic Community. The project aims to advance the AM technologies, as well as, exploring the suitability of the utilization of emerging sustainable materials as feedstock in the AM processes. Additionally, the viability of a MASh Kit comprised of a combination of both AM and traditionally manufactured components, resulting in more cost-effective production or more rapid emplacement, will be explored. The offeror will utilize domain experts who understand the technology, know its capabilities and limitations, recognize its maintenance requirements, and are keen to innovate and explore business improvement opportunities.

DESCRIPTION: One of ERDC-CERL’s missions is to support military requirements and bring innovative technologies to bear in fielded equipment, resulting in reduced logistics burden, design complexity, and contracting time; all of which enables military or humanitarian responders to rapidly deploy and quickly adapt as needed.

The payoff associated with this research is providing the military with the capability to produce expeditionary shelters using AM methods that are durable, reliable, reusable, modular, and scalable, reduce the logistics burden, enhance Soldier protection, and support rapid deployment. The use of AM methods to produce expeditionary shelters will result in reduced logistics that potentially saves lives, money, and time, as well as an enhanced ability to produce mission essential infrastructure closer to the point-of-need. Successful development of the MASh Kit will provide a RWS solution that is adaptable, modular, and configurable to withstand the spectrum of potential operating environments (arctic, desert, jungle, mountain, etc.). Successful identification of composite materials that meet all of the requirements for expeditionary shelters as described above will benefit the larger AM community by advancing material research into feedstock recipes for use in any AM application.

The capabilities developed through this effort are expected to significantly contribute to the field of additive manufacturing as unit deployment speed through the ability to manufacture locally on-site if necessary. This capability would enable units to support and complete the mission when the procurement system is not responsive, delayed, or compromised, thereby increasing readiness. Since AM uses digital files instead of physical tooling like patterns and molds, it is a highly flexible technology. Manufacturing costs can be determined by three metrics – material, operating, and labor expenses. Unlike wasteful reductive manufacturing techniques, AM is a process that uses just enough material to produce an object. As a single unattended process, operating and labor expenses are eliminated by freeing personnel for other tasks. Since AM does not require object-specific tooling, the end result is additional savings whenever implementing product changes or improvements.

The MASh Kit has not yet been manufactured or tested at full scale, which is required to facilitate research and testing of optimal material feedstock, component connection designs, structural integrity, and printing setup. This testing is needed to ensure that the MASh Kit meets or exceeds Army requirements for expeditionary structures. The MASh Kit also requires comparative analysis against existing military shelter systems in terms of ease of use, production timelines, logistics, and end user point-of-need adaptability.

The offeror will propose an AM system that would serve as a component of the Developmental and Operational Testing of the MASh Kit shelter and will be required to substantiate performance to determine if the system, as a whole, meets the Army’s requirements and is capable of fielding a first unit within 24 months.

PHASE I: The offeror will examine the feasibility and capability of the Science of AM to advance the design of the MASh Kit from a low TRL concept to a fieldable product, and to print parts and components for evaluation and further development to a fieldable product that is both producible and commercially viable to the military, humanitarian, and commercial markets. Additionally, the offeror will perform structural testing of the printed parts for comparison to traditionally manufactured components, perform development of near-continuous 3D printed linear parts using market-available materials, and evaluate emerging sustainable and recycled materials for use in the printed components.

For improved sustainability, the offeror will explore design of traditional production hardware components and accessories that can be 3D printed and identify improvements where feasible, while meeting relevant military requirements. In addition to printing of hardware, the offeror will explore the use of traditional commercially available hardware for comparison of cost, sustainability, and availability. The wall panels to be deployed as part of the MASh Kit will be developed, and the potential of 3D printing walls or printing high R-value wall sections that will accept traditional commercially available insulation will be developed and evaluated. Driving a high R-value for MASh Kit will allow deployment in Arctic or extreme environments. Also, consideration will be given to development of insulating material that can be 3D printed and designed into the MASh Kit wall panel.

Finally, the offeror will use the Phase I effort to identify potential additional uses and capability gaps that can improve or leverage Science of AM to advance the MASh Kit design in both garrison and deployed environments.

PHASE II: If the MASh Kit is adopted into the ASF-RWS program, ERDC-CERL will partner with U.S. Army Product Manager Force Sustainment Systems (PdM FSS), the program office responsible for managing ASF-RWS, and the offeror to resource any remaining evaluation required of the MASh Kit and development of the required Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) elements to support the product as it enters and proceeds through its Production & Deployment phase. ASF-RWS shelters are centrally procured and customer-funded by the requiring program office or military unit. So, in order to facilitate that procurement approach for MASh Kit, PdM FSS will coordinate the necessary contracting vehicle(s) and item management and logistics support for the product.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: ERDC-CERL also strives to leverage the feasibility determination accomplished in Phase I with the Objectives of Phase II being:

A) The offeror will complete design and manufacture up to twelve (12) full scale MASh Kits for demonstration/testing of shelter that is equivalent in size and function to a B-Hut (530 sq ft), capable of being transported and reassembled for field testing.

B) The offeror will demonstrate the Science of AM capability to produce the MASh Kit system and any components required for its maintenance and repair.

C) The offeror will demonstrate the ability for the MASh Kit to be manufactured in high volume using a combination of AM and traditional non-AM methods.

D) The offeror will demonstrate the ability for AM-produced MASh Kit components to duplicate non-AM MASh Kit components as similar in physical characteristics such as strength, ruggedness, and application.

E) The offeror will evaluate the feasibility of AM-produced MASh Kits components to include ballistic protection inherent in the AM process.

F) The offeror will complete a Technology Readiness Assessment and provide a document detailing the artifacts and justification to satisfy TRL determination.

G) The offeror will provide a model for configuring and packaging the above concepts into a deployable containerized system requiring only electric power and the raw materials for 3D printing of the MASh Kit. The AM capability studied will need to meet necessary size and weight criteria to enable packaging within the current footprint of standard international shipping containers.

H) Additionally, the offeror will identify advantages and benefits of utilizing the MASh Kit, including but not limited to cost, technical, training, readiness, logistics, technology limitations, and weight.

REFERENCES:

DoD Directive 4540.07, “Operation of the DoD Engineering for Transportability and Deployability Program.” October 30, 2019, as amended
Joint Committee on Tactical Shelters (JOCOTAS) 2017.“DoD Standard Family of Tactical Shelters (Rigid/Soft/Hybrid).” May 2012.
updated May 2017. Washington, D.C.: Department of Defense; Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS), 2012. Capstone Concept for Joint Operations: Joint Forces 2020. Washington, D.C.: Department of Defense.
Marlatt, Richard M., Kirk McGraw, Gary Gerdes, Stuart Foltz, Jonathan Trovillion, 2003. “Integrated Life-Cycle Base Camp Sustainment.” Engineer Vol. 33, Issue 4 (Oct-Dec): 38.
MIL-STD-810H. Department of Defense Test Method Standard: Environmental Engineering Considerations and Laboratory Tests (31-JAN-2019). Supersedes MIL-STD-810G w/Change 1 15 April 2014. Washington, D.C.: Department of Defense.
National Research Council, 2014. Force Multiplying Technologies for Logistics Support to Military Operations. Washington D.C.: The National Academies Press; Noblis, 2010. Sustainable Forward Operating Bases. Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program (SERDP). Washington DC: Noblis.
Williams, Simon and Alex Flather, 2015. “Safe and well stocked: new technology for today’s forward operating bases.” Army Technology (7 OCT 15); https://www.army-technology.com/features/featuresafe-and-well-stocked-new-technology-for-todays-forward-operating-bases-4647465/.
U.S. Army, Army Futures Command, 2019. Army Modernization Strategy: Investing in the Future.” Austin, TX: U.S. Army Futures Command. https://www.army.mil/e2/downloads/rv7/2019_army_modernization_strategy_final.pdf.
U. S. Congress, House, Committee on Armed Services, 2020. National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020: Report of the Committee on Armed Services, House of Representatives on H.R. 2500 together with additional and dissenting views (including cost estimate of the Congressional Budget Office). Washington: U.S. Government Publishing Office.
Waller, Col. John C., 2011. “From Manufacturer to Forward Operating Base.” Army Sustainment Vol. 43, No. 4 (PB 700-11-04)
https://alu.army.mil/alog/issues/julaug11/spectrum_forward_operating%20base.html.; Yu, Justine, and Tanner Wood, 2020. Modular Assembly Shelter Kits and Methods, US Patent No. 10,612,233.

KEYWORDS: expeditionary, additive manufacturing, shelter

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials

OBJECTIVE: Develop, demonstrate, and validate models, design tools, software and networks that will be used to support the efficient development and eventual mass production of high-speed data networks for electronic textile (etextile) wearable applications.

DESCRIPTION: Ongoing Army modernization efforts will provide Soldiers with enhanced capabilities that increase their ability to quickly understand and react to emerging battlefield situations. Digital transformation will improve data access and machine learning to understand, visualize, and decide and direct faster. Information will flow rapidly between the enterprise and soldiers on the ground.

Soldier worn power and data networks are necessary to bring these concepts to fruition. To date, success has been achieved in the development, test and evaluation of a variety of functional textile-based data networks for the dismounted Soldier. Examples of network protocols that have been successfully prototyped include USB 2.0, Gigabit Ethernet, serial, SMBus, and I2C. These demonstrations have shown that while etextiles can be used to form effective data networks, they behave differently than traditional theoretical models or empirical guidelines would indicate due to their unique composition and structure. Standard models used for designing strip lines and cables do not accurately predict the impedance characteristics of etextile materials. The connectors used for these networks, and the methods used to connect them to the etextile also have unique impedance characteristics. Line impedance is one of the main components of cable design and it’s a driving factor when designing for high speed data. The higher the data rates, the tighter the tolerances become for all design parameters.

Currently the process of designing etextile data networks relies on laboratory experimentation to achieve the desired performance which is time consuming and expensive. The development of new models and design tools are desired that accurately predict the impedance and other performance characteristics necessary to quickly build these networks. The development process will include the investigation of the composition and structure of etextile networks and related state-of-the-art materials to characterize and understand the impact of these components on impedance. In addition, the influence of dielectric and shielding materials, connectors, and connector interface media will also be evaluated and characterized. The resulting modeling and design tools are necessary to support early prototyping, testing, and touch points with Soldiers from the operational force to help ensure that solutions generated are the right ones. Ultimately these models will feed into advanced manufacturing methods and processes and will be incorporated into system design, development, production and sustainment.

PHASE I: The Phase I awardee shall determine the technical feasibility to develop new design tools and guidelines, including but not limited to, a signal line impedance model to be based on a combination of first principles and empirical data. Using this new conceptual capability, proof-of-concept bench-scale data networks will be designed, fabricated and evaluated. At the conclusion of this Phase I effort, the awardee will deliver a tangible proof-of-concept network demonstration article, conceptual impedance model and design tools, and survey of shielding options.

PHASE II: Improvements will be made to the conceptual model and design tools using data collected and lessons-learned. Using these tools, methods for improving the impedance characteristics of etextile networks will be developed and evaluated in an iterative process and ultimately validated. The electronic textiles shall handle various communication protocols (USB, SMBUS, etc.) without signal degradation or loss of data that is comparable to current cable technology.

Weight: Same or lighter (for similar length)

Amperage: Same or better

Efficiency (η): Same or better

MIL-STD-810: Same or better

MIL-STD 461: Same or better

Working with Soldier Center and PM-Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS) subject matter experts, the contractor shall identify a suitable system that can be used to demonstrate the capabilities of these component networks in a relevant setting. The finalized and validated impedance model, design tools and related software will be delivered. Etextile networks sufficient for three prototype systems shall be fabricated and evaluated through a combination of bench-top and EMI chamber testing prior to delivery to the Government. Following delivery of the fully functional and shielded etextile networks, the contractor will support testing and evaluation activities in a relevant setting.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The successful completion of the Phase II effort will provide a detailed understanding of how the complex architectures embodied in etextiles affect network impedance and how these unique properties can be used to extend the state-of-the-art in wearable network design. This knowledge will facilitate the rapid and efficient development of future etextile networks that reduce system weight and bulk, eliminate snag hazards, allow electronic capabilities to be hidden in plain sight, and cost less than current cable technology. Commercial applications include physiological status monitoring for first responders and athletes, general wearable electronics, electric vehicles, telemedicine, and gaming for the entertainment industry. Military examples include the use of the electronic textile impedance modeling software to develop new and improved etextile cables and networks for Nett Warrior and IVAS applications that are lighter weight, have reduced number of components, can be easily integrated within the Soldier System, and are less expensive to manufacture

REFERENCES:

Analog Devices MT-094 Tutorial Microstrip and Stripline Design, https://www.analog.com/media/en/training-seminars/tutorials/MT-094.pdf
Clemson University PCB Trace Impedance Calculator, https://cecas.clemson.edu/cvel/emc/calculators/PCB-TL_Calculator/
E-textiles for Military Markets, Creating Textiles that Harvest Energy Lighten the Warfighters Load,” S. Tornquist, Advanced Textiles Source, Industrial Fabrics Association International, 11 January 2014.
Design Tool for Electronic Textile Clothing Systems,” J. Slade, J. Teverovsky, C. Winterhalter, 2014 Human Systems Conference, Crystal City, VA, 4 February 2014.

KEYWORDS: Impedance, models, wearables, etextiles, smart textiles, personal area network

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Human Systems

OBJECTIVE: Develop an exoskeleton system that mitigates Parachute Landing Forces (PLF) experienced by Warfighters with the goal of reducing injuries. The system can be active or passive, reusable or disposable.

EXOJUMP would form a system of body-worn sensors that collects real-time data on the biomechanics of para-jumping. The information from the sensor system (or exoskeleton system with embedded sensors) would be used in two ways: build either a passive or active exoskeleton that mitigates PLF forces; provide unit training insight and feedback to Warfighters and Military Units to inform proper or dangerous landing techniques. This will garner new training metrics to indicate landing risk level and highlight other problem areas of concern.

A secondary objective of the system is to provide load carriage and mobility support to the Warfighter pre-jump by assisting them move with a full load to the aircraft and post-jump to rapidly exit the landing zone.

DESCRIPTION: Combat parachute jumping is a high-risk endeavor with a significant potential for injuries or death in rare cases. The risk is exacerbated by the heavy and voluminous weights Warfighters carry while jumping and environmental conditions such as night-ops, wind, and terrain. Injuries require time and resources to resolve which slow the unit down and increases their risk of being attacked.

The current T-11 parachute jumps at 400 lbs all-up-weight (AUW) and has a vertical velocity of 18 feet per second (ft/s) and a horizontal velocity (due to side winds) up to 13 knots which increases the parachute landing force (PLF). Increasing a T-11 AUW to 450 lbs increases the PLF to over ~21 ft/s. This is akin to jumping off a 9 to 12-foot truck while moving at 15 miles per hour.

The EXOJUMP will mitigate the PLF and significantly increase the likelihood of a safe landing.

System Features:

- - - Mitigates PLF (resulting in lower risk of injuries and/or death)
    - Passive or active
    - Disposable or re-useable
    - Does not hinder the jump mission in any way
    - Jump-safe with no snag-hazards (note that Warfighters tape over the eyelets of their boots so that they will not become snag hazards)
    - Donned in minutes, doffed in seconds
    - Air worthy: if active, appropriate levels of EMI
Other Desired Features
- - - Active sensors that record, process, and inform the user about the unique forces on individual Warfighters as they participate in the jump
    - Artificial intelligence or machine learning that can actively sense and respond to optimize the system in real time so that a safe landing is assured
    - Assists Warfighters as they move with their jumping load on and about the aircraft
    - Assists Warfighters as they get off the landing zone

PHASE I: EXOJUMP should deliver up to three factors, the ability to improve paratrooper aircraft exits, understand and reduce the parachute landing force, and an increase in the Unit and Warfighters’ ability to move upon ground arrival. The EXOJUMP would compose a conformal system that reduces snag hazards and weight critical to a jumping system and an artificial intelligence that recognizes, responds, and reduces the PLF to an acceptable level on all types of terrain by applying biomechanical knowledge to a critical issue. Identify technology and capability gaps to show how the technology can be developed into a TRL 5/6 prototype at the end of Phase II. Demonstrate or describe in engineering terms how the technology would be used in the field and any required safety issues or concerns to support user operational use in Phase II. EXOJUMP is a new novel application of exoskeleton system and should increase training knowledge and potential to reduce PLF injuries by 25%. The metric is tied to the ability to capture the real time jump forces, then apply the knowledge to reduce the PLF and help train the Warfighter.

Phase I deliverables include:

- - - Monthly reports
    - 1 System mockup and digital model
    - A final technical report describing
- Development and testing of the technology
- Technology risks, gaps and recommendations
- Estimated cost in production
  - - Demonstration of the state of the art of the technology

PHASE II: The EXOJUMP effort will use 2 Warfighter touchpoints, actual unit data with 82nd Airborne and USAF assets to quantify the efficacy of the system and reduce system development risk. A capstone event would require jump certification of the base system that will transition to MATDEV at a TRL 6 (real world experimentation). Show how technology could potentially be available for scaled production in 3 years (FY25). Eight (8) EXOJUMP systems will be evaluated (location TBD - Yuma Proving Ground or Nellis AFB, NV)

Phase II deliverables include:

- - - Monthly reports
    - Training information, safety assessment, health hazards, and human use
    - Demonstration of the state of the art of the technology
    - A final technical report describing
- Development and testing of the technology and training material
- Technology gaps and recommendations for future work
- Estimated cost in production

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Technology could potentially be used for scaled production in 3 years (FY25). The system would increase Training, Mission Effectiveness and Readiness. Output data from the system would form a method to gain a deeper understanding of the biological systems and their response to para-jumping activities, create a system of body-worn sensors that collects real-time data on the biomechanics of para jumping. EXOJUMP effort would collect the baseline data similar to a motion-capture studio but in the real world of actual and simulated jumps. Sensors would include anatomic joint angles, accelerations, forces, and/or EMG for muscle contraction. This will increase the stresses on the user, allow us to address, and increase the speeds or loads users need to survive.

Further refine prototype to enhance reliability, reduce weight, and ruggedize to manufacture and commercialize the product at a price point that is competitive and sensible for the intended market.

REFERENCES:

Knapik JJ, Steelman R, Hoedebecke K, Rankin S, Klug K, Collier K, & Jones BH. (2014). Injury incidence with T-10 and T-11 parachutes in military airborne operations. Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, 85(12), 1159-1169.
Ruscio BA, Jones BH, Bullock SH, Burnham BR, Canham-Chervak M, Rennix CP, et al. (2010). A process to identify military injury prevention priorities based on injury type and limited duty days; AmerJ Prev Med, 38(1S), S19-S33.
Knapik JJ, Steelman R, Grier T, Graham B, Hoedebecke K, Rankin S, et al. (2011). Military parachuting injuries, associated events, and injury risk factors, Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, 82(8), 797-804.
Knapik JJ, Craig SC, Hauret KG, & Jones BH. (2003). Risk factors for injuries during military parachuting, Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, 74(4), 768-774.
Knapik JJ, Spiess A, Swedler D, Grier T, Darakjy S., Amoroso P, & Jones BH. (2008). Injury risk factors in parachuting and acceptability of the parachute ankle brace. Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, 79(7), 689-694.
Luippold RS, Sulsky SI, & Amoroso PJ. (2011). Effective of an external ankle brace in reducing parachuting-related ankle injuries. Injury Prevention, 17, 58-61.
Bullock SH, Jones BH, Gilchrist J, & Marshall SW. (2010). Prevention of Physical Training-Related Injuries.
American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 38(1S), S156-S181; Schumacher JT, Creedon JF, & Pope RW. (2000). The effectiveness of the parachute ankle brace in reducing ankle injuries in an airborne ranger battalion. Military Medicine, 165, 944-948, 2000.
Knapik JJ, Graham B, Steelman R, Colliver K, & Jones BH. (2011). The advanced tactical parachute system (T-11) injuries during basic military parachute training. Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, 82(10), 935-940.

KEYWORDS: Exoskeleton, Augmentation, Musculoskeletal Disorders, Knee Joint, PLF, Parachute

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: General Warfighting Requirements (GWR); Microelectronics

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials / Processes

OBJECTIVE: Develop a safer and more sustainable Li-ion 6T battery.

DESCRIPTION: The current state of Li-ion 6T batteries is not capable of meeting Marine Corps needs. Transportability and operational safety are limited by current technology. Distributed Maritime Operations (DMO) will present operational challenges that current technology does not meet. Current batteries have not been certified for transportation; have limited (short duration) long-term storage; and has limited capability in austere environments. Weight and cost of the battery need to be reduced. This SBIR topic is intended to mitigate these shortcomings and provide the Marine Corps with a Li-ion 6T battery that can meet operational demands. The system requirements include:

• Full charge capacity (min at 1 hr. rate): 90 Ah (at 22 °C) (T); 100 Ah (at 22 °C) (O) at 18 – 30 VDC.

• Minimum shelf life of 10 years at 27°C (T); 72 °C (O). “Shelf life” is determined as the ability to provide 80% of its rated capacity after being fully charged, after storage.

• Shall not degrade to less than 80% of rated capacity in less than 4000 cycles (T=O) to a 90% depth of discharge at the C/2 rate of the battery.

• Remain at 30% of rated capacity for six months at 21 - 32 °C not to exceed 10% loss.

• The design shall address meeting the requirements of NAVSEA INSTRUCTION 9310.1C, Naval Lithium Battery Safety Program.

• Total Weight: 56 lbs (T); 44 lbs (O).

• Survivability: Must survive ballistic testing (i.e., impact of .557 caliber). Must meet SAE J2464 hazard level 6.

• Rapid Recharge – Must be able to go from 0 – 80% rated charge in 120 min (T); 30 min (O).

• Cost: $2,000/KWh (T); $1,500/KWh (O).

• Deliver 5- 10 prototypes for test, evaluation, and experimentation. TRL of 6 (T), 7 (O).

PHASE I: Develop concepts for an improved 6T battery that meets the requirements described above. Demonstrate the feasibility of the concepts in meeting Marine Corps needs. Establish that the concepts can be developed into a useful product for the Marine Corps. Feasibility will be established by material testing and analytical modeling, as appropriate. Provide a Phase II development plan with performance goals and key technical milestones, and that addresses technical risk reduction.

PHASE II: Develop a full-scale prototype evaluation. Deliver 5 – 10 prototypes (TRL of 6 (T), 7 (O)) for test, evaluation, and experimentation, to include evaluation to determine their capability in meeting the performance goals defined in the Phase II development plan and the Marine Corps requirements for the Improved 6T Battery. System performance will be demonstrated through prototype evaluation and modeling or analytical methods over the required range of parameters including numerous deployment cycles. Evaluation results will be used to refine the prototype into an initial design that will meet Marine Corps requirements. Provide a detailed plan for meeting NAVSEA Instruction 9310.1C. Prepare a Phase III development plan to transition the technology to Marine Corps use.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Support the Marine Corps in transitioning the technology for Marine Corps use. Develop an Improved 6T Battery for evaluation to determine its effectiveness in an operationally relevant environment. Support the Marine Corps for test and validation to certify and qualify the system for Marine Corps use.

There is no dual-use application for this form factor (6T) battery beyond the DoD. However, the cell technology inside the form factor may be transferable to commercial battery applications and designs, e.g., shelf life, degraded capacity.

REFERENCES:

“Advanced Battery Manufacturing Technologies.” Sciligent. BAA Topic Number DLA142-001, 2014, Defense Logistics Agency. https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/submissions/baa-schedule/broad-agency-announcements
MIL-PRF-32565, Compliant Battery Maintenance & Charging System MIL-PRF-32565 BATTERY RECHARGEABLE SEALED 6T (everyspec.com)
MIL-STD 1275E, Compliant Vehicle Charging System. MIL-STD-1275 E INTERFACE CHARACTERISTICS 28 VOLT DC (everyspec.com)
MIL-PRF-32143B, BATTERIES, STORAGE: AUTOMOTIVE, VALVE REGULATED LEAD ACID (VRLA). http://www.everyspec.com/MIL-PRF/MIL-PRF-030000-79999/download.php?spec=MIL-PRF-32143B.037624.PDF
SAE J2464_200911, Hazard Severity Level (R) Electric and Hybrid Electric Vehicle Rechargeable Energy Storage System (RESS) Safety and Abuse Testing. f SAE International, November 6, 2009. https://www.sae.org/standards/content/j2464_200911/
NAVSEA INSTRUCTION 9310.1C, Naval Lithium Battery Safety Program. https://nps.edu/documents/111291366/111353854/NAVSEAINST+9310+1C+08.12.15.pdf/0f5b8c13-b5d1-4f28-b9aa-cf607a6ac1f6?t=1450394616000
SG270-BV-SAF-010, High-Energy Storage System Safety Manual. http://everyspec.com/USN/NAVSEA/SG270-BV-SAF-010_27APR2011_50446/

KEYWORDS: Battery; 6T; Lithium; Zero-volt; Rapid Charging; Vehicle; Safety

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Ground / Sea Vehicles

OBJECTIVE: Develop an integrated, compact, prime engine-driven high power generation system for the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) that will support both onboard and export electrical power capabilities while fitting within the confines of the chassis to meet expected power demands and allow for future mission growth.

DESCRIPTION: The JLTV is currently capable of generating between 12.8-14.6 kW of electrical power and while this capability allows for future vehicle system growth, it is insufficient to support future systems. Currently the system is limited by the onboard power capability of the JLTV, forcing us to either accept a reduced capability or carry an additional standalone generator. These approaches unnecessarily restrict capability and/or complicate the mission by reducing mobility, fuel efficiency, reliability, and cargo capacity. Vehicle integrated power generation systems will be needed to power future Missile and Air Defense systems, Counter Unmanned Arial Systems (C-UAS), and Command and Control (C2) systems without burdening the mission with standalone generators.

The system requirements are:

• Integrated electrical power generation system kit driven by the existing JLTV General

Motors Duramax 6.6L Turbodiesel V-8 engine

• Power output of 50 kW Threshold (T); 70 kW Objective (O), at 28 volts direct current (VDC) while stationary and on the move

• Stationary power output shall not require the engine to exceed tactical idle (1800 RPM)

• Compatible with 28-VDC tactical electrical systems and 14-VDC vehicle electrical systems

• Physical size of generator no larger than 11”H x 11”W x 16”D

• Physical weight of export power system less than 225 lbs.

• Operate in hot and cold mission environments between -40°C to 52°C

• Operate in a JLTV environment to include: Primary Roads, Secondary Roads, Trails and Off-Road / Cross-Country.

• Electrical component and connections shall comply with MIL-STD-810H where appropriate and have an ingress protection rating of IP67 or higher in accordance with American National Standards Institute (ANSI) International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 60529-2004

• Initial quantities for these systems is approximately 66, but could be higher if other Marine Corps platforms and other services decide to use this capability.

• Quantities will also depend on the cost of the conversion kit estimated to be between $50K and $75K.

PHASE I: Develop concept(s) for a generator technology and its supporting control equipment that can meet the system requirements in the Description. Demonstrate the feasibility of the concept(s) in meeting Marine Corps needs. Establish that the concepts can be developed into a useful product for the Marine Corps. Feasibility will be established by material testing and/or analytical modeling, as appropriate. Provide a Phase II development plan with performance goals and key technical milestones, and that addresses technical risk reduction.

PHASE II: Develop a full-scale prototype for evaluation. Evaluate the prototype through bench or lab testing to determine its capability in meeting the performance goals defined in the Phase II development plan and the Marine Corps requirement for the integrated power generation system. System performance shall be demonstrated through prototype evaluation and modeling or analytical methods over the required range of parameters including numerous deployment cycles. Evaluate the results of the demonstration and refine the design as necessary. Conduct on-vehicle testing in a relevant environment. Evaluate and compare the results to Marine Corps requirements. Prepare a Phase III development plan to transition the technology for Marine Corps use.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Provide support to the Marine Corps in transitioning the technology for Marine Corps use. Refine a power generation system for further evaluation and determine its effectiveness in an operationally relevant environment. Support the Marine Corps test and evaluation program to qualify the system for Marine Corps use.

Commercial applications include law enforcement vehicles, search and rescue vehicles, tractor trailers, and general automotive platforms to provide integrated power capability and reduction of both weight and space claim, supporting a more demanding future mobile power environment.

REFERENCES:

“MIL-STD-1275E Characteristics of 28 Volt DC Input Power to Utilization Equipment in Military Vehicles.” U.S. Army Tank automotive and Armaments Command, March 22, 2013. https://quicksearch.dla.mil/qsDocDetails.aspx?ident_number=36186
“MIL-STD-1332B Tactical, Prime. Precise, and Utility Terminologies For Classification of the DoD Mobile Electric Power Engine Generator Set Family”. Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Naval Construction Battalion Center, March 13, 1973. https://quicksearch.dla.mil/qsDocDetails.aspx?ident_number=36687
“MIL-STD-705D Mobile Electric Power Systems”. Communications Electronics Research Development Engineering Center (CERDEC) Product Realization Directorate (PRD), November 22, 2016. https://quicksearch.dla.mil/qsDocDetails.aspx?ident_number=35902
“ANSI/IEC 60529-2004 Degrees of Protection Provided by Enclosures (IP Code)”. https://www.nema.org/Standards/ComplimentaryDocuments/ANSI-IEC-60529.pdf

KEYWORDS: Tactical Vehicle; Power Generation; Integration; Joint Light Tactical Vehicle; JLTV; Exportable Power; Onboard Power

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Autonomy; General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Battlespace Environments;Electronics; Sensors

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop an optical celestial system (CNS) to provide position and timing updates to an inertial navigation system on a Long Range Unmanned Surface Vessel (LRUSV) during day and night.

DESCRIPTION: The LRUSV is a 40-foot autonomous boat designed to operate at ranges up to 1,000 nautical miles and launch loitering munitions to engage enemy targets afloat and ashore. The LRUSV must maintain accurate knowledge of position and time for navigation. During hostilities, reliance on GPS is ill advised as GPS can be degraded, denied, or spoofed. The size of the LRUSV will not permit the use of a purely Inertial Navigation System (INS) and therefore the INS will require periodic updates. Use of active sensors can disclose the vessel’s location.

Celestial Navigation (CELNAV) is a technique which has been around for hundreds of years. Traditional CELNAV does not provide the accuracy required for LRUSV’s mission. Recently, the U.S. Navy demonstrated that optically tracking satellites, combined with CELNAV, provides a high accuracy system which functions both day and night. However, that system’s size is far too great for LRUSVs.

A CNS will provide position updates to the LRUSV’s INS as available. It will function in Wilbur Marks Sea State 3 conditions, and function day and night. It will provide an accurate estimate of position errors and operate without any user input. It is desired that the CNS also provide time updates to the INS. The CNS does not have a firm size requirement; however the CNS must be smaller than the Navy’s ACNS which is 1 cubic meter topside plus a 5U computer rack.

The CNS is not required to optically track satellites in addition to celestial objects; candidate CNSs without this ability will be considered. Optically tracking satellites to provide improved accuracy when combined with celestial measurements is permitted. The CNS will be purely passive. The use of satellite RF signals to determine position is not permitted for this system.

While the CNS is not expected to provide position and time updates in all weather conditions; the use of infrared imagers, expanding the field of view, and other methods can increase system availability.

PHASE I: Develop concepts for the CNS, which includes models permitting system trades to be evaluated by the program office. The system trades include accuracy and availability (due to cloud cover) as well as size, weight, power, and cost. Position accuracy of less than 100 meters is desired.

Demonstrate the feasibility of the concepts in meeting Marine Corps needs. Establish that the concepts can be developed into a useful product for the Marine Corps. Feasibility will be established by material testing and analytical modeling, as appropriate. Provide a Phase II development plan with performance goals and key technical milestones, and that addresses technical risk reduction.

PHASE II: Develop a scaled prototype. The prototype will be evaluated to determine its capability in meeting the performance goals defined in the Phase II development plan and the Marine Corps requirements for the CNS. System performance will be demonstrated through prototype evaluation and modeling or analytical methods over the required range of parameters, including numerous deployment cycles. Refine the prototype, based on evaluation results, into an initial design that will meet Marine Corps requirements. Prepare a Phase III development plan to transition the technology to Marine Corps use.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Support the Marine Corps in transitioning the technology for Marine Corps use. Develop the CNS for evaluation to determine its effectiveness in an operationally relevant environment. Support the Marine Corps for test and validation to certify and qualify the system for Marine Corps use.

The potential for commercial and dual-use is significant. Improved CELNAV provides a backup to GPS and other Global Navigation Satellite Systems. CELNAV, which is small enough for a 40-foot vessel, is applicable to many other manned or unmanned vehicles, such as larger sea vessels, aircraft, and ground vehicles. The CNS can be utilized by law enforcement to maintain UAV surveillance if GPS is jammed.

REFERENCES:

United States Government Accountability Report to the Committee on Armed Services, U.S. Senate, May 2021 “Technology Assessment – Defense Navigation Capabilities.” https://www.gao.gov/assets/gao-21-320sp.pdf
Kaplan, G. H.: "Angles-Only Navigation: Position and Velocity Solution from Absolute Triangulation", Navigation, Vol. 58, No. 3,2011, pp. 187-201. https://gkaplan.us/content/nav_by_angles_ION_v5.pdf

KEYWORDS: Celestial Navigation; Satellite Tracking; Inertial Navigation; Autonomy; Long Range Unmanned Surface Vehicle; LRUSV

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials / Processes;Sensors

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop a low cost and high yield manufacturing method to fabricate textured piezo-ceramics for low frequency and high power underwater projector applications.

DESCRIPTION: Recent development of lead based piezoelectric textured ceramics, which have electromechanical properties between those of conventional PZT and relaxor crystals, has shown promise of improving acoustic transducer performance, relative to Navy Type III PZT. These materials have a high texture fraction (> 98%), a high d33 (> 600), and a loss factor of less than 10-2. The unique properties of textured ceramics have made it a material candidate for several Navy compact sonar systems, such as A-size sonobuoys. Given that sonobuoys are expendable sensors that require low per unit cost and high rates of production, it is in the Navy’s best interest that the cost of manufacturing textured ceramics is comparable (< 2X) to that of traditional PZT. This SBIR topic aims to support the emerging innovations in ceramics manufacturing with the potential to result in a high rate and high yield textured piezoelectric ceramics production line with a per unit cost comparable to traditional ceramics manufacturing.

PHASE I: Demonstrate with models, simulations, analyses or laboratory test results the viability of developing, through innovations in manufacturing processes, a 2X improvement in expected material yield for PZT ceramic material. The selected materials must be suitable for use in systems that use Navy Type III lead zirconate titanate. The improvement in expected yield should be measured relative to the vendor's current expected yields in production quantities. Develop a Phase II plan for implementing and demonstrating the proposed innovations into a prototype production system.

PHASE II: Develop the proposed prototype and demonstrate its viability for laboratory scale small batch production. Develop a plan for implementing the method at pilot scale production and demonstrating scalability from laboratory/benchtop results.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Successful development of this innovation is expected to increase incorporation of textured ceramic materials into Navy and commercial applications, such as sonar systems and medical devices, requiring high output or broadband piezoelectric devices.

REFERENCES:

Moriana, Alain D. and Zhang, Shujun. "Lead-free textured piezoceramics using tape casting: A review." Journal of Materiomics, Volume 4, Issue 4, December 2018, pp. 277-303. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352847818300984
Levassort, Franck;Pham Thi, Mai; Hemery, Henry; Marechal, Pierre; Tran-Huu-Hue, Louis-Pascal and Lethiecq, Marc. "Piezoelectric textured ceramics: Effective properties and application to ultrasonic transducers." Ultrasonics, Volume 44 Supplement, December 2006, pp.e621-e626. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16782147/
“Textured Ceramics: From Lab Experiments To A Viable Technology.” (Original article: “Texture-engineered ceramics – Property enhancements through crystallographic tailoring” DOI:10.1557/jmr.2017.207) Penn State Materials Research Institute Focus On Materials. https://www.mri.psu.edu/mri/newspubs/focus-materials/advanced-manufacturing/textured-ceramics-lab-experiments-viable
Walton, Rebecca L.; Kupp,Elizabeth R. and Messing, Gary L. "Additive manufacturing of textured ceramics: A review." Journal of Materials Research, Volume 36, 2021, pp.3591–3606. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1557/s43578-021-00283-6

KEYWORDS: piezoelectric; textured ceramic; transduction; affordable; PZT; acoustic projector; SONAR

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Networked C3

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics; Sensors

OBJECTIVE: Design, construct, and test a high-gain 1.5-35 MHz transmit/receive antenna to be utilized on small, low free-board maritime craft.

DESCRIPTION: Traditional High Frequency (HF) antennas are physically large and generally instantaneously single-banded for low Voltage Standing Wave Ratios (VSWR) in order to match requisite operating frequencies. For small maritime crafts such as an unmanned surface vehicle operating at or slightly below the waterline, a large tall antenna is unfeasible due to the craft's small available footprint and a traditional monopole antenna’s high center of mass would affect the craft's stability. Vertical incidence ionospheric measurements are obtained with horizontal dipole antennas. These antennas are horizontally polarized and must be instantaneously wideband supporting VSWR below 1.5:1 from 5-20MHz and better than 2:1 from 3-35MHz. Active loop antennas can provide sufficient receive signal gain but inherently become limited in their ability to transmit energy at high power due to the tuning circuitry.

PHASE I: Design and develop a concept for a lightweight low center of mass maritime antenna that achieves the technical goals in the Description. Prepare a Phase II plan.

PHASE II: Construct a HF antenna prototype. Test the prototype for a multi-week long duration in a maritime environment across the HF spectrum to assess performance of the system.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Transition the system via a maritime platform integration of the antenna for HF communications. The commercial sector uses HF communications as a back-up for SATCOM so this antenna could support those applications in shipboard environments.

REFERENCES:

Ignatenko, M.; Filipovic, S.D. On the Design of Vehicular Electrically Small Antennas for NVIS Communications. IEEE Trans. Antennas Propag. 2016, 64, 2136–2145. https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/7442093
S. R. Best and J. M. McGinthy, "A comparison of electrically small HF antennas," 2005 IEEE Antennas and Propagation Society International Symposium, 2005, pp. 37-40 vol. 1B, doi: 10.1109/APS.2005.1551474.
R. F. M. D. Castillo, R. Ma and N. Behdad, "Platform-Based, Electrically-Small HF Antenna With Switchable Directional Radiation Patterns," in IEEE Transactions on Antennas and Propagation, vol. 69, no. 8, pp. 4370-4379, Aug. 2021, doi: 10.1109/TAP.2021.3060013.
N. Nikkhah and B. Zakeri, "Efficient design and implement an electrically small HF antenna," 2017 IEEE 4th International Conference on Knowledge-Based Engineering and Innovation (KBEI), 2017, pp. 0001-0004, doi: 10.1109/KBEI.2017.8324862.

KEYWORDS: antenna; high frequency; maritime

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: 5G; Microelectronics;Networked C3

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics; Information Systems; Sensors

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop a Situational Awareness (SA) system that combines all classes of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) digital processors and record capability.

DESCRIPTION: SA systems strongly need the ability to quickly sense and adapt their priorities to changes in the battle space environment which are expected to evolve much more quickly in the future than in the past. Both the mix of signals present and the details of the waveforms utilized are expected to change. Both because understanding new signals is more processor intense than standard signals and cost pressures favor minimal processing power, it is critical to optimize processor utility if the user is not to be surprised by unrecognized threats. This SBIR topic focuses on the design of the processing control system. It assumes that all 3 types of COTS Digital Signal Processing (DSP) modules will be present and that the GOTS processing modules will have different computational efficiencies and latencies on each kind of hardware. Independent of the system’s size scale and hardware (HW) blend, a facile way of altering the allocation of processing resources among the different signals of interest (SOI) as the situation evolves is needed. In particular, the Navy seeks development of a cost function for use in AI-based system control algorithms which reflects both the effectiveness of a particular processor in addressing a specific class of SOI and the current importance of that SOI to the outcome of the battle. The latency and energy costs of changing the HW class used needs to be included and minimized wherever possible. Moreover, within every processing module for each class of SOI, the ability to respond to an interrupt signal and reconfigure its processing for a new SOI is essential. A way to quantify each module’s degree of completion of a given processing task and alternatives to simple dropping all partially completed results are desirable to invent.

Proposals should include tasks to Architect and demonstrate a Situational Awareness system which combines all classes of COTS digital processors and record capability. Include branching routing and fan-out that is conditional and based on the content of signal data, interrupt driven partial reconfiguration (alteration of the algorithmic instructions as well as data), and during operation updates to signal processing parameters. Develop one or more cost functions for the optimization of the realized processor loading that incorporates the operational priority of each class of signal being worked, the degree of completion of processing likely achieved by a given allocation of processor resources, and a measure of the operational cost of all the signals and tasks ignored for lack of sufficient system processing capacity.

The planned system should in all cases be compatible with scaling to handle 1,000 simultaneous signals received by a multi-bit 20 GHz Nyquist band receiver front end.

• At the threshold level of performance and in actually planned demonstrations, focus on a system limited in total power to 5 KW and constrained to a processor volume of 18x18x26 inches. If active cooling fits within the energy budget, it may be considered.

• At the objective level of performance, design a 100 KW system and define all alterations necessary to complete the processing if 50% of the information comes from the partially digested results delivered from off-board systems (versus response to new real time information).

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by DoD 5220.22-M, National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) formerly Defense Security Service (DSS). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances. This will allow contractor personnel to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and ONR in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material IAW DoD 5220.22-M during the advanced phases of this contract.

PHASE I: During the base period, elaborate the proposed architectural structure into a notional 3 class of processor system design at the threshold level of complexity and develop the requested adaptive performance-based cost function for it. Determine a strategy for handling reassignment of a SOI between the HW classes. Determine technical risks. If the Phase I option is exercised, perform validation studies of the modules designed for scaling system capacity on the proposed example set of signals. Prepare and provide a Phase II plan.

PHASE II: Develop and demonstrate a prototype product threshold scale adaptive processing system during the base award. Develop a plan for an objective scale system. Retire one or more technical risk items. If the Phase II option is exercised, demonstrate the scale system the cost-share sponsor wants to realize and experimentally test.

It is probable that the work under this effort will be classified under Phase II (see Description section for details).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Perform field validation of the delivered hardware. Test its performance advantages. The cost function could be used to design optimal processors for specific signal systems.

REFERENCES:

Garg, Vijay K. “Chapter 23 - Fourth Generation Systems and New Wireless Technologies.” Wireless Communications & Networking, 2007. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780123735805500570
“What is Software Defined Radio.” https://www.wirelessinnovation.org/assets/documents/SoftwareDefinedRadio.pdf
“FPGAs for DSP and Software-Defined Radio.” UCLA Extension, Engineering Short Courses. https://shortcourses.uclaextension.edu/881-229a
Ferguson, John D.; Witkowski, Peter; Kirschner, William and Bryant, Daniel. “Deepwave Digital: AI Enabled GPU Receiver for a Critical 5G Sensor.” Nvidia Corporation and Deepwave Digital. https://developer.nvidia.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/NVIDIA_Blog_v2.pdf

KEYWORDS: Field Programmable Gate Arrays; Graphical Processing Units; central processing units; rates for data loading; energy efficiency of processing; processing latency; cost functions in Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning; router architectures

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platforms; Materials / Processes; Weapons

OBJECTIVE: Develop methods to produce accurate riblet profiles in outer mold line (OML) surfaces that yield significant drag savings (> 5%), require little or no maintenance or cleaning, are inexpensive to apply or to include in production or normal maintenance, and achieve long useful life (> 5 years), yielding fuel cost savings and extended range for USN aircraft.

DESCRIPTION: Riblets are inverted V-shaped grooves that have been proven to reduce viscous (friction) drag approximately 5 to 8%. The inverted groove patterns have heights on the order of 50 microns with the width typically equal to or less than the height, and can be adjacent to one another or spaced laterally to maximize performance. Drag reduction is optimal when they are flow aligned, but performance is tolerant of misalignment up to 10 to 15 degrees. Moreover, riblet profiles may be constant or three-dimensional, with variable peak heights and/or groove direction.

Prior efforts to implement riblets on commercial aircraft focused mainly on plastic films and suffered from high initial cost and short lifetimes, thus negating economic benefits. This SBIR topic seeks development of a system for accurately producing a variety of riblet-like shapes into the OML of USN aircraft. It must be cost-effective so that the fuel saved due to drag reduction is not significantly offset by production cost. Likewise, the resulting OML should be maintainable and have long life (> 5 years). The prototype system can be a film but must be compatible with Navy requirements and durable in the maritime environment. A prototype may be developed that produces the final shape in the paint/topcoat. This can be done with photo-curable paint or rapid curing of shaped paint; alternate means of production are encouraged. Compatibility with Navy topcoat requirements must be considered.

Drag-reduction performance is sensitive to geometric features of the riblets. Height and spacing within 10% of the desired design are sufficient, but height and spacing should not vary rapidly in the streamwise direction from design specifications. The peak of the profile must be sharp. Radius values should not exceed 5% of the riblet height. The system should allow production of the riblet shapes in the local flow direction when the aircraft is flying at best range, cruise conditions. This could be accomplished through smooth changes in the riblet direction to match known or predicted local flow direction or step changes, so long as the profile alignment can be maintained with the nominal flow direction within 10 degrees.

PHASE I: Define and develop a concept for a system to produce riblet shapes in the OML of USN aircraft that can meet the performance requirements listed in the Description. Perform high level modeling that demonstrates the feasibility of the manufacturing concept and clearly defines a path to meeting the requirements outlined in the Description. Based on the modeling results or initial prototype testing, develop plans for a Phase II prototype that is expected to meet the requirements.

PHASE II: Produce prototype hardware based on experiments or modeling results and initial plans created in Phase I. Demonstrate production of riblets with the prototype system. Depending on technology maturity, perform riblet production demonstrations that could focus on both conventional and/or more complex three-dimensional geometries for improved performance. Production demonstration can be done on flat coupons as small as 12”x12”, though scale-up issues should be considered. Validate that the riblet geometry produced by the prototype system meets the requirements in the Description. This could be done with laser profilometer or scanning electron microscope measurements. Conduct low-speed wind tunnel testing or other low-cost drag testing. Measure the aerodynamic drag reduction achieved with the completed coupon or multiple coupons. Complete larger panel testing and subsequent wind tunnel testing at flight conditions that match those of Navy aircraft flight profiles, focused on cruise conditions. Develop plans for integration of the prototype into a system for creating large areas of riblets on surfaces with complex curvature. Integration issues should include consideration of aircraft surface normals that may have any direction relative to gravity (e.g., upper surfaces, lower surfaces, and vertical surfaces).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Integrate the prototype from into a system for application to large surface areas with complex curvature. Maximum aircraft surface area coverage is a goal, but 100% coverage is not expected or required. The prototype system should be designed to cover sufficient area of a Navy aircraft to produce measurable drag reduction. Deliver a prototype to the Navy for production of riblets to use on a flight test aircraft.

Reynolds number and Mach number at cruise conditions for Navy aircraft and commercial airliners are very similar. As an example, the P-8 Poseidon operated by the USN is a derivative of the Boeing 737 commercial airliner, which is one of the workhorses of the current commercial aviation fleets worldwide. Benefits to the commercial sector would be similar, if not greater, to the benefits to the Navy. Commercial and military ships may also benefit as riblets can be applied to reduce the friction drag produced by a ship moving through the water, though maintenance issues are expected to be more difficult and OML requirements will be significantly different.

REFERENCES:

Walsh, M., Lindemann, A., ‘Optimization and Application of Riblets for Turbulent Drag Reduction,’ AIAA Paper 84-0347, 1984.
Walsh, M., ‘Riblets for aircraft skin-friction reduction,’ NASA Internal Report 1980005573, 1986.
Walsh, M., Sellers, W.L., McGinley, C.B., ‘Riblet drag at flight conditions,’ Journal of Aircraft, pp. 570-575, 1989.
Bechert, D.W., Bruse, M., Hage, W., Van Der Hoeven, J.G.T., ‘Experiments on drag-reducing surfaces and their optimization with an adjustable geometry,’ Journal of Fluid Mechanics, Vol. 338, pp. 59-87, 1997.
Stenzel, V., Wilke, Y., Hage, W., Drag-reducing paints for the reduction of fuel consumption in aviation and shipping,’ Progress in Organic Coatings, Vol. 70, No. 4, April 2011.
McClure, P.D., Smith, B.R., Baker W., Yagle, P., ‘Design and Testing of Conventional Riblets and 3-D Riblets with Streamwise Variable Height,’ AIAA Paper 2017-0048, 2017.
Bilinsky, H.C., ‘Riblet Microfabrication Method for Drag Reduction,’ AIAA Paper 2017-0047, 2017.
MIL-PRF-85285E, Performance Specification: Coating: Polyurethane, Aircraft, and Support Equipment, 12 January 2012.

KEYWORDS: riblets; drag reduction; photo-curable paint; photo-curable film; increased range; tactical aircraft

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Ground / Sea Vehicles

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop a rugged, quiet, transom- or deck-mounted, retractable electric propulsion system for high-speed planing craft such as the 11m Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIB) or Special Operations Craft – Riverine (SOCR).

DESCRIPTION: Recent design studies provide operational and technical justification for the performance parameters listed in this Description for the quiet APU. Proposers will be expected to minimize the vibro-acoustic source level of all components of the propulsion system; however, specific (classified) performance parameters will not be provided. ONR will support acoustic testing of an outfitted RHIB and/or SOCR under a separate R&D program. The test platform (RHIB and/or SOCR) will be provided by the Government.

• The APU system shall provide a minimum thrust at varying speeds as indicated below:

Speed (kts) 3.5 4.0 4.5 5.0 5.5

Thrust (lb) 113 338 553 725 890

• The propeller/impeller shall be designed to minimize underwater acoustic noise and eliminate cavitation.

• The propeller shall provide a minimum Overall Propulsive Coefficient (OPC) of approximately 0.55

• Rim or Hub Driven Thruster/waterjet, transom- or deck-mounted with a quiet, automated deployment/retraction mechanism with draft not exceeding that of existing fixed propulsor.

• The system will utilize Open-Source Control System Code capable of integration into vessel’s power management system and existing propulsion control system including steering.

• Permanent magnet motor and controller with drive frequency and primary harmonics greater than 50 kHz.

• The controller shall be quiet and will be engineered and designed for use in bi-directional applications (AC to DC and DC to AC).

• A portable electrical storage system (ESS) will be provided by the proposer for temporary installation on the target platform for the purpose of all performance trials and should have the capacity to propel the platform at 5.5 kts for approximately 4 hours on a single charge.

• The system shall be acceptable for use in various harsh marine environments, and be capable of continuous operation in 0-45°C seawater.

• The system will be capable of handling dynamic shock loads frequently experienced by small craft during operation (6.0-7.0 G’s depending on vessel operation parameters).

• The system shall be constructed from materials acceptable and proven for use in marine/offshore applications using galvanically compatible materials to minimize corrosion to ABS standards.

• The APU system must be designed to minimize weight and space because deck and transom space as well as weight margins on target platforms are extremely limited.

• All seals and bearings will be capable of operating without deleterious effects in bodies of water with high levels of turbidity, silt, and sand.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by DoD 5220.22-M, National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence Security Agency (DCSA). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances, in order to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and ONR in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material IAW DoD 5220.22-M during the advanced phases of this contract.

PHASE I: Demonstrate the capability to design, build, and assess an advanced propulsion system through a parametric study on propulsion efficiency, cavitation performance, materials/weight, and vibration for every component in the drive train from controller to prop. Employ state-of-the-art design and performance analysis tools such as Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) tools, FEM, etc. but may also rely on historical performance databases in conjunction with the computational efforts for all components under consideration by the performers. Demonstrate capability through validation of their computational/empirical design and analyses by comparing with well-documented experimental data. Prepare a Phase II plan.

PHASE II: Revise and refine the system designs. Fabricate a proof-of-concept demonstrator (vendor-designed power and drive train) to be installed and tested on either a SOCR or 11mRHIB (proposer choice). (Note: U.S. Navy personnel will participate in these tests so that multiple Phase II systems can be evaluated.) Test for thrust, speed, endurance vs payload, and acoustic trials in protected (SS0) conditions on a test platform provided by ONR during the demonstration period. Acoustic trial data will be classified as they will be performed on Navy platforms.

It is probable that the work under this effort will be classified under Phase II (see Description section for details).

Commercial Impact: It is highly probable that a rugged deployable electric propulsion system would find a strong market in the commercial and sport fishing sectors where current “trolling motors” are cumbersome to attach and deploy, and are easily damaged in harsh physical environments. In addition, for pleasure craft, the additional sea keeping control achievable with auxiliary electric drive would make harbor navigation and docking much safer, and quieter. Many boat makers are already experimenting with related technologies.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Further refine, re-fabricate, and demonstrate the system under conditions exceeding those in Phase II. Phase III testing will include higher sea-state performance, vibro/acoustic measurements, and impact/debris testing. If successful, the technology vendor could add their product to the GSA Federal Supply Schedule as Militarized-Off-The-Shelf (MOTS) technology.

REFERENCES:

https://www.onr.navy.mil/en/Science-Technology/Departments/Code-33/All-Programs/331-advanced-naval-platforms/unmanned-surface-vehicle
https://www.maritimepropulsion.com/news/propulsion/hybrid-drives

KEYWORDS: Electric propulsion; cavitation; vibration; efficiency; motor; controller; acoustic; Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat; 11m RHIB; Special Operations Craft – Riverine; SOC-R

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: General Warfighting Requirements (GWR);Hypersonics

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials / Processes;Sensors; Weapons

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop a process to manufacture Calcium Lanthanum Sulfide (CLS) powder suitable to provide a starting material for producing optical ceramics.

DESCRIPTION: Since the 1970’s sulfides of the general formula AB2S4 have been considered as possible optical materials. Work in the 1980’s done in the United States and Great Britain specifically considered applications for CaLa2S4 as an infrared transparent aperture material [Ref 1]. At that time, the difficulty that has inhibited the development of CLS as an optical ceramic material was stated as: “Reproducibility of the product remains a problem, which is thought to be a result of variability of the powder. However, measurable properties of the powder which can be used to predict if a particular batch of powder will give a good ceramic piece have been impossible to identify.” [Ref 2]

Current interest in CLS is motivated by the desire to (a) revisit basic research investigations into its high temperature optical and mechanical properties [Ref 3], and (b) to perform applied research into its application as a material for multi-band optical components with complementary chromatic dispersions [Ref 4]. The literature has a number of reported synthetic processes, but typically these are at a TRL2/MRL2 laboratory proof of concept level. It is the goal of this SBIR topic to mature a CLS optical ceramic powder-manufacturing process to TRL4/MRL4. This level of maturity should encompass providing both highly consistent CLS powder for an Acquisition Program of Record and providing the capability for tuning the CLS powder for basic research [Refs 5, 6].

The CLS powder-manufacturing process must lead to consistent powder properties across multiple lots of powder delivered, with well-understood powder characterization metrics linked to optical and mechanical performance of fully dense coupons and optical component prototypes. The CLS powder-manufacturing process must also be tunable allowing for the controlled variation of powder stoichiometry and physical characteristics to permit the refinement of the optical and mechanical properties of fully dense coupons and component prototypes. The fabrication of fully dense coupons and component prototypes is outside the scope of this SBIR topic, but powder manufacturers shall work with third party fabricators to exchange technical information that will lead to an evaluation of the repeatability and tunability of delivered powder lots.

PHASE I: Develop and/or demonstrate method(s) for synthesizing high purity CLS powder that is suitable for densification to maximize optical performance. Develop powder characterization metrics and measurement procedures for attributes such as stoichiometric composition, particle size and morphology, rheological properties, etc. Demonstrate the relation between intended Ca:La stoichiometry and measured stoichiometry and any replacement of sulfur by oxygen. Demonstrate the repeatability of obtaining an intended stoichiometry. Collaborate with a third party participant who will produce fully dense optical coupons/parts from the synthesized powders. Deliver to the Government (1) an initial minimum 50g sample powder, at a date within the Phase I period of performance (PoP) as projected by the proposer and (2) a single lot of 500g powder at the end of the Phase I PoP. These powder deliveries will be used by the Government to support third party coupon fabrication and subsequent material characterization and testing. Participate in a kick-off meeting at the Central Florida Tech Grove in Orlando, Florida [Ref 7] and in regular monthly telecons, which could bring together one or more third parties in addition to the Government and could include other optical industry fabrication and finishing houses, optical system design and manufacturing companies, as well as university and Government lab participants. Schedule a meeting at the end of Phase I, to include a tour of the powder manufacturing facility. Deliver a rough order of magnitude cost estimate for a notional, but viable, scale-up plan of the process to (a) 5 kg/month and (b) 50 kg/month capacity, noting any capital equipment costs, monthly labor costs, and a quality control plan for key powder metrics that document the repeatability of powder properties. Prepare a Phase II plan.

PHASE II: Participate in a Phase II kick-off meeting at the Central Florida Tech Grove in Orlando, Florida [Ref 7] and participate in regular monthly telecons, which could bring together one or more third parties in addition to the Government. These meetings and telecons could include other optical industry fabrication and finishing houses, optical system design and manufacturing companies, as well as university and Government lab participants. Modify CLS powder attribute metrics to meet needs of third party coupon/part fabricator based on meeting/teleconference outcomes, including quantification of Ca:La stoichiometry and efforts to quantify oxygen content within the sulfide. Deliver to the Government two 500 g lots (with modified metrics if required) to demonstrate tunability of the process. Subsequently to demonstrate repeatability of process control, deliver to the Government four 500 g lots with consistent, agreed upon, powder attribute metrics, based on the prior two 500 g lots.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Potential dual use applications may include optical windows on infrared sensing equipment, supporting optical components for various infrared lasers on medical equipment. Could also lead to further miniaturization of forward-looking infrared cameras for manufacturing advancements. Material may also be considered as a durable replacement material for zinc sulfide.

In partnership with a commercial or Government program, tune the powder metric attributes and scale-up repeatable CLS optical ceramic powder production to support the manufacture of prototype and commercial optical components.

REFERENCES:

Saunders, Kenneth J.; and Tustison, Randal.W. “Process for Making an Optically Transmissive Body.” U.S. Patent 4,619,792, Jun. 3, 1983. http://patft.uspto.gov/netahtml/PTO/search-bool.html
Hills, Marian E. “Preparation, Properties, and Development of Calcium Lanthanum Sulfide as an 8- to 12 -micrometer Transmitting Ceramic.” NWC TP 7037, September 1989. https://apps.dtic.mil/dtic/tr/fulltext/u2/a220200.pdf
Koenig, J. R. "Thermal and Mechanical Properties of Calcium Lanthanum Sulfide” , Final Report to Office of Naval Research, Contract number NO014-83-K-0195, April, 1985. https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/pdfs/ADA160611.pdf
“Dual-Band Lens SWAP Reduction and Increased Optical Throughput with Calcium Lanthanum Sulphide (CLS).” Army SBIR Topic A20-050, 2020.1. https://www.sbir.gov/node/1654403
“DoD Manufacturing Readiness Level Deskbook – Aug 2015.” http://www.dodmrl.com/MRL_Deskbook_V2.4%20August_2015.pdf
“Technology Readiness Assessment Deskbook; Appendix C – July 2009.” https://apps.dtic.mil/dtic/tr/fulltext/u2/a554900.pdf
Central Florida Tech Grove https://www.centralfloridatechgrove.org/

KEYWORDS: optical material; ceramic; powder; Long Wavelength Infrared; LWIR; Calcium Lanthanum Sulfide; CLS; high temperature material

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Artificial Intelligence (AI)/Machine Learning (ML)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials / Processes

OBJECTIVE: Develop Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML) based software tools to help identify additive manufacturing (AM) defects from in-situ sensor-based data. Capture sufficient process control and monitoring data in real-time to later on, through AI/ML analysis, help improve the reliability, speed, and cost of post processing inspections by knowing where and what to look for ahead of time.

DESCRIPTION: There is continued advancement in the use of in-situ sensing in metal AM processes. This includes the use of in-situ sensor data to help develop stable AM process windows and more recently the use of sensors to help control the AM process through feed forward control or other real-time adaptive control methodologies. Advanced sensing capabilities for metal AM includes cameras and sensor arrays with increased temporal and spatial resolution, and cameras with adaptable fields of view and broader thermal sensing range. Advances are taking place not just in the specification of the sensor arrays used, but also on the types of sensing modalities incorporated into the AM process chamber. Aside from the more traditional infrared (IR) and visual infrared (VIS) cameras mentioned previously, other sensor types include optical emission spectrometers, acoustic and vibration spectral sensors, laser profilometers, and others. Additionally, sensors within the AM system may include power monitoring, galvo locations, oxygen monitoring, etc.

Despite all the progress achieved in process monitoring and control to improve the quality of metal AM parts, very little progress has been accomplished in intelligently fusing all the data collected during the AM process to help reduce the cost and increase the reliability of post-fabrication nondestructive evaluation (NDE) techniques. In particular, X-Ray Tomography remains the gold standard for AM part inspections, though it can be costly and ill-suited for large components. This SBIR topic explores the use of AI/ML tools to help identify the location and type of potential defects (with statistical margins of error and confidence intervals). Even though the objective of the topic is to use existing process monitoring and control data to develop AI/ML algorithms, the Navy is open to new and creative hardware enhancements that can improve the reliability of AI/ML predictions. Enhancements such as replacing a sensor by an array of sensors, adding a new sensing modality or advanced data processing hardware card.

PHASE I: Define, design, and develop the AI/ML methodology for defect type identification and localization (with statistical bounds). Identify the metal powder bed fusion system that the proposer plans to upgrade with AI/ML tools. Provide a list of all the sensors and control parameters (including ones already available in the system and additional ones) to fuse via the AI/ML framework. This will include the rationale for the selections \. Indicate if there will be modification(s) or addition(s) of new sensing modalities/other hardware for added defect identification reliability. As part of the Phase I AI/ML algorithm development effort, simple sample coupons with embedded defects (e.g., porosity, hot cracking, keyholing, etc.) should be fabricated. Define the ground truth methodology to be used (i.e., coupon sectioning, x-ray tomography) for AI/ML training purposes. Provide a Phase II plan.

PHASE II: Focus on increased validation of AI/ML tools with aggregated large data sets from multiple sensors. This may also include aspects of transfer learning. Validation and comparison to NDE/I techniques will also be emphasized for Phase II. Phase II will also focus on key performance property impacts based on defect population.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Validate AI/ML tools for a different metal alloy to test AI/ML tools. Engagement with an OEM is highly encouraged. Commercial applications of additive manufacturing can be found in a wide range of commercial sectors such as: aerospace, shipping, transportation, rail, automotive, medical, etc. This technology would be applicable to identifying defects in critical metallic applications across all the sectors.

REFERENCES:

Petrich, J.; Snow, Z.; Corbin, D. and Reutzel, E.W. “Multi-modal sensor fusion with machine learning for data-driven process monitoring for additive manufacturing.” - Additive Manufacturing, Volume 48, Part B, December 2021, 102364. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2214860421005182
Qi, X.; Chen, G.; Li, Y.; Cheng, X. and Li, C. “Applying neural-network-based machine learning to additive manufacturing: current applications, challenges, and future perspectives.” Engineering, Volume 5, Issue 4, August 2019, pp/ 721-729. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2095809918307732
Westphal, Erick and Seitz, Hermann. “A machine learning method for defect detection and visualization in selective laser sintering based on convolutional neural networks.” Additive Manufacturing, Volume 41, May 2021, 101965. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2214860421001305

KEYWORDS: additive manufacturing; AM; artificial intelligence/machine learning; AI/ML; nondestructive evaluation; defects; discontinuities

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Artificial Intelligence (AI)/Machine Learning (ML); Cybersecurity; Networked C3

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Battlespace Environments;Information Systems; Sensors

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop a system of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven multi-attribute metadata analytic tool sets that can be fully integrated with proper associative databases to monitor and track developing activities/signals in all operational domains. The system will utilize available multi-INT indicators and observables to isolate persistent threats including those engaged in undesired reconnaissance activities. The multi-INT information sphere encompasses all physical domains (undersea, surface, air, space, land) as well as cyber. Associative databases serve as the living ground truth repository of wide-ranging information. This AI framework serves as a unifying platform among disparate surveillance sources. It is a persistent AI-driven evidentiary metadata rendition of activities, context, and content. Not just a snapshot of events but the active process of mining, fusing, and expressive tagging of multimodal – multidomain sensory contents (acoustics, thermal, full motion video, wide area motion imagery, etc.), including social media contents as evidence into a collaborative multi-level knowledge database. The multi-level metadata control measures and access points ensure content quality, validity, reliability, and accuracy, including: origination source (temporal, geospatial, operator, modalities); sensor types; signal characteristics (including format, encoding, files size, duration); scene narration; content validity and attributes (raw or time-stamped modification by end user…); security and privacy restriction policy; and chain of custody. These control measures ensure trusted collaborative knowledge medium that can be searched, processed, annotated, linked to relevant disparate data sources, and shared amongst military and Intelligence Community (IC) analysts, federal and local law enforcement, and other Government personnel in real-time.

DESCRIPTION: Analysts supporting naval missions develop actionable intelligence from an extensive array of data sources. National Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets such as Global Hawk and Predator have proven invaluable in multiple theaters of interest. These systems provide high resolution sensory content that has been used to detect adversarial activities, such as movement of fighters and weapons, implanting decoys and IEDs, or gathering of key leaders. Unfortunately, multimodal streaming contents are time consuming to analyze, cumbersome to annotate, and distribute for further review, analysis, or approval. For example, the large size of the video files encourages segmenting of the video data into small pieces containing highly valuable and sensitive information. When this is done, metadata links are broken, causing the loss of temporal- and geo-tracking – both of which are important for further refinement of intelligence and value evidentiary information in support of ongoing operations. Threat assessment efforts require a multi-disciplinary approach that can automatically ingest and process structured and unstructured data from an expanding array of sensors and information sources. Automated content tagging and multimodal sensor fusion are critical components of proactive threat assessment and course of action determination. This SBIR topic seeks development of novel AI metadata methods to automatically create, explicitly document, manage, control, and preserve time-critical sensory content for the development of actionable intelligence. Synchronization of different data types and formats will be an important component. Metadata promotes assessment of the captured behavioral indicators and observables of potentially threating activities. The multi-attribute metadata provides an aggregated array of chronicled indicators that brings into focus the likelihood of a specific entity or group being engaged in the identified hostile activity, as basis for concern. Analysts can then assess the gathered observables to justify additional ISR operations, precautionary defensive measures, or preemptive actions. This technology will be an essential building block for a seamless all-domain interactive offensive and defensive kill chain.

Weaknesses of current approaches: Metadata schemes vary based on mission objectives and operational domain. Lack of alignment and compatibility between the metadata schemes complicates the ability to share information and make systems interoperable for cross agency collaboration to mitigate future threats. For instance, metadata included in the video transport wrapper can vary from typical information about the video source and playback parameters to extensive information as detailed by the Motion Imagery Standards Board. Descriptive metadata consisting of geo-, time-, and other references may be directly overlaid onto the video image. While this is compact and avoids the challenge of synchronizing metadata to the video stream, it offers limited metadata content and occludes significant portions of the video image. Descriptive metadata, such as analyst annotations included in the transport wrapper, often trace events by noting the number of frames from the initial I-frame of the video file; however, this type of reference schema is easily broken when video is cut into smaller clips to be sent to other analysts. The goal is to improve efficiency and accuracy through automation.

Note 1: Work produced in Phase II may become classified. The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by DoD 5220.22-M, National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence Security Agency (DCSA). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances in order to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and ONR in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material IAW DoD 5220.22-M during the advanced phases of this contract.

Note 2: Phase I will be UNCLASSIFIED and classified data is not required. For test and evaluation, a contractor needs to define the ground truth for a scenario and develop a storyboard to serve as an overarching scenario to guide the test and evaluation of this SBIR technology in a realistic context. Supporting datasets must have acceptable real-world data quality and complexity for the case studies to be considered rich in content. For example, image/video dataset of at least 4000 collected images and frames for a case study is considered content-rich.

Note 3: Contractors must provide appropriate dataset release authorization for use in their case studies, tests, and demonstrations, and certify that there are no legal or privacy issues, limitations, or restrictions with using the proposed data for this SBIR project.

PHASE I: Determine technical feasibility, design, and prototype an AI-enabled multi-attribute metadata generation system, as detailed:

• Develop metadata attribute representation methods to express: operational coverage; organic domain features; anomalous entities, events, observations, and relations; and perceived intent relevant to aforementioned naval sensory domains.

• Motivate the design by three compelling scenarios for emerging situations supported by relevant datasets.

• Develop ontology framework for representing and annotating multimodal events and entity relationships.

• Develop machine learning, recognition, and reasoning schemes for metadata annotation to infer content, context, association, and activity by interpreting the body of variety behaviors attached to collected text, video, audio, image, document, diagram, etc. As a minimum, the following metadata information types are required: (a) organic content metadata representing various salient features and signatures captured from a scene when those features are combined as a feature vector can be used as input to machine learning system to form final metadata annotation; (b) content independent (tagged) metadata representing the originator, geospatial, temporal details, etc.; and (c) semantically descriptive metadata that describes the significance of the scene by applying machine learning along with ontology based techniques, for example, video frames and audio data can describe intention, depict the escalation of an event, reveal depth of emotions, or implication of the scene.

• Develop metadata synchronization methods for multi-sensory content types while maintaining temporal synchronization.

• Performance metrics (considering outcomes are dependent on the quality of datasets):

1. Analytic Completeness: – not just identifying and stopping hostile act but how it occurred by synthesizing the entire chain of events what would have happened had it not been stopped < 90%

2. Uniqueness: Signature attributes definable and retrievable (who, what, why, where, when) < 90%

3. Validity: Supporting evidence < 95%

4. Consistency: Updated metadata attribute from various sources that reinforce linkages < 90%

5. Accuracy: Overcoming noisy data < 90%

• Deliverables: Analytics, signal processing tools, models, T&E and demonstration results, final Phase I report, prepare a Phase II plan.

PHASE II: Conduct proof-of-concept and prototype development incorporating the recommended candidate technology from Phase I. Demonstrate the operational effectiveness based on the following criteria: (a) prioritized sensor alerts, (b) prioritized threat escalation, (c) measured severity of events, and (d) measure of analytic completeness – not just identifying and stopping a hostile act but identifying how it occurred by synthesizing the entire chain of events i.e., what would have happened had it not been stopped. Apply the prototype to the synchronization of dissimilar multimodal data streams in real time, with at least one of the sources to include high-definition video. Ensure that the prototype is compatible with a cloud-type architecture and presents a scalable solution. Test and demonstrate the improved capability based on the performance metrics detailed for Phase I with the following requirements: Analytic Completeness < 95%, Uniqueness < 95%, Validity < 98%, Consistency < 98%, and Accuracy < 98%. Develop a final report to include a detailed design of the system, and a plan for transition to the program of record in Phase-III. Deliverables: analytics, signal processing tools, models, prototypes, T&E and demonstration results, interface requirements, and final report.

Note 4: It is highly likely that the work, prototyping, test, simulation, and validation may become classified in Phase II (see Note 1 in the Description section for details). However, the proposal for Phase II will be UNCLASSIFIED.

Note 5: If the selected Phase II contractor does not have the required certification for classified work, ONR or the related DON Program Office will work with the contractor to facilitate certification of related personnel and facility.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Further develop the AI-driven multi-attribute metadata analytic tools to TRL-8 for integration with representative multi-INT naval data sources to demonstrate potential naval all-domain tactical preemptive measures expected in Indo-Pacific regions either into Minerva INP, the Maritime Tactical Command and Control, or MAGTF Command, Control, and Communications. Once validated, demonstrate dual use applications of this technology in civilian law enforcement and commercial security services.

REFERENCES:

Algur S.P. and Bhat P.; “Web Video Mining: Metadata Predictive Analysis using Classification Techniques”; International Journal of Information Technology and Computer Science, pp. 68-76, Feb. 2016.
Balasubramanian V., Doraisamy S. G., and Kanakarajan N. K., “A Multimodal Approach for Extracting Content Descriptive Metadata from Lecture Videos”; Journal of Intelligent Information Syst, vol. 46, pp. 121–145, 2015.
Gibbon D.C., Liu Z., Basso A. and Shahraray B.; “Automated Content Metadata Extraction Services Based on MPEG Standards”; The Computer Journal; Dec. 2012.
Rangaswamy S., Ghosh S., Jha S., and S. Ramalingam; “Metadata Extraction and Classification of YouTube Videos Using Sentiment Analysis”, Orlando: IEEE Intl. Carnahan Conf. on Security Technology, Oct. 2016.

KEYWORDS: Artificial Intelligence; Metadata; Machine Learning; Kill Chain; Intent; Geospatial; Temporal

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Human Systems; Information Systems

OBJECTIVE: Develop next-generation heads-up displays (HUDs) to provide training aids, operational tools, and situation awareness (SA) visualizations to improve the speed and quality of decision making by Marine Corps Ground Forces, specifically for close-air support (CAS) and call-for-fire (CFF).

DESCRIPTION: Ground forces must make rapid decisions in complex situations, such as requesting CAS, deconflicting airspace, and providing target information. In these situations, keeping heads-up and aware of the changing dynamics is critical. HUDs take advantage of augmented reality (AR) technologies to overlay information onto the battlefield and enhance SA. While HUD and AR systems have made progress in the past several years [Refs 1, 2], further innovation is required to develop systems for ground forces conducting CAS during daytime training and operations [Refs 3, 4]. Proposed solutions are sought to refine hardware and software requirements for Marine Corps use cases and deliver functional HUDs or HUD prototypes for next-generation AR HUD systems that can serve both as training aids and operational tools in CAS scenarios.

These systems must have maximum utility to Marines while maintaining survivability in a variety of complex environments. The display must be unobtrusive and mountable on existing Marine Corps helmet Night Vision Goggle (NVG) rails. The general device requirements are: (1) a low-cost (< $10,000) optical or video-see through HUD that is rugged (e.g., for outdoor use); (2) has a small form-factor; (3) is very low weight; (4) has ultra-low electronic power requirements; and (5) is capable of high-resolution operation. Specific device optical requirements include: (1) field-of-view (FOV) approaching 120 degrees width and 80 degrees height; (2) a blended, high-resolution 60 pixel/degree Field of View (FOV) across the foveated display area; and (3) a head-mounted display (HMD) with a refresh frame rate above 90 Hz. For requirements of form-factor size and weight, power requirements, and high-resolution operation (general device requirements 2-5), we are not identifying specific targets in this topic call. The solicitors expect performers to make trade-offs between the listed requirements and justify their decisions during Phase I. Priority should be given to higher resolution, lower latency, and smaller size and weight (in that order).

Proposals must detail how hardware and software systems will address physical ergonomics [Ref 5] and cognitive performance (i.e., situation awareness, decision making [Ref 6]) concerns for use in training and operations by Marine Corps Infantry. Proposals do not need to detail development of a complete AR system, but they must describe how they will investigate and evaluate their proposed hardware and software innovation. Development should be done with technologies that have little-to-no licensing fees for development or execution (e.g., Unity), and focus primarily on HUD systems, not AR-related technologies (e.g., tracking, object insertion, etc.). The training and operational use case of interest is Marine Corps CFF and CAS missions, which include challenging circumstances such as bright sunlight, uncertain geography, and translation between map coordinates and the real world.

PHASE I: Develop a concept for a low-cost (< $10,000), high-performance HUD to superimpose computer-generated information on an individual’s view of the real world. Demonstrate the feasibility of the selected concept (hardware/software HUD-centric system) to meet Marine Corps infantry needs through a set of specific Phase I deliverables.

Standard deliverables that are a part of every SBIR Phase I contract include: (1) kick-off brief; (2) progress reports; and (3) a final report. Additional deliverables include: (1) an initial prototype; (2) a computer aided design (CAD) mechanical design package showing the top-level device and all major sub-assemblies anticipated; and (3) trade-off design decisions and associated justification for system design and human factors considerations.

PHASE II: Develop at least two working proof-of-concept HUDs for the Marine Corps. Conduct critical design reviews. Demonstrate that initial capabilities are sufficient for existing AR training applications. Facilitate evaluation of the prototypes to determine their capability to meet Marine Corps needs and requirements for an augmented reality HUD.

Deliverables include: (1) a final bill-of-materials (BOM); (2) all CAD drawings, hardware schematics, software source code; and (3) at least two proof of concept devices for evaluation.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Support the Marine Corps in transitioning the HUD system. Support the Marine Corps with integrating the HUD into existing AR training devices. Assist with certifying and qualifying the HUD system for Marine Corps use. Assist in writing Marine Corps device user manual(s) and system specifications/materials. As appropriate, focus on scaling up manufacturing capabilities and commercialization plans. Specific examples of commercial markets that could use this technology include manufacturing, law enforcement, and other hands-on tasks in time-critical domains.

REFERENCES:

M. Sizintsev, A. Rajvanshi, H. -P. Chiu, K. Kaighn, S. Samarasekera and D. P. Snyder, "Multi-Sensor Fusion for Motion Estimation in Visually-Degraded Environments," 2019 IEEE International Symposium on Safety, Security, and Rescue Robotics (SSRR), 2019, pp. 7-14, doi: 10.1109/SSRR.2019.8848958.
Rozman, J. (2020). The Synthetic Training Environment. Spotlight SL, 20-6.
Schaffer, R., Cullen, S., Cerritelli, L., Kumar, R., Samarasekera, S., Sizintsev, M. Branzoi, V. (2015). Mobile augmented reality for force-on-force training. Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation and Education Conference Proceedings.
Samarasekera, S., Kumar, R., Zhu, Z., Branzoi, V., Vitovitch, N., Villamil, R., Garrity, P. (2014.) Live augmented reality-based weapon training for dismounts. Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation and Education Conference Proceedings.
Rebensky, S., Carroll, M., Bennett, W., & Hu, X. (2021). Impact of Heads-up Displays on Small Unmanned Aircraft System Operator Situation Awareness and Performance: A Simulated Study. International Journal of Human–Computer Interaction, 1-13
Wickens, C. D., & Alexander, A. L. (2009). Attentional tunneling and task management in synthetic vision displays. The International Journal of Aviation Psychology, 19(2), 182-199.

KEYWORDS: Augmented Reality; AR; Virtual Reality; VR; Heads-up-display; HUD; Training; Infantry; Close-Air Support; CAS; call-for-fire; CFF

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Biotechnology

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Biomedical; Human Systems; Materials / Processes

OBJECTIVE: Develop a next-generation underwater life-support system (rebreather) with improved oxygen supply and/or carbon dioxide removal.

DESCRIPTION: Open circuit self-contained underwater breathing apparatus (SCUBA) wastes much of the usable oxygen (O2) in divers’ bottled gas and produces bubbles that limit its use in covert operations. The closed circuit underwater breathing apparatus (CCR) extends dive times and supports covert operations by eliminating telltale bubbles. Carbon dioxide (CO2) scrubbers contribute much to the overall size and weight of rebreather rigs. Rebreather fatalities may result when divers exceed capacities of either scrubbers or oxygen bottles. Therefore, the Navy seeks new technologies that will improve rebreather safety and mission endurance by reducing the limitations and risks associated with present CO2 scrubbing materials and compressed oxygen gas. Due to size and power constraints, new chemical processes will be needed. Ideal features for the final product form factor would be modular, no larger than current rebreather components, low power requirements (not to exceed 2 kg Li-ion battery); and include appropriate sensors and control systems. System needs to produce oxygen and/or scrub CO2 at a rate to match metabolic rates of an active diver in missions lasting up to 10 hours. Note that a functional system must scrub CO2 effectively for the full duration of the mission, but oxygen production may be supplemented by bottled oxygen to meet full mission duration.

PHASE I: Develop a concept for a life-support breathing apparatus that improves oxygen supply and/or CO2 removal improved underwater life-support system (rebreather). Demonstrate feasibility through analysis and limited laboratory demonstrations. Provide energy estimates matched to human metabolic demands, energy source, cost of system, cost per dive, and reliability estimates, including lifetime expectancy and lifetime cost estimate. The required Phase I deliverables will include: 1) a research plan for the engineering the design of the life support system; 2) a preliminary prototype, either physical or virtual, capable of demonstrating capability of the design; and 3) test and evaluation plan including data collection guidelines and identification of proper controls. Important considerations should include ability to resist corrosion and fouling. Phase I will provide key information about the uses and limitations of the system and could include rapid prototyping and/or modeling and simulation.

PHASE II: Develop, demonstrate, and validate the life support system prototype based on the Phase I design concept. The system should be tested under expected operational environmental conditions (e.g. temperatures, pressures; potential contaminants. Ideal features for the final product form factor would be modular, no larger than current rebreather components, low power requirements (not to exceed 2 kg Li-ion battery); and include appropriate sensors and control systems.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Develop prototype into a functional system as agreed to by an appropriate sponsor. Operationally relevant conditions (e.g., greater depths and prolonged dives) may necessitate additional development. System would have value for commercial/recreational diving as well as potentially life support systems for underwater manned vehicles or facilities.

REFERENCES:

Fock AW. Analysis of recreational closed-circuit rebreather deaths 1998-2010. Diving Hyperb Med. 2013 Jun;43(2) 78-85. PMID: 23813461.
Selective production of oxygen from seawater by oxidic metallate catalysts. T. P. Keane and D. G. Nocera, ACS Omega 2019, 4, 12860–12864

KEYWORDS: Oxygen generation, electrochemistry, carbon dioxide scrubbin

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials / Processes; Sensors

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop a compact sensor capable of operating safely in an energetic environment that collects data that can be used to determine the mechanical state of solid rocket propellant in a non-destructive manner. The sensor will take data that can be used to infer the mechanical state of solid rocket motor propellant and be used in the analysis of propellant grain integrity.

DESCRIPTION: Solid rocket motors employed by the Navy use propellants that must withstand all of the structural loads the motors are exposed to during transport, storage, stowage, and operation. The motors are designed to meet/exceed these load requirements. However, age and environmental exposure can alter the response of the propellant to these structural loads. The Navy has a need for a compact sensor or a suite of sensors that can collect data that can be used to infer the mechanical state of solid rocket motor propellant in a non-destructive manner. Such a sensor would be used to inspect the propellant of solid rocket motor assemblies in a rapid fashion. Understanding the mechanical state of the solid rocket motor propellant allows for a better evaluation of the health of the propellant and provide greater fidelity in aging trend evaluations. In addition to the sensor(s), an insertion system that can place the sensor at different locations on the propellant surface of a solid rocket motor system will need to be designed. The needed R&D is the miniaturization of the sensor head (on the order of inches) and the development of an insertion system compatible with solid rocket motor assemblies currently deployed by the Navy.

A sensor or a sensor suite that can perform the required measurements will address the difficulty of non-destructively evaluating the mechanical state of the propellant grain while having limited access to the interior of the solid rocket motor assembly. This technology will avoid the current need to disassemble the solid rocket motors and avoid all associated costs with disassembly and reassembly. The technology will minimize or eliminate (preferred) the need to attach the inspection equipment to the solid rocket motor. All of these features will allow measurements to be taken on substantially more available solid rocket motor assets as opposed to the current limited number of assets assigned to the monitoring program.

This SBIR topic is focused on the development of a compact, highly mobile sensor that can collect the data needed to determine fundamental (gross or bulk) material properties, such as the modulus for elastic and elastic-plastic deformation. The propellant is a highly filled elastomer that contains organic and inorganic solids, plasticizers, and stabilizers, held together by a polymeric binder. The proposed approach may employ a miniature version of an indentation testing technique or leverage a completely different method. Proposed methods should minimize the need for attachment to the solid rocket motor. The proposed sensor would move to the correct measurement position. The sensor then measures the resisting force being applied by the material on the contact head. In this mode, the contact head is moved to fixed required depth. In another mode, the contact head is moved at a constant rate while measuring the resisting force. The sensor should meet low power, low voltage, and the Navy’s HERO (Hazards of Electromagnetic Radiation to Ordnance) requirements for on-shore use [Ref 6]. The sensor should be capable of being maneuvered through the confined area of a nozzle and be used in the interior of a solid rocket motor. The sensor system must be capable of being calibrated prior to use. The insertion system must be capable of placing the sensor at multiple locations, up to several meters into the solid rocket motor or preferably a mobile system capable of moving to the correct location for measurement. The insertion system should be simple to install and minimize the number of personnel and amount of support equipment needed for measurements. The sensor and insertion assembly must be capable of intermittent usage for a period of ten years.

PHASE I: Develop a technical concept for a propellant mechanical property sensor. Proposed design concepts should be completed during Phase I. Laboratory-scale demonstrations to verify the proposed sensor concept(s) should be completed. Modeling should be completed to verify proposed concept(s) can meet size/volume constraints while providing the correct data. The laboratory testing and modeling must be satisfactorily completed to transition from Phase I to Phase II. Identify risks to the technical approach and develop/evaluate plans to mitigate those risks for Phase II. Laboratory-scale demonstrations to verify the proposed insertion system should be completed. The Phase I Option, if exercised, will include the initial design specification and capabilities description to build a prototype solution in Phase II. Coordinate with Navy SBIR liaisons on key technical requirements data to be measured, size of the sensor, size of the insertion system, application method, power, and data storage/transmission needs.

PHASE II: Design and develop a prototype of the mechanical property sensor based on the concept(s) from Phase I. Ensure the design has the ability to collect data that can be used to measure, at a minimum, the data needed to calculate the initial modulus and the relaxation modulus. Ensure the design is sized such that it can pass through the throat of a solid rocket motor nozzle and fit within the bore of the motor. Ensure the design is capable of performing the measurements at multiple locations in a repeatable manner. Ensure the insertion system is capable of moving the sensor to the desired location. Complete testing of the sensor prototype to validate operation and feasibility. Design the testing to emulate the installation, sensing, data collecting/storage, and removal. Test material compatibility to ensure survivability and compatibility with solid rocket propellant during the inspection process.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Update the sensor based on Phase II efforts. Support the development of an instruction manual for use. Manufacture an updated prototype and demonstrate use on an identified asset that is considered representative. Provide the necessary support for certification and qualification of the system for deployment and use at fleet facilities and/or facilities where fleet assets are located.

This technology has the potential to be used commercially in any industry that has a need for mechanical property monitoring of elastic / elastic-plastic materials in areas of high hazards.

REFERENCES:

Champagne, J.W. “An Instrumented Indentation Technique for Characterization of the Mechanical Behavior of Solid Propellants.” JANNAF 36th Structures and Mechanical Behavior Subcommittee Meeting, March 2004. jannaf.org
Standard Test Method for Rubber Property – Durometer Hardness, ASTM 2240.
Oliver, W. and Pharr, G. “An Improved Technique for Determining Hardness and Elastic Modulus Using Load and Displacement Sensing Indentation Experiments.” J. Mater. Res. Vol. 7, No 6 (1992).
Lu, H., Wand, B. and Huang, G. “Measurement of Complex Creep Compliance Using Nanoindentation.” Proceedings of the Society for Experimental Mechanics Annual Conference 2003.
Lee, E. and Radok, J. “The Contact Problem for Viscoelastic Bodies.” J. Appl. Mech. 27 1960.
NAVSEA OP 3565/NAVAIR 16-1-529 (REV. 16) (VOL. 2), TECHNICAL MANUAL: ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION HAZARDS - HAZARDS TO ORDNANCE (HERO) (01 JUN 2007). http://everyspec.com/USN/NAVSEA/NAVSEA_OP3565_NAVAIR_16-1-529_R16-V2_8137/

KEYWORDS: Relaxometry; 1.1 Propellants; Non-Destructive Measurement; Mobile Sensor; High Elongation Propellants; Propellant Mechanical Properties

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: General Warfighting Requirements (GWR); Hypersonics

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Battlespace Environments; Materials / Processes; Weapons

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop High Temperature Radio Frequency (RF) cables and connectors that can perform in harsh environments and are reliable, cost effective, and manufacturable. Solutions are to be utilized in various applications in a high-speed missile system.

DESCRIPTION: A major technical challenge for high-speed weapon systems includes managing the extreme heating environments experienced at increased speeds. Temperature requirements for components can vary depending on the location/placement on the platform. Air friction can cause extreme heating of the leading edge. Most materials, including RF cables and connectors, cannot sustain these high temperatures.

The developed RF cables and connectors should have a minimum temperature rating of 1200° C and an objective of 1500° C. The RF cables will be used in different applications so a wide variety of impedance, frequency specifications, phase stability, attenuation specifications, power specifications, and physical dimensions should be considered. Some possible applications are:

• Aerospace industry for accurate communication equipment

• Military and space application

• Satellite communications

Commercial High Temperature cables are typically rated at 1000° C and High Temperature connectors are 600° C.

This technology will enable critical RF capabilities to be achievable, reliable, and cost effective.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by DoD 5220.22-M, National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence Security Agency (DCSA). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances, in order to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and SSP in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material IAW DoD 5220.22-M during the advanced phases of this contract.

PHASE I: Propose a solution for developing a RF cable and connector prototype. The recommended solution shall demonstrate the ability to withstand an operational harsh aerospace military environment.

Demonstrate a proof of concept for the subsystem design and analysis, addressing material and environmental requirements for the cable and connector. Specific requirements for material, performance characteristic, and measurement implementation for the prototype design must be understood. The proposed solution must demonstrate a concept that can improve the temperature rating of a RF cable and connecter system. Trade studies shall be completed if optimal materials are predicted to affect performance.

Cable diameter, flexibility, and weight should be considered when designing for increased temperature capabilities.

The Phase I Option, if exercised, will include the initial design specifications and capabilities description to build a prototype solution in Phase II.

PHASE II: Develop a prototype that meets the government’s design requirements based on the results of Phase I and the Phase II Statement of Work (SOW). The developed units must be suitable for proof of concept demonstration and ensure the cable and connector prototype meet the Government’s requirements, which will be provided upon contract award. During this phase, access to classified design data is required to gain the actual system requirements for the technical specifications of the sensor, as well as the exact mechanical and electrical constraints that the prototype must adhere. The effort should also focus on procuring materials for test and evaluation. High fidelity analysis will be conducted. Testing will take place in contractor selected facilities to validate design.

It is probable that the work under this effort will be classified under Phase II (see Description section for details).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Qualify the prototype to system testing. Support the Navy in transitioning the technology to Navy use. This may include modifications to meet all testing requirements. Develop and document assembly instructions and drawings provided to the government for manufacturing purposes. This technology can be transitioned to other Navy, DOD, and Government weapon systems for integration of next generation flight systems. In the commercial sector, space shuttles and any high-speed systems could utilize the developed cables and connectors.

REFERENCES:

Nhan, Elbert; Lafferty, Paul M.; Stilwell, Robert K.; and Chao, Kedong “Radio-Frequency Connector and Interconnect Reliability in Spaceborne Applications” Johns Hopkins APL Technical Digest Volume 14, Number 4 (1993) https://safe.menlosecurity.com/doc/docview/viewer/docNA5B6CAED2E35413e199675c10889f850c8c137c192db45106a2bac1bd65e5f83dbe1155c4ac0
“Guild to RF Coaxial Connectors and Cables” rf/microwave Instrumentation https://www.arworld.us/resources/Guide-to-RF-Coaxial-Connectors-and-Cables.asp

KEYWORDS: High Temperature materials; Aerospace cables; RF harsh environment components; Military Communication; cables and connectors; material integration

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: General Warfighting Requirements (GWR); Hypersonics; Space

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Battlespace Environments; Materials / Processes; Weapons

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop a software simulation of a Thermal Protection System (TPS) for a Hypersonic Weapon with intent to integrate the software into a system-level test architecture.

DESCRIPTION: A Thermal Protection System (TPS) on a vehicle protects vehicle components from heating effects brought on by the advanced aerodynamic environments of hypersonic flight. The Navy desires a high-fidelity software model of a TPS to show the effects of these advanced hypersonic aerodynamic environments on the TPS. The novel nature of this SBIR topic stems from two requirements on this high-fidelity software model; the software model is expected to be seeded with experimental data of a real TPS from provided material coupon and the software model is expected to interface with a Navy system-level test asset that runs on a real-time computational platform. The Navy is currently expanding its ability to do real-time system level test and evaluation of hypersonic weapons, and so requires continuous improvement to the subcomponent models that make up system-level test architecture.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by DoD 5220.22-M, National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence Security Agency (DCSA). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances, in order to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and SSP in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material IAW DoD 5220.22-M during the advanced phases of this contract.

PHASE I: Outline the following three concepts:

1. A framework for a software simulation of a TPS in a Hypersonic environment. Key inputs to this simulation should be derived from vehicle kinematics and TPS material properties, utilize publically available data for hypersonic boost-glide systems to define inputs. Key outputs to this simulation should indicate TPS performance and vehicle heat exchange information. The software simulation will be required to run in a real-time computational environment.

2. A test plan for advanced TPS materials outlining the process of experimentally determining relevant data parameters for the software simulation model.

3. A software architecture for integrating the software simulation model into the Navy’s system level test architecture.

Relevant information for setting up the framework will be provided upon contract award.

PHASE II: Develop prototype software development is expected to happen in two sections based on the three concepts outlined in Phase I:

1. Software development of the TPS software simulation will begin, with the expectation that initial development will be complete by the end of Phase II with preparation to integrate into the Navy’s system-level test equipment during Phase III. Interface with Navy engineers familiar with the system-level test equipment and be provided with specific details of the software interface definition. Navy engineers will also work with the awardee to provide details of the system-level test software for software integration to ensure smooth transition in Phase III. Certain details of the Navy’s system-level test equipment will be Classified.

2. Execution of the test plan for the advanced TPS material will occur. The awardee will receive advanced TPS material coupons for experimental test in order to seed the TPS software simulation with TPS material data. TPS material coupons will be classified.

It is probable that the work under this effort will be classified under Phase II (see Description section for details).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The delivered product to the Navy is expected to be a software package to reside on system-level test hardware and interface with system-level test software. Provide installation guidance and support for the software. Provide a level of support for validation and debugging as the Navy team performs checkout activities on the software. These checkout activities will take the form of data packages created using the Navy’s system-level test with the incorporated software package, to be compared to data packages of the system-level test without the software and also compared to data packages of experimental data. Experimental data will include the awardee’s experimental data from Phase II. Experimental data may also include Navy generated data, which will not be distributed to the customer – in this case, the expectation is the Navy will generate internal reports that include this data and distill out of these reports a version sharable with the customer as it relates to the performance of the customer supplied software product. Transition activities will end when the company awardee and the Navy have agreed to successful integration of the software package into Navy system-level test equipment.

While specific data within the software package related to the TPS will remain classified, the software architecture and advanced TPS modeling tools developed by the awardee are expected to be usable by the awardee for non-military applications in the commercial hypersonic industry.

REFERENCES:

R. Jackson, A. Vamivakas. “An overview of hardware-in-the-loop simulations for missiles”. American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Inc. 22 Aug 2012. https://doi.org/10.2514/6.1997-3833
Ledin, Jim. “Hardware-in-the-Loop Simulation”. Embedded Systems Programming. Feb 2019: Pages 42-60. https://ethz.ch/content/dam/ethz/special-interest/mavt/dynamic-systems-n-control/idsc-dam/Lectures/Embedded-Control-Systems/AdditionalMaterial/Applications/APP_Hardware-in-the-Loop_Simulation.pdf
Yang, Yz., Yang, Jl. & Fang, Dn. “Research progress on thermal protection materials and structures of hypersonic vehicles.” Appl. Math. Mech.-Engl. 08 Oct 2007: Ed. 29, 51–60. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10483-008-0107-1

KEYWORDS: Hardware-in-the-loop; Thermal Protection System; Software; Modeling and Simulation; Hypersonics; System Level Test Architecture

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Cybersecurity

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics; Information Systems

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: To generate a unique capability with appropriate National Security Agency (NSA) approvals at Technology Readiness Level Eight (TRL-8), leveraging existing component technologies at TRLs 3-9. The proposed device would provide a small form factor computer with integrated classified data storage and transmission, meant for integration into small unmanned platforms, and would be interoperable with other standard NSA Type 1 encryption technologies.

DESCRIPTION: Existing encryption solutions for Data at Rest (D@R) are bulky and require significant power availability to operate, making deployment on smaller platforms or in power-limited systems challenging. Much smaller Data in Transit (DiT) solutions are available but are designed for use over solid networking connections, making deployment in situations with limited bandwidth or intermittent connectivity difficult or impossible. The proposed device incorporates existing chips available from multiple vendors for implementation of cryptographic algorithms into a single box meant to optimize size, weight, and power (SWaP) for field implementations. SWaP objectives are a maximum of the following: 0.5 cubic feet volume, 20 lb, and 100 W. The device should be ruggedized, designed for leave behind operations with automated tamper detection and zeroization, and designed to meet NSA standards required for handling of TS/SCI.

As Navy systems are increasingly small, unmanned devices in remote locations, securing of data collected and generated by these systems becomes more complex. Current devices require each system to devise custom implementations for handling of DiT over low bandwidth or inconsistent communications links. The only alternative to the existing devices is to develop a fully custom implementation, which requires NSA approvals of each specific use case.

Enabling technologies are available, including OEM devices intended to host the level of encryption required, and small form factor data diodes which could be incorporated. Most chip-level encryption devices require NSA approval of the specific implementation, making implementation of these in each situation requiring encryption extremely cost prohibitive.

Innovative approaches will be required to optimize SWaP, and to implement appropriate tamper-safety mechanisms for leave behind operation. The ideal solution is easily powered from a battery bank, can operate without need for ventilation, and is smaller and lighter when compared with existing D@R solutions.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by DoD 5220.22-M, National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence Security Agency (DCSA). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances, in order to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and SSP in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material IAW DoD 5220.22-M during the advanced phases of this contract.

PHASE I: In Phase I, a project plan and schedule will be developed. In these, the awardee should demonstrate a thorough understanding of the required processes and potential challenges of building an approved cryptography device and pursuing NSA approvals. Key enabling technologies should be identified and understood, including any necessary government support for procurement of approved crypto items. Basic data flow diagrams should be developed, showing interconnections and locations of all key components.

PHASE II: In Phase II, specific key components will be identified, purchased, and integrated into two benchtop prototype solutions. Ruggedness of the designed unit should be confirmed through mechanical modeling. Data handling, zeroization, and network management should be tested using the benchtop prototypes. Successful keying of devices, development and sustainment of the necessary security associations across intermittent communications paths, as well as appropriate fail-secure mechanisms should be demonstrated.

It is probable that the work under this effort with be classified under Phase II (see Description section for details).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: In Phase III, the device should be manufacturable at scale, with target uses in unmanned systems in a variety of environments. Validation testing should be performed by the awardee. Additional testing will be required for NSA authorization of the device; the awardee must accommodate testing and documentation requirements for NSA approvals.

This concept is for an enabling technology for a variety of systems serving a wide range of purposes. Certification to the NSA standard provides authorization for use to the Navy and other government organizations.

REFERENCES:

Trinidad, J. M. Programmable encryption for wireless and network applications. MILCOM 2002 Proceedings, 2002, pp. 1374-1377 vol. 2.
Yen, John. et al. "Cybersecurity for unmanned systems” Proc. SPIE 10195, Unmanned Systems Technology XIX, 101950R, 5 May 2017.

KEYWORDS: Encryption; Cryptography; Unmanned Systems; Leave Behind; Data at Rest; D@R; Data in Transit; DiT; Disadvantaged Communications

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials / Processes; Sensors

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop a compact sensor(s) that will collect the data which is used to infer the stabilizer content as well as other energetic, low molecular weight, organic compounds from the propellant in a solid rocket motor assembly.

DESCRIPTION: Solid rocket motors used by the Navy have propellant formulations that contain highly energetic materials. The formulations contain inorganic and organic solids, plasticizers and an elastomeric polymer. Stabilizers are employed to protect the polymeric structure used in the propellant formulations. The stabilizer content changes with age and environmental exposure. The Navy has a need for a compact sensor or suite of sensors that can collect data that can be used to infer the stabilizer content of solid rocket motor propellant in a non-destructive manner. The sensor would be used to inspect a suitably prepared propellant surface or subsurface in a rapid fashion. Knowledge of the stabilizer content and some of the other energetic components allows for a better evaluation of the health of the propellant. In addition to the sensor(s), an insertion system that is capable of positioning the sensor at a variety of difficult to reach locations within the solid rocket motor assembly will need to be designed. The needed R&D effort is the miniaturization of the sensor head (on the order of inches) and the development of an insertion system capable of moving the sensor into hard to reach areas within the rocket motor.

A sensor or a sensor suite that can perform the required measurements will address the difficulty of non-destructively evaluating the stabilizer content of the propellant grain in areas that are difficult to access. This technology will avoid the need to extract samples, potentially rendering the asset unusable, or dissecting an asset which forces the need for a replacement. The technology will avoid the need to disassemble and reassemble the solid rocket motor and minimize or eliminate the need to attach the equipment to the solid rocket motor. The capability the technology provides will allow measurements to be taken on substantially more assets.

This SBIR topic is focused on a sensor or multiple sensors that have the ability to collect the data needed to determine the stabilizer content, concentration, of the two stabilizers present, as well as the concentration of the energetic, low molecular weight plasticizer. Current non-destructive approaches employ an Ultra-Violet – Visible (UV-Vis) light technique to determine stabilizer content. Laboratory methods typically employ high performance liquid chromatography techniques to determine stabilizer content. Future approaches may employ a miniature version of these techniques or leverage a completely different method. In the current approach, the operator manually places the sensor head into position. Fiber optics are used to expose the sample area to UV-Vis light. Some of the light is absorbed by the sample and the remainder is reflected off of the surface. The intensity of the reflected light is measured as a function of wavelength. Through calibration and data-processing, the stabilizer and plasticizer concentration is determined. The propellant surface is typically slightly oxidized or has a surface finish and may need to be prepared before surface measurements can be made. The sensor should meet low power, low voltage and HERO (Hazards of Electromagnetic Radiation to Ordnance) requirements for on-shore use [Ref 4]. The sensor should be capable of being able to pass through the confined area of the nozzle and be used at locations in the interior of a solid rocket motor. The sensor must be capable of being calibrated prior to use. The insertion system must be capable of placing the sensor at multiple locations, up to several meters from the exterior of the solid rocket motor assembly or preferably a mobile system capable of moving to the correct location for measurement. The sensor and insertion assembly must be capable of intermittent usage for a period of ten years.

PHASE I: Develop a technical concept for a propellant stabilizer sensor. Proposed design concepts should be completed during Phase I. Laboratory-scale demonstrations to verify the proposed sensor concept(s) can meet size constraints while provide the correct data. The laboratory testing must be satisfactorily completed to transition from Phase I to Phase II. Identify risks to the technical approach and develop/evaluate plans to mitigate those risks for Phase II. Laboratory-scale demonstrations to verify the proposed insertion system should be completed. The Phase I Option, if exercised, will include the initial design specification and capabilities description to build a prototype solution in Phase II.

Coordinate with Navy SBIR liaisons on key technical requirements data to be measured, size of the sensor, size of the insertion system, application method, power, and data storage/transmission needs.

PHASE II: Design and develop a prototype of the propellant stabilizer sensor based on the concept(s) from Phase I. Ensure the design has the ability to collect the data that can be used to measure the concentration of the two stabilizers and the energetic plasticizer. Ensure the design is sized such that it can pass through the throat of a Third Stage solid rocket motor nozzle and fit within the confined spaces of the propellant grain geometry. Ensure the design is capable of performing the measurements at multiple locations. Ensure the insertion system is capable of moving the sensor to the desired location. Complete testing of the sensor prototype to validate operation and feasibility. Design the testing to emulate the installation, sensing, data collecting/storage, and removal. Test material compatibility to ensure survivability and compatibility with solid rocket propellant during the inspection process.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Update the sensor from Phase II efforts. Support the development of an instruction manual for use. Manufacture an updated prototype and demonstrate use on an identified asset that is considered representative. Provide the necessary support for certification and qualification of the system for deployment and use at fleet facilities and/or facilities where fleet assets are located. This technology has the potential to be used commercially in any industry that has a need for stabilizer monitoring of materials in areas of high hazards.

REFERENCES:

Roth, Milton. “Determination of Available Stabilizer in Aged Propellants Containing Either Diphenylamine or Ethyl Centralite.” Technical Memorandum 1107 Ammunition Group, Picatinny Arsenal, February 1963. https://apps.dtic.mil/dtic/tr/fulltext/u2/296018.pdf
Moniruzzaman, M. and Bellerby, J.M. “Use of UV-Visible Spectroscopy to Monitor Nitrocellulose Degradation in Thin Films.” Polymer Degradation and Stability 93(6), 1067-1072 June 2008. https://www.journals.elsevier.com/polymer-degradation-and-stability
Graves, E.M. “Field-Portable Propellant Stability Test Equipment.” Army Logistician 40 (4), July-August 2008.
NAVSEA OP 3565/NAVAIR 16-1-529 (REV. 16) (VOL. 2), TECHNICAL MANUAL: ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION HAZARDS - HAZARDS TO ORDNANCE (HERO) (01 JUN 2007). http://everyspec.com/USN/NAVSEA/NAVSEA_OP3565_NAVAIR_16-1-529_R16-V2_8137/

KEYWORDS: Stabilizer Measurement; 1.1 Propellants; Compact Ultra-Violet/Visible Light Spectrometer; UV-Vis; Low Molecular Weight Aromatic Compounds; Compact Multi-Spectral Spectrometer; Non-Destructive Measurement

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: General Warfighting Requirements (GWR); Hypersonics; Space

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Battlespace Environments;Materials / Processes; Weapons

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop a weather-resistant, conductive Thermal Protection System (TPS) material, which can survive hypersonic flight environments and is manufactured by methods/processes with high uniformity/reproducibility.

DESCRIPTION: Current generation hypersonic vehicle Thermal Protection System (TPS) materials provide adequate thermal resistance but have limited structural capability in all-weather environments and a low level of manufacturing sophistication. This leads to high levels of variability and introduces program and performance risk. Hypersonic vehicles experience temperatures in excess of 3000°F and encounter elevated levels of shock and vibration. These vehicles must also be able to fly through all types of weather and withstand precipitation at high speeds. Developing and integrating conductive TPS materials capable of withstanding the harsh environments and weather experienced through flight is a priority for enhancing performance in hypersonic vehicles. Proposers should utilize publicly available data on hypersonic flight conditions when identifying material solutions, specific requirements will be provided in the Phase II. Material solutions that could yield agile configurations with tailored conductivity throughout the TPS would provide more versatile hypersonic vehicles. While proposed materials must meet thermal, dielectric, mechanical and conductive specifications, solutions must also maintain uniformity when manufactured in bulk and ensure ease of assembly.

Solutions proposed to this SBIR topic should apply some of the advanced aerospace composite materials and manufacturing technology developed over recent years; including but not limited to: fiber reinforcement, fiber orientation, ultra-high temperature ceramics, high-temperature dielectrics, and additive manufacturing to develop reliable, uniform, thermally conductive/high strength materials and near-net shape components in form-factors applicable to Navy hypersonic flight vehicles. Specific form factors and requirements are held at higher distribution levels and shall be provided upon contract award as applicable.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by DoD 5220.22-M, National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence Security Agency (DCSA). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances, in order to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and SSP in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material IAW DoD 5220.22-M during the advanced phases of this contract.

PHASE I: Demonstrate a proof of concept for conductivity and structural capability of materials/manufacturing solutions at the desk top/lab scale level. Figures of merit for consideration and to be defined are dielectric properties, physical density, mechanical and compressive strength, and in-plane/through thickness thermal conductivity up to 3000°F. Address manufacturing approaches, uniform producibility concerns, and scale-up potential for production of aerospace grade hardware.

The Phase I Option, if exercised, will include the initial design specifications and capabilities description to build a prototype solution in Phase II.

PHASE II: Produce prototype hardware to the requirements, materials, form factors and manufacturing approaches defined from Phase I. Further material, thermal and mechanical characterization data shall also be provided in order to assess replacement risk against current incumbent materials. At the end of Phase II, prototype hardware will be provided for government evaluation in a relative hypersonic environment.

It is probable that the work under this effort will be classified under Phase II (see Description section for details).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Support the Navy in transitioning the technology for Navy use. The final product shall be a prototype and design package outlining the material and manufacturing/assembly methods. A suitable material solution and assembly method is required for the future system to ensure reliability and performance throughout flight. This technology can be transitioned to Navy and Air Force hypersonic and ballistic re-entry weapon systems. Solution materials would have applicability in commercial access-to-space environment as well as commercial aerospace, and gas turbine engine applications.

REFERENCES:

Soboyejo, W. O., Obayemi, J. D., & Annan, E. (2015). Review of High Temperature Ceramics for Aerospace Applications. Advanced Materials Research, 385-407. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/287972274_Review_of_High_Temperature_CeramCer_for_Aerospace_Applications
Randy J. Tobe, Ramana V. Grandhi. Hypersonic vehicle thermal protection system model optimization and validation with vibration tests. Aerospace Science and Technology, Volume 28, Issue 1, 2013, Pages 208-213, ISSN 1270-9638. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1270963812001824
Glass, David. Ceramic Matrix Composite (CMC) Thermal Protection Systems (TPS) and Hot Structures for Hypersonic Vehicles. 15th AIAA International Space Planes and Hypersonic Systems and Technologies Conference, 14 June 2012. https://doi.org/10.2514/6.2008-2682
Yang, Ya-zheng; Yang, Jia-ling; Fang, Dai-ning. Research progress on thermal protection materials and structures of hypersonic vehicles. Applied Mathematics & Mechanics, Jan2008, Vol. 29 Issue 1, p51-60. 10p. 3 Diagrams. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10483-008-0107-1?utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=commission_junction&CJEVENT=b5d1b098839f11ec81eedac00a82b836&utm_campaign=3_nsn6445_deeplink&utm_content=en_textlink&utm_term=PID100357191erLink

KEYWORDS: Weather-Resistant Materials; Thermal Protection System; Manufacturability; High Thermal Materials; Thermal Resistance; Reentry Vehicles; Hypersonic Vehicle Heat Loads; Conductive Materials.

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: General Warfighting Requirements (GWR); Hypersonics; Space

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platforms; Battlespace Environments; Weapons

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop aft-deployable antenna systems from the aft plate of hypersonic glide vehicles, with release or retraction mechanisms.

DESCRIPTION: Hypersonic vehicles have limited antenna mounting real-estate. The limited space on the available antenna real-estate limits the number of antennas and other mounted capabilities that can be employed. Fortunately, many systems do not require the use of their antenna all the time. Some only need a small period of time during the flight, some only need periodic access, and some only after glide body separation. Hence, deployable, retractable, and releasable antennas present an additional approach for managing the antennas. There is also interest in applications for relatively high gain antennas with patterns directed perpendicular to the vehicle axis. Deployable antennas are a potential solution for enabling perpendicular oriented antennas. CubeSats are analogous to hypersonic vehicles in that they are both volume constrained for antennas. Examples of CubeSat deployable antennas include helical antennas, parabolic reflectors, mesh reflectors, conical horns, and conical log spiral (CLS) [Ref 1].

This SBIR research is intended to explore innovative technical solutions that would enable the design of deployable, retractable, and releasable antennas for hypersonic vehicles. The proposed approaches must be demonstrated in analysis, simulation, or prototype. Size, Weight and Power (SWaP) requirements of the resultant system are critically important given volume limitations in the glide body. The research should be conducted with the goal of designing and demonstrating a prototype deployable antenna system. When framing the proposal, firms should utilize publicly available data on hypersonic boost-glide systems. Specific SWaP requirements will be provided upon contract award.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by DoD 5220.22-M, National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence Security Agency (DCSA). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances, in order to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and SSP in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material IAW DoD 5220.22-M during the advanced phases of this contract.

PHASE I: Provide a concept that will lead to the development of a deployable antenna system. Demonstrate the feasibility of that concept. All critical materials, components, and technologies must be identified and demonstrated in the lab or through clearly relevant references. Demonstrate the feasibility of the approach to provide required antenna functionality, and the usefulness to hypersonic applications. Provide modeling, simulation, and preliminary prototype results to demonstrate feasibility for anticipated applications. Size and weight trades should also be addressed.

The Phase I Option, if exercised, will include the initial design specifications and capabilities description to build a prototype solution in Phase II.

PHASE II: Develop a prototype with enough detail for development and demonstration of a deployable antenna system, as addressed in Phase I, for a to-be-identified exemplar experiment on a sounding rocket launch. The Phase II Statement of Work (SOW) should identify a work plan that provides proof of concept that the technology has the potential to meet the performance goals highlighted in Phase I. The Phase II effort will produce at least one prototype for laboratory characterization and demonstration, and two flight ready prototypes for the sounding rocket experiment.

It is probable that the work under this effort will be classified under Phase II (see Description section for details).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: If the demonstration in Phase II is deemed to be of high interest to the government, support transition of the deployable antenna technology for government use.

The transitioned products are expected to be able to support current and future hypersonic glide body systems. Commercial hypersonic applications should be considered for transition as well. The primary objective of this project is for transition to defense contractors. To meet these needs, maturation and packaging of the technology to meet practical size, weight, and power constraints will be required.

REFERENCES:

Sakovsky, Maria, Pellegrino, Sergio, Constantine, Joseph. “Rapid Deployable Antenna Concept Selection for CubeSats.” Air Force Office for Scientific Research. October 2016. http://www.its.caltech.edu/~sslab/PUBLICATIONS/Rapid%20Deployable%20Antenna%20Concept%20Selection%20For%20CubeSats%20ESTEC.pdf.
Constantine, Joseph; Tawk, Y; Ernest, A; Christodoulou, C.G. “Deployable antennas for CubeSat and space communications.” 2012 6th European Conference on Antennas and Propagation (EUCAP). 01 June 2012. https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/6206124
Chahat, Nacer; Hodges, Richard E, Sauder, Jonathan; Thomson, Mark; Peral, Eva; Rahmat-Samii, Yahya. “CubeSat deployable Ka-band mesh reflector antenna development for earth science missions.” IEEE Transactions on Antennas and Propagation. 24 March 2016. Accessed September 2021. https://scholar.google.com/citations?view_op=view_citation&hl=en&user=B-A8zvAAAAAJ&citation_for_view=B-A8zvAAAAAJ:BqipwSGYUEgC

KEYWORDS: Hypersonics; Deployable Antennas; RF communications; alternative navigation; Retractable Antennas; Enabling Technologies

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Microelectronics; General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors; Electronics; Materials

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: Design, simulate, and fabricate durable, practical photonic devices to function as components in guidance systems operating in the Near Infrared (NIR) and Mid Infrared (MIR) with a wide field-of-view.

DESCRIPTION: Novel, robust, durable, and practical photonic devices are sought to function as components in guidance for alternate navigation systems to augment GPS degradation or availability. The devices must produce a tunable, highly directional radiation pattern. They must be broadband and operate through the NIR/MIR wavelengths. They must support a wide field-of-view between 150° – 170°. Devices will ideally be composed of single units rather than an array of components to minimize footprint. Designs must support a variety of novel geometries in addition to standard, traditional structures. Material requirements must be practical and not include high refractive index, negative refractive index, or other media that is difficult and costly to procure. Electromagnetic simulations should be performed with open-source tools on the candidate devices to provide proof-of-concept performance. The proposed designs will leverage modern additive manufacturing methods to enable the design of practical, durable, low-cost, low-volume devices. State-of-the-art approaches to achieving practical, directional, lightweight systems include devices based on material composition including frequency dependent, anisotropic, and metamaterials, electromagnetic band gap waveguides, array feeds, and transformation optics. Devices emphasizing material composition can be highly directional, but they tend to be narrow band and require large footprints. Arrays of feeds rather than a single feed have also been used to broaden system performance, but this leads to an increase in size and mechanical complexity – an important consideration due to mechanical scan systems often being a key point of failure. Devices based on transformation optics can be highly tailorable, but these often require exotic materials. All these methods also tend to require complex fabrication.

PHASE I: Explore proof-of-concept device designs capable of supporting a field-of-view between 150°-170°, operating across the NIR/MIR wavelengths, with low refractive index materials. Perform simulations using open-source tools such as Julia and Python. Compare the simulated performance of traditional structures with novel designs, including size, weight, power, and durability.

PHASE II: Fabricate the most promising designs identified during Phase I. The fabricated devices will undergo inspection and electromagnetic characterization to validate a wide field-of-view, broad bandwidth, and other target performance metrics mentioned above. Identify applications where these devices would offer improvements in size, weight, power, and durability.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: GNC system components are used in many commercial and defense applications including aerospace, automotive, land, and remote sensing applications. Devices made to be durable, tunable, and broadband would provide a considerable improvement to existing solutions and would find widespread applications in these areas.

REFERENCES:

Shirk, J. S., Sandrock, M., Scribner, D., Fleet, E., Stroman, R., Baer, E., Hiltner, a, & Systems, O. S. (2006). Biomimetic Gradient Index (GRIN) Lenses. Review Literature And Arts Of The Americas, 53–61.
Akmansoy, É., Gaufillet, F., & Akmansoy, É. (2016). Graded Photonic Crystals for Luneburg Lens. IEEE Photonics Journal, 8(1), 1–11. https://doi.org/10.1109/JPHOT.2016.2521261
Park, J.-M., Lee, S.-G., Park, H. Y., & Kim, J.-E. (2008). Efficient beaming of self-collimated light from photonic crystals. Optics Express, 16(25), 20354. https://doi.org/10.1364/oe.16.020354

KEYWORDS: spatially variant photonic crystals (SVPC), bioinspired, wide field of view, broadband

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Autonomy; Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Information Systems; Battlespace

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: Cooperative weapons can increase effectiveness of the warfighter against a peer adversary while providing increased protection of valuable air assets requiring increased stand-off range. More specifically, this work will enhance the effectiveness of collaborative weapons in multi-day campaigns against integrated air defense systems by delivering analytics, diagnostics, and algorithms that enable rapid reprogramming based on the prior day’s battle data.

DESCRIPTION: US air superiority is being challenged by the fast-paced technological advances of opponent entities. At the same time, US DoD budgetary constraints limit the possible approaches that can mitigate these opponent advances. To maintain air superiority, while satisfying monetary constraints, one intriguing solution is to overwhelm the enemy through the deployment of teams or swarms of weapons. Using a number of significantly low-cost assets provides an economic advantage versus the deployment of a single highly expensive vehicle, and it flips the cost-exchange ratio of the conflict to favor US forces. Battle data analytics and forensics aims to improve cooperative weapon effectiveness through phase-based learning of multi-day or multi-wave missions. This program’s intent is to improve decision-making for next day mission with regards to weapon tactics and selection of algorithms for engagement, purely in software. Updates to the weapon software rapidly hinges upon the ability to analyze the data sent back from the weapons regarding its performance. Hence, this work intends to develop and employ algorithms which analyze prior weapon data from previous missions in order to improve weapon and mission effectiveness for future battles. The improvement will come from updating particular models and parameters for the weapons, as well as, selecting appropriate and effective algorithms in real-time based on the analytic tools that are developed. The learning/analytics challenge can be broken into three broad focus areas: red force learning, blue force learning, and autonomy software based learning. Blue force learning is focused on updating parameters and models for blue weapons (e.g. aero model coefficients, control/guidance gains, seeker models, etc.) while red force learning is focused on updating models and parameters associated with red threats, targets, tactics, and capabilities. Autonomy tactics learning is focused on updating and improving cooperative algorithms, behaviors, and plays of the blue weapon salvos in order to improve mission effectiveness. The results of this work will then inform which data is most beneficial to weapon effectiveness, which can then be used to inform datalink and on-board recording requirements. In tandem with algorithm development, we seek to answer three key questions: What information is most important for communication and logging (at the algorithm/decision level)? How to design mechanisms for effective and rapid updating of parameters/algorithms? How to select algorithms based on whatever data is available at the time and how sparse is the data?

PHASE I: During phase I, the performers will determine their methodology to address a particular red, blue, or autonomy tactics analytic challenge. They will select a particular algorithmic approach for data analytics rooted in the appropriate areas (e.g., artificial intelligence or machine learning) for implementation for preliminary results. Extensive literature surveys and prior research highlighting the advantages and limitations of the chosen approach is required.

PHASE II: A successful phase II effort will constitute the full development of data analytic tools for the red/blue/autonomy challenges. The performer will implement the approach chosen in phase I within AFSIM or another (AFRL-approved) suitable software environment. Connections between offline tools and real-time swarm-based decisions must be developed. Full comparisons of multi-day collaborative missions using the tools with benchmarks against alternative methods are required. Documentation of the implementation including user manuals, theory manuals, examples, and source code with U.S. government data rights is required.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Phase III will consist of transitioning the software module proven in phase II to existing code bases employed by the DoD and its prime contractors developing next-generation networked munition concepts. This transition will focus on user support or consulting to effectively deploy the software in a R&D or T&E environment.

REFERENCES:

Kelleher, John D., Brian Mac Namee, and Aoife D'arcy. Fundamentals of machine learning for predictive data analytics: algorithms, worked examples, and case studies. MIT press, 2020;
Rizk, Yara, Mariette Awad, and Edward W. Tunstel. "Cooperative heterogeneous multi-robot systems: A survey." ACM Computing Surveys (CSUR) 52.2 (2019): 1-31.
Moubayed, Abdallah, et al. "E-learning: Challenges and research opportunities using machine learning & data analytics." IEEE Access 6 (2018): 39117-39138.
Kibria, Mirza Golam, et al. "Big data analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence in next-generation wireless networks." IEEE access 6 (2018): 32328-32338.
Kashyap, Hirak, et al. "Big data analytics in bioinformatics: A machine learning perspective." arXiv preprint arXiv:1506.05101 (2015).
Alighanbari, Mehdi, and Jonathan P. How. "Decentralized task assignment for unmanned aerial vehicles." Proceedings of the 44th IEEE Conference on Decision and Control. IEEE, 2005.

KEYWORDS: artificial intelligence; data analytics; machine learning; collaborative weapons; heterogeneous agents

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Cybersecurity; Network Command, Control and Communications; Autonomy; Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning; 5G

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors; Information Systems

OBJECTIVE: Develop an automated Internet-of-Things Testing as a Service (IoT-TaaS) approach for assuring the resiliency and readiness of Air Force systems with embedded IoT technology.

DESCRIPTION: The addition of IoT devices and systems to USAF networks and weapon systems poses a risk to readiness and mission operations. Additionally, IoT technology evolution is inconsistent and lacks assurance that upgrades and software configuration changes are adequately vetted for resiliency. Existing IoT testing capabilities do not address the nuances associated with embedding IoT into weapon system development programs. For example, it does not focus on all life cycle phases. The DoD Cybersecurity T&E Guidebook lacks a focus on IoT device integration.

PHASE I: Define and develop an initial architecture concept for a cloud-based IoT-TaaS capability. Include a high level capabilities design/description for a prototype that would be built in Phase 2.

PHASE II: Based on the results of Phase 1, develop a detailed framework and architecture design for a cloud-based IoT-TaaS capability. Develop and demonstrate a prototype cloud-based IoT acceptance test tool. Demonstrate the capability against a set of test scenarios.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Utilize the cloud-based IoT-TaaS capability developed in Phase 2 beyond the DoD. The true success of IoT capabilities is dependent on communication/interoperability with multiple sectors.

REFERENCES:

https://www.cisa.gov/sites/default/files/publications/20_0204_cisa_sed_internet_of_things_acquisition_guidance_final_508_1.pdf;
https://iotuk.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/IOT-Taxonomy-Report.pdf;
https://zero-outage.com/the-standard/security/security-taxonomy-for-iot/taxonomy-for-the-internet-of-things-iot/ section-1;
https://www.dau.edu/cop/test/DAU%20Sponsored%20Documents/Cybersecurity-Test-and-Evaluation-Guidebook-Version2-change-1.pdf;
https://www.dau.edu/cop/test/DAU%20Sponsored%20Documents/Cybersecurity-Test-and-Evaluation-Guidebook-Version2-change-1.pdf;
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/325063325_An_Acceptance_Testing_Approach_for_Internet_of_Things_Systems
https://www2.deloitte.com/content/dam/Deloitte/in/Documents/risk/in-risk-iot-security-testing-noexp.pdf;
https://www.qualitestgroup.com/white-papers/iot-testing-the-big-challenge/;
https://www.guru99.com/iot-testing-challenges-tools.html IoT-TaaS: Towards a Prospective IoT Testing Framework -
https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/8281514; Model-Based Testing for IoT Systems : Methods and tools -
https://tel.archives-ouvertes.fr/tel-02078372/document
https://www.infosys.com/it-services/validation-solutions/documents/testing-iot-applications.pdf;

KEYWORDS: IoT; methodology; Digital Twin; best practices; modeling; cyber resilience; data integrity

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Microelectronics; General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors; Electronics

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: Develop a suite of algorithms suited for next-generation focal plane array seekers which will be single devices capable of both semi-active laser sensing and passive imaging, demonstrating performance which meets or exceeds current fielded systems of each (and/or both) mode(s).

DESCRIPTION: A number of investigatory projects have shown feasibility of semi-active laser seekers in focal plane array format, leading to new development for single focal plane array, dual mode, and Semi-Active Lasers/Passive seekers. These seekers will require new algorithms capable of legacy SAL seeker performance in a new focal plane array format. Algorithms such as last significant pulse logic (LSPL) and spot jump inhibit (SJI) may need to be reinvented and tested. Data fusion of the semi-active laser + passive signals may provide new concept of operations, but also require new algorithms. With the contribution of hardware developers and/or COTS devices, creative concepts are sought which may meet current performance or leverage new hardware capabilities to greater performance. Proposals should describe a basic strategy for acquiring hardware, which may include Commercial Off the Shelf (COTS) components or participation with a prime contractor or other company. The priority is having a platform to demonstrate the relevant advances, it is not necessary that it be in a final configuration. For example, discrete boresighted Semi-Active Lasers/imager devices could be used in place of an imagined future dual-mode singular device. Proposals should include one of more of the following areas: 1) Mimicry of traditional semi-active laser algorithms onto new FPA-format hardware. 2) Advanced algorithms which may provide more performance when used with next-generation FPA SAL seekers. 3) Data fusion between SAL guidance signal and automatic target recognition. Of secondary interest is other novel concepts which may enable multi-use from a single device, such as autonomous navigation. Proposals including significant hardware development are not desired for this topic.

PHASE I: Complete analysis and design of software approach in conjunction with hardware downselection. Conceptual designs should include performance modeling and comparison with existing systems.

PHASE II: Produce a system design and prototype of Phase I concepts. Prototypes will be tested in both laboratory and field environments.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Successful demonstration will result in transition through hardware development partners to include approaches in new seeker designs which are being developed. Multi-use approaches which involve data fusion for active laser sensing combined with passive scene detection will be applicable to other industries such as vehicle advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

REFERENCES:

J. Barth, A. Fendt, R. Florian, et al., "Dual-mode seeker with imaging sensor and semi-active laser detector," Proceedings of the SPIE Volume 6542 (2007);
J. English, R. White, "Semi-active laser (SAL) last pulse logic infrared imaging seeker," Proceedings of the SPIE Volume 4372 (2001);
Patent US 8,164,037, “Co-boresighted dual-mode SAL/IR seeker including a SAL spreader,” Raytheon Company, David D. Jenkins, Byron B. Taylor, David J. Markason, Apr. 24, 2012.

KEYWORDS: semi-active laser guidance; human-in-the-loop; autonomous guidance and control; laser designated; dual-mode seeker; automatic target recognition

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Network Command, Control and Communications; Autonomy; Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors; Information Systems

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: AFRL is seeking innovative research to enable near-real-time data and information fusion on limited SWAP platforms to support collaborative automated target acquisition (ATA) in multi-target, multi-agent environments.

DESCRIPTION: The Munitions Directorate of the Air Force Research Laboratory is soliciting white papers under this Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for research, development, and evaluation of technologies/techniques to enable near-real-time collaborative ATA based on data and sensor fusion in complex adversarial environments. As collaborative munitions become more pervasive, warfighters seek to maximize the benefits of swarming and autonomy to include employing near real time identification and tracking of multiple targets during their relatively short flight times (seconds-to-minutes). These operations will be carried out by platforms that have limited SWAP and modest communication capabilities that must be low-latency, using heterogeneous mixtures of sensing modalities in highly complex environments.

To combat these challenges future operational concepts will incorporate networked, heterogeneous, AI-enabled, real-time sensing systems on autonomous/semi-autonomous platforms. Such systems will support autonomous targeting in near-real-time (e.g., seconds). It has been recognized that diverse sensors and information types will be required to overcome a combination of obscured targets, multiple targets and confounders, and high-consequence actions. The successful proposal will address how to combine a priori data into a state-based construct that a) optimizes real-time data collection, and b) minimizes real-time communication requirements.

PHASE I: Conceptualize, develop, and model an algorithmic solution that provides near real-time collaborative ATA for heterogeneous sensors.

PHASE II: Implement, prototype, and demonstrate the near real-time collaborative ATA function.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Adapt and implement the collaborative ATA function into a selected collaborative munition system.

REFERENCES:

Kim, Sungho, Woo-Jin Song, and So-Hyun Kim. "Robust ground target detection by SAR and IR sensor fusion using Adaboost-based feature selection." Sensors 16, no. 7 (2016): 1117;
Zhou, Y., Sun, X., Zha, Z.J. and Zeng, W., 2019. Context-reinforced semantic segmentation. In Proceedings of the IEEE/CVF Conference on Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition (pp. 4046-4055);
Volle, K., Rogers, J. and Brink, K., 2016. Decentralized cooperative control methods for the modified weapon–target assignment problem. Journal of Guidance, Control, and Dynamics, 39(9), pp.1934-1948.

KEYWORDS: sensor fusion; information fusion; data fusion; machine learning; target identification; swarms; swarming; collaborative munitions

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Directed Energy

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics; Materials

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: This topic is intended to develop a high gain, high power, circularly polarized mesoband coaxial-fed antenna for HPM field applications.

DESCRIPTION: Proposals to this topic should identify promising antenna topologies; model and simulate the excitation and radiation of the design; and build and test the antenna. This antenna should be capable of meeting the MIL-STD-810g shock and vibration. It should be rated to handle an input pulse with FWHM of 10 ns and peak powers of one gigawatt. The antenna design should be scalable to radiate L- and S-band, but not necessarily simultaneously. The L-band design should radiate with gain of at least 21 dB and emphasis on 1.1 GHz. The S-band design should radiate with gain of at least 27 dB and emphasis on performance at 2.8 GHz. The radiation pattern should be circularly polarized. The antenna or array should fit with a volume less than 1.5 cubic meters. The antenna design, modeling and simulation results, and experimentally validated antenna pattern should be delivered to AFRL.

PHASE I: During phase one, teams should identify an appropriate antenna architecture to meet the stated requirements. Teams should model this antenna using an appropriate modeling and simulation software, with emphasis on electrodynamic performance under one gigawatt drive. Antenna performance should be characterized, both as a function of frequency-dependent gain and radiation pattern. A preliminary analysis of shock and vibration hardiness should be performed. An antenna design, modeling and simulation results, and path forward to meeting phase two and three requirements must be submitted to the AFRL TPOCs.

PHASE II: During phase two, teams should construct both the L- and S-band antenna designs proposed in phase one. These antennas should be characterized experimentally using AFRL-supplied HPM sources, including frequency-dependent gain, antenna pattern, and polarization. Shock and vibration hardiness should also be analyzed. The completed antennas should be delivered to AFRL. A report detailing the antenna's characterization, including raw data sets, and path forward to meeting phase three requirements is also required.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: During phase three, teams will work with AFRL on improving manufacturability, with emphasis on utilizing common or COTS materials and previously established supply chains. Further integration and operational tests with AFRL sources will also take place. Finally, improvements to the antenna should be proposed. A report detailing improvements to manufacturability, antenna performance, and operational test results will be due to AFRL.

REFERENCES:

J.D. Kraus, "The Helical Antenna", Proc. of IRE, Vol. 37, 3, 1949; W. Zhou et. al., "A Broadband and High-Gain Planar Complementary Yagi Array Antenna with Circular Polarization", IEEE Trans. on Antennas and Propagation, Vol. 65, 3, 2017.

KEYWORDS: High Gain; Antenna; Circular Polarization; High Power Microwave; HPM

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Directed Energy

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics; Materials; Battlespace

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this SBIR is to design, build, and test high frequency, high gain antennas for High Power Microwave (HPM) applications [1]. There are two main thrusts to this effort. One is a compact mechanically or electrically phased antenna. At the end of the Phase III, the desired end state would be a full design, to include both electromagnetic simulations and mechanical drawings, as well as hardware that could be tested. The other thrust would be for a larger broadband antenna that can cover the entire X- and Ku-band. The desired end state of the Phase III of this effort would be a full design, to include both electromagnetic simulations and mechanical drawings.

DESCRIPTION: There are two main thrusts to this effort. One is the development of a phased array antenna suitable for HPM sources at GW power levels. Phased antennas have the benefit of reduced size, weight and power (SWaP) due to their low profile, potential conformal geometries to meet host platform requirements, and their ability to provide beam steering via phase shifting of their elements rather than bulk antenna movement. Phase shifting may be achieved by means of mechanical actuators (e.g. physical manipulation of individual elements) [2], or by means of controlling the electromagnetic fields at each element (e.g. high power phase shifters). The second thrust is for a large broadband antenna that can cover the entire X-band and Ku-band (8-18 GHz). Instantaneous full bandwidth is highly desired, but a tunable bandwidth covering this frequency range is acceptable. A wide bandwidth, high gain, steerable antenna will enable the next generation of HPM systems to deliver enhanced effects against a broader selection of targets.

PHASE I: The contractor must demonstrate through electromagnetic simulation a phased array antenna with at least 40 dBi of gain at discrete frequencies within the X- and Ku-band. The antenna shall be phase steerable with at least +/- 20 degrees in both azimuth and elevation as well as be capable of handling GW power levels. The contractor shall demonstrate through electromagnetic simulations a wideband antenna that covers the entire frequency range of X- and Ku-band. The antenna shall be slewable from -15 to 90 degrees in elevation, 360 degrees in azimuth as well as be capable of handling GW power levels.

PHASE II: The contractor shall design, build, and demonstrate a single element of the phased array antenna designed in Phase I. The module shall demonstrate all electromagnetic parameters needed in order to satisfy the full array requirements described in Phase I. The contractor shall work on improving the full array design to include customer requirements for platform and source integration, as well as determine the limiting factors and trade-offs as it relates to frequency bandwidths, steerability (precision, slew rates, and angular limits), and power handling. The contractor shall continue the design on the wideband slewable antenna. The contractor shall conduct a design review to address and resolve all critical system-wide performance parameters.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The contractor shall design, build, and demonstrate a module of at least 5 elements suitable for incorporating into the full array designed in Phase I and II. This module shall demonstrate all electromagnetic parameters needed in order to satisfy the full array requirements described in Phase II. The contractor shall provide the cost and schedule to fabricate and demonstrate the full phased array antenna. The contractor shall deliver a complete technical data package for the full array to include all electromagnetic simulations and manufacturing-ready drawings. The contractor shall complete the design of the wideband slewable antenna. The contractor shall conduct a design review to ensure that the antenna can meet the stated performance requirements. The contractor shall provide the cost and schedule to fabricate and demonstrate the antenna. The contractor shall deliver a complete technical data package for the antenna to include all electromagnetic simulations and manufacturing-ready drawings.

REFERENCES:

Y. Rahmat-Samii, D. -. Duan, D. V. Giri and L. F. Libelo, "Canonical examples of reflector antennas for high-power microwave applications," in IEEE Transactions on Electromagnetic Compatibility, vol. 34, no. 3, pp. 197-205, Aug. 1992, doi: 10.1109/15.155830. ;
L. F. Libelo and C. M. Knop, "A corrugated waveguide phase shifter and its use in HPM dual-reflector antenna arrays," in IEEE Transactions on Microwave Theory and Techniques, vol. 43, no. 1, pp. 31-35, Jan. 1995, doi: 10.1109/22.363011.

KEYWORDS: high power microwave; HPM; antenna

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Directed Energy

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors; Electronics

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this project is to develop a bench-level source and turbulence simulator that can accurately simulate common laser guide star (LGS) beacons for LGS adaptive optics (AO) systems and test beds. Currently new LGS AO design concepts can only be tested in simulation or through expensive and man-power intensive on-sky testing. This project seeks to develop methods for accurately simulating an LGS beacon on an optics bench to enable rapid prototyping of new LGS AO technologies. The ideal bench source would accurately simulate sodium and Rayleigh beacons including atmospheric effects on the uplink and downlink propagation of the beacon, the temporal and spatial coherence properties of LGS beacons including beacon elongation, focus and angular anisoplanatism effects, user defined beacon jitter, and support multiple beacon constellations (including a mix of Rayleigh and sodium beacons, multiple Rayleigh, or multiple sodium beacons). In addition, the various parameters of the beacon being simulated should be reconfigurable (i.e. the user should be able to change the launch size of the beacon, beacon altitude, beacon elongation, number and type of beacons, different constellation configurations, side vs center vs full aperture launch, etc.). The final beacon and turbulence simulator must be fully characterized to ensure high confidence in the beacon parameters that are being simulated, provide a high degree of repeatability between experiments, and be easily configured to achieve desired beacon and turbulence parameters. The LGS beacon simulator must also support a broadband "natural" guidestar beacon to test the effectiveness of the LGS AO correction on a target of interest. In short, the objective is to create a bench-level source that accurately simulates LGS beacons in a repeatable and configurable atmospheric turbulence simulator to enable rapid and effective testing of LGS AO technology and dramatically speed up technology development.

DESCRIPTION: The goal of the project is to create a perfectly representative LGS source and atmospheric turbulence simulator; however, practical considerations will inevitably lead to trade-offs between accurately simulating different beacon parameters and practical trade-offs to ensure predictable and repeatable beacon and turbulence parameters, enable easy reconfiguration, and meet cost or schedule constraints. Thus a detailed sensitivity analysis and requirements flow down will be a critical part of the project. The initial target LGS AO system is a 1-4m class telescope with a side-launched sodium or Rayleigh beacon. While the primary focus of the development effort is on simulating LGS beacons, the simulator must also include atmospheric turbulence to be effective. The turbulence simulator should include at least two Komologrov phase screens and be capable of generating atmospheric parameters covering a range of coherence lengths: threshold of 3-15 cm, objective of 1.5-20 cm; isoplanatic angle: threshold of 4 – 15 µrad, objective of 2-20 µrad; and greenwood frequency: threshold: 0-500 Hz, objective 0-1000 Hz. It is also highly desirable to have an option to remove turbulence effects for alignment and troubleshooting work. The sensitivity analysis should at a minimum consider the effects of beacon parameters on the most common LGS AO wavefront sensor (WFS), the Shack-Hartmann WFS (SHWFS), but ideally the sensitivity analysis would consider multiple WFS or be WFS agnostic to ensure future testing of new WFS concepts is also supported. For example, it’s possible that the proposed method for simulating an elongated sodium beacon is not compatible with accurately simulating beacon jitter (i.e. jitter due to the laser launch telescope). At a minimum, the sensitivity analysis would be used to determine whether beacon jitter or beacon elongation has a more deleterious effect on the LGS AO performance of the baseline system and thus inform system development. Ideally, the sensitivity analysis would also include potential uses of the simulator for future development efforts. This additional analysis is more open ended and difficult, but a review of the current literature on LGS AO systems can be used to anticipate some possible use cases of a LGS source/turbulence simulator. A few examples include: laser tomography to mitigate focus anisoplanatism, uplink correction of the laser beacon, combining measurements from different beacon types (Rayleigh, Sodium, and/or natural), pulsed sodium systems to minimize beacon elongation, alternative WFS concepts (i.e. the Ingot WFS), etc. For example, when developing a method for generating multiple sodium beacons or multiple Rayleigh beacons, the effect of adding additional beacons on mitigating focus anisoplanatism can be estimated given the altitude of the beacons, the size of the telescope, and the turbulence profile. Thus a sensitivity analysis can be used to justify a limited number of beacons if necessary to meet system level trade-offs or budget constraints. In short, the initial stages of the project will focus not only on developing methods to simulate LGS beacons and atmospheric turbulence, but also the analysis necessary to make intelligent trade-offs in the final system design. The sensitivity analysis will also feed into requirements development and flow-down for development of techniques to simulate various aspects of the laser beacon. Requirements development should be done concurrently with the sensitivity analysis in an iterative process to identify limitations that may necessitate different designs or restrictions in capabilities. While most design and development work is anticipated to be based on computer simulation, any techniques that are key to the overall function and/or higher risk should be tested in a standalone hardware configuration. For example, the technique for generating an extended beacon is critical to the overall simulation of an LGS beacon and thus should be demonstrated with physical hardware. The demonstration can be at the component level and does not need to include the turbulence simulation or other aspects of the beacon simulation (jitter, Rayleigh scatter contamination, etc.). Once concepts are fully developed and critical concepts are demonstrated on an individual/component level, work will shift toward integration of the various components into a complete LGS source/turbulence simulator. The initial integration work will focus on simulating the most important LGS beacon parameters (as determined by the sensitivity analysis) in a turbulence simulator. The initial integrated design should be capable of simulating at least one beacon of each type (Rayleigh, Sodium, and a target or natural guidestar) with atmospheric turbulence effects (both uplink and downlink for LGS beacons), and demonstrate the capability to vary beacon and turbulence parameters with predictable and repeatable results. The design should include options for more advanced simulation scenarios, e.g. multiple beacons, uplink correction, etc., but initial testing will focus on thorough testing of basic system functionality and only move onto testing more complicated scenarios once basic functionality testing is successful. The integrated system should be small enough to fit on a standard optical bench (less than roughly 6’x8’x4’ volume), have an optical output power of at least 1 µW/cm^2 to the AO system using Class 3B lasers (objective: optical efficiency >1%), and have an output beam of ~1” in diameter. The initial system should be capable of operating over visible wavelengths but does not need to use laser sources that match standard Rayleigh and Sodium wavelengths. Ideally the system would be wavelength agnostic so that the end user could integrate any desired beacon wavelength, but at a minimum the system needs to simulate two different wavelengths (one for Rayleigh and one for Sodium, separated by at least 50 nm) and support a visible or near infrared broadband target source (>100 nm bandwidth). Once initial functionality has been demonstrated and tested, additional capabilities will be integrated and tested with the goal of identifying any system limitations or shortfalls that can be mitigated or resolved in later designs. If the initial integration stage is successful, further development will focus on optimizing the design for integration onto a LGS AO system that is capable of on-sky testing, either through modifications and redesign of the initial system or a completely new system design. The primary goal of integrating with a full-up LGS AO system would be to enable comparison testing between on-sky and bench results. Once again, analysis and testing would focus on identifying system limitations and shortfalls that can be used to improve future LGS ATS designs. Ultimately, the project should support the development of a robust LGS ATS capability that can be deployed onto multiple systems and be used to rapidly test new LGS AO technologies in support of Air Force and Space Force missions. The technology developed in this project can also be readily transitioned to support LGS AO systems on astronomical telescopes where a more realistic source/turbulence simulator could be very valuable for maximizing observation time. The sensitivity analysis will also feed into requirements development and flow-down for development of techniques to simulate various aspects of the laser beacon. Requirements development should be done concurrently with the sensitivity analysis in an iterative process to identify limitations that may necessitate different designs or restrictions in capabilities. While most design and development work is anticipated to be based on computer simulation, any techniques that are key to the overall function and/or higher risk should be tested in a standalone hardware configuration. For example, the technique for generating an extended beacon is critical to the overall simulation of an LGS beacon and thus should be demonstrated with physical hardware. The demonstration can be at the component level and does not need to include the turbulence simulation or other aspects of the beacon simulation (jitter, Rayleigh scatter contamination, etc.). Once concepts are fully developed and critical concepts are demonstrated on an individual/component level, work will shift toward integration of the various components into a complete LGS ATS system. The initial integration work will focus on simulating the most important LGS beacon parameters (as determined by the sensitivity analysis) in a unified LGS ATS. The initial integrated design should be capable of simulating at least one beacon of each type (Rayleigh, Sodium, and a target or natural guidestar) with atmospheric turbulence effects (both uplink and downlink for LGS beacons), and demonstrate the capability to vary beacon and turbulence parameters with predictable and repeatable results. The design should include options for more advanced simulation scenarios, e.g. multiple beacons, uplink correction, etc., but initial testing will focus on thorough testing of basic system functionality and only move onto testing more complicated scenarios once basic functionality testing is successful. The integrated system should be small enough to fit on a standard optical bench (less than roughly 6’x8’x4’ volume), have an optical output power of at least 1 µW/cm^2 to the AO system using Class 3B lasers (objective: optical efficiency >1%), and have an output beam of ~1” in diameter. The initial system should be capable of operating over visible wavelengths but does not need to use laser sources that match standard Rayleigh and Sodium wavelengths. Ideally the system would be wavelength agnostic so that the end user could integrate any desired beacon wavelength, but at a minimum the system needs to simulate two different wavelengths (one for Rayleigh and one for Sodium, separated by at least 50 nm) and support a visible or near infrared broadband target source (>100 nm bandwidth). Once initial functionality has been demonstrated and tested, additional capabilities will be integrated and tested with the goal of identifying any system limitations or shortfalls that can be mitigated or resolved in later designs. If the initial integration stage is successful, further development will focus on optimizing the design for integration onto a LGS AO system that is capable of on-sky testing. Either through modifications and redesign of the initial system or a completely new system design. The primary goal of integrating with a full-up LGS AO system would be to enable comparison testing between on-sky and bench results. Once again, analysis and testing would focus on identifying system limitations and shortfalls that can be used to improve future LGS ATS designs. Ultimately, the project should support the development of a robust LGS ATS capability that can be deployed onto multiple systems and be used to rapidly test new LGS AO technologies in support of Air Force and Space Force missions. The sensitivity analysis will also feed into requirements development and flow-down for development of techniques to simulate various aspects of the laser beacon. Requirements development should be done concurrently with the sensitivity analysis in an iterative process to identify limitations that may necessitate different designs or restrictions in capabilities. While most design and development work is anticipated to be based on computer simulation, any techniques that are key to the overall function and/or higher risk should be tested in a standalone hardware configuration. For example, the technique for generating an extended beacon is critical to the overall simulation of an LGS beacon and thus should be demonstrated with physical hardware. The demonstration can be at the component level and does not need to include the turbulence simulation or other aspects of the beacon simulation (jitter, Rayleigh scatter contamination, etc.). Once concepts are fully developed and critical concepts are demonstrated on an individual/component level, work will shift toward integration of the various components into a complete LGS source/turbulence simulator. The initial integration work will focus on simulating the most important LGS beacon parameters (as determined by the sensitivity analysis) in a turbulence simulator. The initial integrated design should be capable of simulating at least one beacon of each type (Rayleigh, Sodium, and a target or natural guidestar) with atmospheric turbulence effects (both uplink and downlink for LGS beacons), and demonstrate the capability to vary beacon and turbulence parameters with predictable and repeatable results. The design should include options for more advanced simulation scenarios, e.g. multiple beacons, uplink correction, etc., but initial testing will focus on thorough testing of basic system functionality and only move onto testing more complicated scenarios once basic functionality testing is successful. The integrated system should be small enough to fit on a standard optical bench (less than roughly 6’x8’x4’ volume), have an optical output power of at least 1 µW/cm^2 to the AO system using Class 3B lasers (objective: optical efficiency >1%), and have an output beam of ~1” in diameter. The initial system should be capable of operating over visible wavelengths but does not need to use laser sources that match standard Rayleigh and Sodium wavelengths. Ideally the system would be wavelength agnostic so that the end user could integrate any desired beacon wavelength, but at a minimum the system needs to simulate two different wavelengths (one for Rayleigh and one for Sodium, separated by at least 50 nm) and support a visible or near infrared broadband target source (>100 nm bandwidth). Once initial functionality has been demonstrated and tested, additional capabilities will be integrated and tested with the goal of identifying any system limitations or shortfalls that can be mitigated or resolved in later designs. If the initial integration stage is successful, further development will focus on optimizing the design for integration onto a LGS AO system that is capable of on-sky testing. Either through modifications and redesign of the initial system or a completely new system design. The primary goal of integrating with a full-up LGS AO system would be to enable comparison testing between on-sky and bench results. Once again, analysis and testing would focus on identifying system limitations and shortfalls that can be used to improve future LGS ATS designs. Ultimately, the project should support the development of a robust LGS ATS capability that can be deployed onto multiple systems and be used to rapidly test new LGS AO technologies in support of Air Force and Space Force missions. The technology developed in this project can also be readily transitioned to support LGS AO systems on astronomical telescopes where a more realistic source/turbulence simulator could be very valuable for maximizing observation time. The sensitivity analysis will also feed into requirements development and flow-down for development of techniques to simulate various aspects of the laser beacon. Requirements development should be done concurrently with the sensitivity analysis in an iterative process to identify limitations that may necessitate different designs or restrictions in capabilities. While most design and development work is anticipated to be based on computer simulation, any techniques that are key to the overall function and/or higher risk should be tested in a standalone hardware configuration. For example, the technique for generating an extended beacon is critical to the overall simulation of an LGS beacon and thus should be demonstrated with physical hardware. The demonstration can be at the component level and does not need to include the turbulence simulation or other aspects of the beacon simulation (jitter, Rayleigh scatter contamination, etc.). Once concepts are fully developed and critical concepts are demonstrated on an individual/component level, work will shift toward integration of the various components into a complete LGS ATS system. The initial integration work will focus on simulating the most important LGS beacon parameters (as determined by the sensitivity analysis) in a unified LGS ATS. The initial integrated design should be capable of simulating at least one beacon of each type (Rayleigh, Sodium, and a target or natural guidestar) with atmospheric turbulence effects (both uplink and downlink for LGS beacons), and demonstrate the capability to vary beacon and turbulence parameters with predictable and repeatable results. The design should include options for more advanced simulation scenarios, e.g. multiple beacons, uplink correction, etc., but initial testing will focus on thorough testing of basic system functionality and only move onto testing more complicated scenarios once basic functionality testing is successful. The integrated system should be small enough to fit on a standard optical bench (less than roughly 6’x8’x4’ volume), have an optical output power of at least 1 µW/cm^2 to the AO system using Class 3B lasers (objective: optical efficiency >1%), and have an output beam of ~1” in diameter. The initial system should be capable of operating over visible wavelengths but does not need to use laser sources that match standard Rayleigh and Sodium wavelengths. Ideally the system would be wavelength agnostic so that the end user could integrate any desired beacon wavelength, but at a minimum the system needs to simulate two different wavelengths (one for Rayleigh and one for Sodium, separated by at least 50 nm) and support a visible or near infrared broadband target source (>100 nm bandwidth). Once initial functionality has been demonstrated and tested, additional capabilities will be integrated and tested with the goal of identifying any system limitations or shortfalls that can be mitigated or resolved in later designs. If the initial integration stage is successful, further development will focus on optimizing the design for integration onto a LGS AO system that is capable of on-sky testing. Either through modifications and redesign of the initial system or a completely new system design. The primary goal of integrating with a full-up LGS AO system would be to enable comparison testing between on-sky and bench results. Once again, analysis and testing would focus on identifying system limitations and shortfalls that can be used to improve future LGS ATS designs. Ultimately, the project should support the development of a robust LGS ATS capability that can be deployed onto multiple systems and be used to rapidly test new LGS AO technologies in support of Air Force and Space Force missions.

PHASE I: Phase I will consist of a sensitivity analysis to determine which properties of an LGS beacon are most relevant to an LGS AO system design on a 1-4m telescope. The sensitivity analysis will be critical to determining which areas to focus on for technical development and help resolve any potential trade-offs in future system design work. The sensitivity analysis will also feed into and be informed by requirements flow down and concept development, which will be based primarily on computer simulation but should include limited component level hardware design and testing for critical components to verify the adequacy of the technique in simulating a LGS beacon. Primary output of Phase One is a final report which covers the following topics: -Summary of the sensitivity analysis with key results showing which beacon parameters were found to be most important for an LGS beacon simulator -Detailed description of the preliminary design, highlighting key trade-offs and technical innovations in simulating an LGS beacon and the proposed method for integrating each component into a final integrated system -A top-level requirements flow-down and preliminary design of key components of the LGS source and turbulence simulator system, i.e. hardware generating extended beacons, phase wheels, laser sources, any active hardware (e.g. steering mirror, spatial light modulator, etc.), and any other custom or critical hardware -Summary of any component level testing, with comparison between test data and desired beacon/turbulence characteristics Primary output of Phase One is a final report which covers the following topics: -Summary of the sensitivity analysis with key results showing which beacon parameters were found to be most important for an LGS beacon simulator -Detailed description of the preliminary design, highlighting key trade-offs and technical innovations in simulating an LGS beacon and the proposed method for integrating each component into a final integrated system -A top-level requirements flow-down and preliminary design of key components of the LGS ATS system, i.e. hardware generating extended beacons, phase wheels, laser sources, any active hardware (e.g. steering mirror, spatial light modulator, etc.), and any other custom or critical hardware -Summary of any component level testing, with comparison between test data and desired beacon/turbulence characteristics

PHASE II: Phase II will move on to the design and development of an integrated bench-level source, demonstrating not only accurate simulation of the key properties of a laser beacon, but also the ability to readily vary the beacon parameters with predictable and repeatable results. Testing and characterization of the setup will be completed to identify any shortfalls in the system setup. At a minimum testing of the integrated system should include a SHWFS in an open-loop configuration, ideally testing would be done with a full LGS AO system or test bed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the final design in its end-use case. The primary deliverable of Phase II will be an integrated LGS source and turbulence simulator system meeting the following requirements: -Fits within 6'x8'x4' (width, length, height) volume (smaller is preferred) -Includes at least two phase screens and is capable of simulating a range of atmospheric turbulence parameters: coherence length (threshold of 3-15 cm, objective of 1.5-20 cm); isoplanatic angle (threshold of 4 – 15 µrad, objective of 2-20 µrad); and greenwood frequency (threshold: 0-500 Hz, objective 0-1000 Hz), also includes option for removing turbulence from beam path -Simulates at least one Rayleigh beacon, one Sodium beacon and a broadband target source concurrently, Rayleigh and Sodium beacons must be in the visible band and at different wavelengths (>50 nm separation) and target source must be in the visible or near infrared band (400- 1000 nm) with >100 nm spectral bandwidth -System simulates uplink and downlink atmospheric effects on the laser beacons including focus and angular anisoplanatism effects (uplink and downlink can have different turbulence paths but should have the same turbulence statistics) -Predictable and repeatable laser beacon and turbulence parameters (user should be able to configure the system to achieve desired beacon and turbulence parameters with 1% -Simulate user-defined beacon jitter and include option for uplink correction (this can just be a place holder for an SLM or deformable mirror) A final report is also required covering: -Final system design, with detailed drawings (Zemax or equivalent optical design drawings, Solidworks or equivalent mechanical drawings, electrical design drawings, etc.) and specifications and data sheets for all key components (optical and electrical components) -Test results from basic functionality testing comparing measured results to predicted results and to desired results -Characterization results showing the accuracy and repeatability of varying system configuration parameters and any software required to generate system configurations from user defined beam/turbulence parameters -Lessons learned and recommendations for future system designs.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: If Phase II is successful, phase III will seek to further refine the initial design. The primary goal for phase III would be to adapt the phase II system for integration with an on-sky capable LGS AO system. This would either represent some modifications and redesign of the phase II system or a completely new design customized for optimal integration with the LGS AO system. Any redesign required would build on lessons learned from the phase II project. Once completed, testing would focus on comparing on-sky and bench level results to further validate the capabilities of the LGS source/turbulence simulator system. If the results of the on-sky comparison testing is favorable, the work would transition to designing and developing LGS source and turbulence simulator systems for specific Air Force and Space Force applications. The primary deliverable of Phase III will be an LGS source and turbulence simulator system integrated with an on-sky capable LGS AO system. The requirements of the system will be based on lessons learned from the phase II effort and the specific interface requirements of the LGS AO system. A final report will also be required at the conclusion of the Phase III effort which will focus primarily on the results of the comparison testing between on-sky and bench-level results but will also include all of the phase II final report topic areas.

REFERENCES:

Ruiyao Luo, Wenda Cui, Hongyan Wang, Wuming Wu, Quan Sun, Yu Ning, Xiaojun Xu, "Spatial light modulators based laser guide star simulator," Proc. SPIE 10173, Fourth International Symposium on Laser Interaction with Matter, 101731C (12 May 2017); doi: 10.1117/12.2267932;
J. Huang, K. Wei, K. Jin, M. Li and Y. Zhang, "Controlling the Laser Guide Star power density distribution at Sodium layer by combining Pre-correction and Beam-shaping," Optics Communications, vol. 416, pp. 172-180, 2018.;
R. Rampy, D. Gavel, S. Rochester and R. Holzlohner, "Toward optimization of pulsed sodium laser guide stars," Journal of the Optical Society of America B: Optical Physics, vol. 32, no. 12, pp. 2425-2434, 2015.;
Roberto Ragazzoni, Davide Greggio, Valentina Viotto, Simone Di Filippo, Marco Dima, Jacopo Farinato, Maria Bergomi, Elisa Portaluri, Demetrio Magrin, Luca Marafatto, Federico Biondi, Elena Carolo, Simonetta Chinellato, Gabriele Umbriaco, Daniele Vassallo, "Extending the pyramid WFS to LGSs: the INGOT WFS," Proc. SPIE 10703, Adaptive Optics Systems VI, 107033Y (11 July 2018); doi: 10.1117/12.2313917;
M. Lloyd-Hart, C. Baranec, N.M. Milton, T. Stalcup, M. Snyder, N. Putnam, and J.R.P. Angel, "First test of a wavefront sensing with a constellation of laser guide beacons," Astro. J., 634:679-686, 2005;
Imelda A. De La Rue, Brent L. Ellerbroek, "Multiple guide stars to improve the performance of laser guide star adaptive optical systems," Proc. SPIE 3353, Adaptive Optical System Technologies, (11 September 1998); doi:10.1117/12.321723

KEYWORDS: Laser guide star; adaptive optics; atmospheric turbulence

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Quantum Sciences

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Space Platform; Materials

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the extent to which the minority carrier lifetime of III V semiconductor materials incorporating the heaviest group V element Bi can be improved by post-growth hydrogenation

DESCRIPTION: Incorporation of bismuth (Bi) into III-V semiconductor materials causes a strong reduction of the bandgap of the alloy without inducing significantly more strain than other constituents. Incorporated into an already small-bandgap material such as InAsSb, the resultant alloy InAsSbBi possesses all the ingredients of a high-performance focal plane array sensor capable of covering the mid- to long-wavelength infrared (MWIR-LWIR) spectrum. Specifically, this material system exhibits tunability across the infrared (3.5-14 µm), high-quality and large area lattice-matched substrate, mature processing technology, and as of this year demonstration of long minority carrier lifetimes necessary for high performance photo detection [1]. This recent demonstration of long minority carrier lifetime in InAsSbBi is significant because the lifetime reflects how long charge excited by incoming infrared radiation can transport in the material before it can no longer be collected by the EO/IR system, i.e. the likelihood that the photon is seen. Long lifetimes lead to efficient collection of charge and low dark currents, two key attributes of an efficient, high signal-to-noise image sensor. While other measures of performance are associated with the material’s fundamental nature (e.g. mobility, absorption, etc.), lifetime is fundamentally a measure of concentration of defects in the material and thus the lifetime is improved by innovation and advances in the material synthesis. As discussed in greater detail in Ref. [1], the challenge to further improving InAsSbBi for infrared-sensing applications is that higher growth temperatures are required to further improve the material’s minority carrier lifetime, but those temperatures significantly inhibit the incorporation of Bi. Increasing growth temperature shortens the maximum cutoff wavelength of the material as Bi, the element responsible for reducing the bandgap, incorporates less efficiently. The path forward for InAsSbBi will require either a novel growth approach that enables more effective incorporation of Bi in InAsSbBi at higher growth temperatures where the minority carrier lifetime is maximized, or a means of passivating defects present in InAsSbBi alloys grown at lower growth temperatures where Bi incorporates more efficiently. This topic seeks to evaluate post-growth hydrogenation as a means to passivate defects and improve the minority carrier lifetime in low-temperature-grown InAsSbBi alloys. Hydrogenation is commonly used to passivate defects in a multitude of materials, and has been shown to improve the minority carrier lifetime in other III-V infrared semiconductor materials. Given that the lifetime of InAsSbBi is not a function of the Bi mole fraction but rather the growth conditions utilized to synthesize the material, it is possible that the defects introduced at lower growth temperatures can be passivated, leading to long lifetime InAsSbBi alloys with sufficient Bi mole fraction to effectively cover the mid- to long-wave infrared spectrum.

PHASE I: Development of a hydrogenation recipe and test plan. Materials to be tested will be provided by the TPOC at AFRL/RVSU. Other materials suffering from non-optimal growth temperature constraints identified by the proposers may be included as well.

PHASE II: Execution of hydrogenation experiments. Hydrogenated materials will be returned to AFRL/RVSU for minority carrier lifetime testing and evaluation. An iterative process to optimize the hydrogenation technique will be performed.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: If a successful hydrogenation recipe is identified, the process may be commercialized and utilized to improve InAsSbBi and other optoelectronic materials that suffer from non-optimal growth condition constraints.

REFERENCES:

1. P. Petluru, P.C. Grant, A.J. Muhowski, I.M. Obermeier, M.S. Milosavljevic, S.R. Johnson, D. Wasserman, E.H. Steenbergen, P.T. Webster, “Minority carrier lifetime and photoluminescence of mid-wave infrared InAsSbBi,” Appl. Phys. Lett. 117, 061103 (2020).

KEYWORDS: Hydrogenation; bismide; InAsSbBi

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Biotechnology Space; Nuclear

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Nuclear; Sensors; Space Platform

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: Develop a low SWAP, low cost, high angular rate star tracker for satellite and nuclear enterprise applications.

DESCRIPTION: Topic Description: Existing star tracking attitude sensors for small satellites and rocket applications are limited in their ability to operate above an angular rate of approximately 3-5 degrees/second, thus rendering them useless for both satellite high spin (i.e. lost in space) applications, as well as spinning rocket body applications. Recent advances in neuromorphic (a.k.a. event based) sensors have dramatically improved their overall performance2, which allows them to be considered for these high angular rate applications1. In addition, the difference between a traditional frame-based camera and an event based camera is simply a matter of how the sensor is read out, which should allow for electronic switching between event based (i.e. high angular rate) and frame (i.e. low angular rate) modes within the star tracker. Additional advantages inherent in an event based sensor include high temporal resolution (µs) and high dynamic range (140 dB), which could allow for multiple modes of continuous attitude determination (i.e. star tracking, sun sensor, earth limb sensor) within a single small, low cost sensor package. All technology solutions that meet the topic objective are solicited in this call, however, neuromorphic sensors appear ideally suited to meet the technical objectives and should therefore be considered in the solution trade space. The scope of this effort will be to first analyze the capability of event based sensors to meet a high angular rate star tracker application, define the trade space for the technical solution against the satellite and nuclear enterprise requirements, develop a working prototype and test it against the requirements, and finally in Phase 3 move to initial production of a commercial star tracker unit.

PHASE I: Acquire existing state of the art COTS neuromorphic (a.k.a. event based) sensor or modify existing star tracking sensor as appropriate. Perform analysis and testing of the event based sensor to determine feasibility in the high angular rate star tracking satellite and nuclear enterprise applications

PHASE II: Development of a prototype event based high angular rate star tracker. Ideally this prototype will have the ability to be operated in both event based mode, as well as switch back and forth to standard (i.e. frame) mode. Explore and document the technical trade space (maximum angular rate, minimum detection threshold, associated algorithm development, etc.) and potential military/commercial application of the prototype device.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Phase 3 efforts will focus on transitioning the developed high angular rate attitude sensor technology to a working commercial and/or military solution. Potential applications include commercial and military satellites, as well as missile applications.

REFERENCES:

Tat-Jun Chin, Samya Bagchiy, Anders Eriksson, Andr´e van Schaik, “Star Tracking using an Event Camera”, IEEE Conference on Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition Workshops (CVPRW), arXiv:1812.02895, 13Apr2019;
Guillermo Gallego et al, “Event-based Vision: A Survey”, IEEE Transactions on Pattern Analysis and Machine Intelligence, arXiv:1904.08405, 8Aug2020.

KEYWORDS: Event based camera; neuromorphic sensor; high angular rate star tracker; small satellite

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Autonomy

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Space Platform

OBJECTIVE: The objective of the effort is to develop a docking mechanism designed to withstand space launch loads

DESCRIPTION: The US Space Force has a need for a launch hardened docking mechanism for on-orbit servicing and space logistics missions. Several docking mechanism concepts, designs, and prototypes exist today, but none of them can survive launch in the docked state. This topic is primarily seeking complete docking mechanism solutions that will survive the launch environment, but enabling technologies and subsystems will also be considered responsive. Offerors should deliver a functional prototype at the end of the effort.

PHASE I: A launch hardened modular component connector will be designed and at least two functional prototype connectors will delivered. The connector will have the following features: • Survive launch loads as defined by: NASA-GEVS and SpaceX PLUG in both axial and lateral orientations; • Capable of at least 200 engage/disengage cycles on the ground and on-orbit; • Include provisions for fuel transfer between the connected spacecraft/modules; • Provide for data and power pass-through between the connected spacecraft/modules; • No power required to maintain the mechanical connection; • Provide self-alignment within 2 degrees; • SWaP consistent with small scale spacecraft, (i.e. 1/2 ESPA to 27U CubeSat); • Have low recurring cost ($10k/unit for CubeSat-class mechanisms, $100k/unit for SmallSat-class mechanisms)

PHASE II: The Phase I connector design will be refined and at least two spaceflight capable connectors shall be delivered

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Phase III instructions to be provided later.

REFERENCES:

Davis, Joshua, John Mayberry, and Jay Penn. “On-Orbit Servicing: Inspection, Repair, Refuel, Upgrade, and Assembly of Satellites in Space,” Aerospace Corporation, Center for Space Policy and Strategy, April 2019;
Garretson, Joshua. “Satellite Servicing: A History, the Impact to the Space Force, and the Logistics Behind It,” Wild Blue Yonder. USAF, Air University, (2021);
Li, Wei-Jie, Da-Yi Cheng, Xi-Gang Kiu, Yao-Bing Wang, et al. “On-orbit service (OOS) of spacecraft: A review of engineering developments,” Progress in Aerospace Sciences 108, (2019): 32-120.

KEYWORDS: OSAM; connector; robotics; assembly; modular; servicing; docking; refuel; repair; logistics

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Cybersecurity; Autonomy; Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors

OBJECTIVE: Develop a capability to automatically generate malware test samples to support cyber resiliency for next-generation avionics architectures.

DESCRIPTION: Next-generation avionics architectures require the ability to operate in a cyber-contested environment. This, in-turn, requires avionic mission systems to detect, respond, and adapt to targeted cyber-attacks and to quantitatively measure the effectiveness of cyber resiliency technologies. In order to build avionics malware detection tools and to quantify their effectiveness, a comprehensive repository of malware test samples must be created. Given the cost, time, and expertise needed to manually create these test samples, this topic focuses on developing automated malware generation tools to create this comprehensive repository. The lack of malware test samples impacts our ability to both develop effective malware detection algorithms as well as test existing cyber resiliency solutions against malware payloads that could, in principle, be created by our adversaries. The difficulty with creating such a repository is that it is dependent on the adversary’s (vs. our own) knowledge about the security flaws of the targeted system, their ability to gain access to those flaws, and their ability to exploit those flaws [1], which is often unknown to the developers of the cyber protection solutions. While red teaming is often used as a means to measure the effectiveness of cyber protection solutions, these exercises are limited in scope and by the knowledge, skills, and resources of the red team, which do not necessarily reflect a determined nation-state adversary with nearly unlimited resources. The lack of quantitative measures of effectiveness is exacerbated by the fact that flaws may exist on the system that are unknown to the cyber protection developers and their red teams that could be uncovered and exploited by real adversaries. What is required is the ability to objectively simulate the attack creation process of our cyber adversaries and to proactively develop malware detection solutions in anticipation of those threats. The goal of this topic is to create the underlying technology necessary to automatically generate malware samples [2-4] that will be used to create a co-evolving protection system that can detect, respond, and adapt to otherwise unforeseen threats. In particular, the focus of this topic should be to develop techniques for generating supply chain malware that is surreptitiously embedded in representative avionics/ISR software and firmware. The techniques and tools for generating embedded malware samples developed under this topic would then be used by the Air Force internally to quantitatively test government developed malware detection algorithms in advance of a real-world attack, as well as for malicious feature extraction to improve malware detection tools [5] that are part of a cyber-resilient defense. The above approach requires innovative research and development of evolvable malware that targets a representative avionics system and an ability to evaluate the feasibility of the generation techniques and the effectiveness of the resulting malware samples, whether through instantiation on hardware or through software simulation. For the purpose of this topic, a suggested target platform includes, but is not limited to, a small testbed containing a sensor (e.g., camera, GPS), a post-processing computer (e.g., a single board computer) with corresponding software that operates on sensor data, and an analyst’s workstation, that might be representative of an avionics mission system or intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR) system.

PHASE I: Develop an approach, architecture and limited-scope prototype that demonstrates the ability to evolve malware samples that target representative avionics system software or firmware and cause a mission impact. These malware samples should be undetectable by at least one commonly used commercial off-the-shelf anti-virus program. Malicious features that are differentiable from the host software should be identified and explainable as to why they are considered malicious.

PHASE II: Expand the quantity and sophistication of the malware test samples generated, categorize the classes of attacks, and identify the distinguishing malicious features from the targeted host software or firmware. Determine the false positive and false negative rates of detection of the cyber protection system based on commercially available malware detection products or other available tool suites. The malware should not only avoid exposure by malware detection tools, but also by acceptance tests used to validate the legitimate host software/firmware.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The final product will have both commercial and military avionics system applications, as well as a broad class of embedded system applications, including Supervisory, Control, and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and Industrial Control Systems (ICS).

REFERENCES:

Jeff Hughes and George Cybenko, “Three Tenets for Secure Cyber-Physical System Design and Asessment,” Proc. of SPIE Vol. 9097, 9097A, 18 June 2014;
Sadia Norren, Shafaq Muraza, M. Zubair Shafiq, and Muddassar Farooq, “Evolvable Malware,” Proceedings of the 11th Annual conference on Genetic and evolutionary computation (GECCO), Montreal, Quebec, Canada, 2009;
R. Murali and C. S. Velayutham, "A Conceptual Direction on Automatically Evolving Computer Malware using Genetic and Evolutionary Algorithms," 2020 International Conference on Inventive Computation Technologies (ICICT), 2020, pp. 226-229, doi: 10.1109/ICICT48043.2020.9112509;
R. L. Castro, C. Schmitt and G. Dreo, "AIMED Evolving Malware with Genetic Programming to Evade Detection," 2019 18th IEEE International Conference On Trust, Security And Privacy In Computing And Communications/13th IEEE International Conference On Big Data Science And Engineering (TrustCom/BigDataSE), 2019, pp. 240-247, doi: 10.1109/TrustCom/BigDataSE.2019.00040;
Mohammad M. Masud, Latifur Khan, and Bhavani Thuraisingham, “A scalable multi-level feature extraction technique to detect malicious executables,” Information System Frontiers, 10(1): 33-45, March 2008.

KEYWORDS: Evolutionary Computing; Genetic Algorithms; Malware detection; Embedded System Security; Avionics Cyber Security

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Autonomy; Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Information Systems

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: Identify sources of intelligence reports describing behaviors of targets of interest and methods to extract the information in the reports into a machine readable format. Identify sensor data relevant to the targets of interest that can be extracted from multi-domain sources. The autonomous algorithms use the extracted data to develop adversary patterns of life for various activities. These can be temporal patterns or functional patterns. The algorithms would interpret the patterns and identify a workflow and patterns of operation. These automated extracted patterns would be converted into a format ingestible by Insight and other predictive analytics tools used to augment and potentially replace expert defined patterns. These patterns would be used to support predictive analytics and identify which collections are needed to increase confidence and confirm patterns the enemy is using. In addition, these patterns may need to support flexibility and adapt to variations that change over time.

DESCRIPTION: Develop tools that can extract relevant target behavior information from textual and machine readable reports. Using the extracted information automate or assist the analyst in the development Insight readable models of target behaviors, and link at least three different types of sensors and/or from 3 different sensors across 2 different sensing methods from 2 different operating domains to measure indications of the target behavior. The algorithms would produce either a functional or temporal pattern of life that would drive automated patterns of life implemented in Insight or other predictive analytics software tools.

PHASE I: Identify an initial domain and target behavior of interest. Identify reports describing the behaviors of target of interest. Identify a data set with sensing information containing the target and behaviors of interest. Prototype capabilities to demonstrate all of the required functions to extract the information from reports and create simple target behavior models for Insight.

PHASE II: Refine and integrate prototype capabilities developed in Phase 1. Demonstrate integrated tool for at least three different types of sensors and/or from 3 different sensors across 2 different sensing methods from 2 different operating domains to measure indications of the target behavior.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Potential to provide commercial functionality to multiple organizations across the Department of Defense for internal and external applications, civic and commercial applciations for automated workflow applications linking information capture systems to define meaning and process steps. This provides the potential to accelerate the process development, reducing manpower requirements, while improving overall quality control.

REFERENCES:

Machine Assisted Script Curation, Proceedings of NAACL-HLT 2021: Demonstrations, pages 8–17June 6–11, 2021. ©2021 Association for Computational Linguistics;
Rahul, S. Adhikari and Monika, "NLP based Machine Learning Approaches for Text Summarization," 2020 Fourth International Conference on Computing Methodologies and Communication (ICCMC), 2020, pp. 535-538, doi: 10.1109/ICCMC48092.2020.ICCMC-00099;
NLP Driven Ensemble Based Automatic SubtitleGeneration and Semantic Video SummarizationTechniqueAswin VB, Mohammed Javed, Parag Parihar, Aswanth K, Druval CR, Anpam Dagar,Aravinda CV1Indian Institute Of Information Technology Allahabad, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, http://arxiv.org/abs/1904.09740

KEYWORDS: Natural language processing; Course of action modeling; Target behavior modeling; Time sequence modeling; indications and warnings; DARPA Insight; Automated model generation; Assisted model generation;

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Network Command, Control and Communications; Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning; General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Bio Medical; Air Platform

OBJECTIVE: Develop a tool or set of tools and processes for enabling a useful and usable user interface when the content/learning material, the interaction model, and the target hardware may not be known in advance.

DESCRIPTION: To defeat near-peer adversaries in contested environments, the United State Air Force (USAF) will operate from an expeditionary position requiring significant resiliency and agility. Agile Combat Employment (ACE) is an operational concept that employs a network of existing bases and austere locations to deliver combat power to support expeditionary missions. Combat forces at these bases must be agile and be able to respond quickly with significantly reduced infrastructure and force footprint. Airmen operating at these austere forward operating locations, because of the reduced personnel footprint, will need to be multi-capable (i.e., able to perform multiple tasks across platforms and across specialties.) To enable that capability, the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has embarked on an applied research program called Just-in-time, Multi-mission airmen/warfighters (JITMMA/W), an integrated capability to support deployed personnel performing a wider variety of mission tasks across traditional AFSC and expertise boundaries. A technology gaps that exists within the JITMMA/W space is that of intelligent and naturalistic user/technology interfaces. Airman who will be supporting ACE tasks in forward and potentially austere locations will need user interfaces to be as easy to use as possible, to include user interfaces that require no manual control, given the likelihood that their hands will not be always available for interface navigation activities. In addition, the control and display hardware for these human-machine interfaces may not be known at the time the content is developed and the presentation modes may be undetermined.

PHASE I: Develop an approach and a roadmap for an iterative development of this capability, along with references to relevant research in this area. The outcome of the Phase I should be a clear development path for a tool or set of tools and/or processes that overcome the challenges of delivering training to ACE multi-mission airmen.

PHASE II: Implement the product roadmap features identified during the Phase I. Demonstrate a tool, set of tools, and or processes that can auto-tailor/match training content, delivery mechanisms, and/or target hardware to enable a seamless and robust training ecosystem that leverages existing computer-based training and AR/VR applications and new XR applications with advanced control and display technologies as a threshold for performance. An objective would be to show this approach that can adjust to learner performance. Validate the performance of the simulation tool. Document the design, the design process, and the validation results in a final report

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The commercial electronic gaming industry is filled with multiple versions of popular games that must be custom-tailored for each platform and form factor in which each game is expected to run. This product could streamline the production and distribution of large numbers of games. In addition, USAF’s Air Education and Training Command (AETC), as well as the training commands of all sister services, could take advantage of technologies that auto-tailor content, delivery mechanisms, and target hardware to create a robust training content delivery ecosystem.

REFERENCES:

Majumder, S., Mondal, T., Deen, M.J. Wearable sensors for remote health monitoring (2017) Sensors (Switzerland), 17 (1), art. no. 130, . Cited 444 times;
Pandya, B., Pourabdollah, A., Lotfi, A. A cloud-based pervasive application for monitoring oxygen saturation and heart rate using fuzzy-as-a-service (2021) ACM International Conference Proceeding Series, pp. 69-75.;
Mahmood, A.S., Jafer, E., Hussain, S., Fernando, X. Wireless body area network development for remote patient health observing (2017) IHTC 2017 - IEEE Canada International Humanitarian Technology Conference 2017, art. no. 8058193, pp. 26-31.Cited 6 times.

KEYWORDS: Flexible/Wearable Sensors; Cognitive state assessment; Task/activity performance monitoring and assistance; Performance assessment and prediction; Telemedicine and telemaintenance tools; deployed personnel

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Network Command, Control and Communications; Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning; General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Bio Medical; Air Platform

OBJECTIVE: Develop a tool or set of tools and/or processes for data/content storage and application at the edge. These technologies and/or processes would have to intelligently deliver training content in a potentially low data throughput networking environment and on various hardware with potentially limited computing capability.

DESCRIPTION: To defeat near-peer adversaries in contested environments, the United State Air Force (USAF) will operate from an expeditionary position requiring significant resiliency and agility. Agile Combat Employment (ACE) is an operational concept that employs a network of existing bases and austere locations to deliver combat power to support expeditionary missions. Combat forces at these bases must be agile and be able to respond quickly with significantly reduced infrastructure and force footprint. Airmen operating at these austere forward operating locations, because of the reduced personnel footprint, will need to be multi-capable (i.e., able to perform multiple tasks across platforms and across specialties.) To enable that capability, the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has embarked on an applied research program called Just-in-time, Multi-mission airmen/warfighters (JITMMA/W), an integrated capability to support deployed personnel performing a wider variety of mission tasks across traditional AFSC and expertise boundaries. A technology gap that exists within the JITMMA/W space is that of agile intelligent delivery of training content to the tactical edge. Airman who will be supporting ACE tasks in forward and potentially austere locations will need the appropriate training content/courseware (i.e., lessons, demonstrations, assessments, etc.) available where and when they need it, regardless of connectivity to larger networks and data stores (e.g., cloud). These technologies will also need to tailor content delivery to the specific mission and airman requirements (such as familiarization training, differences training, etc.)

PHASE I: Develop an approach and a roadmap for an iterative development of this capability, along with references to relevant research in this area. The outcome of the Phase I should be a clear development path for a tool or set of tools and/or processes that propose to overcome the challenges of intelligent training content delivery to ACE multi-mission airmen.

PHASE II: Implement the product roadmap features identified during the Phase I. Demonstrate a tool, set of tools, and or processes that can intelligently deliver training content to the tactical edge, when and where needed. An objective would be to show that this approach can incorporate learning to improve content requirements prediction performance. Validate the performance of the content delivery mechanism. Document the design, the design process, and the validation results in a final report.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Industry engaged in rapid and responsive training of field or line personnel could leverage technologies like these to significantly reduce costs and improve efficiency without sacrificing safety. In addition, as the USAF’s Air Education and Training Command (AETC), as well as the training commands of all sister services, begin to take advantage of the power of XR technologies to push training further into the field, they will need technologies that intelligently deliver training content.

REFERENCES:

Majumder, S., Mondal, T., Deen, M.J. Wearable sensors for remote health monitoring (2017) Sensors (Switzerland), 17 (1), art. no. 130, . Cited 444 times;
Pandya, B., Pourabdollah, A., Lotfi, A. A cloud-based pervasive application for monitoring oxygen saturation and heart rate using fuzzy-as-a-service (2021) ACM International Conference Proceeding Series, pp. 69-75;
Mahmood, A.S., Jafer, E., Hussain, S., Fernando, X. Wireless body area network development for remote patient health observing (2017) IHTC 2017 - IEEE Canada International Humanitarian Technology Conference 2017, art. no. 8058193, pp. 26-31.Cited 6 times.

KEYWORDS: Flexible/Wearable Sensors; Cognitive state assessment; Task/activity performance monitoring and assistance; Performance assessment and prediction; Telemedicine and telemaintenance tools. deployed personnel

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Autonomy; General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this topic is to explore the available configurations of multi-function digital active electronically scanned arrays (AESA) radars and the associated Sensor Resource Manager (SRM) to achieve Air Force mission objectives (https://www.doctrine.af.mil/). The USAF requires a mission engineering and modeling tool to evaluate the most appropriate combination of software and processing capability to achieve these ends. These capabilities should be captured and communicated in a SysML or other MBSE model. At minimum, this is for a single-ship configuration, but we will give preferred consideration for multi-platform configurations.

DESCRIPTION: Recent advancements in open architectures will enable the United States Air Force (USAF) to develop ‘plug-and-play’ or adaptable software-defined sensors for both attributable and non-attributable platforms. Systems of high-interest within this context are multi-function, digital active electronically scanned arrays (AESAs). These radars allow for advanced beam steering and beam control enabling multiple RF operating modes to run concurrently. In an operational context, tradeoffs will be necessary to tailor software and processing capability for specific missions. The goal of this topic is to explore the available configurations of multi-function digital AESA radars and the associated Sensor Resource Manager (SRM) to achieve Air Force mission objectives (https://www.doctrine.af.mil/). The USAF requires a mission engineering and modeling tool to evaluate the most appropriate combination of software and processing capability to achieve these ends. These capabilities should be captured and communicated in a SysML or other MBSE model. At minimum, this is for a single-ship configuration, but we will give preferred consideration for multi-platform configurations. This topic is not focused on a specific production radar and the expectation is to model a multi-function digital AESA radar at the logical and functional level. It is expected that in Phase III, the performer will implement an open architecture interface at the physical level for a specific radar to include the hardware, software, processor, modes and algorithms. An example for consideration is the Arrays at Commercial Timescales (ACT) radar (https://www.darpa.mil/program/arrays-at-commercial-timescales).

PHASE I: Demonstrate understanding of current capabilities of multi-function AESA and how those relate to AF mission sets. Demonstrate understanding of SysML and MBSE tools as well as the understanding of how to represent highly complex sensors (AESA) in this format. Demonstrate understanding of AFSIM capabilities and methods to represent complex sensors in this format. Demonstrate understanding of Sensor Resource Managers (SRMs) and challenges associated with integrating SRMs with other airborne systems and open architectures.

PHASE II: Develop optimal configurations for multi-function AESA mapped to Air Force mission sets at a functional level. Present hardware-agnostic model of the radar, processor, modes, algorithms and SRM using SysML or other Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) tools and best practices. Develop ways to represent complex, multi-purpose systems in SysML or other MBSE tools for effective analysis. Develop and present an unclassified AFSIM scenario(s) to demonstrate the multi-function AESA and modeling the desired SRM to capture effectiveness of a multi-function AESA compared to traditional approaches. Capture all documentation and results in the model based form that can be shared and re-used by other developers and/or RY divisions.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Implement an open architecture interface at the physical level for a specific radar to include the hardware, software, processor, modes and algorithms. As an example, the Arrays at Commercial Timescales (ACT) radar (https://www.darpa.mil/program/arrays-at-commercial-timescales).

REFERENCES:

A. Farina, P. Holbourn, T. Kinghorn and L. Timmoneri, "AESA radar — Pan-domain multi-function capabilities for future systems," 2013 IEEE International Symposium on Phased Array Systems and Technology, 2013, pp. 4-11, doi: 10.1109/ARRAY.2013.6731792.

KEYWORDS: Active electronically scanned array (AESA), digital at the element; multi-function radar; AESA; Sensor Resource Manager; Resource Manager; Sensors; Radio Frequency; Radar; Model Based Systems Engineering; MBSE; SysML

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Space Platform

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this effort is the development of an energetic particle diagnostic suitable for deployment on cubesats while being capable of measuring electron and ion energy distribution functions ranging from a few eV up to 2 MeV in plasma outflows in the space environment. The development of this class of sensor on a cubesat platform allows rapid deployment and the capability to measure at a number of points in space via flying constellations of cubesats.

DESCRIPTION: This effort will develop diagnostics capable of measuring electron and ion precipitation and outflows during both quiet and storm conditions in the ionosphere while being suitable for deployment on a cubesat. It will allow bi-directional measurement of particle fluxesto be directly observed to directly measure the current flows in an environment consistent with the mid-altitude ionospheric regions. In particular, it will be able to 1. Observe bi-directional electron velocity distribution functions from ~100eV to 500keV 2. Observe bi-directional ion velocity distribution functions from ~100eV to 500keV 3. Seperate ion observations into total and species specific ion fluence.

PHASE I: Phase I will analyze and design a diagnostics suitable to achieve the measurement goals described above. Additionally, this design will be suitable for deployment on a cubesat platform so assement of size, power, weight, etc of the sensor system must be performed.

PHASE II: Phase II will develop a build and impliment the sensor design developed during phase I and package it such that is it suitable for deployment as a payload on a cubesat system. Details on the necessary specifications for the cubesat to host the sensors will be developmed and provided.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The fundamental nature of AFOSR programs reflects potential for a novel energetic particle sensor to be deployed beyond the natural space domain enviroment. For example, characterization of particles flows in high-power directed energy devices and Hall thrusters would be suitable for health/performance monitoring for these devices as well as deployment on developmental high-energy density devices.

REFERENCES:

Milikh, G. M., Mishin, E., Galkin, I., A. Vartanyan, C. Roth, B. W. Reinisch, “Ion outflows and artificial ducts in the topside ionosphere at HAARP”, GRL, 37, L18102, 2010;
Moore, T. E., M.-C. Fok, K. Garcia-Sage, “The ionospheric outflow feedback loop”, JASTP, 115116, 59-66, 2014;

KEYWORDS: plasma; ionosphere; outflows; ring current; diagnostics; cubesats;

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Directed Energy

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform

OBJECTIVE: We seek novel laser-based non-destructive evalution diagnostics for surface-plasma interactions that can be integrated into devices with materials that are both under vacuum and are energetized by high-field and high-power drivers.

DESCRIPTION: The highly energetic species in plasma environments that interact with surfaces lead to a range of kinetic processes that exist over several lengths and time scales. These processes can lead to heating, structural modifications, surface etching, emission, chemical reactions, etc that are intimately related to the irradiating plasma characteristics and structural, chemical and thermal properties of the materials being irradiated. Novel laser-based metrologies have recently emerged as unique diagnostic tools to provide real-time surface characterization of materials being irradiated with energetic plasmas. These metrologies have the advantage of providing rapid and highly sensitive NDE measurements of surfaces while achieving relatively spatially localized measurements with micron scale resolution. Further, the spatial manipulation of the laser focal plane can generate surface maps of thermal and chemical gradients on a plasma irradiated surface. Here we seek an advanced plasma diagnostic tool capable of spatially resolving the thermal and chemical gradients of a plasma exposed surface with real time NDE functionality. This diagnostic approach should be able to measure local thermal and chemical property variations on a plasma irradiated surface, and be adaptable for in situ testing under vacuum and other high field environments. Spatial resolution of surface thermal and chemical dynamics < 10 microns is desired. This diagnostic capability will need to be integrated into both vacuum systems as well as high-power drivers up to and including typical high-power electroamgnetic sources.

PHASE I: Phase I will work to research and asssess if a novel fiber optic based diagnostic system with the following capability: -Thermoreflectance in integrated fiber optic assembly capable of detecting thermal property changes of materials exposed to plasma -Spatial control of focused laser location on sample surface via integrated fiber optics and modulated piezo mirrors instead of physically moving sample (making this tool assessable and integrable into vacuum assemblies -Temporal resolution of continuous wave reflected probe intensity through electronic detection scheme of reflected probe light trigged with modulated laser or plasma source -Detection of both thermoreflectance and Raman signals from focused laser spot on samples surface using single element detection and all-in-fiber spectroscopy This assessment will including vacuum and field/power parameters and constraints for the systems with which the diagnostic can be integrated.

PHASE II: Based on the Phase I assessment, the Phase II effort will impliment and test a novel laser-based diagnostic system for plasma-surface interaction.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The fundamental nature of the AFOSR programs reflects the potential to extend beyond directed energy applications, and re-vector this diagnostic for any kind of energetic surface-plasma systems such as pulsed power, plasma processing, advanced space thrusters, radar/communication/electronic warfare sources. and plasma combustion ignition.

REFERENCES:

Tomko et. al., "Plasma-based Surface Cooling." Arxiv: 2018.02047, 2021;

KEYWORDS: laser diagnostics; plasma-surface interaction; thermoreflectivity; and Raman;

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Quantum Sciences; 5G

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors; Space Platform; Air Platform

OBJECTIVE: Demonstration of a vacuum packaged microfabricated rubidium vapor cell with low helium permeation and temperature control stable to below 10 mK.

DESCRIPTION: Atomic clocks have become pervasive in multiple industries for position, navigation, and timing. However, their full potential to the everyday consumer and military was not fully realized until the advent of chip-scale atomic clocks (CSAC) [1] that provide an atomic reference with small C-SWaP. Requirements for more precise clocks beyond the CSAC (1010 1/Hz1/2) push into optical clocks (1012 1/Hz1/2). This requires a move away from buffer filled microfabricated cells, finer control over temperature, and reduced helium permeation. To fully realize the same impact as a CSAC, the technology must be in line with a mass producible, low cost, architecture. The objective of this project is to create a microfabricated rubidium vapor cell that is vacuum packaged, demonstrates a low permeation to helium, anti-reflection coating at 780 nm, and demonstrate sub 10-mK temperature drifts while creating less than 1 nT of residual magnetic field. The fabrication method must show a path towards mass fabrication.

PHASE I: Demonstration and delivery of a microfabricated rubidium vapor cell (inner cell dimensions of 3 mm x 3 mm x 3 mm) with anti-reflection coated glass at 780 nm with a bandwidth of 10 nm. Design of final cell structure that cannot exceed 1 cm x 1 cm x 1 cm. A path outlined towards low helium permeation and fine temperature control/stability via electrical heating with sub nT fields.

PHASE II: Demonstration and delivery of vacuum packaged rubidium cells with an inner volume of 3 mm x 3 mm x 3 mm and total outer dimensions of 1 cm x 1 cm x 1 cm. All windows must be anti-reflection coated for 780 nm with a bandwidth of 10 nm and demonstrated low helium permeation. The package must demonstrate electrical heating of the cell to 120 C in an ambient environment (22 C) with a package temperature below 30 C. The package must hold the temperature stability to below 1 mK over the course of a week. The package should also include temperature measurement devices, both a primary and a witness. The residual magnetic field created from the heater and temperature measurements must not exceed 1 nT.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Vacuum packaged vapor cells are a critical component for the miniaturization of optical clocks. Beyond DoD needs, low cost chip-scale atomic clocks are useful for PNT systems used by the oil and gas industry. Furthermore, this technology directly translates to low SWaP chip-scale magnetometers used for DoD applications (magnetic navigation, magnetic anomaly detection, and communications) as well as commercial applications (medical imaging, communications, navigation).

REFERENCES:

S Knappe, V Shah, PDD Schwindt, L Hollberg, J Kitching, LA Liew, Moreland, J., “A microfabricated atomic clock,” Applied Physics Letters 85 (9), 1460-1462.

KEYWORDS: Microfabricated vapor cells; atomic clocks

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Microelectronics

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors; Electronics

OBJECTIVE: Research and develop ultra wideband, high efficiency power amplifier (PA) technology suitable for multifunction transmitter systems.

DESCRIPTION: The proliferation of wireless technologies has posed significant challenges to future DoD systems. One of the challenges for sensor technology is the near-peer threats creating highly contested and congested EM environment. The net result is the demand for efficient transmit power ever more critical to achieving battlespace dominance with increase power, efficiency, and spectral coverage. In order to support this vision, this topic is seeking the development and demonstration of multifunctional power amplifier technology capable of wideband and high efficiency operation. The bandwidth coverage may be either instantaneous or tunable for contiguous wideband operation. In essence, we are seeking novel power amplifier concepts to enable wideband coverage, while attaining narrow band like efficiency performance with a size suitable to fit within a Ku-band phased array grid.

In this research, ultra wideband power amplification technologies will be explored. This includes the investigation of novel PA topologies to take advantage of advanced processes such as gallium nitride (GaN) where it has the combination of high breakdown and gain bandwidth product. Critical performance parameters for the novel PA include ultra-wideband (2-18 GHz), high gain (saturated power gain > 15 dB), medium output power (Pout > 2W, 10W max.), and high power added efficiency (PAE > 50%). The improved PA performance will enable development of next generation transmit/receive (T/R) modules suitable for airborne and space applications. Current state-of-the-art PA technology provides broadband performance (multi-octave bandwidth), but operates at relatively low efficiency (PAE < 30%). The aim of this research is to explore advanced PA design techniques leveraging advanced technologies to yield the combined contiguous wideband and high efficiency performance suitable for future DoD radar, communication, and EW systems.

PHASE I: Perform trade study to provide power amplifier architecture & specifications. Research candidate fabrication technologies and explore design topologies to achieve an ultra-wideband, medium output power, and high efficiency power amplifier.

PHASE II: Design and build a prototype of the power amplifier to demonstrate the proof of concept. The proof of concept should be demonstrated in a packaged environment.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Improve power amplifier bandwidth and efficiency for multifunction RF applications; radar and EW techniques.

REFERENCES:

J. Gassmann, P. Watson, & L. Kehias, “Wideband, High-Efficiency GaN Power Amplifiers Utilizing a Non-Uniform Distributed Topology”, IEEE MTT-S International Microwave Symposium digest. IEEE MTT-S International Microwave Symposium, 2007 ;
C. Campbell, C. Lee, V. Williams, M. Kao, H. Tserng, P. Saunier, and T. Balisteri, “A Wideband Power Amplifier MMIC Utilizing GaN on SiC HEMT Technology,” IEEE Journal of Solid-State Circuits, vol. 44, no. 10, pp. 2640–2647, 2009 ;
H. Wu, Q. Lin, L. Zhu, S. Chen, Y. Chen, and L. Hu, “A 2 to 18 GHz Compact High-Gain and High-Power GaN Amplifier,” in 2019 IEEE MTT-S International Microwave Symposium (IMS), 2019, pp. 710–713. ;
U. Schmid, H. Sledzik, P. Schuh, J. Schroth, M. Oppermann, P. Bruckner, F. van Raay, R. Quay, and M. Seelmann-Eggebert, “Ultra- ¨ Wideband GaN MMIC Chip Set and High Power Amplifier Module for Multi-Function Defense AESA Applications,” IEEE Trans. Microw. Theory Techn., vol. 61, no. 8, pp. 3043–3051, 2013.

KEYWORDS: microelectronics; power amplifier; transmitter

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Cybersecurity; Network Command, Control and Communications; Autonomy

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors; Electronics; Space Platform; Information Systems

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: Identify and develop resilience conformance framework and human factors applied to Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) user equipment, PNT systems of systems, integrated PNT receivers, and PNT source components such as Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) chipsets.

DESCRIPTION: With the automation and multi-level resilience of prevent, respond, and recover functions involved in Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) equipment, human presence is almost inevitable in such systems. The vast majority of PNT services mandate the presence of end users with supervisory roles (Human-on-the-Loop), such as resilience level settings, risk tolerances, budgets, dual-purpose civil and military applications and interferences in situations unfamiliar to the autonomous PNT equipment. Hence, it is vital to understand how this presence affects the application performance requirements of accuracy, availability, integrity, continuity, and/or coverage and expected behaviors in resilient PNT equipment at the design phase. Moreover, this understanding supports a radical change in the design paradigm: can we design autonomous PNT equipment that utilizes human presence to improve the resilience guarantee or aid in situations of higher degrees of uncertainty? The SBIR topic focuses on answering this question for future resilience-proofing and is broadly applicable across civil and military PNT sources; e.g. GNSS-dependent time and frequency sources and receivers. Specifically, prospective options shall examine the human role in guaranteeing resilience and/or security when PNT equipment is susceptible to jamming and spoofing attacks. The technical challenges the government is following on this topic are threefold: i) understanding human behavior; ii) developing conformance frameworks for PNT resilience agnostic to all critical infrastructure, all applications, all PNT sources or services, and all threats; and iii) synthesizing expected behaviors and outcomes for resilient PNT user equipment. Offerors are encouraged to work with Military Grade User Equipment prime contractors and developers to help ensure applicability of their efforts and begin work towards technology transition.

PHASE I: Develop a multi-level conformance framework for PNT resilience, starting from: i) underlying GNSS chipsets for fundamental PNT measurements; moving to ii) an integrated receiver, including a GNSS chipset, PNT processor, and clock/oscillator; and finally applying to iii) systems of systems approaches; e.g. an integrated receiver, an anti-jamming antenna, any other connected devices used to deliver PNT data, and human-on-the-loop. Conduct an analysis and use-case simulations; e.g. for application {X}, subject to threat {Y}, technology/solution {Z} can provide timing at Resilience Level 3 with an accuracy threshold of 1.8 microseconds 99.9% of the time, and a post-threat recovery time of 80 seconds 95% of the time to demonstrate how the human power of inductive reasoning and ability to provide context, particularly during an attack, affect overall PNT resilience and/or security guarantee.

PHASE II: Design, implement, integrate, and test a live, synthetic, blended and extendable digital twin and virtual platform that facilitates trade-offs with respect to the impact that human-on-the-loop has on the resilience of PNT user equipment with varying levels of autonomy and resilience. Assess implementation complexity of increasing resilience along the signal processing and PNT solution generation chain. Cooperate with one or more GNSS receiver manufacturers and military navigation system integrators. Demonstrate a non-resilient chipset (a chipset that does not meet any resilience level as defined in Phase I) but integrate it in a receiver in a way that that will ultimately result in its resilience. Testing should include validation and verification of manufacturer specifications and end-user requirements. Manufacturers should test against their product’s specifications, while end-users should test against their application requirements.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: In cooperative efforts with end-users, operate “systems-of-systems” to increase resilience levels through the design, integration, configuration, and deployment of their systems, utilizing laboratory and field tests in representative operational and GNSS-denied environments. Evaluate transition opportunities for utilization in approved Government-civilian applications.

REFERENCES:

1. National R&D Plan for Positioning, Navigation, and Timing Resilience, Jan 2021; 2. Presidential Policy Directive -- Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience/PPD-21

KEYWORDS: resilient PNT user equipment; human on the loop; resilient conformance framework; virtual platform; digital engineering; integrated receiver; GNSS chipset; clock/oscillator; PNT sources

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Information Systems

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: Develop knowledge graph based analytical software to enable knowledge acquisition at finger tips and meaning making at scale on red force behavior and operation dynamics from all-source intelligence data to support ISR operation planning and management.

DESCRIPTION: Through the entire Joint Air Tasking Cycle (JATC), many ISR planning and analytical tasks require a good understanding of red force behavior and operation dynamics. For example, in order for ISR analysts to translate the commander’s intent into a clear, concise, accurate, and relevant set of collection requirements (CRs), they have to acquire and constantly update the knowledge on an adversary’s conducts, states, and intentions from all-source intelligence. However, the helpful information is often buried in huge volumes of disparate and uncorrelated raw intelligence data without apparent answers to these questions. This makes the current time-bound CR development a cognitively intensive manual process. It is difficult to scale it up into a high-intensity near-peer operational environment where the hidden dynamics of a large red force operation are too complex for any individual analysts to mentally digest and remember in real time. Therefore, there is a critical need in the area of integrated ISR by the Air Combat Command (ACC) for new machine-assisted knowledge acquisition and meaning making capability to augment analysts for continuous acquiring, retaining, analyzing, understanding, and forecasting of red force behavior and operation dynamics from massive and noisy real-time as well as historical all-source intelligence data. The advancement in the artificial intelligence has offered some potential solutions to address the problem, particularly in the domain of knowledge graph (KG) which has witnessed large commercial success in Google search and Amazon’s Alexa for providing comprehensive search returns on individual query targets as well as their correlated entities. In this effort, AFRL is seeking innovative solutions on KG model and additional machine inference of red force operational behavior and dynamics so analysts can have relevant red force information at finger tips and mean-making at scale when working on analytical JATC tasks. The definition of KG is broad in this effort and not limited to specific modeling technology such as the traditional ontology-based models. Any connectivity-focused, analytical solutions are highly encouraged. More specifically, AFRL looks for a software solution that can deliver a scalable KG design and corresponding graph database, data processing modules, data analytical engine, and front-end graphical user interface (GUI) and visualization. It should be capable of modeling, detecting, forecasting, and visualizing red force operational tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTP) in the form of spatial-temporal operational patterns of units and weapon systems, indicators of state changes, and group interactions at tactical and joint operational levels. The KG design should include relevant combat, support, and command and control components with group behavior and risk models in order to derive information on red force’s posture, intent, operation mode, and psychological state. It also needs to be flexible on architecture and fault-tolerating with respect to missing or uncertain intelligence data. The analytical engine should provide confidence levels in its analytical results and summary statistics to facilitate sound decision making process. The data processing modules need to be able to extract and parse spatial-temporal information from multiple representative intelligence sources, including open sources. The GUI should allow analysts to easily construct query and provide user-friendly presentation of analytical results in the form of annotated graphs, maps, tables, and/or charts, etc. The operational scenarios may include, but not limited to, ground to air and air to air engagements. AFRL will provide a limited number of simulated datasets for phase I and II. The use of government datasets is optional as long as the offeror’s own datasets are clearly identified in the proposal. Open source datasets are highly encouraged. No other government furnished materials, equipment, data, or facilities will be provided.

PHASE I: Design and develop the initial software architecture and critical components for a proof-of-concept demonstration involving a few tactical level scenarios using simulated and open source data. The focus is on graph model and backend analytic engine. Provide trade-off analysis on the best technical development path, algorithm and method choice, data management and software framework decision, and potential risk and negation strategy.

PHASE II: Develop all aspects of a fully functional prototype with a user-friendly front interface and scalable backend data process and management. It needs to deliver a seamless modeling and analysis pipeline at both tactical and joint operation levels of the red forces using simulated, multi-domain open source, and other DoD internal data. Conduct test and validation with AFRL and ACC analysts to demonstrate the human performance difference against current practice for a specific JATC task, for example, development of PIRs (Priority Intelligence Requirements) or EEIs (Essential Elements of Information) and/or facilitating asset management and task assignment.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Adapt, refine, and optimize the Phase II prototype into a mature product directly integrated with analytical systems at one of ACC’s Air Operation Centers to support multiple JATC tasks, for example, CR development, asset/task pairing, and battle damage assessment, using real mission data. Expand the software into other DoD branches such as the Space Force as well as the commercial world for applications in disaster relief [1], law enforcement [2], and many other areas [3].

REFERENCES:

Gaur, M., Shekarpour, S., Gyrard, A. and Sheth, A., “empathi: an ontology for emergency managing and planning about hazard crisis,” Proc. IEEE 13th International Conference on Semantic Computing (ICSC), pp. 396-403, (2019).
Kejriwal, M., Szekely, P. and Knoblock, C., “Investigative knowledge discovery for combating illicit activities,” IEEE Intelligent Systems, 33(1), pp.53-63 (2018).
https://neo4j.com/use-cases/

KEYWORDS: Multi-Domain Command and Control; Integrated ISR; ISR Collection Management; Knowledge Representation and Inference

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Directed Energy

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Space Platform; Materials

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: Provide hardware suitable to enhance the resilience of satellites to directed energy threats. Hardware that disrupts any link in the ‘kill chain’ is of interest. Technologies that lessen the cost of defending satellites against DE threats or impose greater costs on the source of the DE threat are of particular interest.

DESCRIPTION: Directed Energy (DE) threats pose a growing threat to satellites. DE is of particular concern for the field of satellite resiliency because such action is not necessarily attributable or immediately detectable and because the cost of defense is greater than the cost of offense. Proposed solutions must balance the needs of efficacy, cost, and compatibility with the design and operation of existing and future spacecraft. Proposers must clearly show why their technology is not only effective, but cost-effective and compatible with operating in the space and spacecraft environment. Solutions may be either existing technology adapted to the needs of spacecraft DE resilience or they may be novel technology designed for spacecraft DE resilience. Hardware solutions that protect against any failure mechanism caused by DE threats are of interest. Creative responses are encouraged but adherence to fundamental physics and good design practice are required.

PHASE I: Define requirements to survive and operate within intended space, spacecraft, and DE threat environments. Perform modeling to estimate efficacy of the technology and any constraints it imposes on operation of the spacecraft. Characterize the applicability of the technology to spacecraft with different missions, orbits, et cetera. Orbits of interest include low, medium, highly elliptical, and geosynchronous earth orbits. Proposers adapting existing technology may perform a demonstration in a simulated DE threat environment. Prepare technology transition plans.

PHASE II: Design, analyze, build, and ground test the technology, showing capability to survive and perform in the space, spacecraft, and DE threat environment. If possible, space qualification testing should be performed such that the offeror is prepared to sell the product to the space market at the end of Phase 2.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Design, build, deliver, and support an experiment to allow the USSF to demonstrate the technology in a combined effects environment.

REFERENCES:

Gilmore, D. G., Spacecraft Thermal Control Handbook Volume I: Fundamental Technologies, 2nd Ed, The Aerospace Press, El Segundo, CA, 2002;
Wertz, J.R., Larson, W.J., Space Mission Analysis and Design, Microcosm Inc. Hawthorne, CA, 10th Ed, 2008.;
Fortescue, P., Stark, J., Swinerd, G., Spacecraft Systems Engineering, 3rd Ed., John Wiley and Sons, West Sussex, England, 2003.

KEYWORDS: Resilience; Directed Energy Threat; DE threat; hardware

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: Estimation of moving target spatial dynamics is an important step in the radar imaging of critical mobile targets. Spatical dynamics are the time evolution of position (latitude, longitude, altitude) and orientation (roll, pitch, yaw). Well known methods of estimating spatial dynamics involve accurately tracking individual radar scatterers and solving for target orientation subject to rigid body constraints. The objective is to develop new and novel methods for recovering spatial dynamics of moving targets with radar measurements not depending on tracking of individual scattering features. This estimation problem is considered to be so challenging that a novel alternative algorithmic method could be of great importance to national defense.

DESCRIPTION: Work will consist of defining reference radar collection topologies and waveform sets which can include one or more airborne and spaceborne radar sensors. Individual radar sensors can be monostatic or bistatic. Primary emphasis will be on developing 6-DOF motion esitimation algorithms suitable for the selected reference topologies. Algorithms will be tested on simulated and real data provided by the government, and development will progress towards real-time software implementations which could be "dropped in" to operational radar signal processing chains.

PHASE I: Phase 1 work on this project will first define one or more radar collection topologies suitable or 6-DOF moving target dynamics. Radar collection topologies can include one or more airborne and/or space based platforms. Basic radar characteristics including power and instantaneous bandwidth will also be defined, but there is no requirement for detailed radar system engineering. The main emphasis will be on algorithm development. For a given topology and radar characteristics, one or algorithms for recovering spatial dynamics will be demonstrated using a signal simulation developed by each Phase 1 awardee.

PHASE II: The Phase 2 awardees will fully develop the algorithmic framework based on simulated and real data provided by the government. Awardees will develop portable software suitable for inclusion in a a radar ground station. Software will be provided in either C++ or the Julia computer language.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Novel techniques for extracting 6-DOF information from complex radar data could have applications to automotive radars and airborne see-and-avoid radars. Estimating 6-DOF motion parameters is a critical part of the processing chain in imaging and then recognizing complex distributed targets which are in motion. Both automotive and see-and-avoid radar systems would benefit greatly from being to more accurately recognize moving targets. This is part of a broad revolution in radar processing where targets are not just dots on a screen, but much more detailed information about the target is derived from radar signals. Both automotive and see-and-avoid radars might use two or more separated sensors (multistatic sensing) combined with 6-DOF estimation techniques to help build internal images of external moving objects which are then used to classify or recognize the types of objects they are sensing. Another dual-use application of this technology would be to include this technology in radars monitoring both land and sea movements at major ports using a tethered aerostat or one or more UAVs.

REFERENCES:

M. Stuff, M. Biancalana, G. Arnold and J. Garbarino, "Imaging moving objects in 3D from single aperture synthetic aperture radar," Proceedings of the 2004 IEEE Radar Conference (IEEE Cat. No.04CH37509), 2004, pp. 94-98,; 10.1109/NRC.2004.1316402.

KEYWORDS: radar adaptive motion estimation; radar imaging of moving targets; three dimensional radar imaging; sparse aperture reconstruction; six degree of freedom motion estimation; contrast maximization; manifold learning

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors; Battlespace

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: An Isolated Person (IP) can result from aircraft mishap, inadvertent separation from ground forces, or other miscellaneous scenarios. Advance planning is designed to enable survival for the initial 48 hours. Following those 48 hours, supplies are required to enable survival and evasion until rescue can occur. This technology monitors the IP, their surroundings, and expendable items to provide an optimized resupply survival kit. The survival kit will then be delivered to the IP via existing methods or though new approaches in development.

DESCRIPTION: The resupply of an Isolated Person (IP) in austere or hostile environments is an ongoing challenge. Recent advances in sensing and connectivity have created an opportunity to advance the state-of-the-art by developing and introducing an autonomous monitoring system to determine resupply needs of an IP. The autonomous system should generate a list of essential supplies to enable survival and evasion until rescue can occur. The system should include a functional user interface (such as the Android Tactical Assault Kit (ATAK)). Additionally, such a system might also be useful for commercial purposes, such as search and rescue or remote package delivery. Potential resupplies could include, but not be limited to, the following: medical, batteries, communication/signal devices, food and water, and clothing. The system should autonomously monitor human performance parameters (hydration, body temperature, respiration, etc.), characterize environmental conditions, and track expendable supplies (battery life, munitions). Depending on the input, the system should generate a prioritized resupply list. This list should be displayed to the IP for verification (if IP is able to respond) and then transmit the prioritized resupply list to rescue personnel. Additional supplies could include, but not be limited to, the following: Ziploc® storage bags, parachute cord (100’), insect repellent, un-scented suntan lotion, pressurized water bag with pump and filter, dry food meals, Jetboil cooking system, and flashlights. Autonomous monitoring would be performed by fitting the warfighter with a suite of sensors to inform an artificial intelligence system that would track and anticipate resupply needs. A specific example is ammunition. The sensor suite should be small format and unobtrusive like a Fitbit or wristwatch.

PHASE I: This topic is intended for technology proven ready to move directly into Phase II. Therefore, a Phase I award is not required. The offeror is required to provide detail and documentation in the Direct to Phase II proposal which demonstrates accomplishment of a “Phase I-like” effort, including a feasibility study. This includes determining, insofar as possible, the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of ideas appearing to have commercial potential. It must have validated the product-market fit between the proposed solution and a potential AF stakeholder. The offeror should have defined a clear, immediately actionable plan with the proposed solution and the AF customer. Relevant areas of demonstrated experience and success include: M&S, cost benefit analysis, risk analysis, concept development, concept demonstration and concept evaluation, laboratory experimentation and field testing. Phase I type efforts include the assessment of emerging wearable human performance monitors. The result of Phase 1 type efforts is to assess and demonstrate whether wearable human performance monitors can support Personnel Recovery needs to monitor and assess Isolated Personnel needs.

PHASE II: Evaluate existing sensor capabilities to monitor human performance parameters (hydration, body temperature, respiration, etc.), characterize environmental conditions, and track expendable supplies (battery life, munitions). Explore integration schemes and communication requirements. Propose system level design to meet requirements. Identify or design and develop required sensors. Integrate sensors into prototype device. Evaluate prototype device in laboratory and outdoor environment.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Refine prototype device based on customer feedback. Evaluate prototype device in relevant environment. Develop manufacturing plan or partner with others for system production.

REFERENCES:

Heikenfeld, J., Jajack, A., Feldman, B. et al. Accessing analytes in biofluids for peripheral biochemical monitoring. Nat Biotechnol 37, 407–419 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41587-019-0040-3;
Michael C. Brothers, Madeleine DeBrosse, Claude C. Grigsby, Rajesh R. Naik, Saber M. Hussain, Jason Heikenfeld, and Steve S. Kim. Achievements and Challenges for Real-Time Sensing of Analytes in Sweat within Wearable Platforms. Acc. Chem. Res. 2019, 52, 2, 297–306. https;//doi.org/10.1021/acs.accounts.8b00555;
Harshman SW, Pitsch RL, Smith ZK, O’Connor ML, Geier BA, Qualley AV, et al. (2018) The proteomic and metabolomic characterization of exercise-induced sweat for human performance monitoring: A pilot investigation. PLoS ONE 13 (11). https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.

KEYWORDS: Human Performance Measure; Human Performance Monitor; Human Performance Report; Weather Monitor; Weather Report; Supply Track

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Microelectronics; General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors; Electronics

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: Achieve prototype seeker capable of simultaneous operation in both semi-active seeker and passive imager roles with a single focal plane array and optical path. Project should address the core technical challenges to result in a prototype fundamentally capable to meet or exceed performance of existing seekers in each mode.

DESCRIPTION: Passive imager and semi-active laser (SAL) seekers are two common technologies used for missile guidance - each with complementary CONOPS to fulfill automatic target recognition (ATR) and man-in-the-loop designation needs. Unfortunately, complex seekers with discrete multi-mode sensors are prohibitively expensive in terms of cost, size, weight and power (CSWaP). Warfighters continue to demand "more with less". This call seeks to fund focal plane array (FPA) or similar concepts which are capable of simultaneous operation in each mode in a singular device, with a low-CSWaP optical path. It is critical to meet the performance of existing SAL seekers, which have precise algorithms - to ensure reliability - that currently rely on accurate, fast detectors. This is difficult in an imaging FPA. Proposals should describe details of concept parameters such at timing accuracy, pulse width measurement, pixel reset time, readout rate, and show fundamental first-order analysis comparison to existing SAL seeker capabilities such as countermeasure rejection and multi-path pulse discrimination. First-order analysis of solar noise rejection for the FPA should be explored in the proposal, and compared with traditional quad-sensors which can employ narrow bandpass filters. Additionally, typical characterizations of imaging performance will be an important but secondary consideration. Seeker diameters of 5in (threshold) and 2.75in (objective) may be assumed. Systems which are at least compatible with the current generation of laser designators (STANAG 3733 compliant) will be preferred. Further compatibility with other advantageous lasers designs which may exist in future generations (such as variations of wavelength, pulse width, repetition rate, etc.) is a benefit, but not a key driver. Of tertiary importance is the spectral band(s) of the imaging component. Concepts which include dual-band imaging are of interest, though practical concerns of engineering and funding should be seriously considered in the proposal phase. The imaging spectral band selection should be contextualized within performance and CONOPS considerations. Finally, this topic is open to any particularly novel concepts which may address the fundamental need for dual mode SAL/imaging in a performant and low-CSWaP package, even if previous descriptors may seem to disqualify such concept. The topic authors may not be aware of every successful approach, thus we broadly welcome inquiries and proposals which are competitive to the alternatives.

PHASE I: Complete analysis and design of dual mode seeker sub-system components for development and testing. Conceptual designs will include optical and radiometric performance models in relevant CONOPS. Key assumptions or requirements will be highlighted, with any additional technology required for testing/operating noted.

PHASE II: Produce a system-level design and prototype of Phase I concepts. Prototypes will be tested in both laboratory and field environments. Any analysis and models shall be continuously refined and exercised to reflect improvements or changes from the Phase I. ROM cost estimates will be refined.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Development of the dual-mode SAL imager seeker will find ready application in military missile seeker technology, with key partnerships from prime DoD contractors supporting transitions to programs of record. Additionally, multi-use passive imaging and laser sensing devices will be immediately applicable to large commercial industries, such as vehicle advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

REFERENCES:

J. Barth, A. Fendt, R. Florian, et al., "Dual-mode seeker with imaging sensor and semi-active laser detector," Proceedings of the SPIE Volume 6542 (2007);
J. English, R. White, "Semi-active laser (SAL) last pulse logic infrared imaging seeker," Proceedings of the SPIE Volume 4372 (2001);
Patent US 8,164,037, “Co-boresighted dual-mode SAL/IR seeker including a SAL spreader,” Raytheon Company, David D. Jenkins, Byron B. Taylor, David J. Markason, Apr. 24, 2012

KEYWORDS: semi-active laser guidance; human-in-the-loop; autonomous guidance and control; laser designated; dual-mode seeker; automatic target recognition

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Network Command, Control and Communications; General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics; Space Platform; Information Systems

OBJECTIVE: This topic seeks to preform system-of-systems analysis, concept exploration, test and evaluation of capabilities enable by the emerging commercial rocket market and the ability to quickly transport materials to any point on the globe.

DESCRIPTION: The Department of the Air Force is exploring rocket transportation capability for DoD logistics and the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) is currently assessing emerging rocket capability across the commercial vendor base, and its potential use for quickly transporting DoD materiel to ports across the globe. The U.S. commercial launch market is building the largest rockets ever, at the lowest prices per pound ever, with second-stages that will reenter the atmosphere and be reused. These advances in the U.S. commercial launch market are presenting the need for assessment and maturation of system-of-systems concepts of rocket transportation for DoD (Department of Defense) logistics by the United States air Force and Space Force (USAF/USSF). A large trade space exists for the potential of rocket cargo for global logistics, to include improvements in delivery cost and speed compared to existing air cargo operations. The goal of this effort is to investigate concepts, and yet to be develop concepts for rock cargo to determine technical feasibility and risk, programmatic costs, and schedule. The information, test and evaluation (T&E) under this effort will be used to influence and guide rocket cargo efforts. While the goal is to enable up to 100 tons of cargo to be delivered anywhere on the planet within tactical timelines, there may be optimization techniques and process with smaller amounts of cargo and transportation modes other than rockets that can provide rapid delivery of materials. An objective of this effort is to grow AFRL’s Rocket Cargo industrial base. This topic is intended to reach companies capable of completing a feasibility study and prototype validated concepts under accelerated Phase I and II type schedules. This topic is aimed at later stage research and development efforts rather than “front-end” or basic research/research and development. The focus is on emerging commercial capabilities to minimize cost and enable agile logistics through the entire span of responsive mission planning, rapid cargo logistics, ground launch operations and coordination with commercial airspace. The main deliverables will be modeling and simulation (M&S), T&E of concepts that advance the viability and utility of using commercial rockets and associated systems for Department of Defense global logistics to expanding capabilities of the USSF for combatant commanders.

PHASE I: This topic is intended for technology proven ready to move directly into Phase II. Therefore, a Phase I award is not required. The offeror is required to provide detail and documentation in the Direct to Phase II proposal which demonstrates accomplishment of a “Phase I-like” effort, including a feasibility study. This includes determining, insofar as possible, the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of ideas appearing to have commercial potential. It must have validated the product-market fit between the proposed solution and a potential AF stakeholder. The offeror should have defined a clear, immediately actionable plan with the proposed solution and the AF customer. Relevant areas of demonstrated experience and success include: M&S, cost benefit analysis, risk analysis, concept development, concept demonstration and concept evaluation, laboratory experimentation and field testing. Phase I type efforts include the assessment of emerging commercial rocket capability and the potential to quickly transport DOD materiel to ports across the globe. Phase I type efforts would include agile global logistic concepts to deliver 1 to 100 tons of DoD cargo anywhere on the planet in less than one hour. The result of Phase 1 type efforts is to assess and demonstrate whether commercial rockets and associated systems can deliver DoD cargo anywhere on the planet in less than one hour.

PHASE II: Eligibility for a Direct to Phase Two (D2P2) is predicated on the offeror having performed a “Phase I-like” effort predominantly separate from the SBIR/STTR Programs. These efforts will include M&S, simulation of prototype concepts, cost benefit analysis, system-of-systems studies, experimentation and evaluation of rapid logistics concepts that enable quick transport of DoD material to ports across the globe. Prototypes, M&S and experimentation should explore a wide range of integrating commercial rocket capabilities and cargo platforms within the Air and Space Force logistics train. These capabilities should consider areas that are unique to military logistics such as mission planning and execution, transportation of quick reaction forces/humans, munitions, fuel, ground operations, loading and unloading of cargo and transportation of unloaded cargo other remote locations. Phase II efforts shall conduct analysis, M&S and experimentation to address military-unique requirements that may not be otherwise met by commercial space transportation capabilities. No funding will be invested in developing commercial rocket systems.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Phase III shall include upgrades to the analysis, M&S, T&E results and provide mature prototypes of system concepts. Phase III shall provide a business plan and address the ability to transition technology and system concepts to commercial applications. The adapted non-Defense commercial solutions shall provide expanded mission capability for a broad range of potential Governmental and civilian users and alternate mission applications. Integration and other technical support to operational users may be required.

REFERENCES:

S. Sankar, ” The Supply Chain Revolution: Innovative Sourcing and Logistics for a Fiercely Competitive World”, American Management Association, 2017;
L. Lei, L. DeCandia, R. Oppenheim, Y. Zhao, “Managing Supply Chain Operations”, World Scientific Publishing Co., 2017;
E. Harden, “Just-in-Time Logistics: Does it Fulfill the Surface Navy's Repair Parts Requirements to Support the National Military Strategy?”, Creative Media Partners, LLC, 2012;
O. Yakimenko, “Precision Aerial Delivery Systems: Modeling, Dynamics, and Control”, American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, 2015;
WHO, “Qualification of shipping containers, Technical supplement to WHO Technical Report Series, No. 961, 2011”, QAS/14.598 Supplement 13, 2014;
N. N. Ahypeeb, “Reusable Rockets and Missiles, Russian Cargo Delivery to Space, USSR”, Mockba, 1975

KEYWORDS: Rocket Cargo; Systems Analysis; Cargo Systems; Commercail Containers; ISO-90; Modeling and Simulation; Delivery Systems; Agile Logistics; Rapid Delivery; Commercail Rockets; Logistics Train; Mission Planning; Ground Operations

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics; Space Platform; Air Platform

OBJECTIVE: This topic seeks to preform concept exploration, Modeling and Simulation (M&S), prototype development, test and evaluation of lower-cost, lighter and multi-domain cargo containers with additional features needed for space transport.

DESCRIPTION: The Department of the Air Force (DAF) has a 70-year history of launching exquisite, fragile payloads to space and doing so in a highly mass-optimized fashion. US Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) also have a long history of deploying inter-modal containers to allow cargo to withstand the environments of transport by air, sea, rail, and land, and rapidly switch between the transport modes without repackaging. Inter-modal container development has not addressed the emerging market of transport by space. Merging these two expertise will be necessary for rocket transportation of Department of Defense (DoD) materials. Innovate options for intermodal containers that are reasonable mass-optimized for space launch are needed. Whereas in the past the DoD optimized rocket payloads solely for mass, understanding the trade-space between mass-optimization and end-to-end speed of the logistics chain is desired. Relaxing the mass optimization for containers presents a vast array of concepts to greatly accelerate the speed at which crews can load and unload a rocket. Novel designs in mass optimized, inter-model containers for space could allow crews to move the cargo to other transport modes without having to repack materials in separate and distinct containers. The goal of this effort is to investigate and develop concepts for low-cost and inter-modal containers that are suited for space transport of cargo. Different type of cargo classes should be considered, such as sensitive material requiring vibration isolation (i.e. medical equipment/supplies), liquid fuel and even human transport needs. The information, test and evaluation (T&E) under this effort will be used to influence and guide container development that is suitable for rocket cargo efforts. An objective of this effort is to enable the commercial market to develop and manufacture inter-modal shipping container that meet the needs of the DoD for rocket transportation. This topic is intended to reach companies capable of completing a feasibility study and prototype validated concepts under accelerated Phase I and II type schedules. This topic is aimed at later stage research and development efforts rather than “front-end” or basic research/research and development. The focus is on emerging commercial capabilities of cargo containers to minimize cost and enable agile logistics through the entire span of responsive mission planning, rapid cargo logistics, ground launch operations and coordination with commercial airspace. 463L interfaces/materials handling system should be taken into consideration as that is cargo system used for military aircraft and a standard form factor to be considered is the ISU-90. Civil systems use, to a greater extent containers of the size 88" or 96" X 125" civil pallets and may need to be accommodated as part of the Rocket Cargo container trade space. The main deliverables will be modeling and simulation (M&S), T&E of concepts that advance the viability and utility of using commercial inter-modal container systems for rocket transport capabilities of the United States Space Force (USSF) for combatant commanders.

PHASE I: This topic is intended for technology proven ready to move directly into Phase II. Therefore, a Phase I award is not required. The offeror is required to provide detail and documentation in the Direct to Phase II proposal which demonstrates accomplishment of a “Phase I-like” effort, including a feasibility study. This includes determining, insofar as possible, the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of ideas appearing to have commercial potential. It must have validated the product-market fit between the proposed solution and a potential AF stakeholder. The offeror should have defined a clear, immediately actionable plan with the proposed solution and the AF customer. Relevant areas of demonstrated experience and success include: M&S, cost benefit analysis, risk analysis, concept development, concept demonstration and concept evaluation, laboratory experimentation and field testing. Phase I type efforts include the assessment of emerging commercial inter-modal container systems that enable rapid transport of DOD materiel to ports across the globe. Phase I type efforts would include the addition of “space” as a new domain for inter-modal systems. In addition, Phase I-like efforts would include assessment of containers that can withstand high-g ejection and thermal loading in the case of air launched delivery. Novel methods for disassembly and/or prepping containers to re-enter the logistics chain should have also been addressed. The result of Phase 1 type efforts is to assess and demonstrate whether commercial container systems can support the DoD’s goal of delivering cargo anywhere on the planet in less than one hour.

PHASE II: Eligibility for a Direct to Phase Two (D2P2) is predicated on the offeror having performed a “Phase I-like” effort predominantly separate from the SBIR/STTR Programs. These efforts will include M&S, simulation of prototype concepts, cost benefit analysis, system-of-systems studies, experimentation and evaluation of commercial shipping containers that enable quick transport of DoD material to ports across the globe. Prototypes, M&S and experimentation should explore a wide range of inter-modal systems that can be used for cargo transport on commercial rocket capabilities. The container systems should consider areas that are unique to military logistics such as mission planning and execution, transportation of quick reaction forces/humans, munitions, fuel, ground operations, loading and unloading of cargo and transportation of unloaded cargo other remote locations. Phase II efforts shall conduct analysis, M&S and experimentation to address military-unique requirements that may not be otherwise met by commercial container systems used during space transport. No funding will be invested in developing commercial rocket systems.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Phase III shall include upgrades to the analysis, M&S, T&E results and provide mature prototypes of system concepts. Phase III shall provide a business plan and address the ability to transition technology and system concepts to commercial applications. The adapted non-Defense commercial solutions shall provide expanded mission capability for a broad range of potential Governmental and civilian users and alternate mission applications. Integration and other technical support to operational users may be required.

REFERENCES:

V. Reis, R. Macario, “Intermodal Freight Transportation”, Elsevier, 2019;
R. Konings, H. Priemus, P. Nijkamp, “Future of Intermodal Freight Transport: Operations, Design and Policy”, Elgar Publishing, 2008;
C. Moore, S. Yildirim, S. Baur, “Educational Adaptation of Cargo Container Design Features”, ASEE Zone III Conference, 2015;
K. Giriunas, H. Sezen, R. B. Dupaix, “Evaluation, modeling, and analysis of shipping container building structures”, Engineering Structures, vol. 43, 2012;
ISO 90-2:1997, “Light gauge metal containers -- Definitions and determination of dimensions and capacities -- Part 2: General use containers” 1997;
USTRANSCOM, “Charter for the Joint Intermodal Working Group”, www.ustranscom.mil/imp/index. cfm JIWG, 2012;
Defense Transportation Regulation part VI, Management and Control of Intermodal Containers and System 463L Equipment, https://www.ustranscom.mil/dtr/dtrp6.cfm, 2021;
Defense Transportation Regulation References, https://www.ustranscom.mil/dtr/dtr_references.pdf;

KEYWORDS: Multi-Domain Cargo Containers; Multi-Modal Cargo Containers; Mass Optimization; Shock and Vibration Isolation; Low-Cost Shipping Containers; Agile Logistics; Rapid Cargo Logistics; Ground Launch Operations; Mission Planning and Management; 463L Interfaces

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics; Space Platform; Air Platform

OBJECTIVE: This topic seeks to preform analysis, concept exploration, application development, test and evaluation, and prototype integration to enable rapid launch of commercial rocket capabilities and support the US Space Force (USSF) goal to quickly transport materials to any point on the globe.

DESCRIPTION: Emerging commercial rocket capabilities present a unique opportunity for the USSF to quickly transport materials (and people) to any point on the earth and fundamentally change how the Department of Defense (DoD) preforms logistical operations. While it has been demonstrated that these rockets can quickly get to any point on the earth, the amount of time necessary to prep a rocket for launch and obtain regulatory approvals for launch is still undesirable. This topic seeks to address head-on, the historical processes and procedures that can take months to enable a rocket to launch. The diametrically opposed state of “months of planning with rapid launch” needs to be congruent – “rapid planning with rapid launch”. Efforts under RAAILL can be broken down into three areas: 1. Ground, launch and landing operations, 2. Mission Planning, and 3. Logistics and Readiness. Ground, launch and landing operations should include both pre-flight and post flight aspects. Mission planning should include areas such as mission design, range control, airspace de-confliction and weather prediction and mitigation. Logistics and readiness should include areas such as command and control (C2) scheduling, launch schedule de-confliction, materiel distribution and maintenance and training and exercises. There are various scenarios where insertion of rapid techniques and process may differ. First, there is the capability for responsive 1-way rocket cargo delivery to austere sites. These austere sites have no on-site rocket capability to unload or have a booster needed to return the rocket to a different port. Responsive 1-way scenarios may be in response to disaster or humanitarian relief efforts and response times could be on the order of less than 60 minutes flight and within 48 hours of executive orders. Second is the capability for routine 2-way logistics between CONUS and OCONUS launch sites. These launch sites are, in-general already established and have ground operations for loading and unloading with existing commercial logistics processes. A third area is airdrop. This a totally new area where cargo is ejected from a rocket cargo platform and is delivered specific locations. Airdrop may include subsonic or supersonic payload deployment of small or large payloads. Supersonic payload deployment may include egress burn to land safely downrange and subsonic may be expendable. Rocket cargo platforms may need modification to accommodate DoD unique cargo interfaces. The goal of this effort is to develop, demonstrate and integrate rapid logistic processes, tools, and applications specific to USSF needs. These efforts could be new or modification of existing systems and processes. An objective of this effort is to grow AFRL’s Rocket Cargo industrial base. This topic is intended to reach companies capable of completing a feasibility study and prototype validated concepts under accelerated Phase I and II type schedules. This topic is aimed at later stage research and development efforts rather than “front-end” or basic research/research and development. The focus is on emerging commercial capabilities to minimize cost and enable rapid logistics through the entire span of responsive mission planning, cargo logistics, ground launch operations and coordination with commercial airspace. The main deliverables will be modeling and simulation, software applications, process development, Test and Evaluation of concepts that advance the ability to rapidly launch rocket cargo platforms.

PHASE I: This topic is intended for technology proven ready to move directly into Phase II. Therefore, a Phase I award is not required. The offeror is required to provide detail and documentation in the Direct to Phase II proposal which demonstrates accomplishment of a “Phase I-like” effort, including a feasibility study. This includes determining, insofar as possible, the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of ideas appearing to have commercial potential. It must have validated the product-market fit between the proposed solution and a potential AF stakeholder. The offeror should have defined a clear, immediately actionable plan with the proposed solution and the AF customer. Relevant areas of demonstrated experience and success include: M&S, cost benefit analysis, risk analysis, software application development, concept development, concept demonstration and concept evaluation, laboratory experimentation and field testing. Phase I type efforts include the assessment of existing systems and processes required for launch of rocket platforms. Phase I efforts would include the modification of existing software applications and tools demonstrating techniques to reduced time to plan and execute missions – whether specific to commercial or the DoD. Phase 1 type efforts would also include the understanding of current regulatory process and organizations required for launch of rocket systems to space with proposed ways-forward to reduce bureaucratic oversight and regulatory burden.

PHASE II: Eligibility for a Direct to Phase Two (D2P2) is predicated on the offeror having performed a “Phase I-like” effort predominantly separate from the SBIR/STTR Programs. These efforts will include M&S, simulation of prototype concepts, cost benefit analysis, system-of-systems studies, software application and tool development, experimentation and evaluation of rapid concepts that enable quick transport of DoD material to ports across the globe. Prototypes, applications, Modeling and Simulation and experimentation should explore a wide range of rapid concepts that can be used for cargo transport on commercial rocket capabilities. Cargo could include the need to transport personnel which might require separate and distinct systems and process for rapid launch. Systems, processes and applications for quick and responsive ground operations, flight de-confliction, regulatory department notification and coordination, and all-weather launch are just some of the areas to be considered under RAAILL. Rapid concepts should consider areas that are unique to military logistics such as mission planning and execution, transportation of quick reaction forces/humans, munitions, fuel, ground operations, loading and unloading of cargo and transportation of unloaded cargo other remote locations. Phase II efforts shall conduct analysis, Modeling and Simulation and experimentation to address military-unique requirements that may not be otherwise met by commercial systems used during space transport. No funding will be invested in developing commercial rocket systems.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Phase III shall include upgrades to the analysis, Modeling and Simulation, applications and tools, Test and Evaluation results and provide mature prototypes of system concepts. Phase III shall provide a business plan and address the ability to transition technology and system concepts to commercial applications. The adapted non-Defense commercial solutions shall provide expanded mission capability for a broad range of potential Governmental and civilian users and alternate mission applications. Integration and other technical support to operational users may be required.

REFERENCES:

Office of Commercial Space Transport, “www.faa.gov/about/office_org/headquarters_offices/ast/”; J. Bresina, P. Morris, “Mixed-Initiative Planning in Space Mission Operations”, Bresina, 2007;
J. Wertz, W. Larson, “Space Mission Analysis and Design”, 3rd Edition, Space Technology Library, 1999;
A. Cesta, A. Oddi, G. Cortellessa, S. Fratini, N. Policella, “AI Based Tools for Continuous Support to Mission Planning”, AIAA SpaceOps 2006 Conference, 2006;
H. Pasquier, C. Cruzen, M. Schmidhuber, Y.H. Lee, “Space Operations: Inspiring Humankind's Future”, Springer International Publishing, 2010;
C. Cruzen, M. Schmidhuber, L. Dubon, “Space Operations: Innovations, Inventions, and Discoveries”, AIAA Inc., 2015;

KEYWORDS: Ground Launch Operations; Landing Operations; Mission Planning; Command and Control; Logistics; Air-Space Deconfliction; Weather Prediction; Rapid Logistics; Loading and Un-Loading Cargo;

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics; Space Platform; Air Platform

OBJECTIVE: This topic seeks to preform high speed separation analysis, concept exploration, test and evaluation using sub-scale experiments to enable air-drop of cargo ejected from a rocket that is capable of transporting up to 100 tons of cargo.

DESCRIPTION: The Department of the Air Force is exploring rocket transportation capability for DoD logistics and the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) is currently assessing emerging rocket capability across the commercial vendor base, and its potential use for quickly transporting DoD materiel to ports across the globe. The U.S. commercial launch market is building the largest rockets ever, at the lowest prices per pound ever, with second-stages that will reenter the atmosphere and be reused. These advances in the U.S. commercial launch market are presenting the need for assessment and maturation of air-drop cargo concepts where cargo is ejected from the rocket and delivered to a specific destination. Air-drop of cargo is desirable when a rocket cannot land and be unloaded, such as on the ocean or in austere environments where landing on a surface impossible. Air-drop of cargo may be required in an area just after a natural disaster or to remote Forces when landing a rocket is not desired.

The goal of this effort is to support the analysis in determining if air-drop of large payloads is feasible and at what speeds. Various concepts of operations (CONOPS) need to be analyzed that include slow drop speeds (< 0.5 Mach) when the rocket is preforming a slow-down maneuver all the way up to fast drop conditions where the rocket is traveling at speeds up to Mach 5.

An objective of this effort is to explore multiple CONOPS and preform modeling and simulation using techniques as Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and 6 Degrees of Freed (6DoF) models of the rocket cargo platform. Sub-scale experiments of the ejection mechanisms with the cargo containers is desired in order to get a better understanding of the trade space.

Part of the focus of this topic should be on what are the package/container sizes and how many may be needed to make the air-drop mission relevant? What is the range of viable high-speed separation conditions? (Rocket orientation, speed, altitude, ejection technique). What trajectories allow egress of the rocket after air-drop? What are the remaining capabilities of the rocket after air-drop delivery of the intended cargo? Quantification of the parent response to child separation and ejection velocity required for safe separation are part of the analysis on this topic.

The main deliverables will be modeling and simulation (M&S) and sub-scale experiments examining the feasibility of air-dropping cargo from a rocket.

PHASE I: This topic is intended for technology proven ready to move directly into Phase II. Therefore, a Phase I award is not required. The offeror is required to provide detail and documentation in the Direct to Phase II proposal which demonstrates accomplishment of a “Phase I-like” effort, including a feasibility study. This includes determining, insofar as possible, the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of ideas appearing to have commercial potential. It must have validated the product-market fit between the proposed solution and a potential AF stakeholder. The offeror should have defined a clear, immediately actionable plan with the proposed solution and the AF customer. Relevant areas of demonstrated experience and success include: M&S, commercial container design or use, ejection systems, parachute delivery systems, concept development, concept demonstration and concept evaluation and sub-scale laboratory experimentation.

Phase I type efforts include modeling and simulation using CFD techniques, the ability to create 6DoF models of various rocket designs, concepts and/or prototypes of ejection systems, drogue chute and/or Inflatable Aerodynamic Decelerator (IAD) familiarity, trade-space analysis tools and applications and sub-scale experimentation expertise. The result of Phase 1 type efforts is to assess and demonstrate whether commercial rockets and associated systems can air-drop cargo.

PHASE II: Eligibility for a Direct to Phase Two (D2P2) is predicated on the offeror having performed a “Phase I-like” effort predominantly separate from the SBIR/STTR Programs. These efforts will include M&S, simulation of prototype concepts, sub-scale experimentation, cost benefit analysis, system-of-systems studies, software application and tool development of concepts that enable air-drop of DoD material to any point across the globe. Prototypes, applications, M&S and sub-scale experimentation should explore a wide range of concepts that can be used for air-drop of cargo from commercial rocket capabilities. Concepts should consider areas that are unique to military logistics such as the air-drop of Humanitarian relief supplies, medical equipment and supplies, munitions, fuel and electronic systems. Phase II efforts shall conduct analysis, M&S and sub-scale experimentation to address military-unique requirements that may not be otherwise met by commercial systems used during air-drop type missions. No funding will be invested in developing commercial rocket systems.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Phase III shall include upgrades to the analysis, M&S, applications, tools and sub-scale experimentation and provide mature prototypes of system concepts. Phase III shall provide a business plan and address the ability to transition technology and system concepts to commercial applications. The adapted non-Defense commercial solutions shall provide expanded mission capability for a broad range of potential Governmental and civilian users and alternate mission applications. Integration and other technical support to operational users may be required.

REFERENCES:

R. Johnson, “Ejection Seat Mechanism in Civil Aircraft”, International Journal of Scientific & Engineering Research, Volume 3, Issue 10, October-2012;
F. Liu, “Review on Ejector Efficiencies in Various Ejector Systems”, International Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, 2014;
K. Dutt, “Analytical Description Of Pneumatic System”, International Journal of Scientific & Engineering Research, Volume 4, Issue 9, September-2013;
C. Hohmann, B., Tipton, Jr., M. Dutton, “Propellant for the NASA Standard Initiator, October 2000, NASA/TP-2000-210186;
M. Falbo, R. Robinson, “Apollo Experience Report - Spacecraft Pyrotechnic Systems”, March 1973, NASA TN D-7141; D. Waye, “Design and performance of a parachute for the recovery of a 760-lb payload”, Apr 1991, SAND-90-2158C; CONF-9104171-3, ON: DE91007509;
J. Hagen, M. Burlone, K. Rojdev, “Major Design Choices and Challenges that Enabled the Success of the Ejectable Data Recorder System”, March 2020, IEEE Aerospace Conference in March 2020;

KEYWORDS: High Speed Ejection Systems; Commercial Cargo Containers; Shock and Vibration Isolation; Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD); 6 Degrees of Freed (6DoF) models; Modeling and Simulation; Sub-Scale Experimentation; Concept of Operations (CONOPS); High-Speed S

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Network Command, Control and Communications

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Space Platform; Air Platform; Battlespace

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: Deliver a modular, portable, analytical toolbox to enable dynamic workflows to assess probability of mission success for assets dependent on satellite communications in a contested environment.

DESCRIPTION: Satellite communications (SATCOM) is a critical service that is relied upon in order operate assets in land, air, and sea. As the nature of global conflicts transition away from de-centralized non-nation state actors to near-peer adversaries, the potential threats to SATCOM services also changes. There is a need to increase the sophistication in how the U.S. will acquire, plan, and utilize SATCOM to guarantee mission success while operating in a wide variety of contested environments. While some of this change will reside strictly within policy, a new class of users will require access to software tools to enable in depth modeling and analysis to provide timely and accurate results for decision making. A common code base and architecture is needed to support simulated situations for planning, as well as the ability to take in data feeds to evaluate real-world, real-time events. The approach should be modular to allow for users to customize workflows to meet their specific needs whether that be for the combatant command, centers like the Persistent Attack and Reconnaissance Operations Center (PAROC), or an individual unit with SATCOM dependent assets. The approach should be compatible for deployment on systems at all levels of classification. Respondents must include a description of what data sources they will be utilizing and how those will be acquired without government action. Respondents must describe their software development process and expect to provide monthly updates and potential redirection from the TPOC.

PHASE I: Award of a D2P2 will require documented feasibility study that substantiates that the offerors proposed technology meets the following criteria - Offeror must demonstrate a robust framework that allows use of qualitative and quantitative metrics from multi-source information, to assess a contested environment and provide ranked options to ensure SATCOM services for mission success. An evaluation of the algorithms, including the accuracy and precision in the parameters utilized, shall be supplied. The study must show an example simulated scenario(s) that require at least two different workflows to provide solutions to support various types of potential end users. Stated letters of support from an operations community are encouraged. GFE is not anticipated.

PHASE II: Offeror will leverage documented framework, algorithms and scenarios. After consultation with the Air Force customer, offeror will expand upon the initial algorithms to achieve both new workflows and desired accuracy and timeliness. The scenario(s) will need to be expanded to demonstrate utility for a land, air, and sea asset. The potential threats must be expanded in the scenario to include a space-based threat. The system should demonstrate how results can be ingested and displayed by an existing, operational tool to reach real-world users without costly refactoring or licensing for a new tool. GFE is not anticipated.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: After consultation with the Air Force customer, expand upon Phase II to demonstrate a real-time analysis workflow and include at least one operational input. If a facility is made available with adequate resources, deliver, install, and demonstrate at least one prototype copy of the software suite at an Air Force-operated facility. Provide training so that at least one subject matter expert could run the toolkit on a computer without contractor aid.

REFERENCES:

Network survivability oriented Markov games (NSOMG) in wideband satellite communications D Shen, G Chen, G Wang, K Pham, E Blasch, Z Tian https//ieeexplore.ieee.org/xpl/conhome/6950783/proceeding DOD COMMAND, CONTROL, AND COMMUNICATIONS (C3) MODERNIZATION STRATEGY September 2020 SATELLITE COMMUNICATIONS: DOD Should Develop a Plan for Implementing Its Recommendations on a Future Wideband Architecture, GAO-20-80, GAO Report to Congressional Committees, Dec 2019

KEYWORDS: SATCOM; EMI; modeling & amp; simulation

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Network Command, Control and Communications; Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Space Platform; Battlespace

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: Design, develop, and demonstrate information generation techniques to observe and deter hostile actions from non-standard threat vectors in the space domain.

DESCRIPTION: As one of the 5 core competencies identified in US Space Force (USSF) Spacepower Doctrine, Space Domain Awareness of non-standard threat vectors (NSTVs) is essential to secure the ultimate high ground above the Earth to project military space power for deterrent and coercive objectives. The complex gravitational topology of the expanded Area of Regard (AOR), including the expansive domain beyond GEO, enables low-cost options for spacecraft to rapidly alter course and unexpectedly threaten terrestrial and space-based assets. Over the next 10 years the space domain will become more crowded and possibly contested. For example, currently, there are 39 funded missions planned for launch before 2030 that will reach Lunar distances originating from at least fourteen countries by means of non-standard trajectories. The United States (US) does not currently possess the capability to adequately monitor the space domain for all NSTVs. As a result, adversaries can unexpectedly threaten both terrestrial and space-based assets without attribution. The USSF needs new information generation techniques to establish a path forward to projecting Spacepower into the expanded AOR through Space Domain Awareness. This will enable Space Security through Deterrence and Combat power projection by alerting/supporting defensive operations and targeting/performing battle damage assessments on offensive operations.

PHASE I: Develop simulation capabilities to model non-standard threat vectors and the expanded space domain AOR. Simulate a comprehensive and diverse set of NSTV models to evaluate different architecture concepts. Develop and evaluate an operations architecture and Concept of Operations (CONOPs) for generating actionable information on NSTVs. Develop conceptual approaches for incremental deployment of the architecture. Develop information processing techniques to generate actionable information on the NSTV threats. GFE is not anticipated.

PHASE II: Perform additional modeling and simulation of the necessary systems and subsystems to quantify the Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) of all Key Enabling Technologies (KET). Develop a strategy with execution plan to mature each capability for a prototype system demonstration. Execute development necessary to rapidly mature each KET in the architecture. Through simulation or deployment to a relevant environment, demonstrate the ability to generate actionable information on NSTV threats on relevant timelines. GFE is not anticipated.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Develop a strategy to transition prototype residual capabilities and incremental proliferation based on operational requirements. Develop and support an information dissemination strategy to ensure operator accessibility. Generate the necessary documentation to train operators to effectively and efficiently utilize the new information at operations centers. Support activities to ensure adequate operator training and sustainment of the information systems. Assist the government in quantifying the operational impact of additional technology proliferation and additional information.

REFERENCES:

United States Space Force, "Spacepower," Space Capstone Publication, Headquarters United States Space Force, June 2020.
M. Bolden, T. Craychee and E. Griggs, "An Evaluation of Observing Constellation Orbit Stability, Low Signal-to-Noise, and the Too-Short-Arc Challenges in the Cislunar Domain," Advanced Maui Optical and Space Surveillance Technologies Conference, Maui, Hawaii, 2020.
Trusted Space, Inc., "Constellation to Observe and Deter Adversaries in the Cislunar Environment (CODACE) Final Report," Space Development Agency, 2020. J. J. P. T. W. W. a. C. R. M. D. J. Dichmann, "TRAJECTORY DESIGN FOR THE TRANSITING EXOPLANET SURVEY," 2014.

KEYWORDS: information architecture design; spacepower; deterrence; indications & warning; object tracking; real-time data processing; data dissemination; space domain; information exploitation; space domain awareness

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Nuclear; Electronics; Space Platform

OBJECTIVE: Energy-enabled DoD expeditionary operations require capabilities that increase flexibility and agility in force posture and employment. Expeditionary and contingency operations must be conducted in remote areas, austere environments, or locations otherwise experiencing degraded infrastructure, logistical support, and deficiencies in basic power, water, food, shelter, security, and medical care. To support these mobile and forward operating locations, transformational technologies in the areas of deployable energy generation, storage, and transmission are needed to provide resilient power to command and control nodes, crewed stations, and operational equipment. Concepts are being explored where all the necessary supplies (food, water, shelter, etc.) will be delivered via rocket where up to 100 tons of cargo can be delivered rapidly to any point on earth. Along with the creation and development of the power systems, this topic seeks to further investigate the specific requirements for the transportation of the power systems using containers such as the ISU-90 and 20 foot CONEX boxes. That is, what are the unique requirements of the container system (shock, vibration) needed to house and subsequently deliver the power system. The rocket delivery is anticipated to be a “fee for service” and development of a rocket to support deliver is not part of this Topic. This topic seeks to preform system-of-systems analysis, concept exploration, test and evaluation of capabilities of expeditionary power systems and their ability to be delivered by the emerging commercial rocket market and the ability to quickly transport these systems to any point on the globe.

DESCRIPTION: The National Defense Strategy identifies threats across Asia and beyond as a principal priority for the Department. To confront this reality, the U.S. must project combat power across the globe via its expeditionary forces. These forces emphasize rapid mobility and agility and require fuel and power generation to move, fight, and to sustain. As the DoD seeks the capability to employ highly mobile forces able to get to any point on the earth via rocket and move from one location to another within theater complicating adversary targeting solutions, the traditional energy supply must also become mobile, lighter and be delivered via cargo container on a rocket capable of up to 100 tons of cargo. It is anticipated that the power generation requirements are between five kilo-watts (5kw) and fifty kilo-watts (50kw). As the adversary adapts to this operational concept, traditional diesel/JP8-powered electrical generators need to be supplemented to improve expeditionary energy resiliency/diversity to power the fight. Improving the efficiency of existing technologies with the addition of new renewable power generation, storage and distribution technologies will provide a light and mobile power generation capability to enable the capability to execute a highly mobile conflict. The main deliverables will be modeling and simulation (M&S), Test and Evaluation of concepts and sub-scale experiments in expeditionary power systems and the ability to deliver these systems via rocket.

PHASE I: This topic is intended for technology proven ready to move directly into Phase II. Therefore, a Phase I award is not required. The offeror is required to provide detail and documentation in the Direct to Phase II proposal which demonstrates accomplishment of a “Phase I-like” effort, including a feasibility study. This includes determining, insofar as possible, the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of ideas appearing to have commercial potential. It must have validated the product-market fit between the proposed solution and a potential AF stakeholder. The offeror should have defined a clear, immediately actionable plan with the proposed solution and the AF customer. Relevant areas of demonstrated experience and success include: M&S, cost benefit analysis, risk analysis, concept development, concept demonstration and concept evaluation, laboratory experimentation and field testing. Phase I type efforts include the assessment of emerging light weight, portable and rapidly deployable power systems including generations, storage and distribution. Phase I type efforts would include concepts, sub-systems, components and laboratory experimentation of expeditionary power generation and the ability to rapidly deploy these systems.

PHASE II: Eligibility for a Direct to Phase Two (D2P2) is predicated on the offeror having performed a “Phase I-like” effort predominantly separate from the SBIR/STTR Programs. These efforts will include M&S, simulation of prototype concepts, cost benefit analysis, system-of-systems studies, experimentation and evaluation of expeditionary power systems and rapid logistics concepts that enable quick transport of these systems to ports across the globe. Prototypes, M&S and experimentation should explore a wide range of small, light-weight and transportable power generation, storage and distribution systems leveraging commercial processes and systems to the maximum extent possible. These capabilities should consider areas that are unique to expeditionary forces and military logistics for power generation up to 50 kw. Delivery of these systems should consider ISU-90 and 20 foot standard commercial cargo containers. Phase II efforts shall conduct analysis, M&S, experimentation and sub-scale experiments to address military-unique requirements in power generation and transportation that may not be otherwise met by commercial space transportation capabilities. No funding will be invested in developing commercial rocket systems.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Phase III shall include upgrades to the analysis, M&S, T&E results and provide mature prototypes of system concepts. Phase III shall provide a business plan and address the ability to transition technology and system concepts to commercial applications. The adapted non-Defense commercial solutions shall provide expanded mission capability for a broad range of potential Governmental and civilian users and alternate mission applications. Integration and other technical support to operational users may be required.

REFERENCES:

L. Grigsby, Electric Power Generation, Transmission and Distribution, Third Edition, CRC Press, 2012; Mitsubish Power, Hydrogen Power Generation Handbook, Second Edition, June 2021; Small Nuclear Power Reactors, World Nuclear Association, November 2021, https://www.world-nuclear.org/information-library/nuclear-fuel-cycle/nuclear-power-reactors/small-nuclear-power-reactors.aspx;
T. Hamacher, A.M. Bradshaw, Fusion as a Future Power Source: Recent Achievements and Prospects, 18th World Energy Congress, 2001;
A. Gupta, R. Sengupta, Analytical Study of the Development of Nuclear Fusion Reactors as Potential Source of Energy In the Future, 2019; Academia, Power Generation, Recent Papers in Power Generation, https://www.academia.edu/Documents/in/Power_Generation;
B. Jasim, P. Taheri, An Origami-Based Portable Solar Panel System, 2018 IEEE 9th Annual Information Technology, Electronics and Mobile Communication Conference (IEMCON);

KEYWORDS: Power Generation; Power Storage; Power Distribution; Portable Power Systems; Light-Weight and Transportable Power Generation; Cargo Containers for Power Systems; Shock and Vibration Isolation;

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Network Command, Control and Communications; Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning; General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Bio Medical; Air Platform

OBJECTIVE: Create an integrated capability to support deployed personnel performing a wider variety of mission tasks across traditional AFSC and expertise boundaries.

DESCRIPTION: Deploying large numbers of personnel will not be feasible at forward austere locations in future fights. Multi-capable airmen must have point-of-need support for performance and resilience. The goal is to leverage maturing technologies in key areas of focus under this topic to provide seamless, adaptive and resilient airman performance across a range of mission types and tasks especially focused on multi-mission performance in deployed, austere locations. Technology areas of interest include but are not limited to Training and aiding content management ; Augmentation strategies and technology; Sensing, sensors and fusion methods; Intelligent and naturalistic user interfaces; Software models for agents (SME and Wingman); Data on/data off and augmented analytics; and tools for persistent, secure, covert networks and data movement. This topic seeks relevant technologies in areas of relevance to achieve the objective. While eventual integration will be accomplished the goal here is to solicit viable candidates in the areas and work to mature and apply those to meet the stated objective.

PHASE I: This topic is intended for technology proven ready to move directly into a Phase II. Therefore, a Phase I award is not required. The offeror is required to provide detail and documentation in the Direct to Phase II proposal which demonstrates accomplishment of a “Phase I-like” effort, including a feasibility study. This includes determining, insofar as possible, the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of ideas appearing to have commercial potential.

PHASE II: Eligibility for D2P2 is predicated on the offeror having performed a “Phase I-like” effort predominantly separate from the SBIR Programs. Phase II involves the identification and selection of technology alternatives in two or more of the areas of relevance to support the objectives. Several distinct Phase II efforts are envisioned to both mature specific technology options and capabilities in and of themselves but to also to tailor and focus them on the objectives for JIT MMA/W specifically. A number of the products from the Phase II efforts are expected to mature as stand alone capabilities, but will also mature with a goal of integration into an overall set of technology capabilities to meet the objectives for the topic.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The contractor will pursue commercialization of the various technologies developed in Phase II for transitioning expanded mission capability to a broad range of potential government and civilian users and alternate mission applications. Direct access with end users and government customers will be provided with opportunities to receive Phase III awards for providing the government additional research & development, or direct procurement of products and services developed in coordination with the program.

REFERENCES:

Majumder, S., Mondal, T., Deen, M.J. Wearable sensors for remote health monitoring (2017) Sensors (Switzerland), 17 (1), art. no. 130, . Cited 444 times;
Pandya, B., Pourabdollah, A., Lotfi, A. A cloud-based pervasive application for monitoring oxygen saturation and heart rate using fuzzy-as-a-service (2021) ACM International Conference Proceeding Series, pp. 69-75.;
Mahmood, A.S., Jafer, E., Hussain, S., Fernando, X. Wireless body area network development for remote patient health observing (2017) IHTC 2017 - IEEE Canada International Humanitarian Technology Conference 2017, art. no. 8058193, pp. 26-31.Cited 6 times.;
Fouse, A., Weiss, C., Mullins, R., Hanna, C., Nargi, B., & Keefe, D. F. (2018, June). Multimodal Interactions In Multi-Display Semi-Immersive Environments. In 2018 IEEE Conference on Cognitive and Computational Aspects of Situation Management (CogSIMA) (pp. 36-41). IEEE.;
Rebensky, S., Carroll, M., Bennett, W., & Hu, X. (2021). Impact of Heads-up Displays on Small Unmanned Aircraft System Operator Situation Awareness and Performance: A Simulated Study. International Journal of Human–Computer Interaction, 1-13.;
Oviatt, S. (2007). Multimodal interfaces. In The human-computer interaction handbook (pp. 439-458). CRC press.;
Jones, G., Berthouze, N., Bielski, R., & Julier, S. (2010, May). Towards a situated, multimodal interface for multiple UAV control. In 2010 IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation (pp. 1739-1744). IEEE.;
Böhme, H. J., Wilhelm, T., Key, J., Schauer, C., Schröter, C., Groß, H. M., & Hempel, T. (2003). An approach to multi-modal human–machine interaction for intelligent service robots. Robotics and Autonomous Systems, 44(1), 83-96.;
Lemmelä, S., Vetek, A., Mäkelä, K., & Trendafilov, D. (2008, October). Designing and evaluating multimodal interaction for mobile contexts. In Proceedings of the 10th international conference on Multimodal interfaces (pp. 265-272).;
Cummings, M. L. (2015). Operator interaction with centralized versus decentralized UAV architectures. Handbook of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, 977-992.

KEYWORDS: Augmented, virtual and extended reality technology; Flexible/Wearable Sensors; Cognitive state assessment; Physiological state assessment (e.g., Vital Signs); Task/activity performance monitoring and assistance; Environmental monitoring (e.g., CBRNE; DE);

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Directed Energy

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors; Electronics; Space Platform; Materials; Air Platform

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: Develop advanced concepts and an improved capability to hybridize heterogeneous, large format semiconductor materials, at the die and wafer level, for next-generation DoD Visible (VIS) and Infrared (IR) focal plane arrays (FPAs). In the near term, there is interest in affordable means to electrically and thermally connect wafer level semiconductors having interconnects down to 6 µm on center with yields greater than 0.99999 across array sizes approaching 10k x 10k. Of interest is affordable, low volume production rate capability with the means of processing 10’s to 100’s of wafers per year. Interconnect quality should withstand the standard levels of environmental characterization typical of air and space domain qualifications (e.g. shock, vibration, temperature, humidity, radiation, etc.).

DESCRIPTION: There is a demonstrated need across the electronics community for means of electrically and thermally connecting semiconductor materials for the use in various stacked applications. This need has been solved utilizing oxide bond technologies that rely on Van der Waals forces to adhere two wafers together when placed in close proximity. This stacking technology is being utilized for several medium to high volume applications but is cost prohibitive for small volume R&D and production lots of interest to USG. The Air Force seeks to solve this manufacturing shortfall through this program. Establishing realistic entrance criteria for incoming wafers in terms of surface flatness, Total Thickness Variation (TTV), along with contamination requirements is envisioned for this project. Other means of forming high density, high interconnect yield electrical/thermal bonding besides oxide bonds will be considered. Current state-of-the-art, HgCdTe 2k x 2k IR FPAs with 10 micron pixel pitch require a full 4 cm2 of both the IR detector material and “defect-free” silicon for the CMOS read-out integrated circuit (ROIC). With future FPAs approaching 10k x 10k at 10 micron pitch that will be on the order of 100 cm2 of area. This square area being larger than available 8” wafers will likely require future FPAs to be assembled from smaller scale chiplets 3D-integrated on an interposer employing Thru Silicon Vias (TSVs). Added to this will be FPA cooling requirements of these larger chips, and simultaneously providing tolerance against both radiation and human-made threats. Mid-wave IR imagers operating in the 3-5 m band performing a major role in missile-warning applications are typically cooled down to the 100 – 130 K range. These large format FPAs have a substantial cooling power requirement (~ watts) and a significant need to mitigate the effects of unmatched coefficients of thermal expansion (CTEs). Rad-tolerance of these hetero-integration techniques will allow the emerging FPAs to be used in the space domain, where upcoming satellite constellations are increasing production demands. Finally, future FPAs tolerant to man-made threats, such as lasers, are also likely to benefit from heterogeneous-integration techniques extrinsic protection technologies to be packaged directly on the detector chiplets. Employing next-generation hetero-integration approaches is what will guarantee USG next-generation FPAs and is the focus of this topic. It is envisioned that multiple USG programs being executed in parallel to this activity will provide CMOS wafers that will need to be hybridized. These external programs very likely will be able to provide interconnect yield statistics that offerors can leverage and the USG can use to gauge formal success of the program. The company/ companies that provide the CMOS wafers for hybridization can / should be viewed as future customers for this boutique low volume manufacturing capability that the USG is seeking to establish through this program.

PHASE I: This topic is intended for technology proven ready to move directly into a Phase II. Therefore, a Phase I award is not required. The offeror is required to provide detail and documentation in the Direct to Phase II proposal which demonstrates accomplishment of a “Phase I-like” effort, including a feasibility study. This includes determining, insofar as possible, the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of ideas appearing to have commercial potential. It must have validated the product-market fit between the proposed solution and a potential AF stakeholder. The offeror should have defined a clear, immediately actionable plan with the proposed solution and the USSF customer. The feasibility study should have; -Identified the prime potential USSF end user(s) for the non-Defense commercial offering to solve the USSF need, i.e., how it has been modified; -Described integration cost and feasibility with current mission-specific products; -Described if/how the demonstration can be used by other DoD or Governmental customers.

PHASE II: Eligibility for D2P2 is predicated on the offeror having performed a “Phase I-like” effort predominantly separate from the SBIR Programs. Under the phase II effort, the offeror shall sufficiently develop the technical approach, product, or process in order to conduct a small number of advanced manufacturing and/or sustainment relevant demonstrations. Identification of manufacturing/production issues and or business model modifications required to further improve product or process relevance to improved sustainment costs, availability, or safety, should be documented. Air Force sustainment stakeholder engagement is paramount to successful validation of the technical approach. These Phase II awards are intended to provide a path to commercialization, not the final step for the proposed solution.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The contractor will pursue commercialization of the various technologies developed in Phase II for transitioning expanded mission capability to a broad range of potential government and civilian users and alternate mission applications. Direct access with end users and government customers will be provided with opportunities to receive Phase III awards for providing the government additional research & development, or direct procurement of products and services developed in coordination with the program.

REFERENCES:

https://www.spiedigitallibrary.org/conference-proceedings-of-spie/7082/1/Silicon-p-i-n-focal-plane-arrays-at-Raytheon/10.1117/12.798580.short ;
https://www.spiedigitallibrary.org/conference-proceedings-of-spie/9219/921906/Advancements-in-SiPIN-hybrid-focal-plane-technology/10.1117/12.2072720.short

KEYWORDS: Focal Plane Array; Resiliency; Stacking; CMOS; semiconductor;

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Network Command, Control and Communications; General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors; Electronics; Space Platform; Materials

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: Develop metamaterial solutions for space-based active phased array applications to provide enhance capabilities for L-band, S-band, and C-band. The research and development must address enhancements in non-mechanical beam steering and pointing, and reduced aperture volume and mass. In addition, integration and system characterization should be considered in conjunction with manufacturing challenges.

DESCRIPTION: Future concepts for space-based communications and sensing hinge upon the use of novel functionalities and increased capabilities in smaller platforms with low SWaP. One area that has shown promise is the use of metamaterials for antenna applications. One of the greatest challenges to overcome for space-based phase arrays is the large size and mass of the aperture, in addition to beam pointing/steering. Investigation and application of metamaterials in conjunction with software-defined phase arrays seeks to enhance active phased array performance in L-band, S-band, and C-band. Metamaterial based apertures have demonstrated acceptable single band performance in small form factor and low cost systems for commercial markets. Flexibility to define the aperture properties can be explored through new metamaterial design coupled with active components - the focus of this effort should be on the metamaterial application and not on the feed network design or software-defined radio design. Metamaterials considered should be appropriate and feasible for operation in the space environment. The system performance should be characterized in comparison to traditional phased arrays. Some metrics may include pointing stability, overall steering FOV/FOR, access area, etc.

PHASE I: This topic is intended for a D2P2, therefore a Phase I award is not required. This topic is intended for technology proven ready to move directly into a Phase II. Phase 1 like proposals will not be evaluated and will be rejected as nonresponsive. The offeror is required to provide detail and documentation in the Direct to Phase II proposal which demonstrates accomplishment of a “Phase I-like” effort, including a feasibility study and any reports/documentation the support moving D2P2. This includes determining the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of ideas appearing to have potential. It must have validated the product-market fit between the proposed solution and a potential USSF stakeholder. The offeror should have defined a clear, immediately actionable plan with the proposed solution and the USSF customer. The feasibility study should have; -Identified how this technology is enhancing state-of-the-art and current fielded solutions -Described integration cost and feasibility with current mission-specific products; -Described if/how the demonstration can be used by other DoD or Governmental customers.

PHASE II: Eligibility for D2P2 is predicated on the offeror having performed a “Phase I-like” effort predominantly separate from the SBIR Programs. Under the phase II effort, the offeror shall sufficiently develop the technical approach, product, or process in order to conduct a small number of advanced manufacturing and/or sustainment relevant demonstrations. Identification of manufacturing/production issues and or business model modifications required to further improve product or process relevance to improved sustainment costs, availability, or safety, should be documented. Air Force sustainment stakeholder engagement is paramount to successful validation of the technical approach. These Phase II awards are intended to provide a path to commercialization, not the final step for the proposed solution.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The contractor will pursue commercialization of the various technologies developed in Phase II for transitioning expanded mission capability to a broad range of potential government and civilian users and alternate mission applications. Direct access with end users and government customers will be provided with opportunities to receive Phase III awards for providing the government additional research & development, or direct procurement of products and services developed in coordination with the program. A Phase III award may include a technology/prototype demonstration, with feasibility in both air and space applications.

REFERENCES:

T. Itoh, "Metamaterials for RF applications," 2008 33rd International Conference on Infrared, Millimeter and Terahertz Waves, 2008, pp. 1-3, doi: 10.1109/ICIMW.2008.4665715; ;
E. Brookner, "Advances and breakthroughs in radars and phased-arrays," 2016 CIE International Conference on Radar (RADAR), 2016, pp. 1-9, doi: 10.1109/RADAR.2016.8059284.

KEYWORDS: Active Phased Arrays; Metamaterials; Ka-band; Multiple band antenna; Space-based communications; Non-mechanical beamsteering; Software Defined Radio

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Quantum Sciences; General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Space Platform; Materials

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: The AF and NASA have recently shown via flight experiments that the ASCENT (Advanced Spacecraft Energetic Non-Toxic) propellant can be used for high-thrust chemical propulsion needed for orbit transfer and debris avoidance. Additionally, ground testing has shown it can also be used for station-keeping using low-thrust electrical propulsion systems. As a dual-use, single source fuel, ASCENT enables the elimination of one of the two satellite fuel delivery and storage systems used on today’s satellite systems; saving cost, weight, and space. Moreover, ASCENT burns 30% hotter than SOA hydrazine propellant, increasing propulsive efficiency with a demonstrated 50% increase in time-on-station. Not only do these factors reduce the associated cost, weight, and complexity of current systems, they also streamline the logistical footprint to service such vehicles—a consideration that is amplified by the fact that ASCENT is a green propellant with far less toxicity and handling issues than SOA hydrazine. In short, ASCENT has the ability to transform in-space propulsion and logistics. A key challenge in realizing the benefits of the ASCENT propellant is the aggressive combustion environment that it creates and how harsh it is on available SOA materials. Current hydrazine propulsion systems require a catalyst bed, bedplate, and thruster nozzle all of which are made out of costly iridium metal (Ir). These components are subject to efficiency and life limiting issues due to the much hotter ASCENT propellant. The higher heat loads cause morphological changes in the Iridium microstructure via sintering of the catalyst bed particles and gain growth within the catalyst particles as well as the bedplate and nozzle. Sintering in the catalyst bed results in localized propellant pooling, uneven ignition and leads to charring of the propellant which then blocks the local area for future combustion. This reduces performance and causes non-uniform pressures and heat loads within the bed. Whereas grain growth reduces material strength and fracture toughness. Both of these phenomena results in component failure due to both cyclic thermal shock and fatigue. The goal of this project is to identify (by modeling) and test new ultra higher temperature materials for the catalysis bed material to minimize sintering and grain growth. Additionally, improve the catalysis architecture to minimize uneven distribution of pore volume that causes pressure and thermal gradients. These two task will help to improve catalysis bed life as well as the other components life by a factor up to 20X.

DESCRIPTION: This topic is focused on filling a capability gap in emerging space propulsion technology. It will first use new material modeling methods for assessing catalysis bed materials (chemistry, architecture and degradation) for increase lifetime in the ASCENT propellant. Promising chemistries and designs will be fabricated and sent to AFRL/RQR for lifetime testing. Post tested beds will be characterize by the contractor and the results used to improve the modeling. Lifetimes improvements of 20X will be the goal.

PHASE I: This topic is intended for technology proven ready to move directly into a Phase II. Therefore, a Phase I award is not required. Phase 1 like proposals will not be evaluated and will be rejected as nonresponsive. The offeror is required to provide detail and documentation in the Direct to Phase II proposal which demonstrates accomplishment of a “Phase I-like” effort, including a feasibility study. This includes determining, insofar as possible, the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of ideas appearing to have commercial potential. It must have validated the product-market fit between the proposed solution and a potential AF stakeholder. The offeror should have defined a clear, immediately actionable plan with the proposed solution and the AF customer. The feasibility study should have; -Identified the prime potential AF end user(s) for the non-Defense commercial offering to solve the AF need, i.e., how it has been modified; -Described integration cost and feasibility with current mission-specific products; -Described if/how the demonstration can be used by other DoD or Governmental customers

PHASE II: Eligibility for D2P2 is predicated on the offeror having performed a “Phase I-like” effort predominantly separate from the SBIR Programs. Under the phase II effort, the offeror shall sufficiently develop the technical approach, product, or process in order to conduct a small number of advanced manufacturing and/or sustainment relevant demonstrations. Identification of manufacturing/production issues and or business model modifications required to further improve product or process relevance to improved sustainment costs, availability, or safety, should be documented. Air Force sustainment stakeholder engagement is paramount to successful validation of the technical approach. These Phase II awards are intended to provide a path to commercialization, not the final step for the proposed solution.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The contractor will pursue commercialization of the various technologies developed in Phase II for transitioning expanded mission capability to a broad range of potential government and civilian users and alternate mission applications. Direct access with end users and government customers will be provided with opportunities to receive Phase III awards for providing the government additional research & development, or direct procurement of products and services developed in coordination with the program.

REFERENCES:

“AF-M315E Propulsion System Advances & Improvements" R. Masse, M. Allen, E. Driscoll, R. Spores, L. Arrington, S. Schneider & T. Vasek https://ntrs.nasa.gov/api/citations/20170001286/downloads/20170001286.pdf

KEYWORDS: Combustion; In-Space Propulsion; ASCENT propellant; new catalysts and bed plate materials; increased lifetime; Material Modeling; Quantum Mechanics; Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning; Structural Analysis

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials

OBJECTIVE: The end state of this project is to have a fully developed wear-protection coating that meets or exceeds 5th/6th generation system requirements. The coatings wear-protection performance shall be demonstrated in an approved laboratory test rig and shall provide an increased life expectancy of 1.5 over than the legacy material system. The final product will be considered for future Program Office funding to qualify and transition the material system.

DESCRIPTION: Performance requirements for 5th and 6th generation systems contain a myriad of wear-prone seals with high performance requirements. The demanding operational environment results in increased wear and lower lifetime expectancy for wear components, which increases stress on the supply chain to meet fleet demand for component replacement. In addition, these wear components are infrequently accessed by maintainers, leading to extensive damages that are visually concealed by other structures and are undiagnosed for long periods of time. Increasing inspection intervals to detect such damages is not an option due to the additional maintenance burden from lengthy and labor-intensive OML restoration processes when the components are reinstalled. Undiagnosed wear has caused significant performance degradation on these systems and is currently a top maintenance driver. Although there are a variety of market solutions for wear-strips and protective liners, many of these are too thick for these applications and require the flight control surfaces to be periodically removed from the structure to facilitate the reapplication process. The goal of this SBIR topic is to develop a wear-protection coating system that provides improved performance over the legacy coating system qualified by Lockheed Martin. The wear-protection coating must meet all LM requirements (fluid resistance, thickness, cure time/temp envelope,…etc.,) and shall not require major changes to current application processes or significantly increase maintenance time.

PHASE I: This topic is intended for technology proven ready to move directly into a Phase II. Therefore, a Phase I award is not required. The offeror is required to provide detail and documentation in the Direct to Phase II proposal which demonstrates accomplishment of a “Phase I-like” effort, including a feasibility study. This includes determining, insofar as possible, the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of ideas appearing to have commercial potential. It must have validated the product-market fit between the proposed solution and potential AF stakeholders. The offeror should have defined a clear, immediately actionable plan with the proposed solution and the DAF customer. The feasibility study should have; -Identified the prime potential DAF end user(s) for the non-Defense commercial offering to solve the DAF need, i.e., how it has been modified; -Described integration cost and feasibility with current mission-specific products; -Described if/how the demonstration can be used by other DoD or Governmental customers. A material solution addressing this topic request shall provide a minimum of 1.5x improvement in wear protection over similar commercially available systems (e.g., Teflon-loaded paints, composite wear strips, plastic wear liners etc.,) in conditions representative of typical aircraft environments (i.e., inclusion of dust/debris and fluids typically found on aircraft) . Additionally, the proposed product must have the following capabilities: -ability to tailor thickness to approximately 8-12 mils; -ability to produce layer with uniform thickness (i.e., free of runs, sags, waviness) upon application; -processability in a wide range of temperature and humidity conditions typical in field-level maintenance (i.e., approximately 60-90°F/5-95%RH); -resistance to typical aircraft fluids (e.g., jet fuel, deicer fluid, hydraulic fluid, engine oil, etc.,); -cure time less than 5 hours; -minimal specialized tools for required for installation.

PHASE II: The Phase II effort should modify the candidate wear-protection coating to meet or exceed 5th/6th generation system material requirements. The SBIR offeror shall coordinate with Lockheed Martin to develop/define material requirements and establish acceptable test methods to characterize material performance and compare to the legacy material system. After requirements and test methods have been defined, the offeror shall characterize their material and modify the system appropriately. The project team will assess the results and provide guidance as necessary. In order to achieve cost savings and provide a sustainment benefit to the programs, any developmental materials shall provide at least a 1.5x increase in life expectancy over the legacy material systems. The final formulation shall be fully characterized at the end of the program and cost and supply estimates shall be determined. Final demonstrations of the material life expectancy shall be performed using a wear test rig approved by the project team.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The contractor will pursue commercialization of the various technologies developed in Phase II for transitioning expanded mission capability to a broad range of potential government and civilian users and alternate mission applications. Direct access with end users and government customers will be provided with opportunities to receive Phase III awards for providing the government additional research & development, or direct procurement of products and services developed in coordination with the program. Phase III funding will be considered by the appropriate System Program Office. The intent of a Phase III effort will be to perform a flight test evaluation and to contract LM for material qualification and approval.

REFERENCES:

Bhushan, B, and Gupta, B K. Handbook of Tribology: Materials, coatings, and surface treatments. United States: N. p., 1991. Web.

KEYWORDS: Wear-protection; coatings; 5th Generation; abrasion; wear; OML

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Autonomy; Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors

DOES THIS NEED ITAR? NO

OBJECTIVE: Develop and demonstrate a solution for opportunistic position updates from an existing onboard camera turret mounted on group 2 or group 3 unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to enable operation in Global Positioning System (GPS) and Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) denied operating environments. Ideally, the solution should be accurate to within 50m and does not require installation of additional sensors.

DESCRIPTION: Accuracy, availability, and integrity of Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) information from GPS and other GNSS is under constant threat from denial and deception techniques. The concern of overreliance on GPS/GNSS systems has spurred a surge in alternative Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (Alt-PNT) research. Many of these tools and techniques are restricted to certain missions or environments to operate effectively. Providing resilient PNT for small UAS (sUAS) is particularly difficult due to significant size, weight, and power (SWAP) constraints. Any additional PNT payload added to sUAS will force the platform to trade off primary mission payload, reducing both capability and loiter time. This effort will leverage existing sensors for any positioning information that can be provided when GPS/GNSS based navigation is denied. Such vision-based systems currently on sUASs rely on similar requirements as vision based navigation systems. They require minimal cloud cover and visible terrain containing features, therefore these conditions can be assumed for a majority of the mission. It is also assumed that the camera turret settings will not always be ideal for image based navigation so the navigation algorithm should notify the operator when the navigation solution is degraded, meaning the camera settings and aim need to be adjusted to provide an image useful for solving for a position.

PHASE I: This topic is meant to be awarded directly into a Phase II as the technology has been proven out. This topic incorporates existing gimbaled cameras with image navigation to produce an image based position estimate for navigation in GPS denied or degraded environments. Gimbaled cameras have been proven out on a variety of active inventory unmanned aerial systems (UAS) used in today’s conflicts including those on the MQ-1, MQ-9, and a variety of smaller UASs used by SOCOM. This topic is geared towards small UASs that are both in development and operationally deployed. Image navigation has been proven in both the civilian academic world and within the DoD and defense contractors. There has been developments in using gimbaled sensors to produce position updates on the US LITENING Advanced Targeting Pod and the F-35 electro-optical distributed aperture system. Both of these systems have processing power and technological capabilities beyond what is found on smaller UASs. This topic will use existing gimbaled optical sensors on small UASs combined with image navigation techniques to produce navigation updates by adding no or very minimal hardware.

PHASE II: By using only the existing gimbaled optical sensor and onboard mission computer on a small UAS a position update accuracy within 50 meters should be achieved and provided to the UAS navigation system. Current commercial off the shelf (COTS) systems require the addition of external cameras and processing computers which will not fit on existing operational small UASs. This topic will leverage existing hardware on small UASs currently in development or operationally deployed. The 645th Aeronautical Systems Group (Big Safari), who support SOCOM, has expressed great interest in the added navigation capability without having to modify the hardware on their small UASs. With little to no modifications required to current class 2 and 3 UASs this topic will easily transition to the warfighter through the 645th and various remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) system program offices (SPO). For the proposal the following vignette depicts the robustness and performance that is required:

A group 2 UAS with an Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) mission is launched; in a GPS/GNSS denied environment. The UAS must approach a target of interest tens of kilometers away expecting a total mission duration of 3 or more hours. The operation may occur in daylight or darkness. It is assumed an initial position and time are either entered by hand or transferred from a host platform. En route the camera turret operator will be able to point the camera turret to look for interesting features based on feedback from the navigation algorithm. While performing the primary ISR mission the sensor operator is notified when position accuracy is degraded and the camera turret should be used to obtain an additional position estimate. The aircraft will maintain a reliable command and control (C2) link to the operator throughout the mission. The following features must be considered for a proposal The onboard camera turret will be the primary sensor used to perform a position update during a GPS/GNSS outage. Images, pointing angles, and settings metadata can be read off the camera turret. The navigation algorithm should work without direct control of the sensor turret. The algorithm can encourage the operator to re-point but it is not guaranteed. It is understood that a position solution from the camera turret will only be available intermittently depending on what the camera is currently seeing. The desire is a software only solution. Additional payload should be zero or minimal, although it is understood that installation of a dedicated processor may be necessary. Any additional hardware must fit within a typical group 2 UAS payload bay. The algorithm must be compatible with operational group 2 and group 3 UAS camera turrets. GPS/GNSS may be unavailable at takeoff. At a minimum, a rough manual position and time estimate will be available. Both traditional and machine learning approaches may be considered. However the underlying uncertainty metrics of all measurements/estimates must be fully understood and accurately represented. System must provide both a position solution and associated raw measurements. The algorithm should output its solution in the All Source Positioning and Navigation (ASPN) format. The solution should be built as a module that can be integrated into a government-owned open architecture PNT filter. No government furnished equipment (GFE) will be provided. Availability of required reference data must be taken into consideration.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: If a successful Phase II solution is developed, a Phase III will quickly transition the developed technology to meet any specific needs of the individual customers within the DoD, other government agencies, or the civilian world. The technology could also be expanded to manned aircraft with camera turrets to aid in navigation in a contested, degraded and operationally limited (CDO) environment. The commercial sector could us this technology as an alternate to GPS during outage periods or when traversing hostile areas. The image matching algorithms could be used for time based surveying to track farming, animal, and land management trends. The development of this topic could be incorporated into the USAF Vanguards via a gimbaled sensor on a Golden Horde munition or Skyborg aircraft with no hardware changes.

REFERENCES:

G. Conte and P. Doherty, “An integrated UAV navigation system based on aerial

image matching," in IEEE Aerospace Conference Proceedings, 2008.;

T. Machin, “Real-time implementation of vision-aided monocular navigation for

Small fixed-wing unmanned aerial systems, quot; Masters thesis, Air Force Institute of Technology, 2016.;

B. W. Randal and T. W. McLain, Small Unmanned Aircraft Theory and Practice.;
Keskin, Ali.; Fixed Wing UAV Target Geolocation Estimation From Camera Images. 2021.

KEYWORDS: Navigation; Position; UAS; UAV; SUAS; Position Update; CDO; Alternative Navigation; Gimbaled Camera; Image Matching

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning; General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: Link and aggregate human performance data collected during pilot training across security and privacy boundaries without exposing protected/sensitive data to unauthorized parties. Support predictive and prescriptive analytics of individual, team, and force proficiencies and training needs.

DESCRIPTION: USAF pilot training produces human performance data with varying levels of privacy and security protection requirements. This creates disconnected partitions (silos) of data limiting the USAF’s ability to predict current and future pilot proficiency, predict impacts of proposed training, and make optimal training decisions. This effort explores and demonstrates: 1. Methods for identifying, linking, navigating, and querying data across partitions while preventing exposure of data to unauthorized users 2. Methods for characterizing limitations or uncertainties of analyses given the subset of partitions accessible 3. Methods for recommending partition changes and merges to maximize actionable insights from the data 4. Recommendations for analytic techniques and proficiency prediction suited to incomplete partitioned data sets

PHASE I: This topic is intended for technology proven ready to move directly into a Phase II. Therefore, a Phase I award is not required. The offeror is required to provide detail and documentation in the Direct to Phase II proposal which demonstrates accomplishment of a “Phase I-like” effort, including a feasibility study. This includes determining, insofar as possible, the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of ideas appearing to have commercial potential.

PHASE II: Eligibility for D2P2 is predicated on the offeror having performed a “Phase I-like” effort predominantly separate from the SBIR Programs. The goal of phase II is to prototype, demonstrate, and evaluate one or more methods for cross security domain linking of USAF provided partitioned human performance and training data sets. Demonstrate meaningful analytics combining data from multiple partitions with estimates of uncertainty. Document lessons learned, needs for further research, and strengths/limitations of the considered approaches. Consider applications to related to security and privacy challenges such as healthcare.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The contractor will pursue commercialization of the various technologies developed in Phase II for transitioning expanded mission capability to a broad range of potential government and civilian users and alternate mission applications. Direct access with end users and government customers will be provided with opportunities to receive Phase III awards for providing the government additional research & development, or direct procurement of products and services developed in coordination with the program.

REFERENCES:

U.S. Department of Defense. (2018). DoD Cloud Strategy. https://media.defense.gov/2019/Feb/04/2002085866/-1/-1/1/DOD-CLOUD-STRATEGY.PDF.;
Kaissis, G.A., Makowski, M.R., Rückert, D. et al. Secure, privacy-preserving and federated machine learning in medical imaging. Nat Mach Intell 2, 305–311 (2020).; https://doi.org/10.1038/s42256-020-0186-1
U.S. Department of Defense. (2017). Cross Domain Policy. DoDI 8540.01.; https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/issuances/dodi/854001p.pdf

KEYWORDS: pilot training; cross domain; security; privacy; data management; cybersecurity; federated learning; differential privacy; homomorphic encryption; multiparty computation

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning; General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: Adapt and apply classification algorithms to pilot training data to identify training scenarios with similar objectives and similar levels of pilot proficiency in achieving those objectives

DESCRIPTION: USAF pilot training produces volumes of system-based and observer-based human performance data. It is difficult to meaningfully organize these data sets, and this effort to applies machine learning and classification techniques to enrich the data sets and to enhance rapid retrieval of relevant data. This effort explores and demonstrates: 1. Classification of data sets exhibiting similar training objectives preferably mapped to mission types, Mission Essential Competencies™ (MECs), and/or Ready Aircrew Program (RAP) requirements 2. Automated observation of training providing scores of scenario applicability to different objectives and constructs 3. Classification of individual pilot, team, and team-of-team proficiency exhibited during training 4. Classification of scenario complexity; perceived versus actual difficulty

PHASE I: This topic is intended for technology proven ready to move directly into a Phase II. Therefore, a Phase I award is not required. The offeror is required to provide detail and documentation in the Direct to Phase II proposal which demonstrates accomplishment of a “Phase I-like” effort, including a feasibility study. This includes determining, insofar as possible, the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of ideas appearing to have commercial potential.

PHASE II: Eligibility for D2P2 is predicated on the offeror having performed a “Phase I-like” effort predominantly separate from the SBIR Programs. The goal of phase II is to prototype, demonstrate, and evaluate classification techniques applied to at least three of the areas identified in the problem description with representative data sets. Document lessons learned, needs for further research, and strengths/limitations of the considered approaches.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The contractor will pursue commercialization of the various technologies developed in Phase II for transitioning expanded mission capability to a broad range of potential government and civilian users and alternate mission applications. Direct access with end users and government customers will be provided with opportunities to receive Phase III awards for providing the government additional research & development, or direct procurement of products and services developed in coordination with the program.

REFERENCES:

Kabudi, T., Pappas, I., Olsen D. H. (2021). AI-enabled adaptive learning systems: A systematic mapping of the literature. Computers and Education: Artificial Intelligence, vol 2. (2021).;
Monllao Olive, D. (2019). Automatic classification of students in online courses using machine learning technqiues. [Master's Thesis, University of Western Australia].;
Watz, E., Neubauer, P., Kegley, J., Bennett, W. (2018). Managing Learning and Tracking Performance across Multiple Mission Sets. Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation, and Education Conference (I/ITSEC).

KEYWORDS: pilot training; proficiency; classification; data management; scenario complexity; scenario applicability; competencies; machine learning

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials; Air Platform

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: Develop resistive film coatings and their respective manufacturing processes that uniformly and cost efficiently produce stable products with low variability and consistent quality.

DESCRIPTION: Industry capabilities are emerging to utilize ink jet printing to deposit capacitive and resistive coatings onto traditional substrates. The government is interested in adapting this technology to create resistive films for use in multiple applications. Additionally, mature manufacturing processes must be developed and demonstrated to uniformly and cost efficiently produce stable printed resistive coatings with low variability. Areas of interest are, but certainly not limited to, low thermal mass processes that enable lower costs, environmentally stable products, lower temperature substrates, and polymer substrates for resistive film manufacture.

PHASE I: This topic is intended for technology proven ready to move directly into a Phase II. Therefore, a Phase I award is not required. The offeror is required to provide detail and documentation in the Direct to Phase II proposal which demonstrates accomplishment of a “Phase I-like” effort, including a feasibility study. This includes determining, insofar as possible, the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of ideas appearing to have commercial potential. It must have validated the product-market fit between the proposed solution and a potential AF stakeholder. The offeror should have defined a clear, immediately actionable plan with the proposed solution and the AF customer. The feasibility study should have; -Identified the prime potential AF end user(s) for the non-Defense commercial offering to solve the AF need, i.e., how it has been modified; -Described integration cost and feasibility with current mission-specific products; -Described if/how the demonstration can be used by other DoD or Governmental customers.

PHASE II: Eligibility for D2P2 is predicated on the offeror having performed a “Phase I-like” effort predominantly separate from the SBIR Programs. Under the phase II effort, the offeror shall sufficiently develop the technical approach, product, or process in order to conduct a small number of advanced manufacturing and/or sustainment relevant demonstrations. Identification of manufacturing/production issues and or business model modifications required to further improve product or process relevance to improved sustainment costs, availability, or safety, should be documented. Air Force sustainment stakeholder engagement is paramount to successful validation of the technical approach. These Phase II awards are intended to provide a path to commercialization, not the final step for the proposed solution.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The contractor will pursue commercialization of the various technologies developed in Phase II for transitioning expanded mission capability to a broad range of potential government and civilian users and alternate mission applications. Direct access with end users and government customers will be provided with opportunities to receive Phase III awards for providing the government additional research & development, or direct procurement of products and services developed in coordination with the program.

REFERENCES:

http://www.iscst.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Lopez.pdf;

KEYWORDS: printed; honeycomb; core; r-card;

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning; General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: Propose algorithms and methods for synthesizing multi-modal pilot training data to expedite development of novel analytics.

DESCRIPTION: Security requirements for pilot training and readiness data sets hamper development and validation of analytics. Performers are often unable to access sufficient data, or they find the access controls inefficient and time consuming. This effort seeks: 1. Algorithms or techniques for synthesizing data sets including representative data formats, modalities, and behaviors suitable for developing and validating PBT-focused analytics 2. Characterization of the quality, scope, and limitations of the synthetic data sets; i.e., what types of analytics and stages of development/validation are suitable for the synthetic data set versus real data sets Consider applying scoring methods from the “Generalized enrichment of pilot training data through automated classification of pilot training objectives, scenarios, and performance” area to rate synthetic behavior

PHASE I: This topic is intended for technology proven ready to move directly into a Phase II. Therefore, a Phase I award is not required. The offeror is required to provide detail and documentation in the Direct to Phase II proposal which demonstrates accomplishment of a “Phase I-like” effort, including a feasibility study. This includes determining, insofar as possible, the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of ideas appearing to have commercial potential.

PHASE II: Eligibility for D2P2 is predicated on the offeror having performed a “Phase I-like” effort predominantly separate from the SBIR Programs. The goal of phase II is to develop, demonstrate, and validate software tools for generating synthetic data on-demand meeting varying requirements for suitability to analytics development and validation. Conduct a study characterizing limitations of synthetic data sets and make recommendations on which problems are well-suited to synthetic data. Document lessons learned, needs for further research, and strengths/limitations of the considered approaches.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The contractor will pursue commercialization of the various technologies developed in Phase II for transitioning expanded mission capability to a broad range of potential government and civilian users and alternate mission applications. Direct access with end users and government customers will be provided with opportunities to receive Phase III awards for providing the government additional research & development, or direct procurement of products and services developed in coordination with the program.

REFERENCES:

Patki, N. (2016).The Synthetic Data Vault: Generative Modeling for Relational Databases. [Master's Thesis, Massachusetts Institute of Technology];
Anderson, J., Kennedy, K.E., Ngo, L., Luckow, A., Apon, A. (2014). Synthetic data generation for the internet of things. IEEE Conference on Big Data.

KEYWORDS: pilot training; synthetic data; privacy; security; verification; validation

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning; General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Air Platform

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: Detect, track, predict, and report trends in individual, team, and large force human performance over time. Develop and demonstrate novel algorithmic approaches for the identification, detection, and tracking of causal events.

DESCRIPTION: The DoD routinely conducts large force team of teams exercises, (e.g. Red Flag) which train multiple teams at once. This topic focuses on developing novel approaches for detecting key events or conditions in large force exercises that impact mission success. Successful approaches will be tested against training data that includes single teams and multiple teams. This area considers: 1. Evaluation of dynamic multi-team performance and adjustments in performance assessments based on available opportunities and on contingent performance of team members and/or other teams 2. Identification of root causes for training outcomes and for accomplishing mission objectives 3. Prediction of mission outcomes given detection of key events

PHASE I: This topic is intended for technology proven ready to move directly into a Phase II. Therefore, a Phase I award is not required. The offeror is required to provide detail and documentation in the Direct to Phase II proposal which demonstrates accomplishment of a “Phase I-like” effort, including a feasibility study. This includes determining, insofar as possible, the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of ideas appearing to have commercial potential.

PHASE II: Eligibility for D2P2 is predicated on the offeror having performed a “Phase I-like” effort predominantly separate from the SBIR Programs. The goal of phase II is to develop, demonstrate, and validate selected methods using USAF provided data from pilot training events. Store results in an existing knowledge management system to support training and learning. Document lessons learned, needs for further research, and strengths/limitations of the considered approaches.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The contractor will pursue commercialization of the various technologies developed in Phase II for transitioning expanded mission capability to a broad range of potential government and civilian users and alternate mission applications. Direct access with end users and government customers will be provided with opportunities to receive Phase III awards for providing the government additional research & development, or direct procurement of products and services developed in coordination with the program.

REFERENCES:

Arthur, W., Jr., Glaze, R.M., Bhupatkar, A., Villado, A.J., Bennett, W., Jr., and Rowe, L.J. (2012). Team task analysis: Differentiating between tasks using team relatedness and team workflow as metrics of team task interdependence. Human Factors, 54(2), 277-295
Kabudi, T., Pappas, I., Olsen D. H. (2021). AI-enabled adaptive learning systems: A systematic mapping of the literature. Computers and Education: Artificial Intelligence, vol 2. (2021).;
Monllao Olive, D. (2019). Automatic classification of students in online courses using machine learning technqiues. [Master's Thesis, University of Western Australia].;
Watz, E., Neubauer, P., Kegley, J., Bennett, W. (2018). Managing Learning and Tracking Performance across Multiple Mission Sets. Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation, and Education Conference (I/ITSEC).

KEYWORDS: teams; large force exercises; performance assessment; prediction; machine learning

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics; Materials; Air Platform

OBJECTIVE: State-of-the-art large structural composite manufacturing includes the use of thermocouples to monitor temperature ramp rates and steady state temperature profiles to ensure correct cure cycles. These data streams are expected to become more prolific and denser as current research and development is addressing wireless, in-the-bag thermocouple technologies that will make temperature data collection more convenient and affordable. Yet despite the wealth of data available, it is rarely used for anything more than to ensure temperature profiles are within tolerance; it is then archived (typically on a hard drive somewhere) and forgotten unless there is an investigation related to a future component failure. The objective of this project is to maximize the value of this data by using it to accomplish some or all of the following: optimize manufacturing processes; optimize workpiece properties; enable model-based quality definition and/or serial-number-specific part certification; enhance agility; and enable rapid spin-up of production capacity for aerospace components.

DESCRIPTION: Research and develop a general and reusable technology stack (methods, algorithms, tools, software, etc.) for collecting, managing, curating, and using thermocouple data collected in composites curing processes. Develop data pipelines that facilitate the integration of temperature data collection systems, digital models, and product lifecycle management tools, preferably based on current standards. Develop technology that utilizes thermocouple data to enable adaptive process control to optimize manufacturing processes. Process optimization includes classical metrics like yield, cycle time, tolerances, and process capability, but can also include optimization of the process to maximize material property objectives. Tools that optimize or facilitate agile decision making for upstream and/or downstream manufacturing processes, possibly across links in the supply chain, are also encouraged. Develop technology leverages temperature data to enable model-based inspection and serial-number-specific workpiece quality inspection and certification. Develop technology that enables supply chain agility by allowing aerospace manufacturers to quickly and confidently spin up production of novel components. Solutions that facilitate rapid adaptation of non-aerospace to emergency aerospace production is also encouraged. Cloud-based solutions are encouraged, but the Department of Defense’s cybersecurity needs must be adequately addressed. Proposals that include technology demonstrations and/or pilot systems in production at aerospace manufacturers are highly encouraged.

PHASE I: This topic is intended for technology proven ready to move directly into a Phase II. Therefore, a Phase I award is not required. The offeror is required to provide detail and documentation in the Direct to Phase II proposal which demonstrates accomplishment of a “Phase I-like” effort, including a feasibility study. This includes determining, insofar as possible, the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of ideas appearing to have commercial potential. It must have validated the product-market fit between the proposed solution and a potential AF stakeholder. The offeror should have defined a clear, immediately actionable plan with the proposed solution and the AF customer. The feasibility study should have; -Identified the prime potential AF end user(s) for the non-Defense commercial offering to solve the AF need, i.e., how it has been modified; -Described integration cost and feasibility with current mission-specific products; -Described if/how the demonstration can be used by other DoD or Governmental customers.

PHASE II: Eligibility for D2P2 is predicated on the offeror having performed a “Phase I-like” effort predominantly separate from the SBIR Programs. Under the phase II effort, the offeror shall sufficiently develop the technical approach, product, or process in order to conduct a small number of advanced manufacturing and/or sustainment relevant demonstrations. Identification of manufacturing/production issues and or business model modifications required to further improve product or process relevance to improved sustainment costs, availability, or safety, should be documented. Air Force sustainment stakeholder engagement is paramount to successful validation of the technical approach. These Phase II awards are intended to provide a path to commercialization, not the final step for the proposed solution.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The contractor will pursue commercialization of the various technologies developed in Phase II for transitioning expanded mission capability to a broad range of potential government and civilian users and alternate mission applications. Direct access with end users and government customers will be provided with opportunities to receive Phase III awards for providing the government additional research and development, or direct procurement of products and services developed in coordination with the program.

REFERENCES:

Singh, Rashmi; Singh, S.P., “Development of a Low Cost Wireless Temperature Monitoring System for Industrial & Research Application”, International Journal of Current Engineering and Technology, February 7, 2015,Vol. 5, No.1(Feb 2015); School of Energy and Environmental Studies, Devi Ahilya University, Khandwa Road, Indore 452001, India;
Arnold, F.; DeMallie, I.; Florence, L., Kashinski, O., “Method for collecting thermocouple data via shell over a wireless local area network in real time”, Rev. Sci. Instrum. 86 035112 (2015), March 7, 2015, Photonics Research Center, United States Military Academy, West Point, New York 10996, USA;
Nicolay, Pascal; Naumenko, Natalya, “Optimal design for an innovative very-high-temperature hybrid SAW Sensor”, IEEE International Ultrasonics Symposium, IUS, October 31,2017, 2017 IEEE International Ultrasonics Symposium, IUS 2017; ISSN: 19485719, E-ISSN: 19485727;ISBN-13: 9781538633830; DOI: 10.1109/ULTSYM.2017.8091550; Article number: 8091550; Conference:2017 IEEE International Ultrasonics Symposium, IUS 2017, September 6, 2017 - September 9, 2017;Publisher: IEEE Computer Society;
Nicolay, P.; Matloub, R.; Bardong, J.; Mazzalai, A.; Muralt, P., “A concept of wireless and passive very-high temperature sensor”, Applied Physics Letters, v 110, n 18,May 1, 2017; ISSN: 00036951; DOI: 10.1063/1.4983085; Article number: 184104; Publisher: American Institute of Physics Inc.;
Patra, Dibyayan; Kundu, Chitresh; Patra, Prabal, “Wireless Dip Temperature Lance for provisioning hot metal analytics of blast furnaces”, Ironmaking and Steelmaking, v 48, n 5, p 619-627,2021; ISSN: 03019233, E-ISSN: 17432812; DOI: 10.1080/03019233.2020.1833677; Publisher: Taylor andFrancis Ltd.;

KEYWORDS: thermocouple; hub; reciever; temperature; cure; composite; out of autoclave; composite aircraft; manufacture; defect; repair; damage; porosity; delamination

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Network Command, Control and Communications; General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors; Electronics; Space Platform; Materials; Air Platform

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: The application of liquid crystalline devices for optical sensors and communications has cross-domain and cross armed service branch impacts. The objective of this research and development is to assess and improve the manufacturing processes and quality assurance processes for LCDs for air and space applications. This includes maturing the design and integration strategies that directly affect manufacturability. A desirable end state would be a thorough assessment of technology and manufacturing readiness and demonstrations of air and space worthiness for extreme environments. These are some of the final barriers to entry for this technology.

DESCRIPTION: Ultrathin, planar, non-mechanical optical beam steering devices using liquid crystal materials and manufacturing has been researched and developed by AFRL and partners over the past ten years for air and space defense applications. Not only do LC’s present enhanced functional capabilities in addition to beam steering (e.g. spectral filtering and variable focusing), they also drastically reduce the system mass, power, and mechanical complexity (i.e. SWaP) relative to conventional optics and opto-mechanics. The technology is at a point where it would greatly benefit from ManTech investment to investigate: - MRL assessment and baseline - Quality and uniformity within manufacturing process - Air an d space worthiness considerations within manufacturing process and possible in-line article testing - Integration and interface considerations within design and manufacturing process - Analysis of cost-drivers and manufacturing challenges - Implementation of process improvements to address above

PHASE I: This topic is intended for a D2P2, therefore a Phase I award is not required. This topic is intended for technology proven ready to move directly into a Phase II. The offeror is required to provide detail and documentation in the Direct to Phase II proposal which demonstrates accomplishment of a “Phase I-like” effort, including a feasibility study and any reports/documentation the support moving D2P2. This includes determining the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of ideas appearing to have potential. The company must have an existing manufacturing process in place. It must have validated the product-market fit between the proposed solution and a potential DAF stakeholder. The offeror should have defined a clear, immediately actionable plan with the proposed solution and the DAF customer. The feasibility study should have: -Identified how this technology is enhancing state-of-the-art and current fielded solutions and manufacturing processes -Described integration cost and feasibility with current mission-specific products; -Described if/how the demonstration can be used by other DoD or Governmental customers.

PHASE II: Eligibility for D2P2 is predicted on the offeror having performed a "Phase-I-like" effort, predominantly separate from the SBIR programs. Under the Phase II effort, the offeror shall sufficiently develop the technical approach and process in order to conduct a small number of enhanced manufacturing demonstrations. Identification of manufacturing/production issues and/or business model modifications required to further improve product or process relevance to improved costs, availability, or safety, should be documented. These Phase II awards are intended to provide a path to commercialization, not the final step for the proposed solution.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The contractor will pursue commercialization of the various technologies and processes developed in Phase II for transitioning expanded mission capability to a broad range of potential government and civilian users and alternate mission applications. Direct access with end users and government customers will be provided with opportunities to receive Phase III awards for providing the government additional research & development, or direct procurement of products and services developed in coordination with the program. A Phase III award may include a technology/prototype demonstration, with feasibility in both air and space applications.

REFERENCES:

Tabiryan, N. V., Roberts, D. E., Liao, Z., Hwang, J.-Y., Moran, M., Ouskova, O., Pshenichnyi, A., Sigley, J., Tabirian, A., Vergara, R., De, L., Kimball, B. R., Steeves, D. M., Slagle, J., McConney, M. E., Bunning, T. J., Advances in Transparent Planar Optics: Enabling Large Aperture, Ultrathin Lenses. Adv. Optical Mater. 2021, 9, 2001692. https://doi.org/10.1002/adom.202001692

KEYWORDS: Liquid Crystalline Devices; Non-mechanical Beam Steering; Ultrathin; Planar; Optical; Optics; Gimbal-less;

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials; Air Platform

OBJECTIVE: Develop fill/fair and potting materials for both BMI and polyimide parts and assemblies. Through this work methods and procedures to repair damaged structures including laminates and sandwich structures will also be developed. Process development would evaluate both autoclave and oven based solutions as well as out of facility processes that might include techniques like heating blankets or heating boxes.

DESCRIPTION: Conduct an industry survey of commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) materials and processes that might be capable of meeting the objective while also conducting technical journal literature reviews of constituent materials that might be combined in a novel way to also meet the objective. Based on the COTS and technical literature reviews down select up to five material systems for evaluations for fill/fair and potting on polyimide and BMI composite material systems as well as repairing damaged polyimide and BMI structures. The structures will be a honeycomb core sandwich structure. Setup a design-of-experiments to evaluate the down selected candidates on their physical and mechanical properties on both fill/fair/potting and repair. Based on experimental results further down select to optimize the formulations for both fill/fair/potting and repair. This may result in two different optimized formulations of multiple systems. Conduct trials/demonstrations of the optimized material systems for both fill/fair/potting and repair. Based on the optimized material systems experimental results down select to no more than two systems for further optimization development, if needed, and conduct final physical and mechanical property evaluations. Finally demonstrate the final formulations for fill/fair/potting and repair on polyimide and BMI composite material systems. Concurrently while evaluating the repair objectives of the work of the optimized fill/fair and potting materials, identify heating technologies and processes for out of autoclave structural repairs.

PHASE I: This topic is intended for technology proven ready to move directly into a Phase II. Therefore, a Phase I award is not required. The offeror is required to provide detail and documentation in the Direct to Phase II proposal which demonstrates accomplishment of a “Phase I-like” effort, including a feasibility study. This includes determining, insofar as possible, the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of ideas appearing to have commercial potential. It must have validated the product-market fit between the proposed solution and a potential AF stakeholder. The offeror should have defined a clear, immediately actionable plan with the proposed solution and the AF customer. The feasibility study should have; -Identified the prime potential AF end user(s) for the non-Defense commercial offering to solve the AF need, i.e., how it has been modified; -Described integration cost and feasibility with current mission-specific products; -Described if/how the demonstration can be used by other DoD or Governmental customers.

PHASE II: Eligibility for D2P2 is predicated on the offeror having performed a “Phase I-like” effort predominantly separate from the SBIR Programs. Under the phase II effort, the offeror shall sufficiently develop the technical approach, product, or process in order to conduct a small number of advanced manufacturing and/or sustainment relevant demonstrations. Identification of manufacturing/production issues and or business model modifications required to further improve product or process relevance to improved sustainment costs, availability, or safety, should be documented. Air Force sustainment stakeholder engagement is paramount to successful validation of the technical approach. These Phase II awards are intended to provide a path to commercialization, not the final step for the proposed solution.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The contractor will pursue commercialization of the various technologies developed in Phase II for transitioning expanded mission capability to a broad range of potential government and civilian users and alternate mission applications. Direct access with end users and government customers will be provided with opportunities to receive Phase III awards for providing the government additional research & development, or direct procurement of products and services developed in coordination with the program.

REFERENCES:

High Temperature Adhesives For Aerospace Applications; Banea, Da Silva and Campilho; Galati University Press, 2012; Organic Polymer Materials in the Space Environment; Chen, Ding, Li and Wang; Progress in Aerospace Sciences, 83 (2016) 37-56.;
Characterization and Properties of High-Temperature Resistant Structure Adhesive Based on Novel Toughened Bismaleimide Resins; Wang, Xiong, Ren, Ma, Han and Chen; High Performance Polymers, Vol 33(5) 488-496, 2021;
A Review of the Releationship Between Design Factors and Environmental Agents Regarding Adhesive Bonded Joints; Gualberto, do Carmo Amorim, Meneses Costa; Brazilian Society of Mechanical Sciences and Engineering (2021) 43:389;

KEYWORDS: high temperature composite repairs; high temperature composite fill and fair materials and processes; BMI repairs; polyimide repairs; out of autoclave high temperature materials; high temperature adhesives; high temperature sealants

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors; Electronics; Information Systems; Air Platform

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: Develop a library of signal processing modules that can integrate into existing frameworks such as CFE. Develop techniques to port from a homogenous X86 architecture to a heterogeneous architecture with best of breed GPP, GPU, and FPGA processing.

DESCRIPTION: There are numerous Collaborative Framework Environment (CFE) deployments in both ground and airborne environments. In many of these deployments, the signal environment is continuously changing. Rapid deployment of flexible and reconfigurable signal-processing capabilities to address these changes in complicated signal environments is required to provide timely support to current mission requirements. Software-processing modules that will assist with preparation of the signal environment to identify and mitigate interfering signals and to support detection, identification, and collection of target Signals is of Interest are required. In congested signal environments, performing preprocessing of the environment, filtering of interfering signals and noise, will increase the probability of successfully performing the collection and processing of weak, Low Probability of Intercept (LPI), and Low Probability of Detection (LPD) signals. Software modules will be utilized by machine learning algorithms to adapt to changing signal environments while maintaining mission capabilities. The Collaborative Framework Environment (CFE) is a Cross-Service open system architecture that operates on a number of hardware environments. CFE is a fully containerized application that uses micro-services to provide a customizable and extensible solution for hosting complex RF signal processing applications. CFE uses a common SDR-based DSP architecture including GNU radio, and X-Midas building blocks and includes functionality to support a wide array of ISR capabilities to include SIGINT, machine-to-machine communication signals, and real-time ELINT processing. CFE is designed for rapid integration of third-party capabilities and strives for hardware agnostic capabilities, enabling CFE to run on a variety of hosting hardware. The system currently has a dependency on X-86 architectures and there is a need to deploy signal-processing solutions into embedded processors. Often embedded processors that include ARM, GPU, and FPGA resources are available that can be used to meet mission requirements. Today’s signal processing environment requires the most effective use of the hardware that is available to perform signal processing. In order to expedite the deployment of signal processing capabilities, the development of signal environment processing tools and a process to optimize the transition of functionality from X86 architectures to embedded processors and FPGA and GPU resources is required.

PHASE I: This is a Direct to Phase 2 (D2P2) topic. Phase 1 like proposals will not be evaluated and will be rejected as nonresponsive. For this D2P2 topic, the Government expects that the small business would have accomplished the following in a Phase I-type effort via some other means (e.g. IRAD, or other funded work). It must have developed a concept for a workable prototype or design to address at a minimum the basic capabilities of the stated objective above. Proposal must show, as appropriate to the proposed effort, a demonstrated technical feasibility or nascent capability to meet the capabilities of the stated objective. Proposal may provide example cases of this new capability on a specific application. The documentation provided must substantiate that the proposer has developed a preliminary understanding of the technology to be applied in their Phase II proposal to meet the objectives of this topic. Documentation should include all relevant information including, but not limited to technical reports, test data, prototype designs/models, and performance goals/results.

PHASE II: Develop advanced signal processing modules and demonstrate the transition from a homogenous X86 architecture to a more heterogeneous architecture leveraging best of breed GPP, GPU, and FPGA processing. i. Develop and demonstrate a number of signal processing module containers in CFE. ii. Examine and quantify the impacts and resources to implementations in alternative environments such as ARM architectures that include GPP, GPU (CUDA), and FPGA when available in heterogeneous environments. iii. Develop a resource management module to manage available GPP, GPU, and FPGA heterogeneous hardware. iv. Develop matrix of engineering tradeoffs between architectures for implementers. v. Generate Interface Control Document (ICD) and overview descriptions in parallel with the system. Complete the design of the sensor, demonstrate performance of a prototype system through laboratory testing, and deliver the prototype for subsequent evaluation by the government.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The Government has an interest in transition of the demonstrated concept to existing CFE implementations and in support of new complex requirements. Additionally, applications of the technology to support commercial communications and signal processing applications are possible. Furthermore, technologies for lightweight, high performance airborne sensors with integrated processing have other commercial mission applications.

REFERENCES:

Yang Qu, Zhiqiang Wu, Ruolin Zhou, Yan Su, "Hierarchical Mixed Signal Detection and Modulation Classification", Circuits and Systems (MWSCAS) 2020 IEEE 63rd International Midwest Symposium on, pp. 213-216, 2020.;
P. Cifuentes, W. L. Myrick, S. Sud, J. S. Goldstein and M. D. Zoltowski, "Reduced rank matrix multistage wiener filter with applications in MMSE joint multiuser detection for DS-CDMA," 2002 IEEE International Conference on Acoustics, Speech, and Signal Processing, 2002, pp. III-2605-III-2608, doi: 10.1109/ICASSP.2002.5745181.;
K. Umebayashi, R. Takagi, N. Ioroi, Y. Suzuki and J. J. Lehtomäki, "Duty cycle and noise floor estimation with welch FFT for spectrum usage measurements," 2014 9th International Conference on Cognitive Radio Oriented Wireless Networks and Communications (CROWNCOM), 2014, pp. 73-78, doi: 10.4108/icst.crowncom.2014.255311.;
Detecting and Classifying Low Probability of Intercept Radar, 2nd Edition” a book by Phillip E. Pace, Artech House, 2009.;

KEYWORDS: adaptive filter; signal interference mitigation; signal environment characterization; FPGA; GPU; airborne signal processing; statistical signal processing; low probability of intercept; low probability of detection

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Microelectronics; Autonomy

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors; Electronics; Information Systems

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: Design and develop an affordable, adaptable and responsible Counter Position Navigation and Timing (C-PNT) system that balances employment challenges and large scale needs of C-PNT technology for anti-terrorism efforts globally.

DESCRIPTION: The United States Department of Defense (DoD), Joint Counter UAS Office (JCO) and the Department of the Air Force (DAF) are responsible for securing nearly 2000 installations around the world from autonomous maritime, ground and air threats. These threats are fueled by a vibrant industry base developing autonomous vehicles in all domains for a variety of peaceful uses. The nefarious employment of these autonomous products or the integration of these commercial products into foreign government systems is creating an ever growing gap between the ability of a low cost autonomous threat to complete its mission and our ability to protect US interests. This topic focuses on responsibly reducing the autonomy of threats through PNT interference. The exact approach in doing this must be precise, low power, support future proofing and have general adaptability. The need for responsible, affordable and approvable technologies that can maximize effect on threats and minimize its effect on friendly assets is urgently needed. There are many fixed and handheld C-PNT systems that exist today but costs, approvals and flawed employment approaches are stunting their adoption. New innovative approaches are needed in this space before wide spread employment of these technology will be possible. This topic is seeking optimized solutions that can be rapidly employed in ground and air environments. Proposals should consider a proper balance of size, weight, power, cost and adaptability to maximize capability in non-permissive environments. Solutions will likely be additions to existing installation security systems and should be easily integrated and proven to be interoperable with other components of these systems Acceptable proposals may consider new or efficient methods for constraining interference effects to areas where threat drones are and friendly are not. Adaptability of RF emissions, antennas types or sizes and ease of integration would be of interest. How other sensors in a system of system could make a NWAT subsystem more effective would help highlight the benefit of the approach. Lastly, proposals should consider how the system could be employed with minimal user interaction while still protecting against unnecessary or ineffective spectrum use.

PHASE I: This is a Direct to Phase 2 (D2P2) topic. Phase 1 like proposals will not be evaluated and will be rejected as nonresponsive. For this D2P2 topic, the Government expects that the small business would have accomplished the following in a Phase I-type effort via some other means (e.g. IRAD, or other funded work). It must have developed a concept for a workable prototype or design to address at a minimum the basic capabilities of the stated objective above. Proposal must show, as appropriate to the proposed effort, a demonstrated technical feasibility or nascent capability to meet the capabilities of the stated objective. Proposal may provide example cases of this new capability on a specific application. The documentation provided must substantiate that the proposer has developed a preliminary understanding of the technology to be applied in their Phase II proposal to meet the objectives of this topic. Documentation should include all relevant information including, but not limited to: technical reports, test data, prototype designs/models, and performance goals/results.

PHASE II: Based on current performance and effectiveness data this effort would provide a new offering in industry to fill this warfighter need. Proposals must define expected final performance data and evidence to support it. The proposal must address design features in terms of at least: i. Employment strategy for both airborne and ground systems ii. Specifications and features of the system that would reduce collateral RF effects iii. Cost and scalability up to thousands of units iv. Compatibility with US and allies policy on C-PNT technologies v. Open architecture approach to support adaptability and integration with other systems

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The Government has an interest in transition of the demonstrated concept to an operational capability in support of many MAJCOM and COCOMs across the DoD.

REFERENCES:

Mark Harris, “FAA Files Reveal a Surprising Threat to Airline Safey: The U.S. Military’s GPS Tests”,https://spectrum.ieee.org/faa-files-reveal-a-surprising-threat-to-airline-safety-the-us-militarys-gps-tests;
Aerospace Corporation, “A New Tool To Fight GPS Jammers”,https://aerospace.org/article/new-tool-fight-gps-jammers;
GPS.gov “Information about GPS Jamming”https://www.gps.gov/spectrum/jamming/ ;
John Keller, “U.S. Military Committed to Electronic Warfare Jammers to Counter Enemy GPS and Drone Signals.”https://www.militaryaerospace.com/rf-analog/article/14039289/electronic-warfare-ew-portable-jammers ;

KEYWORDS: GPS Jammer; Drones; Autonomous Vehicles; Autopilots; FAA; DoD Authorities; Counter PNT technology; directional antennas; interference

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Autonomy; Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors; Electronics; Information Systems; Air Platform

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: Integrate mature detect and avoid capability on an existing long-endurance, Group V UAS platform for increased aircraft and pilot-in-the-loop operational awareness that leverages new and evolving C-SWaP sensors and sensor fusion software.

DESCRIPTION: Detect and Avoid (DAA) systems provide unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) with an “equivalent level of safety, comparable to see-and-avoid requirements for manned aircraft” (FAA). While progress in this area has focused on future civil and commercial airspace navigation, military applications support the safe transit of military UAS’s through the National Airspace (NAS) and over international waters without concern of collision with other aircraft. While the solution can be platform agnostic, the scope of this topic is to examine integration of DAA on a specific UAS platform. The platform is a Group V, fixed-wing UAS designed for long endurance with a pilot-in-the-loop. Operational environment for the platform with DAA is Visual Flight Rules (VFR) only. The UAS has performance limitations between 10-25 kft of altitude and 65-110 kts. The solution’s advisory should be compatible with the platform’s performance limitations and not require/suggest aggressive climb or descent rates (i.e. the UAS requires climb/descent rates limited to 500 fpm or less). While a pilot-in-the-loop (PIL) system will be employed for the UAS, the onboard DAA system should provide improved airspace situational awareness otherwise not known to the pilot without the system. The solution should have limited latency (threshold of less than two seconds) to the ground control station (GCS) for potential operational use. The solution will interact with the GCS so that the PIL has situational awareness from the onboard DAA. The GCS software and interface will be available for potential add-in integration, though the solution can also use a separate system. The solution should provide easily interpretable graphics to the user to promote rapid response, as required, to avoid potential collisions with due regard including outside the National Airspace System (NAS). The solution should include a fully autonomous DAA mode without a PIL intervention for lost communications scenarios. The DAA system will be used for cooperative and non-cooperative intruders. The solution’s scope includes both DAA sensors and sensor fusion, with access to the platform’s transponder. At a minimum, input will be ADS-B in signals and radar cross-sections from surrounding airborne aircraft. Avoidance will be limited to other aircraft (i.e. does not require terrain and/or obstacle avoidance). DAA will only be required during transit operations (Class A and Class E airspaces and due regard). Solutions with existing ICAO/FAA certifications are desired (reference RTCA DO-365), and airworthiness for CONUS flight testing will be required by end of program. When combined with a low-cost goal, a long endurance platform accomplishes its mission by reducing the cost, size, weight, and power (C-SWaP) of onboard components. Therefore, the solution should prioritize C-SWaP performance. The size of the DAA system is important for any outside mounted sensors (i.e. radar) that could potential affect the planar area or wing performance and lead to increased drag, thus lowering the effectiveness of the long endurance platform. Internal space in the UAS is available for a DAA system, though external pod mounted sensors will be considered but are not preferred due to their increased drag on lower effectiveness of long endurance platform performance.

PHASE I: This is a Direct to Phase 2 (D2P2) topic. Phase 1 like proposals will not be evaluated and will be rejected as nonresponsive. For this D2P2 topic, the Government expects that the small business would have accomplished the following in a Phase I-type effort via some other means (e.g. IRAD, or other funded work). It must have developed a concept for a workable prototype or design to address at a minimum the basic capabilities of the stated objective above. Proposal must show, as appropriate to the proposed effort, a demonstrated technical feasibility or nascent capability to meet the capabilities of the stated objective. Proposal may provide example cases of this new capability on a specific application. The documentation provided must substantiate that the proposer has developed a preliminary understanding of the technology to be applied in their Phase II proposal to meet the objectives of this topic. Documentation should include all relevant information including, but not limited to: technical reports, test data, prototype designs/models, and performance goals/results.

PHASE II: Integrate mature detect and avoid capability on an existing long-endurance, Group V UAS platform, and demonstrate the utility in several Air Force need areas for missions that are at different stages of conceptual maturity, including where conceptual development has not yet begun. Provide intermediate products to be assessed by planning teams, summarizing information that captures sensitivity of mission-level outcomes, including schedule, cost and risk, to key architecture and implementation decisions. Carry at least one flight test assessment of complete system integrated on UAS against manned aircraft intruder.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The contractor will pursue commercialization of the technologies developed in Phase II for potential government and commercial applications. Government applications include rapid concept development and maturation for emerging military space missions. There are potential commercial applications to space system design, and evaluation and assessment of new business ventures.

REFERENCES:

McCalmont, John, Utt, James, Deschenes, Michael, and Taylor, Michael (2005) Sense and Avoid, Phase I (Man-in-the-Loop) Advanced Technology Demonstration. AIAA Infotech@Aerospace,https://doi-org.wrs.idm.oclc.org/10.2514/6.2005-7176;
Truitt, Todd, Zingale, Carolina, and Konkel, Alex, (2016) Human-in-the-Loop Simulation to Assess How UAS Integration in Class C Airspace Will Affect Air Traffic Control Specialists. FAA Technical Report,https://hf.tc.faa.gov/publications/2016-01-uas-operational-assessment-visual-compliance/full_text.pdf;

KEYWORDS: Detect and avoid; autonomous; sense and avoid; DAA; SAA; UAS; airborne

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Microelectronics; Autonomy

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors; Space Platform

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: Develop lightweight, high performance space-based optical imager capable of collecting metric observations of objects in the vast cislunar region.

DESCRIPTION: The United States Space Force (USSF) is tasked with protecting and defending US interests in space. Until now, the limits of that mission have been in near Earth, out to roughly geostationary (GEO) range (approximately 36,000 km). With new US public and private sector operations extending into cislunar space, the reach of USSF’s sphere of interest will extend to 450,000 km and beyond – more than a tenfold increase in range and 1,000-fold expansion in service volume. USSF now has an even greater surveillance task for space domain awareness in that region, but its current capabilities and architecture are limited by technologies and an architecture designed for the legacy mission. Existing ground and near earth sensors are not only stressed by the increased range and volume, but also by background from lunar albedo for objects near the moon, obstruction from the moon itself, and the chaotic nature of orbits acted on by the gravity of both Moon and Earth which causes trajectory estimation to become more complicated. Additionally, there are a large range of orbits, trajectories and timelines for objects traversing or operating in this regime, where some orbits take hours to complete and some take weeks. To address the challenges posed to the current architecture, the USSF is exploring space-based sensors operating in lunar or cislunar orbits, not only to provide access to the large volume to be surveilled, but also to address gaps of current coverage posed by the bright lunar background or the moon itself. Several alternative architectures are being considered, including proliferation of sensors in various lunar and Earth-Moon periodic orbits, or a few sensors in Earth-Moon Lagrange points. The former would benefit from low cost optical sensors for economy in scale, and the latter with high sensitivity for detection at long ranges with fewer sensors. Both would benefit from a compact and lightweight sensor, and the capability for wide area search and discovery of objects in unknown or complex orbits. The focus of this topic is development of an optical sensor with application to these architectures.

PHASE I: This is a Direct to Phase 2 (D2P2) topic. Phase 1 like proposals will not be evaluated and will be rejected as nonresponsive. For this D2P2 topic, the Government expects that the small business would have accomplished the following in a Phase I-type effort via some other means (e.g. IRAD, or other funded work). It must have developed a concept for a workable prototype or design to address at a minimum the basic capabilities of the stated objective above. Proposal must show, as appropriate to the proposed effort, a demonstrated technical feasibility or nascent capability to meet the capabilities of the stated objective. Proposal may provide example cases of this new capability on a specific application. The documentation provided must substantiate that the proposer has developed a preliminary understanding of the technology to be applied in their Phase II proposal to meet the objectives of this topic. Documentation should include all relevant information including, but not limited to: technical reports, test data, prototype designs/models, and performance goals/results.

PHASE II: Based on emerging space domain awareness architectures for the cislunar regime, develop a design for an optical sensor for detection and tracking of cislunar objects. Define the performance capabilities and design features in terms of at least: i. Detectability of objects (goal of apparent visual magnitude of 16 and brighter) ii. Tracking accuracy (goal of better than 5 arc seconds) iii. Number of observations / day (goal of 500 or more) iv. Mission life (goal of 3 years or more) v. Utilizes commonly available industry standard data and mechanical interfaces between payload and bus, for example using standard fastener sizes, RS-422, Ethernet, etc. vi. Compliance with General Environmental Verification Standard (GEVS) for environmental durability Complete the design of the sensor, demonstrate performance of a prototype system through laboratory testing, and deliver the prototype for subsequent evaluation by the government

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The Government has an interest in transition of the demonstrated concept to an operational capability in support of cislunar space situational awareness operations. Additionally, applications of the technology to support commercial satellite operators in this regime are envisioned for orbit tracking, collision avoidance, and anomaly resolution. Furthermore, technologies for lightweight, high performance space sensors have other commercial mission applications.

REFERENCES:

Buehler, D., Felt, E., Finley, C., Garretson, P., Stearns, J., Williams, A., “Posturing Space Forces for Operations Beyond GEO”, Space Flight Journal, 31 January 2021,https://spaceforcejournal.org/posturing-space-forces-for-operations-beyond-geo/;
Kaplan, S., ” Eyes on the Prize - The Strategic Implications of Cislunar Space and the Moon”, Center for Strategic and International Studies, 13 July 2020,https://aerospace.csis.org/eyes-on-the-prize/;
Holzinger, M.J., Chow, C.C., Garretson, P., “A Primer on Cislunar Space”, 3 May 2021,https://www.afrl.af.mil/Portals/90/Documents/RV/A%20Primer%20on%20Cislunar%20Space_Dist%20A_PA2021-1271.pdf ;
Werner, D., “Updated intelligence report calls for improved monitoring of cislunar space”, Space News, 24 August 2021,https://spacenews.com/dia-report-2021-cislunar-monitoring/ ;
Goddard Spaceflight Center, General Environmental Verification Standard (GEVS), GSFC-STD-7000B, 28 April 2021,https://standards.nasa.gov/standard/gsfc/gsfc-std-7000 ;

KEYWORDS: space situational awareness; space domain awareness; space surveillance; space catalog; cislunar; small space-based telescope; space sensor; image processing

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Space Platform; Materials; Battlespace

OBJECTIVE: To develop novel reconfigurable thermoset composite panels with excellent impact resistance. The materials will preferably be able to be reshaped to demonstrate the ability to protect structures such as aircraft underbodies, vehicle doors & undercarriage and Airmen. Additionally, composites should be able to demonstrate on-site panel welding and repair after impact while also meeting current state of the art ballistic needs.

DESCRIPTION: The goal of this SBIR is mature and demonstrate a transformational concept that fundamentally shifts the defense economy from a static “single component” to a dynamic “continuous fabrication” mentality to meet 21st century defense needs. This concept would lead to significant cost savings as well as unprecedented agility. While traditional materials are often shipped to locations in end use shapes & configurations, and act as single use components, this project will focus on emergent materials that enable reconfigurable components. Specifically, concepts stemming from materials including (but not limited to), reprocessable thermosets, covalent adaptable networks, and self-healing polymers may offer reconfigurability while maintaining durability. Reprocessable thermoset composites exhibit excellent material strength & resilience but offer significant advantages over conventional thermoplastic & thermosets including the new ability for polymer bonding, reshaping & repair. These materials, or composites, should focus on: 1) Exhibiting excellent mechanical properties while being chemically “active”, to facilitate on-site material reprocessing. 2) Illustrating the ability to ship flat components (or other easily shipped shapes) and then reshape, or weld, materials into the desired configuration for on-site use as lightweight ballistic protection for aircraft, vehicles, or personnel. 3) Make significant effort to minimize complex tooling/processing to reshape the materials so on-site protocols can be performed in a straightforward manner. This concept would facilitate comprehensive on-site repair of damaged components and provides inherent advantages for expeditionary forces to sustain operations in austere locations and expeditionary bases.

PHASE I: This topic is intended for technology proven ready to move directly into a Phase II. Therefore, a Phase I award is not required. The offeror is required to provide detail and documentation in the Direct to Phase II proposal which demonstrates accomplishment of a “Phase I-like” effort, including a feasibility study. This includes determining, insofar as possible, the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of ideas appearing to have commercial potential. It must have validated the product-market fit between the proposed solution and a potential AF stakeholder. The offeror should have defined a clear, immediately actionable plan with the proposed solution and the AF customer. The feasibility study should have; -Identified the prime potential AF end user(s) for the non-Defense commercial offering to solve the AF need, i.e., how it has been modified; -Described integration cost and feasibility with current mission-specific products; -Described if/how the demonstration can be used by other DoD or Governmental customers.

PHASE II: Eligibility for D2P2 is predicated on the offeror having performed a “Phase I-like” effort predominantly separate from the SBIR Programs. Under the phase II effort, the offeror shall sufficiently develop the technical approach, product, or process in order to conduct a small number of advanced manufacturing and/or sustainment relevant demonstrations. Identification of manufacturing/production issues and or business model modifications required to further improve product or process relevance to improved sustainment costs, availability, or safety, should be documented. Air Force sustainment stakeholder engagement is paramount to successful validation of the technical approach. These Phase II awards are intended to provide a path to commercialization, not the final step for the proposed solution.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The contractor will pursue commercialization of the various technologies developed in Phase II for transitioning expanded mission capability to a broad range of potential government and civilian users and alternate mission applications. Direct access with end users and government customers will be provided with opportunities to receive Phase III awards for providing the government additional research & development, or direct procurement of products and services developed in coordination with the program.

REFERENCES:

Taynton, P.; Ni, H.; Zhu, C.; Yu, K.; Loob, S.; Jin, Y.; Qi, J.; Zhang, W. "Repairable Woven Carbon Fiber Composites with Full Recyclability Enabled by Malleable Polyimine Networks" Adv. Mater. 2016, 28, 2904–2909

KEYWORDS: Agile; repair; reconfigurable components; self-healing; adaptable networks; composites; polymer welding.

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Directed Energy; Network Command, Control and Communications; General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors; Electronics; Space Platform; Materials; Air Platform

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this SBIR investment is to mature the manufacturing of optical free-space reconfigurable metasurface technologies. Large area (larger than a few millimeters square) free-space meta-optics have only recently been demonstrated. Furthermore, development of thermal switching in metasurfaces fabricated from phase change media has also been demonstrated on the scale of integrated optics community. The combination of these complimentary R&D thrusts have yet to be matured. The end state would be a demonstration of those two capabilities into a single functional architecture with a well-defined manufacturing strategy utilizing mature foundry best practices to ease further transition.

DESCRIPTION: In order to realize reconfigurable, free-space optical metasurfaces, design and optimization of integrated circuitry will be required. Electrical requirements for thermal switching of large phase change metasurfaces must be considered for practical solutions. Following the conceptual design, this the electrically driving switching circuitry can then be manufactured using mature silicon foundry processes. Following this step or in parallel, design and optimization of the phase change metasurface must be completed utilizing computation electromagnetism (CEM) and machine learning (ML) algorithms for two state reflective or transmissive geometries. For example, key performance parameters may include high reflectivity in one state and high absorption or transmission in the other. Other embodiments may be considered. Once the metasurface design is identified, maturation of the metasurface patterning in phase change media will be pursued. This will employ large, free space optical scale lithography followed by chemical etch formulation and optimization. Other nanofabrication techniques may be considered such as nanoimprint lithography. Finally, the prototype devices will be tested at the laboratory breadboard scale.

PHASE I: This topic is intended for technology proven ready to move directly into a Phase II. Therefore, a Phase I award is not required. The offeror is required to provide detail and documentation in the Direct to Phase II proposal which demonstrates accomplishment of a “Phase I-like” effort, including a feasibility study. This includes determining, insofar as possible, the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of ideas appearing to have commercial potential. It must have validated the product-market fit between the proposed solution and a potential AF stakeholder. The offeror should have defined a clear, immediately actionable plan with the proposed solution and the AF customer. The feasibility study should have; -Identified the prime potential AF end user(s) for the non-Defense commercial offering to solve the AF need, i.e., how it has been modified; -Described integration cost and feasibility with current mission-specific products; -Described if/how the demonstration can be used by other DoD or Governmental customers.

PHASE II: Eligibility for D2P2 is predicated on the offeror having performed a “Phase I-like” effort predominantly separate from the SBIR Programs. Under the phase II effort, the offeror shall sufficiently develop the technical approach, product, or process in order to conduct a small number of advanced manufacturing and/or sustainment relevant demonstrations. Identification of manufacturing/production issues and or business model modifications required to further improve product or process relevance to improved sustainment costs, availability, or safety, should be documented. Air Force sustainment stakeholder engagement is paramount to successful validation of the technical approach. These Phase II awards are intended to provide a path to commercialization, not the final step for the proposed solution.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The contractor will pursue commercialization of the various technologies developed in Phase II for transitioning expanded mission capability to a broad range of potential government and civilian users and alternate mission applications. Direct access with end users and government customers will be provided with opportunities to receive Phase III awards for providing the government additional research & development, or direct procurement of products and services developed in coordination with the program.

REFERENCES:

Zhang, Y., Chou, J.B., Li, J. et al. Broadband transparent optical phase change materials for high-performance nonvolatile photonics. Nat Commun 10, 4279 (2019). https://doi-org.wrs.idm.oclc.org/10.1038/s41467-019-12196-4;
J. R. Thompson, J. A. Burrow, P. J. Shah, J. Slagle, E. S. Harper, A. Van Rynbach, I. Agha, and M. S. Mills, "Artificial neural network discovery of a switchable metasurface reflector," Opt. Express 28, 24629-24656 (2020)

KEYWORDS: Phase Change Materials; Metasurfaces; Planar Optics; Non-mechanical Beam Steering; Field of view steering;

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Directed Energy; General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors; Materials

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: Program objective is manufacturing process improvement to increase yield of optically clear, bulk, semiconductor materials for use as refractive elements in electro-optical infrared systems operating at wavelengths greater than 2 µm. This requires large clear apertures (> 75 mm) and thicknesses (> 1 mm) to enable mechanical robustness such that the final elements can be cut/shaped, polished to optical quality specifications. Focus of the effort would be on improving the bulk uniformity to meet spectral and optical requirements for current and future EO/IR systems of interest to the DoD. Materials to investigate should include binary and ternary semiconductor materials having minimal linear absorption in the optical transparency window while at relevant temperature.

DESCRIPTION: The government envisions a design of experiments (DOE) type of approach to optimize yield of optically clear, bulk, semiconductor materials for use as refractive elements in electro-optical infrared systems. These systems typically operate at wavelengths greater than 2 µm and are cryogenically cooled. It is anticipated that one binary and one or two ternary compounds be chosen for the DOE. Proposals should discuss a path towards increasing clear apertures starting from 50 or 75 mm diameter to greater than 120 mm. Wafer-like parts should have consistent spectral performance, such as transmission and bandgap/cut-on wavelength, across the clear aperture and throughout the bulk. As grown material should be as close to intrinsic as possible and exhibit minimal linear absorption due to unwanted dopants. Bulk material should be >1 mm thick and increase to provide clearer aperture. Similarly, the parts should also have consistent optical performance across the clear aperture and bulk, demonstrated through minimization of scatter from point and macroscopic defects and inhomogeneity’s. Parts should be optically isotropic and not exhibit birefringence. They should be mechanically robust to allow cutting, shaping and polishing to meet typical optical quality surface specifications such as flatness, parallelism and scratch-dig. There is also interest in metrology development for evaluating the bulk semiconductor material either during growth or immediately post growth, but prior to initial cutting or rough polish. For example, ensuring the desired optical bandgap has been grown prior to additional processing steps is of interest. Similarly, evaluation of material properties, such as dopant concentration, carrier lifetimes, mobility’s, etc., as functions of the DOE process is also of relevance. The impact of post growth treatment, such as high temperature annealing, could also be a component of the DOE.

PHASE I: This topic is intended for technology proven ready to move directly into a Phase II. Therefore, a Phase I award is not required. The offeror is required to provide detail and documentation in the Direct to Phase II proposal which demonstrates accomplishment of a “Phase I-like” effort, including a feasibility study. This includes determining, insofar as possible, the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of ideas appearing to have commercial potential. It must have validated the product-market fit between the proposed solution and a potential AF stakeholder. The offeror should have defined a clear, immediately actionable plan with the proposed solution and the AF customer. The feasibility study should have; -Identified the prime potential AF end user(s) for the non-Defense commercial offering to solve the AF need, i.e., how it has been modified; -Described integration cost and feasibility with current mission-specific products; -Described if/how the demonstration can be used by other DoD or Governmental customers.

PHASE II: Eligibility for D2P2 is predicated on the offeror having performed a “Phase I-like” effort predominantly separate from the SBIR Programs. Under the phase II effort, the offeror shall sufficiently develop the technical approach, product, or process in order to conduct a small number of advanced manufacturing and/or sustainment relevant demonstrations. Identification of manufacturing/production issues and or business model modifications required to further improve product or process relevance to improved sustainment costs, availability, or safety, should be documented. Air Force sustainment stakeholder engagement is paramount to successful validation of the technical approach. These Phase II awards are intended to provide a path to commercialization, not the final step for the proposed solution.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The contractor will pursue commercialization of the various technologies developed in Phase II for transitioning expanded mission capability to a broad range of potential government and civilian users and alternate mission applications. Direct access with end users and government customers will be provided with opportunities to receive Phase III awards for providing the government additional research & development, or direct procurement of products and services developed in coordination with the program.

REFERENCES:

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0030401813004033?via%3Dihub

KEYWORDS: infrared; optics; optical materials; nonlinear optics; semiconductors

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Directed Energy; General Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors; Materials

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: Program objective is manufacturing processes improvement for high performance thin film coatings for infrared (> 2 µm) electro-optical imaging applications. These multi-layer coatings require tight manufacturing tolerances in order to meet current and future infrared detector performance specifications. The focus would be on improving the uniformity of the infrared coatings to meet the requirements for both spectral (e.g. pass-band transmission or blocking band rejection) and imaging (e.g. scatter, point defects within the coating, scratch/dig specifications on outer layer) performance for DoD applications.

DESCRIPTION: A variety of thin film materials are used in multi-layer infrared optical coatings. One of the most challenging thin film coatings to deposit is Germanium. This material can be a large yield detractor when it comes to the building of optical elements for infrared detectors. This program would investigate different deposition processes for Germanium, as well as other candidate materials, on infrared optical materials to improve the overall yield. The government envisions a design of experiments (DOE) type of approach with 2-3 different deposition techniques. Some of the DOE parameters would investigate deposition rate, coating thickness, as well as process induced stress. The different deposition techniques would also take into account the compatibility with other infrared thin film coating materials. There is also interest in metrology development for evaluating the as-deposited thin film coatings on individual optical elements prior to integration and assembly. A secondary focus would be an investigation of different metrology methods to verify coating (spectral and optical quality) performance prior to inserting it into an optical assembly.

PHASE I: This topic is intended for technology proven ready to move directly into a Phase II. Therefore, a Phase I award is not required. Phase 1 like proposals will not be evaluated and will be rejected as nonresponsive. The offeror is required to provide detail and documentation in the Direct to Phase II proposal which demonstrates accomplishment of a “Phase I-like” effort, including a feasibility study. This includes determining, insofar as possible, the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of ideas appearing to have commercial potential. It must have validated the product-market fit between the proposed solution and a potential AF stakeholder. The offeror should have defined a clear, immediately actionable plan with the proposed solution and the AF customer. The feasibility study should have; -Identified the prime potential AF end user(s) for the non-Defense commercial offering to solve the AF need, i.e., how it has been modified; -Described integration cost and feasibility with current mission-specific products; -Described if/how the demonstration can be used by other DoD or Governmental customers.

PHASE II: Eligibility for D2P2 is predicated on the offeror having performed a “Phase I-like” effort predominantly separate from the SBIR Programs. Under the phase II effort, the offeror shall sufficiently develop the technical approach, product, or process in order to conduct a small number of advanced manufacturing and/or sustainment relevant demonstrations. Identification of manufacturing/production issues and or business model modifications required to further improve product or process relevance to improved sustainment costs, availability, or safety, should be documented. Air Force sustainment stakeholder engagement is paramount to successful validation of the technical approach. These Phase II awards are intended to provide a path to commercialization, not the final step for the proposed solution.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The contractor will pursue commercialization of the various technologies developed in Phase II for transitioning expanded mission capability to a broad range of potential government and civilian users and alternate mission applications. Direct access with end users and government customers will be provided with opportunities to receive Phase III awards for providing the government additional research & development, or direct procurement of products and services developed in coordination with the program.

REFERENCES:

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs10854-007-9562-4

KEYWORDS: infrared; optics; optical materials; optical coatings; manufacturing processes

OUSD (R&E) MODERNIZATION PRIORITY: Microelectronics

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sensors

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR HelpDesk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us.

OBJECTIVE: Design and fabricate a LADAR Receiver based on SiGeSn avalanche photodiodes and operating at 2.0-2.2 um.

DESCRIPTION: LADAR receivers are routinely used for target identification purposes and require expensive, cooled detector materials such as HgCdTe. Meanwhile, military sensor costs must be commensurate with platform costs, preventing widespread implementation of LADAR. A low cost APD material would enable the next generation of extended SWIR LADAR across a multitude of platforms. SiGeSn has been identified as a low-cost sensing material. Lasers, detectors, and avalanche photodiodes have already been demonstrated. However, no one has assembled a full LADAR receiver, or array, that avoids hybridization and creates gain. The goal of this D2P2 program is (a) to leverage extensive work on SiGeSn devices to create a LADAR receiver, (b) design a receiver that can be implemented as a backend of line CMOS process, and (c) create a full system demonstration at wavelengths beyond 2 um. The requirements for meeting these goals are: the operating temperature should be greater than 200 K; the pixel pitch should be less than 100 um; the EQE-gain product should be greater than 500%; and the pixels should have a bandwidth greater than 100 MHz. No use of government materials, equipment data, or facilities is anticipated.

PHASE I: Provide documentation of Phase I-like feasibility; for example: i) publication or presentation in a scientific or technical journal or conference reporting growth and/or device fabrication in the SiGeSn system; ii) APD device design including the SiGeSn epitaxial stack for an array to be developed in the Phase II effort iii) Demonstrate device modeling results for SiGeSn APDs iv) Demonstrate prior APD fabrication experience in another material system (not SiGeSn) and confirmed supplier for SiGeSn epitaxial source material

PHASE II: Demonstrate a 16 x 16 LADAR receiver operating at 2.0-2.2 um using SiGeSn APDs without hybridization. The EQE-gain product shall be greater than 500% and the pixel pitch shall be less than 100 um.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Demonstrate a 128 x 128 single photon LADAR receiver operating at 2.0-2.2 um using SiGeSn APDs without hybridization. The EQE-gain product shall be greater than 500% and the pixel pitch shall be less than 100 um.

REFERENCES:

Zhou, Yiyin, Huong Tran, Wei Du, Jifeng Liu, Greg Sun, Richard Soref, Joe Margetis et al. "Mid-Infrared GeSn/SiGeSn Lasers and Photodetectors Monolithically Integrated on Silicon." In CLEO: Science and Innovations, pp. JM2E-1. Optical Society of America, 2020.;
Conley, Benjamin Ryan. "GeSn Devices for Short-Wave Infrared Optoelectronics." (2014).;
Chen, Qimiao, Shaoteng Wu, Lin Zhang, Weijun Fan, and Chuan Seng Tan. "Simulation of high-efficiency resonant-cavity-enhanced GeSn single-photon avalanche photodiodes for sensing and optical quantum applications." IEEE Sensors Journal (2021).

KEYWORDS: LiDAR; LADAR; SiGeSn; GeSiSn; Hybridization; avalanche photodiode

RT&L FOCUS AREA(S): Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Chemical/Bio Defense, Materials/Processes

OBJECTIVE: Design and develop a non-PFAS elastomeric barrier that provides permeation resistance to CBRN agents.

DESCRIPTION: The primary requirements for Chemical, Biological, Radioactive, and Nuclear (CBRN) protective items such as garments, gloves, boots, and masks are that they (i) ensure barrier function against various chemical challenges, (ii) provide flexibility and stretch for ease of movement and comfort for the wearer, (iii) possess adequate mechanical strength as required for the application, and (iv) do not compromise the barrier and mechanical properties when subjected to environmental and operational stressors. Desired properties for protective items are described in the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1994 Class 1 standard [1].

Typical CBRN elastomer materials are either thermally cross-linked compounds or melt-processed thermoplastic polymers. Cross-linked materials are generally less susceptible to chemical permeation due a more restricted swelling in these systems. Often, a reinforcing filler (i.e., carbon black) is incorporated for mechanical property enhancement. While the increased filler content will reduce permeation, it also causes increased system stiffness and hardness. No commercially available elastomer can provide the range of resistance required to protect from the entire range of potential chemical challenges including chemical warfare agents (CWAs), toxic industrial chemicals (TICs), fuels, lubricants, solvents, vapors, and acids and bases, while retaining sufficient stretch.

Fluoropolymers or copolymers or coatings involving them have been added to elastomeric materials in order to impart or enhance barrier properties. The unique combination of properties of fluorine-containing polymers such as excellent chemical resistance, permittivity, flame resistance, hydro- and oleophobicity, weak adhesion and low cohesion have led to their applicability as membrane constituents or as coatings or fillers in chemical barrier materials. However, environmental concerns are beginning to require the reduced use and eventual elimination of fluorine containing systems [2, 3] and have stimulated the search for alternatives [4].

This topic calls for the design of novel, non-PFAS* elastomeric barrier systems that can provide improved permeation resistance. Approaches include but are not limited to: tailoring polymers using known approaches such as multilayers, interpenetrating polymers, coatings, or fillers; and rational design of novel polymer molecular structures [5]. The barrier materials should offer protection against vapor and liquid TICs and chemical agent challenges. The threshold level of permeation resistance should be cumulative permeation mass of less than 6 micrograms/cm² for industrial chemicals, 1.25 micrograms/cm² for Soman and 4.0 micrograms/cm² for distilled mustard when challenged with 20 grams per meter squared (g/m²) of liquid chemical agent or 1% agent in gas phase. The permeation is to be tested after subjecting the material to 100 cycles of flexing per ASTM F392 and 10 cycles of abrasion with 600 grit paper as per ASTM D4157. The objective level of permeation is the same cumulative permeation mass limits assessed after 6 hours. Testing permeation resistance can be performed with appropriate simulants using standard test protocols specified in the reference document [1]. The detailed conditions for testing must be approved by the Government Technical POC.

*For the purposes of this SBIR topic, non-PFAS items are defined as those not containing fluorine. Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are synthetic organofluorine chemical compounds that have multiple fluorine atoms attached to an alkyl chain.

PHASE I: Demonstrate a fluorine-free elastomeric barrier material that demonstrates the required barrier properties for one industrial chemical (e.g. tetrachloroethylene) and one chemical weapons agent (CWA) simulant (e.g dimethyl methylphosphonate) while retaining the desired physical properties: flame resistance as defined by ASTM F1358 (after flame time less than or equal to (≤) 2 sec); system should meet the threshold goal of 12% linear strain that is reversible. It is expected that at least one novel barrier candidate is produced in a 3” x 3” swatch for repellency studies. Outline a potential scale-up method and cost assessment for the material.

PHASE II: Optimize, scale and formulate minimally one candidate material for chemical repellency testing against a chemical agent** (e.g. Soman) and additional industrial chemicals (dimethyl sulfate and toluene). Provide a 6” x 6” swatch for independent agent evaluation by the end of Phase II/Month 10. In addition to assessing the physical properties noted in Phase I (flame resistance, reversible linear strain), determine puncture resistance as defined by ASTM 1342/F1342M Method A (puncture force ≥ 36 N). Methods must be developed to bond/integrate the elastomeric barrier material with other functional materials such as Nomex FR fabric, as identified by the Government Technical POC. At the conclusion of Phase II, elastomeric barrier fabric sample, at least 12 inches wide and 5 yards in length, obtained from continuous pilot scale production should be made available for independent evaluation.

** Use of any chemical agent will require the small business to work with an approved chemical surety laboratory

PHASE III: The elastomeric barrier material successfully demonstrated in Phase II will be integrated into CBRN protective ensemble. Materials should be made in full width (40") production, and issues in garment manufacture that may arise, such as seams, will be addressed.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: An improved elastomeric, chemical barrier material would have a broad range of dual use applications with first responders, anti-terrorism personnel, agrochemical (pesticide) applications personnel and industrial, medical, and laboratory personnel.

REFERENCES:

1. a) NFPA 1990 Standard on Protective Ensembles for Chemical/Biological Terrorism Incidents 2022 Edition, National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Quincy, MA 02269, USA. https://www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/all-codes-and-standards/list-of-codes-and-standards/detail?code=1990 . Note that the 2022 Edition of NFPA 1990 is a combination of Standards NFPA 1991, NFPA 1992, and 1994.

b) NFPA 1994 Standard on Protective Ensembles for Chemical/Biological Terrorism Incidents 2001 Edition, National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Quincy, MA 02269, USA. http://www.disaster-info.net/lideres/english/jamaica/bibliography/ChemicalAccidents/NFPA_1994_StandardonProtectiveEnsemblesforChemicalBiologicalTerrorismIncidents.pdf

2. National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/1605/text

3. R. Lohmann, I. T. Cousins, J. C. DeWitt, J. Glüge, G. Goldenman, D. Herzke, A. B. Lindstrom, M. F. Miller, C. A. Ng, S. Patton, M. Scheringer, X. Trier, and Z. Wang, Are Fluoropolymers Really of Low Concern for Human and Environmental Health and Separate from Other PFAS? Environ. Sci. Technol. 54 (2020) 12820−12828.

4. G. Glenn, R. Shogren, X. Jin, W. Orts, W. Hart-Cooper, and L. Olson, Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and their alternatives in paper food packaging, Compr. Rev. Food Sci. Food Saf. 20 (2021) 2596–2625.

5. M A R. Bhuiyan, L. Wang, A. Shaid, R. A Shanks and J. Ding, Advances and applications of chemical protective clothing system, J. Industrial Textiles 49 (2019) 97-138.

KEYWORDS: chem-bio protection, PFAS, fluorine-free, permeation resistance, elastomer

RT&L FOCUS AREA(S): Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Chemical/Biological Defense; Materials/Processes

OBJECTIVE: Develop and scale textile coatings that repel both hydrophobic and hydrophilic liquids without the use of perfluoroalkyl or polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)

DESCRIPTION: Protective textiles for high-risk applications, such as Chemical/Biological Defense (CBD), first response, and healthcare must impart a high level of protection for the user. These textiles protect against a range of threats that can include toxic industrial chemicals (TICs), pharmaceuticals, blood, fuels, biological pathogens, and chemical warfare agents [1,2]. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) encompass a variety of compounds with C_n-F_2n+1 bonds and are commonly used in repellent textile coatings. Long chains with carbon-fluorine bonds impart a high level of surface repellency against both water and oils by reducing surface energy [3].

Because of their repellent properties, uses for PFAS range from cookware to Chem-Bio (CB) protective clothing. However, increasing environmental and health concerns have led industry to remove PFAS from their processes. PFAS are known to persist in the environment, are challenging to remediate, and contribute to a variety of human health issues [4]. There are ongoing efforts to modify textile coatings, such as durable water repellent coatings (DWR) used on rain jackets and outdoor equipment [5,6], but the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) is making efforts to remove all PFAS from military shoes and clothing/garments [6].

With the removal of PFAS as a component of repellent coatings, new textile coating technologies are needed that offer a high level of protection against both hydrophilic and hydrophobic compounds. Sprays, nanoparticles, other functionalized textile surfaces have been used to impart omniphobicity and “lotus leaf” properties with high contact angles against a variety of liquids, but more research is needed to develop and scale non-PFAS coatings that repel such a range of liquids [7-11]. There is a critical need to find coating technologies that can meet requirements without utilizing a carbon-fluorine bond.

In order to replace or compete with PFAS textile coatings, new technologies must be:

Omniphobic: Able to repel both hydrophilic and hydrophobic liquids, including water, oils, and toxic chemicals
Scaleable: Able to scale coating manufacture to treat full textile rolls or garments
Aqueous based solvent system: Textile manufacturers have strict limitations on flammable solvent use
Material independent: Able to function on multiple textile types such as mixtures of natural, synthetic, stretch, and non-stretch fibers
Durable: Coatings must have resistance to UV light, temperature cycling and the same if not better resistance to laundering and abrasion as currently used DWR technologies

This SBIR topic solicits the following innovative technology requirements:

	T	O
oil rating (AATCC 118)	6A	8A
after 1 laundering	6A	8A
after 3 launderings	4A	8A
spray rating (AATCC 22)	100	100
after 1 laundering	90	100
after 3 launderings	70	100
% change in textile
air permeability (ASTM D737)	10	0
stretch (ASTM D2594)	10	0
weight (ASTM D 3770)	10	0
stiffness (ASTM D747)	10	0
burst strength (ASTM D 3787)	10	0
Tear strength (ASTM D 1424)	10	0
Flame resistance (ASTM F 1358)	0	0
Wicking	10	0

T = Target; O = Objective

PHASE I: Phase I must demonstrate that a fluorine-free repellent coating can be applied to a fabric with no significant change to fabric properties. The table above details standard evaluations to assess performance, but other appropriate tests may be used as needed. For Phase I, the focus of material evaluation should be on repellency properties (oil rating, spray rating), weight changes, and loading of the active compound before and after coating. Phase II will address further textile properties, including laundering, but earlier material evaluations during Phase I are encouraged. An assessment of scaling capability for the repellent technology will be made, with special consideration for industry standard practices and limitations (i.e. solvent choice). Upon completion of Phase I, coated and uncoated textile swatches will be made available for independent evaluation. Two different types of coated textiles are required for Phase I (natural, synthetic, or a blend).

PHASE II: Phase II will optimize and scale the repellent coating for both natural and synthetic textiles and blends thereof, including at least one fabric that has stretch. The objective is to scale the repellent coating so it may be used to treat 60” width fabric rolls. The coating must demonstrate no significant change to fabric properties, including flame resistance, stretch, burst and tear strength, drape and stiffness, wicking, air permeability, and color. The table above details standard evaluations to assess performance, but other appropriate tests may be used as needed. Phase II testing should also include durability assessments (stretch, burst, tear) before and after abrasion and laundering. Evaluations of omniphobicity must be performed along the length and width of the production to demonstrate uniformity. An assessment for manufacturing and commercializing the repellent technology will be made, including a complete cost assessment for the repellent coating production and application. Upon completion of Phase II, coated and uncoated textile rolls will be made available for independent evaluation.

PHASE III: The coated textiles successfully demonstrated in Phase II will be integrated into Chemical/Biological/Radiological/Nuclear (CBRN) protective ensembles, Army Combat Uniforms (ACUs) and Flame Resistant Army Combat Uniforms (FRACUs). Textiles should be made in full width production; issues in garment manufacture that may arise should be addressed.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Omniphobic coatings have wide applications to protect materials from corrosion and liquid. They are used in outerwear, sportswear, camping gear, civilian Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), construction, shipyards, etc.

REFERENCES:

1. Mitchell, A., et al. (2015). "Role of healthcare apparel and other healthcare textiles in the transmission of pathogens: a review of the literature." J Hosp Infect 90(4): 285-292. 10.1016/j.jhin.2015.02.017

2. a) NFPA 1990 Standard on Protective Ensembles for Chemical/Biological Terrorism Incidents 2022 Edition, National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Quincy, MA 02269, USA. https://www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/all-codes-and-standards/list-of-codes-and-standards/detail?code=1990 . Note that the 2022 Edition of NFPA 1990 is a combination of Standards NFPA 1991, NFPA 1992, and 1994.

b) NFPA 1994 Standard on Protective Ensembles for Chemical/Biological Terrorism Incidents 2001 Edition, National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Quincy, MA 02269, USA. http://www.disaster-info.net/lideres/english/jamaica/bibliography/ChemicalAccidents/NFPA_1994_StandardonProtectiveEnsemblesforChemicalBiologicalTerrorismIncidents.pdf

3. Gluge, J., et al. (2020). "An overview of the uses of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)." Environ Sci Process Impacts 22(12): 2345-2373.Schellenberger, S., et al. (2019). "Highly fluorinated chemicals in functional textiles can be replaced by re-evaluating liquid repellency and end-user requirements." Journal of Cleaner Production 217: 134-143. 10.1016/j.jclepro.2019.01.160. 10.1039/d0em00291g

4. Environmental Protection Agency. (December 21, 2021). Our Current Understanding of the Human Health and Environmental Risks of PFAS. EPA.gov. https://www.epa.gov/pfas/our-current-understanding-human-health-and-environmental-risks-pfas

5. Patagonia. (July 15, 2016). An Update on Our DWR Problem. Patagonia.com. https://www.patagonia.com/stories/our-dwr-problem-updated/story-17673.html

6. S.1605 - 117th Congress (2021-2022): National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022, Section 347. (2021, December 27). https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/1605/text

7. Cirisano, F. and M. Ferrari (2021). "Sustainable Materials for Liquid Repellent Coatings." Coatings 11(12): 1508. 10.3390/coatings11121508

8. Mohseni, M., et al. (2021). "Non-fluorinated sprayable fabric finish for durable and comfortable superhydrophobic textiles." Progress in Organic Coatings 157: 106319. 10.1016/j.porgcoat.2021.106319

9. Rashid, M. M., et al. (2021). "Recent advances in TiO2-functionalized textile surfaces." Surfaces and Interfaces 22: 100890. 10.1016/j.surfin.2020.100890

10. Kwon, J., et al. (2020). "Micro/Nanostructured Coating for Cotton Textiles That Repel Oil, Water, and Chemical Warfare Agents." Polymers (Basel) 12(8). 10.3390/polym12081826

11. Ye, Z., et al. (2021). "Textile coatings configured by double-nanoparticles to optimally couple superhydrophobic and antibacterial properties." Chemical Engineering Journal 420: 127680. 10.1016/j.cej.2020.127680

KEYWORDS: PFAS, Non-PFAS, liquid repellency, fabric coatings, textile, Individual Protection

RT&L FOCUS AREA(S): Warfighting Requirements (GWR)

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Chemical/Biological Defense

OBJECTIVE: Develop a collapsible, one person-portable, chemical and biological protective kennel with air filtration for rapid deployment to protect Military Working Dogs.

DESCRIPTION: Military Working Dogs (MWDs) have proven to be a vital component in the execution of warfighter missions. From supporting warfighter security to being a force multiplier, MWDs and their handlers are often the first to enter and assess situations where Chemical/Biological (CB) or other threat materials are present. If an area is contaminated or otherwise unsafe due to an imminent CB threat or is operational mobility limited, immediate exfiltration can be delayed. Handlers have access to a wide array of personal protective equipment (PPE), developed, improved and deployed for decades; however, there are very few PPE options for MWDs. Most, if not all, currently fielded protection systems, like the Joint Expeditionary Collective Protection (JECP) Shelters require a significant logistical footprint including electrical access and complex active filtration. For certain critical missions demanding a high degree of maneuverability and general readiness, it is highly desirable to have innovative MWD shelters with much lower logistical requirements and convenience elements such as portability, air filtration and expansion for future requirements. The goal of this SBIR topic is to develop a one person-portable canine shelter addressing the following requirements:

Deployment: the shelter should be able to be set up in the same time that the handler would be donning an individual CB protective suit.
Total System Weight: 22 lbs (threshold); 12 lbs (objective). Total system weight includes all components and required elements, exclusive of batteries (if any).
Deployed Shelter Volume: must be capable of comfortably housing canines up to 75 lbs (threshold) with a range of 60 to 120 lbs (objective).
Stowed Shelter Volume: 4000 in3 (threshold); 1800 in3 (objective). Shelter volume is independent of any external components.
Total System Volume (stowed; all components): 5000 in3 (threshold); 2200 in3 (objective).
Filtration: shelter should be capable of filtering particulates and adsorbing a wide range of chemical warfare agents such as (but not limited too): nerve agents—tabun (GA), sarin (GB), soman (GD), VX; mustard agents—H, HD, L; tear agents— CN, CS, CR, OC; blood agents— hydrogen cyanide (AC), cyanogen chloride (CK), arsine (SA); chlorine, phosgene, chloropicrin (PS), and diphenylchloroarsine (DA). Any required filter elements should be user-exchangeable and commercially available.
Airflow: shelter shall provide adequate, filtered air to canines both at rest and under exertion, minimum 1.1 cfm/sf (threshold); shelter shall also allow for one-way exhaust of air back into the atmosphere.
Other Environmental: all components shall be independently operational between 32 and 105 degrees Fahrenheit (threshold) with a wider rage desired; interior of shelter must maintain temperature and humidity within CFR specifications for dog transport (45 – 85 degrees Fahrenheit and 30-70% relative humidity for no more than 4 hours); shelter materials shall be CB resistant/protective.
Health/Safety: safe to the touch for canine and handler (e.g., no sharp edges, exposed moving parts, and potentially hazardous protruding parts); safe for the sheltered canine (e.g., resistant to scratching/biting, no toxic components, no risk of physiological harm/stress); a system to notify handler of any unexpected risks to the canine are of interest.
Power: power requirements should be carefully considered to ensure portability; battery operation, DC operation, and hybrid approaches are of interest.
Backpack transportable by one individual.
Additional Elements: also of interest, but not required, include systems which provide temperature control/regulation, broader temperature and environmental operational parameters (e.g., radioactivity detection), consideration of health concerns related to animal waste, lighting and multiple stowage/transport options.

Research conducted under this topic must comply with Federal and Department of Defense Regulations, and Public Law (in particular, Animal Welfare Act 4 and amendments) regarding the treatment of dogs.

PHASE I: Design an appropriate Canine Shelter Technology that will meet the requirements outlined above. Threshold and objective quantitative health requirements including physiological, anatomical and behavioral will be defined after consulting with both military and commercial sources. Provide a detailed description of the operation of the system and mechanism of air filtration for canine safety. Identify components and/or develop technical specifications for components that, when integrated, will meet the performance goals. Conduct necessary calculations on the design and performance of the components to demonstrate the feasibility and practicality of the proposed Canine Protective Shelter for maximum efficiency, including mitigation of risks associated with factors limiting system performance and operating in extreme environments in theatre. Demonstrate a prototype system or primary components of a prototype system at TRL 3+.

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